cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relations among linguistic and cognitive skills and spoken word recognition in adults with cochlear implants.

This study examined spoken word recognition in adults with cochlear implants (CIs) to determine the extent to which linguistic and cognitive abilities predict variability in speech-perception performance. Both a traditional consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC)-repetition measure and a gated-word recognition measure (F. Grosjean, 1996) were used. Stimuli in the gated-word-recognition task varied in neighborhood density. Adults with CIs repeated CVC words less accurately than did age-matched adults with normal hearing sensitivity (NH). In addition, adults with CIs required more acoustic information to recognize gated words than did adults with NH. Neighborhood density had a smaller influence on gated-word recognition by adults with CIs than on recognition by adults with NH. With the exception of 1 outlying participant, standardized, norm-referenced measures of cognitive and linguistic abilities were not correlated with word-recognition measures. Taken together, these results do not support the hypothesis that co...
Effects of oral therapy with calcium and vitamin D in primary osteoporosis.

Abstract Eighteen patients (17 women and 1 man) with primary osteoporosis were divided into two groups of 9 patients each. Group A received 2.0 to 2.5 g of calcium and 400 units of vitamin D per day orally and was studied before and after short-term (3 to 4 months) treatment; group B received 1.5 to 2.0 g of calcium per day and 50,000 units of vitamin D twice weekly and was studied before, after short-term, and after long-term (1 year) treatment. In group A there was a decrease (P < 0.01) in bone-resorbing surfaces (microradiography of bone biopsy samples) after short-term treatment. In group B there was a decrease (P < 0.01) in boneforming and bone-resorbing surfaces after both shortterm and long-term treatment. Fasting-state (morning) serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentrations decreased after short-term treatment (combined data of groups A and B) and after long-term treatment (group B). We conclude that the principal effect of the oral calcium and vitamin D therapy in primary osteopo...
Spatially controllable surface chirality at the nanoscale

We demonstrate a mechanical approach for manipulating surface chirality at nanoscopic length scales. We use an atomic-force microscope to scribe a step pattern, which is chiral in two dimensions, into a polymer-coated substrate, and control chiral strength by varying the steps' length-to-width ratio R. We determine the chiral strength by coating the surface with a liquid crystal and measuring its rotation on applying an electric field. The chiral strength vs. R is nonmonotonic: zero for R=1, then reaching a maximum, and tending to zero as R→∞. Our results demonstrate that chiral handedness and strength can be precisely controlled mechanically on nanoscopic length scales.
AERO: An Extensible Framework for Adaptive Web Layout Synthesis

We present AERO, an extensible framework for adaptive web layout synthesis. The goal is to provide an underlying software architecture to allow general adaptive layout behaviors. The framework consists of a 1) a suite of templates specified in HTML/CSS, 2) A hierarchical, highly customizable scoring function specification and 3) An evaluation engine that leverages native browser rendering to rapidly render content and apply the scoring functions. Unlike current responsive layout frameworks for web (e.g., Twitter Bootstrap) that have pre-configured grid layouts that adapt in a manually pre-encoded content-independent manner, AERO allows layout to adapt automatically based on multiple content-dependent criteria like aesthetic quality, cropability of individual images, layout A/B testing results, Ad placement etc.
Spatially resolved soot-absorption measurements in flames using laser vaporization of particles

Soot absorption in flames is measured with high spatial resolution using a new technique. In this method, the absorption of a probe laser is modulated by vaporization of the soot using a crossed, pulsed pump laser. A detailed analysis shows that the effective beam overlap or interaction length is insensitive to temperature, particle size, or pulsed-laser fluence (energy/area) above a threshold of 5 J/cm2. The technique has an absorption-coefficient shot-noise-detection limit of roughly 1 × 10−5 cm−1 with 0.1-cm spatial resolution using a single laser pulse. Spatially resolved measurements in premixed and in diffusion laminar flames are presented.
Non solus: Toward a psychology of family business

Abstract This article presents a psychological theory of family business, its conceptual base and its implications. First, it argues that family business research requires a broader theoretical base than is currently used. Second, it argues that a psychological approach is beneficial to understanding family business. Third, it argues that insights gained from family business might inform and advance psychology and mainstream management literatures. Fourth, it uses a selected variety of concepts from individual and social psychology and explains how these concepts can be applied in family business research. Finally, it provides examples for research opportunities and research questions based on these observations.
Relationship between Flare Kernels in Hα Far-Blue Wing and Magnetic Fields

