bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Nearly Optimal Algorithm for Deciding Connectivity Queries in Smooth and Bounded Real Algebraic Sets
Authors: Din Mohab Safey El , Schost Éric
Published: January 2017

A roadmap for a semi-algebraic set
S
is a curve which has a non-empty and connected intersection with all connected components of
S
. Hence, this kind of object, introduced by Canny, can be used to answer connectivity queries (with applications, for instance, to motion planning) but has also become of central importance in effective real algebraic geometry, since it is used in higher-level algorithms.

In this article, we provide a probabilistic algorithm which computes roadmaps for smooth and bounded real algebraic sets. Its output size and running time are polynomial in (
nD
)

n
log (
d
)

, where
D
is the maximum of the degrees of the input polynomials,
d
is the dimension of the set under consideration and
n
is the number of variables. More precisely, the running time of the algorithm is essentially subquadratic in the output size. Even under our assumptions, it is the first roadmap algorithm with output size and running time polynomial in (
nD
)

n
log (
d
)

.
Reduced prosthetic stiffness lowers the metabolic cost of running for athletes with bilateral transtibial amputations
Authors: Beck Owen N. , Taboga Paolo , Grabowski Alena M.
Published: January 2017

Inspired by the springlike action of biological legs, running-specific prostheses are designed to enable athletes with lower-limb amputations to run. However, manufacturer’s recommendations for prosthetic stiffness and height may not optimize running performance. Therefore, we investigated the effects of using different prosthetic configurations on the metabolic cost and biomechanics of running. Five athletes with bilateral transtibial amputations each performed 15 trials on a force-measuring treadmill at 2.5 or 3.0 m/s. Athletes ran using each of 3 different prosthetic models (Freedom Innovations Catapult FX6, Össur Flex-Run, and Ottobock 1E90 Sprinter) with 5 combinations of stiffness categories (manufacturer’s recommended and ± 1) and heights (International Paralympic Committee’s maximum competition height and ± 2 cm) while we measured metabolic rates and ground reaction forces. Overall, prosthetic stiffness [fixed effect (β) = 0.036; P = 0.008] but not height ( P ≥ 0.089) affected the net metabolic cost of transport; less stiff prostheses reduced metabolic cost. While controlling for prosthetic stiffness (in kilonewtons per meter), using the Flex-Run (β = −0.139; P = 0.044) and 1E90 Sprinter prostheses (β = −0.176; P = 0.009) reduced net metabolic costs by 4.3–4.9% compared with using the Catapult prostheses. The metabolic cost of running improved when athletes used prosthetic configurations that decreased peak horizontal braking ground reaction forces (β = 2.786; P = 0.001), stride frequencies (β = 0.911; P < 0.001), and leg stiffness values (β = 0.053; P = 0.009). Remarkably, athletes did not maintain overall leg stiffness across prosthetic stiffness conditions. Rather, the in-series prosthetic stiffness governed overall leg stiffness. The metabolic cost of running in athletes with bilateral transtibial amputations is influenced by prosthetic model and stiffness but not height.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We measured the metabolic rates and biomechanics of five athletes with bilateral transtibial amputations while running with different prosthetic configurations. The metabolic cost of running for these athletes is minimized by using an optimal prosthetic model and reducing prosthetic stiffness. The metabolic cost of running was independent of prosthetic height, suggesting that longer legs are not advantageous for distance running. Moreover, the in-series prosthetic stiffness governs the leg stiffness of athletes with bilateral leg amputations.
27-Gauge Vitrectomy for Symptomatic Vitreous Floaters with Topical Anesthesia
Authors: Lin Zhong , Moonasar Nived , Wu Rong Han , Seemongal-Dass Robin R.
Published: January 2017

Purpose: Traditionally acceptable methods of anesthesia for vitrectomy surgery are quite varied. However, each of these methods has its own potential for complications that can range from minor to severe. The surgery procedure of vitrectomy for symptomatic vitreous floaters is much simpler, mainly reflecting in the nonuse of sclera indentation, photocoagulation, and the apparently short surgery duration. The use of 27-gauge cannulae makes the puncture of the sclera minimally invasive. Hence, retrobulbar anesthesia, due to its rare but severe complications, seemed excessive for this kind of surgery. Method: Three cases of 27-gauge, sutureless pars plana vitrectomy for symptomatic vitreous floaters with topical anesthesia are reported. Results: The vitrectomy surgeries were successfully performed with topical anesthesia (proparacaine, 0.5%) without operative or postoperative complications. Furthermore, none of the patients experienced apparent pain during or after the surgery. Conclusion: Topical anesthesia can be considered for 27-guage vitrectomy in patients with symptomatic vitreous floaters.
Mutual Coupling Optimization of Compact Microstrip Array Antenna
Authors: Teng Lin , Pei Jingrui , Yin Shoulin
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we perfect the mutual coupling of compact microstrip array antenna by designing a new defected ground structure. When the resonant frequency is 2.45GHz, array element spacing is 0.1 times of free space wavelength, we introduce new defected ground structure into antenna array. Then we use HFSS to make simulation and compare the changing of antenna's parameters before and after adding defected ground structure. The results demonstrate that the parameters representing mutual coupling in new model can reduce by 30dB, which effectively perfects the mutual coupling of compact microstrip array antenna.
Optimization of Makespan in Job Shop Scheduling Problem by Golden Ball Algorithm
Authors: Sayoti Fatima , Riffi Mohammed Essaid , Labani Halima
Published: January 2017

