cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Probing myocardium biomechanics using quantitative optical coherence elastography

We present a quantitative optical coherence elastographic method for noncontact assessment of the myocardium elasticity. The method is based on shear wave imaging optical coherence tomography (SWI-OCT), where a focused air-puff system is used to induce localized tissue deformation through a low-pressure short-duration air stream and a phase-sensitive OCT system is utilized to monitor the propagation of the induced tissue displacement with nanoscale sensitivity. The 1-D scanning of M-mode OCT imaging and the application of optical phase retrieval and mapping techniques enable the reconstruction and visualization of 2-D depth-resolved shear wave propagation in tissue with ultra-high frame rate. The feasibility of this method in quantitative elasticity measurement is demonstrated on tissue-mimicking phantoms with the estimated Young’s modulus compared with uniaxial compression tests. We also performed pilot experiments on ex vivo mouse cardiac muscle tissues with normal and genetically altered cardiomyocytes. Our results indicate this noncontact quantitative optical coherence elastographic method can be a useful tool for the cardiac muscle research and studies.
Introduction: objectives of herpes simplex virus vaccines seen from a historical perspective.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2 cause a variety of severe manifestations in humans. A major characteristic of HSVs is their ability to establish latent infection in sensory ganglia, where these viruses are shielded from the immune system and are impervious to the action of antiviral drugs known to date. Ideally, HSV-induced clinical syndromes should be prevented by vaccination, but two major problems arise. First, although many antiviral vaccines have successfully prevented disease, none have prevented infection. Once the virus infects cells at the portal of entry of the infection, it can establish latent infection in sensory neurons that innervate the cell. Second, while HSV disease primarily affects adults greater than 18 years of age, mass immunization in the United States is effectively carried out in the interval between nursery school and high school, and yet the vaccines must confer protection for a long time after vaccination. The central issues involved in the development of an anti-HSV vaccine include what type of vaccine should be developed, what we should expect from an HSV vaccine, and how we should monitor the effectiveness of the vaccine.
Large Inverted Duplications in the Human Genome Form via a Fold-Back Mechanism

Inverted duplications are a common type of copy number variation (CNV) in germline and somatic genomes. Large duplications that include many genes can lead to both neurodevelopmental phenotypes in children and gene amplifications in tumors. There are several models for inverted duplication formation, most of which include a dicentric chromosome intermediate followed by breakage-fusion-bridge (BFB) cycles, but the mechanisms that give rise to the inverted dicentric chromosome in most inverted duplications remain unknown. Here we have combined high-resolution array CGH, custom sequence capture, next-generation sequencing, and long-range PCR to analyze the breakpoints of 50 nonrecurrent inverted duplications in patients with intellectual disability, autism, and congenital anomalies. For half of the rearrangements in our study, we sequenced at least one breakpoint junction. Sequence analysis of breakpoint junctions reveals a normal-copy disomic spacer between inverted and non-inverted copies of the duplication. Further, short inverted sequences are present at the boundary of the disomic spacer and the inverted duplication. These data support a mechanism of inverted duplication formation whereby a chromosome with a double-strand break intrastrand pairs with itself to form a “fold-back” intermediate that, after DNA replication, produces a dicentric inverted chromosome with a disomic spacer corresponding to the site of the fold-back loop. This process can lead to inverted duplications adjacent to terminal deletions, inverted duplications juxtaposed to translocations, and inverted duplication ring chromosomes.
Synthetic biology: New letters for life's alphabet

The five bases found in nucleic acids define the 'alphabet' used to encode life on Earth. The construction of an organism that stably propagates an unnatural DNA base pair redefines this fundamental feature of life. See Letter p.385 The genetic code is simple: four bases that form two pairs (A–T and G–C) are used in all of life. Expansion of this code to incorporate unnatural nucleotides and base pairing has been a goal of synthetic biology, as it would open up ways to tailor organisms for directed purposes. Although this has been achieved in proof-of-principle experiments in vitro, stable propagation of an expanded code had not been demonstrated in vivo until now. Floyd Romesberg and colleagues present evidence that two hydrophobic nucleotides, d5SICSTP and dNaMTP, can be added to the medium in which Escherichia coli expressing an exogenous algal nucleotide triphosphate transporter is growing, and that these nucleotides will be incorporated in the genome and are not recognized as lesions by the repair pathway. Consequently, the unnatural-base-pair-containing DNA is replicated, without cell growth being significantly affected.
Asynchronous Assessment in a Large Lecture Marketing Course.