Big Bear Solar Observatory (BBSO) recently developed fast camera systems to observe solar flares with subsecond cadence. In most of our observations, we observed at Hα-1.3 A to study the chromospheric emission from flare kernels, which are usually regarded as being associated to nonthermal electron precipitation. For all four flares in Active Region 8674 that we analyzed, we compared the initial brightening of flare kernels at this wavelength with photospheric magnetograms and found that initial brightenings avoided strong line-of-sight magnetic regions; importantly, all nine flare kernels were within 10,000 km of magnetic neutral lines. The observed flare morphology and evolution suggest that emission near a magnetic neutral line may come from unresolved footpoints of interacting flare loops, where nonthermal electrons were precipitated, or from a low-lying compact loop due to instantaneous heating in the early phase of the flare. Our current observations cannot distinguish between these two mechanisms. It is suggested that impulsive compact flares involve low-lying magnetic loops or magnetic reconnection at small altitudes in contrast to eruptive long-duration flares.
Agricultural area impacts within a natural area: Cades cove, a case history

Agricultural management in Cades Cove, an historic district in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, has affected natural resources both within the district and in the adjoining natural areas. Aquatic impacts of haying and cattle grazing included increases in water temperatures, turbidity, nutrient loading, and bacterial counts and decreases in benthic macroinvertebrate density and fish biomass. Wildlife populations, including groundhogs, wild turkeys, and white-tailed deer, have increased in the open fields and around the periphery of the historic district. Intensive deer foraging has removed deciduous seedlings and saplings from woodlots, lowering species diversity and favoring coniferous reproduction. Cades Cove has limestone habitats unique in the park, and both deer browse and cattle grazing may have disturbed populations of rare plant species. Effects on water quality are detectable at a campground 15 stream km from the agricultural area, and the effects of deer foraging extend about 1 km beyond the open fields. Since “historic landscape” preservation is presently a goal of the park, managing for open vistas in Cades Cove will require some sort of continuing disturbance. Conversion of cattle pastures to hayfields would reduce aquatic impacts but the deer herd might increase as a result of reduced competition for forage. Retarding old field succession would increase populations of native plant species dependent on sunlight, but would require government-funded mowing. Other options are discussed. Completely eliminating the effects of the historic district on adjoining areas may be impossible, at least under present economic constraints.
Strong modification of density of optical states in biotemplated photonic crystals

Nature has developed sophisticated methods to create structure-based colors as a way to address the need of a wide variety of organisms. This pallet of available structures presents a unique opportunity for the investigation of new photonic crystal designs. Low-temperature sol-gel biotemplating methods were used to transform a single biotemplate into a variety of inorganic oxide structures. The density of optical states was calculated for a diamond-based natural photonic crystal, as well as several structures templated from it. Calculations were experimentally probed by spontaneous emission studies using time correlated single photon counting measurements.
Borrowed plumes: mimetic powers and the polymorphism of humans

In this paper, I speculate on imitation’s role in language development and, more significantly, on its connection to sexual selection. My analysis is grounded in an interpretation of Darwin’s Descent of Man. In addition to observing imitation’s role in language development according to the argument of the Descent, I explore the ability of human beings that allows for the imitation of both the beautiful and the terrible or repulsive. I suggest that humans, in their appreciation of the beautiful and formidable characters produced by a process of sexual selection, can appropriate these things in order to adorn themselves, thus imitating other non-human animals. This capacity points to a form of polymorphism manifest in human beings that is grounded in a psychological fluidity. Human beings, like birds, also have the power to use song in order to charm and challenge. Song and music provide the means by which imitation as seen in language development and sexual selection are intertwined, thus providing the important connection between the two main foci of my paper.
Thematic review series: Skin Lipids. The role of epidermal lipids in cutaneous permeability barrier homeostasis

The permeability barrier is required for terrestrial life and is localized to the stratum corneum, where extracellular lipid membranes inhibit water movement. The lipids that constitute the extracellular matrix have a unique composition and are 50% ceramides, 25% cholesterol, and 15% free fatty acids. Essential fatty acid deficiency results in abnormalities in stratum corneum structure function. The lipids are delivered to the extracellular space by the secretion of lamellar bodies, which contain phospholipids, glucosylceramides, sphingomyelin, cholesterol, and enzymes. In the extracellular space, the lamellar body lipids are metabolized by enzymes to the lipids that form the lamellar membranes. The lipids contained in the lamellar bodies are derived from both epidermal lipid synthesis and extracutaneous sources. Inhibition of cholesterol, fatty acid, ceramide, or glucosylceramide synthesis adversely affects lamellar body formation, thereby impairing barrier homeostasis. Studies have further shown that the elongation and desaturation of fatty acids is also required for barrier homeostasis. The mechanisms that mediate the uptake of extracutaneous lipids by the epidermis are unknown, but keratinocytes express LDL and scavenger receptor class B type 1, fatty acid transport proteins, and CD36. Topical application of physiologic lipids can improve permeability barrier homeostasis and has been useful in the treatment of cutaneous disorders.
Magnetic resonance imaging-targeted vs. conventional transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy: Single-institution, matched cohort comparison

