cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protective Factors for Reducing Juvenile Reoffending: An Examination of Incremental and Differential Predictive Validity:

Juvenile court practitioners and researchers have recently gained interest in evaluating internal and external strengths, or protective factors. Some scholars assert that incorporating measures of ...
Deep-UV emission at 219 nm from ultrathin MBE GaN/AlN quantum heterostructures

Deep ultraviolet (UV) optical emission below 250 nm (∼5 eV) in semiconductors is traditionally obtained from high aluminum containing AlGaN alloy quantum wells. It is shown here that high-quality epitaxial ultrathin binary GaN quantum disks embedded in an AlN matrix can produce efficient optical emission in the 219–235 nm (∼5.7–5.3 eV) spectral range, far above the bulk bandgap (3.4 eV) of GaN. The quantum confinement energy in these heterostructures is larger than the bandgaps of traditional semiconductors, made possible by the large band offsets. These molecular beam epitaxy-grown extreme quantum-confinement GaN/AlN heterostructures exhibit an internal quantum efficiency of 40% at wavelengths as short as 219 nm. These observations together with the ability to engineer the interband optical matrix elements to control the direction of photon emission in such binary quantum disk active regions offer unique advantages over alloy AlGaN quantum well counterparts for the realization of deep-UV light-emitting d...
New Perspectives for Implementing Grounded Theory

Background: Grounded theory has evolved to become one of the most prominent qualitative approaches in social science research. However, this methodology has been adopted in a variety of ways across the engineering education landscape, reflecting and amplifying debates surrounding the nature and quality of grounded theory research. This can be problematic for novice researchers and those new to the methodology and may potentially limit its application and theoretical contributions to the field. Purpose: In this theoretical manuscript, we reflect on the evolution of grounded theory and its core tenets to implore engineering education to think about the ways we can collectively conceptualize, interpret, and implement this methodology. By gaining a greater understanding of the paradigmatic underpinnings and practices of grounded theory, scholars in engineering education will be better equipped to assess the affordances and limitations of this approach and identify when, why, and how it is appropriate for implementation in their work. Scope: First, we discuss the historical and paradigmatic underpinnings of three grounded theory traditions: classic, pragmatic, and constructivist grounded theory. Second, we describe the difference between implementing grounded theory methodology versus applying grounded theory methods. Third, we compare and clarify points of confusion often encountered in conducting grounded theory studies. Lastly, we offer a reconceptualized perspective of grounded theory and implications for expanding its use in the engineering education community. Discussion/Conclusions: We encourage engineering education researchers to position grounded theory as a living methodology that not only generates new theory, but also bridges past and current research by deepening methodological and theoretical connections across contexts. Reconceptualizing grounded theory allows us to more intentionally account for evolving cultural nuances that influence the engineering education experience as to further broaden participation in the field and the impacts of our work.
Are Corporate Default Probabilities Consistent with the Static Trade-off Theory?

Default probability plays a central role in the static trade-off theory of capital structure. We directly test this theory by regressing the probability of default on proxies for costs and benefits of debt. Contrary to predictions of the theory, firms with higher bankruptcy costs, i.e., smaller firms and firms with lower asset tangibility, choose capital structures with higher bankruptcy risk. Further analysis suggests that the capital structures of smaller firms with lower asset tangibility--which tend to have less access to capital markets--are more sensitive to negative profitability and equity value shocks, making them more susceptible to bankruptcy risk. The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Society for Financial Studies. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com., Oxford University Press.
Acquired Brain Injury Survivor Long-Term Cognitive Exercise Engagement Post-Speech Therapy Discharge.

Purpose The purpose of this article is to promote the viewpoint that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are well positioned to actively encourage individuals with cognitive-communication disorders...
Inverse Laplace transformation analysis of stretched exponential relaxation

Abstract We investigate the effectiveness of the Inverse Laplace Transform (ILT) analysis method to extract the distribution of relaxation rates from nuclear magnetic resonance data with stretched exponential relaxation. Stretched-relaxation is a hallmark of a distribution of relaxation rates, and an analytical expression exists for this distribution for the case of a spin-1/2 nucleus. We compare this theoretical distribution with those extracted via the ILT method for several values of the stretching exponent and at different levels of experimental noise. The ILT accurately captures the distributions for β ≲ 0.7 , and for signal to noise ratios greater than ∼ 40 ; however the ILT distributions tend to introduce artificial oscillatory components. We further use the ILT approach to analyze stretched relaxation for spin I > 1 / 2 and find that the distributions are accurately captured by the theoretical expression for I = 1 / 2 . Our results provide a solid foundation to interpret distributions of relaxation rates for general spin I in terms of stretched exponential fits.
A Direct Observation Video Method for Describing COVID-19 Transmission Factors on a Micro-Geographical Scale: Viral Transmission (VT)-Scan.

