bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Rule Induction for Expert System Development: The Case of Asset Writedowns
Authors: Ragothaman Srinivasan , Naik Bijayananda
Published: March 2014

There was a significant increase in the frequency and magnitude of asset writedowns by US firms during the 1980s. Auditors, financial analysts and regulators have shown considerable interest in evaluating the writedown phenomenon. This paper reports on the use of inductive learning to discover knowledge in financial data structures and describes the development and testing of a prototype expert system, WDXPERT, which evaluates asset writedowns. Real‐world data relating to writedown and non‐writedown firms are used for rule induction. A set of training examples comprising 42 writedown and 25 non‐writedown firms are used to generate the rules using IXL, a machine‐learning program. A separate holdout sample containing 43 writedown and 25 non‐writedown firms are used to validate the expert system that incorporates these rules. A second validation procedure is performed by comparing the performance of the expert system with a conventional discriminant analysis model and a logit model using the same data sets. The results indicate that the expert system, WDXPERT, is a useful classification tool to group firms into writedown and non‐writedown classes.
A Comparative Analysis of Artificial Neural Networks Using Financial Distress Prediction
Authors: Fanning Kurt M. , Cogger Kenneth O.
Published: March 2014

Abstract

This paper examines the efficiency of a generalized adaptive neural network algorithm (GANNA) processor in comparison to earlier model‐based methods, a back‐propagation artificial neural network, and logistic regression approaches to data classification. The research uses the binary classification problem of discriminating between failing and non‐failing firms to compare the methods. The results indicate the potential in time savings and the successful classification results available from a GANNA processor.
A Little AI Goes a Long Way on Wall Street
Authors: Leinweber David , Beinart Yossi
Published: March 2014

Abstract

This is a history and technical overview of one of the major AI successes in securities trading. It incorporates only as much AI as the financial user community could deal with, integrating tightly with their electronic environment. Computational resources are used to make a simple, highly application‐specific user interface, a small firm has succeeded in developing a system used by many of the largest institutional investors and money managers in the USA. The system is directly linked to the NYSE and other electronic equity‐execution systems. This is not a prototype or a proposal. This is real and in wide use today, often generating transaction volumes exceeding 5 million shares per day. Traders use a special‐purpose rule‐based language to describe a wide variety of market conditions. The system keeps up with high‐speed incoming market data in real‐time and tells the traders when, and how strongly, their specified conditions match the current state of the market. It can also formulate trading recommendations based on those conditions. Finally, and most importantly, it provides direct access to electronic execution channels for quick action on these recommendations. The combination of tight integration with both market data and electronic executions, an appropriate, accessible user interface, and a high level of support have contributed to a major AI success story. The transactions flowing through these systems produce more revenue on a good day than many other AI applications will generate over their entire operational lifetimes.
Analysis of the Effectiveness of Machine Learning in Determining Decision Rules for Executive Compensation Planning
Authors: Michaelsen Robert H. , Swigger Kathleen M.
Published: March 2014

Abstract

This paper describes the use of a machine‐learning technique to derive executive compensation planning rules. The specific learning technique was AQ15, which constructs rules by classifying sample data according to features or characteristics. The validity of the resulting rules was tested by obtaining a measure of performance called an estimate of the error rate. The machine‐derived rules were then compared to rules made by human experts and by two other versions of AQ15. Although not statistically significant, the machine‐learning version of AQ15 using hypotheses from human experts outperformed the other methods of rule construction.
A Neural Network Analysis of Mortgage Choice
Authors: Grudnitski G. , Do A. Quang , Shilling J. D.
Published: March 2014

Abstract

There exists today an unanswered question as to whether, and the degree to which, borrower characteristics impact the choice between fixed and adjustable rate mortgages. In this paper, we apply a neural network analysis to supply evidence that answers this question. We find evidence that the characteristics of a borrower's net worth, marital status and education level and whether a co‐borrower is involved contribute in a significant way to the neural network's ability to determine mortgage choice. Further, we show how, because of the facility of neural networks in modeling intrasample differences, they achieve material and statistically significant accuracy gains over qualitative choice models in predicting whether a borrower will choose a fixed or adjustable rate mortgage.
AMTexpert: An Expert Decision Support System for the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax
Authors: Craig Caroline Kern , Silhan Peter A.
Published: March 2014

Abstract

AMTexpert is a prototype of an expert decision support system (EDSS) for the corporate alternative minimum tax (AMD. The corporate AMT was introduced as part of the Tax Reform Act of 1986 in order to force US corporations to pay more tax. The complicated and interrelated nature of the AMT system has made compliance and planning even more difficult for corporate taxpayers. Given the complexities of the corporate AMT, significant benefits may accrue from the development of an EDSS. In effect, an EDSS combines the judgmental benefits of an expert system (ES) with the computational benefits of a decision support system (DSS). AMTexpert is menu driven with six interdependent phases. The heart of the system is a ‘scoreboard’ used to compare and evaluate alternative tax positions. Context‐sensitive advice and explanations are provided to guide the user. The system was validated and evaluated by two groups of outside experts. AMTexpert demonstrates that an EDSS may be developed from existing tax and systems software.
An Analysis of Potential Legal Liability Incurred Through Audit Expert Systems
Authors: Sutton Steve G. , Young Ronald , McKenzie Phyllis
Published: March 2014