Job shop scheduling problem (JSSP) is considered to belong to the class of NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem. Finding a solution to this problem is equivalent to solving different problems of various fields such as industry and logistics. The objective of this work is to optimize the makespan in JSSP using Golden Ball algorithm. In this paper we propose an efficient adaptation of Golden Ball algorithm to the JSSP. Numerical results are presented for 36 instances of OR-Library. The computational results show that the proposed adaptation is competitive when compared with other existing methods in the literature; it can solve the most of the benchmark instances.
Clustering Large Data with Mixed Values Using Extended Fuzzy Adaptive Resonance Theory
Authors: Srinivasulu Asadi , Dakshayani Gadupudi
Published: January 2017

Clustering is one of the technique or approach in content mining and it is used for grouping similar items. Clustering software datasets with mixed values is a major challenge in clustering applications. The previous work deals with unsupervised feature learning techniques such as k-Means and C-Means which cannot be able to process the mixed type of data. There are several drawbacks in the previous work such as cluster tendency, partitioning, less accuracy and less performance. To overcome all those problems the extended fuzzy adaptive resonance theory (EFART) came into existence which indicates that the usage of fuzzy ART with some traditional approach. This work deals with mixed type of data by applying unsupervised feature learning for achieving the sparse representation to make it easier for clustering algorithms to separate the data. The advantages of extended fuzzy adaptive resonance theory are high accuracy, high performance, good partitioning, and good cluster tendency. This EFART adopts unsupervised feature learning which helps to cluster the large data sets like the teaching assistant evaluation, iris and the wine datasets. Finally, the obtained results may consist of clusters which are formed based on the similarity of their attribute type and values.
Mapping of Flooded Areas in the Kudus District
Authors: Fiati Rina , Latubessy Anastasya
Published: January 2017

Flood is still an annual problem in the Kudus District. Based on the survey and interview with Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD – Badan Penanggulangan Bencana Daerah) data showed that in the Kudus District there are still many flood-prone areas. They also said that, there are six parameter that can be used to identify potential flood area such as: extensive inundation (km2, ha), depth or height of flood waters (meters), the flow velocity (m/s,km/h), the material washed away by flood flow (rocks, boulders, trees, and other solid objects), concentrations of water or silt thickness (meters, centimeters), and duration of inundation (hours, days, months). Therefor this research use six parameters are then analyzed and used as a benchmark model to identify flood-prone areas by using the production rule method, and as the material in constructing and designing flood-prone area identification systems based on expert system. Thus this research resulted a system to assist the identification of flood prone areas in the Kudus District by using expert system and geographic information system (GIS).
Diversity of Auricularia (Auriculariaceae, Auriculariales) in Thailand
Authors: BANDARA ASANKA R. , KARUNARATHNA SAMANTHA C. , PHILLIPS ALAN J.L. , MORTIMER PETER E. , XU JIANCHU , KAKUMYAN PATTANA , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: January 2017

The identification of Auricularia species has previously relied on the examination of macroscopic features of mushroom samples collected in Thailand. These features may vary with age, light exposure, moisture and other factors, making such identification prone to error. This study uses morphological characteristics and molecular data to improve upon previous classifications of Auricularia species. Fruiting bodies collected during recent field excursions and previous collections from herbaria were examined and sequenced for two loci, viz. ITS and rpb2. Auricularia asiatica is described as a new species based on both morphological characteristics and molecular data, and is introduced with a full description, illustrations and colour photographs. Auricularia cornea and A. villosula are described as new records from Thailand. A combined ITS and rpb2 phylogenetic tree is provided, showing the placement of five Auricularia species found in Thailand.
Gone with the wind: westward dispersal across the Indian Ocean and island speciation in Hemicordulia dragonflies (Odonata: Corduliidae)
Authors: DIJKSTRA KLAAS-DOUWE B.
Published: January 2017

