bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic Analysis of the Creep Crack Growth Rate of Type 316LN Stainless Steel by the Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Kim W-G , Yoon S-N , Ryu W-S , Kim S-J , Yi W
Published: September 2005

This paper presents a probabilistic analysis for evaluating the creep crack growth rate (CCGR) of type 316LN stainless steel. The CCGR data was obtained from the creep crack growth tests, which are conducted under various applied loads at 600°C. The crack growth rate was characterized as a function of the C* fracture parameter. In order to logically obtain the B and q values in the CCGR equation of a=B(C*)q, three methods of the least square fitting method (LSFM), a mean value method (MVM), and a probabilistic distribution method (PDM) were adopted. Also, using the Monte Carlo simulation, a number of random variables was generated, and the CCGR lines were predicted probabilistically. The three methods did not show a large difference in the CCGR lines, but the PDM was most useful because the CCGR line can be evaluated with a probabilistic reliability. Both the B and q coefficients followed a lognormal distribution, even though the B ones were a little scattered for the points of the data. In the case of a standard deviation of 1 σ for the probability variables, P (B,q), the results of the MCS and the PDM for the distribution ranges of the CCGR lines were compared and discussed.
Empirical Analysis of the STR Profiles Resulting from Conceptual Mixtures
Authors: Paoletti DR , Doom TE , Krane CM , Raymer ML , Krane DE
Published: September 2005

Samples containing DNA from two or more individuals can be difficult to interpret. Even ascertaining the number of contributors can be challenging and associated uncertainties can have dramatic effects on the interpretation of testing results. Using an FBI genotypes dataset, containing complete genotype information from the 13 Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) loci for 959 individuals, all possible mixtures of three individuals were exhaustively and empirically computed. Allele sharing between pairs of individuals in the original dataset, a randomized dataset and datasets of generated cousins and siblings was evaluated as were the number of loci that were necessary to reliably deduce the number of contributors present in simulated mixtures of four or less contributors. The relatively small number of alleles detectable at most CODIS loci and the fact that some alleles are likely to be shared between individuals within a population can make the maximum number of different alleles observed at any tested loci an unreliable indicator of the maximum number of contributors to a mixed DNA sample. This analysis does not use other data available from the electropherograms (such as peak height or peak area) to estimate the number of contributors to each mixture. As a result, the study represents a worst case analysis of mixture characterization. Within this dataset, approximately 3% of three-person mixtures would be mischaracterized as two-person mixtures and more than 70% of four-person mixtures would be mischaracterized as two- or three-person mixtures using only the maximum number of alleles observed at any tested locus.
Skin Penetration Assessment of Less Lethal Kinetic Energy Munitions
Authors: Bir CA , Stewart SJ , Wilhelm M
Published: September 2005

The development of less-lethal technologies has provided law enforcement personnel with an alternative to lethal force. Although the less lethal projectile was produced to engender non-penetrating wounds, case studies show that there have been a number of reported penetrating injuries ranging from minor to significant in morbidity. The objective of this study was to determine the energy per unit area required to penetrate various regions of the body. Eight unembalmed postmortem human specimens were procured for this testing. Each specimen sustained a maximum of 25 impacts consisting of shots to the anterior and posterior thorax, abdomen, and legs. A 12-gauge, fin-stabilized, rubber rocket round was used as the impactor for all of the conducted tests. The energy density required for 50% risk of penetration varied from 23.99 J/cm2 for the location on the anterior rib (p = 0.000) to 52.74 J/cm2 for the location on the posterior rib (p = 0.001).
Genipin, a Novel Fingerprint Reagent With Colorimetric and Fluorogenic Activity, Part II: Optimization, Scope and Limitations
Authors: Levinton-Shamuilov G , Cohen Y , Azoury M , Chaikovsky A , Almog J
Published: September 2005

Genipin, a hydrolytic product of geniposide extracted from gardenia fruit, was thoroughly studied as a potential fingerprint reagent, and optimal conditions for fingerprint development have been determined. Latent fingerprints on paper items that have been treated with a non-ink running formulation containing 0.17% of the reagent, showed up as both colored and fluorescent images. On brown wrapping paper and on papers with highly luminescent backgrounds, genipin developed more visible and clearer prints than did classical reagents such as ninhydrin or DFO. Another potential advantage of genipin is that it is totally harmless and an environmentally friendly reagent.
Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) Methods for Determining the Purity of Reference Drug Standards and Illicit Forensic Drug Seizures
Authors: Hays PA
Published: September 2005

A rapid, sensitive, accurate, precise, reproducible, and versatile method for determining the purity of reference drug standards and the routine analysis of illicit drugs and adulterants using proton (1H) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy is presented.

The methodology uses a weighed sample dissolved in a deuterated solvent or solvent mixture containing a high purity internal standard. The NMR experiment employs 8 scans using a 45 second delay and 90° pulse. In the determination of purity of reference standards, the number of quantitative determinations available is equal to the number of peak groups that are baseline resolved. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of these signals is usually <1% for pure standards, and the results agree well with other purity determining methods. This method can also aid in the determination of correct molecular weight for standards containing an unknown number of waters of hydration or an unknown number of acids per drug in salts.

