cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analyzing emergency evacuation strategies for large buildings using crowd simulation framework

The occurrence of natural or man-made emergencies can be quite complex and demand flawless preparedness, through tested strategies, in order to ensure the safety of the individuals. For large-scale infrastructures, whether commercial or residential, having a reliable evacuation strategy is crucial. Formulation and evaluation of these evacuation strategies is however a daunting challenge. In this paper, we propose a Crowd Simulation and Analysis framework for the formulation and evaluation of effective evacuation strategies in large buildings, using real-scale building structures and agent based approach. We further propose an algorithm to devise an evacuation strategy. We first demonstrate the functionality of our algorithm using a simplistic example and then apply the algorithm in a campus evacuation case study using three scenarios. The main goal of this research is to assist regulatory authorities in developing effective disaster management plans through the use of M&S methods and tools.
An investigation of the observed torques acting on explorer xi.

Gravity gradient, aerodynamic, magnetic moment and coulomb drag torque effects on explorer xi satellite angular momentum vector
2 – Chemical Kinetics

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the fundamental areas of chemical kinetics. Flames will propagate through only those chemical mixtures that are capable of reacting quickly enough to be considered explosive. Indeed, the expression “explosive” essentially specifies very rapid reaction. From the standpoint of combustion, the interest in chemical kinetic phenomena has generally focused on the conditions under which chemical systems undergo explosive reactions. Recently, however, great interest has developed in the rates and mechanisms of steady (nonexplosive) chemical reactions. This is so because most known complex pollutants form in zones of steady, usually lower-temperature, reactions during, and even after, the combustion process. These essential features of chemical kinetics, which occur frequently in combustion phenomena, are reviewed in this chapter. It describes the rates of reactions and their temperature dependence. Simultaneous interdependent reactions are considered as in complex reacting systems a one-step rate expression will not suffice. Generally, one finds simultaneous, interdependent reactions or chain reactions. The chapter also presents the partial equilibrium assumption, where one is considered with particular reactions. Finally, the pressure effect in fractional conversion is discussed and the chapter concludes with various problems related to the topic.
Design and in vivo activity of A 3 adenosine receptor agonist prodrugs.

Prodrugs (MRS7422, MRS7476) of highly selective A3 adenosine receptor (AR) agonists Cl-IB-MECA and MRS5698, respectively, were synthesized by succinylation of the 2′ and 3′ hydroxyl groups, and the parent, active drug was shown to be readily liberated upon incubation with liver esterases. The prodrug MRS7476 had greatly increased aqueous solubility compared with parent MRS5698 and was fully efficacious and with a longer duration than MRS7422 in reversing mouse neuropathic pain (chronic constriction injury model, 3 μmol/kg, p.o.), a known A3AR effect. MRS7476 (5 mg/kg, p.o., twice daily) was found to protect against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in the STAM mouse model, indicated by the NAFLD activity score. Hepatocyte ballooning, IL-10 production, and liver histology were significantly normalized in the MRS7476-treated mice, but not liver fibrosis (no change in ACTA2 levels) or inflammation. Hepatic expression of ADORA3 in human NAFLD patients was 1.9-fold lower compared to normal controls. Adora3 expression determined by qPCR in primary mouse liver was associated with the stellate cells, and its mouse full body A3AR knockout worsened liver markers of inflammation and steatosis. Thus, we have introduced a reversible prodrug strategy that enables water solubility and in vivo activity of masked A3AR agonists in models of two disease conditions.
A Novel Laboratory Assay to Monitor Unfractionated Heparin Dosing in Patients Taking Apixaban Prior to Hospital Admission.

Introduction When monitoring heparin, anti-Xa assays are susceptible to interference from apixaban taken before admission and can result in inappropriate dose adjustments that can negatively affect patient care. Methods We derived a novel assay, termed corrected heparin (CH), using quantified values from a chromogenic anti-Xa assay with heparin calibrators before and after heparinase treatment to eliminate any interference from apixaban within the patient sample. We retrospectively assessed 469 specimens from 72 patients at our institution who had their unfractionated heparin infusion monitored using the CH assay because of known apixaban use. These patients were included in the study if they had detectable apixaban levels (>0.1 IU/mL by anti-Xa). Results The analytical performance of the assay was evaluated, and precision was found to be 8.8% within 1 day and 13.3% over multiple days, with acceptable linearity (R2 = 0.997). Evaluation of clinical performance was compared with the partial thromboplastin time (PTT), showing a lack of correlation similar to comparisons between the PTT and anti-Xa assay (Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis 1993;4:635-8). The mean time to a therapeutic result in this cohort was 10 hours and 10 minutes. The CH assay was used to determine how long the apixaban was detected by the anti-Xa assay. The majority of patients (80%) still had measurable anti-Xa assay interference from apixaban at 24 hours after the last apixaban dose. Conclusions We have developed and evaluated an assay capable of quantifying heparin in the presence of apixaban. This assay showed acceptable performance in both analytical and clinical performance.
Governing role of the ratio of large platelet particles to ultrafine particles on dynamic and quasistatic compressive response and damage evolution in ice-templated alumina ceramics

