cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An empirical stress-intensity factor equation for the surface crack

This paper presents an empirical stress-intensity factor equation for a surface crack as a function of parametric angle, crack depth, crack length, plate thickness and plate width for tension and bending loads. The stress-intensity factors used to develop the equation were obtained from a previous three-dimensional, finite-element analysis of semielliptical surface cracks in finite elastic plates subjected to tension or bending loads. A wide range of configuration parameters was included in the equation. The ratios of crack length to plate thickness and the ratios of crack depth to crack length ranged from 0 to 1.0. The effects of plate width on stress-intensity variations along the crack front were also included. The equation was used to predict patterns of surface-crack growth under tension or bending fatigue loads. The equation was also used to correlate surface-crack fracture data for a brittle epoxy material within + or - 10 percent for a wide range of crack shapes and crack sizes.
Study on Control Algorithm of Tail Fin flaping of Robofish

Flipping control of the tail fin with two degrees, which is drived by two DC servo motors, is a problem of motion control in the condition of high speed and heavy load. It demands that there be no distortion of transformation of speed and position synchronously. Based on the SPC-III robot fish, a math model used for flipping control is deduced according to the rule of tail fin flipping. In terms of the control of main joint, the algorithm, which computes the rotational speed according to its swaying angle and adds compensative speed combining the relation of its swaying angle and time variable, is put forward. In terms of the control of assistant joint, the following algorithm, which computes the target swaying angle of assistant joint according to the relation of the two joints' swaying angle position and the cycle period of the program, is put forward. The implementation of high-frequency flipping is discussed. During the experimentation, the following performance of tail fin flipping is validated.
Quantum cascade laser sensors for online gas chromatography

We show that QC laser could improve capillary Gas Chromatography Infrared spectroscopy resolution significantly, i.e. both Doppler limited and Doppler free resolution could be achieved. To achieve these goals, we report our latest efforts in characterizing the tuning and noise properties of Quantum Cascade (QC) lasers; novel schemes on modulation to gain largest tuning range as well as on stabilizing and locking the QC lasers are proposed, and results presented.
Ambulante Operationen am oberen und unteren Sprunggelenk

Summary With the increase in specialization and the growing number of minimally invasive surgical procedures, there is also an increase of operations in out-patient settings. The ankle joint with a wide range of arthroscopic procedures deserves our special attention to define the limits of possible outpatient operations. The imminent change of the German health system is also taken into consideration. Under special consideration and review of the current literature, this article gives guidelines for ambulatory surgery at present and shows possible trends for the future.
Fourier Domain OCT at 840 nm Utilizing a Linear k Spectrometer

This work describes a novel Fourier domain OCT equipped with linear wave number spectrometer at 840 nm. The linear k spectrometer eliminates the computing time of the interpolation and improves the fall-off of FDOCT image.
Maximizing fluorescence collection efficiency in multiphoton microscopy.

Understanding fluorescence propagation through a multiphoton microscope is of critical importance in designing high performance systems capable of deep tissue imaging. Optical models of a scattering tissue sample and the Olympus 20X 0.95NA microscope objective were used to simulate fluorescence propagation as a function of imaging depth for physiologically relevant scattering parameters. The spatio-angular distribution of fluorescence at the objective back aperture derived from these simulations was used to design a simple, maximally efficient post-objective fluorescence collection system. Monte Carlo simulations corroborated by data from experimental tissue phantoms demonstrate collection efficiency improvements of 50% – 90% over conventional, non-optimized fluorescence collection geometries at large imaging depths. Imaging performance was verified by imaging layer V neurons in mouse cortex to a depth of 850 μm.
Comparison of in-hospital and one-year outcomes in patients with and without diabetes mellitus undergoing percutaneous catheter intervention (from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Dynamic Registry) ☆

Extrapolation of improvements in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and outcomes to patients with diabetes has not been systematically examined in clinical practice. Two waves of consecutive patients (n = 4,629) who underwent PCI from July 1997 to June 1999 enrolled in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Dynamic Registry comprise the study population. There were 1,058 patients with treated diabetes and 3,571 patients without clinically evident diabetes. As a group, patients with diabetes tended to have more clinical, angiographic, and procedural risk factors. Although crude in-hospital mortality rates were higher in patients with diabetes (diabetics 2.3%, nondiabetics 1.3%; p = 0.02), the adjusted risk of in-hospital death (odds ratio 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.80 to 2.66) was not significantly different. At 1 year, patients with diabetes had a significantly higher adjusted risk of mortality (risk ratio [RR] 1.80, 95% CI 1.35 to 2.41) and need for repeat revascularization (RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.74). There was a significant interaction between stent use and diabetic status with the need for repeat revascularization (adjusted RR in nondiabetics 0.73, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.88; adjusted RR in patients with diabetes 1.20, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.65). Beta blockers at the time of hospital discharge were significantly associated with reduced mortality rates at 1 year in both groups.
Efficacy of diclofenac in ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a systemic rheumatic disorder characterized by inflammation of the spine, sacroiliac, and large peripheral joints. Effective management demands both immediate and long-term objectives. The physician must first relieve joint inflammation and discomfort with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, then begin long-range planning with daily exercise and other supportive measures to prevent, delay, or correct deformity. Diclofenac sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is used worldwide in ankylosing spondylitis, has not yet been marketed in the United States. This article highlights two American studies with diclofenac: (1) a short-term, double-blind comparison with indomethacin, and (2) a 38-week extension with diclofenac for long-term efficacy and safety data. The results of these trials demonstrate diclofenac to be effective and safe for both short- and long-term treatment. When compared with indomethacin, a standard reference drug in trials of ankylosing spondylitis, diclofenac was comparable in efficacy but had a more favorable side-effect profile.
Economic, organizational, and political influences on biases in forecasting state sales tax receipts