Because the molar response for the hydrogen nucleus is 1 for all compounds, and since no separation media are used, only one linearity study is required to test a probe. In the presented study, the linearity of the NMR probe was determined using methamphetamine HCl dissolved in deuterium oxide (D2O) with maleic acid as the internal standard (5 mg) for a range of concentrations from 0.033 to 69.18 mg/ml with a resulting correlation coefficient of <0.9999 for all 6 methamphetamine peak groups.

The spectra of complex illicit heroin, methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine samples are presented, as well as an extensive list of compounds, their solubilities and the solvent(s) and internal standard used.
Genetic Diversity of 15 STRs in Choles From Northeast of Chiapas (Mexico)
Authors: Sánchez C , Barrot C , Ortega M , González-Martín A , Gorostiza A , Corbella J , Huguet E , Gené M
Published: September 2005

Allele frequencies for 15 STR loci (D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D19S433, HUMVWA31A, HUMTPOX, D18S51, D3S1358, HUMTHO1, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D5S818, and HUMFGA) were analyzed in a Mexican population: Choles from Chiapas State. The aim of the study was to obtain accurate allele frequencies data and other genetic parameters of forensic interest on the Amerindian ethnic groups from Mexico, using an automatic method and commercial amplification kit. The agreement with HWE (Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium) was confirmed for all loci (based on the X2-test).
Review of: Psychology in Prisons
Authors: Kucharski LT
Published: September 2005

If a survey of psychologists currently working or who have substantial experience in correctional settings was conducted it would likely show that few anticipated that their careers would lead them to working in prison. If a survey of graduate and professional training programs in psychology was conducted, few courses in correctional psychology would be discovered. Most of us, who have spent a substantial part of our professional careers behind the walls and razor wire began with little or no formal training or guidance on how to provide psychological services in prison. So it was with enthusiasm and optimism that I approached Towl's "Psychology in Prisons" a hope that here would be an authoritative guide that would begin to fill the gap in training on working in this unique and challenging environment.
Performance-Based Material Evaluation of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Wood Interfaces in Reinforced Glulam Members
Authors: Lopez-Anido RA , Muszynski L , Gardner DJ , Goodell B , Herzog B
Published: September 2005

A performance-based material evaluation methodology is reviewed as part of a broader project on the development of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite reinforced glued-laminated (glulam) members. The glueline interface was examined under test conditions that included the presence of moisture and temperature fluctuations, and the effect of wood preservatives. The objectives of this study were: 1) to determine if the current test methods used to assess durability of wood-wood bonds for exterior use (ANSI/AITC and ASTM D 2559 protocols) can be adopted for testing FRP composite reinforcement of wood; 2) to research possible modifications to the standard procedures when necessary to accommodate specifics of the adhesive bonds in hybrid FRP-wood assemblies; and 3) to propose a unified interpretation approach for FRP-wood interface test results focusing on development of acceptance criteria. Four commercially available FRP composite systems exhibiting exterior durability potential for glulam reinforcement were selected to validate the material qualification protocol. Two wood species were considered in this study: southern yellow pine and Douglas-fir. The four FRP composite material systems represented a broad spectrum of fiber reinforcement, matrix, adhesives, and fabrication processes. Experimental studies using the composite systems were conducted to validate the proposed methodology.
Expression and Functional Phenotype of MouseERGK+Channels in the Inner Ear: Potential Role in K+Regulation in the Inner Ear
Authors: Nie Liping , Gratton Michael Anne , Mu Karen J. , Dinglasan Judilee N. , Feng Weihong , Yamoah Ebenezer N.
Published: September 2005

An outcome of the intricate K+regulation in the cochlear duct is the endocochlear potential (EP), ∼80 mV, the “battery” that runs hair-cell transduction; however, the detailed molecular mechanisms for the generation of the EP remain unclear. We provide strong evidence indicating that the intermediate cells (ICs) of the stria vascularis (StV) express outward K+current that rectifies inwardly at positive potentials. The channel belongs to theether-a-go-go-related gene (erg) family of K+channels. We cloned an ERG1a channel in the mouse inner ear (MERG1a). The cellular distribution of MERG1a in the cochlea displayed the highest levels of immunoreactivity in the ICs and modest reactivity in the marginal cells as well as in several extrastrial cells (e.g., hair cells). Functional expression of the StV-specific MERG1a channel reveals a current that activates at relatively negative potentials (approximately–50 mV) and shows rapid inactivation reflected as inward rectification at depolarized potentials. The current was sensitive to the methanesulfonanilide drug E-4031 (IC50, ∼165 nm) and the recombinant peptide rBeKm-1 (IC50, ∼16 nm), and the single-channel conductance in symmetrical K+was ∼14 pS. The site of expression of MERG1a and its functional phenotype (e.g., modulation of the current by external K+) make it one of the most likely candidates for establishing the high throughput of K+ions across ICs to generate EP. In addition, the property of the channel that produces marked K+extrusion in increased external K+may be important in shaping the dynamics of K+cycling in the inner ear.
Modulation of Kv3 Subfamily Potassium Currents by the Sea Anemone Toxin BDS: Significance for CNS and Biophysical Studies
Authors: Yeung Shuk Yin M. , Thompson Dawn , Wang Zhuren , Fedida David , Robertson Brian
Published: September 2005