Abstract

The introduction of expert systems technology into the audit environment has opened a new avenue of auditor legal liability. This paper examines the potential impact expert systems will have on auditor liability. The presentation of this new avenue of auditors' legal liability explores both the potential for litigation under failure of auditor/expert system collaboration to yield prudent decisions and the failure to use an available expert system. The risks evolving from failure to use an available expert system include the possibility that the system could be used against the auditor in the courtroom. While case law will ultimately determine the bounds of this liability, this paper acquaints the reader with the important legal issues involved and the varied outcomes that could emerge. It should also be noted that while the specific example presented in this paper relates to the audit profession, the legal concepts are of equivalent concern to other professions enduring broad implementation of expert systems.
Cooperative Knowledge Processing: The Key Technology for Future Organizations
Authors: Kirn Stefan
Published: March 2014

Abstract

Drawing from the challenges organizations are faced with today, there is a growing understanding that future market success and long‐term survival of enterprises will increasingly be related to the effectiveness of information technology utilization. This, however, requires us to intertwine much more seriously organizational theory and research in information processing than previously. In this paper we approached this aim from the perspective of radically decentralized, computerized enterprises. We further assume that organizations are increasingly process‐oriented, rather than applying to structuring organizations based on task decomposition and assignment. This scenario reveals that, due to the inherent autonomy of organizational units, the coordination of decentralized organizational activities (workflows, processes) necessitates a cooperative style of problem solving. On this basis, the paper introduces the research area of cooperative knowledge processing, with a particular focus on multi‐agent decision support systems and human‐computer cooperative work. Finally, several important organizational applications of cooperative knowledge processing are presented that demonstrate how future enterprises can take great advantage from these new technologies.
Evaluating Competitive Strategies
Authors: Moss Scott , Dixon Huw David , Wallis Steven
Published: March 2014

Abstract

In this paper we introduce a conception of learning which is a natural extension of economists' representations of learning and which is natural to develop using KBS technology. In the particular form of KBS we use, rule conditions and actions are well‐formulated formulae of first‐order predicate logic (FOPL). As a result, the simulation results obtained from these models are no less analytical than those of pure analytic models. Our results are further strengthened by an experimental design for simulations of competitive behaviour which eliminates implicit bias in the selection of possible behaviours. The system is applied to the Cournot duopoly model. We find that modest intelligence on the part of at least one duopolist systematically increases the profits of both.
New Technologies for Customer Rating: Integration of Knowledge‐Based Systems and Human Judgement
Authors: Wolf Michael F.
Published: March 2014

Abstract

Avoiding incorrect credit decisions and minimizing the required effort are crucial factors for the economic success of a bank. A basic task of credit granting is a correct valuation of a customer's annual account. CUBUS was designed to give general valuation and a first global impression of a company quickly. It also draws the user's attention to the most critical items of the balance sheet. In addition, detailed analysis and valuations of each annual account item is provided. CUBUS goals which have been achieved include increasing decision quality, improving the know‐how level of the staff, improving communication among different departments and finally defining and establishing generally accepted guidelines and norms. The system allows very flexible human‐computer cooperation. It works as a competent assistant which provides the following functions: autonomous valuations, reactive assistance, active consulting, interactive problem solving, tutoring and supervising. When SBC's (Swiss Bank Corporation) general management decided that all commercial customers had to be rated, an application had to be developed to make CUBUS judgements available to all credit specialists within the existing mainframe database environment. The integration of mainframe databases and transactions, knowledge‐based systems running on workstations, and the judgement of human users raised the challenging question of what general principles have to be applied when such diverse components have to be combined in the most efficient way.
Electrodermal responses and memory recall in migraineurs and headache‐free controls
Authors: Tomé‐Pires C. , Miró J.
Published: March 2014

Background

Chronic pain patients show increased peripheral activity when exposed to stimuli relevant to their pain problem. It has been suggested that in migraine there is a highly specific conditioning or sensitization to pain stimuli. The aims of this study were to analyse whether migraineurs (1) are sensitive not only to pain‐related but also to other negative emotional words; and (2) show a memory bias for pain words, when compared to headache‐free controls.

Methods

Sixty‐six adults participated in the study ( years; SD = 7). They observed 30 words (pain or negative emotional or neutral) in a pseudo‐randomized order. Subsequently, participants were asked to recall the words presented during the trial.

