cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of six keyboard designs on wrist and forearm postures

There is increasing evidence that alternative geometry keyboards may prevent or reduce arm pain or disorders and presumably the mechanism is by reducing awkward arm postures. However, the effects of alternative keyboards, especially the new designs, on wrist and arm postures are not well known. In this laboratory study, the wrist and forearm postures of 100 subjects were measured with a motion analysis system while they typed on 6 different keyboard configurations. There were significant differences in wrist extension, ulnar deviation, and forearm pronation between keyboards. When considering all 6 wrist and forearm postures together, the keyboard with an opening angle of 12°, a gable angle of 14°, and a slope of 0° appears to provide the most neutral posture among the keyboards tested in the configuration tested. This study identifies significant wrist and forearm posture differences between 6 keyboard configurations. These findings may assist in ergonomic recommendations regarding computer usage.
Approximate Evaluation of Semi-Markov Chain Reliability Models,

Abstract A property observed in high reliability fault-tolerant control systems is the relatively rare occurrence of component failures compared to the frequent occurrence of redundancy management decision events. This property leads to a temporal decomposition of the semi-Markov chain reliability model into two time-scales: a slow time-scale for failure events and a fast time-scale for FDI events. Conditions are described under which a semi-Markov chain reliability model of a high reliability fault-tolerant control system can be approximated by an enlarged Markov process, the parameters of which are derived from the parameters of the semi-Markov chain.
Analysis of glycosaminoglycans of flow sorted cells: Incorporation of [35S]sulfate and [3H]glucosamine into glycosaminoglycans of B16‐F10 cells during the cell cycle

The incorporation of [35S]sulfate and [3H] glucosamine into cetyl pyridinium chloride (CPC) precipitable glycosaminoglycans was determined in B16-F10 cultured cells sorted with respect to DNA content. Incorporation into surface material was measured indirectly as the difference between the radioactivity of control and trypsin treated cells. Approximately 80% of the total cellular [35S] sulfate labeled CPC precipitable material, but only 5% of that labeled by [3H]glucosamine, was removed by this mild trypsin treatment. Incorporation of [35S]sulfate into the trypsin removable surface material increased progressively from G1 to S to F2 + M in both long-term (48 hours) and short-term (1 hour) labeled cells, while the ratio of surface to total incorporated [35S]sulfate remained relatively constant. Incorporation of [35S]sulfate into total cellular glycosaminoglycans in long- and short-term labeled cells increased as cells progressed from G1 to S to G2 + M; the incorporation of [3H]glucosamine into CPC precipitable material also increased progressively from G1 to S to G2 + M in long-term labeled cells but was greater during S phase relative to G1 or G2 + M in short-term labeled cells. The degree of sulfation of glycosaminoglycans as represented by the ratio of [35S]sulfate to [3H]glucosamine of double labeled cells was relatively constant in long-term labeled cells but was increased during the G1 and G2 + M phases of short-term labeled cells. Comparison of the degree of sulfation of short-term with long-term labeled cells suggests that highly sulfated glycosaminoglycans may be turned over more rapidly during G1 and G2 + M phases of the cell cycle.
Regulation of the Low Affinity IgE Fc Receptor (CD23) in Atopic Dermatitis

Alterations in the production of CD23, the IgE Fc receptor, may play a role in the etiology of atopic dermatitis and other allergic conditions. Interleukin-4 (IL-4), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), and interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) are involved in coordinate regulation of CD23. IL-4 stimulates production of both CD23 and IgE. IFN-gamma also stimulates production of CD23, but suppresses production of IgE and inhibits IL-4-mediated production of CD23. IFN-alpha also suppresses these IL-4-mediated activities and, in addition, suppresses IFN-gamma-mediated stimulation of CD23 production. Changes in this coordinate regulation may be involved in the development of atopic dermatitis. Expression of CD23 by Langerhans cells is stimulated by IL-4 and IFN-gamma. Further, levels of CD23-positive T cells are elevated in atopic dermatitis subjects as compared to non-atopic controls, and observed skin changes appear to be related to changes in CD23-positive mononuclear cell populations. Coordinate regulation of CD23 by IFN-gamma and IL-4 may also be important in other allergic conditions, parasitic infections, and a variety of disease states.
How to tweak a beak: molecular techniques for studying the evolution of size and shape in Darwin's finches and other birds

A flurry of technological advances in molecular, cellular and developmental biology during the past decade has provided a clearer understanding of mechanisms underlying phenotypic diversification. Building upon such momentum, a recent paper tackles one of the foremost topics in evolution, that is the origin of species-specific beak morphology in Darwin's finches.1 Previous work involving both domesticated and wild birds implicated a well-known signaling pathway (i.e. bone morphogenetic proteins) and one population of progenitor cells in particular (i.e. cranial neural crest), as primary factors for establishing beak size and shape. But these results were limited in their ability to explain fully the morphogenetic bases of patterned outgrowth. So in a quest to identify novel genes whose expression correlated with differences in beak anatomy among Darwin's finches, a DNA microarray approach was undertaken using tissues harvested from the Galapagos Islands. The results are striking and point to a protein called calmodulin, which is a mediator of cellular calcium signaling, as a key determinant of beak length.
Root Hair Zone of Soil-grown Roots

