cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Driver Modeling for Teleoperation with Time Delay

Abstract The results from a user study on teleoperated steering tasks are used to create a driver model under different latency conditions. The 31-subject user study explored the effects of latency on teleoperated steering tasks using a simulated mobile robot receiving input commands from a teleoperator via a computer gamepad. Using fundamental concepts from automotive steering models, and examining the users' input commands to the simulated robot under different latency conditions, a model of a human teleoperator for steering tasks was developed, tuned and validated. The model is a PD controller with feedback based on the projected lateral displacement of the robot. The tuning of the model gains for different latency scenarios reflects the real-world control strategies that users must employ when adapting to system latency. Simulation results show that the control gains can be interpolated to predict teleoperator performance under latency scenarios that were not tested with users. An analysis of the closed-loop stability of the system confirms our empirical observation that the ratio of the controller gains Kd/Kp increases as the latency increases.
Reversal of the antiinflammatory effects of methotrexate by the nonselective adenosine receptor antagonists theophylline and caffeine: evidence that the antiinflammatory effects of methotrexate are mediated via multiple adenosine receptors in rat adjuvant arthritis.

Objective Weekly low-dose methotrexate (MTX) remains the mainstay of second-line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We have previously reported that adenosine, acting at specific receptors on inflammatory cells, mediates the antiinflammatory effects of MTX in both in vitro and in vivo models of acute inflammation, but the mechanism by which MTX suppresses the chronic inflammation of arthritis remains controversial. The present study was undertaken to further investigate the means by which adenosine mediates the antiinflammatory effects of MTX. Methods The effects of 2 nonselective adenosine receptor antagonists, theophylline and caffeine, were examined, using the rat adjuvant arthritis model of RA. These agents were given alone and in conjunction with MTX, and arthritis severity was assessed clinically, radiologically, and histologically. Since rodent adenosine A3 receptors are not blocked by theophylline, selective A1, A2A, and A2B receptor antagonists were tested as well. Results Control animals developed severe arthritis, which was markedly attenuated by weekly treatment with MTX (0.75 mg/kg/week). Neither theophylline alone nor caffeine alone (each at 10 mg/kg/day) significantly affected the severity of the arthritis, but both agents markedly reversed the effect of MTX as measured by a severity index, hindpaw swelling, and hindpaw ankylosis. Radiographic and histologic analyses confirmed these observations. Neither A1, A2A, nor A2B receptor antagonists affected the capacity of MTX to ameliorate inflammation in adjuvant arthritis. Conclusion These results provide strong evidence that adenosine mediates the antiinflammatory effects of MTX in this model of RA. Moreover, the findings suggest that abstinence from caffeine, a ubiquitous food additive and medication, may enhance the therapeutic effects of MTX in RA.
Subtleties of explanatory language: what is meant by "mediation"?

A distinction is sometimes drawn between what, in the philosophical literature, is called “token causation” as contrasted with “type causation.” Token causation involves statements of the form “X caused Y (in this particular instance)”. Type causation involves statements of the form “X causes Y (in general)”. Epidemiologists are principally concerned with type causation, i.e. with statements of the form “X causes Y.” We ask, what, in general, are the determinants of disease within the population? For better or for worse, issues of token causation—What was the cause in this particular instance? Who was to blame for this specific incident?—are generally left to coroner's reports and law courts. But token causation and type causation are not unrelated. Once we have established type causation (“X causes Y”) we know there must be instances of token causation (instances in which “X in fact caused Y”) even if we cannot identify the particular instances. And likewise statements of token causation (“X caused Y” in these particular cases) imply statements of type causation (“X causes Y” in general). Epidemiologists, although generally focused on type causation, do have within their methodological toolkit, concepts to help think more carefully about token causation. The sufficient cause framework [1] has for decades been used to help think about and conceptualize the actual causes of particular outcomes.
A comparison of techniques for the measurement of growth in adult lobsters

Abstract Four non-destructive measures of growth (wet weight in air, wet weight in water, displacement volume and carapace length) were correlated to two destructive measures of growth (dry weight and total body protein level) in adult American lobsters ( Homarus americanus ). All non-destructive parameters were significantly ( P
Amount of smoking independently predicts carotid artery atherosclerosis severity.

Cigarette smoking is correlated with extracranial carotid artery plaque thickness. Our aim in the present study was to determine whether the level of prior cigarette use is a significant predictor of carotid artery plaque thickness when age, history of hypertension, and history of diabetes are controlled.We studied a continuous sample of 790 patients with a history of smoking referred for diagnostic ultrasound imaging of the carotid arteries. Subjects (mean age 61 years) had an average of 51 pack-years of cigarette use. History of hypertension was present in 44% and history of diabetes in 18%.Right and left maximum carotid artery plaque thicknesses were averaged for each patient; the average of this value for all 790 subjects was 1.9 mm. In bivariate analysis, age (p less than 0.0001), pack-years (p less than 0.0001), history of hypertension (p = 0.0003), and history of diabetes (p = 0.037) were each positively associated with carotid artery plaque thickness. In multiple regression analysis, age (p less t...
Environmental contaminant trichloroethylene promotes autoimmune disease and inhibits T-cell apoptosis in MRL(+/+) mice.

