cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stratigraphic record of subduction initiation in the Permian metasedimentary succession of the El Paso Mountains, California

Petrologic investigation of Permian metasedimentary rocks in the El Paso Mountains reveals a rock record interpreted to be consistent with the sedimentary pattern of the upper continental plate of a nascent subduction zone, based on geodynamic modeling and comparison with a Cenozoic example (Puysegur Ridge, New Zealand). Facies changes reveal a history of uplift (conglomerate), followed by subsidence (carbonate turbidite deposits) and deeper-water sedimentation (argillite, with portions deposited below the carbonate compensation depth [CCD]), and then gradual shallowing accompanied by the onset of nearby intermediate volcanism (volcaniclastic and bioclastic sediments) and construction of a volcanic edifice (andesitic lavas) in a shallow-marine environment. Comparison with Permian global sea-level curves indicates that initial uplift (relative sea-level fall) followed by deep subsidence (relative sea-level rise) are likely due to tectonic rather than eustatic effects. Shallowing during volcaniclastic sedimentation could have been due to both arc edifice building and global sea-level fall. Sandstone modal analysis suggests that the basin evolved from a tectonic setting involving compressive uplift to an arc basin setting. Geodynamic modeling implies the involvement of a transform/truncation fault in subduction initiation. Magmatic trends based on Permian paleogeography and timing suggest a limited nucleation of subduction in the El Paso Mountains followed by propagation southward. Furthermore, subduction initiation modeling suggests regional lithospheric flexure that may be reflected in coeval basins and uplift in the northern Mojave, Death Valley, and Inyo Mountains regions as well as in coeval facies changes on the western edge of the Colorado Plateau. Overall, the Permian section of the El Paso Mountains may be one of the few preserved Paleozoic sedimentary records of subduction inception along a continental margin.
Mosaic System Template Filter Algorithms For Events With Changing Velocities

As a part of the ongoing studies for methods to improve signal processing capabilities for mosaic infrared sensor systems, many algorithms for filtering or separating background points from target points have been developed, namely n-order differencing and spatial filters. The need for improved background rejection performance has resulted in several recent innovative approaches, including the template filter algorithm. This paper evaluates the abilities of the template filter algorithm to further eliminate false track points using n-order temporal differencing as an integral part of its logic design for the case of an event of interest with changing velocity. In other words, it evaluates the algorithm's contributions to increased background and noise rejection capability and speed of processing which are very important to today's real-time signal processing systems. Section 1 of the paper gives an introduction and summary of the analysis results. Section 2 covers the logic of the template filter algorithm and the factors affecting its performance. Section 3 gives some of the results of the algorithm evaluation, and Section 4 takes a look at future considerations and implementations or modifications to the algorithm.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
SOX10 expression in a gangliocytic paraganglioma — A case report

We present a case of a 49-year-old woman who underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy for symptomatic treatment of an obstructive periampullary duodenal mass initially found on CT imaging. Histologically, the tumor showed a triphasic pattern including small round cells, a spindle-cell component and ganglion cells of varying size. Furthermore, the tumor was surrounded by a proliferation of pancreatic ducts. These features led to the diagnosis of a gangliocytic paraganglioma arising in an ectopic pancreas. Sections of the tumor were then stained for SOX10, a neural crest transcription factor, and it was shown to be positive in the ganglion cells. The exact origin of gangliocytic paragangliomas has not yet been clearly defined. However, this finding of aberrant expression of SOX10 supports the idea of these lesions being neoplastic in nature.
Market Predictability of ECB Policy DecisionsA Comparative Examination

Many surveys of the ECB`s monetary framework emphasize the inability of financial markets to correctly predict monetary policy decisions. At the same time, these surveys of financial market participants have given relatively high marks to the United States Federal Reserve and the Bank of England on their ability to be understood by financial markets. Against this background, this paper examines the ability of financial markets to correctly anticipate these three central bank policy decisions over the first 3½ years of the ECB. The paper relies on calculations that market participants employ in anticipating policy changes and on term structure regressions that provide ex post evidence of market surprises. While the results suggest that all three central banks are broadly predictable, markets have had difficulty anticipating large changes and cuts in ECB policy interest rates. These surprises may be tied to the large number of policy meetings, particular characteristics of the EONIA money market, and the unique circumstances of the ECB. An added factor may be the absence of a consistent policy on communicating the current stanceif anyof the ECB`s policy bias on the future direction of interest rates.
Locoregional recurrence risk for patients with T1,2 breast cancer with 1-3 positive lymph nodes treated with mastectomy and systemic treatment.