Results

Skin conductance responses (SCRs) induced by pain descriptors and emotional words were very similar to each other and significantly larger than those induced by neutral words; however, there were no differences between both groups in SCRs. Significant differences in immediate memory recall were found between the two groups: migraineurs recalled more emotional words than controls.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that in migraine, not only pain‐related but also negative emotional words may act as triggers. These outcomes may have therapeutic implications as interventions could target problematic pain‐related memories that influence migraine pain perception and pain‐related physiological responses.
Properties of dehydrated human amnion/chorion composite grafts: Implications for wound repair and soft tissue regeneration
Authors: Koob Thomas J. , Lim Jeremy J. , Massee Michelle , Zabek Nicole , Denozière Guilhem
Published: March 2014

PURION® processed dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane (dHACM; MiMedx Group, Marietta, GA) tissue products were analyzed for the effectiveness of the PURION® process in retaining the native composition of the amniotic membrane and preserving bioactivity in the resulting products. dHACM was analyzed for extracellular matrix (ECM) composition through histological staining and for growth factor content via multiplex ELISA arrays. Bioactivity was assessed by evaluating endogenous growth factor production by human dermal fibroblasts in response to dHACM and for thermal stability by mechanical tests and in vitro cell proliferation assays. Histology of dHACM demonstrated preservation of the native amnion and chorion layers with intact, nonviable cells, collagen, proteoglycan, and elastic fibers distributed in the individual layers. An array of 36 cytokines known to regulate processes involved in inflammation and wound healing were identified in dHACM. When treated with dHACM extracts, bioactivity was demonstrated through an upregulation of basic fibroblast growth factor, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor, and placental growth factor biosynthesis, three growth factors involved in wound healing, by dermal fibroblasts in vitro. After conditioning at temperatures ranging from −78.7 to +73.5°C, dHACM retained its tensile strength and ability to promote proliferation of dermal fibroblasts in vitro. Elution experiments demonstrated a soluble fraction of growth factors that eluted from the tissue and another fraction sequestered within the matrix. The PURION® process retains the native composition of ECM and signaling molecules and preserves bioactivity. The array of cytokines preserved in dHACM are in part responsible for its therapeutic efficacy in treating chronic wounds by orchestrating a “symphony of signals” to promote healing. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 102B: 1353–1362, 2014.
Free energy calculations, enhanced by a gaussian ansatz, for the “chemical work” distribution
Authors: Boulougouris Georgios C.
Published: March 2014

The evaluation of the free energy is essential in molecular simulation because it is intimately related with the existence of multiphase equilibrium. Recently, it was demonstrated that it is possible to evaluate the Helmholtz free energy using a single statistical ensemble along an entire isotherm by accounting for the “chemical work” of transforming each molecule, from an interacting one, to an ideal gas. In this work, we show that it is possible to perform such a free energy perturbation over a liquid vapor phase transition. Furthermore, we investigate the link between a general free energy perturbation scheme and the novel nonequilibrium theories of Crook's and Jarzinsky. We find that for finite systems away from the thermodynamic limit the second law of thermodynamics will always be an inequality for isothermal free energy perturbations, resulting always to a dissipated work that may tend to zero only in the thermodynamic limit. The work, the heat, and the entropy produced during a thermodynamic free energy perturbation can be viewed in the context of the Crooks and Jarzinsky formalism, revealing that for a given value of the ensemble average of the “irreversible” work, the minimum entropy production corresponded to a Gaussian distribution for the histogram of the work. We propose the evaluation of the free energy difference in any free energy perturbation based scheme on the average irreversible “chemical work” minus the dissipated work that can be calculated from the variance of the distribution of the logarithm of the work histogram, within the Gaussian approximation. As a consequence, using the Gaussian ansatz for the distribution of the “chemical work,” accurate estimates for the chemical potential and the free energy of the system can be performed using much shorter simulations and avoiding the necessity of sampling the computational costly tails of the “chemical work.” For a more general free energy perturbation scheme that the Gaussian ansatz may not be valid, the free energy calculation can be expressed in terms of the moment generating function of the “chemical work” distribution. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Novel Substituted 2‐Lactosylthiothieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4(3H)‐one Derivatives
Authors: Dai Qiu‐hong , Yan Kai , Liu Ming‐guo
Published: March 2014

The title compounds substituted 2‐lactosylthiothieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4‐ones 6 were synthesized by the glycosyl reaction and alcoholysis reaction of substituted 2‐thioxo‐thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4‐ones 4,which is formed by the base catalytic and acetic acidify reaction of amino esters 2 with alkyl or arylisothiocyanates and hepta‐O‐acetyl‐lactosyl bromide in good yields. All of the compounds were confirmed by NMR, ESI‐MS, and elemental analysis.
A “One Pot,” Environmentally Friendly, Multicomponent Synthesis of 2‐Amino‐5‐cyano‐4‐[(2‐aryl)‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl]‐6‐hydroxypyrimidines and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Gupta Ragini , Jain Anshu , Madan Yogita , Menghani Ekta
Published: March 2014

A series of multifunctional 2‐amino‐5‐cyano‐4‐[(2‐aryl)‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl]‐6‐hydroxypyrimidines (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f) was synthesized by multicomponent reaction of 3‐formylindole (1), cyanoethylacetate (2), and guanidine hydrochloride (3) with NaOH by using green chemical techniques, viz. microwave irradiation and grindstone technology. The same reactants when refluxed in ethanol also gave titled compounds (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f). Compared with conventional procedure, the reaction can be carried out under milder conditions, requiring a shorter reaction time and giving higher yields following the green chemistry methodology. All the synthesized compounds have been characterized on the basis of elemental analyses and spectral data (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass). All synthesized compounds were also evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against nine pathogenic bacteria, antifungal activity against Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus flavus, and Fusarium oxysporum and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at different concentrations. Most of the compounds showed mild to moderate activity.
Synthesis of Novel Pyrido[3′,2′:4,5]furo[3,2‐d]pyrimidine Derivatives and Their Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Naresh Kumar R. , Malla Reddy G. , Nagendar P. , Kurumurthy C. , Shanthan Rao P. , Karnewar Santosh , Kotamraju Srigiridhar , Narsaiah B.
Published: March 2014

