cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Design Rules, Volume 2: Chapter 11 Platform Systems vs. Step Processes - The Value of Options and the Power of Modularity

The purpose of this chapter is to contrast the value structure of platform systems (e.g. a computer or a marketplace) with step processes (e.g. an assembly line or a steel mill). In distinguishing between step processes and platform systems, the chapter lays out the core theoretical arguments of the book. A step process is a technology that changes the material world in a predictable way that humans find useful or valuable. In contrast, a platform system is a technology designed to support the creation of options. Historically, the increasing importance of platform systems is inextricably bound up with the spread of digital technology and the related use of modular technical architectures to manage complexity and accommodate technical change. I go on to explain why platform systems have modular technical architectures, and to trace the intellectual history of modularity in early digital computers and software. I then use option theory to identify a set of complementary conditions—risk, modularity, and openness—that are favorable to the adoption of platform systems, I contrast these to the conditions—growing markets, automated machinery, and systematic management— favorable to the creation of large-scale flow production processes. This analysis in turn leads to a predicted correspondence between technologies and organizations. In essence, interdependent step processes require and reward modern corporations characterized by risk aversion, unified governance, hierarchical structure, coordinated by managers exercising direct authority. In contrast, platform systems require and reward platform ecosystems characterized by risk-taking, distributed governance, autonomy, coordinated by centralized rules and shared resources. Finally, I show how the benefits of flexible platform systems may be balanced against the benefits of efficient step processes in designing the architecture of large technical systems.
Calling a mirage a mirage: direct perception of speech produced without a tongue

I address Morrish’s contention that the compensatory articulations of a speaker without a tongue disconfirm a direct-realist theory of speech perception. Listeners’ successful identifications of the speaker’s utterances and their mistaken identifications pattern in ways that suggest to Morrish that listeners perceive acoustic signals, not their articulatory causes. I point out that the interpretation is inconsistent with other evidence in speech perception and with interpretations of analogous situations (mirages) in visual perception. Morrish argues that the better performance of listeners identifying the speaker’s intended words in connected speech than in isolation reveals the central role of “top-down” processes in speech perception. I point out that she fails to show that the top-down influences are on perception, rather than on judgment, I suggest reasons whey we should hope that they are on judgment, and I point out that top-down information, acquired as it is by perceptual experience, would be itself impoverished were perception impoverished in the absence of top-down help. Acquiring useful top-down information presupposes veridical perception. Morrish (1990) offers challenges to two claims of a direct-realist theory: its claim that perceptual objects are articulatory and its claim that perception is direct (that is, unmediatcd by “top-down” processes). I will consider each challenge in turn and then address some more particular criticisms that Morrish raises against the theory.
Training to Reduce Home Care Aides' Work Stress Associated with Patient Death: A Scoping Review.

Background: Home care workers (HCWs)-including home health aides, personal care aides, and other direct care workers-provide functional and other essential support that allows older, disabled, and seriously ill people to live at home. As a growing number of patients are aging and dying at home, HCWs are increasingly providing care at the end of life (EOL). Although prior qualitative studies have shown that patient death is an impactful and challenging experience for HCWs, the majority of HCWs receive almost no training on EOL issues. Objective: The goal of this scoping review is to identify intervention studies describing training of HCWs in EOL issues to map types of training and to assess the degree to which existing efforts address HCW health and well-being. Design: Our scoping review covered three databases and focused on articles published in English since 2000. Results: Of the 393 articles screened, 26 underwent full-text review and 6 met inclusion criteria. Only one article discussed training designed for and implemented with HCWs exclusively. Other trainings simultaneously targeted multiple kinds of workers. Supporting HCWs in reducing their stress and improving their coping skills was substantially addressed in only one article, although HCWs' emotional needs were addressed less centrally in several others. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that there is a paucity of EOL training interventions tailored specifically to the experiences and positioning of HCWs. We recommend that future intervention studies address the multiple facets of HCWs' stress related to patient death to improve EOL care in the home.
Effect of Xinjikang on signaling pathway and apoptosis of myocardial Toll-like receptor 4-nuclear factor-κB in rats with viral myocarditis

Objective To determine the effect of Xinjikang on signaling pathway and apoptosis of Toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4) -nuclear factor-κB (TLR4-NF-κB) in rats with viral myocarditis (VMC) . Methods Eighty 3-month-old male rats were randomly divided into the model group (n=30) , Xinjikang group (n=30) and normal control group (n=20) . The model group receieved intraperitoneal injection of Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) . In addition, the Xinjikang group was injected with Xinjikang decoction (15 g/kg) . The normal group was inoculated intraperitoneally with 0.2 ml virus-free Eagle’s solution. The cardiac index (body weight/cardiac weight) in each group was statistically analyzed. The pathological changes of heart tissues were examined by HE staining. The expression levels of TLR-4 and NF-κB in myocardial tissues were determined by immunohistochemistry. The protein expression levels of TLR-4 and NF-κB in myocardial tissues were determined by Western Blotting. The myocardial cell apoptosis index (AI) was examined by in situ end labeling (TUNEL) method. Results (1) The mortality in the Xinjikang group was significantly lower than that in the model group, whereas the median survival time was significantly longer than that in the model group (P Xinjikang group>normal control group (P Xinjikang group>normal control group (P<0.05) . Conclusion Xinjikang may reduce the mortality of VMC rats, prolong the median survival time, inhibit the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB, and improve the myocardial cell apoptosis. Key words: Myocarditis; TLR4; NF-κB; Apoptosis
Toward Ability-Based Design for Novice Programmers with Learning (Dis)abilities