The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected many aspects of human life. While most health agencies agree mask wearing and physical distancing reduce viral transmission, efforts to improve the assessment of these behaviors are lacking. This study aimed to develop a direct observation video method [Viral Transmission (VT)-Scan] for assessing COVID-19 transmission behaviors and related factors (e.g., environmental setting). A wearable video device (WVD) was used to obtain videos of outdoor, public areas. The videos were examined to extract relevant information. All outcomes displayed good to excellent intra- and inter-reliability with intra-class correlation coefficients ranging from 0.836 to 0.997. The majority of people had a mask (60.8%) but 22.1% of them wore it improperly, 45.4% were not physical distancing, and 27.6% were simultaneously mask and physical distancing non-compliant. Transmission behaviors varied by demographics with white, obese males least likely to be mask-compliant and white, obese females least likely to physical distance. Certain environments (e.g., crosswalks) were identified as “hot spots” where higher rates of adverse transmission behaviors occurred. This study introduces a reliable method for obtaining objective data on COVID-19 transmission behaviors and related factors which may be useful for agent-based modeling and policy formation.
Dietary Calcium in the Pathogenesis and Therapy of Human and Experimental Hypertension

The thesis that disorders of calcium metabolism and homeostasis are a factor in the pathogenesis of increased arterial pressure in a subset of patients with essential hypertension will be the focus of this review. An understanding of the evidence drawn from basic and clinical investigations supporting this postulate is essential to appropriate application of new therapeutic options in the management of human hypertension. Pharmacologic interventions that modify an individual’s calcium balance, and hence cellular physiology, represent treatment options that will be potentially specific for selected patients with essential hypertension.
Information flow metrics for the evaluation of operating systems' structure.

ion. Lower levels are not aware of the resources used at higher levels» Levels of abstraction are used in the resource management to provide users with virtual devices (Liskov, 1972b). In addition to the work described above in implementing specific hierarchies, research has been active in exploring various concepts used in the design of hierarchically-structured systems. These concepts in­ clude the notions of a module, a program family, kernels, system struc­ turing, specification techniques, and language features. Each are dis­ cussed, in turn, below. The term module has been used extensively in the literature with various definitions. Even without a specific definition for module, the concept of modularization has been generally accepted as a necessary ingredient of good structure. Modularization implies a system which: 1) allows internal module design decisions to be made independently of other modules; 2) increases comprehensibility since a module may be under­ stood in terms of its effects and not its implementation; the system may be understood one module at a time; 3) creates system stability since each module can be tested and debugged independently of other modules ; and 4) increases system flexibility because the implementation of one module can be drastically changed without affecting other modules. These benefits imply greater ease in detailed design, and an increase in speed of implementation, more adequate testing and debugging, and less costly maintenance. These all, in turn, are used to enhance reliability. Pa ma s (1972a) pursues three issues with regard to module design structures. First, the criteria used in decomposing systems modules
The Role of Key Administrators in Internationalizing the Community College Student Experience

This chapter examines the roles, reasons, facilitators, and challenges of chief executive, academic, and student affairs officers in internationalizing the community college student experience.
A Unified Theory of Democratic Change

Problems of Democratic Transition and Consolidation: Southern Europe, South America, and Post-Communist Europe By Juan Linz and Alfred Stepan
An improved understanding of efficiency limiting defects in polycrystalline CdTe/CdS solar cells

Efficiency-limiting mechanisms associated with CdS substrates, CdCl/sub 2/ treated CdTe films, and Cu/Au contacts were investigated. It was found that thermal treatment prior to CdTe deposition removed the oxygen-related defects from the CdS films. However, it also created nonuniform and Cd deficient CdS surface, resulting in an optimum temperature of 450 degrees C. Growth of CdTe films on the CdS under Te-rich conditions enhanced the interdiffusion between CdTe and CdS and reduced the CdTe bandgap to 1.47 eV, whereas growth of CdTe films under Cd-rich conditions retained the CdTe bandgap at 1.5 eV by reducing the interdiffusion. It was found that use of thinner CdS (1000 AA instead of 2000 AA) films increased the cell efficiency from 9.7% to 10.3% by increasing the J/sub SC/ from 22.4 to 24.19 mA/cm/sup 2/. >
The effect of diarrhea on fecal fat excretion

Abstract To determine whether diarrhea increases fecal fat excretion, fecal fat output was measured during three consecutive days in normal subjects and in normal subjects in whom diarrhea was purposefully induced. Mean fecal fat output in normal subjects was 3.4 g/day; the upper limit of normal was 6.4 g/day. Twenty-one percent of subjects with mild to moderate diarrhea (fecal weight 200–800 g/ day) and 58% of subjects with severe diarrhea (fecal weight > 800 g/day) had fecal fat excretion above the upper limit of normal, with values as high as 13.6 g/day. It is concluded that (a) diarrhea itself can induce mild secondary steatorrhea, and (b) when the quantitative fecal fat test is used in patients with diarrhea, mild abnormalities (up to 14 g/day) are not specific for a primary defect in fat digestion or absorption, i.e., they may represent false-positive results.
Noncausal image modeling with applications to image restoration

