cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of paternal alcohol use with gestational age and birth weight.

Paternal alcohol use has been associated with a number of adverse reproductive outcomes in laboratory animals and there is one epidemiologic report of a detrimental effect on infant birth weight. To expand the epidemiologic evidence, data from the Child Health and Development Studies were analyzed. Data collected from the onset of prenatal care in 10,232 women enrolled in the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and residing in the San Francisco East Bay area between June 1959 and September 1966 were available, including information on the mother's report of paternal alcohol consumption and a number of potential confounders. Pregnancy outcomes included preterm delivery (<37 weeks completed gestation), moderately low birth weight (1,501–2,500 g), very low birth weight (≤1,500 g), small-for-gestational-age (<10th percentile of weight for gestational age), and mean birth weight. Paternal alcohol use, analyzed in intervals from 0 to 2.0 or more drinks per day, showed no association with any of the outcomes of interest. Adjusted prevalence odds ratios ranged from 0.7 to 1.5, with no indication of a monotonic dose-response gradient. Mean birth weight was also virtually unrelated to paternal alcohol use. Compared with the earlier report, this population had a very modest level of alcohol consumption. Nonetheless, within the range that was studied there appears to be no association between paternal alcohol use and birth outcome. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Sam68 Guest STARs in TNF-α Signaling

In this issue of Molecular Cell, Ramakrishnan and Baltimore (2011) identify Sam68 as a TNFR1 docking protein required for proper activation of TNF-α signaling.
Stabilization of anthocyanins on thermally processed red D'Anjou pears through complexation and polymerization

Abstract Stabilization of red anthocyanins on the surface of thermally processed red pears (D'Anjou) through complexation with metallic ions and polymerization was investigated. Pears were treated briefly in an aqueous solution containing stannous (Sn) ion, hydrochloric acid, formaldehyde, and tannic acid prior to steaming and canning processes. Polymerization capacity of the treatment solutions was investigated by monitoring the haze formation of the solutions. Aqueous acetone extracts of the peels from fresh and treated pears at major processing steps (pre-treatment, steam-heating, and canning) were subjected to HPLC qualitative analysis on anthocyanins. The total phenolics (TP) and anthocyanin content (ACN) of the peels were measured by Folin–Ciocalteu assay and pH-differential method, respectively. Polymerization capacity of the solution was influenced by the composition, setting-time, and the time of Sn addition into the formulated solutions. The pre-treatment along with steam-heating resulted in stable red pigments on the peels of canned pears. The new pigments are believed to be the complexes of stannous and phenolics, including anthocyanins. No major newly formed anthocyanins or small phenolics were detected in treated pears. Although developed treatment formula did not represent a commercial application yet, this study revealed an effective approach of retaining red anthocyanins on thermally processed fruits.
The Asian debt-and-development crisis of 1997-?: Causes and consequences

Abstract Interpretations of the Asian crisis have coalesced around two rival stories: the “death throes of Asian state capitalism” story about internal, real economy causes; and the “panic triggering debt deflation in a basically sound but under-regulated system” story that gives more role to external and financial system causes. The paper presents the stories and assesses the evidence. The evidence — in particular, the chronology of the crisis — supports the second rather better than the first. The paper discusses the interests driving capital account liberalization without a framework of regulation, the single most irresponsible act of public authorities in the whole crisis. US and UK financial firms, allied with their treasuries and with the IMF, the WTO, and the OECD, saw themselves at a chronic disadvantage in the Asian system of long-term relationships and patient capital. This alliance, supported by segments of Asian political and financial elites, achieved dramatic domestic financial sector liberalization and capital account opening in Asia over the 1990s, setting up the conditions for crisis. Paradoxically, the crisis may be looked back upon not as the triumph of benign globalization and neoliberal economic doctrine but as the beginning of its end.
Rapamycin-mediated mTORC2 inhibition is determined by the relative expression of FK506-binding proteins

The mechanism by which the drug rapamycin inhibits the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is of intense interest because of its likely relevance in cancer biology, aging, and other age-related diseases. While rapamycin acutely and directly inhibits mTORC1, only chronic administration of rapamycin can inhibit mTORC2 in some, but not all, cell lines or tissues. The mechanism leading to cell specificity of mTORC2 inhibition by rapamycin is not understood and is especially important because many of the negative metabolic side effects of rapamycin, reported in mouse studies and human clinical trials, have been attributed recently to mTORC2 inhibition. Here, we identify the expression level of different FK506-binding proteins (FKBPs), primarily FKBP12 and FKBP51, as the key determinants for rapamycin-mediated inhibition of mTORC2. In support, enforced reduction of FKBP12 completely converts a cell line that is sensitive to mTORC2 inhibition to an insensitive cell line, and increased expression can enhance mTORC2 inhibition. Further reduction of FKBP12 in cell lines with already low FKBP12 levels completely blocks mTORC1 inhibition by rapamycin, indicating that relative FKBP12 levels are critical for both mTORC1 and mTORC2 inhibition, but at different levels. In contrast, reduction of FKBP51 renders cells more sensitive to mTORC2 inhibition. Our findings reveal that the expression of FKBP12 and FKBP51 is the rate limiting factor that determines the responsiveness of a cell line or tissue to rapamycin. These findings have implications for treating specific diseases, including neurodegeneration and cancer, as well as targeting aging in general.
Electrophysiological correlates of flicker perception in the cat.

