cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automatically determining the orientation of chest images

A review console displaying digital radiographs should automatically display the chest images in proper orientation to save radiologists' time. To accomplish this feat, the authors have developed a simple, rapid algorithm that can be implemented in hardware. Linear regression is used on two orthogonal profiles to determine the top of the image. The edge of the heart is found to make sure the image is not displayed as a mirror image. The algorithm was 90.4 percent successful on 115 chest images.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A CURIOUS PRACTICE

Abstract:This preface offers a playful and insightful introduction to the thought of Vinciane Despret from her colleague and collaborator. Despret's philosophical approach builds from the virtue of politeness, which allows animals – concrete, individual animals – to be interesting. Part appraisal, part speculative narrative, this preface looks at the curious practices of Despret as she works with, and thinks from, animals.
Humanismus und Technik

Am Beispiel der Entwicklung der Zahl der todlichen Unfalle im Kraftfahrzeugverkehr und ihrer Interpretation wird die unterschiedliche Mentalitat traditionell Gebildeter und im naturwissenschaftlich-technischen Denken Geubter geschildert. Doch auch in letzterem bleibt noch viel Raum fur Entscheidungen nach vorangegangener Faktorenanalyse. Hier liegen auch die Schwierigkeiten fur Technology Assessment. Gerade von daher aber erhebt sich auch die Frage, ob es sinnvoll ist, letzteres der breiten, naturwissenschaftlich-technisch unzureichend vorgebildeten Offentlichkeit zu uberlassen.
Detection of Porencephaly by Cerebral Dynamic Scanning

Routine cerebral dynamic scanning in two patients revealed unilateral focal areas of decreased radionuclide activity between the anterior and middle cerebral arteries; the subsequent brain scans were normal. Both patients were shown to have porencephaly by isotope cisternography and computed tomography (CT) scans. When a focal avascular area is noted on cerebral dynamic scanning in the presence of normal static images, the possibility of a porencephalic cyst should be considered.
An elasto-plastic finite element analysis of the sheet metal stretch flanging process

The incremental updated Lagrangian elasto-plastic finite element method (FEM) was employed in this study to analyse the stretch flanging of circular plates with a pre-determined smaller hole at the centre of the sheet metal. An extended r min technique was employed such that each incremental step size is determined not only by the yielding of an element Gaussian point, but also by the change in the boundary condition along the tool-sheet interface. The experimental results, using a low-carbon (BA-CQ2) sheet plate with a thickness of 1.0 mm, have been obtained and compared with the corresponding theoretical results. It was found that the flange thickness does not always decrease monotonically from the die shoulder to the flange edge. Reducing the punch diameter and increasing the flange height significantly reduced the flange thickness. Web width does not influence the thickness distribution of the flange. The tendency of flange thickness to thin decreases as punch diameter increases. The reduction of thickness at the die shoulder depends on the die shoulder radius. Simulation results of punch load of stretch flanging, the deformed geometry, and the distribution of thickness are compared with experimental data and found to satisfactorily agree.
Review of ocular trauma

No Abstract. Keywords : trauma; the eye; ocular trauma Archives of Ibadan Medicine Vol. 7 (1) 2006: 46-50
Assistive technologies and autonomy in a cyborg world

This note discusses the use of cyborg theory to study assistive technology (AT) use by people with visual impairment (VI) in development contexts. We argue that the deep intimate interconnections that people form with their AT, while allowing them to become cyborgs, also become the means by which they can be regulated and controlled. This is a concern for ICTD, which strives to consider the instrumental outcomes of technology implementation as it is interwoven throughout people's lives. Applying Lessig's model of regulation to a cyborg body, we discuss the implications for protecting autonomy in AT use by people with visual impairment.
Resonance Enhancement of Two-Photon Absorption in Fluorescent Proteins

We measure two-photon absorption (2PA) spectra of wild-type green fluorescent protein, cyan fluorescent protein, and monomeric red fluorescent protein in absolute cross section values in a wide spectral range (lambda2PA = 550 - 1300 nm), and find, for the first time to our knowledge, a new S0 --> Sn 2PA transition in all three proteins in the short-wavelength region. This transition is strongly resonantly enhanced, showing 2PA cross section values of approximately 20-160 GM, which are at least 2-4 times higher than those measured in the lowest energy (S0 --> S1) transition of corresponding proteins. We also show that the change of permanent dipole moment upon S0 --> S1 excitation (|Deltamu10|) can be deduced from 2PA cross section, providing a new tool for fast evaluation of |Deltamu10| in physiological conditions.
Universality classes of Ising models

Abstract We discuss a transformation of Ising spins which maps a d -dimentional Ising problem into a series of different problems in the same universality class.
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1-mediated cell death in astrocytes requires NAD+ depletion and mitochondrial permeability transition.

