cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aging Effect on Joint Moment Generation Strategy in Successful Reactive-Recovery from Unexpected Slips

3D joint moment analysis has been regarded as a valuable tool in slips and falls studies. In addition to the commonly used peak joint moments, joint moment distribution characteristics enabled by 3D approach may reflect the relative importance of different anatomical planes. The objective of this study was to examine the aging effect on lower extremity joint moment distribution characteristics among all the three anatomical planes during the process of successful reactive-recovery from unexpected slips. Nine young and nine old participants who were identified as having successful recovery trials were selected from previously conducted walking experiments. Unexpected slips were created by introducing slippery floor surface without participants' awareness. Peak joint moment ratio (JMP Ratio) was defined and computed for each anatomical plane. Results indicated significant decreased sagittal JMP Ratio for the old group and significant increased sagittal JMP Ratio for the young group during recovery. It was c...
Computer analysis of the tonic, phasic, and kinesthetic activity of pallidal discharges in Parkinson patients.

OBJECTIVE Intraoperative analysis of microrecording data during pallidotomy often depends on subjective interpretation of the oscilloscope signal, especially during the analysis of phasic activity. The goals of this project were: 1) to develop an inexpensive system that allowed on-line, objective characterization of single-unit pallidal discharges, and 2) to have objective criteria to differentiate the internal part (GPi) from the external part (GPe) of the globus pallidus. METHODS A computer program was developed that allowed the analysis of firing rates (mean, median, and quartiles), spike count per unit time, and interspike interval (ISI) histograms with Chi-square statistical evaluation. Indices were developed that measured phasic activity, including burst index (BI) for the measurement of bursts, pause index (PI) for the measurement of pauses, and pause ratio (PR) for analysis of time spent in pauses. Single-unit activity of 152 GPe and 203 GPi cells in 47 Parkinson patients were digitized using the computer soundcard during pallidotomy and analyzed using this software. RESULTS GPe discharges had a mean firing rate = 42 Hz, BI = 0.81, PI = 0.21, and PR = 1.41. GPi had a mean firing rate = 81, BI = 1.61, PI = 0.04, and PR = 0.21. The PR was the best index that differentiated GPe from GPi, followed by PI, BI, and firing rates, in that order. Kinesthetic cells were recorded equally in GPe from GPi, and their responses to generalized movements were not significantly different. CONCLUSION (1) Signal analysis using the digitization process of a computer sound card and dedicated software is satisfactory for the objective “on-line” and “off-line” analysis of microrecordings (including phasic activity); (2) PI and PR are most helpful in differentiating neurons of GPi from those of GPe; (3) no single parameter can differentiate GPe from GPi activity in all cases; and (4) unlike the findings in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated monkeys, GPe and GPi of Parkinson patients have similar prevalence of kinesthetic cells and similar responses to generalized somatotopic effects.
The complement of certain recursively defined sets

Abstract An RD-set (recursively defined) is a minimal set of positive integers containing a given seed and closed under a given set of unary linear operations (x → ax + b). We examine conditions under which the complement of an RD-set may be expressed as the disjoint union of infinite arithmetic progressions.
Biomedical models of fibromyalgia

Purpose. Fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic widespread pain (CWP) are common, but the etiology of these disorders remains poorly understood. A large body of data indicates a neurobiological basis for these disorders, but this information has not been effectively transmitted to many medical professionals.Methods. Contemporary data on the epidemiologic characteristics of FM and CWP are reviewed, and evidence for a neurobiological basis for these disorders is presented. In addition, possible predisposing, triggering, and maintaining factors for the development of these disorders are discussed.Results. Approximately 10% of the population have CWP, and approximately 4% have FM. The tender point criteria for FM have resulted in the common misconception among health care professionals that this spectrum of disorders is limited to women with high degrees of psychological distress. A hallmark of FM is the presence of non-nociceptive, central pain. There is evidence of centrally augmented pain processing, which can be d...
Spectrally balanced detection for OFDI

Balanced detection is required to suppress relative intensity noise (RIN) in optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI). Because a 50/50 fiber coupler does not provide a 50% splitting ratio over the full sweeping wavelength, balanced detection by the coupler's differential output with a balanced receiver is not perfect. We have designed a new balancing scheme that detects two outputs of 50/50 coupler separately and corrects the spectral deviation in the digital domain. A better balanced detection scheme has been designed in this work. In stead of detecting the hardware balanced signal from the 50/50 fiber coupler, we digitize the two channel fringe signal independently and perform the signal balancing in the poset process. The new software based balancing significantly improves the RIN suppression. Afterward, a systematic noise analysis has been performed on the 1050nm OFDI system. The results demonstrate a RIN suppression of 33dB by spectrally corrected balanced detection, which is 11dB more that regular balanced detection.
Effects of Temporal Fine Structure on the Lateralization of Speech and on Speech Understanding in Noise

