cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen interactions with low-index surface orientations of tungsten

We report on density functional theory calculations that have been performed to systematically investigate the hydrogen-surface interaction as a function of surface orientation. The interactions that were analyzed include stable atomic adsorption sites, molecular hydrogen dissociation and absorption energies, migration pathways and barriers on tungsten surfaces, and the saturation coverage limits on the (1 1 1) surface. Stable hydrogen adsorption sites were found for all surfaces. For the reconstructed W(1 0 0), there are two primary adsorption sites: namely, the long-bridge and short-bridge sites. The threefold hollow site (3F) was found to be the most stable for W(1 1 0), while the bond-centered site between the first and second layer was found to be most stable for the W(1 1 1) surface. No bound adsorption sites for H2 molecules were found for the W surfaces. Hydrogen (H) migration on both the (1 0 0) and (1 1 0) surfaces is found to have preferred pathways for 1D motion, whereas the smallest migration barrier for net migration of H on the W(1 1 1) surface leads to 2D migration. Although weaker H interactions are predicted for the W(1 1 1) surface compared to the (1 0 0) or (1 1 0) surfaces, we observe higher H surface concentrations of Θ = 4.0 at zero K, possibly due to the corrugated surface structure. These results provide insight into H adsorption, surface saturation coverage and migration mechanisms necessary to describe the evolution from the dilute limit to concentrated coverages of H.
Identification of NMS-873, an allosteric and specific p97 inhibitor, as a broad antiviral against both influenza A and B viruses

Influenza virus infection causes substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. The limited efficacy of oseltamivir in delayed treatment, coupled with the increasing incidences of oseltamivir-resistant strains, calls for next-generation of antiviral drugs. In this study, we discovered NMS-873, an allosteric and specific p97 inhibitor, as a broad-spectrum influenza antiviral through forward chemical genomics screening. NMS-873 shows potent antiviral activity with low-nanomolar EC50s against multiple human influenza A and B viruses, including adamantine-, oseltamivir-, or double resistant strains. Our data further showed that silencing of p97 via siRNA or inhibiting p97 by NMS-873 both inhibited virus replication and retained viral ribonucleoproteins (vRNPs) in the nucleus, confirming p97 is the drug target. Mechanistic studies have shown that the nuclear retention of vRNP with NMS-873 treatment is a combined result of two effects: the reduced viral M1 protein level (indirect effect), and the disruption of p97-NP interactions (direct effect). Taken together, our results suggest that p97 could be a novel antiviral target and its inhibitor, NMS-873, is a promising antiviral drug candidate.
ZARA: A Novel Zero-free Dataflow Accelerator for Generative Adversarial Networks in 3D ReRAM

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) recently demonstrated a great opportunity toward unsupervised learning with the intention to mitigate the massive human efforts on data labeling in supervised learning algorithms. GAN combines a generative model and a discriminative model to oppose each other in an adversarial situation to refine their abilities. Existing nonvolatile memory based machine learning accelerators, however, could not support the computational needs required by GAN training. Specifically, the generator utilizes a new operator, called transposed convolution, which introduces significant resource underutilization when executed on conventional neural network accelerators as it inserts massive zeros in its input before a convolution operation. In this work, we propose a novel computational deformation technique that synergistically optimizes the forward and backward functions in transposed convolution to eliminate the large resource underutilization. In addition, we present dedicated control units -a dataflow mapper and an operation scheduler, to support the proposed execution model with high parallelism and low energy consumption. ZARA is implemented with commodity ReRAM chips, and experimental results show that our design can improve GAN’s training performance by averagely 1.6 × ~ 23 × over CMOS-based GAN accelerators. Compared to state-of-the-art ReRAM-based accelerator designs, ZARA also provides 1.15 × ~ 2.1 × performance improvement. CCS CONCEPTS • Hardware → Hardware accelerators;
Preparation of Whole Bone Marrow for Mass Cytometry Analysis of Neutrophil-lineage Cells

In this article, we present a protocol that is optimized to preserve neutrophil-lineage cells in fresh BM for whole BM CyTOF analysis. We utilized a myeloid-biased 39-antibody CyTOF panel to evaluate the hematopoietic system with a focus on the neutrophil-lineage cells by using this protocol. The CyTOF result was analyzed with an open-resource dimensional reduction algorithm, viSNE, and the data was presented to demonstrate the outcome of this protocol. We have discovered new neutrophil-lineage cell populations based on this protocol. This protocol of fresh whole BM preparation may be used for 1), CyTOF analysis to discover unidentified cell populations from whole BM, 2), investigating whole BM defects for patients with blood disorders such as leukemia, 3), assisting optimization of fluorescence-activated flow cytometry protocols that utilize fresh whole BM.
The Link Between Problem Behavior and Communication Impairment in Persons with Developmental Disabilities

