cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
State activism and the hidden incentives behind bank acquisitions.

Abstract A number of studies have shown that, as a result of the ambiguity of US legal mandates, organizations have considerable latitude in how they comply with regulations. In this paper, we address how the different agendas of the federal and state governments increase ambiguities in state-firm relations and how states are interested actors in creating opportunities for firms to navigate the federal legislation. We analyze the institutional forces behind bank acquisitions within and across state lines in order to illuminate the ways that US states take advantage of federal ambiguity and are able to shape corporate practices to their benefit. We specifically examine how patterns of bank acquisitions are shaped by the crucial relationship between the federal Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and a little-understood provision in the federal tax code that is implemented at the state level, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC). The relationship is complex because, while the federal government uses the CRA to control bank acquisition activity, states promote use of the LIHTC, through which banks can address federal CRA concerns, and thereby promote bank acquisitions in their jurisdictions. Thus, our findings suggest that the implementation of social legislation at one level in a federal regulatory system undermines the mechanisms of social legislation at another level. We use archival research and in-depth interviews to examine the interaction between these institutional processes and formulate hypotheses that predict the ways in which bank acquisitions are constrained by banks’ CRA ratings and the way states in turn help banks overcome their CRA constraints. Quantitative analyses of all bank acquisitions in the United States from 1990–2000 largely support these hypotheses.
Professional community and the problem of high school reform

Abstract A two-year qualitative study of mathematics and English teachers in two urban comprehensive high schools investigated how teacher community serves as resource for teacher development and school reform. A school engaged in whole-school reform sustained high teacher commitment and school-level community by constituting professional community strongly at the school level, but its departments displayed varying capacity and disposition to examine problems of teaching and learning at the classroom level. In the second school, innovative teacher communities were constituted strongly at the department level in English and mathematics, but suffered problems of stress and turnover due to weak organizational supports for teacher development and school reform. Findings point both to the potential contribution of professional communities situated in subject departments and the challenge of capitalizing on such communities to advance whole-school reform. The study suggests complex relationships among organizational context, teacher community, teacher development, and institutional reform.
A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of the Literature to Evaluate Potential Threats to Internal Validity in Probe Procedures for Chained Tasks

The two most frequently used methods for assessing performance on chained tasks are single opportunity probes (SOPs) and multiple opportunity probes (MOPs). Of the two, SOPs may be easier and less time-consuming but can suppress actual performance. In comparison, MOPs can provide more information but present the risk of participants acquiring steps from probing alone. The authors reviewed and summarized 20 years of single-case design literature that evaluated methods of teaching chained tasks to individuals with disabilities. The authors identified a total of 33 studies. Individual tiers of multiple baseline and probe design graphs were analyzed to evaluate possible differences in participant responding within and between baseline and intervention conditions. Differences were evident, but none considered statistical when comparing data from SOPs and MOPs. The authors discuss possible publication bias as a reason for these findings and offer future research ideas to extend the literature on probe procedures.
High-Reynolds-Number Laminar Flow in the Mach-6 Quiet-Flow Ludwieg Tube

The Boeing/AFOSR Mach-6 Quiet Tunnel (BAM6QT) has been developed to provide laminar nozzle-wall boundary layers at high Reynolds numbers, and thus low noise levels comparable to ∞ight. After four years of shakedown, quiet ∞ow has now been achieved to moderately high unit Reynolds numbers of about 2:7 £ 10 6 /ft., and momentumthickness Reynolds numbers of about 2700, although this performance is not yet reliable. Nevertheless, the BAM6QT is the only operational hypersonic quiet tunnel, anywhere. The freestream pitot-pressure ∞uctuations during high Reynolds number quiet ∞ow are less than 0.02%, the lowest value ever reported. Problems with early transition were apparently due to a small ∞aw in the leading edge of the bleed lip of the original electroformed-nickel throat. The bleed lip of the nickel throat was modifled to eliminate separation bubbles that are still predicted by RutgersUniversity computations. This process should further improve the quiet-∞ow performance of the tunnel. The modiflcation is complete and the resulting bleed-lip shape is reported here, although the performance of the recut bleed-lip tip has not yet been determined. Additional measurements of the temperatures in the contraction entrance are also reported.
Effect of Number of Readout Channels on the Performance of a Continuous Miniature Crystal Element (cMiCE) Detector

In this work we investigate how the intrinsic spatial resolution varies with the number of digitized readout channels for a 64 (8 times 8) channel detector using a statistics-based positioning algorithm. We report results for both 6 mm and 8 mm thick crystals. Three channel reduction schemes are explored. The simplest scheme is row and column summing (R-C sum) of the PMT channels. The second method is to only use channels with signals above a 1% threshold of the total signal (1% thres). The third method is to acquire a subset of PMT channels determined by the maximum signal channel (zone mask). The full width at half maximum (FWHM) intrinsic spatial resolution results for the central and corner sections of the detector are presented for each of the methods. All methods except R-C sum performed well for the central section of the detector. The 1% thres and zone mask schemes showed significant improvement for the corner section of the 6 mm thick crystal. All methods using a single depth LUT had difficulty in the corner region for the 8 mm thick crystal. We believe this is caused by depth dependent edge effects on the light response function. Initial results using a depth dependent look-up table show improved positioning performance.
Asian Outflow and Trans-Pacific Transport of Carbon Monoxide and Ozone Pollution: An Integrated Satellite, Aircraft, and Model Perspective