This study evaluated the role of temporal fine structure in the lateralization and understanding of speech in six normal-hearing listeners. Interaural time differences (ITDs) were introduced to invoke lateralization. Speech reception thresholds (SRTs) were evaluated in backgrounds of two-talker babble and speech-shaped noise. Two-syllable words with ITDs of 0 and 700 micros were used as targets. A vocoder technique, which systematically randomized fine structure, was used to evaluate the effects of fine structure on these tasks. Randomization of temporal fine structure was found to significantly reduce the ability of normal-hearing listeners to lateralize words, although for many listeners, good lateralization performance was achieved with as much as 80% fine-structure randomization. Most listeners demonstrated some rudimentary ability to lateralize with 100% fine-structure randomization. When ITDs were 0 micros, randomization of fine structure had a much greater effect on SRT in two-talker babble than in speech-shaped noise. Binaural advantages were also observed. In steady noise, the difference in SRT between words with 0- vs 700-micros ITDs was, on average, 6 dB with no fine-structure randomization and 2 dB with 100% fine-structure randomization. In two-talker babble this difference was 1.9 dB and, for most listeners, showed little effect of the degree of fine-structure randomization. These results suggest that (1) improved delivery of temporal fine structure would improve speech understanding in noise for implant recipients, (2) bilateral implant recipients might benefit from temporal envelope ITDs, and (3) improved delivery of temporal information could improve binaural benefits.
Linear and nonlinear methods of relief approximation

In this paper, we compare the effectiveness of free (nonlinear) relief approximation, equidistant relief approximation, and polynomial approximation {ie129-01}, and {ie129-02} of an individual function ƒ(x) in the metric {ie129-03}, where {ie129-04} is the unit ball |x| ≤ 1 in the plane ℝ2. The notation we use is the following: {fx129-01}. Here {ie129-05} is the set of all N-term linear combinations of functions of the plane-wave type {fx129-02} with arbitrary profiles Wj(x), x ∈ ℝ1 and transmission directions {θj}1N; {ie129-06} is the subset of {ie129-07} associated with N equidistant directions; {fx129-03} denotes the subspace of algebraic polynomials of degree less than or equal to N − 1 in two real variables. Obviously, the inequalities {ie129-08} hold.
Characteristics of nanofiltration membranes in aqueous ethanol

Twelve commercial and prototype nanofiltration membranes were evaluated for their stability and performance in aqueous ethanol. Performance was better if membranes were preconditioned by gradual solvent exchange. Flux in ethanol solutions was lower than in water. Viscosity and molar volume of the ethanol solutions could partly account for differences in solvent flux with some membranes. The molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) of a membrane varies with different solutes and solvents. Rejection studies with sugars, glycols and lipids indicate that the MWCO of the DK membrane is higher in aqueous ethanol solutions than in water.
Aip3p/Bud6p, a yeast actin-interacting protein that is involved in morphogenesis and the selection of bipolar budding sites.

Abstract A search for Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteins that interact with actin in the two-hybrid system and a screen for mutants that affect the bipolar budding pattern identified the same gene, AIP3/BUD6. This gene is not essential for mitotic growth but is necessary for normal morphogenesis. MATa/alpha daughter cells lacking Aip3p place their first buds normally at their distal poles but choose random sites for budding in subsequent cell cycles. This suggests that actin and associated proteins are involved in placing the bipolar positional marker at the division site but not at the distal tip of the daughter cell. In addition, although aip3 mutant cells are not obviously defective in the initial polarization of the cytoskeleton at the time of bud emergence, they appear to lose cytoskeletal polarity as the bud enlarges, resulting in the formation of cells that are larger and rounder than normal. aip3 mutant cells also show inefficient nuclear migration and nuclear division, defects in the organization of the secretory system, and abnormal septation, all defects that presumably reflect the involvement of Aip3p in the organization and/or function of the actin cytoskeleton. The sequence of Aip3p is novel but contains a predicted coiled-coil domain near its C terminus that may mediate the observed homo-oligomerization of the protein. Aip3p shows a distinctive localization pattern that correlates well with its likely sites of action: it appears at the presumptive bud site prior to bud emergence, remains near the tips of small bund, and forms a ring (or pair of rings) in the mother-bud neck that is detectable early in the cell cycle but becomes more prominent prior to cytokinesis. Surprisingly, the localization of Aip3p does not appear to require either polarized actin or the septin proteins of the neck filaments.
Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy : Role of Programmed Electrical Stimulation and Holter Monitoring in Predicting Those at Risk of Sudden Death

