cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exaggerated atrial repolarization waves as a predictor of false positive exercise tests in an unselected population

Abstract The authors previously postulated that a markedly downsloping PR-segment might be a marker for exaggerated atrial repolarization waves and demonstrated PR-segment appearance to be an independent predictor of a false positive exercise test. This study was conducted to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of markedly downsloping PR-segments for predicting false positive exercise tests. The study group consisted of 82 consecutive patients with a positive exercise test (≥ 1.0 mm horizontal ST depression) and a normal resting electrocardiogram. Tests were predicted to be false positive based on previously defined criteria: (1) markedly downsloping PR-segments in two or more of leads II, III, and aVF and (2) exercise duration 4 minutes or longer. Patients were then classified according to available clinical information (coronary angiography and radionuclide stress testing) into true positive (due to myocardial ischemia, n = 62) and false positive (n = 20) groups. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of the PR-segment/exercise duration criterion for predicting a false positive test were 70, 74, and 47%, respectively. Patients with false positive tests also had higher heart rates (158 ± 16 vs 136 ± 20 beats/min, P P = .017) during the exercise test. Patients with false positive exercise tests can be recognized by the achievement of a high peak exercise heart rate, the absence of exercise-induced chest pain, and the appearance of markedly downsloping PR-segments in the inferior leads.
Identification of the Minimal Active Sequence of an Anti-Influenza Virus Peptide

The antiviral peptide, entry blocker (EB), inhibits influenza virus replication by preventing attachment to cells. Here, we identified the minimal and optimal EB sequence that retained antiviral activity with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) and 50% effective concentration (EC(50)) similar to those of the full-length EB peptide and several truncated variants that possessed up to 10-fold lower IC(50)s. These data have implications for improving the antiviral efficacy of EB-derived peptides while decreasing production costs and easing synthesis.
Statistics and Mathematics: Tension and Cooperation

(2000). Statistics and Mathematics: Tension and Cooperation. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 107, No. 7, pp. 615-630.
Improving communication in the primary care setting: perspectives of patients with speech disabilities.

Background Patients with speech disabilities can present with challenges when communicating during primary-care clinical encounters. Little is known about the healthcare communication experiences of patients with severe speech disabilities.
Conceptual model for maternal behavior among polydrug cocaine-using mothers: the role of postnatal cocaine use and maternal depression.

This study examined the association between maternal cocaine use and maternal behavior and tested a conceptual model predicting maternal insensitivity during mother–infant interactions. Participants included 130 mother–infant dyads (68 cocaine-exposed and 62 noncocaine-exposed) who were recruited after birth and assessed at 4–8 weeks of infant age. Results of model testing indicated that when the effects of prenatal cocaine use were examined in the context of polydrug use, maternal psychopathology, maternal childhood history, and infant birth weight, only postnatal cocaine use and maternal depression/anxiety were unique predictors of maternal insensitivity during mother–infant interactions.
Effect of exercise on physiological age-related change at mouse neuromuscular junctions.

Abstract To determine the effect of endurance exercise on physiological age-related change at the mouse neuromuscular junction (NMJ), synaptic function was studied for extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscles of three C57BL/6J mouse groups, 1) young adult control (YC: 10 months), 2) old control (OC: 20 months), and 3) old mice which exercised (OE: 20 months) since young-adulthood. Electrophysiological properties were studied with intracellular recording techniques. Safety margin was studied by measuring indirect isometric twitch tension in different calcium concentrations. With sedentary aging, EDL and soleus quantal contents increased. Following aging combined with 10 months of exercise, the EDL quantal contents in OE and YC animals were similar. In contrast, soleus quantal content was greater in OE than in YC animals. Determined safety margins were OC>YC=OE for EDL, and OC=YC=OE for soleus. This is the first study to indicate that physiological age-related changes at NMJs of EDL and soleus muscles are affected differently by endurance exercise. Exercise prevented all physiological age-related changes in EDL NMJs but not in soleus NMJs, this suggests that EDL changes are associated with inactivity during aging, while soleus changes are “fundamental” age changes.
The WHO pandemic influenza preparedness framework: a milestone in global governance for health.