Purpose Postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) has been shown to benefit breast cancer patients with 1 to 3 positive lymph nodes, but it is unclear how modern changes in management have affected the benefits of PMRT. Methods and Materials We retrospectively analyzed the locoregional recurrence (LRR) rates in 1027 patients with T1,2 breast cancer with 1 to 3 positive lymph nodes treated with mastectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy with or without PMRT during an early era (1978-1997) and a later era (2000-2007). These eras were selected because they represented periods before and after the routine use of sentinel lymph node surgery, taxane chemotherapy, and aromatase inhibitors. Results 19% of 505 patients treated in the early era and 25% of the 522 patients in the later era received PMRT. Patients who received PMRT had significantly higher-risk disease features. PMRT reduced the rate of LRR in the early era cohort, with 5-year rates of 9.5% without PMRT and 3.4% with PMRT (log-rank P =.028) and 15-year rates 14.5% versus 6.1%, respectively; (Cox regression analysis: adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] 0.37, P =.035). However, PMRT did not appear to benefit patients treated in the later cohort, with 5-year LRR rates of 2.8% without PMRT and 4.2% with PMRT ( P =.48; Cox analysis: AHR 1.41, P =.48). The most significant factor predictive of LRR for the patients who did not receive PMRT was the era in which the patient was treated (AHR 0.35 for later era, P Conclusion The risk of LRR for patients with T1,2 breast cancer with 1 to 3 positive lymph nodes treated with mastectomy and systemic treatment is highly dependent on the era of treatment. Modern treatment advances and the selected use of PMRT for those with high-risk features have allowed for identification of a cohort at very low risk for LRR without PMRT.
Advantages of the Ring Method for the Study of the Surface Equilibria of Colloidal Solutions

THE letter of Prof. Harkins, concerning some of the methods used for measuring surface tension,1 contains a statement about the ring method which may mislead the reader; and the addition of a few words to it may therefore be worth while.
Multiple and differential regulation of ovarian prolactin receptor messenger RNAs and their expression.

Summary Three predominant prolactin receptor (PRL-R) mRNA species of 9.7, 2.1 and 1.8 kb and two minor species of 4.6 and 2.6 kb were demonstrated in the rat ovary. The long transmembrane form of the ovarian PRL-R is derived from the 9.7 kb and 4.6 kb species. The 2.6 kb species could be a variant form of this receptor with truncated or altered extracellular domain, while the 1.8 and 2.1 kb species correspond to the short transmembrane receptor form with truncated cytoplasmic domain. All five mRNA species were expressed and regulated in a developmental stage-specific manner during gonadotropin-induced ovarian maturation, luteinization and subsequent desensitization by gonadotropin treatment. Coordinate regulation of prolactin receptor binding activities and mRNA levels was observed during gonadotropin-induced heterologous up- and down-regulation of ovarian receptor sites.
The influence of ambient salinity on routine metabolism in the teleost Cyprinodon variegatus Lacepède

Routine metabolism of the euryhaline cyprinodontid Cyprinodon variegatus Lacepede was measured at a series of ambient salinities ranging from fresh water through 100‰. Fish used had been sequentially acclimated to the test salinities (ambient temperature of 20±1° C and a 12: 12 L: D schedule). Routine metabolic rates were highest at ambient salinities from 15 to 50‰. Metabolism was somewhat lower at ambient salinities less than 15‰, and showed a sequential decline at ambient salinities greater than 50‰. It is suggested that routine metabolism is depressed at elevated salinities by reduced O, transfer, a consequence of maintenance of hydromineral balance in hypersaline waters.
Decision analysis and carotid endarterectomy.

A data base and a framework for clinical decision analysis are provided to enable the clinician to determine the value of carotid endarterectomy in patients with transient ischemic attacks. This approach permits optimal utilization of available data, maximizes the value of informed consent by clearly delineating areas of physician and patient expertise, and permits a quantitative assessment of the impact of uncertainty regarding underlying variables on decision outcome. The results of the analysis indicate that (a) the late nonstroke death rate has little effect on the value of endarterectomy, (b) the patient's relative valuation of stroke and immediate versus delayed death are among the most crucial variables underlying the value of endarterectomy, and (c) endarterectomy may be indicated in certain patients with transient ischemic attacks, but when its utility is measured in terms of value rendered to the patient, its relative cost may be greater than that of certain life-saving operations such as heart or liver transplant.
Presumptive Identification of Stock Cultures and Food Isolates As Salmonella, Shigella, or Yersinia with the Enteric Pathogen Screen

The enteric pathogen screen (EPS) card designed for use with the Vitek Auto Microbic System (AMS) was evaluated with stock cultures and fresh isolates from ground beef, pork sausage, chicken and turkey to determine its effectiveness as a screen for Salmonella, Yersinia enterocolitica and Shigella. Each isolate was concurrently tested with the Micro-ID test strip and the AMS Gram negative identification card to confirm its identification. The EPS accurately classified 115 of 125 (92%) of the stock cultures and 207 of 212 (97%) of the fresh food isolates. The EPS gives a rapid presumptive screen at a relatively low cost and as such is a viable alternative to conventional procedures.
EFFECT OF VOCAL DISGUISE ON ESTIMATIONS OF SPEAKERS' AGES

