cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conceptual design of an adaptive wind tunnel for the generation of unsteady complex flow patterns

The present paper describes the conceptual design of a three-dimensional adaptive wind tunnel capable of generating complex, unsteady flow fields in a relatively compact physical domain. The design involves multiple, independently controllable vents located around the periphery of a semi-enclosed facility. Desired flow patterns at target areas within the facility are produced by actively steering the inlet flow via appropriately adjusting the magnitude and direction of the air flow entering from each vent. The present study is motivated by a desire to incorporate tactile wind sensation into CAVE-like virtual environments, thereby increasing the overall sense of immersion in the virtual reality. The present wind tunnel design concept may also have potential application to laboratory studies of such problems as unsteady aerodynamics. Results in the present study include examples of two flow patterns obtained from numerical simulations using Fluent. Results from a companion parametric study analyzing the sensitivity of the numerical solution to mesh size and tolerance are also provided. In addition, the feasibility of using a linear-based control strategy to generate prescribed flow patterns within the wind tunnel is discussed.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Axial Strain Measurements in Skeletal Muscle at Various Strain Rates

A noncontact optical system using high speed image analysis to measure local tissue deformations and axial strains along skeletal muscle is described. The spatial resolution of the system was 20 pixels/cm and the accuracy was +/- 0.125 mm. In order to minimize the error associated with discrete data used to characterize a continuous strain field, the displacement data were fitted with a third order polynomial and the fitted data differentiated to measure surface strains using a Lagrangian finite strain formulation. The distribution of axial strain along the muscle-tendon unit was nonuniform and rate dependent. Despite a variation in local strain distribution with strain rate, the maximum axial strain, Exx = 0.614 +/- 0.045 mm/mm, was rate insensitive and occurred at the failure site for all tests. The frequency response of the video system (1000 Hz) and the measurement of a continuous strain field along the entire length of the structure improve upon previous noncontact optical systems for measurement of surface strains in soft tissues.
Candidate RNA structures for domain 3 of the foot-and-mouth-disease virus internal ribosome entry site

The foot-and-mouth-disease virus (FMDV) utilizes non-canonical translation initiation for viral protein synthesis, by forming a specific RNA structure called internal ribosome entry site (IRES). Domain 3 in FMDV IRES is phylogenetically conserved and highly structured; it contains four-way junctions where intramolecular RNA-RNA interactions serve as a scaffold for the RNA to fold for efficient IRES activity. Although the 3D structure of domain 3 is crucial to exploring and deciphering the initiation mechanism of translation, little is known. Here, we employ a combination of various modeling approaches to propose candidate tertiary structures for the apical region of domain 3, thought to be crucial for IRES function. We begin by modeling junction topology candidates and build atomic 3D models consistent with available experimental data. We then investigate each of the four candidate 3D structures by molecular dynamics simulations to determine the most energetically favorable configurations and to analyze specific tertiary interactions. Only one model emerges as viable containing not only the specific binding site for the GNRA tetraloop but also helical arrangements which enhance the stability of domain 3. These collective findings, together with available experimental data, suggest a plausible theoretical tertiary structure of the apical region in FMDV IRES domain 3.
CONFIDENTIALITY, DUE PROCESS, AND JUDICIAL DISQUALIFICATION IN THE UNIFIED FAMILY COURT: REPORT TO THE HONORABLE STEPHANIE DOMITROVICH

To the extent that courts realize the pure one judge–one family notion of the unified family court—in which one judge handles all domestic relations, probate, juvenile dependency, juvenile delinquency, and domestic violence cases involving members of the same family—they encounter three potential legal barriers: confidentiality of court records in some of the cases, due process issues arising from the consideration of material from a related case file in which the parties to the current case may or may not be parties, and judicial disqualification arising from the judge's handling of a previous case involving the family. This article summarizes information obtained from a survey conducted for the Children and Family Law Committee of the National Conference of State Trial Judges, of courts in sixteen states, to learn how they have resolved these legal issues.
Functional expression of a cloned I-A beta k gene in B-lymphoma cells

The immune response genes of the mouse encode two cell-surface glycoproteins, I-A and I-E, that play critical roles in determining the animal's immune responsiveness. The I-A antigen contains two chains, alpha and beta. A cloned beta-chain gene, I-A beta k, was introduced into B-lymphoma cells that express I-Ad. The transfected gene was successfully expressed on the cell surface of the recipient cells and was functional in stimulating allospecific T cells.
Focus on Policy

Edward Snowden's revelations are bringing discussions about technology back into a healthier balance with discussions of related policy and research, and they've initiated a robust and too-long-absent debate about the roles of technology and policy in a healthy, vibrant, and fair society. We encourage this engagement and will continue to provide credible information to further the discussion about what is possible, desirable, and ethical.
Inhalant and Prescription Medication Abuse among Adolescents: An Inexpensive, Accessible, and Misperceived Trend.

