cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The mechanics of polymer swelling on microcantilever sensors

This paper investigates the swelling mechanics of polymer capture layers integrated into piezoresistive cantilever biochemical sensors. A finite element model investigates mechanical deformations in a polymer layer affixed to a silicon microcantilever. The polymer swells during analyte absorption, inducing deformations in the silicon cantilever which are sensed by a piezoresistive sensor integrated into the cantilever. The highest sensitivity is predicted for short and wide cantilevers that are coated with stiff polymer whose thickness is twice that of the cantilever. While the polymer swelling induces the deformations, the silicon carries most of the load. When portions of the silicon beam are removed to introduce stress concentrations, the system sensitivity can increase by 18% compared to the cantilever without stress concentrations. This study of stress distributions in the cantilever system allows sensor optimization that considers the full 3D effects of polymer swelling mechanics.
INFLAMMATORY PSEUDOTUMOUR OF MESENTERY: A CASE REPORT

1. Dr. Bilal Mirza*, Dr. Afzal Sheikh, Department of Paediatric surgery, The Children’s Hospital & The Institute of Child Health Lahore, Pakistan. Correspondence to: Dr. Bilal Mirza, Department of Paediatric surgery, The Children’s Hospital & The Institute of Child Health Lahore, Pakistan. Email: blmirza@yahoo.com Ultrasound abdomen revealed a mass of mixed echogenicity in that region. CT scan abdomen showed a heterogeneous mass in the periumbilical region with internal calcifications. The preoperative diagnosis was neuroblastoma. All the laboratory parameters were in normal limits. The patient was optimized for surgery and an exploratory laparotomy was performed.
Drosophila Valosin-Containing Protein is required for dendrite pruning through a regulatory role in mRNA metabolism.

The dendritic arbors of the larval Drosophila peripheral class IV dendritic arborization neurons degenerate during metamorphosis in an ecdysone-dependent manner. This process—also known as dendrite pruning—depends on the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS), but the specific processes regulated by the UPS during pruning have been largely elusive. Here, we show that mutation or inhibition of Valosin-Containing Protein (VCP), a ubiquitin-dependent ATPase whose human homolog is linked to neurodegenerative disease, leads to specific defects in mRNA metabolism and that this role of VCP is linked to dendrite pruning. Specifically, we find that VCP inhibition causes an altered splicing pattern of the large pruning gene molecule interacting with CasL and mislocalization of the Drosophila homolog of the human RNA-binding protein TAR–DNA-binding protein of 43 kilo-Dalton (TDP-43). Our data suggest that VCP inactivation might lead to specific gain-of-function of TDP-43 and other RNA-binding proteins. A similar combination of defects is also seen in a mutant in the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme ubcD1 and a mutant in the 19S regulatory particle of the proteasome, but not in a 20S proteasome mutant. Thus, our results highlight a proteolysis-independent function of the UPS during class IV dendritic arborization neuron dendrite pruning and link the UPS to the control of mRNA metabolism.
Hybrid Literacy Texts and Practices in Technology-Intensive Environments.

Abstract US youths’ lives are increasingly divided between the academic requirements of school and immersion in new media and culture outside school. Educators can help bridge in-school and out-of-school literacy practices by encouraging students to engage with hybrid texts that draw on multiple modes of representation. In this paper, we analyze the ‘disconnect’ between academic literacy and new media, discuss the concept of hybridity as a way to bridge it, and provide a linguistically grounded analysis of students’ hybrids texts and practices in two technology-intensive learning environments: a digital storytelling project in an after-school university-community collaborative and a one-to-one laptop program in an urban school district.
Mitochondrial NAD-dependent malic enzyme: a new regulatory enzyme.

1. Introduction Electrophoretic evidence for multimolecular forms of malic enzyme (EC 1.1.1.40, NADP-malic dehydro- genase, decarboxylating) was reported by Henderson in 1966 [ 11. Subsequent purification and assay by spectrophotometric and other methods revealed that malic enzyme isoenzymes were present in cytosol and mitochondrial fractions derived from several different animal tissues [2-61. Of particular importance were the recent findings of Frenkel [7] that the mitochon- drial isoenzyme has allosteric properties, and that succinate was a positive modulator. Here, we demon- strate that calf adrenal cortex mitochondria contain an NAD-dependent malic enzyme (EC 1.1.1.39) with regulatory properties. Fumarate was a positive and ATP a negative modulator. The enzyme also reduced NADP but only at about one-quarter of the rate of NAD reduction. These kinetic properties suggest that this enzyme is an important regulator of the rate of malate oxidation. 2. Materials and methods Calf adrenal glands were obtained from the local
Shoulder arthroscopy in patients with a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator: A case report and discussion of perioperative management

