cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetic monitoring and dose modification of Etanidazole in the RTOG 85-27 phase III head and neck trial

Purpose: To prospectively evaluate the pharmacokinetic monitoring and drug dose adjustment of Etanidazole (Eta) in patients treated on the RTOG randomized trial for Stage III and IV head and neck cancer. Methods and Materials: From June, 1986 to October, 1991, 521 patients were randomized to conventional RT alone or RT plus Eta. The primary goal was to determine whether the addition of Eta to conventional radiation therapy improves local-regional control and tumor-free survival. Of the 264 patients who received Eta, 233 had their drug exposure calculated and the Eta dose and schedule adjusted accordingly to prevent the occurrence of serious peripheral neuropathy. Drug exposure was assessed using the area under the curve (AUC) for a single treatment that was calculated by the integral over time of the serum concentration of Eta. The total drug exposure (total-AUC) was estimated by multiplying the AUC by the number of drug administrations. Results: Eighteen percent of patients developed Grade I and 6% developed Grade II peripheral neuropathy. There was no Grade 3 or 4 peripheral neuropathy. There is a trend for an increased risk of neuropathy by single dose AUC. The minimal difference in incidence of neuropathy by single-dose AUC was due to the use of dose and schedule modification for patients with the higher values. Conclusions: The pharmacokinetics investigated in this study confirm previous work that monitoring Eta levels, with dose adjustment, allows it to be used safely in the clinic. In a subset analysis there was a statistically significant improvement in local-regional control and survival rates for patients with N0 and N1 disease, that will require confirmation (14). However, the clinical efficacy of Eta in this trial proved to be of little overall benefit.
Latin America’s Resurgent Centre: National Government Strategies after Decentralisation

This article identifies the ‘menu of options’ available to national governments as they seek to re-assert the centre’s prerogatives in the aftermath of decentralisation. These include policy strate...
The influence of carnosinase gene polymorphisms on diabetic nephropathy risk in African-Americans.

Four genome wide linkage scans for diabetic nephropathy have mapped susceptibility loci to chromosome 18q22.3-23 in the region of the carnosinase genes, CNDP1 and CNDP2. CNDP1 has been associated with diabetic nephropathy in Europeans and European Americans, but not African-Americans. Individuals homozygous for a five tri-nucleotide repeat allele (5L; D18S880) are protected from diabetic nephropathy. We identified 64 variants after sequencing the exons, promoter, and 3′ UTR of CNDP1 and CNDP2 in African-American and European American DNA samples. After scanning 44 of these variants, extensive genotyping of 12 SNPs and D18S880 was performed in 1,025 African-American cases with type 2 diabetes (DM)-associated end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and 1,064 African-American non-diabetic non-nephropathy controls to assess whether the carnosinase genes influence risk for DM-ESRD in African-Americans. Evidence of association with DM-ESRD was seen with 2 SNPs: rs6566810 and rs4892247; 3 two-marker haplotypes: rs6566810 and rs17089362, rs17089362 and rs890336, and rs890334 and rs12717111 (global empirical P = 0.0034, 0.0275, and 0.0002, respectively) and 3 three-marker haplotypes: rs6566810, rs17089362, and rs890336; rs890335, rs890334, and rs12717111; and rs890334, rs12717111, and D18S880 (global empirical P = 0.0074, 1.5E-05, and 0.0032, respectively). The risk haplotypes (rs6566810, rs17089362 [A,T] and rs6566810, rs17089362, rs890336 [A,T,C]) were most strongly associated with DM-ESRD among African-Americans in the non 5L–5L group. Variants in the carnosinase genes appear to contribute to diabetic nephropathy susceptibility in African-Americans. Protection from diabetic nephropathy afforded by 5L–5L homozygosity in CNDP1 may be masked by the effects of additional risk haplotypes in CNDP1 and CNDP2.
Patterns of chemical use and exposure control in the semiconductor health study

Information on chemical use and exposure control between 1986 and 1990 was collected from 14 companies participating in the Semiconductor Health Study. Questionnaires and site visits provided data used to develop exposure categories for three epidemiological studies: prospective, historical, and cross-sectional. Patterns of use of target chemicals were compiled for 82 silicon-wafer fabrication rooms (fabs), including 47 from which subjects were selected for study. Chemical use was examined by operation, year, and epidemiological component. Target agents for epidemiological analyses were present in more than 50% of fabs. Use of these agents was fairly constant from 1986 to 1990, except for a moderate increase in use of propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate, a solvent being substituted for ethylene-based glycol ethers (EGE) in photoresists. The distribution of personal protective equipment, engineering controls, and other factors potentially affecting employee exposure was also examined. Controls designed to manage processes or high acute toxicity were present in most fabs; their prevalence remained unchanged from 1986 through 1990. Controls designed to reduce exposures to chemicals with low acute toxicity were less widely distributed; their prevalence increased moderately from 1986 to 1990. 0 1995 Wiley-Liss. Inc.
Gene control by large noncoding RNAs