PATHOGENS which invade the roots of higher plants from the soil, in general, enter through the root hair zone of the seedling or the feeder roots of the older plant. Recent examination of certain common soil-grown species of dicotyledons and monocotyledons, namely, broad bean (Vicia faba), castor bean (Ricinus communis), mustard (Brassica nigra), purslane (Portulaca oleracea), radish (Raphanus sativus), squash (Cucurbita pepo), willow (Salix sp.), onion (Allium cepa), and wheat (Triticum aestivum), indicates that the description of the root hair zone in current text-books is inadequate and requires considerable modification in respect to the extent of the region of absorption and the details of tissue structure1. In present-day diagrams of the primary root, the root hair zone is invariably short. The xylem elements are devoid of contents. It is generally stated that the epidermis of the root differs from that of the shoot in the absence of a cuticle. It is somewhat difficult to reconcile the limitation of the absorptive region with the extent of the root systems which have been examined in detail by numerous investigators2. In rye grass, for example, the estimated total length of the 4.5 × 109 root hairs amounts to 6,603 miles, with a surface area of 432 sq. ft. (ref. 3).
EFFECT OF 8-AZAGUANINE ON CLEAVAGE AND NUCLEIC ACID METABOLISM IN SEA URCHIN, STRONGYLOCENTROTUS PURPURATUS, EMBRYOS.

Abstract 1. 1. 8-Azaguanine had no apparent effect upon cleavage of sea urchin embryos until the early blastula stage. At this time inhibition occurred and it became more pronounced as the embryos got older. 8-Azaguanine prevented embryogenesis beyond the blastula stage, but it had no effect upon the motility or hatching of the embryos. Reversal of 8-azaguanine inhibition with guanine could not be accomplished by exposing blastulae to guanine. 2. 2. 8-Azaguanine caused a slight reduction in the synthesis of DNA but had no effect upon the amount of RNA in the embryo. 3. 3. 8-Azaguanine greatly reduced the incorporation of label from 14 C-1-glycine and 14 C-2-glycine into both RNA and DNA. 4. 4. Extensive incorporation of 8-azaguanine into the guanine moiety of RNA has been demonstrated. No incorporation of 8-azaguanine into DNA could be detected. 5. 5. Very little, if any, 8-azaguanine was converted into 8-azaadenine by experimental embryos. 6. 6. A mechanism has been postulated which explains the inhibitory effects of 8-azaguanine on nucleic acid metabolism and the development of the embryo in the following manner. Within the cell 8-azaguanine is converted into metabolically active 8-azaguanine nucleotides. Competition between 8-azaguanine and the enzymes, substrates, and energy sources requisite to nucleotide formation results in decreased synthesis of purines. 8-Azaguanine nucleotides are incorporated into RNA, which then has an altered functional capacity. The 8-azaguanine-containing RNA participates in the formation of fraudulent proteins or induces protein deficiencies, some of which may involve enzymes controlling purine synthesis. The 8-azaguanine inhibition of differentiation may be the result of insufficient purine and/or protein production to sustain cell division. It may also involve failure of the 8-azaguanine-containing RNA to participate normally in the synthesis of the new proteins which characterize differentiation.
Supervisory fuzzy control of a base-isolated benchmark building utilizing a neuro-fuzzy model of controllable fluid viscous dampers

A numerical study demonstrating the effectiveness of a supervisory fuzzy controller for seismic protection of a base-isolated structure is described in this paper. The numerical simulations were conducted using the first-generation base isolation benchmark problem. This benchmark problem focuses on the three-dimensional seismic response of an eight-storey base-isolated building wherein lateral–torsional response of the plan irregular structure is explicitly modeled. The isolation system consists of low-damping elastomeric bearings and semi-active controllable fluid viscous dampers. The dynamics of the controllable fluid viscous dampers are accounted for via a neuro-fuzzy model that is developed based on experimental data from testing of small-scale controllable fluid viscous dampers. Results from the simulations demonstrate that accounting for the damper dynamics is important in assessing the realizable improvements in seismic response reduction. Furthermore, the results show that simultaneous reductions in peak isolation system deformation and peak superstructure responses can be achieved for several near-field earthquake ground motions, particularly with respect to the semi-active clipped optimal sample controller provided in the benchmark problem statement Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seeking Social Inventions to Improve the Transition to Adulthood.

Social inventions are new ways of solving human problems. This article reports on an action research project designed to find social inventions to reduce structural lag in four programs that support the transition to adulthood of marginalized youth in Latin America. The investigators engaged youth and staff members in identifying important questions, collecting and interpreting data, and using findings to improve their practices. Their issues aligned with social setting features: activities, resources, roles, and norms. Among their social inventions were “the life project,” the role of mentor, youth responsibility, and new norms of reflection introduced by action research, which not only revealed social inventions but generated them as well. Interaction with external parties contributed to this process: the investigators, “local researchers” engaged as part of the project, participants in conferences convened for participants. Rather than recommending social inventions for adoption in other locations, we ...
Plasmalogen biosynthesis in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells: selectivity in the acylation of 1-alkyl-2-lyso-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine and the subsequent desaturation step.