The prevalence and severity of rotator cuff tears increase with age. After the age of 60, 50% of adults show signs of rotator cuff disease, and in the ninth decade, the prevalence reaches 80%. As we see an increase in elderly patients leading active lifestyles, there is a concomitant increase in patients who present with shoulder ailments that require surgical treatment. Surgeons who treat shoulder problems in this older subset of patients must be prepared to address complex medical comorbidities. Symptoms and activity level should be key factors in surgical decision making. Although no definitive age limit exists for operative intervention, the results of surgery have been less beneficial in patients older than 65 years. These outcomes are partially attributable to medical comorbidities and not simply musculoskeletal factors. Cardiovascular disease, although not unique to elderly patients, increases in prevalence as patients age. Orthopaedic surgeons frequently see active elderly patients with pacemakers and other implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) for an expanding list of cardiovascular conditions. After the first pacemaker was placed in 1958, the prevalence of implantable cardiac devices has been steadily
Current practices of leading e-government countries

IT is transforming the way governments function and valuable lessons can be learned from the pioneering e-government programs that have led the charge.
A method to reduce the sliding force on adhering points of caterpillar climbing robot

Due to the sliding force arising from the closed chain mechanism among the adhering points of a climbing caterpillar robot (CCR), a sliding phenomenon will happen at the adhering points, e.g. the vacuum pads or claws holding the surface. This sliding force makes the attachment of the robot unsteady and reduces the motion efficiency. According to the results of the bionic research, some flexible structures based on natural rubber bars are applied in the CCR, which was originally composed of only rigid parts. This paper establishes the static model of the sliding forces, the distortion of flexible bars and the driving torques of joints firstly. Then, the paper designs a method to reduce the sliding force by exerting a compensating angle to an active joint of the CCR. The analyses and experimental results indicate that the flexible structure and the compensating angle method can reduce the sliding forces remarkably.
Observed relationship between herpetic lesions and antigenic type of Herpesvirus hominis

Of 171 available strains of Herpesvirus hominis isolated in this laboratory during the period 1950 to 1975, 166 could be readily typed as HV-1 or HV-2 by indirect immunofluorescence, while 5 have so far been untypable. Of 72 typable isolates from genitalia and nearby skin, all were HV-2. Of 81 typable isolates from mouth, eye or skin above the waist, 68(84%) were HV-1 and 13(16%) were HV-2. Of isolates from the eye only, 46 of 54(87%) were HV-1, 7(13%) were HV-2, and 1 could not be typed. When sera were available for herpesvirus antibody titrations, the pattern of antibody response tended to match the type of isolate. Clinical findings of 5 of the individuals with ocular herpes caused by HV-2 have been reviewed. The HV-2 infections appeared to be severe, typical herpetic keratoconjunctivitis, sometimes with deep infiltrates and stromal involvement.
Desktop Demilitarized Zone

The Desktop Demilitarized Zone or Desktop DMZ project uses virtualization technology to maintain separation of our network infrastructure to appropriate Trust Zones (TZ). Using a two TZ concept such as a typical Enterprise and Internet network model, a key objective is to prevent Internet activities (web browsing, etc.) from impacting the Enterprise network and vice versa (preventing exfiltration, for example) while working from a single desktop. This project has created a capability to enable user actions such as clicking on an Internet web site link while on an Enterprise-connected computer running Outlook Email to automatically initiate an Internet Explorer (IE) browser on a virtual machine (VM) located outside the Enterprise network (for example, on the DMZ). This DMZ-based VM (after retrieving the requested web page) then securely “transmits” the IE browser window back to the Enterprise-connected computer with minimal risk to the host from any malware. The user continues to see a “normal” IE window on his machine. Any malware that is potentially brought back (zero day exploits or “drive by” attacks, for example) remains on the DMZ-connected disposable computer which is re-instantiated to a “clean state” periodically. While IE was used as an example, the Desktop DMZ concept extends to any arbitrary application including actions such as opening Email attachments from Outlook. In the case of email messages, attachments can be “sanitized” prior to forwarding or can be opened in a disposable VM on the DMZ network but still “viewable” on the Enterprise connected machine. A key focus of this activity is to minimize the impact to the user experience by maintaining the appearance of a single desktop (vice multiple desktops as well as the maintenance associated with multiple machines). Provisions for securely transferring content (downloaded objects/files) from one TZ to another TZ are also accommodated via the use of a “save as” file transfer service that can interface with external file sanitization services. The object is moved from the DMZ VM to an object sanitization server and made available to the Enterprise connected host for transfer (automatically - pulled into a “well known” folder). The VMs in use are not managed by the users (no need to patch or update) and are kept current through central management and differential patching concepts
Traditional Culture, Perceptual Style, and Learning: The Classroom Behavior of Hmong Adults:

The Hmong, the largest ethnic minority in Laos, represent the greatest proportion of refugees from that country now resettled in the United States. Having been socialized into a preliterate, pretec...
Aiming for a moving target: Ecological Genetics: Designs, Analysis and Application by Andrew Lowe, Stephen Harris and Paul Ashton. Blackwell Publishing, 2004. £29.99 pbk (352 pages) ISBN 1 4051 0033 8

cospeciation focus on vertebrates and their lice. There are goodreasonsforthis – vertebratesystemsarecomparatively well sampled and wehave reasonably robust phylogenies for both the hosts and parasites. Not surprisingly, the pocket gopher–lice association, a high water mark for parasite– host cospeciation studies, receives the greatest attention. Many will be disappointed not to find chapters involving plants, for example hostplants and theirherbivore faunasor pollinator systems. Other associations where cospeciation might be expected, such as mutualisms and co-mimicry complexes,arealsonotconsidered.Abroadernetwouldhave increased the audience for the work. But this is understandable when one keeps the origin of the book in mind – it spawned from a symposium organized by Haftner and Page for the second biennial meeting of the Systematics Association at the University of Glasgow in 1999. The science of tree matching is clearly enjoying a period of great activity and methodological development. This book is a fine summary of where things stand; it is readable and well organized, with a winning blend of theory and empirical papers. Page has a proven track record for making phylogenetic analysis and theory understandable – this book is but further evidence. Tangled Trees would make a good focus for a graduate seminar, and is a ‘must have’ for those interested in cospeciation and cladistic biogeography. I fear that its shelf life might be brief only because the analytical tools and software for assessing cospeciation are in their renaissance.
Movement Patterns of Adult Black Crappie, Pomoxis nigromaculatus, in Brant Lake, South Dakota

ABSTRACT Movement of adult black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) in Brant Lake, South Dakota was studied with ultrasonic telemetry from April through August 1991. Movement ranged from 0 to 584 m/h and was significantly different among months (P=0.0001, F=9.34, df=4) and diel periods (P=0.0013, F=5.45, df=3). Activity was greatest during April and July. Diel movement increased from evening to morning, and the least amount of movement occurred during the day; this pattern was similar for all months. In general, crappie were found in shallow waters during evening and night in the spring of the year and during day and evening in the summer. Of the seven physicochemical variables measured (i.e., water temperature, Secchi disk transparency, sky cover, wind direction, wind speed, barometric pressure, and precipitation), only barometric pressure was positively correlated with fish movement (P=0.016, F=6.435, df=12, r=0.75).
Induction of prophage lambda by chlorinated organics : detection of some single-species/single-site carcinogens

Twenty-eight chlorinated organic compounds were evaluated for their ability to induce DNA damage using the Microscreen prophage-induction assay in Escherichia coli. Comparison of the performance characteristics of the prophage-induction and Salmonella assays to rodent carcinogenicity assays showed that the prophage-induction assay had a somewhat higher specificity than did the Salmonella assay (70% vs. 50%); sensitivity, concordance, and positive and negative predictivity were similar for the two microbial assays. The Microscreen prophage-induction assay failed to detect eight carcinogens, perhaps due to toxicity or other unknown factors; five of these eight carcinogens were detected by the Salmonella assay. However, the prophage-induction assay did detect six carcinogens that were not detected by the Salmonella assay, and five of these were single-species, single-site carcinogens, mostly mouse liver carcinogens. Some of these carcinogens, such as the chloroethanes, produce free radicals, which may be the basis for their carcinogenicity and ability to induce prophage. The prophage-induction (or other SOS) assay may be useful in identifying some genotoxic chlorinated carcinogens that induce DNA damage that does not revert the standard Salmonella tester strains.
Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: a study of 900 cases observed in a 60-year period.

Background The study aims were to characterize patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTM) and to describe post-surgical outcome. Methods Nine hundred PTM patients had initial treatment at Mayo Clinic during 1945–2004. Mean follow-up was 17.2 years. Recurrence and mortality details were derived from a computerized database. Results Median tumor size was 7 mm; 98% were intrathyroidal. 273 patients (30%) had neck nodal involvement; 3 (0.3%) had distant metastases at diagnosis. Seven-hundred and sixty-five (85%) underwent bilateral lobar resection (BLR; total-, near-total, or bilateral subtotal thyroidectomy). Regional nodes were removed by either “node picking” (27%) or compartmental dissection (23%). Tumor resection was incomplete in 5 (0.6%). Radioiodine remnant ablation (RRA) was performed in 155 (17%). Overall survival did not differ from expected for an age and gender matched control group (P = .96); 3 patients (0.3%) died of PTM. None of the 892 patients with initial complete tumor resection developed metastatic spread during 20 postoperative years. Twenty-year and 40-year tumor recurrence rates were 6% and 8%, respectively. Higher recurrence rates were seen with multifocal tumors (P = .004) and node-positive patients (P < .001). Neither more extensive surgery nor RRA reduced recurrence rates compared to unilateral lobectomy. Conclusion More than 99% of PTM patients are not at risk of distant spread or cancer mortality. RRA after BLR did not improve postoperative outcome.
Hedonic Price Analysis of the Effect of a Floodplain on Property Values

ABSTRACT: The effect of a floodplain location on the market value for property is controversial, with the conventional wisdom being that buyers are myopic. Previous parametric and nonparametric statistical tests have proven inconclusive in deciding the issue. Herein, a theoretical model, that of hedonic price indexes, is posited and tested, using housing sales characteristics data obtained from a Multi-List Service cooperative. This study suggests that home buyers do adjust the purchase price for houses within a floodplain, and this amounts to, on average, just over 12 percent. The data are from a small midwestern town in which the last severe flooding occurred a decade ago.
Targeting microtubule-associated proteins in glioblastoma: a new strategy for selective therapy.