Inhalant and prescription medication abuse, particularly among adolescents, are serious problems in our society. Several risk factors associated with inhalant and medication abuse among adolescents have been identified. As a result, adolescents may suffer multiple consequences in a range of developmental areas. The purpose of this article is to examine in-depth the prevalence, risk factors, and consequences associated with inhalant and prescription medication abuse among adolescents. Recommendations in the prevention and intervention of inhalant and prescription medication abuse are provided.
Quantitative genetic analysis of brain copper and zinc in BXD recombinant inbred mice

Copper and zinc are trace nutrients essential for normal brain function, yet an excess of these elements can be toxic. It is important therefore that these metals be closely regulated. We recently conducted a quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis to identify chromosomal regions in the mouse containing possible regulatory genes. The animals came from 15 strains of the BXD/Ty recombinant inbred (RI) strain panel and the brain regions analyzed were frontal cortex, caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens and ventral midbrain. Several QTL were identified for copper and/or zinc, most notably on chromosomes 1, 8, 16 and 17. Genetic correlational analysis also revealed associations between these metals and dopamine, cocaine responses, saccharine preference, immune response and seizure susceptibility. Notably, the QTL on chromosome 17 is also associated with seizure susceptibility and contains the histocompatibility H2 complex. This work shows that regulation of zinc and copper is under polygenic influence and is intimately related to CNS function. Future work will reveal genes underlying the QTL and how they interact with other genes and the environment. More importantly, revelation of the genetic underpinnings of copper and zinc brain homeostasis will aid our understanding of neurological diseases that are related to copper and zinc imbalance.
Variations in the individual generation times of Tetrahymena geleii HS.

Abstract The generation times for individual Tetrahymena are highly variable, ranging from 74 to 135 per cent of the average generation time. Only 4 per cent of the cells show the same generation time as the statistically-derived average cell. The variation may be due to inequalities between cells arising at division. Because of the spread in individual generation times, any division synchrony in a population of Tetrahymena is lost very rapidly.
High thermoelectric figure of merit in nanostructured p-type PbTe–MTe (M = Ca, Ba)

We demonstrate that by endotaxially embedding nanocrystals of the alkaline earth tellurides CaTe or BaTe in PbTe doped with Na2Te heat carrying phonons can be strongly scattered with little effect on the power factor. An intriguing observation is that the insertion of CaTe in PbTe increases the solubility of Na2Te, thereby allowing high levels of carrier concentration. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns reveal that all samples crystallize in the NaCl-type structure without noticeable secondary phase, while scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrate the presence of endotaxially coherent/semi-coherent nanostructures in the PbTe–CaTe/BaTe samples. We show that this is the principal factor for the very low thermal conductivity. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) confirms the presence of Ca in the nanoprecipitates. We present a comparison in the lattice thermal conductivity in going from nanocrystals of CaTe to SrTe to BaTe in PbTe. Temperature dependent Hall coefficient measurements of PbTe–CaTe materials suggest that the carrier population in the so-called heavy hole valence band in PbTe becomes important above 450 K and is responsible for the high power factors. The highest thermoelectric figure of merit, ZT, value achieved is ∼1.5 at 765 K for 6% CaTe containing sample, while 3% BaTe containing sample shows the ZT of ∼1.3 at 760 K.
The work of the North Carolina local government commission

State control of local finance has proved successful through improvement in methods of control needed.
In vitro mycelial interactions among members of a soil microfungal community

Abstract In vitro interactions among seven members of a soil microfungal community were examined and characterized to provide information on how interactions may influence fungal community structure in soil. Behaviors of species in paired culture was observed on three media with different nutrient resources (malt, dilute cornmeal and water agar) in Petri dishes and on microscope slides.All isolates used in this study were in some way affected by the presence of another fungus; usually growth was inhibited. Outcomes of mycelial interactions after growth for 4 weeks or more were categorized as: (1) neutral intermingling, (2) deadlock and (3) replacement.Deadlock, in which neither mycelium can enter territory occupied by the other, was the most commonly observed outcome of the pairings except on low-resource media, where neutral intermingling was the commonest class of interaction.Our results suggest that fungal community structure under oligotrophic conditions is not highly territorial, but mycelia become more territorial and combative when colonizing relatively resource-rich microhabitats or substrates.
How Does Foreign Entry Affect the Domestic Banking Market? The Brazilian Case

ABSTRACT Using bank level data for Brazil in the 1995–2001 period, this paper examines the extent of foreign ownership in the domestic banking market. It also separates and analyses the domestic banking system as to private and state-owned institutions, given the almost 50% market share of state-owned banks in Brazil by the deposit criteria. The net interest margins, overhead, taxes paid, and profitability of foreign and domestic banks are compared with domestic banks achieving higher profits than foreign banks, which contradicts the empirical evidence in the literature. Also, further estimation results suggest that an increase in the share of foreign banks leads to higher profitability of domestic banks, which is opposed to the literature. Finally, while domestic private banks have higher net interest margins and profits than foreign banks, state-owned banks have lower net interest margin and profits, and higher overhead expenses than foreign banks. RESUMEN. Con base en datos bancarios brasilenos del per...
Preprocessing for Improved Performance in Image and Video Coding