Large noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as key players in regulating various fundamental cellular processes. Recent reports identify a functional lncRNA, Evf-2, that operates during development to control the expression of specific homeodomain proteins, and they provide important insights into the mechanism of cooperation between a newly discovered nuclear receptor co-repressor protein (SLIRP) and steroid receptor activator RNA. Evf-2 is the first example of lncRNA directly involved in organogenesis in vertebrates.
Organization of 147 Lean Enablers for Systems Engineering into the 26 INCOSE Systems Engineering Processes

The organization of 147 Lean Enablers for Systems Engineering into the 26 INCOSE Systems Engineering processes in the INCOSE Handbook will be described. The methodology used will be presented. The organization has been approved by the Lean SE Working Group during the IW meeting. A draft of the new Appendix for the Handbook submitted to the Handbook Working group will be illustrated.
Aging and disease: connections to sirtuins

Summary The sirtuins are highly conserved NAD-dependent deacetylases that were shown to regulate lifespan in lower organisms and affect diseases of aging in mammals, such as diabetes, cancer, and inflammation. Most relevant to the amelioration of disease, the SIR2 ortholog SIRT1 has been shown to deacetylate many important transcription factors to exert an overarching influence on numerous metabolic pathways. Here we discuss several diseases of aging for which SIRT1 has been recently shown to confer protection. These findings suggest that manipulating sirtuin activity pharmacologically may be a fruitful area to improve human health.
Isolating fetal cells in maternal circulation for prenatal diagnosis.

Fetal cells unequivocally exist in and can be isolated from maternal blood. Erythroblasts, trophoblasts, granulocytes and lymphocytes have all been isolated by various density gradient and flow sorting techniques. Chromosomal abnormalities detected on isolated fetal cells include trisomy 21, trisomy 18, Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY) and 47,XYY. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology has enabled the detection of fetal sex, Mendelian disorders (e.g. beta-globin mutations), HLA polymorphisms, and fetal Rhesus (D) blood type. The fetal cell type that has generated the most success is the nucleated erythrocyte; however, trophoblasts, lymphocytes and granulocytes are also considered to be present in maternal blood. Fetal cells circulate in maternal blood during the first and second trimesters, and their detection is probably not affected by Rh or ABO maternal-fetal incompatibilities. Emphasis is now directed toward determining the most practical and efficacious manner for this technique to be applied to prenatal genetic diagnosis. Only upon completion of clinical evaluations could it be considered appropriate to offer this technology as an alternative to conventional invasive and non-invasive methods of prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis.
Photoresponsive Molecules in Well‐Defined Nanoscale Environments

Stimuli-responsive molecules are key building blocks of functional molecular materials and devices. These molecules can operate in a range of environments. A molecule's local environment will dictate its conformation, reactivity, and function; by controlling the local environment we can ultimately develop interfaces of individual molecules with the macroscopic environment. By isolating molecules in well-defined environments, we are able to obtain both accurate measurements and precise control. We exploit defect sites in self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) to direct the functional molecules into precise locations, providing a basis for the measurements and engineering of functional molecular systems. The structure and functional moieties of the SAM can be tuned to control not only the intermolecular interactions but also molecule-substrate interactions, resulting in extraction or control of desired molecular functions. Herein, we report our progress toward the assembly and measurements of photoresponsive molecules and their precise assemblies in SAM matrices.
Political Culture and Political Characteristics of the American States: a Consideration of Some Old and New Questions

D ANIEL ELAZAR has defined political culture as "the particular pattern of orientation to political action in which each political system is imbedded" (1984: 109). Political cultures vary in beliefs and values concerning the appropriate goals of a political system, the roles of political parties in achieving those goals, and the activities of citizens, elites, and professional politicians in politics. Elazar has identified three basic political cultures in the Amercan states, emerging from different historical migration patterns. In the "traditionalistic" political culture, the goal of the political system is one of maintaining the existing order. There is low inter-party competion, and public policies and actions are determined primarily by an elite. In the "individualistic" political culture, the political arena is viewed as a marketplace for ideas and actions; political actions are determined by public demands. Party competition is strong and professional politicians are an active force. Finally, in the "moralistic" culture, the goal of the political system is to achieve the broadest good for the community with or without public pressure. Party competition is strong, but less controlled by professional politicians. The common citizen is viewed as the primary political actor (Elazar 1984: ch.5). Elazar's concept of political culture has proven useful in predicting numerous aspects of political behavior in the American states. Its grounding in history and political theory, along with its established association with certain political behaviors suggests its utility in the study of state and local politics. In a review of research concerning political culture, John Kincaid (1980) cited the need for further research concerning political culture and its impact on institutional structures, processes and policies. Research concerning political culture has been relatively successful in confirming hypothesized relationships between political cultures and individual political attitudes and behavior. According to Kincaid, these relationships are particularly strong when the focus is on the political attitudes and behavior of political leaders and activists as compared to those of the general public (ohnson 1976; Hanson 1980; Joslyn 1980; Welch and
Stoichiometry of TiC and its significance to the performance of hard metal compacts