AFTER YEARS OF NEGOTIATIONS, THE WORLD HEALTH Organization (WHO) reached agreement on a pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) framework for the sharing of influenza viruses and access to vaccines and other benefits in April 2011. The framework addresses a troubling controversy—should lowand middleincome countries share influenza virus specimens with WHO without assurances that benefits derived from sharing will be equitably distributed? During the avian influenza A(H5N1) outbreaks in late 2006, Indonesia refused to share virus specimens with WHO, claiming it was unfair to give pharmaceutical companies access. Industry would use viruses to patent vaccines and antiviral medications that Indonesia could not afford. Indonesia asserted sovereignty over viruses isolated within its territory, grounded on the Convention on Biological Diversity. Indonesia also argued that the 2005 International Health Regulations did not require states to share H5N1 viruses. The international community feared that Indonesia’s refusal to share would impede surveillance and response, particularly because Asia was the epicenter of the global H5N1 outbreak. Serious health and political repercussions could result if states failed to cooperate when confronting a common threat. In May 2007, WHO member states commenced negotiations on virus and benefit sharing to strengthen influenza surveillance and response. Negotiations in intergovernmental meetings and an open-ended working group proved difficult—the problems were complex and states had divergent interests, particularly on intellectual property rights. The 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic deepened developing-country mistrust because vaccines were not equitably shared. In October 2010, Convention on Biological Diversity parties reasserted state sovereignty over biological materials within their territories. Finally, after nearly 4 years of arduous negotiations, WHO’s director-general announced the WHO pandemic framework on April 16, and the World Health Assembly approved it in May. PIP Framework
Large-angle correlations between 4He and 1,2,3H or 4He in the reactions 247 and 337 MeV 40Ar+natAg: Unexpected properties of the nuclear stratosphere.

We have measured coincidences between $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ and $^{1}$,2,3H or a second $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ (large-angle correlations) in the reactions 247 and 337 MeV $^{40}$Ar${+}^{\mathrm{nat}}$Ag. These coincidences are dominated by reactions leading to evaporation residues with spins of about 0--70\ensuremath{\Elzxh}. Large values of the angle-integrated double and triple coincidence cross sections indicate that many particle evaporation chains involve 2 or 3 protons and/or 2 or 3 alphas. The angular and energy distributions are well described by an evaporation model with Hauser-Feshbach coupling. However, one must employ effective evaporation barriers for $^{1}\mathrm{H}$ and $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ that are strongly reduced compared to empirical fusion barriers. The barrier reduction required for $^{2}\mathrm{H}$ is rather small, and for $^{3}\mathrm{H}$ no barrier reduction is needed. Evaporation calculations that include emitter deformation do not give a satisfactory explanation for these results. We suggest a new aspect of composite nucleus excitation and evaporation-like decay. A hot, very diffuse nuclear surface may be formed that promotes evaporative decay prior to its relaxation. The low barriers for $^{1}\mathrm{H}$ and $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ reflect the radial extent of this transitory, diffuse surface.
Factory Politics in Britain and the United States: Engineers and Machinists, 1914–1919

The priorities of British and American trade unions center predominantly on the economic rewards received by union members. Collective bargaining and strikes typically focus on how much employers must pay for labor (in wages, pensions, and other benefits) rather than on how the labor, once purchased, may be used. Basic decisions regarding the organization of production are not considered by most unionists as legitimate issues for negotiation. Disputes over working conditions do arise, of course, but rarely concern securing for labor the rights of management. They involve instead efforts to protect jobs and work practices from encroachment by employers or poaching by other unions. In short, labor's goals are largely economistic, defensive, and sectional.
The onset of buoyancy-induced convection at a micro-mosaic electrode☆

Abstract The onset of convection is investigated for a case in which the density profile is evolving in time in a semi-infinite fluid, due to a step change in surface concentration at a rigid, conducting boundary. The limiting current technique at a micro-mosaic electrode, which is composed of 100-μm, square elements, is used to effect the concentration change and to monitor the resulting mass transfer. The equations of transient mass transport by diffusuion and migration and the equation of electroneutrality are solved numerically to determine the concentration and density profiles before the onset of convection. The critical Rayleigh number based on the penetration depth of the concentration profile was found to be approximately 900, and the critical Rayleigh number based on the position and magnitude of the density profile was found to be approximately 1750. The micro-mosaic electrode is used to demonstrate the dependence of experimentally-determined onset times on the size of the sensing elements and the sensitivity of the monitoring instruments.
Emergency Thoracic Ultrasound in the Differentiation of the Etiology of Shortness of Breath (ETUDES): Sonographic B‐lines and N‐terminal Pro‐brain‐type Natriuretic Peptide in Diagnosing Congestive Heart Failure

