cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shielding effects in ceramic superconductors

Abstract The shielding properties of high-temperature superconductors in DC and AC magnetic fields are discussed using Bean's critical-state model and models, which account for the field dependence of the critical current density. Experimental work on the shielding properties of superconducting YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ and conductive (aluminum and cooper) screens is presented. The maximum value of the shielded field for YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ /Ag screens was measured at 3 mT. Shielding by superconducting screens was found independent of frequency over the range 80 Hz−10 5 Hz. The limited shielding capability of ceramic superconductors results from the magnetic field dependence and low values of the intergrain current density in bulk materials. There is a practical limit to the external field that can be shielded by a superconductor, characteristic of the material and size independent. Increasing of the shield thickness will not increase the maximum value of the field which can be shielded.
An open system architecture for new multimedia services in core networks

This paper discusses the necessary media processing functional requirements for new multimedia services in core networks, and proposes an open system architecture to addresses them. The system architecture provides efficient transcoding, rate adaptation, filtering, scaling and other functions needed for video communications, IPTV and 3DTV applications over networks.
An analysis of exotic wagers in a parimutuel setting.

In US horse racing, there is increasing emphasis placed on the creation of exotic wagers - those bets beyond the standard win, place and show. Bets on multiple races that typically do not result in a winner for several days are of particular interest to the industry. The growing carryover pool helps attract people to the racetrack in a way similar to a growing carryover in the lottery attracts more people to participate. This article examines several multiple race bets and provides a framework for their comparative analysis. The results of the analysis will help racetrack management decide if a proposed bet is appropriate for their particular track. This analysis shows a tradeoff between the difficulty of winning the bet versus the amount of the ultimate payoff. If a bet is too easy to win, then the carryover pool will never reach an attractive level. If the bet is too difficult to win, then the bettors will lose interest before the carryover pool is able to grow sufficiently large. The amount of money wa...
A kinetics and transport model of dichlorosilane chemical vapor deposition

Abstract Computational fluid dynamics is employed to examine silicon growth on a (100) surface in a dichlorosilane-hydrogen chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system. Species balaces are solved in conjunction with mass, momentum, and energy balances to predict growth rates in the system. The gas-phase mechanism includes the DCS decompositions SiH 2 Cl 2 → SiCl 2 + H 2 and SiH 2 Cl 2 → SiHCl + HCl and the surface mechanism accounts for adsorption and growth from SiCl 2 , SiHCl, and SiH 2 Cl 2 . Arrhenius plot from the model show good agreement with experiment for overall growth rates at low DCS inflow concentrations but over predicts growth rates for higher DCS inflow concentrations. A sensitivity analysis is presented in the form of Arrhenius plot for several of the more important reactions included in the mechanism. The model suggests that growth rates are very sensitive to the gas-phase decomposition of SiH 2 Cl 2 and the dissociative adsorption of SiH 2 Cl 2 and not very sensitive to the dissociative adsorption of H 2 and the activation energy for the surface growth from adsorbed SiCl and H by elimination of HCl.
Genetic and physiological variations in megakaryocyte dna content distributions

The DNA content of normal megakaryocytes usually ranges from 8N to 64N, with 16N as the modal DNA content. The frequency of cells at each DNA content can be altered by experimental induction of thrombocytopenia, thrombocytosis or marrow ablation, and in various disease states; however, the mechanisms and regulation involved in the process of polyploidization remain obscure. This discussion will focus on genetic and physiologic variations in megakaryocyte DNA content distributions. The genetic variations are those we have observed among mouse strains, with the most pronounced present in several C3H substrains in which the modal megakaryocyte DNA content is 32N, rather than 16N. The physiologic variation reported here is a shift to the right in megakaryocyte DNA content distributions during late pregnancy in the rat.
Departure from corotation of the Io plasma torus: Local plasma production

The departure of the Jovian magnetosphere from rigid corotation is adequately explained by outward plasma transport at distances where L is greater than approximately 10. The departure of 5% observed in the Io plasma torus, however, is too large to be accounted for simply by plasma transport. Local plasma production is proposed as the main factor determining the corotation lag in the torus. The outward pick-up current provided by ionization of neutral atoms is calculated and related to the current produced in the ionosphere by the corotation lag. This leads to an expression giving the corotation lag of the torus as a function of radial distance. Charge transfer is found to be an important process, allowing the majority of the torus mass to be ejected from the magnetosphere in a neutral state. Thus, the mass loading rate is found to be several times that inferred from examination of the corotation lag associated with outward plasma transport.
The present status of surgery of the superficial venous system in the management of venous ulcer and the evidence for the role of perforator interruption