Satellite observations of carbon monoxide (CO) from the Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT) instrument are combined with measurements from the Transport and Chemical Evolution Over the Pacific (TRACE-P) aircraft mission over the northwest Pacific and with a global three-dimensional chemical transport model (GEOS-CHEM) to quantify Asian pollution outflow and its trans-Pacific transport during spring 2001. Global CO column distributions in MOPITT and GEOS-CHEM are highly correlated (R(exp 2) = 0.87), with no significant model bias. The largest regional bias is over Southeast Asia, where the model is 18% too high. A 60% decrease of regional biomass burning emissions in the model (to 39 Tg/yr) would correct the discrepancy; this result is consistent with TRACE-P observations. MOPITT and TRACE-P also give consistent constraints on the Chinese source of CO from fuel combustion (181 Tg CO/yr). Four major events of trans-Pacific transport of Asian pollution in spring 2001 were seen by MOPITT, in situ platforms, and GEOS-CHEM. One of them was sampled by TRACE-P (26-27 February) as a succession of pollution layers over the northeast Pacific. These layers all originated from one single event of Asian outflow that split into northern and southern plumes over the central Pacific. The northern plume (sampled at 6-8 km off California) had no ozone enhancement. The southern subsiding plume (sampled at 2-4 km west of Hawaii) contained a 8 - 17 ppbv ozone enhancement, driven by decomposition of peroxyacetylnitrate (PAN) to nitrogen oxides (NOx). This result suggests that PAN decomposition in trans-Pacific pollution plumes subsiding over the United States could lead to significant enhancements of surface ozone.
On the security of the visual hash function

Robust hash functions are central to the security of multimedia content authentication systems. Such functions are sensitive to a key but are robust to many allowed signal processing operations on the underlying content. The robustness of the hash function to changes in the original content implies the existence of a cluster in the feature space around the original contents feature vector, any point within which getting hashed to the same output. The shape and size of the cluster determines the trade-off between the robustness offered and the security of the authentication system based on the robust hash function. The clustering itself is based on a secret key and hence unknown to the attacker. However, we show that the specific clustering arrived at by the robust visual hash function (VHF) may be possible to learn. Given just an input and its hash bits, we show how to construct a statistical model of the hash function, without any knowledge of the secret key used to compute the hash. We also show how to use this model to engineer arbitrary and malicious collisions. Finally, we propose one possible modification to VHF so that constructing a model that mimics its behavior becomes difficult.
Inhibition of Cortisol Biosynthesis Decreases Circulating Leptin Levels in Obese Humans

Context: Glucocorticoids increase both appetite and leptin secretion; the hyperleptinemic effect might be a counterregulatory response to the orexigenic effect of glucocorticoids. However, the effect of glucocorticoid inhibition on leptin production has not been reported. Objective: We tested the hypothesis that if glucocorticoid-induced hyperleptinemia plays a physiological role, then inhibition of endogenous cortisol biosynthesis should decrease leptin secretion. Design: A randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study design was used. Setting: The study was carried out at a General Clinical Research Center. Participants: Eight obese subjects (four men, four women; mean age, 30.4 ± 1.56 yr; mean body mass index, 42.0 ± 1.33 kg/m2) participated in the study. Intervention: The subjects were treated with metyrapone (750 mg every 4 h) or placebo for 24 h during two overnight admissions, 2 wk apart. Blood sampling for measurement of cortisol, leptin glucose, insulin, and C-peptide was performed hourly for ...
Five year experience in prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of esophageal atresia in Saudi Arabia.

Esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF) is one of the most correctable fetal anomalies if diagnosed antenatally by serial ultrasound. We retrospectively evaluated antenatal diagnoses by ultrasound of EA with or without TOF at our institution in Saudi Arabia. We examined the records of mothers and infants with EA with or without TOF who were booked early and delivered at our institution during 1994 to 1998. Fetal diagnosis was based on level II serial ultrasound using a high-resolution ultrasound machine (n=78). In the 5-year period there were 58 491 live births with 1345 congenital abnormalities (2.3%) and 78 cases of EA with or without TOF (0.13%) diagnosed antenatally. The survival rate was 68% for women with vaginal deliveries and 60% for women with caesarean deliveries so caesarean delivery did not improve outcome. The Apgar score was 7 or greater at 5 minutes in 65 cases (83.5%) which emphasizes the problems such patients develop after delivery. Death was caused by anomalies other than EA that were incompatible with life or in the post-operative period by septicemia renal failure or cot death. Our study suggests that early antenatal booking serial ultrasound and early antenatal diagnosis improves outcome in EA with or without TOF. (authors)
Chordoma and Chondrosarcoma