The taxonomy and biogeography of the western representatives of the largely Papuan-Australian genus Hemicordulia are discussed and compared with other alate fauna including butterflies, birds, bats and other dragonflies. Specimens from Malawi, Mozambique, Réunion, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda were compared with Indian specimens of H. asiatica, with which they were previously regarded conspecific. They are found to be distinct and are described as the continental H. africana n. sp. and those from Réunion as H. atrovirens n. sp. The three species were compared with H. similis of Madagascar and H. virens of Mauritius. Insufficient material of the Seychelles taxon H. similis delicata was available; it may represent another insular endemic species. The distribution of Hemicordulia is discussed in the light of the dispersal capacity of Odonata and the biogeography of taxa with similar distributions in the region, with an emphasis on the survival of ‘oceanic’ species on the continent. Recent (i.e. in the last few million years) trans-oceanic airborne dispersal aided by westward storms, is the most likely explanation for the distribution of the genus in Africa and the Indian Ocean islands, as well as for other winged animals of Asian affinities in the region. The world range of Hemicordulia is largely insular, broadly excluding continents, and H. africana n. sp. demonstrates ‘inverted insularity’: all continental sites are in proximity to large water bodies, such as the great African lakes. This pattern may be related to the climatological instability of these sites, which offer suitable cool habitat where competition is (temporarily) reduced. Hemicordulia prefer cool conditions, but may be vulnerable to overheating and competition with more warm-adapted species.
Cryptic within cryptic: genetics, morphometrics, and bioacoustics delimitate a new species of Eleutherodactylus (Anura: Eleutherodactylidae) from Eastern Cuba
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ ARIEL , DUGO-COTA ÁLVARO , MONTERO-MENDIETA SANTIAGO , GONZALEZ-VOYER ALEJANDRO , BOSCH ROBERTO ALONSO , VENCES MIGUEL , VILÀ CARLES
Published: January 2017

We studied the variation in genetics, bioacustics, and morphology in Eleutherodactylus glamyrus, a regionally endemic frog species restricted to high elevations in the Sierra Maestra Massif, Western Cuba that was originally described as a cryptic species hidden under the name E. auriculatus. Genetic analysis of mtDNA sequences of the 16S and cob genes identify two allopatric and strongly supported mitochondrial clades (phylogroups) which also showed no haplotype sharing in the nuclear Rag-1 gene. Bioacustic, and morphological comparisons concordantly identify these two phylogroups as independent evolutionary lineages. Therefore, we herein restrict the name Eleutherodactylus glamyrus Estrada and Hedges to populations represented in our analyses as the western phylogroup (Cordillera del Turquino to Pico La Bayamesa) and consider specimens from the eastern phylogroup (Sierra del Cobre) to represent a new species described and named as Eleutherodactylus cattus. Our results add to the growing list of Eleutherodactylus species endemic to Cuba and highlight the importance of combining different sources of evidence for obtaining robust assessments of species limits in amphibians.
An overview of the genus Plesionika Bate, 1888 (Decapoda, Caridea, Pandalidae) in Asian waters
Authors: AHAMED FERDOUS , CARDOSO IRENE A. , AHMED ZOARDER F. , HOSSAIN MD. Y. , OHTOMI JUN
Published: January 2017

The pandalid genus Plesionika Bate, 1888 includes 93 species and has a widespread distribution including mainly subtropical and tropical waters and some temperate waters, but most species can be found in the Indo-West Pacific. The species of this genus are benthic or nektobenthic, feeding on pelagic and benthic resources. Up to the present, the occurrence of 45 species of the genus has been reported from Asian waters. However, studies on these species from this region are mainly concerning their taxonomic report and very less their biology. Herein a key for the 45 Asian Plesionika species, and brief notes on its taxonomy are provided.
A Technique for Evaluating Man-Machine System Designs
Authors: Siegel Arthur I. , Wolf J. Jay
Published: January 2017

A computer based method for digitally simulating the performance, in one-operator systems, of operators who possess various characteristics is described. The method is believed applicable for evaluating various system designs while the system is in the early design stage. Two operational tasks, landing an F4D aircraft on a carrier and firing an air-to-air missile, were simulated using the method. The predictions from the model were compared with outside criterion data for the same tasks. The predictions are held to conform generally with reality and to be reasonable. The results of the two applications of the model were in general agreement. It is held that the model may be considered sound and may now be tentatively employed for comparative evaluation of alternative system designs or for predicting system performance.
Perceived Movement in Depth as a Function of Luminance and Velocity
Authors: Baker Charles A. , Steedman William C.
Published: January 2017