Superficial venous hypertension has been cited as the putative etiologic factor in advanced chronic venous insufficiency with venous ulcer (CEAP C 5/6). For over a century, influenced by this belief, surgeons have ablated the superficial venous system as a treatment for venous ulcer. Incompetent perforating veins (ICPVs) have become a particular focus of this therapeutic strategy. This review examines the evidence for the surgical approach. A MEDLINE search of the literature identified only four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) directed at the surgical reduction of superficial venous hypertension. Risk ratios for ulcer healing and prevention of recurrence were calculated to determine benefits for these four RCTs, while mortality and morbidity, where available, was used to determine risk from the procedure. In addition, the quality of the trials (design and outcomes) was assessed. While two trials compared ICPV ligation to compression, the great saphenous vein (GSV) was also treated in many of these limbs, which confounds the results. By contrast, two RCTs, which compared treatment of the GSV alone to compression, demonstrated a significant reduction in the incidence of ulcer recurrence. Case series that employed hemodynamic or surrogate outcomes showed little effect on the addition of ICPV treatment to GSV stripping, while GSV ablation alone was associated with a reduction in the number of ICPVs in several studies. This review suggests a grade 1A recommendation for the treatment of venous ulcer by GSV ablation to reduce ulcer recurrence. The role of ICPV ablation alone or concomitant with GSV treatment awaits results of properly conducted RCTs.
Piezoresistive behavior of polymer reinforced by expanded graphite

Abstract In this study, piezoresistive properties of expanded graphite reinforced polypropylene modified by maleic anhydride were investigated. Expanded graphite as a nanoscale filler dispersed in a polymer matrix was explored in the last few years to examine the novel properties such as dielectric properties and electrical conductivity. It was shown that the change in electrical conductivity was consistent with the classical percolation theory whereby a threshold existed for transition from an insulator to a semi-conductor. Most piezoelectric materials are ceramic based. Little is understood on the piezoresistive behavior of polymer nanocomposites. The expanded graphite reinforced maleated PP in this study were prepared using a melt-compounding method. The percolation threshold of the composite conducting films at room temperature was found to be as low as 0.4 wt%. It was also shown that at a compressive stress less than 10 MPa, the electrical resistivity decreased fairly rapidly with an increase in compressive stress. Thereafter the resistivity reached a steady state and then slightly increased with the increase in the stress exceeding 30 MPa. The electrical response as a function of time under constant stress was investigated experimentally. The results showed that the electrical resistivity decreased significantly with time under high mechanical stress while it increased slightly at a compressive stress of 31 MPa. The potential mechanisms of piezoresistivity is qualitatively discussed in light of the observed experimental data.
Tire-Suspension-Chassis Dynamics in Rolling over Obstacles for Ride and Harshness Analysis2

Abstract The importance of improving dynamic properties is growing in vehicle development, especially as tire sidewall height is reduced. In particular, accurate prediction of tire and suspension d...
Genital trauma in prepubertal girls and adolescents.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To look critically at recent research articles that pertain to children and adolescents who present with genital injuries. RECENT FINDINGS: Emerging evidence supports links to long-term psychological sequelae of child sexual abuse. Parents should be educated to instruct their children regarding types of child abuse and prevention. 'Medicalization' of female genital mutilation (FGM) by health providers, including 'cutting or pricking', is condemned by international organizations. SUMMARY: Genital injuries whether accidental or intentional need to be reported with standardized terminology to allow for comparisons between reported outcomes. Motor vehicle accidents associated with pelvic fractures may result in bladder or urethral trauma. Adverse long-term psychosocial behaviors may be sequelae of child sexual abuse. FGM is willful damage to healthy organs for nontherapeutic reasons, and a form of violence against girls and women. Healthcare providers should counsel women suffering from the consequences of FGM, advise them to seek care, counsel them to resist reinfibulation, and prevent this procedure from being performed on their daughters. Language: en
Gene synthesis with H G Khorana

“I wish to conclude by hazarding the following rather long range predictions. In the years ahead, genes are going to be synthesized. The next steps would be to learn to manipulate the information content of genes and to learn to insert them into and delete them from the genetic systems. When, in the distant future, all this comes to pass, the temptation to change our biology will be very strong.”
New Layered Intergrowths in the Sn-Mo-Se System

Several new metastable layered intergrowths based on tin monoselenide and molybdenum diselenide, [(SnSe)1+δ]m[MoSe2]n, have been prepared by self-assembly from elemental nanolaminate precursors deposited by physical vapor deposition. The thin-film specimens were characterized by laboratory x-ray reflectivity and diffraction, synchrotron x-ray diffraction, electron probe microanalysis, and scanning transmission electron microscopy techniques, all of which indicate the formation of intergrowths with precise layering and well-defined composition. Analysis of in-plane diffraction originating from the individual components yields a structural misfit of δ = 0.06 and suggests turbostratic misorientation of the individual layers. In contrast to most known [(MX)1+δ]m[TX2]n-type chalcogenide compounds, electrical transport data for the [(SnSe)1+δ]1[MoSe2]1 composition are consistent with semiconducting behavior.
Non-radioactive determination of inosine 5′-monophosphate dehydro-genase (IMPDH) in peripheral mononuclear cells