Objectives: Sonographic thoracic B-lines and N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-ProBNP) have been shown to help differentiate between congestive heart failure (CHF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The authors hypothesized that ultrasound (US) could be used to predict CHF and that it would provide additional predictive information when combined with NT-ProBNP. They also sought to determine optimal two- and eight-zone scanning protocols when different thresholds for a positive scan were used. Methods: This was a prospective, observational study of a convenience sample of adult patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with shortness of breath. Each patient had an eight-zone thoracic US performed by one of five sonographers, and serum NT-ProBNP levels were measured. Chart review by two physicians blinded to the US results served as the criterion standard. The operating characteristics of two- and eight-zone thoracic US alone, compared to, and combined with NT-ProBNP test results for predicting CHF were calculated using both dichotomous and interval likelihood ratios (LRs). Results: One-hundred patients were enrolled. Six were excluded because of incomplete data. Results of 94 patients were analyzed. A positive eight-zone US, defined as at least two positive zones on each side, had a positive likelihood ratio (LR+) of 3.88 (99% confidence interval [CI] = 1.55 to 9.73) and a negative likelihood ratio (LR−) of 0.5 (95% CI = 0.30 to 0.82), while the NT-ProBNP demonstrated a LR+ of 2.3 (95% CI = 1.41 to 3.76) and LR− of 0.24 (95% CI = 0.09 to 0.66). Using interval LRs for the eight-zone US test alone, the LR for a totally positive test (all eight zones positive) was infinite and for a totally negative test (no zones positive) was 0.22 (95% CI = 0.06 to 0.80). For two-zone US, interval LRs were 4.73 (95% CI = 2.10 to 10.63) when inferior lateral zones were positive bilaterally and 0.3 (95% CI = 0.13 to 0.71) when these were negative. These changed to 8.04 (95% CI = 1.76 to 37.33) and 0.11 (95% CI = 0.02 to 0.69), respectively, when congruent with NT-ProBNP. Conclusions: Bedside thoracic US for B-lines can be a useful test for diagnosing CHF. Predictive accuracy is greatly improved when studies are totally positive or totally negative. A two-zone protocol performs similarly to an eight-zone protocol. Thoracic US can be used alone or can provide additional predictive power to NT-ProBNP in the immediate evaluation of dyspneic patients presenting to the ED.
Multiple deferred state sampling inspection

Multiple deferred state sampling is on attribute inspection procedure in which the decision criterion for each lot dictates one of three decisions: (1) accept the lot; (2) reject the lot; or (3) conditionally accept or reject the lot based on the disposition of future related lots. It is intended to supplement existing sampling procedures such as chain sampling, dependent stage sampling, exponential smoothed sampling, and fixed deferred state sampling.
On elliptic systems in Rn

On etudie des systemes elliptiques k×k d'operateurs differentiels dans R n qui peuvent s'ecrire sous la forme A=A∞+Q ou A∞ est un systeme elliptique d'operateurs a coefficients constants et Q est une perturbation a coefficient variable avec certaines proprietes de decroissance a |x|=∞
Strain Difference in the Up-Regulation of FGF-2 Protein Following a Neurotoxic Lesion of the Nigrostriatal Pathway

Lesions of the nigrostriatal pathway are known to induce a compensatory up-regulation of various neurotrophic factors. In this study we examined protein content of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) in tissue samples taken from the ventral midbrain and striatum at two different time points following a neurotoxic lesion of the nigrostriatal pathway in two different rat strains, the outbred Sprague–Dawley (SD) and inbred F344 × Brown Norway F1 hybrid (F344BNF1). Despite both rat strains having comparable lesions of the nigrostriatal pathway, we observed a difference in the temporal up-regulation of FGF-2 in ventral midbrain samples taken from the side ipsilateral to the lesion. Basic FGF was significantly up-regulated in ventral midbrain in SD rats 1 week post-lesion while we did not observe an up-regulation of FGF-2 in the lesioned ventral midbrain of F344BNF1 at this same time point. However, both strains showed a significant up-regulation of FGF-2 in the lesioned ventral midbrain 3 weeks post-lesion. Sprague–Dawley rats also appeared to be more sensitive to the lesion in terms of up-regulating FGF-2 expression. The differences reported here suggest currently unknown genetic differences between these two strains may be important factors for regulating the compensatory release of neurotrophic factors, such as FGF-2, in response to a neurotoxic lesion of the nigrostriatal pathway.
Do longer formula feeding and later introduction of solids increase risk for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Milk formula feeding can elevate insulin-like growth factor-1 levels, possibly impacting leukemogenesis. The intent of the current study is to examine the associations between infant feeding practices and age at introduction of solids on risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Incident cases of infant and childhood (aged ≤14 years) ALL (n = 142) were enrolled in a case–control study. Cases were frequency matched on age, sex, race, and ethnicity to two sets of controls (n = 284 total). Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between infant feeding practices and age at the introduction of solids and the odds ratio of ALL. In adjusted multivariable analyses, each additional month of formula feeding was associated with a 1.17 (1.09–1.25) odds ratio; each additional month of age at introduction of solids was associated with a 1.18 (1.07–1.30) odds ratio. In this study, longer duration of formula feeding and later age at the introduction of solid foods were independently associated with increased risk of ALL. Additional studies are needed to address the factors influencing duration of formula feeding and delayed introduction of solids. The results support the potential role of energy balance in early life as a contributor to risk for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Energy Efficient Resource Distribution for Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks

This work addresses the problem of energy efficient management of mobile resource distribution in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN), subject to Quality of Service (QoS) constraints. Monitored phenomena may require an increased coverage within a particular area and we present novel methodologies for optimizing the "bargaining stage" when deciding how to select the mobile resources to be re-located in response to such events. Our experimental results demonstrate significant energy savings, both in terms of communication overheads and maintenance of the hierarchical routing structures, as well as the quality assurances in terms of the turnaround time.
Selected Pigmented Fundus Lesions of Children

