cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
How supply competency affects FDI decisions: Some insights

Abstract Foreign investment decisions by multinational enterprises are usually arrived by considering not just the firm-specific factors, but location-specific factors are also of paramount importance. Using three supply factors specific to a country – supply environment, supply infrastructure, absorptive capacity, we construct a rating system representing the potential of a nation to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). We use the combinatorics- and Boolean-based logical analysis of data (LAD) method to capture the individual and combined impact of the supply factors on the FDI inflow. The LAD classification system is shown to be robust, cross-validating very well, thereby allowing its use for prediction purposes, and permitting the derivation of a rating system that can have various granularity levels. By linking FDI potential with supply capability related factors, the findings of this research contribute to future FDI decisions by firms as well as provide assistance and direction to strategic planners of countries that seek to enhance their attractiveness as FDI destinations. As technology matures, production processes start to lack differentiation and firms look to establish facilities globally to become more competitive. This study enhances decision-making process pinpointing areas for focused consideration.
Video search reranking via information bottleneck principle

We propose a novel and generic video/image reranking algorithm, IB reranking, which reorders results from text-only searches by discovering the salient visual patterns of relevant and irrelevant shots from the approximate relevance provided by text results. The IB reranking method, based on a rigorous Information Bottleneck (IB) principle, finds the optimal clustering of images that preserves the maximal mutual information between the search relevance and the high-dimensional low-level visual features of the images in the text search results. Evaluating the approach on the TRECVID 2003-2005 data sets shows significant improvement upon the text search baseline, with relative increases in average performance of up to 23%. The method requires no image search examples from the user, but is competitive with other state-of-the-art example-based approaches. The method is also highly generic and performs comparably with sophisticated models which are highly tuned for specific classes of queries, such as named-persons. Our experimental analysis has also confirmed the proposed reranking method works well when there exist sufficient recurrent visual patterns in the search results, as often the case in multi-source news videos.
Treatment of metastatic melanoma with autologous, hapten-modified melanoma vaccine: regression of pulmonary metastases.

A human cancer vaccine composed of autologous tumor cells modified with the hapten dinitrofluorobenzene (DNP) induces cell-mediated immunity to the tumor cells and the development of inflammatory responses within metastatic sites. In this study we determined whether DNP vaccine could induce regression of established metastases. Ninety-seven patients (83 evaluable) with surgically incurable metastatic melanoma were treated with DNP vaccine preceded by low-dose cyclophosphamide. Tumor regression was assessed by standard criteria. The development of cell-mediated immunity to melanoma-associated antigens was measured by delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) testing before and after DNP vaccine treatment. Survival analysis was performed by the Kaplan-Meier method. There were 11 antitumor responses: 2 complete, 4 partial and 5 mixed. Both complete responses and 2 of the 4 partial responses occurred in patients with lung metastases. Response durations were as follows: partial responses—5, 6, 8 and 47+ months; and complete responses—12 and 29 months. Tumor regression required at least 4 months to become evident and in 2 cases maximum regression was not observed until 1 year after beginning treatment. Patients who exhibited tumor regression survived longer than those who did not (median survival times: responders, 21.4 months; non-responders, 8.7 months; p = 0.010). DTH to DNP-modified and unmodified autologous melanoma cells was induced in 87% and 42% of patients, respectively. The DTH response to unmodified cells was significantly associated with prolonged survival. Autologous DNP-modified melanoma vaccine can induce clinically meaningful regression of metastases and small lung metastases appear to be unusually sensitive. The development of DTH to unmodified, autologous tumor cells may be an important indicator of the vaccine's efficacy. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
VQ codebook design using improved simulated annealing algorithms

The authors investigate the design of codebooks for vector quantization (VQ) using three simulated annealing algorithms: generalized simulated annealing (GSA), simulated annealing with an inner loop criterion (ISA), and simulated annealing combined with a generalized Lloyd algorithm (SA-C). The algorithms' performance is experimentally evaluated by creating codebooks for speech waveform quantization. It is found that GSA and ISA both provide acceptable performance, although the GSA algorithm typically achieves a higher signal-to-noise ratio. >
Method for quantitative measurements of the elastic modulus of biological cells in AFM indentation experiments.

Here we overview and further develop a quantitative method to measure mechanics of biological cells in indentation experiments, which is based on the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM). We demonstrate how the elastic modulus of the cell body should be measured when the cellular brush is taken into account. The brush is an essential inelastic part of the cell, which surrounds all eukaryotic (the brush is mostly microvilli and glycocalyx) and gram-negative prokaryotic cells (the brush is polysaccharides). The other main feature of the described method is the use of a relatively dull AFM probe to stay in the linear stress–strain regime. In particular, we show that the elastic modulus (aka the Young’s modulus) of cells is independent of the indentation depth up to 10–20% deformation for the eukaryotic cells studied here. Besides the elastic modulus, the method presented allows obtaining the parameters of cellular brush, such as the effective length and grafting density of the brush. Although the method is demonstrated on eukaryotic cells, it is directly applicable for all types of cells, and even non-biological soft materials surrounded by either a brush or any field of long-range forces.
Microcavity plasma devices operating in air: Optimization of the device structure for efficient nitric oxide generation