Dynamically adaptive Parsons problems are pieces of code that must be ordered and indented correctly. Performance on prior problems determines the difficulty of subsequent ones. These problems comprise an adaptive learning system that dynamically adapts the learning experience to an individual's ability. But how do novice programmers with learning (dis)abilities experience solving them? And, how can we make this learning experience more accessible? To understand the learning experience, researchers suggest testing the hypothesis that cognitive load is less for solving dynamically adaptive Parsons problems than writing equivalent code. Furthermore, researchers propose using an ability-based design approach to increase the accessibility of adaptive learning systems such as dynamically adaptive Parsons problems.
Triangular Numbers and the N-Sided Die Optimal Stopping Problem

Summary–A fair die with sides numbered from one to N is rolled. You can either receive the value shown or else pay one and roll again. If you do not like the second roll, you can pay another one an...
Discussion of “designing central bank digital currency” by Agur, Ari and Dell'Ariccia

Central bank interest in issuing a fiat digital currency has opened the door to profound social-economic and policy issues. This paper presents a discussion of Agur et al. (2021), in which the authors study the optimal design of a central bank digital currency (CDBC). The main result of the work is that an interest-bearing CBDC (in particular, negative remuneration) alleviates the tradeoff between bank intermediation and the social value of maintaining cash. To be fully convincing from a policymaker's point of view, the results should be tested along several dimensions, including considering a wider range of trade offs with regards to the introduction of a CBDC.
Extracting More Information from the Existing Freeway Traffic Monitoring Infrastructure

This report presents the results of a study which focused on vehicle reidentification from conventional loop detectors. The study first extends the methodology across major merge and diverge freeway sections. It then extends this methodology to single loop detectors. The study also extends the understanding of traffic phenomena impacting both traffic flow and the performance of the reidentification algorithms. It examines the impacts of lane change maneuvers on delay and develops a model to capture these impacts.
Shear Strength of Wood Beams: A Weibull Analysis

A size-strength relationship for the shear strength of Douglas fir beams has been developed using Weibull’s statistical theory of strength of materials. The two-parameter statistical model has been found sufficient for experimental data analysis. Arbitrary loading conditions as well as bearing sizes are considered in the present study. Numerical results indicate that the existing shear strength data obtained from the ASTM shear block tests coupled with the present analysis can serve as a simple, yet reliable, design criterion for the practicing engineer. Design procedures are illustrated by numerical examples.
Italian Voices: Making Minnesota Our Home

Italian Voices was a labor of love for Mary Ellen Mancina-Batinich. The author's father, Vincenzo (who later took the Americanized name of James), told his daughter many stories about his life as a...
Adaptive Training—An Application to Flight Simulation1

Army pilot training requirements, particularly in the helicopter area, are growing rapidly. To meet the increased training load, an Army-wide system of aircraft simulators, known as the Synthetic Flight Training System (SFTS), has been designed and is under development. A feature of the SFTS is the automation of many instructor functions normally associated with training in flight simulators. A portion of the automation involves the application of adaptive training techniques. This paper describes the SFTS and the rationale for the incorporation in it of adaptive training. The selection of appropriate adaptive variables, techniques for error measurement and for providing feedback to trainees, and the adaptive logic employed are discussed.
Initiation of DNA synthesis by the avian retrovirus reverse transcriptase in vitro: nature and location of the oligodeoxycytidylic acid primer binding site.