To determine the effect of speakers' attempts to disguise their voices on listeners' accuracy in age judgments, 26 speakers, 13 females and 13 males, recorded six sentences under three conditions: (a) in a normal manner, actually were, and (c) in a manner in which they attempted to sound much older than they actually were. Three master tapes were constructed, one for each of the three conditions. A total of 20 judges, 10 females and 10 males, participated in three sessions, one for each of the three master tapes. In each session they were asked to judge the age of the speaker of each sentence and, using a seven-point confidence rating scale, to indicate the over-all confidence in their judgments at the end of each session. Although a majority of speakers yielded age estimates consistent with the conditions of intended disguise, the differences in listeners' estimates among all three conditions were relatively small. Moreover, differences between speakers' actual ages and listeners' age estimates in the control condition were also small. Implications of the findings and suggestions for research are discussed.
Humanitarian nursing challenges: a grounded theory study.

ABSTRACTIn response to the 2004 tsunami disaster in the Indian Ocean, the U.S. Navy deployed teams aboard the USNS Mercy to provide aid during Operation Unified Assistance (OUA). To date, few research studies have examined how Navy nurses prepared for and clinically performed during this relief operation. The current article describes the challenges faced by Navy nurses throughout OUA. A purposive convenience sample was recruited; 11 participated. Data were collected from interviews, observations, field notes, memos, and a demographic tool. Information was categorized, coded, compared to incoming data, then analyzed using Strauss and Corbin’s open coding, axial coding, and selective coding methods. A theoretical model was developed to illustrate how participants experienced the mission. Key lessons learned were that most were unprepared for providing pediatric care, and saying “No” in delivering care. Recommendations include: deployment of advanced-practice nurses (specialists in pediatrics and well-menta...
Predictive, accessible web automation: a longitudinal study

The problem of efficient, usable non-visual web access remains inadequately solved, despite its critical importance to a significant number of visually-impaired existing and potential Web users. Web automation, a process of automating browsing actions on behalf of the user, has the potential to significantly improve the usability and accessibility of non-visual web browsing. Automation Assistant is an accessible web automation system designed specifically for this purpose. Until now, however, Automation Assistant was only evaluated in a short-term, controlled experiment. In this paper we report preliminary results on a longitudinal study designed to explore the long term practicality of the approach to accessible web automation taken by Automation Assistant. The study involves a single participant and can be considered a pilot of a future experiment involving a large number of participants and benefiting from the lessons learned during the pilot.
“Losing Things Was Nothing New”: A Family's Stories of Foreclosure

Although personal bankruptcies and foreclosures have always been common, in Western culture people do not often share these stories. In this article, I briefly examine the literature surrounding narratives, “stories on the margin,” and disenfranchised grief. I then present my family members’ stories surrounding the loss of our home in 1991 through foreclosure. Following these stories, I examine how disenfranchised grief—through the lack of culturally sanctioned stories of loss—can lead to silence. Finally, I substantiate why eliciting noncanonical economic narratives is personally and collectively beneficial for research on grief and loss.
A Note on a New Ionospheric-Meteorological Correlation

Past investigations in the field of ionospheric-meteorological correlation are reviewed, with special emphasis on ionospheric characteristics correlating with barometric pressure. An attempt to verify past correlations involving pressure has been made with negative results. However, a new correlation is presented between the time-of-occurrence of the maximum F 2 critical frequency during a single day and the average daily barometric pressure.
Disney's successful adaptation in Hong Kong: A glocalization perspective

This paper applies the principles of glocalization theory to Disney’s successful adaptation in Hong Kong. Glocalization refers to the interface of the global and the local. After Hong Kong Disneyland’s lack of success within a year of its opening in 2005, Disney executives attempted to cater to the local Chinese context. From a glocalization perspective, four major changes were made: (1) reduction of prices; (2) adaptation to local visitors’ customs; (3) change of decors and settings; and (4) adaptation of labor practices. Ever since, Hong Kong Disneyland has proved successful: park attendance and revenues from growth have increased.
The economic consequences of experiencing parental marital disruptions

This paper examines the long-run consequences for children of parental marital disruption, focusing upon the labor market performance of sons during their 23rd year. Theoretically, marital disruption may affect a child's subsequent economic circumstances by reducing the amount of income and parental time available to him and by confronting him with changed opportunities regarding schooling, work, and own-household decisions. We test for the presence of such effects using longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. The empirical results suggest that parental marital disruption does have negative long-run implications for the labor market performance of children, a major reason for which is the consequent reduction of inputs into the parental household.
Flutter of multibay panels at high supersonic speeds