Kv3 potassium channels, with their ultra-rapid gating and high activation threshold, are essential for high-frequency firing in many CNS neurons. Significantly, the Kv3.4 subunit has been implicated in the major CNS disorders Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, and it is claimed that selectively targeting this subunit will have therapeutic utility. Previous work suggested that BDS toxins (“blood depressing substance,” from the sea anemoneAnemonia sulcata) were specific blockers for rapidly inactivating Kv3.4 channels, and consequently these toxins are increasingly used as diagnostic agents for Kv3.4 subunits in central neurons. However, precisely how selective are these toxins for this important CNS protein? We show that BDS is not selective for Kv3.4 but markedly inhibits current through Kv3.1 and Kv3.2 channels. Inhibition comes about not by “pore block” but by striking modification of Kv3 gating kinetics and voltage dependence. Activation and inactivation kinetics are slowed by BDS-I and BDS-II, andV1/2for activation is shifted to more positive voltages. Alanine substitution mutagenesis around the S3b and S4 segments of Kv3.2 reveals that BDS acts via voltage-sensing domains, and, consistent with this, ON gating currents from nonconducting Kv3.2 are markedly inhibited. The altered kinetics and gating properties, combined with lack of subunit selectivity with Kv3 subunits, seriously affects the usefulness of BDS toxins in CNS studies. Furthermore, our results do not easily fit with the voltage sensor “paddle” structure proposed recently for Kv channels. Our data will be informative for experiments designed to dissect out the roles of Kv3 subunits in CNS function and dysfunction.
The Endogenous Redox Agent L-Cysteine Induces T-Type Ca2+ Channel-Dependent Sensitization of a Novel Subpopulation of Rat Peripheral Nociceptors
Authors: Nelson Michael T. , Joksovic Pavle M. , Perez-Reyes Edward , Todorovic Slobodan M.
Published: September 2005

Recent studies have demonstrated a previously unrecognized contribution of T-type Ca2+channels in peripheral sensory neurons to pain sensation (nociception). However, the cellular mechanisms underlying the functions of these channels in nociception are not known. Here, in both acutely dissociated and intact rat dorsal root ganglion neurons, we characterize a novel subpopulation of capsaicin- and isolectin B4-positive nociceptors that also expresses a high density of T-type Ca2+currents. Using these “T-rich” cells as a model, we demonstrate that the endogenous reducing agentl-cysteine lowers the threshold for nociceptor excitability and induces burst firing by increasing the amplitude of T-type currents and shifting the gating parameters of T-type channels. These findings, which provide the first direct evidence of T-type Ca2+channel involvement in the control of nociceptor excitability, suggest that endogenous T-type channel agonists may sensitize a unique subpopulation of peripheral nociceptors, consequently influencing pain processing under normal or pathological conditions.
Two Distinct Mechanisms of Suppression in Human Vision
Authors: Petrov Yury , Carandini Matteo , McKee Suzanne
Published: September 2005

Cortical visual neurons in the cat and monkey are inhibited by stimuli surrounding their receptive fields (surround suppression) or presented within their receptive fields (cross-orientation or overlay suppression). We show that human contrast sensitivity is similarly affected by two distinct suppression mechanisms. In agreement with the animal studies, human surround suppression is tightly tuned to the orientation and spatial frequency of the test, unlike overlay suppression. Using a double-masking paradigm, we also show that in humans, overlay suppression precedes surround suppression in the processing sequence. Surprisingly, we find that, unlike overlay suppression, surround suppression is only strong in the periphery (>1° eccentricity). This result argues for a new functional distinction between foveal and peripheral operations.
239Pu and 241Am (n, 2n) cross-section measurements near E
n = 14 MeV
Authors: Lougheed R. W. , Webster W. , Namboodiri M. N. , Nethaway D. R. , Moody K. J. , Landrum J. H. , Hoff R. W. , Dupzyk R. J. , McQuaid J. H. , Gunnink R. , Watkins E. D.
Published: September 2005

We measured the (n, 2n) cross sections for neutron energies from 13.7 to 15.1 MeV on 239Pu and 241Am by α- and γ-spectroscopy measurements of the post–irradiation 238Pu/239Pu and 240Am/241Am ratios relative to the (n, 2n) cross sections of 196Au and other calibration reactions. Statistical errors on the measurements were not more than a few percent. Cross–section values ranged from 228 to 214 millibarns for the reaction on 239Pu and from 260 to 222 millibarns for the 241Am reaction for neutron energies from 13.7 to 15.1 MeV.
Berkelium redox speciation
Authors: Antonio M.R. , Williams C.W. , Soderholm L.
Published: September 2005

The inner-sphere hydration environments of the Bk3+·nH2O and Bk4+·n′H2O aquo ions in 1 M HClO4 were determined and are viewed in the context of other 5f (actinide) and 4f (lanthanide) aquo ions. The formal potential of the Bk4+/Bk3+ redox couple and the reorganization of the hydration sphere, in terms of the average Bk–OH2 interatomic distances and number of coordinated water molecules (n and n′), were determined through in situ X–ray absorption spectroelectrochemistry. The participation of H2O in the electrochemical conversion and the rearrangement of the hydration environment upon reduction–oxidation are summarized in the equation: [Bk(OH2)8]4+ + H2O + e− ⇆ [Bk(OH2)9]3+. The change of hydration about 249Bk between the trivalent and tetravalent states is believed to reflect predominantly steric factors related to the difference of ionic radii, rather than electronic or bonding influences.
Measurement of L
3 to M shell vacancy transfer probabilities of Th and U
Authors: Ertugrul M.
Published: September 2005

