cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Divided Attention on Children's Rhythmic Response

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine the role of selective attention in rhythmic response of children. A motor rhythmic response of grade 2 (N = 30) and grade 4 (N = 29) boys was examined with respect to the sensory modality of a secondary stimulus input. It is thought that the information processing capacity of children, as manifested in the processes of selective attention, may be a factor in the developmental changes in motor skill learning and performance. Using a rhythmic analysis system, subjects in each grade level performed ten blocks of five trials in one of three groups: control, audio interference, and visual interference. Output from a dual-channel recorder was scored to give time and space errors (AE and CE). Performance variation (VE) was calculated from the error scores. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed significantly better performance by the grade 4 subjects. The treatment conditions did not significantly impair performance as measured by CE error scores. The audio i...
R Coronae Borealis Stars, Dust, and Evolution

In collaboration with Lawson, Pollacco and Walker, ISOPHOT data have been obtained for a large sample of hydrogen-deficient stars. Many such stars are detected at near-IR wavelengths, but flux levels in the mid- and far-IR are uncertain or unknown. The evolution of these types of objects suggest periods of enhanced mass-loss followed by quiescent intervals. ISO observations of selected H-deficient stars will present a clearer picture of the evolution of these objects.
A Too-Clever Ranking Method

behind it, see Anderson and Perlis (2005). 3. In the case of logic-based domains, an anomaly often takes the form of a direct contradiction, E and ¬E. This is the case, for instance, not only in the nonmonotonic reasoning domain, but also in the natural language domain discussed in this article. For these, we employ active logic (Elgot-Drapkin and Perlis 2006), a time-sensitive inference engine specifically designed to allow an automated agent to reason in real time about its own ongoing reasoning, noting direct contradictions rather than inadvertently using them to derive all sentences.
Opposing effects of group size on reproduction and survival in African wild dogs

For cooperative breeders, we hypothesize that the effects of group size on reproduction and survival might run in opposition if the benefits of grouping cannot be shared without cost. We tested this hypothesis by examining relationships between group size, survival, and reproduction in African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus), cooperative hunters with highly cohesive packs within which reproduction is monopolized by the dominant male and female. The production and survival of pups are known to increase with increasing pack size, but the effect of pack size on adult survival has not been examined previously. Data from 366 individuals over a period of 6 years showed that the survival of adults decreased with increasing pack size, with a 25% difference between the largest and smallest packs after controlling for the effects of age, sex, social status, year of study, and pack identity. Several tests confirmed that undetected dispersal is unlikely to have produced this pattern. These results suggest that cooperative breeding in wild dogs cannot be fully explained by mutual direct benefit, thus reinforcing the prior inference that kin selection plays an important role in the evolution of their cooperation. The results also weaken support for the hypothesis that wild dogs are extinction prone due to group-level Allee effects. More broadly, the relationship of effects of group size on survival and reproduction might be predicted by considering whether cooperation yields benefits that accrue to all group members (e.g., through cooperative vigilance) or benefits that must be apportioned to individuals (e.g., through cooperative hunting).
The Service-Task Function

In the earlier discussions of the intimacy and social control functions, the focus was on the role of contrasting motive systems in determining nonverbal involvement. Thus, there was an attempt to identify and analyze the link between internal cognitive-affective states and nonverbal behavior in interactions. Specifically, the intimacy function described the role of interpersonal affect in determining the relatively spontaneous expression of nonverbal involvement. In contrast, the social control function was described as the purposeful management of nonverbal involvement designed to influence others.
Minireview: Secondary β-Cell Failure in Type 2 Diabetes—A Convergence of Glucotoxicity and Lipotoxicity

Chronic hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia can exert deleterious effects on -cell function, respectively referred to as glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity. Over time, both contribute to the progressive deterioration of glucose homeostasis characteristic of type 2 diabetes. The mechanisms of glucotoxicity involve several transcription factors and are, at least in part, mediated by generation of chronic oxidative stress. Lipotoxicity is probably mediated by accumulation of a cytosolic signal derived from the fatty acid esterification pathway. Our view that hyperglycemia is a prerequisite for lipotoxicity is supported by several recent studies performed in our laboratories. First, prolonged in vitro exposure of isolated islets to fatty acids decreases insulin gene expression in the presence of high glucose concentrations only, and glucose is ratelimiting for the incorporation of fatty acids into neutral lipids. Second, normalization of blood glucose in Zucker diabetic fatty rats prevents accumulation of triglycerides and impairment of insulin gene expression in islets, whereas normalization of plasma lipid levels is without effect. Third, high-fat feeding in Goto-Kakizaki rats significantly impairs glucoseinduced insulin secretion in vitro, whereas a similar diet has no effect in normoglycemic animals. We propose that chronic hyperglycemia, independent of hyperlipidemia, is toxic for -cell function, whereas chronic hyperlipidemia is deleterious only in the context of concomitant hyperglycemia. (Endocrinology 143: 339 –342, 2002)
Childhood abuse and subsequent sexual assault among female inpatients

