cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An analysis of body weight changes after shoulder arthroplasty

Background To determine if there are postoperative weight changes for patients undergoing primary shoulder arthroplasty (SA). In addition, we aimed to determine if glycemic control (hemoglobin A1C levels) change postoperatively for patients undergoing SA. Methods All patients 18 years of age or older who had undergone primary SA over a 12-year period were analyzed. Patients were excluded if they did not have a preoperative body mass index or if they had less than 1-year follow-up. Baseline demographics were recorded for all patients and comparisons were made between the obese and nonobese groups. Clinically meaningful weight loss was defined as a ≥ 5% reduction in body weight postoperatively. Results A total of 469 patients met inclusion criteria. Of them, 65% of patients were obese, and the mean preoperative body mass index for all patients was 33. With a mean follow-up of 40 months, 70% of patients demonstrated clinically significant weight loss. Compared with patients without obesity, patients with obesity lost significantly more weight (10 vs. 6 kg) and demonstrated significantly greater postoperative body mass index reductions (4 vs. 2). Overall, 72% of patients with obesity demonstrated clinically meaningful postoperative weight loss of ≥5% body weight. Patients with obesity who lost weight also saw a decrease in their postoperative hemoglobin A1C: for every 10 pounds of weight loss, A1C decreased by 0.08 units. Conclusions In our series, 72% of patients with obesity undergoing primary SA achieved clinically meaningful weight loss, with a mean follow-up of more than 3 years. Patients who lose weight after SA additionally demonstrate improved glycemic control. Surgeons and patients should balance the association between postoperative weight loss after SA with the potential increased risks of operative complications, particularly for severely obese patients.
Object-based cluster validation with densities

Abstract Clustering validity indices are typically used as tools to find the correct number of clusters in a data set and/or to evaluate the quality of the clusters formed by clustering algorithms. Clustering validity indices measure separation and compactness of clusters. Typically, when applying a clustering algorithm, the input includes the number of clusters. After applying the algorithm with several different numbers of clusters, we determine the number of clusters to be the one with the best validity index. There are two types of clustering validity indices: external indices that are supervised, and internal indices that are unsupervised. The focus of this paper is on internal validity indices. Some existing internal validity indices capture the properties of the clusters by using representative statistics such as mean, variance, diameter, etc., however, these do not perform well when clusters have arbitrary shapes. One approach to overcome this issue is to use the density of the data objects in each cluster. That provides the advantage of capturing the full characteristics of the cluster which is most beneficial when there are clusters with arbitrary shapes. In the literature, a few density-based clustering validity indices have been proposed. However, some of them show poor performance when the clusters are not perfectly separated. Some others perform poorly because they use only representative objects from each cluster instead of all objects. The contribution of this paper is an internal validity index named the object-based clustering validity index with densities (OCVD). OCVD is a single number that averages the density-based contribution of individual data objects to both separation and compactness of clusters. The methodology behind calculating the density-based contributions of the objects is kernel density estimation. We show through several experiments that OCVD performs well in detecting the correct number of clusters in data sets with different cluster shapes including arbitrary shapes.
'Working' with the ADA's 'Regarded as' Definition of a Disability

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 prohibits discrimination against - and mandates accommodations for - individuals with disabilities. As a threshold matter, the ADA requires that plaintiffs demonstrate the existence of a disability; that is, having an actual disability or being "regarded as" having a disability. This article discusses the threshold "regarded as" showing especially in regards to proving a "regarded as" impairment in the context of being substantially limited in the ability to work.
How Can We Best Evaluate, and Compensate for, Genetic Hazards in the Environment and Workplace

Much of this conference has been concerned with issues created by the “New Genetics,” however that be defined. We have turned in this closing session to a much less spectacular issue, but an issue that, in the aggregate, will probably impact, directly or indirectly, on just as many people as any of the other issues covered at this meeting. I refer to the question of the genetic implications of a wide variety of potentially mutagenic exposures in the workplace and the environment.
EUS-guided in vivo imaging of the porcine esophageal enteric nervous system by using needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy

Background and Aims The GI tract is innervated by the autonomic enteric nervous system, mainly composed of submucosal Meissner's plexus and myenteric Auerbach's plexus, which is essential for motility, blood flow regulation, and secretory functions. In vivo visualization of the esophageal enteric nervous system (EENS) during endoscopy has not been possible without invasive mucosal resection. This study aimed to visualize the EENS without mucosal resection, in vivo by using the novel probe, needle-based confocal laser-induced endomicroscopy (nCLE) with a fluorescence neuronal probe, NeuroTrace, under EUS guidance and to evaluate the feasibility of ex vivo imaging of the neuronal network in submucosal biopsy samples acquired at endoscopy. Methods Four Yorkshire pigs were anesthetized and examined. In vivo experiment: During endoscopy, NeuroTrace was injected into the submucosa and muscularis propria of the middle and distal esophagus under EUS guidance, and nCLE imaging was performed. Ex vivo experiment: Submucosal tissue biopsy specimens from the porcine esophagus were obtained for ex vivo evaluation by using a "through-the-needle" forceps technique. After incubation of the samples in NeuroTrace solution, pCLE was used to visualize the EENS elements in the tissue. Results Imaging of the EENS network by using EUS-guided nCLE was successful, both within the submucosa and the muscularis propria, and clearly visualized neuronal cells, glial cells, nerve bundles, and nerve fibers provided distinctive image patterns with excellent imaging quality. The use of the "through-the-needle" forceps technique achieved ex vivo images similar to those acquired in vivo. Conclusions EUS-guided in vivo imaging of the enteric nervous system is feasible without mucosal resection and provides a novel ex vivo imaging alternative for human application. These novel, minimally invasive imaging approaches could be of tremendous diagnostic value to better characterize and explore the EENS of the GI tract.
Computation of the probability of initial substring generation by stochastic context-free grammars

Speech recognition language models are based on probabilities P(Wk+1 = v | w1w2,...,wk) that the next word Wk+1 will be any particular word v of the vocabulary, given that the word sequence w1,w2,...,wk is hypothesized to have been uttered in the past. If probabilistic context-free grammars are to be used as the basis of the language model, it will be necessary to compute the probability that successive application of the grammar rewrite rules (beginning with the sentence start symbol s) produces a word string whose initial substring is an arbitrary sequence w1,w2,...,wk+1. In this paper we describe a new algorithm that achieves the required computation in at most a constant times k3-steps.
Chromatography of sugars in body fluids. I. Preparation of urine for paper chromatographic analysis.

Abstract The ion-exchange method of W hite and H ess for the urine desalting and its several modifications were employed as a model to study some factors important for the preparation of high quality sugar concentrate for paper chromatography. The main investigated features included the urine:resin ratio; desalting by passage through columns vs. by mixing and shaking; and the effect of acetate and OH forms of the anion-exchange resin on saccharides. At least three times more urine may be desalted with the W hite and H ess system composed by Amberlite IR 120 (H form) and IRA 410 (acetate form) than had been previously described. These resins or their monobed mixture Amberlite MB-3 (acetate form) gave the best results as demonstrated by high yield and good reproducibility in both colorimetric and enzymatic determinations of sugars and qualitative paper chromatography, using volumes of urine as much as fifty times greater than those proposed in the original work. The quality of desalting is most sensitively indicated by the levels of urea. Sensitive but less reliable are fluorescing urinary pigments. Inorganic salts are more readily removed than other interfering substances.
Soft Magnetic Nanocrystalline Alloys for High Temperature Applications

Abstract : High temperature inductor applications require improved magnet performance, including simultaneous high magnetization and low core losses at ever higher operation frequencies. Conventional polycrystalline soft magnet alloys are mature technologies with little room for meaningful improvement. Recently, nanocrystalline soft magnetic materials possessing reduced hysteretic losses and offering higher operation frequencies than conventional alloys have been introduced. These nanocrystalline soft magnets with compositions Fe-Co-Zr-B-(Cu) have been offered as alternatives to the conventional alloys. This paper describes the processing, structure, and magnetic properties of these materials.
GROWTH, CORPORATE PROFITABILITY AND SHAREHOLDER VALYE CREATION

Associating corporate performance and shareholder value creation to growth in earnings (or sales) has been the modus operandi in the investment industry, greatly influencing managerial compensation schemes and portfolio decisions. This paper sheds light on the relationship between growth and performance by addressing two broad questions. First, what is the relationship between corporate profitability metrics, such as EVA, ROE, or ROI, and the firm's earnings (sales) growth rate? Second, does maximizing corporate profitability necessarily enhance shareholder value (as measured by Jensen's alpha)? Using multivariate analysis, we show that while these measures generally rise with earnings and sales growth, there exists an optimal point beyond which further growth destroys shareholder value and adversely impacts profitability. Moreover, the analysis shows that firms with moderate growth in earnings (sales) show the highest rates of return and value creation for their owners, supporting Fuller and Jensen (2002) warnings about the "dangers of conforming to market pressures for growth."
Macro Politics and Macro Models: Cartels and Pivots Reconsidered

A framework is introduced for evaluating static micro-analytic theories in dynamic macro-political settings. Within the framework, two theories of lawmaking are compared. Analytically, the predictions of the theories are remarkably similar - almost to the point of being observationally equivalent. However, analysis focusing on critical, theory-specific regime changes provides an opportunity for some discrimation. The findings provide some support for both partisan and nonpartisan theories, the relative strength of which seems to depend upon roll calls selected for analysis.
Developing a simulation course for bioinformatics program

