cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effective Elastic Constants of Bidirectional Laminates Containing Transverse Ply Cracks

All nine independent effective elastic constants of [0°m/90°n]S laminates containing transverse cracks through the middle 90°n layers are determined analytically. The cracks are assumed to be evenly spaced and to extend across the entire laminate width. Each of the 0°m and 90°n ply clusters are modeled as homogeneous, orthotropic materials with the layers connected through continuity of displacements and tractions at the ply interfaces. A stress based homogeneous plate theory which includes the effect of transverse shear and normal stresses is utilized to model the ply clusters. Elastic moduli and stress distributions are compared to shear lag and other analytical models existing in the literature. Moduli of a [±45°]S laminate containing a crack parallel to the fibers in the middle plies are obtained by a rotation of elastic properties obtained from a cracked [0°/90°]S laminate.
Parietal cortex tracks the amount of information retrieved even when it is not the basis of a memory decision

Although the parietal cortex is not conventionally associated with memory, a large number of recent fMRI studies have suggested that that the parietal cortex may play a role in recognition memory. Activity in the lateral parietal cortex is correlated with the subjective impression that an item is old. It has therefore been proposed that the parietal cortex may be determining the outcome of the decision process. For instance, parietal cortex may be temporally integrating mnemonic information in favor of an "old" response until a decision criterion is reached (mnemonic accumulator hypothesis). Activity in the lateral parietal cortex also increases with the amount of information retrieved. It has thus been proposed that lateral parietal cortex may be acting as a working memory buffer into which retrieved information is transferred (output buffer hypothesis). In previous studies, confidence in an "old" decision and the amount of information retrieved have been confounded, thus making these competing hypotheses difficult to differentiate. We used a frequency discrimination paradigm to dissociate the amount of information retrieved from memory and decision certainty. We found that lateral and medial regions of parietal cortex previously implicated in recognition memory track the absolute amount of information retrieved even when this is not the basis of the recognition decision. Our results present a serious challenge to proposals that the parietal cortex contributes directly to the recognition decision process.
REFLECTIONS ON TWENTY YEARS OF THE ACL

I entered the field of computational linguistics in 1967 and one of my earliest recollections is of studying the Harvard Syntactic Analyzer. To this date, this parser is one of the best documented programs and the extensive discussions cover a wide range of English syntax. It is sobering to recall that this analyzer was implemented on an IBM 7090 computer using 32K words of memory with tape as its mass storage medium. A great deal of attention was focussed on means to deal with the main memory and mass storage limitations. It is also interesting to reflect back on the decision made in the Harvard Syntactic Analyzer to use a large number of parts of speech, presumably, to aid the refinement of the analysis. Unfortunately, this introduction of such a large number of parts of speech (approximately 300) led to a large number of unanticipated ambiguous parsings, rather than cutting down on the number of legitimate parsings as had been hoped for. This analyzer functioned at a time when revelations about the amount of inherent ambiguity in English (and other natural languages) was a relatively new thing and the Harvard Analyzer produced all possible parsings for a given sentence. At that time, some effort was focused on discovering a use for all these different parsings and I can recall that one such application was the parsing of the Geneva Nuclear Convention. By displaying the large number of possible interpretations of the sentence, it was in fact possible to flush out possible misinterpretations of the document and I believe that some editing was performed in order to remove these ambiguities.
NFATc3 and NFATc4 Are Required for Cardiac Development and Mitochondrial Function

Activation of the nuclear factor of activated T-cell (NFAT) family of transcription factors is associated with changes in gene expression and myocyte function in adult cardiac and skeletal muscle. However, the role of NFATs in normal embryonic heart development is not well characterized. In this report, the function of NFATc3 and NFATc4 in embryonic heart development was examined in mice with targeted disruption of both nfatc3 and nfatc4 genes. The nfatc3 −/− nfatc4 −/− mice demonstrate embryonic lethality after embryonic day 10.5 and have thin ventricles, pericardial effusion, and a reduction in ventricular myocyte proliferation. Cardiac mitochondria are swollen with abnormal cristae, indicative of metabolic failure, but hallmarks of apoptosis are not evident. Furthermore, enzymatic activity of complex II and IV of the respiratory chain and mitochondrial oxidative activity are reduced in nfatc3 −/− nfatc4 −/− cardiomyocytes. Cardiac-specific expression of constitutively active NFATc4 in nfatc3 −/− nfatc4 −/− embryos prolongs embryonic viability to embryonic day 12 and preserves ventricular myocyte proliferation, compact zone density, and trabecular formation. The rescued embryos also maintain cardiac mitochondrial ultrastructure and complex II enzyme activity. Together, these data support the hypothesis that loss of NFAT activity in the heart results in a deficiency in mitochondrial energy metabolism required for cardiac morphogenesis and function.
Unconstrained functional criteria for canonical correlation analysis

Unconstrained and constrained optimization criteria for extracting multiple true canonical variates and canonical correlations are proposed. These include a weighted information criterion (WINC-CCA) and a shifted information criterion (SINC-CCA) for searching the optimal solutions. The gradient flows of the proposed CCA functions are analyzed and some of their convergence properties are presented. The main feature of this approach is that the actual canonical variates are automatically obtained. Based on the gradient-ascent method, many algorithms for performing the true CCA recursively are provided.
The promise of the internet for disability: a study of on-line services and web site accessibility at Centers for Independent Living.

