cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
"Feeling frumpy": the relationships between body image and sexual response changes in midlife women.

This study investigated the relationships between self‐rated attractiveness and self‐reported sexual response changes (over the past decade) and current sexual satisfaction in 307 heterosexual, midlife women. Results indicated that regardless of the woman's specific age, she was more likely to consider herself more attractive when she was 10 years younger, and her self‐perceived attractiveness did not significantly differ based on her menopausal status. The more a woman perceived herself as less attractive than before, the more likely she was to report a decline in sexual desire or frequency of sexual activity. The more she perceived herself as attractive, the more likely she was to experience an increase in sexual desire, orgasm, enjoyment, or frequency of sexual activity. There were no significant statistical relationships between a woman's perception of her own attractiveness as she aged and her current sexual satisfaction.
Improved method of measuring optical waveguide propagation losses.

An improved method is reported for determining propagation losses in single-mode optical waveguides that is insensitive to the input light coupling efficiency. (AIP)
On a characterization of simple extensional flows

It is shown that the vanishing of theZaremba time flux of the firstRivlin-Ericksen tensor is necessary and sufficient that the given motion of a particle be a simple extensional flow.
A new strategy for harnessing knowledge management in e-commerce

Abstract Knowledge management has become increasingly critical for the success of companies in this emerging era of e-commerce. As business activities increasingly shift to the web, the challenge facing corporate management is maintaining competitive advantage by building strong relations with employees, customers, and upstream/downstream suppliers and partners. A good knowledge management strategy can help achieve this goal. Unfortunately, many companies use knowledge management technologies that do not suit today's new information era. Therefore, it is important to understand how companies can successfully implement knowledge management programs that will help them to gain competitive advantage. Most experts agree that the biggest challenges of knowledge management are not technological but human-based or behavioral challenges. This paper addresses these problems by tracing the evolution of knowledge management in e-commerce and identifying strategies that are currently in use. We will demonstrate how companies can benefit by adopting strategies that harness the potential of knowledge management technologies to transform their e-business activities. We define knowledge management; then provide an overview of the driving and impeding forces that help and hinder proper deployment of knowledge management strategies in e-commerce. Then we describe approaches and implementation architectures currently in use by companies who are integrating knowledge management into their e-commerce activities. Finally, we suggest a strategic approach that can overcome the limitations in systems presently in use as well as implications for future knowledge management development.
Prevalence of and risk of bleeding from gastric varices found incidentally at upper endoscopy in patients with pancreatitis

Prevalence of and risk of bleeding from gastric varices found incidentally at upper endoscopy in patients with pancreatitis
An animal model for delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions.

Delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions (DHTRs) are a well-known complication of transfusion that may be defined as immune-mediated hemolysis of allogeneic donor red cells that occurs approximately 3 to 5 days after transfusion. In general, DHTRs occur in patients who have been alloimmunized previously, but the antibody titers have fallen below serologically detectable levels. Transfusion of seemingly compatible blood and exposure to the putative alloantigen results in an anamnestic immune response that may lead to in vivo accelerated destruction of donor red cells. Symptoms may include a drop in hemoglobin and hematocrit, fever, jaundice, and renal insufficiency. More recent studies have shown that there is a subset of cases called delayed serologic transfusion reactions (DSTRs) when there are serologic findings consistent with DHTRs but no clinical evidence of hemolysis. In both DHTRs and DSTRs, direct antiglobulin tests are often persistently positive long after the transfused donor red cells should have been removed from the circulation. Because the studies required to investigate the immunologic and clinical aspects of these reactions are precluded in humans, we developed an animal model for the study of DHTRs and DSTRs. Our article provides a comprehensive review of DHTRs and DSTRs, the role of complement and cytokines in these reactions, and the phenomenon of bystander hemolysis. We describe our studies using the rabbit as a model for the study of DHTRs and bystander hemolysis.
Towards a theory of nonequilibrium multiphase filtration flow

A new theoretical model of joint filtration flow of immiscible incompressible fluids is presented. This model takes into account relaxation processes due to the exchange of the fluids between pores of different sizes, and these relaxation processes are driven by capillary forces. The fluids occupy connected regions in the four-dimensional space formed by three coordinates and the pore length scale. When fluid exchange between pores of given sizes is effected by way of successive flow through pores of all intermediate sizes, the fluid pressure within each region is governed by a hyperbolic equation, the role of time being played by the pore linear scale. Pressure jumps across hypersurfaces separating these regions are equal to corresponding values of capillary pressure. A supplementary condition at any such hypersurface requires the speed of its displacement in the four-dimensional space to coincide with the normal velocity components of both the adjoining fluids. As a result, a new formulation of multiphase filtration flow problems is gained with allowance made for capillary relaxation in the porous space.
Wireless use in libraries

