cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Plane strain formability analysis of automotive body structures using DYNA2D

Abstract At the early design phase, formability evaluation of automotive panels is usually needed before the complete geometry is defined in order to differentiate between design alternatives. The designs of these panels at early phases are rapidly changing with few defined sections. This creates the need for fast formability evaluation techniques with minimum geometric definition, modeling, analysis time and effort to effectively guide the design for manufacturability process. This paper introduces the plain strain approach as a tool for formability prediction of automotive body structural panels at early design phases. The plane strain approach was introduced based on the assumption that for a certain section location of a stamped panel member, the minor strains are relatively small and negligible in comparison with the major in-section strains. For automotive panels this approach can save time, cost and effort in analyzing sheet metal formability, since only few sections of the entire panel need be analyzed. It is also the most logical approach, when only few sections are defined and their geometries are rapidly changing. During analysis, the state of plane strain can be easily induced on a narrow strip of the sectional analysis model, through the use of symmetry and boundary conditions. The accuracy and applicability of the plane strain approach was investigated by comparing the DYNA2D analytical results with the measured results of actual automotive body side panels. The results of the study were satisfactory and suggested that the plane strain approach can be used to evaluate the formability of the panel members with fairly constant cross-section along the length. When the members have cross-sectional variation along the length, several sections are needed to obtain meaningful results. For the plane strain approach to achieve accurate strain distribution over an entire simulated section, the geometric modeling of the draw bead is necessary.
Possible Selves and Self-Doubt: A Poverty of Desired Possibility

Three studies tested whether self-doubt stems more from the absence of a strong desired self or the presence of a strong undesired self. Across studies, participants completed individual difference measures and then imagined a desired, neutral, or undesired possible self and completed strength measures for the imagined possible self. As predicted, compared to low self-doubt participants, high self-doubt participants reported less confidence in imagined desired selves and were slower to respond to desired self-consistent terms; however, they did not differ on explicit (confidence) or implicit (response speed) strength measures for imagined neutral or undesired selves. Moreover, the weaker desired selves imagined by high self-doubt participants predicted lower performance (compared to low self-doubt participants) on a final achievement test. Finally, the interactive effect of self-doubt and imagery on performance held after controlling for self-esteem and self-concept clarity but, consistent with prediction...
Largest meteor since Tunguska event explodes above Russian city

The meteor that disintegrated in the atmosphere above Chelyabinsk, Russia, on 15 February, injuring more than 1000 people and causing widespread property damage from the shock wave, is the largest such incident since the 1908 Tunguska event in Siberia, according to Paul Chodas, research scientist in the Near-Earth Object (NEO) program office at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif. During a 15 February teleconference, Chodas said it was an “incredible coincidence” that asteroid DA14 passed safely by Earth on the same day as the Chelyabinsk meteor; the 45-meter-wide asteroid sped by the planet at a distance of just 27,700 kilometers away on its closest approach. He stressed that the meteor was not related to DA14. The meteor “was coming from the wrong direction and at a completely different velocity,” he said, noting that the orbit of the meteor went out to the asteroid belt while the orbit of DA14 “is very Earth-like, it does not go out so far.”
THE QUANTUM WIGNER FUNCTION IN A MAGNETIC FIELD

The Wigner function is shown related to the quantum dielectric function derived from the quantum Vlasov equation (QVE), with and without a magnetic field, using a standard method in plasma physics with linear perturbations and a self-consistent mean field interaction via Poisson's equation. A finite-limit-of-integration Wigner function, with oscillatory behavior and negative values for free particles, is proposed. In the classical regimes, where the problem size is huge compared to the particle wavelength, these limits go to infinity, and for free particles, the Wigner function becomes a positive delta function as expected. For the harmonic oscillator potential, there is no distinction between finite and infinite limits of integration when these are larger than the eigenfunction localization length.
Utilizing Intra-Day Prediction Modification Strategies to Improve Peak Power Shaving Using Energy Storage Systems for Smart Buildings

Peak power shaving is a technique that can be used to reduce monthly electricity bills. As control of Energy Storage Systems (ESS) is based on predicted power demand, power demand forecasting is a necessary component of entire building power optimization. Various forecasting methods have been developed. However, the importance of intra-day prediction error is overlooked by present models. In this paper, a variety of dynamic intra-day model modification strategies utilizing intra-day prediction error are proposed to improve power demand prediction and peak shaving performance. These modification strategies could be applied to any models which do the prediction at the beginning of the day. A Self-Organizing Map (SOM) & Support Vector Regression (SVR) Adaptive Hybrid Model proposed in previous literature is chosen as baseline in this paper. The method of bisection is adopted to calculate the optimal threshold to control the ESS. Simulation results demonstrate effectiveness of intra-day prediction modification strategies.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Effects of chronic disease self-management programs for participants with higher depression scores: secondary analyses of an on-line and a small-group program

