cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
אזרחים-אויבים: אזרחים פלסטינים ובתי משפט צבאיים בישראל ובשטחים הכבושים, 2000-1967 Citizen-Enemies: Military Courts in Israel and the Occupied Territories,1967-2000

תקציר בעברית: המאמר עוסק בהבנת "אפקט הבומרנג" של כיבוש הגדה המערבית ורצועת עזה בשנת 1967 על מעמדם של הפלסטינים אזרחי ישראל. לאחר סיומו הרשמי של הממשל הצבאי ב-1966, הוקם בעקבות הכיבוש בית משפט צבאי חדש בעיר לוד, ששפט אזרחים פלסטינים בתוך ישראל עד שנת 2000, במקביל לפעולתם של בתי משפט צבאיים בשטחים. בשני האזורים הופעלו בתי המשפט הצבאיים באופן כמעט בלעדי כלפי פלסטינים, אזרחי ישראל ותושבי השטחים כאחד. לטענתי, דרך שיפוטם הממושך והנפרד בבתי משפט צבאיים, הוגדרו הפלסטינים אזרחי ישראל כקטגוריה היברידית של "אזרחים-אויבים". על בסיס חומרים מארכיונים צבאיים, המאמר מתאר כיצד סמכות השיפוט של בתי המשפט הצבאיים, אשר על פי החוק הייתה טריטוריאלית והתייחסה לעבירות ביטחון, עברה טרנספורמציה לסמכות שיפוט המבוססת על עקרונות ניהול אוכלוסייה, והתבססה על קריטריון ההכללה של השתייכות אתנו-לאומית: פלסטינים נשפטו בבתי משפט צבאיים ויהודים נשפטו בבתי משפט אזרחיים. פוליטיקה של סמכויות שיפוט על פי מוצא אתני והשתייכות לאומית מאפיינת ממשליות קולוניאלית ו"מערכים אימפריאליים", המייצרים דרגות שונות וגמישות של ריבונות, של השתייכות ושל זכויות. באמצעות שיפוט הפלסטינים בבתי משפט צבאיים, המיועדים לשיפוט האויב, יצרה המדינה מדרג של נתינים ושל זכויות במערכת המשפט הפלילית, גם מעבר לגבולותיה הריבוניים, והבנתה את אוכלוסיית האזרחים הפלסטינים כאזרחים-אויבים. English Abstract: This article explores an understudied ‘boomerang effect’ of the 1967 occupations on the status of Palestinian citizens in Israel. Well after the formal termination of the military regime in 1966, when military prosecutions expanded to the Occupied Territories, a new military court was established inside Israel. The “Lod Military Court” prosecuted Palestinian citizens of Israel for security-related offenses up until ‘2000. I argue that through military prosecutions, originally designed for enemies, Israel created a scale of subjects and rights within the criminal legal system and constructed Palestinian citizens s as a hybrid group of Citizen-Enemies. Both inside Israel and in the Occupied Territories, the legal bureaucracy designated personal jurisdiction according to ethno-national identity: Palestinians to military courts and Jews to civilian Israeli courts. Based on documentation from military archives, I describe the transformation of military courts’ jurisdiction from territorial principles associated with sovereignty to principles of colonial population management, using ethno-national criteria. Such jurisdictional politics is typical of colonial legal systems and “imperial formations” that comprise of different degrees of sovereignty and rights. Especially (but not only) in such contexts, the categories of citizens ad enemies are not essential, but are constructed through multiple bureaucratic and legal governmentality mechanisms. The transformations in these mechanisms that I trace here demonstrate that these categories are nonetheless fluid, unstable and subject to change.
Linking Trace Organic Contaminants in On-Site Wastewater-Treatment Discharge with Biological Effects.

Around the globe, on-site wastewater-treatment systems (OWTSs) are critical for rural communities without access to a municipal sewer system. However, their treatment efficiency does not match that of modern wastewater-treatment plants. The impact of OWTS discharge on nearby aquatic ecosystems and their resident fish species is poorly understood. In the present study, larval and adult fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) and adult sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) were exposed for 21 days to two trace organic contaminant (TOrC) mixtures replicating water chemistry derived from a previous environmental study. Larval fathead minnows were assessed for survival, growth, predator avoidance, and feeding efficiency. Adult fathead minnows and sunfish were assessed for a suite of physiological endpoints (condition indices, vitellogenin, glucose), histological changes, and fecundity. The only observed effect of TOrC mixture exposure on larval fathead minnows was a decrease in feeding efficiency. Effects were mixed in exposed adult fishes, except for male sunfish which realized a significant induction of vitellogenin (p < 0.05). The consequences of TOrC mixture exposure in the present controlled laboratory study match effects observed in wild-caught sunfish in a corresponding field study. The present study begins to bridge the gap by connecting nonpoint OWTS pollution with biological effects observed in resident lake fish species. Given the effects observed despite the brevity of the laboratory mixture exposure, longer-term studies are warranted to understand the full impacts of OWTS discharge to nearby aquatic ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:3193-3204. © 2021 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Brain hubs defined in the group do not overlap with regions of high inter-individual variability