We present an approach to design and teach a simulation course at a small university with an interdisciplinary specialization. We analyze the existing ways to teach simulation courses and identify the specificity and goals within our approach. We propose the content of a simulation course for bioinformatics divided into three units: general simulation methodology, case studies, and building real simulation models. Our approach to teach simulation reinforces the students' problem-solving skills and opportunities to conduct applied research. We taught this simulation course for bioinformatics and received positive results of student evaluations.
A Review of: “Creating Great Visitor Experiences: A Guide for Museums, Parks, Zoos, Gardens, & Libraries”

This book is grounded in recent thinking about what motivates people to engage with the recreational and learning options available to them, particularly The Experience Economy: Work is Theatre and...
Possible Origin of the High Incidence of Clostridium botulinum Type E in an Inland Bay (Green Bay of Lake Michigan)

Bottom and shoreline sediments of Green Bay, northern Lake Michigan, and rivers of the Green Bay drainage basin, as well as soils of the surrounding land mass, were examined for Clostridium botulinum type E. Detection was based on identification of type E toxin in enrichment cultures and was influenced by many factors. Testing smaller amounts of sample in multiple cultures was more productive than examining large inocula in fewer cultures. Incubation at 30 C was unsatisfactory, but 14 days at 20 C or 7 days at 25 C gave good results. Mild heating (60 C for 30 min) of specimens reduced the incidence of positive findings. Freezing enrichment cultures prior to testing for toxicity eliminated many nonbotulinal toxic substances that killed mice. A control culture inoculated with type E spores was employed to show whether a specimen contained factors which could mask the presence of type E. Samples from 708 stations were tested in 2,446 cultures. Type E was found in nearly all underwater specimens of Green Bay and northern Lake Michigan but was present less frequently in samples taken along their shores. The incidence was still lower in the rivers emptying into Green Bay with the organism being rare on the shores of these rivers and in the soils of the land mass proper. Samples from the upper reaches of the rivers practically never contained type E. Runoff could deposit type E spores in Green Bay, but this is not considered to be the major factor in the high incidence of the organism. Multiplication in the bay itself is indicated.
Widening the lens: what the manual modality reveals about language, learning and cognition

The goal of this paper is to widen the lens on language to include the manual modality. We look first at hearing children who are acquiring language from a spoken language model and find that even before they use speech to communicate, they use gesture. Moreover, those gestures precede, and predict, the acquisition of structures in speech. We look next at deaf children whose hearing losses prevent them from using the oral modality, and whose hearing parents have not presented them with a language model in the manual modality. These children fall back on the manual modality to communicate and use gestures, which take on many of the forms and functions of natural language. These homemade gesture systems constitute the first step in the emergence of manual sign systems that are shared within deaf communities and are full-fledged languages. We end by widening the lens on sign language to include gesture and find that signers not only gesture, but they also use gesture in learning contexts just as speakers do. These findings suggest that what is key in gesture's ability to predict learning is its ability to add a second representational format to communication, rather than a second modality. Gesture can thus be language, assuming linguistic forms and functions, when other vehicles are not available; but when speech or sign is possible, gesture works along with language, providing an additional representational format that can promote learning.
Distribution and abundance of some intertidal sand beach amphipods accompanying the passage of two hurricanes

Macrofaunal dominant population of intertidal haustoriid amphipods at Sapelo Island, Georgia, show little change in zonation accompanying the passage of two hurricanes despite observed changes in beach morphology. Fluctuations in abundance of two species were correlated with life cycle events. Some mortality of amphipods probably occurred where large volumes of freshwater overflowed the sand beach. Protection from surf by nearshore shoals, behavioral factors, and the increase in number of species on protected beaches, are important factors providing checks on violent fluctuation and displacement of haustoriid populations. *** DIRECT SUPPORT *** A00BY031 00002
Anterior tibiofemoral intersegmental forces during landing are predicted by passive restraint measures in women.

Abstract Background Passive restraint capabilities may influence sagittal plane knee joint mechanics during activity. This study aimed to determine if measures associated with passive restraint of anterior translation of the tibia are predictive of peak anterior knee shear force during landing. Methods Passive restraint measures were assessed via joint arthrometry and during 40% body weight simulated weight acceptance using recreationally active students (73F, 42M; 21.8±2.9yr, 1.69±0.1m, 68.9±14.1kg). Anterior knee laxity (mm) at 133N and initial (0–20N) and terminal (100–130N) anterior stiffnesses (N/mm) were calculated from arthrometer data. Peak anterior tibial acceleration (m∙s −2 ) relative to the femur was assessed via electromagnetic position sensors during 40% body weight acceptance trials. Peak knee shear force was assessed during double-leg drop jumps. Results Sex specific linear stepwise regressions revealed that in females, increasing peak tibial acceleration (5.1±1.8m·s −2 ) (R 2 ∆=7.3%, P∆=0.021), increasing initial anterior stiffness (31.0±14.0N/mm) (R 2 ∆=5.9%, P∆=0.032), and decreasing terminal anterior stiffness (43.4±17.4N/mm) (R 2 ∆=4.9%, P∆=0.046) collectively predicted greater peak knee shear forces (66.6±12.03% BW) (multiple R 2 =18.1%). No male regressions were significant. Conclusions Sagittal laxity measures are associated with anterior knee shear loads during landing in females. Greater tibial acceleration during early axial load along with greater initial and lesser terminal anterior stiffnesses predicted increasing anterior knee shear forces. Future work should investigate the combined contribution of passive and active restraints to high-risk ACL biomechanics.
Safety of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors while receiving venom immunotherapy