The problem of noncausal image modeling and estimation with applications to image restoration is considered. The noncausal vector autoregressive model for the image process is arranged into a descriptor system. This system is then decomposed into forward and backward stable subsystems which capture the dynamic behavior of the original descriptor system. The design of a time-varying filter is considered. The forward state is estimated, with the backward state considered as a colored output noise. The backward state is estimated, with the forward state regarded as colored output noise. Simulation results for noncausal image modeling are presented. >
On algebraic groups and discontinuous groups

Let G be a connected semi-simple algebraic group defined over Q and let Γ be a discrete subgroup of G R (the subgroup of G consisting of points rational over R) such that Γ\ G R is compact. The main purpose of the present paper is to prove that for a certain type of group G there exists an invariant algebraic differential from ω on G of highest degree defined over Q such that
An extremely stable open-framework metal–organic polymer with expandable structure and selective adsorption capability

A novel porous framework polymer with expandable structure, over 8% volume expansion upon inclusion, has been characterized.
On Planning and Design of Logistics Systems for Uncertain Environments

This paper addresses some issues that arise in the planning and design of logistics systems when the environment in which they are to be operated cannot be modeled accurately with certainty. The paper describes the analytical difficulties introduced by explicitly considering uncertainty, and suggests possible modeling steps that may result in more efficient, uncertainty-friendly plans.
Modeling and verification of a dual chamber implantable pacemaker

The design and implementation of software for medical devices is challenging due to their rapidly increasing functionality and the tight coupling of computation, control, and communication. The safety-critical nature and the lack of existing industry standards for verification, make this an ideal domain for exploring applications of formal modeling and analysis. In this study, we use a dual chamber implantable pacemaker as a case study for modeling and verification of control algorithms for medical devices in UPPAAL. We begin with detailed models of the pacemaker, based on the specifications and algorithm descriptions from Boston Scientific. We then define the state space of the closed-loop system based on its heart rate and developed a heart model which can non-deterministically cover the whole state space. For verification, we first specify unsafe regions within the state space and verify the closed-loop system against corresponding safety requirements. As stronger assertions are attempted, the closed-loop unsafe state may result from healthy open-loop heart conditions. Such unsafe transitions are investigated with two clinical cases of Pacemaker Mediated Tachycardia and their corresponding correction algorithms in the pacemaker. Along with emerging tools for code generation from UPPAAL models, this effort enables model-driven design and certification of software for medical devices.
Exploiting Implicit Parallelism in Dynamic Array Programming Languages

We have built an interpreter for the array programming language J. The interpreter exploits implicit data parallelism in the language to achieve good parallel speedups on a variety of benchmark applications.Many array programming languages operate on entire arrays without the need to write loops. Writing without loops simplifies the programs. Array programs without loops allow an interpreter to parallelize the execution of the code without complex analysis or input from the programmer.The J programming language includes the usual idioms of operations on arrays of the same size and shape, where the operations can often be performed in parallel for each individual item of the operands. Another opportunity comes from Js reduction operations, where suitable operations can be performed in parallel for all the items of an operand. J has a notion of verb rank, which allows programmers to simplify programs by declaring how operations are applied to operands. The verb rank mechanism allows us to extract further parallelism.Our implementation of an implicitly parallelizing interpreter for J is written entirely in Java. We have written the interpreter in a framework that produces native code for the interpreter, giving good scalar performance. The interpreter itself is responsible for exploiting the parallelism available in the applications. Our results show we attain good parallel speed-up on a variety of benchmarks, including near perfect linear speed-up on inherently parallel benchmarks.We believe that the lessons learned from our approach to exploiting data parallelism in an interpreter can be applied to other interpreted languages as well.
Experiences with a xenograft (acellular bovine collagen matrix) in gynecologic fistula repairs

Abstract Urogenital fistulas are significant, though uncommon, complications of gynecologic surgery, and fistula repair can be a challenging surgery for even the most experienced gynecologist. An interposition xenograft (acellular bovine collagen matrix), derived from bovine pericardium, has been used to accomplish successful repairs. We report on five urogenital fistula cases in which an interposition xenograft was used in achieving a successful repair. The use of an interposition xenograft is a successful option in urogenital fistula repair.
The endothelial structure of the postcapillary venules of the lymph node and the passage of lymphocytes across the venule wall.

