cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Mixer-Ejector Nozzle with Thermal Acoustic Shield for Jet Noise Reduction

A tendency for excessive exhaust jet mixing noise from low bypass ratio turbofan engines is recognized as a key challenge in the design of commercial supersonic aircraft. In this work we investigate a unique combination of two noise mitigation methods as a novel strategy to reduce jet mixing noise. First, a thermal acoustic shield (TAS) is used to reflect high frequency acoustic waves at small angles to the jet axis; second, a mixer-ejector (ME) nozzle is used to mechanically shield noise propagating at large angles to the axis. The ME shroud also provides a convenient location for a TAS nozzle and improves TAS effectiveness by limiting the downstream extent of high frequency noise generation. In an additional benefit for a velocity-matched TAS stream, the ME allows a reduction in strength of the TAS outer shear layer which could serve as a secondary noise source. The present work provides a quantitative assessment of the ME-TAS concept, using a combination of RANS CFD simulations, acoustic analogy calculations for the farfield Green's function, and surrogate-based modeling and parameter space exploration. We first evaluate a subscale configuration, then use scaling arguments to apply subscale results to the systems-level analysis of a flight configuration; the latter configuration includes a generic low bypass ratio turbofan engine with an engine-driven electric generator for supplementary heating of the TAS stream. Additional RANS CFD calculations are performed for a notional ME-TAS geometry based on the full scale configuration, and various modeling assumptions and operational characteristics are evaluated. The ME-TAS concept is shown to provide effective shielding for high frequency jet noise, and should enable comparable noise suppression to a stand-alone ME of considerably greater length, weight and drag. In addition to investigating the integrated ME-TAS system, the present work differs from previous research into TAS and related fluidic shield concepts through the inclusion of modern numerical analysis tools and the systematic numerical examination of various design parameters.
A scale to measure nurses' and providers' patient centered care in primary care settings.

Abstract Objectives 1) Refine pilot scale measuring patients' experiences of outpatient nurses' and providers' care; 2) Determine variance explained by (a) pilot scale items and (b) “Survey of Health Experiences of Patients" (SHEP)/"Consumer Assessment of Health Care Providers and Systems" (CAHPS) scale items. Methods Randomly selected Veteran patients with recent visits with primary care outpatient nurses and providers (n = 1192) completed scales: pilot "PCC in Primary Care: Nurses and Providers Scale" and SHEP/CAHPS scale items. Factor analyses conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM), variance measurement using regression strategies. Results SEM generated scale comprised 17 items in 3 factors; 2 operationalized nurses' care; 1 providers' care. Fit statistics were acceptable. Variance explained for total PCC: nurses = 42%, providers = 56%. Combined pilot and SHEP/CAHPS item analyses yielded similarly structured scale. 70% of provider care variance explained by single item. Conclusion Appraisal of team, value-based care requires accrediting care to the appropriate clinician. The "PCC in Primary Care: Nurses and Providers Scale (PC2:NaPS)" provides a psychometrically sound measure for this purpose. Practice implications PC2:NaPS use would improve primary care leaders' and clinicians' analyses of patient centered care and associated outcomes in their settings, and thus enhance success of quality improvement and organizational projects.
Cell Phone Ownership and Cyberbullying in 8-11 Year Olds: New Research

The study of cyberbullying has most often focused on adolescents. This study examined survey data on 4,584 students in grades 3, 4 and 5, gathered between late 2014 and 2016, as schools opted to survey their students about bullying and cyberbullying. Most, but not all, schools participating …
Measuring the polarization response of a VNIR hyperspectral imager

As the applications of hyperspectral imaging rapidly diversify, the need for accurate radiometric calibration of these imaging systems is becoming increasingly important. When performing radiometric measurements, the polarization response of the imaging system can be of particular interest if the scene contains partially polarized objects. For example, when imaging a scene containing water, surface reflections from the water will be partially polarized, possibly affecting the response of the imaging system. In this paper, the polarization response of a Resonon, Inc. visible near-infrared (VNIR) hyperspectral imaging system is assessed across a spectral range of 400nm to 1000 nm, with a spectral resolution of 2.1 nm. Efforts are currently underway to correct for the observed polarization response of the imaging system.
Becoming bilingual in two-way immersion: patterns of investment in a second-grade classroom

This article explores how second-grade students in a Spanish/English two-way immersion (TWI) program make sense of becoming bilingual. Drawing upon the expanded model of investment theory, I examin...
Parameter identification of a differentiable Bouc-Wen model using constrained extended Kalman filter:

Hysteresis is of critical importance to structural safety under severe dynamic loading conditions. One of the widely used hysteretic models for civil structures is the Bouc-Wen model, the effective...
Over 60 Years of Experimental Hematology (without a License)

