cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Testing above‐ and below‐canopy representations of turbulent fluxes in an energy balance snowmelt model

[1] Turbulent fluxes of sensible and latent heat are important processes in the surface energy balance that drives snowmelt. Modeling these fluxes in a forested environment is complicated because of the canopy effects on the wind field. This paper presents and tests a turbulent flux model developed to represent these processes in an energy balance snowmelt model. The goal is to model these processes using the readily available inputs of canopy height and leaf area index in a way that minimizes the number of parameters, state variables, and assumptions about hard to quantify processes. Selected periods from 9 years of eddy-covariance (EC) measurements at Niwot Ridge, Colorado, were used to evaluate the effectiveness of this modeling approach. The model was able to reproduce the above-canopy sensible and latent heat fluxes reasonably with the correlation higher for sensible heat than latent heat. The modeled values of the below-canopy latent heat fluxes also matched the EC-measured values. The model captured the nighttime below-canopy sensible heat flux quite well, but there were discrepancies in daytime sensible heat flux possibly due to mountain slope circulation not quantifiable in this kind of model. Despite the uncertainties in the below-canopy sensible heat fluxes, the results are encouraging and suggest that reasonable predictions of turbulent flux energy exchanges and subsequent vapor losses from snow in forested environments can be obtained with a parsimonious single-layer representation of the canopy. The model contributes an improved physically based capability for predicting the snow accumulation and melt in a forested environment.
Intelligent Wind Compensated Small UAS Flight Planning

This document covers the intelligent positioning of waypoints to improve flight path navigation for an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) in windy conditions. These conditions present a situation that makes navigation particularly difficult for UAS. A solution that allows for more precise aircraft position control without requiring the re-writing of internal navigation logic is desired. Typically, UAS flight plans are made using waypoints in which flight lines are formed between sequential waypoints. These flight lines represent the path the UAS will try to follow but are not necessarily where the aircraft will actually go, especially in the presence of wind. In many UAS missions the location and ground track of the flight system is of the utmost importance. Incorrect positioning of the UAS can result in missed opportunities to collect necessary data. It is crucial for the internal pilot (the person controlling the UAS from the ground during autonomous flight) to plan each mission such that the aircraft is in the correct position at all times to allow for maximum sensor effectiveness. A method to enhance flight plan tracking without rewriting a commercial autopilot's tracking logic is desired. First, a standard flight plan is used to characterize the autopilot's base performance with the applied configuration settings. Next, flight simulations and aerodynamic models are used to determine the aircraft's flight capabilities, then a closedform analytical solution is derived based upon aircraft flight dynamics and performance. This algorithm determines precise waypoint locations for improved navigation for various flight plans. Finally, wind compensation is incorporated into the algorithm using vector mathematics. The result of intelligent flight planning is an improvement in flight line tracking for typical flight paths, with and without wind present. Intelligent flight plans create improved ground tracks that more closely resemble the flight plan. In comparison, standard flight plans can produce ground tracks that are drastically different than the programmed flight plan, particularly in windy conditions. The improvement provided by intelligent flight planning is illustrated in the form of increased time on the flight paths and decreased path error, in both simulation and flight testing.
HIGH DOSE RADIATION DELIVERED BY INTENSITY MODULATED CONFORMAL RADIOTHERAPY IMPROVES THE OUTCOME OF LOCALIZED PROSTATE CANCER

Purpose: We present the long-term outcome and tolerance of 3-dimensional (D) conformal and intensity modulated radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer.Materials and Methods: Between October 1988 and December 1998, 1,100 patients with clinical stages T1c-T3 prostate cancer were treated with 3-D conformal or intensity modulated radiation therapy. Patients were categorized into prognostic risk groups based on pretreatment prostate specific antigen (PSA), Gleason score and clinical stage. Sextant biopsies were performed 2.5 years or greater after treatment to assess local control. PSA relapse was defined according to the consensus guidelines of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiation Oncology. Late toxicity was classified according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group morbidity grading scale. Median followup was 60 months.Results: At 5 years the PSA relapse-free survival rate in patients at favorable, intermediate and unfavorable risk was 85% (95% confidence interval [CI] ± 4), 58% (95% CI ±...
CYCLE OF BLAME OR JUST WORLD

The conviction rate for sexual assault is persistently low in the United States. We propose a cycle-of-blame framework to highlight the possibility that the same rape myths that limit convictions are in turn strengthened by not-guilty verdicts. Participants read a summary of a rape trial. In different conditions, they were told that the jury's verdict was guilty or not guilty. In a No-Verdict condition, participants merely read the summary. All 96 participants subsequently responded to questionnaires measuring rape-myth acceptance and victim empathy. Gender affected both the myth and empathy measures, with women accepting fewer myths than men and exhibiting more empathy for the victim. Gender and Condition interacted such that men showed greater acceptance of rape myths and less empathy after a not-guilty versus a guilty verdict. Women evidenced consistently high empathy across conditions and greater myth acceptance after a guilty verdict. Although the cycle-of-blame principle is consistent with the perfo...
A fast parallel Reed-Solomon decoder on a reconfigurable architecture