Asynchronous assessment, which includes quizzes or exams online or outside class, offers marketing educators an opportunity to make more efficient use of class time and to enhance students' learning experiences by giving them more flexibility and choice in their assessment environment. In this paper, we examine the performance difference between asynchronous and synchronous assessment modes in a large lecture marketing course. The research uses an experimental approach to consider the access time, length of access, and mode effects among 256 undergraduate marketing students. The findings show similar means but a wider variation in asynchronous scores (online) than in synchronous scores. The results indicate that those who spend more time on the asynchronous assessment achieve higher scores.
Quantitative gas chromatographic determination of β-hydroxybutyric acid with application to eggs

Abstract A quantitative method for the analysis of β-hydroxybutyric acid has been developed through the gas chromatography of its propyl ester. The ester was formed by reaction with BF 3 -propanol and an internal standard, acetophenone, was added to the reaction mixture. The propyl ester and internal standard were extracted with chloroform and chromatographed isothermally on a diethylene glycol succinate column. Inasmuch as β-hydroxbutyrate may enter into polymerization reactions, calibration procedures were developed for the simultaneous determination of lactic, succinic, and β-hydroxybutyric acids as well as for β-hydroxybutyric acid alone. A discussion of the problems which arise and of the techniques needed for reliable results is given. The retention time of propyl β-hydroxybutyrate differs from those of the propyl esters of the α- and γ-isomers and of the propyl esters of a number of other acids. When the method was applied to the analysis of eggs, recoveries were greater than 90% with good precision.
On the balancing of error rates for LP discriminant methods

This paper reports the results of an experimental comparison between a linear programming (LP) approach and Fisher's linear discriminant function (FLDF) for solving discriminant analysis problems. In particular, we examine the two-group, two-variable problem and the associated error rates for the two groups when each of the models is applied to various sets of simulated data. In contrast to previous research, we concentrate on individual error rates for the two groups, i.e. we count the number of group 1 values classified into group 2 and the number of group 2 values classified into group 1. The results indicate that not only is FLDF better at overall classification but it also provides a much better balance between error rates for the two groups.
Kinetic Monte Carlo simulations with minimal searching.

Kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) simulations are used to simulate epitaxial crystal growth. Presently, the fastest reported methods use binary trees to search through a list of rates in $O({\mathrm{log}}_{2}M)$ time, where M is the number of rates. These methods are applicable to an arbitrary set of rates, but typical KMC bond-counting schemes involve only a finite set of distinct rates. This allows one to construct a faster list-based algorithm with a computation time that is essentially independent of M. It is found that this algorithm typically reduces computation time by between 30% and 50% for typical simulations, with this factor increasing for larger simulations.
Optical communication link using micromachined corner cube reflector

An optical communication link using a micromachined corner cube reflector (CCR) was demonstrated to transmit digital signals over a range of 2 meters by reflecting an interrogating laser from a 5mW laser source. The surface micromachined CCRs are made of 250micrometers square hinged polysilicon plates and have measured reflectance ranging from 34 percent to 77 percent for different mirror designs. LIght reflected by the CCRs has a divergence ranging from 15-35mrad. The CCRs are electrostatically actuated with 10 to 20V. The highest data rate transmitted with a CCR is 1K bps. Theoretical analysis and some dynamic optical test results of the device are presented.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Single and multiple period layout models for automated manufacturing systems

Abstract Layout models for automated manufacturing systems are considered. The changes in product mix, part routings and process plans are incorporated into a stochastic single period layout model. A solution method, based on generating non-dominated layouts, is developed and illustrated. A dynamic programming formulation is also developed to capture the dynamic layout decisions in an automated manufacturing environment. A state space reduction approach is proposed for solving this multi-period model.
Bacterial origin of sulfuric Acid in geothermal habitats.

Natural populations of Sulfolobus, a new genus of bacteria occurring in sulfur-rich, acid hot springs and soils, were found to oxidize large amounts of sulfur to sulfuric acid at temperatures up to 85°C. These bacteria are important high-temperature geochemical agents in solfatara soils.
Measurements of in situ produced 14C in terrestrial rocks

Abstract We developed and are testing a system for extracting in situ produced 14 C from quartz. 14 C is liberated from quartz matrix using step-wise heating during which time a spiked carrier gas consisting O 2 –CO–CO 2 –He is flowed through the high-temperature chamber continuously. The total 14 C background is reproducible and typically (2.3 ± 0.2) × 10 6 atoms, and the recovery is consistently greater than 90%. To validate the performance of the system and determine the blank level, we are using quartz samples taken from the Homestake mine (1600 m below the surface), South Dakota. To determine the 14 C release pattern and recovery, we used samples taken from the Transantarctic Mountains, Antarctica.
Legislative Advocacy: Evaluation of a Grand Rounds Intervention for Pediatricians