In previous work, we reported on the benefits of noise reduction prior to coding of very high quality images. Perceptual transparency can be achieved with a significant improvement in compression as compared to error free codes. In this paper, we examine the benefits of preprocessing when the quality requirements are not very high, and perceptible distortion results. The use of data dependent anisotropic diffusion that maintains image structure, edges, and transitions in luminance or color is beneficial in controlling the spatial distribution of errors introduced by coding. Thus, the merit of preprocessing is for the control of coding errors. In this preliminary study, we only consider preprocessing prior to the use of the standard JPEG and MPEG coding techniques.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Assessing role activities of individuals receiving long-term hemodialysis: psychometric testing of the revised Inventory of Functional Status-Dialysis (IFS-DialysisR)

Abstract The purpose of the study was to examine the reliability and validity of the revised IFS-Dialysis R , a theory-based self-report measure of the extent to which individuals receiving long-term hemodialysis are actually performing role activities. The IFS-Dialysis R was administered to 186 individuals receiving hemodialysis. Chronbach's alpha was used to assess internal consistency reliability, and structural equation modeling was used to assess the construct validity of the revised measure. Alpha reliability for the total instrument was 0.88, and subscale alpha coefficients ranged from 0.75 to 0.85. Construct validity of the IFS-Dialysis R was supported by the significant relationship of each item to its respective subscale latent variable, and model testing indicated a good fit of the measurement model to the data. The IFS-Dialysis R can be used to obtain clinical assessments of the extent to which individuals receiving long-term hemodialysis treatments are engaging in role activities. Interventions can then be implemented to facilitate an optimal level of activity performance for each individual.
A Simulation Tool for ASCTA Microsensor Network Architecture

Advances in technology have made the large-scale deployment of low-cost networked sensors possible for situational awareness. We developed a Simulation Tool for the Advanced Sensors Collaborative Technology Alliance (ASCTA) Microsensor Network Architecture (STAMINA) to evaluate the performance of networked sensor systems. This tool is built upon a commercial network simulator engine (QualNet), with extended capabilities to include both sensing and communication models in a discrete-event simulation environment. Using this tool, we can simulate target detection (sensing) and information dissemination (information fusion) via wireless communications under different parameters and scenarios, incorporating such metrics as target detection probabilities, false alarm rates, and communications load, and capturing effects of terrain and threat characteristics. An example of tool usage is presented illustrating the comparison of alternative microsensor network architectures such as localized-fusion, hierarchical-fusion, and distributed-fusion in the presence of false detection events. The trade-offs among these three different sensor architectures are examined under different fusion rules, sensing sliding window sizes, and false-event occurrence rates. Operating parameters that yield high detection and low false-alarm performance are examined.
On the relation between income distribution and economic growth

Most of the research on the relation between economic growth and income distribution has concentrated on the well-known Kuznets inverted-U hypothesis which claims that economic growth initially worsens income inequality and then it improves it. A few studies have argued that income inequality could also affect economic growth through its impact on saving and investment. In this paper, we use time-series data from 18 developing countries along with the bounds testing approach and investigate bi-directional causality between economic growth and a measure of income inequality. We find that while there is short-run bi-directional causality in most countries, the long-run causality is limited to less than half of the countries in the sample.
α1-Adrenoceptor responsiveness in the aging aorta

Abstract Previous studies from this laboratory have shown that aortic α 1 -adrenoceptor-mediated responsiveness is altered during maturation and aging. This study examines the possibility that there is a change in the α 1 -adrenoceptor subtypes in the aorta during maturation and aging. The apparent affinity of norepinephrine, as determined by partial receptor inactivation with the α 1 -adrenoceptor antagonist phenoxybenzamine, was found to be higher in 1-month-old rats compared to 6- and 24-month-old rats. The α 1B -adrenoceptor subtype-selective antagonist chlorethylclonidine was used to examine possible heterogeneity in aortic α 1 -adrenoceptors. The inhibitory effect of chlorethylclonidine on norepinephrine-stimulated contraction was greater in young animals compared to aged animals. Chlorethylclonidine blocked norepinephrine-stimulated inositol phosphate accumulation in 1-month-old aorta but it produced only partial inhibition in the 6- and 24-month-old aortas. The relatively non-selective α 1 -adrenoceptor antagonists phenoxybenzamine (0.1 μM) and prazosin (0.1 μM) inhibited inositol phosphate accumulation and contractile responses in all ages. The complete block of α 1 -adrenoceptor-mediated responses by chlorethylclonidine in younger animals shows that α 1 -adrenoceptor-mediated responses are mediated by the chlorethylclonidine-sensitive α 1 -adrenoceptor subtypes. The partial inhibition by chlorethylclonidine of α 1 -adrenoceptor-mediated responses in 6- and 24-month-old animals indicates an increased role of an α 1 -adrenoceptor subtype that is relatively insensitive to chlorethylclonidine.
The Blue Arcs of the Retina