Background Case reports have raised concern about concurrent use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) in patients receiving venom immunotherapy (VIT). No surveys have been performed on the number of venom allergic patients who take ACE-Is and their outcomes. Objective To survey the use of ACE-Is and systemic reaction (SR) characteristics in patients receiving VIT. Methods A retrospective medical record review was performed on all patients evaluated for Hymenoptera venom allergy at a single center from 2000 to 2005. Patient records were evaluated for presenting symptoms, specific IgE testing, VIT treatment course, ACE-I use during VIT, and the presence of any SRs to field stings or VIT. Results Of 288 patients evaluated from 2000 to 2005 for Hymenoptera venom allergy, 157 were found to have venom specific IgE. Of these 157 patients, 79 (50%) of those with Hymenoptera venom allergy underwent VIT. Seventeen of these 79 patients (21%) were taking an ACE-I during VIT. The mean overlap of a patient taking an ACE-I with the time they were receiving VIT was 30.9 months (range, 3–114 months). Patients taking ACE-Is were older (mean age, 56.2 vs 36.4 years; P P P = .03). Conclusions This study suggests that there is not an association between ACE-I use and increased frequency of SRs to venom immunotherapy.
Kinesin-1 translocation: Surprising differences between bovine brain and MCF7-derived microtubules

While there have been many single-molecule studies of kinesin-1, most have been done along microtubules purified from bovine or porcine brain, and relatively little is known about how variations in tubulin might alter motor function. Of particular interest is transport along microtubules polymerized from tubulin purified from MCF7 breast cancer cells, both because these cells are a heavily studied model system to help understand breast cancer, and also because the microtubules are already established to have interesting polymerization/stability differences from bovine tubulin, suggesting that perhaps transport along them is also different. Thus, we carried out paired experiments to allow direct comparison of in vitro kinesin-1 translocation along microtubules polymerized from either human breast cancer cells (MCF7) or microtubules from bovine brain. We found surprising differences: on MCF7 microtubules, kinesin-1's processivity is significantly reduced, although its velocity is only slightly altered.
The theory of interfacial viscoelastic measurement by the viscous-traction method

Abstract Two new methods of measuring viscoelastic surface properties with a viscous-traction canal viscometer are described. The first of these is based on a comparison of the calculated and observed frequency response of the fluid interface to an impressed sinusoidal motion at the canal floor. An alternative technique of surface relaxation is also analyzed. The results of these analyses are discussed in terms of a two-dimensional Maxwell model; however, the theoretical responses of more complex linear viscoelastic models are also considered.
Synthesis of higher oxides of potassium in an electric discharge sustained in oxygen

Abstract A study has been performed of the synthesis of KO2 and K2O2 from KOH using a rf sustained oxygen glow discharge. The extent of oxidation is found to depend upon the KOH particle size and the discharge operating conditions. A mechanism based upon atomic oxygen is proposed to explain the results observed. Thermogravimetric analyses were used to characterize the thermal decomposition of the products. This method is found to have promise as a means for analyzing for KO2 in the presence of K2O2.
Optimized phase screen modeling for optical turbulence

An alternative method for statistical interpolation is formalized. A new theorem is proved, providing theoretical basis for optimizing statistical accuracy in successively conditioned rendering applications. The theorem is empirically validated by two simulations, each comparing two different statistical interpolators. The interpolators are used to model high-resolution phase fluctuations over finite apertures. The theorem correctly predicts which interpolator is more optimal, based on empirical trials with greater than 99.9% certainty. The theorem is suitable as a quick alternative to the Monte Carlo optimization techniques used previously.
Biomimetic poly(serinol hexamethylene urea) for promotion of neurite outgrowth and guidance.

