cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fuselage mounted anti-collision lights utilizing high power LEDs

As LEDs continue to improve in efficacy and total light output, they are increasingly finding their way in to new applications in the aviation industry as well as adjacent markets. One function that is particularly challenging and may reap substantial benefits from this new technology is the fuselage mounted anti-collision light. Anti-collision lights provide conspicuity for the aircraft by periodically emitting bright flashes of light. The color, light distribution and intensity levels for these lights are all closely regulated through Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) documents. These lighting requirements, along with thermal, environmental and aerodynamic requirements, drive the overall design. In this paper, we will discuss the existing technologies used in anti-collision lights and the advantages and challenges associated with an LED solution. Particular attention will be given to the optical, thermal, electrical and aerodynamic aspects associated with an LED approach. A specific case study will be presented along with some of the challenges that have arisen during the design process. These challenges include the addition of an integrated covert anti-collision lighting.
Conditions of Participation in Rural, Non-Formal Education Programmes: A Delphi Study.

Abstract The Delphi Technique was used to identify those conditions which are most likely to encourage full participation in non‐formal education (NFE) programmes. A panel of experts in international development education was selected for the study. Panelists were asked to rate the importance of individual conditions drawn from the programme development, economics, sociological, political and psychological literature. These experts were also encouraged to identify further critical conditions. The results of the study indicate that the participants believed that if we are to attract full participation at the village level in NFE programmes, then it is essential that we 1. adopt a user‐centred approach which truly identifies local needs, 2. provide a clear linkage between participation and the fulfilment of personal needs, and 3. use outside experts as facilitators rather than dictators. Of the five groups of conditions reviewed political conditions were seen as being of primary importance.
Proteins Encapsulated in Porous Sol-Gels: Biomolecules as Pore Structure Templates

Porous inorganic SiO2 glasses obtained by the sol-gel route represent a unique matrix for encapsulation of biomolecules wherein the pores act as enclosures for high molecular weight proteins. These hybrid materials are characterized by a pore-biomolecule interface between the pore walls and the protein surface. As a specific model protein, cytochrome c (cyt c) is used to elucidate the nature of physical and chemical interactions between the pores of the matrix and the protein. Evidence from optical absorption, and resonance Raman (RR) spectroscopy methods indicates that the dopant protein alters the structural features of the pore walls. The optical and vibrational measurements strongly suggest that the pores that contain the trapped protein undergo little or no structural change during aging and drying as compared to protein-free pores. Vibrational RR analysis of the trapped cyt c also suggests that the protein resides in a pore where the pore dimensions conform to the shape of the protein. The results indicate that noncovalent interactions between the surface of the protein and the pore walls govern the dynamics of pore formation during gelation and individual biomolecules act as structural templates to design local pore structure.
Genome-wide Twist1 occupancy in endocardial cushion cells, embryonic limb buds, and peripheral nerve sheath tumor cells

The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Twist1 has well-documented roles in progenitor populations of the developing embryo, including endocardial cushions (ECC) and limb buds, and also in cancer. Whether Twist1 regulates the same transcriptional targets in different tissue types is largely unknown. The tissue-specificity of Twist1 genomic occupancy was examined in mouse ECCs, limb buds, and peripheral nerve sheath tumor (PNST) cells using chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (Chip-seq) analysis. Consistent with known Twist1 functions during development and in cancer cells, Twist1-DNA binding regions associated with genes related to cell migration and adhesion were detected in all three tissues. However, the vast majority of Twist1 binding regions were specific to individual tissue types. Thus, while Twist1 has similar functions in ECCs, limb buds, and PNST cells, the specific genomic sequences occupied by Twist1 were different depending on cellular context. Subgroups of shared genes, also predominantly related to cell adhesion and migration, were identified in pairwise comparisons of ECC, limb buds and PNST cells. Twist1 genomic occupancy was detected for six binding regions in all tissue types, and Twist1-binding sequences associated with Chst11, Litaf, Ror2, and Spata5 also bound the potential Twist1 cofactor RREB1. Pathway analysis of the genes associated with Twist1 binding suggests that Twist1 may regulate genes associated with the Wnt signaling pathway in ECCs and limb buds. Together, these data indicate that Twist1 interacts with genes that regulate adhesion and migration in different tissues, potentially through distinct sets of target genes. In addition, there is a small subset of genes occupied by Twist1 in all three tissues that may represent a core group of Twist1 target genes in multiple cell types.
Dielectric Response of a Semi-Infinite Degenerate Electron Gas