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of a Grand Rounds Action Alert (GRAA) intervention on the behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes of pediatric grand rounds (GR) attendees; and to assess its acceptability. Methods A cross-sectional, quasi-experimental study was performed at a freestanding children's hospital. GRAA on child health legislative topics were presented in the first 2 minutes of the pediatric GR session as well as posted outside. Each session included an action item, such as writing/signing letters to elected officials or informational sheets with legislator contact information. Main outcome measures included self-reported behavior, advocacy knowledge, attitudes, and acceptability. Results One year after GRAA implementation, GR attendees with high exposure to the intervention were more likely to have written/signed a letter to a legislator compared to those with low/no exposure (60% vs 35%, P = .016). Those with high exposure were also more knowledgeable regarding financing of health care for low-income children (20% vs 5%, P = .027). Attitudes toward advocacy at baseline were positive: respondents agreed it is important to remain informed about (98%) and advocate for (94%) legislation favorable to children's health. Implementing this program was challenging, but the intervention was accepted favorably: 93% of respondents agreed that GRAA should continue. Conclusions GRAA facilitated participation in legislative advocacy behaviors while improving self-perceived knowledge of legislative issues relating to children's health. They were well received in a large tertiary children's hospital.
ATOMIC CLUSTERS : BUILDING BLOCKS FOR A CLASS OF SOLIDS

Atomic clusters with suitable size and composition can be designed to mimic the chemistry of atoms in the Periodic Table. These clusters which can be viewed as ``super atoms'' could then form the building blocks for a class of solids with unique structural, electronic, optical, magnetic, and thermodynamic properties. Using density-functional calculations, we outline the design principles for these clusters and describe the role of geometry and electronic shell structure on cluster-cluster interaction.
First-Fit coloring of bounded tolerance graphs

Let G=(V,E) be a graph. A tolerance representation of G is a set I={I"v:[email protected]?V} of intervals and a set t={t"v:[email protected]?V} of nonnegative reals such that [email protected]?E iff I"[email protected]?I"y [email protected]? and @?I"[email protected]?I"[email protected]?>=min{t"x,t"y}; in this case G is a tolerance graph. We refine this definition by saying that G is a p-tolerance graph if t"v/|I"v|@?p for all [email protected]?V. A Grundy coloring g of G is a proper coloring of V with positive integers such that for every positive integer i, if i
Assessing Knowledge Management Success

This article proposes a framework for assessing knowledge management system (KMS) success models. The framework uses three criteria: how well the model fits actual KMS success factors, the degree to which the model has a theoretical foundation, and if the model can be used for both types of KMSs. The framework is then applied to four KMS success models found in the literature and is determined to be a useful framework for assessing KMS success models.
Supplier diversification: effect of discrete demand

Diversification under supply uncertainty has been adopted by manufacturers in order to improve performance. In the presence of multiple suppliers, it is essential to develop an operational policy in order to utilize the services of different suppliers effectively. Anupindi and Akella (Manage. Sci. 39 (8) (1993) 944-963) consider two suppliers differing in cost and reliability and develop the optimal inventory policy for the manufacturer under continuous demand distribution. The policy obtained by them indicates that the manufacturer should never order products from the more expensive supplier alone. In this paper, we consider the case where demand is discrete and provide examples to show that ordering products from the more expensive (and more reliable) supplier alone is optimal. We also provide sufficient conditions under which it is optimal to order a larger share from the more expensive supplier when demand is discrete.
Potential induced random teleportation on finite graphs

We propose and analyze a potential induced random walk and its modification called random teleportation on finite graphs. The transition probability is determined by the gaps between potential values of adjacent and teleportation nodes. We show that the steady state of this process has a number of desirable properties. We present a continuous time analogue of the random walk and teleportation, and derive the lower bound on the order of its exponential convergence rate to stationary distribution. The efficiency of proposed random teleportation in search of global potential minimum on graphs and node ranking are demonstrated by numerical tests. Moreover, we discuss the condition of graphs and potential distributions for which the proposed approach may work inefficiently, and introduce the intermittent diffusion strategy to overcome the problem and improve the practical performance.
Character and frequency of discomfort immediately following restorative procedures.

The types, frequencies, severity, and duration of postoperative discomfort in 40 dental patients was the subject of this clinical study A clinical study was done to determine if routine operative dental procedures are followed by discomfort within 24 hours after the patient leaves the dental office. The types and frequencies of immediate postoperative discomfort are presented. The severity and duration of postoperative discomfort as a result of stimuli of cold, heat, and sweets are also presented.
Follow the leader.