Abstract Objectives To compare magnetic resonance imaging–targeted biopsy (MRITB) and conventional transrectal ultrasound–guided biopsy (TRUSGB) in the detection of prostate cancer (PCa) at our institution. Methods Our prospective registry of patients undergoing prostate MRITB from December 2010 to July 2013 was analyzed. Patients were matched one-to-one to patients who underwent TRUSGB based on the following characteristics: age, prostate-specific antigen level, prostate volume, race, family history of PCa, initial digital rectal examination (DRE), prior use of 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, and prior diagnosis of PCa. MRITB was performed using a TargetScan system with the patient under general anesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging suspicious regions (MSRs) were targeted with cognitive registration, and a full TargetScan template biopsy (TSTB) was also performed. Results In total, 34 MRITB patients were matched individually to 34 TRUSGB patients. As compared with TRUSGB, patients who underwent MRITB had a greater overall rate of PCa detection (76% vs. 56%, P = 0.12) and a significantly higher number with Gleason score≥7 (41% vs. 15%, P = 0.03), whereas the rates of Gleason score 6 PCa detection were similar between MRITB and TRUSGB (35% vs. 41%, P = 0.80). As compared with the TSTB, magnetic resonance imaging suspicious regions–directed biopsies during MRITB had a significantly higher overall PCa detection (54% vs. 24%, P Conclusions Cognitive registration MRITB significantly improves the detection of Gleason score≥7 PCa as compared with conventional TRUSGB.
Mercy health promoter: A paradigm for just health care

The foreign-born population in the United States, according to the “Current Populations Report” published in 2010, is estimated to exceed 39.9 million, or “12.9 percent of the U.S. population.” The increase in foreign-born peoples and their need for health care is a complicated issue facing many cities, health systems and hospitals. Over the course of the past few years Mercy Hospital of Philadelphia has treated increasing numbers of foreign-born African patients. The majority have been presenting in the late stages of disease. The increase of foreign-born documented and undocumented African patients seen by Mercy Hospitals seems to reflect a foreign-born population “boom” in Philadelphia over the past decade. To meet the needs of this growing population, the Mercy Hospital Task Force on African Immigration and the Institute of Catholic Bioethics at Saint Joseph’s University designed a program that centers on the third world concept of “Health Promoters.” This program is intended to serve as one possible solution for hospitals to cost-effectively manage the care of this growing percentage of foreign-born individuals in the population. This notion of a “Health Promoter” program in Philadelphia is unique as one of those rare occasions when a third world concept is being utilized in a first world environment. It is also unique in that it can serve as a paradigm for other hospitals in the United States to meet the growing need of health care for the undocumented population. As of November 2012 the Mercy Hospital of Philadelphia clinic became operative for patients who were referred from the Health Promoter clinics. To date, a total of forty-two patients have actively participated in the screenings, sixteen of which have been referred to Mercy Hospital of Philadelphia clinic for further evaluation. More than 75% of patient referrals were a result of high blood pressure. According to the American Medical Association, readings of 140–159 mmHg and above are indicative of stage 1 hypertension. Among those who presented at the Health Promoter screenings the mean systolic pressure for males was 140 mmHg and for females was 140.48 mmHg.
Threshold Lesion Temperatures in Argon Laser-Irradiated Rabbit Eyes

Abstract : The purpose of this research was to measure threshold temperatures corresponding to the formation of minimum ophthalmoscopically visible lesions induced in rabbit fundi by a ten-second exposure from an argon C. W. laser (4880A). The posterior pole of the eye was surgically exposed and a specially designed microthermocouple with a 20-micron diameter tip was inserted into the ocular fundus to measure temperature rises. The mean threshold temperature for 30 measurements in 13 rabbits was 54C. System error was estimated at 5% of temperature rise, or slightly less than 1C.
Characterization of malignancy of adnexal lesions using ADC entropy: Comparison with mean ADC and qualitative DWI assessment

Purpose: To establish the utility of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) entropy in discrimination of benign and malignant adnexal lesions, using histopathology as the reference standard, via comparison of the diagnostic performance of ADC entropy with mean ADC and with visual assessments of adnexal lesions on conventional and diffusion-weighted sequences. Materials and Methods: In all, 37 adult female patients with an ovarian mass that was resected between June 2006 and January 2011 were included. Volume-of-interest was drawn to incorporate all lesion voxels on every slice that included the mass on the ADC map, from which whole-lesion mean ADC and ADC entropy were calculated. Two independent radiologists also rated each lesion as benign or malignant based on visual assessment of all sequences. The Mann–Whitney test and logistic regression for correlated data were used to compare performance of mean ADC, ADC entropy, and the visual assessments. Results: No statistically significant difference was observed in mean ADC between benign and malignant adnexal lesions (P = 0.768). ADC entropy was significantly higher in malignant than in benign lesions (P = 0.009). Accuracy was significantly greater for ADC entropy than for mean ADC (0.018). ADC entropy and visual assessment by the less-experienced reader showed similar accuracy (P ≥ 0.204). The more experienced reader's accuracy was significantly greater than that of all other assessments (P ≤ 0.039). Conclusion: ADC entropy showed significantly greater accuracy than the more traditional metric of mean ADC for distinguishing benign and malignant adnexal lesions. Although whole-lesion ADC entropy provides a straightforward and objective measurement, its potential benefit decreases with greater reader experience. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:164–171. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Periodic Mesoporous Organosilicas with Ethane and Large Isocyanurate Bridging Groups

Bifunctional periodic mesoporous organosilica was synthesized by co-condensation of tri[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]isocyanurate and 1,2-bis(triethoxysilyl)ethane in the presence of a triblock copolymer template at low acid conentrations. This PMO features high surface area, large pore volume, and channel-like ordered mesopores, the walls of which contain two types of bridging groups, ethane and isocyanurate.
Research and development on a public attitude instrument for stuttering.