Abstract This paper investigates factors influencing fixed bias in forecasting state sales taxes revenues. By extending an existing model used to explain forecast accuracy to include a series of complex interactions related to the potential political and policy use of revenue forecasts, the paper extends our understanding of the forecasting process in government. Exploratory empirical analysis based on survey data is used to provide evidence that bias in forecasting results, at least in part, from political and policy manipulation. There is also evidence that institutional reforms associated with ‘good management’ practices affect forecast bias, but in complex ways depending upon the extent to which political competition exists within the state.
Avulsion fracture of the extensor carpi radialis brevis insertion

7. Vahvanen V, Viljakka T. Silicone rubber implant arthroplasty of the metacarpophalangeal joint in rheumatoid arthritis: a follow-up study of 32 patients. J HAND SURG 1986;l lA:333-9. 8. Madden JW, De Vore G, Arem AJ. A rational postoperative management program for metacarpophalangeal implant arthroplasty. J HAND SURG 1977;2:358-66. 9. Flatt AE. The care of the rheumatoid hand. 4th ed. St. Louis: CV Mosby, 1983:277. 10. Wood VE, Ichtertz DR, Yahiku H. Soft tissue metacarpophalangeal reconstruction for treatment of rheumatoid hand deformity. J HAND SURG 1989;14A:l63-74. 11. Ellison MR, Flatt AE, Kelly KJ. Ulnar drift of the fingers in rheumatoid disease: treatment by crossed intrinsic transfer. J Bone Joint Surg 1971;53A:1061-82. 12. Gschwend N, Zimmermann J. Analyse von IZOOMCPArthroplastiken. Hand Chirugie 1974;6:7-14. 13. Beckenbaugh RD, Dobyns JH, Linscheid RL, et al. Review and analysis of silicone rubber metacarpophalangeal implants. J Bone Joint Surg 1976;58A:483-7. 14. Bieber EJ, Weiland AJ, Valence-Dowling S. Silicone rubber implant arthroplasty of the metacarpophalangeal joint for rheumatoid arthritis. J Bone Joint Surg 1986;68A:206-9. 15. Swanson AB. Flexible implant arthroplasty for arthritic finger joints: rationale, technique, and results of treatment. J Bone Joint Surg 1972;45A:435-55. 16. Swanson AB, Swanson GDG. Joint replacement in the metacarpophalangeal joint. In: Inglis AE, ed. Symposium on total joint replacement in the upper extremity. St. Louis: CV Mosby, 1982:217-37. 17. Hagert GG. Metacarpophalangeal joint implant. I. Roentgenographic study of the Silastic finger joint implant, Swanson design. Stand J Plast Reconstr Surg 1975;9:147-57. 18. McMaster M. The natural history of the rheumatoid metacarpophalangeal joint. J Bone Joint Surg 1972;54B:68797.
Trajectories of dynamic predictors of disorder: Their meanings and implications

Developmental psychopathologists are increasingly focused on characterizing heterogeneity of trajectories of psychological disorders across the life course (e.g., developmentally limited vs. chronic forms of disorder). Although the developmental significance of trajectories has been highlighted, there has been little attention to relations between trajectories and their etiologically and clinically relevant time-varying covariates (dynamic predictors). Depending upon the functional relation between a disorder and a dynamic predictor, we expect to see different trajectories of dynamic predictors. Thus, we propose a taxonomy of trajectories of dynamic predictors of course of disorder and provide an initial investigation into its validity. Using a mixed-gender, high-risk sample of young adults followed over 7 years, we identified dynamic predictors that covary with the course of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Based on a logically derived classification to facilitate interpretation of findings, three comparison groups were examined: persons whose AUD "remitted" (n = 33), those with a chronic AUD (n = 29), and nondiagnosers (n = 274). We hypothesized seven patterns of dynamic prediction (stable vulnerability indicators, course trackers, deterioration markers, developmentally specific variables, developmental lag markers, course-referenced variables, and recovery behaviors) and found evidence for five of them. The interpretation of markers of risk for development and course of AUDs and their implications for prevention, early intervention and formal/self-change treatments are discussed.
Comorbid disorders in hospitalized bipolar adolescents compared with unipolar depressed adolescents