Abstract We have investigated the use of oligodeoxycytidylic acid [oligo(dC)] as a primer for the initiation of DNA synthesis by the avian retrovirus reverse transcriptase in vitro, employing the viral RNA genome as template. The addition of oligo(dC)12-18 to viral 35S RNA results in a stimulation of DNA synthesis by the viral RNA-directed DNA polymerase comparable to that observed when oligo(dT) is employed as a primer. Under similar conditions neither oligo(dA)12-18 nor oligo(dG)12-18 was active as primer for transcription of the avian retrovirus genome. Several different approaches have been employed to localize the oligo(dC)12-18 binding site on the viral genome, including isolation of poly(A)-containing fragments, competition hybridization, and RNase H hydrolysis. These analyses indicate that oligo(dC)12-18 binds to a site approximately 2,000 to 3,000 nucleotides from the 3′ terminus of the genome of transforming strains of avian sarcoma viruses and approximately 700 to 1,000 nucleotides from the 3′ terminus of nontransforming avian retroviruses. Therefore, the major site of initiation of DNA synthesis by oligo(dC)12-18 appears to be in the vicinity of the 3′ end of the env gene and the 5′ end of the src gene, although the presence of minor initiation sites located elsewhere on the viral genome cannot be excluded by these data. Characterization of oligonucleotides after pancreatic RNase hydrolysis and poly(C)-Sepharose chromatography of viral RNA directly demonstrates the presence of oligoguanylic acid residues in the avian sarcoma virus genome. DNA sequences transcribed from the oligo(dC) primer appear to be conserved in all of the avian leukosis-sarcoma viruses tested. The use of oligo(dC) as a tool for the production of specific complementary DNA probes is discussed.
Fostering Self-Determination and Resilience Through Sports Counselling: Psychosocial Development of Youth in Botswana

Sports can promote pro-social behaviors and confidence in physical abilities among participants. We conducted an extensive review of the literature on the ways in which youth in Southern African countries, severely affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other hardships may benefit from acquiring the pro-social skills often associated with athletics. This article reviews the current situation of sports in Botswana and offers recommendations for a culturally appropriate developmental sports counselling program in that country. The authors present arguments that support the development of psychosocial skills, self-determination, and resilience among Batswana Youth through sports counselling interventions.
ACCESS : Access Controls for Cooperatively Enabled Smart Spaces

Traditionally, access control mechanisms have been static in nature, requiring explicit intervention in order to change their behavior. However, since security requirements can be expected to change frequently and rapidly in ubiquitous computing environments, access control mechanisms that can react to the context in which they are applied are desirable. With this in mind, we have created ACCESS (Access Controls for Cooperatively Enabled Smart Spaces); a framework for enabling dynamic, role-based and context-aware access control mechanisms in ubiquitous computing applications. Thesis Supervisor: Robert Laddaga Title: Research Scientist, MIT CSAIL
Malnutrition and externalizing behaviour.

Abstract: Malnutrition, particularly the deficiencies of zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids and the excessive consumption of food additives, is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for childhood externalizing behaviour, including aggression, hyperactivity, delinquency, conduct disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. It is hypothesized that malnutrition can interfere with brain functioning by diminishing neuronal growth and development of the brain, altering neurotransmitter functioning, increasing neurotoxicity, and impairing cognitive functioning. These mechanisms present significant implications for malnutrition during childhood, when the brain is growing most rapidly and therefore vulnerable and sensitive to insults. The food industry, policy makers, and health care professionals will have an important role in changing practice and strengthening education and research to prevent malnutrition for current and future generations.
A theoretical model for the annular jet instability

The instability of an annular gas‐core liquid jet is modeled theoretically by treating the liquid layer as a membrane moving under the influences of its own inertia, surface tension, and the gaseous hydrostatic pressure difference between its two sides. Essential physical mechanisms are reconstructed without making any attempt to fit experimental data with model constants. The results compare favorably with those of experiment.
Orthognathic surgical correction of a dentofacial deformity in a patient with cystic fibrosis

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate comprehensive treatment of a patient with CF who had a significant dentofacial deformity. Since these patients are living longer than previously because of improved medical care, 16 treatment of their dentofacial deformities is necessary to improve quality of life
Product innovation input and outcome: moderating effects of the innovation process

Abstract In this research, we propose and examine the proposition that product innovation process is a moderator in the “innovation input–outcome” relationship. Innovation input involves R&D spending in relation to sales or R&D intensity. Innovation outcome involves innovation frequency or the number of new products developed and marketed. Innovation process involves the level of integration in organizational mechanisms: functional coordination, tool arrangement, and external relationship. Data from 45 medical and surgical device makers suggest that functional integration is a significant moderator in the innovation input–outcome relationship. External integration has only main effects whereas tool integration has neither main nor interaction effects on innovation frequency. Results could, however, be industry and sample specific. We discuss the implications of these findings for product innovation theory and research.
Evaluating That Piece of Paper: The Effect of Motivation and Certif ication Status on Occupational Commitment and Job Competence

While certification numbers increase, most empirical research pertaining to the construct of certification has looked at negative aspects. Although this study does not deny that certifications can ...
Waveform analysis techniques for interpreting wind and bridge motion data

Abstract To accurately measure and properly analyze random time histories, it is necessary to give careful consideration to many technical issues. For the measurement task, sensor performance must be properly calibrated and maintained, sampling rates must be high enough and sampling periods long enough, and inputs must be correctly filtered. For analysis, the computer software must accommodate and correct for imperfect sensor performance and be able to demean, detrend, filter, band, taper, window, transform, and integrate random time histories from many inputs. In this paper the key aspects of waveform analysis techniques employed by FHWA will be presented.
Defective Epithelial Chloride Transport in a Gene-Targeted Mouse Model of Cystic Fibrosis