The ability of environmental contaminant trichloroethylene to alter immune function and promote autoimmunity was tested in female MRL+/+ mice. MRL+/+ mice exposed to occupationally relevant doses of trichloroethylene in their drinking water for 32 weeks developed autoantibodies and pathological evidence of autoimmune hepatitis. The ability of trichloroethylene (TCE) to promote autoimmunity was associated with the expansion of activated (CD44hi CD62Llo) CD4+ T-lymphocytes that produced increased levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon (IFN)-γ. Activated T-lymphocytes can accumulate if activation-induced apoptosis is suppressed. Consequently, the effect of TCE on apoptosis in CD4+ T-lymphocytes was investigated. These experiments were conducted with TCE and one of the major oxidative metabolites of trichloroethylene, namely trichloroacetaldehyde hydrate (TCAH). CD4+ T-lymphocytes isolated from MRL+/+ mice exposed to TCE or TCAH in their drinking water for 4 weeks were resistant to activation-indu...
Technology use and acceptance in the classroom: Results from an exploratory survey study among secondary education teachers in the USA

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to explore the current usage and acceptance of classroom technologies by secondary math/science education teachers in one community.Design/methodology/approach – Forty‐seven secondary education math and science teachers in one American city responded to a survey about their use and perceptions of technology in their lives and classrooms.Findings – Results indicate teachers use technology more for personal instructional reasons, such as class preparation, than for interactions with their students whether inside the classroom or outside the classroom. Primary factors inhibiting the use of technology relate to time, training, and preparation. Teachers can see the benefit of using technology to promote students’ learning experience. However, teachers are neutral about technology being advantageous for improving in‐class activities.Originality/value – A significant connection between teachers’ technology acceptance and usage is presented.
Bender-Bimorph Scanner Analysis

The bender-bimorph beam steerer is a piezoelectrically driven optical device capable of pointing a light beam of several centimeters diameter anywhere in a several degree wide field of view with a control bandwidth of several hundred hertz. Its operation depends on the mechanical motion of a piezoelectric bender-bimorph to tilt a mirror, which in turn deflects the light beam. Fundamental relationships governing the operation of such a device constrain the product of mirror diameter, scan amplitude, and control bandwidth so that optimization of a bender-bimorph beam steerer system is a matter of trade-off considerations. A theoretical analysis of bender-bimorph performance is carried out. Expressions are derived for the resonant frequency of a loaded bimorph and its deflection. Graphs of these expressions are presented with several parameters treated as variables. For the numerical calculations, a very light beryllium mirror the same width as the bimorph is assumed. Some experimental data were collected and compared with the predicted performance (i.e., resonant frequency and deflection). The comparison verified the theoretical expressions.
Rhabdomyoma of the retroperitoneum. A report of a tumor with both adult and fetal characteristics: a study by light and electron microscopy, histochemistry, and immunochemistry.

An unusual benign tumor of skeletal muscle origin is described. The tumor was located in the left retroperitoneum of a newborn female. The tumor contained features of both an adult and fetal rhabdomyoma when studied by light and electron microscopy, immunocytochemistry, and histochemistry. This is the only report of this type of neoplasm in the literature. Cancer 59:818-824, 1987.
Rectangular corner cutting and Sylvester A-resultants

We present a way to construct the Sylvester A-resultant matrix for three bi-degree (m, n) polynomials whose Newton polygon is modified by cutting off rectangles at the corners. We also show that the determinant of this matrix is generically non-singular, so this determinant is indeed the resultant of the three original bivariate polynomials.
Suicidal behaviors among adolescents in juvenile detention: role of adverse life experiences.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of multiple adverse life experiences (sexual abuse, homelessness, running away, and substance abuse in the family) on suicide ideation and suicide attempt among adolescents at an urban juvenile detention facility in the United States. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study sample included a total of 3,156 adolescents processed at a juvenile detention facility in an urban area in Ohio between 2003 and 2007. The participants, interacting anonymously with a voice enabled computer, self-administered a questionnaire with 100 items related to health risk behaviors. RESULTS: Overall 19.0% reported ever having thought about suicide (suicide ideation) and 11.9% reported ever having attempted suicide (suicide attempt). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis those reporting sexual abuse (Odds Ratio = 2.75; 95% confidence interval = 2.08-3.63) and homelessness (1.51; 1.17-1.94) were associated with increased odds of suicide ideation, while sexual abuse (3.01; 2.22-4.08), homelessness (1.49; 1.12-1.98), and running away from home (1.38; 1.06-1.81) were associated with increased odds of a suicide attempt. Those experiencing all four adverse events were 7.81 times more likely (2.41-25.37) to report having ever attempted suicide than those who experienced none of the adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the high prevalence of adverse life experiences and their association with suicidal behaviors in detained adolescents, these factors should not only be included in the suicide screening tools at the intake and during detention, but should also be used for the intervention programming for suicide prevention. Language: en
Separating production from perception: perceiver-based explanations for sex differences in emotion

In this commentary, we review evidence that production-based (perceiver-independent) measures reveal few consistent sex differences in emotion. Further, sex differences in perceiver-based measures can be attributed to retrospective or dispositional biases. We end by discussing an alternative view that women might appear to be more emotional because they are more facile with emotion language.
Transcatheter intravascular stent placement to relieve supravalvular pulmonic stenosis.