Abstract Solid titanium carbide and TiC coated WC-Co compacts have recently been introduced for metal removal applications. In industrial practice, it is reported that the coated tools outperform the solid TiC tools although the same material, TiC, is the active component in both the cases. The performance anomaly is examined in the light of known dependence of mechanical properties of titanium carbide on stoichiometry. It is shown that the most probable reason for the superiority of the coated tools is the near perfect stoichiometry, and the associated improvement in mechanical properties obtained by the exploitation of the chemical vapor deposition technology in the production of these tools.
Teaching software testing: automatic grading meets test-first coding

A new approach to teaching software testing is proposed: students use test-driven development on programming assignments, and an automated grading tool assesses their testing performance and provides feedback. The basics of the approach, screenshots of the sytem, and a discussion of industrial tool use for grading Java programs are discussed.
Collagen synthesis in normal BHK cells and temperature-sensitive chemically transformed BHK cells.

Collagen synthesis in normal BHK 21/cl 13 and chemically transformed temperature-sensitive BHK 21/cl 13 cells (Me2N4) was assessed by examination of hydroxyproline formation and collagenase-susceptible protein. The Me2N4 cells lost their ability to synthesize collagen at both permissive and nonpermissive temperatures for transformation. These conclusions were confirmed by polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis and CM-cellulose chromotography. Prolyl hydroxylase activity was present in both normal and transformed cells even when no collagen could be demonstrated. The production of noncollagen protein, although decreased in the transformed cell, did not change as drastically as the collagen synthesis.
Lethal damage to murine L1210 cells by exogenous lipid hydroperoxides: protective role of glutathione-dependent selenoperoxidases.

Abstract The effect of selenium deprivation on the viability of murine L1210 cells exposed to various exogenous lipid hydroperoxides has been investigated. Selenoperoxidase activities of cells grown for longer than 1 week in 1% serum with no added selenium [Se(−) cells] were m ) than Se(+) (LD50 ~75 μ m ). By contrast, 7-hydroxycholesterol over a comparable concentration range was minimally toxic to Se(−) and Se(+) cells. Cell killing by 7-OOH was inhibited by desferrioxamine and by butylated hydroxytoluene, suggesting that iron-mediated free radical reactions are involved. The involvement of glutathione in cytoprotection was confirmed by showing that Se(+) cells were more sensitive to 7-OOH after treating with buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of GSH synthesis. Cellular detoxification of 7-OOH is provisionally attributed to PHGPX rather than GPX, since 7-OOH and other cholesterol hydroperoxides were found to be good substrates for PHGPX in a cell free system, but were unreactive with GPX.
Output data analysis for simulations

This paper reviews statistical methods for analyzing output data from computer simulations. First, it focuses on the estimation of steady-state system parameters. The estimation techniques include the replication/deletion approach, the regenerative method, the batch means method, and the standardized time series method. Second, it reviews recent statistical procedures to find the best system among a set of competing alternatives.
The Effect of Rain on Satellite Sensor Estimates of Surface Roughness Conditions and on the Air-Sea Momentum Flux

Changes in the sea surface roughness from the combined effects of wind and rain, on scales of tens of kilometers, are being studied using the QuikSCAT scatterometer (NRCS) and simultaneous NEXRAD three-dimensional measurements of rain. The studies of air-sea interaction, related to surface fluxes. The results to be presented were acquired during a significant rain event in the Gulf of Mexico, to the east of Corpus Christi, and just south of Houston, TX in May 2005. Preliminary results in NRCS caused by rain, relative to that in nearby regions with negligible rain shows distinct characteristics. Three regions with different wind speeds (4-6, 6-8 and 8-10 m/s) show definitive variation of this total NRCS with respect to wind magnitude, satellite-relative wind direction, polarization and rainrate. Relative changes are stronger in the lower wind region for both polarizations, with H-pol providing a more definitive signature. At higher wind speeds (e.g. 10 m/s) the relative splash induced increases in NRCS are still significant, and show distinct differences between polarizations.
GAMMA RADIATION FROM NP 0532.