Background: Ocular cells that accumulate melanin pigment are derived from 1 of 2 sources, the optic vesicle or the neural crest. Migration and distribution of pigment containing cells may go awry during fetal development or these cells may be altered before or after birth either by local or systemic stimuli. Specific recognition patterns of pigment distribution often exist and may relate directly to a single disease process. Methods: Records of pediatric patients with disorders of pigment distribution in the ocular fundi who had been examined by the author were reviewed. Results: Five disorders with recognizable patterns of retinal pigment epithelium (optic vesicle derivation) disturbance (congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium, Gardner syndrome, chronic granulomatous disease, preserved para-arteriole retinal pigment epithelium in (autosomal-recessive) retinitis pigmentosa, and combined hamartoma of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium), and 5 disorders of cells originating from the neural crest (choroidal nevi, choroidal melanoma, melanocytoma, ocular melanosis, and oculodermal melanosis), were selected for illustration and discussion. Conclusions: These arbitrarily selected groups of disorders affect or involve patterns of pigment deposition in the ocular fundus. These patterns are recognizable and distinguishable one from another but have different implications for treatment and follow-up. Progress in recognizing distinguishing characteristics, diagnostic implications, understanding, and treatment of these disorders during the past 40 years is compared and contrasted between the 2 groups.
Topological rearrangements during 2D normal grain growth

Abstract Topological rearrangements during grain growth in polycrystals provide an example of the strongest possible non-linearity in the grain population evolution dynamics. For a 2D grain the equation of growth is linear (von Neumann-Mullins law) until there is a topological change. The inevitable occurence of a topological rearrangement makes the system intrinsically non-linear, and the non-linearity effects are critical to understanding grain growth dynamics. In situ experimental investigation of topological rearrangements in thin polycrystalline films of succinonitrile (SCN) show that according to theoretical considerations (and contrary to conventional wisdom) small 4- and 5-sided quasi-2D grains usually shrink almost to the vanishing limit, without losing sides through the expected topological cascade of neighbor switchings. Vanishing grains generally do not create multiple vertices in the system. They do not shrink to a point as 2D soap froth bubbles do, but rather shrink to a line, with 2 vertices (in the case of 4-sided grains) or to two lines with 3 vertices (in the case of 5-sided grains). The experimental results are compared with those of direct computer simulation of 2D grain shrinking. The simulation shows also that the main topological results remain valid both in systems with uniform and anisotropic boundaries.
Usage of TCR Vγ2(+) T Lymphocytes in Experimental Autoimmune Uveoretinitis.

Experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) is a T cell mediated autoimmune disease that serves as a model of human intraocular inflammatory disease (uveitis). It is initiated in susceptible animals by immunization with retinal antigens, such as interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein (IRBP) and S-Antigen (SAg) or by adoptive transfer of ocular Ag-specific uveitogenic T cells. Previous studies of T cell receptor (TCR) usage by uveitogenic T cells have implicated Vβ8+ -expressing T cells in the pathogenesis of EAU. Here, the authors have analyzed the TCR Vγ repertoire in the retinas of Lewis rats with and without EAU as well as the repertoire of several SAg- or IRBP-specific T cell lines. They detected Vγ2 transcripts in all four pathogenic lines and in the retinas of Lewis rats with EAU but not in the two non-pathogenic lines nor in the retinas of naive rats. Vγ7 transcripts were detected in RNAs obtained from the retina, regardless of whether the rat had EAU or not. However, the authors could not det...
The effect of atmospheric aerosols on scattered sunlight

Intensity and polarization of diffusively transmitted sunlight, taking into account various aerosols distributions and normal molecular constituents
Application of AIS data in service vessel activity description in the Gulf of Mexico

Offshore exploration and production in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) is supported by a large number of service vessels characterized by complex logistical patterns, a large number of shorebases and demand points across an expansive geographic area, and dynamic time-varying activities. No quantitative data is available on the spatial and temporal distributions of service vessel activity in the GOM, and therefore environmental impacts from offshore leasing plans cannot be distinguished. It is this ‘information gap’ in support of Environmental Impact Statements that is the motivation for this analysis. Automatic Identification System data is used in a proof-of-concept to evaluate offshore service vessel activity in the GOM during June 2009. Vessel events are identified and aggregated by port, area block, vessel type and event class. In total, 46 276 arrivals and departures between onshore and offshore locations in the GOM were recorded. Vessel movements between ports were the most active and a large portion of these events are attributed to towing vessels and tug boats. Offshore support vessels and crewboats recorded the most vessel events in offshore areas. A summary of the empirical results are presented along with the key aspects of data processing, evaluation challenges and limitations of analysis.
Case Report The arthroscopic treatment of avascular necrosis of the proximal pole following scaphoid nonunion