Abstract Connector ‘hubs’ are brain regions with links to multiple networks. These regions are hypothesized to play a critical role in brain function. While hubs are often identified based on group-average functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data, there is considerable inter-subject variation in the functional connectivity profiles of the brain, especially in association regions where hubs tend to be located. Here we investigated how group hubs are related to locations of inter-individual variability, to better understand if hubs are (a) relatively conserved across people, (b) locations with malleable connectivity, leading individuals to show variable hub profiles, or (c) artifacts arising from cross-person variation. To answer this question, we compared the locations of hubs and regions of strong idiosyncratic functional connectivity (“variants”) in both the Midnight Scan Club and Human Connectome Project datasets. Group hubs defined based on the participation coefficient did not overlap strongly with variants. These hubs have relatively strong similarity across participants and consistent cross-network profiles. Consistency across participants was further improved when participation coefficient hubs were allowed to shift slightly in local position. Thus, our results demonstrate that group hubs defined with the participation coefficient are generally consistent across people, suggesting they may represent conserved cross-network bridges. More caution is warranted with alternative hub measures, such as community density, which are based on spatial proximity and show higher correspondence to locations of individual variability.
Relativistic and QED Effects in Highly Ionized Systems

Research in atomic physics has traditionally focussed on the properties of neutral atoms, or atomic ions from which at most a few electrons have been removed. However, over the past ten or fifteen years, interest in highly ionized atomic systems has risen dramatically. For example, it is now possible, with the help of plasma sources or high energy accelerators such as the Berkeley Super-Hilac, to study krypton ions with all but one or two of the normal thirty-six electrons stripped away. Experiments with still heavier systems are being planned.
Avatars a/spl grave/ la Snow Crash

We analyzed Neal Stephenson's novel "Snow Crash" for all references to avatars. This analysis is documented in this paper, including a comparison of the Snow Crash avatars to the current state of real-time virtual human research. The avatar characteristics discussed include appearance, clothing and attachments, ethnicity, locomotion, body actions, forms of communication, emotion and personality.
The Dust Settles on Water Vapor Feedback

Water vapor could almost double the sensitivity of climate to greenhouse gas increases, but doubts about the sign and magnitude of the effect persist. In his Perspective, Del Genio highlights the report by Soden et al., who demonstrate that the volcanic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 caused a positive water vapor feedback. A general circulation model reproduces this global feedback accurately. The results suggest that a substantial water vapor feedback can also be expected in response to anthropogenic climate forcing.
Magnetism and superconductivity in U 2 Pt x Rh 1 − x C 2

We report the phase diagram of the doping series U₂PtxRh(1–x)C₂, studied through measurements of resistivity, specific heat, and magnetic susceptibility. The Neel temperature of U₂Rh₂C₂ of ~ 22 K is suppressed with increasing Pt content, reaching zero temperature close to x = 0.7, where we observed signatures of increased quantum fluctuations. Additionally, evidence is presented that the antiferromagnetic state undergoes a spin-reorientation transition upon application of an applied magnetic field. This transition shows non-monotonic behavior as a function of x, peaking at around x = 0.3. Superconductivity is observed for x ≥ 0.9, with Tc increasing with increasing x. The reduction in Tc and increase in residual resistivity with decreasing Pt content is inconsistent with the extension of the Abrikosov-Gor'kov theory to unconventional superconductivity.
Some Problems of Planetary Radio Astronomy

Three major goals serve to orient infrared and radio wavelength investigations of the bodies of the solar system. 1. We wish to know the composition and physical properties of the surfaces of the planets, satellites, asteroids, and comets of the solar system, and to understand the interactions between those surfaces and the cosmic and atmospheric environments in which they are located. Under this goal we extend to the more distant members of the solar system studies of the type discussed earlier in the chapter on the interpretation of thermal emission from the moon (Chapter 15). 2. We wish to know the composition and nature of the gaseous envelopes that surround some of the planets and satellites and the comets of the solar system and, eventually, to know the origin and evolution of those envelopes. We wish to understand the physics of the interactions between the gaseous envelopes and the cosmic environment in which they are located. 3. We wish to determine the properties of magnetic fields that surround some of the bodies of the solar system and to understand interactions between those fields and the cosmic environment.
Pain grade and sleep disturbance in older adults: evaluation the role of pain, and stress for depressed and non-depressed individuals.