I am deeply honored to receive the International Society for Experimental Hematology (ISEH) 2020 Donald Metcalf Lecture Award. Although I am not a physician and have had no formal training in hematology, I have had the privilege of working with some of the top hematologists in the world, beginning in 1970 when Dr. David Nathan was a sabbatical visitor in my laboratory and introduced me to hematological diseases. And I take this award to be given not just to me but to an exceptional group of MD and PhD trainees and visitors in my laboratory who have cloned and characterized many proteins and RNAs important for red cell development and function. Many of these projects involved taking exceptionally large risks in developing and employing novel experimental technologies. Unsurprisingly, all of these trainees have gone on to become leaders in hematology and, more broadly, in molecular cell biology and molecular medicine. To illustrate some of the challenges we have faced and the technologies we had to develop, I have chosen several of our multiyear projects to describe in some detail: elucidating the regulation of translation of α- and β-globin mRNAs and the defect in beta thalassemia in the 1970s; cloning the Epo receptor and several red cell membrane proteins in the 1980s and 1990s; and more recently, determining the function of many microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs in red cell development. I summarize how we are currently utilizing single-cell transcriptomics (scRNAseq) to understand how dividing transit-amplifying burst-forming unit erythroid progenitors balance the need for more progenitor cells with the need for terminally differentiated erythroid cells, and to identify drugs potentially useful in treating Epo-resistant anemias such as Diamond Blackfan anemia. I hope that the lessons I learned in managing these diverse fellows and projects, initially without having grants to support them, will be helpful to others who would like to undertake ambitious and important lines of research in hematology.
Incidence and clinical outcomes of nosocomial infections in patients presenting with STEMI complicated by cardiogenic shock in the United States.

Abstract Objectives This study addresses the incidence, trends, and impact of nosocomial infections (NI) on the outcomes of patients admitted with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and cardiogenic shock (STEMI-CS) using the United States National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Methods We analyzed data from 105,184 STEMI-CS patients using the NIS database from the years 2005-2014. NI was defined as infections of more than or equal to three days, comprising of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), urinary tract infection (UTI), hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), bacteremia, and skin related infections. Outcomes of the impact of NI on STEMI-CS included in-hospital mortality, length of hospital stay (LOS) and costs. Significant associations of NI in patients admitted with STEMI-CS were also identified. Results Overall, 19.1% (20,137) of patients admitted with STEMI-CS developed NI. Trends of NI have decreased from 2005-2014. The most common NI were UTI (9.2%), followed by HAP (6.8%), CLABSI (1.5%), bacteremia (1.5%), skin related infections (1.5%), and CDI (1.3%). The strongest association of developing a NI was increasing LOS (7-9 days; OR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.75-2.26; >9 days; OR: 4.51; 95% CI: 4.04-5.04 compared to 4-6 days as reference). Increased mortality risk among patients with NI was significant, especially those with sepsis-associated NI compared to those without sepsis (OR: 2.95; 95% CI: 2.72-3.20). Patients with NI were found to be associated with significantly longer LOS and higher costs, irrespective of percutaneous mechanical circulatory support placement. Conclusions NI were common among patients with STEMI-CS. Those who developed NI were at a greater risk of in-hospital mortality, increased LOS and costs.
Safety evaluation of connected and automated vehicles in mixed traffic with conventional vehicles at intersections

Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) can potentially improve the performance of the transportation system by reducing human errors. This paper investigates the safety impact of CAVs in a mixed t...
The Medical Library Association Guide to Developing Consumer Health Collections: Joseph, Claire B. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2018. 174p. ISBN: 978-1-4422-8170-7. $35.00 (softcover).

Relying on sources of health misinformation is a significant public health concern. In addition, underserved communities’ lack of medical resources includes that of health information. For these re...
U.S. Supreme Court Brief of Legal Scholars as Amici Curiae Supporting Respondent (TransUnion LLC v. Ramirez, No. 20-297)

This brief was filed by legal scholars with expertise in federal courts, federal jurisdiction, and federal civil procedure in TransUnion LLC v. Ramirez, which will be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court on March 30, 2021. In passing the Fair Credit Reporting Act, Congress imposed obligations on credit reporting companies like TransUnion that are designed to protect precisely the kind of individuals who were members of the plaintiff class in this case. Congress also provided a cause of action to allow those individuals to enforce the companies' obligations. At trial, the jury found that the evidence supported each statutory element of the cause of action as to each individual class member. And the jury awarded remedies that are specifically authorized by the same statute that created the cause of action. Nonetheless, TransUnion asks this Court to throw out the judgment below for lack of subject-matter jurisdiction based on additional, uncodified elements that are ostensibly necessary for this case even to qualify as a "case or controversy" under Article III. That is not, however, what Article III requires. Doing so would not only deprive class members of a jury verdict vindicating their rights after years of litigation, but also upend this Court's standing jurisprudence and require class members--and anyone injured by violations of similar congressionally created statutory rights--to seek redress only in state courts.
COVID-19 and family planning service delivery: Findings from a survey of U.S. physicians.