Nerve function recovery is a major technical challenge in the rehabilitation of patients suffering from severe neuropathies. Facilitating functional recovery requires the creation of a growth-permissive environment that directs the extension and myelination of surviving neurons. To this end, an electrospun nanofiber scaffold composed of arginine-glycine-aspartate-modified poly(serinol hexamethylene urea)-blend-poly-e-caprolactone (PSHU-RGD/PCL) has been employed. Initially, we investigated the cytotoxicity of PSHU in PC12 cell culture. This was followed by functional examinations of PSHU-RGD for cell viability, proliferation, differentiation, and neurite outgrowth, and finally we examined electrospun scaffolds for guided neurite sprouting. MTT proliferation assays indicated no cytotoxic effects of polymer as compared to laminin-coated surfaces. Functional testing revealed PSHU-RGD surfaces to be comparable to the positive control, laminin-coated surface, in neurite outgrowth studies with average neurite lengths of 84.6 μm (laminin), 218.2 μm (PSHU-RGD), 570.2 μm (laminin + NGF), and 958.2 μm (PSHU-RGD + NGF) after two weeks on homogeneously modified surfaces, and 554.8 μm (nonwoven mats) and 1512.3 μm (uniaxially aligned mats) for PSHU-RGD/PCL + NGF scaffolds after one week. We created PSHU functionalized with the tripeptide, RGD, which provided chemical and physical cues to PC12 cell proliferation and differentiation. We expect that PSHU-RGD will be capable of directing and promoting neurite outgrowth in many neuropathy models.
On Gilmore-Gomory's open question for the bottleneck TSP

Consider the traveling salesman problem where the distance between two cities A and B is an integrable function of the y-coordinate of A and the x-coordinate of B. This problem finds important applications in operations management and combinatorial optimization. Gilmore and Gomory (Oper. Res. 12 (1964) 655) gave a polynomial time algorithm for this problem. In the bottleneck variant of this problem (BP), we seek a tour that minimizes the maximum distance between any two consecutive cities. For BP, Gilmore and Gomory state that they ''do not yet know how to solve the problem for general integrable functions''. We show that BP is strongly NP-complete. Also, we use this reduction to provide a method for proving NP-completeness of other combinatorial problems.
“Henry's law” behaviour of Sm in a natural plagioclase/melt system: Importance of experimental procedure

Abstract We report an experimental study of the partitioning of Sm in a natural plagioclase/melt system as a function of concentration of Sm at constant pressure, temperature and bulk composition. Both radioactive 151 Sm and non-radioactive Sm 2 O 3 were used. In experiments in which the sample was initially held at a temperature above the liquidus for only one hour, we find that the plagioclase/ melt partition coefficient for Sm increases with decreasing concentration of Sm. There is also evidence for isotopic heterogeneity in the initially molten charge. In experiments in which the sample was initially held at the same temperature above the liquidus for 24 hours, the partition coefficient was constant as a function of concentration and no evidence for isotopic heterogeneity was observed. These experiments indicate that partition coefficients obtained from experiments involving tracer isotopes are very sensitive to experimental procedure. Our experiments also indicate that the partition coefficient for Sm between plagioclase and melt is constant over the range 3 to 50,000 ppm Sm in the melt. That range encompasses most concentrations in natural systems.
Acridine orange potentiation of actinomycin D uptake and activity.

Acridine orange enhances the uptake of [ 3 H]actinomycin D in disrupted and intact human lymphocytes, as measured by liquid scintillation and autoradiography. Proflavine, quinacrine, chloroquine, and ethidium bromide are not effective. In mice, acridine orange increases the capacity of actinomycin to reduce spleen weight. Type II acridine binding to DNA may be a prerequisite for actinomycin enhancement.
Genic differentiation and phylogenetic relationships within two New World bat genera

Abstract Phylogenetic placement of taxa within the two New World leaf-nosed bat genera, Tonatia and Micronycteris was carried out using allozymic characters. Of particular interest were the relationships between the karyotypically megaevolved species and their proposed congeners. Neither of the two karyotypically megaevolved Tonatia species shared synapomorphic allozymes with the other Tonatia taxa. In contrast, the three Micronycteris species identified as having undergone this unusual mode of karyotypic evolution fall within a common evolutionary assemblage with all but one of their congeners. Measures of genic similarity among the Tonatia and Micronycteris species yield relatively low Nei identity values. No correlation is found when the number of karyotypic and allozymic changes since a common ancestor are compared.
Quantification of intracavitary brachytherapy parameters and correlation with outcome in patients with carcinoma of the cervix.

Abstract Purpose: To quantify the M. D. Anderson criteria for acceptable implant geometry; to relate our system of intracavitary radiotherapy (ICRT) prescription to Manchester and ICRU reference doses; and to correlate these parameters with outcome measures. Methods and Materials: The relationships between intracavitary applicators and normal structures were measured directly from localization films of 808 applications performed in 396 patients who completed definitive treatment for cervical cancer between 1990 and 1994. The distances between applicators and tissue landmarks and the doses to Manchester and normal tissue reference points were correlated with outcome. Results: The median distance from the tandem to the sacrum was 4.0 cm, or one-third the distance from the pubis to the sacrum. The mean distance between the vaginal ovoids and cervical marker seeds was 7 mm, and the median distance between the tandem and the posterior edge of the ovoids was 50% of the ovoid length. In 92% of insertions, vaginal packing was posterior to or within 5 mm of a line that passed through the posterior edge of the ovoids, parallel to the tandem. The median doses to Point A and rectal, bladder, and vaginal surface reference points were 87 Gy, 68 Gy, 70 Gy, and 125 Gy, respectively. Although these reference doses were not routinely used to prescribe treatment, consistent applicator geometry and source selection resulted in a relatively narrow range of delivered doses. The average ratios between the doses at bladder or rectal reference points and Point A were somewhat greater when smaller vaginal applicators were used. Patients received a median of 5600 mgRaEq-h from ICRT. The total mgRaEq-h were correlated with but were not proportional to the dose at Point A. There were no significant correlations between the doses to standard reference points and the rates of central recurrence or major complications. Conclusion: When ICRT implants are carefully placed, relatively high paracentral doses can be delivered that yield a high rate of central disease control with an acceptable rate of complications. The narrow range of doses delivered to standard reference points and their inconsistent correlation with the maximum doses delivered to normal tissues probably contributed to a lack of correlation between reference doses and outcome.
On representations of completely bounded maps

