cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phase II study of olaparib in patients with refractory Ewing sarcoma following failure of standard chemotherapy

Preclinical studies have documented antitumor activity of PARP inhibition both in vitro and in vivo, against Ewing sarcoma cells. This study aimed to translate that observation into a clinical trial to assess the efficacy and tolerability of olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, in patients with advanced Ewing sarcoma (EWS) progressing after prior chemotherapy. In this nonrandomized phase II trial, adult participants with radiographically measureable metastatic EWS received olaparib tablets, 400 mg orally twice daily, until disease progression or drug intolerance. Tumor measurements were determined by CT or MRI at 6 and 12 weeks after starting olaparib administration, and then every 8 weeks thereafter. Tumor response determinations were made according to RECIST 1.1, and adverse event determinations were made according to CTCAE, version 4.0. A total of 22 participants were planned to be enrolled using a conventional 2-step phase II study design. If no objective responses were observed after 12 participants had been followed for at least 3 months, further accrual would be stopped. 12 participants were enrolled, and all were evaluable. There were no objective responses (PR/CR), 4 SD (duration 10.9, 11.4, 11.9, and 17.9 wks), and 8 PD as best response. Of the SD, 2 had minor responses (−9% and −11.7% by RECIST 1.1). The median time to disease progression was 5.7 weeks. Further enrollment was therefore discontinued. No significant or unexpected toxicities were observed with olaparib, with only a single case each of grade 3 anemia and grade 3 thrombocytopenia observed. This study is the first report of a prospective phase II trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a PARP inhibitor in patients with advanced Ewing sarcoma after failure of standard chemotherapy. Olaparib administration was safe and well tolerated when administered to this small heavily pre-treated cohort at the 400 mg BID dose, although the median duration of dosing was for only 5.7 weeks. No significant responses or durable disease control was seen, and the short average interval to disease progression underscores the aggressiveness of this disease. Other studies to combine cytotoxic chemotherapy with PARP inhibition in EWS are actively ongoing. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01583543
Spin dependent recombination: a /sup 29/Si hyperfine study of radiation-induced P/sub b/ centers at the Si/SiO/sub 2/ interface

The spin-dependent recombination (SDR) technique is used to observe the /sup 29/Si hyperfine spectra of radiation-induced P/sub b/ centers at the Si/SiO/sub 2/ interface in a MOSFET. The P/sub b/ center is a paramagnetic, trivalent silicon defect that is the dominant radiation-induced interface state. The /sup 29/Si hyperfine spectra give detailed atomic scale information about the P/sub b/ center. The SDR results show that the /sup 29/Si hyperfine spectra vary with surface potential. This result indicates that differences in the defect's local geometry lead to substantial differences in the defect's energy level. However, the /sup 29/Si hyperfine spectra are found to be relatively independent of the ionizing radiation dosage. >
The sociologist and the community developer: Autonomy and role conflict in qualitative research

Sociologists are being called upon to evaluate community development efforts in the United States at an increasing rate. These sociologists, as independent researchers, are working side by side with professional community development consultants. Based on an ongoing community development research project, which rests largely upon qualitative techniques, the roles of consultant and researcher are delineated. Methodological advantages and disadvantages of separating these roles are discussed. It is hypothesized that the presence of an independent research agent will likely produce four response phases on the part of the professional consultant during the course of the research project: (1) approval and support, (2) professional challenge, (3) apprehension, and (4) guarded acceptance. Suggestions are made regarding qualitative techniques that can minimize negative responses on the part of practitioners.
Nanoscale surface pattern formation kinetics on germanium irradiated by Kr+ ions

Nanoscale surface topography evolution on Ge surfaces irradiated by 1 keV Kr+ ions is examined in both directions perpendicular and parallel to the projection of the ion beam on the surface. Grazing incidence small angle x-ray scattering is used to measure in situ the evolution of surface morphology via the linear dispersion relation. A transition from smoothing (stability) to pattern-forming instability is observed at a critical ion incidence angle of approximately 62◦ with respect to the surface normal. The linear theory quadratic coefficients which determine the surface stability/instability are determined as a function of bombardment angle. The Ge surface evolution during Kr+ irradiation is qualitatively similar to that observed for Ar+ irradiation of Si. However, in contrast to the case of Si under Ar+ irradiation, the critical angle separating stability and instability for Ge under Kr+ irradiation cannot be quantitatively reproduced by the simple Carter-Vishnyakov mass redistribution model.
Effect of alachlor concentration and an organic amendment on soil dehydrogenase activity and pesticide degradation rate