This study examined comorbid psychiatric disorders in adolescents with bipolar disorder. Hospitalized bipolar adolescents (N=10) were compared to hospitalized adolescents with unipolar depression (N=33), and to adolescents with nonaffective psychiatric disorders (N=11). Results showed conduct disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, psychosis, and having any DSM-III-R psychoactive substance use disorder were all significantly more common in the bipolar group than the unipolar depressed group. Comorbid anxiety disorder was present in 40–45% of the subjects in the unipolar and bipolar groups, but in none of the control group subjects.
National maps of the effects of particulate matter on mortality: Exploring geographical variation

In this paper, we present national maps of relative rates of mortality associated with short-term exposure to particulate matter < 10 micro m in aerodynamic diameter (PM(10)). We report results for 88 of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States from 1987 to 1994 for all-cause mortality, combined cardiovascular and respiratory deaths, and other causes of mortality. Maximum likelihood estimates of the relative rate of mortality associated with PM(10)and the degree of statistical uncertainty were obtained for each of the 88 cities by fitting a separate log-linear regression of the daily mortality rate on air pollution level and potential confounders. We obtained Bayesian estimates of the relative rates by fitting a hierarchical model that takes into account spatial correlation among the true city-specific relative rates. We found that daily variations of PM(10) are positively associated with daily variations of mortality. In particular, the relative rate estimates of cardiovascular and respiratory mortality associated with PM(10) are larger on average than the relative rate estimates of all-cause and other-cause mortality. The estimated increase in the relative rate of death from cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, all-cause mortality, and other-cause mortality were 0.31% (95% posterior interval, 0.15-0.5), 0.22% (95% posterior interval, 0.1-0.38), and 0.13% (95% posterior interval, -0.05 to 0.29), respectively. Bayesian estimates of the city-specific relative rates ranged from 0.23% to 0.35% for cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, from 0.18% to 0.27% for all causes, and from 0.10% to 0.20% for other causes of mortality. The spatial characterization of effects across cities offers the potential to identify factors that could influence the effect of PM(10) on health, including particle characteristics, offering insights into mechanisms by which PM(10) causes adverse health effects.
Studies of the Adsorption of Bi- and Tridentate Isocyanides on Gold Powder

Diffuse reflectance Fourier transform spectroscopic (DRIFTS) studies of diisocyanides [C⋮N−(CH2)x−N⋮C, where x = 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12; m- and p-xylyl(NC)2, xylyl = −CH2−C6H4−CH2−] and triisocyanides [1,1,1-tris(isocyanomethyl)ethane (Tripod(NC)3) and tris[2-isocyanoethyl]amine (Tren(NC)3)] adsorbed on gold (Au) powder show that all of their −NC groups are coordinated to the surface. The ν(NC) values (cm-1) for the adsorbed ligands are ∼2220 cm-1, which indicates that each of the −NC groups is bound through the carbon to a single Au atom. The saturation coverages (n1s) for the diisocyanides decrease as the linking −(CH2)x− group lengthens from x = 2 to x = 12. At saturation coverage, the number of moles of −N⋮C groups coordinated for C12(NC)2 is similar to that for the monoisocyanide n-C18H37NC, whereas twice as many −NC groups are adsorbed for C2(NC)2 than n-C18H37NC. Qualitative kinetic measurements show that all of the monoisocyanide n-C18H37NC adsorbed on Au powder is displaced by C4(NC)2 within 90 min. ...
Mitochondrial Heteroplasmy and Paternal Leakage in Natural Populations of Silene vulgaris, a Gynodioecious Plant

It is currently thought that most angiosperms transmit their mitochondrial genomes maternally. Maternal transmission limits opportunities for genetic heterogeneity (heteroplasmy) of the mitochondrial genome within individuals. Recent studies of the gynodioecious species Silene vulgaris and Silene acaulis, however, document both direct and indirect evidence of mitochondrial heteroplasmy, suggesting that the mitochondrial genome is at times transmitted via paternal leakage. This heteroplasmy allows the generation of multi-locus recombinants, as documented in recent studies of both species. A prior study that employed quantitative PCR (q-PCR) on a limited sample provided direct evidence of heteroplasmy in the mitochondrial gene atp1 in S. vulgaris. Here, we apply the q-PCR methods to a much larger sample and extend them to incorporate the study of an additional atp1 haplotype along with two other haplotypes of the mitochondrial gene cox1 to evaluate the origin, extent, and transmission of mitochondrial genome heteroplasmy in S. vulgaris. We first calibrate our q-PCR methods experimentally and then use them to quantify heteroplasmy in 408 S. vulgaris individuals sampled from 22 natural populations located in Virginia, New York, and Tennessee. Sixty-one individuals exhibit heteroplasmy, including five that exhibited the joint heteroplasmy at both loci that is a prerequisite for effective recombination. The heteroplasmic individuals were distributed among 18 of the populations studied, demonstrating that heteroplasmy is a widespread phenomenon in this species. Further, we compare mother and offspring from 71 families to determine the rate of heteroplasmy gained and lost via paternal leakage and vegetative sorting across generations. Of 17 sibships exhibiting cox1 heteroplasmy and 14 sibships exhibiting atp1 heteroplasmy, more than half of the observations of heteroplasmy are generated via paternal leakage at the time of fertilization, with the rest being inherited from a heteroplasmic mother. Moreover, we show that the average paternal contribution during paternal leakage is about 12%. These findings are surprising, given that the current understanding of gynodioecy assumes that mitochondrial cytoplasmic male sterility elements are strictly maternally inherited. Knowledge of the dynamics of mitochondrial populations within individuals plays an important role in understanding the evolution of gynodioecy, and we discuss our findings within this context.
CT perfusion in acute stroke: Know the mimics, potential pitfalls, artifacts, and technical errors