Background: The immunosuppressive activity of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is based on the reversible inhibition of inosine 5′-monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) by mycophenolic acid (MPA). It was the aim of this study to develop a nonradioactive method for specific measurement of IMPDH activity in isolated peripheral mononuclear cells (MNC). Methods: The procedure is based on the incubation of lysed MNC with inosine 5′-monophosphate (IMP) followed by direct chromatographic determination of produced xanthosine 5′-monophosphate (XMP). IMPDH activity was measured in MNC of MMF-treated patients and nontreated volunteers. Results: The within-run (n = 10) and between-run (n = 20) coefficients of variation (CV) for IMPDH activity were < 8% and < 10%, respectively. IMPDH activity in 60 healthy volunteers (19–63 yr) ranged from 4.72 to 32.92 nmol/h/mg protein (mean = 18.39 ± 6.24). The IC50 for in vitro inhibition of IMPDH activity was about 2 to 3 μg/L. Application of a single dose of 1 g MMF in dialysis patients resulted in a significant inhibition (by 47–95%; p < 0.05) of IMPDH activity in lysed MNC. Conclusions: The proposed assay specifically and reliably measures IMPDH activity in MNC. The procedure is applicable to evaluate pharmacodynamic activity in MMF-treated patients. The observed interindividual variability of IMPDH activity may reflect pharmacodynamic differences in MMF-treated patients.
Locomotor Treadmill Training With Partial Body-Weight Support Before Overground Gait in Adults With Acute Stroke: A Pilot Study

poststroke. Design: Parallel group, posttest only. Setting: Inpatient rehabilitation center. Participants: Adults after first stroke admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation unit: treadmill group (n7) and comparison group (n7). Interventions: Locomotor treadmill training with partial BWS or traditional gait training methods. Main Outcome Measures: Gait kinematics, symmetry, velocity, and endurance at least 6 months postinsult. Results: Data from 3-dimensional gait analysis and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) supported improved gait for adults postacute stroke who practiced gait on a treadmill before walking over ground. Gait analysis showed increased knee flexion during swing and absence of knee hyperextension in stance for the treadmill group. In addition, more normal ankle kinematics at initial contact and terminal stance were observed in the treadmill group. Improved gait symmetry in the treadmill group was confirmed by measures of single support time, hip flexion at initial contact, maximum knee flexion, and maximum knee extension during stance. The treadmill group also walked further and faster in the 6MWT than the comparison group. Conclusions: Application of locomotor treadmill training with partial BWS before overground gait training may be more effective in establishing symmetric and efficient gait in adults postacute stroke than traditional gait training methods in acute rehabilitation.
Depressive Symptoms and Self-Rated Health in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Longitudinal Study

OBJECTIVES: To test whether baseline depressive symptoms in older adults increase the risk of subsequent decline in self-rated health and decrease the likelihood of subsequent improvement in self-rated health. DESIGN: A 2-year prospective cohort study. SETTING: Six thousand seven hundred fourteen community-dwelling older persons who completed the first and second wave of the Asset and Health Dynamics among the Oldest-Old Survey in the United States. PARTICIPANTS: Community-dwelling older people in the United States. MEASUREMENTS: Baseline depressive symptoms were measured using a short-form of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Self-rated health was measured using a single item of global health rating. RESULTS: After adjustment for covariates, a high burden of depressive symptoms at baseline was predictive of greater decline in self-rated health (odds ratio (OR) for decline in those with high burden of depressive symptoms vs those without = 1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.26–1.70). Likewise, high burden of depressive symptoms at baseline predicted less improvement in self-rated health (OR for improvement in those with high burden of depressive symptoms vs those without = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.50–0.65). CONCLUSIONS: Depressive symptomatology is an independent risk factor for subsequent changes in self-rated health in older adults. Thus, early prevention and intervention of depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults might be critical to promote and maintain their self-rated health.
Viewing-angle enhancement in holographic reflective displays by nanoscale holographic patterning

— This work presents a method to increase the viewing angle of holographic polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal (H-PDLC) reflective displays. One of the drawbacks to H-PDLC technology is the existence of a narrow viewing angle. We present a way to alleviate this problem by structuring the phase front of the recording beams to increase the viewing cone of the display. Analysis of the diffractive properties of these holograms shows that the macroscopic and the nanoscale morphologies both play a role in the optical properties of the films.
Morphology of the melon and its tendinous connections to the facial muscles in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)