Extensive activation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) by DNA damage is a major cause of caspase-independent cell death in ischemia and inflammation. Here we show that NAD+ depletion and mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) are sequential and necessary steps in PARP-1-mediated cell death. Cultured mouse astrocytes were treated with the cytotoxic concentrations of N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine or 3-morpholinosydnonimine to induce DNA damage and PARP-1 activation. The resulting cell death was preceded by NAD+ depletion, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and MPT. Sub-micromolar concentrations of cyclosporin A blocked MPT and cell death, suggesting that MPT is a necessary step linking PARP-1 activation to cell death. In astrocytes, extracellular NAD+ can raise intracellular NAD+ concentrations. To determine whether NAD+ depletion is necessary for PARP-1-induced MPT, NAD+ was restored to near-normal levels after PARP-1 activation. Restoration of NAD+ enabled the recovery of mitochondrial membrane potential and blocked both MPT and cell death. Furthermore, both cyclosporin A and NAD+ blocked translocation of the apoptosis-inducing factor from mitochondria to nuclei, a step previously shown necessary for PARP-1-induced cell death. These results suggest that NAD+ depletion and MPT are necessary intermediary steps linking PARP-1 activation to AIF translocation and cell death.
Local government involvement in national development planning; guidelines for project selection based upon Nigeria's Fourth Plan experience

This article is concerned with effective local government participation at the project selection stage in the development planning process. The context for analysis is Nigeria's first experience with local involvement in national planning. A novel evaluation scheme is elaborated and applied in assessing the proposals submitted by two local governments, Kaduna and Bauchi, for inclusion in the Fourth National Development Plan. The findings reveal serious distortions in both local development plans and demonstrate the utility of employing an uncomplicated multidimensional impact analysis scheme in the evaluation and selection of project proposals.
Fusing silicon wafers with low melting temperature glass

Abstract This paper describes research on a low-temperature technique for fusing two silicon wafers together. The work has focused on integrating the bonding process with MOS IC processing. A seal that is apparently hermetic is achieved at 450 °C between wafers which have gone through the individual processing steps needed to fabricate MOS capacitors and electrical leads through the sealed package. In order to use this process to bond at low temperature, the bonding surfaces must be smooth, clean, and phosphorus free.
Severe Hypercapnia in Critically Ill Adult Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a monogenetic autosomal recessive multi-organ disease affecting approximately 50,000 patients worldwide. Overall median survival is continually increasing but pulmonary disease remains the most common cause of death. Guidelines have been published in relation to the outpatient maintenance of lung health for CF patients and treatment of acute lung exacerbations but little information exists about the management of the critically ill CF patient. Invasive mechanical ventilation in CF patients with acute respiratory failure is associated with poor outcome and high mortality. Methods: Retrospective analysis of adult patients with CF who required endotracheal intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU). Results: Between the years 2003 - 2009, 14 adult patients with CF required endotracheal intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) of the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA. Eleven patients died in the MICU because of progressive respiratory failure and inability to liberate from mechanical ventilation. Seven individuals consistently manifested arterial partial pressures of carbon dioxide ( PaCO 2 ) greater than 20.00 kPa despite high levels of conventional modes of mechanical ventilation. Conclusion: Intubated CF patients with respiratory failure have a high mortality rate. Based on our experience, multiple factors contribute to severe hypercapnia and the effectiveness of conventional modes of mechanical ventilation in many of these patients is limited. doi:10.4021/jocmr612w
COSIM: a FORTRAN IV program for coconditional simulation

Abstract Recently, a computer algorithm was presented for joint estimation of random functions; this cokriging technique demonstrated the utility and increased accuracy obtained through best linear unbiased estimation based on auto- and cross-correlation. A worthwhile extension of cokriging is coconditional simulation, a technique whereby several nonconditionally simulated random functions are conditioned using cokriging. Although coconditional simulation can be performed, one random function at a time, using kriging, this can result in an incorrect portrayal of the cross-correlation between the simulated random functions. This is particularly true if one, or several variables is sampled sparsely. Coconditional simulation based on cokriging correctly reproduces variable cross-correlation independent of variable sampling density.
The solid state environment orchestrates embryonic development and tissue remodeling

The solid state environment orchestrates embryonic development and tissue remodeling. Cell interactions with extracellular matrix and with other cells play critical roles in morphogenesis during development and in tissue homeostasis and remodeling throughout life. Extracellular matrix is information-rich, not only because it is comprised of multifunctional structural ligands for cell surface adhesion receptors, but also because it contains peptide signaling factors, and proteinases and their inhibitors. The functions of these groups of molecules are extensively interrelated. In this review, three primary cell culture models are described that focus on adhesion receptors and their roles in complex aspects of morphogenesis and remodeling: the regulation of proteinase expression by fibronectin and integrins in synovial fibroblasts; the regulation of osteoblast differentiation and survival by fibronectin, and the regulation of trophoblast differentiation and invasion by integrins, cadherins and immunoglobulin family adhesion receptors.
Prolongation of RV-PA Conduit Life Span by Percutaneous Stent Implantation Intermediate-Term Results

