cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cognitive Tendencies in International Business Research: Implications of a “Narrow Vision”

Some scholars have suggested that international business (IB) research suffers from a “narrow vision.” This paper tests this thesis by extending principles of the cognitive sciences to study the ontological and epistemological features of IB research from, 1970 through, 1997. Operationally, IB scholars' schematic representation of their logic of interpretation as indicated by, 159 figures, including 60 models, conceptualization, and frameworks, culled from 27 years of JIBS publication. Profiling these data by absolute and relative indicators of time shows that analog reasoning dominates present logics of interpretation in IB research. The longitudinal profile and time series analysis of the structural features of schematic representations in JIBS spotlights significantly decreasing comprehensiveness, connectedness, and complexity. I close by nothing the intellectual merit of scholars' call for dialectic inquiry. and the task this imposes on the community of IB researchers – particularly so within the Academy of International Business.
A note on the mixed potential representation of electric fields in layered media

A mixed potential formulation is given for electrical fields in layered environments. Contributions to the field from charges are identified explicitly through a scalar Green's function for layered media. The outcome is a computationally expedient Sommerfeld integral representation. >
The use of an overt commitment to enhance compliance: A cautionary note

Abstract This study is a partial replication of two previous studies that demonstrated the effect of an overt commitment on compliance with outpatient therapist and physician assignments. Subjects were given an appointment time and randomly placed in an experimental or a control condition. Subjects in the experimental condition were asked to sign a commitment to keep their reappointment. No differences between the experimental and control conditions were found. It is suggested that the overt commitment technique may only be effective with certain assignments.
Abstract SY40-04: Immune control of spontaneous tumor development

Long recognized as an evolutionarily ancient cell type to control development, tissue homeostasis, and immune responses to pathogens, macrophages are being rediscovered as regulators of several chronic disorders including cancer. Using a spontaneous mammary tumor model, here we show that tumor growth induces the differentiation and expansion of a unique subset of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) that are phenotypically and functionally distinct from mammary tissue macrophages (MTMs). Compared to MTMs, TAMs do not exhibit an “alternatively activated macrophage” phenotype, but express the adhesion molecule Vcam1, and have high proliferative capacity upon their differentiation from CCR2-expressing inflammatory monocytes. Importantly, TAM differentiation is dependent on the transcriptional regulator of the Notch signaling pathway, RBPJ; and TAM, but not MTM, depletion restores tumor-infiltrating cytotoxic T cell responses, and suppresses tumor growth. These findings demonstrate that TAMs represent a novel lineage of mononuclear phagocytes with critical regulatory functions in promoting T cell tolerance to tumors. Citation Format: Ming Li. Immune control of spontaneous tumor development. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr SY40-04. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-SY40-04
Models and performance functionals for load frequency control in interconnected power systems

Particular state variable representations are developed for the load frequency control of a linearized two-area interconnected power system. Associated cost functionals are developed emphasizing differences between the various state variable configurations. Comparison of the resulting modern optimal feedback controllers with the conventional are made.
Methodological considerations in use of the cortisol/DHEA(S) ratio in adolescent populations

Summary Objective The cortisol/DHEA(S) ratio has demonstrated utility in studies of HPA activity and psychopathology. However, use of the cortisol/DHEA(S) ratio in adolescent populations requires additional consideration of differential changes in DHEA(S) and cortisol during the course of puberty. This study examines the relationship between pubertal status and individual cortisol and DHEAS levels as well as with the cortisol/DHEAS ratio. Method Morning salivary cortisol and urinary DHEAS levels were obtained for 267 young adolescents at three time points, each approximately one year apart. Growth curve modeling and repeated measures ANOVA were used to assess the effect of adrenal development on individual hormone levels and on the total ratio. Results Pubic hair development was a significant predictor of change over time in DHEAS but not cortisol. Development was also a significant predictor of the cortisol/DHEAS ratio when raw cortisol and DHEAS values were used. Conclusions Our findings indicate that, when DHEAS levels were adjusted to control for pubertal status, the ratio demonstrated stability over time. This finding is in line with the hypothesis that the ratio may tap stable individual differences in HPA functioning.
Training attentional processes

In the current issue, Tang and Posner [1] review some of the latest research on attention-related interventions that the authors separate into ‘attention training’ (e.g. computer based exercises), and ‘attention state training’ (e.g. integrative body-mind training, exposure to nature). What is common to these two types of training is their ability not only to improve trained processes, but also to have effects that transfer to other, non-trained processes and abilities. These findings are very exciting with a wide range of applicability.
Relative sensitivity and pumping rate of the redhead magnetron gauge