Abstract : The flutter of two-dimensional panels of finite and infinite length on multiple simple supports in the streamwise direction was investigated theoretically under the assumptions that the system is adequately described by classical small deflection plate theory and quasi-steady, supersonic aerodynamic theory. No further physical and/or mathematical approximations are made and a solution is effected by the method employed by Hedgepeth, Houbolt, and Movchan for the one bay (two supports) configuration. Specific numerical results are obtained for the one, two, three, four, five and six bay cases as well as the infinite bay case with motion of arbitrary spatial periodicity. (Author)
Validation of an in vitro model for assessment of androstenedione hepatotoxicity using the rat liver cell line clone-9†

Androstenedione, a naturally occurring steroid hormone, has been used to enhance athletic performance. Little is known, however, about its hepatotoxicity. Clone-9 cells, a non-transformed epithelial cell line that was originally isolated from normal liver of a 4-week old Sprague-Dawley rat, were used as an in vitro model to assess the hepatotoxic potential of androstenedione. The cultures were treated with androstenedione for 24 h at 37 degrees C in 5% CO(2) at concentrations of 0-100 microg ml(-1). After the treatment period, the cells and the culture supernatants were assayed for markers of cytotoxicity which included: release of liver enzymes, cell viability, cellular double-stranded DNA content, oxidative stress, steatosis, cellular ATP content, caspase-3 activity, the mitochondrial permeability transition and induction of cytochrome P450 activity. Significant concentration-dependent differences from control were observed in some endpoints at medium concentrations of 10 microg ml(-1) and above. These in vitro findings were compared with comparable endpoints obtained from an in vivo study of androstenedione toxicity in female Sprague-Dawley rats. Of the eight endpoints that could be compared between the two studies, only three (lipid accumulation, ATP depletion and P450 activity) appeared to be concordant. This suggests that, under the experimental conditions used, the clone-9 cells were not a good model for androstenedione hepatotoxicity.
The rationale and management of hyperglycemia for in-patients with cardiovascular disease: time for change.

There is increasing evidence that aggressive glycemic control for patients admitted into the hospital improves clinical outcomes, especially for patients with cardiovascular disease. There appear to be a variety of mechanisms for this. Although hyperglycemia has been shown to result in poor wound healing and more infectious complications, especially after cardiac surgical procedures, what has become clear is that the treatment of hyperglycemia with i.v. glucose, insulin, and potassium (GIK) results in better clinical outcomes even in patients without diabetes. The mechanisms for this are not year clear, but could be related to the insulin administration, perhaps due to suppression of various cytokines or free fatty acids. The practical use of insulin in these patients requires basic understanding of the use of both i.v. and s.c. insulin. Although there are several appropriate options for both of these routes of administration, it is critical that all caregivers involved in this population's care are knowledgeable about insulin strategies.
A new algorithm for the estimation of parameters in ordinary differential equations

A new computational algorithm for the estimation of parameters in ordinary differential equations from noisy data is presented. The algorithm is computationally faster than quasilinearization because of the reduction of the number of ordinary differential equations that must be solved at each iteration. A modification is also presented to remove ill-posedness. The algorithm is illustrated on a simple example.
Selective partial middle turbinectomy to minimize postoperative obstruction following Lester Jones tube placement

Abstract Purpose Conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) with the insertion of a Jones tube is a surgical procedure used to relieve epiphora caused by upper lacrimal system dysfunction from extensive proximal canalicular obstruction, canalicular stenosis, or canalicular flaccidity. Jones tube obstruction, which is the second most frequent complication of CDCR with tube placement, can result from tube placement against the anterior end of the middle turbinate. In this study, we describe our results in 5 patients who underwent anterosuperior partial middle turbinectomy to prevent obstruction. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 5 patients who underwent selective anterosuperior partial middle turbinectomy to prevent Jones tube obstruction. Three of these patients developed Jones tube obstruction due to contact between a previously placed Jones tube and the anterosuperior aspect of the adjacent middle turbinate. Two other patients had observed contact between the Jones tube and middle turbinate at initial Jones tube placement and underwent anterosuperior partial middle turbinectomy to prevent development of obstruction. Patency of the Jones tube was assessed symptomatically and by nasal endoscopy at the latest follow-up. Results All 5 patients displayed a patent Jones tube after a mean follow-up of 29.6 months without complications. Longer-term complications associated with CDCR with Jones tube placement, including continuous epiphora, dacrocystitis, and poor patient satisfaction, were not observed. Conclusions Selective anterosuperior partial middle turbinectomy may prevent or relieve Jones tube obstruction, provide increased room along the lateral nasal wall along which to place the Jones tube, and decrease the need for further surgeries arising from tube blockage.
Suspended sediment transport at the instantaneous and event time scales in semiarid watersheds of southeastern Arizona, USA