Chordoma and chondrosarcoma represent 2 fundamentally different and challenging central skull base pathologies. Both are largely surgical diseases with varying outcomes based on completeness of resection. Adjuvant therapy is controversial, although radiation therapy is commonly employed postoperatively, and stereotactic radiosurgery is used either in primary management or treatment of local progression.
A General Program to Compute the Multivariable Stability Margin for Systems with Parametric Uncertainty

A computer program implementing the algorithm in [2,3,4] for computing the Multivariable Stability Margin to check the robust stability of feedback systems with real parametric uncertainty is proposed. An example demonstrating the performance of the program is discussed.
Adaptive subchannel allocation in multiuser multicarrier systems

The problem of multiuser scheduling in multicarrier (MC) systems under practical physical-layer constraints and implementations is considered. Subchannel allocation is an important resource assignment issue in multiuser MC systems. The multiuser scheduler is decoupled into a multiuser selector and a subchannel allocator, which result in a sub-optimum multiuser scheduler with significantly reduced computational complexity. Given an active user subset and a channel set, the multiuser scheduling problem then refers to the optimal subchannel allocation to maximise the instantaneous system throughput subject to certain fairness constraints. Efficient adaptive algorithms are developed for optimal subchannel allocation. The extension of the algorithms for tracking the time-varying optimum, which occurs in non-stationary environments, is also addressed. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithms in terms of the throughput maximisation, the fast convergence, the excellent tracking capability in time-varying environments, the achievable throughput of the proposed multiuser scheduler as well as the long-term fairness.
Anterior pituitary development: Short tales from dwarf mice

Jeffrey W. Voss’ and Michael G. Rosenfeld*t ‘ Eukaryotic Regulatory Biology Program tHoward Hughes Medical Institute Department of Medicine University of California, San Diego School of Medicine La Jolla, California 92093-0648 Defining the mechanisms by which specialized cells arise and generate organs containing functionally diverse cell types is of fundamental importance in understanding de- velopment. Study of the five distinct cell types of the mam- malian anterior pituitary gland that exert distinct functions in homeostatic control in vertebrates has provided insight
Randomized trials of alcohol-use interventions with college students and their parents: lessons from the Transitions Project

Background Matriculation from high school to college is typified by an increase in alcohol use and related harm for many students. Therefore, this transition period is an ideal time for preventive interventions to target alcohol use and related problems. Purpose The purpose of this report is to describe the design and methods used in the Transitions Project, a randomized controlled trial of two interventions designed to prevent and reduce heavy episodic drinking and alcohol-related negative consequences among incoming college students. Methods This study used a 2 � 2 factorial design to investigate the effects of a two-session brief motivational intervention delivered to students and a handbookbased parent intervention. Interventions were administered to students and parents. Follow-up assessment took place at 10- and 22-months post-baseline. Results The Transitions Project successfully recruited and retained participants across a major transition period (i.e., entering college), administered and compared two distinct but complementary interventions, and collected and analyzed highly skewed data. The application of a factorial design and two-part latent growth curve modeling allowed us to examine main and interactive intervention effects in terms of both initiation and growth in heavy drinking and alcohol-related problems. Limitations While we conducted successful tests of our primary and secondary study hypotheses over a lengthy follow-up period, our study design did not permit full interpretation of null findings. We suggest that researchers carefully consider assessment timing, tests of assessment reactivity, and ensure objective tests of intervention efficacy when conducting clinical trials of motivational interventions. Conclusions The lessons we learned while conducting this trial have the potential to assist other researchers designing and conducting future preventive interventions targeting parents and college students. The data analytic procedures presented can also help guide trials that plan to analyze zero-inflated non-normal outcome data. Clinical Trials 2011; 8: 205–213. http://ctj.sagepub.com
THE ROLE OF LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRAGMATIC COMPREHENSION

This study examines the role of environment in the development of pragmatic comprehension. It tracks two groups of Japanese students of English: 60 students in a college in Japan (English as a foreign language [EFL] learners) and 57 students in a college in the United States (English as a second language [ESL] learners). The learners completed a computerized listening task that measured their ability to comprehend two types of implied meaning: indirect refusals (k = 24) and indirect opinions (k = 24). The task was given to each group twice, before and after the students received approximately 120–130 hr of classroom instruction. Comprehension was analyzed for accuracy (scores) and speed (average time taken to answer each item correctly). Results showed that, in both learner groups, accuracy and comprehension speed improved significantly over time. For the EFL group, the magnitude of effect was much less for speed than for accuracy. In contrast, ESL learners showed significant improvement in comprehension speed, with a sizable effect size, but only marginal improvement in accuracy.
Study of K * ( 1780 ) in the Reaction K − p → K − π + n at 6 GeV/ c