Functional communication training (FCT) is rooted in the theory that if people with developmental disabilities (DD) have a socially appropriate way (i.e., communication) to get their needs or wants met, they will no longer need to resort to problem behavior. This review will examine the history of the link between problem behavior and communication impairment in individuals with DD as well as recent advances in research on FCT and directions for future research. Teaching people with DD a functional communication response (FCR) leads to a decrease in problem behaviors, provided that the FCR is at least as efficient as the problem behavior. Recent findings suggest ways to mitigate the resurgence of problem behavior as well as the importance of teaching an FCR that is acceptable to caretakers and addressing cognitive obstacles that may interfere with caretakers’ ability to carry out FCT. Through programming for maintenance and generalization of the FCR as well as addressing the needs of caretakers when teaching them to implement and sustain FCT, we can improve outcomes for individuals with DD.
COINCIDENT SUPPURATIVE THYROIDITIS AND GRAVES DISEASE IN A PATIENT WITH INFECTED BRANCHIAL CLEFT CYST.

ABSTRACT Objective: Acute suppurative thyroiditis (AST) is frequently caused by anatomic abnormalities, including branchial cleft cysts. Patients with AST are typically euthyroid, but thyrotoxicosi...
Carfilzomib, Rituximab and Dexamethasone (CaRD) Is Highly Active and Offers a Neuropathy Sparing Approach For Proteasome-Inhibitor Based Therapy In Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia

Bortezomib frequently produces severe treatment-related peripheral-neuropathy in Waldenstrom9s Macroglobulinemia (WM). Carfilzomib is a neuropathy-sparing proteasome-inhibitor. We examined carfilzomib, rituximab, and dexamethasone (CaRD) in symptomatic WM patients naive to bortezomib and rituximab. Protocol therapy consisted of IV carfilzomib 20 mg/m 2 (cycle 1), 36 mg/m 2 (cycles 2-6) with IV dexamethasone 20 mg on days 1,2,8,9 and rituximab 375 mg/m 2 on days 2,9 every 21-days. Maintenance-therapy followed 8-weeks later with IV carfilzomib 36 mg/m 2 and IV dexamethasone 20 mg on days 1,2 and rituximab 375 mg/m 2 on day 2 every 8-weeks for 8-cycles. Post-therapy, median serum IgM levels declined from 3,375 to 749 mg/dL (p L265P or CXCR4 WHIM mutation status. With a median follow-up of 15.4 months, 20 patients remain progression-free, including 8 on maintenance-therapy. Grade >2 toxicities included asymptomatic hyperlipasemia (41.9%), reversible neutropenia (12.9%), and cardiomyopathy in one patient (3.2%) with multiple risk factors. Declines in serum IgA and IgG were common. CaRD offers a neuropathy-sparing approach for proteasome-inhibitor based therapy in WM. Study registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01470196).
The Radiology Resident as Teaching Consultant: An Innovative Peer-to-Peer Teaching Consultation Service to Strengthen Relationships with Referring Colleagues in the Era of Imaging 3.0

Abstract Background The American College of Radiology Imaging 3.0 paradigm emphasizes the need for radiologists to serve as imaging consultants to their referring colleagues. However, outside the reading room, teaching interactions between radiology and nonradiology residents are limited. Internal Medicine Morning Report (IMMR) is a resident-run educational program widely employed by internal medicine (IM) residencies. Although medical imaging is regularly discussed in IMMR, radiology residents are not typically involved in case preparation. We aimed to develop a peer-to-peer imaging teaching consultation service (TCS) incorporated into the well-established structure of IMMR. By creating illustrative, “dynamic” teaching slides for use at these conferences, we sought to provide salient radiology teaching material, demystify jargon, discuss appropriate imaging use, and review relevant anatomy. We hypothesized that TCS could improve the quality of IMMR as perceived by the IM presenter. Methods TCS was piloted over a 7-month period. Each referred case was reviewed by a senior radiology resident who produced a set of “dynamic” teaching slides for each case. These included patient imaging overlayed with extensive annotations and animations highlighting teaching points, with particular attention to radiologic terminology. Slides were shared with the IM presenter, who could use them for preparation and include the animations in the talk if desired. TCS effectiveness was evaluated with a survey distributed to participating IM residents. Results In the pilot period, 12 TCS requests were received and 10 were performed in collaboration with 6 IM residents. Survey results indicated that most IM residents did not consult radiologists prior to TCS (5/6, 83%). IM residents used the “dynamic” teaching slides to both prepare for and present at IMMR (5/6, 83%). TCS improved IM residents’ perceived ability to engage their audience (6/6, 100%), confidence in teaching radiology material (4/6, 67%), ability to understand radiology reports (4/6, 67%) and appreciation for what radiologists do (6/6, 100%). Conclusions The TCS pilot resulted in successful radiology-IM collaboration and improved knowledge and confidence in teaching imaging concepts. Continuous program evaluation will be performed and future work will assess the effect of TCS on radiologist confidence in real-world clinical consultations.
Theorizing Region: Links to Ethnicity, Nation, and Race:

The concept of “region” is widespread in the social sciences but rarely theorized. I argue here that region is a multivalent concept similar to ethnicity, nation, and race. Building on the work of ...
The NCBE's Wrong-Headed Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The NCBE issued a White Paper in early April 2020 attacking proposals to admit 2020 graduates of law schools through a diploma privilege with some additional requirement of supervised practice hours. Its justifications are both self-serving and inconsistent. In an unprecedented time, the NCBE chose to protect its monopoly position in providing bar examination products rather than the 2020 bar applicants upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its claim to protect the public from the licensing of "incompetent" bar applicants rings hollow. Because the legal profession is wedded to the status quo in licensing of new lawyers, the NCBE will likely survive the threat to its existence delivered by the pandemic. But its claims should not go unanswered.
Cervical spine thrust and non-thrust mobilization for the management of recalcitrant C6 paresthesias associated with a cervical radiculopathy: a case report.

The conservative management of cervical radiculopathy is supported by moderate evidence to include interventions such as manual therapy, traction, and therapeutic exercise. There is sparse evidence...
A cascade electrocaloric cooling device for large temperature lift

Cooling technology that is both compact and flexible is increasingly vital for the thermal management of wearable electronics and personal comfort. Electrocaloric (EC) cooling provides a potential solution, but the low adiabatic temperature change of EC materials has been the bottleneck in its progress. We demonstrate a cascade EC cooling device that increases the temperature change, with enhanced cooling power and cooling efficiency at the same time. The device integrates multiple units of EC polymer elements and an electrostatic actuation mechanism, all operating in synergy. Every two adjacent EC elements function in antiphase (in terms of both actuation and EC effect) to allow heat flow to be continuously relayed from the heat source to the heat sink. The antiphase operation also enables internal charge recycling, which enhances the energy efficiency. Operating at the EC electric field at which the adiabatic temperature change of the material is 3.0 K, a four-layer cascade device achieves a maximum temperature lift of 8.7 K under no-load conditions. The coefficient of performance is estimated to be 9.0 at the temperature lift of 2.7 K and 10.4 at zero temperature lift. Solid-state caloric cooling is a promising alternative to vapour-compression refrigeration yet practical devices are not sufficiently efficient for applications. Meng et al. combine cascade device design with charge recovery and improve the cooling efficiency and temperature lift of an electrocaloric device.
Accounting for Product Impact in the Consumer Finance Industry

We apply the product impact measurement framework of the Impact-Weighted Accounts Initiative (IWAI) in two competitor credit card providers within the consumer finance industry. We design a monetization methodology that allows us to calculate monetary impact estimates on cardholder access to credit, affordability for merchants, financial health, and recyclability, among other factors. Our results indicate substantial differences in the impact that competitors have through their products. These differences demonstrate how impact reflects corporate strategy and informs decision-making on industry-specific areas.
Efficacy of Arthroscopic Surgery in the Management of Adhesive Capsulitis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Purpose To determine which interventions optimize clinical outcomes in adhesive capsulitis by performing a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Methods A systematic review was conducted of all clinical trials on adhesive capsulitis published since 2008. Patient cohorts were grouped into treatment categories; data collected included range of motion (ROM) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Interventions were compared across groups by means of arm-based Bayesian network meta-analysis in a random-effects model. Results Sixty-six studies comprising 4042 shoulders (57.6% female patients, age 54.8 ± 3.2 years [mean ± standard deviation]) were included. The most commonly studied interventions were physical therapy (PT) or shoulder injections. Network meta-analysis demonstrated that arthroscopic surgical capsular release was the most effective treatment in increasing ROM. This effect was apparent in forward flexion (effect difference [ED] versus placebo, 44°, 95% confidence interval [CI] 31° to 58°), abduction (ED 58°, 45° to 71°), internal rotation (ED 34°, 24° to 44°), and external rotation (ED 59°, 37° to 80°). Interventions most effective for pain relief included PT supplemented with either medical therapy (ED –4.50, –9.80 to 2.80) or ultrasound therapy (ED –5.10, –5.10 to –1.40). Interventions most effective for improvement of functional status included PT, manipulation under anesthesia (MUA), intra-articular or subacromial steroid injection, surgical capsular release, and supplementation of PT with alternative therapy. Conclusions No one treatment emerged superior in regard to ROM, pain symptoms, and functional status. Surgery (after failure of conservative treatment) ranked highest across all ROM domains. Treatments that ranked highest for treatment of pain included PT supplemented with either medical therapy or ultrasound. Finally, treatments that ranked highest for improvements in functional status included MUA, PT with medical therapy, surgical intervention, PT with ultrasound, PT with injection, and injection alone. Level of Evidence II, systematic review and network meta-analysis of level I and II studies
T3 Occupational exposures and respiratory health: the burden of obstructive lung disease (BOLD) study results