The melon is a lipid rich structure located in the odontocete forehead that functions to propagate echolocation sounds into the surrounding aquatic environment. To date, the melon’s abilities to guide and impedance match biosonar sounds to water has been attributed to its unique fatty acid composition. The melon, though, is also acted upon by facial muscles (rostral, pars anterointernus, and nasal plug muscles). The goals of this study were to investigate the gross morphology of the melon in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and to describe how it is tendinously connected to these facial muscles. Standard gross dissection (n = 8) and serial sectioning (n = 3) techniques were used to describe the melon and to identify the connections between it and the surrounding muscles and blubber in three orthogonal body planes. The melon was also thin-sectioned in three body planes (n = 3) and polarized light was used to reveal the birefringent collagen fibers within and surrounding the melon. This study identified two distinct regions of the melon, the main body and the caudal melon. The caudal melon is bilaterally asymmetrical. This study is the first to identify three regions of the right caudal melon, termed the cup, stem, and cone and two regions of the left caudal melon, named the cup and branch. All regions of the melon vary in shape and display locally specific muscle-tendon morphologies. The entire length of the melon, from the initial site of sound generation to its rostral end, is acted upon by facial muscles. These muscles have highly organized tendon populations that traverse the melon and insert into either the surrounding blubber, the connective tissue matrix of the nasal plug, or the connective tissue sheath surrounding the sound generators. The facial muscles and tendons also lie within multiple orthogonal planes, which suggest that the melon is capable of changing its shape in multiple planes. Thus, the sound propagation pathway from the echolocation sound generators to the surrounding water appears to be a tunable system. Specifically, the facial muscles are hypothesized to be able to change the frequency, beam width, and directionality of the emitted sound beam in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).
Biophysical investigation of the iron in Aft1-1(up) and Gal-YAH1 Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Aft1p is a major iron regulator in budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It indirectly senses cytosolic Fe status and responds by activating or repressing iron regulon genes. Aft1p within the Aft1-1(up) strain has a single amino acid mutation which causes it to constitutively activate iron regulon genes regardless of cellular Fe status. This leads to elevated Fe uptake under both low and high Fe growth conditions. Ferredoxin Yah1p is involved in Fe/S cluster assembly, and Aft1p-targeted iron regulon genes are also upregulated in Yah1p-depleted cells. In this study Mossbauer, EPR, and UV-vis spectroscopies were used to characterize the Fe distribution in Aft1-1(up) and Yah1p-depleted cells. Aft1-1(up) cells grown in low Fe medium contained more Fe than did WT cells. A basal level of Fe in both WT and Aft1-1(up) cells was located in mitochondria, primarily in the form of Fe/S clusters and heme centers. The additional Fe in Aft1-1(up) cells was present as mononuclear HS Fe(III) species. These species are in a nonmitochondrial location, assumed here to be vacuolar. Aft1-1(up) cells grown in high Fe medium contained far more Fe than found in WT cells. The extra Fe was present as HS Fe(III) ions, probably stored in vacuoles, and as Fe(III) phosphate nanoparticles, located in mitochondria. Yah1p-deficent cells also accumulated nanoparticles in their mitochondria, but they did not contain HS Fe(III) species. Results are interpreted by a proposed model involving three homeostatic regulatory systems, including the Aft1 system, a vacuolar iron regulatory system, and a mitochondrial Fe regulatory system.
PIXE and the Mysteries of Legionnaires' Disease

We describe the use of proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) to analyse the nickel concentrations of the autopsy specimens from victims of Legionnaires' disease. We show that the high nickel concentrations in the lung specimens from the first recognized Legionnaires' cases in Philadelphia in 1976 were due to contamination during the autopsies. Recently we have used PIXE to show that the selenium concentrations in the sera of the acutely ill Legionnaires' patients are significantly lower than in their matching convalescent-phase sera. This finding may be related to the patient's response to the disease or to the specific characteristics of the Legionella pnewnophila itself. Studies show that the disease is not a rare illness but a worldwide one. General criteria concerning specimen collection are described.
Retrospective Monte Carlo dose calculations with limited beam weight information

An important unresolved issue in outcomes analysis for lung complications is the effect of poor or completely lacking heterogeneity corrections in previously archived treatment plans. To estimate this effect, we developed a novel method based on Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculations which can be applied retrospectively to RTOG/AAPM-style archived treatment plans (ATP). We applied this method to 218 archived nonsmall cell lung cancer lung treatment plans that were originally calculated either without heterogeneity corrections or with primitive corrections. To retrospectively specify beam weights and wedges, beams were broken into Monte Carlo-generated beamlets, simulated using the VMC++ code, and mathematical optimization was used to match the archived water-based dose distributions. The derived beam weights (and any wedge effects) were then applied to Monte Carlo beamlets regenerated based on the patient computed tomography densities. Validation of the process was performed against five comparable lung treatment plans generated using a commercial convolution/superposition implementation. For the application here (normal lung, esophagus, and planning target volume dose distributions), the agreement was very good. Resulting MC and convolution/superposition values were similar when dose distributions without heterogeneity corrections or dose distributions with corrections were compared. When applied to the archived plans (218), the average absolute percent differencemore » between water-based MC and water-based ATPs, for doses above 2.5% of the maximum dose was 1.8{+-}0.6%. The average absolute percent difference between heterogeneity-corrected MC and water-based ATPs increased to 3.1{+-}0.9%. The average absolute percent difference between the MC heterogeneity-corrected and the ATP heterogeneity-corrected dose distributions was 3.8{+-}1.6% (available in 132/218 archives). The entire dose-volume-histograms for lung, tumor, and esophagus from the different calculation methods, as well as specific dose metrics, were compared. The average difference in maximum lung dose between water-based ATPs and heterogeneity-corrected MC dose distributions was -1.0{+-}2.1 Gy. Potential errors in relying on primitive heterogeneity corrections are most evident from a comparison of maximum lung doses, for which the average MC heterogeneity-corrected values were 5.3{+-}2.8 Gy less than the ATP heterogeneity-corrected values. We have demonstrated that recalculation of archived dose distributions, without explicit information about beam weights or wedges, is feasible using beamlet-based optimization methods. The method provides heterogeneity-corrected dose data consistent with convolution-superposition calculations and is one feasible approach for improving dosimetric data for outcomes analyses.« less
Osteoporosis Risk Factors and Bone Mineral Density in Women With MS

