cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
UT COVERAGE OF NOZZLE INNER RADIUS INCLUDING AMPLITUDES

This paper reports progress in on-going studies to validate UT modeling of nozzle inner radius examinations. In a previous paper [1] it was shown that geometric modeling and raytracing in the Windows-based software WARay3D predicts the geometry and location of search units needed to detect known defects in a nozzle mock-up. The present paper describes the addition of beam forming [2] and flaw response [3] modeling to WARay3D and compares predicted amplitudes with those measured in the same nozzle mock-up. Beam forming and flaw response are formulated analytically and make use of the output of geometric ray tracing, which includes flaw detection and metal path leading to a computationally efficient hybrid approach. Correlation between predicted and measured amplitude drop is presented for ultrasonic signals from corner trap inspection of innerradius flaws. Reference signals are obtained from calibration tests using corner trap at a machined flat surface.
Automatic liver segmentation by integrating fully convolutional networks into active contour models.

Purpose Automatic and accurate three-dimensional (3D) segmentation of liver with severe diseases from computed tomography (CT) images is a challenging task. Fully convolutional networks (FCNs) have emerged as powerful tools for automatic semantic segmentation, with multiple potential applications in medical imaging. However, the use of a large receptive field and multiple pooling layers in the network leads to poor localization around object boundaries. The network usually makes pixel-wise prediction independently, making it difficult to respect local label consistency and enforce the smoothness of the object boundary. Methods We have developed an automatic liver segmentation method based on a novel framework that integrates fully convolutional network predictions into active contour models (ACM). We use only a single network architecture to generate a pixel label map containing spatial regional information (foreground and background) as well as layered boundary information. We exploit the structured network outcome to define an external constraint force of active contour models. A unique property of the designed force is that both its strength and direction are adaptive to its position and relative distance to the object boundary. The resulting integrated active contour models have the advantages of incorporating both high-level and low-level image information simultaneously, while enforcing the smoothness of the contour. Because the external constraint force can push the evolving contour to the liver boundary and exists everywhere in the image domain, it allows us to place the initial contour far away from the liver boundary. It potentially allows us to control the evolution of the contour in order to preserve the topology of the liver. Results We have trained and evaluated our model on 73 liver CT scans from a clinic study. The integrated ACM model yields mean dice coefficients (DICE) 95.8 ± 1.4 (%). Without further fine-tuning the network weights for two independent datasets, it yields mean DICE 96.2 ± 0.9 (%) for the SLIVER07 training dataset, and mean DICE 94.3 ± 2.7 (%) for the LiTS training dataset. In comparison with FCN alone model, the integrated ACM model yields improvements in terms of surface distance and DICE values for almost all the cases. Furthermore, the initialization of the active contour can be very far away from the liver boundary. Conclusions Experimental results for segmenting livers (with severe diseases on CT images resulting in shape and density abnormalities) have revealed that our proposed model improves segmentation results in comparison with FCN alone. Without further fine-tuning the network weights for two independent datasets, the model is capable of handling image variations from different datasets due to its inherent deformable nature. It is relatively easy to integrate more advanced (either existing or future) FCN architecture into our framework to further improve the segmentation performance.
Striking the Right Chord: Math Circles Promote (Joyous) Professional Growth

Math Circles are extracurricular programs organized by mathematicians, aimed at introducing K-12 students or teachers to novel and interesting mathematics in a collaborative environment. While other authors have discussed the impact of Math Circles on participants, this article explores ways that Math Circles have substantial impact on the professional growth of faculty involved. We hope our experiences and commentary will inspire more faculty to become involved with Math Circles both locally and nationally.
Azerbaijani National Identity in Iran, 1921–1946: Roots, Development, and Limits

This article examines the roots and development of Azerbaijani identity in Iran. This study aims to demonstrate that the Azerbaijani minority in Iran lacked consciousness of a distinct national ide...
Mouse models of tight junction physiology

Abstract Tight junctions play a variety of physiological roles in organ systems. Transgenic mouse models allow tight junction genes to be added, removed, or mutated in a target organ to address gain-of-function or loss-of-function effects. This chapter describes the key approaches used to manipulate tight junction genes in mouse embryos and ES cells as the premise to generate transgenic mutant mice, which include three main routes of transgenesis, transgenic overexpression by DNA injection, lentivirus-mediated gene knockdown, and conditional gene knockout in ES cells.
Machine Learning Based Hardware Model for a Biomedical System for Prediction of Respiratory Failure

This paper proposes a hardware design model of a machine learning based fully connected neural network for detection of respiratory failure among neonates in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The model has been developed for a diagnostic system comprised of pyroelectric transducer based breathing monitor and a pulse oximeter that can detect apneic events. The input signal of the proposed system is a digitally converted sensory data from the sensors which is processed using machine learning model to detect if apnea condition has occurred in the patient. The accuracy rate of the proposed model is around 99 percent. The proposed design methodology enables the simplification of the models for future low-cost neural network- on-chip hardware implementation.
Learning-Based Inverse Bi-Scale Material Fitting from Tabular BRDFs.