The dielectric response at frequency $\ensuremath{\omega}$ (neglecting retardation) of an idealized metal with two plane parallel surfaces is calculated in the Hartree approximation, with special emphasis on the limit of infinite thickness. It is assumed that the unperturbed system may be regarded as consisting of free particles confined between plane parallel boundaries. The validity of this approximation is discussed. The response is expressed in terms of the perturbing source potential in Fourier representation, and involves the inverse of an infinite matrix E; E is calculated in the limit of infinite interfacial separation at $\ensuremath{\omega}=0$ and at $\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\ne}0$ for one-dimensional potentials. A dielectric function ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{\mathrm{Q}}(\ensuremath{\omega})$, where Q is a wave vector parallel to the surface, is introduced, which is inversely proportional to the sum of all elements in ${\mathbf{E}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. The surface-plasmon dispersion relation is given implicitly by ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{\mathrm{Q}}(\ensuremath{\omega})+1=0$. The classical image theorem for a semi-infinite dielectric medium is obeyed at a given Q and $\ensuremath{\omega}$ if ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{\mathrm{Q}}(\ensuremath{\omega})$ replaces the classical dielectric constant. The Fermi-Thomas approximation, the lowest-order correction to it, and the classical (high-frequency) approximation are derived. In agreement with earlier work, the corrections to the classical approximation, which relate to the damping and dispersion of surface plasmons, are found to be linear in the wave vector. Numerical results are obtained for a uniform static electric field normal to the surface. The calculated screening length $d$ is well approximated by $d\ensuremath{\simeq}{\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}+\frac{1}{8}{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{F}$, where ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ is the Fermi-Thomas screening length and ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{F}$ the Fermi wavelength, the second term representing the lowest quantum correction; this result is 2-3 times ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ in the metallic density range, owing almost entirely to the low electron density in the surface region. The results are compared with experiment. The long-range Friedel oscillations are discussed in an appendix.
The applied behavior analysis approach and individual employees: Improving performance in two small businesses

Abstract Strategies and techniques of the applied behavior analysis approach were used to improve the performance of individual employees in two small businesses, a neighborhood grocery store and a downtown game room. Desired goals were described in observable terms, performance repeatedly monitored, and observer reliability assessed. In Experiment I, several potentially reinforcing consequences (time-off with pay, feedback, self-recording) were arranged for desired performance and desired tasks were clarified. A multiple-baseline design across behaviors was employed. The mean performance level of the three behaviors improved from 53, 35, and 57% to 86, 87, and 86%, respectively. In Experiment II, a reversal design (ABAB) was used. Performance increased from baseline means of 62 and 63% to 93 and 97%, respectively following the introduction of a goal-clarification and contingent pay system. The two studies indicate the potential of the behavior analysis approach for persons involved in the world of work.
The tetrahedral framework in glasses and melts — inferences from molecular orbital calculations and implications for structure, thermodynamics, and physical properties

Results of ab initio molecular orbital (MO) calculations provide a basis for the interpretation of structural and thermodynamic properties of crystals, glasses, and melts containing tetrahedrally coordinated Si, Al, and B. Calculated and experimental tetrahedral atom-oxygen (TO) bond lengths are in good agreement and the observed average SiO and AlO bond lengths remain relatively constant in crystalline, glassy, and molten materials. The TOT framework geometry, which determines the major structural features, is governed largely by the local constraints of the strong TO bonds and its major features are modeled well by ab initio calculations on small clusters. Observed bond lengths for non-framework cations are not always in agreement with calculated values, and reasons for this are discussed in the text. The flexibility of SiOSi, SiOAl, and AlOAl angles is in accord with easy glass formation in silicates and aluminosilicates. The stronger constraints on tetrahedral BOB and BOSi angles, as evidenced by much deeper and steeper calculated potential energy versus angle curves, suggest much greater difficulty in substituting tetrahedral B than Al for Si. This is supported by the pattern of immiscibility in borosilicate glasses, although the occurrence of boron in trigonal coordination is an added complication. The limitations on glass formation in oxysulfide and oxynitride systems may be related to the angular requirements of SiSSi and Si(NH)Si groups. Although the SiO and AlO bonds are the strongest ones in silicates and aluminosilicates, they are perturbed by other cations. Increasing perturbation and weakening of the framework occurs with increasing ability of the other atom to compete with Si or Al for bonding to oxygen, that is, with increasing cation field strength. The perturbation of TOT groups, as evidenced by TO bond lengthening predicted by MO calculations and observed in ordered crystalline aluminosilicates, increases in the series Ca, Mg and K, Na, Li. This perturbation correlates strongly with thermochemical mixing properties of glasses in the systems SiO2-M 1 /+ AlO2 and SiO2-M n+O n/2 (M=Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Pb), with tendencies toward immiscibility in these systems, and with systematics in vibrational spectra. Trends in physical properties, including viscosity at atmospheric and high pressure, can also be correlated.
Fatigue and quality of life outcomes of exercise during cancer treatment.