Upon starvation, individual Dictyostelium amoebae chemotax toward aggregation centers in tightly packed streams in which cells are organized in head-to-tail chains. A recent report in Cell shows that this behavior requires localization of adenylyl cyclase and the production and secretion of the chemoattractant cAMP at the posterior of individual cells. These findings suggest a relay and communication system to regulate the long-range coordinated movement of cells.
The nature of light: a description of photon diffraction based upon virtual particle exchange

Any discussion of the nature of light must include a reminder that whenever we make the observation of light (photons), we only observe particle-like properties. This paper provides a reiteration that we don't need wave-like properties to scattered photons to describe phenomena such as diffraction or refraction of light. This paper updates the original ideas of Duane, later revived by Lande, which provided a description of light diffraction without making reference to a wave nature. These are updated using terminology more common to quantum electrodynamics which describes the interaction of particles in terms of the exchange of virtual photons. Diffraction is described in terms of an ensemble of distinct, probability weighted paths for the scattered photons. The scattering associated with each path results from the quantized momentum exchange with the scattering lattice attributed to the exchange or reflection of virtual photons. The probability for virtual particle exchange/reflection is dependent upon the allowed momentum states of the lattice determined by a Fourier analysis of the lattice geometry. Any scattered photon will exhibit an apparent wavelength inversely proportional to its momentum. Simplified, particle-like descriptions are developed for Young's double slit diffraction, Fraunhofer diffraction and Fresnel diffraction. This description directly accounts for the quantization of momentum transferred to the scattering lattice and the specific eigenvalues of the lattice based upon the constraints to virtual photon exchange set by the Uncertainty Principle, Δπ i = h/ζ i .
Insider control and the soft budget constraint: a simple theory

Abstract Insider control of a firm is shown to be a cause of the soft budget constraint and it has many welfare consequences. The implication is that establishing effective corporate governance is a necessary measure to harden budget constraints.
Rapid, accurate single particle tracking based on radial symmetry center determination

Accurately tracking particles in images is a crucial task in areas as diverse as super-resolution microscopy, membrane biophysics, and soft-matter microrheology. Tracking errors can easily propagate into flawed conclusions about mechanisms underlying particle dynamics. The commonly used method of locating the center of a particle by direct fitting of a two-dimensional Gaussian function to a measured intensity profile is very accurate, but is computationally intensive and not generalizable to non-point-like particles. Its slowness is a necessary consequence of iteratively, numerically searching through a large fitting parameter space. I introduce a new approach to sub-pixel particle tracking based on exploiting the radial symmetry of particle images, valid for any radially symmetric intensity profile. I provide an algorithm that employs an analytic, non-iterative calculation of the best-fit symmetry center to determine the particle location. Over a wide range of signal-to-noise ratios, this approach yields tracking accuracies nearly identical to those of Gaussian fitting with execution times over two orders of magnitude faster and with greater robustness in the presence of nearby particles. The performance of this algorithm is tested on simulated images as well as experimental data from several fields.
The Influence of Feeding Program on Peak Production and Avoiding Sudden Declines in Production with Broiler Breeders

Production parameters were examined for 49 commercial broiler breeder flocks. Data from the flocks were divided into two groups based on whether or not an adequate increase in body weight was maintained through peak production. Hens making steady and adequate weight gains peaked at a significantly higher rate of egg production and maintained a rate of 80% egg production or above for ten times longer than those with inadequate gains. The hens making adequate gains maintained 70% or above for almost twice as long as those with inadequate gain.
Compact high power barium nitrite crystal-based Raman laser at 1197 nm for photoacoustic imaging of fat.

Photoacoustic imaging employing molecular overtone vibration as a contrast mechanism opens a new avenue for bond-selective imaging of deep tissues. Broad use of this modality is, however, hampered by the extremely low conversion efficiency of optical parametric oscillators at the overtone transition wavelengths. To overcome such a barrier, we demonstrate the construction and use of a compact, barium nitrite crystal-based Raman laser for photoacoustic imaging of C–H overtone vibrations. Using a 5-ns Nd∶YAG laser as the pumping source, up to 21.4 mJ pulse energy at 1197 nm was generated, corresponding to a conversion efficiency of 34.8%. Using the 1197 nm pulses, three-dimensional photoacoustic imaging of intramuscular fat was demonstrated.
Fixed causality slip-stick friction models for use in simulation of non-linear systems

AbstractSlip-stick friction occurs when the relative velocity between sliding surfaces approaches zero and the surfaces become ‘stuck’, requiring a force larger than the sliding friction force to b...
Thermal Effects on Embryonic Development and Hatching for Blue King Crab Paralithodes platypus (Brandt, 1850) Held in the Laboratory, and a Method for Predicting Dates of Hatching

Climate change may affect crab populations via thermal effects on embryo development and hatching. To test this, we measured the duration of development and hatching for the embryos of 11 blue king crabs Paralithodes platypus held at 2.3 ± 0.45, 4.3± 0.31, and 6.1± 0.61C. Embryo area, length, and width, eye length and width, and percent yolk were measured biweekly from digital images, and hatching larvae were collected daily from individual crabs. Data were compared between eggs of identical age (weeks since fertilization). Temperature did not have a significant effect on embryo measurements, but did affect development indices (percent yolk and eye size). Hatching was significantly delayed at colder temperatures with about a 46-day difference from 2.3C to 6.1C. Length of development was related to temperature via a power function, and ranged from 410 ± 8 days at 6.1 Ct o 434 ± 11 days at 2.3C. Length of hatching increased from 40 ± 4.6 days at 2.3 Ct o 55± 6.2 days at 6.1C. A model for predicting hatching dates from an eye index was developed using a quadratic equation. Embryo development at 4.3 and 6.1C was arrested between weeks 35 and 50; this evidence, plus other behavioral observations, suggests that crabs may be able to adjust development rates to partially compensate for temperature changes.
A system to translate product yield targets to equipment particle targets