A look at computing literature in general and library literature in particular over the last few years reveals steadily increasing interest and investment by libraries in the use of wireless Ethernet technology (802.11). This article attempts to shed light on the motivations underlying the use of this technology in a variety of libraries across the country as well as the role of the library in deploying wireless within the local community. Further, it looks at potentials and considerations for the evolving 802.11a and 802.11g standards. It does not address other applications of wireless protocols such as those for use with cellular phones.
A comparative petrologic study of iron meteorites with 107 Ag∗ anomalies

We have made a petrographic study of the iron meteorites: Derrick Peak (IIB), Cape York (IIIA), Grant (IIIB), Gibeon (IVA) and Santa Clara (IVB). Each of these meteorites has been reported to contain excess ^(107)Ag from the decay of now extinct ^(107)Pd. Isotopic data on metal and sulfide phases for groups IIB and IIIAB iron meteorites have been explained using conventional interpretations which show a correlation between ^(107)Ag/^(109)Ag and Pd/Ag while data on sulfide nodules in meteorites from groups IVA and IVB are very complex. We have studied the extent to which shock and thermal events may have caused the redistribution of Ag and disturbed the original relationship between ^(107)Ag∗ and Pd, particularly in sulfide-rich regions. The petrography of the iron meteorites studied is consistent with the Pd-Ag isotopic data. The textures observed in the metal and sulfide in groups IIA and IIIAB were found to be indicative of shock but not extensive thermal metamorphism. The contacts between metal and sulfide are sharp and the sulfide and metal have remained discrete homogeneous phases. These meteorites yield isochrons between metal and sulfide and it is concluded that no significant Ag redistribution occurred after their formation. The petrography of group IVA and IVB meteorites reveals a history involving extensive shock and thermal metamorphism. Contacts between metal and sulfide nodules are irregular and the two phases are intimately mixed. In Gibeon, unequilibrated α_2-martensitic structures in the metal matrix suggest that some reheating affected entire individual fragments of this meteorite. While bulk samples of the metal phases of the IVA and IVB meteorites appear well behaved with regard to Pd-Ag systematics, the sulfide-rich regions show extreme isotopic heterogeneities and do not yield well-defined isochrons. The Pd-Ag data reflect complicated postformation Ag transport. This petrographic study has found that the complexity of Pd-Ag isotopic data is related to the shock and thermal histories of the iron meteorites. However, no self-consistent explanation has been found to explain the Pd-Ag results observed for the nodules. The mineral phase(s) in which Ag resides in both the metal and sulfide phases is as yet undetermined, though late-forming Cu-precipitates and chalcopyrite found in IIIAB irons are possible getters of volatiles (Ag, Au) and may be host to ^(107)Ag∗.
Population Structure and Seasonal Intra-Burrow Movement of Ornithodoros turicata (Acari: Argasidae) in Gopher Tortoise Burrows

Burrows of the gopher tortoise, Gopherus polyphemus Daudin, were sampled for Ornithodoros turicata (Duges) infestation using carbon dioxide baits and vacuum extraction. Ticks were captured, marked, released, and recaptured, and population estimates were made using the Lincoln index. Estimated population ranged from 47 to 1,338 ticks per burrow. The tick population consisted predominantly of nymphs, with a significant increase in the larval population during the months of June and July. Adult sex ratio was slightly male-biased, but numbers of adults collected were consistently low. Ticks exhibited a low interburrow movement, but depth preferences fluctuated with season; more ticks occurred in the upper strata of the burrows during the hot, humid months.
A simple and economical method for recording offkey pecking in the pigeon

Abstract An inexpensive and reliable apparatus for automatically recording offkey pecking in the pigeon is described. The system only requires a standard two-key chamber and surplus materials, and can be quickly assembled.
Partner responses to patient pain and well behaviors and their relationship to patient pain behavior, functioning, and depression

The goals of the current study were to examine the associations between patient-reported spouse responses to pain and well behaviors as assessed by the Spouse Response Inventory (SRI) [22] and (1) patient-reported pain behavior, (2) depression, and (3) physical dysfunction, independent of patient demographics and pain severity. Moreover, we sought to examine the potential moderating influence of marital satisfaction on these relationships. We also evaluated the construct and concurrent validity and internal reliability of the SRI. The findings indicate that encouragement of well behaviors is related to lower levels of patient-reported pain behaviors, while negative responses to well behavior is related to greater patient physical dysfunction. Likewise, higher levels of negative responses to pain behaviors, as well as higher levels of solicitous responses to pain behaviors are generally related to poorer patient functioning. Furthermore, marital satisfaction did not moderate the relationship between any SRI subscales and patient-reported pain behaviors. In summary, our results support the internal reliability and validity of the SRI scales as measures of spousal responses to both pain and well behaviors. The current study also supports the importance of examining the potential impact of responses to both well and pain behaviors. Further research is needed to examine the potential impact of other contextual variables and marital satisfaction on the relationship of spouse responses to both well and pain behaviors.
Public and Catholic Schools: A Reanalysis of "Public and Private Schools".