The vacancy transfer probabilities from L
3 to M shell (ηL3M) are obtained for Th and U. For these measurements, L
3 X–ray yields from targets excited by 5.96 and 16.898 and 17.781 keV incident photon, i.e., below and above the L
3 edge of elements. For comparison with experimental results, we have made theoretical calculation using radiative and nonradiative transition rates. The radiative transition rates of these elements were taken from Dirac–Hartree–Slater model of Scofield [1] and the nonradiative transition rates were obtained from Dirac–Hartree–Slater model of Chen et al. [2]. The measured results are in good agreement with theoretically calculated values.
Laser-Based Three Wavelength Extinction Analysis of Suspended Latex and Oxide Particles (Laser-basierte Drei-Wellenlängen-Extinktionsanalyse von suspendierten Latex- und Oxidpartikeln)
Authors: Kassab James R. , Clédat Dominique , Cardot Philippe J. P. , Zahoransky Richard A. , Blanchart Philippe
Published: September 2005

The three wavelength extinction method (3-WEM) was applied for the on-line particle analysis of suspensions of monodisperse latex beads and polydisperse metal oxide particles of industrial interest. Comparative measurements were performed by photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS). The data of latex particles obtained by 3-WEM and PCS are in good agreement with the manufacture’s values. Also, the values of oxide particles measured by means of the two techniques are in reasonable agreement despite of the irregular particle shape. Discrepancies are observed by comparing the oxide particle size results with those of scanning electron microscopy, which is due to the broad sample distributions and shape irregularities.
Determination of On-Road Vehicle Emission Characteristics Using Artificial Neural Networks (Messung von Fahrzeugemissionen mit Hilfe Künstlicher Neuronaler Netze)
Authors: Eckhardt Ulrich , Palocz-Andresen Michael , Oetjen Peer D. , Weber Tobias
Published: September 2005

On-board emission measurement in vehicles will be of increasing importance in the future. For example this technology can be used on heavy commercial vehicles for an ecologically oriented charging of toll fares. In on-board emission measurement, determination of pollutants as NO, CO, HC (referred to C3H8) and the greenhouse gas CO2 is required. However, some of these parameters are difficult or impossible to measure directly and have to be determined by mathematical modelling. In this paper we report the determination of these parameters using artificial neural networks based on the motor and driving parameters. The method can be developed further for compliance with the emission standards.
Structure change of Mn2O3 under high pressure and pressure-induced transition
Authors: Yamanaka Takamitsu , Nagai Takaya , Okada Taku , Fukuda Tomoo
Published: September 2005

Bixbyite (Mn,Fe)2O3 has a C-type rare-earth oxide structure with space group of Ia-3 and different from corundum structure R-3c. Single-crystal structure analyses and powder diffraction experiments were carried out using synchrotron radiation under high pressures up to 41.21 GPa. Lattice constants and bond distances were elucidated as a function of pressure. Single crystal structure analyses under high pressures up to 9.64 GPa have been executed using DAC. There are two octahedral Mn3+ sites: M1 (-3) and M2 (-2.). M1O6 and M2O6 octahedral volumes and void space of vacant sites show different compression curves. M1O6 octahedron is less compressive than M2O6 octahedron. The former is a little deformed from an ideal octahedron with m-3m of MnO6 but the latter is a largely distorted octahedron. The quadratic elongation is applied in order to comprehend the polyhedral distortion and finite homogeneous strain. Both octahedra do not show a noticeable Jahn-Teller distortion induced from Mn3+. Six bond lengths of M1O6 are equivalent but the octahedron more elongates along the direction of -3 axis with increasing pressure and is more deformed from the regular octahedron. The M2O6 octahedron has two long bond distances among six bonds, which are most compressive. The octahedral deformations seem to reduce the Jahn-Teller effect due to the compression. The bulk modulus: Ko = 169.1(4.9) GPa and Ko′ = 7.35(0.99), was observed from the volume change with pressure.

Pressure-induced phase transition was confirmed at about 21 GPa with a large hysteresis. The transition is reversible and non-quenchable. Powder indexing of the high-pressure phase was carried out using diffraction pattern taken at 35.06 GPa. It has a monoclinic symmetry and is not a corundum, Rh2O3(II) or perovskite structure.
Electromagnetic Detection and Characterization of Tungsten Carbide Inclusions in Non‐Ferromagnetic Alloys
Authors: Feist W. D. , Mook G. , Hinken J. H. , Simonin J. , Wrobel H.
Published: September 2005

Manufacturing anomalies introduced during machining of critical parts, although rare in occurrence, have become a significant cause of gas turbine disk cracking events in the aero‐engine. One kind of these anomalies is inclusion of foreign material. Breakage of the machine tool cutting edge can lead to residual tool particles being impacted in the surface of the component. These particles may initiate fatigue crack growth significantly reducing fatigue life. The paper presents electromagnetic methods for their detection and characterization based on eddy currents and residual magnetic fields.
Scanned Probe Microscopy‐Mediated Patterning of Metallic Nanostructures
Authors: Teague L. C. , Batteas J. D.
Published: September 2005