Abstract Valvular pulmonic stenosis has been successfully treated in dogs via minimally invasive transcatheter balloon dilation procedures for almost 20 years. Supravalvular pulmonic stenosis however is not amenable to balloon dilation procedures. Although several surgical procedures are described for treatment of pulmonic stenosis, the morbidity and mortality of these procedures are significantly higher than for transcatheter approaches. Two cases of supravalvular pulmonic stenosis are presented, one acquired and one congenital, which were successfully treated with transcatheter intravascular stent placement. The procedure alleviated the stenotic lesion and resolved clinical signs.
Effect of nitrous oxide on nickel deprivation in rats

Because nickel may have a biological function in a pathway in which vitamin B12 is important, an experiment was performed to determine the effects of nitrous oxide exposure in rats deprived of nickel. Exposure to nitrous oxide (N2O) causes inactivation of cobalamin and a subsequent decrease in the vitamin B12-dependent enzymes methionine synthase and methylmalonyl CoA mutase. Rats were assigned to dietary groups of 12 in a factorially arranged experiment with dietary variables of nickel (0 or 1 microgram/g) and vitamin B12 (0 or 50 ng/g). After 6 wk, one-half of the rats from each dietary group were exposed to 50% N2O/50% O2 for 90 min/d for the last 28 d of the experiment. Vitamin B12, N2O, or their interaction had numerous effects; classical findings included N2O-induced reduction in plasma vitamin B12 and decreases in the vitamin B12-dependent enzymes. Inactivation of vitamin B12 by N2O, however, did not exacerbate signs of nickel deprivation, possibly because the rats were able to metabolically compensate to N2O exposure.
A fuzzy neural network for assessing the risk of fraudulent financial reporting

While financial reporting fraud has become more prevalent and costly in recent years, fraud detection has been badly lagging. Several recent studies have examined the feasibility of various computer techniques in business and industrial applications. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the utility of an integrated fuzzy neural network (FNN) for fraud detection. The FNN developed in this research outperformed most statistical models and artificial neural networks (ANN) reported in prior studies. Its performance also compared favorably with a baseline Logit model, especially in the prediction of fraud cases.
Updated Estimates of Survival and Cost Effectiveness for Imatinib versus Interferon-a Plus Low-Dose Cytarabine for Newly Diagnosed Chronic-Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia

For trials in which participants are followed beyond the main study period to assess long-term outcomes, economic evaluations conducted using short-term data should be systematically updated to reflect new information. We used 60-month survival data from the IRIS (International Randomized study of Interferon vs STI571) trial to update previously published cost-effectiveness estimates, based on 19 months of follow-up, of imatinib versus interferon (IFN)-ag plus low-dose cytarabine in patients with chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukaemia. For patients treated with imatinib, we used the 60-month data to calibrate the survival curves generated from the original cost-effectiveness model. We used historical data to model survival for patients randomized to IFNa. We updated costs for medical resources using 2006 Medicare reimbursement rates and applied average wholesale prices (AWPs) and wholesale acquisition costs (WACs) to study medications. Five-year survival for patients randomized to imatinib was better than predicted in the original model (89.4% vs 83.2%). We estimated remaining life expectancy with first-line imatinib to be 19.1 life-years (3.8 life-years over the original model) and 15.2 QALYs (3.1 QALYs over the original estimate). Estimates for IFNa remained at 9.1 life-years and 6.3 QALYs. When we applied AWPs to study medications, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were $US51 800–57 500 per QALY. When we applied WACs, ICERs were $US42 000–46 200 per QALY. Although the analysis revealed that the original survival estimates were conservative, the updated cost-effectiveness ratios were consistent with, or slightly higher than, the original estimates, depending on the method for assigning costs to study medications.
A Bayesian Approach to Therapy Selection in the Treatment of Refractory Rheumatoid Arthritis

Bayesian hierarchical modeling is a general strategy for synthesizing disparate sources of evidence about medical treatments. This kind of data synthesis can be useful in drawing comprehensive inferences about treatment effects and addressing therapeutic questions that have yet to be experimentally tested. We apply this methodology to construct a quantitative guideline for the individualized treatment choice of combinatorial therapy in the treatment of refractory rheumatoid arthritis (RRA). The mean predictive probability of ACR20 response at 1–2 years is the basis for treatment selection. We show how this choice can be made patient-specific when individual-level experimental outcomes are available.
Progressive relaxation exercises and human gastric acid output--a study using telemetric measurements.