The relationship between a history of childhood abuse and subsequent sexual assault was assessed among 409 consecutive female inpatient admissions. A total of 45% of the sample reported a history of some form of childhood abuse and 22% reported at least one adulthood sexual assault. A hierarchical logistic regression indicated that, after controlling for sociodemographic and diagnostic variables, women with a history of childhood abuse were 3.1 times more likely to have experienced an adult sexual assault compared to those without abuse. There was a higher prevalence of adult sexual assault among women reporting only physical abuse or physical and sexual abuse than those reporting only sexual abuse, indicating the significance of physical abuse as a potential risk factor for adult sexual assault.
Molecular and functional mechanisms of right ventricular adaptation in chronic pulmonary hypertension.

Abstract Background . Chronic pulmonary hypertension can lead to compensatory changes in the right ventricle. In this study, the adaptive mechanisms of the right ventricle in the setting of pulmonary hypertension were assessed at the molecular and functional level using a canine model of monocrotaline pyrrole–induced pulmonary hypertension. Methods . Animals underwent pulmonary artery catheterization to measure pulmonary hemodynamics before and 8 weeks after an injection of monocrotaline pyrrole, 3 mg/kg (n = 8) or placebo (n = 8) (controls). Systolic function was assessed with load-insensitive means (preload-recruitable stroke work). Myocardial biopsy specimens were collected to analyze membrane α 1 - and β-adrenergic receptor density and adenylate cyclase activity. Results . Eight weeks after injection, significant increases in pulmonary hemodynamic indices were noted in monocrotaline-injected dogs. Significant increases in right ventricular preload-recruitable stroke work were also observed in these animals compared with controls and occurred in association with significant increases in right ventricular α 1 - and β-adrenergic receptor density and isoproterenol hydrochloride–stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. No significant differences in basal adenylate cyclase activity in the right ventricle were noted between the two groups. Conclusions . These data suggest that alterations in right ventricular function in the setting of chronic pulmonary hypertension may partially be due to changes in myocardial adrenergic receptor signaling.
Evaluating the dynamic retention capacities of microfabricated vapor preconcentrators as a function of flow rate

Abstract Adsorbent-packed preconcentrators are essential elements of most microanalytical systems designed for monitoring airborne volatile organic compounds (VOC) at low concentrations. These devices also serve as thermally desorbed injectors that transfer focused bands of captured VOCs to downstream separation and/or detection modules. Despite their importance, the factors affecting the capture efficiency of such devices have not been extensively or systematically studied. In this study, the dynamic retention capacities of four deep-reactive-ion-etched Si micropreconcentrator-focusers (μPCF) packed with a commercial graphitized carbon, Carbopack X (C-X), were characterized for several VOCs and compared to those of a reference capillary preconcentrator-focuser (cPCF). Devices were challenged with ~100 parts-per-billion of benzene, 2-butanone, toluene, or n -heptane in dry N 2 over a range of volumetric flow rates, Q. The relationships between the bed residence time, τ , and the 10% breakthrough volume and breakthrough time ( V b −10 and t b −10 , respectively) were evaluated in the context of the modified Wheeler Model. Both V b −10 and t b −10 decrease monotonically with decreasing τ , in accordance with the model. The performance of the largest μPCF, packed with 2.3 mg of C-X, was comparable to that of the reference cPCF packed with a similar quantity of C-X. The critical flow rates, Q c −10 , corresponding to immediate breakthrough, ranged from 70 to 290 mL/min and varied directly with the affinity of the vapor for the adsorbent. As a practical operating guideline, it is recommended that flow rates be limited to Q c for reliable performance of any μPCF used for quantitative analysis. Estimated preconcentration factors range from 730 to 39,000. Challenges to predicting device performance via the modified Wheeler Model are illustrated.
BRST string field theory from Wilson's renormalization group

Abstract Wilson “renormalization group” fixed point equations are derived for BRST symmetry in two-dimensional field theory. Their usefulness as equations of motions for string field theory is discussed.
An index for ordering fuzzy numbers

Abstract A new index that is useful for ordering (ranking) of fuzzy numbers is proposed. To use this index the membership functions of fuzzy numbers need not be normal or convex. Properties of this index and its relationship to the 1981 Yager's index are explained. A numerical comparison between the proposed and four other ordering procedures is presented.
Inertial-Force Feedback for the Treadport Locomotion Interface

The inertial force due to the acceleration of a locomotion interface is identified as a difference between virtual and real-world locomotion. To counter the inertial force, inertial-force feedback was implemented for the Treadport, a locomotion interface. A force controller was designed for a mechanical tether to apply the feedback force to the user. For the case of the user accelerating forward from rest, psychophysical ex periments showed that subjects preferred inertial-force feedback to a spring-feedback force proportional to position or to position control, where the force feedback maintained a force of zero on the subject.
Integrated cardioplegia allows complex valve repairs in all patients