Purpose: To describe the results of bone mineral density (BMD) screening in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and to identify risk factors for osteoporosis in women with MS and their use of preventive strategies. Methods: BMD screening was performed at the os calcis. A self-administered survey, formatted as a checklist, asked women with MS about their risk factors for osteoporosis and their use of osteoporosis prevention strategies. Findings: 142 women with MS completed the study. Using a modified classification system suggested for use with peripheral measurements of BMD, 44.4% of women in the sample were categorized as having normal BMD, 35.2% were osteopenic, and 20.4% were osteoporotic. The number of risk factors for osteoporosis reported by women with MS ranged from zero to 10 with a mean of 4.6 ± 1.8. Relatively few women were using strategies to minimize their risks for osteoporosis. Of those who did employ a risk-minimization strategy, the lowest number of women in the sample (4.3%) used raloxife...
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of clonazepam in obsessive-compulsive disorder

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are currently the first-line pharmacological agents in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Appropriate treatment for OCD also involves cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), including exposure and response prevention. As there is a time delay in seeing full therapeutic response, and not all patients tolerate SSRIs, there remains an unmet need for additional treatment approaches in OCD. In addition, most responders report only a partial reduction in symptoms. Clonazepam has demonstrated effectiveness in several preliminary reports in treating OCD. Twenty-seven patients with OCD were entered into a 10 week, double-blind, parallel design trial of clonazepam vs. placebo. Overall, only 3 out of 25 patients who had >/= 1 rating on clonazepam/placebo were judged to be treatment responders, by scoring a 1 (very much improved) or 2 (much improved) on the CGI improvement scale. Responders included 2 of 9 in the placebo group and 1 of 16 in the clonazepam group. No significant difference was found between clonazepam and placebo groups on responder/non responder status (Chi(2 )=1.39, df =1,24, p=0.238), nor on change in YBOCS, Ham-A, Ham-D or NIMH scales from beginning to last evaluation carried forward. These findings suggest that clonazepam is not effective as monotherapy in treating OCD. Its effectiveness in specific subgroups of OCD patients with co-morbid anxiety disorders or as an augmentation strategy added to SSRIs remains to be determined.
An outbreak of Burkholderia cepacia complex associated with an intrinsically contaminated nasal spray product

OBJECTIVE: To determine the source of Burkholderia cepacia complex associated with an outbreak that occurred at a 250-bed, tertiary-care, pediatric hospital in Denver, Colorado, and describe the measures taken to identify and confirm the source. METHODS: An epidemiologic investigation was used to identify possible causes for Burkholderia cepacia in pediatric patients that had new positive cultures with this organism from December 2003 through February 2004. Chart review, organism reports, surgical records, site visits, literature review, staff interviews, and cultures of common products and equipment were performed to determine the source of contamination. Random primer PCR and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), performed by two independent laboratories, were used for molecular typing of patient and source isolates. RESULTS: Five pediatric patients had new positive Burkholderia cepacia cultures from either the sinus or respiratory tract. Four of the five patients had isolates that were identical to the Burkholderia cepacia isolates from a 12-hour nasal spray product. One of these patients was a cystic fibrosis patient who had never previously tested positive for this organism. One of the five patients had an isolate that was not identical to the nasal spray or the other four patient isolates. CONCLUSIONS: Intrinsic contamination of a nasal spray product (Twice-A-Day 12-hour Nasal Spray™) with Burkholderia cepacia resulted in nosocomial transmission to four patients at our facility, one of whom had cystic fibrosis. Notification of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of this confirmed outbreak resulted in a voluntary product recall. As a result, an investigation by the CDC was undertaken to determine the extent of this outbreak nationwide.
Knowledge sharing, maintenance, and use in online support communities

Widespread adoption of collaborative authoring tools (such as Wikis) by online communities has fostered new ways of storing, sharing, maintaining, and using community knowledge. My dissertation research examines the effect and potential use of these shared knowledge repositories within online technical and medical support communities using short-term ethnography (including content analysis and interviews), surveys, and quantitative analysis of behavior traces. I characterize the key technological mechanisms, and the processes and social norms at play. I then use this knowledge to propose best practices and novel social and technical designs.
Response to Tim Barringer, A White Atlantic?