Background Right ventricle–to–pulmonary artery (RV-PA) homografts and bioprosthetic conduits are commonly used to palliate various types of complex congenital heart disease. These conduits frequently develop progressive obstruction and require surgical replacement. This report reviews our experience implanting balloon-expandable stents to relieve conduit obstruction and delay reoperation. Methods and Results A retrospective review identified 44 patients who underwent placement of 48 stents in obstructed RV-PA conduits. Median patient age was 6.9 years (range, 7 months to 30 years), and median follow-up time was 14.2 months (range, 0 to 48 months). Stent implantation initially decreased the RV-PA pressure gradient from 61.0±16.9 to 29.7±11.9 mm Hg (P≤.001) and the right ventricular–to–systemic arterial pressure ratio from 0.92±0.17 to 0.63±0.20 (P≤.001). The diameter of the stenotic region expanded from 9.3±3.5 to 12.3±3.3 mm in the anteroposterior view (P≤.001) and from 6.6±2.9 to 10.9±2.5 mm in the later...
0005 Leading causes of child injury deaths in new york city

Statement of purpose The New York City (NYC) Child Fatality Review Advisory Team 2014 report characterises patterns of child injury deaths in NYC with a special focus on motor vehicle (MV)-related injuries. Methods/Approach Deaths among children aged 1–12yrs from 2003–2012 were identified from the NYC Bureau of Vital Statistics death records using the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) codes V01-Y34. Detailed information about MV-related deaths among children and youth aged 1–17yrs from 2009–2011 was abstracted from review of Office of Chief Medical Examiner files and the NYC Department of Transportation Traffic Fatality Database. We calculated descriptive statistics including counts, proportions, and age-specific rates. Distances between MV crash location and place of residence were measured in blocks using the shortest route street network. Results There were 438 injury deaths from 2003–2012 among children aged 1–12. Unintentional injury death rates were highest among boys, non-Hispanic black children, and children from very high poverty neighbourhoods. Intentional injury death rates (primarily homicides) were highest among children aged 1–2, non-Hispanic black children, and children from high and very high poverty neighbourhoods. The leading cause of injury death was MV-related injuries, followed by fire-related, suffocation, and falls. Of the 110 MV-related deaths, 71% (n = 78) were pedestrians. There were 48 MV-related deaths from 2009–2011 among children and youth aged 1–17. 65% were pedestrians, 23% MV passengers, 6% MV drivers, and 6% bicyclists. 33% of the child/youth pedestrian deaths occurred between the hours of 3PM to 8PM and 48% were struck by cars. Nearly two-thirds (61%) of the pedestrians were crossing midblock or against the traffic light at an intersection. Over one third (35%) of these pedestrians were hit by a motor vehicle within 2 city blocks of home, and almost two-thirds (61%) were within 10 city blocks of home. Conclusions MV-related injuries represent the leading cause of injury death among children aged 1–12, and within NYC the majority of these injury deaths are among pedestrians. Significance and contribution to the field We recommend continued efforts, such as those enabled by NYC’s Vision Zero initiative, to make walking, bicycling, driving, and riding in a motor-vehicle safer in NYC.
Whole-genome haplotyping by dilution, amplification, and sequencing

Standard whole-genome genotyping technologies are unable to determine haplotypes. Here we describe a method for rapid and cost-effective long-range haplotyping. Genomic DNA is diluted and distributed into multiple aliquots such that each aliquot receives a fraction of a haploid copy. The DNA template in each aliquot is amplified by multiple displacement amplification, converted into barcoded sequencing libraries using Nextera technology, and sequenced in multiplexed pools. To assess the performance of our method, we combined two male genomic DNA samples at equal ratios, resulting in a sample with diploid X chromosomes with known haplotypes. Pools of the multiplexed sequencing libraries were subjected to targeted pull-down of a 1-Mb contiguous region of the X-chromosome Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene. We were able to phase the Duchenne muscular dystrophy region into two contiguous haplotype blocks with a mean length of 494 kb. The haplotypes showed 99% agreement with the consensus base calls made by sequencing the individual DNAs. We subsequently used the strategy to haplotype two human genomes. Standard genomic sequencing to identify all heterozygous SNPs in the sample was combined with dilution-amplification–based sequencing data to resolve the phase of identified heterozygous SNPs. Using this procedure, we were able to phase >95% of the heterozygous SNPs from the diploid sequence data. The N50 for a Yoruba male DNA was 702 kb whereas the N50 for a European female DNA was 358 kb. Therefore, the strategy described here is suitable for haplotyping of a set of targeted regions as well as of the entire genome.
Variable collision cross-section effects on electrical conductivity.