The authors describe a technique of treating scaphoid nonunions with associated avascular necrosis consisting of arthroscopic resection of the distal pole of the scaphoid combined with radial styloidectomy. The results at 2-year follow-up showed all three patients to have complete relief of their mechanical pain and improvement in their range of motion as well as high satisfaction with the procedure. Modified Mayo Wrist Scores were a mean preoperatively of 60 and postoperatively of 88. Postoperative radiographs showed no increase in the scapholunate gap. However, the capitolunate angle increased from a mean of 3 degrees to 13 degrees . There was no progression of degenerative changes noted. The advantages of this technique include (1) minimal morbidity, (2) relief of mechanical pain, and (3) improved range of motion with no early degenerative changes. The rate and severity of degenerative change following this procedure remain unknown.
Detection of specific surface antigens by colony inhibition in cells transformed by papovavirus SV40

Specific antigens at the surface of SV40-transformed hamster cells were demonstrated by the in vitro colony inhibition and immunofluorescence tests. Antisera were prepared by inoculating hamsters either with purified SV40 or with human or marmoset SV40-transformed cells. The inhibition of colony formation by the transformed cells ranged from 46 to 100% in the presence of specific antibody and complement. Nontransformed hamster cells were not inhibited by the immune sera. Of the 22 sera tested, 12 were positive in the colony inhibition test and 14 were positive in the immunofluorescence test. Eleven of the 22 sera tested were positive in both tests. This positive correlation between the colony inhibition and immunofluorescence tests suggests that the two tests are detecting the same or similar antigens.
Factors explaining debt capacity

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide empirical support for micro‐economic theory respecting debt capacity and develop a practically useful model for assessing debt capacity for firms seeking to minimize credit risk and the cost of debt (interest rate).Design/methodology/approach – Theoretically important factors explaining the variation in debt capacity are identified and tested, namely: the proportion of property, plant and equipment over total assets, industry group (highlighting asset specificity), sales variability, and the depreciation method. Data were collected from the SEC Disclosure Database. Using the SPSS software, this paper's theoretically based constructs were tested by developing a linear regression model.Findings – The regression results indicate that the theoretical model explains a statistically significant portion of the variation across firms in the proportion of debt to total assets a firm is willing (and is allowed by the financial market) to carry. However, a major port...
An Analytic Method for Analyzing Prompt-Critical Reactivity Transients

This paper reports on the derivation of an analytic method for analyzing prompt-critical reactivity transients for a nonlinear energy feedback model. The nonlinear point kinetics equation is replaced by a least-squares equivalent linear equation, and an approximate time-dependent reactivity is determined analytically. Assuming the power burst is infinitely sharp and symmetric about the peak, the transient peak energy, power, and pressure are expressed in terms of the inserted reactivity. The resulting expressions allow the definition of an equivalent step reactivity transient that preserves both the peak energy and power. The method is applied to the case where the feedback nonlinearity is small, and simplified expressions for the transient peak energy and power are determined and shown to approximate the known exact results in the case of a ramp reactivity insertion and a linear energy feedback model.
Local and regional tectonic control on sedimentology and stratigraphy in a strike-slip basin: Miocene Temblor Formation of the Coalinga area, California, USA

Abstract Sedimentological study of the Lower to Middle Miocene Temblor Formation in the Coalinga area of the San Joaquin basin (California, USA) provides new results applicable to understanding patterns of sedimentation and stratigraphic architecture in strike-slip basins along tectonically active margins. Detailed investigation of surface outcrops on the Coalinga anticline is integrated with description of cores from an adjacent oil field. This approach yields information on lateral variability of facies as well as vertical sequences, which contributes to deciphering the facies geometry and stratigraphic pattern. Five facies tracts are identified in the Temblor Formation (in ascending order): incised valley, estuarine, tide- to wave-dominated shoreline, diatomite, and subtidal. The vertical succession of facies tracts represents overall relative rise in sea level punctuated by episodes of non-deposition and exposure. Sediment accommodation was produced initially by incision of topography into the underlying Kreyenhagen Shale during relative sea-level fall and lowstand. Incised valley and estuarine facies tracts were deposited during subsequent rise in sea level. As additional accommodation was created by tectonic subsidence, tide- to wave-dominated, diatomite, and subtidal facies tracts were deposited. Periods of relative sea-level fall produced depositional hiatuses, some of which are overlain by distinctive shell-lag beds. The Temblor Formation represents deposition in an area influenced by along-strike tectonic variability associated with transform motion between the Pacific and North American plates. Stratigraphic study suggests that subsidence and uplift related to the transform boundary played a key role in deposition of the formation. Stratigraphic variations reflect the combination of basinal subsidence caused by regional extension and local uplift related to plate movement along the San Andreas transform zone. It is likely that strata deposited along other transform boundaries record similar tectonic effects.
fMRI tracks reductions in repetitive behaviors in autism: Two case studies