This paper presents a software implementation of a very fast parallel Reed-Solomon decoder on the second generation of MorphoSys reconfigurable computation platform, which is targeting on streamed applications such as multimedia and DSP. Numerous modifications of the first-generation of the architecture have made a scalable computation and communication intensive architecture capable of extracting parallelisms of fine grain in instruction level. Many algorithms and the whole digital video broadcasting base-band receiver as well, have been mapped onto the second architecture with impressive performance. The mapping of a Reed-Solomon decoder proposed in the paper highly parallelizes all of its sub-algorithms, including Syndrome Computation, Berlekamp Algorithm, Chein Search, and Error Value Computation, in a SIMD fashion. The mapping is tested on a cycle-accurate simulator, "Mulate", and the performance is encouragingly better than other architectures. The decoding speed of the RS (255,239,16) decoder using two different methods of GF multiplication can be 1.319 Gbps and 2.534 Gbps, respectively. Furthermore, since there is no functionality specifically tailored to Reed-Solomon decoder, the result has demonstrated the capability of MorphoSys architecture to extracting instruction level parallelism from streamed applications.
Dietary magnesium and C-reactive protein levels.

Objective: Current dietary guidelines recommend adequate intake of magnesium (310–420mg daily) in order to maintain health and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Recent evidence from animal and clinical studies suggests that magnesium may be associated with inflammatory processes. The objective of this study was to determine whether dietary magnesium consumption is associated with C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, in a nationally representative sample.Methods: Analysis of adult (≥17 years) participants in a cross-sectional nationally representative survey (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2000 [NHANES]) who were not taking magnesium or magnesium-containing supplements. The primary outcome measure was high sensitivity CRP (elevated ≥3.0mg/L).Results: Among US adults, 68% consumed less than the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of magnesium, and 19% consumed less than 50% of the RDA. After controlling for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors, adults who c...
Storage performance-metrics and benchmarks

The metrics and benchmarks used in storage performance evaluation are discussed. The technology trends taking place in storage systems, such as disk and tape evolution, disk arrays, and solid-state disks, are highlighted. The current popular I/O benchmarks are then described, reviewed, and run on three systems: a DECstation 5000/200 running the Sprite Operating System, a SPARCstation 1+ running SunOS, and an HP Series 700 (Model 730) running HP-UX. Two approaches to storage benchmarks-LADDIS and a self-scaling benchmark with predicted performance-are also described. >
Determination of the 240Pu/239Pu atom ratio in global fallout at two locations in the Northern Hemisphere

Extensive soil and sediment sampling was conducted along the Colorado Front Range and the plains east of the Front Range at locations believed to only be exposed to global fallout. The average 240Pu/239Pu atom ratio in the samples collected in Colorado was determined to be 0.165±0.008. A limited number of samples were collected at various locations in the Arctic at approximately 70° N latitude. Analyses of these samples predict that the 240Pu/239Pu atom ratio in environmental samples collected at 70° N latitude at locations only containing fallout is 0.183±0.009. These results provide data that help to precisely define the 240Pu/239Pu atom ratios representative of global fallout at the two locations studied.
Obesity and Prostate Cancer: Making Sense out of Apparently Conflicting Data

Both obesity and prostate cancer are epidemic in Western society. Although initial epidemiologic data appeared conflicting, recent studies, especially large prospective studies published in the past 6–12 months, have clarified the association between obesity and prostate cancer. The aim of this paper is to review the epidemiologic data linking obesity and prostate cancer, with an emphasis on new data published since 2005. A PubMed search was done on the keywords, ‘‘prostate cancer’’ and ‘‘obesity.’’ Relevant articles and their references were reviewed for data on the association between obesity and prostate cancer. Recent data suggest that obesity is associated with reduced risk of nonaggressive disease but increased risk of aggressive disease. This may in part be explained by an inherent bias in our ability to detect prostate cancer in obese men (lower prostate-specific antigen values and larger sized prostates making biopsy less accurate for finding an existing cancer). Ultimately, this leads to increased risk of cancer recurrence after primary therapy and increased risk of prostate cancer mortality. The biologic causes of these associations are likely multifactorial, although the lower testosterone levels among obese men appear to be one of the most promising explanations. The association between obesity and prostate cancer is complex. Emerging data suggest a differential effect of obesity by disease aggressiveness: obesity may reduce the risk of nonaggressive disease while it may promote aggressive disease. body mass index; obesity; prostate-specific antigen; prostatic neoplasms; testosterone
Incidence of cholangitis and sepsis associated with percutaneous transhepatic biliary drain cholangiography and exchange: a comparison between liver transplant and native liver patients.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of our study was to determine the rate of sepsis and cholangitis associated with percutaneous biliary drain cholangiography and subsequent drain exchanges and to compare the incidence of these complications between patients with liver transplants and those with native livers.MATERIALS AND METHODS. A retrospective review of 154 consecutive patients (100 with liver transplants and 54 with native livers) who underwent a total of 910 percutaneous biliary drain cholangiography examinations and exchanges (January 2005 to July 2008) was performed. Cholangitis was defined as fever (> 38.5°C) within 24 hours after the intervention, and sepsis included cholangitis in addition to hemodynamic instability.RESULTS. The overall incidence of cholangitis and sepsis after percutaneous biliary drain exchanges was 2.1% (n = 19/910 exchanges) and 0.4% (n = 4/910 exchanges), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in complications between liver transplant patients versus nontransp...
How Informative Are Earnings Numbers That Exclude Goodwill Amortization