Around a dim light viewed in a dark room can be seen faint blue-gray arcs which occupy that part of the visual field corresponding to the retina where the arcuate nerve fiber bundle passes from macular ganglion cell bodies to the optic nerve. These blue arcs of the retina are an entoptic phenomenon in which action potentials of the arcuate nerve fiber bundle presumably excite adjacent neurons. The experiments here described show that the light stimulus initially evoking the blue arcs excites cones and not rods as has been generally believed until now. Another commonly held idea is that the blue arcs are produced by bioluminescence or fluorescence associated with the action potentials in the arcuate nerve fiber bundle. The experiments described here disprove this hypothesis.
A generalized model for evaluating area-potential in a mineral exploration program

A generalized model for predicting the potential of geographic areas for mineral exploration is developed using computers and mathematical techniques. A cellular approach is adopted and each area is divided into cells; the data base is transformed into a computer processable form by digitizing data over each cell. Control cells are selected from a control area by two a priori subjective models using multiple linear regression and filtering techniques. These control cells are used to develop weighting factors for computer-transformed variables. The evaluation and prediction of cells are made using an evaluation model, wherein products of weighting factors and corresponding transformed variables are added to give a probability score for each cell. In the example analysis, 7.76% of cells are selected as predicted cells and checked for mining in the cell areas by comparing them with a mining data base. Of the total predicted cells, 38.13% are classified as first-order prospects and the remaining predicted cells are classified into second- and third-order prospects. The success of the prediction and the open structure of the model implies a successful, generalized model with capabilities of evaluating large areas and predicting the potential in any exploration program.
Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Intracellular Controlled Drug Delivery

The application of nanotechnology in the field of drug delivery has attracted much attention in the latest decades. Recent breakthroughs on the morphology control and surface functionalization of inorganic-based delivery vehicles, such as mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), have brought new possibilities to this burgeoning area of research. The ability to functionalize the surface of mesoporous-silica-based nanocarriers with stimuli-responsive groups, nanoparticles, polymers, and proteins that work as caps and gatekeepers for controlled release of various cargos is just one of the exciting results reported in the literature that highlights MSNs as a promising platform for various biotechnological and biomedical applications. This review focuses on the most recent progresses in the application of MSNs for intracellular drug delivery. The latest research on the pathways of entry into live mammalian and plant cells together with intracellular trafficking are described. One of the main areas of interest in this field is the development of site-specific drug delivery vehicles; the contribution of MSNs toward this topic is also summarized. In addition, the current research progress on the biocompatibility of this material in vitro and in vivo is discussed. Finally, the latest breakthroughs for intracellular controlled drug release using stimuli-responsive mesoporous-silica-based systems are described.
Toxicity and cell proliferation in the liver, kidneys and nasal passages of female F-344 rats, induced by chloroform administered by gavage

Dose-response relationships were determined for the induction of cytolethality and regenerative cell proliferation in the established target organs (liver, kidneys, and nasal passages) of female F-344 rats given chloroform daily by gavage. Rats were administered chloroform dissolved in corn oil at doses of 0, 34, 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg/day for 4 consecutive days or for 5 days/wk for 3 wk. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) was administered through an implanted osmotic pump 3.5 days prior to autopsy to label cells in S-phase. Cells in S-phase were visualized immunohistochemically in tissue sections and the labelling index (LI) calculated as the percentage of cells in S-phase. Mild degenerative centrilobular changes and dose-dependent increases in the hepatocyte LI were observed after administration of 100 mg or more chloroform/kg/day. Rats given 200 or 400 mg/kg/day for 4 days or 3 wk had degeneration and necrosis of the proximal tubules of the renal cortex. Regenerating epithelium lining proximal tubules was seen histologically and as an increase in LI. Dose-dependent increases in LI were observed in the kidneys at doses of 100 mg or more chloroform/kg/day at both 4 days and 3 wk. Two distinct treatment-induced responses were observed in specific regions of the olfactory mucosa lining the ethmoid region of the nose. A peripheral lesion was seen at all doses used and included new bone formation, periosteal hypercellularity and increased cell replication. A central lesion was seen at doses of 100 mg or more chloroform/kg/day and was characterized by degeneration of the olfactory epithelium and superficial Bowman's glands. These observations define the dose-response relationships for the liver, kidneys and nasal passages as target organs for chloroform administered by gavage in the female F-344 rat.
Endostatin improves radioresponse and blocks tumor revascularization after radiation therapy for A431 xenografts in mice