Equitable access to contraception is critical for reproductive autonomy. Using cross-sectional data from the DocStyles survey administered September-October 2020 (68% response rate), we compared changes in family planning-related clinical services and healthcare delivery strategies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and assessed service provision issues among 1063 U.S. physicians whose practice provided family planning services just before the pandemic. About one-fifth of those whose practices provided the following services or strategies just before the pandemic discontinued these services during the pandemic: long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) placement (16%); LARC removal (17%); providing or prescribing emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) in advance (18%); and reminding patients about contraception injections or LARC removal or replacement (20%). Many practices not providing the following services or strategies just before the pandemic initiated these services during the pandemic: telehealth for contraception initiation (43%); telehealth for contraception continuation (48%); and renewing contraception prescriptions without requiring an office visit (36%). While a smaller proportion of physicians reported service provision issues in the month before survey completion than at any point during the pandemic, about one-third still reported fewer adult females seeking care (37%) and technical challenges with telehealth (32%). Discontinuation of key family planning services during the COVID-19 pandemic may limit contraception access and impede reproductive autonomy. Implementing healthcare service delivery strategies that reduce the need for in-person visits (e.g., telehealth for contraception, providing or prescribing ECPs in advance) may decrease disruptions in care. Resources exist for public health and clinical efforts to ensure contraception access during the pandemic.
A Review of Robin Hood Scholarship Published in 2017-2018

This article provides an overview of the Robin Hood scholarship published in 2017 and 2018. The material covered a wide range of topics and demonstrates the depth inherent in medieval studies, medievalism studies, and adaptation studies, as well as in examinations of publishing, reading, and performance practices from the medieval period to the twentieth century. While most of the scholarship considered the interaction between the Robin Hood legend and politics, the approaches to analysis and texts explored are quite diverse. As demonstrated by many scholars, revisiting and reexamining generally accepted claims often leads to a productive and enlightening discussion of the ever-engaging Robin Hood legend and materials.
Rash, Anemia, and Thrombocytopenia in a 6-week-old Boy.

1. Cassandra Mooney, MD* 2. Meera Shah, MD, MPH* 3. Gargi Mukherjee, MD* 1. *Emory University/Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA A 6-week-old boy, born at 38 weeks via normal spontaneous vaginal delivery to a first-time mother, presents to the emergency department with a newly developing rash during the past 2 weeks. Initially described as transient, erythematous, macular, and blanching, it began on his face and spread to his trunk and upper extremities. A rash in the diaper area also appeared concurrently with the rash on his face. He was seen by his pediatrician 10 days before presentation and was prescribed 1% hydrocortisone ointment, nystatin, and bacitracin for the diaper rash. The lesions on his face, trunk, and extremities, believed to be urticarial, were not treated, and his parents were told to monitor for further spread. Three days later the diaper rash resolved, but the other lesions remained. Hydrocortisone was applied to the remaining lesions for 2 days without improvement. Because the lesions continued to increase in number, he was brought to the emergency department. Review of systems is negative for fever, fussiness, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and decreased urine output. The mother denies exposure to known sick contacts and changes to soaps or lotions. In addition, there were no complications during the pregnancy; the mother’s routine laboratory values to screen for infection, including human immunodeficiency virus, syphilis, group B Streptococcus, and hepatitis B, were negative. The mother does have a history of cold sores, but none during pregnancy or postpartum. Otherwise, there is no significant family history reported. In the emergency department the patient is nontoxic appearing with the following vital signs: temperature, 99°F (37.2°C); respiratory rate, 44 breaths/min; heart rate, 131 beats/min; blood pressure, 80/40 mm Hg; and oxygen saturation, 99%. His weight is 9.08 lb (4.12 kg) (5th percentile) and length is 20 in (51 cm) (<3rd percentile). His birthweight, 2,600 g, was also at the 5th percentile. …
Capital of the World: The Race to Host the United Nations

Part I From War to Peace1 Inspiration 2 Hope 3 Schemes Part II The New World4 Blitz5 Showtime!6 SurprisePart III American Dreams7 Stumble8 Scramble9 Deal
Variation and quantification among a target set of phosphopeptides in human plasma by multiple reaction monitoring and SWATH-MS2 data-independent acquisition.

Human plasma contains proteins that reflect overall health and represents a rich source of proteins for identifying and understanding disease pathophysiology. However, few studies have investigated changes in plasma phosphoproteins. In addition, little is known about the normal variations in these phosphoproteins, especially with respect to specific sites of modification. To address these questions, we evaluated variability in plasma protein phosphorylation in healthy individuals using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and SWATH-MS2 data-independent acquisition. First, we developed a discovery workflow for phosphopeptide enrichment from plasma and identified targets for MRM assays. Next, we analyzed plasma from healthy donors using an analytical workflow consisting of MRM and SWATH-MS2 that targeted phosphopeptides from 58 and 68 phosphoproteins, respectively. These two methods produced similar results showing low variability in 13 phosphosites from 10 phosphoproteins (CVinter 30%). Moreover, these phosphopeptides originate from phosphoproteins involved in cellular processes governing homeostasis, immune response, cell-extracellular matrix interactions, lipid and sugar metabolism, and cell signaling. This limited assessment of technical and biological variability in phosphopeptides generated from plasma phosphoproteins among healthy volunteers constitutes a reference for future studies that target protein phosphorylation as biomarkers.
Tissue fate prediction in acute ischemic stroke using cuboid models