THE pulsar NP 0532, located in the Crab Nebula, emits pulses of light1,2 with the same period as the radio emission. The polarization2 of the light suggests an origin in the synchrotron radiation process, indicating the presence of high-energy electrons. In this article the gamma radiation resulting from various processes associated with these electrons is calculated. While gamma radiation from NP 0532 has not been observed experimentally, there are observations of gamma radiation from the Crab Nebula3–8 that give upper limits on gamma emission from NP 0532. My calculations and these upper limits lead to the conclusion that the magnetic field H near the light-emitting region of NP 0532 is 102 ≲ H ≲ 104 G.
Statehouse broadcast and print reporters: A comparative analysis

Broadcast statehouse reporters have higher production pressures and use more activity sources than do newspaper reporters. But like their newspaper colleagues, broadcast reporters perceive editorial injunctions for story background and interpretation, and seek reliable and expert sources.
Evaluating the treatment effects model for estimation of cross-sectional associations between risk factors and cardiovascular biomarkers influenced by medication use.

Purpose In cross-sectional observational data, evaluation of biomarker-to-exposure associations is often complicated by nonrandom medication use. Traditional approaches often lead to biased estimates, consistent with known results involving confounding by indication. More sophisticated, yet easy to implement approaches such as inverse probability weighting and censored normal regression can address medication use in certain settings but have poor performance when medication use depends on off-medication biomarker values. More sophisticated approaches are necessary. Methods Heckman's treatment effects model resembles the process that gives rise to cross-sectional data. In this study, we conduct a variety of simulation studies to illustrate why traditional approaches are inappropriate when medication use depends on underlying biomarker values. We illustrate how Heckman's model can accommodate this feature. We also apply the models to data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Results Inverse probability weighting and censored normal regression are sensitive to how strongly medication use is associated with untreated biomarker values (the untreated value acts as an unmeasured predictor of medication use in this context). Heckman's model can often adequately remove bias and is robust to certain forms of model misspecification but relies on knowing important predictors of medication use, even when they are independent of the biomarker. The advantages of Heckman's model can be negated if the effect of medication on biomarker values is proportionate to the underlying biomarker. Conclusions If predictors of medication use are measured, data are cross-sectional, and effects are approximately additive, then Heckman's model is more accurate relative to alternative approaches. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multicenter study comparing case definitions used to identify patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Rationale: Clinical trials in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) usually require evidence of airflow obstruction and clinical risk factors. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) diagnosis codes or patient-reported physician diagnoses are often used for epidemiologic studies and performance improvement programs. Objectives: To evaluate agreement between these case definitions for COPD and to assess the comparability of study populations identified as having COPD not using the clinical trial reference standard. Methods: We recruited patients from the COPD Outcomes-based Network for Clinical Effectiveness and Research Translation multicenter clinical registry in a cross-sectional study. Demographics, clinical, and post-bronchodilator spirometry data were collected at an in-person study visit. The kappa statistic (κ) was used to evaluate agreement. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify patient characteristics associated with meeting the trial reference standard. Measurements and Main Results: A total of 998 (82.8%) of 1,206 study participants met at least one case definition for COPD (of the 998: 91% using ICD-9 codes, 73% using patient-reported physician diagnosis, 56% using trial reference standard); agreement between case definitions was poor (κ = 0.20–0.26). Lack of airflow obstruction was the principal (89%) reason patients identified as having COPD did not meet the trial reference standard. Patients who were black (vs. white), obese (vs. normal weight), or had depression (vs. not) were less likely to meet the trial reference standard (odds ratio [95% CI], 0.37 [0.26–0.53], 0.51 [0.34–0.75], 0.53 [0.40–0.71], respectively). Conclusions: Findings highlight concerns about the applicability of findings in clinical trials to patients meeting other case definitions for COPD.
Analysis of Quantum Mechanical (QM) charge redistribution effects in MOSFETs on circuit performance

In this work we present the QM charge redistribution effects in transistors on some circuit performance metrics such as delay and average power dissipation. The correction factors due to QM effects have been incorporated into the input variables of BSIM parameter extractor. The circuit performance effects of random dopant induced threshold voltage fluctuations are also presented. Monte Carlo methods have been utilized to analyze the circuit effects of these fluctuations.
Switching sequence optimization for gradient error compensation in thermometer-decoded DAC arrays

This paper discusses switching schemes for gradient error compensation in unary (thermometer-decoded) arrays of digital-to-analog converters (DACs). The absolute lower bound of integral nonlinearity (INL) by optimizing switching sequences is established and optimal switching sequences that meet the lower bound of INL are presented for linear error compensation in one-dimensional arrays. A rapidly converging algorithm is developed to obtain INL bounded switching sequences for any given type of gradient error compensation. Simulation results show that the new switching sequences substantially reduce the nonlinearity of DACs due to gradient errors.
Comparative analysis of low-pass filters for the demodulation of projected gratings in 3-D adaptive profilometry