Past studies have shown that extremely high concentrations of alachlor in soil can depress microbial biomass and bioactivity; consequently, degradation of alachlor is also inhibited. Studies were undertaken to further characterize the relationship among alachlor concentration in soil, dehydrogenase activity (as an indicator of microbial activity), and degradation rate. Alachlor initially inhibited soil dehydrogenase in soil at concentrations as low as 250 mg/kg with prolonged inhibition through at least 21 d occurring at concentrations ≥750 mg/kg. The inhibition of soil dehydrogenase was associated with a prolonged persistence of alachlor beyond the previously reported ranges of half-life observed at normal field rates of application. Amendment of soil with cornmeal caused degradation of 10 to 250 mg/kg alachlor at rates substantially faster than previously reported for laboratory incubations. At alachlor concentrations ≥750 mg/kg, dehydrogenase activities in amended soils surpassed levels in corresponding no-pesticide controls after 21 d; coincidentally, >50% of the initially added alachlor had degraded during the same period. These results suggested that stimulation of microbial bioactivity by addition of organic amendments may enhance co-metabolism of high concentrations of pesticides in soil.
The Hubbard model, spin degeneracy and Ising spins

Abstract The Hubbard model is used as a starting point for a study of an electronic system with spin ½. Using a functional integral representation at half-filling it is demonstrated that the spin degeneracy is equivalent to dynamic Ising spins coupled to the fermions. A magnetic phase transition of the model is related to a transition of the Ising spins from a paramagnetic to an antiferromagnetic phase. A metal-insulator transition in the paramagnetic phase can be described within this approach by the Green's function of non-interacting fermions, coupled to Ising spins. This picture is compared with the earlier Ising spin representation of the Hubbard model by Hirsch and discussed in terms of a small hopping amplitude.
An exact solution of unsteady heat transfer to a shear flow

Abstract The problem considered here is the heat transfer to a uniform shear flow from a flat plate of infinite extent when a portion of the plate is subjected to a step change in temperature. Streamwise conduction is neglected. The solution is effected by iterated Laplace transformation, which gives the transformed temperature as the ratio of two Airy functions. The inversion to the required temperature distribution is performed exactly. The exact solution exhibits the same features as the approximate solution due to Sparrow and Siegel for a related problem, except that the conduction solution and the steady-state solutions are now joined by a region of continuous curvature. This confirms their hypothesis that the discontinuity in curvature results from the solution of the energy integral equation. The temperature solution is extended by convolution to arbitrary wall temperatures.
Toward a business-to-business channel incentives classification scheme

A recent focus on intermediary compensation underscores the need to organize the many complex incentives used by channel practitioners. Employing a grounded theory methodology, a channel incentives classification scheme is induced from 170 unique channel incentives used in 59 high technology suppliers’ channel programs. The incentives are organized into 16 subcategories and 5 major categories: Credible Channel Policies, Market Development Support, Supplemental Contact, High-Powered Incentives, and End-User Encouragements. Each incentive subcategory is discussed as a means of controlling reseller behaviors. Also, the conditions that give rise to the implementation of incentives are investigated through four testable research propositions.
Dry-Aging Effects on Palatability of Beef Longissimus Muscle

Beef strip loins and short loins were vacuum aged for 7 or 14 d, then these cuts were dry aged for 7, 14, or 21 d. At 2, 9, and 16 d of post-dry-aging vacuum storage, strip steaks were analyzed for sensory, physical, and microbial differences. Controls were vacuum aged for 14 d. Dry aging for 14 and 21 d produced steaks with greater (P 0.05) dry-aged flavor, tenderness, and juiciness than controls or steaks dry aged for 7 d. Shear forces were lower (P 0.05) for steaks dry aged for 21 d. Time of vacuum storage before and after dry aging had minimal effects on development of dry-aged flavor attributes.
Fabrication of in-plane aligned carbon nanotube–polymer composite thin films

Abstract In-plane aligned carbon nanotube–polymer composite thin films with submicrometer thickness on unmodified SiO 2 surfaces are fabricated using the spincoating alignment technique, which is simple, integratable to the manufacture process of organic devices, and applicable to various matrix polymers (e.g. polycarbonate and polythiophene). Controlled manipulation of the nanotube alignment in a polymer matrix is an effective method to tune the electrical conductivity of a 5 wt.% single-walled carbon nanotube–polycarbonate composite film spanning nearly four orders of magnitude.
Diel changes in nitrite concentration in the chlorophyll maximum in the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract A diel study of the deep chlorophyll maximum and its associated nitrite maximum showed that the nitrite maximum strengthens during the day and diminishes at night. A one-dimensional vertical model was used to differentiate physical from biological processes affecting the nitrite distribution. The rates of net production (or uptake) of nitrite, nitrate, ammonia, phosphate, and silicate were estimated at local dawn, noon, dusk, and midnight. The nitrite maximum at the base of the euphotic zone is produced mainly by phytoplankton during the day by reduction of nitrate. Daytime release of nitrite by phytoplankton occurs at a rate higher than the capacity of nitrifying microorganisms to oxidize it, and this leads to the nitrite maximum, which diminishes at night by nitrification. Nitrification rates were 0.2 to 0.5 μg-at. N1 −1 h −1 . The rates are one to three orders of magnitude higher than those based on the long-term (24-h) incubations of samples usually used to estimate nitrification rates.
The political effects of grievance handling by stewards in a local union