Summary form only given. This presentation describes the fabrication and operation of microdischarge devices which can sustain stable air plasma inside the microcavity and efficiently produce desired gas species from a gas flow. A DC-discharge type microcavity device has been fabricated on nanoporous Al2O3 dielectrics, a robust dielectric produced by wet chemical processing.Production of nitric oxide (NO) from air discharge is one of key interests in this presentation with a potential application of biomedical therapeutics. By controlling the microdischarge device characteristics designed to have optimized condition for NO generation, it can produce NO species selectively at voltages, at least a order lower compared to other conventional techniques. Quantitative measurement of gas species out of the air microplasmas will be discussed.
EAP methods for wireless networks

This paper presents an overview and analysis of Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) and its place in securing wireless LANs. A number of specific widely used EAP methods are examined and evaluated for their advantages and susceptibility to types of attack. Next we propose suitable EAP methods for wireless technologies beyond LANs, including RFID and WiMAX. After analyzing requirements for different wireless networks, we conclude that a new lightweight and secure EAP method is warranted for fixed mobile convergence interoperability.
Modeling of plasma jets with superimposed vortex flow

This work is concerned with analytical studies of thermal plasma jets, which are finding increasing interest for thermal plasma processing. A two-dimensional model for turbulent plasma jets with superimposed vortex flow has been developed, incorporating multiple time scales for velocity and temperature fluctuations and a density-weighted averaging for the density fluctuation effect. Results show that adding swirl to the flow field for confined and free jets induces strong axial and radial pressure gradients near the nozzle exit, causing a rapid decay of the axial velocity with increasing distance from the nozzle. Comparisons with cold flow show similar trends close to the nozzle exit, but further downstream, the axial velocities increase again, especially for larges swirl numbers. Comparisons of theoretical predictions based on the present model with available experimental data are, in general, in reasonable agreement.
Potential Contribution of Long-Term Rofecoxib in a Patient with Cardiogenic Syncope and Ischemic Stroke

Objective:To report a case of syncope followed by a cerebrovascular event in a patient receiving long-term therapy with rofecoxib.Case Summary:A 62-year-old man presented to a local rural hospital emergency department with loss of motor control in his left extremities. Neurologic workup confirmed a right hemispheric cerebrovascular accident. Carotid arteries were noncontributory, and cardiac workup was unrevealing except for thoracic aorta atherosclerosis. There was no history of hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, or valvular stenotic disease. Cardiovascular risk factors included smoking and dyslipidemia with low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hypertriglyceridemia. Of importance was the patient's 4 year history of rofecoxib use, 25 mg daily for a chronic back injury.Discussion:Recently published reports suggest that rofecoxib can contribute significantly to increased cerebrovascular events by an approximately twofold elevation in rela...
Modeling of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs): An overview

In this paper, the authors present an overview for modeling of solid oxide fuel cells. Even though, a large amount of literature of SOFCs has been published in the last decade, most of them has focused on electrochemical characteristics such as cell components, new materials, reaction mechanisms, etc. The review of modeling for SOFCs helps to simulate and understand effects of changing loads, temperature, fuel and air supply, diffusion, and design algorithms and feedback loops to control these variables.
Engineers or Scientists

Michael Rabinovich, IEEE Internet Computing's new editor in chief, launches his term as EIC with his inaugural article. He writes about the Internet computing field from a performance and infrastructure standpoint.
New guiding principles for ionization yield of hydrogen in rotating microwave fields

The multiphoton ionization of hydrogen in strong, elliptically polarized microwave fields is a fundamental problem of great complexity. We show how the oscillations in the ionization yield can be understood in terms of guiding principles which account for the joint effect of the effective electric and magnetic fields.
A “Man's Woman”? Contradictory Messages in the Songs of Female Rappers, 1992-2000

Employing content analysis of 44 songs taken from the Billboard charts between 1992 and 2000, the authors find that all female rap artists in the sample included the cornerstones of rap in their so...
EFFECTS OF IONOPHORES AND RUTHENIUM RED ON THE PHOTOTAXIS OF STENTOR COERULEUS AS MEASURED BY SIMPLE DEVICES

— Two simple methods of phototaxis measurements have been applied to study the effects of ionophores on the negative phototactic response in Stentor coeruleus. The inhibitory effects of Ca2+-ionophore (A23187), Ca2+-blocking agent (Ruthenium Red), and K+ -ionophore (valinomycin) on photo-taxis have been determined. Results suggest that the influx of Ca2+ plays a transducing role in the phototaxis of Stentor.
THE EFFECT ON EXAMINATION PERFORMANCE OF REQUIRING STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN A LEGAL STUDIES CLASS