[1] We investigated the high variability of suspended sediment transport in 16 watersheds of Walnut Gulch, southeastern Arizona, USA that were distinguished at three spatial scales: the plot (ca. 0.001–0.01 km2), unit-source (ca. 0.01–0.1 km2), and large (ca. 1–150 km2) scales. Event-based data of water discharge and suspended sediment concentration were compiled in variable periods between the 1960s and 2010s. By subjectively distinguishing five different intraevent transport patterns that may be ascribed to a combination of various hydrological and sediment-transport processes, we showed that no single sediment rating curve could be developed for these data. However, at the event temporal scale, event specific sediment yield (SSYe, t/km2) was significantly correlated to event runoff depth (h, mm) for all transport patterns of the watersheds, suggesting that the complexity of suspended sediment transport at the intraevent scale is effectively reduced at the event scale regardless of watershed sizes. Further regression analysis indicated that the SSYe-h relationship can be generally characterized by a proportional model, SSYe = nh where n, is conceptually equivalent to the volume-weighted event mean sediment concentration and is mainly determined by large events. For watersheds dominated by shrub cover, the change of the n value with watershed area was limited and thus may be reasonably regarded as a constant, implying that despite the highly variable suspended sediment concentrations during individual storm events in variable-sized watersheds, the synoptic effect of suspended sediment transport was similar and may be determined by a single value.
Multiphysics modeling with high priority research applications

Baccalaureate engineering graduates are facing an emerging class of design challenges that span multiple disciplines of science and technology. Sophisticated computational techniques, combining the representative physics of multiple domains, are needed to accurately model and predict results. Many engineering degree programs offer major specific modeling courses or embed simulations on a limited basis. For example, mechanical undergraduates may be exposed to solid modeling and computational fluid dynamics while electrical majors apply finite element techniques to electromagnetic problems. Few engineering curricula offer multiphysics design and research experiences. Where available, they are typically restricted to post-graduate studies; consequently, most baccalaureate graduates receive little or no exposure to areas of expertise outside of their discipline. This is inconsistent with the view that future graduates need to be more adaptable and versatile to succeed in a knowledge-based global marketplace.
Fertility after cancer: a prospective review of assisted reproductive outcome with banked semen specimens.

Abstract Objective To examine the outcome of assisted reproduction techniques (ART) using cryopreserved semen from patients with cancer. Design Prospective. Setting Therapeutic semen banking program at a tertiary healthcare center. Patient(s) Twenty-nine men with cancer who cryopreserved their sperm before treatment at our facility from 1982 to 2001 and withdrew their samples for assisted reproduction (IUI, IVF, or intracytoplasmic sperm injection [ICSI]). Intervention(s) Sperm bank records were used to identify the patients. Information on fertility potential indices was obtained from medical records and through interviews. Of the 29 patients, 9 had testicular cancer, 12 had Hodgkin's disease, and 8 had other types of cancer. Main outcome measure(s) Pregnancy and live births. Result(s) A total of 87 ART cycles (42 IUI, 26 IVF, and 19 ICSI) was performed. Of those cycles, 18.3% resulted in pregnancy (7% IUI, 23% IVF, and 37% ICSI), and 75% of the pregnancies resulted in a live birth (100% IUI, 83% IVF, and 57% ICSI). There was no significant difference in the outcomes when the results were stratified by type of ART and malignancy. None of the 11 infants who were born had congenital anomalies. Conclusion(s) Our findings emphasize the need for physicians to discuss the issue of semen cryopreservation with all men of reproductive age who have cancer before antineoplastic therapy is started.
Seasonal shifts in odor acuity by starlings

A passerine bird, the European Starling Sturnus vulgaris, demonstrated a seasonal ability to respond to odor cues. Cardiac conditioned responses were most evident when birds were in breeding condition. Once birds were in nonbreeding condition, responding to odors all but ceased. For birds in breeding condition, threshold sensitivity to the odor cyclohexanone was comparable to levels reported for nonpasserine birds (0.3% vapor saturation or 3.778 x 10(14) molecules/ml). In contrast, the threshold level during the postreproductive phase of the annual cycle was 10% vapor saturation (1.256 x 10(16) molecules/ml), a level high enough to implicate the trigeminal system as the modality mediating chemosensory perception. The strong cyclic responding pattern suggests links between photoperiodically controlled endocrine production, breeding behavior, and olfactory sensitivity.
Time-safety trade-offs and a bang-bang algorithm for kinodynamic planning

The kinodynamic planning problem is, given a robot system, to find a trajectory from a start state to a goal state, while avoiding obstacles by a safety margin delta (v) and respecting dynamics bounds. Provably good polynomial-time approximation algorithms for optimal kinodynamic planning find trajectories within in of optimal and have a time complexity polynomial in 1/ in and in the geometric complexity of the robot world. The authors obtain such algorithms to find near-optimal trajectories obeying piecewise constant extremal controls and bang-bang control. Previous provably good kinodynamic planning algorithms for robot arms produce nonextremal, and hence locally nonoptimal trajectories. Using parameters in /sub T/ and in /sub S/ and describe closeness to optimality in execution time and observance of the safety margin, the authors derive equicomplexity curves to show how their algorithms permit to tradeoffs between time and safety. >
Transmembrane potential changes caused by monophasic and biphasic shocks.