The prognostic role of programmed electrical stimulation and Holter monitoring was evaluated in 21 patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy who had no prior history of ventricular tachyarrhythmias. During a mean follow-up period of 23 months, sudden death or ventricular fibrillation occurred in four (20 percent). One patient died of complications of sepsis, and one underwent cardiac transplantation. Programmed electrical stimulation (PES) resulted in five or more beats of induced ventricular tachycardia in seven patients (33 percent), but was a poor predictor of sudden death (sensitivity = 20 percent). Thirteen patients (62 percent) had complex ventricular ectopy (Lown class 4A or 4B) by ambulatory monitoring. This was a sensitive (80 percent) but not specific (31 percent) marker for sudden death. The predictive value of a negative Holter monitor study was high (80 percent) for identifying those at low risk of sudden death. The results of this prospective study suggest that programmed ventricular stimulation and routine ambulatory monitoring are poor predictors of sudden death in this population.
Characterization of Beam Quality by the “Power-in-the-Bucket”

Beam quality is described by “bucket-f” radius, r_f, and angular radius θ_f, both encapsulating fraction f of total beam power. Dimensionless product r_f*θ_f/λ depends on f and on beam shape.
Disparities in TLR5 Expression and Responsiveness to Flagellin in Equine Neutrophils and Mononuclear Phagocytes

As sentinel cells of the innate immune system, neutrophils and mononuclear phagocytes use specific TLRs to recognize the conserved molecular patterns that characterize microbes. This study was performed to compare the responses of equine neutrophils and mononuclear phagocytes to LPS and flagellin, components of bacteria that are recognized by TLR4 and TLR5, respectively. Neutrophils and mononuclear phagocytes isolated from healthy horses were incubated in vitro with LPS, flagellin, or pronase-inactivated flagellin in the presence or absence of polymyxin B. Production of reactive oxygen species and expression of mRNA for proinflammatory cytokines were used as readouts for activation of neutrophils; production of TNF-α was used for the mononuclear cells. Western blot analysis and flow cytometry were used to detect TLR5 protein in both cell types. Although the neutrophils responded to both LPS and flagellin by producing reactive oxygen species and expressing mRNA for proinflammatory cytokines, flagellin had no stimulatory effect on monocytes or macrophages. Although both neutrophils and monocytes expressed mRNA for TLR5, it appeared to be translated into protein only by the neutrophils. Incubation with neither LPS nor IFN-γ altered TLR5 expression by the monocytes. These findings indicate that flagellin has disparate effects on neutrophils and mononuclear phagocytes isolated from horses, a species that is exquisitely sensitive to the TLR4 ligand, LPS, and that equine mononuclear phagocytes, unlike corresponding cells of other mammalian species, lack surface expression of TLR5 and do not respond to flagellin.
The Use of Protein Silver for Staining Protozoa

When commercially prepared silver products suitable for staining protozoa by the Bodian silver technic apparently became unavailable, a substitute for Protargol was prepared as follows: 0.9 g. of gelatin is dissolved by heat in 100 ml. of distilled water; to this 0.1 g. of silver nitrate is added at 60°C; this solution is poured into Columbia staining dishes (10 ml.) in which one or two drops of M/10 sodium hydroxide have been added. Copper is not used in the impregnating bath. Smears fixed in Hollande's or Schaudinn's fixatives are bleached and impregnated for 36 hours or more at 35°C. Impregnated smears are reduced with a mixture of hydroquinone and sodium sulfite, and toned with gold chloride as recommended by Kirby (1945).
Interrelationships of the ostariophysan fishes (Teleostei)

The history of ostariophysan classification is summarized and it is noted that traditional concepts of relationships have never been supported by characters found to be unique to the taxa. We present a new hypothesis of relationships among four of the five major ostariophysan lineages: Cypriniformes, Characiformes, Siluroidei, and Gymnotoidei (Otophysi). Cypriniforms are the sister-group of the remaining three (Characiphysi), and characiforms are the sister-group of siluroids plus gymnotoids (Siluriformes). Placement of the Gonorynchiformes as the sister-group of the Otophysi is supported by additional evidence. Each of the five lineages is monophyletic. Analysis was concentrated upon species thought to be the least specialized within each lineage; choices of these species are discussed. Chanos is determined to be a relatively primitive gonorynchiform morphologically and the sister-group of all other Recent members of the order. Opsariichthys and Zacco are found to be morphologically primitive cypriniforms. We propose that a monophyletic group comprising the Citharinidae and Distichodontidae forms the sister-group of all other characiforms. Within the two families, Xenocharax is the least specialized. We suggest that Hepsetus, the erythrinids, and the ctenoluciids are more derived than the distichodontids and citharinids, and may form a monophyletic group within die characiforms. The traditional hypothesis that Diplomystes is the primitive sister-group of all Recent siluroids is substantiated. Our evidence suggests that Sternopygus is the most primitive gymnotoid morphologically; but rather than being the sister-group of all other gymnotoids, it is the primitive sister-group within a lineage called the Sternopygidae by Mago-Leccia. Previous explanations of otophysan distribution have been based on notions of relationships which are unsupported by the evidence presented herein. Our own analysis of relationships serves primarily to make clear the extent of sympatry, and therefore the probability of dispersal, among the major ostariophysan lineages. The extent of sympatry, together with the widespread distribution of ostariophysans, suggests that the group is older than previously supposed, and our hypotheses of relationships among the characiforms implies that many of the extent characiform lineages evolved before the separation of Africa and South America. Further understanding of ostariophysan distribution must await phylogenetic analysis within each of the five major lineages so that distributions linked with vicariance patterns and dispersal events can be sorted out.
Family therapy research: What are the most important variables?