This study develops and tests three long-standing propositions about the relationship between grievance-handling behavior and political outcomes in a local union: (1) more favorable grievance handling enhances the steward’s likelihood of re-election; (2) the more the political support obtained in an election, the greater the steward’s ability to affect grievance outcomes favorably; and (3) as the relationship between management and the union evolves, grievance handling becomes more efficient and effective. Data on grievances and election results of Ford-UAW Local 400 from the 1950s were used to test hypotheses derived from these propositions; most received substantial, significant support.
Droplet Deformation Prediction With the Droplet Deformation and Breakup Model (DDB)

The Droplet Deformation and Breakup Model was used to predict deformation of droplets approaching the leading edge stagnation line of an airfoil. The quasi-steady model was solved for each position along the droplet path. A program was developed to solve the non-linear, second order, ordinary differential equation that governs the model. A fourth order Runge-Kutta method was used to solve the equation. Experimental slip velocities from droplet breakup studies were used as input to the model which required slip velocity along the particle path. The center of mass displacement predictions were compared to the experimental measurements from the droplet breakup studies for droplets with radii in the range of 200 to 700 mm approaching the airfoil at 50 and 90 m/sec. The model predictions were good for the displacement of the center of mass for small and medium sized droplets. For larger droplets the model predictions did not agree with the experimental results.
Comment on 'Aerosol and Rayleigh radiance contributions to Coastal Zone Colour Scanner images' by Eckstein and Simpson

In a recent paper Eckstein and Simpson describe what they believe to be serious difficulties and/or errors with the CZCS (Coastal Zone Color Scanner) processing algorithms based on their analysis of seven images. Here we point out that portions of their analysis, particularly those dealing with multiple scattered Rayleigh radiance, are incorrect. We also argue that other problems they discuss have already been addressed in the literature. Finally, we suggest that many apparent artifacts in CZCS-derived pigment fields are likely to be due to inadequacies in the sensor band set or to poor radiometric stability, both of which will be remedied with the next generation of ocean color sensors.
High performance multi-field packet classification using bucket filtering and GPU processing

The literature review shows a trend to arbitrary number of multi-field packet classification is evolved from standard 5-tuple matching to support new applications like OpenFlow switch which processes upto 15 fields \cite{Yun:ISCAHPP13}. However, arbitrary number of multi-field packet classification becomes a great challenge regarding to performance, memory requirement, and update cost. In this paper, a high performance multi-field packet classification system is designed and implemented using bucket filtering and GPU processing.
On the adequacy of energy criteria for dynamic buckling of arches.

T dynamic conditions under which thin shell structures will become unstable and exhibit large changes in response for small changes of loading are of particular interest in blast loading situations. If a pressure load is applied for a very short time, as a pulse, the structure may be able to withstand levels far higher than the static buckling condition. One possible line of attack to the analytical prediction of such dynamic instability levels deals only with the energy of the system. If the deflection shape is assumed a priori, the internal elastic strain energy can be found as a function of the shape amplitudes. If the loading is very brief and intense, it may be postulated that the response will depend only on the amount of impulse imparted to the structure and not on the exact shape of the loading pulse. Then the load may be identical to an initial velocity distribution that gives directly an initial kinetic energy imparted to the structure. The maximum strain energy achievable in the system will be just equal to this input energy (assuming no dissipation). A relative maximum in the strain energy as a function of deflection shape amplitude will correspond to a state of unstable equilibrium and can be used to define a dynamic buckling criterion. A small increase in input energy beyond that needed to reach the unstable equilibrium point will produce a large increase in response. This was done for lowestmode symmetrical buckling by Humphreys and Bodner
A Causal Model Theory of the Meaning of Cause, Enable, and Prevent

The verbs cause, enable, and prevent express beliefs about the way the world works. We offer a theory of their meaning in terms of the structure of those beliefs expressed using qualitative properties of causal models, a graphical framework for representing causal structure. We propose that these verbs refer to a causal model relevant to a discourse and that "A causes B" expresses the belief that the causal model includes a link from A to B. "A enables/allows B" entails that the model includes a link from A to B, that A represents a category of events necessary for B, and that an alternative cause of B exists. "A prevents B" entails that the model includes a link from A to B and that A reduces the likelihood of B. This theory is able to account for the results of four experiments as well as a variety of existing data on human reasoning.
Myocardial Protection Conferred by Electromagnetic Fields