Relating small-scale structures to large-scale appearance is a key element in material appearance design. Bi-scale material design requires finding small-scale structures that produce a desired large-scale appearance expressed as a macro-scale BRDF. The adjustment of small-scale geometry and reflectances to achieve a desired appearance can become a tedious trial-and-error process. We present a learning-based solution to fit a target macro-scale BRDF with a combination of a meso-scale geometry and micro-scale BRDF. We confront challenges in representation at both scales. At the large scale we need macro-scale BRDFs that are both compact and expressive. At the small scale we need diverse combinations of geometric patterns and potentially spatially varying micro-BRDFs. For large-scale macro-BRDFs, we propose a novel 2D subset of a tabular BRDF representation that well preserves important appearance features for learning. For small-scale details, we represent geometries and BRDFs in different categories with different physical parameters to define multiple independent continuous search spaces. To build the mapping between large-scale macro-BRDFs and small-scale details, we propose an end-to-end model that takes the subset BRDF as input and performs classification and parameter estimation on small-scale details to find an accurate reconstruction. Compared with other fitting methods, our learning-based solution provides higher reconstruction accuracy and covers a wider gamut of appearance.
Towards trustworthiness and transparency in social human-robot interaction

Cooperation between autonomous robots and humans is becoming more and more demanding. Robots have to be able to capable of possessing and expose a wide range of cognitive functions, once humans require their help. This paper describes a cognitive architecture for human-robot interaction that allows a robot to dynamically modulate its own level of social autonomy every time a human user delegates to it a task to accomplish in her/his place. The task adoption process leverages on multiple robot’s cognitive capabilities (i.e. the ability to have a theory of mind of the user, to build a model of the world, to profile the user and to make an evaluation about its own skill trustworthiness for building the user’s profile). On the basis of these capabilities the robot is able to adapt its own level of intelligent collaboration by adopting the task at the different levels of help defined in the theory of delegation and adoption conceived by Castelfranchi and Falcone. Besides that, the architecture enhances robot’s behavior transparency because gives to it the ability to provide a comprehensive explanation of the strategy it has adopted for accomplishing the delegated task. We propose an implementation of the cognitive architecture based on JaCaMo framework, which provides support for implementing multi-agent systems and integrates different multi-agent programming dimensions.
Histology-specific FGFR2 alterations and FGFR2-TACC2 fusion in mixed adenoid cystic and neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix.

Abstract Neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix portends a dismal prognosis with limited treatment options. Rarely, tumors of mixed-lineage appear in gynecologic malignancies. Here, we report a 77-year-old woman who presented with complete uterine prolapse and 4-month history of vaginal bleeding. Histopathologic evaluation revealed a mixed adenoid cystic carcinoma and neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix. The tumor was PD-L1 and HPV 35 positive. The patient was treated with up-front surgery and adjuvant radiation. Independent, histology-specific alterations in FGFR2 and a FGFR2-TACC2 fusion were identified. Progression of disease occurred within 6 months for which she received chemotherapy and immunotherapy. However, the patient expired within a year. We comprehensively review how screening for and targeting of FGFR alterations in recurrent and metastatic cervical cancer might serve as a touchstone for future treatment regimens.
Anisotropic time-dependent London approach: Application to the ac response in the Meissner state

The anisotropic London equations taking into account the normal currents are derived and applied to the problem of the surface impedance in the Meissner state of anisotropic materials. It is shown that the complex susceptibility of the anisotropic slab depends on the orientation of the applied microwave field relative to the crystal axes. In particular, the anisotropic sample in the microwave field is subject to a torque, unless the field is directed along one of the crystal principle axes.
Effect of Dry Needling on Spinal Reflex Excitability and Postural Control in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to compare postural control and neurophysiologic components of balance after dry needling of the fibularis longus between individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) and a healthy control group. Methods This quasi-experimental university-laboratory study included 50 adult volunteers—25 with CAI (16 female, 9 male; age: 26 ± 9.42 years; height: 173.12 ± 9.85 cm; weight: 79.27 ± 18 kg) and 25 healthy controls (15 female, 10 male; age: 25.8 ± 5.45 years; height: 169.47 ± 9.43 cm; weight: 68.47 ± 13 kg). Participants completed the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), single-leg balance, and assessment of spinal reflex excitability before and after a single treatment of dry needling to the fibularis longus. The anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial directions of the SEBT were randomized, and reach distances were normalized to a percentage of leg length. A composite SEBT score was calculated by averaging the normalized scores. Postural control was assessed in single-limb stance on a force plate through time-to-boundary measurements in eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. Fibularis longus and soleus spinal reflexes were obtained by providing electrical stimulation to the common fibular and tibial nerves with participants lying prone. A Group × Time analysis examined changes in performance, and effect sizes were calculated to assess significance. Results Significant group × time interactions were identified for composite (P = .006) and posteromedial (P = .017) SEBT scores. Significant time effects for all directions of the SEBT, time to boundary with eyes open, and the mediolateral direction with eyes closed indicate improved postural control following treatment (P Conclusion Dry needling demonstrated immediate short-term improvement in measures of static and postural control in individuals with CAI as well as healthy controls.
Composite fermion nonlinear sigma models