Abstract Relative sensitivities and pumping speeds of the Redhead vacuum gauge for N 2 , He, H 2 , O 2 and CO 2 were determined. In finding relative sensitivities, equilibrium was maintained between the gas pumped by the Redhead gauge and a Bayard-Alpert ionization gauge (used as a monitor) and gas admitted through a controlled leak. A knowledge of the sensitivities of the Bayard-Alpert gauge to the gases in question permitted calculation of relative Redhead gauge sensitivities. Pumping speeds were computed for these gases in the usual way by making use of the slopes of the p vs. t curves obtained using only the Redhead gauge with the controlled leak closed.
The Controlled Freeze Zone Technology for the Commercialization of Sour Gas Resources

Controlled Freeze Zone™ is an efficient single-step cryogenic distillation process for the removal of carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and other impurities from natural gas. Rather than avoiding the freezing of CO2 at cryogenic temperatures, the solidification is allowed to take place, albeit in a very controlled fashion. The technology has shown the potential to more efficiently and cost-effectively separate carbon dioxide and other impurities from natural gas, and to discharge these contaminants as a high-pressure liquid stream ready for underground injection, either for enhanced oil recovery applications or for acid gas injection disposal.
Rational Choice Epistemology and Belief Formation in Mass Politics

This article begins with a general discussion of the epistemology of rational choice, and argues that there are important questions in political science for which rational choice theory is not a particularly useful epistemic tool. It is further argued that part of the problem lies with the particular vision of methodological individualism that is inherent in the use of classical rational choice assumptions in game theoretic models. An alternative approach that endogenizes the way in which people form beliefs is then advocated as a potential solution to this problem, both as a means to expand the substantive reach of optimizing theories in political science, as well as a way of incorporating more psychological realism into models of political behavior. Two novel models allowing actors within political contexts to form beliefs in endogenous ways are then presented and discussed.
The Making of Ethnic Yunnan on the National Mall: Minority Folksong and Dance Performances, Provincial Identity, and “The Artifying of Politics” (Zhengzhi yishuhua)

This article looks at Yunnan’s theatrical, overly professionalized minority folksong and dance performances at the 2007 Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C. Yunnan’s presentation presents an opportunity to explore the way a provincial government culturally and spatially imagines its governed administrative territory through ethnic performing arts on a global stage. The article argues that Yunnan’s image crafting is not only structured by the politics of international artistic exchange. It can also be viewed as a global extension of the Yunnan provincial government’s provincial identity project and economic development scheme back home. Its strategy, described as “the artifying of politics” by one of Yunnan’s cultural officials, reveals how ethnic performing arts are programmed to aestheticize Yunnan as a place and economic–cultural brand in this context, and, thus, how the Yunnan government manages both the politicization of art and the aestheticization of politics in order to carry out its e...
Radiation transfer in absorbing-scattering liquids—I. Radiance and flux measurements

Abstract Radiation measurements have been made in highly absorbing and scattering aqueous suspensions for which interface reflectivities, as well as suspension properties, can significantly influence results. Measurements were made for the spectral band from 0.40 to 0.68 μm, using probes which determined vertical and directional distributions of the radiance, as well as the vertical distribution of the downwelling flux. Agreement between the separate measurements has established confidence in the experimental procedures, and the data have been used to delineate the effect of the suspension opacity, albedo and bottom reflectivity on the radiation field.
Dimensions of Electrical and Magnetic Quantities

FOR rather more than ten years the rationalized M.K.S. system of units has been generally accepted as the most satisfactory one to employ for practical calculations involving electrical and magnetic quantities1,2. This system side-steps the question of dimensions by introducing two unfortunate expressions—permittivity and permeability of free space—and assigning to them, respectively, the values 10−9/36π farad/metre and 4π × 10−7 henry/metre. Any dislike aroused by these terms may, however, be easily overcome by giving them new names: electric factor and magnetic factor, the question of units being left until later.
Growth, cell division and branching patterns of Schizophyllum commune fr. single basidiospore germlings.

Basidiospores of Schizophyllum commune Fr. were germinated and observed growing on microscope slides containing minimal medium. Micron measurements of the young germlings were made along with observations of nuclear division, cross wall formation and branching. Growth patterns and relationships of various parts of the developing germling were compared. Linear relations were observed between the length of the main axis and the number of cells in the main axis, and the number of primary branches in relation to the number of cells in the main axis while other comparisons were less conclusive. In addition to cell division occurring in terminal cells of hyphae, mature subterminal cells also delimited further with a somewhat regular cleavage division. Lack of synchrony in nuclear division between any of the cells of the germling hypha implicated autonomy of the individual components once delimitation had occurred.
Process Evaluation of a Teaching and Learning Centre at a Research University.