Abstract This paper summarizes research associated with the development of the Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes–Stuttering (POSHA–S), a survey instrument designed to provide a worldwide standard measure of public attitudes toward stuttering. Pilot studies with early experimental prototypes of the POSHA–S are summarized that relate to questionnaire rating scale prototypes, test–retest reliability, construct validity, item analysis and final item selection, translation to other languages, internal consistency, sampling procedures, manner of administration, and sample size. Future research and public service uses of the POSHA–S are discussed, especially for comparisons using its growing database archive. Learning outcomes: Readers of this article should be able to: (1) describe the purposes of the International Project on Attitudes Toward Human Attributes (IPATHA) initiative, (2) describe procedures to determine reliability and validity of the Public Opinion Survey of Human Attributes–Stuttering (POSHA–S), (3) describe factor analysis and other strategies to select items from the POSHA–E1 and POSHA–E2 pilot studies for the final POSHA–S, and (4) describe uses of the POSHA–S database archive in studies of public attitudes toward stuttering.
Path-independent integrals, energy release rates, and general solutions of near-tip fields in mixed-mode dynamic fracture mechanics

Abstract In this paper the following topics are addressed: (i) the physical meaning of pathindependent integrals for elastodynamically propagating cracks introduced earlier by Atluri, Bui and Kishimoto et al. (ii) the relation of these integrals to the energy release rates, for propagating cracks and (iii) the relation between these integrals and the time-dependent stress-intensity factors KI(t), KII(t) and KIII(t) in general mixed mode dynamic crack propagation. Finally, a new path-independent integral which has the meaning of energy-release-rate for a propagating crack, is introduced.
Uncertainty Implications In Azimuthal Velocity Analysis

Commercial methodologies of azimuthal velocity analysis fall into two categories: 1) azimuth sectoring and 2) no azimuth sectoring. A wide-azimuth seismic survey was processed independently by two processing contractors – one using azimuthal sectoring, the other using no azimuth sectoring. A comparison of the corresponding azimuthal interval velocity maps revealed little similarity between the two approaches. Several possible reasons were examined to account for the differences. I conclude that the azimuth sectoring approach for the data and target zone considered here yields seemingly plausible, but meaningless results. The non-azimuth sectoring approach is statistically far more robust and provides azimuthal velocity data that are consistent with other observations. Azimuthal velocity analysis via azimuthal sectoring should be avoided except for very thick layers, and then should only be considered after careful modeling of the impact of rms velocity uncertainty.
The Urokinase Receptor Supports Tumorigenesis of Human Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Cells

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a lethal neoplasm for which current therapy is unsatisfactory. The urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is associated with increased virulence of many solid neoplasms, but its role in the pathogenesis of MPM is currently unclear. We found that REN human pleural MPM cells expressed 4- to 10-fold more uPAR than MS-1 or M9K MPM cells or MeT5A human pleural mesothelial cells. In a new orthotopic murine model of MPM, we found that the kinetics of REN cell tumorigenesis is accelerated versus MS-1 or M9K cells, and that REN instillates generated larger tumors expressing increased uPAR, were more invasive, and caused earlier mortality. While REN, MS-1, and M9K tumors were all associated with prominent extravascular fibrin deposition, excised REN tumor homogenates were characterized by markedly increased uPAR at both the mRNA and protein levels. REN cells exhibited increased thymidine incorporation, which was attenuated in uPAR-silenced cells (P < 0.01). REN cells traversed three-dimensional fibrin gels while MS-1, M9K, and MeT5A cells did not. uPAR siRNA or uPAR blocking antibodies decreased REN cell migration and invasion, while uPA and fetal bovine serum augmented the effects. Transfection of relatively low uPAR expressing MS-1 cells with uPAR cDNA increased proliferation and migration in vitro and tumor formation in vivo. These observations link overexpression of uPAR to the pathogenesis of MPM, demonstrate that this receptor contributes to accelerated tumor growth in part through interactions with uPA, and suggest that uPAR may be a promising target for therapeutic intervention.
Database publishing statistics