Abstract The effect of progressive muscle relaxation exercises on human gastric acid output was examined using a modification of the Heidelburg Capsule pH telemetering equipment. Fourteen healthy subjects practiced the exercises eight times before the post-exercise acidity measures were compared with control periods in the same session. No mean difference in acidity was observed. It is suggested that gastric acid secretion is more related to cognitive rather than somatic activity. Eleven of the 14 subjects reported feeling physically relaxed yet 7 of these increased acidity. Gastric acid secretion is vagally mediated through the parasympathetic nervous system. Muscle relaxation is associated with lowered sympathetic arousal. It is possible that the relaxation exercises led to increased parasympathetic arousal concomitant with sympathetic lowering since the two systems frequently act antagonistically. Progressive relaxation training does not appear to be an effective method of decreasing gastric acid output.
Diagnostic delay in symptomatic colorectal cancer.

Previous research on colorectal cancer patients has suggested that considerable delay can occur once the patient has sought medical care. However, little information has been available on the possible components of this delay. In this study, detailed information on diagnostic delays was collected from 294 symptomatic patients. Of these patients, 46% reported experiencing at least one delay. Three types of diagnostic delay were identified and were associated with different lengths of delay. Of all the delays, 31% were due to difficulties in scheduling initial or subsequent office visits or laboratory tests; these were associated with an average delay of 3 weeks. Physician-related delays (e.g., misdiagnosis or observation of symptoms without specific action) comprised 46% of all diagnostic delays and resulted in an average delay of 18 weeks. The remainder of the delays were patient-related and resulted in an average delay of 12 weeks. There was no association between any of these three delay types, suggesting that attempts to reduce diagnostic delay should encompass all three types in order to be maximally effective.
Genetic heterogeneity among pelagic egg samples and variance in reproductive success in an endangered freshwater fish, Hybognathus amarus (Cyprinidae)

A sweepstakes–mismatch process whereby reproduction is poorly coordinated with appropriate resources for larval development and recruitment can result in large variance in reproductive success among individuals and spawning aggregations. This process has been proposed to explain low ratio of genetic effective population size (Ne) to adult census size (N) ratios in marine species with high fecundity, pelagic spawning, and extensive mortality in early life stages. This process is also hypothesized to also account for very low Ne/N (≈ 0.001) observed in the federally endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow, Hybognathus amarus. This species is a freshwater fish that shares life-history features with marine pelagic spawners. We tested two key predictions of the sweepstakes–mismatch hypothesis using molecular data: (i) that temporally distinct samples of eggs differ in genetic composition and, (ii) that egg samples do not comprise a random subset of potential adult breeders. We present genetic data that supports both predictions and that are consistent with the hypothesis that high variance in reproductive success among adult breeders is an important factor that lowers Ne/N in H. amarus. This study highlights the importance of understanding the interaction of early life history and fragmentation in devising conservation plans for endangered aquatic organisms.
Cancellous bone grafting from the distal radius

Because the amount of bone graft needed in hand surgery is relatively small, some surgeons use the distal radius as a donor site for cancellous bone grafts as an alternative to the frequently used iliac crest. The location of this site, near the primary operation, offers certain advantages, but there is little documentation on its morbidity, and varying approaches are used. This retrospective study evaluates the morbidity of the dorsal approach and the adequacy of the distal radius as a donor site for cancellous bone grafting in hand surgery. The results indicate that this technique provides a practical and safe alternative for situations in which a limited amount of cancellous bone is required. The technique described is relatively simple, and in terms of morbidity and practical considerations, the choice of the distal radius has clear advantages over a commonly used donor site such as the iliac crest.
Influence of bias field on dynamic conversion of bubbles

Domain wall structure in moving magnetic bubbles was studied as a function of bubble size. The rotating gradient experiment was used to maintain the continuous motion of a bubble and to identify the structure of the domain wall. In the magnetic garnet sample studied, more state changes occurred in bubbles with larger diameters than in bubbles with smaller diameters; changes from winding number two to winding number three occurred more readily for smaller bubble diameters than for larger diameters. Mobility and coercivity are not significantly affected by changes in bubble size. An unexpected result of this work is the discovery of a new bubble structure with a mobility about an order of magnitude lower than that of other states in this sample. >
Variables influencing the ratings of importance and use of quality of life domains and indicators by Polish professionals.