Abstract The roles of the geniculostriate system and the superior colliculus in determining the critical flicker frequency (CFF) in cats were studied by subtotal lesions and electrical recordings in these respective areas. Lesions in the former uniformly decreased CFF; lesions in the latter usually were followed by increased CFF, which could have been due to continued training. These results suggested that the geniculostriate system mediated high frequencies of flicker, while the colliculus could mediate only lower frequencies. Photic following activity, defined as time-integrated power measurements of the fundamental flicker frequencies in the EEGs of these two areas, occurred reliably at suprathreshold frequencies in the cortex and at much lower frequencies in the colliculus. A quantitative relationship between CFF and photic following activity by these visual mechanisms was also noted. The data further support the view that the function of these visual components in the determination of CFF in the intact cat differ, and suggest the possibility that the colliculus may serve as a filter to limit the the discrimination of high flicker rates.
Racetrack Memory: A high-performance, low-cost, non-volatile memory based on magnetic domain walls

We have demonstrated the key components of the Racetrack Memory. In particular, we have shown that a series of DWs can be moved at high speed along magnetic nanowires by using nanosecond long current pulses for both in-plane and perpendicularly magnetized racetracks. The spacing between DWs has been reduced significantly by using a perpendicularly magnetized RT. Higher storage densities can be achieved by optimizing the materials of the RT (Fig.11) and by scaling the racetrack width.
Interventional chest radiology.

Abstract Radiologically guided percutaneous drainage procedures are commonly performed to manage a variety of intrathoracic collections. As a natural extension of similar procedures performed for abdominal and pelvic collections, these procedures use both the conventional and cross-sectional imaging modalities to detect intrathoracic collections and to guide safe percutaneous diagnostic aspiration and drainage. The high-resolution images obtainable on current computed tomographic and ultrasound units allow detection of lung abscesses, empyemas, malignant effusions, and infected mediastinal fluid collections that are amenable to percutaneous drainage. Advances in catheter design and introduction techniques have allowed drainage of collections previously managed by open procedures. The case of fluoroscopically guided catheter placement for treatment of spontaneous or biopsy-induced pneumothorax has provided a safe, effective, and comfortable alternative to blind large-bore surgical tube placement. Transthoracic needle biopsy of lung, mediastinal, and pleural or chest-wall masses has resulted from the availability of image intensifiers and cross-sectional imaging modalities useful in guiding needle placement and tissue sampling. Equally important has been the development of cytopathology as a subspecialty that can provide diagnoses of malignant and benign thoracic conditions from needle aspirates. This technique has had a major impact on the preoperative evaluation of the patient with a solitary pulmonary nodule and has eliminated unnecessary surgery in a significant percentage of such patients. Transcatheter arterial embolization has made a significant contribution to the management of the patient with massive hemoptysis and is the procedure of choice for treatment of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations. A thorough knowledge of the vascular anatomy of the thorax and expertise in catheterization and embolization techniques are prerequisites for the safe performance of these procedures.
Expression of neurturin, GDNF, and GDNF family-receptor mRNA in the developing and mature mouse.

Abstract The GDNF family of neurotrophic factors currently has four members: neurturin (NRTN), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), persephin, and artemin. These proteins are potent survival factors for several populations of central and peripheral neurons. The receptors for these factors are complexes that include the Ret tyrosine kinase receptor and a GPI-linked, ligand-binding component called GDNF family receptor α 1–4 (GFRα1–4). We have used in situ hybridization to study the mRNA expression of NRTN, GDNF, Ret, GFRα1, and GFRα2 during embryonic development and in the adult mouse. GDNF receptors were prominently expressed during embryonic development in the nervous system, the urogenital system, the digestive system, the respiratory system, and in developing skin, bone, muscle, and endocrine glands. In some regions, incomplete receptor complexes were expressed suggesting that other, as yet unidentified, receptor components exist or that receptor complexes are formed in trans. NRTN and GDNF were expressed in many trigeminal targets during embryonic development including the nasal epithelium, the teeth, and the whisker follicles. NRTN and GDNF were also expressed in the developing limbs and urogenital system. In the embryo, GDNF factors and receptors were expressed at several sites of mesenchyme/epithelial induction, including the kidney, tooth, and submandibular gland. This expression pattern is consistent with the possibility that the GDNF factors function in inductive processes during embryonic development and with the recently discovered role of NRTN as a necessary trophic factor for the development of some parasympathetic neurons. In the mature animal, receptor expression was more limited than in the embryo. In the adult mouse, NRTN was most prominently expressed in the gut, prostate testicle, and oviduct; GDNF was most prominently expressed in the ovary.
Data mining, national security, privacy and civil liberties