The database industry was initiated in the early 1970s by the abstracting and indexing (A&I) or secondary publishers as they converted their print products to computer-readable form. In the 1980s a number of primary publishers followed suit and introduced the first full-text databases—first on magnetic tapes and then on CD-ROMs. CD-ROM was responsible for accelerating the growth of full-text databases. The majority of the early databases were produced by government and not-for-profit organizations. In the mid-1980s the commercial sector started large-scale production of databases and now produces the majority of all publicly available databases. This paper traces the growth of the computer-readable database industry from the 1970s to the present.
Comparison of intrusion errors and serial position curves on monaural and dichotic listening tasks: A developmental analysis

Based on a repeated measurement study of 7-, 10-, 14-, and 17-year-olds with monaural and dichotic presentations of word lists varying in associative structure and presentation rate, intrusion and serial position dependent variables were analyzed. Intrusion analyses supported previous reports on word list recall; vis, 7- and 10-year-olds recalled fewer words from monaural and dichotic lists and had more intrusive errors than adolescents. Based on similar orders of report (strategies) for monaural and dichotic word presentations, serial position curves for the two types of presentation were compared. Within-age comparisons were strikingly similar. Between-age comparisons of monaural and dichotic presentation serial position curves support the notion that there are ontogenetic limitations in memory structure and control processes.
CUMULANT-NEGLECT CLOSURE FOR NON-LINEAR OSCILLATORS UNDER RANDOM PARAMETRIC AND EXTERNAL EXCITATIONS

Abstract The statistical moments of a non-linear system responding to random excitations are governed by an infinite hierarchy of equations; therefore, suitable closure schemes are needed to compute the more important lower order moments approximately. One easily implemented and versatile scheme is to set the cumulants of response variables higher than a given order to zero. This is applied to three non-linear oscillators with very different dynamic properties, and with Gaussian white noises acting as external and/or parametric excitations. It is found that the accuracy of computed second moments can be improved greatly by extending from the second order closure (Gaussian closure) to the fourth order closure, and that further refinement is unnecessary for practical purposes. Treatment of nonstationary transient response is also illustrated.
Variable-frequency starting of squirrel cage induction motors

The present paper describes an improved method of starting induction motors using variable frequency and voltage in which series connected capacitors and saturable reactors are connected across each phase of an auxiliary stator winding.
Mass divergence in tropical weather systems Paper I: Diurnal variation

The diurnal variation of mass divergence and vertical velocity is documented for tropical summertime oceanic weather systems in the Western Pacific, Western Atlantic and the GATE region. It is shown that it is large and has the same basic character in all regions. Gray and Jacobson (1977) proposed that the diurnal variation of mass convergence is a result of diurnal differences in the net radiative and convective heating rates in the thick cirrus-shield covered weather systems and their surrounding clear areas. Fingerhut (1978) has developed a numerical model which appears to substantiate this hypothesis. A comparison of observations with results from his model reveals that a simple radiation-condensation model simulates most of the observed diurnal variations of convergence. The hypothesis is that radiational forcing is one of the major contributors to the maintenance and modulation of tropical weather systems.
Ground Shaking and Seismic Source Spectra for Large Earthquakes around the Megathrust Fault Offshore of Northeastern Honshu, Japan

Large earthquake ruptures on or near the plate boundary megathrust fault offshore of northeastern Honshu, Japan, produce variable levels of regional high‐frequency ground shaking. Analyses of 0.1–10 Hz strong ground motion recordings from K‐NET and KiK‐net stations and 0.3–3.0 Hz short‐period recordings from Hi‐net stations establish that the shaking variations result from a combination of differences in seismic source spectra and path attenuation. Eleven earthquakes with M_w 6.0–7.6 are analyzed, including interplate events at different positions on the megathrust within the rupture zone of the 11 March 2011 Tohoku (M_w 9.0) event and nearby intraplate events within the underthrusting Pacific slab. The relative ground shaking for frequencies of 5–10 Hz is strongest for the 7 April 2011 (M_w 7.2) intraslab event near the coast, followed by intraplate events beneath the outer‐trench slope. Decreasing levels of high‐frequency shaking are produced by interplate megathrust events moving from the down‐dip edge of the seismogenic zone to the up‐dip region near the trench. Differential attenuation measurements from averaged spectral ratios of strong‐motion recordings indicate that average path attenuation is lower for events deeper on the megathrust or within the slab below the coast. Empirical Green’s function analysis isolates the source spectra for the passband 0.3–3.0 Hz, indicating higher corner frequencies for intraplate events and deep megathrust events than for shallow megathrust events. Similar differences in average source spectra are found for teleseismic P waves. Depth‐varying source radiation and path attenuation thus account for the high‐frequency shaking for the 2011 Tohoku mainshock originating from the down‐dip portion of the megathrust.
Cerebral Atherosclerosis in European Populations: A Preliminary Report