Engineering sub‐100 nm features on surfaces is of increasing importance for the development of new device technologies. To this end, researchers are developing scanned probe based approaches for the patterning of nanoscale metallic structures on surfaces.
Breakthroughs in Optimization of Mechanical Properties of Nanostructured Metals and Alloys
Authors: Koch C. C. , Youssef K. M. , Scattergood R. O. , Murty K. L.
Published: September 2005

While nanocrystalline metals can have strength and hardness values factors of 10 or more greater than their conventional grain size counterparts, ductility in tension has been disappointing, typically less than 2% elongation. This paper reviews the limitations to ductility in nanocrystalline materials and presents the results of recent breakthroughs wherein both high strength and good ductility are observed.
Current Transport at the Atomic Scale
Authors: Schröter U. , Scheer E. , Arnold R. , Bacca C. , Böhler T. , Grebing J. , Konrad P. , Kunej V. , Kang N. , Pernau H.‐F. , Schirm C.
Published: September 2005

Electrical contacts of the width of only one atom can be realized by the break‐junction technique. The conductance decreases stepwise due to structural reconfigurations when tearing a nano‐bridge in the few‐atom range. Transport is described by an ensemble of channels with possibly quite high transmission probabilities. For a single break‐junction the last one‐atom contact consists of a material‐specific channel ensemble, determined by the chemical valance as verified for quite a number of metals. d‐electrons in half‐metals and spin‐effects in magnetic materials will complicate this simple model. Break‐junctions also provide ideal contacts to investigate transport through freely suspended clusters or molecules like DNA.
Meiotic exchange event within the stalk region of an inverted chromosome 22 results in a recombinant chromosome with duplication of the distal long arm
Authors: Boyd Luke J. , Livingston Joseph S. , Brown Michael G. , Lawce Helen J. , Gilhooly Joseph T. , Wildin Robert S. , Linck Leesa M. , Magenis R. Ellen , Pillers De‐Ann M.
Published: September 2005

Meiotic recombination occurs between homologous euchromatic regions of human chromosomes in early meiosis. However, such exchanges have been thought not to occur in the stalk regions of acrocentric chromosomes. We describe a child whose chromosome analysis suggests that crossovers do occur in homologous stalk regions. The proband, initially seen as a term female infant, was born to a 28‐year‐old mother. Dysmorphic features included wide metopic sutures, low anterior hairline, hypertelorism, external ear malformations, and cleft lip and palate. Blood chromosomes of the proband and parents were studied by G‐banding, Q‐banding, R‐banding, and silver staining. The infant karyotype showed a sub‐metacentric chromosome 22; that of the mother showed a pericentric inversion of chromosome 22. Chromosomes of the father were normal. In the infant, the abnormal chromosome 22 long arm appeared normal, but with additional long arm material attached to the distal short arm. In the mother, the distal long arm of the abnormal chromosome 22 was translocated to the distal short arm. The abnormal chromosome stalk in the child was intermediate in size to the stalk size of the abnormal and normal chromosomes 22 in the mother. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis using chromosome 22 paint and ARSA gene probe confirmed that the duplicated material in the proband was of chromosome 22 origin; the karyotype interpretation is: 46,XX,rec(22)dup(22q)inv(22)(p13q13.1)mat. This abnormal karyotype is most likely due to a crossover event within the inversion loop during meiosis. The stalk length discrepancy suggests that the crossover site occurred in the stalk region. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cost‐effectiveness of diagnostic strategies prior to carotid endarterectomy
Authors: U‐King‐Im Jean Marie , Hollingworth William , Trivedi Rikin A. , Cross Justin J. , Higgins Nicholas J. , Graves Martin J. , Gutnikov Sergei , Kirkpatrick Peter J. , Warburton Elizabeth A. , Antoun Nagui M. , Rothwell Peter M. , Gillard Jonathan H.
Published: September 2005

The main objective of this study was to assess the long‐term cost‐effectiveness of five alternative diagnostic strategies for identification of severe carotid stenosis in recently symptomatic patients. A decision‐analytical model with Markov transition states was constructed. Data sources included a prospective study involving 167 patients who had screening Doppler ultrasound (DUS), confirmatory contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CEMRA) and confirmatory digital subtraction angiography (DSA), individual patient data from the European Carotid Surgery Trial and other published clinical and cost data. A “selective” strategy, whereby all patients receive DUS and CEMRA (only proceeding to DSA if the CEMRA is positive and the DUS is negative), was most cost‐effective. This was both the cheapest imaging and treatment strategy ($35,205 per patient) and yielded 6.1590 quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs), higher than three alternative imaging strategies. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis demonstrated that there was less than a 10% probability that imaging with either DUS or DSA alone are cost‐effective at the conventional $50,000/QALY threshold. In conclusion, DSA is not cost‐effective in the routine diagnostic workup of most patients. DUS, with additional imaging in the form of CEMRA, is recommended, with a strategy of “CEMRA and selective DUS review” being shown to be the optimal imaging strategy. Ann Neurol 2005;58:506–515
Validation of a new coma scale: The FOUR score
Authors: Wijdicks Eelco F. M. , Bamlet William R. , Maramattom Boby V. , Manno Edward M. , McClelland Robyn L.
Published: September 2005