Introduction and Objectives It has been estimated that 15% of the population burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease population is attributable to occupational factors. Most of the evidence comes from studies conducted in high-income countries (HICs). Our aim was to examine the relationship between occupational exposures and respiratory health in both HICs and Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) participating in the multinational, population-based, cross-sectional BOLD study. Methods We analysed data from 28,823 adults aged ≥40 years who completed respiratory and occupational questionnaires and had acceptable and repeatable post-bronchodilator spirometry measurements. Occupational exposures comprised three categories (organic dust; inorganic dust; fume) and 11 high-risk occupations (farming; flour, feed or grain milling; cotton or jute processing; hard-rock mining; coal mining; sandblasting; working with asbestos; chemical or plastics manufacturing; foundry or steel milling; welding; and firefighting). The associations of respiratory symptoms and lung function with occupational exposures were estimated using multivariable regression models adjusted for potential confounders for each BOLD site and then pooled using meta-analysis. Sensitivity analyses by sex, national gross national income and smoking status were also performed. Results We found that people working in any of three categories of occupational exposures and the 11 high-risk occupations under consideration were more likely to report respiratory symptoms than those who do not work in any of those occupations. Overall, we found no consistent associations between the occupational exposure categories and high-risk occupations and measures of lung function. Nevertheless, in sensitivity analyses, men in HICs exposed to organic dusts in the workplace for at least 20 years (median) had significantly decreased FEV1/FVC (β=-0.34%; 95% CI -0.42% to -0.27%) and decreased FVC (β=-0.18L; 95% CI -0.32L to -0.04L). Men in LMICs exposed to fumes for at least 11 years had significantly decreased FEV1/FVC (β=-0.29%; 95% CI -0.41% to -0.16%). Conclusions In a large global study, we found respiratory symptoms to be associated with 11 high-risk occupations. The associations between occupational exposures and lung function varied by gross national income groups; more research is needed to understand these differences. Meanwhile, preventive measures and respiratory health surveillance should be enhanced among exposed workers.
The Criminalization of Immigration Law: Employer Sanctions and Marriage Fraud

Increasingly, the United States has looked to the criminal law to address the problem of undocumented immigration. This article focuses on the criminalization of immigration related activities of citizens or permanent legal residents. Citizens and permanent residents employ and marry undocumented persons. Statutes such as the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 and the Immigration Marriage Fraud Act of 1986 render these acts criminal and are the focus of this article. The author challenges the use of criminal sanctions to deter undocumented or unauthorized immigration for being ineffective at deterring the conduct as well as for being inconsistent with American values.
Adverse Childhood Experiences Are Associated with Cardiometabolic Risk Indicators and Telomere Length in Low-Income African-American Adolescents.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease later in life, and to shortened telomere length in children and adolescents, but few studies have examined associations between ACEs and cardiometabolic risk in adolescence or potential associations between ACEs, cardiometabolic risk indicators, and telomere length in this population. The present study examined competing models of associations between adolescent ACEs (as reported by mothers); cardiovascular, inflammatory, and metabolic indicators of health risk; and leukocyte telomere length in youth. Data was collected from 108 low-income African-American adolescents (42.6% male; Mage = 14.27 years, SD = 1.17) living in the southeastern USA. Waist circumference was measured during a home interview, and measures of C-reactive protein, insulin resistance, and leukocyte telomere length were obtained from blood following overnight fasting. Path analysis supported a main effects model, whereby ACEs were significantly associated with shortened leukocyte telomere length, higher levels of C-reactive protein, and larger waist circumferences, controlling for maternal education and adolescent sex. Exploratory analyses examining whether cardiometabolic risk mediated associations between ACEs and telomere length, or whether telomere length mediated associations between ACEs and cardiometabolic risk, were not supported. ACEs are associated with risk of future cardiometabolic disorders and shortened leukocyte telomere length. Because cytogenetic changes are potentially modifiable, interventions to decrease family ACEs or alter responses to ACEs may lessen chronic disease risk in the African-American population. Targeted interventions to improve health are discussed.
Private Investigators’ Experiences in Human Trafficking Investigations

This paper argues that private investigators (PIs) have the potential to supplement law enforcement’s efforts to investigate human trafficking cases. A mixed method design, including survey and int...
Financing Elections and 'Appearance of Corruption': Citizen Attitudes and Behavior in 2012