Background—It has been reported that electromagnetic (EM) fields induce stress proteins in vitro. These proteins have been shown to be important in recovery from ischemia/reperfusion. It was, therefore, hypothesized that EM fields could activate stress responses in vivo and protect myocardial tissue during anoxia. Methods and Results—Chick embryos were exposed to 4-, 6-, 8-, and 10-μT and 60-Hz EM fields for 20 minutes followed by a 1-hour rest period before placement in an anoxic chamber. Embryos were reoxygenated when survival of controls dropped to 500 EM field-exposed embryos) indicated that EM field protection was extremely significant (P<0.0001). Survival rates were 39.6% in controls and 68.7% in field-exposed embryos. In a second set of experiments, embryos were exposed for 20 minutes to several pretreatments: (1) hyperthermia (43°C), (2) 60-Hz, 8-μT EM fields, or (3) 60-Hz, 8-μT EM fields plus a random EM noise fie...
Toward Reflective Accountability: Using NSSE for Accountability and Transparency.

After setting forth a vision of accountability rooted in professional responsibility, the author discusses how a substantial number of institutions report their NSSE results publicly, both on their own as well as using mechanisms provided by others.
Analysis of nucleotides 13-96 of the human parainfluenza virus type 3 antigenomic promoter reveals positive- and negative-acting replication elements.

During replication of human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3), the 96-nucleotide antigenomic promoter (AGP) of HPIV3 directs the synthesis of genomic RNA. Previous work showed that nucleotides 1–12 were critical in promoting replication of an HPIV3 minireplicon, but nucleotides 13–96 were not investigated. In this study, the role of nucleotides 13–96 in AGP function was analyzed by creating and assaying mutations in an HPIV3 minireplicon. A replication promoting element known as promoter element II (nt 79–96) was confirmed in the HPIV3 AGP. Additionally, nucleotides 13–39 were found to constitute an additional positive-acting cis-element. However, detailed analysis of the 13–39 element revealed a complicated control element with both stimulatory and repressing elements. Specifically, nucleotides 21–28 were shown to repress RNA replication, while flanking sequences had a stimulatory effect.
Switching Bifurcation and Chaos in an Extended Fermi-Acceleration Oscillator

The Fermi acceleration oscillator is extensively used to interpret many physical and mechanical phenomena. To understand dynamic behaviors of a particle (or a bouncing ball) in such a Fermi oscillator, a generalized Fermi acceleration model is developed. This model consists of a particle moving vertically between a fixed wall and the piston in a vibrating oscillator. The motion switching bifurcation of a particle in such a generalized Fermi oscillator is investigated through the theory of discontinuous dynamical systems. The analytical conditions for the motion switching are developed for numerical predictions. Thus, periodic motions in the Fermi-acceleration oscillator are given and the corresponding local stability and bifurcation are presented. Periodic and chaotic motions in such an oscillator are presented via the displacement time-history. From switching bifurcation and period-doubling bifurcation, parameter maps of periodic and chaotic motions will be developed for a global view of motions in the Fermi acceleration oscillator. To illustrate motion switching phenomena, the acceleration responses of the particle and base in the Fermi oscillator are presented. Poincare mapping sections are also used to illustrate chaos, and energy dissipation in chaotic motions can be evaluated.© 2008 ASME
A μSR study of valence fluctuations in Fe3O4

Abstract New μSR measurements on Fe 3 O 4 , showing a temperature shift of the “247 K anomaly” in applied fields, demonstrate muon-conduction-electron cross-relaxation and yield a 0.11 eV barrier for near-neighbor B-site electron transfer above the Verwey transition. μSR relaxation rates and the possibility of molecular-polaron formation are discussed.
Adaptation to rewarding brain stimuli of differing amplitude.

The prolongation of a brain reward stimulus produces no further increment of reward past a certain point. Such a phenomenon can be predicted from Gallistel's (1978, Journal of Comparative and Physiological Psychology, 92, 977–998) leaky integrator model or from adaptation. Adaptation takes a longer time to occur if the intensity of the stimulus is raised. No such effect of intensity is predicted from the leaky integrator model. Equivalent increase of reward magnitude (either by frequency or current increase) produces a longer time to adaptation in brain reward stimulation.
More Than Just Openness: Developing and Validating a Measure of Targeted Parent–Child Communication About Alcohol

Research addressing parent-child communication on the topic of alcohol use relies heavily on assessing frequency of discussions and general assessments of openness in parent-child communication, ignoring the complexity of this communication phenomenon. This study adds to the literature by articulating a conceptualization and developing a measurement of parent-child communication-targeted parent-child communication about alcohol-and comparing the efficacy of targeted parent-child communication about alcohol in predicting positive expectancies of alcohol use and recent alcohol use. The predictive power of general openness in parent-child communication and frequency of communication about alcohol also were assessed. Students in fifth and sixth grade (N = 1,407) from 29 public schools completed surveys. Targeted parent-child communication about alcohol was negatively associated with both outcomes. Frequency and general openness were only negatively associated with positive expectancies regarding alcohol. Implications of these findings for the etiology and prevention of substance use are discussed.
Statistical analysis for test lands positioning and PCB deformation during electrical testing

