cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest using transesophageal echocardiography in the emergency department

Abstract Background Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has been proposed as a modality to assess patients in the setting of cardiac arrest, both during resuscitation care and following return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). In this study we aimed to assess the feasibility and clinical impact of TEE during the emergency department (ED) evaluation during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Materials and methods We conducted a prospective observational study consisting of a convenience sample of adult patients presenting to the ED of an urban university medical center with non-traumatic OHCA. TEE was performed by emergency physicians following intubation. Images and clinical data were analyzed. TEE was used intra-arrest in order to assist in diagnosis, assess cardiac activity and determine CPR quality by assessing area of maximal compression (AMC), using a 4 view protocol. Results A total of 33 OHCA patients were enrolled over a one-year period, 21 patients (64%) presented with ongoing CPR and 12 (36%) presented with ROSC. The 4-view protocol was completed in 100% of the cases, with an average time from ED arrival to TEE of 12 min (min 3 max 30 SD 8.16). Fine ventricular fibrillation (VF) was recognized in 4 (12%) cases thought to be in asystole, leading to defibrillation, and 2 cases of pseudo-PEA were identified. Right ventricular (RV) dilation, was seen in 12 (57%) intraarrest cases. Intra-cardiac thrombus was found in one case, leading to thrombolysis. The AMC was identified over the aortic root or LVOT in 53% of cases. TEE was found to have diagnostic, therapeutic or prognostic clinical impact in 32 of the 33 cases (97%). Conclusions TEE is feasible and clinically impactful during OHCA management. Resuscitative TEE may allow for characterization of cardiac activity, including identification of pseudo-PEA and fine VF, determination of reversible pathology, and optimization of CPR quality.
Ιστορία του παιδικού κινηματογράφου: η περίπτωση των πολυπολιτισμικών ταινιών

Στο άρθρο αντό γίνeται μια eπισκόπηση της ιστορίας τον παιδικού κινηματογράφου από τα τέλη τον 19ου αιώνα μέχρι σήμeρα. Eπισημαίνονται οι σημαντικές πeρίοδοι της ιστορίας τον παιδικού κινηματογράφου, οι ταινίeς και τα παιδιά σταρ. Γίνeται, eπίσης, ανάλυση μιας σeιράς θeμάτων που αναδύθηκαν τα τeλeνταία eκατό πeρίπου χρόνια στο πλαίσιο του παιδικού κινηματογράφου, όπως το πρόσφατο κύμα πολυπολιτισμικών παιδικών ταινιών οι οποίeς, σe συνδυασμό μe πολλά σύγχρονα έργα παιδικής λογοτeχνίας, λeιτουργούν ως όχημα κοινωνικής αλλαγής.
A cellular basis for the generalized Temperley–Lieb algebra and Mahler measure

Abstract Just as the Temperley–Lieb algebra is a good tool to compute the Jones polynomial, the Kauffman bracket skein algebra of a disk with 2k colored points on the boundary, each with color n, is a good tool to compute the n th colored Jones polynomial. We show that the colored skein algebra is a cellular algebra and find a set of separating Jucys–Murphy elements. This is done by explicitly providing the cellular basis and the JM-elements. Having done this, several results of Mathas on such algebras are considered, including the construction of pairwise non-isomorphic irreducible submodules and their corresponding primitive idempotents. These idempotents are then used to define recursive elements of the colored skein algebra. Recursive elements are of particular interest as they have been used to relate geometric properties of link diagrams to the Mahler measure of the Jones polynomial. In particular, a single proof is given for the result of Champanerkar and Kofman, that the Mahler measure of the Jones and colored Jones polynomial converges under twisting on any number of strands.
Regulation of dynamic pigment cell states at single-cell resolution

Cells bearing pigment have diverse roles and are often under strict evolutionary selection. Here, we explore the regulation of pigmented cells in the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, an emerging model for diverse pigment function. We took advantage of single cell RNA-seq (scRNAseq) technology and discovered that pigment cells in the embryo segregated into two distinct populations, a mitotic cluster and a post-mitotic cluster. Gcm is essential for expression of several genes important for pigment function, but is only transiently expressed in these cells. We discovered unique genes expressed by pigment cells and test their expression with double fluorescence in situ hybridization. These genes include new members of the fmo family that are expressed selectively in pigment cells of the embryonic and in the coelomic cells of the adult - both cell-types having immune functions. Overall, this study identifies nodes of molecular intersection ripe for change by selective evolutionary pressures.
Biomarkers as Intermediate Endpoints in Chemoprevention Trials: Biological Basis of Lung Cancer Prevention

Lung cancer remains a common cause of mortality throughout the world; in the U.S. alone, 177000 new cases were predicted for 1996 and an estimated 158000 Americans died of lung cancer [1]. The impact of improvements in multimodality therapy on lung cancer mortality remains modest [2]. Although substantial reduction in adult smoking has been achieved in the U.S. (50% of adults are former smokers) [3], many new lung cancers are being diagnosed among former smokers [4, 5]. Data analysis from both M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Harvard-affiliated hospitals showed that more than 50% of lung cancer cases occur in former smokers. From the current smoking trends, it appears that former smokers will account for a growing percentage of all lung cancer patients. We must therefore examine which former smokers are at high risk for lung cancer.
Resistivity Size Effect in Epitaxial Rh(001) and Rh(111) Layers