Objective The aim of this paper was to assess the relationship between pain and sleep in older adults taking depression, stress, and medical comorbidities into account. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was performed using Einstein Aging Study, a community-based cohort study of adults aged 70 years and older. Ratings of pain intensity and interference from the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Short-Form 36 were used to assign individuals to low-pain versus high-pain severity. Sleep disturbance was assessed using the nine-item sleep problems index from the Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale. Other measures included the Geriatric Depression Scale and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Linear regression models were used to assess the association between pain grade and sleep disturbance adjusted for demographics, PSS, Geriatric Depression Scale, and other comorbidities. Results Five hundred sixty-two eligible participants with a mean age of 78.22 years (standard deviation = 5.43) were included; 64% were women. Pain grade [β = 5.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.56–8.21, p < 0.001] was associated with sleep disturbance after adjusting for demographic variables. In models including pain grade (β = 3.08, 95% CI 0.32–5.85, p = 0.03) and PSS (β = 0.57, 95% CI 0.39–0.75, p < 0.001), both were associated with sleep disturbance, although the PSS attenuated the relationship between pain and sleep by 34%. Depression, when added to previous model, was also associated with sleep (β = 2.17, 95% CI 1.48–2.85, p < 0.001) and attenuated the relationship between pain (β = 2.41, 95% CI −0.25 to 5.08, p = 0.07) and sleep by 22%. Stratified for depression, we found that pain, stress, and other medical comorbidities were significantly associated with sleep disturbance in non-depressed individuals but not individuals with depression. Conclusions Pain, stress, and medical comorbidities are associated with sleep disturbance, especially in non-depressed older adults.
Adaptive immune response to therapy in hmgcr autoantibody myopathy

Introduction We evaluated the response to immunosuppression in a case of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR)-autoantibody myopathy. Methods T- and B-cell subsets were determined by flow cytometry pre- and posttherapy. Results Baseline immune profiling demonstrated strikingly elevated T-follicular helper (Tfh) cells and plasmablasts. Immunosuppression resulted in clinical improvement and decreased Tfh cells, plasmablasts, and autoantibodies. Conclusions Immune profiling in HMGCR-autoantibody myopathy suggests a B-cell-mediated disease. Tfh cells and plasmablasts may be therapeutic biomarkers. Muscle Nerve 53: 313–317, 2016
Synthetic and structural studies of heteroleptic platinum(II) and palladium(II) complexes containing thiacrown and monodentate phosphane ligands

Abstract We wish to report the syntheses, spectroscopic, and structural properties for six new Pt(II) and Pd(II) heteroleptic complexes containing the monodentate phosphane ligands PTA (1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane) or PMe3 (trimethylphosphane) and the crown trithioether [9]aneS3 (1,4,7-trithiacyclononane). All six reported complexes have the general formula [M([9]aneS3)(P2)](PF6)2 or [M([9]aneS3)(P)(Cl)](PF6) where M = Pt(II) or Pd(II) and P is the monodentate phosphane ligand. All six complexes form similar structures in which the metal center is surrounded by two sulfur atoms from the trithioether ligand and a cis arrangement of either the two phosphorus donors or the chlorido and phosphorus donor. The third sulfur from the [9]aneS3 interacts with the metal at a greater distance (2.711(2) A–3.078(8) A), resulting in elongated square pyramidal geometries. These axial distances are controlled by the donor abilities of the phosphane ligand with PTA and PMe3 serving as stronger donors. The two chlorido complexes show longer metal–sulfur interactions, consistent with the strong donor properties of the anionic chlorido ligand. Although the symmetrical bis complexes display typical 1H and 13C NMR behavior in the [9]aneS3 region, the less symmetrical chlorido complexes show a more complex pattern in their spectra. The 195Pt NMR chemical shifts are consistent with the presence of [S2P2+S1] or [S2PCl+S1] coordination environments.
229 How well are we controlling falls from height in construction Experiences of union carpenters in Washington State, USA, 1989–2008

Objective By linking data on union work hours with workers’ compensation records, rates of reported work-related injuries resulting from FFH and associated days away from work were evaluated among a large cohort (n = 24,830) of union carpenters in Washington State from 1989 to 2008. Methods Using Poisson regression we assessed rates of FFH over the 20-year period while adjusting for temporal trend in work-related injuries that did not involve a FFH. Patterns of paid lost days were assessed with negative binomial regression. Results Crude rates of FFH decreased 82% over the 20-year period in a fairly steady pattern. Reductions were more modest and without demonstrable change since 1996 when considering the temporal reduction in non-FFH injuries. Younger workers had higher injury rates while older workers lost more days following falls. Rates of paid lost days associated with FFH decreased over time, but there was not a consistent decline in mean lost days per fall. Conclusions Falls from height (FFH) continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality across the construction industry. The observed patterns are consistent with decreased FFH for several years surrounding the Washington Vertical Fall Arrest Standard (1991); the decline exceeds those seen in injury rates overall in this large construction cohort. While crude rates of FFH have continued to decline, they are not as substantial as the declines seen for other types of injuries. The patterns could reflect a variety of things including more global efforts designed to control risk (site planning, safety accountability) and changes in reporting practices.
Incorporation of parametric uncertainty into complex kinetic mechanisms: Application to hydrogen oxidation in supercritical water