Purpose: Despite the recognition of fatigue as a common and distressing symptom during cancer treatment, there are few evidence-based interventions available to manage such fatigue. The purpose of this multi-institutional pilot study was to explore the effects of a home-based moderate walking exercise intervention on fatigue, physical functioning, emotional distress, and quality of life (QOL) during breast cancer treatment. Description of study: Fifty-two women were recruited from five university hospital outpatient departments for this pilot study with an experimental design. Subjects were randomly assigned to the walking program or to usual care during adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy for breast cancer. Symptoms, physical functioning, and QOL were measured at baseline, midtreatment, and at the end of treatment. Results: Women who exercised at least 90 minutes per week on 3 or more days reported significantly less fatigue and emotional distress as well as higher functional ability and QOL than women who were less active during treatment. Clinical implications: A home-based walking exercise program is a potentially effective, low-cost, and safe intervention to manage fatigue and to improve QOL during adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy for breast cancer. This health-promoting self-care activity needs further testing in large randomized clinical trials.
Drainage and filling in cylindrical and rectangular containers

AbstractDrainage and filling processes in cylindrical and rectangular containers for several motion sequences are experimentally studied using a stereo videogrammetric technique. The measured quantities include the rigid body motion of the containers and the water level relative to the body coordinate system as a function of time. The experimental data are used to validate Torricelli's law and determine the time constant, discharge coefficient, and water volume. In addition, the air funnel shapes in vortical sinks in a stationary cylinder are measured, and the effects of the initial water height and swirling on the drainage are addressed.
The reliability of in vivo structure-function analysis of tRNA aminoacylation.

Abstract The G·U wobble base-pair in the acceptor helix of Escherichia coli tRNAAla is critical for aminoacylation by the alanine synthetase. Previous work by several groups probed the mechanism of enzyme recognition of G·U by a structure-function analysis of mutant tRNAs using either a cell assay (amber suppressor tRNA) or a test tube assay (phage T7 tRNA substrate and purified enzyme). However, the aminoacylation capacity of particular mutant tRNAs was about 104-fold higher in the cell assay. This led us to scrutinize the cell assay to determine if any parameter exaggerates the extent of aminoacylation in mutants forming substantial amounts of alanyl-tRNAAla. In doing so, we have refined and developed experimental designs to analyze tRNA function. We examined the level of aminoacylation of amber suppressor tRNAAla with respect to the method of isolating aminoacyl-tRNA, the rate of cell growth, the cellular levels of alanine synthetase and elongation factor TU (EF-Tu), the amount of tRNA and the characteristics of EF-Tu binding. Within the precision of our measurements, none of these parameters varied in a way that could significantly amplify cellular alanyl-tRNAAla. A key observation is that the extent of aminoacylation of tRNAAla was independent of tRNAAla concentration over a 75-fold range. Therefore, the cellular assay of tRNAAla reflects the substrate quality of the molecule for formation of alanyl-tRNAAla. These experiments support the authenticity of the cellular assay and imply that a condition or factor present in the cell assay may be absent in the test tube assay.
China and the Future of Security Cooperation and Conflict in Asia

There is considerable uncertainty, indeed serious controversy, over the future role of China in the emerging structure of world politics. This article evaluates China's future role in the Asia-Pacific with reference to the larger debate between the proponents of the neo-realist and neo-liberal institutionalist schools of international relations theory. My position is that some moderation of the more alarmist views about the China threat seems reasonable, owing to the probable impact of modernization and globalization and quite simply the challenges of economic development which have been understated in most recent analyses of China.
Out-of-Sample Performance of the Macroeconomic Balance Approach to the Real Exchange Rate in Sub-Saharan Africa

This paper tests the performance of the macroeconomic balance (MB) approach (or fundamental equilibrium exchange rate approach) in predicting future movements of real exchange rates (RERs) and current accounts. The analysis is conducted for countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Econometric evidence shows that a random walk beats current account and RER misalignments from the MB approach in out-of-sample forecasting accuracy. However, the MB approach helps to predict the direction of change of these variables.
Investigating grit and its relations with college students’ self-regulated learning and academic achievement

We investigated grit and its relations with students’ self-regulated learning (SRL) and academic achievement. An ethnically diverse sample of 213 college students completed an online self-report survey that included the Grit Short scale (Duckworth and Quinn Journal of Personality Assessment, 91(2), 166–174, 2009), seven indicators of SRL and their past and present academic achievement. Results indicated that one aspect of grit, perseverance of effort, was a consistent and adaptive predictor for all indicators of SRL including value, self-efficacy, cognitive, metacognitive, motivational, time and study environment management strategies, and procrastination. A second aspect of grit, consistency of interest, was associated only with the latter two facets of SRL. Perseverance of effort predicted achievement before, but not after, accounting for SRL; hence, students’ engagement in SRL may serve as a mediating pathway through which this aspect of grit is associated with improved academic outcomes. In contrast, consistency of interest showed no relation to achievement. Implications of the findings for additional research and instruction are discussed.
Integrated structures and materials design