In the original exposure draft, Business Combinations and Intangible Assets, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) proposed that companies be allowed to report a second per share earnings number that excludes goodwill amortization. Subsequently, the FASB has proposed that goodwill not be amortized at all. Instead, it will be written down when impaired. In this study, we assess the information content of earnings excluding amortization of intangibles relative to two traditional performance measures: earnings before extraordinary items and cash flow from operations. We find that the relative informativeness of earnings before amortization and earnings before extraordinary items do not differ significantly. We also find, consistent with prior research, that both earnings before amortization and earnings before extraordinary items are more informative than cash flow from operations. These findings suggest that goodwill amortization disclosures were not decision‐useful and, therefore, support the FAS...
The evaluation and management of thermal injuries: 2014 update

Burns are among the most common injuries presenting to the emergency department. While burns, especially large ones, may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality, most are minor and can be managed by emergency practitioners and discharged home with close follow-up. In contrast, patients with large burns require aggressive management of their airway, breathing and circulation in order to reduce mortality and morbidity. While early endotracheal intubation of patients with actual or impending airway compromise and aggressive fluid resuscitation have been emphasized, it appears that the pendulum may have swung a bit too far towards the extreme. The current review will briefly cover the epidemiology, pathogenesis and diagnosis of burn injuries with greater emphasis on airway and fluid management. We will also discuss the local management of the burn wound, which is all that is required for most burn patients in the emergency department.
Tent selection, roosting ecology and social organization of the tent-making bat, Ectophylla alba , in Costa Rica

Small groups of the tent-making bat, Ectophylla alba, were found roosting in Heliconia (Musaceae) tents in old secondary-growth forest in north-eastern Costa Rica. The choice of specific Heliconia leaves for tents was predicted on the basis of leaf size and age. Additionally, tents in shrubs, saplings and epiphytic plants were found scattered throughout both primary- and secondary-growth forest. Tents were used either as night feeding roosts or as day-roosts for as long as 45 days. Groups of bats remained together when they moved to newly cut tents. After parturition, tent groups divided into all-male colonies and maternity colonies with females, non-volant young and a single adult male.
Optimal power-limited rendezvous with thrust saturation

Very general arguments show that thrust saturation is not helpful in terms of performance in optimal spacecraft trajectories, but these arguments do not provide quantitative information. For optimal power-limited rendezvous problems with thrust saturation and linearized equations of motion, two simple mathematical conditions that are relatively easy to check are presented that may be of value to mission planners. These conditions relate respectively to the problem of reaching a terminal point in a specified time in the presence of thrust saturation and in doing so in a fuel-efficient way. They can be useful in indicating whether or not the flight interval should be lengthened or whether or not additional thrusters should be implemented if possible, and if so how many. For the case of optimal power-limited rendezvous with a satellite in circular orbit, quantitative information is presented for certain boundary conditions. For certain low-thrust saturation levels and boundary conditions, significant improvements in performance and computation can be attained by lengthening the flight time or implementing an additional thruster, if possible. In one example, the use of two thrusters instead of one reduced the mission fuel requirements by nearly 50%.
Measurement and meaning in information systems and organizational research: methodological and philosophical foundations

Despite renewed interest and many advances in methodology in recent years, information systems and organizational researchers face confusing and inconsistent guidance on how to choose amongst, implement, and interpret findings from the use of different measurement procedures. In this article, the related topics of measurement and construct validity are summarized and discussed, with particular focus on formative and reflective indicators and common method bias, and, where relevant, a number of allied issues are considered. The perspective taken is an eclectic and holistic one and attempts to address conceptual and philosophical essentials, raise salient questions, and pose plausible solutions to critical measurement dilemmas occurring in the managerial, behavioral, and social sciences.
Leadership in Mixed-Age Children's Groups:

The decision-reaching behaviour of children in mixed-age four child groups were investigated in this study of leadership. A total of 120 children were assigned to mixed-age groups that were composed of either two 7 and two 9-year-olds, or two 9 and two 11-year-old children. Children were observed as they attempted to reach consensus regarding the ordering of a set of pictures. They were videotaped, and their utterances were subsequently coded. Familiarity and developmental level were controlled by comparing 9-year-old children who were interacting with either 7 or 11-year-old children. Nine-year-old children in groups with younger peers exhibited more organisation statements, solicitations of preference, group choice suggestions, and recording, and less following than did 9-year-olds grouped with older peers. These results are consistent with previous findings and demonstrate that findings of leadership asymmetries in mixed-age groups are not artifacts of familiarity confounds. Using within group analyses...
The cell cycle effects and induction of apoptosis by 5-bromouridine in cultures of human leukaemic MOLT-4 and HL-60 cell lines and mitogen-stimulated normal lymphocytes.

5-Bromouridine (BrUrd) and several analogues of this antimetabolite exhibit antiviral activity and are potent inhibitors of the human immunodeficiency virus. The antitumour activity of BrUrd, however, in comparison with 5-fluorouridine or 5-fluorouracil, is less pronounced. Because BrUrd is incorporated into RNA and can be detected immunocytochemically and analysed by cytometry, it may prove useful as an RNA precursor to assay cell transcriptional activity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cell cycle effects of BrUrd incorporation in human lymphocytic leukaemic MOLT-4 and HL-60 cells and mitogenically stimulated normal peripheral blood lymphocytes. BrUrd suppressed cell proliferation and induced cell death; when measured after 72 h of treatment, the LD50 was 10 and 20 microM for HL-60 and MOLT-4, respectively, and LD90 was 100 microM, for both cell lines. BrUrd was maximally incorporated by the cells progressing through S phase of the cycle and the S phase cells were most severely perturbed by the drug, which was detected in RNA but not in DNA. Suppression of the S phase traverse of MOLT-4, HL-60 and normal lymphocytes was seen at > or = 30 microM BrUrd concentration. Also sensitive was the cell traverse through G2+M which, in the case of lymphocytes, HL-60 and MOLT-4 cells, was perturbed at > or = 30, > or = 200 and 500 microM BrUrd concentrations, respectively. Transition of lymphocytes from G0 to G1 was little affected at or = 50 microM BrUrd after 24 h of incubation; death of MOLT-4 cells had mixed features of apoptosis and necrosis and resembled the 'mitotic' or 'reproductive cell death' as described in other cell systems. The cytostatic and cytotoxic effects of BrUrd should be taken into consideration when using this antimetabolite as an antiviral agent in the clinic or as an RNA precursor in assays of cell transcriptional activity.
From cradle to commencement: transitioning pediatric sickle cell disease patients to adult providers.

Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) are surviving past childhood and well into adulthood. Concerns are raised as to who is going to care for these children as they reach adulthood. We have developed a 2-part transition program. We have transitioned 20 of our 18- to 27-year-old patients to adult providers recognizing that early preparation is essential. At the newborn’s initial visit or transfer from another clinic the transition program is explained to the family. At age 13 years, all our patients are given a “Preparation for Transition” binder. This binder is reviewed in detail with the patient and parent on a regular basis. At 18 years of age, coordinating with the milestone of graduating from high school and depending on developmental age, the transition is completed. The goal is a continuum of care in the transition process.
Micromechanical Model and Associated Validation for Dynamic Failure of Brittle Materials Containing Pores and Slit-Like Flaws

AbstractCharacterizing dynamic failure is critically important to a number of applications, among others including armor, material fragmentation, and structural blast. In brittle materials, this failure is driven by crack growth from pre-existing flaws in the material microstructure. Structural scale models that explicitly address the cracks associated with each individual flaw are computationally infeasible; therefore, a model that accurately links flaw population to dynamic failure strength provides a much-needed connection between the microscale and macroscale. The current paper introduces a micromechanical model that addresses the effects of both air-entrained pores and slit-like flaws on the strain-rate dependent uniaxial compressive strength of the material. In particular, four variants of the model are addressed: a two-dimensional (2D) model with only pore flaws, a 2D model with both pores and slit-like flaws, a pseudo-three-dimensional (3D) model with only pore flaws, and a pseudo-3D model with bo...
Chip is an essential cofactor for apterous in the regulation of axon guidance in Drosophila

LIM-homeodomain transcription factors are expressed in subsets of neurons and are required for correct axon guidance and neurotransmitter identity. The LIM-homeodomain family member Apterous requires the LIM-binding protein Chip to execute patterned outgrowth of the Drosophila wing. To determine whether Chip is a general cofactor for diverse LIM-homeodomain functions in vivo, we studied its role in the embryonic nervous system. Loss-of-function Chip mutations cause defects in neurotransmitter production that mimic apterous and islet mutants. Chip is also required cell-autonomously by Apterous-expressing neurons for proper axon guidance, and requires both a homodimerization domain and a LIM interaction domain to function appropriately. Using a Chip/Apterous chimeric molecule lacking domains normally required for their interaction, we reconstituted the complex and rescued the axon guidance defects of apterous mutants, of Chip mutants and of embryos doubly mutant for both apterous and Chip. Our results indicate that Chip participates in a range of developmental programs controlled by LIM-homeodomain proteins and that a tetrameric complex comprising two Apterous molecules bridged by a Chip homodimer is the functional unit through which Apterous acts during neuronal differentiation.
The Relationship between Traumatic Life Events and Hoarding Symptoms: A Multi-Method Approach