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene encodes an adenosine 39, 59-monophosphate (cyclic AMP)—activated chloride channel. In cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, loss of CFTR function because of a genetic mutation results in defective cyclic AMP—mediated chloride secretion across epithelia. Because of their potential role as an animal model for CF, mice with targeted disruption of the murine CFTR gene [CFTR(-/-)] were tested for abnormalities in epithelial chloride transport. In both freshly excised tissue from the intestine and in cultured epithelia from the proximal airways, the cyclic AMP—activated chloride secretory response was absent in CFTR(-/-) mice as compared to littermate controls. Thus, disruption of the murine CFTR gene results in the chloride transport abnormalities predicted from studies of human CF epithelia.
How Relevant are GFAP Autoantibodies in Autism and Tourette Syndrome

Controversy exists over the role of autoantibodies to central nervous system antigens in autism and Tourette Syndrome. We investigated plasma autoantibody titers to glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in children with classic onset (33) and regressive onset (26) autism, controls (25, healthy age- and gender-matched) and individuals with Tourette Syndrome (24) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. We found a significant difference in autoantibody titers to GFAP, not accounted for by age, between the Tourette (significantly lower) and regressive autism groups. However, no differences were found between: classic/regressive; classic/controls; classic/Tourette; regressive/controls; or controls/Tourette. Autoantibody responses against GFAP are unlikely to play a pathogenic role in autism or Tourette Syndrome.
Transient Heat Flux Measurements in a Divided-Chamber Diesel Engine

Resultats des mesures du flux thermique superficiel transitoire en differents points de la culasse d'un moteur Diesel a 2 chambres. Interpretation des differences de variations des flux observees
Uterine Tumor Resembling Ovarian Sex Cord Tumor: Report of a Case With t(x;6)(p22.3;q23.1) and t(4;18)(q21.1;q21.3)

Uterine tumor resembling ovarian sex cord tumor (UTROSCT) is a rare tumor of reproductive-age and postmenopausal women. We present the first case of UTROSCT with cytogenetic analysis. The tumor occurred in a 34-year-old woman who presented with menorrhagia and a uterine mass. Histologic examination showed tumor with features of sex cord-like epithelium and abundant fibromuscular stroma without an endometrial stromal sarcoma component. The tumor cells expressed cytokeratin, CD99, vimentin, desmin, smooth muscle actin, and estrogen and progesterone receptors. The majority of the cells analyzed by cytogenetic studies showed two balanced chromosomal translocations: t(X;6)(p22.3;q23.1) and t(4;18)(q21.1;q21.3). Several known tumor-related genes (bcl-2, MALT-1, FVT1, SCCA1, SCCA2, and DCC at 18q21; RAP1 at 4q21; and STL at 6q23) and a gonadal-development related gene (H-Y regulator gene at Xp22.3) are located at or near the translocation breakpoints. The tumor cells of sex cord-like elements were strongly and diffusely immunoreactive for bcl-2 antibody. These cytogenetic and immunohistochemical data may suggest potential molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis of UTROSCT.
Variations of various fracture parameters during the process of subcritical crack growth

Abstract The process of subcritical crack growth in a center-cracked specimen made of 2024-T3 aluminum alloy has been analyzed by finite element method. The variations of various fracture parameters in the process of crack growth are presented. A preliminary discussion is made about the general guidances in formulating the governing equation for crack growth.
Acid-induced gelation of enzymatically modified, preheated whey proteins.

Low-pH whey protein gels are formulated using a sequential protocol of heat treatment, enzyme incubation, and cold-set acidification. The heat-induced disulfide and enzyme-catalyzed e-(γ-glutamyl)lysine linkages, both at neutral pH, produce a polymerized protein solution. The molecular weights of these samples show an exponential increase with protein concentration. The additional enzyme-catalyzed cross-links cause little change in molecular weight from that of heat-treated samples at low protein concentrations, indicating predominant intramolecular cross-linking. Enzyme treatment at higher protein concentration however causes increase in molecular weight, possibly due to formation of intermolecular cross-links. Acidification of the polymerized protein solutions through glucono-δ-lactone acid leads to gel formation at pH 4. The elastic (G‘) and viscous (G‘ ‘) moduli of gels with and without enzyme treatment show similar frequency dependence, indicating comparable microstructures, consistent with all sampl...
A model of surface enrichment in bimetallic alloys

Abstract By modification of the Cahn-Hilliard model of free energy at a binary alloy interface there is developed a model of surface enrichment in terms of the difference in surface tensions of the pure components and the free energy functions of the bimetallic alloy. This result is achieved by minimization of the surface free energy which is assumed to be the sum of Δƒ and gradient energy, and the bond-breaking free energies. The model is thermodynamically consistent and predicts surface enrichment even in the limiting case of ideal solution.
The Influence of UGC on Consumers' Information Process on Service Failure