The Internet provides individuals with disabilities numerous tools to live independently. In the convenience of the home, a person can access an abundance of information, an electronic community, updates on the latest disability advocacy news, education through distance-learning classes, and on-line shopping for books, clothes, assistive technology, and a host of other consumer goods. Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are consumer-run, non-profit grassroots disability service organizations at the forefront of the disability rights movement. Providing services to individuals across the range of disabilities, CILs have begun to use the Internet as a complement to their traditional service delivery methods. This article examines the emerging trend of independent living services on the web. The investigation examines 200 CIL Internet sites across the United States during the period of April to August 2001. Information is collected and analyzed about how CILs are using the Internet to provide their services and programs. In addition, the article examines the technological accessibility of their web sites. Implications of the findings for CILs, consumers with disabilities, and disability policy are examined.
Supporting service differentiation in wireless packet networks using distributed control

This paper investigates differentiated services in wireless packet networks using a fully distributed approach that supports service differentiation, radio monitoring, and admission control. While our proposal is generally applicable to distributed wireless access schemes, we design, implement, and evaluate our framework within the context of existing wireless technology. Service differentiation is based on the IEEE 802.11 distributed coordination function (DCF) originally designed to support best-effort data services. We analyze the delay experienced by a mobile host implementing the IEEE 802.11 DCF and derive a closed-form formula. We then extend the DCF to provide service differentiation for delay-sensitive and best-effort traffic based on the results from the analysis. Two distributed estimation algorithms are proposed. These algorithms are evaluated using simulation, analysis, and experimentation. A virtual MAC (VMAC) algorithm passively monitors the radio channel and estimates locally achievable service levels. The VMAC estimates key MAC level statistics related to service quality such as delay, delay variation, packet collision, and packet loss. We show the efficiency of the VMAC algorithm through simulation and consider significantly overlapping cells and highly bursty traffic mixes. In addition, we implement and evaluate the VMAC in an experimental differentiated services wireless testbed. A virtual source (VS) algorithm utilizes the VMAC to estimate application-level service quality. The VS allows application parameters to be tuned in response to dynamic channel conditions based on "virtual delay curves." We demonstrate through simulation that when these distributed victual algorithms are applied to the admission control of the radio channel then a globally stable state can be maintained without the need for complex centralized radio resource management.
Energy-efficient cooperative routing for wireless sensor networks using space time block code

This paper exploits the idea of cross-layer design for wireless sensor networks to improve the network performance. We present a new energy efficient cooperative routing scheme with space diversity using space-time block codes (STBCs) while improving the link's energy-efficiency. In our solution, the selected multiple nodes act as multiple transmitting and receiving antennas. Full diversity from the orthogonal STBC is utilized to overcome multipath fading and to enhance power efficiency. The network performance measures, such as, network throughput and delay are analyzed via an M/G/1 queueing model. The energy consumption and protocol efficiency are also investigated. The results illustrate that our proposed method outperforms the traditional single relay routing method and the single receiving diversity routing method.
Novel perspective: focusing on the X chromosome in reproductive cancers.

In an XX female, one of the two X chromosomes has been inactivated during early embryonic life to achieve a compensation of X-linked gene products between males and females, leaving only one allele of X-linked genes functional. There are some X-linked genes escaping the X-inactivation, i.e., being expressed from both alleles. Escape from X-inactivation varies at different levels; some genes have both alleles active in some women but only one allele active in others, whereas some other genes have both alleles active in neoplastic tissue but only one allele active normally. The X-inactivation may be considered functionally equivalent to a loss of heterozygosity (LOH) for some genes, whereas escape from X-inactivation may be equivalent to functional gene amplification for others. The physiological LOH may make X-linked tumor suppressor genes lose their function more easily, compared with autosomal tumor suppressor genes, thus predisposing women to cancer formation more easily. Moreover, the human X chromosome contains many genes related to cancer or to sex and reproduction. All these properties of the X chromosome suggest that it may play more important roles than any autosomal chromosome in the development and progression of reproductive and urologic cancers.
Implementing congestion control in the real world

It is well known that congestion control is a key issue for the safe deployment of multimedia applications over IP. We describe our initial experiences implementing TCP-friendly congestion control in a system designed to deliver HDTV content over IP networks. In particular we discuss the effects of packet reordering on the calculated throughput, and highlight the problems this can pose for high-rate applications.
Multi-UAV Convoy Protection: An Optimal Approach to Path Planning and Coordination