Transmembrane potential change (ΔV m) during shocks was recorded by a double-barrel microelectrode in 12 isolated guinea pig papillary muscles. After 10 S1 stimuli, square-wave S2 shocks of both po...
Wound-responsive gene expression in poplars

We have cloned cDNA copies of several transcripts specifically accumulating in the unwounded upper leaves of a hybrid poplar whose lower leaves were mechanically wounded. Of those cDNAs sequenced, two encode proteins with sequence similarity to plant endochitinases and another specifies a polypeptide similar to Kunitz trypsin inhibitors from legume seeds. Genomic clones of one of the chitinase gene families reveal a clustered organization of these genes on the poplar chromosomes.
Proper and paradigmatic metonymy as a lens for characterizing student conceptions of distributions and sampling

This research investigates what students’ use of statistical language can tell us about their conceptions of distribution and sampling in relation to informal inference. Prior research documents students’ challenges in understanding ideas of distribution and sampling as tools for making informal statistical inferences. We know that these ideas are complex and difficult for students, but little is known about the ways in which students’ language mediates their statistical problem-solving activities within the realm of distribution, sampling, and informal inference. This study uses examples from semi-structured interviews with eleven undergraduate students from two universities. Interview tasks focused on (1) distinctions between distributions of populations, samples, and sample statistics; (2) properties of sampling distributions; and (3) how to use sampling distributions to make informal inferences. Analysis focused on students’ use of metonymy (i.e., the substitution of the name of an attribute or adjunct for that of the thing or idea meant). We observed two particular metonymies. The first was a paradigmatic metonymy in which students applied the properties of the normal distribution to all distributions. Second, we observed a proper metonymy in which students talked about sampling distributions as compilations of many samples. The potential impact of these metonymies on students’ ability to solve problems and the implications for teaching are discussed.
Perceived weight in youths and risk of overweight or obesity six years later.

Objective To examine the association between perceived overweight in adolescents and the development of overweight or obesity later in life.
Economic contradictions coming home to roost? does the U.S. economy face a long-term aggregate demand generation problem?

Many argue that the current recession is the product of a temporary stock market wobble. This paper argues that the U.S. economy confronts deeper- seated problems concerning the aggregate demand generation process. For two decades, these problems have been obscured by a range of demand compensa- tion mechanisms—rising consumer debt, a stock market boom, and rising profit rates. Now, these mechanisms are exhausted. Fiscal policy adjustments and dollar depreciation are the only stable exits from this impasse, but they must be accompanied by measures rectifying the income distribution imbalances at the root of the problem. Absent this, deficient demand will reassert itself.
A model calculation for the isomerization and decomposition of chemisorbed HCN on the Si(100)-2×1 surface

Ab in itio mo lec u lar or bital and hy brid den sity func tional the ory cal cu la tions have been per formed to study the ad sorp tion, isomerization, and de com po si tion of HCN on Si(100)-2 ￻1 us ing the Si 9H12 clus ter model of the sur face. The re sults of our cal cu la tions in di cate that the HCN can ad sorb mo lec u larly with out a bar rier onto the sur face with both end-on (LM1) and side-on (LM2) po si tions. LM1 can isomerize to LM2 with a small bar rier of 8 kcal/mol. The isomerization of LM2 by H-migration from C to the N atom, re quires 76 kcal/mol ac ti va tion en ergy (c.f. 47.5 kcal/mol in the gas phase) be cause of sur face sta bi li za tion. Both HCN(a) and HNC(a) end-on ad sor bates were found to dis so ci ate readily, as con cluded in our ear lier ex per i ment, to pro duce H and CN adspecies. The com puted vi bra tional fre quen cies of HCN, CN, and al so HCN H adspecies agree rea son ably well with those ob served ex per i men tally. HCNH was found to be st a ble, with ei ther the C or the N at tach ing to the sur face.
Cold War and Decolonization in Guinea, 1946–1958 – By Elizabeth Schmidt

This volume is a welcome addition to the sparse literature on one of Africa's pioneering independence movements. France's overseas territory of Guinea was at the vanguard of Africa's decolonization...
Autonomous mobile robot global motion planning and geometric beacon collection using traversability vectors

Approaches in global motion planning (GMP) and geometric beacon collection (for self-localization) using traversability vectors have been developed and implemented in both computer simulation and actual experiments on mobile robots. Both approaches are based on the same simple, modular, and multifunctional traversability vector (t-vector). Through implementation it has been found that t-vectors reduce the computational requirements to detect path obstructions, Euclidean optimal via-points, and geometric beacons, as well as to identify which features are visible to sensors. Environments can be static or dynamic and polygons are permitted to overlap (i.e., intersect or be nested). While the t-vector model does require that polygons be convex, it is a much simpler matter to decompose concave polygons into convex polygon sets than it is to require that polygons not overlap, which is required for many other GMP models. T-vectors also reduce the data size and complexity of standard V-graphs and variations thereof. This paper presents the t-vector model so that the reader can apply it to mobile robot GMP and self-localization.
Phosphorus Migration Kinetics from PSG to Glass Passivation Surface