The CT perfusion (CTP) imaging of brain has been established as a clinically useful tool in multimodality imaging of acute stroke. All abnormalities seen on perfusion CT are not specifically related to acute infarct. There are many neurologic diseases causing symptoms simulating cerebrovascular disease produce an alteration of brain perfusion and thus can result in perfusion CT abnormalities. There are many pitfalls and artifacts in acquiring the data, calculation of maps and choosing arterial input function. We analyze and classify all these aspects, to allow the technician and the radiologist to know exactly what to avoid and what to choose, and we indicate the way to improve the quality of examination. The knowledge of mimics and pitfalls in acute stroke imaging can be helpful in accurate interpretation of these examinations.
Congenital extrinsic obstruction of the duodenojejunal junction

Abstract Congenital extrinsic obstruction of the duodenojejunal junction is one of the overlooked causes for duodenal obstruction in infancy and childhood. This entity is described in terms of its probable anatomic predisposition via a narrow attachment of the ligament of Treitz to the duodenojejunal junction, producing acute obstructive angulation. A caudad approach to the duodenum is recommended for precise diagnosis, allowing safe correction by simple lysis of adhesions.
Assessing the Salting-Out Behavior of Nitrobenzene, 2-Nitrotoluene, and 3-Nitrotoluene from Solubility Values in Pure Water and Seawater at Temperatures between (277 and 314) K

The salting-out behavior of nitrobenzene (NB), 2-nitrotoluene (2-NT), and 3-nitrotoluene (3-NT) was determined from solubility measurements in pure water and seawater with ionic strengths = (0.1662, 0.3352, 0.5071, and 0.6820) mol·L−1 at temperatures between (277 and 314) K. For all compounds tested, the solubility increased with increasing temperature. Solubility values in pure water compare well with previously reported values. As the ionic strength of the solution increased, the solubility of the organic compounds decreased. The average salting-out coefficients for NB, 2-NT, and 3-NT were (0.12, 0.14, and 0.14) L·mol−1, respectively, which are consistent with measurements for other nitroaromatic compounds. Over the temperature range examined, the salting-out coefficients did not vary significantly.
Calculation of phase equilibrium in mineral-melt systems

Abstract This paper presents a general method for the calculation of mineral-melt phase equilibria based on mass balance, stoichiometry, and single component distribution coefficients. An algorithm for the practical application of this method is developed, and a computer program using this algorithm for calculation of phase stability, phase proportions, and phase composition has been included. The program includes both equilibrium and fractional models for melting and crystallization. This particular implementation incorporates a specific distribution coefficient model for olivine, plagioclase, and clinopyroxene crystallization in basaltic systems. Calculated results from the program agree with those from experiments on terrestrial basaltic compositions. The program has been designed to be modified easily to incorporate other distribution coefficient models for detailed application to specific data sets. In this way, the program should be able to be applied to diverse compositions, phase assemblages, and physical processes of crystal/liquid interaction. In general, the algorithm and its implementation provide a practical method for calculating equilibria in multicomponent, mineral-melt systems.
Prophylaxis of eclamptic seizures: current controversies

Treatment of this pathophysiologically poorly understood disease is controversial. Despite this uncertainty, the goals of management of the patient with preeclampsia and eclampsia are diagnosis, stabilization, and delivery of the baby. Stabilization refers to both mother and fetus and should include the prevention of eclampsia or the recurrence of eclamptic seizures. There are empiric data supporting the use of magnesium sulfate for the management of preeclampsia and eclampsia in North America, but there are few data to support its efficacy as a classic anticonvulsant. Until controlled trials are completed, we suggest that magnesium sulfate continue to be used in preeclampsia, with the addition of established anticonvulsant medications when eclampsia occurs. Data on established antiepileptic drugs such as diazepam and phenytoin support their use in treating patients with eclamptic seizures. As stated in an earlier review, "in treating preeclampsia, magnesium sulfate therapy may have a role and may moderate factors leading to eclampsia. Whether magnesium sulfate therapy may have some as yet unproved effect on epileptogenic foci or seizure propagation is not the important issue for the physician caring for the eclamptic patient. Until adequately designed therapeutic trials are available, it is our opinion that treatment should be based on the use of anticonvulsant drugs of established efficacy in seizure control and prophylaxis (p. 1363)."
Police Reporting by Sexual Assault Victims in Western and in Non-Western Countries