Depression often accompanies chronic illness. Study aims included determining (1) the level of current depression (Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-8 ≥ 10) for two sets of Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs (CDSMP) participants; (2) if depression or other outcomes improved for those with PHQ-8 ≥ 10; and (3) if outcomes differed for participants with or without depression. This study utilized longitudinal secondary data analysis of depression cohorts (PHQ-8 ≥ 10) from two independent translational implementations of the CDSMP, small-group (N = 175) and Internet-based (N = 110). At baseline, 27 and 55 % of the two samples had PHQ-8 10 or greater. This decreased to 16 and 37 % by 12 months (p < 0.001). Both depressed and non-depressed cohorts demonstrated improvements in most 12-month outcomes (pain, fatigue, activity limitations, and medication adherence). The CDSMP was associated with long-term improvements in depression regardless of delivery mode or location, and the programs appeared beneficial for participants with and without depression.
Interference with Replication of Two Double-Stranded RNA Viruses by Production of N-Terminal Fragments of Capsid Polypeptides

It is possible to interfere with the replication of a number of plant RNA viruses by systemic production of viral capsid polypeptides or RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, or by production of untranslatable portions of viral plus strands or minus strands. Interference can occur by a number of mechanisms. We have discovered that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae double-stranded RNA viruses ScVL1 and ScVLa, which exist as permanent persistent infections of their host cells, can be cured very efficiently by production of N-terminal fragments of their capsid polypeptides. These totiviruses produce only two polypeptides: a capsid polypeptide (Cap) and a Cap-Pol fusion polypeptide with RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity. Three types of interference can be detected: interference due to overproduction of both Cap and Cap-Pol, interference due to overproduction of Cap (and consequent distortion of the Cap to Cap-Pol ratio), and interference due to negative complementation by N-terminal fragments of Cap. Some N-terminal fragments of Cap appear to be incorporated into viral particles, but only in the presence of a complete Cap protein. We postulate that incorporation of N-terminal fragments of Cap results in the formation of defective particles.
Doublesex target genes in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum

Sex determination cascade in insects terminates with the production of sex-specific protein, Doublesex (Dsx). We identified the dsx homolog (Tcdsx) in Tribolium castaneum. The pre-mRNA of Tcdsx is sex-specifically spliced into three female (Tcdsxf1, Tcdsxf2 and Tcdsxf3) and one male-specific (Tcdsxm) isoforms. Cis-regulatory elements potentially involved in sex-specific splicing of the Tcdsx pre-mRNA were identified in the female-specific exon and the adjoining intronic sequences. All the three female-specific TcDsx proteins share common OD1 and OD2 domains and differ in their C-terminal sequences. Knockdown of Tcdsx resulted in a reduction in the oocyte development, egg production and hatching of eggs laid. Several genes, including those coding for Vitellogenins and Vitellogenin receptors were identified as targets of TcDsx. RNAi experiments showed an isoform-specific targeting of identified target genes by TcDsx as knockdown in the expression of Tcdsx isoforms individually or in combinations resulted in differential effects on the expression of target genes.
Thermal noise calculation of single-carrier space-charge-limited current in a non-insulating solid

The impedance-field method of noise calculation is applied in the limit of low frequencies to the one-dimensional model of single-carrier space-charge-limited current flowing through a solid medium of finite conductivity. Contact and diffusion effects are neglected. When the solid is homogeneous, the power spectral density Su (ω 0) of the thermal noise is given at any operating point by 4kT Rn, with Rn = U/I, where U and I are the dc voltage and dc current at that point. When the bulk conductivity is spatially inhomogeneous, this results generally no longer holds, as shown by a specific example. Implications are briefly discussed. Die Impedanzfeldmethode zur Berechnung des Rauschens wird im Grenzfall niedriger Frequenzen auf das eindimensionale Modell raumladungsbegrenzter Strome angewendet, die durch ein festes Medium endlicher Leitfahigkeit fliesen. kontakt- und Diffusionseffekte werden vernachlassigt. Ist der Festkorper homogen, so ist das Leistungsspektrum Su (ω 0) des thermischen Rauschens durch 4kT Rn gegeben, wobei fur jeden Arbeitspunkt Ru = U/I, mit U und I Gleichspannung und Gleichstrom am Arbeitspunkte. Ist dagegen die Leitfahigkeit ortlich inhomogen, so stimmt dieses Ergebnis im allgemeinen nicht mehr, wie an einem speziellen Beispiel gezeigt wird. Folgerungen werden kurz erortert.
A complete analytical solution to the equation TA - FT = LC and its applications

In this note, a complete, analytical, and restriction-free solution with complete and explicit freedom of the matrix equation TA - FT = LC is proposed. Here (A, C) is given and is observable, and F is in the Jordan form with arbitrary given eigenvalues. This solution appears to be new because it can be applied directly to obtain significantly better solutions to the following three basic design problems: 1) 2-D system eigenvalue assignment; 2) function observer design; and 3) state feedback eigenstructure design, as shown in this note.
The relationship between race and challenging behaviours in infants and toddlers with autistic disorder and pervasive developmental disorder–not otherwise specified