This report summarizes the results of a nearly day-long session of a group of experienced and distinguished family therapy practitioners and researchers. The task the group set for itself was to begin delineating the most important variables to attend to in understanding family therapy and evaluating its effectiveness. With full recognition that such a task could be only partially and tentatively accomplished in the time allotted, a great many such variables were outlined.
Ranking the research productivity of library and information science faculty and schools: An evaluation of data sources and research methods

This study evaluates the data sources and research methods used in earlier studies to rank the research productivity of Library and Information Science (LIS) faculty and schools. In doing so, the study identifies both tools and methods that generate more accurate publication count rankings as well as databases that should be taken into consideration when conducting comprehensive searches in the literature for research and curricular needs. With a list of 2,625 items published between 1982 and 2002 by 68 faculty members of 18 American Library Association– (ALA-) accredited LIS schools, hundreds of databases were searched. Results show that there are only 10 databases that provide significant coverage of the LIS indexed literature. Results also showthat restricting the data sources to one, two, or even three databases leads to inaccurate rankings and erroneous conclusions. Because no database provides comprehensive coverage of the LIS literature, researchers must rely on a wide range of disciplinary and multidisciplinary databases for ranking and other research purposes. The study answers such questions as the following: Is the Association of Library and Information Science Education’s (ALISE’s) directory of members a reliable tool to identify a complete list of faculty members at LIS schools? Howmany and which databases are needed in a multifile search to arrive at accurate publication count rankings? What coverage will be achieved using a certain number of databases? Which research areas are well covered by which databases? What alternative methods and tools are available to supplement gaps among databases? Did coverage performance of databases change over time? What counting method should be used when determining what and howmany items each LIS faculty and school has published? The authors recommend advanced analysis of research productivity to provide a more detailed assessment of research productivity of authors and programs.
Iterative learning of weighted rule sets for greedy search

Greedy search is commonly used in an attempt to generate solutions quickly at the expense of completeness and optimality. In this work, we consider learning sets of weighted action-selection rules for guiding greedy search with application to automated planning. We make two primary contributions over prior work on learning for greedy search. First, we introduce weighted sets of action-selection rules as a new form of control knowledge for greedy search. Prior work has shown the utility of action-selection rules for greedy search, but has treated the rules as hard constraints, resulting in brittleness. Our weighted rule sets allow multiple rules to vote, helping to improve robustness to noisy rules. Second, we give a new iterative learning algorithm for learning weighted rule sets based on RankBoost, an efficient boosting algorithm for ranking. Each iteration considers the actual performance of the current rule set and directs learning based on the observed search errors. This is in contrast to most prior approaches, which learn control knowledge independently of the search process. Our empirical results have shown significant promise for this approach in a number of domains.
Computing Shapley Value in Supermodular Coalitional Games

Coalitional games allow subsets (coalitions) of players to cooperate to receive a collective payoff. This payoff is then distributed “fairly” among the members of that coalition according to some division scheme. Various solution concepts have been proposed as reasonable schemes for generating fair allocations. The Shapley value is one classic solution concept: player i’s share is precisely equal to i’s expected marginal contribution if the players join the coalition one at a time, in a uniformly random order. In this paper, we consider the class of supermodular games (sometimes called convex games), and give a fully polynomial-time randomized approximation scheme (FPRAS) to compute the Shapley value to within a (1 ±e) factor in monotone supermodular games. We show that this result is tight in several senses: no deterministic algorithm can approximate Shapley value as well, no randomized algorithm can do better, and both monotonicity and supermodularity are required for the existence of an efficient (1 ±e)-approximation algorithm. We also argue that, relative to supermodularity, monotonicity is a mild assumption, and we discuss how to transform supermodular games to be monotonic.
ADJUSTING PREY HANDLING TIMES AND METHODS AFFECTS PROFITABILITY IN THE BROAD-HEADED SKINK (EUMECES LATICEPS)