This paper describes the evaluation of a teaching and learning centre (TLC) five years after its inception at a mid-sized, midwestern state university. The mixed methods process evaluation gathered data from 209 attendees and non-attendees of the TLC from the full-time, benefit-eligible teaching faculty. Focus groups noted feelings of inclusiveness because of the sole concentration on teaching. The survey found that attendees felt more positive about the value and effectiveness of the TLC than non-attendees, and no one on campus expressed negative feelings about its effectiveness. We discuss implications for future evaluation research.
Empirical Distribution Functions and Functions of Order Statistics for Mixing Random Variables

Abstract Some fundamental properties of the empirical distribution functions are derived in the case of mixing random variables. These properties are then utilized to study asymptotic normality and strong laws of large numbers for functions of order statistics.
Unification of supergravity and Yang-Mills theory

Supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory (including the Abelian case) is combined with supergravity so as to achieve local supersymmetry. The Lagrangian, the supersymmetry transformation rules, and their commutator algebra are presented.
Ghrelin but Not Peptide YY Is Related to Change in Body Weight and Energy Availability

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine changes in fasting total peptide YY (PYY) and ghrelin in nonobese premenopausal women after an exercise and diet program with and without weight loss. Methods: Body composition, energy balance parameters, ghrelin, and PYY were measured before and after a 3-month intervention in nonexercising controls (n = 7) and exercising women who either remained weight stable (n = 5) or lost weight (n = 10). At baseline, subjects were 20.6 ± 2.2 yr, weighed 58.0 ± 4.8 kg, and had 27.2% ± 4.9% body fat. Supervised exercise training occurred five times a week for up to 90 min at 70%-80% of maximum HR. Subjects were fed a controlled diet. Results: Body weight (-3.2 ± 0.8 kg) and fat mass (-2.6 ± 0.7 kg) decreased significantly in the weight-loss exercise group. Neither fasting ghrelin nor PYY changed in response to exercise training in the absence of weight loss, and PYY did not change with exercise and weight loss. Fasting ghrelin did reveal a significant time × experimental group interaction (P = 0.025). The change in ghrelin was inversely correlated with the change in body weight, body mass index, fat-free mass, and energy availability. Conclusions: Neither fasting ghrelin nor fasting PYY seem to play a role in the adaptive changes associated with exercise training when exercise occurs in the absence of weight loss. Fasting ghrelin concentrations increase when body weight is lost and may respond to even smaller changes in energy availability. However, fasting PYY does not seem to play a key role in the regulation of energy balance during diet- and exercise-associated weight loss
Analysis of the Influence of Tensile Strength on the Stability of Eccentrically Compressed Slender Unreinforced Masonry Walls under Lateral Loads

A comprehensive finite element model is presented for the combined material and geometric nonlinear analysis of slender unreinforced masonry walls, with the capability of capturing postcracking and postbuckling behavior. Material tensile strength is taken into consideration; an exponential stress-strain relationship is adopted for the compressive region and its smooth linear extension is used for the tensile region. This model is applicable under different load combinations (concentrated and distributed lateral loads, vertical load with eccentricity, as well as self-weight) and different restraint conditions. Numerical results of the model show good agreement with experimental results, as well as with analytical results in published technical papers.
Monoclonal antibody OKT3 therapy in pediatric kidney transplant recipients

Thirty-one pediatric patients with acute renal allograft rejection were treated with the monoclonal antibody OKT3. In 24 cases, increased doses of steroids followed by a polycolonal antithymocyte globulin were ineffective in reversing the rejection episode. Twenty-eight patients completed the prescribed minimum 10-day treatment course, with effective rejection reversal in 22. Three patients failed to complete the course of therapy: one because of leukopenia that developed after the first dose, one because of a clotted grafi, and another because of symptomatic cytomegalovirus infection. The overall success rate of OKT3 for rejection reversal was 74%; however, 55% of recipients had rebound rejection, and 85% of patients had detectable anti-OKT3 antibodies after completion of the course of therapy. Ten patients were treated with a second course of OKT3, and in eight of these patients, rejection was at least temporarily reversed. The starting dose of OKT3 for second-course therapy was the same as that used during first-course therapy, but in five cases the dose was increased during the course because of inadequate therapeutic response. Seven of these patients lost their grafts a mean of 6.5 months after completion of second-course therapy. We looked for anti-OKT3 antibody in nine recipients after completion of a second treatment course and found it in all nine. Our observations regarding a second treatment course with this monoclonal antibody preparation suggest that although rejection reversal may be observed, ultimate graft survival is poor and anti-OKT3 antibody formation is enhanced.
Knowledge acquisition and fault diagnosis: experiments with PLAULT