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) has been widely adopted. Failure to assess the verbal score in intubated patients and the inability to test brainstem reflexes are shortcomings. We devised a new coma score, the FOUR (Full Outline of UnResponsiveness) score. It consists of four components (eye, motor, brainstem, and respiration), and each component has a maximal score of 4. We prospectively studied the FOUR score in 120 intensive care unit patients and compared it with the GCS score using neuroscience nurses, neurology residents, and neurointensivists. We found that the interrater reliability was excellent with the FOUR score (κw = 0.82) and good to excellent for physician rater pairs. The agreement among raters was similar with the GCS (κw = 0.82). Patients with the lowest GCS score could be further distinguished using the FOUR score. We conclude that the agreement among raters was good to excellent. The FOUR score provides greater neurological detail than the GCS, recognizes a locked‐in syndrome, and is superior to the GCS due to the availability of brainstem reflexes, breathing patterns, and the ability to recognize different stages of herniation. The probability of in‐hospital mortality was higher for the lowest total FOUR score when compared with the lowest total GCS score. Ann Neurol 2005;58:585–593
Real‐time cartoon animation of smoke
Authors: He Haitao , Xu Duanqing
Published: September 2005

In this paper, we present a practical framework to generate cartoon style animations of smoke, which consists of two components: a smoke simulator and a rendering system. In the simulation stage, the smoke is modelled as a set of smoothed particles and the physical parameters such as velocity and force are defined on particles directly. The smoke is rendered in flicker‐free cartoon style with two‐tone shading and silhouettes. Both the simulation and rendering are intuitive and easy to implement. In the most moderate scale scene, an impressive cartoon animation is generated with about a thousand particles at real‐time frame rate. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐resolution collision handling for cloth‐like simulations
Authors: Jain Nitin , Kabul Ilknur , Govindaraju Naga K. , Manocha Dinesh , Lin Ming
Published: September 2005

We present a novel multi‐resolution algorithm for simulation of complex cloth‐like deforming meshes. Our algorithm precomputes a multi‐resolution hierarchy by using a combination of ‘chromatic decomposition’1and polygonal simplification of the underlying mesh. At runtime we selectively refine or coarsen the mesh based on the collision proximity of the mesh primitives with non‐adjacent primitives. Our algorithm handles all kind of contacts, including self collisions among mesh primitives. The multi‐resolution hierarchy is used to compute simplification of contact manifolds and to accelerate collision detection and response computations. We have implemented our algorithm on a high‐end PC and applied it to complex simulations with tens of thousands of polygons. In practice, our algorithm is able to achieve interactive performance, while maintaining good visual fidelity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐critical animation of deformable solids
Authors: Dequidt J. , Marchal D. , Grisoni L.
Published: September 2005

This article presents a model for handling multi‐resolution animation of complex deformable models. An octree‐based animation and algorithmic tools are introduced to provide real‐time interaction on complex objects. Some efficient collision detection scheme is also described for deformable models. A method is also presented for time‐guaranteed mechanical simulation: It allows an automatic tuning of the octree resolution to match some external performance constraints, such as a pre‐defined CPU consumption limit. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mesh decomposition using motion information from animation sequences
Authors: Lee Tong‐Yee , Lin Ping‐Hsien , Yan Shaur‐Uei , Lin Chun‐Hao
Published: September 2005

In computer graphics, mesh decomposition is a fundamental problem and it can benefit many applications. In this paper, we propose a novel mesh decomposition algorithm using motion information derived from a given animation sequence. The proposed algorithm first use principal component analysis (PCA) to construct a compact representation of a given animation sequence. Next, from this representation, we derive several motion parameters including motion complexity and similarity. Finally, we decompose a given mesh into sub‐meshes using derived motion information and subdivide the triangles along the cutting paths for the smoother borders between the mesh parts. Our experimental results show that this new decomposition scheme can bring the benefit of good compression ratios on animation sequences. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Image and video retexturing
Authors: Guo Yanwen , Wang Jin , Zeng Xiang , Xie Zhongyi , Sun Hanqiu , Peng Qunsheng
Published: September 2005

We propose a novel image/video retexturing approach that preserves the original shading effects without knowing the underlying surface and lighting conditions. For static images, we first introduce the Poisson equation‐based algorithm to simulate the texture distortion on the projected interest region of the underlying surface, while preserving the shading effect of the original image. We further work on videos by retexturing the key frame as static image and then propagating the results onto the other frames. In video retexturing, we have introduced the mesh based optimization for object tracking to avoid texture drifting, and the graph cut algorithm to effectively deal with visibility shift between frames. The graph cut algorithm is applied on a trimap along the boundary of the object to extract the textured part inside the trimap. The proposed approach is developed in image/video retexturing at nearly interactive rate, and our experimental results have showed the satisfactory performance of our approach. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progressive mesh metamorphosis
Authors: Lin Chao‐Hung , Lee Tong‐Yee , Chu Hung‐Kuo , Yao Chih‐Yuan
Published: September 2005