Conductivity of potassium-seeded argon plasma, assuming variable collision cross sections and Maxwellian distribution for electrons
Modified Crawford Hook for Lacrimal Intubation

Abstract We have modified the Crawford hook to facilitate retrieval of the Crawford probe from the inferior meatus during lacrimal duct intubation. The modified hook allows better visualization of the probe during its retrieval from the nasal cavity
Quantitative ultrasonic detection and classification of diffuse liver disease. Comparison with human observer performance.

A multiparameter ultrasonic tissue characterization system has been developed and tested on several types of diffuse liver disease. The four tissue characterization parameters used are based on the first and second order statistics of the B-scan image. Performance of the system was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and was compared with the performance of experienced human observers viewing B-scan images. The machine-based multiparameter system achieved an area under the ROC curve (Az) of 0.88 for detection of chronic hepatitis in more than 100 proven cases of the disease. This was dramatically better than the performance of human observers (Az = .64, P less than .05) and compares favorably to the performance of other accepted diagnostic tests such as head CT and the PAP smear. For detection of Gaucher's disease, the Az for the system was .92, whereas for separating hepatitis from Gaucher's disease Az was .84. Human observers also did well at these tasks (P greater than .8) using organomegaly as their major criterion for diagnosing Gaucher's disease. For primary biliary cirrhosis the system Az was .80, for glycogen storage disease Az was .94. These results suggest that use of multiparameter tissue characterization can significantly increase the usefulness of ultrasound for evaluation of diffuse liver disease.
To stay or to leave? the role of attachment styles in communication patterns and potential termination of romantic relationships following discovery of deception

The present study investigated communication patterns and subsequent relational outcomes following romantic partners' deception for people with different attachment styles. Information on attachment styles, information importance of the lie, emotional intensity following discovery of the lie, communication patterns following the discovery of the lie, and relational termination outcomes of the 213 participants who reported being deceived by a relational partner were gathered. Analyses revealed that respondents with a secure attachment style were more likely to report talking about the issue, whereas anxious/ambivalents were more likely to report talking around and avoiding the issue. These two attachment groups reported being apt to continue their relationships. Conversely, respondents with an avoidant attachment style reported being more likely to avoid the person after discovery of the lie, and they tended to report terminating their romantic relationships more than the other two attachment style groups....
Effects on precise motor responding of bilateral 6-hydroxydopamine infusion into the substantia nigra

Publisher Summary This chapter elaborates effects on precise motor responding of bilateral 6-hydroxydopamine infusion into the substantia nigra (SN). Unilateral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the SN produces turning ipsilateral to the lesioned side. Intra-cerebrally administered 6-OHDA, using a vertical approach to the structure studied, possesses considerable nonspecific activity. Unilateral infusion into nucleus ruber of 8 μg 6-OHDA in 4 μl Ringer‘s-ascorbic acid solution produced within 48 h a complete loss of neuron somata on the injected side. The zone of destruction was approximately 2 mm in diameter. It is found that, although, this dose has been reported to produce selective degeneration of catecholamine neurons, the cell bodies of nucleus ruber contain neither dopamine nor noradrenaline. Bilateral administration of 8 μg/4 μl 6-OHDA into the SN produced almost complete loss of neuron somata in the zona compacta correlated with the production of catalepsy and rigidity. These data strongly suggest that specificity of neuron destruction can be obtained with 6-OHDA only to the extent that the drug is injected into brain regions which are neurochemical homogeneous.
IS2-IS2 and IS3-IS3 relative recombination frequencies in F integration.

Abstract The relative integrative recombination frequencies of the F plasmid IS 2 and IS 3 elements were determined at two Escherichia coli K-12 chromosomal sites by hybridization analysis of Hfr DNA. The sequence organizations of the independent Hfr strains formed by F integration atα 3 β 3 indicate that the relative recombinational frequencies at the two F plasmid IS 3 elementsα 1 β 1 and α 2 β 2 are not significantly different. A comparison of the relative recombinational frequencies of the IS 2 and IS 3 elements of F was provided by analysis of DNA from Hfr strains having F integrated betweenlacandproC (i.e., at the IS 2 or at the IS 3 element (α 5 β 5 ) located in this region). No instances of F integration atα 5 β 5 were detected, indicating that integrative recombination at IS 2 is significantly more frequent than at IS 3 in this chromosomal region.
Higgs mass bound on an F4 lattice