The current research had the primary goal of investigating the difference in police reporting patterns by sexual assault victims in Western and in non-Western countries. The data for the present study were obtained from the International Crime Victimization Survey. The present work found a significant difference in police reporting behavior by sexual assault victims in Western and in non-Western countries. Gender, urban residency, and the number of offenders were important factors for victims in non-Western countries, but not for those in Western countries. On the other hand, a victim’s prior relationship with his or her offender and family income level were significantly related to police reports in Western countries, but not in non-Western countries.
Office Location Map of Individuals in the Library and Other College Campus Buildings: A Proof-of-Concept Wayfinding System

A Web site is often the first stop for a person trying to determine how to get to a person based in a library or a college campus building. The Web site, and the in-built online directory, may provide the building name and office number for a library staff or a faculty member, but these can be out-of-date and do not provide complete information for the person to find the office location. This article demonstrates an online wayfinding system that could show patrons, faculty, staff, and students not only the location of a library or another campus building, but also an individual office location on a building floor plan. A proof-of-concept was developed using HTML and CSS. The simplicity of the concept and implementation ensures that most libraries and college campuses can implement this wayfinding system using basic Web design skills, while greatly helping first-time visitors to specific offices. The system addresses the issue of frequent office moves and staff changes, and provides a richer cognitive map ...
Regulation of Leucine Biosynthesis in Bacillus subtilis

The biosynthesis of alpha-isopropylmalate (alphaIPM) synthetase, IPM isomerase, and betaIPM dehydrogenase in Bacillus subtilis can be derepressed in leucine auxotrophs by limiting them for leucine. The derepression of the three enzymes is apparently coordinate. A class of mutants resistant to 4-azaleucine excretes leucine and has derepressed levels of all three enzymes. The azaleucine-resistance mutations may lie in a gene (azlA) encoding a repressor. Efforts to find mutations characteristic of a constitutive operator have been unsuccessful. No polar mutations have been found among nine leucine auxotrophs that have characteristics of frameshift mutations. The enzyme catalyzing the first step in leucine biosynthesis, alphaIPM synthetase, is sensitive to feedback inhibition by leucine. We conclude that leucine biosynthesis is controlled by the inhibition of the activity of the first biosynthetic enzyme by leucine, and by the repression of the synthesis of the first three biosynthetic enzymes by leucine. The repression of the three enzymes may be under the control of a single repressor and a single operator, or of a single repressor and a separate operator for each structural gene.
BENEFICIAL EFFECT OF PRE-TRANSPLANT SPLENECTOMY ON DISPLACEMENT BONE MARROW TRANSPLANTATION FOR GAUCHER'S SYNDROME

2 patients with fast and 4 with medium varieties of Gaucher's syndrome were treated by displacement bone marrow transplantation to install a donor enzyme factory for life. Immunoprophylaxis was given to prevent host impairment of normal enzymes. 5 patients showed rapid and remarkable improvement and were leading fully active lives at 310-1207 days postgraft. Hypersplenism caused the death of 1 patient and a stormy time for another. Pre-transplant elective splenectomy hastened recovery.
Zic3 is required in the migrating primitive streak for node morphogenesis and left–right patterning

In humans, loss-of-function mutations in ZIC3 cause isolated cardiovascular malformations and X-linked heterotaxy, a disorder with abnormal left-right asymmetry of organs. Zic3 null mice recapitulate the human heterotaxy phenotype but also have early gastrulation defects, axial patterning defects and neural tube defects complicating an assessment of the role of Zic3 in cardiac development. Zic3 is expressed ubiquitously during critical stages of left-right patterning but its later expression in the developing heart remains controversial and the molecular mechanism(s) by which it causes heterotaxy are unknown. To define the temporal and spatial requirements, for Zic3 in left-right patterning, we generated conditional Zic3 mice and Zic3-LacZ-BAC reporter mice. The latter provide compelling evidence that Zic3 is expressed in the mouse node and absent in the heart. Conditional deletion using T-Cre identifies a requirement for Zic3 in the primitive streak and migrating mesoderm for proper left-right patterning and cardiac development. In contrast, Zic3 is not required in heart progenitors or the cardiac compartment. In addition, the data demonstrate abnormal node morphogenesis in Zic3 null mice and identify similar node dysplasia when Zic3 was specifically deleted from the migrating mesoderm and primitive streak. These results define the temporal and spatial requirements for Zic3 in node morphogenesis, left-right patterning and cardiac development and suggest the possibility that a requirement for Zic3 in node ultrastructure underlies its role in heterotaxy and laterality disorders.
How Large Looms the Ghost of the Past? State-Dependence Vs. Heterogeneity in Coordination Games