This study revealed that the mass ratio of large anisometric particles (platelets) to ultrafine, equiaxed particles strongly influences dynamic and quasistatic compressive response and the process of damage evolution in ice-templated alumina materials. The improved sinterability between particles of significantly dissimilar size and morphology enabled the utilization of a high mass ratio of the particles in harnessing a markedly enhanced level of strength in highly porous ice-templated ceramics. The high volume fraction of platelets increased lamellar bridge density and resulted in dendritic morphology as opposed to lamellar morphology without platelets. All the materials showed strain rate-sensitivity, where strength increased with strain rate. Materials with highly dendritic morphology exhibited the best performance in terms of maximum strength and energy absorption capacity, and the performance improved from quasistatic to dynamic regime. Direct observation of the process of damage evolution revealed the effects of both strain rate and ratio of platelets to ultrafine particles.
Development and Validation of a Mobile Application to Detect Visual Dysfunction Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.

INTRODUCTION Following mild traumatic brain injury, visual dysfunction is a common occurrence, yet the condition often goes undiagnosed. A mobile application was developed to measure aspects of visual acuity and oculomotor function. The aim of this project was to validate the newly developed suite of outcomes conducive for use in the field to detect visual dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS A custom mobile application was developed on an Apple iPad using iOS operating system software version 11.0 in Objective C to measure near point of convergence (NPC), distance visual acuity, reading fluency, and self-rated convergence insufficiency (CI). To determine construct validity, 50 healthy young adults were administered NPC and distance visual acuity assessments using the iPad and standard clinical approaches. A ruler measurement was obtained simultaneous to the iPad NPC measurement to determine measurement accuracy. All testing was administered by a licensed optometrist and the order of testing (iPad versus clinical) was randomized. RESULTS The correlation coefficient between the iPad and clinical measurements of NPC was 0.893, while iPad and ruler measurement was 0.947. Modest accordance was found between iPad and wall chart measures assessing distance visual acuity. A ceiling effect was evident with use of a wall chart to determine distance visual acuity. Healthy young adults scored a mean (SD) of 13.0 (7.4) on the Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey. Reading fluency was highly variable with a mean (SD) of 291 (119) words per minute. CONCLUSIONS iPad measures of NPC were highly correlated with clinical measures, while visual acuity measured with the iPad showed modest correlation. Nonetheless, the suite of visual assessments provide value as screening tools, and when used in combination with reading fluency assessment and self-reported CI may be effective in identifying visual dysfunction following mild traumatic brain injury.
Abstract 12919: Quantitative Assessment of Cardiovascular Autonomic Impairment in Cancer Survivors: A Single Center Experience

Background: Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in cancer survivors is poorly understood. Objectives: To better characterize the clinical characteristics and types of autonomic dysfunction in this...
Investigating the blood-spinal cord barrier in preclinical models: a systematic review of in vivo imaging techniques.

Study design This study is a systematic review. Objectives To evaluate current in vivo techniques used in the investigation of the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB). Methods Search of English language literature for animal studies that investigated the BSCB in vivo. Data extraction included animal model/type, protocol for BSCB evaluation, and study outcomes. Descriptive syntheses are provided. Results A total of 40 studies were included, which mainly investigated rodent models of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) or spinal cord injury (SCI). The main techniques used were magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intravital microscopy (IVM). MRI served as a reliable tool to longitudinally track BSCB permeability changes with dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) using gadolinium, or assess inflammatory infiltrations with targeted alternative contrast agents. IVM provided high-resolution visualization of cellular and molecular interactions across the microvasculature, commonly with either epi-fluorescence or two-photon microscopy. MRI and IVM techniques enabled the evaluation of therapeutic interventions and mechanisms that drive spinal cord dysfunction in EAE and SCI. A small number of studies demonstrated the feasibility of DCE-computed tomography, ultrasound, bioluminescent, and fluorescent optical imaging methods to evaluate the BSCB. Technique-specific limitations and multiple protocols for image acquisition and data analyses are described for all techniques. Conclusion There are few in vivo investigations of the BSCB. Additional studies are needed in less commonly studied spinal cord disorders, and to establish standardized protocols for data acquisition and analysis. Further development of techniques and multimodal approaches could overcome current imaging limitations to the spinal cord. These advancements might promote wider adoption of techniques, and can provide greater potential for clinical translation.
Mapping the Dimensions of Agency.