Objective: To examine the contributions of race and diagnostic category to endorsement rates of challenging behaviours in infants and toddlers with autism, PDD-NOS and atypical development without ASD, using the Baby and Infant Screen for Children with aUtIsm Traits, Part-3 (BISCUIT Part-3).Design: Multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVAs) on each sub-scale of the BISCUIT Part-3. Follow-up univariate analyses and post-hoc tests as needed.Methods: Scores on the BISCUIT Part-3 were compared for 453 Caucasian and 409 African-American infants and toddlers, grouped by race and diagnosis.Results: Significant differences between races were found on five out of 10 aggressive behaviours, while no significant differences were found on self-injurious or stereotypic behaviours. Significant differences between diagnostic groups were found on all behaviours.Conclusion: Cultural factors should be taken into account when examining challenging behaviours in infants and toddlers with ASD.
Propranolol and alcohol consumption in the rat.

Recently some investigators have reported that propranolol antagonizes the psychopharmacological effects of heroin and alcohol. Others have proposed that propranolol may control the compulsive craving for opiates. We conducted an experiment in which we studied the effects of three different doses of propranolol on alcohol intake in rats. Our results indicate that propranolol is not effective in reducing alcohol consumption in rats.
Familial predisposition to congenital pyloric stenosis.

Summary A series of 95 individuals (73 men and 22 women), between the ages of 25 and 45, has been questioned about possible familial occurrence of cong. pyl. sten. These individuals had all in infancy been treated medically for cong. pyl. sten. One hundred non-selected hospitalized patients (77 men and 23 women) between the ages of 25 and 51 have been similarly questioned as controls. The 95 propositi with previous pyl. sten. have a total of 128 children, of whom 11 have had pyl. sten.j whereas there is only one child with the disease among the 145 children of the propositi in the control group. The propositi in the starting series have a total of 216 siblings, of whom nine have had cong. pyl. sten. In the control group the number of siblings is 319, of whom none have had the disease. In addition, there have been found eight cases among the remaining relatives of the propositi in the starting series, against one within the control group. The present investigation has, in other words, shown a considerable familial accumulation of the disease, and has thus borne out the theory that hereditary factors play a part in its occurrence.
HIV risk practices among needle exchange users and nonusers in Chicago.

Objectives To assess associations between needle exchange program (NEP) use and drug injection risk practices. Methods Between 1997-2000, injecting drug users (IDUs) in Chicago were recruited from NEPs and an area with no NEP, interviewed about risk practices, and counseled and tested for HIV. The risk practices of "regular NEP users"--those who obtained at least half of their needles from an NEP (n = 558)--were compared with those of IDUs who did not use an NEP (n = 175). Results In multivariate analysis, regular NEP users, compared with NEP nonusers, were less likely to receptively share needles (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.30; 95% CI, 0.19-0.46); lend used needles (AOR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.31-0.71); share cookers (AOR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.25-0.61), cottons (AOR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.32-0.72), or water (AOR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.27-0.63); or use a needle for >1 injection (0.15; 95% CI, 0.08-0.27). Among those who shared needles, regular NEP users were significantly more likely to do so for a smaller proportion of injections, with fewer partners and persons socially closer, and to have always bleached used needles before injecting. Conclusions Regular NEP use is associated with less frequent and lower risk HIV injection risk practices.
Subsampling of Soils Containing Energetics Residues

There are many sources of error on the path from field sample acquisition to subsample analysis. This paper examines one potential source, the subsampling of a processed field sample. Five archived ground field samples were subsampled to determine the optimal number of increments to construct a 10-g subsample. Bulk samples ranged from 338 g to 2150 g. The analytes were energetic compounds: crystalline, easy-to-grind explosives and difficult-to-grind propellants in a nitrocellulose matrix. A two-phase study was conducted with moderately high concentration samples and low concentration samples of each type of analyte. All samples were ground with a puck mill according to EPA method 8330B and analyzed on liquid chromatography instrumentation. Up to 40 increments were used to build each subsample and seven replicates executed for each test. Results demonstrate that for a well-ground and mixed sample, a single 10 g subsample is sufficient. For triplicate subsamples, however, 20 to 40 increments will give a res...
Dynamics of intense particle beam in axial-symmetric magnetic field

Abstract Axial-symmetric magnetic field is often used in focusing of particle beams. Most existing ion Low Energy Beam Transport lines are based on solenoid focusing. Modern accelerator projects utilize superconducting solenoids in combination with superconducting accelerating cavities for acceleration of high-intensity particle beams. Present article discusses conditions for matched beam in axial-symmetric magnetic field. Analysis allows us to minimize power consumption of solenoids and beam emittance growth due to nonlinear space charge, lens aberrations, and maximize acceptance of the channel. Expressions for maximum beam current in focusing structure, beam emittance growth due to spherical aberrations and non-linear space charge forces are derived.
The Integrated Spectra of M32 and of 47 Tucanae: A Comparative Study in the Mid-Ultraviolet With IUE