As political spending reaches new highs in the 2012 election cycle, and as the controversy surrounding wealthy donors and interest groups grows, polls demonstrate a surge of cynicism among Americans who profess a belief that the American political system is corrupt. The Supreme Court’s 2010 decision in Citizens United made possible the most recent expansion of political spending. In this case, the question was whether allowing corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts of money on political advertising would result in corruption or the appearance of corruption. The majority on the Court determined that it would not. Many observers have disputed the majority’s conclusion with respect to corruption; the effect on the appearance of corruption has received far less attention. This Article focuses on this latter question, arguing that there is a growing appearance-of-corruption problem in American politics. The 2012 election cycle saw a modest growth in small donor giving and volunteerism, but voter turn-out was down from the previous two presidential elections. Meanwhile, polls reveal that more than ever, Americans’ believe that money is corrupting the political process. This Article explains the connection between the Court’s recent campaign finance decisions and the current disillusionment of the American public. The Article also explains why data from the 2012 election likely underestimates the problem, and why the repercussions of our appearance-of-corruption problem are likely to grow if the law continues to permit unchecked political campaign spending.
Investigating carotenoid photophysics in photosynthesis with 2D electronic spectroscopy

Carotenoids are accessory pigments in photosynthesis that serve a range of functions such as light harvesting, photoprotection, and structural stabilization. Such versatility is enabled by their unique electronic structure, which includes one or more dark excited states and is readily modulated by changes in their physical and chemical structures. In this review, we describe the ultrafast photophysical mechanisms of carotenoid-mediated energy transfer and energy dissipation, which underlie the light-harvesting and photoprotective functions of carotenoids in photosynthesis, and how recent developments in 2D electronic spectroscopy enable the investigation of these mechanisms. We focus on three light-harvesting complexes (LHCs) found in purple bacteria, green plants, and marine algae, which utilize distinct carotenoid molecules to optimize the photophysics for their survival and fitness.
Observable Error Bounds of the Time-splitting Scheme for Quantum-Classical Molecular Dynamics.

Quantum-classical molecular dynamics, as a partial classical limit of the full quantum Schrodinger equation, is a widely used framework for quantum molecular dynamics. The underlying equations are nonlinear in nature, containing a quantum part (represents the electrons) and a classical part (stands for the nuclei). An accurate simulation of the wave function typically requires a time step comparable to the rescaled Planck constant $h$, resulting in a formidable cost when $h\ll 1$. We prove an additive observable error bound of Schwartz observables for the proposed time-splitting schemes based on semiclassical analysis, which decreases as $h$ becomes smaller. Furthermore, we establish a uniform-in-$h$ observable error bound, which allows an $\mathcal{O}(1)$ time step to accurately capture the physical observable regardless of the size of $h$. Numerical results verify our estimates.
Automating the Clinical Assessment of Independent Wheelchair Sitting Pivot Transfer Techniques.

Background Using proper transfer technique can help to reduce forces and prevent secondary injuries. However, current assessment tools rely on the ability to subjectively identify harmful movement patterns. Objectives The purpose of the study was to determine the accuracy of using a low-cost markerless motion capture camera and machine learning methods to evaluate the quality of independent wheelchair sitting pivot transfers. We hypothesized that the algorithms would be able to discern proper (low risk) and improper (high risk) wheelchair transfer techniques in accordance with component items on the Transfer Assessment Instrument (TAI). Methods Transfer motions of 91 full-time wheelchair users were recorded and used to develop machine learning classifiers that could be used to discern proper from improper technique. The data were labeled using the TAI item scores. Eleven out of 18 TAI items were evaluated by the classifiers. Motion variables from the Kinect were inputted as the features. Random forests and k-nearest neighbors algorithms were chosen as the classifiers. Eighty percent of the data were used for model training and hyperparameter turning. The validation process was performed using 20% of the data as the test set. Results The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the test set for each item was over 0.79. After adjusting the decision threshold, the precisions of the models were over 0.87, and the model accuracies were over 71%. Conclusion The results show promise for the objective assessment of the transfer technique using a low cost camera and machine learning classifiers.
Change, Evolution, and Global Vision-Logic: A Gentle Challenge for Adult Development

As adult and continuing education practitioners, we encounter the challenges for change that arise from the dramatic shifts that our society and our globe are undergoing. How we respond to these challenges will shape our field and our society--either in the direction of increased harmony or further disorder. Adopting a wider perspective may allow us to take in more of what is happening, thereby offering a broader range of options for understanding and action. Such a wider, more complex, more coherent, and more integrative perspective on ourselves and the world is offered by vision-logic, a stage of consciousness beyond the rational. Drawing on the work of Ken Wilber and other writers in psychology and philosophy, the author examines the qualities associated with vision-logic and the implications of vision-logic for our practice and our own psychological development.
Cognition and the disease process: Genesis, maintenance, and treatment

Abstract The present paper is directed toward the conceptualization of disease states and their management from the cognitive point of view. The role of cognitive sytles and self-statements in the pathogenesis of disease and the execution of coping styles is presented. A review of the literature on the cognitive treatment of medical disorders has documented the utility of such approaches with several medical problems, but a need for more rigorous empirical efficacy remains. The necessity of analyzing the coping processes elicited by specific disease states is viewed as essential to the understanding of the patient and the design of intervention strategies. Finally, a cognitive analysis of patient compliance to treatment regimens is presented.
Dynamic prognostication using conditional survival estimates