A series of experiments using a paradigm called PLAULT, where subjects have to discover the structure of a logical network, is reported. The links in the network are invisible, and subjects have to infer where they are by examining the status of the logic gates under a variety of conditions. Three experiments explore the interaction of features of the task, such as its spatial and graphical complexity, with the cognitive limitations of the learner. A combination of these features predicts which parts of a network subjects can and cannot learn, when knowledge is tested by requiring subjects to draw diagrams of the supposed network structure. These task features also predict efficiency of transfer to a fault diagnosis task. The experiments demonstrate the predictive power that can be gained by identifying task features that are likely to prevent thorough learning of a system. These results are also important for understanding the dissociation of the ability to perform routine tasks and the ability to respond to abnormal events. >
A random walk procedure for improving the computational efficiency of the implicit Monte Carlo method for nonlinear radiation transport

An unconditionally stable Monte Carlo method for solving the frequency dependent equations of nonlinear radiation transport has been described previously. One of the central features of this method is the replacement of a portion of the absorption and reemission of radiation by a scattering process. While the inclusion of this scattering process assures the accuracy and stability of solutions regardless of local opacity values, it becomes time consuming when the local opacity is large. A procedure is derived for replacing a large number of local scattering events by a single advance of the coordinates and time of a particle. This procedure, developed by appealing to the theory of random flights, is integrated into the implicit Monte Carlo scheme and is invoked only when certain conditions are met. Numerical tests indicate that the random walk procedure can substantially improve the computational efficiency of the implicit Monte Carlo method without affecting its accuracy. This random walk procedure with suitable modifications should be applicable to the Monte Carlo solution of other transport problems involving large amounts of scattering.
Techniques for monitoring damage in ceramic matrix composites

This article offers a review of various nondestructive evaluation and structural health monitoring techniques that have been successfully utilized for assessing the damage state of woven ceramic matrix composites consisting of silicon carbide fibers and silicon carbide matrices. The techniques include acousto-ultrasonics, modal acoustic emissions, electrical resistance, impedance-based structural health monitoring, pulsed thermography, as well as thermoelastic stress analysis. The damage, in the form of distributed matrix cracks and delaminations, was introduced using multiple tactics. These included load/unload/reload uniaxial tensile tests, creep tests, and ballistic impact. Although other nondestructive evaluation techniques have been applied to this material system, the select nondestructive evaluation tools described here are limited to approaches that are of current research interest within programs at the NASA Glenn Research Center.
Tissue thromboplastins and histamine release from mast cells

Abstract The effect of tissue thromboplastins on histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells was investigated. Lung thromboplastin (Aplastin) and Russell Viper Venom (Stypven) were highly effective as histamine releasers. Brain thromboplastin was less active by itself but became potent upon the addition of dextran or ovomucoid, known “anaphylactoid” agents in the rat. The possibility is suggested that thromboplastin-like tissue factors may be involved in some types of histamine release. They may also play a role in the “anaphylactoid” reaction of rats to polymeric compounds.
Procedure for measuring the electromagnetic form factors of the deuteron

A procedure for measuring the three electromagnetic form factors of the deuteron, by elastic electron scattering from deuteron targets with appropriate polarizations and alignments, is discussed. It is determined that the form factors may be measured, except for an overall sign, by scattering from two axially symmetric mixed target states.
Age-Composition Change and the Geographical Dynamics of Interregional Migration in the U.S.

Abstract This paper argues that the changing age composition of the nation's population has contributed significantly to recent major shifts in U.S. interregional migration. During the 1970s, the large baby-boom generation came of age, and the net outflow of population from the Northeast and Midwest regions to the South and West regions increased precipitously, with net migration between these regions reaching a level in 1975–80 approximately three times greater than in 1955–60 or 1965–70. To clarify the different ways that agecomposition change has influenced such recent trends, three hypotheses are explored using a spatial shift-share decomposition model. The model first demonstrates that the significantly larger cohorts of the baby boom generation supplied a basis for the 1970s migration shifts, but the geography of the baby boom does not, by itself, provide a sufficient explanation. Secondly, it discloses notable changes in age-specific mobility rates consistent with economic theories about the reperc...
Choosing Eternal Separation: Reply to Gwiazda

Recently, in this journal, Jeremy Gwiazda has offered a critique of our separationist view of hell. His objection relies on two key assumptions, and we show in our reply that both assumptions can be denied.
The feasibility of using focused ultrasound for transmyocardial revascularization

Transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR) is used for improving the blood supply to damaged myocardium due to advanced heart disease. We hypothesize that focused ultrasound can be used to generate channels through the cardiac muscle by vaporizing the tissue at the focal spot. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of varying the ultrasound exposure parameters (frequency, amplitude, pulse period, duty cycle, focal depth and exposure time) on the vaporized tissue size and to determine the feasibility of using ultrasound for creating cavities and/or channels in the left ventricular wall for transmyocardial revascularization. Based on in vitro experiments using bovine myocardium, the experiments indicate that a 1 mm diameter channel could be created by using, for example, a focused transducer with a diameter of 10 cm and a radius of curvature of 8 cm operating at a frequency of 2.52 MHz. The required spatial peak intensity during the 0.5-s sonications was found to be 2300 W/cm2 with a pulse repetition period of 40 ms and a 50% duty cycle. These parameters have been used to create cavities during in vivo tests using canine myocardium. The results demonstrated that ultrasound could be used to create small channels through myocardium. The most important potential for ultrasound is its ability to generate these channels completely noninvasively.
The anatomic basis for the acquisition of speech and obstructive sleep apnea: evidence from cephalometric analysis supports The Great Leap Forward hypothesis.

Abstract Background and purpose We previously postulated how evolutionary changes in man's upper respiratory tract to facilitate speech, a phenomenon Jared Diamond calls The Great Leap Forward, have predisposed man to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) [Diamond J. The Third Chimpanzee: the evolution and future of the human animal. New York: HarperCollins Publishers; 1992. p. 21, 23, 32–54, 54–6; Davidson TM. The Great Leap Forward: the anatomic evolution of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep Medicine 2003;4:185–94]. We grouped these anatomic changes into four categories: klinorynchy, laryngeal descent, craniobase angulation and supralaryngeal vocal tract (SVT) ratio of SVT H :SVT V . This study was designed to investigate the relationship between cephalometric measures corresponding to these anatomic changes and OSA. Patients and methods One hundred and twenty-three male subjects presenting with symptoms of OSA underwent unattended multi-channel home sleep studies. We obtained cephalometric measurements from standard lateral cephalograms. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between cephalometrics and apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), age, and body mass index (BMI). Results Our results showed significant correlation between AHI and klinorynchy, laryngeal descent, and craniobase angulation. Conclusions Overall, our data supports the theory that evolutionary anatomic changes to facilitate speech correlate with OSA severity. The cumulative changes in each cephalometric category trended in the directions hypothesized and support the Great Leap theory of OSA evolution.
An improved approach to histofluorescence using the SPG method for tissue monoamines

Abstract A modification of the SPG histofluorescence method for the visualization of monoamines in tissue using cryostat sections is described. This modification has led to consistent standardization of the fluorescent intensity from one tissue section to another while also eliminating a cumbersome step in the procedure. The present procedure results in highly rapid and sensitive visualization of dopamine-, noradrenaline- and serotonin-containing neurons and their axonal varicosities. Processing time from fresh tissue to microscopic examination requires less than 15 min.
Diffuse pulmonary gallium accumulation with a normal chest radiogram in a homosexual man with Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. A case report.

A homosexual man with A.I.D.S. (acquired immunologic deficiency syndrome) and pneumocystis infestation was found to have diffuse Ga-67 uptake in the lungs with a coincident negative chest x-ray. While Ga-67 accumulates diffusely in the lungs in a variety of conditions, the present case is the first described in a patient with A.I.D.S. in which Ga-67 was positive before roentgenographic abnormalities were demonstrated. Thus, the use of Ga-67, when A.I.D.S. is suspected, could help establish a diagnosis more promptly.
A quantitative analysis of synchronous vs. quasi-synchronous network operations of automated transit systems

This paper investigates the performance of the synchronous and quasi-synchronous network control policies proposed for modern automated transit systems. Performance is analyzed from the user point-of-view in terms of the expected travel time delay associated with each policy. Using an idealization of the network layout and uniform demand for service, analytic expressions for the expected delay are derived for each policy in terms of fundamental parameters (line spacing, trip rate, trip length distribution, maneuver region). Comparisons of the performance of each policy are presented in parametric form.
The effects of finite Larmor radius on the perturbation flow mixing of a collisionless plasma

Collisionless plasma theory modification to include effects of finite Larmor radius of ion and electron on perturbation flow mixing
Two processivity clamp interactions differentially alter the dual activities of UmuC