Scanning electron microscopic observations on the luminal aspect of the high-endothelial postcapillary venules (PCV) of lymph nodes of mice, rats, hamsters, and guinea pigs show that the surface topography of these venules differs considerably from that of other venules. Two types of surface relief occur: one in which the endothelial cells bulge deeply into the lumen, thus presenting the appearance of a “cobblestone” pattern and another in which the endothelial cell has plate-like lateral extensions which intertwine with similar extensions of other cells, thus presenting a surface relief of “interlacing plates.” Both patterns occur in the same PCV. The part of the PCV with the interlacing plate pattern is located distally from the section with the cobblestone pattern and continues directly into the smooth-walled larger venules. Lymphocytes enter the wall of the PCV through the cell body of the endothelial cells regardless whether the luminal relief has a cobblestone or an interlacing plate configuration. To a more limited extent, transmural passage of lymphocytes occurs through the walls of larger and smooth-walled venules with low endothelium. The direction of movement of lymphocytes at such sites is not known.
The Influence of the Extended Family on the Involvement of Nonresident African American Fathers

This study investigates the extent to which the extended family provides support to African American nonresident fathers and its influence on their involvement with their children. The data for this study were collected from 278 African American nonresident fathers as a part of the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. The findings revealed that increased support from the child's paternal extended family was associated with higher levels of father involvement. However, increased support from the child's maternal extended family was associated with lower levels of father involvement. Implications for social work practice are included.
Imaging multi-energy gamma-ray fields with a Compton scatter camera

Multi-energy gamma-ray fields have been imaged with a ring Compton scatter camera (RCC). The RCC is intended for industrial applications, where there is a need to image multiple gamma-ray lines from spatially extended sources. To our knowledge, the ability of a Compton scatter camera to perform this task had not previously been demonstrated. Gamma rays with different incident energies are distinguished based on the total energy deposited in the camera elements. For multiple gamma-ray lines, separate images are generated for each line energy. Random coincidences and other interfering interactions have been investigated. Camera response has been characterized for energies from 0.511 to 2.75 MeV. Different gamma-ray lines from extended sources have been measured and images reconstructed using both direct and iterative algorithms. >
RESPONSE OF MICROALGAL EPIPHYTE COMMUNITIES TO NITRATE ENRICHMENT IN AN EELGRASS (ZOSTERA MARINA) MEADOW1

The community structure and productivity of epiphytic microalgae on field populations of eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) from a high flow regime were characterized under water-column nitrate enrichment over a 30–d period during the autumn growing season for the macrophyte. Epiphyte communities in replicate low-nitrogen sites (LOW-N, median water-column nitrate concentrations below detection) were compared to communities in replicate N-enriched sites wherein nitrate was leached from clay pots filled with enriched agar (N-ENRICH, median concentration ca. 6 μM NO3−-N; pots replaced at 8– to 12–d intervals). In experimental chambers, total epiphyte community productivity as 14C-bicarbonate uptake was determined from short-term (3–h) laboratory assays. Track light microscope-autoradiography enabled estimates of species-specific productivity for abundant algal taxa. After 6 d in the LOW-N and N-ENRICH communities, the crustose adnate red alga Sahlingia subintegra (Rosenvinge) Kornmann was dominant in terms of cell number and codominant in biovolume. Photosynthetic dinoflagellates, not previously reported as abundant in eelgrass epiphyte communities, were dominant in biovolume contribution after both 6 and 30 d in LOW-N communities. Nitrate enrichment stimulated the adnate monoraphid diatom Cocconeis placentula Ehr. but apparently inhibited dinoflagellates and the diatom Melosira sp. Total productivity of the epiphyte communities remained comparable in both the LOW-N and N-ENRICH sites. Shifts in community structure and species-specific productivity, however, indicated a controlling influence of nitrate supply on microalgal epiphytes in the field eelgrass community.
Paradoxical relationship between substrates and agonist-induced contractions of opossum esophageal body and sphincter in vitro.

Possible differences in the abilities of esophageal body and lower esophageal sphincter muscles to utilize substrates to support agonist-induced contractions were studied. Strips of longitudinal, circular, and lower esophageal sphincter muscle from the opossum esophagus were first contracted to approximately 70% of the maximal contraction elicited by acetylcholine, histamine, or substance P. The tissues were then exhausted by exposure to 5×10−4 M carbachol and a 15% O2-5% CO2-80% N2 gas mixture for 90 min. They were next reequilibrated with one of a number of alternative substrates and 95% O2-5% CO2 for 3 hr. Responses to the initial agonist doses were again noted and compared to controls. The alternative substrates were: 2-deoxyglucose, glucose, fructose 1–6 diphosphate, pyruvate, lactate, acetate, butyrate, caprylate, histidine, leucine, aspartate, alanine, succinate, acetoacetone, and β-hydroxybutyrate. The results obtained show qualitative differences in the ability of the three muscle types to use these substrates. More importantly, however, the ability of any one substrate to support contractions was a function of the agonist used to stimulate the muscle. The evidence suggests, therefore, that not all pharmacologic receptors have equal access to intracellular energy sources.
Stripping Detection in Asphalt Pavements with Seismic Methods