We study particle-hole symmetry at the integer quantum Hall plateau transition using composite fermion mean-field theory. Because this theory implicitly includes some electron-electron interactions, it also has applications to certain fractional quantum Hall plateau transitions. Previous work [P. Kumar et al., Phys. Rev. B 100, 235124 (2019)] using this approach showed that the diffusive quantum criticality of this transition is described by a nonlinear sigma model with topological $\ensuremath{\theta}=\ensuremath{\pi}$ term. This result, which holds for both the Dirac and Halperin, Lee, and Read composite fermion theories, signifies an emergent particle-hole (reflection) symmetry of the integer (fractional) quantum Hall transition. Here we consider the stability of this result to various particle-hole symmetry-violating perturbations. In the presence of quenched disorder that preserves particle-hole symmetry, we find that finite longitudinal conductivity at this transition requires the vanishing of a symmetry-violating composite fermion effective mass, which if present would generally lead to $\ensuremath{\theta}\ensuremath{\ne}\ensuremath{\pi}$ and a corresponding violation of particle-hole symmetric electrical transport ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{xy}\ensuremath{\ne}\frac{1}{2}\frac{{e}^{2}}{h}$. When the disorder does not preserve particle-hole symmetry, we find that $\ensuremath{\theta}$ can vary continuously within the diffusive regime. Our results call for further study of the universality of the quantum Hall plateau transition.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Parkinson's Disease Individuals Hospitalized with COVID-19 in a New York City Hospital System.

Author(s): Nwabuobi, Lynda; Zhang, Cenai; Henchcliffe, Claire; Shah, Hiral; Sarva, Harini; Lee, Andrea; Kamel, Hooman | Abstract: BackgroundThe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused worse health outcomes among elderly populations with specific pre-existing medical conditions and chronic illnesses. There are limited data on health outcomes of hospitalized Parkinson's disease (PD) individuals infected with COVID-19.ObjectivesTo determine clinical characteristics and outcomes in hospitalized PD individuals infected with COVID-19.MethodsIndividuals admitted to NewYork-Presbyterian with a diagnosis of PD were retrospectively identified using an electronic medical record system. Clinical characteristics and mortality were abstracted.ResultsTwenty-five individuals with PD, mostly male (76%) with a median age of 82 years (IQR 73-88 years), were hospitalized for COVID-19 infection. A total of 80% of individuals had mid-stage to advanced PD (Hoehn and Yahr 3-5) and 80% were on symptomatic pharmacologic therapy, most commonly levodopa (72%). The most common comorbidities were hypertension (72%) and mild cognitive impairment or dementia (48%). A total of 44% and 12% of individuals presented with altered mental status and falls, respectively. Mortality rate was 32% compared to 26% for age-matched controls (Pn=n0.743). Individuals who died were more likely to have encephalopathy during their admission (88% vs. 35%; P l 0.03).ConclusionPD individuals who require hospitalization for COVID-19 infection are likely to be elderly, have mid-stage to advanced disease, and be on pharmacologic therapy. Hypertension and cognitive impairment are common comorbidities in these individuals and encephalopathy during hospitalization is associated with risk of death. Altered mental status and falls are clinical presentations of COVID-19 infection in PD that clinicians should be aware of. A diagnosis of PD is not a risk factor for COVID-19 mortality.
Trade Exports Predict Regional Ballast Water Discharge by Ships in San Francisco Bay

Biological invasions often result from transfers of organisms during trade activities. In coastal ecosystems, commercial ships are a dominant source of species transfers globally, and ships’ ballast water (BW) is a major focus of biosecurity management and policy to reduce invasions. While trade drives shipping patterns, diverse vessel types and behaviors exist such that the quantitative relationship between trade and BW dynamics is still poorly resolved, limiting both science and management. Here, we evaluated a new method to predict BW discharge using trade data, by explicitly considering known BW practices according to vessel and commodity type. Specifically, we estimated the relationship between tonnage of overseas exports and BW discharge volume for San Francisco Bay (SFB), California, as a model system to demonstrate this approach. Using extensive datasets on shipborne exports and BW discharge, we (a) evaluated spatial and temporal patterns across nearly 20 ports in this estuary from 2006-2014 and (b) developed a predictive model to estimate overseas BW discharge volume from foreign export tonnage for the whole estuary. Although vessel arrivals in SFB remained nearly constant from 2006-2014, associated tonnage of exported commodities more than doubled and BW discharge more than tripled. Increased BW volume resulted from increased frequency and per capita discharge of bulk carriers from Asia and tankers from western Central America and Hawaii, reflecting shifts in direction of commodity movement. The top 11 export commodities (59% of total export tonnage) were transported on bulk carriers or tankers. In a multivariate linear model, annual tonnage of these top 11 export commodities by vessel type were strong predictors of total bay-wide overseas BW discharge (adjusted R2 = 0.92), creating the potential to estimate past or future BW delivery in SFB. Bulk export tonnage provides valuable insights into BW flux, since most BW discharge to ports is driven by trade of bulk commodities and the behavior of bulk and tank ships. BW discharge data are unavailable for many regions and time periods, whereas trade data are widely available and can provide a reliable proxy estimate of BW volume and geographic source, which are both critical to evaluate invasion risk.
White Cord Syndrome after Thoracic Cord Decompression in a Pediatric Patient.