The activities of teaching, learning and examining in higher education have received reinarkably little attention from experimentalists. The suggestion that belief, however hallowed, stands in need of empirical support is often met with incredulous opposition, and men whose academic work is based upon a rigorous testing of accepted ideas, tend to think it somehow indecent to apply the same standard of inquiry to their own teaching and examining practices. Few university teachers are even aware that many of their instructional problems have already heen investisated experimentally, and only a tiny minority take the trouble to acquaint Irhemselves with the results
Heterodimerization of the α and β isoforms of the human thromboxane receptor enhances isoprostane signaling

Abstract Isoprostanes are free radical catalyzed products of arachidonic acid that are elevated in pro-oxidant disease states. Two isoprostanes, 8-isoprostaglandin F2α (iPF2αIII) and 8-isoprostaglandin E2 (iPE2III), act at the receptor for thromboxane A2 (the TP) to mediate pro-atherogenic effects in vivo. We confirmed dimerization of the human TP isoforms, TPα and TPβ, and determined the impact on isoprostane signaling. No overt changes in ligand binding at the TP were observed as a result of TPα/TPβ coexpression. The response to iPF2αIII or iPE2III was enhanced in HEK293 cells stably coexpressing TPα and TPβ, as measured by inositol phosphate generation or intracellular calcium mobilization, relative to cells expressing TPα or TPβ individually. In contrast, the response to traditional thromboxane analogs was unaltered. Augmented isoprostane signaling was similarly observed in HEK 293 cell transiently transfected with TPα and TPβ. These results indicate that TPα/TPβ dimerization enhances isoprostane-mediated signal transduction.
Spatial PID consensus controllers for distributed filters of distributed parameter systems

Abstract This paper considers the spatial penalization of the pairwise state estimate differences as used to enforce consensus in spatially distributed filters. A spatially distributed process, described by a parabolic partial differential equation is assumed to have a network of in-domain sensors. Each spatially distributed filter corresponds to a single sensor in the network and the goal is for these filters to collaboratively reach a consensus on the process state estimate. To enhance the agreement of the spatially distributed filters, the spatial gradient of the pairwise difference of state estimates is used as a means to penalize their disagreement. Additionally, a proportional and an integral penalization of the pairwise differences are also examined in order to produce a spatial proportional–integral–derivative penalization. To address the partial connectivity, certain conditions on the communication topology are given implicitly in terms of the inner product of the state estimation errors and their pairwise differences. Simulation studies provide an insight on the effects of this spatial penalizations.
Through the looking glass: teaching CS0 with Alice

This work analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of using the novice programming environment Alice in the CS0 classroom. We consider both general aspects as well as specifics drawn from the authors' experiences using Alice in the classroom over the course of the last academic year.
Developments and applications of biosensors in food analysis

The food industry needs suitable analytical methods for process and quality control; that is, methods that are rapid, reliable, specific and cost-effective in their provision of information about physical and chemical characteristics of food. Apart from a few important analytes, such as sugars, alcohols, amino acids, flavours and sweeteners, food applications mainly focus on the determination of contaminants. However, very few biosensors play a prominent role in food processing or quality control. Considerable effort must be made to develop biosensors that are inexpensive, reliable, and robust enough to operate under realistic conditions.
Problems in rare tumor study: a call for papers

Rare tumor research presents many challenges. Large, randomized clinical trials are often impractical in this field and access to biospecimens may be problematic. These difficulties can best be addressed through multidisciplinary, national and international collaborative efforts among researchers, clinicians, governmental bodies, and patients. Numerous governmental and private organizations now exist to facilitate cooperation between researchers and institutions. Patient advocacy organizations now play an increasingly important role in partnering with traditional research groups to promote rare tumor research. Rare Tumors is now beginning an editorial series focusing on the problems of rare tumor research. We wish to invite all researchers and clinicians who are involved in rare tumor research and treatment to contribute their observations on the problems of working in this field, either as a letter to the editor, an editorial on a select issue, or as a review paper.
Measurements of the Viscosity of Parahydrogen

The coefficient of shear viscosity η of parahydrogen has been measured by the torsional crystal method at temperatures from 14° to 100°K and at pressures up to 345 atm. Twenty compressed fluid isotherms encompass the density range 0.003–0.087 g/cm3 and include the critical region. The precision and accuracy of the measurements is about 0.5%. The temperature dependence of η changes sign at a density approximately twice the critical density. The viscosity at the critical point is estimated to be 35.5±0.5×10−6 g/cm·sec. The viscosity of saturated liquid normal hydrogen is up to 5% greater than that of parahydrogen at the same temperature. Data of this report have been represented within experimental error by an empirical equation of the form η=η0(T)+A(ρ) expB(ρ)/T, where η0(T) is the viscosity in the low‐density limit and A(ρ) and B(ρ) are density‐dependent coefficients.
The effect of atomic misfit on the coexistence and spinodal transformation boundaries in binary alloys

Abstract The microscopic formulation of the elastic free energy in a binary alloy is incorporated into a detailed analysis of the phase separation behavior by both the regular solution and spherical model approximations to the free energy. These approximations give upper and lower bounds respectively on the incoherent phase boundary and the coherent spinodal boundary. The resulting formulas for the upper and lower temperature bounds differ only in the use of arithmetic versus harmonic averaging. Numerical results plotted for a b.c.c. crystal show that the atomic misfit acts principally to raise the temperature for incoherent phase separation rather than to depress the spinodal. Moreover, the more-accurate spherical model reveals that small amounts of misfit cause greater separation of the coexistence and spinodal boundaries than previously supposed.
Comparison of exposure standards in the mammography x-ray region.