Time spent pursuing, capturing, and subduing prey, and time spent preparing and swallowing it all affect profitability of a prey item (net energy gain/handling time). In the diet selection model of classical optimal foraging theory, handling time is constant for each prey type, but several factors affect it in some predators. We studied factors that might cause time spent to capture and handle prey by broad-headed skinks (Eumeces laticeps) to vary between and within prey types. Pursuit time did not vary with prey (cricket) size in experimental conditions. In three experiments using crickets of the same size, handling times for the first prey eaten were shorter when more prey were simultaneously present. Reduced handling time likely maximizes number of prey captured before the remaining prey escape. Preparation time (capture to initiation of swallowing) did not vary with prey number, but swallowing time decreased with number of prey present. This result suggests that lizards must prepare crickets thoroughly for digestion by bites puncturing the exoskeleton, which constrains them from decreasing preparation time. However, lizards can reduce handling time by swallowing more quickly, increasing the likelihood of capturing additional prey. Handling times were shortest for hungry skinks and longest just before satiation. Two factors may contribute to the increase in handling time with degree of satiation: (1) Motivation to capture prey declines as a predator becomes satiated, removing the reason for shortening handling times when groups of prey are present; (2) as the stomach and the esophagus are filled, mechanical constraints may slow swallowing. Preparation time, number of bites, swallowing time, and handling time increased with cricket size. Consequently, although it appears that the largest prey were the most profitable for sizes of crickets studied, this may not be true for other ranges of prey size. Preparation time was shorter for prey bitten on the head than on the side or back, but prey orientation during swallowing did not affect swallowing time. In summary, (1) when prey are present simultaneously, total energetic profit may be increased by reducing handling time, and (2) handling for specific prey types vary with satiation and handling method.
A comparative assessment of contaminants in fish from four resacas of the Texas, USA–Tamaulipas, Mexico border region

A recent survey of contaminant information for the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV), Texas, has shown that little is known about contaminants and their impacts on biota of resacas (oxbows) along the US-Mexico border. In 1996, fish were collected from four resacas in the Texas-Tamaulipas border region to assess contaminant loadings and their impacts on fish and birds. Tissue residue concentrations in fish were analyzed and also compared to two histopathological bioindicators of unhealthy environmental conditions. Of the organochlorine insecticides measured, DDE was the most common and was present at relatively high concentrations (10 microg/g w/w) at some sites. DDE concentrations were nearly 20 times greater in fish from resacas in Texas than from resacas in Tamaulipas, although the limited sample sizes obtained precluded statistical comparisons. DDE concentrations in fish from the two Texas resacas were also greater than those reported in fish from nearby areas during the 1980s and 1990s. Most trace element concentrations were similar among resacas from Texas and Tamaulipas. Arsenic, however, was two to six times greater in fish from a downtown resaca in Matamoros than in fish from other resacas in Tamaulipas and Texas. The bioindicators, pigment accumulation, and macrophage aggregates (MAs), in general, reflected the contamination indicated by the tissue residues for each site. Overall, it appears that some resacas of the US-Mexico border region are contaminant sinks and could pose potential health or reproductive problems for fish and wildlife, and humans that consume fish from those sites.
Experimental Investigation of Semispan Model Testing Techniques

An investigation has been conducted in the NASA Langley Research Center’ s 14 by 22 ft Subsonic Tunnel to further the development of semispan testing capabilities. A twin-engine, energy efe cient transport model with a four-element wing in a takeoff cone guration was used for this investigation. Initially, a full-span cone guration was tested, and force and moment data and wing and fuselage surface pressure data were obtained as a baseline data set. The semispan cone gurations were then mounted on the windtunnel e oor, and the effects of fuselage standoff height and shape were investigated. Results indicate that the semispan cone guration was sensitive to variations in standoff height, and that a standoff height equivalent to 30% of the fuselage radius resulted in better correlation with full-span data than no standoff or the larger standoff cone gurations investigated. Undercut standoff leading edges improved the correlation of semispan data with full span data in the region of maximum lift coefe cient.
The effect of initial diameter in spherically symmetric droplet combustion of sooting fuels

The effect of initial droplet diameter on the burning rate of sooting fuels - n-heptane and 1-chloro-octane - was examined experimentally at low gravity. A 1.2s drop tower provided a low gravity environment to minimize buoyancy and achieve spherically symmetric flames for stationary droplets. Free-floating and fiber-supported droplets were burned, and both techniques gave matching results for droplets of similar initial diameter. Burning rate constants for both fuels were measured for a large number of droplets ranging from 0.4 to 1.1mm in initial diameter.
Alzheimer's Disease as a Capillary Dementia

In addition to the well known structural stigmata which accompany the senile dementia of Alzheimer, attention is called to the presence of a group of robust changes which affect the fine vessels (capillaries, capillary arterioles and capillary venules), particularly of the cerebral cortex. These alterations include irregular pouches and excrescences on the vessels (a "lumpy-bumby" appearance), general thickening of the basement membrane, loss of the fine perivascular neuronal plexus which seems to invest each vessel, no matter how small, and the appearance of pits or lacunae in the vessel walls of about one half of the Alzheimer patients studied. None of these changes have been seen in a group of approximately age-matched, non-demented controls. Much of this perivascular neural plexus originates within a few specific subcortical fields, especially the locus ceruleus and the nucleus basalis of Meynert and basal forebrain area. These also happen to be included among those brain areas which experience the most marked neuronal atrophy or loss in Alzheimer's disease. Since there is some evidence suggesting that surgically induced vascular denervation in myocardium produces dramatic changes in vascular wall structure we wonder whether neuronal pathology developing initially in these subcortical areas may not play a significant role in the development of the characteristic neuropathology in Alzheimer's disease. These speculations emphasize the possible importance of a failing blood brain barrier in the development of the disease.
Understanding the Experiences of Street Level Prostitutes