Abstract We discuss two different representations for completely bounded maps on C∗-algebras and obtain some uniqueness criteria for the representations.
History and physical examination ofthe patellofemoral joint with patellar instability

Abstract Patellar instability is a common source of anterior knee pain among young, active individuals, and is morecommon in females than in males. There is usually an underlying malalignment of the lower extremity, which may contribute to the patient's complaints of “giving way.” A careful, deliberate history and physical examination are instrumental in the diagnosis of a patient with anterior knee pain secondary to instability. The history should include the initial onset of the patient's symptoms, the exacerbating and relieving maneuvers, as well as any treatment-relieving measures the patient has had in the past. The physical examination is directed toward the identification of predisposing factors contributing to the patient's instability.
Superior sulcus tumors

Superior sulcus tumors (also known as Pancoast’s tumors) are an unusual presentation of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that are often initially misdiagnosed. Accurate and thorough staging is necessary prior to treatment and typically includes magnetic resonance imaging if a surgical approach is being considered. Standard therapy has been induction radiation therapy followed by resection, which results in a 5-year survival of about 30%. Complete resection remains the key to long-term survival in localized NSCLC but is difficult to achieve with superior sulcus tumors due to early invasion of bone and to vascular and nervous structures at the apex of the chest. Complete resection has been enhanced by using an anterior trans-cervicomediastinal approach that facilitates resection of anterior-based tumors that invade the sub-clavian vessels. Recently, induction chemoradiotherapy has been reported to enhance complete resection rates and improve survival compared with historical controls and is likely to become the new standard treatment for localized superior sulcus tumors.
How to Read a Book: Irenaeus and the Pastoral Epistles Reconsidered

Both the title of Irenaeus’ Refutation and Overthrow of Falsely-Called Knowledge and the opening lines of the preface to Book One of this work feature language from 1 Timothy. This prominent positioning once garnered significant attention from scholars, who, building on a larger narrative of a second-century Pauline captivity to “the heretics,” argued that it was only with the pseudonymous Pastoral Epistles that a Paul emerged who could be useful for the proto-orthodox church (Irenaeus, in particular) in its fight against the “heretics.” More recently, however, the role of the Pastorals in Irenaeus has been downplayed by those who are not convinced of the Pauline “captivity” narrative. In this article I argue, against this recent trend, that the Pastorals do provide, using the language of Gerard Genette, a significant hypotext for Irenaeus. The use of 1 Timothy in the title and preface of Adversus haereses clues the reader to this intertextual relationship and sets a paradigmatic course for the remainder of the work.
As(V) and As(III) reactions on pristine pyrite and on surface-oxidized pyrite

Abstract Reactions of As(III) and As(V) with pyrite were investigated using pristine pyrite (produced and reacted in a rigorously anoxic environment with PO2
Drug abuse prevention curricula in public and private schools in Indiana

Recent research on drug education has focused on public schools. This study compares public school drug education programs with such efforts in private schools in one midwestern state. All schools in the state were asked to respond to a survey on curricula and training. This study reports on the types of prevention curricula used and at what grades, as well as the number of schools with trained staff. For almost every grade a higher percentage of public schools was found to be implementing drug education programs than private schools. This was manifested in public schools developing their own programs and/or purchasing commercially available drug curricula. Although an equal number of private and public schools have trained staff, less than half of all schools report a trained staff at each grade level. Directions for future research based on these results are suggested.
Government—Media—Audiences: Private Sector Participation in Public Service Broadcasting: The Case of Kenya

Commercial advertising and religious broadcasts are allowed in order to raise revenues, but at the same time the public broadcasting organization must ensure that the stability of the state is not threatened by alternative voices.
WIND DIRECTION EFFECTS ON CLADDING AND STRUCTURAL LOADS

Abstract A simple procedure is proposed for estimating wind loads corresponding to various return periods, which takes into account directional information on both wind speeds and aerodynamic response. Examples of the application of the procedure are given, which show that cladding loads calculated without taking directional information on extreme wind speeds into account may in certain cases be larger than the actual loads by a factor of two or more. It is also shown that it is not appropriate, in general, to account for wind direction effects by multiplying loads determined without regard for these effects by a reduction factor of 0.8, as has been suggested in the literature. In its present form, the procedure is applicable to cladding panels and to members of relatively rigid structures in regions not subjected to hurricane winds.
Superthermal component in an effusive beam of metastable krypton: Evidence of Kr2+ dissociative recombination.