Low-resolution mid-UV spectra of M32 and 47 Tuc have been extracted from the IUE archival database, along with spectra of 41 F and G dwarfs with well-determined atmospheric parameters and integrated spectra of 24 Galactic globular clusters. We have used five mid-UV spectral indices defined by Fanelli et al. to constrain the stellar content of M32 and 47 Tuc and to make a comparative study between the two stellar systems. In the case of 47 Tuc, the bulk of the mid-UV light is shown to come from the main-sequence turnoff stars, with much smaller (but significant) contributions coming from red horizontal-branch stars, red giants, and A stars (presumably, blue stragglers). In contrast, M32 is shown to have no significant contribution from a red horizontal-branch population, has a more metal-rich main-sequence turnoff, and has a significantly larger hot star contribution than is inferred to be present in 47 Tuc. These inferences are consistent with conclusions obtained from integrated light studies of M32 and 47 Tuc in the blue.
Anomalies in cell wall turnover associated with the growth temperature of Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract Cell wall turnover appeared to be anomalously fast in Bacillus subtilis when the cells were grown at temperatures below 29°C. Turnover rates k (generation −1 ), of exponential cultures at 25° were approximately double those of cells grown at 37°C. When autolysin levels were assayed in cell walls, it was found that the enzyme activities were constant between 25°C and 40°C, suggesting that there was no greater synthesis of autolysin at the lower temperature. Analyses of walls for individual components, extent of aminosugar substitution and extent of crosslinking, did not reveal significant differences between samples obtained from 25°C or 37°C cultures. The N- acetylmuramoyl - L - alanine amidase was stable over the temperature range studied. Lysis of cells, induced by carbonylcyanide- m -chlorohenylhydrazone, occurred at a faster rate for cells obtained at 25°C than for cells obtained at 37°C. In addition, the lysis of cells by hen egg white lysozyme was slightly faster when the cells were obtained from 25°C cultures than from 37°C cultures. It is possible the autolysin(s) responsible for cell wall turnover are cold-activated.
Sixty years from discovery to solution: crystal structure of bovine liver catalase form III.

The crystallization and structural characterization of bovine liver catalase (BLC) has been intensively studied for decades. Forms I and II of BLC have previously been fully characterized using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Form III has previously been analyzed by electron microscopy, but owing to the thinness of this crystal form an X-ray crystal structure had not been determined. Here, the crystal structure of form III of BLC is presented in space group P212121, with unit-cell parameters a = 68.7, b = 173.7, c = 186.3 A. The asymmetric unit is composed of the biological tetramer, which is packed in a tetrahedron motif with three other BLC tetramers. This higher resolution structure has allowed an assessment of the previously published electron-microscopy studies.
Practical ReProCS for separating sparse and low-dimensional signal sequences from their sum — Part 1

This paper designs and evaluates a practical algorithm, called Prac-ReProCS, for recovering a time sequence of sparse vectors St and a time sequence of dense vectors Lt from their sum, Mt := St + Lt, when any subsequence of the Lt’s lies in a slowly changing low-dimensional subspace. A key application where this problem occurs is in video layering where the goal is to separate a video sequence into a slowly changing background sequence and a sparse foreground sequence that consists of one or more moving regions/objects. PracReProCS is the practical analog of its theoretical counterpart that was studied in our recent work.
Using ΔGoodness-of-Fit Indexes in Assessing Mean Structure Invariance

In research concerning model invariance across populations, researchers have discussed the limitations of the conventional χ2 difference test (Δχ2 test). There have been some research efforts in using goodness-of-fit indexes (i.e., δgoodness-of-fit indexes) for assessing multisample model invariance, and some specific recommendations have been made (Cheung & Rensvold, 2002). Because δgoodness-of-fit indexes were designed to assess model fit in terms of covariance structure, it is not clear how they will perform when mean structure invariance is the research focus. This study extends the previous work (Cheung & Rensvold, 2002), and evaluates how δgoodness-of-fit indexes perform in mean structure invariance analysis. By using a Monte Carlo simulation experiment, the performance of δgoodness-of-fit indexes in detecting population mean structure difference is evaluated. The findings suggest that, in general, δgoodness-of-fit indexes are so sensitive to model size that they are not generally useful in mean str...
Comparing Solid, Gas Phase, and Solution Structures Using the Cambridge Structural Database

Molecular models of molecules from the Cambridge Structural Database and associated teaching modules are discussed. The molecules added to the JCE Featured Molecules library this month include: caffeine (in gas phase), caffeine (in water), cyclopentane (in IHIPOE), cyclopentane (in LISLOO), cyclopentane (optimized).
Category Learning: Learning the general but not the specific