Background Interest in the concept of quality of life (QOL) as a category guiding the development and provision of services for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Poland is increasingly being observed. Its presence in rehabilitation and care is strongly associated with the assessment of importance and use of QOL domains and indicators by Polish professionals. Method The present study examined the differences related to selected demographic variables in the assessment of importance and use of eight QOL domains made by professionals in Poland working with persons with ID. Results The evaluation of the importance and use of eight QOL domains and their indicators is related significantly to professionals’ level of education, place of work, and total years of work. Conclusions The perception of professionals cannot be overlooked when considering the development and provision of QOL-related services and supports.
Correlation of Water Activation, Surface Properties, and Oxygen Reduction Reactivity of Supported Pt–M/C Bimetallic Electrocatalysts Using XAS

An analysis of X-ray absorption spectroscopy XAS data X-ray absorption near-edge structure XANES and extended X-ray absorption fine structure EXAFS at the Pt L3 edge for Pt‐M bimetallic materials M = Co, Cr, Ni, Fe and at the Co K edge for Pt‐Co is reported for Pt‐M/C electrodes in HClO4 at different potentials. The XANES data are analyzed using the method, which utilizes the spectrum at some potential V minus that at 0.54 V reversible hydrogen electrode RHE representing a reference spectrum. These data provide direct spectroscopic evidence for the inhibition of OH chemisorption on the cluster surface in the Pt‐M. This OH chemisorption, decreasing in the direction Pt Pt‐Ni Pt‐Co Pt‐Fe Pt‐Cr, is directly correlated with the previously reported fuel cell performance electrocatalytic activities of these bimetallics, confirming the role of OH poisoning of Pt sites in fuel cells. EXAFS analysis shows that the prepared clusters studied have different morphologies, the Pt‐Ni and Pt‐Co clusters were more homogeneous with M atoms at the surface, while the Pt‐Fe and Pt‐Cr clusters had a “Pt skin.” The cluster morphology determines which previously proposed OH inhibition mechanism dominates, the electronic mechanism in the pres
Strand-specific Mismatch Repair in Mammalian Cells*

Mistakes occurring during DNA transactions necessarily produce mismatched base pairs. DNA biosynthetic errors that escape the polymerase editing function yield mispaired bases, but mismatches also populate a recombination heteroduplex produced by strand transfer between related sequences that have diverged at the nucleotide level. Study of microbial systems has demonstrated the importance of mismatch correction in the reversal of such errors and consequent stabilization of the genome (1‐ 4). 1 Interest in this process has increased dramatically over the past few years with the demonstration that mismatch repair plays an equally important role in mutation avoidance in mammalian cells and the finding that inactivation of the system by inherited or somatic mutation predisposes cells to tumor development and renders them resistant to the cytotoxic effects of certain DNA-damaging agents. This minireview will emphasize the molecular features of the mammalian strand-specific mismatch repair pathway. Work in other systems will be alluded to only as necessary for clarity or in those instances where compelling supporting data is available.
Methylphenidate and Atomoxetine Enhance Prefrontal Function Through α2-Adrenergic and Dopamine D1 Receptors

Objective This study examined the effects of the attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder treatments, methylphenidate (MPH) and atomoxetine (ATM), on prefrontal cortex (PFC) function in monkeys and explored the receptor mechanisms underlying enhancement of PFC function at the behavioral and cellular levels. Method Monkeys performed a working memory task after administration of a wide range of MPH or ATM doses. The optimal doses were challenged with the α 2 -adrenoceptor antagonist, idazoxan, or the D 1 dopamine receptor antagonist, SCH23390 (SCH). In a parallel physiology study, neurons were recorded from the dorsolateral PFC of a monkey performing a working memory task. ATM, SCH, or the α 2 antagonist, yohimbine, were applied to the neurons by iontophoresis. Results MPH and ATM generally produced inverted-U dose-response curves, with improvement occurring at moderate doses, but not at higher doses. The beneficial effects of these drugs were blocked by idazoxan or SCH. At the cellular level, ATM produced an inverted-U dose-response effect on memory-related firing, enhancing firing for preferred directions (increasing "signals") and decreasing firing for the nonpreferred directions (decreasing "noise"). The increase in persistent firing for the preferred direction was blocked by yohimbine, whereas the suppression of firing for the nonpreferred directions was blocked by SCH. Conclusions Optimal doses of MPH or ATM improved PFC cognitive function in monkeys. These enhancing effects appeared to involve indirect stimulation of α 2 adrenoceptors and D 1 dopamine receptors in the PFC. These receptor actions likely contribute to their therapeutic effects in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
ACOUSTIC EMISSION SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION OF MICROCRACKING IN A533B STEEL

Acoustic Emission (AE) has been used fairly extensively as a laboratory tool to investigate the micromechanisms of deformation and fracture as well as a nondestructive evaluation technique [1,2]. The main advantages of AE techniques are high sensitivity and real time detectability. In fact, few other techniques are able to instantaneously detect a microscopic fracture inside a material such as the cracking of inclusions or intergranular fracture.
THE SHAREHOLDER WEALTH EFFECTS OF CORPORATE GREENMAIL

In this study, the abnormal return dynamics of firms undertaking premium targeted block share repurchases are examined empirically. The positive returns accruing to nonparticipating shareholders for the period encompassing the buy-in and repurchase announcements are attributable to the expectation of subsequent acquisition activity. Firms that are not acquired realize, on average, a zero abnormal return. The probability of subsequent acquisition is not related to the targeted repurchase. Managers who engage in targeted block share repurchases frequently are expelled from corporate ranks. Firms that are acquired exhibit abnormal returns only similar to those of other merger and tender offer targets.
Impact of transverse irregularities at the photocathode on the production of high-charge electron bunches

The properties of electron beams produced in a photoinjector are strongly dependent on the initial conditions, i.e. the photocathode drive laser shape and its uniformity. We explore the impact of well-defined transverse laser perturbations on the evolution of the electron beam both in configuration and velocity spaces and especially investigate how certain types of perturbations evolve as the beam propagates in the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator facility. Numerical simulations performed with IMPACT-T are presented. Finally preliminary experimental results aimed at validating our simulations are discussed.
Impacts of atmospheric temperature trends on tropical cyclone activity.