Stripping of hot-mix asphalt pavements has been a significant problem for many transportation agencies. The detection of stripping has been carried out by using either visual observation or laboratory strength tests of cores retrieved from the field. Ground-penetrating radar also has been used for this purpose. Seismic methods are presented here as a nondestructive tool to detect the extent of stripping. Seismic tests are beneficial because they are rapid to perform and nondestructive and because the material is tested in its natural state. The portable seismic property analyzer (PSPA) is an example of a device that uses two methods of analysis to detect stripping: ultrasonic surface wave (USW) and impact echo (IE). PSPA results and field cores retrieved (ground-truth data) from two sites were compared. PSPA, with the standard receiver spacing of 6 in., correlated well with cores when they were located in the first 10 in. of the asphalt layer (shallow). For deeper stripping, longer spacing between the rec...
A conceptual and quantitative analysis of skeletal morphogenesis in living species of solitary radiolaria:Euchitonia elegans andSpongaster tetras

Abstract A conceptual analysis of morphogenetic growth patterns in biomineralizing Protista is presented as an organizing perspective for the analysis of skeletal morphogenesis in two species of Radiolaria. This analysis also serves as a rationale for the derivation of a method to quantitatively express the relationship of developmental stages of growth during ontogeny of Radiolaria and other mineral secreting microzoo-plankton. As the method is based on the morphology and weight of cleaned skeletons from each stage of development, it is applicable to living and fossil samples.
ASYMPTOMATIC HYPOGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA IN A MOTHER PRESENTING AS NEONATAL MENINGITIS IN TWO SIBLINGS

The unusual occurrence of group B streptococcal (GBS) disease in siblings lead to immune studies of a boy who mimicked his older sister in developing septicemia and meningitis from GBS by the 4th day of life. His serum IgG level was only 40 mg%. His IgM was 36 and IgA was < 7. Maternal levels were all low: IgG 40, IgM 36, IgA 14 and IgE<10 mg%. Despite 14 days of penicillin and intravenous immunoglobulins, the boy's GBS (type Ic) meningitis recurred within 3 days with fever and a rise in the CSF leukocyte count from 20 to 2,025. He recovered completely during 2 more weeks of antibiotic Tx and at 7 months his Ig levels are normal. His sister had neonatal septicemia, meningitis, septic arthritis, and pneumonia which responded to 32 days of Tx. At 3 years, she is healthy with normal Ig levels: IgG 761, IgM 113, and IgA 62 mg%. The mother is healthy and has not had excess infections. GBS (type Ic) was also recovered from her vagina. She was unresponsive to rubella immunization. She has low levels of IgA in saliva: 2 mg%, and breast milk: 3 mg%. Her panhypogammaglobulinemia is associated with normal numbers of B cells that have IgA, IgG, and IgM surface markers. Her lymphocytes had a normal in vitro response to phytohemagglutinin, Concanavalin A, and pokeweed mitogen. This unique family emphasizes the importance of passive immunity in protecting newborns against GBS and it suggests that serious bacterial infections in neonates should prompt inquiry into the mother's immune competence.
From the Quixotic to the Pragmatic: The "Hamburg Declaration", Adult Education, and Work.

This chapter examines Theme 5 of the Hamburg Declaration: Adult learning and the changing world of work.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN U.S. OIL POLLUTION PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS POLICY

ABSTRACT Regulatory agencies in the United States represent the Executive Branch of the Federal Government in implementing and enforcing rules, and these agencies are required to follow certain procedures when writing those rules. At a minimum, the agency must publish a notice explaining the proposed rule, request comments, and state the basis and purpose of the final action. This paper provides examples of instances where an agency has revised the rule as a result of comments received or has otherwise been responsive to the commenter'S argument. For example, with regard to oil pollution planning and preparedness policy, commenters on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency'S proposed revisions to the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan rule raised the idea of a minimum container size for applicability of the SPCC rule and EPA included such a minimum for the first time in the final rule, thus reducing the burden of the rule for many facilities. Federal agencies are required to request...
Dissipative transport in open systems: An investigation of self-organized criticality.