In this paper, we describe the threats to privacy that can occur through data mining and then view the privacy problem as a variation of the inference problem in databases.
Operational Psychiatry: An Orientation and Some Aspects

The purpose of this paper is to deal with some of the problems of social psychiatry. This is, of course, a broad field and I think most would agree that it encompasses almost everything pertaining to human behavior that does not go on inside a test tube or is not recorded from a series of amplifiers and vacuum tubes. Social is a word concerned with human beings as a group and as almost no person lives by himself the socialness of any individual's situation cannot be ignored. This then means that social psychiatry ranges from the epidemiological studies of Redlich and Hollingshead to the clinical observation of Tapia that very frequently after committing an anti-social act adolescents will go to the nearest drive-in, there to gorge themselves on the food of simple living—hamburgers, onions and chocolate milk shakes (1, 2). It ranges from Maxwell Jones' therapeutic community to the use of the principles of animal research for setting up on a ward the ways of handling and treating people who exhibit certain ...
Tacit knowledge in managerial success

What accounts for managerial success? Certainly hard work plays a part, and perhaps luck as well. But what else characterizes successful managers? What do successful managers know that less successful man agers do not? What do successful managers do better than less successful managers? To answer this question, we began by asking highly successful man agers and executives what they thought accounted for their success. They showed more disagreement than agreement in answering our question, with two notable exceptions. First, our informants were in agreement that IQ and scores from other ability and achievement tests are not predictive of managerial suc cess. Most knew of colleagues who obviously had a very high level of gen eral intelligence, yet who were only moderately successful in their career pursuits. Conversely, the most successful colleagues they knew were rarely those they would rate as the most intelligent. Some of our infor mants even expressed the view that a very high IQ can be a detriment to managerial success, observing that some highly intelligent individuals lack patience with their less able peers, subordinates, and even their su periors. Further, such individuals tend to rely too heavily on their ex traordinary analytical powers, thereby neglecting important advice from others. An ability that counted more than IQ for managerial success, ac cording to our informants, was common sense or practical intelligence (see Sternberg & Wagner, 1986, for recent conceptualizations of practical intelligence).
Suppression of feeding by cholecystokinin but not bombesin is attenuated in dorsomedial hypothalamic nuclei lesioned rats.

Abstract Rats with dorsomedial hypothalamic lesions (DMN-L) or sham operations were injected IP with saline or the satiety peptide cholecystokinin (CCK) at 3.0 and 6.0 μg/kg at the onset of the dark phase. Food consumption was then measured 15, 30 and 60 min later. Compared to saline baseline intake. CCK suppressed feeding during the first 30 min following injection in the sham operated group but not in the DMN-L group. Bombesin (BBS), another satiety peptide was also injected (4.0 and 8.0 μg/kg) into the two groups. BBS produced significant and comparable suppression of feeding in both DMN-L and sham operated rats. In a third trial a large dose of CCK (12.0 μg/kg) was injected into the two groups as described above. The CCK suppressed feeding for 60 min in the control group. CCK also attenuated feeding in the DMN-L group, but for only 30 min. However, even this suppression was reduced compared to the control group. The data suggest that the DMN may play a role in CCK induced satiety.
The Earth-Reflected Solar Spectral Radiance for Climate Benchmarking

We present current results of a study that will aid in defining the requirements of an Earth-viewing spectrometer over the solar spectral domain for climate benchmarking, a driving imperative for CLARREO.
Multi-mode energy management for multi-tier server clusters

This paper presents an energy management policy for reconfigurable clusters running a multi-tier application, exploiting DVS together with multiple sleep states. We develop a theoretical analysis of the corresponding power optimization problem and design an algorithm around the solution. Moreover, we rigorously investigate selection of the optimal number of spare servers for each power state, a problem that has only been approached in an ad-hoc manner in current policies. To validate our results and policies, we implement them on an actual multi-tier server cluster where nodes support all power management techniques considered. Experimental results using realistic dynamic workloads based on the TPC-W benchmark show that exploiting multiple sleep states results in significant additional cluster-wide energy savings up to 23% with little or no performance degradation.
Ethnically Correct Dolls: Toying with the Race Industry