Autism is characterized by abnormal prefrontal brain activation during cognitive control, a potential biomarker of repetitive behaviors. In this proof-of-principle study, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine brain activity during an oddball task in two high-functioning males with autism before and after 12 weeks of treatment with citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. One participant showed marked reductions in repetitive behaviors whereas the other showed mild worsening. Brain activation in relevant prefrontal regions increased in only the participant whose repetitive behavior symptoms improved. These findings suggest that fMRI may elucidate potential mechanisms of action of targeted autism interventions.
Soft tissue interposition arthroplasty for glenohumeral arthritis

Hemiarthroplasty with soft tissue interpositon is an attractive alternative to traditional polyethylene glenoid resurfacing in young, active patients with glenohumeral arthritis. Initial results support this approach for surgical management in such patients. Numerous soft tissue sources are used in resurfacing, each with its pros and cons. One promising soft tissue source is allograft lateral meniscus. The meniscus provides ideal glenoid coverage and durability.
The Bholghati (howardite) consortium: An overview

The Bholghati (howardite) has had a complex history. The consortium studies indicate that eucrite clasts show evidence of rapid crystallization followed by prolonged subsolidus annealing. Dark clasts are carbonaceous CM2 type. Bholghati bulk composition can be modeled by 55 percent eucritic, 45 percent diogenitic, and 3 percent dark clast components. The eucritic clasts show a LREE depleted pattern relative to HREEs, which is not typical of a normal eucrite. The LREE depletion requires two-stage melting from a chondritic source. The Bholghati evolution scenario is (1) early multiple magmatic events (4.53 Ga ago), producing eucrites and diogenites; (2) a metamorphic event (2-3 Ga ago) and prolonged subsolidus annealing; (3) fragmentation and low-temperature mixing of eucrites and diogenites; (4) low-velocity impact and admixing of carbonaceous material; (5) disruption of regolith and ejection of Bholghati 10-17 Ma ago; and (6) Bholghati fell on the earth in 1905.
Cronbach's Alpha Versus Components of Variance Approach (COVA): Dispelling Three Myths about Alpha and Suggesting an Alternative Reliability Statistic for Communication Trait Research

Three popular myths about Cronbach's alpha are dispelled because (a) it does not measure dimensionality of a scale, (b) it is not a test characteristic, and (c) it is not, always, the best measure of reliability. Refinement of the contexts within which communication traits are investigated will demand methods alternative to Cronbach's alpha, such as a components of variance approach, to provide absolute-rank among participants in meeting threshold standards of competency. Although Cronbach's alpha will continue its great usefulness in individual differences research, alternative methods will be useful for fair administration of scales used to measure competency, absolute-rank, and performance. Cronbach's expressed thoughts from 1951, as well as his more recent thoughts from 2004, are fully supported.
Introductory Texts in Special Education: an Analysis of Citations

The importance of introductory texts in special education is certainly attested to by the number of these volumes. Ten introductory special education texts published since 1980 were reviewed to determine the recency of the information contained in each through an analysis of the citations. Analysis was accomplished by determining the frequency of reference for a 10-year period in each handicapping category across all the texts. Several conclusions were drawn in regard to: edited works with multiple authors versus unedited single and multi-authored texts; the number of reference citations used; and the emphasis placed on specific areas of disability in terms of topical coverage. The number of references in a given time period may suggest the attention given historical antecedents, references to classic identifiers, and the amount of current material reported in each book. An overall rating was not made on the quality of the texts or chapters, nor was the citation date (nor should it be) used as a means of ...
Distributed algorithms with random processor failures

Examines a distributed algorithm where the processors may fail in a random fashion. This results in a model with random communication delays. Convergence conditions are derived. Extensions of the analysis and results to cases where the random processor failures are perceived and corrected within random time intervals are possible. For the sake of simplicity, the analysis is presented for a two processor model for solving a system of linear equations. >
Effects of Atropine and Fat on Gastric Secretion Stimulated by Alcohol

ConclusionsIn dogs with Pavlov pouches the gastric secretory response to dilute alcohol is resistant to the inhibitory effects of atropine or fat.
A shrinking-based clustering approach for multidimensional data

Existing data analysis techniques have difficulty in handling multidimensional data. Multidimensional data has been a challenge for data analysis because of the inherent sparsity of the points. In this paper, we first present a novel data preprocessing technique called shrinking which optimizes the inherent characteristic of distribution of data. This data reorganization concept can be applied in many fields such as pattern recognition, data clustering, and signal processing. Then, as an important application of the data shrinking preprocessing, we propose a shrinking-based approach for multidimensional data analysis which consists of three steps: data shrinking, cluster detection, and cluster evaluation and selection. The process of data shrinking moves data points along the direction of the density gradient, thus generating condensed, widely-separated clusters. Following data shrinking, clusters are detected by finding the connected components of dense cells (and evaluated by their compactness). The data-shrinking and cluster-detection steps are conducted on a sequence of grids with different cell sizes. The clusters detected at these scales are compared by a cluster-wise evaluation measurement, and the best clusters are selected as the final result. The experimental results show that this approach can effectively and efficiently detect clusters in both low and high-dimensional spaces.
RELATIONAL EXPLOITATION: THE INFORMAL ORGANIZATION OF DAY LABOR AGENCIES