The 3‐amino‐6‐(trifluoromethyl)furo[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carbohydrazide (5) was prepared from 3‐cyano‐6‐trifluoromethyl‐2(1H)pyridone (2) in series of steps via selective O‐alkylation, Thorpe–Ziegler cyclization followed by reaction with hydrazine hydrate. The 2‐carbohydrazide (5) was further reacted with aliphatic acids under different reaction temperatures to form a series of novel N‐acylfuro[2,3‐b]pyridine‐2‐carbohydrazide (6) and pyrido[3′,2′:4,5]furo[3,2‐d]pyrimidine derivatives (7). All the compounds 6 and 7 were screened for cytotoxic activity against breast carcinoma MD Anderson‐Metastatic Breast (MDA‐MB) 231 (aggressive) cell lines at 10 µM concentration. Compounds 6a, 6b, and 6c showed promising activity.
On the state of the knowledge of rainfall extremes in the western and northern Pacific basin
Authors: Kruk Michael C. , Lorrey Andrew M. , Griffiths Georgina M. , Lander Mark , Gibney Ethan J. , Diamond Howard J. , Marra John J.
Published: March 2014

The relevant literature on extreme rainfall events in the Pacific remains relatively sparse compared to other regions (e.g. the coterminous United States, Europe, etc.). Moreover, several recent reports on climate in the Pacific mention the paucity of extremes information and often list ‘trends in historical climate’ as a necessary next step. This scientific assessment meets this need by examining historical trends in and drivers of extreme rainfall events across the entire Pacific Basin, inclusive from Alaska southward to Australia, and longitudinally from the Philippines eastward to North America, with an emphasis on island and coastal locations (within 200 km of the coastline). There is evidence of a general decrease in the frequency of annual extreme rainfall events, yet the amount of extreme precipitation contributing to annual and seasonal totals appears to be on the rise. Region‐wide, the number of consecutive dry days is increasing for those locations that are already dry, while the number of consecutive wet days is increasing for the already wet locales. The data for extreme rainfall statistics are considered to be relatively high quality for trend detection, while the level of understanding of the physical causes behind extreme rainfall is positively high. Since the ability to analyze the changes in historical rainfall extremes with some confidence is relatively recent, understanding is expected to improve in the future with the advancement of new datasets and ‘climate reanalysis’ projects.
Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success
Authors: Jespersen Susan
Published: March 2014

By Adam Grant

New York, NY: Viking Penguin Group, 2013. 305 pp. ISBN: 978‐0‐670‐02655‐5. $27.95

Reviewed by Susan Jespersen, DBA
Microsphere‐Based Intracellular Sensing of Caspase‐3/7 in Apoptotic Living Cells
Authors: Cárdenas‐Maestre Juan Manuel , Pérez‐López Ana M. , Bradley Mark , Sánchez‐Martín Rosario M.
Published: March 2014

A novel multifunctional probe to monitor intracellular enzymatic activity in living cells is successfully developed. Their use as accurate intracellular sensors by conjugation of an internal control (that gives an extra feature to both evaluate cellular‐uptake efficiency and track probes over time) is reported. In particular, a specific application of these multifunctional microspheres as sensors of caspase‐3/7 to monitor apoptosis by flow cytometry is described. The preparation of these devices together with a kinetic study towards caspase‐3 and caspase‐7 and their evaluation as flow cytometry probe in apoptotic living cells are reported.
Influence of H‐Bonding on Self‐Assembly and Tunable Dual‐Emission of Carbazole‐Based Zn(II)‐Terpyridine Metallocycles
Authors: Gao Yang , He Tingchao , Hu Peng , Koh Teck Ming , Sun Handong , Grimsdale Andrew C.
Published: March 2014

Two carbazole derivatives with terpyridine units attached to the 3,6‐positions are synthesized, 1 with a hydrogen at the 9‐position and 2 bearing a dodecyl chain there, to evaluate the influence of H‐bonds on their self‐assembly behavior with metal ions. The unalkylated derivative 1 assembles with zinc ions to form a single product identified by NMR, electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) as a pentametric metallocycle (Zn‐1), whereas 2 forms a mixture of two assemblies (Zn‐2). The pentamer Zn‐1 shows tunable dual emission in the blue and green regions by varying the solvent and excitation wavelength, and molecular packing studies by powder X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), polarising optical microscopy (POM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) reveals a high propensity to form ordered layers. A fluorescence quenching experiment of electron‐rich Zn‐1 with C60 shows a high association constant of Ksv = 3.2 × 105m−1, suggesting effective charge transfer between Zn‐1 and C60 molecules.