The toy industry has touted ethnically correct dolls as a progressive solution to representation and inclusion in the toy box, and in children's lives. Ethnographic work with ten-year-old, poor and working-class black children in New Haven, Connecticut complicates these assertions. These children had very few ethnically correct dolls. Instead, girls had white dolls that they brought into their worlds through styling their hair in ways racially marked as black. Contrasting a case study of Mattel's Shani dolls with an ethnographic look at race and commodities among New Haven kids, this paper locates children's consumption within the context of social inequality, a context examined in few studies of toys or consumption. Taking kids as primary ethnographic subjects suggests ways in which this largely silenced group can speak to larger social and theoretical issues, among them race, class, gender, and age. [children, U.S. anthropology, social inequality, consumption]
Magnetic properties of Ni nanowires in self-assembled arrays

Magnetic properties of Ni nanowires electrodeposited into self-assembled porous alumina arrays have been investigated. By anodizing aluminum in sulfuric acid and immersing the as-anodized template into phosphoric acid for different lengths of time, we are able to vary the diameters of the subsequently deposited nanowires between 8 and 25 nm. The coercivity measured along wire axis first increases with the wire diameter, reaches a maximum of 950 Oe near a diameter of 18 nm, and then decreases with further increase of wire diameter. The dependence of the magnetization of Ni nanowires is found to follow Bloch's law at low temperature but with the Bloch exponent decreasing from the bulk value and the Bloch constant increasing from the bulk value by an order of magnitude.
Comparison of concentration of glucose in the stomach and intestine after intragastric administration.

ConclusionsData have been presented which demonstrate the rapidity with which solutions of glucose of varying concentrations when placed in the stomach of the dog are changed, so that when the solutions reach the small intestine the variations in the concentrations are of a small order. These findings may in part explain the differences in the rate of absorption when the gastro-intestinal tract is used as a physiological unit and when only a single segment of this unit is utilized.
Carrier frequency offset estimation for OFDMA uplink using null sub-carriers

Abstract Carrier synchronization in OFDMA uplink systems comprises estimation and compensation of carrier frequency offsets (CFOs) corresponding to different users. We propose a null sub-carrier-based CFO estimation algorithm for OFDMA uplink systems, employing generalized or sub-band sub-carrier allocation scheme. We analyze the effect of location and number of null sub-carriers on the performance of the algorithm, in the presence of multi-user interference (MUI) and channel frequency selectivity. We calculate the acquisition range of the proposed estimation algorithm and prove that the identifiability of CFO estimation is guaranteed in the presence of MUI and channel nulls. We also evaluate the computational complexity and the performance of the proposed estimation algorithm and, compare it with some of the existing approaches in the literature.
Impulsivity-like traits and risky driving behaviors among college students

The present study examined the predictive effects of five impulsivity-like traits (Premeditation, Perseverance, Sensation Seeking, Negative Urgency, and Positive Urgency) on driving outcomes (driving errors, driving lapses, driving violations, cell phone driving, traffic citations, and traffic collisions). With a convenience sample of 266 college student drivers, we found that each of the impulsivity-like traits was related to multiple risky driving outcomes. Positive Urgency (tendency to act impulsively when experiencing negative affect) was the most robust predictor of risky driving outcomes. Positive Urgency is a relatively newly conceptualized impulsivity-like trait that was not examined in the driving literature previously, suggesting a strong need to further examine its role as a personality trait related to risky driving. These findings generally support the multidimensional assessment of impulsivity-like traits, and they specifically support the addition of Positive Urgency to a list of risk factors for risky driving behaviors.
Polarization-dependent optical properties of C70

Abstract It is shown that the optical absorption spectrum of C 70 has strong polarization dependence of depending on whether light is polarized along the long axis or the short axis of the molecule. The polarization dependence is studied with a simple tight-binding model for the electronic structure and from group theory. It is found that the absorption threshold is significantly higher (by about 0.3 eV) for light polarized along the axis compared to the same for the short axis. This effect may be useful in studying the orientation of the molecules in solid C 70 by means of optical experiments. Also presented are analytical wavefunctions for the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals which form the conduction band states in solid C 70 .
The Art of Classification: Alternate Classification Systems in Art Libraries

Standardized classification systems such as DDC and LCC alleviate from catalogers the task of creating original call numbers for materials. However, historically not all librarians found it feasible to follow these standards and sought to create classification systems more appropriate to the holdings and collections of their own libraries. Such was the case for many art libraries, where the creation of an independent classification scheme seemed appropriate based on their specialized collections. Among these libraries are the Toledo Museum of Art Library, the Rhode Island School of Design Library, the Museum of Modern Art Library, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Library. This comparative study of the alternate classification systems currently used or once used in these libraries results in some suggestions one should consider in evaluating and/or creating an alternate classification scheme for an art library.
Coercivity Control of Variable-Length Iron Chains in Phthalocyanine Thin Films