DNA polymerases of the Y family promote survival by their ability to synthesize past lesions in the DNA template. One Escherichia coli member of this family, DNA pol V (UmuC), which is primarily responsible for UV-induced and chemically induced mutagenesis, possesses a canonical beta processivity clamp-binding motif. A detailed analysis of this motif in DNA pol V (UmuC) showed that mutation of only two residues in UmuC is sufficient to result in a loss of UV-induced mutagenesis. Increased levels of wild-type beta can partially rescue this loss of mutagenesis. Alterations in this motif of UmuC also cause loss of the cold-sensitive and beta-dependent synthetic lethal phenotypes associated with increased levels of UmuD and UmuC that are thought to represent an exaggeration of a DNA damage checkpoint. By designing compensatory mutations in the cleft between domains II and III in beta, we restored UV-induced mutagenesis by a UmuC beta-binding motif variant. A recent co-crystal structure of the 'little finger' domain of E. coli pol IV (DinB) with beta suggests that, in addition to the canonical beta-binding motif, a second site of pol IV ((303)VWP(305)) interacts with beta at the outer rim of the dimer interface. Mutational analysis of the corresponding motif in UmuC showed that it is dispensable for induced mutagenesis, but that alterations in this motif result in loss of the cold-sensitive phenotype. These two beta interaction sites of UmuC affect the dual functions of UmuC differentially and indicate subtle and sophisticated polymerase management by the beta clamp.
Using Abstraction in the Verification of Simulation Coercion

Simulation coercion concerns the adaptation of an existing simulation to meet new requirements. Interactions among course-of-action options available during coercion can become sufficiently complex that full verification of the simulation as it is adapted becomes cost-prohibitive. To address this issue we introduce two forms of abstraction, as employed in the model-checking community, to support verification of critical features of the simulation. We extend existing abstraction methods to facilitate our goals, and propose a useful abstraction method based on partial traces. As a case study, we apply our abstraction methods to the verification of a coercion of an existing simulation.
Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of a monoclonal antibody to proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 in combination with a statin in patients with hypercholesterolaemia (LAPLACE-TIMI 57): a randomised, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging, phase 2 study

Summary Background LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) is a well established risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) binds LDL receptors, targeting them for degradation. We therefore assessed the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of AMG 145, a human monoclonal IgG2 antibody against PCSK9, in stable patients with hypercholesterolemia on a statin. Methods In a phase 2, dose-ranging study done in 78 centres in the USA, Canada, Denmark, Hungary, and Czech Republic, patients (aged 18–80 years) with LDL-C greater than 2·2 mmol/L on a stable dose of statin (with or without ezetimibe), were randomly assigned equally, through an interactive voice response system, to subcutaneous injections of AMG 145 70 mg, 105 mg, or 140 mg, or matching placebo every 2 weeks; or subcutaneous injections of AMG 145 280 mg, 350 mg, or 420 mg, or matching placebo every 4 weeks. Everyone was masked to treatment assignment within the every 2 weeks and every 4 weeks schedules. The primary endpoint was the percentage change in LDL-C concentration from baseline after 12 weeks. Analysis was by modified intention to treat. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01380730. Findings 631 patients with hypercholesterolaemia were randomly assigned to AMG 145 70 mg (n=79), 105 mg (n=79), or 140 mg (n=78), or matching placebo (n=78) every 2 weeks; or AMG 145 280 mg (n=79), 350 mg (n=79), and 420 mg (n=80), and matching placebo (n=79) every 4 weeks. At the end of the dosing interval at week 12, the mean LDL-C concentrations were reduced generally dose dependently by AMG 145 every 2 weeks (ranging from 41·8% to 66·1%; p vs placebo) and AMG 145 every 4 weeks (ranging from 41·8% to 50·3%; p vs 11 [7%] of 155); none of these events were severe or life-threatening. Interpretation The results suggest that PCSK9 inhibition could be a new model in lipid management. Inhibition of PCSK9 warrants assessment in phase 3 clinical trials. Funding Amgen.
Asymptomatic coronary artery disease in patients with stroke. Prevalence, prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment.

The frequency of angiographically defined asymptomatic CAD in patients with carotid disease is 40%. Although the prognosis of patients with asymptomatic 1-vessel or 2-vessel CAD is good (annual cardiac mortality rate less than 2%), the prognosis of asymptomatic 3-vessel disease or left main CAD is substantially less favorable (annual cardiac mortality 5-8%). Preliminary data from nonrandomized studies suggest that coronary artery bypass surgery significantly lowers cardiac mortality in patients with asymptomatic 3-vessel or left main CAD. Further studies are needed to determine 1) vascular risk factor profiles that are predictive of asymptomatic CAD in patients with cerebrovascular disease and 2) the prevalence of asymptomatic CAD, especially 3-vessel and left main CAD, in patients with a variety of subtypes of cerebrovascular disease (e.g., carotid disease, atherosclerotic vertebrobasilar disease, cardioembolism, penetrating artery disease, stroke of undetermined cause). If the prevalence of asymptomatic 3-vessel or left main CAD is high in a subset of patients with cerebrovascular disease, a randomized study comparing coronary artery bypass surgery with best medical therapy (anti-ischemic agents, lipid-lowering therapy, and aspirin) may be warranted.
Self‐Construct Systems and Interpersonal Congruence