Introduction White cord syndrome (WCS) is a rare phenomenon which causes acute neurologic deterioration after a chronically compressed spinal cord is surgically decompressed, resulting in a T2-hyperintense signal to appear in the cord. We present the first case of pediatric WCS in the thoracic spine and the first to show complete resolution of symptoms. Case presentation A 3-year-old girl presented with difficulty ambulating due to pain caused by T4-8 spinal cord compression from a mass of ganglioneuromatous tissue, consistent with her previously treated mediastinal neuroblastoma. She underwent laminoplasty and microsurgical debulking of the mass. She developed severe bilateral leg weakness on postoperative day 1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed T2 hyperintensity in the spinal cord from T1 to T10 without enhancement, concerning for WCS. She was started on high-dose steroids and monitored. Her strength improved to 3/5 in both legs prior to discharge to inpatient rehabilitation. On the latest follow-up, 4 months after surgery, she did not demonstrate any neurologic deficits and was ambulating well. Follow-up MRIs have showed continued improvement in the T2 hyperintensity. Discussion/conclusion Most cases in the literature occur in older adults with chronic cervical compression. Only 1 pediatric case, caused by a cervical arachnoid cyst, has been reported and only resulted in partial improvement. Our case is the first pediatric case of WCS to occur in the thoracic spine, the first pediatric case to demonstrate complete resolution, and the first case of any age to start to establish a length of time the compression is needed to be at risk for WCS.
Social network analysis of publication collaboration of accelerating change in MedEd consortium.

The American Medical Association formed the Accelerating Change in Medical Education Consortium through grants to effect change in medical education. The dissemination of educational innovations th...
The brown pigments of autolyzed tobacco leaves. I. Isolation and characterization.

The isolation and partial purification of the brown pigments of autolyzed shadegrown tobacco leaves have been accomplished. The solubilities of these substances, their ultraviolet and infrared absorption spectra, and their elementary composition are reported. Some of the products of chemical hydrolysis, as identified by paper chromatography, were found to be identical to the products of hydrolysis of chlorogenic acid and rutin. A large variety of amino acids was also found after hydrolysis. The results of these experiments indicate that the brown pigments may consist of a combination of polyphenols with protein.
Psoroptic mange in goats in Fiji

Mange caused byPsoroptes cuniculi was first recognised in goats in Fiji in 1977. Of 33 widely separated herds examined 16 were infested 4 herds having the “extensive” type lesions in older goats. Treatment of the skin and superficial ear lesions with malathion or gamma-BHC was successful but mites survived in the proximal parts of the ear canal. Re-appearance of the mites following treatment was a common problem.
Interaction of Mycoplasma with Viruses I. Primary Adsorption of Virus Is Ionic in Mechanism

Abstract We have studied the adsorption of the Gourlay Acholeplasma virus MVL-1 to the host cell Acholeplasma laidlawii JA-1. Successful adsorption depends primarily on some unknown action of the serum factor in the medium, but evaluation of various physical parameters indicates clearly that given this factor the kinetics is pseudo first order (K = 3 × 10−9 cm3/min) and the mechanism ionic. Chiefly important are the ionic strength of the cation and pH (optimal Na+ = 0.08 M, pH = 6). The system seems indifferent to whether the cation is Na, K, NH4, Ca, or Mg. There is little effect of temperature over the range 0 to 42 C. The diffusion constant of the virus, calculated from its geometry or its maximum adsorption rate, is consistent with its reported size and shape.
Removing Some of the Limitations of Mentally Retarded Workers by Improving Job Design

The traditionally low level of expectancy of persons with moderate, severe, or profound mental retardation in industrial work settings is reviewed from a human factors viewpoint. A case is made for interfacing the retarded worker into the human machine system by evaluating performance in terms of information processing ability. Data are reviewed which suggest that there are many industrial tasks at which such a worker can perform well and earn a wage comparable to his nonretarded co-worker. The issue of training workers versus screening workers is discussed as an additional factor in maximizing the role of workers with retardation in industry. The view of the retarded worker as a communication channel and his ability to process information is regarded as a central issue when discussing the optimization of the person-machine interface. The importance of task analysis in breaking down the task into sub-tasks of acceptable information processing demand is also discussed.
Nurse Practitioner Certification and Practice Settings: Implications for Education and Practice