Abstract The goal of this research is to develop a systematic, accurate and robust method for printed circuit board (PCB) positioning evaluation in the testing fixture. Theoretical analysis and experimental observation of tolerance distribution in bed-of-nails fixture were involved. Actual deformation of PCB (translation, rotation and deflection) could be obtained based upon a proposed model. The combined accuracy of the test lands positioning (false failure rate) were estimated by the Weibull distribution. All data processing was finished by MATLAB. Results will be helpful for evaluation of the minimal size of the PCB test lands and modification of the testing fixtures.
Early Literacy Skills in African‐American Children: Research Considerations

The poor reading achievement of African-American children in urban schools is well established. African-American children from low-income homes may be at particular risk for reading difficulties, although middle-income children often fare poorly as well. Intervention efforts have focused on children in kindergarten through fifth grade. This article suggests that prevention efforts must begin prior to kindergarten entry. Several key variables that may influence young children's performance, including poverty, general oral language skills, dialectal variations, home literacy practices, standardized testing bias, and teacher expectations, are explored. Future directions for research addressing emergent literacy in African-American children are discussed throughout.
Hypotension in the newborn: who needs hydrocortisone?

Hydrocortisone for the treatment of hypotension in newborns has become increasingly common in many neonatal intensive care units. Steroid therapy is known to increase blood pressure at all ages, but the type of steroid, the dosing regimen, and the length of treatment used varies widely. Cortisol serves to maintain vascular responsiveness to circulating vasoconstrictors. Additionally, cortisol suppresses the inflammatory response, and opposes the increased capillary permeability that occurs during acute inflammation. Individuals with adrenal insufficiency, who are unable to produce adequate cortisol, present with cardiovascular insufficiency and shock. In acutely ill adults and children, cardiovascular instability and increased mortality have been found in those patients who have normal cortisol levels, but minimal response to an adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test. This association has been described as relative adrenal insufficiency, and responds to treatment with hydrocortisone at physiologic stress replacement doses.1
An analysis of overlapping appointment scheduling model in an outpatient clinic

Abstract This research addresses an overlapping appointment scheduling (OLAS) model to minimize patient waiting time and doctor idle time in an outpatient healthcare clinic when a stochastic service time is considered. In general, outpatient clinics should determine proper appointment schedules for their patients to maximize doctor utilization and patient satisfaction. As a result, the OLAS model has been proposed to find the optimal overlap period between patient appointment and allocated service times. A mathematical model is developed to minimize the total cost of patient waiting and doctor idle time, which has been analyzed with the assumption that the service time is followed by a uniform distribution. In addition, a Monte Carlo simulation model is developed to verify the optimal overlap period driven from the proposed OLAS model and to evaluate the effect of implementing an overlap period in clinics with different service distributions, overtime, and no-shows. The experimental results indicate that the optimal environment to apply an OLAS model is an outpatient clinic with a high no-show rate, long appointment lengths, and a high coefficient of variation. The results indicate that the utilization of overlapping scheduling can lead to a 40%–70% reduction in total costs.
Music therapy for end-of-life care.

Music therapy is one of the most popular forms of complementary therapies for hospices and palliative care programs in the United States and Canada, resulting in a growing need for the employment of music therapists. The purpose of music therapy at the end of life is to improve the patient’s quality of life by relieving symptoms, addressing psychological needs, offering support, facilitating communication, and meeting spiritual needs. Music therapists also care for family and caregivers by addressing their coping and communication skills and grief. Therefore, nurses need to understand the effects of music therapy on their patients at the end of life.
Direct repair of spondylolytic defects in young competitive athletes

Abstract Background context: Operative treatment of symptomatic spondylolysis is rare. A variety of surgeries have been described. In general, reported operative success rates are high, although in most studies the successful return to sport of the competitive athlete is not detailed. Purpose: To review outcome, specifically return to sport, in a group of competitive athletes after direct pars repair for symptomatic spondylolysis. Study design/setting: This was a retrospective case series of a single surgeon. Patient sample: Series of four athletes who underwent direct pars repair over an 18-month period. Outcome measures: Return to their sport. Methods: Chart review of all patients who had undergone a single-level pars repair over an 18-month period. All patients had normal discs above the level of the repair. Postoperative clinical course was determined for all patients. Results: The patients participated in different sports. All were able to return to their presymptomatic level of activity with no restriction. One had periodic low back pain that required nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine as needed. The others were entirely asymptomatic. Conclusions: This small series suggests that with specific inclusion criteria, a select group of motivated athletes can expect to return to their sport after direct pars repairs for symptomatic spondylolysis that has failed conservative treatment.
Photo-electron capture detector