Rh(001) and Rh(111) layers with thickness ${d} = {8}$ –181 nm are sputter deposited onto MgO(001) and Al2O3( ${11}\bar {{2}}{0}$ ) substrates and their resistivity ${\rho } $ measured in situ and ex situ at room temperature and 77 K in order to quantify the resistivity size effect. Rh(001) layers are epitaxial single crystals and show a resistivity increase with decreasing ${d}$ that is well described with the classical Fuchs and Sondheimer model, indicating an effective electron mean free path ${\lambda }_{\text {eff}} = {9.5}\pm {0.8}$ nm at 295 K. Rh(111) layers exhibit an epitaxial microstructure with two 60°-rotated domains with a lateral width of 19 ± 2 nm, as determined from the X-ray coherence length. The grain boundaries between the domains cause a thickness-independent resistivity contribution ${\Delta \rho }_{\text {gb}} = {0.74}$ and $0.59~ {\mu \Omega } $ cm at 295 and 77 K, indicating an electron reflection coefficient ${R} = 0.16\,\,\pm \,\,0.03$ for a boundary characterized by a 60° rotation about the $\langle 111\rangle $ axis. Air exposure causes a nearly negligible ( ${\Delta } {p}_{{1}} = -{0.3}\,\,\pm \,\,0.2$ during surface oxidation. The overall results yield a temperature-independent product of the bulk resistivity times the electron mean free path ${\rho }_{o} {\lambda } =$ (4.5 ± 0.4) $\times 10^{-{16}} \,\, {\Omega }\text{m}^{{2}}$ . This is 1.4 times larger than previously predicted from first principles, but 33%, 55%, 63%, and 11% smaller than for Cu, W, Co, and Ru, respectively, suggesting great promise for Rh as an alternative metal for narrow interconnects.
WOUND HEALING AND IMMUNITY

SUMMARY The surgeon should appreciate the fact that the older patient heals at a slower rate than the younger patient, with the potential for infection and dehiscence. In general, however, the wound healing process proceeds in much the same fashion, with minimal changes necessary in the overall approach to patient management.
Unlocking the potential of antibody-drug conjugates for cancer therapy.

Nine different antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are currently approved as cancer treatments, with dozens more in preclinical and clinical development. The primary goal of ADCs is to improve the therapeutic index of antineoplastic agents by restricting their systemic delivery to cells that express the target antigen of interest. Advances in synthetic biochemistry have ushered in a new generation of ADCs, which promise to improve upon the tissue specificity and cytotoxicity of their predecessors. Many of these drugs have impressive activity against treatment-refractory cancers, although hurdles impeding their broader use remain, including systemic toxicity, inadequate biomarkers for patient selection, acquired resistance and unknown benefit in combination with other cancer therapies. Emerging evidence indicates that the efficacy of a given ADC depends on the intricacies of how the antibody, linker and payload components interact with the tumour and its microenvironment, all of which have important clinical implications. In this Review, we discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the design, mechanism of action and clinical efficacy of ADCs as well as the apparent limitations of this treatment class. We then propose a path forward by highlighting several hypotheses and novel strategies to maximize the potential benefit that ADCs can provide to patients with cancer. Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) constitute a unique class of anticancer agents with demonstrated clinical efficacy against several different cancer types. Herein, the authors discuss the design and mechanisms of action of ADCs and how these properties are reflected in the clinical activity and toxicity profiles of such agents. Potential strategies to overcome the limitations of ADCs and thereby maximize their therapeutic benefit for patients with cancer are also proposed.
A New Composite Outcome Measure for Parkinson’s Disease (P1.104)

Objective: Develop a composite outcome measure for Parkinson’s disease (PD), which comprehensively captures the impact of motor and non-motor manifestations on quality of life, and is sensitive to change in response to interventions. Background: Unified Parkinson’s disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) total score has commonly been used as the primary outcome measure in PD trials. However, the original UPDRS highly prioritizes motor function. While the new Movement Disorder Society UPDRS is more comprehensive, its assessments of cognition, fatigue, and depression are limited to single questions among many items. Design/Methods: Using data from our study on aerobic exercise in PD (PMID: 24991037), we summed z-scores of performance-based outcome measures on motor function (UPDRS-motor score), gait (7m Walk Test), and cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), as well as patient-centered outcome measures on activities of daily living (UPDRS-ADL score), fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale), and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale). We checked Spearman correlations of this composite score with independent metrics of overall quality of life (PD Quality of Life scale=PDQUALIF) and ADL (Schwab-England ADL=SE-ADL) at baseline and post-exercise in the same cohort, and in a separate external PD cohort from another study that used the same variables at baseline. Results: Our proposed global composite score showed greater sensitivity to the effects of aerobic exercise (Cohen’s d’=0.73, p Conclusions: Using standard tools addressing individual symptoms and abilities, we created a global composite disease severity score that correlated well with quality of life and functional abilities, and showed excellent sensitivity to change in response to exercise. This and other composite measures that use specific tools to address key aspects of PD may improve the assessment of outcomes in future clinical trials in PD. Study Supported by: Department of Veterans Affairs, Rehabilitation R&D Branch Merit Review Awards B6261R and 1 I01 RX000170 (EYU), and by National Center for Research Resources/NIH grant UL1RR024979 (University of Iowa) Disclosure: Dr. Uc has received research support from Biotie Therapies and Cynapsus Therapeutics. Dr. Darling has nothing to disclose. Dr. Thomsen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Doerschug has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rizzo has received research support from Nissan Auto. Dr. Anderson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kline has nothing to disclose. Dr. Dawson has nothing to disclose.
Changes to cigarette packaging influence US consumers' choices: Results of two discrete-choice experiments to inform regulation.