Motivated by recent models of Bak, Tang, and Wiesenfeld we study dissipative transport in open systems. A simple continuum equation is constructed to describe fluctuations around a steady state in a flowing ``sandpile.'' The principle of scale invariance and self-similarity is understood in terms of a conservation law in dynamics. A dynamic renormalization-group calculation allows us to determine various critical exponents exactly in all dimensions.
Convergence rates for uniform b-spline density estimators part ii: multiple dimensions

B-Spline density estimators were discussed by Gehringer and Redner in 1992 [9] and later extended to function estimation using partitions of unity over metric spaces in Redner and Gehringer in 1994 [12] to solve problems in computer graphics. In Part I of this paper [11] we returned to the uniform B-Spline density estimators in one dimension. We proved that the B-Spline density estimator and all of its nontrivial derivatives converge in mean integrated squared errorand the asymptotic rate of convergence was determined. In Part II of this paper we establish equivalent results for the asymptotic rates of convergence of the multiple dimensional B-Splinedensity estimator as well as the rates of convergence of all of its partial derivatives.
Helium-Monolayer Completion on Graphite

The densities at which monolayers of ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ and ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ on graphite are completed are calculated. as are their compressibilities. In addition, the binding energy of the first few atoms on the second layer is obtained.
Supporting the free market: Information technology policy in Hong Kong

Economic policy in Hong Kong is frequently cited as a shining example of the laissez‐faire model for development, with minimal government intervention. However, the government has played a bigger role in the economy than is often recognized, responding to market failures, social problems, and the needs of the business community. Information technology (IT) policy in Hong Kong has mirrored the colony's laissez‐faire economic strategy, with little government effort to promote the production or use of IT products and services. Hong Kong has become an advanced user of IT in several economic sectors and an assembly site for personal computer hardware. However, like much of the manufacturing sector, the computer industry is moving much of its production to China, causing concern about the future of Hong Kong's economy. While some people feel that Hong Kong can flourish as a financial and business services center, others feel that this role will be diminished as the Chinese economy liberalizes and other centers ...
A strategy for executive staffing.

The selection of executive staff has long been a concern of successful businesses. In the early 1950s, William H. Whyte, Jr., wrote in Fortune magazine of how corporations carefully screened spouses as well as executive candidates in efforts to safeguard the corporations' futures. He then went on to portray the struggles of those aspiring to such positions in his classic novel The Organization Man (1956). By the 1980s, executive selection had become so important that search firms had proliferated and corporate CEOs like General Electric's Jack Welch were receiving national recognition for their executive succession strategies.
Integration of targeted therapy in the management of locally advanced, unresectable non-small-cell lung cancer

SUMMARY The standard of care for unresectable, locally advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC; stage IIIA and IIIB) in the past decade has been concomitant platinum-based chemoradiation therapy. Unfortunately, a plateau has been reached in terms of response and survival rates with the present chemotherapeutic paradigm. Targeted biological agents have significantly altered the treatment landscape for stage IV NSCLC and offer an opportunity to do the same for locally advanced NSCLC. While some early trials using unselected patients have shown modest promise for several biologic agents, the overall data remain mixed. One limitation of these trials has been the lack of patient enrichment based on molecular phenotype most likely to benefit from a particular targeted therapy. This review summarizes the most recent data for select classes of targeted agents being tested in the locally advanced NSCLC setting, and gives insights into future developments in this clinical area.
Functional somatotopy revealed across multiple cortical regions using a model of complex motor task.

Abstract The primary motor cortex (M1) possesses a functional somatotopic structure—representations of adjacent within-limb joints overlap to facilitate coordination while maintaining discrete centers for individuated movement. We examined whether similar organization exists across other sensorimotor cortices. Twenty-four right-handed healthy subjects underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while tracking complex targets with flexion/extension at right finger, elbow and ankle separately. Activation related to each joint at false discovery rate of 0.005 served as its representation across multiple regions. Within each region, we identified the center of mass (COM) for each representation, and the overlap between the representations of within-limb (finger and elbow) and between-limb joints (finger and ankle). Somatosensory (S1) and premotor cortices (PMC) demonstrated greater distinction of COM and minimal overlap for within- and between-limb representations. In contrast, M1 and supplementary motor area (SMA) showed more integrative somatotopy with higher sharing for within-limb representations. Superior and inferior parietal lobule (SPL and IPL) possessed both types of structure. Some clusters exhibited extensive overlap of within- and between-limb representations, while others showed discrete COMs for within-limb representations. Our results help to infer hierarchy in motor control. Areas such as S1 may be associated with individuated movements, while M1 may be more integrative for coordinated motion; parietal associative regions may allow switch between both modes of control. Such hierarchy creates redundant opportunities to exploit in stroke rehabilitation. The use of complex rather than traditionally used simple movements was integral to illustrating comprehensive somatotopic structure; complex tasks can potentially help to understand cortical representation of skill and learning-related plasticity.
Effects of Gap Geometry on Conduction Through Discontinuous Radiofrequency Lesions