Early and accurate prediction of tissue outcome is essential to the clinical decision-making process in acute ischemic stroke. We present a quantitative predictive model that combines tissue information available immediately after onset, measured using fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), with multimodal perfusion features (Tmax, MTT, and TTP) to infer the likely outcome of the tissue. A key component is the use of randomly extracted, overlapping, cuboids (i.e. rectangular volumes) whose size is automatically determined during learning. The prediction problem is formalized into a nonlinear spectral regression framework where the inputs are the local, multi-modal cuboids extracted from FLAIR and perfusion images at onset, and where the output is the local FLAIR intensity of the tissue 4 days after intervention. Experiments on 7 stroke patients demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in predicting tissue fate and its superiority to linear models that are conventionally used.
Islands in the Λ -sea: An alternative cosmological model

We propose an alternative cosmological model in which our observable Universe is an island in a cosmological constant sea. Initially the Universe is filled with cosmological constant of the currently observed value but is otherwise empty. In this eternal or semieternal de Sitter spacetime, we show that local quantum fluctuations (upheavals) can violate the null energy condition and create islands of matter. The perturbation spectra of quantum fields other than that responsible for the upheaval, are shown to be scale invariant. With further cosmic evolution the island disappears and the local Universe returns to its initial cosmological constant dominated state.
Ag-clad Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O wires: I. Phase study of fully processed 2:2:1:2 wires

Abstract We have studied the composition of phases in fully processed Ag-clad wires containing Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O with a starting cation ratio of 2:2:1:2 using electron probe microanalysis. Wires that were processed at temperatures not exceeding 850°C contained two phases: the two-CuO2 layer superconductor (“2212”) and Bi0.06Sr8.87Ca4.87Cu24Ox, which is a member of the “ 14 24 ” solid solution that is in equilibrium with “2212” at 850°C. Phases identified in wires melt processed at temperatures up to 920°C then annealed at 830–840°C were “2212”, (Sr1−xCax)CuO2, and Ag particles. This appears to be a nonequilibrium phase assemblage as the superconductor is not reported to be in equilibrium with (Sr1−xCax)CuO2 at 800–850°C.
What is the natural generalization of univariate splines to higher dimensions

In the first part of the paper, the problem of defining multivariate splines in a natural way is formulated and discussed. Then, several existing constructions of multivariate splines are surveyed, namely those based on simplex splines. Various difficulties and practical limitations associated with such constructions are pointed out. The second part of the paper is concerned with the description of a new generalization of univariate splines. This generalization utilizes the novel concept of the so-called Delaunay configurations, used to select collections of knot-sets for simplex splines. The linear span of the simplex splines forms a spline space with several interesting properties. The space depends uniquely and in a local way on the prescribed knots and does not require the use of auxiliary or perturbed knots, as is the case with some earlier constructions. Moreover, the spline space has a useful structure that makes it possible to represent polynomials explicitly in terms of simplex splines. This representation closely resembles a familiar univariate result in which polar forms are used to express polynomials as linear combinations of the classical B-splines.
Cultural Connections: the Key to Retention of Black, Latina, and Arab Women in the Kin Keeper(SM) Cancer Prevention Intervention Studies.

Diverse racial and ethnic populations must be included in research studies in order to address health disparities. Retaining hard-to-reach populations including poor, underserved, and racial/ethnic groups in longitudinal studies can be quite difficult. Using innovative retention strategies that address culture and community are imperative. The objective of this report is to identify and describe strategies for successful retention rates among a unique group of hard-to-reach racial/ethnic participants. We analyzed the follow-up rates in two different cohorts using the Kin KeeperSM study design. The aim of Study A was to examine the capability of the Kin KeeperSM education to increase health literacy in breast and cervical cancer. The primary aim of Study B was to measure changes in breast and cervical cancer screening after receiving the Kin KeeperSM education. Retention rates were analyzed and compared over 12 months for both cohorts. We found good retention rates for both cohorts with each having a unique set of differences. The overall follow-up rate was 82 % for Study A and 88 % for Study B with demographic differences between the studies reported herein. Despite changing cultural, community, and geopolitical factors, we were able to maintain consistent participation for each study. We attribute high retention rates to trusted cultural connections and the flexibility to adjust retention strategies.
Preparing Pre-Service Teachers for Culturally Diverse Classrooms: A Conceptual Model.