Background. Traditionally, most surgeons have taken adversarial positions with respect to whether cardioplegia should be given warm or cold, antegrade or retrograde, continuous or intermittent. Because each method has weaknesses, myocardial protection is compromised when only one method is employed. It is our contention that an "integrated" approach that combines all of the aforementioned principles will improve myocardial protection, allowing the time needed for complex valve repairs. Methods. Thirty-four patients (25 undergoing complex mitral valve repairs and 9 undergoing Ross procedures) have undergone complex valve repair since we began using an integrated cardioplegic strategy that incorporates all of the techniques mentioned above and is based on the following principles: (1) Cardioplegia is infused antegrade and retrograde, warm and cold. (2) Surgical precision is optimized by a dry, bloodless field using cold intermittent arrest to limit ischemia when visualization is needed. (3) Continuous blood cardioplegia is used when visualization is not problematic, thereby avoiding unnecessary ischemia. Results. Average age was 46 ± 4 years (range, 9 to 79 years), and 9 patients (26%) were having reoperations. All mitral patients had severe mitral regurgitation, 52% (13/25) had a preoperative ejection fraction less than 0.40, and 40% (10/25) had pulmonary artery pressures greater than 60 mm Hg. In the Ross patients 33% (3/9) had an ejection fraction less than 0.40, including 2 patients who concomitantly underwent complex mitral valve repair. Despite cross-clamp times of 187 ± 12 minutes (range, 138 to 267 minutes) in the Ross group and 139 ± 8 minutes (range, 92 to 218 minutes) in the complex mitral valve repair group with a predicted mortality (Parsonnet) of approximately 10%, no patients died, only 5 (15%) required inotropes, none required intraaortic balloon pumping, only 1 (3%) required antiarrhythmics, and the average postoperative hospital stay was 8 days in the mitral repair group and 5 days in the Ross group. Conclusions. We believe an integrated approach incorporating the strategies of warm and cold blood cardioplegia, antegrade and retrograde delivery, and continuous and intermittent infusion affords better myocardial protection, avoids unnecessary ischemia, facilitates technical ease of operation, and results in a more stable postoperative course. Integrating these modalities into a comprehensive strategy (instead of relying on one) maximizes each method's strength while minimizing weaknesses, thereby allowing surgeons to perform complex valve repairs safely in all patients.
Distortion-product emissions in rabbit: II. Prediction of chronic-noise effects by brief pure-tone exposures

Abstract In an attempt to predict the susceptibility of the cochlea to the harmful influences of excessive sound, the effects of initially exposing the same rabbits to brief pure-tones were related to the subsequent effects of octave-band noise (OBN) exposure using measures of distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). The pure-tone exposure paradigm consisted of determining the rate at which a 100-dB SPL, low-frequency tone reduced the amplitude of a 1.5-kHz DPOAE, elicited by 50-dB SPL primaries. To establish the stability of the rate-reduction index, the tonal-exposure protocol was repeated on three separate occasions for each subject. Subsequently, the same rabbits were exposed chronically to a 95-dB SPL OBN, centered at 1-kHz, until DPOAE amplitudes between 1–5 kHz were diminished to noise-floor levels, i.e., by 10–30 dB, in response to 45-dB SPL primaries. The results revealed a visually apparent relation between the slope of the tonal-induced DPOAE-loss functions and the number of days required to reach the criterion decrement in emission level during chronic exposure to noise. Analysis of the frequency extent of the noise-induced changes revealed significant correlations between the previously measured rate of pure-tone induced reductions of DPOAE amplitude and the subsequent amount of decrement produced by OBN exposure. Thus, rabbits exhibiting slow rates of tonal-induced decrements in low-frequency DPOAEs were resistant to the amplitude-reducing effects of a subsequent chronic OBN exposure in that it typically took more than four days to achieve the targeted amount of DPOAE loss. In contrast, animals showing rapid rates of tonal-induced DPOAE reduction tended to require only two to four days of noise exposure to attain the requisite decrease in the amplitudes of low-frequency DPOAEs.
The Rhetorical Success of Thabo Mbeki's 1996 “I Am an African” Address

Thabo Mbeki's 1996 “I Am an African” address, delivered on the occasion of the Constitutional Assembly's passage of a new constitution for a truly democratic South Africa, was successful and memora...
Proton exchange activity as a probe for solitons in RNA

Abstract We find conclusive evidence on the existence of coherent solitary wave excitations in RNA by analyzing the enhancement of proton exchange activity of RNA by means of phononic excitations. We prove that the discommensuration travelling along the backbone in the form of a domain wall is coupled to a tautomerization of uracil bases via the activation of the 2′-hydroxyl of the ribose.
Growth of intelligence: failure and catchup associated respectively with abuse and rescue in the syndrome of abuse dwarfism