Amnesia patients have a normal ability to learn categories from examples, even though they fail to learn the examples themselves; computational models of brain function suggest how and why.
Cytokines acting on or secreted by macrophages during intracellular infection (IL-10, IL-12, IFN-γ)

The three cytokines IL-12, IL-10, and IFN-gamma have important and cross-regulatory roles in infection. In the past year, much progress has been made in the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation (and cross-regulation) of these three cytokines and their role in pathology. IL-12 is rapidly produced after infection and acts as a proinflammatory cytokine eliciting the production, by T cells and natural killer cells, of IFN-gamma which activates phagocytic cells. The production of IL-12 is strictly regulated by negative and positive feedback mechanisms. If IL-12 and IL-12-induced IFN-gamma are present during early T cell expansion in response to antigen, Th1 cell generation is favored and the generation of Th2 cells is inhibited. Thus, IL-12 is also a potent immunoregulatory cytokine which promotes Th1 differentiation and is instrumental in the Th1-dependent resistance to infections by bacteria, intracellular parasites, fungi, and certain viruses. Viruses inducing a permanent or transient immunodepression, such as HIV and measles, may act, in part, by suppressing IL-12 production.
The emerging it group and rapid IT change

Information technology (IT) changes rapidly. This increases the complexity of IT management. In response, many organizations create a formal group of IT professionals to evaluate emerging IT and thus cope with its change. A survey based on structured interviews was mailed to a nationwide sample of 1,000 IT organizations. Two hundred forty-six respondents provided data to identify categories of coping mechanisms to handle changing IT. Five categories emerged, namely, Education and Training, Internal Procedures, Vendor Support, Consultant Support, and Endurance. Organizations with a group dedicated to investigating emerging IT cope more extensively (p
Effect of Propellant Temperature on Efficiency in the Pulsed Plasma Thruster

Abstract : A pulsed plasma thruster (PPT) benefits from the inherent engineering simplicity-and reduced tankage fraction gained by storing the propellant as a solid. The solid is converted to the gaseous state and accelerated by an electric discharge across the propellant face. Previous research has concluded that as little as 10% of the consumed propellant is converted to plasma and efficiently accelerated. The remaining propellant is consumed in the form of late-time vaporization and particulate emission, creating minimal thrust. Critical to improving the PPT performance is improving the propellant utilization. The present work demonstrates one possible method of increasing the PPT propellant efficiency. By measuring the PPT thrust, propellant consumption, and propellant temperature while varying the power level, duration of the experimental run, and total propellant mass, a correlation is established between decreased propropellant temperature and increased propellant efficiency. The method is demonstrated by performance measurements at 60 W and S W, which show a 25% increase in thrust efficiency, while the propellant temperature decreases from 135 to 42 deg C. Larger increases in the efficiency may be realized on-orbit where operating temperatures are commonly subzero. The dependence of propellant consumption on temperature also creates systematic errors in laboratory measurements with short experimental runs, and orbit analyses where the PPT performance measured at one power level is linearly scaled to the power available on the spacecraft.
Bank competition and optimal monetary policies under alternative reserve accounting schemes

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical analysis of the implications of increased competition among depository financial institutions for the optimal conduct of monetary policy with respect to the ultimate goals of price and output stability. In the context of a general equilibrium model which includes rational expectations and a market for bank deposits, it is shown that a rise in bank rivalry for deposits produces a more steeply sloped LM schedule. Under a system of lagged required reserve accounting, this fact has no effect on the optimal conduct of monetary policy, which requires an operating procesure designed to target a market interest rate. However, under a system of contemporaneous reserve accounting, this fact implies that less emphasis should be placed on a market interest rate as a variable upon which the Fed's setting of reserves should be conditioned.
Radiation from anisotropic Gaussian Schell-model sources

Expressions are derived for the radiant intensity generated by a planar, anisotropic, Gaussian, Schell-model source of any state of coherence. It is found that with an appropriate choice of the source parameters the radiant intensity may be rotationally symmetric about the source plane and may even become identical with the radiant intensity produced by a completely coherent and rotationally symmetric laser source.
Infrared laser modulated molecular beam mass spectrometry

Abstract A technique is described whereby a modulated beam can be extracted from gas mixtures which are ex- xited by infrared laser radiation. The method has been applied to time resolved mass spectrometric studies of laser induced molecular processes for systems containing BCl 3 and SF 6 as radiation absorbers, and shows general applica- bility to studies of laser induced chemical reaction.
Shear Modulation Force Microscopy Studies on Cross-linked Elastomer Thin Films

The atomic force microscope in the shear force modulation microscopy (SMFM) mode has been used to characterize the surface modulus and cross-link density of elastomer thin films, where standard rheological methods cannot be applied. Brominated poly(isobutylene-co-4-methylstyrene) (BIMS) is a synthetic terpolymer which can be stoichiometrically cross-linked by N, N’-dicinnamylidene-1,6-hexanediamine. The results on several types of BIMS elastomers with different bromide content are reported. The cross-linking reaction at the surface is found to be significantly faster than that of bulk. The estimated shear moduli of the thin films were found to be proportional to the cross-link density, as expected from the rubber elasticity theory for bulk materials.
Enhance postoperative filtering bleb-induced vision difficulties with well-fitted GP contact (oxygen-permeable) lenses.