This study explores the influence of user-generated content UGC on consumers' post-purchase information process when a service failure occurs. Fairness theory, which regards counterfactual thinking CFT and judgments of blame as two key constructs in processing negative experiences, is applied in this study. In a scenario-based experimental study, the presence of UGC positive, negative, or not presented, and the transaction medium online or offline were manipulated. This study contributes to current literature on UGC with the aspect of service failure that is rarely discussed. It also adds to the literature on fairness theory, which has primarily focused on the offline contexts. Results are further explored in the article.
DNA-associated click chemistry

This review highlights the most recent advances in click chemistry associated with DNA. Cu[I]-catalyzed azides-alkynes Huisgen cycloadditions (CuAAC) and a strain-promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition (SPAAC) are two popular click reactions that have great impact in DNA science. The simplicity, versatility, orthogonality, and high efficiency of click reaction along with a stable triazole product have been instrumental for the successful application of this reaction in the field of nucleic acid chemistry. CuAAC and SPAAC reactions have been widely used for DNA modification, including DNA labeling, metallization, conjugation, cross-linking, and ligation. Modified oligodeoxynucleotides obtained from click reaction have been extensively applied in the fields of drug discovery, nanotechnology, bio-conjugation, and material sciences, among others. The most recent advances in the synthesis and applications of clickable DNAs are discussed in detail in this article.
Site-blocking effects in temperature-programmed reaction studies of surface decomposition reactions

Abstract The starting point for most analyses of temperature-programmed reaction (TPR) spectra has been the Wigner-Polanyi expression in the form: rate = v(θ) exp (− E a (θ) kT )θ n , where θ is the surface coverage. This paper discusses the b approximation for the case of decomposition reactions where the dissociation rate is inhibited by blocking sites on the surface. It is shown that coverage dependences other than θn that arise from site-blocking have dramatic effects on TPR spectra. These effects are illustrated both with simulations and with experimental results for the decomposition of butyl groups bound to a Cu(110) surface. While the surface coverages of filled and vacant sites must, in general, be carefully distinguished, it is shown that if adsorbate coverage is defined relative to saturation of the monolayer then regardless of the number of sites blocked per adsorbate the initial rate varies as θ0(1 − θ0) where θ0 is the initial coverage. The effects of interactions between adsorbates are also discussed.
Nemerteans as hosts for symbionts: a review

Nemerteans utilize other animals as hosts in a variety of well‐studied, symbiotic relationships, but relatively little is known concerning nemerteans as hosts for other organisms. Only three haplosporidians, one microsporidian, two gregarines, three ciliates, five mesozoans, one mite and one copepod have been identified to species from nemerteans, whereas 34 nemertean species (one Archinemertea, 17 Heteronemertea, 15 Hoplonemertea, one Bdellonemertea) have been recorded as hosts. The majority of recorded nemertean symbionts are endoparasitic protozoans and orthonectids. Among the Haplosporidia, there are three species of Haplosporidium. The hyperparasite, Nosemoides vivieri, from an unidentified gregarine, is the only known microsporidian associated with a nemertean. Within the phylum Apicomplexa, besides the two species of gregarines from three species of nemerteans, there are 11 other species of nemerteans with unidentified gregarines. One species of nemertean has been found with an unidentified coccidi...
Estimation of the inherent optical properties of natural waters from the irradiance attenuation coefficient and reflectance in the presence of Raman scattering.

By means of radiative transfer simulations we developed a model for estimating the absorption a, the scattering b, and the backscattering bb coefficients in the upper ocean from irradiance reflectance just beneath the sea surface, R(0-), and the average attenuation coefficient for downwelling irradiance, 〈Kd〉1, between the surface and the first attenuation depth. The model accounts for Raman scattering by water, and it does not require any assumption about the spectral shapes of a, b, and bb. The best estimations are obtained for a and bb in the blue and green spectral regions, where errors of a few percent to <10% are expected over a broad range of chlorophyll concentration in water. The model is useful for satellite ocean color applications because the model input, R(0-) and 〈Kd〉1, can be retrieved from remote sensing and the model output, a and bb, is the major determinant of remote-sensing reflectance.
Comparison of Space Shuttle Hot Gas Manifold analysis to air flow data