Purpose: Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are certified within a population-focused specialty area, practice in a variety of settings, and treat a wide range of patients. Little is known about what agreement exists between certification obtained and actual site of practice. The purpose of this study was to examine NP practice sites as compared with their certification and examine additional education they received after employment. Design: Adult (ANP), family (FNP), and acute care nurse practitioners (ACNPs) certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center were surveyed regarding certification, demographic information, practice setting, routine responsibilities, and additional training they may have obtained. Methods: An expert panel defined categories of traditional practice settings consistent with NP credentialing examinations and scopes of practice. Equal numbers of randomly chosen ANPs, ACNPs, and FNPs (N = 2,000) were mailed surveys. Responses were coded and analyzed. Findings: The overall survey response was 69.8% (n= 1216). Of the FNP, ANP, and ACNP respondents, 5%, 7%, and 42%, respectively, reported practicing in a nontraditional practice setting. Of nurses practicing in a nontraditional setting, 74% (135 of 182) were ACNPs, with 90% practicing in a nontraditional, ambulatory care setting. Sixty-five percent (13 of 20) of the FNPs practicing in a nontraditional setting were practicing in a high-acuity emergency department, and 56% (15 of 27) of the ANPs practicing in a nontraditional setting were practicing in a high-acuity intensive care unit. The top responses of additional education received were pharmacology, laboratory interpretation, and ordering diagnostic tests. Conclusions: While greater than 90% of ANPs and FNPs practice in settings consistent with their certification, a proportion of NPs practice in nontraditional settings and may benefit from additional education (formal, on-the-job, and continuing education) and mentoring.
A Natural 3D Interconnected Laminated Composite with Enhanced Damage Resistance

Due to their lightweight, high specific stiffness and strength, cost effectiveness, corrosion and fatigue resistance, laminated composites have been widely used in many engineering applications, such as aircraft, automobiles, sporting products, and civil infrastructure. However, delamination damage along in-plane interfaces has been one of the issues that still remain unsolved. Although many natural load-bearing materials are also essentially laminated composites composed of mineral and organic phases, the underlying mechanisms for antidelamination are still largely unexplored. Here it is reported that the remarkable resistance to macroscopic indentation damage in the highly mineralized shell of the bivalve Placuna placenta originates from a characteristic nanoscale structural motif, i.e., screw dislocation-like connection centers, which join adjacent mineral layers together in the laminate structure. This leads to the formation of a complex interconnected network of microcracks surrounding the damage zone, which allows for both efficient energy dissipation and damage localization even when the shell is completely penetrated. Both theoretical analysis and experiment-based calculations suggest that the interfacial fracture toughness is enhanced by almost two orders of magnitude in comparison to classic laminated composites without connection centers. This design strategy for achieving a 3D integrative laminate architecture can be potentially applied in the design of advanced laminated composite materials.
Pachymetric ratio no-history method for intraocular lens power adjustment after excimer laser refractive surgery.

Objective To evaluate a new pachymetric method not requiring pre-refractive surgical data for adjusting the intraocular lens (IOL) power in eyes undergoing cataract surgery after excimer laser refractive surgery and comparing final refractive results with previously published formulas or methods. Design Retrospective noncomparative case series. Participants Thirty-six eyes from 23 patients who had uneventful phacoemulsification cataract surgery after previous myopic (35) or mixed astigmatism (1) excimer laser photoablation. Methods A new corneal ratio (Geggel ratio) method was developed to estimate the diopters (D) of previous excimer treatment or change in spherical equivalent (SE) at the corneal plane. A regression formula, 0.40 (|ΔSE|-1), predicted the correction factor to be added to the SRK/T (Sanders, Retzlaff, Kraff) formula. The IOL results from the Geggel and Geggel-real (modified for mild myopia) method were compared with the Masket, Koch double K table, Ladas, Walter, modified Maloney, clinical history, Feiz standardized and nomogram, Latkany average and flat, Ferrara, Rosa, Savini, Jin, Shammas no-history and regression formula, Seitz, and Awwad methods. The SRK/T, Hoffer, and Holladay formulas were tested in appropriate formulas. All IOL powers were converted to refractive results using IOL exact equations. Main Outcome Measures Mean ± standard deviation (SD), range, absolute mean ± SD, and percent within ±0.5 D, ±1.0 D, and −1.0/+0.5 D. Results The pachymetric technique minimizes hyperopic surprises with 92% of eyes within −1.0/+0.5 D and no overcorrections >0.5 D with the Geggel-real modification. Final refractive results with the Geggel, Geggel-real, Masket, Koch double K tables, Latkany average and flat, Savini, Shammas no-history, Seitz Holladay, Seitz Hoffer, and Awwad Hoffer all had >55% SE ±0.5 D and >85% SE ±1.0 D of the surgical goal. The best results with fewer hyperopic overcorrections were found in 5 methods that comprise a new consensus group: Geggel-real, Shammas no-history, Savini, Latkany flat, and Seitz Hoffer. The consensus group had 96% of eyes within −1.0/+0.5 D of the surgical goal. Conclusions The Geggel-real method is a new approach requiring no historical data to determine IOL power in this ever-enlarging and challenging group of former refractive surgery patients undergoing routine cataract surgery. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Biliary sclerosis after hepatic arterial infusion pump chemotherapy for patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis: incidence, clinical features, and risk factors.