Introduction While plain packaging of tobacco products has emerged as a policy intervention to reduce smoking, regulators in the US have limited ability to implement plain packaging. We sought to identify the impact of subtle changes to cigarette packaging (Study 1) and how packaging design influenced participant choices based on appeal, harm, and style (Study 2). Methods We conducted two discrete-choice experiments with US adult smokers online in 2018. In Study 1 (n=285), we assessed participants' selections based on subtle changes to pack design features (dimensions, color saturation, logo size). In Study 2 (n=284), we assessed three choices in which participants selected packs based on appeal, harmfulness, and best match to their personal style. Study 2 packs varied by color hue, design with different levels of organic labeling and natural imagery, and color saturation. Results Pack designs influenced smokers' choices. In Study 1, pack dimensions and color saturation emerged as the most important features, and, in Study 2, design and color hue were the most influential characteristics. Conclusions Regulators should consider how the design of cigarette packages may influence consumers' perceptions and choices.
Thyroid Antagonists (Perchlorate, Thiocyanate, and Nitrate) and Childhood Growth in a Longitudinal Study of U.S. Girls

Background:Perchlorate, thiocyanate, and nitrate are sodium/iodide symporter (NIS) inhibitors that block iodide uptake into the thyroid, thus affecting thyroid function. Thyroid dysfunction can adv...
The Hypoxia-adenosinergic Immunosuppression and Redirection of Immune Response in Tumor Microenvironment

In this chapter, we will focus on physiological regulators of activated immune cells in cancerous tissue microenvironments. This consideration started when we were contemplating the molecular mechanism that would be responsible for the so-called Hellstrom Paradox. Indeed, it was not explained why cancer patients often have tumor-recognizing effector T cells without having tumor rejection. The latest great advances in identification of various immunological negative regulators of immune response still left room for tumor defense by physiological inhibitors of antitumor T and natural killer (NK) cells. We started by assuming that cancerous tissues could be misguidedly protected by the same mechanism, which saves lives by protecting vital tissues from collateral damage by overactive immune cells during the antipathogen immune response. In our search for a mechanism that protects tissues from collateral damage, we first focused on intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) which was long known to be immunosuppressive. It was important to identify which of the many Gs protein-coupled receptors is actually physiologically responsible for inhibition of immune response in tumor microenvironment. Levels of extracellular adenosine are high in inflamed and cancerous tissues corresponding to local hypoxia. A2A and A2B subtypes of adenosine receptor, which are coupled to cAMP-elevating Gs protein, are predominantly expressed in immune cells. Indeed, extracellular adenosine endogenously generated by degradation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) could suppress immune response and immunoregulation by adenosine was notable in tumor microenvironment. Blockade of the hypoxia-adenosinergic immunosuppression may be a promising approach to eradicate cancer, especially when it is combined with adoptive immunotherapy or cancer vaccine.
Relationships Between Orbits and Sources of Chondritic Meteorites

Available data related to a meteorite’s orbit are cosmic-ray exposure ages, local time of fall, apparent radiant and, rarely, the orbital elements. Initial orbits associated with satisfactory sources of meteorites should evolve into the observed distribution of these quantities.
Optical spectropotentiometric resolution of the hemes of hydroxylamine oxidoreductase. Heme quantitation and pH dependence of Em.

Abstract The hemes of hydroxylamine oxidoreductase (HAO) have been analyzed optically by potentiometric titrations using a low volume optically transparent thin layer electrochemical cell. The electrochemical behavior of the HAO monomeric unit has been interpreted by modeling the spectroelectrochemical data at several wavelengths to eight one-electron Nernst sites: seven c-type hemes and one P460 heme. Of the seven c-hemes, six show alpha-bands with absorption maxima at or near 553 nm. One c-heme has an alpha-band absorption maximum at 559 nm. The six c-553 hemes have midpoint potentials at pH 7.0 of +288, -10, -162, -192, -265 and -412 mV versus the normal hydrogen electrode (NHE). The c-559 heme has a midpoint potential (Em') at pH 7.0 of +11 mV versus NHE. The midpoint potential of the P460 heme is at -260 mV versus NHE at pH 7.0. In contrast, the midpoint potential for the P460 heme in another protein, cytochrome P460, from the same organism is -402 mV versus NHE at pH 7.0. Midpoint potentials of the c-hemes show little, if any, pH dependence over the range of pH 6-8. In contrast, Em' for the P460 heme changes with a slope of -60 mV/pH unit over the same range. Electrochemical isolation of the P460 heme at pH 8.0 led to the discovery of a broad spectroscopic feature centered near 740 nm that was assigned to the oxidized P460 heme. Changes in the spectroelectrochemical behavior of HAO after inactivation by H2O2 was almost exclusively restricted to the P460 heme of HAO. Both the 464-nm absorption band of the reduced P460 heme and the 740-nm band of the oxidized heme were no longer present. For the c-hemes, the only effect seems to be a slight shift in Em' for a single c-553 heme from -162 to -135 mV.
Nitrates, arterial function, wave reflections and coronary heart disease.