The ability of subjects to perceive movement in depth of a luminous object in an otherwise stimulus-free surround has been studied. This research resulted from an analysis of anticipated visual skills required in certain manned space vehicle operations. This stimulus object subtended a visual angle of 40 min of arc at the onset of movement. Luminance was varied from 0.001 to 1.0 ft-Lambert. The speed of movement was varied so that the change in visual angle of the stimulus varied from approximately 1/4 min of arc per sec to approximately 2 min of are per sec. Both monocular and binocular viewing conditions were used. Detection of movement improved as the luminance increased from 0.001 to 0.1 ft-Lambert. A. further increase in luminance to 1.0 ft-Lambert did not affect performance significantly. Rate of movement interacted with the threshold criterion level; the higher rates of movement were superior for the higher threshold criteria. Binocular viewing was superior to monocular. Under optimum conditions 75 per cent correct detection was achieved when the visual angle increased or decreased by 2 per cent.
Body Stabilization and the Strength of Arm Extension
Authors: Caldwell Lee S.
Published: January 2017

Nine subjects were measured to determine the maximum force of arm extension (push) at five elbow-angles at 25° intervals between 60° and 160°, and with five conditions of back support: no back support, and with a support at 20, 40, 60 and 80 per cent of the distance from the seat to the height of the shoulder joints. It was found that the strength of the response was influenced by the elbow-angle and the degree of body stabilization provided by the backrest. The backrest height had little effect at the lesser elbow-angles, but as the arm was further straightened to 135° or 160° the back support became an important factor in limiting the strength of the response. These results emphasize the importance of both joint angle and body stabilization in the production of usable muscle forces.
Motivational Problems in Human-Computer Operations
Authors: Jordan Nehemiah
Published: January 2017

In designing machines and man-machine systems, Human Factors Engineering has generally concentrated upon seeking solutions to physiological problems to enable the human operator to function efficiently. It has, however, neglected the psychological problems, particularly the problems of motivation. This was not too critical as long as machines were “primitive.” With the advent of automation and complex man-machine systems this neglect may have most undesirable effects. An attempt is made to identify the necessary conditions which make a task, per se, motivating. Examples are cited from some new systems where some of these necessary conditions are lacking and the effect of this lack upon the operator is indicated
An Evaluation of Four Methods of Monitoring Simultaneous Primary and Secondary Voice Messages
Authors: Williams William E. , Young Donald D.
Published: January 2017

Four methods of monitoring simultaneous primary and secondary voice messages were investigated in high and low ambient noise environments. Two of the methods used a single earpiece headset and wall speaker, and two methods used a dual earpiece headset with either the primary message in one ear and the secondary message in the other ear, or the primary message in both ears and the secondary message in a single ear. A realistic script and operational setting were used to test the conditions using 54 trained subjects. The dual-headset methods were found to be significally superior to the headset/speaker method in most scoring categories. No significant differences were found between noise levels. The findings are compared with previous research on multimessage monitoring.
Attentuation of the Vigilance Decrement through Stimulation in a Second Modality
Authors: Randel Josephine M.
Published: January 2017

The use of discrete, randomly-placed tones to attenuate a decrement in performance in a visual vigilance task was studied. As the measure of vigilance, the descending CFF threshold was taken at 15 time intervals throughout the hour watch. 60 male subjects were assigned to one of the six conditions of the experiment. A regular or irregular pattern of intervals for the presentation of the visual stimuli was combined with one of three sound conditions: (1) a ready signal in the form of a 1000 cps tone lasting one second and indicating the start of a visual signal, (2) tones of the same dimensions randomly placed and not indicating the presence of a visual signal, (3) no tones. The results indicated optimum performance for condition (1) with conditions (2) and (3) following in that order and confirming that the vigilance decrement can be attenuated to a significant degree when random auditory stimulation is provided. No significant difference was found between the two types of visual patterns.
Practice Effects on a Visual Vigilance Task with and without Search
Authors: Colquhoun W. Peter , Edwards Robert S.
Published: January 2017

Changes in performance at a visual vigilance task over eight 40-minute sessions were studied in three groups of eight subjects. The task was to inspect a series of displays of small disks for the occasional presence of a disk of slightly greater area than the others. For one group (search), each display consisted of a row of six disks. For one of the two no-search groups, the display contained two adjacent disks, one of which served as a reference standard; for the other group this reference disk was absent. Substantial improvement in overall detection rate occurred in all three groups. Analysis indicated that in each case this improvement was due to a genuine increase in discriminatory efficiency and not to any change in response criterion. Neither search nor the presence or absence of a reference standard appeared to affect the degree of improvement observed to any marked extent. Within-session decrement was observed only in the search group; this decrement was found to result from a change in response criterion, and not from any alteration either in discriminatory efficiency or search strategy.
Further Investigations of Movement Time between Brake and Accelerator Pedals in Automobiles
Authors: Davies Benjamin T. , Watts John M.
Published: January 2017