We present results from numerically simulating the scalar sector of the minimal standard model on an F4 lattice. This lattice obeys Lorentz invariance to a higher degree than hypercubic lattices previously used in this context. The major result of our study is that if one is willing to tolerate cutoff effects up to about 3% in the WL-WL scattering cross section the upper bound on the mass of the Higgs Boson in the simplest F4 model is 590 GeV with an error of about 60 GeV.
A Comparison of the Mechanical Behavior of the Cat Soleus Muscle With a Distribution-Moment Model

A state-variable model for skeletal muscle, termed the "Distribution-Moment Model," is derived from A. F. Huxley's 1957 model of molecular contraction dynamics. The state variables are the muscle stretch and the three lowest-order moments of the bond-distribution function (which represent, respectively, the contractile tissue stiffness, the muscle force, and the elastic energy stored in the contractile tissue). The rate equations of the model are solved under various conditions, and compared to experimental results for the cat soleus muscle subjected to constant stimulation. The model predicts several observed effects, including yielding of the muscle force in constant velocity stretches, different "force-velocity relations" in isotonic and isovelocity experiments, and a decrease of peak force below the isometric level in small-amplitude sinusoidal stretches. Chemical energy and heat rates predicted by the model are also presented.
Optical superresolution and visual hyperacuity

Classically, diffraction theory sets a boundary for the resolving capacity of optical instruments. Yet some visual thresholds have values much better than the traditional resolution limit. Recent developments in superresolution, an area of optical physics and engineering with claims of transcending the stated resolution limits of optical instruments, are reviewed and their possible relevance to visual spatial processing and to the exploration of the eye's structure are assessed. In optical or diffractive superresolution the transmitted spatial-frequency band is not so much extended as either multiplexed with or displaced into regions that are usually beyond reach, with no overall gain in information transfer because prior knowledge is used to make inferences of possible object structure from the image. The Uncertainty Principle for photon position and momentum is never disobeyed. The study of the neural substrate of visual hyperacuity does, however, overlap that of "geometrical superresolution," in which techniques are used for transcending limits imposed by the receptor lattice in analyzing fine image structure.
Does Commerce Clause Review Have Perverse Effects

There is a crucial empirical assumption that pervades the debate about federal judicial review of federal statutes under the affirmative Commerce Clause. The assumption, indulged by many different camps in the debate, is that Commerce Clause review decreases the centralization of policymaking by shifting policy authority to the states. This essay argues that, on equally plausible empirical assumptions, Commerce Clause review will in fact do just the opposite: it will promote the centralization of public policy at the national level by providing congressional coalitions with ex ante incentives to legislate more broadly, and to create national programs that are more comprehensive, than they would otherwise choose. So those who favor Commerce Clause review because they favor decentralization have chosen a course of action with potentially perverse effects. The essay concludes by examining how the possibility of perverse effects should affect the decisional calculus of judges in each of the various camps.
Toroid cavity detectors for high-resolution NMR spectroscopy and rotating frame imaging: capabilities and limitations.

Abstract The capabilities of toroid cavity detectors for simultaneous rotating frame imaging and NMR spectroscopy have been investigated by means of experiments and computer simulations. The following problems are described: (a) magnetic field inhomogeneity and subsequent loss of chemical shift resolution resulting from bulk magnetic susceptibility effects, (b) image distortions resulting from off-resonance excitation and saturation effects, and (c) distortion of lineshapes and images resulting from radiation damping. Also, special features of signal analysis including truncation effects and the propagation of noise are discussed. B0 inhomogeneity resulting from susceptibility mismatch is a serious problem for applications requiring high spectral resolution. Image distortions resulting from off-resonance excitation are not serious within the rather narrow spectral range permitted by the RF pulse lengths required to read out the image. Incomplete relaxation effects are easily recognized and can be avoided. Also, radiation damping produces unexpectedly small effects because of self-cancellation of magnetization and short free induction decay times. The results are encouraging, but with present designs only modest spectral resolution can be achieved.
Striated Nozzle Flow with Small Radius of Curvature Ratio Throats

A theory is presented that makes it possible to apply one-dimensional techniques to compressible striated nozzle flow with small radius of curvature ratio throats. The throat plane solution is shown to approximate the two-dimensional axisymmetric flowfield and can be used for analyzing the throat plane in converging-diverging type nozzles with striated flow for radius of curvature throat ratios down to 0.25.
A fast, accurate approximation to log likelihood of Gaussian mixture models

It has been a common practice in speech recognition and elsewhere to approximate the log likelihood of a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) with the maximum component log likelihood. While often a computational necessity, the max approximation comes at a price of inferior modeling when the Gaussian components significantly overlap. This paper shows how the approximation error can be reduced by changing component priors. In our experiments the loss in word error rate due to max approximation, albeit small, is reduced by 50–100% at no cost in computational efficiency. Furthermore, we expect acoustic models will become larger with time and increase component overlap and word error rate loss. This makes reducing the approximation error more relevant. The techniques considered do not use the original data and can easily be applied as a post-processing step to any GMM.
Back to Sleep: Can We Influence Child Care Providers?