We observe a K/sup -/..pi../sup +/ state at 1786 +- 8 MeV with a width 95 m* 31 MeV in reaction K/sup -/p ..-->.. K/sup -/..pi../sup +/n at 6 GeV/c, from an experiment carried out at the Brookhaven National Laboratory multiparticle spectrometer.
Mutant allele frequencies in domestic cats of Taiwan

Preliminary data for Taiwanese cats generally agree with previous findings in far eastern populations, especially Vladivostok. However, surveys are still too few in number to achieve any detailed perspective for this vast region.
Ontogeny of pituitary growth hormone and growth hormone mRNA in the chicken.

AbstractThe changes in pituitary growth hormone (GH) mRNA levels have been determined by Northern blot analysis and laser densitometry during embryonic development and posthatch growth of white Leghorn cockerels. Pituitary GH mRNA levels were observed to progressively increase between 18 days of embryonic development to a maximum at 4 weeks of age (posthatch). Subsequently, pituitary GH mRNA levels declined between 4 and 8 weeks of age, and between 12 weeks of age and adulthood. Pituitary GH contents showed increases during embryonic development and posthatch growth that paralleled the rise in GH mRNA. The decline in pituitary GH mRNA levels between 4 weeks of age and adulthood occurs when GH secretion has been observed previously to decline.
Comb-calibrated FMCW LADAR for Ranging and Imaging

We present a scanning imaging system based on a frequency-comb calibrated FMCW LADAR and real-time digital processing. 3D images of diffusely scattering objects are obtained at 10.5 m stand-off with precision below 10 µm, limited by fundamental speckle-noise.
Controlling Pre-tension of Silicone Membranes on Micro Air Vehicle Flexible Wings

This work is concerned with a new method to apply uniform and known pre-tension silicone membranes intended for micro air vehicles. Pre-tension has an immense effect on the static and dynamic response of membrane wings and controls the overall deflections. Two different frame geometries were fabricated to attach silicone film at various temperatures to control the pre-tension. The intent is to thermally expand the silicone membrane allowing the film to stretch, attach the frame, and cool to room temperature to develop tension. Stresses and strains are provided for membrane attachment at various temperatures. The results are plotted to predict pre-tension for the given frame geometries.
Analysis of pumping effect of rotary lip seal and influence factors

An equation of pumping rate is formulated from the macroscopic theoretical model of rotary lip seal.The influences of film thickness,contact pressure,contact width,lip angle,rotating speed and spring offset on pumping effect are analyzed.The results show that the seal can generate pumping effect only when the oil-side angle is larger than the air-side angle.The pumping rate increases with the increase of the oil-side angle while decreases with the increase of the air-side angle.The increase of contact pressure enhances the pumping effect.The pumping rate quickly increases with the increase of film thickness,while decreases with the increase of contact width.The pumping rate increases with the increase of rotating speed which causes an increase of film thickness.The spring installation position influences the contact pressure distribution,thus affecting the pumping rate.The calculation of pumping rate provides theoretical proofs for the selection of seal design parameters.
CMV: persistent nemesis for SCT

In this issue of Blood , [Teira et al][1] have shown, in a large database analysis, that cytomegalovirus (CMV) still kills stem cell transplant recipients but does not prevent relapse of malignancy.[1][2] ![Figure][3] Potential mechanisms relating infection and GVL effects. GVL activity
Single-Cell Gel Electrophoresis (Comet) Assay in Nano-genotoxicology

The Comet assay, or single-cell gel electrophoresis assay, is an easy and simple yet reliable method to evaluate DNA damage in cells. Under the alkaline conditions of this method, DNA strand breaks and alkaline-labile sites are detected. Here we describe the alkaline version of the Comet assay with applications in testing nanoparticles.
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis in renal rickets. Report of three cases.

Three patients are presented with chronic renal failure and slipped capital femoral epiphysis bilaterally. A thorough search of the literature suggests that this is a rare complication, and the possible explanations for its occurrence are discussed. The patients were considered to be too poor risks for surgical treatment and were treated conservatively. Progressive epiphyseal displacement or disability did not occur suggesting that this may be the treatment of choice.
Modifikation der Ilizarow-Technik

Knochenneubildung durch Callusdistraktion ist ein seit langem bekanntes Phanomen, das aber erst durch Ilisarow konsequent therapeutisch genutzt wurde. Das zugrundeliegende Prinzip der schrittweisen Aufdehnung eines Osteotomiespaltes last sich mit verschiedenen Fixations- und Transportmodellen verwirkhchen. Hierbei sind zum Teil nur begrenzte Erweiterungen der vorhandenen Implantate-Sets erforderhch, wie z.B. bei dem Augsburger- und dem Basler-System, die auf dem Rohr-fixateur der AO basieren. Die eleganteste und „physiologischste“Methode stellt sicher die kontinuierhche Callusdistraktion mittels Elektroantrieb dar, wie sie heute uber den Munchner Teleskopnagel bereits reahsiert wurde. Auf Dauer werden wohl alle Systeme so verandert werden, das sie diese Art der Callusdistraktion erlauben.
MO-FG-206-04: Hypothesis or Hypotheses, That Is the Question