Neural devices have the capacity to enable users to regain abilities lost due to disease or injury – for instance, a deep brain stimulator (DBS) that allows a person with Parkinson’s disease to reg...
Developing a Mapping Sentence

In this chapter, we give in-depth, step-by-step instructions on how to develop a mapping sentence for your specific research project, as well as providing examples of these tools as they have been employed in previous studies. We also clearly define the basic terms involved in the process of creating a mapping sentence and explain how to use such terms appropriately. This chapter will act as a general instruction guide for students, beginners, and interested individuals to better understand and construct their own research projects.
Rapid Propagation of Boston Ferns by Tissue Culture

Boston Fern and several of its cultivars are popular, ornamental, home and office plants. During the 1970s, about 2 million Boston Ferns were sold each year in the United States, Most of the production at that time was by one-for-one runner tip multiplication in the greenhouse. This method of propagation yielded low numbers of plantlets per unit time. Boston Ferns can be propagated rapidly in large numbers by shoot multiplication in sterile tissue culture. At the present time, the most common method of shoot multiplication of Boston Ferns in several nurseries is directly from shoot tissues. This method has been refined in Fishtail Fern [M.J. Beck and J.D. Caponetti (1983) Amer. J. Bot. 70:1–7].
Political geographers of the past: Isaiah Bowman: Political geography and geopolitics1

When Brian Berry served notice in 1969 that political geography had become a ‘moribund backwater’, he expressed succinctly what many sensed but none would say in public. There is no single explanation for the demise of political geography, but central to the whole experience was the simple fact that political geography ceased to be political. The old political geography was a product of specific political and social conditions; its primary concern with national boundaries was not an abstract interest, but the direct outgrowth of empire building and imperial conquest. In the latter part of the 19th century, the acquisition of colonial territories and the setting of expansive colonial boundaries was one of the primary goals of competing national powers in Europe and elsewhere. In the 20th century, the focus turned toward imperial expansion of the advanced nation-states themselves, and this led, albeit under different circumstances, to two world wars, and a number of smaller skirmishes. With questions of national boundaries at the forefront of international politics, it is hardly surprising that political geography prospered. It offered itself as the study of national boundaries; political geographers examined the ingredients of stable boundaries and the many social, cultural, economic and political forces that could result in instability, and in this way produced a body of knowledge with a direct political affiliation. It is impossible to date precisely the beginnings of demise for political geography, but the process was certainly well under way in the years following World War II. It is not that economic expansion ceased in this period, quite the contrary. Rather, with the onset of decolonization and the rapid internationalization of capital, the expansion of national economies was no longer accomplished through directly political-that is, territorial-means. Insofar as it did not change, the old political geography was left addressing the questions of a bygone age. The old political geography had been political in the full sense. The politics of territorial expansion were the politics of nationalism and, in the case of colonial expansion, racism. Thus, again, it should not be surprising, if political geography owed its prominence to the importance of territorial expansion, that the most prominent political geographers should be such ardent nationalists as Sir Halford Mackinder and Karl Haushofer. Political
Protocols for sensor networks using COSMOS model

Authors in [1] have recently introduced an interesting model, COSMOS (Cluster-based heterOgeneouS MOdel for Sensor networks) for sensor networks; COSMOS is a hierarchical network architecture that consists of a large number of low cost sensors with very limited computation capability and a smaller number of more powerful “clusterheads”. The clusterheads can communicate between each other in an asynchronous fashion while the low capability sensors under each clusterhead operate in a synchronous way with their respective clusterheads. Our purpose in the present paper is to design several protocols for benchmark programs like broadcast, matrix multiplication and matrix chain multiplication using this model and provide detailed complexity analysis of these protocols. Our results further illustrates the usefulness of the model for use in sensor networks.
Cross metathesis functionalization of polyolefins

A cross metathesis strategy is reported for the post-polymerization functionalization of the pendant vinyl groups present in a range of polyolefin architectures. This represents a general strategy for the synthesis of tailored random and block copolymers as well as homopolymers.
Orthographic Distinctiveness and Semantic Elaboration Provide Separate Contributions to Memory

Orthographic distinctiveness and semantic elaboration both enhance memory. The present behavioral and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies examined the relationship between the influences of orthographic distinctiveness and semantic elaboration on memory, and explored whether they make independent contributions. As is typical for manipulations of processing levels, words studied during semantic encoding were better remembered than words studied during nonsemantic encoding. Notably, orthographically distinct words were better recalled and received more remember responses on recognition memory tests than orthographically common words regardless of encoding task, suggesting that orthographic distinctiveness has an additive effect to that of semantic elaboration on memory. In the fMRI study, orthographic distinctiveness and semantic elaboration engaged separate networks of brain regions. Semantic elaboration modulated activity in left inferior prefrontal and lateral temporal regions. In contrast, orthographic distinctiveness modulated activity in distinct bilateral inferior prefrontal, extrastriate, and parietal regions. Orthographic distinctiveness and semantic elaboration appear to have separate behavioral and functional–anatomic contributions to memory.
Human cutaneous irritation: induced hyporeactivity.