This paper introduces the concept of␣Integrated Structures and Materials Design (ISMD). ISMD combines materials engineering and structural engineering for the purpose of more effectively achieving targeted structural performance, by adopting material composite properties as the shared link. An application example, design of a bridge deck link-slab, is used to illustrate the essential elements of ISMD. It is shown that the composite hardened properties—tensile strain capacity, microcrack width, and Young’s Modulus, as well as composite self-consolidating fresh properties, are amongst the most important composite parameters that govern the targeted structural performance of safety, durability and ease of design and implementation. These are also properties that can be controlled in an Engineered Cementitious Composite—an ultra ductile concrete, by tailoring the ingredients for desired fiber, matrix and interface micromechanical parameters. Broad implications of ISMD on educational approach, research collaboration, and next generation infrastructure development, are briefly discussed.
Indentation of an Elastic Layer by an Array of Punches Moving With Steady Velocity

Abstract : A solution is presented for the problem of an elastic layer that is indented by an infinite array of punches moving with a steady velocity below the Rayleigh wave speed. The layer is assumed to be loaded symmetrically about its midplane. The equations of plane elasticity are used to develop dual series equations which are reduced to a single Fredholm integral equation. An asymptotic solution to the integral equation is developed for the case when the ratio of contact length to punch spacing is small, and it is compared with a numerical solution. Numerical calculations for the effective stiffness of the layer and the stresses along the midplane are included. (Author)
Extraction of Large Tracheal Foreign Bodies through a Tracheostoma under Bronchoscopic Control

Despite various technical manipulations through contemporary endoscopic equipment, large tracheal foreign bodies may be lost during bronchoscopic extraction, with a 1 to 2% in-hospital mortality. Recently, emergency tracheostomy was performed during bronchoscopy after a tracheal foreign body had become dislodged in the subglottic region causing blockage of the airway, and the results of this procedure provoked its deliberate application in a second patient. In 3 additional infants, aspirated tracheal T tubes (Montgomery tubes), which were producing acute respiratory distress, were brought from the carina to the performed tracheostoma under bronchoscopic manipulation and were withdrawn. Elective application of this simultaneous approach--tracheostomy with bronchoscopy--may decrease morbidity and mortality from large tracheal foreign bodies.
The Relationship Between Flow‐Mediated Dilatation of the Brachial Artery and Intima‐Media Thickness of the Carotid Artery to Framingham Risk Scores in Older African Americans

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship of flow-mediated dilatation and intima-media thickness (IMT) with coronary risk in African Americans (AAs). Endothelial dysfunction and IMT of carotid arteries are considered early steps in atherosclerotic disease process and have been used as surrogate markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. Data were collected on 106 AAs with a mean age of 64.0±6.6 years. Carotid artery IMT was measured with B-mode ultrasonography, as was brachial artery diameter at rest, during reactive hyperemia, and after nitroglycerin. Percent change in flow-mediated dilatation (%FMD) was defined as 100×(diameter during reactive hyperemia – resting diameter)/resting diameter. Percent change in nitroglycerin-mediated dilatation (%NMD) was defined as 100×(diameter with nitroglycerin-resting diameter)/resting diameter. The Framingham 10-year risk score (FRS) was calculated for each patient using the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) risk score calculator and participants were categorized into 3 groups with FRS as 20%. Thirty-eight participants had risk scores 20%. There was a significant inverse relation between %FMD and FRS (P<.0001) and between %NMD and FRS (P<.001). IMT was not statistically different among the risk groups. Endothelial dysfunction assessed by FMD significantly correlates inversely with FRS in AAs. FMD, an index of arterial compliance, appears to be a sensitive and reliable index of cardiovascular disease.
Hedgehog induces formation of PKA-Smoothened complexes to promote Smoothened phosphorylation and pathway activation

Hedgehog (Hh) is a secreted glycoprotein that binds its receptor Patched to activate the G protein (heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding protein)-coupled receptor-like protein Smoothened (Smo). In Drosophila, protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylates and activates Smo in cells stimulated with Hh. In unstimulated cells, PKA phosphorylates and inhibits the transcription factor Cubitus interruptus (Ci). We found that in cells exposed to Hh, the catalytic subunit of PKA (PKAc) bound to the juxtamembrane region of the carboxyl terminus of Smo. PKA-mediated phosphorylation of Smo further enhanced its association with PKAc to form stable kinase-substrate complexes that promoted the PKA-mediated transphosphorylation of Smo dimers. We identified multiple basic residues in the carboxyl terminus of Smo that were required for interaction with PKAc, Smo phosphorylation, and Hh pathway activation. Hh induced a switch from the association of PKAc with a cytosolic complex of Ci and the kinesin-like protein Costal2 (Cos2) to a membrane-bound Smo-Cos2 complex. Thus, our study uncovers a previously uncharacterized mechanism for regulation of PKA activity and demonstrates that the signal-regulated formation of kinase-substrate complexes plays a central role in Hh signal transduction.
On the defect of a dCMP hydroxymethylase mutant of bacteriophage T4 showing enzyme activity in extracts