Physicists are often expected to have a solid grounding in experimental design and statistical analysis, sometimes filling in when biostatisticians or other experts are not available for consultation. Unfortunately, graduate education on these topics is seldom emphasized and few opportunities for continuing education exist. Clinical physicists incorporate new technology and methods into their practice based on published literature. A poor understanding of experimental design and analysis could result in inappropriate use of new techniques. Clinical physicists also improve current practice through quality initiatives that require sound experimental design and analysis. Academic physicists with a poor understanding of design and analysis may produce ambiguous (or misleading) results. This can result in unnecessary rewrites, publication rejection, and experimental redesign (wasting time, money, and effort). This session will provide a practical review of common study designs and statistical tests. Instruction will primarily focus on practical implementation and answer questions such as: when a test/design is typically applied, what information is attained, and when the test/design is typically misapplied (i.e., common pitfalls). Learning Objectives: 1. Understand common experimental designs, what questions they can answer, and how to interpret their results 2. Review basic statistical tests commonly implemented in medical physics 3. Determine where specific statistical tests are appropriate and identify common pitfalls 4. Identify multiple hypothesis testing and how it impacts reported results
Angiographic embolization for hemorrhage following pelvic fracture: Is it "time" for a paradigm shift?

IntroductionMajor pelvic disruption with hemorrhage has a high rate of lethality. Angiographic embolization remains the mainstay of treatment. Delays to angiography have been shown to worsen outcomes in part because time spent awaiting mobilization of resources needed to perform angiography allows o
Summer habitat selection by Dall’s sheep in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Sexual segregation occurs frequently in sexually dimorphic species, and it may be influenced by differential habitat requirements between sexes or by social or evolutionary mechanisms that maintain separation of sexes regardless of habitat selection. Understanding the degree of sex-specific habitat specialization is important for management of wildlife populations and the design of monitoring and research programs. Using mid-summer aerial survey data for Dall’s sheep ( Ovis dalli dalli ) in southern Alaska during 1983–2011, we assessed differences in summer habitat selection by sex and reproductive status at the landscape scale in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve (WRST). Males and females were highly segregated socially, as were females with and without young. Resource selection function (RSF) models containing rugged terrain, intermediate values of the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and open landcover types best explained resource selection by each sex, female reproductive classes, and all sheep combined. For male and all female models, most coefficients were similar, suggesting little difference in summer habitat selection between sexes at the landscape scale. A combined RSF model therefore may be used to predict the relative probability of resource selection by Dall’s sheep in WRST regardless of sex or reproductive status.
Data-driven approach for programming a transputer-based system

A multiprocessor facility based upon Inmos transputers is described. It is programmable in a high-level dataflow language. The configuration of the machine is transparent to the programmer. The system consists of up to 16 mesh-connected transputers and an additional transputer connected to the host computer. Several features of the system, such as the structure handling scheme, function call mechanism, and routing process, are discussed. In addition, on the basis of both dataflow analysis (communication costs) and program syntax (program structure), partitioning and allocation procedures are implemented in the programming environment. Results of experiments demonstrate a linear speedup for a range of numerical applications. >
A manganese catalase from Thermomicrobium roseum with peroxidase and catecholase activity

An enzyme with catechol oxidase activity was identified in Thermomicrobium roseum extracts via solution assays and activity-stained SDS-PAGE. Yet, the genome of T. roseum does not harbor a catecholase gene. The enzyme was purified with two anion exchange chromatography steps and ultimately identified to be a manganese catalase with additional peroxidase and catecholase activity. Catalase activity (6280 ± 430 IU/mg) clearly dominated over pyrogallol peroxidase (231 ± 53 IU/mg) and catecholase (3.07 ± 0.56 IU/mg) activity as determined at 70 °C. Most enzyme kinetic properties were comparable to previously characterized manganese catalase enzymes. Catalase activity was highest at alkaline pH values and showed inhibition by excess substrate and chloride. The apparent K m and k cat values were 20 mM and 2.02 × 104 s−1 subunit−1 at 25 °C and pH 7.0.
Divergent reactivity of a new dinuclear xanthene-bridged bis(iminopyridine) di-nickel complex with alkynes.