Background: This report presents a summary of preclinical data concerning the use of estramustine, an antimicrotubule agent against human glioblastoma cells. The strategy for the investigation of estramustine is predicated on the unique affinity of this agent for microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). Methods: A series of laboratory investigations were used to demonstrate antiproliferative effects (MTT assay, colony forming assay, thymidine incorporation), cell cycle synchronization (flow cytometry), intracellular localization of binding sites (immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy), and activity in subcutaneous xenografts of human glioblastoma. Results: Estramustine has potent in vitro activity against human glioblastoma cells and can enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation. Estramustine-binding protein was abundantly expressed in glioblastoma cells and may contribute to the selective effects of estramustine on neoplastic cells. This agent has activity against subcutaneous xenografts of human glioblastoma. Synthesized novel estrogen carbamates also can inhibit proliferation of glioblastoma cells. Conclusions: Cytoskeletal elements (MAPs) of glioblastoma cells may provide a useful target for therapy with agents like estramustine because of the potent antimitotic effects of this agent and its affinity to a protein that is expressed in glioma cells. These observations have stimulated a search for other estrone carbamates with antimitotic activity that exceeds more conventional antimicrotubule agents.
A model for regional‐scale estimation of temporal and spatial variability of active layer thickness and mean annual ground temperatures

High-latitude ecosystems where the mean annual ground surface temperature is around or below 0°C are highly sensitive to global warming. This is largely because these regions contain vast areas of permafrost, which begins to thaw when the mean annual temperature rises above freezing. The Geophysical Institute Permafrost Lab has developed a new interactive geographical information systems (GIS) model to estimate the long-term response of permafrost to changes in climate. An analytical approach is used for calculating both active layer thickness (ALT) and mean annual ground temperatures (MAGTs). When applied to long-term (decadal or longer time scale) averages, this approach shows an accuracy of ±0.2–0.4°C for MAGTs and ±0.1–0.3 m for ALT calculations. The relative errors do not exceed 32% for ALT calculations, but typically they are between 10 and 25%. A spatial statistical analysis of the data from 32 sites in Siberia indicated a confidence level of 75% to have a deviation between measured and calculated MAGTs of 0.2–0.4°C. A detailed analysis has been performed for two regional transects in Alaska and eastern Siberia that has validated the use of the model. The results obtained from this analysis show that a more economical (in terms of computational time) analytical approach could be successfully used instead of a full-scale numerical model in the regional and global scale analysis of permafrost spatial and temporal dynamics. This project has been a successful contribution to the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment project. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonspecific cytotoxic cells in fish (Ictaluruspunctatus). III. Biophysical and biochemical properties affecting cytolysis

Nonspecific cytotoxic cells (NCC) from the catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) may comprise a population of cells that are responsible for cellular immunity in the fish. NCC kill a wide variety of transformed target cells, and previous studies have indicated that NCC share properties with mammalian natural killer cells. In the present study, many biophysical and biochemical properties of NCC were defined. NCC were nylon wool nonadherent and adherent. NCC activity was also enriched in plastic nonadherent cells. NCC were nonphagocytic (for carbonyl iron), and they did not bind to Sephadex G-10. Characterization of NCC by density gradient centrifugation indicated that they comprise a relatively homogenous population of cytolytic cells that band at 45.5% Percoll. Moderate to high doses (500-2500 R) of X-irradiation produced a stimulatory effect on NCC lysis of labeled target cells. Additional studies indicated that a soluble suppressor protein in catfish serum (CFS) regulated NCC activity. This S. aureus protein A binding component isolated from CFS suppressed NCC activity. Analysis by SDS-PAGE indicated that the soluble regulatory protein had properties similar to immunoglobulin. These data indicate that NCC share some biophysical properties with mammalian natural killer cells. In addition, NCC appear to be under partial cell regulation by a radiation sensitive suppressor cell and also by a soluble regulator serum immunoglobulin component.
Nested reinforcement assemblies for laminated composite shells

Abstract A nested assembly of axisymmetric nets serves as an analytical model of the reinforcement of a laminated composite shell constructed of preimpregnated braided sleeves placed one within another. As an alternative to the conventional method of construction utilizing a mold or mandrel, many geometric shapes may be obtained by applying appropriate surface and edge loads to the prepreg sleeve assembly. Implementing this approach (statically induced geometry) requires a statical-geometric analysis of nested assemblies where all of the sleeve components share one surface load, but are subjected to independent edge tension forces. Depending on the particular arrangement, the individual sleeves of an assembly are treated as either geodesic or Chebyshev nets, with their respective analytical models presented in the same modular format. A computer program has been written for the analysis of an arbitrary assembly involving the two types of nets and meridional reinforcing fiber arrays; the program runs on the Macintosh II.
Nitrone cycloadditions. regiochemistry.