Atherosclerosis in the arteries of the circle of Willis was studied in European populations using a coding technique developed by Baker and his associates. Results from six countries (Finland, Germany, Greece, Norway, Italy, and Poland) were compared with results from Minnesota. The material from the first four countries was coded by the Minnesota team, whereas the material from Italy and Poland was coded by their respective investigators. The frequency of cerebral atherosclerosis was highest in the German and Finnish populations and was lowest in the Polish population. The Norwegian, Greek and Italian populations showed frequencies of cerebral atherosclerosis quite similer to those in the Minnesota material. The average amount of cerebral atherosclerosis was established by determining the median vessel scores by ten-year age groups for the material coded by the Minnesota team. The Finnish population had the highest average involvement; the Finnish, German, and Greek populations all showed higher average vessel scores for cerebral atherosclerosis than the Minnesota population.
Differential assertion checking

Previous version of a program can be a powerful enabler for program analysis by defining new relative specifications and making the results of current program analysis more relevant. In this paper, we describe the approach of differential assertion checking (DAC) for comparing different versions of a program with respect to a set of assertions. DAC provides a natural way to write relative specifications over two programs. We introduce a novel modular approach to DAC by reducing it to safety checking of a composed program, which can be accomplished by standard program verifiers. In particular, we leverage automatic invariant generation to synthesize relative specifications for pairs of loops and procedures. We provide a preliminary evaluation of a prototype implementation within the SymDiff tool along two directions (a) soundly verifying bug fixes in the presence of loops and (b) providing a knob for suppressing alarms when checking a new version of a program.
A central circuit of the mind

The methodologies of cognitive architectures and functional magnetic resonance imaging can mutually inform each other. For example, four modules of the ACT-R (adaptive control of thought – rational) cognitive architecture have been associated with four brain regions that are active in complex tasks. Activity in a lateral inferior prefrontal region reflects retrieval of information in a declarative module; activity in a posterior parietal region reflects changes to problem representations in an imaginal module; activity in the anterior cingulate cortex reflects the updates of control information in a goal module; and activity in the caudate nucleus reflects execution of productions in a procedural module. Differential patterns of activation in such central regions can reveal the time course of different components of complex cognition.
A Literature of My Own: Living with Victorian Women Writers

Elaine Showalter describes her research on Victorian women authors in the 1970s leanding to her ground breaking work of feminist literary criticism, A Literary of Their Own, and the necessity of creating her own research collection of book by these authors. This article is based on a lecture at Rutgers on the occasion of her donating her collection to the Rutgers University Libraries.
Articular area responses to mechanical loading: effects of exercise, age, and skeletal location

How reliable are reconstructions of body mass and joint function based on articular surface areas? While the dynamic relationship between mechanical loading and cross-sectional geometry in long bones is well-established, the effect of loading on the subchondral articular surface area of epiphyses (hereafter, articular surface area, or ASA) has not been experimentally tested. The degree to which ASA can change in size and shape is important, because articular dimensions are frequently used to estimate body mass and positional behavior in fossil species. This study tests the hypothesis that mechanical loading influences ASA by comparing epiphyses of exercised and sedentary sheep from three age categories: juvenile, subadult, and adult (n = 44). ASA was measured on latex molds of subchondral articular surfaces of 10 epiphyses from each sheep. Areas were standardized by body mass, and compared to diaphyseal cross-sectional geometrical data. Nonparametric statistical comparisons of exercised and control individuals found no increases in ASA in response to mechanical loading in any age group. In contrast, significant differences in diaphyseal cross-sectional geometry were detected between exercised and control groups, but mostly in juveniles. The conservatism of ASA supports the hypothesis that ASA is ontogenetically constrained, and related to locomotor behavior at the species level and to body mass at the individual level, while variations in diaphyseal cross-sectional geometry are more appropriate proxies for individual variations in activity level.
_{∞}-ring structures for Tate spectra

Let G be a compact Lie group and kG a G spectrum (as defined in [3, Section I.2]). Greenlees and May ([2]) have defined an associated G-spectrum t(kG) called the Tate spectrum. They observe that if kG is a ring G-spectrum then there is an induced ring G-spectrum structure on t(kG), and that if kG is homotopy-commutative then t(kG) will also be homotopycommutative (see [2, Proposition 3.5]). It is therefore natural to ask whether an equivariant E∞-ring structure on kG induces an equivariant E∞-ring structure on t(kG) (we will recall the definition in a moment). We offer both positive and negative answers to this question. On the positive side, we show that t(kG) inherits a structure which is somewhat weaker than an equivariant E∞-ring structure, but which should be adequate for most practical purposes. To explain this, let us recall from [3, Example VII.1.4] that to each G-universe U is associated an equivariant operad L(U). Let us fix a complete G universe U and let V denote the trivial G-universe U. An equivariant E∞-ring structure is defined to be an action of an equivariant operad equivalent to L(U) (see [3, Definitions VII.2.1 and VII.1.2 and Remark VII.1.3]). Let us define an E′ ∞-ring structure to be an action of an equivariant operad equivalent to L(V ); since G acts trivially on L(V ) we can rephrase this by saying that an E′ ∞-ring structure is an action of a nonequivariant E∞ operad through G-maps. Since there is a map of operads L(V ) → L(U), an equivariant E∞ structure specializes to an E′ ∞ structure. On the other hand, Remark VII.2.5 of [3] shows that if kG is an E ′ ∞-ring spectrum then the fixed point spectra (kG) H have (nonequivariant) E∞-ring structures which are consistent as H varies; this is likely to be the point most relevant for applications. Our positive result is:
Glucose monitoring in acute care: technologies on the horizon