Abstract Infection by L 13 , a temperature-sensitive mutant of gene 42 of phage T4, the structural gene for dCMP hydroxymethylase, previously was shown not to form T4 DNA at nonpermissive temperatures. Yet the enzyme activity was found in extracts. Since inactivation of the enzyme was not reversible, we have examined acid-soluble extracts of cells infected at nonpermissive temperature by tsL 13 for 5-hydroxymethyldCMP in order to determine whether the enzyme functioned in vivo . A double mutant of tsL13 and amB 24 (5-hydroxymethyldCMP kinase) did not form the nucleotide at nonpermissive temperature, but the control, amB 24 , formed large quantities. From these results and previous temperature-shift studies it is suggested that the enzyme is normally activated to function in vivo between 5 and 8 minutes after infection.
Effect of α-bungarotoxin on retinotectal synaptic transmission in the goldfish and the toad

Abstract Alpha-bungarotoxin has been used extensively to characterize the acetylcholine receptor at the myoneural junction and in the electric organ, where it irreversibly blocks the response to acetylcholine. α-Bungarotoxin has also been employed in numerous biochemical studies of presumed acetylcholine receptors in the brain, although physiological studies demonstrating its effectiveness in blocking the response to acetylcholine are lacking, and α-bungarotoxin is ineffective in blocking the response to acetylcholine in sympathetic ganglia neurons. In-this study α-bungarotoxin was applied to the optic tectum of the goldfish and of the marine toad in dilute concentration (10−7 m ) either directly to the pial surface, or to the tectal neuropil by a micropipette. The latter method of application resulted in the rapid irreversible abolition of excitatory postsynaptic potentials generated in dendrites of tectal neurons by optic nerve activation, as shown by analysis of the laminar current source density. Responses to nonretinal (thalamic) inputs were unaffected, indicating specificity of action. Topical application of α-bungarotoxin was ineffective in the goldfish, and of considerably reduced effectiveness in the toad, due to a substantial diffusion barrier posed by the pia-arachnoid. A mathematical method based on the solution of the differential equation describing simultaneous diffusion and chemical reaction was developed to determine both the diffusion coefficient and the association rate constant for α-bungarotoxin from physiological measurements. We estimate the diffusion coefficient and the Stokes radius of α-bungarotoxin to be approx1.7 × 10−6 cm2/s and 12A˚respectively, and the association rate constant to be 5.1 × 104 m −1s−1, in reasonable agreement with values obtained by biochemical methods. Possible reasons for the differences in effectiveness of α-bungarotoxin in blocking the response to acetylcholine at different synapses are discussed in terms of possible differences in subunit composition of the oligomer complex of the acetylcholine receptor and in its dissociation kinetics.
The history of psychology in former Yugoslavia: An overview

The development of psychology in the country formerly known as Yugoslavia reflects different paths in the three republics of Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia due to their distinct cultural and historical backgrounds. Although Marko Marulic, a Croatian Renaissance humanist, was credited with the introduction of the term “psychology” in the sixteenth century, psychology as a discipline was not introduced until the late nineteenth century. The establishment of psychology in academe and experimental work between the two World Wars were initiated by Yugoslavian students who were educated in prestigious laboratories in the West–Austria, England, France, and Germany. Immediately after World War II Yugoslavian psychology was influenced by Soviet experiences, but a “westward” shift followed Tito's breakup with Stalin. In the context of a unique nonaligned and nondogmatic form of communism, Yugoslavian psychology grew rapidly, providing contributions to diverse and primarily applied fields.
Indium-tin-oxide biased-gate technology

Ongoing experiments using thin electrically conducting transparent layers of Indium Tin Oxide to control the surface potential of thinned CCDs are described. The results are very encouraging with good uniform ultraviolet sensitivity being obtained from CCDs of different types and thinned by different processes. The enhanced response is stable in air and in vacuum for periods longer than a year. 2.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Research in the Context of Hurricane Katrina: An Ecological Needs-Based Perspective and Introduction to the Special Section

This article introduces the special section on child and adolescent mental health research in the context of Hurricane Katrina. We outline the purpose and intent of the special section and present an integrative perspective based on broad contextual theories of human development with which to think about the impact of disasters like Katrina. The perspective emphasizes multiple levels of influence on mental health and normal development through the impairment of multiple human needs. The perspective helps show the interconnections among the diverse theoretical and methodological paradigms that are utilized to understand the impact of disasters on youth and may help to guide future research.
Interrelationships between body fat and skin blood flow and the current required for electrical stimulation of human muscle