Society in the USA has become increasingly diverse, with schools across the nation serving student populations that are culturally and linguistically very different from the European-American majority of the past. It is imperative that pre-service teachers are effectively prepared for diverse learning environments. This article describes a conceptual framework that has been found to be invaluable towards achieving that end.
The Demand for Water: Consumer Response to Scarcity

Provision of water raises several issues for municipal utility companies and other suppliers, including reliability of supply in arid regions or during droughts, equity issues that arise because water is literally a necessity, and heterogeneity in consumer response to regulatory policy. We combine experimental and survey responses to investigate demand for water. The experiments simulate water consumption from a potentially exhaustible source, revealing heterogeneous demand for water. We estimate econometrically water demand for different consumer groups. A regulator could use estimates of disaggregated demand to attain conservation goals by designing an incentive compatible pricing system. The example given achieves a conservation goal while minimizing enforcement costs and welfare loss.
Effect of a backboard on compression depth during cardiac arrest in the ED: a simulation study

Abstract Research Purpose We evaluated the impact of a backboard on chest compression depth during cardiac arrest practice sessions conducted using a high-fidelity mannequin on a standard emergency department stretcher. Methods Forty-three health care trainees completed cardiac resuscitation simulations requiring 2 minutes of uninterrupted chest compressions. Twenty-one were randomly allocated to the intervention group in which a backboard was concealed by placement between the stretcher mattress and a top sheet and, 22 were allocated to the control group in which no backboard was placed. The mannequin software automatically recorded mean chest compression depth in 10-second intervals for the 2 minutes of compressions. Results The backboard group achieved a mean compression depth of 41.2 mm (95% confidence interval, 37.8-44.6). The no-backboard group's mean compression depth was 41.4 mm (95% confidence interval, 38.7-44.2). Most subjects in both groups did not achieve the 50-mm compression depth threshold recommended by the American Heart Association. Conclusions Use of a backboard as an adjunct during cardiopulmonary resuscitation of a simulated patient lying on a standard emergency department stretcher did not improve the mean chest compression depth achieved by advanced life support rescuers. Most rescuers did not achieve the minimum compression depth of 50 mm recommended by the American Heart Association.
Harmonic Functions for Data Reconstruction on 3D Manifolds

The goal of smooth function reconstruction on a 2D or 3D manifold is to obtain a smooth function on surfaces or higher dimensional manifolds. It is a common problem in computer graphics and computational mathematics, especially in civil engineering including structural analysis of solid objects. In this chapter, we introduce a new method using harmonic functions for solving this problem. This method contains the following steps: (1) Partition the boundary surfaces of the 3D manifold based on sample points so that each sample point is on the edge of the partition. (2) Use gradually varied interpolation on the edges so that each point on the edge will be assigned a value. In addition, all values on the edge are gradually varied. (3) Use discrete harmonic functions to fit the unknown points, i.e. the points inside each partition patch. This solution of the fitting becomes the piecewise harmonic function.
High-frequency spectra observed at Anza, California: Implications for Q structure

Abstract Data from the Anza array in southern California have been analyzed to yield a model for the depth dependence of attenuation. The result is obtained from a formal inversion of the distance dependence of the spectral decay parameter, κ , observed from sources at a wide range of distances from single stations. The inversion procedure assumes constant Q i in plane layers and finds models which are as nearly constant with depth as possible. We find that the data cannot be explained by a model in which Q i is constant with depth and that the data generally require three-layer models. The resulting models typically give Q i for P waves between 300 and 1000 in the top 5 km, rising to 1000 to 3000 at greater depths, and decreasing to 700 to 1000 around 12 km depth. Q i for S waves is slightly higher in most cases. Because this depth dependence of Q i is generally correlated with the depths of earthquake epicenters, we suggest that Q i may be due to a pressure and temperature-controlled intrinsic attenuation mechanism.
Synaptotagmin I Functions as a Calcium Sensor to Synchronize Neurotransmitter Release

Abstract To characterize Ca 2+ -mediated synaptic vesicle fusion, we analyzed Drosophila synaptotagmin I mutants deficient in specific interactions mediated by its two Ca 2+ binding C2 domains. In the absence of synaptotagmin I, synchronous release is abolished and a kinetically distinct delayed asynchronous release pathway is uncovered. Synapses containing only the C2A domain of synaptotagmin partially recover synchronous fusion, but have an abolished Ca 2+ cooperativity. Mutants that disrupt Ca 2+ sensing by the C2B domain have synchronous release with normal Ca 2+ cooperativity, but with reduced release probability. Our data suggest the Ca 2+ cooperativity of neurotransmitter release is likely mediated through synaptotagmin-SNARE interactions, while phospholipid binding and oligomerization trigger rapid fusion with increased release probability. These results indicate that synaptotagmin is the major Ca 2+ sensor for evoked release and functions to trigger synchronous fusion in response to Ca 2+ , while suppressing asynchronous release.
Local vibrotactile and pain sensitivities are negatively related in temporomandibular disorders