Abstract An electron capture detector has been constructed which uses photoionization to produce the electrons, thus eliminating the conventional use of a radioactive source for this purpose. A photo-electron capture detector was investigated using the Lyman-α resonance line of hydrogen with triethylamine. The detector was operated in the d.c. mode and attained a limit of sensitivity for carbon tetrachloride of 50 pg.
Urea Transporter Inhibitors: En Route to New Diuretics

A selective urea transporter UT-A1 inhibitor would be a novel type of diuretic, likely with less undesirable side effects than conventional diuretics, because it acts on the last portion of the nephron. In this issue of Chemistry & Biology, Esteva-Font and colleagues develop such an inhibitor by using a clever high-throughput screening assay and document its selectivity.
Isotope effects and mechanism in the bromination of alpha- and beta-carbon-14 labeled 4-nitro-4'-methylstilbenes

Abstract In the bromination of 4-nitro-4′-methylstilbene, the carbon-14 αC isotope effect is larger, k/ α k = 1.013, than the α C one, k/ β k = 1.0035. These results support an open carbocation intermediate mechanism with the positive charge on the carbon adjacent to the methyl-containing ring.
Art gallery theorems and algorithms

Polygon partitions Orthogonal polygons Mobile guards Miscellaneous shapes Holes Exterior visibility Visibility groups Visibility algorithms Minimal guard covers Three-dimensions and miscellany.
The relationship between compulsive behaviour and academic achievement across the three genetic subtypes of Prader-Willi syndrome.

Background Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic syndrome associated with several physical, cognitive and behavioural characteristics. For many individuals with this syndrome, compulsive behaviour is often noted in both food and non-food situations. The focus of this paper is on the non-food-related compulsions in individuals with PWS and comparing differences across the three genetic subtypes of the syndrome. Methods Compulsive behaviours in 73 people with PWS were assessed using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale and the Compulsive Behavior Checklist. Compulsive behaviour and its relation to IQ and academic achievement also were evaluated. Phenotypic differences were characterized for the three most common genetic subtypes of the disorder: 16 individuals with the long Type I (TI) 15q deletion, 26 individuals with the short Type II (TII) 15q deletion and 31 individuals with maternal disomy 15. Results There appeared to be important differences between the two deletion subtypes. Specifically, individuals with the TI deletion had more compulsions regarding personal cleanliness (i.e. excessive bathing/grooming), and their compulsions were more difficult to interrupt and interfered with social activities more than the other subtypes. Individuals with the TII deletion were more likely to have compulsions related to specific academic areas (i.e. rereading, erasing answers and counting objects or numbers). Conclusions These findings may help clinicians and researchers identify possible intervention strategies and supports based on the behavioural phenotype associated with genetic subtype in individuals with PWS.
A linear space of admittance control laws that guarantees force-assembly with friction

Force-assembly has been defined as an assembly process for which the use of a single, properly designed, admittance control law will guarantee the proper assembly of a given pair of mating parts. In previous work in workpart-into-fixture insertion, the conditions on a manipulators accommodation control law that ensure proper insertion despite infinitesimal positional error and finite (but bounded) friction have been identified. Through the use of an optimization routine, a control law that satisfies these force-assembly conditions at or below a friction maximum value can be obtained. This single control law, however, is not unique-there exists many other control laws that will satisfy the conditions of force-assembly at the same value of friction. This paper addresses the identification and construction of a linear space of accommodation control law parameters that ensure force-assembly with friction. First, linear sufficient conditions that ensure force-assembly with friction are identified. These linear sufficient conditions are then modified to separate the N/sup 2/+N dimensional space of accommodation control law parameters into N+1 different N-dimensional subspaces. A means of efficiently generating basis nominal velocity vectors and basis accommodation matrices is presented. A nominal velocity selected using any positive linear combination of the nominal velocity basis vectors and an accommodation matrix selected using any positive linear combination of the accommodation basis matrices will guarantee force-assembly (for any value of friction less than that used in generating the basis matrices). A planar example of the construction of each accommodation control law subspace is presented and illustrated in the geometry of the fixturing task.
Glycogen storage diseases: New perspectives

Glycogen storage diseases (GSD) are inherited metabolic disorders of glycogen metabolism. Different hormones, including insulin, glucagon, and cortisol regulate the relationship of glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glycogen synthesis. The overall GSD incidence is estimated 1 case per 20000-43000 live births. There are over 12 types and they are classified based on the enzyme deficiency and the affected tissue. Disorders of glycogen degradation may affect primarily the liver, the muscle, or both. Type Ia involves the liver, kidney and intestine (and Ib also leukocytes), and the clinical manifestations are hepatomegaly, failure to thrive, hypoglycemia, hyperlactatemia, hyperuricemia and hyperlipidemia. Type IIIa involves both the liver and muscle, and IIIb solely the liver. The liver symptoms generally improve with age. Type IV usually presents in the first year of life, with hepatomegaly and growth retardation. The disease in general is progressive to cirrhosis. Type VI and IX are a heterogeneous group of diseases caused by a deficiency of the liver phosphorylase and phosphorylase kinase system. There is no hyperuricemia or hyperlactatemia. Type XI is characterized by hepatic glycogenosis and renal Fanconi syndrome. Type II is a prototype of inborn lysosomal storage diseases and involves many organs but primarily the muscle. Types V and VII involve only the muscle.
DISTANT EFFECTS OF TOXIC AGENTS