IQ change in association with change of environment occurred in a sample of 34 patients with a diagnosis of abuse dwarfism. Low and persistent impairment of IQ was associated with abuse. By contrast, IQ elevation was associated with rescue. Multiple regression analysis revealed that duration of rescue was the primary variable associated with IQ elevation; age and IQ level at rescue were secondary. IQ elevation was gradual and progressive over the years, as rescue was maintained. In abuse, the mean IQ was 66 (range, 36-101), and after rescue it was 90 (range 48-133). The greatest magnitude of change, from IQ 36 to 120, was in a girl between the ages of 3 yr 8 months and 13 yr 11 months.
Red cell abnormalities in hereditary spherocytosis: Relevance to diagnosis and understanding of the variable expression of clinical severity

Marked variations in the clinical manifestations of hereditary spherocytosis (HS) have long been recognized. However, neither the molecular nor the cellular basis for this variable expression has been fully delineated. To better define the cellular basis for variable expression of the disease, we evaluated the pathobiology of red cells in a large series of 55 non-splenectomized and 31 splenectomized patients with HS. Red cell membrane surface area, surface area-to-volume ratio, cell volume, and state of cell hydration were quantitated. We found that decreased membrane surface area was a distinguishing feature of red cells in all patients studied, whereas decreased surface area-to-volume ratio as reflected by increased osmotic fragility was noted in only 66% of the non-splenectomized patients. In terms of red cell indexes, the percentage of microcytes was not a good discriminator of HS phenotype but was the best indicator of the severity of the disease. In contrast, the presence of increased numbers of hyperdense cells was an effective discriminating feature of the HS phenotype but a poor indicator of disease severity. These findings have enabled us to define the dominant cellular changes that account for the variable clinical severity of this common red cell membrane disorder and have allowed development of improved approaches for its diagnosis.
On the Application of Zubov’s Method of Constructing Liapunov Functions for Nonlinear Control Systems

The Liapunov second method is formalized in a set of theorems which yield to a stability criterion for nonlinear autonomous systems. Various procedures for constructing Liapunov’s functions by the Zubov method are discussed and several examples presented.
Soluble proteins of intact bovine rod cell outer segments

Abstract Centrifugation of a particulate fraction from homogenates of bovine retinas to isopycnic equilibrium on sucrose density gradients yielded two discrete bands of particles containing rhodopsin (rod outer segments). The band having the lower buoyant density appeared on microscopic examination to be isolated discs and fragments of outer segments and contained little protein other than rhodopsin. The band having a higher buoyant density appeared to be outer segments with intact plasma membranes and exhibited osmotic properties different from those of the disrupted outer segments. The intact outer segments were shown by gel electrophoresis to contain five major polypeptide species other than rhodopsin, amounting to about 30% of the total protein. These polypeptides did not separate from the rhodopsin of the intact outer segments during isopycnic or zone sedimentation in isotonic or hypertonic media, but could be extracted by hypotonic solutions, in which they remained soluble under conditions where all the rhodopsin-containing membranes were sedimented. The extracted proteins all sedimented at less than 30 S, and are regarded as soluble proteins contained within an osmotic compartment of intact outer segments. Three of the five polypeptides of these soluble proteins were found in only trace quantities among the soluble proteins prepared from the retina as a whole or from other particulate fractions; these proteins may be peculiar to the rod cell or its outer segment. The remaining two species were more widely distributed.
Antimicrobial activity of gatifloxacin compared to seven other compounds tested against Gram-positive organisms isolated at 10 cancer-treatment centers

Gram-positive bacterial pathogens are important causes of disease in cancer patients and are becoming increasingly resistant to available antimicrobial agents. We examined the in vitro activity of gatifloxacin, a new fluoroquinolone, compared with other quinolones, ceftazidime, and traditional Gram-positive-active agents tested against pathogens isolated from patients at 10 cancer treatment hospitals in the United States. A total of 1,128 Gram-positive isolates were tested by the E-test method (AB BIODISK, Solna, Sweden) with results validated by concurrent quality control strain analysis. Gatifloxacin was more potent than either ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin against all Gram-positive species. Vancomycin was the most active agent tested against all species except Bacillus spp., which were more susceptible to the fluoroquinolones. When tested against these Gram-positive pathogens from patients with cancer, the spectrum of gatifloxacin was also greater than that of levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin. Gatifloxacin may have a role as part of prophylactic or therapeutic antimicrobial regimens for selected cancer patients with Gram-positive infections.
Formation of β-Hydroxycarbonyls from the OH Radical-Initiated Reactions of Selected Alkenes