The diffusion of phosphorus through chip glass passivation is studied at various temperatures and water vapor pressures. The phosphorus diffuses from the phosphosilicate glass (PSG) to the glass surface through defects. It is detected by electron microprobe at low accelerating potential (3? kV) to avoid excitation of the underlying PSG. The amount of phosphorus transported varies proportionally to the water vapor pressure with an activation energy of 0.32 eV.
Annual Cycle and Long-Term Trends of Circulation and Climate Variability over the Tropical Oceans.

Abstract Trends in the large-scale circulation and seasonal characteristics of climate variability are investigated based on ship observations of sea level pressure, zonal and meridional wind components, sea surface temperature, and cloudiness and land station records, during 1948–83. Cluster analysis captures such features as the surface pressure dipoles associated with the Southern Oscillation, the subtropical region of influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation, preferred areas of surges in the North Atlantic trades and monsoon over the Indian Ocean, equatorial warm water regions with El Nino-type behavior in the eastern Pacific and Atlantic, and typical centers of interannual cloudiness variations associated with trade wind variations and the ITCZ. Long-term trends are examined in terms of internal consistency between elements, between ship and land records, and in regard to the possible effect of shifts in observational practices. Most prominent are the following trends over the 1948–83 period: (i) ...
Ca(2+)-dependent and Ca(2+)-permeable ion channels in aortic endothelial cells.

We investigated whether osmotic stress would activate specific ion channels in bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs). In isotonic medium (290 mosmol/kgH2O), cell-attached patch recordings contained both 165-pS K+ channels activated by depolarization and 40-pS K+ channels activated by 200 nM bradykinin. These inwardly rectifying K+ channels were activated by raising “cytoplasmic” Ca2+ in inside-out patches. BAEC exposed to hypotonic bath (220 mosmol/kg) exhibited a 20% decrease in intracellular K+ content within 5 min. Cell-attached patches revealed biphasic K+ channel activation with hypotonic exposure; initial activation of 165- and 40-pS K+ channels (1–3 min) was followed by a delayed but sustained reactivation of both K+ channels (> 5 min). The delayed reactivation phase was dependent on the presence of external Ca2+ and was attenuated by 10 microM gadolinium. A 28-pS nonselective cation channel (NSCC), which conducted inward Ca2+ current, was also detected during hypotonic exposure. This NSCC was stimulated by hyperpolarization and was blocked by 10 microM gadolinium. In BAEC 1) hypotonic exposure activates Ca(2+)-dependent, 165- and 40-pS K+ channels biphasically; 2) the initial phase is independent of external Ca2+, while the delayed phase requires external Ca2+; and 3) Ca(2+)-permeable, 28-pS NSCCs stimulated by membrane hyperpolarization provide a pathway for external Ca2+ influx.
Animal Models for the Study of Neurohumeral and Central Neural Control of the Cardiovascular System

Studies investigating the integrative central control of the locomotor and cardiovascular system have mostly been conducted in rats. These studies have shown that control of cardiovascular responses is located in neurons in close proximity, if not overlapping or possibly identical to, neurons responsible for respiratory and locomotor control. In rats cardiorespiratory and locomotor centers have been identified in the periaqueductal gray (PAG), posterior hypothalamic area (PHA), nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM), and the cuneiform nucleus (CnF). Of these, the PH has been clearly identified as both a locomotor and cardiovascular center.1
Abstract 3917: High-sensitivity C reactive Protein Levels Predict Infarct Growth in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Objectives: There is controversy over whether the inflammatory biomarkers detected after focal cerebral ischemia represent a mechanism of tissue injury or simply reflects the extent of ischemic brain injury. In this study we sought to establish whether levels of an inflammatory biomarker (high sensitivity c-reactive protein, hs-CRP) correlate with and predict infarct growth. Methods: We prospectively measured hs-CRP in consecutive acute stroke patients ( Results: Of 528 subjects enrolled in the biomarker study we included 220 patients with IG, mean age 74 (s.d. 13.8), for whom imaging data were available, in the analysis. The mean IG was 39.9 (s.d.66) cc. We identified cut-off values of IG based on quartiles 50 percentile (15 cc). Subject with IG were more likely to be older, have a higher baseline NIHSS score, a history of carotid stenosis or AF, an anterior circulation stroke, a large vessel occlusion, and larger baseline MTT perfusion deficit. Subjects with IG ≥15cc had a higher mean hs-CRP levels at 48 hours compared to those with an IG Conclusions: High 48 hour levels of hs-CRP were independently associated with larger IG in acute ischemic stroke patients. Hence, if validated, high hs-CRP might be helpful in routine clinical practice to monitor infarct growth and could become a valuable specific surrogate marker of stroke progression.
Muscle glycogen depletion and subsequent replenishment affect anaerobic capacity of horses