The magnetic characteristics of iron phthalocyanine thin films are studied with a vibrating sample magnetometer, identifying a ferromagnetic transition temperature at 4.5 K. The metal ions at the center of the molecule are self-assembled along chains producing quasi one-dimensional magnetic chains of variable length in the thin films. The average chain length is varied from 20 to 300 nm via substrate temperature during deposition. Below the critical transition temperature, the magnetization curves have the shape of wasp-waisted or constricted loops. The in-plane chain length modulates the coercivity and saturation field and larger grains increase the coercivity significantly. First-order reversal curves of the wasp-waisted hysteresis loops reveal a long narrow strip that suggests a broad distribution of coercive fields and weak intergrain magnetic interactions. These findings are also supported through simulations based on the Preisach model.
Equitable and Efficient Coordination in Traffic Flow Management

When air traffic demand is projected to exceed capacity, the Federal Aviation Administration implements traffic flow management (TFM) programs. Independently, these programs maintain a first-scheduled, first-served invariant, which is the accepted standard of fairness within the industry. Coordinating conflicting programs requires a careful balance between equity and efficiency. In our work, we first develop a fairness metric to measure deviation from first-scheduled, first-served in the presence of conflicts. Next, we develop an integer programming formulation that attempts to directly minimize this metric. We further develop an exponential penalty approach and show that its computational performance is far superior and its tradeoff between delay and fairness compares favorably. In our results, we demonstrate the effectiveness of these models using historical and hypothetical scenarios. Additionally, we demonstrate that the exponential penalty approach exhibits exceptional computational performance, implying practical viability. Our results suggest that this approach could lead to system-wide savings on the order of $25 to $50 million per year.
Direct Characterization of Various Deformation Microstructures in Metals by Electron Channeling Contrast Technique in SEM

Recent research findings on the electron channeling contrast (ECC) characterization of various deformation microstructures in some metals were summarized. It is shown that the ECC technique can easily image, in a wide field of view, typical dislocation structures in fatigued Cu single crystals, as well as the relevant dislocation arrangements in deformation bands (DBs). The thermal instability of cyclic deformation induced dislocation structures in Cu single crystals under annealing, and microstructural instability of ultrafine-grained (UFG) Cu produced by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) under annealing or deforming were also well detected by ECC observations. In addition, a trial observation of the plastic deformation micro-features around the fatigue crack (tip) in Al6XN super-austenitic stainless steels was also made by the ECC technique.
Hyperplasia in the spinal sensory system of the frog. I. Plasticity in the most caudal dorsal root ganglion.

Increases in the amount of periphery available for innervation have been achieved by the unilateral removal of hindlimb dorsal root ganglion (DRGs) in Rana pipiens, a procedure which generally results in a compensatory cell number increase (hyperplasia) in the DRGs which remain. We have found that the hyperplastic response is extremely variable, and we have investigated various factors which might control its production. Our findings indicate, however, that the pattern of DRGs removed, the animal's age at the time of removal, and the survival period are not strictly related to the production of hyperplasia in hindlimb DRGs. Special emphasis has been placed on DRG 10, the caudalmost DRG which normally innervates the cloaca and sends a small projection to the hindlimb. This DRG displayed dramatic cell number increases of up to 564%. In addition, several unique features of the hyperplastic response have been observed in DRG 10. This DRG showed increases in cell number on both the operated and the unoperated sides. It showed hyperplasias in animals subjected to gangh'onectomy past metamorphosis as well as during larval development. Finally the production of DRG 10 hyperplasias exclusively occurred in male pre-and postrnetamorphic animals. To account for these distinctive features of DRG 10 hyperplasia, baseline studies of the normal course of proliferation and cell death in DRG 10 were undertaken. They reveal no fundamental developmental differences between DRG 10 and other hindlimb DRGs. Other mechanisms responsible for these unusual features of developmental plasticity in DRG 10 are discussed.
Solar panel renewable energy inductive learning

This paper is a case study of the implementation of one of the nation's largest solar array panel arrays, within a year's time frame at a public university. The state funding received for solar energy will create 2 megawatts per day for a savings of 22 million dollars over 30 years.
Open space index: a GIS-based tool for assessing human penetration of a landscape

In light of the rapid and continuous growth of the built environment worldwide and its attendant ecological impact, increasing the size and distribution of open space in urban areas is recognised as one effective way to reconcile the social and ecological objectives of society. However, there is no simple and objective indicator to measure open space that can be used for creating and maintaining sustainable landscapes. The paper introduces a metric, open space index (OSI), that measures the amount of space unpenetrated by the built environment. The metric is calculated by measuring the shortest distance between any location and the nearest built environment using a Geographic Information System. The metric is illustrated using two counties of the greater Twin Cities Metropolitan Region of Minnesota. The sensitivity of OSI to the size, shape, and spatial configuration of the built environment suggests that the metric can serve as an important planning tool for reconciling conservation and development in a ...
The Strategies of Transnational Communications