This chapter traces the history of nitroglycerin from the initial nitration of glycerol to its widespread clinical use. The pharmacologic differences between nitroglycerin and nitric oxide are descr
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination during Pregnancy and the Risks of Preterm Delivery and Small for Gestational Age Birth

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend seasonal influenza vaccination for all women who will be pregnant during the influenza season in order to reduce their considerably increased risk of influenza-related mortality and morbidity.1–3 Nonetheless, vaccination rates among pregnant women in the US remain lower than ideal.4,5 Pregnant women may be reluctant to be vaccinated because of concern that the vaccine may harm them or their babies.4,6,7 There is limited evidence regarding risks associated with influenza vaccination during pregnancy, partly because pregnant women are typically excluded from clinical trials,8,9 leaving a gap in knowledge that can affect vaccine uptake. Two of the most common adverse pregnancy outcomes are preterm delivery (PTD) and small for gestational age birth (SGA). PTD (live birth before 37 weeks gestation) and SGA (<10th percentile in weight for gestational age) are associated with increased perinatal mortality and both short- and long-term morbidity.10–12 Previous studies of seasonal influenza vaccination during pregnancy have found null or protective associations for PTD and SGA,13,14 but they have often relied on medical records for exposure assessment, collected limited information on the gestational timing of the vaccination, studied few first trimester exposures, and/or have not evaluated risks by influenza season. The last concern is important since antigens and manufacturing processes vary by season and risks may similarly vary. We sought to examine the associations between seasonal influenza vaccination [and not pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) vaccination] during pregnancy and the risks of PTD and SGA among a multiyear retrospective cohort of pregnancies resulting in live-born, non-malformed singleton infants. Exposure to influenza vaccination during pregnancy was obtained by self-report, thereby capturing vaccinations received both inside and outside traditional medical provider settings. Vaccination date was also collected, permitting consideration of the gestational timing of vaccination.
PIED: An IDE for poets using a mobile or wearable device

Computers are powerful tools that can be leveraged to provide poets with an environment for the composition of poetry. The idea of an integrated development environment (IDE) could be taken as a jumping-off point for the design of a “poet's IDE.” In this paper, we propose the design of the Poet's Integrated Environment for Development (PIED).
Meiotic induction by Xenopus cyclin B is accelerated by coexpression with mosXe.

Abstract We have investigated the relationship between Xenopus laevis c-mos (mosXe) and the cyclin B component of maturation-promoting factor. Microinjection of Xenopus oocytes with in vitro-synthesized RNAs encoding Xenopus cyclin B1 or cyclin B2 induces the progression of meiosis, characterized by germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD). By preinjecting oocytes with a mosXe-specific antisense oligonucleotide, we show that GVBD induced by cyclin B does not require expression of the mosXe protein. GVBD induced by cyclin B proceeds significantly faster than GVBD induced by progesterone or MosXe. However, coinjection of RNAs encoding cyclin B1 or cyclin B2 with mosXe RNA results in a 2.5- to 3-fold acceleration in GVBD relative to that induced by cyclin B alone. This acceleration of GVBD does not correlate with changes in the level of cyclin B1 and cyclin B2 phosphorylation.
Robust Linear Precoder Design for Multi-Cell Downlink Transmission

Coordinated information processing by the base stations of multi-cell wireless networks enhances the overall quality of communication in the network. Such coordinations for optimizing any desired network-wide quality of service (QoS) necessitate the base stations to acquire and share some channel state information (CSI). With perfect knowledge of channel states, the base stations can adjust their transmissions for achieving a network-wise QoS optimality. In practice, however, the CSI can be obtained only imperfectly. As a result, due to the uncertainties involved, the network is not guaranteed to benefit from a globally optimal QoS. Nevertheless, if the channel estimation perturbations are confined within bounded regions, the QoS measure will also lie within a bounded region. Therefore, by exploiting the notion of robustness in the worst-case sense some worst-case QoS guarantees for the network can be asserted. We adopt a popular model for noisy channel estimates that assumes that estimation noise terms lie within known hyper-spheres. We aim to design linear transceivers that optimize a worst-case QoS measure in downlink transmissions. In particular, we focus on maximizing the worst-case weighted sum-rate of the network and the minimum worst-case rate of the network. For obtaining such transceiver designs, we offer several centralized (fully cooperative) and distributed (limited cooperation) algorithms which entail different levels of complexity and information exchange among the base stations.
Pathology Consultation on HbA1c Methods and Interferences