Abstract In this study, uncertainty analysis is applied to a supercritical water hydrogen oxidation mechanism to determine the effect of uncertainties in reaction rate constants and species thermochemistry on predicted species concentrations. Forward rate constants and species thermochemistry are assumed to be the sole contributors to uncertainty in the reaction model with all other model parameters and inputs treated as deterministic quantities. The analysis is conducted by treating the model parameters as random variables, assigning each a suitable probability density function, and propagating the parametric uncertainties through to the predicted species concentrations. Uncertainty propagation is performed using traditional Monte Carlo (MC) simulation and a new, more computationally efficient, probabilistic collocation method called the Deterministic Equivalent Modeling Method (DEMM). Both methods predict virtually identical probability distributions for the resulting species concentrations as a function of time, with DEMM requiring approximately two orders of magnitude less computation time than the corresponding MC simulation. The results of both analyses show that there is considerable uncertainty in all predicted species concentrations. The predicted H 2 and O 2 concentrations vary ± 70% from their median values. Similarly, the HO 2 concentration ranges of +90 to −70% of its median, while the H 2 O 2 concentration varies by + 180 to − 80%. In addition, the DEMM methodology identified two key model parameters, the standard-state heat of formation of HO 2 radical and the forward rate constant for H 2 O 2 dissociation, as the largest contributors to the uncertainty in the predicted hydrogen and oxygen species concentrations. The analyses further show that the change in model predictions due to the inclusion of real-gas effects, which are potentially important for SCWO process modeling, is small relative to the uncertainty introduced by the model parameters themselves.
Sex pheromone-induced chemolocation in the male American cockroach,Periplaneta americana.

Males of the American cockroach,Periplaneta americana, have evolved an efficient search strategy enabling them to locate a source of sex pheromone in the absence of directional information derived from wind. Since these animals are able to utilize chemotaxis to orient almost directly to the source from 45-50 cm away, it is only necessary that they maximize their chances of getting within that range once they perceive the pheromone. They accomplish this by: (1) increasing their overall levels of activity and (2) initiating local search. In this way, they are able to cover a rather large area in a short period of time, i.e., before the source female changes location. If their paths take them to within 45 cm of the source, they are able to locate it soon thereafter. It is probable that very similar strategies are utilized by many other nonflying insects to locate sources of airborne odors.
Calcium ion effects on guanylate cyclase of brain.

Abstract Soluble guanylate cyclase activity of brain is stimulated by Ca 2+ in the presence of low concentrations of Mn 2+ . Unlike Ca 2+ stimulation of adenylate cyclase, the effect does not depend upon interaction of guanylate cyclase with a specific high-affinity Ca 2+ -binding protein. In the presence of Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ inhibits soluble guanylate cyclase as well as the particulate enzyme. The concept that stimulation of brain cells results in increased cyclic GMP concentration secondary to Ca 2+ influx merits additional critical study.
Determinants of Product-Use Compliance Behavior

Abstract The authors examine factors that affect product-usage compliance, or the act of using a product as it is intended to be used. They develop a conceptual model of compliant behavior as a function of four main constructs: (1) salience/mindfulness, (2) the consumer’s costs and benefits of compliant behavior, (3) advertising and distribution cues to action, and (4) the perceived threats associated with noncompliant behavior. They test the model using a regression mixture model of compliant behavior calibrated on unique panel data from four categories of pharmaceutical drugs that are used to treat chronic (i.e., lifelong) ailments. The findings include insights into the dynamics of product compliance: The data support the proposed four-stage evolution of compliant behavior between consecutive service provider (e.g., doctor) interventions. For marketers, the authors find substantial heterogeneity across consumers for the effects of cues from advertising and distribution. For example, in some segments, a...
Femoral Head Deformation and Repair Following Induction of Ischemic Necrosis: A Histologic and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in the Piglet

Background: Ischemic necrosis of the femoral head can be induced surgically in the piglet. We used this model to assess femoral head deformation and repair in vivo by sequential magnetic resonance imaging and by correlating end-stage findings with histologic assessments. Methods: Ischemic necrosis of the femoral head was induced in ten three-week-old piglets by tying a silk ligature around the base of the femoral neck (intracapsular) and cutting the ligamentum teres. We used magnetic resonance imaging with the piglets under general anesthesia to study the hips at forty-eight hours and at one, two, four, and eight weeks. Measurements on magnetic resonance images in the midcoronal plane of the involved and control sides at each time documented the femoral head height, femoral head width, superior surface cartilage height, and femoral neck-shaft angle. Histologic assessments were done at the time of killing. Results: Complete ischemia of the femoral head was identified in all involved femora by magnetic resonance imaging at forty-eight hours. Revascularization began at the periphery of the femoral head as early as one week and was underway in all by two weeks. At eight weeks, magnetic resonance imaging and histologic analysis showed deformation of the femoral head and variable tissue deposition. Tissue responses included (1) vascularized fibroblastic ingrowth with tissue resorption and cartilage, intramembranous bone, and mixed fibro-osseous or fibro-cartilaginous tissue synthesis and (2) resumption of endochondral bone growth. At eight weeks, the mean femoral head measurements (and standard error of the mean) for the control compared with the ligated femora were 10.4 ± 0.4 and 4.8 ± 0.4 mm, respectively, for height; 26.7 ± 0.8 and 31.2 ± 0.8 mm for diameter; 1.1 ± 0.1 and 2.3 ± 0.1 mm for cartilage thickness; and 151° ± 2° and 135° ± 2° for the femoral neck-shaft angle. Repeated-measures mixed-model analysis of variance revealed highly significant effects of ligation in each parameter (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Magnetic resonance imaging allows for the assessment of individual hips at sequential time periods to follow deformation and repair. There was a variable tissue response, and histologic assessment at the time of killing was shown to correlate with the evolving and varying magnetic resonance imaging signal intensities. Femoral head height on the ischemic side from one week onward was always less than the initial control value and continually decreased with time, indicating collapse as well as slowed growth. Increased femoral head width occurred relatively late (four to eight weeks), indicating cartilage model overgrowth concentrated at the periphery. Clinical Relevance: Femoral head deformation and internal tissue deposition patterns can be followed accurately in vivo by magnetic resonance imaging.
Perturbative QCD predictions and giant air showers