This report presents the results of continued studies into the nonoptimality of the positional relationship of brake and accelerator pedals in contemporary automobiles. Ten female subjects were tested to determine how long it takes to move the foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal under four conditions involving variations in brake pedal height and seat height. Experimental results indicated: (1) a reduction in stopping distance of upwards of 10 ft. could be effected at high speeds, (2) seat height had no effect on movement time of foot from accelerator to brake pedal in the case of female drivers, and (3) movement times for female drivers when compared with previous experiments on male drivers are the same when the brake pedal is 6 in. higher than the accelerator but are 25% slower when the pedals are in the same horizontal plane.
The Functional Relation between Alignment Accuracy and Vertical Separation of Alignment Marks
Authors: Squillace Anthony S. , Bien Ann R.
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine the functional relation between alignment error (horizontal offset of two alignment marks) and the vertical separation distance of the alignment marks when the alignment is attempted. This relation was studied with four types of alignment marks and two extreme levels of ambient illumination. The vertical separations ranged from 0.050 to 3.2 in. A significant interaction was found between vertical separation distance and alignment mark design: designs which provided vernier cues were found to be the most effective at greater vertical separation distances. The relation between alignment error and vertical separation can be described by a third-order polynomial.
Visual Performance with High-Contrast Cathode-Ray Tubes at High Levels of Ambient Illumination
Authors: Knowles William B. , Wulfeck Joseph W.
Published: January 2017

Gap-detection thresholds and working-level preferences were determined for one standard and three experimental high-contrast cathode-ray tubes under four levels of ambient illumination, 100, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 ft.-c.; two angles of incidence, 30 and 60°; and two angles of regard, 0 and −45° Trace brightnesses required to perform the visual tasks were primarily a function of the reflectances and resulting background brightnesses of the cathode-ray-tube faces. The results of this study are related to classical psychophysical data on brightness discrimination, earlier work on “masking luminance” for rador displays, and a recent study on visual performance using electroluminescent displays under high ambient illumination.
Choice of Speed in Driving Through Curves as a Function of Advisory Speed and Curve Signs
Authors: Ritchie Malcolm L.
Published: January 2017

Fifty drivers drove through 162 curves on Ohio rural highways. They drove faster and produced more lateral acceleration when (a) a curve sign was present and (b)an advisory speed sign was present than under the opposite conditions. Drivers exceeded advisory speeds of 15 to 35 miles per hour, but did not exceed advisories of 45 and 50.
Monitoring Performance Across Sense Modes: An Individual Differences Approach
Authors: Tyler Dolores M. , Waag Wayne L. , Halcomb Charles G.
Published: January 2017

A number of previous investigations have reported relatively low correlations between performance measures across different sense modalities. It has been suggested that such low intertask correlations may have resulted from a failure to control for task difficulty. Attempts to control for task difficulty on a group basis have been unsuccessful as evidenced by the varied and often contradictory findings. The present investigation attempted to equate task difficulty across sense modes on an individual basis. The critical dimension for the detection task used in this investigation was stimulus duration. For each subject, stimulus durations were obtained for both visual and auditory presentation which resulted in similar detection rates and were then used as signals in a later monitoring task. All subjects performed the monitoring task under three conditions: (1) visual presentation only, (2) auditory presentation only, and (3) simultaneous auditory-visual presentation. Measures included correct detections, false alarms, d', and β. All measures were found to be highly correlated across the three task conditions. The findings of this investigation provide support to the notion of a common “vigilance factor.”
Programmed Safety through Programmed Learning
Authors: Leslie John Howell , Adams S. K.
Published: January 2017

A study was conducted to determine the relative effectiveness of various safety training techniques on industrial accident occurrence. A punch press simulator was designed and equipped with special electronic instrumentation to record the occurrence of simulated accidents as well as to indicate the production of substandard simulated parts. Four training techniques were used to impart instructions to four groups of 25 experimental subjects each. The training methods included: an audio-visual presentation (slides and audio tapes); direct, face-to-face oral instruction; no instruction (a control group); and a video tape presentation. The study proved that industrial simulation is a feasible means of determining the effectiveness of industrial training instructions. In terms of accident performance, the classical, face-to-face training method proved to be the most effective. There was a significant difference in accident occurrences relative to the four training procedures. There were no significant differences in the elapsed times to first accident, the total time required to perform the task, or the quality of parts associated with the various training methods. By constructing learning curves it was determined that the accident occurrence data conformed to a curve generally associated with learning while the production of good quality parts remained relatively constant.
An Ergonomic Investigation of Multipurpose Chairs
Authors: Grandjean Etienne , Hünting Wilhelm , Wotzka Günter , Schärer Richard
Published: January 2017

Twelve types of chairs were investigated using a sample of 50 men and women. Each chair was compared with every other chair for comfort. A questionnaire concerning comfort in different parts of the body was also administered. Analysis of the paired comparisons allowed a rank ordering of the 12 chairs. The questionnaire revealed advantages as well as disadvantages of specific parts of the chairs. Comparison of the judgments with the shape characteristics of the seats gave clues to the design of a chair for multiple uses.
Part-Task Simulation Training of Drivers' Passing Judgments
Authors: Lucas Richard , Heimstra Norman , Spiegel Douglas
Published: January 2017