Abstract Acyl group specificity in the acylation of 1-alkyl-2-lyso-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (1-alkyl-2-lyso-GroPEtn) to form 1-alkyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (1-alkyl-2-acyl-GroPEtn) and the subsequent desaturation of 1-alkyl-2-acyl-GroPEtn to form plasmalogens (1-alk-1′-enyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine, i.e., 1-alk-1′-enyl-2-acyl-GroPEtn) was investigated in intact Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells and cell-free membrane preparations. We found 1-[3H]alkyl-2-lyso-GroPEtn was selectively acylated with polyunsaturated fatty acids in the order 20:4 > 20:5 > 20:3 (n-9) > 22:6 by cell-free membrane preparations of MDCK cells. The same pattern of acyl specificity was seen in intact MDCK cells, although the intact cells produced significantly larger amounts of 1-[3H]alkyl-2-acyl-GroPEtn containing oleic acid. There was an increased desaturation of the 1-[3H]alkyl-2-acyl-GroPEtn species containing docosahexaenoic acid to plasmalogens (1-[3H]alk-1′-enyl-2-acyl-GroPEtn) by both intact MDCK cells and the cell-free membrane preparations. The relatively rapid disappearance of the 1-[3H]alk-1′-enyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-GroPEtn species during a 20-h incubation of prelabeled intact MDCK cells suggests a more rapid turnover of this molecular species. Our results indicate there is a high selectivity in the final acylation and desaturation steps of the biosynthetic pathway for plasmalogens.
AQUEOUS ION TRANSPORT PROPERTIES AND WATER REORIENTATION DYNAMICS FROM AMBIENT TO SUPERCRITICAL CONDITIONS

Ion transport properties including the friction coefficient, Walden product (product of conductivity and viscosity), and the limiting equivalent conductance are predicted in water at elevated temperatures using a semicontinuum model. Molecular dynamics computer simulation is used to determine water rotational reorientation times in the first coordination shell compared with the bulk, and the results are incorporated into a hydrodynamic expression for the ionic friction coefficient. Along the coexistence curve of water, the effective Stokes−Einstein radius implied by the model is relatively constant. However, for Cl-, K+, and Rb+, this radius increases at typical supercritical water conditions, where the motion of the first shell water molecules is coupled more closely to that of the ion. For Na+, the coupling is already quite strong at higher solvent densities. The increment to the friction coefficient in excess of the bare ion Stokes−Einstein result contributes a larger fraction of the total in supercrit...
Claspin, a Novel Protein Required for the Activation of Chk1 during a DNA Replication Checkpoint Response in Xenopus Egg Extracts

We have identified Claspin, a novel protein that binds to Xenopus Chk1 (Xchk1). Binding of Claspin to Xchk1 is highly elevated in the presence of DNA templates that trigger a checkpoint arrest of the cell cycle in Xenopus egg extracts. Xchk1 becomes phosphorylated during a checkpoint response, and we demonstrate directly that this phosphorylation results in the activation of Xchk1. Immunodepletion of Claspin from egg extracts abolishes both the phosphorylation and activation of Xchk1. Furthermore, Claspin-depleted extracts are unable to arrest the cell cycle in response to DNA replication blocks. Taken together, these findings indicate that Claspin is an essential upstream regulator of Xchk1.
Experimental high-frequency ultrasound can detect graft rejection after small bowel transplantation

Abstract Early diagnosis of graft rejection after small bowel transplantation (SBT) can allow prompt institution of vigorous immunosuppressive therapy, with resultant reversal of the rejection process. The current method for graft monitoring is random mucosal biopsy from a stomal site or through an endoscope. However, because early rejection often has a patchy distribution, it could be missed by random biopsy. We hypothesized that the pathological process of rejection would alter acoustic impedance of the tissue and thus change the ultrasonic patterns of the graft intestinal wall. If this hypothesis is correct, then high-frequency endoscopic ultrasound (US) could be used to monitor the entire transplanted bowel and guide the biopsy, with improved yields. This hypothesis was tested in a rat orthotopic SBT model. Sixty-two intestinal specimens (9 isografts, 12 allografts treated with cyclosporine A [CsA], 22 untreated allografts, and 19 intestines from normal rats) were collected for in vitro transluminal US imaging (30 MHz) and histopathologic study. The echo pattern of normal rat intestinal wall consisted of five echo layers that correlated spatially with the histological layers: the innermost hyperechoic layer 1, plus hypoechoic layer 2, corresponded to the mucosa; hyperechoic layer 3, the submucosa; anechoic layer 4, the muscularis propria; and hyperechoic layer 5, the serosa. The isografts and CsA-treated allografts were identical histologically and ultrasonically to normal intestine. However, the echo patterns of the untreated allografts had progressive loss of architectural stratification, with worsening rejection. The change began with patchy indistinctness and disruption of hyperechoic layers 1, 3 and 5, and progressed to total obliteration of the layers, with the intestinal wall becoming a nonstratified hypoechoic structure. In addition, the normal thickness ratio (2–4:1) of layers 1 + 2 to the remaining deeper layers (3, 4, and 5) was decreased or inverted in the rejected intestine. US detected histologically confirmed graft rejection, with a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 80%, respectively. Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between the US prediction of rejection severity and actual severity determined by histological study (correlation coefficient=0.91; P
Class II MHC Molecules Are Specific Receptors for Staphylococcus Enterotoxin A