Abstract We discuss QCD-inspired hadronic interaction models used for simulating extensive air showers. The role of perturbative QCD predictions in the extrapolation of modern interaction models to ultra-high energy is summarized, including corresponding uncertainties. Two possible extrapolations of the S ibyll model are presented and predictions for extensive air showers are discussed, emphasizing the relation between the minijet cross section and observable shower features at ultra-high energy.
Optimizing stent expansion with new stent delivery systems

AbstractOBJECTIVESThe purpose of this study was to assess whether the newer stent delivery systems provide a stented lumen cross-sectional area (CSA) that is equal to the delivery balloon nominal d...
Stereoselective synthesis of polyhydroxylated quinolizidines from C-glycosides by one-pot double-conjugate addition.

An effective one-pot synthesis of polyhydroxylated quinolizidines from 1-C-(2‘-oxo-4‘-pentenyl)-5-azido-C-glycofuranosides was developed. Reduction of the 5-azido group using triphenylphosphine followed by base treatment produced quinolizidines in good yield. The base-mediated ring-opening β-elimination produced an acyclic α,β-conjugated ketone as a Michael acceptor, which was followed by an intramolecular nitrogen conjugate addition to form an aza-C-glycopyranoside intermediate. Meanwhile, the β,γ-double bond of the aglycon migrated under the basic conditions to form another α,β-conjugated ketone. The subsequent intramolecular conjugate addition by the azasugar nitrogen led to the formation of the quinolizidines in a highly stereoselective manner. The stereoselectivity of the first conjugate addition giving azasugar is affected by the stereochemistry of the monosaccharide substrate, whereas the stereoselectivity in the second conjugate addition was likely directed entirely by steric repulsion from the az...
Collagen V localizes to pericellular sites during tendon collagen fibrillogenesis

During tendon development collagen fibrillogenesis occurs in extracellular micro-domains defined by the tenocytes. This permits cellular regulation of the extracellular steps involved in the tissue-specific matrix assembly required for function. The hypothesis tested here is that collagen V associates with the tenocyte surface where it functions in regulation of collagen assembly and cell-directed fibril deposition. The in vitro and in vivo data demonstrate that collagen V is a quantitatively minor component of the tendon. It is preferentially localized on the tenocyte surface as distinct foci in tendons and in cell culture. In vitro data indicate that this interaction with the tenocyte is not HSPG GAG-dependent. Collagen V is present as the mature, processed form, is absent from the media, and is a significant part of the detergent-insoluble cell layer, presumably as part of a membrane-associated complex. In contrast, procollagen I is not efficiently processed and is found predominantly in the culture media. Our data suggest that the regulatory role of collagen V requires collagen V to occupy a different cellular niche from the structural collagen I. In monolayer cultures, the conversion to the tissue form of collagen V and its deposition with the cell layer suggest efficient engagement of procollagen V with pericellular receptors and processing enzymes. The secretion of collagen I into the media and inefficient processing of procollagen I suggest reduced accessibility to these pericellular molecules due to disengagement from the cell surface. This all points to differential spatial localization of collagen V as a mechanism to optimize its regulatory roles during the cell-surface directed steps in tendon collagen fibril assembly.
Saturation of color forces and nuclear binding

We discuss an approach to understanding the saturation of forces in chromodynamics. Our formulation is suggested by the observation that many lattice-gauge-theory calculations give results well approximated by considering the dynamics of stringlike flux tubes. By looking at multiquark Green's functions in the strong-coupling, quenched, approximations of lattice chromodynamics we find examples of configuration mixing which can allow the binding of color-singlet hadrons into larger composite systems. We surmise that this configuration mixing is crucial to the understanding of nuclear binding. As a simple example we discuss the binding of two mesons composed of heavy, static, quarks into a deuteronlike object. Our results suggest that the magnitude of nuclear binding can be deduced by measuring a finite number of Wilson-loop configurations in lattice QCD.
Optimizing Truck Cab Layout for Driver Accommodation