This paper describes a new integrated scheme for metamorphosis between two closed manifold genus‐0 polyhedral models. Spherical parameterizations of the source and target models are created first. To control the morphing, any number of feature vertex pairs is specified and a fold‐over free warping method is used to align two spherical embeddings. Our method does not create a merged meta‐mesh or execute re‐meshing to construct a common connectivity for morphs. Alternatively, a scheme for the progressive connectivity transformation of two spherical parameterizations is employed to generate the intermediate meshes. A novel semi‐overlay with a geomorph scheme is proposed to reduce the popping effects caused by the connectivity transformation. We demonstrate several examples of aesthetically pleasing morphing sequences using the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced auto coloring with hierarchical region matching
Authors: Qiu Jie , Soon Seah Hock , Tian Feng , Chen Quan , Wu Zhongke
Published: September 2005

This paper proposes a Hierarchical Region Matching (HRM) approach for computer‐assisted auto coloring. The region‐level analysis in traditional 2D animation is expanded into several component levels with a novel hierarchization method. With the hierarchy, various region matching algorithms can be applied from the first/highest to the last/lowest component level. HRM improves the matching accuracy and may deal with matching errors caused by occlusion, thus making the matching more robust, as verified by the results. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mesh morphing using polycube‐based cross‐parameterization
Authors: Fan Zhengwen , Jin Xiaogang , Feng Jieqing , Sun Hanqiu
Published: September 2005

In this paper, we propose a novel mesh morphing approach based on polycubic cross‐parameterization. We compose parameterizations over the surfaces of the polycubes whose shape is similar to that of the given meshes. Because the polycubes capture the large‐scale features, we can easily preserve the shape of the models, mapping legs to legs, head to head, and so on. For the finer features that are not reflected by the shape of the polycubes, we split the polycubes into matching patches and optimize them to get a low‐distortion bijection that satisfies user‐prescribed constraints. Our approach works well for meshes with arbitrary genus as long as the polycubes capture this feature and transfers texture seamlessly. We can also build maps with singularities between models with different genus. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Real‐time simulation of watery paint
Authors: Van Laerhoven Tom , Van Reeth Frank
Published: September 2005

Existing work on applications for thin watery paint is mostly focused on automatic generation of painterly‐style images from input images, ignoring the fact that painting is a process that intuitively should be interactive. Efforts to create real‐time interactive systems are limited to a single paint medium and results often suffer from a trade‐off between real‐timeness and simulation complexity. We report on the design of a new system that allows the real‐time, interactive creation of images with thin watery paint. We mainly target the simulation of watercolor, but the system is also capable of simulating gouache and Oriental black ink. The motion of paint is governed by both physically based and heuristic rules in a layered canvas design. A final image is rendered by optically composing the layers using the Kubelka–Munk diffuse reflectance model. All algorithms that participate in the dynamics phase and the rendering phase of the simulation are implemented on graphics hardware. Images made with the system contain the typical effects that can be recognized in images produced with real thin paint, like the dark‐edge effect, watercolor glazing, wet‐on‐wet painting and the use of different pigment types. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cyclic Enolates of Ni and Pd: Equilibrium between C‐ and O‐Bound Tautomers and Reactivity Studies
Authors: Cámpora Juan , Maya Celia M. , Palma Pilar , Carmona Ernesto , Gutiérrez Enrique , Ruiz Caridad , Graiff Claudia , Tiripicchio Antonio
Published: September 2005

2‐Acylaryl complexes of Ni and Pd containing chelating diphosphines react with KtBuO to give metallacyclic enolate complexes. While coordination through the carbon atom is preferred in the case of Pd, the nickel O‐enolate compounds are formed as the corresponding O‐tautomers. Slow equilibration between O‐ and C‐enolate tautomers is observed for the nickel complex with an unsubstituted enolate function (MOCCH2). Theoretical DFT calculations suggest that the barrier for the tautomer exchange has its origin in the rigidity of the metallacycle. Whilst the C‐enolate tautomer is unreactive towards aldehydes, the corresponding O‐enolate adds to MeCHO and PhCHO, giving rise to products that retain the enolate functionality. The carbonylation of these products cleanly leads to the formation of enol lactones in a highly selective manner.
Dose‐dense vinorelbine and docetaxel with Filgrastim support in patients with advanced nonsmall cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Page Ray D. , Smith Frederick P. , Geils George F. , Beall Charles L. , Fridman Moshe , Allen Barbara J.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND

Vinorelbine and docetaxel are active single agents in the treatment of nonsmall cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and may provide enhanced activity when combined in a dose‐dense fashion. The efficacy and safety of this combination was assessed when it was administered every 14 days with Filgrastim support in a community practice setting.

METHODS

This open‐label study was conducted at 12 community oncology practices in the United States. Sixty‐one chemotherapy‐naive patients with Stage IIIB/IV NSCLC received vinorelbine 45 mg/m2 followed by docetaxel 60 mg/m2 on Day 1 and Filgrastim 5 mcg/kg beginning on Day 2, with cycles repeated every 14 days.

RESULTS

Among 61 enrolled patients, 44% of patients had either a complete or partial response as their best response, and 27% of patients had confirmed complete or partial responses. The median time to confirmed response was 1.9 months (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.9–2.3 mos), and the median duration of confirmed response was 6.0 months (95% CI, 3.1–14.4 mos). The median time to disease progression was 4.9 months (95% CI, 3.8–5.8 mos). With a median follow‐up of 14.3 months, the median survival was 12.9 months (95% CI, 8.1–14.3 mos), and the 1‐year survival rate was 56% (95% CI, 43–69%). The relative dose intensity was 94% for vinorelbine and 93% for docetaxel. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 9 patients (15%) and during 9 of 351 cycles (3%).