Abstract The regiochemistry of nitrone cycloadditions has been reexamined. Certain nitrones afford regioisomeric mixtures of isoxazolidines, with a tendency toward increasing amounts of the 4-substituted regioisomer as the ionization potential of the dipolarophile is increased.
Investigation of As-doped ZnO films synthesized via thermal annealing of ZnSe/GaAs heterostructures

Abstract We synthesized ZnO films via oxidative annealing of ZnSe/GaAs heterostructures and investigated their structural and optical properties. Films were polycrystalline, c -axis oriented and exhibited superior optical properties. In addition, we detected nanometer-size As clusters into the ZnO film and a Ga x O y layer at the ZnO/GaAs interface. Formation of an interfacial layer can prevent use of this technique for p-type doping and complicates identification of the origin of p-type response in the annealed ZnO/GaAs heterostructures.
Evolution of the interaction between Hox genes and a downstream target

Abstract Segmental identities along the insect body depend on the activities of Hox genes [1,2]. In Drosophila melanogaster , one well-studied Hox regulatory target is Distal-less (Dll) , which is required for the development of distal limb structures [3].In abdominal segments, Dll transcription is prevented when Hox proteins of the Bithorax Complex (BX-C) bind to cis -regulatory elements upstream of the Dll transcription start site [4,5]. Previous evolutionary comparisons of gene expression patterns suggest that this direct repression is conserved between Diptera and Lepidoptera, but is absent in the Crustacea [6,7]. We examined gene expression patterns in three orders of hexapods, all of which develop abdominal appendages, in order to determine when the strong repressive interaction between BX-C proteins and Dll appeared during evolution. In each of the species examined, Dll expression was initiated in abdominal cells despite the presence of high levels of BX-C proteins. It appears that the strong repressive effects of BX-C proteins on Dll expression arose relatively late in insect evolution. We suggest that the regulatory interaction between the BX-C genes and Dll has evolved within the hexapods in a complex, segment-specific manner.
Utilization of riometers for the detection of nuclear explosions in space

This paper considers the detection of nuclear explosions in space by riometer measurement of the effects of explosion-induced ionization on the absorption of high-frequency cosmic noise. The dependence of the riometer response on the X-ray explosion characteristics, the rate of decay of the ionization, and the integration time constant of the riometer are determined. Maximum detection heights are then tabulated based on a criterion of a 1-dB change in riometer response.
Benefits of an introductory course in computer game development

A one-semester introductory undergraduate course in computer game development is described. The freshman-level course has been taught for five years. The course was designed and implemented in the context of a new curriculum in computer game development. Goals of the course were to retain undergraduate computer science (CS) majors, attract new students to CS, and expose students to the content creation pipeline used in advanced courses. A significant aspect of the course is the end-of-semester project to create a machinima - a video created using computer game technology. Besides the initial goals for the course, other benefits were discovered including fostering a sense of community. Results, both quantitative and anecdotal, show the course has exceeded expectations in meeting the goals originally established. The course has been integral to the growth of the CS program, enabling the program to nearly triple in size over four years.
The State of the Art of Social Work Research: Implications for Mental Health

A summary is presented of the findings of a study of the social work research literature conducted for the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Task Force on Social Work Research. Implication...
Optical ECG Waveform Recognition. (Because of an editorial error, this abstract did not appear in the 2001 Journal of Electrocardiology Supplement (Vol. 34, Suppl 2001). It is printed below in its entirety.)

Abstract Background: New method for optical ECG waveform recognition (OEWR) from hard copy 12-lead electrocardiograms has been developed. The motivation for this research was a desire to create large ECG outcome databases that would include both retrospective and prospective multi-vendor ECG records. Null hypothesis: Optically recognized ECGs have the same diagnostic performance as the hard copies of digital ECG recordings. Methods: The study sample comprised of 43 ECGs and included adult, pediatric and pacemaker cases. All studies were routine ECGs collected at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. Laser printed ECG records were scanned at 600 dpi in 24 bit RGB mode. OEWR comprised statistical filtering and an adaptive, error function minimization image processing techniques. The resulting digital "raw" voltage data was then reformatted into a vendor-neutral, data format. The original digital ECG records in 10 sec per lead format were further truncated to 2.5 sec data segments. Results: Sample-by-sample absolute errors ranged from 1 to 3 pixels (4 - 12[mu ]V) or 4-12 milliseconds. Frequency analysis of the OEWR waveforms showed an excellent tracking of the spectral components in 0-25 Hz band (dominant spectral components of ECG signals), no significant differences in 20-40 Hz band and only a mild low pass filtering effect in above 40 Hz band. The mean correlation coefficient for OEWR waveforms was 0.9942 with SD of 0.003. Discussion of the Results: The performance analysis suggests an equivalence of OEWR and original digital ECG data. The advantage of OEWR is that XML ECG objects in a vendor-neutral format can be databased, transmitted over computer networks, displayed in web browsers and re-analyzed by specialized ECG analysis programs. Conclusions: OEWR has the potential to be used in large retrospective epidemiological studies such as the Framingham Heart Project, research, teaching and randomized clinical trials where hard copy ECGs are frequently used data format.
Neural Networks Relating Alloy Composition, Microstructure, and Tensile Properties of α / β -Processed TIMETAL 6-4