Measures of prognosis are typically estimated from the time of diagnosis. However, these estimates become less relevant as the time from diagnosis increases for a patient. Conditional survival measures the probability that a cancer patient will survive some additional number of years, given that the patient has already survived for a certain number of years. In the current study, the authors analyzed data regarding patients with stage III melanoma to demonstrate that survival estimates from the time of diagnosis underestimate long-term survival as the patient is followed over time. The probability of surviving to year 5 for patients at the time of presentation compared with patients who had already survived for 4 years increased from 72% to 95%, 48% to 90%, and 29% to 86%, respectively, for patients with substage IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC disease. Considering the major role played by survival estimates during follow-up in patient counseling and the development of survivorship programs, the authors strongly recommend the routine use of conditional survival estimates.
Virtual structure formations of cooperating UAVs using wind-compensation command generation and generalized velocity obstacles

This paper describes two algorithms that can be utilized in tandem to direct a group of cooperating vehicles into time-varying formations using virtual structures as reference trajectories. The first algorithm is a command generation method to achieve high-precision position control in the presence of wind, and the second algorithm provides flight command overrides to avoid collisions. The command generation algorithm, which was verified in UAV flight demonstrations, is a wind-compensating flight control method wherein roll and airspeed commands are generated to steer each UAV toward a future position within the virtual structure. This algorithm provides a geometrically exact solution to achieve a desired location in the future in the presence of a spatially-uniform, time-invariant wind. In flight demonstrations, four vehicles were shown to achieve tight virtual structure formations despite the presence of significant winds. The second algorithm, demonstrated using a numerical simulation, provides active collision avoidance between members of the virtual structure using flight command overrides based on generalized velocity obstacles.
War in Guatemala and Exile in Florida

Book reviewed in this article: Unfinished Conquest: The Guatemalan Tragedy. Victor Perera. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1993. 382 pp. Maya in Exile: Guatemalans in Florida. Allan F. Burns. Philadelphia: Temple University Press, 1993. 208 pp.
Theory of quasiparticle vortex bound states in iron-based superconductors: Application to scanning tunneling spectroscopy of LiFeAs

The spectroscopy of vortex bound states can provide valuable information on the structure of the superconducting order parameter. Quasiparticle wave functions are expected to leak out in the directions of gap minima or nodes, if they exist, and scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) on these low-energy states should probe the momentum dependence of the gap. Anisotropy can also arise from band-structure effects, however. We perform a quasiclassical calculation of the density of states of a single vortex in an anisotropic superconductor, and show that if the gap itself is not highly anisotropic, the Fermi-surface anisotropy can dominate, preventing direct observation of superconducting gap features. This serves as a cautionary message for the analysis of STS data on the vortex state on Fe-based superconductors, in particular, LiFeAs, which we treat explicitly.
An Assessment of Library Education Contributions to Business Student Learning: A Case Study

Abstract This article reports on a study of the impact of library education for improving the research skills of undergraduate students in business. The purpose of this education was to improve bibliographic research capabilities, a step thought necessary for enhancing student competency when performing a marketing course research project. A “special help” session was presented that included seminar training, use of a special reference booklet and Web page preparation. Based on a survey of students assessing the helpfulness of this education, the results indicate the desired learning objective was achieved.
Marital status, treatment, and survival in patients with glioblastoma multiforme: a population based study.

BACKGROUND Social factors influence cancer treatment choices, potentially affecting patient survival. In the current study, the authors studied the interrelations between marital status, treatment received, and survival in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GM), using population-based data. METHODS The data source was the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Public Use Database, 1988–2001, 2004 release, all registries. Multivariate logistic, ordinal, and Cox regression analyses adjusted for demographic and clinical variables were used. RESULTS Of 10,987 patients with GM, 67% were married, 31% were unmarried, and 2% were of unknown marital status. Tumors were slightly larger at the time of diagnosis in unmarried patients (49% of unmarried patients had tumors larger than 45 mm vs. 45% of married patients; P = 0.004, multivariate analysis). Unmarried patients were less likely to undergo surgical resection (vs. biopsy; 75% of unmarried patients vs. 78% of married patients) and were less likely to receive postoperative radiation therapy (RT) (70% of unmarried patients vs. 79% of married patients). On multivariate analysis, the odds ratio (OR) for resection (vs. biopsy) in unmarried patients was 0.88 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.79–0.98; P = 0.02), and the OR for RT in unmarried patients was 0.69 (95% CI, 0.62–0.77; P < 0.001). Unmarried patients more often refused both surgical resection and RT. Unmarried patients who underwent surgical resection and RT were found to have a shorter survival than similarly treated married patients (hazard ratio for unmarried patients, 1.10; P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Unmarried patients with GM presented with larger tumors, were less likely to undergo both surgical resection and postoperative RT, and had a shorter survival after diagnosis when compared with married patients, even after adjustment for treatment and other prognostic factors. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Optimal Carrier Frequency of Non-contact Vital Sign Detectors