In 3-D adaptive profilometry based on structured light projection, the choice of the low-pass filter to he used in the deformed pattern demodulation is crucial. In this paper, we have studied the performance of a typical finite impulse response (FIR) and of an infinite impulse response (IIR) Butterworth low-pass filter. Adaptiveness of the filters to both coarse and small variations of the grating frequency has been investigated. The ability of the filters to adapt to coarse changes of the grating frequency has been quantified in terms of their speed of synthesis, while the ability of the filters to tolerate small variations of the grating frequency has been quantified by measuring the residual phase errors. The analysis shows that the IIR Butterworth filter performs better than the FIR filter both in the coarse and in the fine grating frequency variation cases. >
Polygon shadow generation

A general purpose method for generating shadows using a polygonal coordinate data base is presented. The method is based on an object space polygon clipping hidden surface removal algorithm. Output from the program is in the same three-dimensional polygon format as the input. Thus, a shadowed data environment may be easily created and viewed from any observer position with no additional depth sorting time required for the hidden surface removal process. Shadows can also be cast by more than one light source. Since the shadows are generated in object space, the results can be used for both visual display and numerical analysis.
Vitamin D: what clinicians need to know

Recent literature on vitamin D is full of controversies regarding its measurement, benefits, diagnosis, and management of its deficiency. In addition to addressing the consequences of deficiency, benefits of its replenishment, and clinical recommendations for supplements, this review addresses extra-skeletal effects of vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for skeletal health and prevention of falls and injuries. Vitamin D enhances intestinal calcium absorption and mineralization of osteoid tissues. Rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults are classic manifestations of severe vitamin D deficiency. Cohort studies suggest that low 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] affects numerous and diverse physiologic functions, such as control of cell growth including cancer cells, protection against autoimmune disorders, and muscular coordination. Emerging data also suggest that low vitamin D levels may worsen disorders, including cancer, metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Whether increased incidences of these diseases are consequences of widespread vitamin D deficiency is to be determined. Moreover, many reported relationships between vitamin D deficiency and diseases are based on epidemiological observations. Measurement of serum 25(OH)D is the way to evaluate vitamin D status. Serum 25(OH)D levels below 20 ng/mL are considered deficient, whereas optimum levels are between 30 and 50 ng/mL. An additional 1,000 IU of vitamin D per day generally is sufficient for lighter-skinned individuals; elderly, obese, and dark-skinned individuals and other groups of patients may need an additional 2,000 IU or more per day to maintain physiologic serum 25(OH)D levels. Sri Lanka Journal of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism 2012; 2 : 73-88 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sjdem.v2i2.4776
Virus--host-cell relationship of Herpesvirus sylvilagus with cottontail rabbit leukocytes.

Leukocyte suspensions from the lymph nodes, spleen and blood of cottontail rabbits experimentally infected with Herpesvirus sylvilagus were examined as fresh cell preparations and after in vitro cultivation for (1) the presence of virus, virus replication and release; (2) activation of virus by arginine deprivation or BUdR treatment and (3) the ability of such cell suspensions to give rise to actively replicating lymphoblastoid cell lines. Virus recovery was accomplished most consistently by co-cultivation of viable cells on permissive DRK cell monolayers. The percentage of virus-yielding cells, measured by formation of infectious centers when plated under agar on permissive monolayers, was generally less than 0.1%. Most cells yielding virus by this method showed no detectable intracellular virus in the sonically ruptured cell extracts. In vitro cultivation did not stimulate increased intracellular virus replication. It did, however, result in a 400- to 500-fold increase in the number of cells capable of forming infectious centers in cultures of blood lymphocytes from two of 11 animals examined in this manner. Arginine deprivation of BUdR treatment also failed to activate productive infection. Maintenance of infected lymphoid cell cultures for 6 months did not result in establishment of actively replicating lymphoblastoid cell lines.
Perturbations can distinguish underlying dynamics in phase-locked two-neuron networks