Hepatic arterial infusion pump chemotherapy (HAIPC) contributes to the prolonged survival of selected patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM). The most clinically important adverse event after HAIPC with floxuridine (FUDR) is biliary sclerosis (BS). Little is known about the etiology of BS. HAIPC was administered to 475 consecutive patients who received HAIPC on prospective protocols from 1991 to 2008. The incidence, clinical features, variables related to demographics, comorbidity, medical history, CRCLM, surgery, chemotherapy, and laboratory data were reviewed. An analysis of factors potentially associated with BS, defined as a biliary stricture related to HAIPC requiring stent placement, was performed. The incidence of BS was 5.5% (16 of 293) in patients receiving HAIPC as an adjuvant therapy after hepatectomy, and 2% (2 of 100) in patients receiving HAIPC with FUDR for unresectable disease. The common hepatic duct was the site most frequently affected (87.5%). In patients receiving adjuvant HAIPC, BS was associated with abnormal postoperative flow scans (18.8% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.006), postoperative infectious complications (50.0% vs. 14.8%, P = 0.002), and larger dose/cycle/weight of FUDR (2.6 vs. 2.0 mg/cycle/kg, P = 0.025) than patients without BS. No patient died directly of BS. Median survival was not compromised by the development of BS (BS vs. non-BS: 61.0 months [range 6.2–171.6 months] vs. 47.2 months [range 2.4–200.8 months], P = 0.316, respectively). BS is an uncommon complication after HAIPC and does not compromise survival if adequately salvaged by stenting or dilatation. Surgical complications as well as type and dose of intra-arterial chemotherapy may contribute to the development of BS.
Subjects in Spite of Themselves: Legal Consciousness among Working-Class New Englanders

Exasperated, an undergraduate in my law and society seminar described conflicts with her landlord in our New England college town. In enumerating his lease violations during her tenancy, she told of heated accusations and her own resort to deception and threat. She was most distressed by her face-to-face attempts at resolution. At some point in each acrimonious encounter, her landlord would say calmly and with an air of challenge: "If you don't like it, sue me." Although at first she was uninterested in legal remedies, discussions with her father-a law professor-convinced her that she had grounds for a successful claim against the landlord for his most egregious violation: after agreeing that she could store belongings in his basement over the summer, the landlord removed them and, upon her return, refused to release them until she paid a handwritten bill from "The Storage Shack." Since she had witnesses claiming that the landlord moved her boxes and furniture to his own garage, the student demanded their immediate return and refused to pay any storage
Effect of cholestyramine on endotoxin toxicity and absorption.

Since there is evidence that cholestyramine improves diarrheal states where failure of bile salt reabsorption would not appear significant, a study was undertaken to examine the effect of this resin on the toxicity and absorption of bacterial endotoxin. Both the toxicity of intraperitoneal injections of a cholestyramine-endotoxin suspension, and the absorption of the suspension through everted gut sacs was compared with a similar Dowex I-X8 suspension in rats. The results show that cholestyramine significantly reduces the toxicity of endotoxin when placed in the peritoneal cavity, and that it effectively inhibits the passage of51Cr labeled endotoxin through the intestinal wall.
Movement behaviour of a forest songbird in an urbanized landscape: the relative importance of patch-level effects and body condition during migratory stopover

With expansion of urban areas worldwide, migrating songbirds increasingly encounter fragmented landscapes where habitat patches are embedded in an urban matrix, yet how migrating birds respond to urbanization is poorly understood. Our research evaluated the relative importance of patch-level effects and body condition to movement behaviour of songbirds during migratory stopover within an urban landscape. We experimentally relocated 91 migrant Swainson’s thrushes (Catharus ustulatus) fitted with 0.66 g radio-transmitters to seven forest patches that differed in area (0.7–38.4 ha) and degree of urbanization within central Ohio, USA, May 2004–2007. Fine-scale movement rate of thrushes (n = 55) did not differ among urban forest sites, but birds in low energetic condition moved at higher rates, indicating an energetically mediated influence on movement behaviour. In larger sites, Swainson’s thrushes (n = 59) had greater coarse-level movement during the first 3 days and utilized areas farther from forest edge, indicating stronger influence by patch-level factors. Thrushes exhibited strong site tenacity, with only five individuals (7%) leaving release patches prior to migratory departure. Movement outside the release patch only occurred at the smallest forest patches (0.7 and 4.5 ha), suggesting that these sites were too small to meet needs of some individuals. Swainson’s thrushes exhibited edge avoidance and apparent area sensitivity within urban forest patches during stopover, implying that conservation of larger patches within urban and other fragmented landscapes may benefit this species and other migrant forest birds.
Mapping Disulfide Connectivity Using Backbone Ester Hydrolysis