Earlier research has shown that cutaneous experimental pain can elevate the vibrotactile threshold at the same skin locus. The purpose of this study was to determine whether vibrotactile and pain thresholds in a clinical (temporomandibular disorders [TMD]) population are consistent with the hypothesis that chronic pain causes a similar elevation. Specifically, we predicted that TMD subjects with soreness (low palpation-pain threshold) at a given skin site would have relatively high vibrotactile thresholds at the same location. Measurements on the skin overlying the masseter in 18 individuals with TMD showed that pain sensitivity was negatively correlated with sensitivity to 20-Hz vibration (presumed to activate a rapidly adapting mechanoreceptive channel), but not with sensitivity to 200-Hz vibration (thought to activate primarily a slowly adapting channel, because the Pacinian channel is lacking in the orofacial region). There was no relationship between vibration thresholds over the masseter and pain threshold at other orofacial sites, including the contralateral masseter. Vibrotactile and pain thresholds were uncorrelated in control participants without chronic pain (n = 18). The results indicate that in TMD, a localized relationship exists between pain sensitivity and the sensitivity of a low-frequency vibrotactile channel.
The Existential Theory of the Poset of R.E. Degrees with a Predicate for Single Jump Reducibility

We show the decidability of the existential theory of the recursively enumerable degrees in the language of Turing reducibility, Turing reducibility of the Turing jumps, and least and greatest element.
Assessing quality and costs of education in the ambulatory setting: a review of the literature.

PURPOSE Time-pressured interactions with little direct observation or feedback characterize teaching in ambulatory settings. The authors report findings from the literature on teaching and learning in the ambulatory setting and propose opportunities for further research that addresses these barriers. METHOD The authors searched 1995-1999 databases for all empirical studies that focused on research conducted in ambulatory settings. Publications were reviewed for evidence of inclusion criteria. Findings were sorted into categories previously described for defining and evaluating quality of ambulatory care educational programs. RESULTS Most studies were conducted in departments of internal medicine (40%), focused on medical students (43%), and took place in a single program (77%), making generalizations difficult. Students and residents are learning in ambulatory environments, and the types of patients they encounter are likely to prepare them for practice. Patient care outcomes have emerged as a measure of learning. Teachers may be the single most important factor, yet they lack self-confidence as teachers. Community-based preceptors teach because of enjoyment of teaching and the opportunity to stay current. However, none of the studies addressed the impact of the Medicare documentation requirements on satisfaction with teaching. Teaching settings cost about one third more than non-teaching settings to operate. CONCLUSION This review identifies many gaps in our knowledge of effective clinical teaching practices, and of learning environments in which that teaching takes place. The predominance of single-institution studies limits generalizability of current findings. A prioritized research agenda should be established and funded, focusing on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of teaching and learning in ambulatory settings.
Formulation of Field Theories of Composite Particles

Based upon Feynman's over-all-space-time point of view, a general method for dealing with bound-state problems is presented. In this paper we are mainly interested in the properties of Green's functions that should be satisfied in the field theories with bound states. First the Chew-Low or Lehmann-Symanzik-Zimmermann equations are generalized so as to include composite particles. Then we examine the possibility of distinguishing between elementary and composite particles. Finally, an investigation is made of how the $S$ matrix elements for processes involving composite particles are related to those involving no composite particles. This problem is illustrated by the relation between $p+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}n+p+{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ and $p+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}d+{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$.
Stimulated emission in single-walled carbon nanotubes

We demonstrate stimulated emission at wavelengths near 1053 nm in isolated single-walled carbon nanotubes which are optically pumped at wavelengths of 700–950 nm. Studies of pump-probe wavelength and power dependencies are presented and investigations of pump-probe polarization, nanotube concentration, and various control samples are discussed.
Alpha C protein-specific immunity in humans with group B streptococcal colonization and invasive disease

Alpha C protein, found in 76% of non-type III strains of group B Streptococcus (GBS), elicits antibodies protective against alpha C-expressing strains in experimental animals, making it an appealing carrier for a GBS conjugate vaccine. We determined whether natural exposure to alpha C elicits antibodies in women. Geometric mean concentrations of alpha C-specific IgM and IgG were similar by ELISA in sera from 58 alpha C GBS strain colonized and 174 age-matched non-colonized women (IgG 245 and 313 ng/ml; IgM 257 and 229 ng/ml, respectively), but acute sera from 13 women with invasive alpha C-expressing GBS infection had significantly higher concentrations (IgM 383 and IgG 476 ng/ml [p=0.036 and 0.038, respectively]). Convalescent sera from 5 of these women 16-49 days later had high alpha C-specific IgM and IgG concentrations (1355 and 4173 ng/ml, respectively). In vitro killing of alpha C-expressing GBS correlated with total alpha C-specific antibody concentration. Invasive disease but not colonization elicits alpha C-specific IgM and IgG in adults.
Electrohydrodynamic droplet generators

Abstract In an electrohydrodynamic (EHD) droplet generator, an electric field acts directly on the surface of an electrically conducting jet after it has been formed and ejected from the nozzle. If the electric field has the proper frequency, it will induce compression and expansion of the jet, which will eventually break up into droplets some distance downstream. In contrast to acoustic droplet generators, the initial disturbance is physically separated from the nozzle, so that the exciter and nozzle can be individually designed to perform their separate tasks efficiently. This paper presents a theory of EHD exciters which predicts the breakup length of the jet in terms of the geometry and physical properties of the printer. Experiments confirm this theory, and show that practical exciters can be designed from first principles with the expectation that the breakup length will be close to that predicted, and insensitive to changes in operating frequency.
Hemoglobin, inhibitor of the contact phase of blood coagulation.