Direct comparisons of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Ritz 20 kV to 100 kV standard free-air ionization chamber and a portable variable-length free-air ionization chamber designed by the University of Wisconsin—Madison Accredited DosimetryCalibration Laboratory (UW-ADCL) were made on NISTs low-energy tungsten x-ray range. As a result of this direct comparison, NIST has established a UW-ADCL designed chamber, the Attix chamber, as the national standard chamber for the mammography energy x-ray range. The Ritz standard chamber and the Attix standard chamber have been extensively compared using the new molybdenum and rhodium beam qualities. The results indicate that exposure measurements in the mammography energy x-ray region with the two free-air chambers can be made with a discrepancy of less than 0.35%.
A vector boundary matching technique for efficient and accurate determination of photonic bandgaps in photonic bandgap fibers

A vector boundary matching technique has been proposed and demonstrated for finding photonic bandgaps in photonic bandgap fibers with circular nodes. Much improved accuracy, comparing to earlier works, comes mostly from using more accurate cell boundaries for each mode at the upper and lower edges of the band of modes. It is recognized that the unit cell boundary used for finding each mode at band edges of the 2D cladding lattice is not only dependent on whether it is a mode at upper or lower band edge, but also on the azimuthal mode number and lattice arrangements. Unit cell boundaries for these modes are determined by mode symmetries which are governed by the azimuthal mode number as well as lattice arrangement due to mostly geometrical constrains. Unit cell boundaries are determined for modes at both upper and lower edges of bands of modes dominated by m = 1 and m = 2 terms in their longitudinal field Fourier-Bessel expansion series, equivalent to LP0s and LP1s modes in the approximate LP mode representations, for hexagonal lattice to illustrate the technique. The novel technique is also implemented in vector form and incorporates a transfer matrix algorithm for the consideration of nodes with arbitrary refractive index profiles. Both are desired new capabilities for further explorations of advanced new designs of photonic bandgap fibers.
Direct NC Path Generation: From Discrete Points to Continuous Spline Paths

Spline paths in NC machining are advantageous over linear and circular paths due to their smoothness and compact representation, thus are highly desirable in high-speed machining where frequent change of tool position and orientation may lead to inefficient machining, tool wear and chatter. This paper presents an approach for calculating spline NC paths directly from discrete points with controlled accuracy. Part geometry is represented by discrete points via an implicit point set surface (PSS). Cutter location (CL) points are generated directly from implicit part surfaces and interpolated by B-spline curves. A computing procedure for calculating maximum scallop height is given. The procedure is general and suitable for part surfaces in various surface representations provided that the closest distance from a point to the part surface can be calculated. Our results affirm that the proposed approach can produce high-quality B-spline NC paths directly from discrete points. The resulting spline paths make it possible for directly importing discrete points into CNC machines for high-speed machining.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Genetic alterations as clonal markers for bladder cancer detection in urine

Bladder cancer is the result of a clonal expansion of cancer cells in which multiple genetic alterations have accumulated. Point mutations of the p53 gene are frequently observed in bladder cancer. Loss of a retinoblastoma (Rb) allele is also common in bladder cancer. Recent data have shown frequent loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and homozygous deletion of 9p21, including the region of p16INK4A, a putative tumor suppressor gene, in bladder cancer. LOH is also observed frequently at several other chromosome regions in bladder cancer. These genetic changes have proved useful as clonal markers in the detection of cancer cells in urine. Because of their complexity, most molecular diagnostic approaches are not considered promising cancer screening tools in patients or high-risk populations. However, a new molecular approach, the examination of microsatellite alterations in bladder cancer and urine specimens, is a promising screening tool for the disease. The common genetic alterations in bladder cancer and their use as clonal markers in screening or diagnosis strategies will be discussed.
Mechanism underlying the absence of ischemic changes on the exercise electrocardiogram in patients with abnormal exercise thallium-201 imaging and coronary artery disease