Armand Mattelart, professor of communication and information sciences at the Universite de Haute-Bretagne in France, has been a leading figure in transnational communications theory since the early...
Hyperspectral tomography based on proper orthogonal decomposition as motivated by imaging diagnostics of unsteady reactive flows

A series of previous studies, both numerical and experimental, have demonstrated the advantages of hyperspectral tomography (HT) as a promising technique to measure the two-dimensional distributions of temperature and species concentration in reacting flows. This paper intends to prepare the mathematical groundwork for extended use of the HT technique for three-dimensional and/or time-correlated measurements. Direct application of the methods developed previously encounters both experimental and computational difficulties. Numerical studies reported in this paper suggest that the use of proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is effective to overcome these difficulties. The use of POD in HT significantly reduces the computational cost, enhances the fidelity of the tomographic reconstructions, and improves the stability of the reconstruction in the presence of measurement noise. Implications of these results for practical applications are also discussed.
The trade-off between speed and complexity

The hypothesis that there has been selection pressure for mechanisms which enable us to perceive the present tends to be conflated with the hypothesis that there has been selection pressure for mechanisms that compensate for inevitable neural delay. The relationship between the two is more subtle, because increases in neural delay can be advantageous for building more useful perceptions.
Towards identifying distinguishable tactons for use with mobile devices

This paper describes a study designed to identify salient tactile cues which can be integrated with a cellular telephone interface, to provide non-visual feedback to users when accessing mobile applications. A set of tactile icons (tactons) have been developed by manipulating the pulse duration and interval of vibrotactile signals. Participants were presented with pairs of tactons, and asked to differentiate between each respective pair and rank their salience. Results suggested that the combination of two static tactons is the most effective way to convey tactile information, when compared with dynamic or mixed tactile cues. Further studies will be conducted to refine feedback in order to communicate the presence of graphical objects on a mobile device interface, or to present events and alerts more effectively. The long term goal is to improve access to an interface by using the tactile channel, thereby freeing the visual and auditory channels to perform other tasks.
“Soft” Calcium Crosslinks Enable Highly Efficient Gene Transfection Using TAT Peptide

Purpose Typically, low molecular weight cationic peptides or polymers exhibit poor transfection efficiency due to an inability to condense plasmid DNA into small nanoparticles. Here, efficient gene delivery was attained using TAT/pDNA complexes containing calcium crosslinks.
Does Government Funding Suppress Nonprofits' Political Activity?

Autonomy from the state has been considered a core feature of American civil society, and understanding the consequences of perceived threats to that autonomy has been a central theme in social and political theory. We engage this theme by examining a specific question: What is the effect of government funding on nonprofit organizations' political activity? Extant theory and research identify some mechanisms by which government funding might reduce nonprofit political activity and other mechanisms by which government funding might enhance such activity. We investigate this relationship with two data sets: a national sample of religious congregations and a longitudinal sample of nonprofit organizations in Minneapolis-St. Paul. Results across these data sets are consistent and compelling: The relationship between government funding and nonprofit political activity is either positive or null; government funding does not suppress nonprofit political activity.
Processing Effects in Spray Casting of Steel Strip

Spray cast strip of AISI 1026 and M2 has been produced by the Osprey™ process under controlled conditions of deposition. Droplet flight distance was varied over the range 325 to 475 mm and strip was spray cast onto either planar or roller substrates of copper and steel. Substrate surface speed was in the range of 0.02 to 1 m/s, which produced strip of 0.025 to 0.0007 m thickness, respectively, with a width of 0.1 m. Surface condition, microstructure, and extent of porosity in the strip were characterized as a function of distance from top and bottom surfaces. The microstructure of the strip is comprised of three regions —a ‘chill zone’ at the bottom surface consisting of fine grains of ferrite and pearlite with numerous pores; a middle region containing equiaxed or columnar grains, Widmanstatten plates, and fine pores; and a top region made up of equiaxed grains comprising Widmanstatten plates and a few pores. Process variables of primary importance with respect to microstructural integrity and surface condition of the strip are substrate velocity, the surface condition of the substrate, flight distance, and the uniformity of droplet flux in the spray cone. Flight distance determines the amount of cooling of the droplets by the atomizing gas and, therefore, the average temperature of the spray incident on the substrate. Microstructure is determined by convective cooling of the spray, and, to a lesser extent, by the substrate velocity and temperature. The processing conditions required to spray cast strip with a homogeneous microstructure and uniform thickness/surface condition have been established.
Learning curve of microvascular venous anastomosis: a never ending struggle?

In this study, a simple protocol based on the rat femoral venous anastomosis was established to provide a quantitative representation of the progress. The learning curve is based on the patency rate in each consecutive group of five anastomoses. Two groups of surgeons were observed. The inexperienced group encountered a tough time in the first 25 anastomoses. However, the progress was fast and is represented by the steep slope of the curve. A plateau was reached whereby the avearge patency rate matches that of the experienced group. As expected, there was no learning curve for the experienced group. Despite every effort to attempt to maintain a perfect 100% patency on this model, the best achievable patency was only 88%. The results and its implication are discussed.
Management of plagiocephaly.