Objectives: To review the various hemoglobin (Hb) A1c methods, with a focus on interferences resulting from Hb variants. Methods: HbA1c is a marker used for the diagnosis and management of diabetes. Each available HbA1c method has advantages and challenges, such as its susceptibility to interferences. Results: The presence of Hb variants and/or abnormalities in RBC turnover cannot only interfere analytically with HbA1c measurements but also may affect the clinical interpretation of HbA1c values. Conclusions: Familiarity with the advantages and challenges of the various methods used for HbA1c testing is essential when establishing therapeutic management and goals based on HbA1c results, especially in populations with a high prevalence of Hb variants.
Skeletal response of ovariectomized rats to low and high doses of 17β-estradiol

Recent studies indicate that the mode of action of estrogen in preventing bone loss due to ovarian hormone deficiency may vary with the dose of the hormone. In this study four groups of ovariectomized animals were maintained on a wide range of doses of 17 beta-estradiol to further determine the relationship of dose to the mechanism by which estrogen prevents ovarian hormone deficiency bone loss. Ovariectomy caused a significant decrease in bone density and cancellous bone volume at the proximal metaphysis of the tibia. The decrease was prevented in a dose-dependent manner by estradiol. The rate of bone apposition in cancellous bone in the proximal tibia was increased by ovariectomy, and inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by estradiol. Similarly, ovariectomy increased the excretion of urinary hydroxyproline, an index of the rate of bone turnover, and serum alkaline and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. The increases were prevented in a dose-dependent manner by estradiol. In addition, the very high dose of estradiol, but not the lower doses, caused a marked (50%) decrease in serum osteocalcin. Our interpretation of these findings is that the low to very high doses of estradiol used in this study decreased the progression of the bone loss due to ovariectomy by suppression of the rate of bone turnover that involved the depression of both osteoclastic resorption and osteoblastic bone formation.
Nuremberg Reconsidered: Conot's "Justice at Nuremberg"

Two generations have been born and have grown to maturity since the Nuremberg War Crime Tribunal sifted evidence and rendered judgment in 1945 and 1946. Are we in danger of forgetting the unforgettable? Given the world's continuing fascination with National Socialism, it seems unlikely that the Nazis will be forgotten. But if there is no danger of forgetting the unforgettable, something much worse may be happening. The world may be starting to think the unthinkable. As Robert Conot puts it in the introduction to Justice at Nuremberg: "A world-wide cult has arisen claiming that the Holocaust never happened. A hundred books, booklets, and pamphlets have been printed alleging that the slaughter was imaginary or exaggerated, and is but a Jewish invention" (at xii). Compounding the problem, according to Conot, is that the "trial [of the Nazi war criminals] has never been fully explored" (at xi). He proposes to "make the facts accessible" (at xiii) to expose such distortions of history as the claims that the Jews who died during World War II were victims of the general food shortage and that Zyklon B was simply a disinfectant. Conot does not, in fact, have the field quite so much to himself. Such recent works as Bradley Smith's The Road to Nuremberg' and Reaching Judgment at Nuremberg2 come to mind, as does the reissue of Victor Bernstein's 1947 account of the trials, The Holocaust-Final Judgment3 (originally pub-
Is Afrocentricity Marginalized in Social Work Education? A Survey of HBSE Instructors

This study looked at social work HBSE instructors' use, knowledge, and support of Molefi Asante's Afrocentricity paradigm. A sample of HBSE instructors (N = 85) at accredited social work programs reported both their Afrocentric knowledge and level of professional support for Afrocentric thought. Results show a vast majority of the respondents do not teach Afrocentric content. In addition, a majority are unfamiliar with Asante's paradigm and do not support most Afrocentric statements relevant to social work ethics and practice. The lack of knowledge and support for Afrocentricity among HBSE educators indicates the paradigm may be theoretically marginalized in social work curricula. This is the first empirical study supporting the assertion that Afrocentricity is marginalized in social work education.
Further Investigation of Multifacet Drills (MFD’s)—Mathematical Models, Methods of Grinding, and Computer Plotting

The geometric characteristics of nine representative Multifacet Drills (MFD’s) are summarized. Mathematical models of the various component surfaces are derived and analyzed using coordinate transformations. The mathematical models of the geometric elements are used to deduce appropriate grinding methods. Computer plots of MFD’s are also presented to check the mathematical models and to lay a foundation for future work on computer-aided design (CAD) of MFD’s.
Autonomous collaborative mission systems (ACMS) for multi-UAV missions