CONCLUSIONS

It was possible to administer dose‐dense vinorelbine and docetaxel chemotherapy with Filgrastim support, beginning in the first cycle, to patients with NSCLC who were treated in a community practice setting. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Cost‐effectiveness projections of oxaliplatin and infusional fluorouracil versus irinotecan and bolus fluorouracil in first‐line therapy for metastatic colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Hillner Bruce E. , Schrag Deborah , Sargent Daniel J. , Fuchs Charles S. , Goldberg Richard M.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND

The results of a randomized comparison study (N9741) showed that oxaliplatin and infusional fluorouracil (FU) (FOLFOX) was superior to the previous standard of care in the United States, irinotecan and bolus FU (IFL), as first‐line therapy for patients with metastatic colon carcinoma. The trade‐offs between costs and survival for these two regimens have not been explored.

METHODS

A post‐hoc, incremental cost‐effectiveness (ICE) projection using simulated cohorts of patients starting FOLFOX or IFL was tracked for major clinical events, toxicities, and survival. Recurrence and survival risks were based on clinical trial data. Resource use was projected using observed dose intensity, duration of therapy, delays in therapy, and toxicities Grade > 2 in N9741. The frequency, costs, and consequences of second‐line therapy were examined. The time frame was 5 years, and the perspective was that of Medicare as a third‐party payer.

RESULTS

Initial treatment with FOLFOX versus IFL had an average incremental cost of $29,523, a survival benefit of 4.4 months, and an ICE of $80,410 per life year (LY), $111,890 per quality‐adjusted LY, and $89,080 per progression‐free year. By using the 95% confidence interval for the time to progression observed in N9741, the ICE associated with FOLFOX ranged from $121,220 to $59,250 per LY. In the clinical trial, dose delays and skipped doses were frequent. If progression‐free patients were treated without delay for the first year or lifetime, then the ICE for FOLFOX increased to $117,910 and $222,200 per LY, respectively. The ICE increased to $84,780 per LY when the model incorporated a revised IFL schedule with lower early toxicity and similar rates of treatment with second‐line regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

FOLFOX provided substantial benefits that incurred substantial additional costs. The ICE for FOLFOX fell into the upper range of commonly accepted oncology interventions in the context of the United States healthcare system. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Reduced intensity conditioning prior to allogeneic stem cell transplantation for patients with acute myeloblastic leukemia as a first‐line treatment
Authors: Blaise Didier P. , Michel Boiron Jean , Faucher Catherine , Mohty Mohamad , Bay Jacques‐Olivier , Bardoux Valerie‐Jeanne , Perreau Virginie , Coso Diane , Pigneux Arnaud , Vey Norbert
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND

Thirty‐three patients (median age 52; range 26–60) with acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) were included in a pilot study of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (Allo‐SCT) following a reduced‐intensity conditioning (RIC).

METHODS

Patients achieving first complete remission (CR1) were selected for their high‐risk clinical and/or leukemic features. All patients received two courses of consolidation chemotherapy including one high‐dose cytarabine course. Among them, 13 patients in addition received a high‐dose melphalan course followed by autologous SCT. Then, all patients received an RIC Allo‐SCT combining fludarabine, busulfan, and antithymocyte globulin.

RESULTS

All patients engrafted had cumulative incidences of Gluksberg System Grade 2 acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host‐disease (GVHD) of 24 (9–39%) and 64 (48–80%), respectively. Three patients died from nonrelapse causes (NRD) (cumulative incidence: 9%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0‐19) and 6 relapsed (cumulative incidence: 18%, 95% CI: 5–31). With a median follow‐up of 18 months (range 7–52) after Allo‐SCT, 26 patients are alive, of whom 24 remained in CR1 for a 2‐year overall survival and leukemia‐free survival (LFS) probabilities of 79 (range 61–90%) and 76 (range 59–87%), respectively. In a ‘landmark’ analysis starting on Day 100, the occurrence of chronic GVHD was associated with a lower relapse rate (0% vs. 44%: P = 0.007) and improved outcome (LFS; 95% vs. 53%, P = 0.007; overall survival, 95% vs. 61%, P = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the sequential combination of intensive chemotherapy and allogeneic immunotherapy might offer relatively low NRD and leukemia relapse rates even in high‐risk patients. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Ritz finite elements for curvilinear particles
Authors: Heyliger Paul R.
Published: September 2005

A general finite element is presented for the representation of fields in curvilinear particles in two and three dimensions. The formulation of this element shares many similarities with usual finite element approximations, but differs in that nodal points are defined in part by contact points with other particles. Power series in the geometric coordinates are used as the starting basis functions, but are recast in terms of the field variables within the particle interior and the points of contact with other elements. There is no discretization error and the elements of the finite element matrices can all be evaluated in closed form. This approach is applicable to shapes in two and three dimensions, including discs, ellipses, spheres, spheroids, and potatoes. Examples are included for two‐dimensional applications of steady‐state heat transfer and elastostatics. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.