The site-specific incorporation of α-hydroxy acids into proteins using nonsense suppression can provide a powerful probe of protein structure and function. The resulting backbone ester may be selectively hydrolyzed in the presence of the peptide backbone, providing an “orthogonal” chemistry that can be useful both as an analytical tool and as a structural probe. Here we describe in detail a substantial substituent effect on this hydrolysis reaction. Consistent with mechanistic expectations, the steric bulk of the amino acid immediately N-terminal of the hydroxy acid has a large effect on the hydrolysis rate. On the basis of these results, we also describe a simple protocol for identifying disulfide loops in soluble and membrane proteins, exemplified by the α subunit of the muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). If a backbone ester is incorporated outside a disulfide loop, hydrolysis alone gives two fragments, but if the ester is incorporated within a disulfide loop, both hydrolysis and reduction...
Advance and Destroy: Patton as Commander in the Bulge. By John Nelson Rickard. (Lexington, KY: University Press of Kentucky, 2011. Pp. xxii, 490. $34.95.)

Since his death in 1945, an aura of myth has come to surround the generalship of George S. Patton. Although Patton is commonly regarded as America's greatest World War II commander, there exist few...
Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers

Column Editor, Bill McDonald, Presbyterian College. Review by Dave McIntire, Azusa Pacific University. The purpose of this book is to cause the reader to examine the notion of vocation and to discover at a very personal level what God is calling the reader to do.
A Survival Estimate of Midwestern Adult Eastern Box Turtles Using Radiotelemetry

Abstract Eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) are widespread in U.S. eastern deciduous forests, yet many populations are experiencing dramatic declines. Herein, we present an assessment of annual survival for adult eastern box turtles that were radio-tracked over a period of 2 y. Using a known fates Kaplan-Meier estimator, the baseline annual survival estimate for adult eastern box turtles in Indiana's south-central region is 96.2%. Annual survival rates varied slightly between the hibernal period (95.6%) and the active period (96.7%). These initial data provide wildlife managers with a baseline from which a recovery period can be calculated. In areas where road mortality and human interface are high, this estimate should be adjusted to ensure the time for recovery is adequate. Further research is recommended over generations and age-classes to better inform management of this protected species.
Analytical modeling of III-V solar cells close to the fundamental limit

A highly effective strategy of photon management is to use a back surface reflector. In this work, we present a full analytical model incorporating effects from both the modified generation function and photon recycling in GaAs solar cells with a BSR. We discuss the impact of doping concentration, non-radiative recombination, solar cell dimensions and BSR reflectivity on the efficiency, and compare the prediction of the device models to experimental data measured on GaAs devices. We use the model to predict the performance of alternative III-V materials, such as InP, comparing the predicted performance to state-of-the-art GaAs solar cells.
Experimental tests of the Bonner sphere spectrometer using filtered neutron beams

Abstract The operation of a Bonner Sphere neutron detector system has been tested using several unique neutron sources. Filtered neutron beams at beamport F at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) were used as a source of known quasi-monoenergetic neutrons for precise energy spectra analysis and calibration. A PuBe neutron source was used for absolute flux magnitude and spectral verification. Two computer codes, SWIFT and Least Squares Unfolding Techniques (LSUT), were used to unfold the experimental data. Several operational problems were encountered during these tests. First, many of the measurements involved neutron beam measurements in which the beams had a smaller diameter than the moderating spheres. This caused partial illumination of the spheres for which correction factors had to be developed. A partial illumination correction factor has been proposed and tested to account for this problem. Second, reactor core gamma-ray contamination in the neutron beams was of sufficient magnitude to interfere with some measurements. Gamma-ray background subtraction techniques using a multi-channel analyzer were used to alleviate this problem. After correcting for gamma-ray background and applying partial illumination correction factors, unfolded neutron spectra from the unfolding codes gave good results for most neutron sources. In particular the SWIFT results were quite good, exceeding expectations in terms of energy resolution and spectral accuracy.
Effective methods of determining the modulus of doubly connected domains

Abstract The modulus of a doubly connected domain is determined by a quotient of certain kernel functions, namely the Bergman kernel, the reduced Bergman kernel and the square of the Szego kernel. These methods are more efficient than methods involving the curvature of the Bergman metric.
Intensity of the stress singularity at the interface corner of a bonded elastic layer subjected to shear

The intensity of the stress singularity rδ (δ 20) and one of a pair of rigid adherends has been fully determined for a shear loading. This free-edge stress intensity factor, denoted by Kf, depends on a characteristic stress, layer height, and Poisson's ratio in a manner analogous to that determined previously for a layer subjected to transverse tension. Specifically, Kf = σ∗h1−λAs(v), where σ∗ is a characteristic shear stress, 2h is layer thickness, λ − 1 is the order of the stress singularity, and As(v) is a function defined for shear loading. Both λ − 1 and As(v) depend only on Poisson's ratio, and their values are tabulated and plotted. The reported relation for Kf is applicable to plane strain and axisymmetric geometries.
National Study of Prescription Poisoning with Psychoactive and Nonpsychoactive Medications in Medicare/Medicaid Dual Enrollees Age 65 or Over