Personal Construct Theory (Kelly, 1955) provided a framework in which the congruence of social perceptions was examined Triads of close acquaintances engaged in personality description procedures presented at two levels of abstraction (global and specific) Using a modification of Kelly's (1955) Role Construct Repertory Test (REP) grid methodology, target persons in each triad generated personally relevant self-constructs, contexts in which such self-constructs might be displayed, and actions which might be expressive of those self-constructs This resulted m an idiographic data base on which peers attempted to construe the target's personality in a variety of contexts The relationships between several self-construct system properties (such as Mean-ingfulness and Prototypicality) and congruence (shared construing) were assessed Patterns of correlational analyses indicated that the most meaningful self-constructs (i e, those manifested in extreme form), as well as self-constructs exhibiting the least variation across contexts, produced greater agreement among triad members about the target's personality It was suggested that the study of self–peer congruence is feasible using idiographic, self-identified personality themes, explicit contextual information, and a systems perspective
Insights into different results from different causal contrasts in the presence of effect-measure modification.

SUMMARY Purpose Both propensity score (PS) matching and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) allow causal contrasts, albeit different ones. In the presence of effect-measure modification, different analytic approaches produce different summary estimates. Methods We present a spreadsheet example that assumes a dichotomous exposure, covariate, and outcome. The covariate can be a confounder or not and a modifier of the relative risk (RR) or not. Based on expected cell counts, we calculate RR estimates using five summary estimators: Mantel-Haenszel (MH), maximum likelihood (ML), the standardized mortality ratio (SMR), PS matching, and a common implementation of IPTW. Results Without effect-measure modification, all approaches produce identical results. In the presence of effect-measure modification and regardless of the presence of confounding, results from the SMR and PS are identical, but IPTW can produce strikingly different results (e.g., RR ¼ 0.83 vs. RR ¼ 1.50). In such settings, MH and ML do not estimate a population parameter and results for those measures fall between PS and IPTW. Conclusions Discrepancies between PS and IPTW reflect different weighting of stratum-specific effect estimates. SMR and PS matching assign weights according to the distribution of the effect-measure modifier in the exposed subpopulation, whereas IPTW assigns weights according to the distribution of the entire study population. In pharmacoepidemiology, contraindications to treatment that also modify the effect might be prevalent in the population, but would be rare among the exposed. In such settings, estimating the effect of exposure in the exposed rather than the whole population is preferable. Copyright # 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of the biodegradability of animal carcasses in passively aerated bio-secure composting system

Composting livestock carcasses is a viable method for on-site treatment and disposal. Properly estimated carcass biodegradability is valuable for designing and controlling animal mortality composting systems. However, it is still difficult to assess the biodegradability inside composts. In this study, approximately 250kg of swine carcasses were composted in each of nine 2m X 2m weighable composting test units using three different envelope materials: corn silage, ground cornstalks, and ground oat straw. Total weight of compost material was measured monthly to observe the carcass decomposition trend with composting time. The most significant weight loss occurred during the first 6 weeks of composting. Biodegradability of the swine carcasses was estimated by comparing the mass of carcass remains after 16 weeks composting with the total carcass weight placed in the pile during the time of construction. Based on these results the influence of envelope material type on the biodegradability of swine carcasses was evaluated. The carcass decomposition within silage test units was only 66% of the initial carcass mass, while carcasses in cornstalk and oat straw test units decomposed 86% and 79% respectively.
New insights into cystic fibrosis-related diabetes in children

Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) is the most common complication of cystic fibrosis. It is associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality in adults and children. Adolescents with cystic fibrosis have a much higher prevalence of diabetes than any other similar age population. Glucose abnormalities that precede diabetes are even more common, especially in children younger than 10 years. The pathophysiology of glucose metabolic abnormalities is poorly understood, but insulin insufficiency is clearly the main component. Findings from animal studies have provided insight into the pathophysiology of CFRD, and imply that carbohydrate metabolic abnormalities might begin at much younger ages than was previously thought in patients with cystic fibrosis, and might be related to the basic cystic fibrosis chloride channel defect. In this Review we explore present knowledge of CFRD in children and adolescents, and new data that indicate that the pathophysiology of CFRD begins in very young patients.
Comparison of Over-the-Counter Insecticides for Managing the European Earwig, Forficula auricularia L. (Dermaptera: Forficulidae)