Simulations were performed based on a model developed in ADS to demonstrate the effects of non-linear cosine transfer function in non-contact vital sign detection. Harmonics and intermodulation effects have been analyzed theoretically and demonstrated by simulation. It is shown that in contrast to the observation from simple linear approximation that detection sensitivity always increases with carrier frequency, there is an optimum carrier frequency for non-contact Doppler radar vital sign detection. For typical values of human chest wall movement, the simulation shows that the upper bound of the carrier frequency should be limited to the lower region of the Ka-band to improve detection accuracy
Genetic distance and electrophoretic identity of proteins between taxa

The relationship between amino acid substitution and charge change of proteins in the evolutionary process is studied by using a stochastic model. A mathematical formula is developed for the electrophoretic identity of proteins between two different taxa for a given number of average codon differences per protein locus. Using this formula, a reference figure is constructed for estimating the average number of codon differences per locus between taxa.
Interfacility transport of patients admitted to the ICU: perceived needs of family members.

Abstract Introduction: Limited research has been published regarding the needs of immediate family members with respect to the transport of critically ill loved ones. Furthermore, very little information exists on transport teams members' perception of the needs of the family members. Methods: During a 9-month period, a 25-item questionnaire was given to family members of adult patients who were transported by air or ground. All patients were admitted into an adult intensive care unit at a major university teaching hospital. Family members were asked to rank the relative importance of each item with regard to informational or situational needs. The identical questionnaire was given to the critical care transport teams employed by the hospital. The team members were asked to indicate what they thought the family members ranked as important. Results: Forty-two of 100 family members (42%) returned the questionnaire by mail. All 13 (100%) critical care transport team members completed surveys as well. Statistical comparisons indicated that family members and team members differed significantly on 13 of 25 items. Team members generally underestimated the importance of these items to family members. Conclusion: These findings suggest that, in this sample, transporting crew members often misperceived family members informational and situational needs.
Automatic Grading of Computer Programs: A Machine Learning Approach

The automatic evaluation of computer programs is a nascent area of research with a potential for large-scale impact. Extant program assessment systems score mostly based on the number of test-cases passed, providing no insight into the competency of the programmer. In this paper, we present a machine learning framework to automatically grade computer programs. We propose a set of highly-informative features, derived from the abstract representations of a given program, that capture the program's functionality. These features are then used to learn a model to grade the programs, which are built against evaluations done by experts on the basis of a rubric. We show that regression modeling based on the given features provide much better grading than the ubiquitous test-case-pass based grading and rivals the grading accuracy of other open-response problems such as essay grading. We also show that our novel features add significant value over and above basic keyword/expression count features. In addition to this, we propose a novel way of posing computer-program grading as a one-class modeling problem. Our preliminary investigations in the same show promising results and suggest an implicit correlation of our features with the proposed grading-levels (rubric). To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first time machine learning has been applied to the problem of grading programs. The work is timely with regard to the recent boom in Massively Online Open Courseware (MOOCs), which promises to produce a significant amount of hand-graded digitized data.
Theory of photoexcitations in phenylene-based polymers

We show that optical absorption spectra of polyphenylenes can be explained only within theoretical models that explicitly include the Coulomb interaction among the (pi) -electrons. We also show that the dominant effect of substitution on the electronic structure of polyphenylenes within Coulomb correlated models is broken spatial symmetry, while broken charge conjugation symmetry plays a rather weak role. The broken spatial symmetry has a subtle, and weak, effect on the optical absorption spectrum. Consequently, optical absorption spectra of unsubstituted polyphenylenes and the substituted derivatives are nearly identical. Comparison of theoretical and experimental absorption spectra leads to the conclusion that the exciton binding energy in a long chain of poly(para-phenylenevinylene) is about 0.9 eV. Such a large binding energy would be in agreement with nonlinear spectroscopic measurements and pump-probe experiments. However, the present work also indicates that the experimental polymers actually consist of short chains with the chain length distribution peaking at about 10 phenylene units. The gaps between the energy levels above the calculated continuum threshold are much too large for transport to be an intrachain process. Photoconductivity may be predominantly an interchain process, and probably measures the dissociation energy of the exciton which is different from the exciton binding energy.
Virtual Environment to Aid in the Teaching of Multiplication Tables to Elementary and Middle School Students with ADHD

Learning the multiplication tables is extremely important to the elementary and middle school students, it is one of the pillars to understand mathematics, but sometimes learning this content becomes something mechanical and exhausting, making it difficult for the students to understand, especially those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Therefore a virtual environment was developed to teach the multiplication tables to the elementary and middle school students with ADHD. All good programming practices were followed. The validation was performed by educators and computer specialists with excellent results. For the next stage of the research a validation with the students will be performed.
A new fabrication method for 3D Si-based photonic crystal structures