There is variability between individuals in the current needed to elicit a contraction in human muscle with surface electrodes. To understand what might be causing some of this variability, 25 subjects whose average age was 24.4+/-2.3 years, whose height was 165.5+/-9.5 cm, and whose average weight was 70.3+/-21 kg were examined. Electrical stimulation was applied above the motor point of the quadriceps, biceps, and lateral gastrocnemius muscles. To assess body fat, 2D ultrasound was used with a 1cm stand off. Electrical stimulation was applied with sine wave stimulation at 100 micros pulse width and at a frequency of 30 Hz. To alter skin blood flow, aside from the natural difference in skin blood flow at rest, hot packs and cold packs were used for 5 min. The average fat thickness below the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles was 0.75+/-0.13 cm and under the biceps was 0.48+/-0.16 cm. Without the use of hot or cold packs, the currents for the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles were significantly higher than that of the biceps (p<0.01). While there was some relationship between stimulation current and blood flow without the application of hot or cold packs, when hot packs were applied, skin blood flow increased as did the current required to stimulate muscle to threshold. When cold packs were applied, there was a decrease in the current required to stimulate these muscles. In conclusion, there is a causal relationship between skin blood flow, the thickness of the fat layer below the skin, and the current required to stimulate the muscle.
The non-steady flow in a magnetohydrodynamic shock-wave generator of finite length

Durch geeignete Transformationen der diese Vorgange beschreibenden Grundgleichungen in differentieller Form, Impulssatz, Kontinuitatsgleichung und Energiesatz, konnen sogenannte Vertraglichkeitsbedingungen erhalten werden. Diese gelten entlang den Charakteristiken beziehungsweise den Lebenslinien. Letzteres System von gewohnlichen, nichtlinearen Differentialgleichungen darf linearisiert werden, sofern die elektromagnetischen Wechselwirkungen mit der Stromung schwach sind. Elementare Integrationen fuhren dann zu relativ ubersichtlichen und einfachen Resultaten. Insbesondere sind die unbekannten Funktionen an drei ausgezeichneten Stellen des χ-t-Feldes explizite zu bestimmen und die Funktionswerte im ubrigen Stromungsfeld lassen sich leicht graphisch ermitteln. Die stromaufwarts reflektierten Druckschwankungen, verursacht durch die elektromagnetische Wechselwirkung im Generator, konnen nach einer von den Betriebsbedingungen abhangigen Anlaufstrecke zu einem Stoss auflaufen. Die exakte Bestimmung dieser Anlaufstrecke ist im Rahmen der Linearisierung auch moglich. Es ist erstaunlich, wie rasch, gemessen an der Zeit, die die Stosswelle zum Durchlaufen des Generators braucht, die Stromung im Generator stationar wird.
Experimental study on the fluctuations of dipolar chains.

Dynamic light scattering is used to study experimentally the dynamics of dipolar chains consisting of ferrofluid particles subjected to a magnetic field ${(H}_{0}).$ The effective diffusion coefficient shows a pronounced dependence on the scattering wave vector q, reflecting two modes of motion: translational diffusion of the whole chain, and fluctuations of particles within a chain. The characteristic probed frequency of particle displacements is inversely proportional to ${H}_{0},$ and exhibits a ${q}^{3}$ dependency. Based on the striking analogy to polymer chain dynamics, we attribute these behaviors to the contribution of hydrodynamic interactions (HI's) that couples particles motion within a chain. This work suggests that chain fluctuations cannot be ignored even for the very strong magnetic field applied (coupling $\mathrm{constant}l{10}^{6}).$ HI's can still be important, even at an extremely low particle volume fraction of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}.$
Identification of Personality Characteristics of University Women Students Preceding A Weight Control Regimen

This research analyzed the data from 347 subjects who completed a personality assessment and enrolled in a weight control regimen. The subjects were grouped by their deviation from normal body weight as determined by Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Tables (1969). Three groups were identified: (1) underweight, subjects whose weight deviated more than 10 percent below ideal weight; (2) middleweight, subjects deviating within 10 percent of ideal weight; and (3) overweight, subjects deviating more than 10 percent above their ideal weight. On the basis of scores assigned to their responses on the Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis, nearly a fourth of the subjects were categorized as being in the stress syndrome (formerly identified as suicide proneness). Underweight subjects had the highest percentage of scores in the stress syndrome, and overweight subjects had the lowest percentage of scores that identified them as being under stress. A significant relationship was found between the scores of the subjects on the personality trait subjective (emotional, illogical, self-absorbed) and having fathers whom they perceived to be over weight. Significant relationships were also found between the subjects' scores in the two traits, quiet (socially-inactive, lethargic, withdrawn) and submissive (passive, compliant, dependent), and the weight of their closest friend, if the weight of the friend was perceived as being either under- or overweight rather than normal.
Pyrolysis of oil shale in supercritical toluene: Reaction mechanism and role of hydrogen

Abstract Oil shale from the Stuart A deposit in Queensland, Australia has been pyrolysed in supercritical toluene in the presence and absence of gas-phase molecular hydrogen. Data have been collected in a 300-cm 3 stirred tank autoclave, at a nominal residence time of 1 h, temperatures of 698 and 733 K, and 14.43 MPa total pressure (at temperature). Results for conversion of organic carbon to oil have been computed based on a carbon balance on the reaction system. The data have shown toluene to be an excellent dense-gas medium for production of shale oil from oil shale. Carbon conversions and oil yields of 86% and 95%, respectively, were achieved in the presence of gas-phase molecular hydrogen. Carbon conversions were severely depressed in the absence of hydrogen, clearly indicating the need for hydrogen activity in order to obtain high oil yields. An overall oil yield of 160% of Fischer Assay was achieved at a relatively low hydrogen consumption and moderate operating conditions.
Extending decision making competence to special populations: a pilot study of persons on the autism spectrum.