image
Fabrication of Nanofibrous Mats with Uniform Thickness and Fiber Density
Authors: Lee Jongwan , Jeong Young Hun , Cho Dong‐Woo
Published: March 2014

Because of their unique advantages, non‐woven nanofibrous mats are now being widely used in various fields. Accordingly, a variety of fabrication techniques have been proposed for manufacturing these mats. Electrospinning has emerged as one of the most popular methods for fabricating nanofibers. However, the whipping motion of the electrospinning jet of conventional electrospinning imposes a knotty limitation on the geometric control. Thus, when nanofibrous mats are fabricated via electrospinning, geometric uniformity cannot be assured, and this can significantly affect the performance, quality, and reliability of their applications. In this study, a direct‐write electrospinning‐based fabrication method for nanofibrous mats that provides greater overall thickness and fiber‐density uniformity is proposed. Various nanofibrous mats fabricated via the proposed method are presented, and their morphological and mechanical properties are experimentally investigated. The fabricated nanofibrous mats exhibit better thickness and fiber‐density uniformity, and their mechanical properties are controllable.
Two‐dimensional imaging in a lightweight portable MRI scanner without gradient coils
Authors: Cooley Clarissa Zimmerman , Stockmann Jason P. , Armstrong Brandon D. , Sarracanie Mathieu , Lev Michael H. , Rosen Matthew S. , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

As the premiere modality for brain imaging, MRI could find wider applicability if lightweight, portable systems were available for siting in unconventional locations such as intensive care units, physician offices, surgical suites, ambulances, emergency rooms, sports facilities, or rural healthcare sites.

Methods

We construct and validate a truly portable (<100 kg) and silent proof‐of‐concept MRI scanner which replaces conventional gradient encoding with a rotating lightweight cryogen‐free, low‐field magnet. When rotated about the object, the inhomogeneous field pattern is used as a rotating spatial encoding magnetic field (rSEM) to create generalized projections which encode the iteratively reconstructed two‐dimensional (2D) image. Multiple receive channels are used to disambiguate the nonbijective encoding field.

Results

The system is validated with experimental images of 2D test phantoms. Similar to other nonlinear field encoding schemes, the spatial resolution is position dependent with blurring in the center, but is shown to be likely sufficient for many medical applications.

Conclusion

The presented MRI scanner demonstrates the potential for portability by simultaneously relaxing the magnet homogeneity criteria and eliminating the gradient coil. This new architecture and encoding scheme shows convincing proof of concept images that are expected to be further improved with refinement of the calibration and methodology. Magn Reson Med 73:872–883, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tenure Tensions: Out in the Enchanted Forest
Authors: Tyler Jo A.
Published: March 2014

The tenure track in higher education represents a path shrouded in a fair degree of mystery. This essay provides the perspective of a middle‐aged, second‐career tenure track faculty member on the vagaries of progressing down the track as an out lesbian. Three dialectics that build tension into the process — covering‐creating, evaluation‐liberation, and alienation‐authenticity — are discussed.
A phase I trial of MK‐2206 in children with refractory malignancies: A Children's Oncology Group study
Authors: Fouladi Maryam , Perentesis John P. , Phillips Christine L. , Leary Sarah , Reid Joel M. , McGovern Renee M. , Ingle Ashish M. , Ahern Charlotte H. , Ames Matthew M. , Houghton Peter , Doyle L. Austin , Weigel Brenda , Blaney Susan M.
Published: March 2014

Background

We report results of a phase I trial designed to estimate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), describe dose‐limiting toxicities (DLT), and characterize the pharmacokinetic profile of MK‐2206, an AKT inhibitor, in children with refractory or recurrent malignancies.

Procedure

MK‐2206 was administered either every other day (Schedule 1), or once a week (Schedule 2) in a 28‐day cycle. Dose escalations in increments of ∼30% were independently made in each part using the rolling‐six design. Serial pharmacokinetic (PK) studies were obtained. Biological studies include analysis of PI3K/PTEN/AKT‐cell signaling pathway in pre and post‐therapy in PBMC and in tumors at diagnosis or recurrence.

Results

Fifty patients (26 males, median age 12.6 years [range, 3.1–21.9]) with malignant glioma (16), ependymoma (4), hepatocellular carcinoma (3), gliomatosis cereberi (2), or other tumors (22) were enrolled; 40 were fully evaluable for toxicity (Schedule 1, n = 23; Schedule 2, n = 17). Schedule 1 DLTs included: grade 3 dehydration in 1/6 patients at 28 mg/m2; grade 4 hyperglycemia and neutropenia in 1/6 patients at 45 mg/m2; and grade 3 rash in 3/6 patients at dose level 4 (58 mg/m2). Schedule 2 DLTs included: grade 3 alkaline phosphatase in 1/6 patients at 90 mg/m2; grade 3 rash in 1/6 patients at 120 mg/m2; and grade 3 rash in 2/6 patients at 155 mg/m2.