Abstract. There have been major changes in the availability of over-the-counter insecticides in recent years as older products (e.g., organophosphates and carbamates) have been largely supplanted by pyrethroids. To better understand how these newer materials may work in management of European earwig, Forficula auricularia L., a systematic evaluation was done of formulated pyrethroid insecticides that are currently marketed, comparing them to an established standard, carbaryl. Two of the tested insecticides, esfenvalerate and betacyfluthrin, did not produce significant mortality compared to the water check. Three active ingredients - permethrin, deltamethrin, and bifenthrin - produced significant mortality when tested at the marketed concentration but failed to provide significant mortality at 0.2X dilution. Carbaryl provided irregular control that was significant in only one of the two experiments. These data suggest that the concentration of the insecticides in these over-the-counter products presently s...
Urban Violence and Street Gangs

▪ Abstract What causes urban street gang violence, and how can we better understand the forces that shape this type of adolescent and youth behavior? For close to a century, social researchers have taken many different paths in attempting to unravel this complex question, especially in the context of large-scale immigrant adaptation to the city. In recent decades these researchers have relied primarily on data gathered from survey quantitative approaches. This review traces some of these developments and outlines how frameworks of analysis have become more integrated and multidimensional, as ethnographic strategies have come into vogue again. For the last couple of decades, either a subculture of violence (i.e., the values and norms of the street gang embrace aggressive, violent behavior) or a routine activities (i.e., hanging around high crime areas with highly delinquent people) explanation dominated the discussion. To broaden and deepen the picture, many other factors need to be considered, such as eco...
Improving SIMT Efficiency of Global Rendering Algorithms with Architectural Support for Dynamic Micro-Kernels

Wide Single Instruction, Multiple Thread (SIMT)architectures often require a static allocation of thread groups that are executed in lockstep throughout the entire application kernel. Individual thread branching is supported by executing all control ?ow paths for threads in a thread group and only committing the results of threads on the current control path. While convergence algorithms are used to maximize processorefficiency during branching operations, applications requiring complex control ?ow often result in low processor efficiency due to the length and quantity of control paths. Global rendering algorithms are an example of a class of application that can be accelerated using a large number of independent parallel threads that each require complex control ?ow, resulting in comparatively low efficiency on SIMT processors. To improve processor utilization for global rendering algorithms, we introduce a SIMT architecture that allows for threads to be created dynamically at runtime. Large application kernels are broken down into smaller code blocks we call µ-kernels that dynamically created threads can execute. These runtime µ-kernels allow for the removal of branching statements that would cause divergence within a thread group, and result in new threads being created and grouped with threads beginning execution of the same µ-kernel. In our evaluation of SIMT processor efficiency for a global rendering algorithms, dynamicµ-kernels improved processor performance by an average of1.4×.
Anticipations, Business Planning, and the Cycle

I. Business plans based on anticipations, 273.— II. The optimum plan under subjective certainty, 277; its revision when anticipations change, 281; generalisation for monopolistic competition, 283. — III. Uncertainty leads to flexibility in planning, 285; capital-market uncertainty leads to "liquidity," 290. — IV. Breakdown of anticipations helps explain business cycles, 291.
Long-term Outcomes in Patients Initially Responsive to Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

AIM To determine the long-term effects of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of medications used up to 5y following treatment in glaucoma patients receiving maximally tolerated medical therapy (MTMT).
An efficient approach for reliability-based topology optimization

This article presents an efficient approach for reliability-based topology optimization (RBTO) in which the computational effort involved in solving the RBTO problem is equivalent to that of solving a deterministic topology optimization (DTO) problem. The methodology presented is built upon the bidirectional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) method used for solving the deterministic optimization problem. The proposed method is suitable for linear elastic problems with independent and normally distributed loads, subjected to deflection and reliability constraints. The linear relationship between the deflection and stiffness matrices along with the principle of superposition are exploited to handle reliability constraints to develop an efficient algorithm for solving RBTO problems. Four example problems with various random variables and single or multiple applied loads are presented to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed approach in solving RBTO problems. The major contribution of this a...
Trainee Readiness For Diversity Training

Although trainee readiness is critical for diversity training effectiveness, extant research has not paid attention to the relationship between trainee readiness for diversity training and diversity training outcomes. This study identifies motivational, behavioral, and cognitive trainee readiness for diversity training and proposes a theoretical framework of how individual characteristics (perceived discrimination, demographic attributes, and previous diversity-related experience) and organizational characteristics (diversity climate and demographic dissimilarity) influence motivational, behavioral, and cognitive trainee readiness for diversity training.