Objective. Despite the fact that 20% of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) deaths occur in child care settings, many child care providers continue to be unaware of the association of SIDS and infant sleep position and/or are misinformed as to the risks and benefits of the various sleep positions. The objective of this study was to determine whether an educational program for child care providers regarding SIDS and safe sleep environment is effective in 1) providing basic information and understanding regarding SIDS risk reduction practices, 2) changing child care provider behavior, and 3) promoting development of written sleep position policies. Methods. We designed a 60-minute educational in-service for child care providers, to be led by a trained health educator. All providers who attended the in-service were asked to complete surveys before and after the in-service. Surveys assessed provider knowledge, beliefs, and practices. A 6-month follow-up interview was conducted with child care centers that had providers participating in the in-service. Results. A total of 96 child care providers attended the educational in-service. Providers who were using the supine position exclusively increased from 44.8% to 78.1%. This change in behavior was sustained, with 85% of centers placing infants exclusively supine 6 months after the intervention. Awareness of the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation of supine as the preferred position for infants increased from 47.9% to 78.1%, and 67.7% of centers continued to recognize supine as the recommended position 6 months later. The percentage of centers that reported written sleep position policies increased from 18.8% to 44.4%. Conclusions. A targeted educational in-service for child care providers is effective in increasing awareness and knowledge, changing child care provider behavior, and promoting development of written sleep position policies. This change is sustained over at least a 6-month period.
An approach to animating sign language: a spoken English to sign English translator system

It has been one of our long-standing commitments to aid the social integration of the deaf community into the mainstream of society. One such means to this end is the development of assistive techniques to automatically translate sign language. This paper discusses a technique for translating English into its visual counterpart, Signed English. Such an endeavor requires the creation of an application that has the ability to take written or spoken language and generate an animated gesture sequence representative of its content. This application consists of three main portions: a means by which English language can be input into the system, an algorithm that analyses the input and provides correlating kinematic data to an animation process, and a virtual avatar that acts as an interpreter conveying the information.
Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression

Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression is the most common dose-limiting and potentially fatal complication of cancer treatment. Prior attempts to lessen chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression have been minimally effective. The new hematopoietic growth factors show promise, especially for patients requiring intensely myelotoxic chemotherapy. However, a cautious approach should be used with growth factors because their clinical uses and how best to apply each use needs to be defined.
RAPID for high-performance computing systems: Architecture and performance evaluation

The limited bandwidth and the increase in power dissipation at longer communication distances and higher bit rates will create a major communication bottleneck in high-performance computing systems (HPCS), affecting not only their performance, but also their scalability. As a solution, we propose an optical-interconnect-based architecture for HPCS called reconfigurable all-photonic interconnect for parallel and distributed systems (RAPID) that alleviates the bandwidth density, optimizes power consumption, and enhances scalability. We also present two cost-effective design alternatives of the architecture, a modified version called M-RAPID and an extended version called E-RAPID that minimizes the cost of the interconnect based on the number of transmitters required. We perform a detailed simulation of the proposed RAPID architecture and compare it to several electrical HPCS interconnects. Based on the performance study, RAPID architecture shows 30%-50% increased throughput and 50%-75% reduced network latency as compared to HPCS electrical networks.
Effects of Joint Vibrational States on Thermal Boundary Conductance

The accuracy of predictions of the thermal boundary conductance (hBD ) made using traditional models such as the diffuse mismatch model (DMM) varies depending on the types of material comprising the interface. At interfaces of materials with very different material properties, the discrepancy between the measured hBD and the DMM results has been associated with inelastic scattering. In this study, a new model, the joint frequency diffuse mismatch model (JFDMM), is derived under the assumption that the phonon flux approaching the interface is altered by phonons vibrating at joint frequencies around the interface affected by phonons on both sides of the interface. This model yields improved hBD predictions for a wide range of materials over a temperature range of several 100s of Kelvin, indicating that at these temperatures, substrate phonons are participating in interfacial thermal transport.
The Perpetual Flame Of Curiousity

As I start writing this letter to you, I realize what a challenging task it is to write to those who have chosen the same path in life as I did: teaching! I find the writing of this letter challenging for several reasons: (a) I do not want it to become just words on a piece of paper; (b) I want it to be a fun, but thoughtprovoking, letter that can also challenge you as you read my ideas; (c) I want it to spark your curiosity for the teaching profession as I reveal to you the passion that has kept me in the teaching profession for more than 20 years.
Coherence and Coulomb effects on pion interferometry.