The variation in human skin response to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was determined with patch and open applications. Reactions in different subjects and in multiple simultaneous patch tests were compared. Skin responses were assessed with visual scoring (VS), laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Previous open, unpatched SLS exposure decreased patch test reactivity to 1% SLS assessed with VS (p less than 0.05) or LDV (p less than 0.05). Corresponding TEWL alteration was inconstant. Variation in reactivity at different test sites in multiple simultaneous tests was considerable, though less than the variation at different test times (p less than 0.05). Inter-subject variation in test reactivity was greater than the variation between different test times or adjacent test sites. Repeated open applications and the subclinical dermatitis appear to have produced a hyporeactive state. The results suggest that non-specific skin inflammation is elicited by multiple factors, e.g., stratum corneum integrity and vascular reactivity. Their balance determines the ensuing reactions. The induced hyporeactivity may be one of many causes of false negative diagnostic patch tests.
A Paley-Wiener Theorem for Selected Nilpotent Lie Groups

Abstract This paper concerns itself with the problem of generalizing to nilpotent Lie groups a weak form of the classical Paley-Wiener theorem for R n The generalization is accomplished for a large subclass of nilpotent Lie groups, as well as for an interesting example not in this subclass. The paper also shows that if N is any connected, simply connected nilpotent Lie group, then almost all representations π in the support of the Plancherel measure may be induced from a single family of Vergne polarizations, with each π being modelled in L2 of the same fixed subspace of the Lie algebra of N.
Amorphization in Ni-Ti-Ta system through mechanical alloying

In recent years, advances have been made in synthesizing amorphous alloys with superior properties via solid-state reactions as opposed to traditional rapid solidification techniques [1, 2] because of improved properties of the alloys produced by the former techniques. Of the many solid-state reaction techniques, mechanical alloying (MA) has proven to be a simple yet very effective technique for producing amorphous alloys. Ever since the amorphization in mechanically alloyed Ni60Nb40 powder mixture was achieved by Koch [3], the technique has been widely applied for various binary systems. However, amorphization in ternary alloys have hardly been studied [4–7]. The reason being, a lack of proper understanding of the process and variation of the products with subtle changes in the process parameters. Mechanical alloying of both Ni-Ti and Ni-Ta systems has been studied extensively [2, 8–11], but no attempt has been made on mechanical alloying of the ternary Ni-Ti-Ta system. Ta, added as a ternary element in the NiTi-alloys has been proven to impart radiopassity, thermal stability, etc. [12, 13]. Hence in this research, an attempt has been made to study the amorphous phase formation in the (Ni51Ti49)1−xTax system in the range of 0–20 at.% Ta through mechanical alloying. Pure powders (99.9%) of Ni, Ti and Ta with particle sizes less than 45 μm (-320 mesh) were mixed under inert argon atmosphere according to the formula (Ni51Ti49)1−xTax (x = 0, 2, 4, 10, 15, 20). All powder mixtures were subjected to high-energy ball milling (HEBM) in a SPEX 8000 mill. A ball to powder ratio (BPR) of 10:1 was maintained with stainless steel balls of two diameters (0.5 in. and 0.25 in.) as grinding medium. All powder mixtures were initially milled for 0.5 hr and then powders with Ta at 4 and 20 at.% were subjected to 24 hrs of milling to study the process of amorphization in the system. Microstructural analysis to assess the overall physical particle size variation and interlayer thickness of the alloyed particles with milling time was performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Phase transformation during the process of amorphization was performed using a Bruker Axis transmission powder diffractometer with Mo-Kα radiation (0.71073A). In order to conduct both microstructure and phase analyses, a small amount of powdered mixture was
Rapid volume replacement with warmed blood and fluids.

A prospective clinical study was undertaken in 50 consecutive patients suf fering from severe traumatic shock to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a set for rapid administration of solutions (RSAS), which allows for rapid infusion and simultaneous warming of blood and fluids. The mechanism of injury was blunt in 37 patients and penetrating in 13. Admission trauma score averaged 7.5, and the injury severity score averaged 46. Average preresuscitation systolic blood pressure was 71 mmHg, pulse was 105 beats/minute, and temperature was 34.3°C. Initial resuscitation was with the RSAS, and total fluid infused in the first twenty-four hours averaged 4,632 mL of blood, 1,914 mL of blood prod ucts, and 11,248 mL of crystalloid. The average postresuscitation systolic blood pressure was 120 mmHg, pulse was 96 beats/minute, and temperature averaged 34.9°C. Survival at twenty-four hours was 29/50 (58%). There were no local complications of RSAS use and no evidence of infusion-related coagulopathy. The RSAS provided a...
Giant aneurysms of the anterior circle of willis: Management outcome of open microsurgical treatment