Subjects were pretested in an on-the-road situation requiring that they estimate the last possible moment for safely passing a lead vehicle in the face of an oncoming vehicle. The subjects were then exposed to a number of filmed scenes and again required to estimate the last possible safe moment for passing. Half the subjects received feedback concerning the accuracy of their estimates while the others did not. A posttest conducted on the road showed that there was a significant improvement in the performance of the group that had received feedback during the training session.
Aircraft Simulators and Pilot Training
Authors: Caro Paul W.
Published: January 2017

Flight simulators are built as realistically as possible, presumably to enhance their training value. Yet, their training value is determined by the way they are used. Traditionally, simulators have been less important for training than have aircraft, but they are currently emerging as primary pilot training vehicles. This new emphasis is an outgrowth of systems engineering of flight training programs, and a characteristic of the resultant training is the employment of techniques developed through applied research in a variety of training settings. These techniques include functional context training, minimizing over-training, effective utilization of personnel, use of incentive awards, peer training, and objective performance measurement. Programs employing these and other techniques, with training equipment ranging from highly-realistic simulators to reduced-scale paper mockups, have resulted in impressive transfer of training. The conclusion is drawn that a proper training program is essential to realizing the potential training value of a device, regardless of its realism.
A Review of Flight Simulator Transfer of Training Studies
Authors: Valverde Horace H.
Published: January 2017

Often operational equipment is considered to be the most effective and valid training equipment. However, this is not true in every instance. In fact, sometimes it may be undesirable to use real equipment for training if suitable simulators are available. For example, the use of operational equipment has several disadvantages which include (1) high costs, (2) limitation on practice of varied aspects of tasks, and (3) safety hazards. Practical decisions in the use of training devices depend upon compromises between economic and training objectives. A trainer need not duplicate operational equipment to have training value. Technical reports pertaining to flight simulator transfer of training studies available from the Defense Documentation Center are reviewed.
Synthetic Flight Training Revisited
Authors: Williges Beverly H. , Roscoe Stanley N. , Williges Robert C.
Published: January 2017

Critical issues in the development and use of synthetic flight trainers are reviewed. Degree of simulation and fidelity of simulation are discussed as key design considerations. Problems in measurement of original learning, transfer, and retention are presented. Both transfer effectiveness and cost effectiveness are described as critical factors in the evaluation of flight trainers. Recent training innovations, such as automatically adaptive training, computer-assisted instruction, cross-adaptive measurement of residual attention, computer graphics, incremental transfer effectiveness measurement, and response surface methodology, are discussed as potential techniques for improving synthetic flight training. It is concluded that broader application of simulation is necessary to meet the new demands of pilot training, certification, and currency assurance in air transportation.
Letter Size and Legibility
Authors: SMITH SIDNEY L.
Published: January 2017

The legibility of displayed letters depends upon their size, or more accurately, their subtended visual angle at any viewing distance. Current design standards recommend letter heights in the range from 0.003 to 0.007 rad (10 to 24 mill of arc) for good viewing conditions, with 0.0015 rad (5 min) considered a lower limit based on normal visual acuity. A field study involving some 2000 measures for over 300 printed displays found a mean letter height of 0.0019 rad (7 min) at the limit of legibility, with over 90% legibility at 0.003 rad and virtually 100% at 0.007 radians.
When Day Is Done and Shadows Fall, We Miss the Airport Most of All
Authors: ROSCOE STANLEY N.
Published: January 2017

Both the effectiveness of pilot training and the safety of flight can be influenced by the distribution of texture in the visual scene, the distance to which the eyes accommodate, and the associated shifts in the apparent size and distance of objects in central and peripheral vision. Studies reviewed and original results presented indicate that these factors are involved in various misjudgments and illusions experienced by pilots: (1) when searching for other airborne traffic or targets, (2) when making approaches to airports over water at night, (3) when breaking out of low clouds on a final approach to a landing by reference to head-up or head-down displays, and (4) when practicing simulated approaches and landings or air-to-surface weapon deliveries by reference to synthetically generated visual systems.
Elderly Suicide and Attempted Suicide: One Syndrome
Authors: Salib Emad , Tadros George , Cawley Sheila
Published: January 2017

In this study we explore whether elderly suicide victims who had a previous history of attempted suicide differ from those with no similar history.

A group of the elderly, who ended their lives with fatal self-harm (FSH) and had a history of deliberate self-harm (DSH) was compared to a matching group of the elderly who also ended their lives with FSH, but who were not known to have had any history of DSH. The comparison was in respect of epidemiological, social, psychological characteristics, service input and methods of suicide.