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of muscle glycogen depletion and subsequent replenishment on anaerobic capacity of horses. In a blinded crossover study, seven fit horses perfo...
Toward Industrial Democracy: Management and Workers in Modern Japan . By Kunio Odaka. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1975. xv, 226 pp. Notes, Tables, Bibliography, Index. $15.00

Personally, I found Odaka's treatment of alternative theories of national development to be the most illuminating part of the book. He argues rather convincingly that neither the theory of "uniform development" (inevitable evolution toward modernism) nor that of "pluralistic industrialism" (a logic of industrialism that develops differentially across nations) really explains the Japanese situation.
Deoxyribonuclease IIα is required during the phagocytic phase of apoptosis and its loss causes perinatal lethality

Deoxyribonuclease IIα (DNase IIα) is one of many endonucleases implicated in DNA digestion during apoptosis. We produced mice with targeted disruption of DNase IIα and defined its role in apoptosis. Mice deleted for DNase IIα die at birth with many tissues exhibiting large DNA-containing bodies that result from engulfed but undigested cell corpses. These DNA-containing bodies are pronounced in the liver where fetal definitive erythropoiesis occurs and extruded nuclei are degraded. They are found between the digits, where apoptosis occurs, and in many other regions of the embryo. Defects in the diaphragm appear to cause death of the mice due to asphyxiation. The DNA in these bodies contains 3′-hydroxyl ends and therefore stain positive in the TUNEL assay. In addition, numerous unengulfed TUNEL-positive cells are observed throughout the embryo. Apoptotic cells are normally cleared rapidly from a tissue; hence the persistence of the DNA-containing bodies and TUNEL-positive cells identifies sites where apoptosis occurs during development. These results demonstrate that DNase IIα is not required for the generation of the characterisitic DNA fragmentation that occurs during apoptosis but is required for degrading DNA of dying cells and this function is necessary for proper fetal development.
Abstract 2582: P2X7 receptor is functional in myeloma cell lines and myeloma patient cells and can be modulated by P2X7 receptor antagonists: Implications for myeloma therapy

Inflammation is a driving factor in the pathogenesis of many cancers including multiple myeloma. Myeloma is a plasma cell tumor whose early stages are characterized by cytokine dependent growth, predominantly driven by IL-6. We have demonstrated that IL-1β is a key inducer of IL-6 expressed by bone marrow stromal cells in a paracrine fashion. The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is an ATP-gated ion channel expressed by cells of the hematopoetic lineage that has been shown to play a critical role in IL-1β processing and secretion. We investigated the role this receptor may play in the IL-1/IL-6 cytokine pathway in multiple myeloma. A panel of multiple myeloma cell lines was evaluated by RT-PCR for the expression of P2X7R mRNA. Levels of expression in ANBL-6, MM1S, U266, RPMI-8226 and KAS-6/1 were comparable to U937, a previously characterized P2X7R positive cell line. A newly derived plasmacytoma cell line, PCYT3, showed very low levels of message expression. The ability of ATP to trigger the processing and release of IL-1β by activation of the P2X7 channel was studied using KAS-Pro, a myeloma cell line stably transfected with a pro- IL-1β gene. IL-1β, measured by ELISA, was released in a dose dependent fashion in response to increasing amounts of ATP ranging from 1mM to 5mM. Three P2X7R specific antagonists were tested for their effect on ATP stimulated IL- 1β release from KAS-Pro; all 3 compounds demonstrated inhibition in a dose dependent manner with varying degrees of potency correlating with P2X7R inhibition. In addition fresh patient samples (15 multiple myelomas/ 4 smoldering myelomas/8 MGUS) were evaluated for inhibition of IL-1β release by the P2X7R antagonists through direct measurement of IL-1β by ELISA as well as by an indirect measurement of IL-1β induced IL-6 production by normal bone marrow stromal cells. Greater than 90% inhibition of IL-1β release was demonstrated in all MM & SMM patients positive for IL-1β expression. IL-1β was not detected in any of the MGUS patients and therefore no affect of the inhibitors was observed. These results confirm the activity of functional P2X7 receptors on myeloma cell lines and in fresh patient samples and suggest a role for the use of P2X7 receptor antagonists in the therapy of myeloma. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2582. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2582
Natural Selection and High Heels

EDITORIAL COMMENTThis new section of the journal has been added to provide readers with a broader contact with specific information. In many cases, information which is of interest to the reader but does not conform to the strict peer review guidelines is available. We welcome submissions from our readers with opinions, ideas, or essays that are of interest to the readers of Foot & Ankle International.Lowell D. Lutter, M.D.Editor-in-ChiefFoot & Ankle International