Recent controversies have drawn attention to the growing day labor industry in the U.S. While academics and activists have documented and criticized day labor agencies’ practice of externalizing costs onto the workforce, less attention has been paid to the informal organization of this form of work. At first glance, the day labor industry may appear to be little more than an anonymous “spot market,” but this glosses over the subtle relational and reputational dynamics at play. This article uses qualitative and quantitative evidence to uncover the informal order of the day labor hall, as experienced by homeless workers. Dispatcher discretion over the allocation of jobs leads day laborers to adopt several strategies for combating anonymity in this market. We argue that dispatchers’ perceptions of workers’ loyalty and reliability shape the allocation of rewards, thus inserting a small measure of stability into this highly contingent form of work.
Speech-recognition technology in health care and special-needs assistance [Life Sciences]

This article provides an overview of speech-recognition applications currently in use or under development for health care and special-needs assistance; they pertain to the transcribing of medical reports, closed-captioning, conversational systems, and command and control.
The Frozen Screen: Levinas and the Action Film

The cinema has long reigned as the kinetic medium of the twentieth century. Early in its development it secured its privilege over the more traditional arts through its unprecedented control and manipulation of time. In The Great Train Robbery (Edwin S Porter, 1903) and Life of an American Fireman (Edwin S Porter, 1903) crowds had their first experiences of film crosscutting between two different spaces and moments in time. They saw a shot of a raging house fire, and then suddenly a shot of a sleeping fireman in the station. Between these two spaces is a simple cut, and yet here is the precise location of a vast frontier: the pleasure of waiting for something forever on the verge of arrival. This expectation of the event, the catastrophe, and the culmination, is the fuel for modern cinema. The Hollywood tradition has been a developing story of technology’s attempts to exploit this passion, pushing the barriers of how much suspense can be introduced and resolved within the space of a screen and a segment of time, and in the
A dietary and exercise intervention slows menopause-associated progression of subclinical atherosclerosis as measured by intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries

Objectives The object of this study was to assess the effects of menopause and a diet/exercise intervention on subclinical atherosclerosis progression. Background Subclinical atherosclerosis has been linked to higher coronary heart disease and stroke rates and is greater among postmenopausal women according to cross-sectional analyses. Whether menopause is associated with an accelerated progression of subclinical disease is unknown, as is the extent to which lifestyle intervention can alter the course of progression. Methods Intima-media thickness (IMT) measures of the common carotid artery (CCA), internal carotid artery (ICA), and bulb segments of the carotid arteries were measured twice during the course of 4 years in 353 women from the Women's Healthy Lifestyle Project, a dietary and exercise clinical trial designed to prevent adverse risk factor changes through the menopause. A third measure was obtained 2.5 years later for 113 women. Results The progression of IMT was observed for the average of all segments (AVG), the CCA, and the bulb (0.007 mm/year, 0.008 mm/year, and 0.012 mm/year; p Conclusions These data demonstrate that the menopause transition is associated with accelerated subclinical atherosclerosis progression and that a diet/exercise intervention slows menopause-related atherosclerosis progression.
Mixed planar/network facility location problems

We examine a modeling framework for facility location problems which allows for a mixture of planar and network components. Travel follows Manhattan travel directions within planar regions. Properties of this new representation are developed and the p-median problem is analyzed in this context. Other location problems and modeling considerations are also briefly discussed.
Impact of Tyr to Ala mutations on α-synuclein fibrillation and structural properties

Substantial evidence suggests that the fibrillation of alpha-synuclein is a critical step in the development of Parkinson's disease. In vitro, alpha-synuclein forms fibrils with morphologies and a staining characteristic similar to those extracted from disease-affected brain. Monomeric alpha-synuclein is an intrinsically disordered protein, with three Tyr residues in the C-terminal region, one in the N-terminus, and lacking Trp. It is thought that interactions between the C-terminus and the central portion of the molecule may prevent or minimize aggregation/fibrillation. To test this hypothesis we examined the importance of the Tyr residues on the propensity for alpha-synuclein to fibrillate in vitro. Fibril formation of alpha-synuclein was completely inhibited, in the timescale over which measurements were made, by replacing the three C-terminal Tyr residues with Ala. In addition, substitution of Tyr133 by Ala also resulted in the absence of fibrillation, whereas the individual Y125A and Y136A mutants showed limited inhibition. Replacement of Tyr39 by Ala also resulted in substantial inhibition of fibrillation. Structural analysis showed that the Y133A mutant had a substantially different conformation, rich in alpha-helical secondary structure, as compared with the wild-type and other mutants, although the formation of any tertiary structure has not been observed as can be judged from near-UV-CD spectra. These observations suggest that the long-range intramolecular interactions between the N- and C-termini of alpha-synuclein are likely to be crucial to the fibrillation process.
A pervasive Internet approach to fine-grain power-aware computing