Toxic solutions applied at one end of a Nitella cell 6 cm. long may produce little or no visible change in the structure of the protoplasm at the place of application but if the opposite end is covered with water its protoplasm soon disintegrates. If the middle of the cell is covered with mineral oil this region remains normal in appearance for half an hour or more. The result is due to the movement of substances in the cell. The loss of substances at the end where the toxic agent is applied results in loss at the opposite end if it is covered with water since water enters and travels along inside the cell carrying substances with it. This causes injury at the spot where the water enters. The conception developed here differs fundamentally from the usual view that the effects of injury spread gradually from the region where the toxic agent is applied to the immediately adjoining regions and thence to more remote places. The change produced by loss of substances produces an interesting pattern which deserves study.
Field-assisted selective-melt sintering: a novel approach to high-density ceramics

Electrical fields can be used to heat selectively dislocations and grain boundaries to a much higher temperature compared with the bulk. This selective joule heating, if uncontrolled by limiting the current flow, can lead to melting of grain boundaries and sintering of poly- and nanocrystalline materials close to the theoretical density in a much shorter time due to fast diffusivities of the order of 10−4 to 10−5 cm2/s in the liquid. I refer to this sintering mode as selective-melt sintering, which can occur at lower overall temperatures with much lower energy consumption compared with conventional sintering involving solid-state diffusion.
Cognitive Function and Major Depression in Chronic Fatigue: The Apathy Construct

ABSTRACTObjective: The current study examined cognitive function, major depressive disorder (MDD), and apathy construct symptoms in a large multi-site surveillance study of chronic fatigue syndrome conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Method: Subjects underwent neuropsychological testing and were administered the Diagnostic Interview Schedule to establish psychiatric diagnoses. Questions in the Beck Depression Inventory relating to motivation were used to develop an apathy construct. Results: Neuropsychological test results showed impairment in multiple cognitive domains in over 25% of the cohort, and raised proportions of outliers in motor and executive function. Memory complaints were not associated with tests of memory function. The apathy construct rather than MDD was associated with impaired cognition. Conclusions: Impaired cognition in chronic fatigue does not appear to be associated with MDD but rather with endorsement of construct symptoms. Similar associations were reporte...
Nonlinear observer output-feedback MPC treatment scheduling for HIV

Mathematical models of the immune response to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus demonstrate the potential for dynamic schedules of Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy to enhance Cytotoxic Lymphocyte-mediated control of HIV infection. In previous work we have developed a model predictive control (MPC) based method for determining optimal treatment interruption schedules for this purpose. In this paper, we introduce a nonlinear observer for the HIV-immune response system and an integrated output-feedback MPC approach for implementing the treatment interruption scheduling algorithm using the easily available viral load measurements. We use Monte-Carlo approaches to test robustness of the algorithm. The nonlinear observer shows robust state tracking while preserving state positivity both for continuous and discrete measurements. The integrated output-feedback MPC algorithm stabilizes the desired steady-state. Monte-Carlo testing shows significant robustness to modeling error, with 90% success rates in stabilizing the desired steady-state with 15% variance from nominal on all model parameters. The possibility of enhancing immune responsiveness to HIV through dynamic scheduling of treatment is exciting. Output-feedback Model Predictive Control is uniquely well-suited to solutions of these types of problems. The unique constraints of state positivity and very slow sampling are addressable by using a special-purpose nonlinear state estimator, as described in this paper. This shows the possibility of using output-feedback MPC-based algorithms for this purpose.
Association of blood and ocular perfusion pressure with structural glaucomatous progression by flicker chronoscopy

Background Vascular risk factors have been associated with glaucomatous visual field progression. Aim We determined the relationship between vascular risk factors and structural glaucomatous progression using serial flicker chronoscopy images. Methods Two glaucoma fellowship-trained ophthalmologists, masked to temporal sequence, independently graded serial flicker chronoscopy images from one eye of a cohort of glaucoma patients for features of structural progression in this retrospective cohort study. After adjudication, simple and multiple logistic models were constructed to determine variables associated with increased odds of progression, including systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP and mean ocular perfusion pressure. Results Seventy-two eyes of 72 patients were analysed. Patients with any form of structural progression (n=40) were older (67.0 vs 58.8 years; p=0.005) and had lower diastolic BP (71.8 vs 76.5 mm Hg; p=0.02) than patients without progression (n=32). In the univariable model, diastolic BP was associated with progressive retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) loss (OR=0.2 per 10 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.6, p Conclusions This study is the first to use structural progression and flicker chronoscopy to identify vascular glaucoma risk factors. Older age and lower diastolic BP were associated with progression. By multivariable analysis diastolic BP was associated with RNFL and neuroretinal rim loss. These findings suggest that diastolic BP is associated with structural glaucomatous progression which may have implications for management.
Heterogeneous catalytic CO2 conversion to value-added hydrocarbons