Background— Gaps of sufficient cross-sectional dimensions within linear radiofrequency (RF) lesions may allow conduction through the lesion. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of different gap geometries on conduction through discontinuous RF lesions. Methods and Results— Radiofrequency lesions were created in isolated, perfused rabbit right ventricular (RV) free wall preparations to produce gaps with 3 different lesion geometries: straight, bifurcated, and angled (n=10 each group). Angled preparations contained 2 right angles within the conduction path. Optical mapping was used to assess bidirectional conduction through the myocardium before and after gap formation during pacing at 1000-, 400-, and 200-ms cycle lengths. Histological analysis was performed on each preparation after optical mapping. After lesion formation, 9 of 10 straight gap preparations and 1 of 10 angled gap preparations demonstrated bidirectional conduction (P<0.001) at all cycle lengths. Nine of 10 bifurcated gap pr...
Comparison of methods for measuring albumin in peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis patients

Abstract Serum albumin levels have been used extensively as an indicator of morbidity in patients with end-stage renal disease. Recent evidence suggests that albumin levels vary considerably in hemodialysis patients depending on the laboratory method used, but formulas for comparing albumin values by different methods have not been developed. We prospectively evaluated the effects of measuring albumin by three different methods on paired plasma and serum from 23 patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and 53 patients on chronic maintenance hemodialysis. Plasma and serum gave virtually identical results independent of method used. In CAPD patients, bromcresol green and nephelometry gave nearly identical albumin measurements through the entire range of plasma levels. In contrast, bromcresol purple gave values that were 9.9% ± 1.3% lower ( P P P
Dysfunctional leadership styles

Abstract Researching leadership style (LBDQ), from the overlooked viewpoint of the diadic relationship between the leader and his members within an entire managerial corps and supporting staff of a large industrial organization, revealed a probable dysfunctional consequence of certain leadership styles. Some of these styles appeared to produce inaccurate performance feedback for members: whereas, others seemed to generate fairly accurate feedback. Specifically, the structuring behavior of the leader was found to moderate the relationship between the consideration behavior of the leader and his members' performance. High and low structuring were related to positive and reliable relationships between consideration and performance, while intermediate structuring was related to nonsignificant correlations between considerations and performance.
Random speckle modulation technique for laser interferometry

In spite of its obvious advantages over conventional contact and immersion techniques, laser interferometry has not yet become a practical tool in ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation since its sensitivity is insufficient in most practical applications. Part of the problem is that the maximum signal-to-noise ratio often cited in scientific publications and manufacturers' specifications cannot be maintained on ordinary diffusely reflecting surfaces. Although these surfaces reflect a fair amount (5–50%) of the incident laser light, this energy is randomly distributed among a large number of bright speckles. Unless the detector happens to see one of these bright speckles, the interferometer's signal-to-noise ratio will be much lower than the optimum. This adverse effect is almost completely eliminated by the suggested random speckle modulation technique. The conventional interferometric technique was modified to assure random occurrence of a few very bright speckles and to move the whole speckle pattern around at an appropriate speed. Random but frequent bright flashes detected from the surface of the specimen resulted. The bright periods are 0.1 ms or longer, sufficient to trigger the ultrasonic pulser and detect the transmitted signals before the flash subsides. As much as 5–10 times improvement of the optical sensitivity was achieved by this novel approach and close to maximum signal-to-noise ratio was maintained everywhere on the surface of a diffuse object.
Effects of SMILE Emotional Model on Humanoid Robot User Interaction

Naturalistic conversation and emotions, while difficult to approximate in robots, facilitate interactions with non-expert users and serve to make robots more relatable and predictable. This paper describes the implementation and evaluation of two major improvements upon an existing interface, the SMILE app for the MU-L8 humanoid robot. The original version of the app is compared to a version in which popups and extraneous user touches are removed, and they are both compared to a third version in which the robot's emotions decay with time. These versions are tested in terms of ease of use, user engagement, and naturalness of interaction. User feedback and observer ratings are collected for 15 participants, and their results are described. These improvements contribute advances in the field of smartphone humanoid robotics interfaces toward a more ideal emotional and conversational model.
Future of Outcomes Measurement: Impact on Research in Medical Rehabilitation and Neurologic Populations

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has embraced the investigation and development of health-related patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for their potential use in clinical trials, as well as in examining health care reimbursements and regulatory affairs. The NIH has 3 major programs to address this topic: the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), NIH Toolbox for Assessment of Neurological and Behavioral Function, and Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders (Neuro-QOL), a health-related quality-of-life assessment tool for adults and children with neurologic disorders. These initiatives are focused on developing, validating, and measuring aspects of health by using assessment tools that bridge disease type. Given that rehabilitation takes place across a variety of environments with differing levels of specialized equipment and skilled personnel, PROs may provide consistent measures over time and therefore are anticipated to have substantial impacts on the medical rehabilitation community. Despite their advantages, the widespread use of PROs in rehabilitation faces significant and diverse challenges. This article describes the background behind the NIH PRO initiatives and illustrates both potential benefits and challenges to PRO use in the medical rehabilitation setting.
Type 1 and type 2 responses in regulation of Ig isotype expression in cattle