In games with multiple, Pareto-rankable equilibria and repeated play, does a history of playing an inefficient equilibrium make it harder for the players to reach the efficient equilibrium? In other words, can people 'get stuck' in bad equilibria? Previous studies have found support for this, but they have relied on naturally occurring variation in precedent. I implement randomized control to establish that precedent effects are important, but that natural occurring variation exaggerates the importance of precedent. I present evidence that some of the endogeneity of naturally occurring precedents is due to variation in risk-attitudes. This is because in the coordination games used, the inefficient equilibrium is associated with a safe strategy.Understanding the casual effect of precedent is important since many development problems, such as institutional change and technological advancement, are viewed as coordination games with Pareto-rankable equilibria. Moreover an appreciation of how potential heterogeneity may interact with the policy is essential when trying to lift groups out of bad precdents.
Optimization of a Single Plasmaactuator using the One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma (OAUGDP

Summary form only given. Research on electrohydrodynamic (EHD) plasma actuators using the one atmosphere uniform glow discharge plasma (OAUGDPreg) is increasing at a rapid rate. These actuators are a promising flow control technology for subsonic plasma aerodynamics. Recent wind tunnel experiments showed that with the additional momentum from a single plasma actuator on the leading edge, the stall angle of a standard airfoil was increased from 15deg to 23deg with a free-steam flow velocity as high as 75 m/s. The plasma actuator configuration needs to be optimized to maximize the induced flow velocity and minimize power consumption. In this paper, the parameters of electrode width W1 , W2, width ratio W1/W2, gap distance d, dielectric thickness t, and dielectric material are systematically optimized by maximizing the integral of the energy within the region in which the electric field above the surface exceeds the air breakdown value for a OAUGDPreg. This region is found from the Laplacian solution of the actuator geometry, which is calculated using QuickFieldtrade. The numerically optimized configuration can be used as guidance for a plasma actuator design
TIM-2 is expressed on B cells and in liver and kidney and is a receptor for H-ferritin endocytosis

T cell immunoglobulin-domain and mucin-domain (TIM) proteins constitute a receptor family that was identified first on kidney and liver cells; recently it was also shown to be expressed on T cells. TIM-1 and -3 receptors denote different subsets of T cells and have distinct regulatory effects on T cell function. Ferritin is a spherical protein complex that is formed by 24 subunits of H- and L-ferritin. Ferritin stores iron atoms intracellularly, but it also circulates. H-ferritin, but not L-ferritin, shows saturable binding to subsets of human T and B cells, and its expression is increased in response to inflammation. We demonstrate that mouse TIM-2 is expressed on all splenic B cells, with increased levels on germinal center B cells. TIM-2 also is expressed in the liver, especially in bile duct epithelial cells, and in renal tubule cells. We further demonstrate that TIM-2 is a receptor for H-ferritin, but not for L-ferritin, and expression of TIM-2 permits the cellular uptake of H-ferritin into endosomes. This is the first identification of a receptor for ferritin and reveals a new role for TIM-2.
Distributed Garbage Collection Algorithms for Timestamped Data

There is an important class of interactive multimedia applications that deals with stream data from distributed sources. Indexing the data temporally facilitates ordering individual streams as well as correlating items from different streams. The Stampede programming system organizes stream data into channels that are distributed and synchronized data structures that contain timestamped items. A stampede program is a data flow graph of threads and channels. Stampede semantics for channels allow concurrent access from multiple threads for input and output. While a channel holds timestamped items, the semantics do not place any restriction on either the production or consumption order of these items. Furthermore, timestamps of items in a channel need not be contiguous. These flexibilities are required due to the dynamic and parallel structure of stream-oriented applications targeted by the stampede system. Under such circumstances, a key issue is the "garbage collection" (GC) of channel items. In this paper, we present and compare three different GC algorithms: 1) REF is a simple algorithm that keeps a reference count on individual items; 2) TGC is a distributed algorithm for computing a global low watermark for timestamp values of interest in the entire application; 3) DGC is another distributed algorithm that uses information about the dependencies between the producers and consumers of data streams to compute a low water mark local to each node of the data flow graph. DGC can simultaneously eliminate garbage from channels and unneeded computations from threads, in tests performed using an interactive application, DGC enjoys nearly 30 percent reduction in the application memory footprint, compared, to TGC and REF. DGC and REF are also shown to be more scalable compared to TGC
Adolescents’ Psychological Well-Being and Perceived Parental Involvement: Implications for Parental Involvement in Middle Schools

Adolescence is a critical period of development. Previous research suggests parent involvement in school directly impacts student success. However, different types of parental involvement and the e...
Fuzzy logic control implementation of rectilinear plant with inverted pendulum

Although many control problems have been solved using linear techniques, the world is inherently non-linear and many systems cannot be adequately treated with traditional linear systems techniques. Controllers based on Fuzzy Logic have been shown to perform well with non-linear systems. They are essentially non-linear controllers whose underlying theory was inspired by the way in which humans make decisions. The Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) makes use of expert knowledge and accepts a level of imprecision in the parameters — the fuzzy nature of the variables. When the system is highly non-linear and expert knowledge exists, a controller can be generated using fuzzy logic. The plant used for this analysis is the ECP rectilinear plant with the inverted pendulum feature. This plant offers a benchmark dynamic system used world-wide for the testing of traditional and new control techniques. The system is non-linear and requires fast action, excellent qualities for a benchmark system.
Peroxisome Proliferator-induced Alterations in the Expression and Modification of Rat Hepatocyte Plasma Membrane Proteins