In this study we reanalyze the impact of Catholic school attendance on the reading and mathematics achievement of senior and sophomore pupils using the same data base employed by Coleman, Hoffer and Kilgore in their report, "Public and Private Schools." We identify four variables they did not control for-sex, handicap status, region of residence, and eighth grade college attendance expectations-that could be associated with self-selection into Catholic schools, and hence responsible for the apparent significant impact of Catholic school attendance on cognitive outcomes reported by Coleman et al. Using a variety of specifications and techniques for handling missing data, we find that we cannot confirm Coleman et al.'s findings. Except for a statistically significant but small advantage on sophomore reading tests, Catholic school pupils are found to do no better-or worse-than public school pupils.
Template-Directed Synthesis and Organization of Shaped Oxide/Phosphate Nanoparticles

Oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are typically synthesized from the assembly of atoms, ions or other species by bottom-up methods. Here we report an alternative, top-down approach as a general route to synthesize porous and nonporous oxide/phosphate nanocubes. The method is based on the construction of three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) structures via colloidal crystal templating, followed by the spontaneous disassembly of these structures into particulate building blocks assisted by the introduction of amphiphilic surfactants. Syntheses and analyses of nanocubes composed of d-block transition metal (Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn) oxides and several mixed oxides are presented to exemplify the generality of the method. Because the NP morphology is defined by the rigid colloidal crystal template, particle composition and characteristics can be readily tuned, leaving much freedom for the development of NP functionality. In addition, the shaped particles retained their geometric relation, namely the face...
Intestinal anastomoses detected with a photopolymerized hydrogel.

Abstract Background. This study examines the efficacy of a novel, absorbable photopolymerized hydrogel sealant, Focalseal (Focal Inc, Lexington, Mass), in protecting high-risk suture deficient intestinal anastomoses (HRA) compared with conventional sutured anastomoses (CSA). Methods. Twenty-four New Zealand white rabbits were either randomized to small bowel HRA constructed with 4 interrupted 5/0 polyglyconate sutures and treated with Focalseal or small bowel CSA constructed with 8 to 10 interrupted 5/0 polyglyconate sutures. Four rabbits from each group were killed at postoperative days 3, 7, and 21. Anastomoses were assessed for evidence of dehiscence, adhesion formation, stenosis, and bursting pressure; they were also examined histologically for collagen content estimation and blood vessel formation. Results. Mean operative time was 35 minutes (SD 5) for CSA and 35 minutes (SD 5) for HRA. There was 1 postoperative death in the HRA group. A postmortem examination revealed no evidence of anastomotic leak. The remaining 23 animals were assessed as planned. There was no evidence of anastomotic dehiscence in any animal. There was no significant difference in adhesion formation (P =.09), stenosis (P =.6), or bursting pressure (P =.2) between HRA and CSA groups. Collagen (P =.007) and blood vessel (P =.002) formation were significantly increased in HRA. Conclusions. HRA treated with Focalseal heal well and have similar strength to CSA. This technique may prove valuable in procedures such as laparoscopic bowel resection. (Surgery 2002;131:185-9.)
Hypocretin (orexin) enhances neuron activity and cell synchrony in developing mouse GFP-expressing locus coeruleus

The noradrenergic neurons of the locus coeruleus (LC) play an important role in modulating arousal and selective attention. A similar function has been attributed to the hypocretin neurons of the hypothalamus which maintain a strong synaptic projection to the LC. As the LC can be difficult to detect in the embryonic and neonatal mouse brain, we used a new transgenic mouse with strong GFP expression in the LC under the regulation of a mouse prion promoter. GFP colocalized with immunoreactive tyrosine hydroxylase in sections and dispersed cultures of the LC, allowing visualization and whole cell or single-unit recording from the LC in early stages of cellular development. GFP expression in the LC had no apparent effect on cellular physiology, including resting membrane potential, input resistance, spike threshold, depolarization-induced spike frequency increase, current-voltage relations, or hypocretin responses. In slices of the mature mouse and rat LC, hypocretin-1 and −2 increased spike frequency, with hypocretin-1 being an order of magnitude more potent. In the postnatal day (P) 0-2 developing mouse slice during a developmental period when spikes could be elicited in some cells, other developing LC neurons showed rhythmic, subthreshold oscillations (≈1 Hz) in membrane potential (2.9-7.4 mV amplitude); others were arrhythmic. Hypocretin-1 depolarized the membrane potential, resulting in the appearance of spikes in developing LC cells that showed no spikes under control conditions. In the presence of TTX and glutamate receptor antagonists, hypocretin-1-mediated inward currents were blocked by substitution of choline-Cl for NaCl, suggesting an excitatory mechanism based on an inward cation current. Hypocretin-1 initiated strong regular membrane voltage oscillations in arrhythmic immature neurons. Hypocretin increased the temporal synchrony of action potentials studied with dual-cell recording in P1-P5 mouse LC slices, consistent with the view that synchrony of LC output, associated with improved cognitive performance, may be increased by hypocretin. Together these data suggest that the hypothalamus, via hypocretin projections, may therefore be in a position to enhance arousal and modulate plasticity in higher brain centres through the developing LC.
Use of alcohol, illicit drugs, and tobacco among characters on prime-time television.