In my response to Tim Barringer’s piece, I emphasize the importance of extending one’s frame of reference when discussing transatlantic artistic connections to the consideration of as many different art forms as possible – including photography, and magazine and book illustrations – in order to get as full a picture as possible of the two-way flow in transatlantic artistic influences.This fuller picture notably extends the degree to which images of non-white subjects are seen to be in circulation. I also draw attention to the ways in which American and English artistic circles intersected outside as well as within these two countries, a point reinforced by looking at American women sculptors in Rome in the 1860s, paying particular attention to the work of the part African-American, part Native American sculptor, Edmonia Lewis. In her work can be seen a complex set of attitudes towards her subject matter that remind one forcefully of the many racial and cultural strands coming together in new American art.
The proto-oncogene c-kit is expressed in leiomyosarcomas of the uterus.

Abstract Objective The proto-oncogene c-kit encodes for a 145-kDa transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor. Interaction with its ligand, stem cell factor, is essential in the development of hematopoietic stem cells, mast cells, gametocytes, melanocytes, and interstitial cells of Cajal. C-kit expression has been identified in a number of different neoplasms that includes mastocytosis/mast cell leukemia, acute myeloblastic leukemia, seminoma/dysgerminoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. This study examines c-kit expression in uterine endometrial stromal sarcomas, leiomyomas, and leiomyosarcomas using immunohistochemistry. Methods Archival tissue from 38 patients with the uterine mesenchymal tumors (16 leiomyosarcomas, 8 leiomyomas, 11 low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas, and 3 high-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas) was stained with polyclonal antibody for c-kit. Modified avidin biotin (ABC) immunoperoxidase method was employed for antibody detection. Individual tumors were considered positive if more than 10% of the cells comprising the neoplasm displayed immunoreactive staining. Staining intensity was graded 1+ to 3+ and distribution graded as focal (10–30% of the cells), intermediate (30–60% of the cells), or diffuse (>60% of the cells). Results C-kit was positive in 12 (75%) of the 16 leiomyosarcomas. The staining was 3+ and diffuse in the majority of the positive tumors. C-kit expression was not detected in any of the 8 leiomyomas. Two of the 3 high-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas displayed c-kit positivity. Staining was diffuse and 3+ in both of these tumors. Expression of c-kit was observed in only 3 of the 11 low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas. Conclusions C-kit is expressed in uterine leiomyosarcomas and endometrial stromal sarcomas. Adjunctive diagnostic studies using c-kit may be useful in distinguishing leiomyosarcomas from benign leiomyomas in uterine tumors that offer uncharacteristic features. Furthermore, studies should investigate the prospect of treating these malignant tumors with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
A Model of Positive Family and Peer Relationships on Adolescent Functioning

This study proposes a cross-sectional model of positive family and peer relationships on school misbehavior and health and well-being in adolescence. Students (n = 20,749, 50.6 % girls, 43.9 % black, 67 % middle school, 56 % free/reduced price lunches) completed the school success profile in the classroom. A structural equation model was estimated using Mplus. After controlling for non-independence of observations due to clustering (n = 318 schools) and individual-level variables (age, socio-economic status, gender), family togetherness (β = .52, p < .001), parent behavioral expectations (β = .07, p < .05), and friend support (β = .12, p < .001) were associated with greater health and well-being; parent behavioral expectations (β = −.25, p < .001) and friend support (β = −.11, p < .001) were associated with less school misbehavior. Family relationships were mediated through adolescents’ susceptibility to peer pressure (health and well-being, β = −.34, p < .001; school misbehavior, β = .16, p < .001). That families and friends play critical roles in different adolescent outcomes and work through an individual vulnerability suggests a number of practice implications that are discussed.
Considering anger from a cognitive neuroscience perspective

The goal of this paper is to consider anger from a cognitive neuroscience perspective. Five main claims are made: first, reactive aggression is the ultimate behavioral expression of anger and thus we can begin to understand anger by understanding reactive aggression. Second, neural systems implicated in reactive aggression (amygdala, hypothalamus, and periaqueductal gray; the basic threat system) are critically implicated in anger. Factors such as exposure to extreme threat that increase the responsiveness of these systems, should be (and are in the context of posttraumatic stress disorder), associated with increased anger. Third, regions of frontal cortex implicated in regulating the basic threat system, when dysfunctional (e.g., in the context of lesions) should be associated with increased anger. Fourth, frustration occurs when an individual continues to do an action in the expectation of a reward but does not actually receive that reward, and is associated with anger. Individuals who show impairment in the ability to alter behavioral responding when actions no longer receive their expected rewards should be (and are in the context of psychopathy) associated with increased anger. Fifth, someone not doing what another person wants them to do (particularly if this thwarts the person's goal) is frustrating and consequently anger inducing. The response to such a frustrating social event relies on the neural architecture implicated in changing behavioral responses in nonsocial frustrating situations. WIREs Cogn Sci 2012, 3:65-74. doi: 10.1002/wcs.154 This article is categorized under: Psychology > Brain Function and Dysfunction.
Creep Deformation of the Human Trunk in Response to Prolonged and Repetitive Flexion: Measuring and Modeling the Effect of External Moment and Flexion Rate