T cell proliferation in response to stimulation with Staphylococcus enterotoxin A (SEA) requires accessory cells that express class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. Murine fibroblasts transfected with genes encoding the alpha and beta subunits of HLA-DR, DQ, or DP were used to show that the proliferative response of purified human T cells to SEA is dependent on class II molecules but is not restricted by the haplotype of the responder. Binding of fluoresceinated SEA to class II transfectants and precipitation of class II heterodimers with SEA-Sepharose show that the proliferative response is a result of SEA binding to class II molecules. The binding is specific for class II molecules and is independent of class II allotype or isotype. The ability of SEA to bind class II molecules may be a general characteristic of this class of antigens, now called "superantigens".
Issues and opportunities for submicron metallization systems (Abstract Only)

At sub-half micron design rules and smaller, the (multilevel) metallization required to meet performance and reliability requirements are driving the investigation and development of new materials and processing techniques. Step coverage of films in increasingly smaller and deeper structures will mandate fresh approaches in both physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) film techniques. Low resistivity metals, such as copper, and low permittivity dielectrics, such as polyimide, are being investigated worldwide. Diffusion barrier development has assumed special importance with metallorganic CVD and collimated sputtering PVD techniques showing promise. Key issues are film integrity and density over abrupt topography and effectiveness of the very thin (< 50 nm) layers required for quarter micron via liners. Needs for increased reliability are as much a driver as increased performance. Though copper has been expected to be largely resistant to stress migration effects, recent data have raised doubts. As with all other processes required for deep submicron manufacture, advanced multilevel metallization techniques must conform to increasingly stringent yield criteria and be consistent with requirements of contamination free manufacturing.
Editor's Choice: Sexual Harassment Education on Campus: Communication Using Media:

Sexual harassment is a pervasive problem on our nation's college and university campuses, one that can have devastating results. Educational institutions had been shielded from liability for sexual harassment until the late 1990s, when two landmark Supreme Court decisions set forth a new standard for liability of institutions where students are harassed. This shift in law, plus recent legal imperatives indicating that training is an important prevention tool, has encouraged institutions to strengthen their anti-harassment training. This article discusses the educational program at Hostos Community College, a program that utilizes a multimedia approach coupled with discussion. This blended approach successfully meets both the current legal prevention requirements and satisfies the needs of a complex environment of a metropolitan college.
Perianal basal cell carcinoma.

The reports of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the perianal and anal area are very infrequent in the dermatologic literature. It is important to distinguish this relatively benign carcinoma from other more aggressive anal carcinomas that may be strikingly similar histologically. REPORT OF A CASE An 82-year-old woman who was hospitalized on the gastrointestinal service for a large gastric ulcer was referred to the dermatology clinic in February 1977 with a large posterior perianal ulcer. It was mildly pruritic and had been present for an unknown period of time. She denied any previous roentgenographic therapy to the area. On physical examination a 3- × 4-cm, sharply marginated "kissing" lesion with a firm white border and ulcerated erythematous center was noted just posterior to the anus; it involved the posterior perianal skin and extended onto the medial buttock bilaterally (Fig 1). Anoscopy and a rectal digital examination were normal. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Review Article: On optimal media/video distribution in closed P2P-based IPTV networks

Video distribution over the Internet has become a popular service because of technological advances in internet (e.g., higher network bandwidth) and video coding (e.g., H.264/SVC). In this and other similar media distribution applications, a server or distribution center sends a media/video to a group peers with different bandwidth resources and display capacities. In one of the approaches, the peer-to-peer approach, the server sends only one copy of the media over Internet, and each peer receives one segment of the media and exchanges his/her segment with other peers to receive the complete media. A key design issue in this approach is deciding the sizes of the segments delivered to individual peer which affect the time of complete media distribution. Equal sized segmentation does not always result in the least distribution time. In this paper, we study the problem of how to distribute non-scalable and scalable coded media from a server in closed peer-to-peer based IPTV networks. We propose a new distribution algorithm to find the media segment sizes optimized for the bandwidths of participating peers in order to minimize the time it takes to distribute the entire media to all end subscribers. First, we focus on finding the optimal solution in non-scalable media distribution. Then, we extend our method to scalable media distribution to find optimal segment sizes for all media layers. Simulations are conducted by varying the number of peers and media sizes to investigate the impact of these parameters on both non-scalable and scalable video distribution. The experimental results have demonstrated the scalability and efficiency of the proposed distribution algorithm.
Developmental trajectories of maladaptive perfectionism among African American adolescents.