Random defectivity reduction is an important prerequisite to achieving mature production yields. The typical technology roadmap includes a product yield / defect density reduction curve over the technology lifetime. Translating the defect density reduction curve into specific monthly targets for each individual module or for each single tool, has proven to be an extremely challenging task. This paper summarizes a proposed method to translate overall technology or product yield targets into corresponding defect density targets allocated to each tool. Achieving this task requires extensive characterization and modeling. This method was eventually used at a fab running 130 nm 6 metal layer copper process.
Were Global M ≥8:3 Earthquake Time Intervals Random between 1900 and 2011?

The pattern of great earthquakes during the past ∼100 yr raises questions whether large earthquake occurrence is linked across global distances, or whether temporal clustering can be attributed to random chance. Great-earthquake frequency during the past decade in particular has engendered media speculation of heightened global hazard. We therefore examine interevent distributions of Earth's largest earth- quakes at one-year resolution, and calculate how compatible they are with a random- in-time Poisson process. We show, using synthetic catalogs, that the probability of any specific global interevent distribution happening is low, and that short-term clusters are the least repeatable features of a Poisson process. We examine the real catalog and find, just as expected from synthetic catalogs, that the least probable M ≥8:3 earth- quake intervals during the past 111 yr were the shortest ( t< 1 yr) if a Poisson process is active (mean rate of 3.2%). When we study an M ≥8:3 catalog with locally trig- gered events removed, we find a higher mean rate of 9.5% for 0-1 yr intervals, com- parable to the value (11.1%) obtained for simulated catalogs drawn from random- in-time exponential distributions. We emphasize short interevent times here because they are the most obvious and have led to speculation about physical links among global earthquakes. We also find that comparison of the whole 111-yr observed M ≥8:3 interevent distribution (including long quiescent periods) to a Poisson process is not significantly different than the same comparison made with synthetic catalogs. We therefore find no evidence that global great-earthquake occurrence is not a ran- dom-in-time Poisson process.
Racial and Ethnic Exclusion: A Problem for Anthropology and Education.

L'A. souligne que l'anthropologie et l'education doivent faire face a l'exclusion raciale et ethnique. Il estime que ces phenomenes mettent en relief un certain nombre de processus de construction sociale. Il examine la notion de race et celle d'ethnicite. Il montre quel role les sciences sociales peuvent jouer dans le but de lutter contre l'exclusion
Critical Thinking and Nursing Science: Judgment, or Vision?

For decades, critical thinking has been widely regarded as a concept and process of central importance in the practice of nurses and in their education. Numerous nursing textbooks heavily emphasize the development of critical thinking skills in students. The attention given to critical thinking in nursing parallels a reform movement that has had an impact on virtually all fields. Close attention to the ways in which critical thinking is addressed in nursing, however, reveals a starkly delimited view of its meaning within the discipline. This article questions whether the vision of critical thinking as a cornerstone of practice in nursing may need to be expanded. The discussion centers on three points: nursing theories and frameworks as ways to enrich critical thinking in nursing practice; the inadequacy of the model of critical thinking as an individual, analytical process; and possibilities that are cocreated when critical thinking is conceived as a creative/constructive, relational/dialogical process.
Exploring the use of qualitative methods in published health services and management research.

There is interest in promoting greater use of qualitative methods in health care research. However, little is known about the volume or characteristics of published studies that use qualitative methods. This article explores these issues through a systematic review of 3 years (1995-1997) of articles classified as research in nine core health services research and management journals. The findings show that only about one in seven published research articles used qualitative methods. Two of the nine journals reviewed contributed 45 percent of the total number of articles using qualitative methods. Four journals contributed a combined 2 percent of this total number. The primary purposes in using these methods are description and articulating stakeholder perspectives. There is no standard number of pages devoted by journals to these studies or evidence that they require more journal space on average than quantitative studies. Most of the studies reviewed presented little or no information on methodology. The...
Signaling Mechanisms Regulating Myelination in the Central Nervous System