Bayesian neural networks have been developed, which relate composition, microstructure, and tensile properties of the alloy TIMETAL 6-4 (nominal composition: Ti-6Al-4V (wt pct) after thermomechanical processing (TMP) in the two-phase (α + β)-phase field. The developed networks are able to make interpolative predictions of properties within the ranges of composition and microstructural features that are in the population of the database used for training and testing of the networks. In addition, the neural networks have been used to conduct virtual experiments which permit the functional dependencies of properties on composition and microstructural features to be determined. In this way, it is shown that in the microstructural condition resulting from TMP in the two-phase (α + β) phase field, the most significant contribution to strength is from solid solution strengthening, with microstructural features apparently influencing the balance of a number of properties.
The US army portable fuel cell program

The US Army's programme for development of portable fuel cells is structured to exploit the potential of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) technology to meet the electric power demand of the individual soldier. The Army has identified the need for lightweight power sources to provide the individual soldier with continuous power for extended periods. The baseline power demand is defined at 10–20 W average, and an energy demand without resupply of 400 Wh per mission day. For missions that extend beyond one day, fuel cell systems provide very attractive weight and volume advantages over existing battery technologies, both primary and rechargeable. One of the key barriers to actual Army use of portable PEM fuel cells is the absence of an appropriate source of hydrogen. Programmes presently under way promise 1000 Wh per kilogram of H2 production system weight. These sources of H2 will integrate into a portable power system with high power and energy density that meets the power, energy and mission demands of the soldier.
An experimental study of the interaction of hydrogen with the Mg(0001) surface

Abstract The interaction of atomic and molecular hydrogen with the (0001) surface of magnesium has been studied using EELS, TDS, work-function measurements, and core-level spectroscopy. No evidence for molecular or dissociative adsorption of H2 is observed at the substrate temperature investigated (>110 K, atomic hydrogen is bound to the surface in a strongly chemisorbed state (surface hydride), which is a metastable phase. When the substrate is annealed to 425 K, no desorption occurs but the system converts irreversibly to a chemisorbed phase wherein the hydride characteristics are absent. The results are compared to existing theoretical studies.
Percutaneous Epicardial Left Atrial Appendage Closure: Intermediate‐Term Results

Chronic Percutaneous Epicardial Appendage Closure. Objectives: To assess the chronic safety and feasibility of percutaneous epicardial closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) guided by electrical navigation. Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with stroke, and LAA occlusion may be a useful nonpharmacologic strategy for stroke prevention in AF. Methods: Percutaneous epicardial access was obtained in 6 dogs under general anesthesia. The ligation system included a grabber that captures the LAA guided by local electrograms (EGMs) and a looped hollow suture preloaded with a central wire enabling control and visualization. After a satisfactory position is confirmed the loop is tightened remotely, and the suture cut. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) assessed LAA dimensions and flow. LAA EGMs were recorded pre- and postclosure, and neurohormonal markers measured. Pathologic examination was performed. Results: LAA ligation was successful in all dogs. LAA flow was immediately abolished in 5 of 6 dogs. Disappearance of local LAA EGMs following ligation was observed in all animals. Follow-up TEE at mean 54 days (range 23-75 days) documented residual flow in only the first 2 dogs. Prior to necropsy the LAA was examined at thoracotomy in 3 animals. Following a minor design change, complete closure and fibrosis with a remnant atretic LAA was noted in all animals. No damage to adjacent structures was noted. Neurohormonal markers were unchanged. Conclusion: Percutaneous epicardial LAA ligation guided by electrical navigation is feasible with promising intermediate-term results in the canine model. The technique may be useful as an alternative to existing methods of LAA obliteration in humans. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 22, pp. 64-70, January 2011)
Discussion of “Solids in stream flow”

Briefly stated Matthes' contentions are: (1) Stream regimen is dependent, in part, upon the amount of solids entrained in, or transported by, the stream. (2) Regimen is upset whenever man alters any of the physical characteristics of the stream's drainage basin and/or the stream itself. (3) Unless the full significance of (1) and (2) is recognized the future generations of America will inherit streams whose discharge capacity is irreparably damaged. This discussion will cover the last two points.
Pressure ulcers of the thorax after shoulder surgery