Regulation of humoral immune responses is multifactorial involving appropriate activation, costimulation and the presence of specific soluble factors. Polarized type 1 or type 2 humoral responses in the laboratory mouse have been linked to expression of specific cytokines and thus can be used to provide insight into the type of response generated by infection. For example, IFN-gamma has been linked to IgG2a and IgG3 production, IL-4 to IgG1 and IgE production and TGF-beta to IgA production. Unlike the laboratory mouse, generally housed under defined conditions, highly skewed isotype expression patterns generally occur in cattle in chronic infections. A few examples of polarized responses have been noted in chronic experimental or naturally occurring infections including F. hepatica, M. paratuberculosis, C. parvum and B. abortus. In vitro studies using purified bovine B cells and various forms of costimulation and cytokines have demonstrated that isotype responses can be polarized under certain experimental conditions in vitro. That is, IgG1 expression is positively regulated by IL-4 and IgG2 expression is positively regulated by IFN-gamma. Other as yet unidentified factors may play pivotal roles in regulating humoral immune responses in large ruminant species in vivo. This possibility is best exemplified by recent studies using DNA vaccines in cattle that have been demonstrated in the mouse to be generally polarizing to a type 1 response. Surprisingly, studies in cattle using plasmid DNA as vaccination material show an almost exclusive IgG1 response. Based on a number of studies using T cell clones and various biological assays, it is clear that the classical roles of many cytokines in the laboratory mouse do not extrapolate entirely or at all to cattle. Thus, the design of adjuvants and immune modulators should be based on studies done in cattle or using bovine cells. Based on studies to date, several “holes” in the cytokine repertoire exist and these roles may be assumed by unique factors or activities of other known cytokines.
A Review of Literature on Effectiveness of Use of Information Technology in Education

Many engineering educators and administrators hope that new learning technologies can help relieve the accreditation and other curricular pressures without loss of learning nor added costs. With so much promise from use of new technologies, we conducted an extensive review of studies seeking evidence of this promise. Over 2,200 studies were reviewed (directly or indirectly) and about 760, which met our criteria, were used. Our review provides convincing evidence that information technologies can enhance learning when pedagogy is sound, and when there is good match of technology, techniques and objectives.
A Flexible Domain Is Essential for the Large Step Size and Processivity of Myosin VI

Myosin VI moves processively along actin with a larger step size than expected from the size of the motor. Here, we show that the proximal tail (the ∼80-residue segment following the IQ domain) is not a rigid structure but, rather, a flexible domain that permits the heads to separate. With a GCN4 coiled coil inserted in the proximal tail, the heads are closer together in electron microscopy (EM) images, and the motor takes shorter processive steps. Single-headed myosin VI S1 constructs take nonprocessive 12 nm steps, suggesting that most of the processive step is covered by a diffusive search for an actin binding site. Based on these results, we present a mechanical model that describes stepping under an applied load.
Rapid ion-exchange chromatographic microanalysis of ultraviolet-absorbing materials and its application to nucleosides☆

The major nucleosides obtained by hydrolysis of RNA are quantitatively assayed in less than 1 hr at the level of 1 or more nmoles by cation-exchange chromatography and a sensitive, continuous ultraviolet-absorbance monitoring device. A uniform cation-exchanger bead preparation (17.5 ± 2 μm diameter) permits operation at low (6–16 psi) pressures and rapid flow rates (1 ml/cm2 min) without loss of resolution. Analytical sensitivity is enhanced by improved flow cell and electronic circuit designs. A multi wavelength monitoring unit incorporated into the monitoring system aids in assaying substances of differing ultraviolet-absorption characteristics. Minor or altered nucleosides (20) and purine and pyrimidine bases (8) are separable, with few exceptions, by means of the single solvent chosen for the elution. The parameters determining the effectiveness of the separations have been explored and are expressed in terms permitting design modifications to improve the separation of refractory pairs or shorten the analysis time or both.
Species‐Level Heritability Reaffirmed: A Comment on “On the Heritability of Geographic Range Sizes”

Abstract: For many current issues in macroevolution and macroecology, it is important to know to what degree the attributes of species are shared among closely related lineages, a concept sometimes referred to as species‐level heritability. Recently, Webb and Gaston proposed a new method for analyzing the heritability of geographic range size and concluded that range size is not heritable in Cretaceous gastropods (data from Jablonski) and modern birds (their data). Here we show that Webb and Gaston’s method is flawed in that it implicitly assumes that range sizes are uniformly distributed. When range size distributions show their characteristic strong right skew, Webb and Gaston’s method spuriously tends to find that range sizes of closely related pairs of species are more dissimilar than the random expectation. A reanalysis of Jablonski’s data finds range size to be robustly and strongly heritable in Cretaceous gastropods and less strongly but still significantly heritable in present‐day birds.