Patients with coronary artery disease may have reversible abnormalities on a thallium myocardial perfusion study without simultaneous ischemic changes on the exercise electrocardiogram, but the mechanisms responsible for this disparity have not been fully elucidated. A group of 37 patients with angiographically demonstrated coronary artery disease and abnormal thallium perfusion imaging were divided into two groups on the basis of their exercise electrocardiographic ST segment response. Thirteen patients (Group A) had no significant electrocardiographic changes with exercise, while 24 patients (Group B) had ST changes consistent with ischemia during the test. There were no significant differences in clinical or angiographic characteristics between the two groups. Stress test results showed a similar mean duration of exercise in the two groups (6.2 +/- 1.8 versus 6.7 +/- 2.5 min, p = NS), but the patients in Group A achieved a significantly lower mean maximal heart rate (117 +/- 26 versus 132 +/- 21 beats/min, p less than 0.05) and mean maximal double product (19,650 +/- 5116 versus 22,650 +/- 4871, p less than 0.05). There was no consistent pattern of thallium perfusion abnormality noted in Group A to suggest that a particular region of electrically silent myocardium was responsible for ischemia in the absence of electrocardiographic changes. These results suggest that exercise thallium-electrocardiogram discordance is mediated by the level of myocardial workload achieved. An abnormal perfusion scan accompanying an exercise electrocardiogram which does not demonstrate any ischemic ST change may occur when there is sufficient increase in myocardial oxygen demand to result in differential augmentation of myocardial blood flow, but insufficient imbalance of supply and demand to result in signs of ischemia on the surface electrocardiogram.
Fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (‘Fetendo-PLUG’) for congenital diaphragmatic hernia☆

Despite recent advances in surgical technique, posthysterotomy preterm labor remains a major determinant of postoperative fetal morbidity and mortality after in utero repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Temporary fetal tracheal occlusion, or "PLUG" (Plug the Lung Until it Grows), reverses the pulmonary hypoplasia seen in experimental models of CDH and provides an alternative treatment strategy for some fetuses with CDH. Adaptation of current, minimally invasive surgical technology to the PLUG technique allows treatment of CDH without opening the uterus. In this report the authors describe a video-fetoscopic, intrauterine technique of tracheal occlusion (called Fetendo-PLUG) that could be used in human fetuses with CDH. The technique was developed in four fetal lambs that underwent video-fetoscopic intervention at 110 days' gestation (full term, 145 days), having undergone open creation of diaphragmatic hernias at 75 days. After maternal laparotomy and uterine exposure, the fetal head was located and a 5-mm curved, balloon-cuffed trocar was introduced through a uterine puncture directly into the fetal oral cavity. A steerable "bronchoscope" (with an instrument channel) was used to endoscopically intubate the trachea through the trocar, and the trocar was advanced over the bronchoscope and its balloon inflated to provide secure tracheal access below the vocal cords. Next, a 10-mm trocar was placed directly over the fetal neck, and the amniotic space was expanded with warm saline. A 5-mm laparoscope was introduced, and under simultaneous, dual video-fetoscopic (endotracheal and endoamniotic) visualization, a 1-mm nephrostomy puncture wire was advanced along the instrument channel of the bronchoscope, through the anterior wall of the trachea and fetal neck, into the amniotic space, then through the uterine wall to the outside. Withdrawal of the bronchoscope over the wire left a 5-mm endotracheal "trocar channel" along which a compressed, gelatin-encapsulated, polymeric foam insert (outer diameter, 4.8 mm) could be delivered by suture attachment to the guide wire. Once the foam was in its final endotracheal position, dissolution of the gelatin membrane allowed expansion of the foam to produce a water impervious tracheal occlusion. This two-trocar video-fetoscopic PLUG technique was performed successfully in all four fetuses, with a sequential decrease in operating time (median, 3.5 hours). Although two fetuses aborted postoperatively, the other two were carried successfully to term and demonstrated the anticipated physiological effects of adequate tracheal occlusion at the time of delivery.
Diffusive instability in optically excited superconducting films

We show that there is a large class of quasiparticle distributions, qualitatively similar to those predicted for optically excited superconductors, that may lead to a spatial instability driven by quasiparticle diffusion. The resultant inhomogeneous state would consist of distinct regions characterized by a length scale λ (quasiparticle diffusion length) and different energy gaps. We discuss the dynamics of this inhomogeneous state, and its experimental implications.
Discrete bi-Laplacians and biharmonic b-splines

Divided differences play a fundamental role in the construction of univariate B-splines over irregular knot sequences. Unfortunately, generalizations of divided differences to irregular knot geometries on two-dimensional domains are quite limited. As a result, most spline constructions for such domains typically focus on regular (or semi-regular) knot geometries. In the planar harmonic case, we show that the discrete Laplacian plays a role similar to that of the divided differences and can be used to define well-behaved harmonic B-splines. In our main contribution, we then construct an analogous discrete bi-Laplacian for both planar and curved domains and show that its corresponding biharmonic B-splines are also well-behaved. Finally, we derive a fully irregular, discrete refinement scheme for these splines that generalizes knot insertion for univariate B-splines.
Bilomas: a new approach to the diagnosis and treatment.