Abstract Evidence has been presented that hemoglobin both as oxy-or methemoglobin is able to prolong the clotting of fresh blood and the recalcification and partial thromboplastin time of non activated platelet poor plasma; hemoglobin has no effect on the latter parameters, when the plasma has been already fully activated. It cannot inhibit the action of either thrombin or tissue thromboplastin and it does not affect the consumption of prothrombin in platelet poor plasma. These findings indicate that hemoglobin interferes with the activation of the contact coagulation system and may explain why experimental or accidental hemolysis does not induce intravascular coagulation, except if there is also stagnation of the capillary flow (shock).
Achieving connectivity through coalescence in mobile robot networks

Coalescence is the problem of isolated mobile robots independently searching for peers with the goal of forming a single connected network. This paper analyzes coalescence time for a worst-case scenario where the robots do not have any knowledge about the environment or positions of other robots and perform independent, memoryless search. Using the random direction mobility model, we show that coalescence time has an exponential distribution which is a function of the number of robots, speed, communication range, and size of the domain. Further, as the number of robots (N) increases, coalescence time decreases as O(1/√N) and Ω(log(N)/N). Simulations validate our analysis and also suggest that the lower bound is tight. This paper is an extension of [1] where we studied a simplified setting with a stationary base station that the robots search for and coalesce to.
The apparent rate constant for the dissociation of force generating myosin crossbridges from actin decreases during Ca2+ activation of skinned muscle fibres.

The effect of Ca2+ activation on the apparent rate constant governing the dissociation of force generating myosin cross-bridges was studied in skinned rabbit adductor magnus fibres (fast-twitch) at 21±1 °C. Simultaneous measurements of Ca2+-activated isometric force and ATPase activity were conducted in parallel with simultaneous measurements of DANZ-labelled troponin C (TnCDANZ) fluorescence and isometric force in fibres whose endogenous troponin C had been partially replaced with TnCDANZ. The Ca2+ activation of isometric force occurred at approximately two times higher Ca2+ concentration than did actomyosin ATPase activity at 2.0 mM MgATP. Since increases in both TnCDANZ fluorescence and ATPase activity occurred over approximately the same Ca2+ concentration range at substantially lower concentrations of Ca2+ than did force, this data suggests that the TnCDANZ fluorescence is associated with the Ca2+ activation of myosin crossbridge turnover (ATPase) rather than force. According to the model of Huxley (1957) and assuming the hydrolysis of one molecule of ATP per cycle of the crossbridge, the apparent rate constantgapp for the dissociation of force generating myosin crossbridges is proportional to the actomyosin ATPase/isometric force ratio. This measure ofgapp shows approximately a fivefold decrease during Ca2+ activation of isometric force. This change ingapp is responsible for separation of the Ca2+ sensitivity of the normalized ATPase activity and isometric force curves. If the MgATP concentration is reduced to 0.5 mM, the change ingapp is reduced and consequently the difference in Ca2+ sensitivity between normalized steady state ATPase and force is also reduced.
The reaction between cesium and carbon blacks

Abstract A series of composition vs. pressure isotherms have been determined for the reaction between cesium and two carbon blacks in the temperature range from 350° to 550°C. A graphitized and a normal carbon black were equilibrated with cesium vapour at pressures from 4·5 to 5000 μ. The cesium content of the carbon black sample was measured by means of a radioactive tracer technique. Hysteresis was found to exist in the isotherm data. The data show evidence of a diffuse two phase region corresponding to the region 5 7 C 24 Cs(s) + Cs(g) ⇌ 12 7 C 10 CS(s) previously shown to exist in the cesium-graphite system. An explanation is offered for the hysteresis observed in the cesium-carbon black and cesium-graphite systems in terms of the structural rearrangement of the graphite layers required by the phase change. Heats and entropies of reaction are calculated from the data and these are compared to the values observed in the cesium-graphite system.
Effect of selected mercurials on glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase in Pteronarcys californica

Abstract Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was extracted from Pteronarcys californica (Plecoptera) by ammonium sulphate fractionation. The enzyme was treated with three forms of mercury (mercuric chloride, methylmercuric chloride, and phenylmercuric chloride) and their in vitro and in vivo effects on GAPDH were studied. It was found that the orders of toxicity were reversed in the in vivo-in vitro experiments. Electrophoresis was conducted on both treated and untreated enzyme, and showed no differences in mobilities between the two. The enzyme was not found to be inhibited by 0·1 mM iodoacetic acid and required cysteine for activity.
The ecology of human birth seasonality.