Background Occasionally contact lenses need to be fit on patients with filtering blebs. Gas-permeable (GP) lens fitting is still controversial because, although the contact lens can improve visual acuity and satisfy a patient's visual need, it can also compromise the bleb and increase the risk of ocular infection. Methods A retrospective review of charts evaluated patients wearing a GP contact lens a minimum of two months after trabeculectomy surgery. Seven optometrists and one ophthalmologist submitted data on 20 eyes (15 subjects). Success of the contact lenses on these eyes was evaluated, as well as patient history and ocular complications from the contact lens. Contact lens success was based on the patient's ability to wear a GP contact lens a minimum of 6 hours a day, at least 4 days a week, without permanent damage or significant compromise to the bleb. Results GP contact lenses were successfully fit and worn on 17 of 20 eyes with a functioning filtering bleb (85%). Two of the 17 eyes terminated GP contact lens use after a few years for reasons unrelated to contact lens wear. Three eyes (15%) were unsuccessful and discontinued GP contact lens wear. Of the three eyes that were not successful in wearing a GP contact lens, two eyes discontinued wear secondary to contact lens intolerance and one eye discontinued contact lens wear as a result of fitting difficulties. There were no complications of blebitis or endophthalmitis, but two eyes were treated for bleb laceration and staining of the bleb. Conclusion GP contact lenses can be successfully worn in eyes with filtering blebs. However, to reduce the risk of complication and infection, proper fitting guidelines should be followed and patients should return for evaluations at intervals of 6 months or less.
Fast heuristics for multi-path selection for multiple description encoded video streaming

In a previous work [A. C. Begen, et al., 2003], we proposed an optimal multi-path selection method for multiple description (MD) encoded video streaming. To do so, we first modelled multi-path streaming and then developed an expression, i.e., an objective (cost) function, that estimated average streaming distortion in terms of network statistics, media characteristics and application requirements. Naturally, the ultimate goal was to find the set of paths that minimized this cost function. However, finding such sets of paths turned out to be intractable in large topologies. Hence, in this paper, we provide a fast heuristics-based solution by exploiting the infrastructure features of the Internet. The simulations run over various random Internet topologies show that the proposed heuristic is able to find a good solution in a much shorter time than the brute-force approach. Particularly, this heuristic is best suited to such interactive multimedia applications as video-conferencing and VoIP, where multi-path computation is a time-critical process. In addition, it is also suitable for the clients whose processing power capabilities are limited.
Melt motion during liquid-encapsulated Czochralski crystal growth in steady and rotating magnetic fields

Abstract During the liquid-encapsulated Czochralski (LEC) process, a single compound semiconductor crystal such as gallium-antimonide is grown by the solidification of an initially molten semiconductor (melt) contained in a crucible. The motion of the electrically-conducting molten semiconductor can be controlled with externally-applied magnetic fields. A steady magnetic field provides an electromagnetic stabilization of the melt motion during the LEC process. With a steady axial magnetic field alone, the melt motion produces a radially-inward flow below the crystal–melt interface. Recently, an extremely promising flow phenomenon has been revealed in which a rotating magnetic field induces a radially-inward flow below the crystal–melt interface that may significantly improve the compositional homogeneity in the crystal. This paper presents a model for the melt motion during the LEC process with steady and rotating magnetic fields.
Innovation in Collaboration: Using an Internet‐Based Research Tool as a New Way to Share Ethnographic Knowledge

Ethnography in business is only successful if it is a cooperative, communicative endeavor. Research teams must be able to share knowledge with one another and with the client. In the absence of effective communication, time is wasted, analytic quality can suffer, and the client may lose faith in the value of the project or the value of ethnography in business. This paper will address the subject of transmissivity by defining four key needs for knowledge sharing in collaborative ethnographic research: direct experience of the research context, even distribution of knowledge, coordinated development of analysis, and management of the client experience. After synthesizing the literature on knowledge sharing to define these four key needs, the paper will describe how an internet based research tool can enable global, continuous, and controlled information exchange, meeting these needs in a new way. This type of solution can facilitate communication and enrich contextual understanding, pointing in a new direction for collaborative ethnographic tools. Particularly for dispersed teams, these tools can produce better, faster analysis and more relevant results—the most important deliverables to demonstrate the value of ethnography in business.
The normal completion of the lattice of continuous functions

Let S be a topological space(1) and let C(S) denote the set of all real valued, bounded, continuous functions on S. It is well known that C(S) is a distributive lattice under the operations sup (f,g) and inf (f,g). In general, however, C(S) is not a complete lattice; that is, an arbitrary bounded set of continuous functions in C(S) need not have a least upper bound in the lattice C(S). Furthermore, the structure of the minimal completion of C(S) by means of normal subsets has not been determined even in the simple case where S is the real interval [0, 1].
A study of 5-hydroxytryptamine formation from L-tryptophan in the brain and other tissues.