This paper summarizes several recent analyses of the Space Shuttle Main Engine Hot Gas Manifold and compares predicted flow environments to air flow data. Codes used in these analyses include INS3D, PAGE, PHOENICS, and VAST. Both laminar (Re = 250, M = 0.30) and turbulent (Re = 1.9 million, M = 0.30) results are discussed, with the latter being compared to data for system losses, outer wall static pressures, and manifold exit Mach number profiles. Comparison of predicted results for the turbulent case to air flow data shows that the analysis using INS3D predicted system losses within 1 percent error, while the PHOENICS, PAGE, and VAST codes erred by 31, 35, and 47 percent, respectively. The INS3D, PHOENICS, and PAGE codes did a reasonable job of predicting outer wall static pressure, while the PHOENICS code predicted exit Mach number profiles with acceptable accuracy. INS3D was approximately an order of magnitude more efficient than the other codes in terms of code speed and memory requirements. In general, it is seen that complex internal flows in manifold-like geometries can be predicted with a limited degree of confidence, and further development is necessary to improve both efficiency and accuracy of codes if they are to be used as design tools for complex three-dimensional geometries.
Models of optical characteristics of barrel-vault skylights: development, validation and application:

By admitting natural light deep into a building and connecting occupants with the outside, skylights can improve the aesthetic look of buildings and increase occupant satisfaction. In addition, by ...
THE OPTICAL LEVER AS A TOOL IN PHYSIOLOGICAL STUDIES.

Recent studies in the responses of the sugar-cane plant to varying percentages of soil moisture required the development of a technique for measuring elongation with considerable precision. A modified form of the optical lever, commonly used in physical laboratories for such measurements as the lineal expansion of metals, has been satisfactorily used in this work. So far as is known by the writer, such a device has never before been reported as a tool in plant physiology. In its modified form the device consists of a small circular mirror mounted normally to a short brass rod which is bifurcated at the end remote from the mirror. This split end is spread to receive the plant member to be under observation. Holes drilled through the two parts of the split end, in a line parallel to the plane of the mirror, permit the pinning of the plant tissue to the end of the lever with a minimum of damage. The weight of the lever is carried upon a metal rod carrying two projections provided with carefully machined depressions in which two steel pins attached to the mirror support are seated when the device is assembled for use. The lever is so counterpoised that its center of gravity is directly over the line of the pins in order that the plant tissue may be protected from stress when attached to the lever arm.
Effects of cystine, niacin and taurine on cholesterol concentration in the Japanese quail with comments on bile acid metabolism.

1. 1. Two-week-old male quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica, were fed varying concentrations and combinations of cystine, niacin and taurine in the diet for 5 weeks. All experimental groups had a significant reduction (P⩽0.01) in the serum cholesterol concentration. 2. 2. The liver cholesterol concentration was significantly reduced (P⩽0.-05) in ten of the twelve groups. 3. 3. The possible mechanism of action of these compounds on bile acid metabolism is discussed.
Design and Build Methods for a Variable Radius Wheel Mechanism

One of the main concerns regarding robotic mobility is its ability to traverse different types of terrain. As we know from our own experiences driving and riding wheeled vehicles, different types of wheels are better for different applications. In the same vein, giving robots wheels of variable radius can change the torque needed to traverse the terrain, the speed of the vehicle, and the way the vehicle handles the roughness of the terrain. In our prior research of basic modes of mobility, we were able to identify a method for creating a variable radius wheel mechanism. This paper will focus on the mechanical manipulation needed to actuate the mechanism as well as several different ways to implement it. In application, one mechanism can be the sole mobility source for a robot or a few can be chained together to create a more conventional system. This mechanism can be used to give us more versatility in our application scope as well as provide us with more control over the vertical motion of the Center of Mass of a robotic vehicle.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Homopolar Pulse Welding for Offshore Deep Water Pipelines

Homopolar Pulse Welding (HPW) is a one-shot resistance welding process being investigated as a method to join API 5L carbon steel line pipe. HPW utilizes the high current, low voltage electrical pulse produced by a homopolar generator to rapidly resistance heat the interface between abutting pipe ends, producing a full circumference resistance forge weld requiring no filler metal in under three seconds. A five year joint industry program is sponsoring HPW research with the goal of developing the process for deep water offshore pipeline construction utilizing the J-lay method. The first two years of the program have concentrated on weld parameter optimization by producing, testing, and evaluating welds in various grades, wall thicknesses, types and compositions of 3 inch nominal (3.5 inch OD) diameter API 5L carbon steel pipe. Mechanical properties of the welds and parent metal were evaluated by tensile testing, impact testing, and hardness traverse testing according to guidelines and criteria established by the industrial sponsors. HPW has demonstrated the capability to produce industrially acceptable full circumference welds in carbon steel pipe via a rapid, one-shot process.
The motor output during turning flight in a hawkmoth, Manduca sexta