Hoarding Disorder is characterized by difficulties with discarding and frequently excessively acquiring possessions, resulting in substantial clutter. Previous research has implicated trauma in the development of hoarding, but no study to date has examined the relationship between trauma and hoarding using hypothetical hoarding paradigms. This study investigated the association between traumatic events and both self-report and hypothetical indices of hoarding symptoms. We predicted that frequency of trauma would be associated with greater hoarding symptoms (across self-report and hypothetical indices). Undergraduate students (N = 80) completed self-report measures of hoarding symptoms and trauma, and hypothetical measures of acquiring and saving tendencies. As expected, more frequent trauma, and physical/sexual trauma in particular, was associated with greater acquiring tendencies. However, frequency of trauma was not significantly correlated with saving tendencies or self-reported hoarding symptoms. Future research should replicate these findings using longitudinal designs to confirm whether trauma actually serves as a risk factor for hoarding. Replication in a clinical sample is needed to better understand the implications of these results for intervention.
Physical Interactions and Functional Relationships of Neuroligin 2 and Midbrain Serotonin Transporters

The neurotransmitter serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] modulates many key brain functions including those subserving sensation, emotion, reward, and cognition. Efficient clearance of 5-HT after release is achieved by the antidepressant-sensitive 5-HT transporter (SERT, SLC6A4). To identify novel SERT regulators, we pursued a proteomic analysis of mouse midbrain SERT complexes, evaluating findings in the context of prior studies that established a SERT-linked transcriptome. Remarkably, both efforts converged on a relationship of SERT with the synaptic adhesion protein neuroligin 2 (NLGN2), a post-synaptic partner for presynaptic neurexins, and a protein well-known to organize inhibitory GABAergic synapses. Western blots of midbrain reciprocal immunoprecipitations confirmed SERT/NLGN2 associations, and also extended to other NLGN2 associated proteins [e.g., α-neurexin (NRXN), gephyrin]. Midbrain SERT/NLGN2 interactions were found to be Ca(2+)-independent, supporting cis vs. trans-synaptic interactions, and were absent in hippocampal preparations, consistent with interactions arising in somatodendritic compartments. Dual color in situ hybridization confirmed co-expression of Tph2 and Nlgn2 mRNA in the dorsal raphe, with immunocytochemical studies confirming SERT:NLGN2 co-localization in raphe cell bodies but not axons. Consistent with correlative mRNA expression studies, loss of NLGN2 expression in Nlgn2 null mice produced significant reductions in midbrain and hippocampal SERT expression and function. Additionally, dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons from Nlgn2 null mice exhibit reduced excitability, a loss of GABAA receptor-mediated IPSCs, and increased 5-HT1A autoreceptor sensitivity. Finally, Nlgn2 null mice display significant changes in behaviors known to be responsive to SERT and/or 5-HT receptor manipulations. We discuss our findings in relation to the possible coordination of intrinsic and extrinsic regulation afforded by somatodendritic SERT:NLGN2 complexes.
Allegory and Political Economy: A Reply to Gavin Kennedy

Gavin Kennedy has written a review of Daniel B. Klein, Knowledge and Coordination: A Liberal Interpretation (Oxford University Press, 2012; softback 2013), to appear in the Adam Smith Review (vol. 8). This is a reply that will be published alongside Kennedy’s review. In the book, Klein elaborates and affirms the allegorical nature of important tropes in political economy, including the price system as communication, cooperation throughout the economic system, market error and correction, and policy error and correction. Kennedy is unenthusiastic about elaborating and highlighting allegory. Here Klein asks whether Kennedy is really ready to reject allegory.
Assist-as-Needed Controllers for Index Finger Module of a Hand Exoskeleton for Rehabilitation

We present two types of subject-specific assist-as-needed controllers for the index finger module of a hand exoskeleton designed for rehabilitation after a neuromuscular impairment such as stroke. Learned force-field control is a novel control technique in which a neural-network-based model of the required torques is learned for a specific subject and then used to build a force-field to assist the subject’s finger joint motion. Adaptive assist-as-needed control, on the other hand, estimates the coupled finger-exoskeleton system torque requirement of a subject using radial basis function (RBF) and on-the-fly adapts the RBF magnitudes to provide a feed-forward assistance for improved trajectory tracking. Experiments on the index finger exoskeleton prototype with a healthy subject showed that while the force-field control is non-adaptive and there is less control on the speed of execution of the task, it is safer as it does not apply increased torques if the finger motion is restricted. On the other hand, adaptive assist-as-needed controller adapts to the changing needs of the coupled finger-exoskeleton system and helps in performing the task with a consistent speed, however, applies increased torques in case of restricted motion resulting in potential user discomfort.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Single dose GLP toxicity and biodistribution study of a conditionally replicative adenovirus vector, CRAd-S-pk7, administered by intracerebral injection to Syrian hamsters