The effects of coherence and final-state Coulomb interactions on the Bose-Einstein correlations of identical particles are studied. It is shown that these corrections can be important, reducing the apparent source size by 20%. Coherence effects are shown to significantly reduce the coherence parameters for small sources. Other causes of correlation are also discussed.
NSAID therapy effects on healing of bone, tendon, and the enthesis

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for the treatment of skeletal injuries. The ability of NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation is well-established. However, the effects of NSAID therapy on healing of skeletal injuries is less defined. NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase activity to reduce synthesis of prostaglandins, which are proinflammatory, lipid-signaling molecules. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase activity can impact many physiological processes. The effects of NSAID therapy on healing of bone, tendon, and the tendon-to-bone junction (enthesis) have been studied in animal and cell culture models, but human studies are few. Use of different NSAIDs with different pharmacological properties, differences in dosing regimens, and differences in study models and outcome measures have complicated comparisons between studies. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms by which bone, tendon, and enthesis healing occurs, and describe the effects of NSAID therapy on each of these processes. Determining the impact of NSAID therapy on healing of skeletal tissues will enable clinicians to appropriately manage the patient's condition and improve healing outcomes.
Rethinking learning: comments on Rethinking innateness.

In his review of Rethinking innateness (Elman, Bates, Johnson, Karmiloff-Smith, Parisi & Plunkett, 1996; henceforth, RI), Rispoli (this volume) comments favourably on the dynamical change models presented in RI's Chapter 4. I think a more critical stance is warranted. In particular, I will argue that dynamical change models cannot in principle make reference to mental representation, that the models are stipulative, and that they fail as descriptions of behaviour. (For more extensive discussion, see Valian, in press.) The relation between dynamical change models and connectionist networks is not spelled out in RI, so it is not clear which of the criticisms that I direct at dynamical change models also hold for connectionist models.
Klinische Studien zur Funktions-TCD und zur Emboliedetektion

Wahrend vor Einfuhrung der transkraniellen Dopplersonographie intrakranielle Gefasstenosen lediglich indirekt — beispielsweise uber einen erhohten Gosling-Widerstandsindex bei Beschallung der extrakraniellen Gefase — vermutet werden konnten, ermoglichte die TCD den Nachweis umschriebener Beschleunigungen der Blutflusgeschwindigkeit (CBFV) in den grosen basalen Hirnarterien mit Veranderungen des Frequenzspektrums, so das es moglich war, die Verdachtsdiagnose intrakranieller Stenosen mittels TCD direkt zu stellen. Zu den diagnostischen Kriterien fur eine Lumeneinengung von mehr als 50% zahlen in Analogie zur extrakraniellen Dopplersonographie: die umschriebene Zunahme der mittleren und systolischen Stromungsgeschwindigkeit Verschiebung des Frequenzspektrums in den niederfrequenten Bereich mit Refluxphanomenen und Lokalisation der Stromungsbeschleunigung auserhalb der Verbindungsarterien (A. communicans anterior, A. communicans posterior) bei Kranken mit hamodynamisch relevanten extrakraniellen Stromungsbehinderungen.
Quality of life in ovarian cancer.

BackgroundOvarian cancer and its management interventions can produce significant impairments in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). These effects have been studied in both localized and advanced disease settings.MethodsThe authors assessed research reports that focus on the evaluation of HRQOL in patients with ovarian cancer in order to describe the findings and to suggest approaches that might maintain or maximize the quality of life in these patients.ResultsEvaluation of quality of life and functional impairment can include consideration of several issues such as the effects of the disease and its treatments on symptomatology, systemic therapy effects, the balance between life-prolonging but toxic protocols, and the sexual, psychosocial, social, and financial effects of treatment. The Gynecologic Oncology Group is actively studying these issues in its protocols.ConclusionsHRQOL evaluation is a valuable measure in optimizing care of patients with ovarian cancer, but more research is needed to make s...
Towards a Speech BCI Using ECoG

Electrocorticography (ECoG) has emerged as a new signal platform for brain–computer interface (BCI) systems. Classically, the cortical physiology that has been commonly investigated and utilized for device control in humans has been brain signals from sensorimotor cortex. More recently, speech networks have emerged as a new neurophysiological substrate that could be used to both further improve on or complement existing motor-based control paradigms as well as expand BCI techniques to new clinical populations. We review the emerging literature associated with the scientific, clinical, and technical findings that provide the motivation and capability for speech-based BCIs.
Blasted: integrating biology and computation

Reports such as Bio 2010: Transforming Undergraduate Education for Future Biology Researchers [8] detail the necessity of equipping today's science students with interdisciplinary skills, especially with regard to computing. But as 2010 approaches, the science education at many institutions remains far from the computational goals of Bio 2010. BlastEd is an educational website taking aim at this problem. The site explores BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool), a computational tool for comparing genetic sequences. By providing (1) the relevant background information on genetics and algorithms, and (2) a Java applet that illustrates key elements of the BLAST algorithm, biology students are introduced to important issues in computational thinking and computer science students are introduced to a real-world biological application. Finally, BlastEd provides a model for how to teach natural scientists about computing and how to teach computer scientists about science.
Using snacks high in fat and protein to improve glucoregulatory function in adolescent male marmosets (Callithrix jacchus).