β-Hydroxycarbonyls can be formed from the gas-phase reactions of alkenes with the OH radical, both in the presence and in the absence of NO. To date, because of analytical difficulties, few data have been reported for the formation of this class of compound from the reactions of the OH radical with alkenes. We have determined that β-hydroxyketones can be readily analyzed by gas chromatography, and in this work we have shown that in 1 atm of air the β-hydroxyalkoxy radicals formed in the reactions of the OH radical with trans-2-butene, trans-3-hexene, 1-butene, and α-pinene in the presence of NO primarily decompose rather than react with O2. Rate constant ratios kd/kO2 (or lower limits thereof), where kd and kO2 are respectively the rate constants for the decomposition and the reaction with O2 of the intermediate β-hydroxyalkoxy radicals, have been obtained for the reactions of the CH3CH(Ȯ)CH(OH)CH3, CH3CH2CH(Ȯ)CH2OH, and CH3CH2CH(Ȯ)CH(OH)CH2CH3 radicals at 296 ± 2 K and atmospheric pressure. Using the O3 ...
An analysis of the impact of action order on future performance: the fine-grain action model

To better model students' learning, user modelling should be able to use the detailed sequence of student actions to model student knowledge, not just their right/wrong scores. Our goal is to analyze the question: "Does it matter when a hint is used?". We look at students who use identical attempt counts to get the right answer and look for the impact of help use and action order on future performance. We conclude that students who use hints too early do worse than students who use hints later. However, students who use hints, at times, may perform as well as students who do not use hints. This paper makes a novel contribution showing for the first time that paying attention to the precise sequence of hints and attempts allows better prediction of students' performance, as well as to definitively show that, when we control for the number of attempts and hints, students that attempt problems before asking for hints show higher performance on the next question. This analysis shows that the pattern of hints and attempts, not just their numbers, is important.
Evaluation of the factor structure and construct validity of scores on the Male Role Norms Inventory—Revised (MRNI-R).

This article reports the results of an evaluation of the factor structure, reliability, and construct validity of the Male Role Norms Inventory—Revised (MRNI–R). Results of a principal-axis factor analysis with 593 undergraduate participants (341 men, 251 women, 1 other) support the hypothesized factor dimensionality and, to a lesser extent, item placement. Evidence was found for internal consistency of the MRNI–R total score and the seven factor scores. Analyses of the men’s scores provided evidence for convergent validity through a significant correlation of the MRNI–R with the Male Role Attitudes Scale; for divergent validity, through the nonsignificant correlation with the Personal Attributes Questionnaire; and for concurrent validity, through the significant correlations with the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory, the Gender Role Conflict Scale, and the Normative Male Alexithymia Scale.
A simulation study of methods for constructing confidence intervals for bioaccumulation factors

Toxicokinetics describe the time course of xenobiotics in an exposed organism. The steady state concentration of the xenobiotic is a characteristic of frequent concern, often summarized in terms of bioaccumulation factors (BAFs). Two experimental protocols are commonly used when estimating BAFs: a continuous exposure experiment and a start-stop exposure experiment. Nonlinear regression is then used for estimating components of the BAF. A variety of methods are available for constructing confidence intervals (CI) for the BAF, including the delta method and Fieller's method. The properties of these CI methods are explored through a simulation study. In particular, the coverage properties of the two CI methods along with their interval widths are examined for a variety of time-course patterns, error distributions, experimental protocols, and sampling designs. Fieller's method is observed to exceed nominal coverage probabilities for all conditions considered (the coverage probability being the probability that a confidence interval contains a parameter it estimates over repeated experiments). The delta method exhibited observed coverage probabilities lower than nominally specified for a number of conditions. For sampling designs in which more of the sampling times are prior to steady state or the stop exposure time, the delta method is observed to provide nominal coverage probabilities with interval widths much narrower than observed with the Fieller's method. Thus, the delta method is preferable when the above sampling time condition is met; however, in all other cases, Fieller's method should be used.
Moses Maimonides (Musa ibn Maymun), a Jewish Philosopher, Theologian and Physician: His Life and Works, an Islamic Perspective

Musa ibn Maymun (Maimonides) is a well-known Jewish philosopher, theologian and physician. He was born in Qurtuba (Cordova) in 1153 where he was tutored in various fields of knowledge, including theology. He later moved to Pas, Morocco and then Acre, Palestine. He finally settled in Cairo, Egypt, where he became a physician in the court of Sultan Salah al-Din and the leader ofthe Jewish community in Cairo. Musa ibn Maymun's major books of medicine and philosophy were written in Arabic. His major theological work, the Mishneh Torah, was fourteen volumes in length and remains a major source of Jewish theology and law to this day. Musa ibn Maymun is a prime example of Islam's tolerance and high respect for science and scientists. Non-Muslims were given the full opportunity to flourish, achieve and be appointed to high places in Muslim countries. This represents the true spirit of Islam.
Partitioning soil carbon responses to warming: Model-derived guidance for data interpretation

Abstract Parallel incubation at different temperatures combined with 13 CO 2 efflux has been used to distinguish the temperature sensitivity of labile soil carbon (young soil carbon derived from newly-introduced vegetation) from that of resistant soil carbon (old, native vegetation-derived soil carbon). But we believe that this approach to assessing relative temperature sensitivities is confounded by differential rates of depletion of labile and resistant soil carbon at different temperatures. Here we employ a simple decomposition model to demonstrate potential pitfalls in interpreting 13 CO 2 efflux data that inevitably, and potentially erroneously, lead to the conclusion that decomposition of resistant soil carbon pools is more temperature sensitive than labile pools. We conclude by offering a new approach for interpreting these data that eliminates this potential bias.
Altered Tendon Characteristics and Mechanical Properties Associated With Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy

Study Design Case-control laboratory study. Objectives To compare tendon characteristics (shape, composition) and mechanical properties (strain, stiffness) on the involved side of participants with insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) to the uninvolved side and to controls, and to examine if severity of tendon pathology is associated with severity of symptoms during function. Background Despite the severity and chronicity of IAT, the quality of theoretical evidence available to guide the development of exercise interventions is low. While tendon pathology of midportion Achilles tendinopathy has been described, there are few studies specific to IAT. Methods Twenty individuals with unilateral IAT and 20 age- and sex-matched controls volunteered to participate. Ultrasound imaging was used to quantify changes in tendon shape (diameter) and composition (echogenicity). A combination of ultrasound and dynamometry was used to measure tendon mechanical properties (strain and stiffness) during passive ankle rota...
Weak and electromagnetic currents and strong interactions symmetries in the bootstrap program

High energy strong interaction symmetries and self-consistent currents in bootstrap theory - heuristic approach
Focus optimization of a cryogenic collimator using interferometric measurements and optical modeling

Space Dynamics Laboratory at Utah State University (SDL/USU) optimized the focus of an off-axis, cryogenically cooled infrared collimator for cryogenic operating temperatures. Historically, collimator focus was optimized at ambient temperatures where interactive focus adjustment and testing could be performed. The focus shift that occurred when the optics were cooled was minimized by collimator design, and the change was negligible compared to the spatial resolution of the IR sensor measuring the collimator's simulated point source. However, the focus determined at ambient temperature does not meet the image quality requirements of state-of-the-art sensors. The method used by SDL to determine optimal focus at cryogenic temperatures applies classical optical techniques to the cryogenically cooled environment. System level interferometric measurements are first made to characterize the system wavefront error. These measurements are then applied to an aberration-free optical model to evaluate system focus for a wavelength of 12 micrometers . The method also uses a knife edge test to refer the interferometric measurements to the aperture located near the focal point of the collimator. This paper discusses the physical test setup, outlines the optical model and analysis procedure, and presents results before and after focus optimization of a multifunction infrared calibrator.
Posttraumatic symptoms and self‐dysfunction as consequences and predictors of sexual revictimization

Posttraumatic symptomatology (PTS) and self-dysfunction (SD) were examined as correlates and predictors of sexual revictimization in a prospective study of 339 college women. Both PTS and SD were associated with a history of child and adult sexual victimization. Compared to a history of child victimization, a history of adult victimization was associated with greater self-dysfunction. Both PTS and SD predicted revictimization during the study; however, self-dysfunction also predicted victimization in the absence of prior victimization. In a multivariate model, PTS did not directly predict victimization during the study, although SD mediated the relationship between PTS and victimization. Sexual victimization (child or adult) prior to the study predicted PTS, which predicted SD, which predicted victimization during the study. Findings suggest that prior child and adult victimization are directly related to later sexual victimization, and are indirectly related to later sexual victimization via the impact of PTS on SD.
Ego identity status, ego development, and locus of control in college women.

This study examined the relationship of identity status to ego development and locus of control in 75 college women. The identity statuses did not differ significantly in self-reported locus of control, but did differ on the “depth” measure of ego development. Consistent with identity theory and with previous research with males, identity achievers and moratorium (incrisis) women were more advanced in their ego development than fore-closure and diffusion women.
Erratum to the article: Stability properties of an arbitrarily oriented mean flow

An error in the article by Grotjahn (1981) has been found by the author. The vertical axes of the phase speed spectra plotted in Figs. 4, 5 and 10 are mislabelled. This axis should range from 0.0 to 1.0. The growth rate plots in these figures are correctly labelled. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1981.tb01765.x
Effect of a Reactive Surfactant and Its Polymeric Counterpart on the Kinetics of Seeded Emulsion Polymerization of Styrene

Seeded emulsion polymerizations of styrene using the reactive surfactant sodium dodecyl ally sulfosuccinate (TREM LF-40) and its polymeric counterpart, poly(TREM), were carried out, and their reaction kinetics were compared to those obtained using the conventional surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). The reaction rate decreased using TREM LF-40 and poly(TREM), compared to SLS. For TREM LF-40, this behavior was attributed to the participation of TREM LF-40 as an allylic monomer in copolymerization and/or chain transfer reactions at the surface of the particles. For poly(TREM), the decrease was considered to be caused by the formation of a “hairy” adsorbed layer of the polymeric surfactant on the particles, which acts as a barrier decreasing the diffusion of the radicals into the particles. It was also found that the rate decreased with increasing TREM LF-40 concentration as expected, this being attributed to increased reaction at the surface of the particles with increasing surface coverage by the surfa...
Helix-loop transcription factor, Id1, is overexpressed in medullary thyroid cancer