Synchronization of neuronal activity is observed in high- and low-level functions of the nervous system. For example, during memory tasks, neural activity in different brain regions phase-locks [1,2], while synchronized cells in the brainstem contribute to respiratory function [3]. In a two-cell system, network phase is a measure of when one neuron spikes with respect to the other neuron, normalized by the network period; phase-locked systems have a constant network phase, and here we define synchronized systems as those with a network phase close to zero. Understanding how and under what conditions neurons synchronize and phase-lock is important for understanding how neuronal populations function. Phase resetting curves (PRCs) describe how a neuron's period changes in response to inputs applied at various times during the interspike interval [4,5]. We use a PRC-based map of stimulus times vs response times [6] to predict if two coupled neurons will phase-lock, as well as how robust this phase-locking is against perturbations; two curves, one per neuron, are plotted against each other on this map, and intersections of the curves correspond to fixed points of the coupled system. Stable fixed points indicate stable phase-locking, while unstable points predict movement around the map. Close, but non-intersecting, curves result in networks that show a preferred phase with some phase slips. The fixed points (or lack thereof) on this map determine the dynamics of the coupled system, but similar statistics of network phases can be obtained from different underlying dynamics. Our goal is to discern underlying dynamic properties of the coupled system when a PRC cannot be measured. Here we explore perturbation-based methods to distinguish between different fixed point cases that result in similar network phase histograms. Because fixed points determine the network's response to perturbations, we use perturbations to uncover if, and where, fixed points exist without actually creating the PRC-based map. Parameters for coupled, conductance-based neuron models are chosen such that different numbers of fixed points produce phase histograms with similar network phases. When a synaptic perturbation or random noise is applied to one simulated neuron, the resulting trajectory of subsequent cycles around the map plane gives clues to the location and presence of underlying fixed points; different trajectories that point to the same location indicate a stable fixed point, while trajectories that point away from a region indicate an unstable point. Trajectories that only traverse the map plane in one direction are indicative of zero fixed points but close curves. Because biological neurons are not perfectly regular oscillators, we also investigate the effects of noise on the network phase histogram and how it affects our ability to resolve fixed point cases. The simulation results presented here will be validated in experimental hybrid circuits of one Aplysia californica neuron and one computational neuron coupled using the dynamic clamp.
Gapped permutation patterns for comparative genomics

The list of species whose complete DNA sequence have been read, is growing steadily and it is believed that comparative genomics is in its early days[12]. Permutations patterns (groups of genes in some “close” proximity) on gene sequences of genomes across species is being studied under different models, to cope with this explosion of data. The challenge is to (intelligently and efficiently) analyze the genomes in the context of other genomes. In this paper we present a generalized model that uses three notions, gapped permutation patterns (with gap g), genome clusters, via quorum, K > 1, parameter, and, possible multiplicity in the patterns. The task is to automatically discover all permutation patterns (with possible multiplicity), that occur with gap g in at least K of the given m genomes. We present $\mathcal{O}(\log m N_I +|\Sigma|\log |\Sigma|N_O)$ time algorithm where m is the number of sequences, each defined on Σ, NI is the size of the input and NO is the size of the maximal gene clusters that appear in at least K of the m genomes.
Event memory and suggestibility in abused and neglected children: trauma-related psychopathology and cognitive functioning.

This study examined event memory and suggestibility in 3- to 16-year-olds involved in forensic investigations of child maltreatment. A total of 322 children were interviewed about a play activity with an unfamiliar adult. Comprehensive measures of individual differences in trauma-related psychopathology and cognitive functioning were administered. Sexually and/or physically abused children obtained higher dissociation scores than neglected children, and sexually abused children were more likely to obtain a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder than physically abused children, neglected children, and children with no substantiated abuse histories. Overall, older children and children with better cognitive functioning produced more correct information and fewer memory errors. Abuse status per se did not significantly predict children’s memory or suggestibility whether considered alone or in interaction with age. However, among highly dissociative children, more trauma symptoms were associated with greater inaccuracy, whereas trauma symptoms were not associated with increased error for children who were lower in dissociative tendencies. Implications of the findings for understanding eyewitness memory in maltreated children are discussed.
SSUSI-Lite: a far-ultraviolet hyper-spectral imager for space weather remote sensing

SSUSI-Lite is a far-ultraviolet (115-180nm) hyperspectral imager for monitoring space weather. The SSUSI and GUVI sensors, its predecessors, have demonstrated their value as space weather monitors. SSUSI-Lite is a refresh of the Special Sensor Ultraviolet Spectrographic Imager (SSUSI) design that has flown on the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) spacecraft F16 through F19. The refresh updates the 25-year-old design and insures that the next generation of SSUSI/GUVI sensors can be accommodated on any number of potential platforms. SSUSI-Lite maintains the same optical layout as SSUSI, includes updates to key functional elements, and reduces the sensor volume, mass, and power requirements. SSUSI-Lite contains an improved scanner design that results in precise mirror pointing and allows for variable scan profiles. The detector electronics have been redesigned to employ all digital pulse processing. The largest decrease in volume, mass, and power has been obtained by consolidating all control and power electronics into one data processing unit.
Rapid Estimation of Volume of Distribution After a Short Intravenous Infusion and its Application to Dosing Adjustments