UAVs are a key element of the Army’s vision for Force Transformation, and are expected to be employed in large numbers per FCS Unit of Action (UoA). This necessitates a multi-UAV level of autonomous collaboration behavior capability that meets RSTA and other mission needs of FCS UoAs. Autonomous Collaborative Mission Systems (ACMS) is a scalable architecture and behavior planning / collaborative approach to achieve this level of capability. The architecture is modular and the modules may be run in different locations/platforms to accommodate the constraints of available hardware, processing resources and mission needs. The Mission Management Module determines the role of member autonomous entities by employing collaboration mechanisms (e.g., market-based, etc.), the individual Entity Management Modules work with the Mission Manager in determining the role and task of the entity, the individual Entity Execution Modules monitor task execution and platform navigation and sensor control, and the World Model Module hosts local and global versions of the environment and the Common Operating Picture (COP). The modules and uniform interfaces provide a consistent and platform-independent baseline mission collaboration mechanism and signaling protocol across different platforms. Further, the modular design allows flexible and convenient addition of new autonomous collaborative behaviors to the ACMS through: adding new behavioral templates in the Mission Planner component, adding new components in appropriate ACMS modules to provide new mission specific functionality, adding or modifying constraints or parameters to the existing components, or any combination of these. We describe the ACMS architecture, its main features, current development status and future plans for simulations in this report.
Factors Affecting Potential Personality Retest Improvement After Initial Failure

Attention in the personality test faking literature has been directed toward research designs in which job applicants complete a personality test, fail to get the job, and subsequently retest. This article highlights the extent to which inferences drawn from studies using the retest-after-failure research design address the extent and prevalence of applicant faking. Results from several studies using this design are reviewed, revealing an enormous range of findings. We simulate two aspects of the assessment context that can explain the discrepancy in previous results. The simulation systematically varies the weight given to personality in the assessment battery and the selection ratio to investigate their effects on personality retest scores. Results are useful for interpreting previous findings and understanding settings in which retest improvement occurs.
Industrial Restructuring and Violence: The Link between Entry-Level Jobs, Economic Deprivation, and Black and White Homicide

Although low-skill, entry-level employment has facilitated the social mobility of central city populations, evidence confirms that these once plentiful jobs are disappearing. This shift in the industrial structure of central cities has been especially detrimental to the economic and social well-being of low-skill city residents and may be linked to the rates of violence in urban communities. Using racially disaggregated data from the census and the Uniform Crime Reports for central cities in 1970 and 1990, we examine the direct and indirect relationship between the industrial structure of central cities and the rates of homicide. Thefindings reveal that a decline in the access to low-skilljobs increases violence indirectly byfirst increasing economic deprivation. We model these relationships for racially disaggregated populations andfind that the effects are similarfor blacks and whites. The analysis supports a macro-social link between violence and urban
Chinese Ethnic Economy: San Gabriel Valley, Los Angeles County

ABSTRACT: In the past decade, Los Angeles has emerged as the single largest Chinese business center in the US. However, unlike the Chinese economies in New York and San Francisco which are concentrated in Chinatown, Chinese businesses in Los Angeles have formed multinuclear concentrations in suburban communities in the San Gabriel Valley. With an inflow of capital and entrepreneurs from the Chinese diaspora, the valley's economy has become an integral part of the Pacific Rim economy. The author analyzes the impact of Chinese ethnic economy on various communities in the San Gabriel Valley, focusing on the Chinese capital and investment activities in the Valley. The political responses of local residents and governments toward these activities are also discussed. Evidence shows that the local governments have tried to balance the development of American and Chinese businesses.
Experimental embolic capture by asymmetric Greenfield filters.

Abstract An uncommon complication of percutaneous insertion of the titanium Greenfield filter is angulation at discharge with clustering of the limbs to one side of the vena cava. Potential adverse effects of this asymmetry were tested in a perfusion system with cadaver venae cavae. The stainless-steel Greenfield filter (SGF) was compared with the modified-hook titanium model (TGF-MH) and a percutaneous modified-hook model of the SGF (SGF-MH) with flexible plastic emboli in four sizes and varied sequences. There were 458 runs comprised of 2203 embolic events, with an overall successful capture rate of 81% despite tilting, asymmetry, and accelerated flow rates from 1.0 to 2.5 L/min. Significant differences were observed in vena cava with diameters greater than 22 mm where capture rate was 76% as opposed to 86% in venae cavae less than 22 mm ( p = 0.01). Larger emboli (8 × 25 mm and 8 × 100 mm) were trapped uniformly, whereas smaller emboli (5 × 10 mm) had 59% capture ( p = 0.001). Similarly, the capture rate was less when smaller emboli were released before the larger ones (71% vs 87%; p = 0.001). Capture in small versus large venae cavae was not significantly different for the SGF (75%) or the TGF-MH (84% vs 87%) but differed for the SGF-MH (98% vs 67%; p
Cognitive Functioning and Survival Among Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

An earlier study by the authors had demonstrated neuropsychological impairment among 66 clinically stable patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and had found that the deficits were directly associated with the amount of oxygen available to body tissue. We were able to follow 62 of the patients for three years when retrospective analyses were performed to determine the relationship of the neuropsychological test scores with the patients' three-year survival status. Patients who survived had scored significantly (p less than 0.01) higher on the neuropsychological tests than those who had died. Individual analyses of variance indicated that the significant relationship between the neuropsychological tests and survival status was attributable primarily to the Benton Visual Motor Retention Test and the digit symbol subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale. The latter test had, in the earlier study, shown the strongest relationship with partial pressure of oxygen and with a pulmonary function test. These findings suggest that certain neuropsychological tests may reflect both the progress of COPD and three-year survival probability among the patients.
The Small Firm in a Quantity Choosing Game: Some Experimental Evidence