Abstract Electrical activity was recorded extracellularly from mesothoracic flight muscles and the position of the wings was observed during attempted turning by Manduca sexta in fixed flight. The results show that changes in the phase relationships among the motor neurons to the flight muscles are an important part of the neural code by which this hawkmoth controls its flight direction. The third acillary muscle, previously presumed to function in folding the wing at the end of flight, was phasically active during flight. During turns toward the side from which the recordings were made, the wing was remoted, and the third axillary muscle was excited by one to several impulses just before the main depressor muscle (dorsal longitudinal, DLm). During a turn in the opposite direction, the third axillary muscle fired shortly before or with the elevator muscles. The subalar muscle was excited shortly before the DLm during remotion; during promotion it was excited in phase with the DLm or with both the DLm and the elevator muscles. Large changes in phase relationships also occurred in the basalar muscle. In the third axillary and basalar muscles, transition from one phase relationship to another usually involved firing at twice the wingbeat frequency. This observation suggests that the motor neurons to the direct muscles can be loosely coupled to the neurons supplying either the DLm or the elevator muscles. Phase changes during flight also occurred in decapitated animals stimulated with a touch on one side of the abdomen. Therefore alteration of phase relationships and production of motor patterns which result in a turn do not require signals from the brain.
Properties of eight methacrylated beta-cyclodextrin composite formulations

Abstract Objectives : Methacrylated beta-cyclodextrins (MCDs) are novel candidate dental monomers if all or some of the hydroxyl groups of beta-cyclodextrin are substituted with methacrylate groups. The main objective of this study was to evaluate mechanical properties of a number of composite formulations having MCDs as novel dental comonomers. The properties determined were flexural strength (FS), volumetric shrinkage (VS), and degree of conversion (DC). Methods : A mass fraction of 50% of MCD monomers was mixed with a mass fraction of 50% each of a series of dimethacrylate or monomethacrylate diluent comonomers to produce consistent formulations of a workable viscosity. For comparison a resin mixture of a mass fraction of 50% Bis-GMA and a mass fraction of 50% triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (a typical dental resin mixture) was also studied. The mixtures were activated with camphorquinone and ethyl 4-dimethylamino benzoate. One part by mass of each activated resin formulation was mixed with three parts by mass of glass filler. Samples for the FS tests were prepared in (2×2×25) mm 3 molds by light-curing the composites for 2 min on each side. The cured samples were immersed in 37 °C water for 24 h, and FS was measured with an Instron machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. VS was measured by a computer-controlled mercury dilatometer. DC was measured by near-infrared spectroscopy. Results : The properties of the MCD-based composites depended on the kind of diluent used. With these MCD monomers, diluents of triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate, 1,10-decamethylenediol dimethacrylate, or benzyl methacrylate yielded the best composite properties. Significance : Although not yet fully optimized, MCD-based composite formulations containing triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate, 1,10-decamethylenediol dimethacrylate, or benzyl methacrylate yielded flexural strength and volumetric shrinkage values were comparable to those of the Bis-GMA/triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate controls. These findings lend support for further development and evaluations of polymerizable cyclodextrin derivatives for use in dental materials.
Observations of interstellar zinc.

The International Ultraviolet Explorer observations of interstellar zinc toward 10 stars are examined. It is found that zinc is at most only slightly depleted in the interstellar medium; its abundance may serve as a tracer of the true metallicity in the gas. The local interstellar medium has abundances that apparently are homogeneous to within a factor of two, when integrated over paths of about 500 pc, and this result is important for understanding the history of nucleosynthesis in the solar neighborhood. The intrinsic errors in detecting weak interstellar lines are analyzed and suggestions are made as to how this error limit may be lowered to 5 mA per target observation.
Animal Models for Human Seizure and Epileptic Activity

The paper by Sarkisian (1) is an overview of the current animal models available for the study of human seizures and epileptic disorders. Usually, letters to the editor are written to express concern. This is not the case for this outstanding review, which addresses all the major issues that baffle epileptologists in the search for the appropriate animal odels of human epilepsies. The author should be reatly commended on an outstanding job.
Thermal and mechanical behavior of polyethylene film obtained by orientational crystallization

The thermal and mechanical behaviour was measured in the U. S.for a polyethylene that had been prepared and highly drawn in the U. S. S. R. The melting point and percent crystallinity were evaluated in this studies as a function of heating rate and recrystallization. The Young's modulus and tensile stress to break in the orientation direction were 4.1 and 0.15 GPa, respectively.The tensile strain to break was about 8%.
RFID tag localization by using adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference for mobile robot applications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address the use of passive RFID technology for the development of an autonomous surveillance robot. Passive RFID tags can be used for labelling both valued objects and goal‐positions that the robot has to reach in order to inspect the surroundings. In addition, the robot can use RFID tags for navigational purposes, such as to keep track of its pose in the environment. Automatic tag position estimation is, therefore, a fundamental task in this context.Design/methodology/approach – The paper proposes a supervised fuzzy inference system to learn the RFID sensor model; Then the obtained model is used by the tag localization algorithm. Each tag position is estimated as the most likely among a set of candidate locations.Findings – The paper proves the feasibility of RFID technology in a mobile robotics context. The development of a RFID sensor model is first required in order to provide a functional relationship between the spatial attitude of the device and its respons...
Presurgical counseling needs of laryngectomees: A survey of 78 patients