AbstractImpacts of tropical temperature changes in the upper troposphere (UT) and the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) on tropical cyclone (TC) activity are explored. UT and lower TTL cooling both lead to an overall increase in potential intensity (PI), while temperature changes at 70 hPa and higher have negligible effect. Idealized experiments with a high-resolution global model show that lower temperatures in the UT are associated with increases in global and North Atlantic TC frequency, but modeled TC frequency changes are not significantly affected by TTL temperature changes nor do they scale directly with PI.Future projections of hurricane activity have been made with models that simulate the recent upward Atlantic TC trends while assuming or simulating very different tropical temperature trends. Recent Atlantic TC trends have been simulated by (i) high-resolution global models with nearly moist-adiabatic warming profiles and (ii) regional TC downscaling systems that impose the very strong UT and TTL ...
Palaemon macrodactylus Rathbun 1902 (Oriental Shrimp) in New York: Status Revisited

Abstract Based upon studies between 2001 and 2010 and the continued presence of adult shrimp including gravid females, Palaemon macrodactylus (Oriental Shrimp) is established in the estuarine waters of New York City. In summer 2010, we sampled a 1000-m2 area of the East River and found that P. macrodactylus represented 4.3% of the total shrimp population, and 15.2% of the Palaemonidae (84.8% consisted of the native species Palaemonetes vulgaris [Common Grass Shrimp]). In 2001/2002, P. macrodactylus comprised 4.2% of all palaemonids, suggesting an increase in the past decade of non-native relative to native palaemonids. While not yet appearing to be “invasive” based upon population size, the feeding habits and reproductive biology of P. macrodactylus suggest that future interactions with native shrimp may occur. A key to regional shrimp is presented.
Does a Manufacturer Benefit from Selling to a Better-Forecasting Retailer?

This paper considers a manufacturer selling to a newsvendor retailer that possesses superior demand-forecast information. We show that the manufacturer's expected profit is convex in the retailer's forecasting accuracy: The manufacturer benefits from selling to a better-forecasting retailer if and only if the retailer is already a good forecaster. If the retailer has poor forecasting capabilities, then the manufacturer is hurt as the retailer's forecasting capability improves. More generally, the manufacturer tends to be hurt (benefit) by improved retailer forecasting capabilities if the product economics are lucrative (poor). Finally, the optimal procurement contract is a quantity discount contract.
Bimetallic carbonyl thiolates as functional models for Fe-only hydrogenases.

The anion [Fe2(S2C3H6)(CN)(CO)4(PMe3)]- (2-) is protonated by sulfuric or toluenesulfonic acid to give HFe2(S2C3H6)(CN)(CO)4(PMe3) (2H), the structure of which has the hydride bridging the Fe atoms with the PMe3 and CN- trans to the same sulfur atom. 1H, 13C, and 31P NMR spectroscopy revealed that HFe2(S2C3H6)(CN)(CO)4(PMe3) is stereochemically rigid on the NMR time scale with four inequivalent carbonyl ligands. Treatment of 2- with (Me3O)BF4 gave Fe2(S2C3H6)(CNMe)(CO)4(PMe3) (2Me). The Et4NCN-induced reaction of Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)6 with P(OMe)3 gave {Fe2(S2C3H6)(CN)(CO)4[P(OMe)3]}- (4). Spectroscopic and electrochemical measurements indicate that 2H can be further protonated at nitrogen to give [HFe2(S2C3H6)(CNH)(CO)4(PMe3)]+ (2H2+). Electrochemical and analytical data show that reduction of 2H2+ gives H2 and 2-. Parallel electrochemical studies on [HFe2(S2C3H6)(CO)4(PMe3)2]+ (3H+) in acidic solutions led also to catalytic proton reduction. The 3H+/3H couple is reversible, whereas the 2H2+/2H2 couple is not...
How healthy could a state be

Objective.We predicted the amount of health outcome improvement any state might achieve if it could reach the highest level of key health determinants any individual state has already achieved.Meth...
Polynomial distance classifier correlation filter for pattern recognition

We introduce what is to our knowledge a new nonlinear shift-invariant classifier called the polynomial distance classifier correlation filter (PDCCF). The underlying theory extends the original linear distance classifier correlation filter [Appl. Opt. 35, 3127 (1996)] to include nonlinear functions of the input pattern. This new filter provides a framework (for combining different classification filters) that takes advantage of the individual filter strengths. In this new filter design, all filters are optimized jointly. We demonstrate the advantage of the new PDCCF method using simulated and real multi-class synthetic aperture radar images.
Assignment of dynamics for non-linear recursive feedback systems