Biloma, a newly described entity, appears to have gained a heightened clinical interest recently. During the past 18 months we have diagnosed 9 abnormal biliary collections. We discuss here the role of sonography and radionuclide cholescintigraphy in the evaluation of bilomas. The diagnosis of all cases was confirmed by ultrasoundguided percutaneous needle aspiration. Subsequently 7 patients were treated with catheter drainage, obviating the need for any surgery.
State laws governing physician assistant practice in the United States and the impact on emergency medicine.

Abstract Background Midlevel providers, including physician assistants (PA), have been recommended by some to fill the current inadequate supply of providers nationally, including in emergency medicine. Objective PA practice is governed by state law. We described the differences in qualifications, scope of practice, prescriptive authority, and physician supervision required by individual states for PA practice and describe the impact this may have on emergency medicine. Methods A cross-sectional analysis of United States laws governing PA practice by abstraction from each state’s public website. State characteristics were collected from the American Academy of Physician Assistants and United States Census websites and dichotomized by median values. Results Only six states (12%), all of which were larger-population states, required physician review of medical records within 1 week of a PA-only patient encounter. However, one state (Virginia) explicitly required onsite physician presence for PA practice in the emergency department. All states allowed PAs to assist in invasive procedures, but 13 (25%) restricted independent performance. Restriction of this practice was more likely in states with a higher population (38%), lower rural proportion (40%), and lower number of PAs per population (40%). Eleven (22%) states restricted performance of sedation or general anesthesia. An expanded scope of practice for disaster situations was allowed by 24 (47%) states and was more likely in larger population states (62%). All but two states (Florida and Kentucky) allowed PA prescribing of schedule III–V medications, and 37 (73%) allowed prescribing of schedule II medications. Conclusions Laws governing PA practice in emergency departments differ by state, but generally allow for a broad scope of practice and limited direct supervision. Smaller, rural states were less likely to have tighter restrictions or oversight.
Prediction of Material Damping in Randomly Oriented Short Fiber Polymer Matrix Composites

The objective of this manuscript is to determine analytically the material damping of randomly oriented short fiber composites. The analytical solution was carried out by using the extension of a f...
Test apparatus to monitor time-domain signals from semiconductor-detector pixel arrays

Pixellated semiconductor detectors, such as CdZnTe, CdTe, or TlBr, are used for gamma-ray imaging in medicine and astronomy. Data analysis for these detectors typically estimates the position (x, y, z) and energy (E) of each interacting gamma ray from a set of detector signals {S i } corresponding to completed charge transport on the hit pixel and any of its neighbors that take part in charge sharing, plus the cathode. However, it is clear from an analysis of signal induction, that there are transient signal on all pixel electrodes during the charge transport and, when there is charge trapping, small negative residual signals on all electrodes. If we wish to optimally obtain the event parameters, we should take all these signals into account. We wish to estimate x,y,z and E from the set of all electrode signals, {S i (t)}, including time dependence, using maximum-likelihood techniques[1]. To do this, we need to determine the probability of the electrode signals, given the event parameters {x, y, z, E}, i.e. Pr( {S i (t)} | {x, y, z, E} ). Thus we need to map the detector response of all pixels, {S i (t)}, for a large number of events with known x,y,z and E.In this paper we demonstrate the existence of the transient signals and residual signals and determine their magnitudes. They are typically 50-100 times smaller than the hit-pixel signals. We then describe development of an apparatus to measure the response of a 16-pixel semiconductor detector and show some preliminary results. We also discuss techniques for measuring the event parameters for individual gamma-ray interactions, a requirement for determining Pr( {S i (t)} | {x, y, z, E}).
LIN7 mediates the recruitment of IRSp53 to tight junctions.

In this study, we examined the role of the L27 [(LIN2-LIN7) domain] and PDZ domain (domain previously found in PSD95-DlgA-ZO-1) for protein–protein interaction of the scaffold protein LIN7 in tight junction (TJ) assembly in Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells and found that the stable expression of a LIN7 mutant lacking the L27 domain (ΔL27 mutant) acts as a dominant interfering protein by inhibiting TJ localization of endogenous LIN7. The loss of LIN7 did not alter the localization of the PALS1 (protein associated with LIN7) partner of the L27 domain but prevented TJ localization of the insulin receptor substrate p53 (IRSp53), a partner of the PDZ domain of LIN7. The function of both L27 and PDZ domains of LIN7 in IRSp53 localization to TJs has been further demonstrated by reducing the expression of LIN7 (LIN7 small hairpin RNA experiments) and by expression of IRSp53 deleted of its motif for PDZ interaction (IRSp53Δ5) or fused to the L27 domain of LIN7 (L27-IRSp53Δ5). Cell lines with decreased localization of LIN7 and IRSp53 to TJs showed defects during assembly of TJs and cyst polarization and failed to activate Rac1, a member of the Rho guanosine triphosphatases family crucially involved in actin organization and orientation of apicobasal polarity. These data therefore indicate that LIN7–IRSp53 association plays a role during assembly of functional TJs and surface polarization in epithelial cells.
Amygdala response to facial expressions in children and adults