BACKGROUND There is no uniform agreement to date regarding the optimal management of giant aneurysms (GAs) of the anterior circle of Willis. Endovascular therapeutic techniques have yielded unacceptable rates of aneurysm growth and recanalization (endosaccular) or high rates of complications (distal parent vessel occlusion). Despite size, frequent thrombosis and calcification (incollapsibility), and splaying of parent vessels, these aneurysms are readily amenable to direct surgical exposure and control of parent vessels intracranially. Published series have not considered these lesions separately and have often reflected a mixture of management strategies for these and other GAs. METHODS Thirty-eight consecutive patients with symptomatic GAs of the anterior circle of Willis were managed by the senior author over a 7-year period. Twenty-six of these patients (68%) presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Temporary occlusion was performed under a protocol to enhance brain protection. Direct clip reconstruction or trapping was used in all instances, with intraoperative angiographic control. Revascularization procedures and suture vascular reconstructions were not used in any case. RESULTS All patients were considered for direct microsurgical treatment. One patient refused surgery, and two patients were deemed a prohibitive medical risk. Thirty-five patients were treated surgically with complete obliteration of the aneurysm in 34 cases (97%), and patency of all parent arteries in 30 cases (86%). Overall mortality was 6% in the surgical cohort, with good or excellent clinical outcome in 71%. Mortality and poor outcome occurred exclusively in the setting of recent hemorrhage. CONCLUSIONS The results are compared to the natural history of these lesions and to the outcome (safety and effectiveness) of currently available endovascular techniques. This experience supports direct microsurgical intervention as the primary therapeutic modality for these lesions.
The dependency ratio and optimum population growth. The total utility case.

This paper examines the effects of introducing a variable dependency ratio in Dasgupta's (1969) model. We consider a case in which the probability of dying as well as the rate of participation in the labor force change with age. It is shown that the inclusion of those realistic demographic features slows down the optimal rate of population growth and increases the rate of consumption. In spite of the reduction in the rate of population growth, this rate can still be positive. The sensitivity of the solutions to changes in the demographic parameters of the model is examined.
Suspension bead array branch migration displacement assay for rapid STR analysis

STR analysis is commonly used in forensic and genetic studies. STRs are currently discriminated based on size, primarily by gel- and column-based approaches. Hybridization-based approaches have the potential to allow high-throughput analysis of STRs; however, development of such approaches has been limited by the difficulty in discriminating between STRs of similar length. We have recently described several innovations to enable STR analysis using an array-based hybridization approach for high- throughput STR analysis. Here we extend that approach by incorporating the array into microspheres and adding a discriminatory branch migration displacement step. This microsphere-based platform uses Luminex xMAP technology and improves the sensitivity, selectivity, and speed of the assay. We demonstrate the feasibility, speed, and reliability of the assay for STR detection by correctly analyzing two STR loci in 20 forensic DNA samples of known STR type. The multiplex, bead-based approach provides a high-throughput and more portable STR analysis.
Wavelength standards for optical communications

We review wavelength accuracy and calibration issues for wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical fiber communication and describe our work on wavelength calibration references. We have developed wavelength references for National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) internal calibration and transfer standards to help industry calibrate their instrumentation. The transfer standards are NIST Standard Reference Materials that utilize the absorption lines of acetylene and hydrogen cyanide in the 1500 nm region. Two higher accuracy references for NIST internal use are based on laser stabilization to absorption lines of rubidium (at 1560 nm) and methane (at 1314 nm). We are developing calibration references for the WDM L-band (approximately 1565 - 1625 nm) and are investigating references for the 1300 - 1400 nm region.
A miniature chemiresistor sensor for carbon dioxide.

Abstract A carpet-like nanostructure of polyaniline (PANI) nanothin film functionalized with poly(ethyleneimine), PEI, was used as a miniature chemiresistor sensor for detection of CO 2 at room temperature. Good sensing performance was observed upon exposing the PEI–PANI device to 50–5000 ppm CO 2 in presence of humidity with negligible interference from ammonia, carbon monoxide, methane and nitrogen dioxide. The sensing mechanism relied on acid–base reaction, CO 2 dissolution and amine-catalyzed hydration that yielded carbamates and carbonic acid for a subsequent pH detection. The sensing device showed reliable results in detecting an unknown concentration of CO 2 in air.
Settlement of dredged and contaminated material placement areas. II: Primary Consolidation, Secondary Compression, and Desiccation of dredged fill input parameters

This paper presents practical applications of PSDDF (Primary Consolidation, Secondary Compression, and Desiccation of Dredged Fill), which is described in a companion paper by the writers. In addition, consolidation and desiccation parameters for 27 dredged materials are presented from 20 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers placement areas to facilitate usage of PSDDF. The consolidation parameters of three cohesionless soils for sand capping and drainage and three compressible foundation materials are included to provide a PSDDF user with suitable parameters for these material types. To reduce the difficulty of obtaining the consolidation and desiccation parameters for dredged material, empirical correlations between the required parameters and soil index properties are presented.
Novel uses of Pinch Gloves for Virtual environment interaction techniques