The area of decision making has much to offer in our effort to understand special populations. This pilot study is an example of just such a project, where we illustrate how traditional decision making tools and tasks can be used to uncover strengths and weaknesses within a growing population of young adults with autism. In this pilot project we extended accounts of autistic behavior such as those derived from “theory of mind” to predict key components of decision making in high-functioning young adults on the autism spectrum. A battery of tests was administered to 15 high-functioning college students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), focusing on Decision Making Competence (DMC) and other aspects of decision making related to known deficits associated with autism. Data from this group were compared to data from unselected college students receiving the same measures. First, as a test of a key social deficit associated with autism, the target group scored much lower on the Empathy Quotient scale. Traditional elements of decision making competency such as Numeracy and application of decision rules were comparable across groups. However, there were differences in thinking style, with the ASD group showing lesser ability and engagement in intuitive thinking, and they showed lower levels of risk taking. For comparisons within the ASD group, autobiographical reports concerning individual lifestyles and outcomes were used to derive a scale of Social Functioning. The lowest scoring individuals showed the lowest levels of intuitive thinking, the lowest perceived levels of others' endorsement of socially undesirable behaviors, and the lowest ability to discriminate between “good” and “bad” risks. Results are discussed in terms of interventions that might aid high-functioning young adults with ASD in their everyday decision making.
A Wearable Interface for Intuitive Control of Robotic Manipulators Without User Training

This paper describes the development of a wearable interface that exploits the user’s natural arm movements to intuitively control a robotic manipulator. The design is intended to alleviate the time and effort spent in operating the robotic manipulator, regardless of the age and technological experience of the user. The interface is made to be low-cost, comfortably worn, and easy to put on and remove. Kinematic models of human and robot arms are used to produce a natural mapping from the user’s arm movements to the commanded movements of the robotic manipulator. An experiment is conducted with 30 participants of varied ages and experience to assess the usability of the wearable interface. Each of the participants is assigned to perform a pick and place task using two of three different interfaces (the wearable interface, a game controller, and a mobile interface running on a tablet computer) for a total of 60 trials. The results of the study show that the wearable interface is easier to learn compared to the alternative interfaces and is chosen as the preferred interface by the participants. Performance data shows that the users complete the pick and place task faster with the wearable interface than with the alternative interfaces.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
A new methodology for the GP theory toolbox

Recently Quantitative Genetics has been successfully employed to understand and improve operators in some Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs) implementations. This theory offers a phenotypic view of an algorithm's behavior at a population level, and suggests new ways of quantifying and measuring concepts such as exploration and exploitation. In this paper, we extend the quantitative genetics approach for use with Genetic Programming (GP), adding it to the set of GP analysis techniques. We use it in combination with some existing diversity and bloat measurement tools to measure, analyze and predict the evolutionary behavior of several GP algorithms. GP specific benchmark problems, such as ant trail and symbolic regression, are used to provide new insight into how various evolutionary forces work in combination to affect the search process. Finally, using the tools, a multivariate phenotypic crossover operator is designed to both improve performance and control bloat on the difficult ant trail problem.
Structure and properties of fluorine-bearing aluminosilicate melts: the system Na 2 O-Al 2 O 3 -SiO 2 -F at 1 atm

The chemical interaction between fluorine and highly polymerized sodium aluminosilicate melts [Al/(Al+Si)= 0.125–0.250 on the join NaAlO2-SiO2] has been studied with Raman spectroscopy. Fluorine is dissolved to form F− ions that are electrically neutralized with Na+ or Al3+. There is no evidence for association of fluorine with either Si4+ or Al3+ in four-fold coordination and no evidence of fluorine in six-fold coordination with Si4+ in these melt compositions. Upon solution of fluorine nonbridging oxygens are formed and are a part of structural units with nonbridging oxygen per tetrahedral cations (NBO/T) about 2 and 1. The proportions of these two depolymerized units in the melts increase systematically with increasing F/(F+O) at constant Al/(Al+Si) and with decreasing Al/(Al+Si) at constant F/(F+O). Depolymerization (increasing NBO/T) of silicate melts results from a fraction of aluminum and alkalies (in the present study; Na+) reacting to form fluoride complexes. In this process an equivalent amount of Na+ (orginally required for Al-3+charge-balance) or Al3+ (originally required Na+ to exist in tetrahedral coordination) become network-modifiers. The structural data have been used to develop a method for calculating the viscosity of fluorine-bearing sodium aluminosilicate melts at 1 atm. Where experimental viscosity data are available, the calculated and measured values are within 5% of each other. A method is also suggested by which the liquidus phase equilibria of fluorine-bearing aluminosilicate melts may be predicted. In accord with published experimental data it is suggested, for example, that — on the basis of the determined solubility mechanism of fluorine in aluminosilicate melts — with increasing fluorine content of feldspar-quartz systems, the liquidus boundaries between aluminosilicate minerals (e.g., feldspars) and quartz shift away from silica.
Altered localization of Drosophila Smoothened protein activates Hedgehog signal transduction

Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is critical for many developmental events and must be restrained to prevent cancer. A transmembrane protein, Smoothened (Smo), is necessary to transcriptionally activate Hh target genes. Smo activity is blocked by the Hh transmembrane receptor Patched (Ptc). The reception of a Hh signal overcomes Ptc inhibition of Smo, activating transcription of target genes. Using Drosophila salivary gland cells in vivo and in vitro as a new assay for Hh signal transduction, we investigated the regulation of Hh-triggered Smo stabilization and relocalization. Hh causes Smo to move from internal membranes to the cell surface. Relocalization is protein synthesis-independent and occurs within 30 min of Hh treatment. Ptc and the kinesin-related protein Costal2 (Cos2) cause internalization of Smo, a process that is dependent on both actin and microtubules. Disruption of endocytosis by dominant negative dynamin or Rab5 prevents Smo internalization. Fly versions of Smo mutants associated with human tumors are constitutively present at the cell surface. Forced localization of Smo at the plasma membrane activates Hh target gene transcription. Conversely, trapping of activated Smo mutants in the ER prevents Hh target gene activation. Control of Smo localization appears to be a crucial step in Hh signaling in Drosophila.
Comparison of blot-drying versus air-drying of povidone-iodine-cleansed skin.

Povidone-iodine is the cleansing agent most commonly used before accessing implanted venous devices. This agent has peak bacteriocidal action when allowed to air-dry for 20 min postscrub. However, the drying time increases the length of the procedure and the risk for accidental contamination of the site. In this study, the effectiveness of air drying versus blot drying povidone-iodine—prepared skin sites was compared by examining the number of bacterial colonies present on skin cultures obtained after each drying method. No significant differences in the number of bacterial colonies between the two drying methods were found.
Influence of species and sex on metal residues in freshwater mussels (family unionidae) from the St. Lawrence river, with implications for biomonitoring programs

The implementation of freshwater mussel watch programs has been hindered by a lack of information on biological factors affecting the levels of contaminants accumulated by these organisms. This study investigated the influence of species and sex on metal residues in Elliptio complanata and Lampsilis radiata radiata (Family Unionidae) from the St. Lawrence River. Mussels were collected from sites representing a wide range of types and degrees of metal pollution. Composite samples of five specimens (males and females combined) per species per site and five specimens per sex per species per site were analyzed for residues of 12 metals in the soft tissues to determine the effects of species and sex, respectively, on variability in the data. Interspecific differences in bioaccumulation were observed for most metals; however, concentrations were frequently correlated between species and the differences could therefore be quantified. Elliptio complanata demonstrated a broader response range to the same exposures than Lampsilis radiata radiata for most metals, suggesting that it may be more sensitive to changes in pollution status. Differences in metal uptake between the sexes were less pronounced than differences between species, and male specimens displayed less variability than females. Consideration of these factors in mussel biomonitoring programs shouldmore » greatly improve sensitivity and precision.« less
A C/T Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism in the Region of the CD40 Gene is Associated with Graves' Disease

Graves' disease (GD) develops as a result of an interaction between susceptibility genes and environmental factors. We have previously mapped a susceptibility locus for GD on chromosome 20q11 (GD-2), which has recently been independently replicated. Among the genes mapped to 20q11 was the CD40 gene, an important costimulatory molecule and a good positional candidate gene for GD. We investigated whether the CD40 gene was the GD susceptibility gene on 20q11. Linkage analysis in a subset of Caucasian families showed a maximum multipoint logarithm of odds (LOD) score of 3.3 at the CD40 locus. We then sequenced all 9 exons of the CD40 gene in 8 probands and 10 controls and identified a new C/T single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the Kozak sequence of the CD40 gene at position -1. Case control association analysis of the CD40 C/T(-1) SNP in 154 Caucasian patients with GD and 118 Caucasian controls showed an association between the CC genotype and GD (p = 0.048, relative risk [RR] = 1.6). Furthermore, the association was stronger when only the probands from the linked families (n = 20) were used (p = 0.009, RR = 4.8). Transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) analysis also showed preferential transmission of the C allele of the CD40 C/T(-1) SNP to affected individuals (p = 0.02). In conclusion, our results suggested that the CD40 gene was a new susceptibility gene for GD within certain families because it was both linked and associated with GD.
Granular Index for XML Database

This paper discussed a rarely touched topic for XML database: how to control the size of the XML index. Compared to relational database and object-oriented database, the XML database has relatively larger index size due to recording the element address and structure information. A solution to control the XML index size is proposed: granular index.