Purpose: Clinical trials of antiangiogenic agents used alone for advanced malignancy have been disappointing but preclinical studies suggest that the addition of radiation therapy could improve antitumor efficacy. To test the hypothesis that antiangiogenic therapy combined with radiation therapy can overcome the limitations of antiangiogenic monotherapy, we studied the effects of endostatin combined with radiation on the growth and vascularization of A431 human epidermoid carcinomas growing intramuscularly in the legs of mice. Methods and Materials: Mice with established A431 human epidermoid leg tumors were treated with radiation, endostatin, both radiation and endostatin, or vehicle control. The experiment was repeated and mice from each group were killed at 2, 7, and 10 days after irradiation so that tumor tissue could be obtained to further analyze the kinetics of the antitumor, antivascular, and antiangiogenic response to therapy. Results: Endostatin enhanced the antitumor effects of radiation, and prolonged disease-free survival was observed in the combined treatment group. Endothelial cell proliferation was increased in tumors after irradiation but was blocked by the concurrent administration of endostatin, and the combination of endostatin with radiation enhanced endothelial cell apoptosis within 48 h after irradiation. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-8, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 were increased in tumors after irradiation, and this increase was blocked by concurrent administration of endostatin. Conclusion: These data indicate that endostatin can block tumor revascularization after radiation therapy and thereby augment radioresponse.
Independent CPI Masculinity and Femininity Scales: Psychological Correlates and a Sex-Role Typology

The meanings of masculinity and femininity as measured by independent scales (MSC and FMN) on the CPi are explored, and a sex-role typology is constructed. The CPI and ACL were administered to 287 college students. Correlations of MSC and FMN with 18 CPI measures showed both masculinity and femininity to be positive traits. Masculinity included self-confidence, mental alertness, assertiveness, leadership, and poise; femininity included socialization, self-control, development of ethical standards, and emotional sensitivity. A sex-role typology was formed, based on joint MSC and FMN scores, and each sex-role type was described, based on its relationship with 18 measures on the CPI and 300 adjectives on the ACL. The typology showed that the high MSC/high FMN group described themselves in favorable terms. The low MSC/low FMN group appeared unhappy, somewhat withdrawn, and distrustful. The self-description of high MSC/low FMN and low MSC/high FMN groups corresponded to stereotypic views of masculinity and femininity, respectively. The similarity of these findings with research using different approaches suggests that consistent pictures of masculinity, femininity, and sex-role types are emerging.
Epidermal nevus syndrome: case report and review of clinical manifestations.

: The epidermal nevus syndrome is a disorder characterized by epidermal nevi and associated neurologic, skeletal, and other abnormalities. We cared for a 3-month-old male with multiple epidermal nevi and severe central nervous system involvement.
PRESCRIBING INVARIANTS FOR INTEGRAL SURFACES IN THE GRASSMANN BUNDLE OF 2-PLANES IN 4-SPACE?

A SMOOTHLY immersed integral surface M in the Grassmann bundle M > G,(R4) > R4 defines a (possibly nonimmersed) surface at 0 s(M) in R4. Moreover, a surface in R4 whose nonimmersive singularities are sufficiently well behaved, lifts to an integral surface in G,(R4). (This lift is defined by assigning a “tangent” 2-plane to each point on the surface.) Thus a compact integral surface in G,(R4) can be thought of as a resolution or lift of a nonimmersed surface in R4 which is well defined up to smooth diffeomorphisms of R4 and M. In this paper we will consider the set of compact orientable rank 1 transverse integral surfaces in G,(R4) [4]. We then define five differential topological invariants for such a surface (Section 2). In Theorem 1 we show that these invariants are independent and can be freely prescribed. As a consequence, any 2-plane bundle can be realized as the pull-back bundle s* (6) over a rank 1 transverse integral surface, where & is the tautological2-plane bundle over G2(R4) (Corollary 2). The proof of Theorem 1 is constructive and builds the desired integral surface by cutting and pasting the local models described in Section 3.2. Integral surfaces occur naturally as (multivalued) solutions to PDE [4]. Since a PDE can be viewed as a constraining submanifold in G2(R4) the invariants of an integral surface solution should be restricted by the PDE. In Section 5 (Theorem 3) we briefly describe such restrictions in the case where the PDE is type-homotopic to a determined linear elliptic or hyperbolic system on the plane (cf. [2, 3, 51).
Sensorimotor Impairments and Reaching Performance in Subjects With Poststroke Hemiparesis During the First Few Months of Recovery