Previous research of addictive substances suggests that use of alcohol, illicit drugs, and tobacco is overrepresented on prime-time television (TV). These studies, however, have relied on frequency counts of the substance, rather than the prevalence of use among characters. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to compare the prevalence of alcohol, illicit drug, and tobacco users among characters on prime-time TV during 1995 and 1996 with rates of use in the United States. In addition, we determined if the ratio of male to female, young to old, and white to minority addictive substance users on prime-time TV were similar to the equivalent U.S. ratios. Comparing results for prime-time TV characters versus the U.S. population (respectively), 11.0% (99% CI, 9.8-12.1) drank alcohol versus 51.0%; 0.8% (99% CI, 0.5-1.1) used illicit drugs versus 6.1%; and 2.5% (99% CI, 2.0-3.1) smoked tobacco versus 28.9%. In addition, no consistent pattern was evident in our analyses that assessed whether addictive substance users on prime-time TV were more frequently represented as men, young, or minority compared to the similar U.S. ratio. These results indicate that contrary to prevailing beliefs, alcohol, illicit drug, and tobacco users are uncommon on prime-time TV and are less prevalent than in the U.S. population.
Nearfield interseismic vertical strain on the Central Garlock Fault, southern California, 1984–1991

Repeated precise leveling of fault-crossing arrays at two sites on the central and western parts of the Garlock fault discloses minor height changes of a few centimeters across the fault in seven years. During that time, the seismicity of the fault has been very low relative to other parts of California. Although other investigators have measured a millimeter or two of horizontal displacement per year near each of the leveling arrays, the vertical changes measured in this study probably result from nontectonic differential subsidence across the fault due to the effects of the 1985–1991 drought in southern California. The vertical displacement at Cameron could turn out to be tectonic, but at the Koehn Lake site the subsidence may be related to nearby pumping of groundwater. The changes and rates of heights reported here should not be extrapolated in time or space, because of the relatively short period of observations, and because these sites measure only minuscule parts of the 250 km-long fault.
Effect of nutrition on the excretion rate of soluble nitrogenous products of Luidia clathrata (say) (Echinodermata; Asteroidea)

1. 1. Groups of Luidia clathrata were fed maintenance level diets of Donax variabilis (50% protein by dry weight) or Penaeus duorarum (80% protein) or were starved. 2. 2. The NH4+ excretion rates for all treatments increased from 6.06 ± 2.55 to 14.39 ± 4.31 μg NH4+ − N/g dry wt per hr after 20 days. 3. 3. The urea excretion rate for all treatments was 1.25 ± 3.39 μg urea-N/g dry wt per hr for 56 days. 4. 4. The pyloric caecum index (percentage of wet body weight) decreased 16.5 and 73.4%, for Donax variabilis-fed and starved sea stars, respectively. The pyloric caecum index of Penaeus duorarum-fed sea stars increased 81.5%. The protein level of the pyloric caeca was 47.00 ± 4.14% of the dry weight for the fed animals and 37% for the starved animals. 5. 5. Increased NH4+ excretion rates with starvation or presumed maintenance diets appear to be due to tissue catabolism.
Large Area Pyroelectric Motion Tracking System

Simple pyroelectric detectors and structured apertures are used to monitor motion in an area and report location and velocity of objects moving through the monitored area.
Stenosis of the colon secondary to pancreatitis: report of a case.

A case of stenosis of the splenic flexure of the colon secondary to pancreatitis in a 48-year-old man is presented.
Narrative analysis of the ethics in providing advance care planning

Our objective was to better understand the values and ethical dilemmas surrounding advance care planning through stories told by registered nurses and licensed social workers, who were employed as care managers within Area Agencies on Aging. We conducted eight focus groups in which care managers were invited to tell their stories and answer open-ended questions focusing on their interactions with consumers receiving home-based long-term care. Using narrative analysis to understand how our participants thought through particular experiences and what they valued, we identified seven themes representative of their work with consumers and families: humility, respect, responsibilities, boundaries, empowerment, courage, and veracity.
Late complications of mandibular fractures

Although the mandible is the most commonly fractured facial bone, complications related to management are relatively infrequent despite an inhospitable milieu. This article will examine the major late complications involved in the care of mandibular fractures including problems with bony healing, infection, loss of teeth, malocculsion, residual facial deformities, nerve injuries, and resulting temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. In addition, the various means to avoid their sequelae and methods of treatment when they occur will be described. However, successful management is still dependent on precise anatomic alignment of the occlusal relationship, accurate adaptation, and precise rigid fixation of the bony segments.
Nanostructured TiO2 thin films as porous cellular interfaces