Background The helix-loop transcription factor (Id1) protein inhibits differentiation, enhances cell proliferation and is required for cell-cycle progression. Id1 is highly expressed in a variety of tumour-derived cell lines, increases following mitogenic stimuli and is overexpressed in some human neoplasms. It was therefore reasoned that the Id1 gene may play a role in medullary thyroid carcinogenesis. Methods Id1 protein expression in human medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and corresponding normal thyroid tissue was determined by Id1 immunohistochemistry. Calcitonin immunohistochemistry was used to determine the cellular localization of Id1 immunostaining. In a well characterized human MTC cell line (TT), the effects of growth stimulation (with serum) and redifferentiation (with phorbol esters) on Id1 expression were determined by Northern blot analysis. Results Id1 immunostaining intensity in MTC (n = 9; six sporadic MTCs, two familial MTCs and one multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A MTC) was moderate to strong whereas in the corresponding normal thyroid tissues (n = 9) it was absent or faint in the C cells and follicular cells. Id1 immunostaining was significantly higher in MTC than the corresponding normal thyroid tissue based on the percentage of positive cells and immunostaining intensity (P = 0·002, rank sum test). The 1·2-kilobase Id1 transcript was expressed in the TT cell line under basal culture conditions. Interestingly, Id1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression was markedly upregulated (4·0 fold) following growth stimulation with 10 per cent fetal bovine serum. In addition, phorbol ester (which is known to induce redifferentiation of the TT cell line) downregulated Id1 mRNA expression in the TT cell line. Conclusion Id1 is overexpressed in MTC. Furthermore, increased Id1 expression is associated with an enhanced proliferative potential in MTC. The inappropriate proliferation and dedifferentiation of the C cells that lead to MTC, at least in part, may be regulated by the Id1 gene. © 2000 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd
Under the Shadow of the Collective Good: An Ethnographic Analysis of Fertility Control in Xiaoshan, Zhejiang Province, China

Before the government instituted birth control policies did Chinese families deliberately control birth and fertility? Some scholars believe that natural fertility was indeed a fact in Chinese population history; others argue that the Chinese controlled their fertility by such positive checks as late fertility onset early stopping of reproduction and long intervals between births. This article joins the debate by providing ethnographic data collected in Xiaoshan Zhejiang in 2002. The ethnographic case studies show that deliberate fertility limitation did exist in both rural and urban communities in Xiaoshan. In addition the article challenges the assumption that Chinese fertility was shaped by collective control rather than individual interests. On the contrary it demonstrates that the agency of individuals particularly of women was often the driving force in family reproduction. (authors)
The Persistence of Staphylococcus aureus Decolonization After Mupirocin and Topical Chlorhexidine: Implications for Patients Requiring Multiple or Delayed Procedures

Preoperative screening and decolonization of methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA, respectively) are advocated to reduce surgical site infections. We determined the rate and duration of decolonization in patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgery. Patients undergoing elective orthopedic surgery were seen in our preoperative testing program (PAT) and had their anterior nares cultured for MRSA and MSSA. All patients were treated with intranasal mupirocin and a topical chlorhexidine solution. A cohort of patients returned to PAT before a subsequent elective procedure and were recultured. All culture results and time between PAT visits were recorded, and the rates of successful initial and persistent decolonization were determined. Six hundred ten patients visited PAT 1290 times. Overall, 94 (70.1%) of 134 patients with initially MRSA- or MSSA-positive cultures remained decolonized at a mean time of 156 days (SD=140), whereas 40 patients (29.9%) were not decolonized by the time of repeat testing at a mean time of 213 days (SD=187). At repeat testing, there were 2 newly MRSA-positive and 35 newly MSSA-positive patients. Staphylococcus aureus decolonization with intranasal mupirocin and topical chlorhexidine was effective but not persistent in a significant proportion of patients. A small number of previously uncolonized patients became colonized. Staphylococcus aureus screening and decolonization protocols must be repeated before any readmission, regardless of prior colonization status.
Comparing risk preferences over financial and environmental lotteries

This paper investigates whether preferences over environmental risks are best modeled using probability-weighted utility functions or can be reasonably approximated by expected utility (EU) or subjective EU models as is typically assumed. I elicit risk attitudes in the financial and environmental domains using multiple-price list experiment. I examine how subjects’ behavioral, attitudinal, and demographic characteristics affect their probability weighting functions first for financial risks, then for oil-spill risks. I find that most subjects tend to overweight extreme positive outcomes relative to expected utility in both the environmental and financial domains. Subjects are more likely to overemphasize low probability, extreme environmental outcomes than low probability, extreme financial outcomes, leading subjects to offer more support for mitigating environmental gambles than financial gambles with the same odds and equivalent outcomes. I conclude that EU models are likely to underestimate subjects’ willingness to pay for environmental cleanup programs or policies with uncertain outcomes.
A pathway of principles, values and morality: effective psychological practices in deinstitutionalizing chronic mental health clients