Social workers come into contact with street prostitutes through the criminal justice system, child protective services, hospitals and addiction treatment centers. Understanding the motivations, risks, protective strategies and the experience of being a street prostitute is essential for providing meaningful intervention. It is important to understand the phase in which a street prostitute is living to conduct professional assessments and design targeted and effective interventions. This research explores the experiences of women who engage in street level prostitution. Street level prostitution encompasses work on the streets, in cars and motels, dancing in gentlemen's clubs, massage parlor work, work at truck stops, and work in crack houses. This paper expands on the developmental phases of prostitution and describes, in particular, the emotional burdens and physical risks of women who enter, live their lives as prostitutes, and exit the prostitution lifestyle.
Effects of object roughness on partially coherent image formation

Phase perturbations in the object plane of a partially coherent imaging system are found to produce artifacts in the aerial image. It is demonstrated that phase perturbations of as little as lambda/30 rms can produce visible deformation in the final image for modest coherence factors, such as sigma(c) = 0.4. A combination of simulation and experiment is used to demonstrate the effects. Application to line-edge roughness in lithography is described.
Hepatic adenoma and oral contraceptive use.

The annual incidence of hepatic adenoma now exceeds 3.4 cases/100000 oral contraceptive (OC) users in the US and is steadily increasing. This article presents a case of hepatic adenoma that was unexpectedly discovered during a routine examination for renewal of an OC prescription. The patient a 36-year-old woman who had been taking OCs for 20 years had an unremarkable medical and gynecologic history. Palpation of the uterus revealed an asymptomatic 10 x 11-cm palpable mass in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. Computed tomography showed a large liver mass with extension below the pelvic rim. Celiac and hepatic arteriograms showed a large hypervascular tumor arising from the right lobe of the liver supplied by the right hepatic artery. At laparotomy a lobulated mass surrounded by a thick capsule was found attached to the right lobe of the liver. Microscopic findings were consistent with a diagnosis of hepatic adenoma. The mass was removed without difficulty. Most patients with hepatic adenoma are symptomatic (abdominal pain tumor rupture hemoperitoneum or shock) at the time of diagnosis. Hepatic arteriography is the most valuable tool in the diagnosis of such tumors although most patients will additionally require biopsy or lesion excision for a definitive diagnosis. Hepatic adenoma is almost always associated with OC use. To facilitate diagnosis before rupture occurs this tumor should be suspected in women who have taken OCs for 3 or more years especially women with abdominal pain. A thorough abdominal examination should be part of each visit for OC prescription renewal.
Four-Loop Standard Model Effective Potential at Leading Order in QCD

The leading QCD part of the four-loop contribution to the effective potential for the standard model Higgs field is found. As a byproduct, I also find the corresponding contribution to the four-loop beta function of the Higgs self-interaction coupling.
IL‐31‐induced pruritus in dogs: a novel experimental model to evaluate anti‐pruritic effects of canine therapeutics

Background Pruritus is a characteristic clinical sign of allergic skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (AD) in the dog. IL‐31 is a cytokine found in the serum of some dogs with AD and can induce pruritic behaviours in laboratory beagle dogs.
Spectral Element Method for Cable Harnessed Structure

This paper presents a predictive model of a cable-harnessed structure through using the Spectral Element Method (SEM) and this is compared to a finite element approach. SEM is an element-based method that combines the generality of the finite element method with the accuracy of spectral techniques. The exact dynamic stiffness matrices are used as the element matrices in the Finite Element Method (FEM). Thus it is possible to generate the meshes on geometric domains of concern. The spectral element can be assembled in the same terminology of the FEM. After assembly and application of the boundary conditions, the global matrix can be solved for response of model, repeatedly at all discrete frequencies because the dynamic stiffness matrices are computed at each frequency. Here we model a cable-harnessed structure as a double beam system. The presented SEM model can define location and number of connections very conveniently. Comparison is conducted between the FEM and SEM for several cases. The results show that the proposed SEM approach can be used as the exact solution of cable harnessed structures.
Aerodynamically enhanced atomospheric pressure plasma jet for polymer treatment