We report the use of nanostructured TiO2 (NST) as porous cellular adhesion interfaces for microsystems. Integrated NST films and pad arrays with sponge-like morphology were fabricated by aqueous oxidation of Ti films followed by thermal annealing. Cell culture studies indicate significantly (t<0.02 from the student's t-test) greater initial attachment of mouse fibroblast cells on porous NST than on silicon dioxide and nitride films for up to 18 h seeding time. Fibroblasts seeded on NST have flat morphology with numerous processes attaching to walls of NST. These results indicate the potential of using NST as porous cell adhesion films and membranes for bioMEMS applications.
Strategic Use of Information Technology in International Business: A Framework for Information Technology Application

Information Technologyâ€™s (IT) link to the strategy of the firm has been explored in Information System literature, but the application of IT to the strategy of the international firm has received limited attention. This paper addresses the topic by exploring the use of IT in conjunction with a popular framework, the Integration- Responsiveness (IR) framework, of international business strategy. The frameworkâ€™s three subgroups; global integration, multifocal, and local responsiveness are discussed. Specific applications of IT are then examined with reference to the dimensions that have been used to operationalize the IR framework. They are complex innovation, marketing differentiation, breadth, and conservative cost control. The paper concludes with implications for practice and research.
Estimation of diethylstilbestrol and identification of related synthetic estrogens by gas chromatography

Abstract An analytical procedure is described for the estimation of diethylstilbestrol in extracts of tissue, feces, or urine. The method involved extraction with chloroform or acetone and removal of pigments by adsorption on talc. Diethylstilbestrol in the filtrate was converted quantitatively to the dimethyl ether by treatment with dimethyl sulfate and was estimated by gas chromatography.
Folding-model analysis of elastic alpha-nucleus scattering

Abstract A real potential obtained by folding the nucleon-nucleus phenomenological potential with the alpha-particle form factor is shown to describe elastic α-nucleus scattering data over a wide range of bombarding energy (20–160 MeV) and target mass (24–90 amu). The observed dependence of the α-nucleus potential strength on alpha energy is also well accounted for by the model.
An optimization tool for intesction design

Intersection design is a balancing act of various elements and constraints to produce a solution that will address mobility, safety, environment, and financial aspects of the project. To achieve this balance, alternative strategies and options must be identified, developed and evaluated in a systematic manner. Shrinking state transportation budgets require the development of designs and solutions that are more efficient and practical in addressing project needs. An optimization tool has been developed that is capable of evaluating several alternative traffic control and intersection designs for a given location. This tool incorporates safety, capacity, cost and non-motorized transportation criteria to determine an optimum design.
Aortoenteric fistulas: spectrum of CT findings

This article reviews the causes of aortoenteric fistulas, diagnostic options, and important CT findings. Aortoenteric fistula, a rare but potentially fatal entity, presents a significant challenge to radiologists in diagnosis, largely because of its subtle and nonspecific imaging findings. These fistulas can be divided into primary and secondary forms, depending on the presence or absence of prior aortic reconstructive surgery, but the secondary form is more common. Typical CT findings, which can overlap with those seen in perigraft infection, aortitis, infected/mycotic aneurysms, perianeurysmal fibrosis, and the immediate post-operative period after placement of a graft, include: Effacement of the fat planes around the aorta, perigraft fluid/soft tissue thickening, ectopic gas, tethering of adjacent thickened bowel loops towards the aortic graft, and in rare cases, extravasation of contrast from the aorta into the involved segment of bowel.
Anorexia nervosa treated with response prevention and prolonged exposure

Abstract This paper presents two cases of anorexia nervosa who became overweight following an operant behavioral inpatient treatment program which, in addition, included prolonged exposure to phobic stimuli and response prevention of compulsive exercising.
Opinions on Consumer Issues: A Review of Recent Studies of Executives and Consumers

How do consumers and marketers differ in their views on consumer issues? Have these differences changed over time? In an attempt to answer these questions, this paper compares findings from five major attitudinal studies conducted between 1971 and 1977, which examined the attitudes of the two groups. This analysis focuses on five key issue areas: product quality, advertising, consumer information, perceptions of corporate attitudes and government regulation. Consumers and business executives were found to have wide differences of opinion in all the studies examined. The differences were particularly sharp on perceptions of corporate attitudes and on the need for more government regulation.
Morphogenesis and mental process

Parcellation and heterochrony (neoteny) reflect the pattern and rate of a growth mechanism in morphogenesis. Structure (morphology) and function (behavior) are staged realizations of morphogenetic process. This process continues into adult cognition in the actualization of the mind/brain state. Parcellation obtains in the pruning of cells and connections in early growth, whereas inhibition obtains in a relatively stable morphology with constraints on context: item transforms in microgeny. Selective retardation in process (neoteny) leads to growth at earlier (juvenile) phases. This accounts for the specification of the language areas and elaboration at preliminary phases in mind — for example, dominance, introspection, and creativity.
Interracial Relationships and the Transition to Adulthood