A superthermal component in a metastable ${\mathrm{Kr}}^{+}$ krypton beam produced in a Kr gas discharge has been observed and studied. Evidence is presented that this fast component is due to dissociative recombination of ${\mathrm{Kr}}_{2}^{+}$, and that the excited Kr direct products of this reaction are predominantly in the 5s states. An effective method (time of flight) for studying the product states of dissociative recombination reactions is thus demonstrated.
Terrestrial record of the Solar System's oscillation about the galactic plane

A new study is presented of the observational evidence pertaining to the theory which attributes the episodic component of the earth's impact cratering record over the past 600 Myr to gravitational encounters between the solar system and interstellar clouds that cause comets to fall into the solar system and impact the earth. Contrary to a claim by Thaddeus and Chanan (1985), the vertical scale height of the clouds seems to be sufficently small and the sun's vertical trajectory sufficiently large for the modulating effect of the sun's galactovertical motion to be detectable in the terrestrial record of impact cratering with at least a 50 percent a priori probability.
Calibrating Translating 3-Axix Accelerometers

A special test jig was constructed for the purpose of calibrating a 3-axis accelerometer. Test angles of 0, 6, 14.5, 19.5 and 30 degrees were set separately, in pairs, or in triplets for roll, pitch and yaw. Pitch and roll data are discussed here.
Demonstration of immunoreactive eosinophil granule major basic protein in the plasma and placentae of non-human primates

A protein immunologically identical to the major basic protein (MBP) of eosinophil granules is present in the plasma of pregnant women and has been localized to human placental X cells using immunofluorescence. This study demonstrates the presence of similar immunoreactive molecules in the placental X cells from several non-human primates. We also describe the presence of increased plasma levels of MBP in the pregnant gorilla and in pregnant cynomolgus and rhesus monkeys as compared to non-pregnant counterparts. Such findings suggest that non-human primates are a suitable animal model for the study of the X cell function and in particular the physiological importance of MBP in pregnancy.
A Systematic Approach for the Prevention and Treatment of Formation Damage Caused by Asphaltene Deposition

Asphaltene plugging is a known cause of near-wellbore formation damage. Deposited asphaltenes can reduce effective hydrocarbon mobility by (1) blocking the pore throats; (2) adsorbing onto the rock, thereby altering the formation wettability from water-wet to oil-wet; and (3) increasing hydrocarbon viscosity by nucleating water-in-oil emulsions. Asphaltene flocculation and deposition can be avoided in some, but not all, cases. Some formation damage resulting from asphaltene plugging is permanent and hence must be prevented rather than treated. Prevention of asphaltene-induced formation damage should be started in the early stages of drilling and well completion, once the oil is known to be asphaltenic. This paper presents a systematic approach to successful diagnosis, prevention, and mitigation of asphaltene problems during recovery of asphaltenic oils. A mechanism of asphaltene flocculation and deposition is proposed and analyzed, and the previously defined concept of asphaltene deposition envelope is further refined. Diagnostic technology is presented that can test the compatibility of drilling and completion fluids with any asphaltenic oil. Important issues that need to be considered in the design of treatments for asphaltene removal are discussed. Finally, the paper presents a methodology for restoring unfavorable wettability changes caused by asphaltene deposition.
Effects of Procainamide and N-Acetylprocainamide on Myocardial Contractility in Ischemic Isolated Rabbit Hearts

AbstractWhile many antiarrhythmic drugs depress myocardial function, N-acetylprocainamide, the major metabolite of procainamide, appears to improve myocardial performance in vivo. The present study compared the effect of procainamide with N-acetylprocainamide on the isolated, perfused, globally ischemic rabbit heart. Procainamide depressed dPldt at infusion rates of 2 mg/min or greater. N-Acetylprocainamide depressed dP/dt at infusion rates of 40 mg/min or greater and may have increased dP/dt at low rates of around 1 mg/min. Pretreatment of the rabbits with reserpine abolished any increase in dPldt produced by N-acetylprocainamide. We conclude that N-acetylprocainamide does not have intrinsic direct positive inotropic activity in this model.
Evidence for lack of DNA photoreactivating enzyme in humans.