This article examines birth seasonality in two environmentally and ethnographically distinct societies: the Copper Inuit of the Central Canadian Arctic and the Samukundi Abelam of Papua New Guinea. Although the regions inhabited by these societies differ dramatically in degrees of seasonal variation, both populations display significant seasonality in conceptions and births. For the Copper Inuit, such seasonal variation was found to be the consequence of social and economic responses to extreme environmental change. Birth seasonality for the Samukundi Abelam is also pronounced and was determined to be the result of social ideologies which are only indirectly linked to environmental factors. The article also proposes a research paradigm designed to facilitate the cross-cultural investigation of birth seasonality in human populations.
Thermal conductivity of silicon, germanium, III–V compounds and III–V alloys

Abstract The thermal conductivities as a function of temperature for silicon, germanium, gallium arsenide, indium phosphide, indium arsenide, indium antimonide, gallium phosphide, aluminum antimonide and gallium antimonide are presented. Also included are the thermal conductivities of the mixed III–V compounds: indium arsenide-phosphide, gallium-indium arsenide and gallium arsenide-phosphide. These data are derived from the publications listed in the bibliography and represent the author's selection of the “most probable” values. A brief phenomenological discussion of the mechanisms involved in thermal conduction is presented.
Impact of the number of lymph nodes retrieved on outcome in patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Abstract Purpose: We postulate that the number of lymph nodes examined in cystectomy specimens can have an impact on the outcome of patients with bladder cancer. Materials and Methods: We analyzed data on 322 patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy and bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy. We evaluated the associations of the number of lymph nodes identified by the pathologist in the surgical specimen with the local recurrence rate and survival outcome. Results: Patients were divided into groups by lymph node status and the distribution of the number of lymph nodes examined. In stages pN 0 and pN + cases improved survival was associated with a greater number of lymph nodes examined. We determined that at least nine lymph nodes should be studied to define lymph node status accurately. Conclusions: These results indicate that surgical resection and pathological assessment of an adequate number of lymph nodes in cystectomy specimens increases the likelihood of proper staging and impacts patient outcome. Such information is important not only for the therapy and prognosis of individuals, but also for identifying those who may benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.
Epicardial catheter mapping and ablation of ventricular tachycardia

Percutaneous entry into the pericardial space allows epicardial catheter mapping and ablation in the electrophysiology laboratory, opening a perspective on cardiac electrophysiology that previously was limited largely to the operating room. Scar-related reentry after myocardial infarction usually involves the subendocardium but in some patients can only be ablated from the epicardium. Epicardial, scar-related reentry also is an important cause of ventricular tachycardia in nonischemic cardiomyopathies. Rare supraventricular tachycardias and idiopathic ventricular tachycardia that cannot be defined from the endocardium sometimes can be ablated from the epicardium. With appropriate precautions the procedural risks are low. Epicardial catheter techniques expand the options for investigating cardiac electrophysiology and treating arrhythmias in humans and may lead to insights into transmural properties influencing repolarization and the genesis of arrhythmias.
Synchronous and asynchronous systems of threshold elements

The role of synchronism in systems of threshold elements (such as neural networks) is examined. Some important differences between synchronous and asynchronous systems are outlined. In particular, important restrictions on limit cycles are found in asynchronous systems along with multi-frequency oscillations which do not appear in synchronous systems. The possible role of deterministic chaos in these systems is discussed.
Migration from plasticized films into foods. 2. Migration of di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)adipate from PVC films used for retail food packaging

A UK survey of di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)adipate (DEHA) levels in retail foods (83 samples) wrapped in plasticized PVC film has been carried out, examining a wide range of different food types obtained from retail and take‐away outlets. Foodstuffs analysed included fresh meat and poultry, ready‐cooked poultry, cheese, fruit, vegetables and baked goods such as cakes, bread rolls and sandwiches. Analysis by stable isotope dilution GC/MS showed DEHA levels ranging from 1.0 to 72.8mg/kg in uncooked meat and poultry, 9.4 to 48.6mg/kg in cooked chicken portions, 27.8 to 135.0 mg/kg in cheese, <2.0mg/kg in fruit and vegetables and 11 to 212 mg/kg in baked goods and sandwiches. The level of DEHA migration correlated with the extent of contact between the film and exposed fatty portions of the food, whether that was the mayonnaise rilling of a sandwich or the surface fat from a joint of uncooked meat. The level of DEHA in meat exposed to plasticized film was not reduced significantly by volatilization or chemical transform...
Czochralski crystal growth of lanthanum oxysulfide

Abstract Neodymium-activated lanthanum oxysulfide (LOS:Nd) has recently received interest as a new laser material. Good quality single crystals of this material have been grown by the Czochralski method. Since LOS decomposes when melted, melt departure from stoichiometry was studied. Equipment and growth parameters used in this work are described.