The precise and coordinated production of myelin is essential for proper development and function of the nervous system. Diseases that disrupt myelin, including multiple sclerosis, cause significant functional disability. Current treatment aims to reduce the inflammatory component of the disease, thereby preventing damage resulting from demyelination. However, therapies are not yet available to improve natural repair processes after damage has already occurred. A thorough understanding of the signaling mechanisms that regulate myelin generation will improve our ability to enhance repair. in this review, we summarize the positive and negative regulators of myelination, focusing primarily on central nervous system myelination. Axon-derived signals, extracellular signals from both diffusible factors and the extracellular matrix, and intracellular signaling pathways within myelinating oligodendrocytes are discussed. Much is known about the positive regulators that drive myelination, while less is known about the negative regulators that shift active myelination to myelin maintenance at the appropriate time. Therefore, we also provide new data on potential negative regulators of CNS myelination.
Revisiting the pathways to retirement: a latent structure model of the dynamics of transition from work to retirement

A dynamic latent structure model of the work–retirement transition process was identified, focusing on transitions of work and retirement status for men and women aged 51–74 years. Using the Health and Retirement Study data (1998–2004), latent transition analysis was used to identify a best fitting model capturing work–retirement statuses in four samples defined by age and sex. The prevalence of each status was described and the dynamic transition probabilities within the latent structure were examined. Using multinomial logistic regression, socio-demographic, health, family and occupational factors were assessed to determine how each was related to the likelihood of occupying a specific latent status at baseline. Results showed that study respondents were classified into distinct groups: full retiree, partial retiree or part-time worker, full-time worker, work-disabled or home-maker. The prevalence of full retiree status increased, while the prevalence for full-time worker status decreased over time for both men and women. Membership rates in the work-disabled and partial retiree status were generally consistent, with decreased probabilities of the work-disabled status in the older age groups and increased probabilities of partial retirees among younger men. Our findings indicated that many older Americans experience multiple transitions on the pathway to retirement. Future research on late-life labour-force transitions should evaluate the impact of the recent Great Recession and examine the role of larger socio-economic contexts.
Experimental investigation of tangential slot blowing on a generic chined forebody

An experimental investigation of tangential slot blowing was performed on a generic chined forebody. Lowspeed measurements of lateral forces and moments were made on the forebody at high angles of attack (0 deg < a < 45 deg). Tangential slot blowing was investigated as a means of forebody flow control to generate side force and yawing moment levels capable of overcoming flow asymmetries. The effects of jet mass flow ratio and jet longitudinal position were studied. Limited flowfield visualization was also conducted in order to gain a better understanding of the flowfield characteristics. Tangential slot blowing was found to overcome the natural flow asymmetry of the forebody throughout the angle-of-attack range studied.
Drama, Emotion, and Cultural Convergence

This article derives a set of hypotheses to explain how drama can affect the behavior of the audience. First, theories of drama explain how to create a drama that involves the audience. Second, drama theory explains how confrontation leads to emotional response, cognitive reorientation, and character change within a drama, both fictional and real. A convergence theory of communication predicts that audience members who perceive the change in characters with whom they closely identify will be influenced to change their behavior. Cognitive image mapping is used to illustrate how these hypotheses could be tested with an entertainment—education drama about AIDS in Africa.
Elliptically Polarizing Undulator End Designs

The magnetic end design of pure-permanent magnet Apple-II elliptically polarizing undulators (EPU) is discussed. Constraints on end block dimensions and positions are presented that guarantee steering and displacement free systems in both transverse directions and at all gaps for mu=1 material. For block material with mu>1 some beam steering (i.e. integrated dipole) may occur due to the ends; in particular, the integrated dipole strength varies with EPU phase. An optimization process is presented that assumes small perturbations about the mu=1 solution and minimizes the variation in steering with EPU phase. We present numerical and experimental results that quantify the reduction in integrated dipole variation with phase
Corporate social responsibility: The United States vs. Europe

Increasingly, business leaders recognize the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the link between profitability and social behavior. The authors take a critical look at CSR—including arguments for and against it, an approach companies can use, alternative CSR reporting standards, and how Europe differs from the United States. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Formation and exhumation of blueschists and eclogites from NE Oman: new perspectives from Rb–Sr and 40Ar/39Ar dating

Seven eclogite facies samples from lithologically different units which structurally underlie the Semail ophiolite were dated by the 40 Ar/ 39 Ar and Rb-Sr methods. Despite extensive efforts, phengite dated by the 40 Ar/ 39 Ar method yielded saddle, hump or irregularly shaped spectra with uninterpretable isochrons. The total gas ages for the phengite ranged from 136 to 85 Ma. Clinopyroxene-phengite, epidote-phengite and whole-rock-phengite Rb-Sr isochrons for the same samples yielded ages of 78i2 Ma. We therefore conclude that the eclogite facies rocks cooled through 500 u Ca tc .7 8i2 Ma, and that the 40 Ar/ 39 Ar dates can only constrain maximum ages due to the occurrence of excess Ar inhomogeneously distributed in different sites. Our new results lead us to conclude that high-pressure metamorphism of the Oman margin took place in the Late Cretaceous, contemporaneous with ophiolite emplacement. Previously published structural and petrological data lead us to suggest that this metamorphism resulted from intracontinental subduction and crustal thickening along a NE-dipping zone. Choking of this subduction zone followed by ductile thinning of a crustal mass wedged between deeply subducted continental material and overthrust shelf and slope units facilitated the exhumation of the eclogite facies rocks from depths of c. 50 km to 10-15 km within c. 10 Ma, and led to their juxtaposition against overlying lower grade rocks. Final exhumation of all high- pressure rocks was driven primarily by erosion and assisted by normal faulting in the upper plate.
Global dynamics of symmetric and asymmetric wakes