In this paper, we study the problem of controlling a group of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to provide convoy protection to a group of ground vehicles. The UAVs are modeled as Dubins vehicles flying at a constant altitude with bounded turning radius. We first present time-optimal paths to provide convoy protection to stationary ground vehicles. Then, we propose a control strategy to provide convoy protection to ground vehicles moving in straight lines. The minimum number of UAVs required to provide perpetual convoy protection, in both cases, are derived.
Self-steepening without self-phase modulation

A first optical manifestation of the Chen-Lee-Liu-type derivative nonlinear Schrodinger equation results in self-steepening of ultrashort pulses and shock formation without simultaneous self-phase modulation and spectral broadening. Experiments verify theory.
Generation of Unconstrained Looping Programs for Control of Xpilot Agents

An unconstrained cyclic genetic algorithm (CGA) is presented as a means to evolve multi-loop behavior for an autonomous agent. The evolved programs control autonomous agents in the network space combat game Xpilot. Ultimately, the agent's goal is survival; it must learn to move within a restricted area, avoiding obstacles while engaged in combat with an opposing agent. The CGA learned multi-loop control programs that significantly improved the agent’s survivability in the hostile Xpilot environment.
Costs and benefits of group living with disease: a case study of pneumonia in bighorn lambs (Ovis canadensis).

Group living facilitates pathogen transmission among social hosts, yet temporally stable host social organizations can actually limit transmission of some pathogens. When there are few between-subpopulation contacts for the duration of a disease event, transmission becomes localized to subpopulations. The number of per capita infectious contacts approaches the subpopulation size as pathogen infectiousness increases. Here, we illustrate that this is the case during epidemics of highly infectious pneumonia in bighorn lambs ( Ovis canadensis ). We classified individually marked bighorn ewes into disjoint seasonal subpopulations, and decomposed the variance in lamb survival to weaning into components associated with individual ewes, subpopulations, populations and years. During epidemics, lamb survival varied substantially more between ewe-subpopulations than across populations or years, suggesting localized pathogen transmission. This pattern of lamb survival was not observed during years when disease was absent. Additionally, group sizes in ewe-subpopulations were independent of population size, but the number of ewe-subpopulations increased with population size. Consequently, although one might reasonably assume that force of infection for this highly communicable disease scales with population size, in fact, host social behaviour modulates transmission such that disease is frequency-dependent within populations, and some groups remain protected during epidemic events.
Eldercare and the Changing Family in Puerto Rico

The purpose of this research is to reveal the range and depth of older island-dwelling Puerto Ricans' perceptions of viable long-term care alternatives and to evaluate the demographic and cultural underpinnings of their attitudes, preferences, and expectations for particular care options. Data from the census and sample surveys show demographic changes that simultaneously expand the numbers of older adults and reduce the numbers of potential family caregivers. Focus group data reveal cultural changes concurrent with demographic shift. Older Puerto Ricans see that the traditional intergenerational contract that promotes family care to older adults is being rewritten to accommodate the demographic changes of the late 20th century and cultural changes observed in the younger generations. They strive to retain some measure of self-management and to more flexibly integrate informal and formal services, creating a dynamic and individualized plan of care for themselves.
Data Formats for Elementary Gas Phase Kinetics, Part 1: Unique Representations of Species at the Molecular Level

Standardized electronic formats for data are needed to efficiently and transparently communicate the results of scientific studies. A format for the unique identification of chemical species is a requirement in the field of chemistry, and the IUPAC International Chemical Identifier (InChI) has been widely adopted for this purpose. The InChI identifier has proved to be very useful. The InChI identifier, however, is currently insufficient to uniquely specify some types of molecular entities at a detailed molecular level needed to fully characterize their chemical nature, to differentiate between chemically distinct conformers, to uniquely identify structures used in quantum chemical calculations, and to completely describe elementary chemical reactions. To address this limitation, we propose an augmented form of InChI, denoted as InChI–ER, which contains additional optional layers that allow the unique and unambiguous identification of molecules at a detailed molecular level. The new layers proposed herein are optional extensions of the existing InChI formalism and, like all other InChI layers, would not interfere with InChI identifiers currently in use. The focus of the present work is the better specification of required molecular entities such as rotational conformations, ring conformations, and electronic states. In companion articles, we propose additional reaction layers using an extended InChI format that will enable the unique identification of elementary chemical reactions, including specification of associated transition states, specification of the changes in bonds that occur during reaction, and classification of reaction types.
Decodable Texts for Beginning Reading Instruction: The Year 2000 Basals