We present a novel approach to conserve power in networked mobile devices. Our approach exploits communication within a pervasive smart space as an opportunity to save power as opposed to the classic view of communication as a drain on resources. We outsource intensive computations to the network whenever a pervasive connection to the Internet exists and when it pays off to do so. At compile-time our approach generates two versions of the program being compiled, a client version and a server version, each containing the necessary code to handle the run-time decision of executing code locally on the mobile device or remotely to the server based on power efficiency. We utilize a technique from real-time systems to help the compiler generate highly accurate code by calculating the number of loop iterations for each candidate section of code. This approach has the advantage of analyzing applications at a finer granularity than other similar methodologies. This is because the candidate code sections are CPU blocks represented mostly by loops. Our experimental results performed on Intel's XScale architecture and the Wi-Fi wireless technology show significant savings in power consumption by the mobile device.
Adventures of three analysts in the wonderful world of experimental spacecraft control

Analytical and experimental results are presented of a Lyapunov approach to designing globally stabilizing controllers for large nonlinear motions of distributed parameter systems. The configuration studied is a nine-body hub-appendage system consisting of five rigid bodies interconnected by four flexible beams. The control is designed such that a compromise is achieved between vibration suppression and maneuver time. The method allows the form of rigorously stabilizing control laws for a nonlinear distributed parameter system to be established before discretization and order-reduction approximations are introduced. >
Oxide-Semiconductor Interface Characterization Using Kelvin Probe-AFM In Combination With Corona-Charge Deposition

Corona charge deposition methods in combination with spatially resolved surface potential measurements have become a standard tool for Si oxide quality monitoring. Based on this technique oxide-semiconductor interface parameters such as surface barrier height, oxide thickness and oxide charge density can now be monitored in-line with commercially available devices. The ongoing downscaling of integrated circuits into the sub-100 nm regime makes the development of high resolution oxide screening methods increasingly important. However, currently available commercial devices are limited in their spatial resolution since they employ the traditional vibrating Kelvin probe technique, restricting their lateral resolution to several μm. In order to increase the lateral resolution of this measurement method we have combined the corona-charge deposition technique with Kelvin Probe AFM. We present initial results of this novel measurement technique and demonstrate its feasibility by measurements on lithographically prepared oxide patterns on Si wafers with different oxide thicknesses.
Local search and the evolution of technological capabilities

The assumption that ‘local search’ constrains the direction of corporate R&D is central in evolutionary perspectives on technological change and competition. In this paper, we propose a network-analytic approach for identifying the evolution of firms' technological positions. The approach (1) permits graphical and quantitative assessments of the extent to which firms' search behavior is locally bounded, and (2) enables firms to be positioned and grouped according to the similarities in their innovative capabilities. The utility of the proposed framework is demonstrated by an analysis of strategic partnering and the evolution of the technological positions of the 10 largest Japanese semiconductor producers from 1982 to 1992.
Reactivation of pressure-solution seams by a strike-slip fault-sequential, dilational jog formation and fluid flow

This work examines how older pressure-solution seams become sheared or reactivated by slip because of movement on a younger fault segment. The reactivation then leads to the creation of secondary structures. These are followed by further changes in the local stress-strain field that result in slip reactivation on the secondary structures and in the creation of third-order structures. This sequence of deformation reflects and reveals transient changes in the stress-strain field along the margins of the fault during active slip on the fault. The reactivation may lead to enhanced rock permeability and/or porosity that allow for temporary periods of fluid movement. Thus, we believe that this serves as an important model to contribute to the understanding of movement of fluids such as oil and gas around active faults.
Exotic Invasions, Nativism, and Ecological Restoration: On the Persistence of a Contentious Debate

Proponents of ecological restoration view the practice as a means of both repairing damage done to ecosystems by humans and creating an avenue to re-establish respectful and cooperative human–environment relationships. One debate affecting ecological restoration focuses on the place of ‘exotic’ species in restored ecosystems. Though popular, campaigns against exotics have been criticized for their troubling rhetorical parallels with nativism aimed at human immigrants. I point to some of the reasons why this critique of nativism persists, despite protests that no xenophobic intent is evident, emphasizing the intimacy between social metaphors and claims about exotic nature. Language is but one facet of an entanglement of nature and society that ecological restoration strives to take seriously; however, restoration practice remains ambivalent toward this dichotomy permitting a longing for lost community purity that is embraced in nativism. Regarding defenses of nativism, I point out limitations of attempts t...