The elderly, with a history of DSH, were more likely to have been known to the mental health services than the elderly who did not have such a history (P<.05). The two groups used similar methods in their final FSH act.

The elderly victims of FSH with or without a previous history of DSH share the same characteristics. The two groups appear to be part of one syndrome.

Deliberate self-harm in the elderly should be taken seriously as an unsuccessful suicide rather than a manipulative act or a cry for help and attention.
Road-Traffic Accidents - A Demographic and Topographic Analysis
Authors: Sharma B R , Harish Dasari , Sharma Vivek , Vij Krishan
Published: January 2017

Injuries and fatalities occur in all forms of transportation, but numerically, road-traffic accidents account for the great majority worldwide. There is little that the autopsy surgeon can contribute to the elucidation of factors leading to the accident as it is largely the circumstantial and forensic laboratory evidence which is likely to reveal a non-accidental cause. However, the doctor's role in detecting the compatibility/incompatibility of the injuries with those usually sustained in traffic accidents (to detect any which are ‘atypical’, e.g. focal depressed fracture of the skull), distinguishing antemortem from postmortem injuries, demonstrating the presence of any disease capable of creating sudden incapacity and analysing samples for alcohol/drugs, etc., can go a long way in assigning roles to the human and to some extent vehicular and environmental factors. This warrants that a meticulous autopsy be conducted and not merely a catalogue of injuries. It must be appreciated that a fatal accident is likely to result in litigation and the extent of litigation cannot be anticipated at the time of the autopsy. One must, therefore, aim at the close study of any accident victim and a careful assessment of the case is always rewarding.

The present study was undertaken in the Department of Forensic Medicine at (a) Government Medical College, Jammu (1991–93), (b) Mulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi (1993–95) and (c) Government Medical College, Chandigarh (1994–June 2000), with the object of doing a comparative analysis of the various aspects of the road-traffic accidents and accidental deaths in three topographically and demographically different cities in India and to suggest remedial measures to bring down the accident rate.
Medico-Legalism
Authors: Nagle R.
Published: January 2017

A new concept of forensic study and practice, Medico-Legalism, is presented.

Traditional terms are more strictly defined and the contribution of this philosophy in the assessment of the academic status of medico-legal studies is discussed.
Homosexual Offences as Reported by the Press
Authors: Meldrum J. , West D. J.
Published: January 2017

An analysis of newspaper reports of prosecutions for male homosexual offences was carried out utilizing a collection supplied by a press cutting agency. Less than half the reports concerned prosecutions for activities with boys under 16. The majority were incidents of public indecency or importuning, usually in or around public conveniences. Non-consensual molestation of males over 16 was hardly ever reported. Many of the offences with the under 16s involved boys who participated willingly. The use of force was rarely reported.

The validity of findings based on press reports is discussed. The implications of the results for the understanding of homosexual misconduct are explored and possible applications in control policies are considered.
Medical Requirements and Consequences of Sex Reassignment Surgery
Authors: Hage J J
Published: January 2017

Prior to considering surgical reassignment, the key issue for the surgeon is to establish beyond reasonable doubt that the gender dysphoria or transsexual feeling is genuine and that surgical reassignment will be beneficial. For this he will need the expertise of a reputable behavioural scientist.

To determine whether the patient is physically fit for surgery, the surgeon may lean on the expertise of an endocrinologist with substantial personal experience in the field of hormonal treatment of transsexuals.

Sex reassignment for M→F transsexuals may be completed in one operation, leading to acceptable cosmetic and functional results, provided the surgery and postoperative treatment are performed with a high degree of expertise.

Present generation operative techniques for phalloplasty in F→M transsexuals still do not meet all requirements. The term ‘one-stage phalloplasty’ is deceiving. Genital reassignment surgery in F→M transsexuals can seldom be achieved in one stage. Prior to any form of this kind of surgery, this should be made clear to the patient. F→M and M→F transsexuals will become irreversibly infertile by the orchiectomy and the oöphoro-hysterectomy usually performed on them.

Diagnosis of, and counselling and treatment for, gender dysphoria should be restricted to reputable gender teams. These teams should exchange information.
Sex Differences in Patients Admitted to a Regional Secure Unit
Authors: Milne S , Barron P , Fraser K , Whitfield E
Published: January 2017

The case notes of all admissions to a Regional Secure Unit over a 12-year period were examined. A higher proportion of females had a diagnosis of personality disorder. Women were less likely to have a prosecuted offence associated with admission but were more likely to be charged with fire-setting. Patients with personality disorder were more likely to be transferred to special hospitals. Women were nearly three times as likely as men to be transferred to maximum security and this was not accounted for by the excess of females with personality disorder. There was net movement of men out of special hospitals whereas the opposite was true for women. Possible explanations for this are discussed.
Incidence of Persons with a Learning Disability Detained in Police Custody. A Needs Assessment for Service Development
Authors: Lyall I , Holland A J , Collins S , Styles P
Published: January 2017

The aim of this prospective study was to identify the number of people with a possible learning disability suspected of having committed a criminal offence who were taken into police custody during a defined period of time. Between 18 January 1993 and 18 March 1993 992 people were taken into custody at Parkside Police Station, Cambridge, of whom 251 (25.3%) were screened by the custody officer using a brief questionnaire to ascertain the presence or absence of reading and writing difficulties and to see if they had received extra help at school or if they had attended a special needs school. Information on age, sex, suspected offence, disposal, if a solicitor assisted and incidence of homelessness was gathered from the custody reports.