This study focuses on the features of the first grade texts included in basal readers used for beginning reading instruction in Texas during the year 2000 adoption period. The authors investigated the general features of student texts with respect to the instructional design of the text, the accessibility of the text for beginning readers, and the engaging qualities of the texts. The features of these basal readers were then compared to the programs previously adopted in Texas (1987 and 1993 adoption periods). Using a variety of analyses, findings suggest that the mandate by the state of Texas to include more “decodable” texts did in fact, heavily influence the materials presented to beginning readers. In addition, there was an apparent lock of attention to other features that support beginning readers, specifically, predictability and the engaging qualities of the texts. The findings suggest that policy mandates have a direct influence on the content and nature of reading programs placed in the hands of ...
'To prone or not to prone' in severe ARDS: questions answered, but others remain

Background Previous trials involving patients with the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have failed to show a beneficial effect of prone positioning during mechanical ventilator support on outcomes. We evaluated the effect of early application of prone positioning on outcomes in patients with severe ARDS. Methods Objective: The objective was to evaluate the effect of early application of prone position on mortality in patients with severe ARDS. Design: The PROSEVA group conducted a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial. Setting: Patients with ARDS were recruited from 26 ICUs in France and one ICU in Spain. Subjects: The subjects were critically ill patients admitted to the ICU with respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation for severe ARDS. Severe ARDS criteria - an arterial partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) ratio of less than 150 mm Hg, an FiO2 of at least 0.6, a positive end-expiratory pressure of at least 5 cm of water, and a tidal volume of about 6 mL per kilogram of predicted body weight - were confirmed after 12 to 24 hours of mechanical ventilation in the participating ICUs. Subjects were eligible after 12 to 24 hours of stabilization and were randomly assigned to either the prone group or the supine group. Intervention: Four hundred sixty-six patients with severe ARDS underwent prone position ventilation of at least 16 hours or ventilation in the supine position. Patients assigned to the prone group were manually turned in standard ICU beds to the prone position within the first hour of random assignment and were placed prone for at least 16 consecutive hours. Standard ventilator protocols and weaning protocols were implemented for study participants. Outcomes: The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who died from any cause within 28 days after random assignment. Results In total, 237 patients were assigned to the prone group and 229 patients were assigned to the supine group. The 28-day mortality rates were 16% in the prone group and 32.8% in the supine group (P <0.001). The hazard ratio for death with prone ventilation was 0.39 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.63). Unadjusted 90-day mortality rates were 23.6% in the prone group and 41% in the supine group (P <0.001), with a hazard ratio of 0.44 (95% CI 0.29 to 0.67). The incidence of complications did not differ significantly between the groups, except for the incidence of cardiac arrests, which was higher in the supine group.
Inhibition of insulin-like growth factor I activity contributes to the premature apoptosis of cerebellar granule neuron in weaver mutant mice: In vitro analysis

Evidence from transgenic mice and cultured cerebellar neurons supports an important role for insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) in the formation of cerebellar cytoarchitecture. To understand IGF-I's function during cerebellar development, we examined the involvement of IGF-I in the premature apoptosis of granule neurons derived from the cerebella of weaver (wv) mutant mice. Before their demise, wv granule neurons increased the expression and secretion of IGFBP5 in a gene dose-dependent manner. Because IGFBP5 may interfere with the interaction of IGF-I and its receptor, the abnormally high IGFBP5 levels in wv granule neurons suggest that a lack of IGF-I activation may contribute to their premature apoptosis. This hypothesis is supported by a gene dose-dependent decrease in IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) phosphorylation. More importantly, there is a parallel gene dose-dependent decrease in Akt activity, which was inversely correlated with the activity levels of caspase 3. On the other hand, adding IGFBP5 antibody into culture media increased the survival of wv granule neurons, whereas adding IGFBP5 decreased the survival of wild-type granule neurons. To delineate the interaction between IGF-I and IGFBP5 on wv granule neurons, we examined neuronal survival after treating with IGF-I, des(1-3) IGF-I, or IGFBP5 antibody. At the same concentration, des(1-3) IGF-I was more effective than IGF-I in promoting survival, in increasing Akt activity, and in decreasing caspase 3 activity. These results indicate that IGF-I's actions on wv granule neurons are normally inhibited by excess IGFBP5, and sufficient IGF-I receptor activation rescues wv granule neurons via stimulating the Akt signaling pathway.
Shock-Shape Alteration Caused by Interaction with Organized Structures