The reaction of a dinucleating bis(iminopyridine) ligand L bearing a xanthene linker (L = N,N'-(2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,9-dimethyl-9H-xanthene-4,5-diyl)bis(1-(pyridin-2-yl)methanimine)) with Ni2(COD)2(DPA) (COD = cyclooctadiene, DPA = diphenylacetylene) leads to the formation of a new dinuclear complex Ni2(L)(DPA). Ni2(L)(DPA) can also be obtained in a one-pot reaction involving Ni(COD)2, DPA and L. The X-ray structure of Ni2(L)(DPA) reveals two square-planar Ni centers bridged by a DPA ligand. DFT calculations suggest that this species features NiI centers antiferromagnetically coupled to each other and their iminopyridine ligand radicals. Treatment of Ni2(L)(DPA) with one equivalent of ethyl propiolate (HCCCO2Et) forms the Ni2(L)(HCCCO2Et) complex. Addition of the second equivalent of ethyl propiolate leads to the observation of cyclotrimerised products by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Carrying out the reaction under catalytic conditions (1 mol% of Ni2(L)(DPA), 24 h, room temperature) transforms 89% of the substrate, forming primarily benzene products (triethyl benzene-1,2,4-tricarboxylate and triethyl benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate) in 68% yield, in a ca. 5 : 1 relative ratio. Increasing catalyst loading to 5 mol% leads to the full conversion of ethyl propiolate to benzene products; no cyclotetramerisation products were observed. In contrast, the reaction is significantly more sluggish with methyl propargyl ether. Using 1 mol% of the catalyst, only 25% conversion of methyl propargyl ether was observed within 24 h at room temperature. Furthermore, methyl propargyl ether demonstrates the formation of cyclooctatetraenes in significant amounts at a low catalyst concentration, whereas a higher catalyst concentration (5 mol%) leads to benzene products exclusively. Density functional theory was used to provide insight into the reaction mechanism, including structures of putative dinuclear metallocyclopentadiene and metallocycloheptatriene intermediates.
Testing sub-gravitational forces on atoms from a miniature in-vacuum source mass

Atomic interferometry measurements of the gravitational force on free-falling atoms provide improved constraints on certain scalar field theories trying to explain dark energy.
Real Symmetric Generalized Problems

The FORTRAN codes in this Chapter address the question of computing distinct eigenvalues and corresponding eigenvectors of a real symmetric generalized eigenvalue problem. Given two real symmetric matrices A and B, where B is positive definite and its Cholesky factors are available, these codes compute real scalars λ and corresponding real-valued vectors x ≠ 0 such that $$ Ax = \lambda Bx $$ (5.1.1)
The Influence of Western Spruce Budworm on Fire in Spruce-Fir Forests

Western spruce budworm (Choristoneura freemani Razowski; WSBW) is the most significant defoliator of coniferous trees in the western United States. Despite its important influence on Western forests, there are still gaps in our knowledge of WSBW’s impact on fire, and little research has been done on this relationship in high-elevation spruce-fir forests. Although this species is native to western North America, current outbreaks have persisted for many years in some areas, leading to high mortality rates among host tree species. Using the Fire and Fuels Extension of the Forest Vegetation Simulator (FFE-FVS), we examined the current and future impact of an ongoing WSBW outbreak on potential fire behavior in spruce-fir forests in northern New Mexico, USA. We found that this ongoing WSBW outbreak resulted in little to no difference in fire behavior under moderate fire weather conditions. Under high-severity fire weather conditions, stands enduring WSBW outbreaks experienced less severe fire behavior. We also found that WSBW outbreaks resulted in a decrease in fire behavior under severe fire weather conditions for 40 years following the outbreak.
Nonlinear Subspace Model Identification

Abstract Canonical variates state space (CVSS) modeling is a popular subspace linear model identification technique. A nonlinear extension of CVSS modeling approach was proposed (DeCicco and Cinar, 2000) . The modeling procedure consists of two steps: development of a multivariable nonlinear model for a set of latent variables and the linking of the latent variables to outputs of the process. The nonlinear model is structured like a Generalized Additive Model (GAM) and is estimated with CANALS, a nonlinear canonical variate analysis algorithm. This communication presents the methodology and an illustrative example of chemical reactor modeling using data generated from a detailed polymerization reactor model.
Estuarine Management – the Integrated Picture

Abstract The management of Gulf coast estuaries is becoming more important every day because of “sunbelt” population growth and corresponding increased conflict between user needs and ecosystem health. There is a developing awareness among both estuarine scientists and environmental managers that these ecosystems do not necessarily function as dictated by historical dogma. Consequently, a definite need exists to generate estuarine management strategies that focus upon integration of the complex interactions between biological, physical, chemical, and geological processes within estuarine systems. This integrative approach, creating a holistic picture of ecosystem function, is the basis for developing predictive models that will improve management decision-making concerning the best uses and survival of estuaries as productive and valuable resources. The combination of historical data on flora anf fauna standing stocks and recently collected data on interactive processes for south Texas estuaries has provided an understanding of how components of these estuaries interact and demonstrated the utility of integrative strategies to provide useable management tools. These efforts have shown that by taking a holistic approach to understand ecosystem function sound environmental management can be performed that balances ecosystem preservation with societal needs. The intent of this presentation was to demonstrate how the application of these strategies can be used to aid environmental decision-makers in better solving such problems as fishery maintenance, freshwater inflow regulation to estuaries, and navigation dredging. The strategies included identifying relationships between underlying forces that drive the estuarine systems and incorporating this information into a composite scheme of estuarine management. The ultimate goal is to use the research from these various studies to provide a rallying point for all regulating agencies faced with estuarine management responsibilities to focus upon.
Management of Immune-Related Adverse Events from Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy

Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy has forever changed the way we treat cancer. However, with that, the adverse events associated with this class of agents has brought new complications to the ongoing day-to-day care of oncology patients. Providers need to be educated and keenly aware of the significant differences in side-effect management between immunotherapy and other forms of oncologic therapy.
K-ras mutation and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, the human tumor with the highest incidence of K-ras mutations, is one of the leading causes of cancer death and has a very poor prognosis. Over the past few years, a molecular genetic profile of pancreatic cancer has started to emerge: K-ras mutations in at least 90% of cases, MTS1 alterations (somatic mutations and homozygous deletions) in 80%, p53 mutations in about 70%, as well as multiple sites of allelic loss in cancer cells. The detection of K-ras mutations is done by using one of several PCR-based methods. A modified allele-specific ligation assay recently described appears particularly simple and reproducible. The possibility of pancreatic ductal lesions being the early precursors of pancreatic cancer has gained support from the finding of frequent K-ras mutations in these lesions. Although K-ras mutations are a defining event in pancreatic ductal carcinogenesis, it is unclear in which genetic context they occur. K-ras mutations as markers of cancer cells have been detected in clinical specimens from patients, including stool and blood, raising the possibility of early diagnosis. In addition K-ras can be a molecular target for therapeutic intervention, as illustrated with the use of farnesylation inhibitors.
Case 29: Intraoperative Hypotension

A 5-year-old boy (12 kg) with a 36-h history of nausea and vomiting is admitted to the hospital. The child has a history of hydrocephalus and seizure disorder. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt, placed uneventfully under general anesthesia several years before, is seen to be working adequately. His medication consists of carbamazepine, 20 mg/kg per day. The patient has no history of drug allergy, nor is there any adverse family history of anesthetic complications. On examination, the child is listless, with other clinical signs of hypovolemia (skin turgor, mucous membranes, peripheral shut down). A chest X-ray shows bowel in the left hemithorax, and a presumptive diagnosis of a hernia of Morgagni is made. A pediatric surgeon is called. The child is rehydrated over a 2-h period and the blood electrolytes are normal. A rapid-sequence induction/intubation is performed without any difficulty (ketamine, 20 mg, and rocuronium, 20 mg) at 3:00 AM. Anesthesia is maintained with oxygen in air and isoflurane 0.3–0.5%. A thoracic epidural catheter is placed 15 min later, and 9 ml of 0.25 % bupivacaine with 0.2 mg hydromorphone (Dilaudid) is injected. At 3:30 AM, cefazolin (Kefzol), 500 mg intravenous (IV), is administered, and at 4:15 AM, the surgeons have full exposure of the hernia through a laparotomy incision. At 4:20 AM, the blood pressure (BP) drops precipitously, with hardly a change in heart rate. Peak inspired pressure and tidal volume are not changed. The SPO2 is 100 % on 100 % FIO2, and his temperature is normal. Ephedrine, 2 mg, has no effect, and the BP drops to 50 mmHg. Epinephrine, 5–20 μ(mu)g, is used to maintain the BP. The heart rate drops from 110 to 80. You consider the following causes of this intraoperative hypotension: overdose of bupivacaine and/or of inhalation anesthetic and allergic reactions to muscle relaxants and/or antibiotics.
Sternal wound complications. Management and results.

Of 4,124 patients undergoing median sternotomy for cardiac operations, 1.8% had sternal wound complications. These included wound drainage, skin separation, unstable sternum, and sternal dehiscence with or without infection. Septicemia and mediastinal abscess were found in all 19 patients who died. Incision and drainage of skin and subcutaneous tissue with frequent changes of dressing or irrigation (Method A) is recommended for those patients with (I) serosanguineous drainage only or (2) a stable sternum and superficial infection without systemic reaction. Surgical debridement of the sternum and mediastinum with reclosure followed by mediastinal irrigation via drainage tubes with 0.5% povidone-iodine solution (Method B) is recommended for patients with (1) a draining, unstable sternum, (2) infection involving the retrosternal space, or (3) infection causing a systemic reaction unresponsive to Method A. None of the eight patients in the latter group with more serious infections died when managed by Method B, and only one had recurrent infection. In contrast, of 28 patients of the latter group not treated with Method B, 11 died of infection-related causes and 13 returned with recurrent infection.
When a PFO Is Discovered Incidentally