Current glucose monitoring technology appears inadequate for the management of diabetic surgical and in critically ill patients requiring intensive insulin therapy. Subcutaneous sensors measure interstitial fluid glucose, and this technology has not yet been shown to provide the timely and accurate measurements necessary for intravenous insulin administration in surgical and critical care patients on intensive insulin therapy. Technologies under development that may be more suitable for surgical and intensive care unit patients are the automated intermittent type glucose monitors and central catheter glucose monitors. Improved accuracy, patient safety, incorporation of control algorithms, and alleviation of added nursing labor are important factors for consideration with future acute care glucose monitors. Hospital costs for these monitors are difficult to estimate but may be relatively low if their use can be related to better patient outcome, reduced labor costs, and increased job satisfaction for the nursing staff.
Accelerated aging and reliability studies of multisection tunable GCSR lasers for dense WDM applications

We report on the results of an accelerated aging study of tunable grating coupled sampled reflector (GCSR) lasers. Frequency, power and SMSR stability as a function of operation time at elevated temperatures were studied. The effective lifetime of device operation is estimated.
Thermal Conductivity and Heat Capacity of Beryllium Carbide

The thermal conductivity of a hollow hot-pressed cylinder of beryllium carbide has been deter mined within an accuracy of ±200% from 300° to 950°C. The enthalpy and mean heat capacity of powdered beryllium carbide have been determined within 10 to 15% from room temperature to 1100°C.
Decreased Energy Reserve in an Animal Model of Dilated Cardiomyopathy Relationship to Contractile Performance

An animal model was used to test the hypothesis that in heart failure the decrease in the ability to resynthesize ATP through the creatine kinase (CK) reaction (which we call energy reserve) contributes to the inability of the heart to maintain its normal function and contractile reserve. One-week-old turkey poults were fed furazolidone for 14 days to induce dilated cardiomyopathy. Isolated Langendorff-perfused hearts from these myopathic animals showed a 73% decrease in baseline isovolumic contractile performance. Neither increasing [Ca2+]o nor electrical pacing rate increased isovolumic contractile performance. Measured by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance magnetization transfer and chemical assay, ATP concentration was decreased by 23%, phosphocreatine concentration by 42%, CK enzyme activity by 34%, and the pseudo first-order rate constant for the CK reaction by 50%. Measured CK reaction velocity decreased by 71%. The reduced ability to increase cardiac performance in response to increasing [Ca2+]o in hearts with lower CK reaction velocity was reproduced in part by feeding a separate group of turkey poults beta-guanidino-propionic acid to specifically reduce CK reaction velocity by decreasing guanidino substrate concentration. These hearts had normal baseline performance but blunted contractile reserve. These observations provide further support for the hypothesis that a decrease in energy reserve via the CK system contributes to reduced cardiac function in the failing heart.
Strategies for designing high efficient thin-film amorphous silicon solar cells

One method to increase light absorption inside thin-film amorphous silicon solar cells is enhancing localized fields within its depletion region. This phenomenon can occur when metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) are placed inside a structure to increase light scattering. To obtain high efficiency, however, it's crucial that most of this absorbed energy is converted to photocurrent. This paper explores the effect of embedded MNPs' size and location has for optimization purposes. Over 30% solar cell efficiency improvement can be achieved through geometry optimization; far beyond state-of-the-art for thin-film amorphous silicon solar cells.
Device diagnostics and early identification of acute decompensated heart failure: a systematic review.

Background Traditional methods of heart failure (HF) management are based on reactive strategies to treat late indicators of decompensated HF. Advances in monitoring methods have become available with the evolution of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and cardiac-resynchronization therapy devices. These devices provide new diagnostic data and remote monitoring capabilities that allow clinicians to proactively monitor patients for earlier signs of worsening HF. The integration of data obtained from implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and cardiac-resynchronization therapy technology could improve outpatient HF care, potentially leading to decreased readmission rates and improved patient outcomes. Objective This review will synthesize the literature regarding the efficacy of device diagnostic data and the usability of the data in the clinical setting. Methods Articles for review were obtained using Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, MEDLINE, PubMed, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Results Device diagnostics showed strong correlation with established HF biomarkers and hemodynamic measures. The findings from this review indicate that device diagnostic parameters predict impending HF much earlier than traditional methods of monitoring do. Device diagnostics are also more accurate in the early prediction of HF when compared with noninvasive objective measures, particularly when multiple parameters are combined and monitored for trends. Device diagnostics possess a distinct advantage over traditional methods of monitoring for HF because they allow clinicians to remotely monitor the status of their HF patients without relying on patient compliance for data entry and reporting. Conclusions Studies regarding the efficacy of device diagnostic parameters suggest that their integration into clinical practice will provide a more accurate and reliable mechanism for assisting clinicians in risk stratifying and predicting potential episodes of decompensated HF.
Gas Source Conditions and Exploration Potential of Deep Layer in Yingtai Fault Depression