The impact that anthropogenic CO2 is having on the environment has been thoroughly documented over the last 20 years. Many different technologies have been proposed to reduce its impact on global warming such as geological sequestration. However, an interesting and attractive alternative would be the recycling of the gas into energy-rich molecules. Iron rather than cobalt catalysts, based on the Fischer–Tropsch technology, have shown the greatest promise in converting CO2 to value-added hydrocarbons. The addition of co-catalysts is, however, essential to fine tune the product distribution to the more desired alkene products. The role that both the promoter and support play on the catalyst's activity is reviewed.
Computer Recognition of Handwritten First Names

Alearning program incorporating a version of stimulus-sampling theory was prepared for a digital computer. Handwritten first name signatures coded in a 20 by 48 grid served as inputs to study the effects of parameter changes in the program. Under one main condition the computer with its program examined only those grid cells in which any part of a given pattern fell. Under a second main condition each of the 960 grid cells was examined. Learning of correct pattern names occurred under both conditions. The level of learning achieved under the second condition was higher, although the improvement was gained at the expense of considerably extended running times.
Architecture of pharmacogenomic associations: structures with functional foundations or castles made of sand?

In the construction of any building, a foundation beneath the surface is required to ensure that the structure has a stable footing and is serviceable. Just like a building, a pharmacogenomic association requires a foundation. In this case, a foundation can be constructed from the elucidation of the genetic mechanism behind the pharmacogenomic association, providing a supportive biological basis. If the function of the genetic variant believed to provide the association (which we will call ‘associated SNP’ for simplicity) is not known, it is difficult to make a biological interpretation and determine whether the causal variant has been identified [1]. Consequently, establishing a functional foundation is a crucial step in the validation of any pharmacogenomic association and even more so when the ability to conduct external replication is limited. This is particularly a problem of pharmacogenomic studies stemming from clinical trials of experimental drugs, as independent study cohorts will very likely not exist. In these instances, the establishment of a functional foundation is an essential part in the process of demonstrating clinical validity and utility.
Self-discharge study of Li-alloy/FeS/sub 2/ thermal cells

The capacities of Li-alloy/FeS/sub 2/ thermal batteries are influenced by the extent of self-discharge reactions that occur during operation. For some thermal battery applications involving open circuit (i.e., wet stand) conditions, this self-discharge can result in a significant loss in capacity. A study was undertaken to obtain a better understanding of the factors influencing the self-discharge of thermal cells, such as temperature, electrolyte composition, and processing of the catholyte (i.e., lithiation and fusion). The cells were discharged after prescribed times at open circuit under isothermal conditions and the capacity to a cutoff voltage was measured. Postmortem characterization of the cells was used to correlate the results of the electrochemical experiments. The results of the various tests are presented in detail. >
Restituting intestinal epithelial cells exhibit increased transducibility by adenoviral vectors

Background and aims While mature enterocytes are resistant to transduction by adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) vectors, undifferentiated cells are transduced much more efficiently. Our purpose was to study enterocyte transduction in models of intestinal wound healing. Methods Transduction was studied ex vivo using cultures of endoscopic biopsies and in vitro utilizing Caco-2 cells in models of mucosal wound healing. Vectors carried either the LacZ or the luciferase gene. CAR (coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor) and integrins were studied with transduction inhibition and immunofluorescent staining.
Energy barriers associated with slip-twin interactions

The energetics of slip–coherent twin boundary (CTB) interactions are established under tensile deformation in face centered cubic (fcc) copper with molecular dynamics simulations, exploring the entire stereographic triangle. The CTBs serve as effective barriers in some crystal orientations more than others, consistent with experimental observations. The resulting dislocation structures upon slip–twin reactions are identified in terms of Burgers vector analysis. Visualization of the dislocation transmission, lock formation, dislocation incorporation to twin boundaries, dislocation multiplication at the matrix–twin interface and twin translation, growth, and contraction behaviors cover the most significant reactions that can physically occur providing a deeper understanding of the mechanical behavior of fcc alloys in the presence of twin boundaries. The results make a distinction between deformation and annealing twins interacting with incident dislocations and point to the considerable role both types of t...
Nonpharmacologic Labor Analgesia

A supportive medical team should be well informed on the various pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic modalities of coping with or mitigating labor pain to appropriately support and respectfully care for parturients. Using the methodical rigor of previously published Cochrane systematic reviews, this summary evaluates and discusses the efficacy of nonpharmacologic labor analgesic interventions.