This study tracks and explains changing patterns of involvement in interracial sexual relationships during the transition to adulthood. Using a life course perspective that highlights the role of historical changes as well as age-graded changes in contexts and relationships, the authors hypothesize that involvement in interracial sexual relationships declines with increasing age among young adults. The analyses are based on some of the first nationally representative surveys to collect detailed information on sexual relationships: the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and the National Health and Social Life Survey. Findings from these surveys show that individuals are decreasingly likely to be in an interracial relationship between the ages of 18 and 35 years. They also suggest that the age decline in interracial involvement is a by-product of the transition to marriage in young adulthood and the increasing formation of interracial relationships in recent years. These findings have implicat...
SU-E-J-158: A Prototype of a Real-Time Respiratory Motion Monitoring System Using Microsoft Kinect Sensor.

Purpose: To investigate the feasibility of a low‐cost respiratory motion monitoring system based on the Microsoft Xbox Kinect sensor.Methods: We improved Kinect's inherent depth resolution from 1 cm to 1 mm via a motion magnification system. Using the Kinect software development kit, we programmed the Kinect to capture depth images and determine the average depth over a thoracic region of interest, viewed almost parallel to the subject's surface. Kinect respiratory traces (average depth vs time at a rate of 30 Hz) were acquired from four volunteers and compared with those simultaneously acquired using a commercially available strain gauge respiratory gating system. Results: The correlation coefficient (CC) between Kinect and strain gauge traces varied from 0.958 to 0.978, with a mean CC of 0.969. This strong correlation was also demonstrated by the joint probability distribution and visual inspection.Conclusions: This work demonstrates the feasibility of using the Kinect for respiratory motion tracking. Traces are similar to those of a clinically used strain gauge system. The Kinect‐based system provides a new and economical way to monitor respiratory motion.
Hot cracking of binary Mg–Al alloy castings

Abstract Hot cracking of binary Mg–Al alloys in permanent mold casting was studied. The alloys contained from 0.25 to 8 wt.% Al. The hot cracking susceptibility was evaluated using constrained rod casting in a steel mold, in which cracking was induced by enlarging the ends of the rods to keep them from contracting freely during solidification. The hot cracking susceptibility was evaluated based on both the widths and locations of cracks in the resultant castings. The curve of the crack susceptibility versus the Al content showed a peak near 1 wt.% Al. The onset of hot cracking during casting was detected by connecting a load cell to a rod solidifying in a similar steel mold and recording the temperature at the end of the rod where cracking occurred. A cracking susceptibility coefficient based on the time at the onset of cracking was found to correlate well with the crack susceptibility curve.
Silent substitutions predictably alter translation elongation rates and protein folding efficiencies

Genetic code redundancy allows most amino acids to be encoded by multiple codons that are non-randomly distributed along coding sequences. An accepted theory explaining the biological significance of such non-uniform codon selection is that codons are translated at different speeds. Thus, varying codon placement along a message may confer variable rates of polypeptide emergence from the ribosome, which may influence the capacity to fold toward the native state. Previous studies report conflicting results regarding whether certain codons correlate with particular structural or folding properties of the encoded protein. This is partly due to different criteria traditionally utilized for predicting translation speeds of codons, including their usage frequencies and the concentration of tRNA species capable of decoding them, which do not always correlate. Here, we developed a metric to predict organism-specific relative translation rates of codons based on the availability of tRNA decoding mechanisms: Watson-Crick, non-Watson-Crick or both types of interactions. We determine translation rates of messages by pulse-chase analyses in living Escherichia coli cells and show that sequence engineering based on these concepts predictably modulates translation rates in a manner that is superior to codon usage frequency, which occur during the elongation phase, and significantly impacts folding of the encoded polypeptide. Finally, we demonstrate that sequence harmonization based on expression host tRNA pools, designed to mimic ribosome movement of the original organism, can significantly increase the folding of the encoded polypeptide. These results illuminate how genetic code degeneracy may function to specify properties beyond amino acid encoding, including folding.
The conus demyelination syndrome in multiple sclerosis

Bowel, bladder and sexual dysfunction are common in multiple sclerosis and are generally attributed to the widespread nature of the involvement of the neuroaxis by the demyelinating plaques. Recently we encountered a specific subset of patients within this group who had characteristic clinical complaints of hesitancy, straining and incomplete voiding, perineal hypesthesia on examination, areflexia by cystometry and colonometry and electrophysiological parameters suggesting involvement of the conus medullaris. This heretofore postulated but undocumented mechanism of neurovisceral dysfunction in multiple sclerosis is detailed and discussed in 2 patients in this report.
Real Time Monitoring of the Crystallization of Hydrogenated Amorphous Silicon