Background and Purpose Little is known about the relationship between upper-extremity (UE) sensorimotor impairment and reaching performance during the first few months after stroke. The purpose of this study was to examine: (1) how measures of UE sensorimotor impairment are related to the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of reaching in subjects with hemiparesis during the subacute phase after stroke and (2) how impairments measured during the acute phase after stroke may predict the variance in reaching performance a few months later. Subjects and Methods Upper-extremity sensorimotor impairments and reaching performance were evaluated in 39 subjects with hemiparesis at 2 time points: during the acute phase (8.7±3.6 [X±SD] days) and the subacute phase (108.7±16.5 days) after stroke. Ten subjects who were healthy (control subjects) were evaluated once. Regression analyses were used to determine which impairments were the best predictors of variance in reaching performance in the subacute phase after stroke. Results Only a small amount of variance (<30%) in reaching performance was explained at the subacute time point, using either acute or subacute impairments as predictor variables. Of the impairments measured, UE strength deficits were the strongest, most consistent predictors of the variance in reaching performance during the first 3 months after stroke. Discussion and Conclusion Surprisingly, the detailed clinical assessment of UE sensorimotor impairment, measured at the acute or subacute phase after stroke, did not explain much of the variance in reaching performance during the subacute phase after stroke. The findings that UE strength deficits (ie, decreased active range of motion and isometric force production) were the most common predictors of the variance in reaching performance during the first 3 months after stroke are consistent with the current viewpoint that impaired volitional muscle activation, clinically apparent as UE weakness, is a prominent contributing factor to UE dysfunction after stroke.
Fast beam studies of I2− and I2− · Ar photodissociation

Abstract The photodissociation dynamics of bare I 2 − and I 2 − · Ar at 413 and 390 nm have been investigated using a fast beam instrument coupled with a new photofragment coincidence imaging detector. Results from the application of this technique to the dissociation of I 2 − and I 2 − · Ar yielded the dissociation energy of I 2 − ( D 0 (I 2 − )=1.012±0.008 eV) and I 2 − –Ar binding energy ( D 0 (I 2 − –Ar)=45±8 meV). The experiments show that at these wavelengths, I 2 − · Ar undergoes three-body dissociation to I − + I* + Ar, with very low momentum in the Ar atom and unequal momentum partitioning between the two I atoms.
Modulation of Renal Endothelin Receptors During Rejection of Lung Allografts

Experiments were designed to determine whether or not acute rejection of allotransplanted lungs altered endothelin-content and receptors in recipient heart and kidneys. Five groups of dogs were studied: 1) unoperated, non-immunosuppressed; 2) unoperated, immunosuppressed; 3) single lung autotransplanted, non-immunosuppressed; 4) nonrejecting single lung allotransplanted (allotransplant, immunosuppressed), and 5) rejecting single lung allotransplanted (allotransplant, rejecting). Operated animals were sacrificed eight days after the surgical intervention. Immunosuppression began the day of surgery and continued for five days. At this time, immunosuppression was either maintained in some animals (allotransplanted, immunosuppressed) or discontinued so that rejection would occur (allotransplanted, rejecting). Unoperated, immunosuppressed animals were maintained on the same drug schedule as the allotransplanted, rejecting animals. Serum levels of endothelin-1 were comparable among groups. However, tissue-conte...
Assessing auditory distance perception using perceptually directed action

Three experiments investigated auditory distance perception under natural listening conditions in a large open field. Targets varied in egocentric distance from 3 to 16 m. By presenting visual targets at these same locations on other trials, we were able to compare visual and auditory distance perception under similar circumstances. In some experimental conditions, observers made verbal reports of target distance. In others, observers viewed or listened to the target and then, without further perceptual information about the target, attempted to face the target, walk directly to it, or walk along a two-segment indirect path to it. The primary results were these. First, the verbal and walking responses were largely concordant, with the walking responses exhibiting less between-observer variability. Second, different motoric responses provided consistent estimates of the perceived target locations and, therefore, of the initially perceived distances. Third, under circumstances for which visual targets were perceived more or less correctly in distance using the more precise walking response, auditory targets were generally perceived with considerable systematic error. In particular, the perceived locations of the auditory targets varied only about half as much in distance as did the physical targets; in addition, there was a tendency to underestimate target distance, except for the closest targets.
Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) Implications for Large Scale Distributed Health Care Enterprises

Large scale distributed health care enterprises need to focus on characteristics such scalability and availability enhancing the integration and interoperability elements provided by the IHE profiles. These characteristics are promoted by architectural approaches like SOA. The paper details main characteristics of SOA-based components and services and their (complementary) relationship to IHE. It also highlights expected challenges in transitioning to SOA encountered by large scale distributed health enterprises from the viewpoint of benefits and cost/risk factors
Non-Tumor-Associated Psammoma Bodies in the Thyroid