We demonstrate with a grim trigger strategy that the small firm should be more willing to collude tacitly as its market share declines; large firms should be less willing to cooperate. The small firm is not a maverick. The intensity of rivalry between two firms with asymmetric market shares is studied in experimental markets. Treatments give duopolists (1) 50% shares, (2) a 60 or 40% share, and (3) an 80 or 20% share. Choices for the small firm in the latter treatments are not significantly larger than the collusive choice. Irrespective of relative size, firms in all three market environments exhibit collusive behavior.
Atypical tumors of the facial nerve: case series and review of the literature

Object The authors present a series of 4 patients with rare facial nerve tumors. The relevant literature is reviewed and is discussed regarding diagnostic features, the role of operative management, and surgical approach. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients with tumors of the facial nerve that were treated between 2008 and 2011. Patients undergoing observation with serial MRI and those who were treated with up-front radiosurgery and for whom tissue diagnosis was not available were excluded. In addition, patients with suspected vestibular schwannoma, facial nerve schwannoma, neurofibromatosis Type 2, and metastatic disease were also excluded. The charts of 4 patients (2 men and 2 women) with “atypical” tumors were reviewed and analyzed. Results A total of 12 patients with tumors of the facial nerve were identified during the study period. Patient characteristics, preoperative imaging, operative approach, tumor histology, and outcomes are described. Conclusions Atypical facial ne...
Intraspecific groups of Claviceps purpurea associated with grass species in Willapa Bay, Washington, and the prospects for biological control of invasive Spartina alterniflora

Abstract Spartina alterniflora is a salt marsh halophyte introduced to the Pacific Coast of the United States that has become a noxious weed in Willapa Bay, Washington. A sap-feeding insect has been released as part of a biological control program, which has established at multiple sites. A useful complement to this program would be a biological agent that attacks seed, to reduce expansion of the infestation by seedling recruitment. One possibility is the floral-infecting, fungal pathogen Claviceps purpurea , which causes the ergot disease. This species is comprised of three intraspecific groups, of which one is specific to salt marsh habitats, G3. Based on random amplified polymorphic DNA markers, all three intraspecific groups of C. purpurea were found on grasses in Willapa Bay. The incidence of ergot on Spartina was very low over the three-year sampling period. Genetic diversity was low among G3 isolates, suggesting it may have been recently introduced to the region. Greenhouse tests showed S. alterniflora from Washington to be as susceptible to C. purpurea as S. alterniflora from the Atlantic Coast, where ergot has reached epidemic levels. Neighbor-joining analysis of amplified fragment length polymorphism markers suggests that G3 C. purpurea in Washington is most closely related to Southeastern USA G3 C. purpurea . Pairwise comparisons as part of AMOVA showed that Willapa Bay isolates are different from those of all other geographic regions except Argentina. The low intensity of disease in Washington may be due, in part, to a G3 ergot population that is not well adapted to conditions in this area.
Applying the thermodynamics of nonequilibrium processes to the study of nonsteady filtration in a cracked-porous stratum

Nonsteady filtration with double porosity is studied on the basis of the thermodynamics of irreversible processes. We present the basic differential heat- and mass-transfer equations.
Financing Dental Care: Trends in Public and Private Expenditures for Dental Services

This article examines the financing of dental care in the United States. The major issues addressed include the amount and sources of funds, the reasons for increased dental care expenditures, the comparison of dental care with other medical care expenditures, the policy implications of current trends, and some cautious predictions about the financing of dental care in the next 10 to 20 years. The supply of dental services is expected to increase substantially in the next 10 to 20 years with more dental school graduates, a new midlevel practitioner, and greater use of allied dental health personnel. Whether the supply of services will grow faster than the demand for care is unknown.
Going-concern uncertainty disclosures and conditions: a comparison of French, German, and U.S. practices

Abstract Efforts to harmonize accounting and auditing standards have emphasized advantages of similar rules across countries, but differences in implementation of similar standards across countries might lead to differences in extant practice. This study compares accounting and auditing standards for going concern uncertainty (GCU) and their implementation across three countries —France, Germany, and the U.S. —from two different accounting/financial reporting models. Country-specific standards were essentially the same across the three countries, but financial reports of the 122 sample public companies selected based on poor stock returns revealed significantly higher GCU disclosure rates for U.S. firms than for firms from France and Germany, even when controlling for firm-specific characteristics that might be associated with GCU. The observed difference in disclosure practices is important because financial statement users must be aware that even though prescriptions for GCU disclosures are the same across these countries, similar disclosures (or lack of disclosures) across countries may not have the same meaning. Failure to consider influences on GCU disclosure practices might lead investors to misestimate the level of uncertainty associated with the going-concern assumption when evaluating company risks and prospects.
904 DOUBLE LIGHT CHAIN PRODUCTION BY LEUKEMIC CELLS OF COMMON CLONAL ORIGIN