Atmospheric pressure plasma jets are becoming increasingly popular and have found applications in many areas from surface processing of various metallic and polymeric materials [1] to treatment of biological specimens [2]. The main advantage of this plasma source lies in the fact that the electrodes are not in contact with the material being processed. In general, plasma jet working distances are somewhat limited. In some applications, for example, decontamination, longer process standoff distances are desired. By aerodynamic enhancement, it is possible to considerably increase working distance as well as potential provide additional cooling at the substrate. Aerodynamic enhancement of the plasma jet, based on the theory of boundary layer confinement, keeps the jet stream stable and confined to the required processing area of the substrate. This work focuses on exploiting aerodynamic enhancement as a means of increasing the working distance of an atmospheric pressure plasma jet. The scaling laws for such confinement schemes are explored. Additionally, a change in the contact angle of a downstream polymer substrate as a function of distance is used to assess the effectiveness of this approach.
Rebalancing Law and Politics in the WTO: A Case Study in Subsidies Negotiations

This paper attempts to link the activity of the Dispute Settlement Body of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to its effects on the Doha Rounds of negotiation and the increasing technicalization of WTO law. It will argue that the interpretative path chosen by the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) over the last decade has contributed to the stagnation of the trade rounds by avoiding a re-discussion of the underlying purposes and goals of the trading system whilst adding to the legal and technical complexity of Rules Negotiations. In order to do so, this paper will test this hypothesis on three subsidy disputes, Brazil/Aircraft, US/Cotton, and Australia/Leather and their parallel effect on trade negotiations.
Patterns of tasks, patterns of talk: L2 literacy building in university Spanish classes

ABSTRACTSecond language (L2) classroom research has sought to shed light on the processes and practices that develop L2 learners’ abilities [Nunan, D. 2004. Task-based language teaching. London: Continuum; Verplaetse, L. 2014. Using big questions to apprentice students into language-rich classroom practices. TESOL Quarterly, 179, 632–641; Zeungler, J., & Mori, J. 2002. Microanalyses of classroom discourse: A critical consideration of method. Applied Linguistics, 23(3), 283–288]. Honing in on the micro-level of classroom tasks and even further into the language of the tasks can help to reveal the patterns in teacher- and student-talk that help scaffold students’ academic literacy. Literacy, from a systemic functional view of language learning, entails having the tools to function in the social contexts that are valued in students’ lives. This study illustrates how grounded ethnography was used in conjunction with functional discourse analysis to illuminate bi-literacy development in two third-year universi...
Preterm infant body composition cannot be accurately determined by weight and length

BACKGROUND Body composition is a key metric for assessing nutrition in preterm infants. In many neonatal intensive care units body composition is estimated using anthropometric indices which mathematically combine body weight and length. However, the accuracy of these indices is unknown in preterm infants. In contrast, air-displacement plethysmography (ADP) has been shown to accurately measure neonatal fat mass, but it is not widely available. OBJECTIVE The aim was to determine which anthropometric index is most correlated to infant fat mass, as determined by ADP. DESIGN We performed a retrospective observational study, comparing ADP-determined percent body fat at 366 time points for 239 preterm infants (born <32 weeks), with simultaneous weight and length measurements. Non-linear regression was performed to determine the best fit anthropometric index to the body fat percentage as determined by ADP. Our non-linear regression model, % fat = AxwtαxLβ, is the generalization of the most common anthropometric indices (BMI, ponderal index, etc.). RESULTS The best-fit regression formula most closely matched the formula for BMI. However, the regression explained only 51% of variability seen in body fat percentage at post-menstrual age <50 weeks, and 16% of variation seen at 50 weeks or greater. CONCLUSION Even optimal formulas relating weight and length to body fat percentage predict only a fraction of the variation seen in body composition, especially beyond 50 weeks. BMI was the anthropometric index most predictive of body fat percentage, but still has limited accuracy.
Simulation and Fabrication of Novel Polymeric Tunneling Sensor by Hot Embossing Technique

This paper reports the simulation and fabrication of novel polymer-based tunneling sensors by hot embossing technique, one of the advanced polymer microfabrication technologies. ANSYS is the software tools used to simulate the mechanical microstructures of the polymer tunneling sensors. Following the optimum design of the sensors, the mold inserts of hot embossing are fabricated by anodic bonding of glass disk 5 mm think and silicon wafer, with high-aspect-ratio microstructures by ICP etching. Main structures of polymer-based tunneling sensors are hot embossed on PMMA, followed by plastic bonding to form lateral tunneling sensor platform.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Impulse Commutated High-Frequency Soft-Switching Modular Current-Fed Three-Phase DC/DC Converter for Fuel Cell Applications

Current-fed converters offer enormous potential as power conditioning units for fuel cell applications, owing to precise fuel cell stack current control, short-circuit protection, voltage gain, and stiff fuel cell dc current. Aspects such as low current ripple and smaller input current slope ensure energy efficient operation and better fuel utilization, and enhance the lifetime of the fuel cell stack. However, the demerits of turn-off voltage spike across semiconductor devices limits the operating frequency. This paper proposes, analyzes, and implements a simple and cost-effective impulse commutated modular three-phase circuit to eliminate and solve the associated turn-off spike problem. Impulse commutation permits soft turn-off of devices and clamps the device voltage. The converter efficiently handles the variations in the fuel cell stack voltage and current with variable frequency modulation. Detailed steady-state operation, analysis, and performance of the proposed modular converter with impulse commutation are reported. The proposed impulse commutated three-phase circuit is a potential candidate for high-current applications. The validation of the converter operation on a 1-kW proof-of-concept hardware prototype is performed to substantiate the claims.
Abstract 4396: Nanocarrier for monoclonal antibody delivery