Psammoma bodies in the thyroid are common in glands with papillary thyroid carcinoma. Psammoma bodies that are not associated with tumor cells, however, represent a diagnostic problem for pathologists. Should we treat isolated psammoma bodies as representing metastatic disease? This study included patients who had non–tumorassociated psammoma bodies in their thyroids or in the perithyroidal lymph nodes. Clinical, pathologic, and follow-up information was obtained for the patients. Our results indicate that 27 of 29 patients had a contralateral or an ipsilateral tumor, the majority of which were papillary. We noted a high frequency of microscopic carcinomas (12/27) and of tall cell variants of papillary thyroid carcinoma (8/27 cases). Based on these findings, we recommend that thyroid glands with non–tumor-associated psammoma bodies and no histologically identified carcinoma be entirely submitted to identify any microscopic carcinoma. If no carcinoma is identified in a lobectomy, discussion with the surgeon should indicate the need for close clinical follow-up. Psammoma bodies are considered by many pathologists to be a reliable diagnostic feature of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Psammoma bodies are round to oval calcifications that have lamellations and should be distinguished from dystrophic calcification and calcified colloid. They occur predominantly in the classic form of papillary carcinoma but
View-based recognition using an eigenspace approximation to the Hausdorff measure

View-based recognition methods, such as those using eigenspace techniques, have been successful for a number of recognition tasks. Such approaches, however, are somewhat limited in their ability to recognize objects that are partly hidden from view or occur against cluttered backgrounds. In order to address these limitations, we have developed a view matching technique based on an eigenspace approximation to the generalized Hausdorff measure. This method achieves compact storage and fast indexing that are the main advantages of eigenspace view matching techniques, while also being tolerant of partial occlusion and background clutter. The method applies to binary feature maps, such as intensity edges, rather than directly to intensity images.
Effects of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee on biological risk factors for type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial

Coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes in prospective cohort studies, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of regular and decaffeinated coffee on biological risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Randomized parallel-arm intervention conducted in 45 healthy overweight volunteers who were nonsmokers and regular coffee consumers. Participants were assigned to consumption of 5 cups (177 mL each) per day of instant caffeinated coffee, decaffeinated coffee, or no coffee (i.e., water) for 8 weeks. Average age was 40 years and body mass index was 29.5 kg/m2. Compared with consuming no coffee, consumption of caffeinated coffee increased adiponectin (difference in change from baseline 1.4 μg/mL; 95% CI: 0.2, 2.7) and interleukin-6 (difference: 60%; 95% CI: 8, 138) concentrations and consumption of decaffeinated coffee decreased fetuin-A concentrations (difference: -20%; 95% CI: -35, -1). For measures of glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion, no significant differences were found between treatment groups. Although no changes in glycemia and/or insulin sensitivity were observed after 8 weeks of coffee consumption, improvements in adipocyte and liver function as indicated by changes in adiponectin and fetuin-A concentrations may contribute to beneficial metabolic effects of long-term coffee consumption. clinicaltrials.gov NCT00305097
The Present and Future of IRT‐Based Cognitive Diagnostic Models (ICDMs) and Related Methods

As the goals of educational assessment evolve from the strictly evaluative to the di agnostically useful, so also evolve the statistical methods used to build, validate, and interpret educational tests. The methods discussed in this special issue all approach diagnosis in an item response theory (IRT) related way, with models that are parame terized at the item level and that extract information from individual item responses. Clearly, their most distinguishing feature is their more complex, multidimensional representation of examinee proficiency. This representation can be built directly into an item response model (as seen in most clearly in Almond, DiBello, Moulder, & Zapata-Rivera, 2007; Henson, Templin, & Douglas, 2007; Roussos, Templin, & Hen son, 2007; Stout, 2007) or else it can provide a framework for interpreting (residual) patterns in item responses (as is seen in Gierl, 2007). The complexity of the proficiency space introduces corresponding complexities into the statistical modeling and score reporting aspects of diagnosis. A high level of expert judgment is needed in formulating appropriate models. One of the pri mary challenges in implementing IRT-based cognitively diagnostic model (ICDMs) requires determining which aspects of the modeling process should be constrained through expert judgment and which can and should be informed by observed item re sponse data. The vast array of psychometric models now available for diagnosis and the different ways they handle these complexities (e.g., how many levels for each skill, how do skills interact, how does skill mastery translate to item performance, etc.) make model selection a central issue. At the same time, it can be challenging to compare models according to goodness of fit due to the many other aspects within each model that must be informed by experts (e.g., entries of the item-by-skill Q matrix, structure of the proficiency space, etc). Data-driven model re-specification is often messy. Collectively, the papers presented in this Special Issue provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in IRT-based diagnosis. While all emphasize a com mon end-goal of examinee diagnosis, the process by which this is achieved and the balance of data-driven and expert-driven decision making used along the way also introduce important differences.
Finite element models of non‐Newtonian crater relaxation