The dynamics of shock waves interacting with organized structures such as a vortex or a temperature spot are examined. In particular, the shock structure, i.e., its shape and velocity, is investigated. Appropriate scalings in some asymptotic limits are derived for the shock displacement and velocity in terms of the upstream Mach number and the amplitude of the vortex or temperature spot. Two sources of nonlinearity are identie ed, and their effect on the dynamics of shocks are studied. Some light is shed on the incipient stage in the formation of branch points. Nomenclature c = speed of sound e = internal energy M = Mach number n = unit vector normal to the shock p = pressure R = universal gas constant r0 = characteristic length scale of upstream structure s = entropy T = temperature t = time U = mean streamwise velocity u = velocity vector u, v = streamwise, normal velocity vh = azimuthal velocity in upstream vortex x, y = directions normal and tangential to the steady shock c = ratio of specie c heats D = displacement d = (u i us)¢ n ≤ = perturbation amplitude f = q c q = density Subscripts
Heterologous complementation studies reveal the solute transport profiles of a two-member nucleobase cation symporter 1 (NCS1) family in Physcomitrella patens

As part of an evolution-function analysis, two nucleobase cation symporter 1 (NCS1) from the moss Physcomitrella patens (PpNCS1A and PpNCS1B) are examined--the first such analysis of nucleobase transporters from early land plants. The solute specificity profiles for the moss NCS1 were determined through heterologous expression, growth and radiolabeled uptake experiments in NCS1-deficient Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Both PpNCS1A and 1B, share the same profiles as high affinity transporters of adenine and transport uracil, guanine, 8-azaguanine, 8-azaadenine, cytosine, 5-fluorocytosine, hypoxanthine, and xanthine. Despite sharing the same solute specificity profile, PpNCS1A and PpNCS1B move nucleobase compounds with different efficiencies. The broad nucleobase transport profile of PpNCS1A and 1B differs from the recently-characterized Viridiplantae NCS1 in breadth, revealing a flexibility in solute interactions with NCS1 across plant evolution.
Solutions to the Sexist QTIP Provisions

In this article, I elaborate on three solutions to the illogical and sexist QTIP provisions. Solution #1 is to require the surviving spouse be the one who can make the QTIP election; Solution #2 is to repeal the QTIP provisions, but modify the terminable interest rule. Solution #3 is to repeal the QTIP provisions, but retain the unlimited marital deduction. The first of these solutions involves the smallest change in the current rules: the surviving spouse, and not the donor or executor, should be the one empowered to make the QTIP election. That one change in the QTIP provisions would make the marital deduction more reflective of a joint decision about "their" property, would eliminate some of the conflict of interest issues inherent in promoting the use of a QTIP, particularly where the executor is decedent's child from an earlier marriage, and is a more politically acceptable solution to repealing the QTIP, an extremely popular estate planning device. The second solution is to repeal the QTIP, but modify the current terminable interest rule. This solution gives the decedent a marital deduction in the amount equal to what she actually receives as her income interest. Code sections 2702 and 2056(b)(5) provide a framework to draft a statute that would ensure that the widow would receive the sum certain stated on her husband's estate tax return. While paternalistic in its acceptance of a deduction for transfers of a life estate, this solution would at least require that the value of the marital deduction reflect the value of the lifetime benefit that the widow actually will receive so that she can make a more informed decision about choosing to elect or forgo her statutory share. The third solution is the optimal one. The QTIP should be repealed; pre-1982 marital deduction rules should be restored, except for the unlimited marital deduction, which should be retained to the extent the decedent (or donor) actually leaves property to his widow (wife). While passage of the unlimited marital deduction was initially inextricably tied to the passage of the QTIP, the link may not be required in today's climate of family values. It is unlikely that, even if the QTIP provisions were repealed, Congress would want to repeal the unlimited marital deduction.
Leibniz’s Program for the Development of Logic

In the summer of 1969 Imre and I were critically discussing the program — instituted by Frege — that had given direction to the development of logic in the twentieth century. Imre suggested to me that I look back into the history of logic for alternative programs that have remained undeveloped. I remember we spoke of Leibniz but I knew very little about him then. Later Imre kept at me to write on the theme, and parts of this paper were prepared for the journal he was editing.
The impact of subdividing the "atypical" category for urinary cytology on patient management.

Introduction The purpose of the study is to determine the impact of subdividing the “atypical” cytology interpretation into two groups: Atypical urothelial cells of uncertain significance (AUC-US) and Atypical urothelial cells suspicious for high-grade urothelial carcinoma (AUC-H/SHGUC), on management of patients with no prior history of UC. Materials and method This is a retrospective study of “atypical” urine cytology with subsequent tissue examination occurring within six months. Cytology reports with “atypical” interpretation were reclassified into AUS-UC and AUC-H based on morphologic features identified by the Johns Hopkins system and the Paris system for urine cytology. Follow-up and categorical outcomes were compared between the reclassified AUC-US and AUC-H groups. Results There was no significant difference (P < 0.4539) in the rate of cytology follow-up, the follow-up cytology result (P < 0.1845), or time between follow-up cytologies (P < 0.0869) between the reclassified atypical group of AUC-H and AUC-US. There was a significant association (P < 0.0001) of rate of malignancy with the reclassified AUC-H (87.18%) compared to the AUC-US (58.68%) groups. Conclusion There was no difference in follow-up between the AUC-H and AUC-US, however there was a difference in the rates of malignancy in the two groups. The AUC-H group is similar to the SHGUC group of the Paris system and can be considered as such, whereas the AUC-US group should continue to be considered atypical. We conclude that reclassification of the “atypical” category into AUC-US and AUC-H/SHGUC can reduce the rate of atypia and help in focused follow-up and targeted management. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:477–482. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comments on Pittsburgh Renaissance