A simple and a rapid method to estimate the apparent volume of distribution of drug after single or during multiple short-term intravenous infusion is proposed. This is based on the back extrapolation to the midpoint of infusion. An equation simpler than one previously reported in the literature is also derived to calculate the maintenance dose for multiple short-term intravenous infusion. In addition, an equation to estimate the "priming dose" for infusion during multiple infusion regimen is also derived. The derivations of the equations are based on a linear one-compartment open model for drug disposition in patients. The prposed method is thought to be adequate for the purpose of rapid individualization of dosage regimens. The simplicity of the method, in particular, the solution by the graphic method for estimation of the apparent volume of distribution, might be specially useful for clinicians not well versed in mathematics in applying clinical pharmacokinetics to drug therapy.
Treaty networks, nesting, and interstate cooperation: Russia, the FSU, and the CIS

Networks of treaties with treaty nesting, wherein treaties build upon, expand upon, or are grounded in preexisting treaties, are an increasingly important dimension of interstate cooperation. Focusing on relations within the area of the former Soviet Union (FSU), with special attention to both multilateral and bilateral arrangements between Russia and other FSU states, we illuminate treaty activism and regional cooperation among Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) members in the security domain. Beyond an analysis of multilateral and bilateral CIS alliance agreements, we evaluate the more focused security arrangements of two FSU–CIS bilateral relationships: Russia–Turkmenistan and Russia–Georgia. We intentionally analyze these two complex and problematic bilateral relationships, where treaty activism and networks permitted the signatory states to address common security issues. The breakdown of the Russian–Georgian relationship with the August 2008 war should not obscure the significant conflict mana...
A passivated electrode batch /spl mu/EDM technology for bulk metal transducers and packages

Batch mode micro-electro-discharge machining (muEDM) is a lithography-compatible microfabrication method suitable for making devices from bulk metals, including stainless steel. In high-density patterns, spurious discharges through debris can cause workpiece edge rounding, fast tool wear, and mushroom-shaped metal recasting of the tool. This paper reports a Si coating technique that acts as a discharge barrier on the sidewalls of batch Cu tools to diminish these effects. Copper tools were fabricated by electroplating into 80 mum tall SU-8 molds. The tools were then sputter coated with 500 Aring of Ti and 1000 Aring or 2000 Aring of Si. The Si on the top of the tool was removed by EDM on a flat surface. As a result, discharges occurred primarily at the top of the tool during machining. This provided a 93% reduction in mean tool wear, a 78% improvement in machining depth uniformity, more vertical sidewalls, and sharper workpiece edges. These results were obtained while machining 4.5 mum wide, 25 mum tall, 1 mm long unreleased stainless steel beams
Infant response in the still-face paradigm at 6 months predicts avoidant and secure attachment at 12 months

We tested the hypothesis that attachment security at 12 months can be predicted from infant response to the mother's still-face interaction during the first half-year. Subjects were 66 primiparous mother-infant pairs drawn from the working- and middle-socioeconomic strata (SES). Half of the mothers had experienced a postpartum depression. Infants were observed longitudinally in the still-face paradigm at 2, 4, and 6 months and in the Strange Situation at 12 months. Positive expressions in response to the still-face at 6 months predicted secure attachment at 12 months. Absence of positive expressions predicted avoidant attachment. In infants of postpartum depressed mothers, hours of nonmaternal care positively correlated with secure attachment. Variables associated with infant proneness to distress and sociability were unrelated to attachment security. These results suggest that attachment formation is underway by 6 months of age and that indicators of 12-month attachment security can be detected as early as 6 months. Similar mechanisms of affect regulation and coping may underlie infant response in the still-face and Strange Situation procedures.
Life–history theory, fertility and reproductive success in humans

According to life-history theory, any organism that maximizes fitness will face a trade-off between female fertility and offspring survivorship. This trade-off has been demonstrated in a variety of species, but explicit tests in humans have found a positive linear relationship between fitness and fertility. The failure to demonstrate a maximum beyond which additional births cease to enhance fitness is potentially at odds with the view that human fertility behaviour is currently adaptive. Here we report, to our knowledge, the first clear evidence for the predicted nonlinear relationship between female fertility and reproductive success in a human population, the Dogon of Mali, West Africa. The predicted maximum reproductive success of 4.1+/-0.3 surviving offspring was attained at a fertility of 10.5 births. Eighty-three per cent of the women achieved a lifetime fertility level (7-13 births) for which the predicted mean reproductive success was within the confidence limits (3.4 to 4.8) for reproductive success at the optimal fertility level. Child mortality, rather than fertility, was the primary determinant of fitness. Since the Dogon people are farmers, our results do not support the assumptions that: (i) contemporary foragers behave more adaptively than agriculturalists, and (ii) that adaptive fertility behaviour ceased with the Neolithic revolution some 9000 years ago. We also present a new method that avoids common biases in measures of reproductive success.
Comparing parallel programming models