The two-dimensional wake–shear layer forming behind a rectangular-based forebody with independent ambient streams on either side of the forebody is examined by direct numerical simulation. Theoretical aspects of global modes and frequency selection criteria based on local and global stability arguments are tested by computing local stability properties using local, time-averaged velocity profiles obtained from the numerical simulations and making the parallel-flow approximation. The theoretical results based on the assumption of a slightly non-parallel, spatially developing flow are shown to provide a firm basis for the frequency selection of vortex shedding and for defining the conditions for its onset. Distributed suction or blowing applied at the base of the forebody is used as a means of wake flow modification. The critical suction velocity to suppress vortex shedding is calculated. It is shown that local directional control (i.e. vectoring) of the near-wake flow is possible, but only when all global modes are suppressed.
Cellular mechanisms involved in CO2 and acid signaling in chemosensitive neurons

An increase in CO2/H+ is a major stimulus for increased ventilation and is sensed by specialized brain stem neurons called central chemosensitive neurons. These neurons appear to be spread among nu...
Adrenal medulla and Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease has been described as a multisystem disorder that includes alterations in the function of the autonomic nervous system. The activity of the adrenal medulla in this disease has not been thoroughly investigated. Previous reports are reviewed that demonstrate that the adrenal medullae of parkinsonian patients are compromised, having a decreased content of all catecholamines and several neuropeptides. An animal model was used to investigate whether the observations made in human patients were related to extended treatment with antiparkinsonian medications or were a natural concomitant of the disease. Administration of L-dopa and/or carbidopa to C57BL mice for 4–16 weeks had no significant effect on the level of any of the adrenal medullary catecholamines. Treatment with MPTP 4–16 weeks prior to sacrifice did not deplete adrenal medullary catecholamines in these animals, thus not fully mimicking Parkinson's disease in this animal model. The only significant effect was an interaction between group (MPTP or control) and treatment with antiparkinsonian medications; L-dopa, in the absence and presence of carbidopa, had opposite effects in the two groups. Based primarily on the lack of effect of antiparkinsonian medications on adrenal medullary catecholamines, it was concluded that the adrenal medullary depletion observed in human patients was a peripheral concomitant of Parkinson's disease. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Experiments with Content-Based Image Retrieval for Medical Images

Content-Based Image Retrieval (CBIR) is to retrieve digital images from an image data repository by the contents in the image, such as shape, texture, color, and other information that can be extracted from the image. CBIR is also referred to as query by image contents. As large image collections being created and become available, more and more applications rely on CBIR techniques to retrieve images from the collections. One important application area is the medical field. Many medical and health care institutions have started using various CBIR systems to assist and improve diagnosis and treatment of diseases. In this paper, we introduce a method for image retrieval and classification using low-level image features. This method is based on selection of prominent features in the high dimension feature space and the parameter of the k-NN algorithm. We also combine non-image features (patient records) and image features to improve the accuracy of the results. Both the patient data and images are from a clinical trail studying aloe in treating the side effects due to radiation on oral cancer patients at Mid-Michigan Medical Center. A MatLab image engine is used for image feature retrieval, and principal component analysis is applied to reduce the feature space for optimizing the performance.
Serotonin modulates locomotory behavior and coordinates egg-laying and movement in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Biogenic amines have been impli- cated in the modulation of neural circuits involved in diverse behaviors in a wide variety of organisms. In the nematode C. elegans, serotonin has been shown to mod- ulate the temporal pattern of egg-laying behavior. Here we show that serotonergic neurotransmission is also re- quired for modulation of the timing of behavioral events associated with locomotion and for coordinating loco- motive behavior with egg-laying. Using an automated tracking system to record locomotory behavior over long time periods, we determined that both the direction and velocity of movement fluctuate in a stochastic pat- tern in wild-type worms. During periods of active egg- laying, the patterns of reversals and velocity were al- tered: velocity increased transiently before egg-laying events, while reversals increased in frequency following egg-laying events. The temporal coordination between egg-laying and locomotion was dependent on the sero- tonergic HSN egg-laying motorneurons as well as the decision-making AVF interneurons, which receive syn- aptic input from the HSNs. Serotonin-deficient mutants also failed to coordinate egg-laying and locomotion and exhibited an abnormally low overall reversal frequency. Thus, serotonin appears to function specifically to facil- itate increased locomotion during periods of active egg- laying, and to function generally to modulate decision- making neurons that promote forward movement.
Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Larynx Presenting With Hypoglottic Obstruction