CRAd-S-pk7 is a conditionally replicative oncolytic adenoviral vector that contains a survivin promoter and a pk7 fiber modification that confer tumor-specific transcriptional targeting and preferential replication in glioma while sparing the surrounding normal brain parenchyma. This IND-enabling study performed under GLP conditions evaluated the toxicity and biodistribution of CRAd-S-pk7 administered as a single intracerebral dose to Syrian hamsters, a permissive model of adenoviral replication. Two hundred and forty animals were stereotactically administered either vehicle (n = 60) or CRAd-S-pk7 at 2.5 × 107, 2.5 × 108, or 2.5 × 109 viral particles (vp)/animal (each n = 60) on day 1. The animals were closely monitored for toxicology evaluation, assessment of viral distribution, and immunogenicity of CRAd-S-pk7. Changes in hematology, clinical chemistry, and coagulation parameters were minor and transient, and consistent with the inflammatory changes observed microscopically. These changes were considered to be of little toxicological significance. The vector remained localized primarily in the brain and to some degree in the tissues at the incision site. Low levels of vector DNA were detected in other tissues in a few animals suggesting systemic circulation of the virus. Viral DNA was detected in brains of hamsters for up to 62 days. However, microscopic changes and virus-related toxicity to the central nervous system were considered minor and decreased in incidence and severity over time. Such changes are not uncommon in studies using adenoviral vectors. This study provides safety and toxicology data justifying a clinical trial of CRAd-S-pk7 loaded in FDA-approved HB1.F3.CD neural stem cell carriers administered at the tumor resection bed in humans with recurrent malignant glioma.
Efficacy of combined cataract extraction and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation for the reduction of intraocular pressure and medication burden.

AIM To report on the efficacy of combined endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) and phacoemulsification cataract extraction (PCE) with intraocular lens placement for reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) and medication burden in glaucoma. METHODS A retrospective case review of 91 eyes (73 patients) with glaucoma and cataract that underwent combined PCE/ECP surgery was performed. Baseline demographic and ocular characteristics were recorded, as well as intraocular pressure, number of glaucoma medications, and visual acuity postoperatively with 12-month follow-up. Treatment failure was defined as less than 20% reduction in IOP from baseline on two consecutive visits (at 1, 3, 6, or 12mo postoperatively), IOP ≥21 mm Hg or ≤5 mm Hg on two consecutive visits, or additional glaucoma surgery performed within 12mo after PCE/ECP. RESULTS Overall, mean medicated IOP was reduced from 16.65 mm Hg at baseline to 13.38 mm Hg at 12mo (P<0.0001). Mean number of glaucoma medications was reduced from 1.88 medications at baseline to 1.48 medications at 12mo (P=0.0003). At 3mo postoperatively, the success rate was 73.6% (95%CI: 63.3, 81.5), 57.1% at 6mo (95% CI: 46.3, 66.6), and 49.7% at 12mo (95%CI: 38.9, 59.6). Patient demographic characteristics were not associated with treatment success. The only ocular characteristic associated with treatment success was a higher baseline IOP. CONCLUSION Combined PCE/ECP surgery is an effective surgical option for the reduction of IOP and medication burden in glaucoma patients. Patients with higher baseline IOP levels are most likely to benefit from this procedure.
Novel Optical Configurations for Virtual Reality: Evaluating User Preference and Performance with Focus-tunable and Monovision Near-eye Displays

Emerging virtual reality (VR) displays must overcome the prevalent issue of visual discomfort to provide high-quality and immersive user experiences. In particular, the mismatch between vergence and accommodation cues inherent to most stereoscopic displays has been a long standing challenge. In this paper, we evaluate several adaptive display modes afforded by focus-tunable optics or actuated displays that have the promise to mitigate visual discomfort caused by the vergence-accommodation conflict, and improve performance in VR environments. We also explore monovision as an unconventional mode that allows each eye of an observer to accommodate to a different distance. While this technique is common practice in ophthalmology, we are the first to report its effectiveness for VR applications with a custom built set up. We demonstrate that monovision and other focus-tunable display modes can provide better user experiences and improve user performance in terms of reaction times and accuracy, particularly for nearby simulated distances in VR.
Method of adult diagnosis influences estimated persistence of childhood ADHD: a systematic review of longitudinal studies