One important source of variability in the performance and success of products designed for use by people is the people themselves. In many cases, the acceptability of the design is affected more by the variability in the human users than by the variability attributable to the hardware from which the product is constructed. Designing for human variability as an inherent part of the product optimization process can improve the overall performance of the product. This paper presents a new approach to artifact design that applies population sampling and stochastic posture prediction in an optimization environment to achieve optimal designs that are robust to variability among users, including differences in age, physical size, strength, and cognitive capability. A case study involving the layout of the interior of a heavy truck cab is presented, focusing on simultaneous placement of the seat and steering-wheel adjustment ranges. Trade-offs between adjustability (an indicator of cost), driver accommodation, and safety are explored under this paradigm.
Freeze‐and‐thaw frequencies in the United States

The accompanying map (Fig. 1) shows the distribution of effective freeze-and-thaw alternations per year over the United States. It is based upon observations of maximum and minimum temperature made by cooperative observers of the United States Weather Bureau at 863 stations during the 18 years 1914–31, representing a total of almost ten million individual thermometer-readings. It is presented primarily as a statement of distribution of a single factor that must be considered when climatological problems confront the engineer, agriculturalist, geologist, geographer, economist, or others concerned with temperature-changes.
The Constellation-X reflection grating spectrometer

The Constellation-X Reflection Grating Spectrometer (RGS) is designed to provide high-throughput, high-resolution spectra in the long wavelength band of 6 to 50 angstrom. In the nominal design an array of reflection gratings is mounted at the exit of the Spectroscopy X-ray Telescope (SXT) mirror module. The gratings intercept and disperse light to a designated array of CCD detectors. To achieve the throughput (Aeff > 1000 cm2 below 0.6 keV) and resolution (Δλ/λ > 300 below 0.6 keV) requirements for the instrument we are investigating two possible grating designs. The first design uses in-plane gratings in a classical configuration that is very similar to the XMM-Newton RGS. The second design uses off-plane gratings in a conical configuration. The off-plane design has the advantage of providing higher reflectivity and potentially, a higher spectral resolution than the in-plane configuration. In our presentation we will describe the performance requirements and the current status of the technology development.
Lupus erythematosus hypertrophicus et profundus

A patient with a sudden onset of severe lupus erythematosus hypertrophicus et profundus was noted to have extensive serological abnormalities; in addition to antinuclear antibody, leukopenia, anaemia, decreased serum complement, abnormal renal function, and positive immunofluorescence, she also had antibodies against clotting factors.
Quantitative analysis of ammonia by THz time-domain spectroscopy

Gas sensing and identification in far infrared or THz band is useful because many polar molecules have unique spectral fingerprints in this range, which are from the rotational transitions of the molecules. We have investigated the potential of THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz TDS) as a quantitative analysis technique for gas sensing. Ammonia vapor has been chosen as a sample gas. The absorption cross section at 0.572 THz of ammonia in the pressure range of 0.2-20 Torr was extracted to be (5.7±0.3)×10-20 cm2/molecule. In addition, a pressure calibration curve based on pure ammonia measurements was obtained. Using this calibration curve, we made quantitative analysis on the mixture of ammonia and air at 100 Torr. The result shows that THz TDS is an appropriate technique for quantitative analysis of polar gas and gas mixture. We measured the THz spectra of ammonia at different partial pressures in ~590 Torr nitrogen (78% nitrogen in atmosphere), and obtained a pressure calibration curve. THz spectra of ammonia at different partial pressures in 760 Torr atmosphere were measured. Based on the principle of differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) and the pressure calibration curve got in ~590 Torr nitrogen, we obtained the ammonia partial pressures. The result is compared with the value measured by vacuum gauge and the maximum error is 30%. This indicates that THz TDS based on principle of DOAS is an applicable quantitative technique for sensing ammonia or other polar gases in atmosphere.
Deformation of Bowed Silicon Wafers Due to Applied Pressure and Adhesion

One potential method to accomplish high-rate nanomanufacturing is to develop processes which allow for rapid transfer of nano-scaled devices from a template to a device wafer [1]. In order to accomplish this transfer, the device wafer must make intimate contact with the template. A similar situation exists in wafer bonding, except that in that case the two wafers remain in bonded contact due to surface energy even after the applied pressure is removed. We need to maintain intimate contact during transfer, while allowing for easy separation and limiting the contact pressure. Wafers typically have waviness and bow which cause a deviation of many micrometers from flatness over the 15-mm length scale of a typical chip. This non-flatness can be a serious problem in the transfer of nanometer-scale elements. We have developed a model that allows us to examine the effects of applied pressure, bow radius, and surface energy on the flattening of a spherically/cylindrically bowed chip. This model uses elastic plate theory and surface energy. An operating window is found which provides intimate contact while allowing for separation after the pressure is removed. It is also shown that the effect of adhesion is to produce a discontinuity in the internal bending moments at the separation boundary, which is proportional to the square-root of the adhesion energy.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Effect of left atrial circumferential ablation for atrial fibrillation on left atrial transport function