Summary Deinstitutionalization and community services are entering a new phase. The second wave of clients is similar to previously deinstitutionalized clients, yet has significant differences and needs. There continue to be both successes and failures in the deinstitutionalization movement. Without the commitment to the philosophy of community based treatment for the second wave clients, there will be fewer accomplishments. Systems must be redesigned, programmes changed, and staff must adapt. Underlying effective psychological practices is the wish to institute relevant human rights and values and provide treatment with rigour, flexibility and systematic evaluation. With the implementation of new ideas, obstacles can be overcome and the principles of deinstitutionalization and community psychology can be qualitatively and effectively maintained.
Phase Measurements of Barrier Crossings in a Periodically Modulated Double-Well Potential

We report on the experimental observation of the phase angle of a particle escaping over a periodically modulated potential barrier. Optical tweezers and back-focal plane position detection were used to record particle trajectories in the entire double-well potential. These measurements provide a sensitive test of theories proposed in the past decade of escape driven by random thermal noise from a periodically modulated potential. The observed phase shifts as a function of modulation frequency are consistent with those calculated using existing theories.
Weimar Culture and the Rise of National Socialism: The Kampfbund für deutsche Kultur

Between 1928 and 1932, the National Socialist movement transformed itself from an insurgent fringe party into Germany's most potent political force. The most important factor in this dramatic turnabout in political fortunes was the rapid deterioration of the German economy beginning in 1929. It does not, however, logically follow that the German people simply fell into the lap of the party and its charismatic leader. To the contrary, the party aggressively employed sophisticated propagandistic and organizational strategies for attracting and mobilizing diverse segments of German society. With the onset of the economic crisis, and the consequent social and political turmoil, the party stood ready to receive, organize, and mobilize Germans from all social strata.
A revision of Solanum sect. Brevantherum (Solanaceae) in North and Central America

The present revision ofSolanum sect.Brevantherum Seithe recognizes 12 species in North and Central America, 5 of which (S. brevipedicellatum, S. axillifolium, S. atitlanum, S. pulverulentifolium, and S. chiapasense) are described as new. The traditional methods of comparative morphology are employed in delimiting the species in the herbarium, but pertinent data from field work are also included. Some of the most diagnostic features are those associated with the buds, calyces, and hairs. A key to the species is based on both vegetative and floral characters. Distribution maps show the widespread nature of some species and the endemism of others. All of the species are weedy and are associated with secondary growth vegetation.
Chemical probes for two-photon bioimaging based on surfactant nanomicelles and ormosil PEBBLEs

We present work looking at the two-photon optical characterization of water soluble chemical probes based on surfactant nanomicelles encapsulation and ormosil PEBBLEs as well as in-vitro two-photon imaging of oxygen and hydrogen sulfide.
Benefits and Barriers in Mining the Healthcare Industry Data

The authorsâ€™ paper addresses the applications of data mining within the healthcare industry. Healthcare data are seen as one of the more rewarding and most difficult of all data to analyze. Proper data mining techniques provide the methodology and technology to transform the voluminous amounts of data into useful information for decision making. Data mining can be utilized to help find cures for existing diseases, uncovering patterns for genetic diseases and the causes of new diseases across the globe. By implementing data mining techniques the industry is finally gaining control over the inadequacy of readily available records. Data mining has been used in patient care, healthcare plans, and administration. By utilizing these methods, hospitals and healthcare insurance providers alike are able to save millions of dollars, administration headaches, and most importantly, countless lives.
31P-NMR characterization of hen egg yolk and egg white

Abstract The avian egg is an isolated system where embryonic development can easily be studied. Furthermore, the system can be subjected to various environmental constraints. Its size is such that it can easily be accommodated in most NMR instruments. This is demonstrated by a recent 31P-NMR surface coil experiment where the increase of embryo size and development could be judged by the levels of ATP and phosphocreatine (Belton, P.S., Gordon, R.E., Jones, J.M. and Shaw, D. (1983) Br. Poult. Sci. 24, 429–433).
Expression of estrogen receptor variants

Recent data suggest that the expresson of estrogen receptor (ER) variants may be common in clinical breast cancer. The significance of their expression is complicated by the fact that they are often coexpressed with wild-type ER in the same tumor. We have focused upon one such ER variant which lacks exon 5 within the hormone binding domain of the receptor. This deletion introduces a stop codon, resulting in a truncated ER of 40 kDa which is unable to bind hormone. We have been exploring the hypothesis that this variant may contribute to clinical antiestrogen resistance. Coexpression of the exon 5 variant along with wild-type ER in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells confers resistance to the commonly used antiestrogen, tamoxifen. In addition, we have observed that some metastatic breast lesions overexpress exon 5 ER deletional variant transcripts. We conclude that differences in the relative amounts of several ER variants in the same tumor may interact to determine hormonal responsiveness and metastatic behaviour.