Summary Several studies have questioned the stability of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) from childhood to adulthood. This systematic review illustrates how variability in diagnostic methods influences adult ADHD persistence estimates. Systematic database searches identified studies reporting adult ADHD persistence rates that were published in English between Jan 1, 1992, and May 31, 2016. Study inclusion criteria were systematic childhood diagnosis of attention-deficit disorder, ADHD, or a research diagnostic protocol that matched DSM-III, DSM-III-R, or DSM-IV standards; mean childhood age of younger than 12·0 years with no participants older than 18·0 years; and mean adult age of 18·0 years or older with no participants younger than 17·0 years. Across 12 included samples, we identified 41 estimates of ADHD persistence, which ranged from 4·0% to 77·0%. Methods of diagnosing ADHD in adulthood varied widely with respect to source of information, diagnostic instruments (eg, rating scales, interviews), diagnostic symptom threshold, and whether impairment was required for diagnosis. Sole reliance on self reports and a strict threshold of six DSM symptoms led to very low persistence estimates. To minimise false-negative and false-positive classifications, recommended methods for determining adult persistence of ADHD include collecting self and informant ratings, requiring the presence of impairment, and using an age-appropriate symptom threshold. Very few persistence estimates utilised these methods, but those that did indicated persistence rates of 40–50%.
Selective Small Molecule Activators of TREK-2 Channels Stimulate Dorsal Root Ganglion c-Fiber Nociceptor Two-Pore-Domain Potassium Channel Currents and Limit Calcium Influx

The two-pore-domain potassium (K2P) channel TREK-2 serves to modulate plasma membrane potential in dorsal root ganglia c-fiber nociceptors, which tunes electrical excitability and nociception. Thus, TREK-2 channels are considered a potential therapeutic target for treating pain; however, there are currently no selective pharmacological tools for TREK-2 channels. Here we report the identification of the first TREK-2 selective activators using a high-throughput fluorescence-based thallium (Tl+) flux screen (HTS). An initial pilot screen with a bioactive lipid library identified 11-deoxy prostaglandin F2α as a potent activator of TREK-2 channels (EC50 ≈ 0.294 μM), which was utilized to optimize the TREK-2 Tl+ flux assay (Z′ = 0.752). A HTS was then performed with 76 575 structurally diverse small molecules. Many small molecules that selectively activate TREK-2 were discovered. As these molecules were able to activate single TREK-2 channels in excised membrane patches, they are likely direct TREK-2 activators...
Effects of Electron-Beam Irradiation and Ultraviolet Light (365 nm) on Polylactic Acid Plastic Films

Strips of Ca-I [polylactic acid (PLA) monolayer plastic films from Cargill Dow Polymers LLC, Minnetonka, MN] cut in the machine and nonmachine directions were irradiated with an electron beam using a CIRCLE III Linear Accelerator (MeV Industries S.A., Jouy-en-Josas, Cedex, France). The effects of 33-kGy irradiation on the physical properties of the Ca-I strips were studied. In addition, the effects of ultraviolet (UV) light (365-nm) illumination on the degradation of three PLA plastic films, Ch-I (PLA monolayer plastic films from Chronopol, Golden, CO), GII (PLA trilayer plastic films from Cargill Dow Polymers LLC), MN), and Ca-I (PLA monolayer plastic films from Cargill Dow Polymers LLC) were analyzed by a modified ASTM D5208-91 method. Results showed that irradiation had decreased the weight-average molecular weight (Mw), stress at break, percentage of elongation, and strain energy of Ca-I by 35.5, 26.7, 32.3, and 44.8%, respectively (P < 0.01). The shelf life of the irradiated Ca-I strips at 5°C and <20 ± 5% RH was about 6 months. The degradation rate of Ch-I, GII, and Ca-I with no UV light treatment at 55°C and 10% RH was 2512, 5618, and 3785 Mw/week, respectively. Under the UV light illumination (365 nm), the degradation rate of Ch-I, GII, and Ca-I, was 2982, 8722, and 7467 Mw/week, respectively. Hence, the degradation rate of GII and Ca-I was increased 55 and 97% by UV light (P < 0.008), respectively. This trend was not observed in Ch-I because its starting Mw (78,000 g/mol) was close to the tensile strength lost range (50,000 to 75,000 g/mol) of PLA films. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that UV light does further enhance the degradation of PLA films.
Intermediate-term outcomes from the DISSRM registry: A prospective analysis of active surveillance in patients with small renal masses.