This issue of Neurosurgical Focus explores the cur ­ rent management of plagiocephaly, one of the most fre­ quent outpatient diagnoses made by pediatric neurosur­ geons and craniofacial specialists. In spite of its frequency, treatment algorithms vary significantly across centers and specialists. In this issue, the role and efficacy of helmet therapy is explored. This issue begins with a comprehen­ sive review of plagiocephaly by Shweikeh and colleagues, who examine plagiocephaly’s clinical implications and current guidelines for treatment. The authors argue for clearer guidelines and better education of parents and practitioners. Goh and coworkers review the current lit­ erature surrounding orthotic therapy. They argue that al­ though Class I evidence is lacking, there are data support­ ing the use of helmet therapy, even in infants older than 12 months. Gump et al. provide a review of the complications associated with helmet therapy and find that the frequency of adverse events is low. Finally, Couture and colleagues explore the efficacy of passive helmet therapy, a less ex­ pensive orthotic treatment option. They provide data sup­ porting the use of passive helmeting and also indicate that helmet therapy can be effective even when initiated after 12 months of age. (http://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2013.8.FOCUS13322)
Cardiac dimensions and function in atrial fibrillation: How do rate and rhythm control compare?

Cardiac dimensions and function in atrial fibrillation: how do rate and rhythm control compare?
Rapid colorimetric determination of adenine compounds.

Abstract A procedure for both a rapid qualitative and a quantitative determination for adenine in a mixture of various purines and pyrimidines is described. In addition, the method can also be applied for the rapid detection and quantitative estimation of a number of adenine nucleosides and nucleotides without prior hydrolysis of these compounds.
Investigation of Scaling Effects in Elastic-Plastic Ductile Fracture Using the Local Approach

This paper investigates the ability of a simple ductile local fracture model to predict the fracture initiation conditions for geometrically similar specimens of different sizes containing either sharp cracks or blunt notches. The material considered is the high strength, low hardening HY 130 steel. We simulated fracture tests on fatigue-precracked compact tension specimens and three-point bend bars containing blunt notches, using the local fracture model to control crack initiation in the finite element analyses. We compared the results of the simulations with experimental results. The comparison indicates that the model qualitatively predicts the right scaling effects for cracked specimens when a characteristic material length is adequately introduced. However, the model failed to predict the fracture initiation conditions and the scaling behavior of notched specimens. The discrepancy arises because the actual micromechanism leading to fracture initiation at the notch (void growth in a band of localized shear) is different from the mechanism underlying the model (quasi-isotropic void growth). Therefore, new or improved models capable of handling ductile failure by void growth under predominantly shear deformation must be developed to predict ductile fracture initiation conditions and scaling laws for generalized loading and geometric configurations.
Comparison of three measurements of cardiac surgery mortality for the Northern New England Cardiovascular Disease Study Group.

Background There is no consensus on the optimal period during which to assess death after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Three measures are commonly used: in-hospital, 30-day, and procedural (either in-hospital or 30-day) mortality. We used a regional database to calculate the CABG mortality rate using each of these mortality measures. Methods Data were collected prospectively on 31,592 consecutive isolated CABG surgeries in northern New England between January 1992 and December 2001. These data were linked to the National Death Index to obtain vital status through December 2001, and used to calculate 30-day and procedural mortality rates. Procedural mortality was defined as death occurring either within the hospital setting or within 30 days of the index procedure. Regional registry data were used to calculate in-hospital mortality rates. Results Mortality rates and their 95% confidence intervals were calculated. In all but one medical center, the in-hospital mortality was the lowest rate, while in all centers the procedural mortality rate was the highest. There were 1,082 deaths captured by the procedural mortality measure. Of these, 927 were included in the in-hospital mortality measure; 956 occurred within 30 days of surgery. Conclusions Each of the measures studied has its advantages and may be used to assess the mortality outcomes of cardiac surgery. The more important issue other than the specific measure used is our ability to measure and validate it conveniently and accurately in actual practice.
Therapeutic and persistent efficacy of a single injection treatment of ivermectin and moxidectin against Boophilus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) on infested cattle.