The problem of stabilizing a non-linear recursive system ∑ using a closed-loop configuration with compensation and feedback is considered. Most attention is devoted to the design of the dynamical behaviour of the stabilized closed-loop configuration. It is shown that, except for some obvious restrictions, any stable dynamics can be assigned to the closed-loop system. Compensators that yield the desired dynamics are explicitly constructed in implementable recursive form, and their formulae are expressed in terms of quantities derived directly from the given descriptions of the system ∑ and the desired dynamics. It is assumed that the state of the system ∑ is accessible. The resulting closed-loop configurations are internally stable.
Statistical circuit simulation and yield analysis for IC's

The importance of running statistically based process, device and circuit simulations is becoming critical to IC design for manufacturing techniques. Thus arises the need for software-based packages that couple statistical techniques to conventional simulators. Monte Carlo techniques have been implemented in various such packages, but the nature of Monte Carlo designs often lead to time-consuming and inefficient techniques. This paper concentrates on coupling more efficient statistical techniques (based on a Design of Experiments methodology) and conventional simulators with the aid of software tools for the purpose of characterizing circuit performances in terms of equipment and material variables. >
Efficacy of pindolol for treatment of vasovagal syncope

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerance of pindolol as initial therapy for vasovagal syncope. Head-up tilt table testing (HUT) was performed on 192 patients for syncope or near-syncope of unknown cause. Forty-four (23%) patients had a positive HUT for vasovagal syncope, and 28 (64%) received oral pindolol as initial therapy. Three patients were lost to follow-up; of the remaining 25 patients (mean age 60 +/- 22 years), 15 were women, 14 had syncope, and 11 had near-syncope. At 14 +/- 6 months' follow-up, 16 (64%) patients were without recurrence or side effects from pindolol. Of the 9 patients who stopped taking pindolol, 3 were switched to another regimen for recurrent symptoms, 2 stopped because of side effects, and 4 did not comply with the regimen. In conclusion, pindolol appears to be safe and effective as initial treatment for vasovagal syncope.
The effects of IF bandpass mismatch errors on adaptive cancellation

The effects of IF bandpass mismatch errors on adaptive cancellers are investigated. Frequency mismatch errors occur because of errors in the synthesis process of the bandpass filters which are designed to be identical and are in each input channel. Tapped-delay line transversal filters can be used to compensate for these frequency mismatches and thus improve cancellation performance. A pole/zero error model of the filters is developed whereby closed-form solutions of the maximum achievable average cancellation are obtained. This cancellation is a function of the order of the ideally matched frequency filters, the number of time-delay taps in the compensating transversal filter, the bandwidth-tapped time-delay product, and the constraints on these parameters. A design procedure is outlined for optimizing the canceller with respect to these parameters and their constraints; specifically, results are presented for Butterworth-type input filters. It is shown that an arbitrarily low output noise residue cannot be achieved by arbitrarily increasing the number of time-delay taps. >
Microarray analysis of polychlorinated biphenyl mixture–induced changes in gene expression among Atlantic tomcod populations displaying differential sensitivity to halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons

Several populations of fishes inhabiting contaminated Atlantic Coast estuaries exhibit resistance to early life-stage (ELS) toxicities induced by halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons such as coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). These toxicities include mortality, circulatory failure, edema, and craniofacial malformations. The mechanisms behind resistance to halogenated aromatic hydrocarbon toxicity in these populations are unknown. First and second generation Atlantic tomcod Microgadus tomcod embryos derived from the Hudson River ([HR]; New York, USA) population are highly resistant to PCB-induced cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) expression and ELS toxicity when compared to embryos of Miramichi River ([MR]; New Brunswick, Canada) and Shinnecock Bay ([SB]; New York, USA) origin. The present study sought to identify novel genes involved in population differences in response to PCB exposure using custom microarrays. Microarray probes consisted of unsequenced inserts of randomly picked clones from a tomcod cardiac cDNA library. Tomcod embryos from three populations (HR, MR, and SB) were exposed to two doses of an environmentally relevant mixture of coplanar PCBs and screened for dose- and population-specific patterns of gene expression. Clones displaying significant differences between populations exposed to the high dose of PCBs were identified by DNA sequencing. Of the 28 identified nonribosomal protein clones, none displayed expression patterns highly similar to CYP1A (altered in MR and SB, but not in HR). However, several transcripts representing biomarkers of cardiomyopathy in mammals (cardiac troponin T2, cathepsin L, and atrial natriuretic peptide) were differentially altered among the three tomcod populations by PCBs. Although the present study did not identify any novel genes associated with PCB resistance in tomcod, several potential molecular biomarkers of PCB exposure were revealed.
Participation: the Key to Learning for Patients in Antepartal Clinics

An approach to patient education which recognized successful participation in the learning process as a key factor in providing information for antepartal clinic patients, known to be poorly motivated, was instituted without changing any system or organization and using a minimal amount of nursing and patient time. Important information on care during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and care of the newborn was shared. Group process also provided a vehicle for expression of feelings, opportunity for reassurance, and direction for particular action. The difficulties inherent in this approach to learning are recognized and recommendations are made for dealing with them.
Predictors of reoperation after sacral neuromodulation: A single institution evaluation of over 400 patients.