Antibodies represent a large class of drugs that have a number of different therapeutic uses. The use of monoclonal antibodies against potential intracellular protein-protein interactions in cancer cells has remained largely unexplored. This lack of consideration is due largely to a number of factors that include poor intracellular uptake and rapid lysosomal degradation of monoclonal antibodies within cells. Encapsulating monoclonal antibodies within biodegradable nanoparticles is one strategy that can improve antibody cellular uptake and protect from lysosomal degradation so that the antibody can be released inside the cell and remain functional against the therapeutic target. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to characterize a human monoclonal antibody encapsulated within poly(lactic-co-glycolytic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles. We hypothesized that encapsulation of an antibody within PLGA nanoparticles is feasible and will release in a favorable manner. Method: Anti-AnnexinA2 (AnxA2) monoclonal antibody was encapsulated within PLGA nanoparticles utilizing a water/oil/water double emulsion solvent evaporation method. Nanoparticles and released antibodies were characterized through a number of different modalities. Results: Our results show encapsulation efficiency ranging from 16-22% with a mean of 18.725% (SEM 1.289) depending on initial concentration of antibody used in the nanoparticle formulation. Nanoparticles were formed in a favorable mono disperse manner as evidenced through dynamic light scattering. All of the formulations created maintained a hydrodynamic size below 250nm. Release kinetics revealed that at day 12 the cumulative release of the antibody is approximately 35%. In addition after release the antibody maintained functionality as evidenced through Western Blot analysis and immunocytochemistry. Conclusions: Encapsulation of a monoclonal antibody within polymeric PLGA nanoparticles is feasible, exhibits sustained release kinetics, and maintains functionality upon release. This encapsulation technique may be used as a method to load antibodies in targeted nanoparticles and release the antibodies inside cancer cells to interfere with aberrantly expressed proteins. Future experiments will focus on utilizing this monoclonal antibody encapsulation approach to screen intracellular protein-protein interactions as potential new therapeutic cancer targets. Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Andrew Gdowski, Amalendu Ranjan, Anindita Mukerjee, Jamboor Vishwanatha. Nanocarrier for monoclonal antibody delivery. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 4396. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-4396
Exploring Engaging Dialogues in Video Discussions.

Learning from dialogues is a powerful pedagogy. Video-based and dialogic learning have become increasingly commonplace over the last decade and gradually evolve as one of the most popular teaching & learning strategies for modern e-learning (i.e. MOOCs). Identifying high-quality video dialogues is increasingly challenging because of the sheer number of video discussions being produced daily. In this paper, we explore online video discussions by considering both structural discourse of discussion and user interaction.
Drivers of long-term precipitation and runoff variability in the southeastern USA

The hydroclimatology of the southeastern USA (AL, GA, NC, SC, and TN) is analyzed from a holistic perspective, including multiple climate drivers. Monthly precipitation modeled by the PRISM group and runoff data (1952–2011) from 18 basins are analyzed using a single-field based principal component’s analysis. Results indicate that the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and El Nino-Southern Oscillation are the main atmospheric drivers of hydroclimate variability in the region, sometimes operating at several months’ lag. Their influence is the strongest in the fall through spring, which corresponds with the dry season in the southern parts of the study area thereby increasing pressure on already limited water resources. The Arctic Oscillation, North Atlantic Oscillation, and Pacific-North American patterns vary on shorter-term bases, and also show a significant, but temporally more sporadic influence. Insight is also brought to the ongoing discussion, confirming the disassociation of the Arctic and North Atlantic Oscillation. Findings can be used in water resources forecasting, giving an indication of expected water volumes several months ahead.
Flashing-Induced Instability Analysis and the Start-Up of Natural Circulation Boiling Water Reactors

AbstractTo help achieve the necessary natural circulation flow, a fairly long chimney is installed in a natural circulation boiling water reactor (BWR) like the ESBWR. In such systems, hot water near the chimney exit could flash, thus leading to thermal-hydraulic instability during low-pressure start-up. A BWR stability analysis code in the frequency domain, named the Flashing-Induced STability Analysis for BWR (FISTAB), was developed in this work to address the issue of flashing-induced instability. The FISTAB code was benchmarked against the experimental results from the SIRIUS-N facility at the Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry in Japan. Both stationary and perturbation results agreed well with the experimental observations.The proposed ESBWR start-up procedure under natural convection conditions was examined by the FISTAB code. It was confirmed that the examined operating points along the ESBWR start-up trajectory from TRACG simulation would be stable. Furthermore, to avoid the ins...