Abstract Background: The amygdala plays a central role in the human response to affective or emotionally charged stimuli, particularly fear-producing stimuli. We examined the specificity of the amygdala response to facial expressions in adults and children. Methods: Six adults and 12 children were scanned in a 1.5-T scanner during passive viewing of fearful and neutral faces using an EPI BOLD sequence. All scans were registered to a reference brain, and analyses of variance were conducted on the pooled data to examine interactions with age and gender. Results: Overall, we observed predominantly left amygdala and substantia innominata activity during the presentation of nonmasked fearful faces relative to fixation, and a decrease in activation in these regions with repeated exposure to the faces. Adults showed increased left amygdala activity for fearful faces relative to neutral faces. This pattern was not observed in the children who showed greater amygdala activity with neutral faces than with fearful faces. For the children, there was an interaction of gender and condition whereby boys but not girls showed less activity with repeated exposure to the fearful faces. Conclusions: This is the first study to examine developmental differences in the amygdala response to facial expressions using functional magnetic resonance imaging.
The Purpuric Reaction Produced in Animals by Derivatives of the Pneumococcus

Julianelle and Reimann1 have described the purpura that develops in white mice following the intraabdominal injection of pneumococcal autolysates. This reaction is most evident in those portions of the skin on which hair is either scanty or absent. They concluded that some autolytic derivative of the bacterial cells damaged the endothelium of the capillaries in these areas.The experiments of Julianelle and Reimann have been largely repeated and extended. One of the most striking features of the reaction is that the purpura produced is seldom evenly distributed over the ears, feet, tail, snout, and genitalia. Even on the ears the distribution may be splotchy while along the tail the reaction is always most irregular, certain points showing a very intense reaction while others may be completely negative. These irregularities as well as the anatomical distribution of purpura suggested that some factor such as a mild trauma might be involved in the localization of the reaction. As a test of this hypothesis se...
Storm Surges in New York During Hurricane Sandy in 2012: A Verification of the Wind-Stress Tide Relation

In October 2012 Hurricane Sandy devastated New York City and its vicinity caused mainly by the storm surge, which is the water height above normal astronomical tide level. The meteorological conditions were as follows: minimum central pressure, 962 hPa, highest sustained wind speed 27.1 m s $$^{-1}$$ and maximum gust 37.8 m s $$^{-1}$$ . The peak storm surge was at 3.9 m and the peak storm tide at 4.4 m (which is referenced above mean lower low water). The wind-stress tide relation shows that $$S=K\,V^{2}$$ , where $$S$$ is the storm surge, $$V$$ is the wind speed and $$K$$ is the coefficient. It is found that with $$S$$ in units of m, and $$V$$ in m s $$^{-1}$$ , $$K = 0.0051$$ with $$R^{2}= 0.91$$ ( $$R$$ is the correlation coefficient) indicating that 91 % of the total variation of the storm surge can be explained by variations in the wind stress, which is proportional to $$V^{2}$$ . Similar results were obtained during Hurricane Irene in 2011, which also affected the New York area. Therefore, this simple wind stress-tide relation should be useful in coastal engineering, urban planning, and emergency management.
Cloning and expression of the hup gene encoding a histone-like protein of Campylobacter jejuni

Abstract A Campylobacter jejuni gene, designated hup , that appears to encode a homolog of the histone-like DNA-binding protein, HU, has been cloned, sequenced and expressed in Escherichia coli . Immunoblotting and in vitro transcription/translation analyses revealed a 11-kDa protein that was produced by recombinant plasmids containing hup . The gene contains an open reading frame (ORF) sufficient to encode a protein of 98 amino acids (aa) with a calculated molecular mass of 10267 Da and a predicted isoelectric point of 10.1. The deduced aa sequence of the protein, designated HCj, exhibits considerable sequence identity with members of the HU family of proteins from other eubacterial species. The transcription start point was identified by primer extension analysis and appropriately spaced promoter sequences were found which exhibit considerable similarity to E. coli and Bacillus promoters. Southern hybridization analyses indicate that C. jejuni has a single copy of hup .
Relation between nonsustained atrial tachycardia and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Seule l'etude electrophysiologique permet de determiner si une tachycardie auriculaire est due a une reentree auriculaire ou a un foyer d'automatisme
K A -Band IMPATT diode reliability

Constant stress (temperature) operating tests have been conducted on silicon K a -band diodes. Statistics of failure fit a lognormal distribution except near the early-failure tail; deviations are ascribed to manufacturing process non-uniformities. Analysis of failed devices shows a single predominant failure mechanism, gold contamination of the p-n junction area, observable at junction operating temperatures between 230°C and 350°C.
Black Male-Female Relationships: Some Observations