In-situ real-time optical reflectance spectroscopy is applied to investigate structural changes as hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) loses H and crystallizes at elevated temperature. The interference fringe spectrum (cutoff energy and amplitude) mainly characterize changes in the bulk, while the the crystal Si (c-Si) direct-transition ultra-violet reflectance signatures reveal the presence of any crystalline phase at the surface. Effusion of atomic hydrogen is monitored by a decrease of the interference fringe cutoff energy and is thermally activated with about 1.7 eV. In a-Si:H on glass, optical reflectance spectra are consistent with 2.8 eV activated homogeneous nucleation and growth of a small grain (~100 nm) polycrystalline phase. In contrast, a-Si:H on c-Si crystallizes by solid phase epitaxy with very different spectral kinetics. Our measurements reveal the temperature-time window for thermal crystallization of a-Si:H for photovoltaic device applications, and highlight the versatility of the in-situ spectral reflectance monitoring.
The bone marrow constitutes a reservoir of pericyte progenitors.

Adult bone marrow is a rich reservoir of hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem and pro- genitor cells. Mobilization and recruitment of bone marrow-derived cells to injured or ischemic tissue or tumors endorse the initiation and maintenance of angiogenic processes in the adult by incorporat- ing endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) into the de- veloping vasculature and by recruiting accessory hematopoietic cells. Recent data have now re- vealed that the origin of bone marrow-derived vas- cular cells is not restricted to endothelial cells but also includes pericytes—the perivascular support cells. Several laboratories have now reported the existence of pericyte progenitor cells, and these cells, like EPC, can be mobilized and recruited to the remodeling vasculature under ischemic condi- tions and in tumors. This review focuses on peri- cytes in vessel formation and on recent discoveries about their bone marrow origin in the adult. J. Leukoc. Biol. 80: 677-681; 2006.
Modeling of perturbed covariance sequences

An algorithm for obtaining a state-space (Markovian) model of a random process from a finite number of estimated covariance lags is presented and compared to other SVD-based methods. The new algorithm performs well for small data sets in which the estimated covariance sequence is perturbed by estimation errors, and may not even be positive definite. Simulation results are presented for a second-order Markov process.
Women's Representation on State Trial and Appellate Courts*

Objective. This article examines the factors affecting women’s representation at each level of the state judiciary. Methods. Using extended beta-binomial and Poisson models, this article determines the effects of judicial selection, state ideology, and the pool of women eligible to serve on state trial and appellate courts. Results. I find that the pool of women eligible to serve, state ideology, and some methods of judicial selection affect the number of women serving on state courts. Conclusions. By modeling the process on the two courts differently, I find that the factors affecting trial courts are not necessarily the same as those affecting women’s representation on appellate courts. Because of the differences in the two levels of the judiciary, future analysis should consider how these two levels influence individual decisions to seek a seat on state courts. A series of studies examining the representation of women on state courts shows mixed support for the idea that the method of judicial selection affected the number of women serving on state courts (Alozie, 1990, 1996; Bonneau, 2001; Bratton and Spill, 2002; Hurwitz and Lanier, 2001, 2003; Martin and Pyle, 2002). Such studies, however, focus almost exclusively on the state appellate courts, a fraction of all seats available to women seeking to serve in public office. These models underestimate the representation of women in public life by ignoring those serving on the less prestigious lower courts. By extending an analysis of the representation of women to these less prestigious courts we can better under the representation of women in public life. Separating trial and appellate courts is important because of the differences in prestige for the two levels of the judiciary. Appellate courts are more prestigious for four reasons: there are fewer seats on these high courts, they offer decisionmakers the opportunity to render opinions that are rarely reviewed by a higher authority, they generally address matters of law not fact, and they involve greater pay. The greater prestige of, and resulting
A conceptual scheme for cyber-physical systems based energy management in building structures

Concerns about energy efficiency and carbon footprints are becoming more significant in the power industry and public policy, as evidenced by the concerted shift to renewable energy sources and energy conservation paradigms. One of the largest consumers of energy in the US is the residential and commercial buildings sector. This paper explores a conceptual framework of a cyber-physical system (CPS) for energy management in such structures, viz. a Cyber-enabled Efficient Building Energy Management System (CEBEMS), aimed at attaining some level of energy self-sufficiency.
SUPERCOMPUTING AND SPATIAL STATISTICS: A RECONNAISSANCE*

(1990). SUPERCOMPUTING AND SPATIAL STATISTICS: A RECONNAISSANCE. The Professional Geographer: Vol. 42, No. 4, pp. 481-492.
Effective Surgical Safety Checklist Implementation