The usability of three-dimensional (3D) interaction techniques depends upon both the interface software and the physical devices used. However, little research has addressed the issue of mapping 3D input devices to interaction techniques and applications. This is especially crucial in the field of Virtual Environments (VEs), where there exists a wide range of potential 3D input devices. In this paper, we discuss the use of Pinch Gloves™ – gloves that report contact between two or more fingers – as input devices for VE systems. We begin with an analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of the gloves as a 3D input device. Next, we present a broad overview of three novel interaction techniques we have developed using the gloves, including a menu system, a text input technique, and a two-handed navigation technique. All three of these techniques have been evaluated for both usability and task performance. Finally, we speculate on further uses for the gloves.
Mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (β-glucuronidase deficiency): a report of a new case and a survey of those in the literature

A new case of mucopolysaccharidosis type VII (β-glucuronidase deficiency) is described which presented with relatively mild clinical symptoms including disproportionate dwarfism, sternal protrusion, slight hepatomegaly and a small hernia. Facial features were not coarse and no neurological abnormalities were present. Urinary analysis revealed an increased excretion of chondroitin 4– and 6– sulphates. β-glucuronidase activity was virtually absent in serum and cultured fibroblasts. The results, together with a clinical follow-up of a previous case, are compared with the few cases described in the literature.
Reaction Between Ethylene and Acetate Species on Clean and Oxygen-Covered Pd(100): Implications for the Vinyl Acetate Monomer Formation Pathway

The reaction between gas-phase ethylene and adsorbed acetate species on Pd(100)-p(2 × 2)-O and Pd(100)-c(2 × 2)-O surfaces is studied using infrared spectroscopy. It is found that acetate species are removed more rapidly by gas-phase ethylene on oxygen-covered Pd(100) than on Pd(111). However, in contrast to reaction on Pd(111), where vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) formation is detected by infrared spectroscopy, only CO is found on oxygen-covered Pd(100) surfaces. In the case of Pd(111), it has been shown that VAM is stabilized on the crowded, ethylidyne-covered surface. Since ethylidyne species do not form on Pd(100), any VAM that is formed can thermally decompose. The reaction shows an isotope effect when C2D4 is substituted for C2H4, indicating the hydrogen is involved in the rate-limiting step. Based on the surface chemistry found for VAM on a Au/Pd(111) alloy, where 30 to 40% ML of gold inhibits VAM decomposition, it is suggested that the VAM formation rate will increase on (100) alloy surfaces, while it will decrease at higher gold coverages since acetate formation is inhibited.
Texture monitoring in aluminium alloys: A comparison of ultrasonic and neutron diffraction measurement

Abstract Theories have been developed by several authors to calculate velocities of bulk, guided and surface waves in polycrystalline aggregates of cubic metals. These theories can be used to predict the effect of texture on ultrasonic velocity in rolled aluminium and steel sheet, provided that the effects of dislocations, second-phase particles, inclusions, etc. can be ignored. The theories predict that ultrasonic velocities will will be influenced by three orientation distribution coefficients (ODCs). The ODCs are quantitative measures of the texture in the material; in general, more than three ODC are required to completely characterize texture. Neutron diffraction pole figures can also be used to obtain the ODCs. Neutron diffraction measurements of ODC can be compared against ultrasonic values to obtain an independent check on the validity of the ultrasonic theories. In this work, the texture of thin sheets of a commercial grade aluminium alloy was measured with both ultrasonics and neutron diffraction. Several ultrasonic techniques were employed, using bulk, guided and surface waves. Both piezoelectric and electromagnetic-acoustic transducers (EMATs) were used. Quantitative measurements of texture made with different ultrasonic techniques were in good agreement. These ultrasonic measurements also agreed with neutron diffraction measurements, indicating that the dominant features of the effect of texture on wave propagation have been modelled with sufficient accuracy. The extension of the ultrasonic technique to on-line (production) monitoring of texture is considered. In particular, it appears that EMATs are the transducer of choice for on-line texture measurement of rolled sheet, since they are non-contacting.
Deliquescence, liquid water, and the search for sources and sinks of methane on Mars

The recent discoveries of evidence for liquid saline water 1,2,3,4 and methane 5 on Mars have excited the science community by reviving the possibility of extant microbial life in this nearby planet. Here we report recently discovered photometric and spectral evidence that liquid saline water exists on Mars 4 . We show that this finding indicates that deliquescence occurs seasonally on some areas of Mars' polar region 4 . These discoveries support the hypothesis that liquid saline water is ubiquitous in the shallow Martian subsurface. This has important implications for the search for extraterrestrial life because a diverse array of terrestrial microorganisms thrives in highly saline water or brines 6,7 . We conclude this article by describing in situ and remote sensing instruments for detecting brines in the Martian subsurface and studying their relationship with sources and sinks of trace gases.
High-rate thermomechanical behavior of poly(vinyl chloride) and plasticized poly(vinyl chloride)