While viscoelastic responses of isolated trunk soft tissues have been characterized in earlier studies, the effects of external loading and flexion rate on these responses in the intact human trunk are largely unknown. Two experiments were conducted to measure trunk viscoelastic behaviors, one involving prolonged flexion with several extra loads (attached to the wrists) and the other repetitive trunk flexion with different extra loads and flexion rates. Direct outcome measures included initial trunk angle, creep angle, and residual/cumulative creep. Viscoelastic behaviors in both experiments were characterized using different Kelvin-solid models. For prolonged flexion, extra load significantly affected initial angle, creep angle, and viscoelastic model parameters, while residual creep remained unchanged. For repetitive flexion, cumulative creep angle significantly increased with both extra load and flexion rate. Nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of the trunk was evident in both experiments, which also indicated better predictive performance using Kelvin-solid models with ≥2 retardation time constants. Understanding trunk viscoelastic behaviors in response to flexion exposures can help in future modeling and in assessing how such exposures alter the synergy between active and passive trunk tissues.
Dufour's gland: source of sex pheromone in a hymenopterous parasitoid

Females of Apanteles melanoscelus and Apanteles liparidis produce a sex pheromone in Dufour's gland of their reproductive system. Males of both species exhibit premating behavior when in contact with filter paper smears of the gland of their respective females.
Evaluation of the kurtosis algorithm in detecting radio frequency interference from multiple sources

A few of the issues faced by the kurtosis detection algorithm on recent field campaigns is discussed here. The performance of the kurtosis algorithm in detecting multiple-source Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is characterized. A new RFI statistical model is presented in the paper to take into account the behavior of RFI sources under a large foot-print. Results indicate the behavior of the kurtosis ratio under central-limit conditions due to large number of RFI sources.
TRACKING PRODUCT-PROCESS INTERACTIONS: A RESEARCH PARADIGM*

To design (or redesign) a competitive product, it is imperative that both the sales and manufacturing cost implications are assessed in a structured way. That is, the interactive (multidimensional) aspects of manufacturing and marketing variables need to be positioned in a proper perspective so that the system impact of variation in one or more variables may be ascertained quickly. In this paper we show how some of the system-related paradigms can be used as foundations for developing quantitative and qualitative models for tracking such interactive impacts. The emphasis is not on building complex mathematical models to solve specific problems but on providing a framework where system properties expressed as simple postulates can be used in an intelligent way to assess the impact of improvements in specific product-process scenarios.
On a new mathematical framework for fundamental theoretical physics

It is shown by means of general principles and specific examples that, contrary to a long-standing misconception, the modern mathematical physics of compressible fluid dynamics provides a generally consistent and efficient language for describing many seemingly fundamental physical phenomena. It is shown to be appropriate for describing electric and gravitational force fields, the quantized structure of charged elementary particles, the speed of light propagation, relativistic phenomena, the inertia of matter, the expansion of the universe, and the physical nature of time. New avenues and opportunities for fundamental theoretical research are thereby illuminated.
The transference-countertransference phenomenon: a requirement for training

Dr. Morton F. Reiser's article, "Are psychiatric deucators 'Losing the Mind'?" included a description of experiences with residents who do not appear to understand the phenomenon of psychotherapy and, in particular, the issues of transference and counter-transference (1). His residents also seemed to be more interested in tinkering with drugs and providing support than in understanding, with curiosity, the motivation of patients and what goes on in the human mind. Transference here is meant to be strong feelings that a patient develops towards a therapist that are determined by the patient's past experiences. Countertransference is an unconscious reaction to the patient's transference. Counter-transference becomes conscious as it is worked upon in supervision and distinguished from other feelings the therapist has about the patient.
A model for the pressure excitation spectrum and acoustic impedance of sound absorbers in the presence of grazing flow

A unification of the theory of the nonlinear acoustic resistance of Helmholtz resonators including grazing flow is presented. The nonlinear resistance due to grazing flow is considered to be caused by an exciting pressure spectrum produced by the interaction of the grazing flow and the jets flowing from the resonator orifices. With this exciting pressure spectrum the resonator can be treated in the same manner as a resonator without grazing flow but with an exciting acoustic spectrum. One of the important implications of this model is that a multiple-degree-of-freedom resonator can be analyzed with grazing flow. Using the grazing flow pressure spectrum, the nonlinear acoustic resistance can be properly distributed among the several elements of the resonator.
Voltage clamp of single freshly dissociated smooth muscle cells: Current-voltage relationship for three currents