Generally lympho-plasmacytic malignancies are of monoclonal origin in that neoplastic B cells produce immunoglobulin (Ig) composed of a single class of heavy and light chains. Thus the presence of more than one monotypic Ig on the surface and in the cytoplasm of the neoplastic cells of a patient constitutes an uncommon event. We are presenting an 11 year old boy with acute lymphoblastic leukemia of the rare B-cell type in which the same neoplastic cells produced both κ and τ light chains without any heavy chains as demonstrated by double immunofluorescence. There was evidence of secretion of both κ and τ light chains in cultures of the leukemic cells. Secretion of both light chains into the blood was also demonstrated at postmortem examination. Although the production of more than a single class of Ig has been known to occur in rare cases of multiple myeloma and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, such an event has not been reported in patients with leukemia or lymphoma.
Can a joint venture lessen competition more than a merger

Abstract In a Cournot framework, a joint venture involving cross ownership may reduce output more than a merger if the cross ownership shares exceed 50%. This paper discusses the recent Renault/Volvo joint venture in heavy truck production as a possible example of such a joint venture.
Material considerations for intervertebral disc replacement implants

Cervical and lumbar disc replacements are being performed with increasing frequency. Much of the background for the development for these implants is drawn from the literature of other joint replacements that have been in evolution and use for decades. Important variables for the function and longevity of such disc arthroplasty implants are clearly defined by the material properties of the components used for their production. The most frequently considered materials are cobalt-chrome alloys, titanium alloys, stainless steels, polyethylene, polyurethane and ceramics. In addition to implant materials, the interfaces of such materials must be considered. The bearing surfaces of an implant, in particular, are at risk of wear and failure. Overall, successful, long-term total disc arthroplasty requires a thorough understanding of biomaterials and how they can be used to achieve their desired goals.
An Examination of Somatosensory Area SIII in Ferret Cortex

A somatotopically organized region on the suprasylvian gyrus of the ferret was examined using multiunit recordings and anatomical tracer injections. This area, which contains a representation of the face, was bordered by the primary somatosensory area (SI), anteriorly, and by the visually responsive rostral posterior parietal cortex (PPr), posteriorly. Anatomical tracers revealed connections to this region from cortical areas MI, SI, MRSS, PPr, and the thalamic posterior nucleus. These results are consistent with previous work in ferrets as well as with the location, physiology, and connectivity of area SIII in cats. Given its associations, functional properties, location, and homology, it is proposed that this region represents the third cortical somatosensory area (SIII) in ferrets.
SPECTROSCOPIC STUDY OF THE EXTRACTION OF NICKEL BY 2-HYDROXY-5-NONYLBENZOPHENONE OXIME (LIX 65N) AND 5,8-DIETHYL-7-HYDROXYDODECANE-6-ONE OXIME (LIX 63).

ABSTRACT A novel method for determination of solvent extraction equilibria and kinetics using Infrared attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy (ATR) is described. The method allows complete, quantitative kinetic studies using a total of one gram of extractant. Solvent extraction of aqueous Ni2+ into 0.5 - 1.0 μm films of Apiezon M (ApM, aliphatic hydrocarbon) containing the title reagents was examined. In contrast with LIX 65N extraction which proceeds solely through the LIX 65N anion, extraction of Ni2+ by LIX 63 proceeds through both neutral and anionic forms of LIX 63. This results in a kinetic rate law having two terms, each exhibiting first order dependence on both [Ni2+] and [LIX 63]0. For mixtures of LIX 65N and LIX 63 (LIX 63:LIX 65N ≤ 0.12) In the ApH films, the rate law has only one term, of orders [LIX 65N]0 1, [LIX 63] 0 1, [Ni2+]1, and [H+]−1. While the equilibrium constants favor Ni(LIX 65N)2, the relatively large rate of reaction of the neutral LIX 63 leads to a catalysis of the overall L...
Large range dual-axis micro-stage driven by electrostatic comb-drive actuators

This paper presents a micro XY stage that employs electrostatic comb-drive actuators and achieves a bi-directional displacement range greater than 225 µm per motion axis. The proposed XY stage design comprises four rigid stages (ground, motion stage, and two intermediate stages) interconnected via flexure modules. The motion stage, which has two translational degrees of freedom, is connected to two independent single degree of freedom intermediate stages via respective parallelogram (P) transmission flexures. The intermediate stages are connected to the ground via respective clamped paired double parallelogram (C-DP-DP) guidance flexures. The C-DP-DP flexure, unlike conventional flexures such as the paired double parallelogram flexure (DP-DP), provides high bearing direction stiffness (Kb) while maintaining low motion direction stiffness (Km) over a large range of motion direction displacement. This helps delay the onset of sideways instability in the comb-drive actuators that are integrated with the intermediate stages, thereby offering a significantly greater actuation stroke compared to existing designs. The presented work includes closed-form stiffness analysis of the proposed micro-stage, finite elements simulation, and experimental measurements of its static and dynamic behavior.