Abstract Photoreactivating enzyme (DNA photolyase; deoxyribocyclobutadipyrimidine pyrimidine-lyase, EC 4.1.99.3) repairs UV damage to DNA by utilizing the energy of near-UV/visible light to split pyrimidine dimers into monomers. The enzyme is widespread in nature but is absent in certain species in a seemingly unpredictable manner. Its presence in humans has been a source of considerable controversy. To help resolve the issue we used a very specific and sensitive assay to compare photoreactivation activity in human, rattlesnake, yeast, and Escherichia coli cells. Photolyase was easily detectable in E. coli, yeast, and rattlesnake cell-free extracts but none was detected in cell-free extracts from HeLa cells or human white blood cells with an assay capable of detecting 10 molecules per cell. We conclude that humans most likely do not have DNA photolyase.
Control strategies of North China power Grid AGC in tie-line power control in UHV pilot project

Automatic Generation Control (AGC) is one of the important techniques in modern power system operation and control. It takes important tasks, such as, power system frequency regulation, tie-line power control between inter-connected power systems, and etc. Research results of the 1000kV AC UHV tie-line power control strategies in North China power Grid were introduced. Test results in real power system show the feasibility and validity of the strategies. The strategies have provided technical supports for stable operation of the UHV tie-line.
Liver Extract and Reticulocytosis in the Guinea Pig

Summary and Conclusions1. The number of circulating reticulocytes in the guinea pig increases after a variety of physiological disturbances. 2. By suitable care in handling and feeding stable reticulocyte levels may be maintained for as long as 3 months. 3. Rises of reticulocytes follow the feeding of liver extract. 4. Similar rises do not follow the feeding of charred liver extract.
Line-spring analysis of the double-torsion specimen

Abstract The stress-intensity factor calibration of the double-torsion specimen is discussed. It is argued that accurate analysis requires an accurate description of the shape of the steady crack profile which evolves in a particular test. The line-spring model, which readily accommodates variable depth cracks in plates, is applied to a representative crack profile in the double torsion specimen.
How many recursive calls does a recursive function make

The calculation of the Fibonacci sequence using recursion gives rise to an interesting question: How many times does a recursive function call itself? This paper presents one way to examine this question using difference equations with initial conditions, or discrete dynamical systems (DDS). We show that there is a linear relationship between the Fibonacci numbers themselves and the number of recursive calls. This relationship generalizes to any type of DDS of second-order, and DDS of higher-order.
Functions with pseudocompact support

Abstract Let X be a completely regular Hausdorff space, C(X) the ring of real-valued continuous functions on X, CK the ideal of functions with compact support, I the intersection of the free maximal ideals of C(X), and Cψ the ideal of functions with pseudocompact support. For any space, CK ⊆ I ⊆ Cψ. When CK = I, or I = Cψ, or CK = Cψ , it is said that X is μ-compact, η-compact, or ψ-compact, respectively. These ideals and spaces are characterized in terms of the ideal structure of C(X) and the topological structure of βX. Also, μ-, η-, and ψ-compactifications are constructed. Examples and counterexamples are given.
Pulsed Fusion Propulsion System for Rapid Interstellar Missions

An inertial-cone nement fusion system that utilizes a self-generated magnetic e eld is examined as a potential propulsion system that would allow interstellar missions to be carried out in relatively short times. The system in question is the magnetically insulated inertial cone nement fusion (MICF) concept, which combines the favorable aspects of both inertial and magnetic fusion into one. Physical containment of the hot plasma in this device is provided by a metal shell, whereas its thermal energy is insulated from that wall by a self-generated magnetic e eld. Fusion reactions in MICF can be triggered by a laser or a particle beam that enters the target pellet through a tiny hole and ablates the inner surface. The lifetime of the resulting plasma is dictated by the time it takes the shock wave to traversethe thicknessof theshell. This cone nement timeistypically two orders of magnitude longer than that of implosion-type inertial fusion and leads to a very large energy multiplication. When employed as a propulsion system, MICF can produce a specie cimpulse and a thrust that makeinterstellardestinations reachable in acceptably short times. Nomenclature C1 = coefe cient for the energy transfer rate to the electrons C2 = coefe cient for the energy transfer rate to the ions D = linear distance E = instantaneous energy ET = pellet energy content Eth = thermal energy E0 = initial energy ¯ Ea = mean alpha energy F = thrust Isp = specie c impulse Mi = ion mass m f = e nal vehicle mass mi = initial vehicle mass mT = pellet mass Na = alpha particle density n = particle density Q = pellet energy gain R = ratio of alpha density to plasma density S f = destination distance T = temperature ve = exhaust velocity v f = e nal vehicle velocity s = cone nement time s th = thermalization time x = repitition rate
Immunochemical evidence for acth-like immunoreactivity in tissues of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris

Abstract 1. 1. The presence of ACTH-like immunoreactivity in ventral nerve fiber, supra- and subpharyngeal ganglia and gut tissues of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris has been demonstrated by means of radioimmunoassay technique. 2. 2. The greatest ACTH-like immunoreactivity was measured in the neuronal tissues while seminal vesicle and body wall tissues manifested the lowest activities. 3. 3. The measured ACTH-like immunoreactivity in gut tissues may indicate that this peptide is not associated with digestive functions as is the case with other neuropeptides described in the earthworm.