Parallel computing has left the research arena and the domain of gaming programmers and joined the mainstream of popular computing. Software; from complex operating systems to mundane search and sort algorithms; needs to be examined to see where it can take advantage of hardware parallelism. Unfortunately, most undergraduate computing disciplines typically do not have the facilities or a comparative basis to help decide which hardware or software models to use to best integrate parallelism into modern curricula. This article enumerates various software models and parallel programming options that may be used to assist in integrating parallel software design techniques into the traditional software development training.
Antepartum fetal surveillance in diabetic pregnant patients

Abstract The antepartum fetal surveillance (biochemical and biophysical) data of 140 pregnant diabetic patients were evaluated. We determined how often intervention occurred on the basis of abnormal tests correlated each test with neonatal outcome. Fifteen of total 140 patients had their pregnancies terminated because of abnormal biochemical and/or biophysical tests. An abnormal estriol (E 3 ) value preceded the abnormal antepartum fetal heart rate testing in eight of 10 instances. We conclude that the major benefit of the antepartum fetal surveillance techniques, in this group of patients and under the present scheme, is in determining when to intervene, thus allowing safe prolongation of pregnancy. (Am. J. Obstet. Gynecol. 141:641, 1981.)
Caregiving for Elders with Alzheimer's in China:

As is true in much of the developed world, the older population of China is rapidly increasing. This presents many unique problems for Chinese society. Of all diseases associated with aging, Alzheimer's disease is the most stressful for the family. This stress on the family will in turn present problems for society. The purpose of this study is to explore the dynamics of caregiving for Alzheimer's patients in China. The investigators have completed a study with primary caregivers of Alzheimer's patients in and around Beijing, Jinan, and Baoding in the fall of 1997. The questionnaire focused on the stress that such a long-term illness causes in the household. Questions were designed to measure which family member provides primary and supplemental care as well as the nature of the care.
HEART FAILURE PATIENTS EVALUATED IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT: PERSONALIZATION OF CARE USING THE INTERMOUNTAIN HF READMISSION RISK SCORE

About three-fourths of heart failure (HF) patients who present to the emergency department (ED) are admitted to inpatient care, although some can be safely discharged home or managed in observation units. Risk-prediction tools that assist in avoiding unnecessary admissions are lacking. Using the
What Are the Ideal Characteristics of Empirically Supported Treatment Adopters

There has been a clear and consistent shift in social work practice from offering treatment as usual to implementing empirically supported treatments (ESTs). As social work researchers and practitioners continue to evaluate the effectiveness of ESTs, their impact on clinical outcomes, and the various obstacles to their adoption, a developing literature could offer some guidance on characteristics of EST adopters. This article provides a beginning discussion of the ideal characteristics of EST adopters both at the organizational and individual levels. While this is a developing area of study, there are some important findings that could better serve community-based organizations, their work force, and the communities they serve.
Fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunya virus Surveillance analysis in Dalian during 2011-2013

Objective To study the epidemiological characteristics and infection situation of the fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunya virus in Dalian from 2011 to 2013,and to provide evidence for prevention and control strategy. Methods Using PCR fluorescence probe method for detection of serum specimen. Using the Excel spreadsheet data compilation and SPSS13. 0 for data analysis. Results Specimens of the 111 cases from2011 to 2013 were tested. In 2011,2012,2013,fever with thrombocytopenia nucleic acid testing positive rate was 35. 71%( 10 /28),37. 04%( 10 /27),58. 93%( 33 /56) respectively; Combined was 47. 75%( 53 /111). Difference was statistically significant( χ2t r e n d= 4. 79,P = 0. 03 ﹤ 0. 05),fever with thrombocytopenia nucleic acid testing positive rate has a rising trend year by year. Cases is given priority to with farmers,no gender differences,age is given priority to with 50 to 79,June-October were peak season,Wafangdian,Zhuanghe and Pulandian were high-risk areas. Conclusions Dalian is epidemic areas of fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunya virus,specimen timely detection play an important role in cases treatment. Farmers are the main propaganda protection object. Viruses such as the local host research need to be sustained.
Religion and Labor: An Examination of Religious Service Attendance and Unemployment Using Count Data Methods

I use count data estimation with data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 (NLSY79) cohort and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to evaluate the relationship between unemployment and the frequency of religious service attendance for individuals of working age. Empirical results for unemployed men and unemployed women in the NLSY79 show that religious service attendance is 22 percent lower and 72 percent higher, respectively, relative to employed men and employed women, respectively. Results for individuals in the HRS indicate that unemployed men and unemployed women attend religious services 18 percent less and 16 percent more frequently, respectively, relative to employed counterparts. There are no additional significant correlations for time spent unemployed.