Abstract We report a new case of aneurysmal bone cyst of the larynx occurring in a 22-year-old man. The lesion manifested with progressive breathing discomfort and appeared as a polypoid pedunculated mass attached to the subglottic mucosa. Microscopically, it featured numerous mononuclear and multinucleated giant cells surrounding cavernous spaces filled with blood. Foci of proliferating spindle cells and mature osteoid tissue could be recognized. There was no apparent relationship with the cricoid perichondrium. Clinical follow-up was negative for local recurrence. Based on this report and a review of the literature, we conclude that aneurysmal bone cyst of the larynx is phenotypically comparable to its bone homologue; however, its microscopic recognition may be difficult, especially on small biopsy fragments. Since it can be confused with several lesions, including telangiectatic osteosarcoma, awareness of this rare appearance of aneurysmal bone cyst is important to avoid unnecessary radical surgery.
Patellar fracture after total knee arthroplasty.

Background: Patellar fracture can occur as a complication following total knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a large series of patellar fractures to determine the results of different forms of treatment of specific fracture types. Methods: A retrospective review identified eighty-five fractures (in seventy-seven patients) following 12,464 consecutive total knee arthroplasties performed between 1985 and 1998. Seventy-eight fractures occurred after primary total knee arthroplasty and seven, after revision total knee arthroplasty. Five fractures were treated elsewhere, and two others were lost to follow-up. The results of treatment of the remaining seventy-eight fractures were reviewed. Fractures were classified according to three main criteria: integrity of the extensor mechanism, fixation status of the patellar implant, and quality of the remaining bone stock. The mean duration of follow-up was 3.6 years. Results: The prevalence of patellar fracture after total knee arthroplasty was 0.68%; fractures were significantly more prevalent among men (1.01%) than among women (0.40%) (p = 0.0004). Thirty-eight fractured patellae had a stable implant and an intact extensor mechanism (Type I). All but one were treated nonoperatively, and there was only one late failure of nonoperative treatment, which required operative intervention. Twelve fractures were associated with disruption of the extensor mechanism (Type II). Eleven were treated operatively; six knees had complications and five had a reoperation. Twenty-eight fractures occurred in association with a loose patellar component (Type III). Twenty were treated operatively; nine knees had complications, and four had a reoperation. Conclusions: Patellar fractures after total knee arthroplasty are infrequent. Treatment can be guided by three main criteria: integrity of the extensor mechanism, fixation status of the patellar implant, and quality of the remaining bone. Fractures associated with a stable implant and an intact extensor mechanism were usually treated successfully with nonoperative means, with minimal complications. When operative treatment was required, it was associated with a high rate of complications and reoperations.
Competency- Based Capstone Projects: Service Learning in BSW Field Practica

Although field education is in itself a pedagogical approach, other pedagogies can assist in and strengthen the field-learning experience. One such pedagogy is service learning. Service learning has been described as an experiential teaching approach that engages students in addressing community needs. Additionally, the service must support learning objectives within the course, as students reflect on their experience related to course objectives and reach a broader understanding of their profession and community life. Service learning can be offered as a component of field education via a service-learning capstone project (SLCP) that is competency-based. This article will examine the extant literature on service learning within the social work curriculum. Subsequently, a pedagogical model will be presented that embeds an SLCP within a BSW field practicum. Instructions, examples of completed SLCPs, an evaluative format for an SLCP presentation, and evaluative tools to measure impact of SLCPs on students a...
Republicanism, Globalization and Liberty

Can the republican concern with non-domination transcend its traditional narrow confines of the nation-state and be vested in transnational entities and/or agencies? In answering this question, many contemporary theorists point to the development of certain neo-republican modes and orders within the European Union as proof that the values and ideals of republicanism can be detached from their traditional domestic mooring and be applied internationally. These moves, however, cut against a long historical trajectory of republican thought where the nation-state was thought to be the proper repository of citizens’ rights and duties. This paper will critically explore these recent moves while attempting to situate them within the larger traditional republican cannon. I will argue that while there is nothing within the republican tradition that fundamentally undermines these moves, it is far too early to set aside the traditional domestic locus of republican liberty as non-domination. The main goal of the paper is to articulate a version of republicanism that vests liberty as non-domination in both domestic and international practices and institutions.
Zero-divisor graphs in commutative rings

This article surveys the recent and active area of zero-divisor graphs of commutative rings. Notable algebraic and graphical results are given, followed by a historical overview and an extensive bibliography.