Aims To explore factors that may predispose patients to reoperation after sacral neuromodulation (SNM). Methods Patients enrolled in our longitudinal neuromodulation database were reviewed. Medical records data, and voiding diaries, Interstitial Cystitis Symptom–Problem Indices (ICSI-PI), and Overactive Bladder Questionnaires (OAB-q) at baseline and 3 months were analyzed with Pearson's χ2, Fisher's Exact test, Wilcoxon rank tests, and multivariable logistic regression. Results Of 407 patients, 134 (33%) had at least one reoperation over median 28.9 months follow-up (range 1.6–121.7); 78/407 (19%) were revised, and 56/407 (14%) were explanted. The most common reason for reoperation was lack of efficacy/worsening symptoms (n = 87). The reoperations group had a higher proportion of women (P = 0.049), lower mean body mass index (BMI; P = 0.010), more reprogramming events (P < 0.0001), longer median follow-up (P = 0.0008), and higher proportions with interstitial cystitis (P = 0.013), using hormone replacement therapy (P = 0.0004), and complications (P < 0.0001). Both reoperations/no reoperations groups had similar improvements in ICSI-PI (P < 0.0001 for both), OAB-q severity (P < 0.0001 for both) and quality of life (P < 0.0001 for both). On multivariate analysis, only longer follow-up (P = 0.0011; OR 1.048; CI 1.019, 1.078) and having a complication (P < 0.0001; OR 23.2; CI 11.47, 46.75) were significant predictors of reoperations. In women only, using HRT at time of implant was also predictive of reoperation (P = 0.0027; OR 3.09; CI 1.48, 6.46). Conclusions In this largest known series to date, one third of the patients required reoperation and the most common reason was lack of efficacy/worsening symptoms. Ongoing study is needed as the technology continues to evolve. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diversity Management in Small Businesses: An Exploratory Investigation of Attitudes and Actions

The key to effective diversity management seems to reside in the extent to which diversity initiatives are embraced throughout the organization as a cultural statement (Thomas, 1991). As Jackson and Alvarez (1992) so aptly note, unless the diversity issue is viewed as a strategic imperative, meaningful changes in traditional management practices are unlikely. Indeed, for such strategic movement to occur, leaders must believe in and value the merits of the new workforce and make action commitments to support the needs of this workforce.
Charged Particles in Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Charged particle radiotherapy has distinct physical and radiobiological advantages when compared to photon radiation. The depth–dose distribution of particles is characterized by a Bragg peak which results in minimal dose delivery beyond the treatment volume and, consequently, relative sparing of organs-at-risk. Additionally, the therapeutic efficacy of particle therapy is less likely to be influenced by intrinsic mechanisms of radioresistance such as hypoxia and cell cycle position. Recent advances in patient positioning, immobilization, and image-guidance have allowed investigation into particle radiosurgery, which combines particle therapy with a hypofractionated, stereotactic treatment approach. While the preliminary local control, survival, and toxicity outcomes from studies of multiple tumor sites are promising, randomized controlled trials are needed to determine whether improved efficacy and reduced morbidity justify the use of particle radiosurgery despite higher financial costs.
Vorticity transformation in high Karlovitz number premixed flames

To better understand the two-way coupling between turbulence and chemistry, the changes in turbulence characteristics through a premixed flame are investigated. Specifically, this study focuses on vorticity, ω, which is characteristic of the smallest length and time scales of turbulence, analyzing its behavior within and across high Karlovitz number (Ka) premixed flames. This is accomplished through a series of direct numerical simulations (DNS) of premixed n-heptane/air flames, modeled with a 35-species finite-rate chemical mechanism, whose conditions span a wide range of unburnt Karlovitz numbers and flame density ratios. The behavior of the terms in the enstrophy, ω^2 = ω ⋅ ω, transport equation is analyzed, and a scaling is proposed for each term. The resulting normalized enstrophy transport equation involves only a small set of parameters. Specifically, the theoretical analysis and DNS results support that, at high Karlovitz number, enstrophy transport obtains a balance of the viscous dissipation and production/vortex stretching terms. It is shown that, as a result, vorticity scales in the same manner as in homogeneous, isotropic turbulence within and across the flame, namely, scaling with the inverse of the Kolmogorov time scale, τ_η. As τ_η is a function only of the viscosity and dissipation rate, this work supports the validity of Kolmogorov’s first similarity hypothesis in premixed turbulentflames for sufficiently high Ka numbers. Results are unaffected by the transport model, chemical model, turbulent Reynolds number, and finally the physical configuration.