Background Research suggests that surgical safety checklists can reduce mortality and other postoperative complications. The real world impact of surgical safety checklists on patient outcomes, however, depends on the effectiveness of hospitals' implementation processes. Study Design We studied implementation processes in 5 Washington State hospitals by conducting semistructured interviews with implementation leaders and surgeons from September to December 2009. Interviews were transcribed, analyzed, and compared with findings from previous implementation research to identify factors that distinguish effective implementation. Results Qualitative analysis suggested that effectiveness hinges on the ability of implementation leaders to persuasively explain why and adaptively show how to use the checklist. Coordinated efforts to explain why the checklist is being implemented and extensive education regarding its use resulted in buy-in among surgical staff and thorough checklist use. When implementation leaders did not explain why or show how the checklist should be used, staff neither understood the rationale behind implementation nor were they adequately prepared to use the checklist, leading to frustration, disinterest, and eventual abandonment despite a hospital-wide mandate. Conclusions The impact of surgical safety checklists on patient outcomes is likely to vary with the effectiveness of each hospital's implementation process. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and reveal additional factors supportive of checklist implementation.
Combining sources in stable isotope mixing models: alternative methods.

Stable isotope mixing models are often used to quantify source contributions to a mixture. Examples include pollution source identification; trophic web studies; analysis of water sources for soils, plants; or water bodies, and many others. A common problem is having too many sources to allow a unique solution. We discuss two alternative procedures for addressing this problem. One option is a priori to combine sources with similar signatures so the number of sources is small enough to provide a unique solution. Aggregation should be considered only when isotopic signatures of clustered sources are not significantly different, and sources are related so the combined source group has some functional significance. For example, in a food web analysis, lumping several species within a trophic guild allows more interpretable results than lumping disparate food sources, even if they have similar isotopic signatures. One result of combining mixing model sources is increased uncertainty of the combined end-member isotopic signatures and consequently the source contribution estimates; this effect can be quantified using the IsoError model ( http://www.epa.gov/wed/pages/models/isotopes/isoerror1_04.htm ). As an alternative to lumping sources before a mixing analysis, the IsoSource mixing model ( http://www.epa.gov/wed/pages/models/isosource/isosource.htm ) can be used to find all feasible solutions of source contributions consistent with isotopic mass balance. While ranges of feasible contributions for each individual source can often be quite broad, contributions from functionally related groups of sources can be summed a posteriori, producing a range of solutions for the aggregate source that may be considerably narrower. A paleohuman dietary analysis example illustrates this method, which involves a terrestrial meat food source, a combination of three terrestrial plant foods, and a combination of three marine foods. In this case, a posteriori aggregation of sources allowed strong conclusions about temporal shifts in marine versus terrestrial diets that would not have otherwise been discerned.
Discovering determinants of users perception of mobile device functionality fit

In recent years, there has been an explosive growth in the use of mobile devices. The ubiquitous and multifunctional nature of these devices with internet connectivity and personalization features make them a unique context to investigate what factors shape mobile users perception of their mobile device functionality fit with their needs. In order to answer this question, we proposed a research model in which we introduced multifunctional use and perceived device-functionality fit as two new constructs. The results of our study show that a significant portion of individuals’ perceived device-functionality fit can be explained by their perceived enjoyment, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and symbolic value of the device. In terms of the theoretical contribution, our research suggests revamping the concept of device-functionality fit when it comes to mobile devices by accounting for both hedonic and utilitarian aspects of mobile devices. In terms of practical implications, our study highlights the importance of the social image that mobile devices create in the society for their users as well as the importance of look-and-feel aspects of mobile devices in shaping users perception of fit between functionalities of their mobile devices and their needs.
An automatic prefetching and caching system

Steady improvements in storage capacities and CPU clock speeds intensify the performance bottleneck at the I/O subsystem of modern computers. Caching data can efficiently short circuit costly delays associated with disk accesses. Recent studies have shown that disk I/O performance gains provided by a cache buffer do not scale with cache size. Therefore, new algorithms have to be investigated to better utilize cache buffer space. Predictive prefetching and caching solutions have been shown to improve I/O performance in an efficient and scalable manner in simulation experiments. However, most predictive prefetching algorithms have not yet been implemented in real-world storage systems due to two main limitations: first, the existing prefetching solutions are unable to self regulate based on changing I/O workload; second, excessive number of unneeded blocks are prefetched. Combined, these drawbacks make predictive prefetching and caching a less attractive solution than the simple LRU management. To address these problems, in this paper we propose an automatic prefetching and caching system (or APACS for short), which mitigates all of these shortcomings through three unique techniques, namely: (1) dynamic cache partitioning, (2) prefetch pipelining, and (3) prefetch buffer management. APACS dynamically partitions the buffer cache memory, used for prefetched and cached blocks, by automatically changing buffer/cache sizes in accordance to global I/O performance. The adaptive partitioning scheme implemented in APACS optimizes cache hit ratios, which subsequently accelerates application execution speeds. Experimental results obtained from trace-driven simulations show that APACS outperforms the LRU cache management and existing prefetching algorithms by an average of over 50%.