Abstract Three methods have been developed to study, in the rat, the synthesis of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) from the amino acid precursor L-tryptophan (Try): the first involves perfusion of the small intestine in situ with a Tyrode's solution containing Try; the second involves i.p. injections of the amino acid into unoperated and into partially or totally eviscerated rats; the third consists in infusing Try into the brain via the internal carotid artery. All these procedures showed synthesis of 5-HT in the brain as measured by fluorometric techniques. The results showed that the brain formed 5-HT from Try and that the brain did not depend on the stomach, intestine, spleen, kidneys, or liver for 5-hydroxytryptophan.
Bridging library resources across the Pacific: the characteristics of US academic users and their use of a gateway service

This study investigates the characteristics of US users and their document request patterns at the Gateway Service Center of the Chinese Academic Journal Publications at a research university library and evaluates the effectiveness of the service. The study shows that the center’s primary users are faculty, graduate students, and researchers in the areas of Chinese history, literature, language, philosophy, and politics. Their requests generally link to research‐related projects and focus on articles in the arts and humanities and social sciences, published in 1980s in Mainland Chinese publications. The center has significantly higher average fill rate and faster turnaround time compared with the ordinary ILL services.
Fungal infection of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators: case series of five patients managed over 22 years.

Background With the increasing use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), device complications are becoming more common. Fungal-related ICD infections have rarely been reported, and little is known about the presentation, prevalence, and treatment options for these morbid infections. Objectives The purpose of this study was to characterize the clinical features, treatment, and outcomes of patients with fungal ICD infections. Methods We performed a retrospective review of ICD procedures performed at a single academic center and identified all ICD-related infections managed between 1983 and 2005. Results Among a total of 3,648 ICD-related procedures performed between 1983 and 2005, we identified 47 (1.3%) cases of ICD infections, of which 5 (0.1%) were due to a fungal pathogen. Fungal infections were more likely to be associated with abdominal devices, to have a local rather than systemic infection, and to have a longer duration from the original implant to presentation. All patients were treated with ICD system explantation and antifungal therapy. Conclusion Fungal infection of ICDs is a rare but serious complication of device implantation that must be treated aggressively with complete hardware explantation and prolonged antifungal therapy. Because most infections are late complications and have indolent onsets, a high level of clinical suspicion is required for early diagnosis.
A Multivariate Computational Method to Analyze High-Content RNAi Screening Data

High-content screening (HCS) using RNA interference (RNAi) in combination with automated microscopy is a powerful investigative tool to explore complex biological processes. However, despite the pl...
Cerebral acid-base changes during reduced cranial blood flow

Abstract In the anesthetized dog, cerebral tissue respiratory acidosis (increased P co 2 ) developed in the steady state when cerebral blood flow was decreased to 51 % of the normal level for 4 hr. Sagittal venous pH decreased by 0.020 and P co 2 increased by 6 mm Hg with reference to arterial blood values. Further reduction of cerebral blood flow to 42% resulted in a combined cerebral respiratory and metabolic acidosis (increased P co 2 , and increased lactic acid). Sagittal venous pH decreased by 0.036 and P co 2 , increased by 10 mm Hg with reference to arterial values. In addition there was excess sagittal venous lactate of 0.30 meq/L and brain lactate increased to 1.86 meq/kg. Total cranial blood flow level, as reflected in the arterial-jugular venous oxygen content difference, was decreased to a greater extent than cerebral blood flow particularly at 42% cerebral flow when cranial flow was 29 %. Thus, there was a tendency for brain blood flow to be preserved at the expense of the rest of the head. Sagittal venous and CSF bicarbonate remained constant during cerebral hypoperfusion, failing to buffer the increased [H + ], apparently because of the opposing effects of respiratory and metabolic acidosis which developed simultaneously. Sagittal venous and CSF P o 2 were equal initially and declined similarly during both levels of hypoperfusion, suggesting that CSF P o 2 also reflects the level of cerebral perfusion under these conditions. The implications of the resultant changes in CSF pH during cerebral hypoperfusion on the central chemical control of ventilation are discussed.
Internet Diffusion and Social Inequalities in Greater China Region via Six Key Socioeconomic Indicators

This article investigates social inequalities associated with the Internet diffusion in various territories in the Greater China region, focusing on the six key socioeconomic indicators that reflect different aspects of social inequalities: gender, age, marriage, education, income, and occupation. First, the statistics of the Internet diffusion in Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao are compared and contrasted to find out 1) the territorial differences among the major social inequalities caused by the Internet diffusion, and 2) the territories that have the highest or lowest social inequalities in the Greater China region. Then, a correlation is found among the key socioeconomic indicators in various territories in the Greater China region. Also, patterns of social inequalities associated with socioeconomic indicators were found in different territories in the Greater China region. Finally, based on the findings of this study, future research directions are outlined in the conclusion.
Comparison of mid-block and intersection-related left turn collisions.