Abstract Rats were fed the peroxisome proliferator ciprofibrate (0.025%), and the effects on the expression, modification, and localization of seven domain-specific integral proteins of the rat hepatocyte plasma membrane were assessed using a combination of immunoblotting, -precipitation, and -fluorescence. Ciprofibrate caused the down-regulation of five of the plasma membrane proteins (the epidermal growth factor receptor, the asialoglycoprotein receptor, HA 321, HA 4, and dipeptidylpeptidase IV) and induced the expression of a more basic, lower- M r isoform of the basolateral plasma membrane protein CE 9. Pulse labeling, chemical deglycosylation, and 125 I-wheat germ lectin blotting suggested that the ciprofibrate-induced isoform of CE 9 differed in the posttranslational modification of its oligosaccharides and contained more sialic acid. These changes in hepatocyte surface differentiation were first observed between Days 1 and 5 on the ciprofibrate-containing diet, coincident with other aspects of the pleiotropic response of the hepatocyte to peroxisome proliferators, e.g. , the induction of the M r 78,000 peroxisome proliferation-associated protein. The effects were reversed within 2–3 weeks upon removal of ciprofibrate. The three other peroxisome proliferators tested, di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, clofibrate, and Wy-14,643, were found to exert most of these same effects on the expression and modification of the hepatocyte plasma membrane proteins, but the compounds differed in relative potency. The ciprofibrate-induced decreases in the concentrations of the epidermal growth factor receptor, the asialoglycoprotein receptor, HA 321, and HA 4 were similar to the selective down-regulation of these proteins observed transiently during the period of hepatocyte proliferation following two-thirds hepatectomy. Other compounds frequently used in studies of liver enzyme induction and carcinogenesis, the antioxidants ethoxyquin and butylated hydroxyanisole and the liver tumor promoter phenobarbital, were not as effective as ciprofibrate or two-thirds hepatectomy at causing the down-regulation of these proteins. The induction of the lower- M r isoform of the basolateral plasma membrane protein CE 9 was not observed following two-thirds hepatectomy or upon the feeding of the antioxidants or phenobarbital but was specific to the feeding of the peroxisome proliferators.
The Role of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract Purpose Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia that results from insulin resistance, diminished or absent insulin secretion, or both. Approximately one-half of patients with diabetes fail to achieve acceptable glycemic control. Consequently, morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes is high, resulting from complications such as cardiovascular disease and nephropathy. The sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a new class of medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This article provides an overview of efficacy and safety data for the SGLT2 inhibitors and outlines their role in the management of diabetes. Methods Relevant articles were identified through searches of PubMed and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts by using the key terms canagliflozin , dapagliflozin , empagliflozin , and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor . A review of bibliographies of retrieved articles was also performed to identify additional references. All identified trials published in English and that involved the efficacy and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes were reviewed. Findings The SGLT2 inhibitors improve glucose control by increasing urinary glucose excretion. Effectiveness is decreased in the presence of renal dysfunction. These agents are efficacious as monotherapy and add-on therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes uncontrolled on metformin, sulfonylureas, insulin, and other antihyperglycemic combinations. The SGLT2 inhibitors lower glycosylated hemoglobin by 0.5% to 1% and fasting plasma glucose by ~15 to 35 mg/dL, depending on the agent and the dosage used, and are also associated with modest reductions in weight (−1.5 to −3.5 kg) and systolic blood pressure (−3 to −5 mm Hg). Genital mycotic infections and increased urination, owing to the mechanism of action, are the most common adverse effects. In general, the class is well tolerated, and the risk of hypoglycemia is low. Implications With their unique mechanism of action and good safety and tolerability profiles, the SGLT2 inhibitors are an important addition to existing treatments for type 2 diabetes. Because of the lack of data with this class of drugs when current treatment guidelines for diabetes were published, the SGLT2 inhibitors are recommended as second- or third-line therapies for diabetes. Forthcoming data on the long-term efficacy and safety profile of these agents should help to solidify the role of SGLT2 inhibitors in the management of diabetes.
Post-mating enhancement of fecundity in female Lygus hesperus

Although mated females of the western tarnished plant bug Lygus hesperus Knight are known to produce more eggs than virgins, the nature of the inducing stimuli and the specific changes occurring in the female require additional elucidation. Compared with virgin females isolated from males, those exposed to male precopulatory behaviours produce similar numbers of eggs, whereas inseminated females produce 50% more during the observation period. Although the quantity of seminal fluids received by a female does not influence egg number, mating twice within a 10-day span causes a 16% increase in fecundity, on average. Females mating more than twice during the same period do not exhibit additional increases in egg number. Because virgin females contain more chorionated eggs than are laid, mating appears to enhance the rate of oviposition. However, to achieve a sustained increase in fecundity, an augmented rate of oocyte maturation would also be required. Male- derived spermatophores lack substantive quantities of nutrients that might otherwise have enhanced female fecundity. The total amounts of carbohydrate, protein and lipid, as well as eight essential minerals transferred by the male, are insufficient for producing even a single egg, and the female has already produced a large number of chorionated oocytes before she mates. Collectively, the data suggest that seminal fluid contains one or more activational molecules, such as a peptide, which triggers an increase in egg deposition. A prolonged increase in oviposition rate may be achieved through multiple matings to ensure a supply of sperm or to offset the degradation of the putative activational factor.
An anti-windup technique for LMI regions with applications to a fluid power system