The purpose of this study is to assess prescription medication poisoning among psychoactive and nonpsychoactive medications used by elderly (65 years or older) Medicare & Medicaid dual enrollees as well as examine contextual components associated with poisoning. Our primary research goal was to compare medication poisonings among psychoactive medications to nonpsychoactive medications. Our second research goal was to identify components influencing medication poisonings and how they interrelate. The approach used a cross-sectional retrospective review of calendar year 2003 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Service's Medicaid Pharmacy claims data for elderly dual enrollees. Poisonings were identified based on ICD-9-CM categorizations. Poisonings associated with the psychoactive medications were proportionally over twice as high as compared to nonpsychoactive medications (14.3 per 100,000 enrollees and 6.6 per 100,000 enrollees, respectively). Additionally, the two contextual components of (a) use of many drugs and (b) familiarity with the medication have a direct, but competing impact on poisoning. The reasons behind unintentional poisoning in the elderly have been somewhat a mystery. This study is among the first to attempt to distinguish between poisoning events associated with psychoactive medications versus nonpsychoactive medications as well as assess the impact of differing contextual components on medication poisoning.
High Intensity Triboluminescence in Europium Tetrakis (Dibenzoylmethide)-triethylammonium

High intensity triboluminescence in europium tetrakis /dibenzoylmethide/-triethylammonium crystals under mechanical impact
System-Level Transient Thermal Analysis for Performance Optimization of High Power Microelectronics

The increasing trend in power levels and densities leads to the need of design thermal optimization, at either module or system level. A numerical study using finite-volume software was conducted to model the transient thermal behavior of a system including a package dissipating large amounts of power over short time durations. The system is evaluated by choosing the appropriate heat sink for the efficient operation of the device under 100W of constant powering, also to enhance the thermal performance of the enclosure/box containing the test stack-up. The intent of the study is to provide a meaningful understanding and prediction of the high transient powering scenarios. The study focuses on several powering and system design scenarios, identifying the main issues encountered during a normal device operation. The power source dissipates 100W for 2 seconds then is cooled for another 2 seconds. This thermal cycle is likely to occur several times during a normal test-up, and it is the main concern of the manufacturers not to exceed a limit temperature during the device testing operation. The transient trend is further extrapolated analytically to extract the steady state peak temperature values, in order to maintain the device peak temperatures below 120°C. The benefit of the study is related to the possibility to extract the maximum/minimum temperatures for a real test involving a large number of heating-cooling cycles, yet maintaining the initial and peak temperatures within a certain range, for the optimal operation of the device. The flow and heat transfer fields are thoroughly investigated. By using a combination of numerical and analytical study, the thermal performance of the device undergoing infinity of periodic thermal cycles is further predicted.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Reinventing Africa in La Goutte-d'Or, Paris: photographic essay

This photographic essay is about a multiethnic urban immigrant quartier in central Paris. The text and the selection of photographs reflect a mediation on urban space in the Goutte d'Or and the ways in which transnational migrants from North and West Africa imprint Paris with their own rhythms, images, and culture.
Acute and chronic effects of LSD and 3,4-dimethoxyphenylethylamine on shuttlebox escape-avoidance in rats.

Three experiments were conducted in rats to study the effects of acute and chronic LSD and 3,4-dimethoxyphenylethylamine (DMPEA) on acquisition of shuttlebox escape/avoidance and of acute DMPEA on performance in the shuttlebox of pretrained poor performers. In Experiments 1 and 2, separate groups of male hooded rats were injected (i.p.) either once with LSD (0.1 or 0.5 mg/kg),DMPEA (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg) or saline or daily for 5 days with LSD (0.5 mg/kg), DMPEA (25 or 100 mg/kg) or saline before an initial acquisition test. The acute drug groups were retested 24 h later under saline. In Experiment 3, pretrained rats which had achieved a low, stable baseline rate of shuttlebox performance were injected once with DMPEA (50 mg/kg) before a performance test and retested 24 h later under saline. It was found that all LSD treatments decreases escape/avoidance latencies (excitatory effect) on the acquisition test and saline retest, while all DMPEA treatments were without effect.
Macroeconomic impacts of the Florida Energy and Climate Change Action Plan

The impacts of the Florida Energy and Climate Change Action Plan on the state's economy are analysed. The plan contains 50 policy recommendations developed through a stakeholder-driven, consensus-based process. The analysis carefully links each greenhouse gas mitigation/sequestration option to the workings of the Florida economy with the use of the Regional Economic Models, Inc. (REMI) Policy Insight model. The results indicate that most of the recommended options individually have positive impacts on the state's economy. When combined, the plan's recommendations would, on a net present value basis, increase the gross state product (GSP) by about $37.9 billion and increase employment by 148,000 full-time equivalent jobs by 2025. The Florida Renewable Portfolio Standard contributes the highest GSP gains, or nearly 50% of the total. The economic gains arise primarily from the ability of mitigation options to both lower the cost of production and increase consumer purchasing power. The results also stem from...