Background The effects of left atrial (LA) circumferential ablation on LA function in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) have not been well described. Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of LA circumferential ablation on LA function. Methods Gated, multiphase, dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomographic (CT) scans of the chest with three-dimensional reconstructions of the heart were used to calculate the LA ejection fraction (EF) in 36 patients with paroxysmal (n = 27) or chronic (n = 9) AF (mean age 55 ± 11 years) and in 10 control subjects with no history of AF. Because CT scans had to be acquired during sinus rhythm, a CT scan was available both before and after (mean 5 ± 1 months) LA circumferential ablation (LACA) in only 10 patients. A single CT scan was acquired in 8 patients before and in 18 patients after LACA ablation. Radiofrequency catheter ablation was performed using an 8-mm-tip catheter to encircle the pulmonary veins, with additional lines along the mitral isthmus and the roof. Results In patients with paroxysmal AF, LA EF was lower after than before LACA (21% ± 8% vs 32 ± 13%, P = .003). LA EF after LA catheter ablation was similar among patients with paroxysmal AF and those with chronic AF (21% ± 8% vs 23 ± 13%, P = .7). However, LA EF after LA catheter ablation was lower in all patients with AF than in control subjects (21% ± 10% vs 47% ± 5%, P Conclusion During medium-term follow-up, restoration of sinus rhythm by LACA results in partial return of LA function in patients with chronic AF. However, in patients with paroxysmal AF, LA catheter ablation results in decreased LA function. Whether the impairment in LA function is severe enough to predispose to LA thrombi despite elimination of AF remains to be determined.
In Vivo Evidence That Sarcoptes scabiei (Acari: Sarcoptidae) Is the Source of Molecules That Modulate Splenic Gene Expression

The clinical signs of a Sarcoptes scabiei (De Geer) (Acari: Sarcoptidae) infestation are initially delayed, which suggests that the mites can depress the immune/inflammatory response. The purpose of this study was to investigate the modulatory properties of scabies mites in vivo at the gene expression level in a secondary lymphoid organ that is involved in initiating an immune response to the parasite. We found that substances from scabies mites influenced the expression of mRNA for molecules that participate in the sequestering of lymphocytes in the periarteriolar lymphoid sheath, primary follicle, and marginal zone of the spleen. Mice exposed to live scabies mites exhibited decreased mRNA expression for the adhesion molecules intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, ICAM-2 and L-selectin; the cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)alpha and CCL5; and the receptors for several other cytokines including TNF and interferon gamma. In addition, exposure to live mites or vaccination with a scabies extract resulted in reduced expression of mRNA for B7-2, CD40, CD4, CD8, and CD45, thereby potentially reducing the physical interactions between B cells and T-helper (Th)2 helper cells, between Th1 and Tc cells, and between T-helper cells and antigen-presenting cells, thus depressing their function in response to thymus-dependent antigen. Live scabies mites also depressed expression of toll-like receptors 2, 4, and 6. In conclusion, our results indicate that live mites produce substances that can down-regulate expression of adhesion molecules, cytokines, chemokines, chemokine receptors, and lymphocyte surface molecules involved in leukocyte sequestering and the interaction of B and T cells during activation of an immune response in the spleen.
Changes in Tibiofemoral Joint Space Following Total Knee Arthroplasty During Weight-Bearing Knee Motion

Increasing the range of knee flexion following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains an important objective for design of new implants and advancement of surgical techniques. With the excellent long term (10–15 year) outcome of TKA, surgeons are more confident about performing the procedure on younger, more active patients demanding increased range of knee flexion [1–3]. Numerous factors have been linked to limited flexion (<120°) following TKA, including patient factors such as preoperative range of motion, intraoperative factors such as component malposition, and implant design [1–3]. Extensor mechanism overstretching due to overstuffing of the knee joint is hypothesized to be a contributing factor limiting knee flexion [1–4]. However, no study to date has investigated the changes in tibiofemoral joint space following TKA. The aim of this study was to examine pre- and post-operative tibiofemoral joint space in a group of TKA patients during weight-bearing knee flexion and to compare it to that in the normal/healthy knee. This could help determine if changes in the proximal-distal distance between the femur and the tibia (tibiofemoral joint space) could lead to extensor mechanism overstretching and consequently limited range of flexion.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
An unusual H-Ras mutant isolated from a human multiple myeloma line leads to transformation and factor-independent cell growth

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable plasma cell malignancy. To investigate biochemical lesions associated with MM, we constructed an expression cDNA library from the OPM-2 human myeloma line. A highly transforming H-Ras mutant was identified by transfection analysis using NIH 3T3 cells. DNA sequencing demonstrated a single-point mutation at position 117 located in the guanine nucleotide-binding site resulting in a lysine-to-glutamic acid substitution. This mutant, H-Ras (K117E), was found to be constitutively activated in terms of GTP binding. We compared the biological effects of H-Ras (K117E) and H-Ras (G12V) in 32D murine hematopoietic progenitor cells. Whereas both Ras proteins are constitutively activated, 32D cells expressing H-Ras (G12V) are still dependent on IL-3 for survival and proliferation while cells carrying H-Ras (K117E) become IL-3 independent. Similar experiments conducted with the B9 line, an IL-6-dependent hybridoma, also demonstrated that B9/H-Ras (K117E) became IL-6-independent. Expression of H-Ras (K117E) in the human IL-6-dependent ANBL-6 myeloma line resulted in enhanced proliferation at suboptimal concentrations of IL-6. These observations suggest that H-Ras mutations at the binding site for the GTP nucleotide ring structure may also represent activating lesions and have additional biological effects when compared to previously described Ras mutants.
Learning with Laptops: Implementation and Outcomes in an Urban, Under-Privileged School