Voltage-clamp experiments on single freshly dissociated (i.e. uncultured) vertebrate smooth muscle cells were carried out under conditions where the inital inward current, as well as various phases of outward current, could be studied. Current-voltage relationships were obtained for the initial current, the peak outward current, and a later, steady-state outward current, over a potential range of approximately −130 mV to +50 mV. Evidence is presented that the initial current is carried by Ca++ ions and is responsible for the rising phase of the action potential and that the peak in the outward current is due to Ca++ activation of K+ conductance.
Reversal of depressed oxygen consumption accompanying in vivo protamine sulphate-heparin interactions by the prostacyclin analogue, iloprost*

Oxygen consumption (VO 2 ) is known to be depressed 50 to 60% during protamine sulphate reversal of heparin anticoagulation. Accompanying this event are systemic hypotension, pulmonary artery hypertension and thrombocytopaenia. The effect of a prostacyclin analogue, iloprost, on protamine-induced changes in VO 2 was assessed in this investigation. Three groups of anaesthetised adult mongrel dogs were studied: Group 1—control subjects received i.v. normal saline infusions ( n = 10); Group II—subjects received low-dose i.v. iloprost infusions (25–50 ng/kg/min) over 30 min ( n = 7); and Group III—subjects received high-dose i.v. iloprost infusions (175 ng/kg/min) over 30 min ( n = 7). All dogs initially received sodium heparin, 150 IU/kg i.v. Protamine sulphate, 1.5 mg/kg i.v., was subsequently administered over 10 s following the first 20 min of saline or iloprost infusion. Continuous measurements included: mixed venous (SvO 2 ) and arterial (SaO 2 ) oxygen saturation, arterial blood pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, heart rate and carotid artery flow (CaQ). Thermodilution cardiac output (CO) allowed calculation of VO 2 . Platelet counts were performed before and 3 min after protamine infusion. The VO 2 declines in Group II and III subjects compared to Group I controls were markedly less. Maximum VO 2 declines in Group I control dogs of −38.2 ± 26.7% and Group II dogs of −34.1 ± 36.8% at 75 to 90 s post-reversal contrasted to −2.9 ± 31.9% in Group III animals at the same time interval. VO 2 increases occurred 3 to 10 min after protamine exposure in Group III animals, as did attenuation of systemic hypotensive and pulmonary hypertensive responses in this group. No significant intra-group differences were noted regarding heart rate, SaO 2 , CO or CaQ. Thrombocytopaenia was unaffected with iloprost infusion, being −50, −63 and −70% in Groups I, II and III, respectively. In conclusion, the prostacyclin analogue iloprost, attenuates protamine sulphate induced declines in VO 2 during reversal of heparin anticoagulation in a dose-dependent fashion; an effect associated with a lessing of accompanying systemic hypotension and pulmonary artery hypertension. The basis for such may reside in a direct cytoprotective effect of iloprost rather than a platelet-mediated effect.
Granulosa Cell Apoptosis: Conservation of Cell Signaling in an Avian Ovarian Model System

Ovarian follicle atresia in all vertebrates studied to date is mediated via apoptosis, a process that is often initiated within the granulosa cell layer. While follicle atresia is considered a normal physiological process to insure the greatest chance for ovulation of fertilizable oocytes, abnormally high rates of atresia result in chronic infertility and/or premature termination of fertility (e.g., menopause). Although the vast majority of research to elucidate the molecular ordering of cell signaling during the process of granulosa cell apoptosis has been conducted in mammalian model systems, there is ample evidence to demonstrate that many of the proteins, enzymes and cell-signaling pathways are common to ovarian follicles from avian species. The following review will discuss evidence for the conservation of cellular processes that regulate the fate of granulosa cells from the avian, versus mammalian, ovary during follicle development.
Cenozoic unconformities and depositional supersequences of North Atlantic continental margins: testing the Vail model

Integrated outcrop, borehole, and seismic reflection stratigraphy from the U.S. and Irish margins of the North Atlantic basin reveals a framework of Cenozoic depositional supersequences and interregional unconformities that resembles the Vail depositional model. Paleo-bathymetric and paleoceanographic analyses of associated microfossil assemblages indicate a genetic link between the depositional framework and the relative position of sea level.
THE REALITY OF DISCONTINUITIES

ABSTRACT Although continuity is a necessary concept for the theoretical development of calculus, professors frequently spend little time on implications of discontinuities. However important are the theoretical considerations, they may not convince students of the practical value of continuity in real life situations. This article explores several real world scenarios involving discontinuities. Examples are chosen to enhance the understanding of the value of the mathematical concept of continuity. An instructor may use a few of these or similar situations to convince the students of the importance of the concept. The problems cover a wide variety of situations and bring forth a greater understanding of a concept that often is taken for granted. The ideas of removable or nonremovable discontinuities arise naturally from these examples. Suggestions for discussion and general issues are presented.
Differential quadrature: a powerful new technique for analysis of composite structures

Beginning with the original work of Richard Bellman and his associates, the differential quadrature method is now recognized as an alternate numerical solution technique for the initial and boundary value problems of engineering and applied sciences. This paper presents an up-to-date account of the works in which the differential quadrature method has been employed for the analysis of laminated composite structures.