In order to evaluate and recognize the exploration potential of fault depressions except for the middle part fault depression where had a great breakthrough, the geological and geochemical data from the risk exploration well-Longshen 1, qualitative appraisement and quantitative calculation method are used to study gas source conditions and the exploration potential of Yingtai fault depression. This research indicates that dark mudstones of K1yc and K1sh layers are relatively development and the residual organic carbon content is relatively higher, and the organic matter is mainly at high-to over-mature evolution stage, especially with type Ⅱ1 and Ⅱ2 organic matter which have a higher gas generation potential, other than the type III organic matter accepted by predecessor. All above evidence hints there is a better exploration potential in deep fault depression. Meanwhile, the original carbon content and hydrocarbon potential of organic matter are much higher than present values, which indicate the signification of restitution for the objective appraisement of high-over-mature source rock. Quantitative appraisement preliminarily reveals that the gas resource of Yingtai fault depression is ranger from 93.8 to 375.8 billion cubic meters, where has a gas source condition for forming medium to large-sized gas fields or groups. It also means that some fault depressions have important and exploratory exploration potential, besides Xujiaweizi and Changling fault depression.
Numerical Enhancement of NMT for Predicting Fatigue Failure

Nonlinear Model Tracking (NMT) has been shown to be a robust method for predicting failure through nondestructive health monitoring. The method has been applied to slender cantilever beams of varying geometry subjected to harmonic nonstationary base excitation around the beams second natural frequency. Working with a nonlinear differential equation model, model parameters are mapped as the system health degrades. Continuous Time System Identification is populated with healthy system stimulus and response data and updated with aging real time response data. While the NMT method indicates with repeatability the onset of plasticity, crack initiation and growth well in advance of system failure, a phenomenon associated with specific geometries known as early onset drift can incorrectly flag system failure. Through numerical methods this phenomenon is explored. Additionally, two investigative numerical techniques are developed to give greater understanding and utility to the NMT method.
Light-Field Imaging Toolkit

The Light-Field Imaging Toolkit (LFIT) is a collection of MATLAB functions designed to facilitate the rapid processing of raw light field images captured by a plenoptic camera. An included graphical user interface streamlines the necessary post-processing steps associated with plenoptic images. The generation of perspective shifted views and computationally refocused images is supported, in both single image and animated formats. LFIT performs necessary calibration, interpolation, and structuring steps to enable future applications of this technology.
Poor Families in America's Health Care Crisis: The Nonexistent Safety Net for Parents

For the parents in our study, one of the greatest threats to their children's health insurance coverage came as a result of their leaving the welfare rolls and going to work. As we have heard in the previous chapters, those parents who somehow managed to earn enough money to move the family above the poverty line ran the risk of losing Medicaid even for their younger children. The extension of Medicaid coverage to children in families with incomes well above the poverty line and the introduction of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) represent responses by Congress to a clearly irrational aspect of public health policy that penalized work and that left many working poor families without any source of health care coverage for their children. Unfortunately, even though Congress has partially addressed the problem that working poor families face in providing care to their children, it has done little to address the problem of the lack of coverage for their parents (Davidoff et al. 2004; Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured 2003). Because of the lack of complete and comprehensive family coverage, many of the families in our study faced the harsh reality that some family members, very frequently the adults, had no health care coverage. As we have noted throughout, those families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid or SCHIP are at high risk of incomplete family coverage (Hanson 2001; Institute of Medicine 2002b).
Step length and width variability while walking on a motion simulator mounted treadmill

While devices which allow scientists to perturb normal walking are becoming increasingly common, postural adaptations to these perturbations have not been fully quantified. One way to quantify postural responses to perturbations are through the assessment of variability of step length and width. In the present study we determined variability of both step length and width while subjects walked under perturbations of varying amplitude in roll, pitch, yaw, anteroposterior, lateral, and combined roll, pitch, yaw directions. Step kinematics were quantified using motion analysis. The majority of changes in step length variability occurred in Pitch (p<0.01), mediolateral (p<0.05) and anteroposterior (p<0.01) directions. Changes in step width variability were most apparent in combined Roll-Pitch-Yaw (p<0.01) as well as Roll (p<0.05), and Yaw (p<0.05) directions. These data demonstrate that sinusoidal perturbations while walking on a treadmill are sufficient to disrupt normal postural control. These conditions therefore may be useful in constructing rehabilitation programs to improve dynamic balance.