This study examined the developmental trajectories of maladaptive perfectionism over a 7-year period among African American youth living in an urban setting (N = 547). In particular, the study attempted to determine whether two maladaptive aspects of perfectionism (socially prescribed and self-critical) changed over time and could be distinguished by variables in 6th and 12th grades (Mage at study entry [first grade] was 6.22 years [SD = 0.34]). Four classes best described the developmental trajectories on both measures of maladaptive perfectionism: high, low, increasing, and decreasing. Sixth- and 12th-grade correlates, including measures of internalizing symptoms, mostly confirmed the distinctiveness of these classes. Parallel process analyses suggested that the two processes are complementary, yet distinct. Implications regarding the prevention of maladaptive perfectionism are discussed.
Experimental and theoretical considerations in augmenting oxygen transfer in membrane artificial lungs

Anin vitro evaluation of an experimental membrane blood oxygenator was conducted. Blood in the oxygenator was mixed by an oscillating metal rod, which led to a considerable reduction in the diffusional resistance to oxygen transfer. Nevertheless, membrane limited performance was not experimentally realised. Computer simulation of a mathematical model of boundary-layer gas exchange revealed that the oxygen uptake in red cells is controlled by the length of the diffusion path. There was almost no difference in the calculated saturation times using either finite or instantaneous reaction kinetics. These considerations are used to explain the performance of the oxygenator.
Comprehending expository text: Promising strategies for struggling readers and students with reading disabilities?

Abstract This article examines studies that have attempted to help increase comprehension of expository text for students who are struggling readers and/or have reading disabilities. In doing so, this review reveals that (a) few studies have explicitly claimed to include these students in their work and (b) future research needs to include larger numbers of these students in such studies. This review also shows that the majority of work that has been done in this area has used social studies texts. Few studies exist that were designed to help increase comprehension of mathematics and/or science text. Finally, this review questions the texts that were used in these studies and suggests that different results may have been found if researchers had used texts written at students instructional, rather than frustration, levels.
Relational self-construal moderates the effect of social support on life satisfaction

Abstract While social support is associated with a host of important physical and psychological benefits, these effects are not always straightforward. Still, the moderating factors that might underlie individual differences in reactions to social support are not well-understood. In the current studies, we examined individual differences in relational self-construal in the typically positive relationship between social support and life satisfaction. In Study 1 (N = 79) relational self-construal moderated the relationship between social support and life satisfaction such that social support was especially beneficial for those with high relational self-construal. We replicated this effect in Study 2 (N = 284), and also found that social support was especially important for individuals with high relational self-construal in the context of high feelings of stress. These studies suggest that social support has differently gauged effects on life satisfaction depending on an individual’s relational self-construal.
GNAS and KRAS Mutations Define Separate Progression Pathways in Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm-Associated Carcinoma.

Background Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are being increasingly recognized as important precursors to pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Elucidation of the genetic changes underlying IPMN carcinogenesis may improve the diagnosis and management of IPMN. We sought to determine whether different histologic subtypes of IPMN would exhibit different frequencies of specific genetic mutations. Study Design Patients with resected IPMN-associated invasive carcinoma (IPMN-INV) between 1997 and 2012 were reviewed. Areas of carcinoma, high-grade dysplasia, and low-grade dysplasia were micro-dissected from each pathologic specimen. Targeted, massively parallel sequencing was then performed on a panel of 275 genes (including KRAS , GNAS , and RNF43 ). Results Thirty-eight patients with resected IPMN-INV and sufficient tissue for micro-dissection were identified. Median follow-up was 2.6 years. Mutations in GNAS were more prevalent in colloid-type IPMN-INV than tubular-type IPMN-INV (89% vs 32% respectively; p = 0.0003). Conversely, KRAS mutations were more prevalent in tubular-type than colloid-type IPMN-INV (89% vs 52%, respectively; p = 0.01). For noninvasive IPMN subtypes, GNAS mutations were more prevalent in intestinal (74%) compared with pancreatobiliary (31%) and gastric (50%) subtypes (p = 0.02). The presence of these mutations did not vary according to the degree of dysplasia ( GNAS : invasive 61%, high-grade 59%, low-grade 53%; KRAS : invasive 71%, high-grade 62%, low-grade 74%), suggesting that mutations in these genes occur early in IPMN carcinogenesis. Conclusions Colloid carcinoma associated with IPMN and its intestinal-type preinvasive precursor are associated with high frequencies of GNAS mutations. The mutation profile of tubular carcinoma resembles that of conventional pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Preoperative determination of mutational status may assist with clinical treatment decisions.
Effects of Contextualized and Decontextualized Practice Conditions on Word Recognition

Two commonly used teaching strategies in reading are reading in context alone (contextualized practice) and reading in context supplemented with isolated word practice (decontextualized practice). ...
20 Years of Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in New York State