After more than sixty years of local boasting about “renaissance” and proclamations of Pittsburgh as a “comeback city,” the concept of the Pittsburgh renaissance merits serious reconsideration by younger scholars. It is time for urbanists to reject the chamber-of-commerce palaver about renaissance and to face the fact that the “renaissance” is more of a public relations slogan than a serious statement of objective reality. Pittsburgh has not escaped many of the problems plaguing the older, deindustrializing hubs of the Northeastern and Midwestern United States. Pittsburgh’s development has not been an exception to the rule; it has paralleled the development of other cities which generally have been perceived as declining. Thus, the difference between the widely acknowledged urban basket case of Detroit and the supposed renaissance city of Pittsburgh is much less striking than Pittsburgh’s perennial boosters would have one believe. Both cities have lost a majority of their populations since 1950, and if one considers metropolitan areas as a whole, Pittsburgh’s metro area, unlike virtually all other American metropolitan areas, has gained almost no population. Pittsburgh’s metro area grew only 6 percent in population between 1950 and 2010 compared to 42 percent for such bastions of deindustrialization as metropolitan Detroit or metropolitan Cleveland. Like Detroit, Pittsburgh has suffered fiscal crisis. During the early 1970s, Mayor Peter Flaherty felt compelled to slash city payrolls, imposing draconian budget cuts on a municipality seeking to reduce its costs. Then in the first decade of the twenty-first century, Pittsburgh suffered virtual bankruptcy. In 2003, an independent auditor reported that Pittsburgh had “negative net assets that raise substantial doubts about its ability to continue as a going concern,” a quote that sounds akin to more recent pronouncements regarding bankrupt Detroit. Each of the three major bond rating firms assigned Pittsburgh’s debt “junk bond” status. At that time no other major city bore that dubious distinction. The city laid off more than four hundred employees and closed all the public swimming pools and recreation centers.1 Broke and unable to provide basic services, Pittsburgh had to seek refuge under Pennsylvania’s Municipal Financial Recovery Act (Act 47 of 1987). It became a fiscal ward of the state, ceding control of its finances to a state-appointed financial recovery coordinator. Having yielded to the guardianship of the state, the City of Pittsburgh’s finances improved. Yet at the beginning of 2014, the School District of Pittsburgh faced a budget crisis, with the state auditor general conducting an audit to determine how to avoid financial collapse.2 Conforming
Recurrent encephalopathy?—no, i'm a sleeping beauty!!

Aim To describe the clinical presentation of ‘Kleine-Levin (sleeping beauty) syndrome’ in a child, who presented with recurrent episodes consistent with encephalopathy, associated with excessive sleepiness, cognitive and behavioural disturbance and hyper sexuality. Method We report a previously well 14 years old boy who following a viral throat infection presented acutely with excessive tiredness, sleeping excessively, abnormal behaviour and hypersexuality. On examination he was sleepy but easily arousable. His GCS (15/15) and rest of the neurological examination including fundoscopy and other systemic examination was completely unremarkable. All his initial investigation including electrolytes, LFTs, CSF, virology screen and MRI brain scan were normal. Detailed autoimmune screening including anti-NMDAR, potassium channel and anti-GAD antibodies were also negative. EEG showed non-specific diffuse slowing consistent with encephalopathy. His excessive sleepiness gradually improved together with his altered behaviour in about two weeks after presentation. Hyper sexuality became more overt during this phase manifesting as fiddling with his genitalia, putting his pant down in front of parents and even inappropriate behaviour towards female staff. All these symptoms completely disappeared three weeks after his presentation and he attended school as before. He was readmitted six weeks later with exactly similar presentation and again only positive result being diffuse non-specific slowing of EEG. His recovery was also similar and he was completely back to his normal self in three weeks time. Result His recurrent symptoms are consistent with ‘Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS)’ or ‘sleeping beauty syndrome’. KLS is a rare disorder which mainly affects adolescent men. Common symptoms include hypersomnia (100%), cognitive changes (96%), eating disturbances (80%), hypersexuality, compulsions, and depressed mood. The syndrome usually lasts for 8 years, with on an average seven episode of 10 days each recurring every 3.5 months. It is most frequently precipitated by infections and somnolence decreases using stimulants in nearly 40% of cases. Conclusion We believe neurologist and paediatricians should be aware of this (KLS) rare but distinct syndrome as early diagnosis will help us in reassuring patients and their families and will prevent unnecessary investigations.
Traumatic Amputation of Finger From an Alligator Snapping Turtle Bite