With Patent Foramen Ovale occurring in 20–25 % of the adult population, it can often be discovered incidentally during a cardiac evaluation. How should these patients be counseled? Is further evaluation warranted to assess risk factors that may predict a future complication? Is treatment of any sort needed?
Seizing the State under International Administration: The Case Study of State Capture and Corruption in Kosovo

State capture is a form of institutionalized particularism whereby elite actors manipulate policy formation to their own material and political interests at the expense of the public good. In Kosovo, a competitive form of state capture emerged during the postwar period as the country’s main political parties fiercely compete for control over state spoils. What makes the case of state capture in Kosovo stand apart from most countries in the region is the extensive international dimension of Kosovo’s state-building process. This raises an important question: given the extraordinary levels of international involvement in post-conflict reconstruction and the strengthening of state institutions, how has corruption become increasingly pervasive in Kosovo under international administration and supervision? The central argument of this article is that the stability paradigm has driven certain international policies and practices that have created conditions favorable to state capture, which indirectly contributes to widespread corruption in Kosovo. The West’s choice of stability and security over democracy and rule of law will have long-term and adverse consequences for Kosovo’s state formation.
Setting global research priorities for child protection in humanitarian action: Results from an adapted CHNRI exercise.

Background Armed conflict, natural disaster, and forced displacement affect millions of children each year. Such humanitarian crises increase the risk of family separation, erode existing support networks, and often result in economic loss, increasing children’s vulnerability to violence, exploitation, neglect, and abuse. Research is needed to understand these risks and vulnerabilities and guide donor investment towards the most effective interventions for improving the well-being of children in humanitarian contexts. Methods The Assessment, Measurement & Evidence (AME) Working Group of the Alliance for Child Protection in Humanitarian Action (ACPHA) identified experts to participate in a research priority setting exercise adapted from the Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative (CHNRI). Experts individually identified key areas for research investment which were subsequently ranked by participants using a Likert scale. Research Priority Scores (RPS) and Average Expert Agreement (AEA) were calculated for each identified research topic, the top fifteen of which are presented within this paper. Results Intervention research, which aims to rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of standard child protection activities in humanitarian settings, ranked highly. Child labor was a key area of sector research with two of the top ten priorities examining the practice. Respondents also prioritized research efforts to understand how best to bridge humanitarian and development efforts for child protection as well as identifying most effective way to build the capacity of local systems in order to sustain child protection gains after a crisis. Conclusions Rigorous, scientific research that assesses the scope of child protection risks, examines the effectiveness of interventions to improve child well-being, and translates evidence to practice is critical. Findings from this research priority setting exercise offer guidance for a global research agenda on child protection in humanitarian settings, encouraging cooperation among donors, implementers, and academics to pursue a coordinated approach to evidence generation.
Significant up-regulation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein in human pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma.

e15674Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal cancer with a 5 year survival of less than 7%. Vasodilator stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) is involved in cytoskeleton assembl...
Boosting linear-optical Bell measurement success probability with predetection squeezing and imperfect photon-number-resolving detectors

Linear-optical realizations of Bell state measurement (BSM) on two single-photon qubits succeed with probability ${p}_{s}$ no higher than 0.5. However, predetection quadrature squeezing, i.e., quantum noise limited phase sensitive amplification, in the usual linear-optical BSM circuit, can yield ${p}_{s}\ensuremath{\approx}0.643$. The ability to achieve ${p}_{s}g0.5$ has been found to be critical in resource-efficient realizations of linear-optical quantum computing and all-photonic quantum repeaters. Yet, the aforesaid value of ${p}_{s}g0.5$ is not known to be the maximum achievable using squeezing, thereby leaving it open whether close-to-$100%$ efficient BSM might be achievable using squeezing as a resource. In this paper, we report insights on why squeezing-enhanced BSM achieves ${p}_{s}g0.5$. Using this, we show that the previously reported ${p}_{s}\ensuremath{\approx}0.643$ at single-mode squeezing strength $r=0.6585$---for unambiguous state discrimination (USD) of all four Bell states---is an experimentally unachievable point result, which drops to ${p}_{s}\ensuremath{\approx}0.59$ with the slightest change in $r$. We, however, show that squeezing-induced boosting of ${p}_{s}$ with USD operation is still possible over a continuous range of $r$, with an experimentally achievable maximum occurring at $r=0.5774$, achieving ${p}_{s}\ensuremath{\approx}0.596$. Finally, deviating from USD operation, we explore a trade space between ${p}_{s}$, the probability with which the BSM circuit declares a ``success,'' versus the probability of error ${p}_{e}$, the probability of an input Bell state being erroneously identified given the circuit declares a success. Since quantum error correction could correct for some ${p}_{e}g0$, this tradeoff may enable better quantum repeater designs by potentially increasing the entanglement generation rates with ${p}_{s}$ exceeding what is possible with traditionally studied USD operation of BSMs.