The anti-windup problem seeks to minimize the closed loop performance deterioration due to input nonlinearities, such as saturation, for a given linear time- invariant plant and controller. This paper presents a linear matrix inequality (LMI) based method that attempts to minimize performance deterioration while explicitly restricting the anti-windup closed loop dynamics. The restriction placed on the dynamics is described via LMI regions, which is a form of regional pole placement. Finally, the techniques discussed in this paper are demonstrated on an electro-hydraulic testbed.
Unimolecular decomposition in ion cyclotron resonance traps: kinetic energy release and microsecond-scale kinetics

A method of recovering information about the kinetics and dynamics of gas-phase ion-molecule reactions which occur on a microsecond time scale inside a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT-ICR-MS) cell is presented. In FT-ICR experiments, the typical time-scale of the ion detection is of the order of milliseconds to seconds and the microsecond-scale reactions usually run to completion before the detection takes place. However, axial oscillation inside the ICR cell can be made very fast and the efficiency of the dynamic voltage trapping depends on the axial position of the ions. We present a theoretical model which relates experimental ion abundance to the life-times and kinetic energy releases, illustrating it with an example of fast-decomposing chromium hexacarbonyl molecular cation activated by collision with a fluorinated self-assembled monolayer surface in a 7-Tesla FT-ICR cell. General formalism, quantitative limitations and application of this method to measure lifetimes and the kinetic energy releases of less-studied ionic systems are addressed in detail.
Endoscopic trans(naso)orbital management of supraorbital mucoceles with biliary T-tube stenting†‡

The objective of this article is to describe our surgical technique for accessing orbital and supraorbital ethmoid sinus mucoceles and the novel application of a biliary T-tube to stent and redirect mucociliary flow into the frontal recess. We describe in technical terms our surgical approach and the use of an 8-Fr pediatric biliary T-tube as a paranasal sinus stent with demonstrative case reports. Four patients have been successfully managed employing the endoscopic trans(naso)orbital approach to access and marsupialize supraorbital and superiorly located orbital mucoceles without egress to the frontal recess. Patency of drainage was maintained by utilizing a flexible, pediatric, biliary T-tube that is inserted via an above (trephination) and below (endoscopic) approach in three patients, and without the need for stenting in one patient (median follow-up, 14.5 months). The presented surgical strategy is safe and effective in accessing and maintaining long-term patency of problematic supraorbital and superiorly located intraorbital mucoceles without communication to the frontal recess. Laryngoscope, 2012
Leadership communications: planning for the desired reaction

Purpose – The author warns that when corporate leaders misunderstand and mishandle communication in a crisis, there can be existential consequences: customer loyalty can be jeopardized, market share lost to rivals, the ability to achieve key goals compromised, and perhaps a legal position undercut. The article aims to demonstrate how such pitfalls can be avoided.Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains that effective communication requires mastering a discipline with two key skills – gaining a current and thorough knowledge of the expectations and needs of audience and understanding how to craft a message to achieve a desired reaction.Findings – The author proposes and parses a working definition of communication is: “an act of will directed toward a living entity that reacts.”Research limitations/implications – Case studies of communications failures are reported.Practical implications – Organizations need defenses against their charismatic leaders.Originality/value – The paper provides a guide t...
Acoustic signal separation of statistically independent sources using multiple microphones

A method for separating acoustic sources of sound that are statistically independent from multiple linear combinations of filtered versions of the sounds is presented. Whereas the covariance statistic can be used to achieve processed signals that are linearly independent, linear combinations of the sources, higher-order statistics can be used to achieve processed signals that contain only a signal from each source alone. It is shown that the fourth-order joint moment is an appropriate statistic to use as a measure of statistical independence. Results of simulations are presented that illustrate the potential of this approach. >
Dual-Source CT: Practical Aspects of Techniques and Applications

The quest for non-invasive imaging of cardiac maladies began with conventional radiography and continues to day. Echocardiography has established itself as the screening and diagnostic modality of choice for a variety of cardiac ailments. Since the early 1990s, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has also become an imaging standard of reference for a variety of cardiac pathologies, including cardiac tumors, myocarditis, cardiomyopathies, viability, complex congenital heart diseases, and valvular heart diseases. However, up until the development of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) scanners, the imaging of coronary artery diseases with a noninvasive imaging test was a largely elusive approach; instead, invasive conventional coronary catheterization remained and, to date, firmly remains, the imaging modality for most coronary artery diseases.