Background:There have been no population-based studies to evaluate the rate of pediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.Purpose:The primary aim of the current study was to determine the yearly rate of ACL reconstruction over the past 20 years in New York State. Secondary aims were to determine the age distribution for ACL reconstruction and determine whether patient demographic and socioeconomic factors were associated with ACL reconstruction.Study Design:Descriptive epidemiology study.Methods:The Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database contains a census of all hospital admissions and ambulatory surgery in New York State. This database was used to identify pediatric ACL reconstructions between 1990 and 2009; ICD-9-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 9 Revision, Clinical Modification) and CPT-4 (Current Procedural Terminology, 4th Revision) codes were used to identify reconstructions. Patient sex, age, race, family income, education, and insurance sta...
Control of distillation columns with sharp temperature profiles

Temperature control problems are frequently encountered in distillation columns that, as a result of high purity products and an easy separation, have large temperature changes over a few trays. The describing function technique is used in this paper to analyze the stability of this type of column in which a nonlinear feedback control loop for column temperature control manipulates vapor boilup. The cycling usually experienced in these systems is shown to be unavoidable in many cases because the process transfer function has such a high gain that it acts like an on-off switch. The process also displays nonlinear dynamics: system time constants vary with the magnitude of change in vapor boilup. To overcome these difficulties an adaptive, nonlinear feedback controller is proposed that keeps the loop in a small-amplitude limit cycle by adaptively changing controller gain. The system is evaluated by digital simulation of a nonlinear model of the column.
The mass of the Muon’s neutrino

We investigate the effects, on free muon production and decay, of a non-zero mass for the muon’s neutrino. The quantity most sensitive to the mass of the muon’s neutrino is the shape of the electron spectrum from isotropic Μ+-decay near the maximum electron energy. A probable upper limit of 5 electron masses is set on the neutrino’s mass using data on the maximum electron energy, but a more accurate evaluation is possible, with current experimental techniques, if data are obtained on the shape of the isotropic electron spectrum.
A case study on the use of robots in assembly processes

Abstract The process of integrating robots in manufacturing cells should be carefully investigated before embarking on it. In this paper quantitative decision making techniques are used to improve the production rate of an assembly process. Inserting a “peg-in-a-hole” is the example used in developing our models.
Erosion of 304 stainless steel

Abstract Erosion rate measurements and scanning electron microscopy observations were made for the steady state erosion of 304 stainless steel eroded by sharp alumina particles. Both the velocity and the particle size dependence of the erosion rates were similar at all angles of impact between 10° and 90°. Micrographic observations of the steady state erosion surfaces disclosed similar overall features at low and high angles of impact. Results reported in the literature for aluminum tend to confirm these observations. It was concluded that a single erosion mechanism can be operative at all impact angles 7in ductile metals such as stainless steel, rather than a superposition of different mechanisms for the low angle and high angle range. The physical basis for a single mechanism of erosion by sharp particles was discussed.
Active and passive surveillance of enoxaparin generics: a case study relevant to biosimilars.

Objective: This retrospective analysis assessed the capability of active and passive safety surveillance systems to track product-specific safety events in the USA for branded and generic enoxaparin, a complex injectable subject to immune-related and other adverse events (AEs).Methods: Analysis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) incidence was performed on benefit claims for commercial and Medicare supplemental-insured individuals newly treated with enoxaparin under pharmacy benefit (1 January 2009 – 30 June 2012). Additionally, spontaneous reports from the FDA AE Reporting System were reviewed to identify incidence and attribution of enoxaparin-related reports to specific manufacturers.Results: Specific, dispensed products were identifiable from National Drug Codes only in pharmacy-benefit databases, permitting sensitive comparison of HIT incidence in nearly a third of patients treated with brand or generic enoxaparin. After originator medicine’s loss of exclusivity, only 5% of spontaneous reports ...
Nucleotide sequence of the 1.2-kb 3'-region and genotype distribution of two common c-myc alleles of the domestic cat

Abstract Nucleotide (nt) sequence analyses of the 1.2-kb Bam HI- Eco RI cloned 3'-fragment encompassing the polymorphic Smal restriction site of the feline c-myc gene reveal that the Sma I site, present in CM2 allele but absent from CM3 allele, is located in intron 2, 134 nt 5' of the exon 3. A G-to-C transversion in CM2 results in the creation of the Sma I site. Additionally, the alleles differ at four other nt positions in intron 2, three of these changes being in a region of the intron which exhibits 80 % homology between the feline and human c- myc . The alleles also differ in two nt positions in exon 3 in the third position of the codon resulting, however, in no amino acid alteration. Genotype distribution analysis based on the Sma I polymorphism shows that CM2 homozygosity is rare and its frequency deviates significantly from the expected distribution patterns for independently segregating alleles.
Nonlinear ballooning instability in the near-Earth magnetotail: Growth, structure, and possible role in substorms