A combined experimental and analytical investigation was carried out in order to develop predictive capabilities for the rate-dependent behavior of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and a dioctyl phthalate (DOP)-plasticized PVC, with focus on predicting the thermo-mechanically coupled behavior under high rates of deformation. The two materials were studied experimentally using both dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and compression testing over a wide range of strain rates (10 -4 s -1 to 2000 s -1 ). DMA testing revealed both an α-transition and a low-temperature β-transition (-56°C) in the neat PVC; the incorporation of 20wt% DOP in PVC reduced the α-transition temperature by 54°C, and also suppressed the β-transition peak. In compression testing, rate-sensitivity transitions were observed in both the neat PVC and the PVC-20wt% DOP compound. The transition in PVC is attributed to the shift of the β-transition, whereas the transition in the 20wt% DOP blend is due to the rubbery-to-glassy transition as the deformation rate goes from low to high. A constitutive model for the finite strain deformation of amorphous polymers, introduced elsewhere [1,2] and tailored here for the two material systems of interest, is shown to capture the large deformation stress-strain behavior at all rates tested.
The Impact of Hospitalists on Medical Education and the Academic Health System

Hospitalism as a career option is likely to reinforce the emphasis of traditional medical residency programs on inpatient care; may become an alternative area of emphasis in many subspecialty fello...
Parotid area lymph node metastases from carcinoma of the skin

From January 1966 through April 1980, 38 patients with squamous cell carcinoma and one patient with basal cell carcinoma of the skin with lymphatic metastases to the parotid area were treated with curative intent at the University of Florida. Fourteen were initially treated with surgery, nine inoperable patients were treated primarily with radiation therapy, and 16 were treated with planned combined therapy, i.e., superficial or total parotidectomies with preoperative or postoperative radiation therapy. The ultimate parotid area control rate for the group treated with radiation alone was 50%; there were no failures at doses above 6500 rad. The parotid area control rate was 88% in the combined-treatment group with no failures when the surgical margins of resection were free; however, when gross residual disease was left behind, only 4 of 6 lesions were controlled. In the surgery-alone group, the ultimate parotid area and neck control rate was only 15%. The major sequela from combined therapy was sacrifice of the seventh nerve at surgery. Treatment methods are discussed.
The Rhetoric of Value Transfer in Organizations

This paper examines the rhetoric found in the referral pamphlets distributed by military academies and homes for the mentally retarded. The material is analyzed from a perspective which views value exchange between client and organization as an initial means of institutionalizing the relations between the person and the service organization. Discussion centers around the heuristic value of economic models in sociological analysis, with particular reference to that non-institutionalized sphere of the division of labor that encompasses service organizations which lack viable client referral mechanisms.
A Degrading View of Regulatory T Cells

Studies by van Loosdregt et al. and Chen et al. in this issue of Immunity provide evidence for previously unrecognized players that regulate FOXP3 degradation. These are interesting developments that point to unappreciated mechanisms by which inflammatory signals can impact expression of FOXP3 and possibly the stability of Treg cell phenotypes.
Speckle suppression for 3D ultrasound images using nonlinear multiscale wavelet diffusion

We introduce a new speckle suppression approach for 3-D ultrasound images. The proposed method seeks to enhance volume visualization of 3-D ultrasound images, and improve the accuracy of volume determination. Extended from 2-D nonlinear multiscale wavelet diffusion, the proposed method is developed on the basis of an integration of the 3-D nonlinear diffusion and 3-D dyadic wavelet transform techniques. Our approach uses the normalized wavelet modulus as an edge map to expose the intrinsic speckle/edge relation. Relying on the statistical analysis of this edge map, the method is able to classify homogenous speckle regions and edges in a 3-D volume, as well as provide strong speckle suppression and boundary preservation. Our method is validated using both synthetic and real 3-D ultrasonic images. Performance improvement over other filters is quantified by evaluating standard quality indices.
Importance of long-range forces and short-range forces in electron scattering: Elastic scattering by N2 at 10 and 30 eV

Abstract Polarized Born and fixed-nuclei approximation (sudden approximation) quantum mechanical calculations of the sum of the elastic scattering and rotational excitation differential cross sections are presented, compared to published experimental values, and interpreted in terms of the forces.
Challenges of integrating patient-centered data into clinical workflow for care of high-risk infants