Of 896 patients having arthroscopic or combined arthroscopic and open shoulder procedures at our institution during a 10 year period, three sustained severe pressure ulcerations to the dependent, opposite thorax (one after an arthroscopic procedure, two after combined procedures). These three patients had an average age of 35 years (range 18-50 years) and an average operative time of 107 min (range 82-121 min). During surgery, each patient had an axillary roll (a bag of intravenous fluids) between the dependent thorax and the operative table. Immediate postoperative signs and symptoms included severe pain in the thorax of the nonoperative side and areas of full-thickness skin loss, and blistering. Biopsy of the lesion in one patient was consistent with skin pressure ulceration. At a minimum of 10 months of follow up, all three patients had recovered full range of motion and strength without skin grafting or additional surgery. The exact cause of these lesions is unknown, but we speculate that they resulted from a combination of the use of an intravenous fluid bag as an axillary roll, fluid between the skin and the roll, and friction from moving the patient.
Comparison of two HPLC systems and an enzymatic method for quantification of soybean sugars

Abstract Successful breeding programs need fast and reliable methods for analyzing sugar composition in new soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) lines. The efficiency to quantify the major sugars, including glucose, fructose, sucrose, raffinose, and stachyose, in five soybean lines with two HPLC systems and an enzymatic procedure were compared. Soluble sugars in soybean were extracted with water at a solvent-to-sample ratio of 5:1 at 50 °C for 15 min, and analyzed by high-performance size exclusion chromatography with refractive index detection (HPSEC-RI), high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed-amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD), and a raffinose-series oligosaccharides assay procedure. All three methods produced comparable and reproducible results. The HPAEC-PAD method was more sensitive, faster and capable of separating all five major sugars in soybean with improved peak resolution compared with the HPSEC-RI method, and is recommended for soybean breeding programs. The enzymatic procedure required no expensive instrumentation and less sample preparation, but could not quantify individual raffinose and stachyose.
Theoretical plate measurements and collection efficiencies for high-volume air samplers using polyurethane foam

Mesures de N, nombre de plateaux theoriques a diverses vitesses d'ecoulement d'air, efficacite du recueillement de composes organochlores
Intra- and intermolecular topological properties of amino acids: a comparative study of experimental and theoretical results.

The charge densities ρ(r) of the six amino acids l-Asn·H2O, dl-Glu·H2O, dl-Lys·HCl, dl-Pro·H2O, dl-Ser, and dl-Val were determined from high-resolution X-ray diffraction experiments at 100 K using synchrotron radiation and area detection (CCD) techniques. Bond topological parameters derived from these densities and from those of six additional amino acids published earlier are compared to each other and to the results of ab initio calculations. Experimental and theoretical properties for each chemically equivalent bond are in a fair agreement, and their variances are of similar magnitude. A noticeable outlier is the positive curvature of the density at the bond critical point, for which no correlation between the experimental and theoretical values can be established. The location of nonbonded valence shell charge concentrations derived from the crystalline densities scatter in a wider range than those obtained for the isolated molecules.
An investigation of causality between insider transactions and stock returns

Abstract Prior research shows that corporate insiders engage in profitable transactions by trading securities of their own firms. The main purpose of this study is to examine whether insider transactions and stock returns have causality relationships at the firm level for a sample of 2,521 firms during the period 1988 to 1998. We find a large impact of stock returns on subsequent insider transactions at both the aggregate and firm levels. The impact appears to be negative which suggests that insiders buy after stock price decreases and sell after stock price increases. Our findings on the predictive content of insider transactions for subsequent stock returns are primarily consistent with prior literature. We observe a positive but weak relationship between insider transactions and future stock returns.
Algorithm 785: a software package for computing Schwarz-Christoffel conformal transformation for doubly connected polygonal regions

A software package implementing Schwarz-Christoffel Conformal transformation (or mapping) of doubly connected polygonal regions is fully described in this article from mathematical, numerical, and practical perspectives. The package solves the so-called accessory parameter problem associated with the mapping function as well as evaluates forward and inverse maps. The robustness of the package is reflected by the flexibility in choosing the accuracy of the parameters to be computed, the speed of computation, the ability of mapping “difficult” regions (to be specified in Section 2), and being user friendly. Several examples are presented to demonstrate the capabilities of the package.
High-throughput virtual molecular docking: Hadoop implementation of AutoDock4 on a private cloud

Virtual molecular docking is a computational method used in computer-aided drug discovery that calculates the binding affinity of a small molecule drug candidate to a target protein and greatly reduces the time and cost of suggesting new potential pharmaceuticals. This high-throughput screening is a task parallel process and therefore well suited for distributed computing. In this study, we use the open source Hadoop framework implementing the MapReduce paradigm for distributed computing on a cloud platform and the widely used molecular docking program AutoDock. Our high-throughput virtual docking implementation, AutoDockCloud, showed a speed-up of 450 on Kandinsky, a cloud computer located at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Simulation of Thalamic Prosthetic Vision: Reading Accuracy, Speed and Acuity in Sighted Humans