Conclusions

The recommended pediatric phase 2 dose of MK‐2206 is 45 mg/m2/dose every other day or 120 mg/m2/dose weekly. PK appeared linear over the dose range studied. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1246–1251. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Living with the physical and mental consequences of an ostomy: a study among 1–10‐year rectal cancer survivors from the population‐based PROFILES registry
Authors: Mols Floortje , Lemmens Valery , Bosscha Koop , van den Broek Wim , Thong Melissa S.Y.
Published: March 2014

Background

This study examined the physical and mental consequences of an ostomy among 1–10‐year rectal cancer survivors.

Methods

Patients with rectal cancer diagnosed from 2000 to 2009, as registered in the population‐based Eindhoven Cancer Registry, received a questionnaire on quality of life (QOL; EORTC QLQ‐C30), disease‐specific health status (EORTC QLQ‐CR38), depression and anxiety (HADS), illness perceptions (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire), and health care utilization; 76% (n = 1019) responded.

Results

A total of 408 (43%) rectal cancer survivors had an ostomy at survey and they reported a statistically significant and clinically relevant lower physical, role, and social functioning, and global health status/QOL but fewer problems with constipation and diarrhea compared with those without an ostomy. Also, they had a significantly worse body image, more male sexual problems, and fewer gastrointestinal problems although these differences were not clinically relevant. No differences regarding the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression were found. Survivors with an ostomy believed that their illness have significantly more serious consequences, will last longer (clinically relevant), and were more concerned about their illness compared with those without an ostomy. Survivors with an ostomy visited their medical specialist, but not their general practitioner, significantly more often. Also, they more often received additional support after cancer treatment.

Conclusions

Rectal cancer survivors with an ostomy have a lower QOL, worse illness perceptions, and a higher health care consumption compared with those without an ostomy 1–10 years after diagnosis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychological distress and unsatisfied need for psychosocial support in adolescent and young adult cancer patients during the first year following diagnosis
Authors: Zebrack Brad J. , Corbett Virginia , Embry Leanne , Aguilar Christine , Meeske Kathleen A. , Hayes‐Lattin Brandon , Block Rebecca , Zeman David T. , Cole Steven
Published: March 2014

Purpose

Identifying at‐risk adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients and referring them to age‐appropriate psychosocial support services may be instrumental in reducing psychological distress and promoting psychosocial adaptation. The purpose of this study is to identify trajectories of clinically significant levels of distress throughout the first year following diagnosis and to distinguish factors, including supportive care service use, that predict the extent to which AYAs report distress.

Methods

In this prospective multisite study, 215 AYAs aged 15–39 years were assessed for psychological distress and psychosocial support service use within the first 4 months of diagnosis and again 6 and 12 months later. On the basis of distress scores, respondents were assigned to one of four distress trajectory groups (Resilient, Recovery, Delayed, and Chronic). Multiple logistic regression analyses examined whether demographics, clinical variables, and reports of unsatisfied need for psychosocial support were associated with distress trajectories over 1 year.

Results

Twelve percent of AYAs reported clinically significant chronic distress throughout the first 12 months following diagnosis. An additional 15% reported delayed distress. Substantial proportions of AYAs reported that needs for information (57%), counseling (41%), and practical support (39%) remained unsatisfied at 12 months following diagnosis. Not getting counseling needs met, particularly with regard to professional mental health services, was observed to be significantly associated with distress over time.

Conclusions

Substantial proportions of AYAs are not utilizing psychosocial support services. Findings suggest the importance of identifying psychologically distressed AYAs and addressing their needs for mental health counseling throughout a continuum of care. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intestinal absorption of the antiepileptic drug substance vigabatrin is altered by infant formula in vitro and in vivo.
Authors: Nøhr Martha Kampp , Thale Zia I. , Brodin Birger , Hansen Steen H. , Holm René , Nielsen Carsten Uhd
Published: March 2014

Vigabatrin is an antiepileptic drug substance mainly used in pediatric treatment of infantile spasms. The main source of nutrition for infants is breast milk and/or infant formula. Our hypothesis was that infant formula may affect the intestinal absorption of vigabatrin. The aim was therefore to investigate the potential effect of coadministration of infant formula with vigabatrin on the oral absorption in vitro and in vivo. The effect of vigabatrin given with an infant formula on the oral uptake and transepithelial transport was investigated in vitro in Caco‐2 cells. In vivo effects of infant formula and selected amino acids on the pharmacokinetic profile of vigabatrin was investigated after oral coadministration to male Sprague–Dawley rats using acetaminophen as a marker for gastric emptying. The presence of infant formula significantly reduced the uptake rate and permeability of vigabatrin in Caco‐2 cells. Oral coadministration of vigabatrin and infant formula significantly reduced Cmax and prolonged tmax of vigabatrin absorption. Ligands for the proton‐coupled amino acid transporter PAT1, sarcosine, and proline/l‐tryptophan had similar effects on the pharmacokinetic profile of vigabatrin. The infant formula decreased the rate of gastric emptying. Here we provide experimental evidence for an in vivo role of PAT1 in the intestinal absorption of vigabatrin. The effect of infant formula on the oral absorption of vigabatrin was found to be due to delayed gastric emptying, however, it seems reasonable that infant formula may also directly affect the intestinal absorption rate of vigabatrin possibly via PAT1.
Vapor transport deposition of large‐area polycrystalline CdTe for radiation image sensor application
Authors: Yang Keedong , Cha Bokyung , Heo Duchang , Jeon Sungchae
Published: March 2014