In this paper, we outline the challenges to integrating patient-centered data into clinical workflow that were encountered during the deployment of a research prototype mobile system, Estrellita, designed to support collection of data about preterm infants and their parents. The data sources for our analysis come from approximately 4 years of collaboration, beginning in March of 2008, between an academic research team and various clinical partners specializing in high-risk infant care. Specifically, we draw from interviews with parents, pediatric health specialists, community pediatricians, and clinicians at a high-risk infant follow-up program; our collaborative experience throughout the project; and observations of one clinician as she integrated patient-generated data into her workflow over an 8-month period. We identified three major challenges to integrating patient-generated data into the clinical workflow: (1) finding an appropriate clinical partner, (2) designing for the unique workflow of the HRIF program, and (3) designing to minimize clinician liability. We further present workflow analysis from one clinician who monitored the patient-generated data. We discuss lessons learned and opportunities for design.
Association of IL-12p70 and IL-6:IL-10 ratio with autism-related behaviors in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: A preliminary report

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is a genetic disorder that conveys a significant risk for the development of social behavior disorders, including autism and schizophrenia. Also known as DiGeorge syndrome, 22q11DS is the second most common genetic disorder and is characterized by an elevated risk for immune dysfunction, up to 77% of individuals have an identifiable immune deficiency. We hypothesize that this immune dysfunction could contribute to the elevated risk of impaired social behavior seen in 22q11DS. The current study begins to elucidate these immune deficits and link them with the behavioral alterations associated with the disorder. Serum concentrations of a series of cytokines were examined, using a multiplex immunoassay, in sixteen individuals with 22q11DS and screened for autism-related behavior using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). This preliminary study examined correlations between specific immune proteins and each of the ADI-R algorithm scores (social, communication, and repetitive behavior). The inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, as well as the ratio between the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, were correlated with social scores (r=0.851, p=0.004; r=0.580, p=0.018). In addition, the inflammatory cytokines interferon gamma and IL-12p70 were correlated with repetitive behaviors (r=0.795, p=0.033; r=0.774, p=0.002). Interestingly, IL-12 has been reported to be increased in autistic children. These data show a positive association between severity of autism-related behaviors and level of serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in individuals with 22q11DS, providing a basis for further inquiry.
Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide Bleaching on Bone Mineral/Matrix Ratio

It is shown that bone fluorescence reduction by bleaching in 30% hydrogen peroxide causes a change in the mineral/matrix ratio as measured by Raman spectroscopy. However, there are no observable spectral shifts in the mineral Raman spectrum or in the matrix Raman spectrum. Possible sources of the change in ratio are discussed. Peroxide bleaching is not recommended for fluorescence reduction in quantitative Raman spectroscopy.
Meniscal Tear in Knees Without Surgery and the Development of Radiographic Osteoarthritis Among Middle-Aged and Elderly Persons: The Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study

Objective. Although partial meniscectomy is a risk factor for the development of knee osteoarthritis (OA), there is a lack of evidence that meniscal damage that is not treated with surgery would also lead to OA, suggesting that surgery itself may cause joint damage. Furthermore, meniscal damage is common. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between meniscal damage in knees without surgery and the development of radiographic tibiofemoral OA. Methods. We conducted a prospective case-control study nested within the observational Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study, which included a sample of men and women ages 50-79 years at high risk of knee OA who were recruited from the community. Patients who had no baseline radiographic knee OA but in whom tibiofemoral OA developed during the 30-month followup period were cases (n = 121). Control subjects (n = 294) were drawn randomly from the same source population as cases but had no knee OA after 30 months of followup. Individuals whose knees had previously undergone surgery were excluded. Meniscal damage was defined as the presence of any medial or lateral meniscal tearing, maceration, or destruction. Results. Meniscal damage at baseline was more common in case knees than in control knees (54% versus 18%; P < 0.001). The model comparing any meniscal damage with no meniscal damage (adjusted for baseline age, sex, body mass index, physical activity, and mechanical knee alignment) yielded an odds ratio of 5.7 (95% confidence interval 3.4-9.4). Conclusion. In knees without surgery, meniscal damage is a potent risk factor for the development of radiographic OA. These results highlight the need for better understanding, prevention, and treatment of meniscal damage.
Antibiotic biosynthesis: from natural to unnatural compounds.

The evolution of the field of biosynthesis from the unravelling of the mode of formation of natural products to the use of such knowledge to create new compounds is reviewed using examples from the author's laboratory. The discussion focuses on the mode of operation of type II (spore pigment PKS) and type I (rifamycin PKS) polyketide synthases and their diversion to generate unnatural products, and on the genetics and biochemistry of deoxysugar formation in granaticin biosynthesis as a prerequisite to combinatorial enzymatic synthesis of unusual glycosides. Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology (2001) 27, 183–194.
The role of simulation in biomathematical modeling

This paper is a general introduction to the field of biomathematical modeling. Biomathematical modeling is divided into three parts: the derivation of models, the fitting of models to data, and the simulation of data from models. This paper focuses on the simulation of data from models. The uses of simulation, the potential users of simulation, and simulation software are described.