[1] To examine the scenario that the onset of a substorm can be triggered by ballooning instabilities in the near-Earth magnetotail, we have performed three-dimensional direct magnetohydrodynamic simulations of the nonlinear evolution of the ideal ballooning instability in two types of analytic Grad-Shafranov equilibria of the magnetotail. The nonlinear growth and spatial structure (in both real and spectral spaces) of the instability are obtained for both classes of equilibria, and its observable consequences are explored. In particular, the linearly unstable ballooning mode is demonstrated to grow exponentially in the early nonlinear phase, and it starts to slow down or saturate in the intermediate nonlinear phase. The intermediate nonlinear phase is characterized by the formation of fine-scale patterns determined by the dominant ky mode and spatially discontinuous structures that tend to accumulate at the stagnation point of the sheared flow profile spontaneously generated by the instability. It is proposed that, unlike the predictions of a theory of explosive nonlinear growth, the nonlinear ballooning instability, by itself, cannot produce a current disruption. However, the possibility remains open that the ballooning instability, when coupled to current-driven instabilities and nonideal mechanisms such as reconnection and turbulent transport, may produce current sheet disruption in the near-Earth magnetotail.
The Effect of Pericardial Insulation on Hypothermic Phrenic Nerve Injury During Open-Heart Surgery

Abstract Phrenic nerve injury was evaluated prospectively in 133 patients undergoing open-heart surgery using iced saline slush for topical hypothermia. In the control group of 70 patients no attempt was made to shield the phrenic nerves from direct exposure to ice. Phrenic nerve damage occurred in 73% of these patients, as assessed by persistent diaphragm paralysis evident on inspiratory chest roentgenogram. In 2 patients the paralysis was bilateral. In the second group of 63 patients a pericardial insulation pad was used to prevent contact of the iced slush to the phrenic nerve. Diaphragm paralysis was observed in 17% of these patients. This difference was highly significant ( p Diaphragm paralysis in the control group was clinically significant; life-threatening respiratory complications developed in 7 patients (14%), frequently resulting in multiple reintubations, tracheostomy, and prolonged mechanical ventilation. In addition, 4 patients with phrenic nerve injury exhibited a clinical syndrome consistent with gastric ileus, which may possibly represent hypothermic injury to the thoracic vagi. The likelihood of phrenic nerve injury when iced saline slush is used for topical myocardial cooling and the possibility of developing serious respiratory disability would support the routine use of pericardial insulation when this method of hypothermia is used.
Ultra-compact on-chip light concentrator based on a hybrid dielectric-plasmonic structure

We report an ultra-compact hybrid dielectric-plasmonic structure for concentration of electromagnetic energy using mode beating. Field concentration factor better than 10 can be achieved with a structure of size about 1µm.
Geobiology and the fossil record: eukaryotes, microbes, and their interactions

Abstract Geobiology attempts to understand the interactions between Earth and the life which has evolved on it. It is an all-encompassing field that embraces both living systems on Earth as well as an understanding of the history of these systems since life first evolved. The fossil record and associated geological and geochemical data provide a major avenue towards understanding the evolution of geobiological systems. Among the many new and exciting directions of research for geobiology, a particularly fertile field is represented by studies of the various interactions between eukaryotes and microbes that can be detected through examination of the fossil record. For example, such interactions include the various roles which microbes play in taphonomy and preservation of eukaryotes as fossils, particularly cases of exceptional fossil preservation. Similarly, recognition of microbially induced sedimentary structures (MISS) in siliciclastic sediments has been a subject of significant recent interest. Documentation of MISS has led to a greater understanding of the role of microbial mats in providing a distinctive structure to marine subtidal seafloors, which has fostered studies of benthic eukaryote adaptations to such mat-dominated environments. The continued evolution of bioturbation in the Cambrian led to elimination of microbial mats on shallow subtidal seafloors, causing evolutionary and ecological changes in eukaryotes adapted to living on and in seafloors structured by such mats. Studies of these changes, termed the “Cambrian substrate revolution”, have been documented for a variety of echinoderms, molluscs, and trace fossils, and are some of the first to illuminate ecological interactions between eukaryotes and microbes through study of the fossil record. This new awareness which geobiology represents has begun to produce a whole host of approaches that causes researchers in the laboratory of the molecular or microbiologist to interact with those from the laboratory of the geochemist as they are led on a field trip by the palaeontologist exploring some fundamental issue in the history of life. Such interactions are not only important for considerations of life on Earth, but provide a framework for the search for life that may have once existed on other planetary bodies, such as Mars. Data from deep time and hence the fossil record plays a central role in such research, and thus geobiology opens up vast new research opportunities for palaeontology.
Modulation of proteases and their inhibitors in immortal human osteoblast-like cells by tumor necrosis factor-alpha in vitro.

Inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) are linked to abnormal cartilage and bone loss in a variety of pathological conditions. We have investigated the effect of TNF-α on the synthesis and/ or steady-state mRNA levels of collagen, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), plasminogen activators (PAs) and their inhibitor PAI-1, and collagenases (MMPs) and their inhibitor TIMP-1 by human osteoblastic, HOS TE85, cells in monolayer cultures. HOS TE85 cells possess ∼2000 TNF-α receptors per cell with aKd value of 0.67 nM and receptor of ∼ 60 kDa. TNF-α enhances urokinase-plasminogen activator (u-PA) activity and steady-state mRNA levels twofold without affecting tissue-plasminogen activator (t-PA) or PAI-1. The increase in u-PA mRNA is due to enhanced transcription of this gene. mRNA levels or activities of collagenase 1 (MMP-1), 72- and 92-kDa gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) are also nearly doubled with little change in the level of expression of TIMP-1. TNF-α does not significantly affect the activity or mRNA levels of ALP. TNF-α decreases collagen as well as general protein synthesis. However, the steady-state mRNA for the α2 chain of collagen type I is increased three- to fourfold. These results show that TNF-α may increase pathological bone turnover by enhancing the rate of transcription of proteases capable of degrading the nonmineralized osteoid layer and decelerating the maturation of the extracellular matrix formed by osteoblasts.
Bilingual parents' modeling of pragmatic language use in multiparty interactions.

Parental input represents an important source of language socialization. Particularly in bilingual contexts, parents may model pragmatic language use and metalinguistic strategies to highlight language differences. The present study examines multiparty interactions involving 28 bilingual English- and Marathi-speaking parent–child pairs in the presence of monolingual bystanders (children's mean ages = 3 years, 2 months and 4 years, 6 months). Their language use was analyzed during three sessions: parent and child alone, parent and child with the English speaker, and parent and child with the Marathi speaker. Parents demonstrated pragmatic differentiation by using relatively more of the bystander's language; however, children did not show this sensitivity. Further, parents used a variety of strategies to discuss language differences, such as providing and requesting translations; children translated most often in response to explicit requests. The results indicate that parents model pragmatic language differentiation as well as metalinguistic talk that may contribute to children's metalinguistic awareness.
Reliability of closed double helix electrode for functional electrical stimulation

The reliability of a closed double helix electrode in the lower limbs was studied. This electrode is an implanted intramuscular electrode and is used for a totally implantable functional electrical stimulation system. Eighty electrodes were evaluated retrospectively with a mean period of 15 months. The total implant time was 1222 electrode months. The cumulative proportion surviving was 0.934 at 6 months, 0.855 at 1 year, 0.765 at 2 years, and 0.730 after 30 months. Fifteen of 80 electrodes failed, seven showed increasing electrode impedance, and eight had undesirable changes in recruitment. Of the failed electrodes, 2/3 failed during the first 10 months. The reliability was 0.91 at 6 months and 0.80 at 1 year after implantation in all muscle groups. The closed double helix electrode displayed an increased reliability when compared with the open double helix electrode at 6 months, and an equivalent reliability as compared with the electrodes developed by Handa and colleagues at 6 months and 1 year, using the chi squared test for independence. This study suggests that the closed double helix electrode has an acceptable reliability and can be used as a part of a totally implantable functional electrical stimulation system.
A Nonequilibrium Vapor Generation Model for Flashing Flows

A nonequilibrium vapor generation model for flashing flows is presented. The model consists of a flashing inception point, a bubbly flow regime followed by a bubbly-slug regime, an annular or annular-mist regime, and finally a dispersed-droplet regime. Existence of superheated liquid at the inception point and beyond is recognized. The vapor generation rate in each flow regime is calculated from the estimates for interfacial area density and net interfacial heat flux. However, the bubble number density at the flashing inception point was varied to obtain optimum fits with the void fraction data taken in a vertical converging-diverging nozzle. The interfacial area density at the inception point, thus determined, showed a rapid increase with the decrease in the liquid superheat at that point. This trend is correct since in the limit of thermal equilibrium flow where the liquid superheat approaches zero, the interfacial area for heat and mass transfer should approach infinity. 32 refs., 7 figs., 1 tab.
Women on top: gender and photographing New York City skyscrapers

The closing shot of King Vidor's film The Fountainhead (1949) says it all. Having finally triumphed over timid clients and scheming rivals, the architect Howard Roark (as portrayed by Gary Cooper) ...
Laminar Heat Transfer in a Channel With Two Right-Angled Bends

Analyse numerique de l'ecoulement et du transfert de chaleur dans une conduite presentant 2 coudes a angle droit pour un nombre de Nusselt variant entre 200 et 2000 et des rapports entre la hauteur du gradin ainsi institue et la hauteur de la conduite de 1, 2 et 3. Etablissement d'une correlation entre le nombre de Nusselt moyen et le nombre de Reynolds
Evaluating dynamic-adjustment of stereo view parameters in a multi-scale virtual environment

Dynamic view parameter adjustment can reduce visual fatigue issues in stereo displays. In a multi-scale virtual environment, which has geometric details ranging over several orders of magnitude, these adjustments are particularly important. We evaluate how two adjustment techniques interact with 7 degree-of-freedom navigation in desktop VR and a CAVE. The travel task has two stages, an initial targeted zoom and detailed geometric inspection. The results show benefits of the adjustments both for reducing fusion problems and for task completion time, but only in certain condition combinations. Peculiar view configuration examples show the difficulty of creating robust adjustment rules.