Eleven (4.4%) subjects screened had attended schools for children with moderate learning difficulties, while one (0.4%) suspect reported having attended a school for children with severe learning difficulties. A further 26 (10.4%) had attended schools for children with emotional or behavioural difficulties or a learning support unit within a mainstream school.

Those detained who had attended a special needs school for children with learning difficulties were all male. They had a mean age of 23.0 years (SD = 5.0) compared to the mean age of all subjects of 26.5 years (SD = 11.6). They were more likely to have been suspected of having committed acquisitive offences than people who attended mainstream schools. In addition, they were more likely to be remanded in custody, or to be bailed, prior to appearing in court, in contrast with those from mainstream schools who were much more likely to be cautioned. Three (25%) of those who attended schools for children with learning difficulties had the assistance of a solicitor while in police detention. Two (16.7%) of those suspects who had attended a school for children with learning difficulties were homeless compared to 19 (8.0%) homeless suspects who had attended mainstream schools.

These findings need to be considered when planning services for offenders. Existing or planned court diversion schemes should consider suspects with learning disabilities as well as those with other mental disorders. Health, probation and social services will be required if people with learning disabilities are to be diverted from the criminal justice system and the prison service should consider how to support a potentially vulnerable group if they are detained prior to trial or receive prison sentences.
Is it Time for a Formal Disciplinary Code for Psychiatric In-Patients in England and Wales?
Authors: Crichton John H. M.
Published: January 2017

Within psychiatric hospitals it is not legal for staff to formally punish a patient for any misdemeanour. The staff response to such an incident is cloaked in therapeutic terms even if it is in effect a disciplinary punishment. To avoid injustice and introduce safeguards into this process Professor Genevra Richardson (1993, 1995) suggests the need for the introduction of a disciplinary code for psychiatric in-patients. This paper discusses the need for better guidance for psychiatric staff and the problems of punitive sanctions on patients.
Characteristics of Young Offenders Detained under Section 53(2) at a Young Offenders' Institution
Authors: Puri B K , Lambert M T , Cordess C C
Published: January 2017

The objective of the study was to investigate the medical and psychiatric characteristics and needs of detainees held under s.53(2) of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933.

A case-note study of all subjects detained under s.53(2) at a young offenders' institution was carried out and their psychologists and medical officer interviewed.

The subjects had a high risk of having experienced family disruption, of psychoactive substance abuse, and poor educational progress, and they were more likely than the general population to be Afro-Caribbean or of mixed race. They were psychologically vulnerable and could become suicidal when exposed to risk factors such as bullying and not being visited often by friends and relatives. However, there was a lack of information available about the subjects in many important areas including assessment of needs for special education, of truancy, expulsions, child guidance clinic attendance, and placement on child protection registers. It was not clear whether these young people had been significantly in contact with services as children or whether they had slipped through the net.

In conclusion, the most important finding was a worrying lack of information about this group. From the information available they were clearly atypical. More research is needed; more adequate information, for example with respect to physical and sexual abuse, child rearing, education, peer relationships, and contact with specialist health and social services, would assist in the development of services for the treatment of these serious young offenders and for prevention.
Legal Considerations in Cross-Jurisdictional Sharing of Public Health Laboratory Services
Authors: Berkery Molly R. , Penn Matthew S.
Published: January 2017

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Association of Public Health Laboratories initiated the Laboratory Efficiencies Initiative in 2011 to help address issues related to public health laboratory (PHL) capacity to perform critically needed tests and services. One approach to improving capacity and efficiency is sharing PHL services with other states or jurisdictions. Cross-jurisdictional sharing implicates numerous federal and state laws, including federal and state privacy laws, laboratory certifications, packaging and shipping requirements for laboratory specimens, and state laws regarding fees and revenue. While federal laws generally do not present insurmountable barriers to sharing PHL services, state laws vary greatly, even within the same region of the country. This article summarizes some of the potentially relevant federal and state legal issues related to cross-jurisdictional sharing. It is important that states interested in cross-jurisdictional sharing consider all relevant laws, potential conflicts of law, as well as inconsistencies with agreements already in place among health departments and laboratories.