Objectives. To evaluate the factors that might influence an occupant's injury severity during a left turn movement. Methods. We used the National Automotive Sampling System Crashworthiness Data System (1995–2005) to compare crash characteristics and injury outcome between intersection and midblock left turn collisions. Results. A total of 7,396 collisions were evaluated. Traffic control devices were present in 82% of intersection and 10% of mid-block collisions. After adjustment for potential confounding variables, drivers' injury severity was not significantly associated with the crash location. However, front seat passengers in mid-block collisions had 72% higher odds of experiencing an injury with injury severity score ≥9 (odds ratio: 1.72, 95% confidence interval: 1.09–2.69). Our analysis did not show that drivers or passengers in larger vehicles, e.g., sport utility vehicles and mini-vans, were at lower risk of more severe injuries in comparison to the car occupants in sedans. Conclusion. We found th...
Studying verbal feedback in human collaborations to inform robot speech production

This short paper motivates the use of robot verbal feedback in human-robot task collaboration scenarios and presents results from a pilot study aimed at identifying how people use speech to coordinate their actions with each other on a dynamic, collaborative task. From these results, three types of verbal feedback are identified as well as requirements for a robot to correctly employ these speech patterns while collaborating with a person.
An Induced Proximity Model for NF-κB Activation in the Nod1/RICK and RIP Signaling Pathways

Nod1 is an Apaf-1-like molecule composed of a caspase-recruitment domain (CARD), nucleotide-binding domain, and leucine-rich repeats that associates with the CARD-containing kinase RICK and activates nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). We show that self-association of Nod1 mediates proximity of RICK and the interaction of RICK with the γ subunit of the IκB kinase (IKKγ). Similarly, the RICK-related kinase RIP associated via its intermediate region with IKKγ. A mutant form of IKKγ deficient in binding to IKKα and IKKβ inhibited NF-κB activation induced by RICK or RIP. Enforced oligomerization of RICK or RIP as well as of IKKγ, IKKα, or IKKβ was sufficient for induction of NF-κB activation. Thus, the proximity of RICK, RIP, and IKK complexes may play an important role for NF-κB activation during Nod1 oligomerization or trimerization of the tumor necrosis factor α receptor.
The Assessment of Myocardial Performance in Man by Hemodynamic and Cineangiographic Technics

HE ASSESSMENT OF cardiac insuficiency in man has undergone considerable evolution in recent years. It has become evident that standard hemodynamic determinations, including intracardiac pressure, volume flow and stroke work, can be influenced by factors other than myocardial function, such as the state of the peripheral circulation or the presence of valvular cardiac lesions. In addition, the characteristics of the passive pressure-volume relation of the ventricles can importantly influence the level of ventricular end-diastolic pressure at an) ventricular volume; ’ therefore, the filling pressure does not necessarily provide a useful index of the presence or absence of cardiac dilatation and failure.2 Thus, hemodynamic measurements made in the basal state often are inadequate for comparing cardiac function in one group of patients with that in another. To develop improved methods for examining myocardial performance in man, we have employed two general approaches. The first has consisted of acutely altering the loading conditions on the heart by changing the venous return, by inducing an elevation in aortic pressure, or by imposing an exercise stress. The ensuing hemodynamic responses of the left ventricle then are examined within the FrankStarling framework by relating left ventricular end-diastolic pressure to the stroke volume or stroke work. The second, more recent, approach has consisted of analyzing the function of the tnyocardium more directly by relating stress developed in the left ventricular wall to the
Reproductive Complexity in a Long-Lived Deepwater Fish, the Blackgill Rockfish

AbstractFish populations are regulated by complex biological processes and ecosystem interactions. To inform stock assessments and management models, a clear understanding of a species’ reproductive biology is necessary, particularly in long-lived species, for which estimates of sustainable yield are sensitive to such parameters. Deviations from traditional views of iteroparity in marine fishes (e.g., prolonged adolescent periods and skipped spawning) complicate estimates of maturity and, in turn, spawning output. The Blackgill Rockfish Sebastes melanostomus, an important component of California's commercial rockfish fishery, is a slow-growing deepwater species whose population is currently thought to be increasing after being fished to below conservation target levels. The objectives of this study were to describe the annual reproductive cycle, update maturity estimates, and detect unusual patterns of ovarian development by using both macroscopic and histological methods. Females were collected between 2...