The psychophysics of reading with artificial sight has received increasing attention as visual prostheses are becoming a real possibility to restore useful function to the blind through the coarse, pseudo-pixelized vision they generate. Studies to date have focused on simulating retinal prostheses; here we extend that work to report on thalamic designs. This study examined the reading performance of normally sighted human subjects using a simulation of three thalamic visual prostheses that varied in phosphene count, to help understand the level of functional ability afforded by thalamic designs in a task of daily living. Reading accuracy, reading speed, and reading acuity of 20 subjects were measured as a function of letter size, using a task based on the MNREAD chart. Results showed that fluid reading was available with appropriate combinations of letter size and phosphene count, and performance degraded smoothly as font size was decreased, with an approximate doubling of phosphene count resulting in an increase of 0.2 logMAR in acuity. Results here were consistent with previous results from our laboratory. Results were also consistent with those from the literature, despite using naive subjects who were not trained on the simulator, in contrast to other reports.
Exercise intolerance in patients with chronic left heart failure: Relation to oxygen transport and ventilatory abnormalities

Abstract Circulatory, metabolic, and ventilatory responses to maximal and submaximal symptom-limited exercise were studied in 13 patients with chronic stable heart failure. Maximal exercise was sustained 6.5 ± 0.6 minutes (mean ± standard error of the mean) and increased minute oxygen consumption (VO2) to 940 ± 65 ml/min, whereas submaximal exercise was sustained for 15.4 ± 2.3 minutes and increased VO2 to 825 ± 49 ml/min (both p
The Ecological Product Buying Motive: A Challenge For Consumer Education

This paper reviews the literature devoted to products that have been identified as having an ecological orientation. Specifically, the author presents evidence to support the idea that the consuming public has demonstrated a capacity to buy products on a voluntary basis. This voluntary consumption behavior is observable in the key research projects quoted in the text. While there is mixed evidence to support the hypothesis that consumers will voluntarily alter their buying behavior for the benefit of society in general, there are a number of positive and identifiable ways to elicit broader participation in voluntary consumption behavior. This paper makes a numbers of suggestions with respect to how important information is in the process of voluntary consumption and suggests ways to simplify the information process.
Dietary oxygen radical absorbance capacity as a predictor of bone mineral density

Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at the middle phalange of the non-dominant hand by dual x-ray absorptiometry in a random sample of 123 women aged 19 to 63 years. Monthly intake of foods with high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) was obtained using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), ORAC scores were calculated, and lifestyle factors were used as confounding variables. After adjusting for age, supplement use, HRT status, physical activity, calcium intake, and ORAC intake, BMD was not predicted by ORAC. We conclude that more research is needed to measure ORAC for all free radicals in all commonly consumed fruits, vegetables, and teas in order to improve the usefulness of the FFQ in calculating approximate dietary ORAC. At this time, the potential of ORAC as a reliable predictor of health remains largely unknown, however, using currently available ORAC information, it cannot be considered a predictor of BMD.
Far-field radiation and modal dispersion of 1310 nm dispersion-optimized fiber at 850 nm

Far-field radiation pattern measurements have been used to evaluate the modal structure and dispersion associated with 0.85- mu m wavelength light launched from high-brightness light-emitting diodes into TIA class-IVa fiber. The measured far-field radiation pattern of the light intensity emitted from the end of the optical fiber is compared to the far-field radiation pattern calculated from the Fraunhofer approximation to the diffraction integral with the result that two linearly polarized modes propagate in the optical fiber and the optical power is nearly equally distributed between the two modes. The modal dispersion associated with the use of a 0.85- mu m wavelength emitter and a TIA class-IVa fiber is evaluated to be 2.3 ns/km, which is adequate for a variety of local-area networks and point-to-point optical communication links. >
Sphingosine-containing phospholipid vesicles support human factor VII autoactivation in the absence of tissue factor

Abstract We studied the effects of lipid membrane composition on factor VII autoactivation and observed that factor VII was activated in the presence of phospholipid vesicles containing sphingosine. The time course for the factor VII activation was sigmoidal and the duration of the initial lag phase was decreased by the addition of exogenous factor VIIa. Kinetic studies revealed that factor VII activation in the presence of sphingosine-containing phospholipids can be defined by a second-order reaction mechanism with an apparent second-order rate constant of 1.1 × 104 M−1s−1. The sphingosine-mediated factor VII autoactivation rate was dependent on the concentration of calcium ions and sphingosine content of the vesicles. Neither bovine serum albumin-conjugated sphingosine nor sphingosine analogues (ceramide, sphingomyelin) affected the factor VII autoactivation rate.