Studies of candidated for laryngectomy have revealed a wide range of misconceptions about this surgery and its siquellae. To evalute current preoperative counseling practices, counseling deficits, and needs as perceived by the patient and his family, we surveyed all persons who had undergone laryngectomy at this institution since January 1974. The data indicated that present presurgical counseling practices are inadequate for most patients. There was considerable discrepancy between the actual counseling the patients received and what they considered ideal. For example, most received preoperative information only from their surgeons. Yet many indicated that laryngectomy candidates should be counseled by nurses, speech pathologists, recovered laryngectomees, and others. Almost all reported that the spouse should be present during counseling. Many survey respondents indicated that printed materials and/or audiovisual programs would also be desirable.
The role of lysozyme in killing and lysis of coliform bacteria in the bovine animal 2. Effect of absorbing serum with bentonite or bacteria

Abstract Adding lysozyme in the presence of EDTA to bentonite-absorbed serum produced variable results in bacteriolytic tests either restoring lytic activity, potentiating existing activity or not affecting activity depending on the organism and serum used. Bactericidal activity, when removed by bentonite, was not restored by adding lysozyme. Absorbing sera with bacteria removed both bacteriolytic and bactericidal activity, the amount removed depending on the number of absorptions. Bacteriolytic, but not bactericidal, activity of sera absorbed with bacteria was restored by added lysozyme in the presence of EDTA. Serum absorbed with zymosar or antigen— antibody precipitates is inactive in bacterial killing. A requirement for added C′ in the bactericidal system can only be demonstrated in high dilutions of serum suggesting that C′ activity rather than antibody is the limiting factor. The experiments show that absorption techniques for removing lysozyme or antibody are non-specific and that lysozyme is involved in lysis but not in the killing of coliforms by bovine serum.
Serotonin Type 1D Receptors (5HT1DR) are Differentially Distributed in Nerve Fibres Innervating Craniofacial Tissues

We tested the hypothesis that the 5HT1DR, the primary antinociceptive target of triptans, is differentially distributed in tissues responsible for migraine pain. The density of 5HT1DR was quantified in tissues obtained from adult female rats with Western blot analysis. Receptor location was assessed with immunohistochemistry. The density of 5HT1DR was significantly greater in tissues known to produce migraine-like pain (i.e. circle of Willis and dura) than in structures in which triptans have no antinociceptive efficacy (i.e. temporalis muscle). 5HT1DR-like immunoreactivity was restricted to neuronal fibres, where it colocalized with calcitonin gene-related peptide and tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive fibres. These results are consistent with our hypothesis that the limited therapeutic profile of triptans could reflect its differential peripheral distribution and that the antinociceptive efficacy reflects inhibition of neuropeptide release from sensory afferents. An additional site of action at sympathetic efferents is also suggested.
Effects of including an N-terminal insertion region and arginine-mimetic side chains in helical peptoid analogues of lung surfactant protein B.

Surfactant protein B (SP-B) is one of two helical, amphipathic proteins critical for the biophysical functioning of lung surfactant (LS) and hence is an important therapeutic protein. This small, complex 79mer has three internal disulfide bonds and homodimerizes via another disulfide bridge. A helical, amphipathic 25mer from the amino terminus (SP-B1-25) exhibits surface-active properties similar to those of full-length, synthetic SP-B. In previous work, we created helical, non-natural mimics of SP-B1-25 based on sequence-specific peptoid 17mers and demonstrated their biomimetic surface activity. Like SP-B1-25, the peptoids were designed to adopt helical structures with cationic and nonpolar faces. Here, we compare the surface activities of six different helical peptoid analogues of SP-B1-25 to investigate the importance of mimicking its N-terminal insertion domain as well as its two arginine residues, both thought to be important for the peptide's proper function. Although the peptoid analogues of SP-B1-...
Natural class of non-Peccei-Quinn models

We discuss a class of models, not based on the Peccei-Quinn mechanism, that solve the strong CP problem. These are a generalization of a model of Nelson. Improved conditions are given for such models. These conditions are natural and in many simple models are automatically satisfied.
Version of the osteoarthritic knee

Abstract Version of normal and osteoarthritic knees is evaluated by computed tomography in this study. Version of the knee is defined as the static rotation of the tibia with respect to the femur in full knee extension. It is measured as the difference between the transverse axes of the femoral condyles and tibia. The average knee version, or external rotation of the tibia with respect to the femur across the normal knee, was 0°. Version of the osteoarthritic knee was 5°. Rotation of the tibia with respect to the femur across the extended osteoarthritic knee is a relationship that will affect the placement of components in total knee arthroplasty. This relationship should be addressed in alignment instrumentation and technique to avoid component malalignment in total knee arthroplasty.