The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), a laboratory nonhuman primate, is a well-known model of several human diseases and conditions, but the nutritional needs of these animals are not fully understood. Here we describe a 4-mo controlled study in which we increased the dietary fat and protein of subadult male common marmosets by using healthy snacks. Six male marmosets received their normal diet (control), and an additional 6 were given their normal diet supplemented daily with a 14-kcal snack. Cashews and waxworms were used as the snack, given their high-fat content. Although body weight did not differ between the 2 groups, only control male marmosets showed increased chest circumferences over the course of the study. Glucoregulatory function remained consistent in the snack-fed marmosets, whereas control animals had progressed toward higher insulin. Other indices of glucoregulation indicated significant differences in adiponectin and the cortisol:cortisone ratio between the 2 groups, but no differences in lipid concentration were detected. Therefore, the most notable difference attributable to the snack feeding was improved glucoregulation. Because the snacks we used had a high proportion of unsaturated compared with saturated fat, we suggest that these healthy high-fat–high-protein snacks provide an important contribution to the nutrition of this laboratory species. This study also demonstrates the utility of marmosets as a model for understanding the implications of dietary fats in humans.
Jackson, John H. Restructuring the GATT System. New York: Council on Foreign Relations Press, 1990, vi + 121 pp., $14.95

Part 1 The defective constitution of GATT: the history and perspective of GATT the GATT "constitution" trade negotiations - implications of the Uruguay round. Part 2 Perspectives on international economic institutions: the jurisprudence of a GATT "constitution" rule application and dispute settlement membership - selective or universal approach?. Part 3 A new constitution for world trade: reforming the GATT system.
Ureteral Reconstruction Utilizing Robotic-Assisted Techniques

The role of robotics in urology has expanded dramatically over the last decade. This technology is especially useful for upper tract urinary reconstruction, which often necessitates intricate surgical manipulation. Advantages of robotic systems allow surgical maneuvers to be performed with extreme control and visualization, while still adhering to the basic tenets of open surgical technique, without the same morbidity.
Transformation of Adult Schwann Cells Into Macrophages.

Conclusions(1) The adult Schwann cell is capable of a wide range of modulation in the course of which it can assume numerous shapes and characters often associated in neuropathology with distinct c...
Is Mid-trimester Insulin Resistance Predictive of Subsequent Puerperal Infection? A Secondary Analysis of Randomized Trial Data

Objective The objective of this study was to examine whether there is an association between insulin resistance and subsequent development of puerperal infection by measuring insulin resistance in the mid-trimester using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA:IR). Methods Secondary analysis of low-risk nulliparas enrolled in a multicenter preeclampsia prevention trial. HOMA:IR was measured on fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations among low-risk nulliparas between 22 and 26 weeks' gestation. Median HOMA:IR was compared between women who did and did not develop puerperal infection using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Logistic regression was used to control for potential confounders. Results Of 1,180 women with fasting glucose and insulin available, 121 (10.3%) had a puerperal infection. Median HOMA:IR was higher among those with subsequent puerperal infection (4.3 [interquartile, IQR: 2.2–20.5] vs. 2.6 [IQR: 1.5–6.7], p p = 0.04) per unit increase. Elevated HOMA:IR performed poorly as a predictor of puerperal infection, with a positive predictive value of 15% and a negative predictive value of 92%. Conclusion Though associated with an increased risk of puerperal infection, insulin resistance, measured by HOMA:IR, is not a clinically useful predictor of puerperal infection.
GIBBER: LIVE CODING AUDIO IN THE BROWSER

We present Gibber: a live coding environment for web browsers. Gibber performances are written in pure JavaScript with no syntactical additions or modifications; this enables Gibber code to be executed in any web page viewed inside a browser implementing a realtime audio API. Gibber offers an array of synthesis options (FM, granular, subtractive, physical modeling), audio effects and sequencing objects to control them. The Gibber environment enables simple networked performances where multiple users simultaneously control a remote instance of Gibber. We strove to make the syntax of Gibber clear and concise; when coupled with the ability to run examples in any web page this gives Gibber interesting possibilities as an educational tool.
Anatomic Surgical Approaches to Peripheral Nerves

With the advent of more extensive nerve injuries resulting from the World War II conflict, new incisions and surgical approaches were developed in order to provide more direct surgical approach to peripheral nerves with adequate exposure, avoidance of injury to other sturctures, bridging of extensive gaps, and prevention of contracture scars. Surgical anatomy and incisions used in repair of specific nerves in both the upper and lower extremities are illustrated.