We have designed and developed a new, simplified 3-dimensional (3D) Photonic Crystal (PhC) fabrication technique that can be used to fabricate a nanoscale 3D structure from the 2D surface of a Si (or SOI) wafer with a single lithography and self-aligned etching sequence. This technique produces deep trenches with controlled width variation along the vertical direction. Using an alternating sequence of Bosch etches, a combined cryogenic etching and/or chemical etching process, allows the Bosch etched layers to maintain the width defined by the mask, while the cryogenic/chemical etched layer creates a lateral undercut that decreases the width beneath the surface. The result is a 3D lattice structure with a stack of vertical square grids. This paper reports the experimental procedures and results of fabrication of a 3D lattice structure that forms an array of hollow-core waveguides. We also compare several different etch recipes for the attempt to produce a uniform structure with smooth walls. These techniques will reduce overall fabrication cost, increase yield and are compatible with CMOS processing. Using this method, one can fabricate a variety of Si/SOI based 3D PhC structures including hollow-core, high contrast grating, waveguide arrays.
Raman efficiency measurements of graphite

Abstract The Raman efficiency of graphite, germanium and silicon have been measured at room temperature with 5145 A laser excitation. The efficiencies were determined from a comparison with the 1332 cm−1 zone center phonon of diamond. For graphite, the 1585 cm−1 E2g intralayer mode was studied, while for Si and Ge the 525 cm−1 and 303 cm−1 F2g zone center modes were measured.
Characteristics of the rat C-6 glioma maintained in organ culture systems. Production of glial fibrillary acidic protein in the absence of gliofibrillogenesis

Abstract Cells from a cloned rat C-6 glioma cell line were cultured on collagen-coated coverslips for up to 30 days and on organ culture systems using sponge foam matrices or Millipore filter platforms up to 44 days. The light microscopic features throughout the period of observation were those of a relatively poorly differentiated small-cell glioma that did not form glial fibrils. Electron microscopy of the cell line originally obtained and of the same cells maintained in organ culture systems demonstrated only infrequent and sparse microfilaments and no glycogen rosettes. Immunofluorescence staining for glial fibrillary acidic (GFA) protein, a specific marker for fibrillary astrocytes, was positive in only an occasional cell in monolayer or suspension cell cultures, but was markedly positive in most cells maintained for 12–14 days on sponge foam matrices. These findings suggest that the production of GFA protein can occur in the absence of gliofibrillogenesis in an in vitro system that has been shown to favor differentiation, and that therefore the rat C-6 glioma cell line represents a still undifferentiated glial cell type with the potential to differentiate into fibrillary astrocytes.
Structure of the murine arginase II gene

Mammals contain two genes encoding distinct isoforms of arginase (arginases I and II), both of which catalyze the conversion of arginine to ornithine and urea. However, their subcellular localization and tissue-specific patterns of expression are very different, indicating that they perform distinct physiologic roles. As an initial step in elucidating the regulation and physiologic roles of arginase II, this report describes the characterization of a mammalian arginase II gene. The murine arginase II gene contains eight exons like the arginase I gene. The six internal exons have intron/exon boundaries that are identical to the arginase I gene; however, exon three of the arginase II gene has obtained a three-base-pair insertion. The identity of the exon/intron boundaries is consistent with a gene duplication as the origin of the arginase isozymes with the small insertion occurring after the duplicative event. The promoter region of the arginase II gene, which bears no resemblance to that of the arginase I genes, contains numerous potential binding sites for enhancer and promoter elements but does not contain a TATA box.
Far-infrared spectra of mercaptoalkylamine complexes with NiII and PdII☆

Abstract The far-infrared spectra of metal complexes of mercaptoethylamine and related ligands with Ni II and Pd II have been measured. Band assignments have been made based on isotope substitution of the metal ( 58 Ni 62 Ni or 104 Pd 110 Pd) and the amino group (NH 2 ND 2 ) of the ligand. The configuration of theMN 2 S 2 skeleton has been determined by the observed number of the MN and MS stretching bands. The electronic spectra of the Ni II complexes support the structures proposed by the far-infrared study.
Lateral cavity acoustic transducer as an on-chip cell/particle microfluidic switch.

A novel on-chip microfluidic switch is demonstrated that utilizes the acoustic microstreaming generated by an oscillating air–liquid interface to switch cells/particles into bifurcating microchannels. The air–liquid interface of the Lateral Cavity Acoustic Transducers (LCATs) can be actuated by an external acoustic energy source causing the interface to oscillate. The oscillating interface results in the generation of vortex-like microstreaming flow within a localized region of the surrounding liquid. This streaming was utilized here to deflect cells/particles into a collection outlet. It was demonstrated that the switching zone could be controlled by varying the actuation time of the LCAT. An LCAT based microfluidic switch is capable of achieving theoretical switching rates of 800 cells/particles per second. It was also demonstrated that K562 cells could be switched into a collection channel with cell viability comparable to that of controls as determined by Trypan blue exclusion assay.