Legend states that the alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii) should be handled with extreme caution as it has jaw strength powerful enough to bite a wooden broomstick in half. Tales of bite injuries from what is the largest freshwater turtle in North America exist anecdotally, yet there are few descriptions of medical encounters for such. The risk of infection from reptilian bites to the hand in an aquatic environment warrants thorough antibiotic treatment in conjunction with hand surgery consultation. We present the first case report of a near total amputation of an index finger in an adolescent boy who had been bitten by a wild "gator snapper."
Application of DSP EDAC function in the base station

Communication systems require high stability,but the adverse external electromagnetic environment will lead to the memory of DSP used by the baseband board occur single event upset(SEU),and cause the abnormal reset. To solve the problem,it is described how to use the error detection and correction(EDAC)function of DSP,as well as how to resolve the conflict between the EDAC and cache operations. After practical application,the probability of SEU exception occurs to the base station has been significantly reduced. The result showed that the stability of the system is improved.
Electrical Real-time Digital Simulation System Based on IEC 61850

The widely used electrical real-time digital simulation(RTDS)system plays an important role in the stability analysis,security assessment,relay protection equipment test,etc.With the adoption of electronic transformers,neither D/A conversion nor power amplification is needed in the RTDS system.The data output by simulation software can be directly used through format conversion.The structure and implementation of a new RTDS system based on IEC 61850 standard are discussed.The test model connecting the RTDS system and digital secondary devices is described.The practicality of the proposed RTDS system is validated by a 110 kV line all-digital relay protection module.
Immunology in the pediatrician's office

The development of antibody-mediated immunity is reflected in the maturation of B lymphocytes, in the changing levels of total immunoglobulins, and in the development of specific antibodies first to proteins and then sequentially to different types of polysaccharides. The measurement of anti-pneumococcal antibodies allows us to recognize specific antibody deficiencies, which need to be differentiated from normal developmental phases in the maturation of antibody-mediated immunity. The recognition of the late phase of IgE mediated allergic reactions is important to understanding the chronic manifestations of allergy. Chronic manifestations of allergy are frequently missed because they do not appear to be clearly related to acute triggers of allergic reactions. These conditions can be appropriately diagnosed, prevented, and treated, however, when the mechanisms of the late manifestations of allergy are understood. The integration of knowledge about the development of immunity and of allergic diseases enhances the pediatrician's ability to care for patients with immunologic abnormalities.
Genome Sequence of Gordonia Phage Yvonnetastic.

ABSTRACT Gordonia bacteriophage Yvonnetastic was isolated from soil in Pittsburgh, PA, using Gordonia terrae 3612 as a host. Yvonnetastic has siphoviral morphology and a genome of 98,136 bp, with 198 predicted protein-coding genes and five tRNA genes. Yvonnetastic does not share substantial sequence similarity with other sequenced bacteriophage genomes.
Advances in Ovarian Cancer and Ongoing Clinical Trials

Bevacizumab, a recombinant monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), has gained European Medicine Agency approval for the frontline treatment of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, or primary peritoneal cancer in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, and for the treatment of first recurrence of platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer in combination with carboplatin and gemcitabine. The addition of bevacizumab to standard chemotherapy as frontline treatment (GOG-0218 and ICON7) or in recurrent disease (OCEANS and AURELIA) shows significant efficiency. Promising data have been published for a number of emerging antiangiogenic agents.
Nonlinear Tracking Controller Design for Unmanned Helicopters

The previous Chapter presented a tracking controller of the position and heading of a helicopter based on the linearized helicopter dynamics. The adopted parametric linear model, on which the flight controller is based on, represented the quasi steady state behavior of the helicopter dynamics at hover.
Recent trends in power system reliability and implications for evaluating future investments in resiliency

This study examines the relationship between annual changes in electricity reliability reported by a large cross-section of U.S. electricity distribution utilities over a period of 13 years and a broad set of potential explanatory variables, including weather and utility characteristics. We find statistically significant correlations between the average number of power interruptions experienced annually and above average wind speeds, precipitation, lightning strikes, and a measure of population density: customers per line mile. We also find significant relationships between the average number of minutes of power interruptions experienced and above average wind speeds, precipitation, cooling degree-days, and one strategy used to mitigate the impacts of severe weather: the amount of underground transmission and distribution line miles. Perhaps most importantly, we find a significant time trend of increasing annual average number of minutes of power interruptions over time—especially when interruptions associated with extreme weather are included. The research method described in this analysis can provide a basis for future efforts to project long-term trends in reliability and the associated benefits of strategies to improve grid resiliency to severe weather—both in the U.S. and abroad.
Abstract 4414: RhoA activation in diffuse type gastric adenocarcinoma promotes cancer stem cell phenotypes including chemotherapy resistance