The effects of a non-Newtonian rheology on the profiles of relaxing craters (such as those seen on the surfaces of the icy Galilean and Saturnian satellites) were studied. Two-dimensional finite element simulations of non-Newtonian viscous flow were performed, and the results were compared with those associated with Newtonian rheology. Viscous relaxation of craters in a non-Newtonian medium was significantly different from that in a Newtonian medium. Crater rims are observed to relax at a more rapid rate in a non-Newtonian region as a result of the movement of the low viscosity region to underneath the crater rim after the initial relaxation of the bowl. Significant differences are also found when central depth is plotted as a function of time. For a Newtonian medium, crater relaxation is exponential in form. In contrast, non-Newtonian crater relaxation is initially rapid, in response to the large initial stresses and small viscosities; however, as stresses decrease, this relaxation becomes extremely gradual.
Stickstoffwasserstoffsäure und die anorganischen Trinitride

Zusammenfassung Zur Erleichterung der Ubersicht fur den Leser soll hier die Methode zur Darstellung der Stickstoffwasserstoffsaure, die schliesslich als Resultat unserer Prufung des Verfahrens angenommen worden ist, nochmals zusammengefasst werden.
Ion distribution functions in the vicinity of comet Giacobini‐Zinner

Photoionization of neutral molecules in the coma surrounding a comet produces heavy ions which contaminate and mass-load the solar wind. Cometary ion distribution functions in the vicinity of comet Giacobini-Zinner (G/Z) are calculated using a Monte Carlo method. The distribution function calculated behind the shock has both cold (= 2 keV) and hot (-- 40 keV) components.
Methadone Treatment and Physical Complaints: A Clinical Analysis

In this study 102 male patients on the Harlem Hospital Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program were asked about physical complaints which they attributed to taking methadone. The most common complaints were sweating, constipation, drowsiness, sexual problems, and aches in bones and joints. There were no statistically significant differences between new patients and long-term patients, but long-term patients appear more likely to be bothered by sweating than new patients, and constipation occurs most frequently during the initial stages of treatment. Complaints were found, in general, to be minor and did not constitute a barrier to patient retention in treatment.
Nonparametric Comparison of Two Survival-Time Distributions in the Presence of Dependent Censoring

Quand on teste l'hypothese nulle que les distributions des durees de survie specifiques de groupes de traitements sont egales, le test du logrank est asymptotiquement valide quand la distribution du temps de censure est conditionnellement independante du groupe de traitement randomise sachant le temps de survie. Nous introduisons un test d'hypothese nulle utilisable lorsque la distribution des temps de censure depend du groupe de traitement et du temps de survie. Ce test ne fait aucune supposition concernant l'independance du temps de censure et de la duree de survie. La validite asymptotique de ce test requiert seulement un estimateur consistant pour la probabilite conditionnelle que l'evenement soit observe, sachant a la fois le groupe de traitement et le fait que l'evenement se soit produit avant le temps de l'analyse. Cependant, si l'on ne fait pas de supposition (inverifiable) concernant le mecanisme de generation des donnees pour chaque groupe de traitement, il existe un ensemble de valeurs possibles pour les estimations correspondantes de la moyenne de ces probabilites qui sont compatibles avec les donnees observees. Sur ce sous-ensemble du carre unite, le test propose peut etre calcule, et une region de rejet identifiee. Une decision concernant l'hypothese nulle, qui prend en compte l'incertitude due au fait que la censure peut dependre du groupe de traitement et de la duree de survie, peut etre prise directement. Nous presentons egalement un test du logrank generalise qui nous permet de fournir les conditions sous lesquelles le test du logrank ordinaire est asymptotiquement valide. Le test generalise peut etre aussi utilise pour tester l'hypothese nulle quand la distribution de la censure depend du groupe de traitement et de la duree de survie. Cependant l'usage de ce test necessite des suppositions de modelisation semi-parametrique. Une etude par simulation, et un exemple utilisant un essai clinique recent sur le SIDA sont fournis.
Structure-specific cleavage of the RNA primer from Okazaki fragments by calf thymus RNase HI

Cleavage specificity of RNase HI was examined on model Okazaki fragments, to determine the likely role of this nuclease in lagging strand DNA replication. Each substrate was prepared by annealing a short RNA primer, made by transcription in vitro, to a single-stranded synthetic DNA template, and subsequently extending the primer by DNA polymerization. The calf thymus RNase HI makes a structure-specific endonucleolytic cleavage in the RNA primer, releasing it intact, and leaving a mono-ribonucleotide at the 5' terminus of the RNA-DNA junction. This specific cleavage, one nucleotide upstream of the RNA-DNA junction, is RNA primer sequence- and length-independent. Cleavage specificity is lost if the RNA primer is not extended with DNA, or if the substrate has a nick at the RNA-DNA junction. In addition, the cleavage at a single site requires Mg2+. Cleavage in the presence of Mn2+ is less specific. Neither human immunodeficiency virus reverse transcriptase nor Escherichia coli RNases H perform such a structure-specific cleavage before an RNA-DNA junction. Our work indicates that calf RNase HI is designed to recognize Okazaki fragments. It has the specificity to remove their initiator RNA segments, except for one ribonucleotide, by a single endonucleolytic cleavage in vivo.