430Background: Active surveillance is an alternative to primary intervention aimed at reducing the overtreatment of small renal masses, defined as solid renal masses ≤4.0 cm (clinical stage T1a). Methods: Since 2009, the Delayed Intervention and Surveillance for Small Renal Masses (DISSRM) registry prospectively enrolled 615 patients with small renal masses who chose to undergo primary intervention or active surveillance. Intervention was recommended to patients for masses with an elevated growth rate (>0.5 cm/year) or increased tumor diameter (>4.0 cm). Primary outcomes were cancer-specific survival and overall survival; secondary outcomes included progression-free survival. Progression was strictly defined as growth rate >0.5 cm/year, greatest tumor diameter >4.0 cm, metastatic disease, or elective crossover. Outcomes were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and comparisons were performed using the log-rank test. Results: Of the 615 enrolled patients, 298 (48.5%) chose primary intervention an...
Berlin’s Own Rip Van Winkle: The Washington Irving Connection in Wolfgang Becker’s Good Bye, Lenin!

This study examines the links between Washington Irving’s short story “Rip Van Winkle” (1819) and Wolfgang Becker’s film Good Bye, Lenin! (2003). Both works describe a matriarchal family in which a...
Cultivating interest in art: Causal effects of arts exposure during early childhood

Abstract Despite a growing body of literature examining the effects of arts exposure and participation for youth, little is known about the development of attitudes toward art in early childhood. In this study, we used an experimental research design to investigate the effect of arts exposure on the development of children’s attitudes toward art. Applicant groups (n = 26) with students in kindergarten through 2nd grade (n = 2,253) were randomly assigned to participate in an art museum’s educational program, which included pre-curricular materials, a visit to an art museum with a guided tour and arts-based activities, and post-curricular classroom materials. We collected original data from students in their classrooms that measured their attitudes toward art museums and art generally, as well as art knowledge. We found that exposure to the arts at an early age produced significant positive effects on the development of students’ attitudes toward the arts. Our findings demonstrate that arts-based exposure facilitated by schools can be an effective strategy for developing positive orientations toward art in young children.
Racial Disparities in Hospice Outcomes: A Race or Hospice-Level Effect?

Objectives To determine whether there is racial variation in hospice enrollees in rates of hospitalization and hospice disenrollment and, if so, whether systematic differences in hospice provider patterns explain the variation. Design Longitudinal cohort study. Setting Hospice. Participants Medicare beneficiaries (N = 145,038) enrolled in a national random sample of hospices (N = 577) from the National Hospice Survey and followed until death (2009–10). Measurements We used Medicare claims data to identify hospital admissions, emergency department (ED) visits, and hospice disenrollment after hospice enrollment. We used a series of hierarchical models including hospice‐level random effects to compare outcomes of blacks and whites. Results In unadjusted models, black hospice enrollees were significantly more likely than white enrollees to be admitted to the hospital (14.9% vs 8.7%, odds ratio (OR) = 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.74–1.95), visit the ED (19.8% vs 13.5%, OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.50–1.66), and disenroll from hospice (18.1% vs 13.0%, OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.40–1.56). These results were largely unchanged after accounting for participant clinical and demographic covariates and hospice‐level random effects. In adjusted models, blacks were at higher risk of hospital admission (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.64–1.86), ED visits (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.52–1.70), and hospice disenrollment (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.45–1.63). Conclusion Racial differences in intensity of care at the end of life are not attributable to hospice‐level variation in intensity of care. Differences in patterns of care between black and white hospice enrollees persist within the same hospice.
Unambiguous Peak Recognition for a Silicon Fabry–Pérot Interferometric Temperature Sensor

Wavelength tracking method is widely used for fiber-optic sensors based on Fabry–Perot interferometers (FPIs). Although wavelength tracking provides high resolution, it encounters the well-known problem of direction ambiguity when the spectrum shifts by more than half of the free-spectral range. In this paper, we propose a new signal processing method that can unambiguously recognize the spectral peaks of a silicon FPI by obtaining their unique order values to overcome the direction ambiguity and achieve measurement over extended range. New elements of the proposed method include: 1) an average peak order calculated from multiple peak pairs is used to reduce variation of the calculated order number, and 2) a modified dispersion model of silicon is involved in the calculation of the peak order to suppress drift of the calculated peak order. The averaging method generally decreases the data processing rate, but does not affect the response time of the sensor. We experimentally demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method using our recently developed fiber-optic temperature sensor using a 200-μm-thick silicon FPI. Results show that the measurement of temperature over 0 to 100 °C is realized, leading to an increase of more than five times in dynamic range.
"You're Giving Me Mixed Signals!": A Comparative Analysis of Methods that Capture Players' Emotional Response to Games

In this paper, we describe a comparative analysis of several emotional reporting techniques for assessing gameplay experience. We compared newer feedback methods, such as the Sensual Evaluation Instrument (SEI) and recent tools for capturing physiological data, with more traditional techniques such as think-aloud, the Immersive Experience Questionnaire (IEQ), and retrospective interviews. We present results from an exploratory study with 7 participants who all played the same game and gave feedback on their emotional experience using this suite of methods. Preliminary results indicated that mixed methods offer complementary strengths in registering player emotion, are useful at different moments of play, and help to accommodate differences in the ways players' emotions manifest. We argue for the value of using multiple methods in evaluating players' emotional response to games.