Introduction: The diffuse type of gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) was recently found to frequently harbor activating mutations in RHOA. RhoA is a member of the small GTPase-Ras-like proteins which are involved in cell signaling for cell migration and cell cycle. Methods: RhoA activity and inhibition was examined in diffuse GA cell lines grown as spheroids (i.e. cancer stem cell conditions) and as monolayers in various in vitro assays. RhoA knockdown combined with chemotherapy was examined in a mouse xenograft model. Results: RhoA activity was much higher in diffuse GA cell lines MKN-45 and SNU-668 compared to intestinal GA cell lines NCI-N87 and AGS. RhoA activity was further increased in diffuse GA cells when grown as spheroids rather than as monolayers. RhoA inhibition with shRNA or the RhoA inhibitor Rhosin decreased spheroid formation and deceased expression of the stem cell transcription factor, Sox2. Diffuse GA cells when grown as spheroids had significantly greater migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent growth, and these properties could all be blocked with RhoA shRNA or Rhosin. Diffuse GA spheroid cells (compared to monolayer cells) were resistant to 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin chemotherapy, and this chemotherapy resistance could be reversed with RhoA inhibition. In the MKN-45 xenograft model, cisplatin inhibited tumor growth by 50%, RhoA shRNA by 60%, and the combination by 83%. Clinical tumor samples of diffuse GA are currently being analyzed for RhoA expression and correlated with extent of disease and response to chemotherapy. Conclusions: RhoA signaling is upregulated in diffuse GA cells grown as spheroids and promotes malignant transformation phenotypes such as migration and invasion. RhoA inhibition can reverse chemotherapy resistance in GC spheroid cells and in tumor xenografts, and thus the RhoA pathway is a promising new target of therapy for diffuse GA. Citation Format: Changhwan Yoon, Soo-Jeong Cho, Bulent A. Aksoy, Do Joong Park, Sam S. Yoon. RhoA activation in diffuse type gastric adenocarcinoma promotes cancer stem cell phenotypes including chemotherapy resistance. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 4414. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-4414
Alpha-1 antitrypsin protects protein phospholipid transfer protein from cleavage to counter lung inflammatory responses

Introduction: Inflammation is central in pathogenesis of lung disease in alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) deficiency. Phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) prevents airway inflammation; however, in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), serine proteases cleave PLTP. We propose that A1AT augmentation therapy exerts novel anti-inflammatory effects by enhancing PLTP activity in the airways. Methods: PLTP activity was measured in bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) and plasma of healthy non-smokers, healthy smokers, non-A1AT COPD patients (all PiMM) and A1AT deficient COPD patients (all PiZZ). PLTP levels were also determined in BALF and plasma of individuals receiving normal (60 mg/kg) and high-dose (120 mg/kg) A1AT augmentation. A1AT protein isolated from the plasma of PiMM and PiZZ subjects as incubated with COPD BALF prior to combination with recombinant PLTP. PLTP cleavage was investigated. Results: PLTP activity was comparable in the plasma of healthy non-smokers, smokers, PiMM and PiZZ COPD patients. However, BALF PLTP activity was significantly reduced in both COPD cohorts and smokers as compared to healthy individuals. A1AT isolated from plasma of PiMM individuals protected PLTP from proteolytic cleavage while A1AT from plasma of PiZZ individuals did not have the same protective effect. Weekly administration of 120 mg/kg A1AT significantly enhanced PLTP activity levels in BALF of A1AT deficient patients, which coincided with reduced inflammation. Conclusions: A1AT therapy prevents PLTP cleavage and preserves its activity thereby enhancing its anti-inflammatory activity. Enhancing airway PLTP activity could have therapeutic potential in A1AT deficiency.
Monocytosis, Hypercholesterolemia, and the Kinase That Binds Them

Atherosclerosis is a chronic lipid-driven inflammatory disease that involves the recruitment, infiltration, differentiation, and proliferation of monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages. In the absence of these cells, disease neither initiates nor progresses. Indeed, leukocytosis is a defining risk factor for increased cardiovascular disease in humans.1,2 Because monocytes are involved in every step of atherosclerosis disease progression,2–4 modifying anything from recruitment to proliferation could significantly affect disease severity. Any modification needs to be extremely precise, however, because the role of monocytes changes as the disease advances. Although recruitment is the underlying culprit during the initial stages,5–7 proliferation becomes consequential later.8 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinases), JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase), and NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) can have widespread effects on cell cycle and cytokine production and may therefore be promising targets in treating complex diseases. Sanz-Garcia et al9 focus on one such kinase, Map3k8, and identify how it can be targeted to alter monocyte biology and atherosclerosis. See accompanying article on page 237 Map3k8, also known as Tpl2 or Cot, …