This article examines the relationships that exist between black females and black males and offers suggestions as to how the rich religious traditions and familial principles that undergird the black heritage can be re-created and adapted for use by black children today and in the years to come. This effort has become necessary in light of the increased sociological attention given to the problems that exist in black male-black female relationships and the "crisis" that exists within the black family today. Overall there seems to be general agreement about the existence of unhealthy conflicts between black males and black females. Problems in the relationships are largely discussed in terms of such factors as institutionalized racism and sexism (Karenga, 1979; Madhubuti, 1980; Staples, 1979a; Wallace, 1979, 1982), the scarcity of black men (Jackson, 1978; Braithwaite, 1981), the dating game on the part of both black men and women (Staples, 1978a), and the stresses and strains that confront individual partners in their day-to-day activities (Staples, 1981a). This study briefly discusses these explanatory variables and suggests ways by which
Astronomy: a faint population of bursts?

An unusual γ-ray burst has been detected, much less energetic than expected. But its similarity to an earlier anomalous event suggests that lower-energy bursts might be more plentiful than had been thought.
Metric and morphological variability in the dentition of Colobine monkeys

Abstract A morphological study was performed using 97 Colobus polykomos and 41 Nasalis larvatus. The premolars and molars of these two taxa of leaf-eating monkeys were similar in that they possessed deeply grooved and highly pointed cusps. Of 7 dental traits investigated, 4 were significantly different between the 2 forms. Indeed, with 2 of these, the position of the lingual cusp on PM4 and the number of cusps on PM3 displayed highly contrasting structures. Metric analysis was conducted using 47 C. polykomos and 37 N. larvatus specimens. Mesiodistal and buccolingual measurements were taken on the upper canine and all postcanine teeth. Sexual dimorphism was detected in most maxillary dental measurements and all mandibular estimates of both species. In all cases, males exceeded females in tooth diameter. Testing between species by sex revealed that C. polykomos was significantly larger in several canine and premolar dimensions while N. larvatus had significantly larger molar dimensions. An additional 73 measurements were selected to represent occluding dental structures and a morphological integration analysis was conducted. Results of this analysis indicated that C. polykomos possessed a C1-PM3 complex which was more highly intercorrelated whereas the broad lophed N. larvatus molars constituted a more highly correlated functional unit. It was suggested that the above differences between these two groups of leaf-eating monkeys probably resulted from inbreeding, isolation and drift.
Money and Stock Prices

This paper examines stock market efficiency with respect to money supply data by testing (1) regression models of stock returns on monetary variables and (2) trading rules based on money supply data. The evidence indicates no meaningful lag in the effect of monetary policy on the stock market and that no profitable trading rules using past values of the money supply exist. Therefore this evidence is consistent with the efficient market model. Current security returns incorporate all information contained in past money supply data and, in addition, appear to anticipate future changes in the money supply. A number of previous studies have concluded that lags exist and can be used in profitable trading rules. Analysis of these studies demonstrates that for a variety of reasons the evidence in these past studies does not sustain such conclusions.
The effects of ingratiation and client incentive on auditor judgment

ABSTRACT: Anecdotal evidence from practice suggests clients can influence auditor judgment using ingratiation, a strategic influence tactic through which the ingratiator attempts to induce positive affect to facilitate persuasion. I provide initial academic evidence concerning the effect of ingratiation on auditor judgment. I find that when the client ingratiates, auditors are more likely to comply with the requests of clients with low incentive to influence the auditor than those with high incentive. Thus, ingratiation appears to magnify the effect of client incentive on auditor judgment. I find auditors experience stronger positive affect toward both ingratiating clients and clients with low incentive relative to non-ingratiating clients and clients with high incentive. Further, auditors are more likely to comply with client requests as positive affect toward the client increases. The results suggest clients can influence auditor judgment through ingratiation under certain circumstances, and clients can...
Assessing the Interaction of Urea and Protein-Stabilizing Osmolytes with the Nonpolar Surface of Hydroxypropylcellulose

The interaction of urea and several naturally occurring protein-stabilizing osmolytes, glycerol, sorbitol, glycine betaine, trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), and proline, with condensed arrays of a hydrophobically modified polysaccharide, hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), has been inferred from the effect of these solutes on the forces acting between HPC polymers. Urea interacts only very weakly. The protein-stabilizing osmolytes are strongly excluded. The observed energies indicate that the exclusion of the protein-stabilizing osmolytes from protein hydrophobic side chains would add significantly to protein stability. The temperature dependence of exclusion indicates a significant contribution of enthalpy to the interaction energy in contrast to expectations from "molecular crowding" theories based on steric repulsion. The dependence of exclusion on the distance between HPC polymers rather indicates that perturbations of water structuring or hydration forces underlie exclusion.
Dynamics of Hepatitis B Virus Infection: What Causes Viral Clearance?

The virus Hepatitis B infects liver cells, leading to either acute or chronic liver disease. Immune responses involve both curing and killing of cells. Stability analyses show that viral clearance depends only on the strength of the combined killing and curing, independent of the characteristics of the cured cells.