Vapor transport deposition (VTD) process delivers saturated vapor to substrate, resulting in high‐throughput and scalable process. In addition, VTD can maintain lower substrate temperature than close‐spaced sublimation (CSS). The motivation of this work is to adopt several advantages of VTD for radiation image sensor application. Polycrystalline CdTe films were obtained on 300 mm×300 mm indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass. The polycrystalline CdTe film has columnar structure with average grain size of 3 µm ∼ 9 µm, which can be controlled by changing the substrate temperature. In order to analyze electrical and X‐ray characteristics, ITO‐CdTe‐Al sandwich structured device was fabricated. Effective resistivity of the polycrystalline CdTe film was ∼1.4×109Ωcm. The device was operated under hole‐collection mode. The responsivity and the µτ product estimated to be 6.8 µC/cm2R and 5.5×10–7 cm2/V. The VTD can be a process of choice for monolithic integration of CdTe thick film for radiation image sensor and CMOS/TFT circuitry. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth and electro‐optical characterization of ZnMgTe/ZnTe waveguide by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Sun W. , Nakasu T. , Taguri K. , Aiba T. , Yamashita S. , Kobayashi M. , Togo H. , Asahi T.
Published: March 2014

ZnMgTe/ZnTe/ZnMgTe thin film waveguide with high crystal quality were grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The in‐plane mismatch between the ZnMgTe cladding layers and ZnTe core layer was about 0.02% which was measured by X‐ray reciprocal space mapping (RSM). It indicated that films were grown coherently with high crystal quality. The Electro‐Optical characterization of waveguide was evaluated using 1.55µm polarized lights and bias applied on the waveguide device from –15 V to +15 V. The de‐pendence of light phase shift passed though the waveguide on the applied voltage bias was studied. The electro‐optical characterization of the waveguide device was about 7% of the theoretical calculation. It could be improved by increasing the resistance ratio between the ZnMgTe/ZnTe/ZnMgTe waveguide structure and substrate so that the electric field applied on the waveguide structure could be improved. It was indicated that the ZnMgTe/ZnTe/ZnMgTe thin film waveguide has the potential to become a high efficiency electro‐optical device. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Sputtering‐assisted metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition of Yb‐doped ZnO for photonic conversion in Si solar cells
Authors: Okada Ryutaro , Miao Wei , Terai Yoshikazu , Tsuji Takahiro , Fujiwara Yasufumi
Published: March 2014

We have grown Yb‐doped ZnO (ZnO:Yb) on c‐plane sapphire substrates by sputtering‐assisted metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition (SA‐MOCVD). X‐ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that these ZnO:Yb films exhibit a c‐axis orientation and that the lattice constant increases with Yb concentration. After annealing the samples at 600 °C for 0.5 h in O2, they showed a clear 980 nm emission due to the intra‐4f shell transitions of 2F5/2–2F7/2in Yb3+ ions. It turns out that Yb lu‐minescent centers with different local structures coexist, which exhibit different energy transfer processes from the ZnO host. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nocturnal wind‐directional shear in complex terrain
Authors: Mahrt L. , Richardson Scott , Stauffer David , Seaman Nelson
Published: March 2014

In the weak‐wind nocturnal boundary layer, the wind direction near the surface may vary substantially with height. The directional shear is caused by transient modes and shallow, terrain‐induced motions. This study examines the large directional shear for nocturnal data collected in the lowest 10 m from three field programs. The directional shear in two broad valleys with high sidewalls is dominated by transient motions within the valley cold pool. In contrast, the directional shear within a shallow narrow valley is dominated by terrain‐induced down‐valley drainage flows, in spite of the fact that the magnitude and height of the valley sidewalls are much smaller than the other two valleys. The relative contribution of the directional shear to the total vector shear is examined as a function of wind speed and stability.
Co‐Delivery of Doxorubicin and siRNA with Reduction and pH Dually Sensitive Nanocarrier for Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Chen Weicai , Yuan Yuanyuan , Cheng Du , Chen Jifeng , Wang Lu , Shuai Xintao
Published: March 2014

Drug resistance is the greatest challenge in clinical cancer chemotherapy. Co‐delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and siRNA to tumor cells is a vital means to silence drug resistant genes during the course of cancer chemotherapy for an improved chemotherapeutic effect. This study aims at effective co‐delivery of siRNA and anticancer drugs to tumor cells. A ternary block copolymer PEG‐PAsp(AED)‐PDPA consisting of pH‐sensitive poly(2‐(diisopropyl amino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDPA), reduction‐sensitive poly(N‐(2,2′‐dithiobis(ethylamine)) aspartamide) PAsp(AED), and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is synthesized and assembled into a core‐shell structural micelle which encapsulated doxorubicin (DOX) in its pH‐sensitive core and the siRNA‐targeting anti‐apoptosis BCL‐2 gene (BCL‐2 siRNA) in a reduction‐sensitive interlayer. At the optimized size and zeta potential, the nanocarriers loaded with DOX and BCL‐2 siRNA may effectively accumulate in the tumor site via blood circulation. Moreover, the dual stimuli‐responsive design of micellar carriers allows microenviroment‐specific rapid release of both DOX and BCL‐2 siRNA inside acidic lysosomes with enriched reducing agent, glutathione (GSH, up to 10 mm). Consequently, the expression of anti‐apoptotic BCL‐2 protein induced by DOX treatment is significantly down‐regulated, which results in synergistically enhanced apoptosis of human ovarian cancer SKOV‐3 cells and thus dramatically inhibited tumor growth.
Selection of Parameters of the Heat Treatment Thermal Cycle for Rails with Respect to the Wear Resistance
Authors: Szeliga Danuta , Kuziak Roman , Zygmunt Tadeusz , Kusiak Jan , Pietrzyk Maciej
Published: March 2014