AbstractThis study examined the implementation and outcomes of a laptop program initiative in a predominantly low-income, minority school. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected, analyzed, and compared with students in non-laptop classrooms within the same school. Results of the study revealed that in the hands of well prepared teachers, laptops enabled disadvantaged students to engage in powerful learning experiences. Although quantitative data did not reveal significant differences in student attitudes towards computers and school between laptop and comparison students, qualitative data indicated that laptop integration created enhanced motivation and engagement with schoolwork, influenced classroom interactions, and empowered students. Such behaviors were not evident among comparison students. Furthermore, qualitative data indicated that the laptop program produced academic gains in writing and mathematics within the laptop group. Results of the study have implications for policy makers,...
A Counter for the Direct Measurement of 55Fe in Blood and Other Liquid Samples

Iron-55 can be accurately determined directly in blood or other liquid samples by placing the sample in a long length of fine-bore thin-walled polyethylene tubing which is located between two large-area, low background proportional counters. This method reduces the required analysis time from days to minutes with only a slight reduction in sensitivity.
Moral Transformation and Local Identity Reviving the Culture of Shun at Temples and Monuments across China

The article explores recent restoration of ancient temples and the creation of new, modern monuments dedicated to the legendary sage ruler Shun, considered one of the “founding fathers” of the Chinese people and state. The article shows how local elites have tried to build a sense of their community’s historical and moral identity while at the same time pursuing economic and political advantage through the promotion of cultural sites. Drawing on time-honored symbols and narratives that celebrate the unity of the Chinese state, these local constructions of Chinese identity promote the local and regional while integrating with higher levels of social and political organization, ultimately re-creating and reinforcing the Chinese nation and, through an appeal to Sinophone sentiment, extrapolating a global Chinese identity. The powerful hold that historical memory still has on people’s imaginations is revealed through an examination of prominent temple sites in two locales, in southwestern Hunan and northern Z...
Forecasting stream water temperature using regression analysis, artificial neural network, and chaotic non-linear dynamic models

Stream water temperature is considered both a dominant factor in determining the longitudinal distribution pattern of aquatic biota and as a general metabolic indicator for the water body, since so many biological processes are temperature dependent. Moreover, the plunging depth of stream water, its associated pollutant load, and its potential impact on lake/reservoir ecology is dependent on water temperature. Lack of detailed datasets and knowledge on physical processes of the stream system limits the use of a phenomenological model to estimate stream temperature. Rather, empirical models have been used as viable alternatives. In this study, an empirical model (artificial neural networks (ANN)), a statistical model (multiple regression analysis (MRA)), and the chaotic non-linear dynamic algorithms (CNDA) were examined to predict the stream water temperature from the available solar radiation and air temperature. Observed time series data were non-linear and non-Gaussian, thus the method of time delay was applied to form the new dataset that closely represent the inherent system dynamics. Phase-space reconstruction plots show that time lag equal to 0 and greater than 10 result in highly dependent (a well-defined attractor) and highly independent (no attractor at all) reconstructions, respectively, and, therefore, may not be appropriate to use. Delayed vector was found to be strongly correlated with the original vector when time lag is small (i.e. less than 3-day) and vice versa. Power spectrum analysis and autocorrelation function suggested that the time series data was chaotic and mutual information function indicates that optimum time lag was approximately 3-day. The chaotic non-linear dynamic algorithm and four-layer back propagation neural network (4BPNN) optimized by micro-genetic algorithms (μGA) showed that the prediction performance was optimum when data are presented to the model with 1-day and 3-day time lag, respectively. The prediction performance efficiency of MRA is higher for time lag greater than 3-day, however, the incremental performance efficiency rate significantly decreased after 3-day time lag. The prediction performance efficiency of μGA-4BPNN was found to be the highest among all algorithms considered in this study. Air temperature was found to be the most important variable in stream temperature forecasting; however, the prediction performance efficiency was somewhat higher if short wave radiation was included.
“New York, New York” Being and Creating Identity in the 2000 New York State Senate Race

The authors argue that a critical approach to identity politics posits that identity can be discursively constructed for a group, particularly within a political context. The authors take this general view to study the identity discourses of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Rick Lazio in the 2000 New York Senate Race. The following article describes and analyzes how each campaign created an identity for themselves through general strategies of definition and opposition. The authors hope to illustrate the rhetorical dichotomy formed between the constructed identities of the true New Yorker and the fake New Yorker. It will examine how each campaign's efforts to create an identification with the New Yorker as an ideal was, in a very Burkean sense, founded upon a parallel opposition to or division from the non-New Yorker. Second, it will assess the rhetorical strategies utilized to create a subculture of the New Yorker through their discourse.