The effectiveness of a single treatment with either ivermectin or moxidectin was determined by administering a single subcutaneous injection of each endectocide at 200 μg per kg body weight to cattle infested with all parasitic developmental stages (adults, nymphs, and larvae) of Boophilus microplus (Canestrini). The percentage reduction in the number of females that reached repletion following treatment (outright kill) was 94.8 and 91.1% for ivermectin and moxidectin, respectively. In addition, the reproductive capacity of the females that did survive to repletion was reduced by >99%, regardless of the endectocide. Based on these two factors, the therapeutic level of control obtained against ticks on the cattle at the time of treatment was 99.0 and 99.1% for ivermectin and moxidectin, respectively. Engorged females recovered from either group of treated cattle weighed ≈3-times less than untreated females, and the egg masses produced by treated females weighed ≈5–8-times less than egg masses produced by untreated females. Partitioning of data into three separate 7-d post-treatment intervals allowed for an estimation of the efficacy of each endectocide against each individual parasitic development stage (adult, nymph, and larva). Results indicated that both endectocides were ≥99.7% effective against ticks that were in either the adult or nymphal stage at the time of treatment. However, the level of control against ticks in the larval stage of development at treatment was significantly lower at 97.9 and 98.4% for ivermectin and moxidectin, respectively. Analysis of the persistent (residual) activity of the two endectocides indicated that neither material provided total protection against larval re-infestation for even 1-wk following treatment. Against larvae infested 1–4 wk following treatment, the level of control with moxidectin ranged from 92.4% (1 wk) to 19.5% (4 wk). These control levels were higher at each weekly interval than for ivermectin, which ranged from 82.4% (1 wk) to 0.0% (4 wk). The potential for the use of these injectable endectocide formulations in the US Boophilus Eradication Program is discussed.
Out of the ether: the changing face of the vacuum

The concept of empty space has been wrestled with for centuries. Cosmologist Paul Davies charts the history
Surgery for Abdominal Metastases of Cutaneous Melanoma

The objective of this study was to support our hypothesis that surgical resection of abdominal metastases of melanoma, regardless of symptomatology, could provide prolonged palliation and improved survival. We performed a retrospective chart review at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. A series of 251 melanoma patients (stages I, II, or III at registration) who developed intraabdominal metastases during follow-up were studied. Altogether, 96 patients underwent 119 laparotomies; 51 underwent endoscopic or percutaneous procedures; and 116 patients were treated medically. Surgery was associated with a median survival of 11 months, significantly longer than that with other treatment (p < 0.001). Tumor was extirpated during 37% of the first laparotomies, and in an additional 33% very good palliation was achieved with incomplete resection. Tumor extirpation was associated with 10-month symptom-free survival (SFS), significantly longer than that with any other approach (p < 0.0001). In the nonsurgically treated patients, good palliation was achieved in 8% to 17% of patients with no complete response. The median SFS after surgery was 5 months, but 23% of patients were symptom-free more than 12 months; 87 patients with minimal symptoms; and 72 severely symptomatic patients underwent surgery. Complete resection was feasible in 42% and 34%, respectively. Surgery was associated with 12 months median survival in both groups. There was a significant survival benefit from surgery in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) tract metastases in contrast to those who had non-GI metastases. For the 96 surgically treated patients, a time interval of more than 4 years between diagnosis of the primary lesion and the abdominal recurrence predicted decreased risk of death (p= 0.038). The 30-day postoperative complication and mortality rates were 19.0% and 3.3%, respectively. Complete surgical resection of melanoma metastases in the abdomen is associated with median and symptom-free survival benefits. Symptomatic and asymptomatic patients benefit equally, especially if abdominal metastases appear more than 4 years after the initial diagnosis and do not involve non-GI viscera. Less than complete resection can provide durable palliation.
Associations between three XRCC1 polymorphisms and glioma risk: a meta-analysis

Glioma, especially its most aggressive histological type glioblastoma, is a challenge to human health due to its poor prognosis. Identifying glioma risk factors will improve early diagnosis to prevent tumor progression. Three polymorphisms of X-ray repair cross-complementing groups 1 (XRCC1) Arg399Gln, Arg194Trp, and Arg280His have drawn attention because of their potential associations with the development of glioma. However, the conclusions from different studies are inconsistent. Here, we performed XRCC1 polymorphism–glioma association analyses on data gathered through searching PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, Cochrane, and EBSCO databases and meta-analyzing extracted eligible studies. For XRCC1 Arg399Gln (G>A) polymorphism, there were 12 studies with 4,356 cases and 6,616 controls; for Arg194Trp (C>T) polymorphism, there were nine studies with 3,760 cases and 5,971 controls; and for Arg280His (G > A) polymorphism, there were five studies with 1,883 cases and 3,144 controls. Odds ratios as well as their 95 % confidence intervals in three genetic models were used to estimate the strength of the association between XRCC1 genotypes and glioma risk. Based on our main analyses, increased risk was observed in Arg399Gln codominant and dominant models and Arg194Trp homozygous codominant and recessive models. In the stratified analyses for some genetic models, Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp were recognized as risk factors in the Asian but not in the Caucasian population. No associations were detected for Arg280His in any genetic model. This meta-analysis indicates that XRCC1 399Gln and 194Trp variants increase glioma risk. Both of these polymorphisms might raise the susceptibility of glioma in Asian populations.