The manuscript is about the design of the thermal cycle for heat treatment of rails. Optimization methods were applied with the objective function formulated as the maximum of the wear resistance which was related to the hardness of the rail head running surface. The finite element model of controlled cooling of rails coupled with microstructure evolution model was used to solve direct problem. Microstructure is directly related to the rolling surface hardness. The model predicts temperature field during cooling, kinetics of phase transformations, microstructural parameters, and mechanical properties of the product. Sensitivity analysis was applied to select the process parameters with the largest influence on the objective function. The following parameters were selected as the optimization variables: time of the 1st stage of fast cooling by the rail head immersing in the polymer solution, time of the second stage of cooling in air, depth of the immersion in the polymer solution, and heat transfer coefficient between the rail head and the polymer solution. As a result of the sensitivity analysis, the best thermal cycle was designed.
Seismic behavior of T‐shaped steel reinforced concrete shear walls in tall buildings under cyclic loading
Authors: Lu Xilin , Yang Juhua
Published: March 2014

Shear walls are often used as the primary lateral load resisting elements in high‐rise buildings because of their large in‐plane stiffness and strength. It is a common practice to combine rectangular walls to form T‐shaped, I‐shaped and L‐shaped walls for functionality and esthetic reasons. Three relatively slender steel reinforced concrete (SRC) shear walls with T‐shaped cross‐sections were constructed and tested to failure under cyclic lateral loading. This research was conducted to assess the failure mechanism, hysteretic behavior, ductility and energy dissipating capacity of SRC T‐shaped walls under various axial load ratios. All the specimens exhibited a flexural mode characterized by crushing of the concrete and buckling of the steel at the free web boundary. The experimental results showed good hysteretic characteristics without pinching phenomena. The ductility coefficient varied from 2.3 to 4.1, and the deformation capability decreased with the increasing of axial load ratios. The stiffness, strength and ductility of T‐shaped walls are dependent upon the direction of the applied lateral loads. Higher stiffness and strength and lower ductility are achieved when the flange is in tension. The failure mechanism suggested that special attention should be paid to the design of the free web boundary to prevent premature failure under compression. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The challenge of determining the role of Rh glycoproteins in transport of NH3 and NH4+
Authors: Nakhoul Nazih L. , Lee Hamm L.
Published: March 2014

The mammalian Rh glycoproteins belong to the solute transporter family SLC42 and include the erythroid Rh‐associated glycoprotein (RhAG) and two epithelial membrane molecules Rhbg (human RhBG) and Rhcg (RhCG). Mammalian Rh glycoproteins are closely related to the ammonium transporters of the yeast (MEP proteins) and bacteria (Amt). Rhbg and Rhcg are expressed in several mammalian tissues including liver, kidney, skin, lung, and GI tract. In the kidney they are expressed in α‐intercalated cells and principal cells of the collecting duct. Whereas Rhbg is strictly present in the basolateral membrane; Rhcg is reported to be at both apical membrane and basolateral membranes. Recent functional studies strongly support a role of Rh glycoproteins in NH4+ transport. Other studies indicate that they mediate transport of CO2 and NH3. This review highlights the progress in determining the properties of Rh glycoproteins and the challenging questions that continue to hinder understanding their function and their physiological role. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2014,3:53–61. doi: 10.1002/wmts.105

For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.

Conflict of interest: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.
Rapid Microwave Synthesis of CeO2 Quantum Dots
Authors: Lehnen Thomas , Schläfer Johannes , Mathur Sanjay
Published: March 2014

The synthesis and structural characterization of two new homo‐ and heteroleptic tetravalent cerium complexes with tert‐butoxo and heteroarylalkenolate ligands of the general formula [Ce(OtBu)2–xLx+2] [x = 2 (1), x = 0 (2)] [L = Dmox‐CHC(CF3)O] is described. Their thermal decomposition behavior as well as their potential as single‐source precursor for the fabrication of nanostructured ceria was evaluated. By using the heteroleptic alkoxide complex 2 as metal organic precursor, an efficient synthesis of highly crystalline CeO2 QDs with a narrow size distribution was achieved by microwave assisted solvothermal synthesis in NMP. It was found that an expedient choice of precursor enabled the replacement of additives like bases or other mineralizer and opens an efficient pathway for controlled nucleation of metal oxide nanoparticles.