cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Constrainted Tracking Problem

We discuss in this paper the problem of tracking a given reference state trajectory by the open-loop unstable discrete-time multi-input system with constraints on the states and the input. Linear and quadratic constraints are considered. In both cases the problem is reduced to quadratic time-varying constraints on the deviations from the nominal state and input trajectories.
Lysophosphatidyl choline-induced focal demyelination in the rabbit corpus callosum. Light-microscopic observations.

Under electrophysiological control, a focal demyelinating lesion can be produced in the corpus callosum of the rabbit by slow pressure injection of a 1% solution of lysophosphatidyl choline (LPC). Light- and electron-microscopic examination of the LPC demyelinated corpus callosum indicates that many axons remain structurally intact after LPC injection. In addition, some axons show early signs of remyelination. Our results indicate that small diameter, central nervous system myelinated axons can be focally demyelinated with LPC. Furthermore, our procedure for producing demyelination in the corpus callosum is particularly suitable for combined anatomical and electrophysiological study of small demyelinated axons.
Bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion revisited: a comparison of two posterior techniques

Currently there is only one paper in the literature evaluating a bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion procedure. That paper presented poor results. The purpose of this study is to present another posterior surgical procedure for a bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion. 15 patients having this procedure were retrospectively reviewed at an average 30.3 months post surgery. 13 patients also had lumbosacral pathology resulting in lumbosacral fusions at the time of the bilateral sacroiliac joint fusions. One complication consisted of a non-union of the sacroiliac joint requiring reoperation. There were no neurovascular injuries, infections or lasting morbidities. Visual Analog Scales improved to a statistically significant degree. Patient satisfaction rates were greater than 80%. These outcomes were much improved when compared to the previously published study. A bilateral sacroiliac joint fusion can be performed safely, with low complications, low re-operation rates, decreased pain scores and high patient satisfaction rates.
Legal Issues: Public Opinion

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by R. MacCoun, volume 13, pp. 8641–8646, © 2001, Elsevier Ltd.
Identifying and removing noise from the Monterey ocean bottom broadband seismic station (MOBB) data

When compared to quiet land stations, the very broadband Monterey ocean bottom seismic station (MOBB) shows increased long-period background as well as signal-generated noise. Both sources of noise are unavoidable in shallow ocean bottom installations, and postprocessing is required to remove them from seismic observations. The long-period background noise observed for periods longer than 20 s is mainly due to infragravity waves and ocean currents. The shorter-period signal-generated noise, on the other hand, is due to reverberations of the seismic waves in the shallow sedimentary layers as well as in the water layer. We first present the steps that were taken prior to and during the instrument deployment to minimize instrument generated noise as well as to avoid noise due to water flow around the instrument. We then present results from two postprocessing methods that can be used to remove the long-period background noise, which both utilize the ocean bottom pressure signal locally recorded on a differential pressure gauge (DPG). One consists of subtracting the locally recorded ocean bottom pressure from the vertical seismic acceleration signal. In this case the frequency-independent scale factor is linearly estimated from the data. The other one makes use of the transfer function between the vertical seismic and pressure signal to predict the vertical component deformation signal. The predicted signal is then removed from the vertical seismic data in either frequency or time domain. We also present two methods that can be used to remove the signal-generated noise. One employs the empirical transfer function constructed from MOBB data and nearby land station data that do not show the signal-generated noise. The other one uses a synthetic transfer function computed by modeling the response of shallow layers at the MOBB location. Using either of the two transfer functions, most of the signal-generated noise can be removed from the MOBB data by deconvolution.
Comparison of texts streams in the presence of mild adversaries

Text sifting is a method of quickly and securely identifying documents for database searching, copy detection, duplicate email detection and plagiarism detection. A small amount of text is extracted from a document using hash functions and is used as the document's fingerprint. We build upon previous work by Broder et al. [4,5] and Heintze [8], specifically addressing a certain set of attacks that we discovered to be very powerful against previous systems. We achieve robustness against these attacks with a new selection process. We also give theoretical and experimental results for these and other attacks on text sifting functions.
Designing Value into Engineering Learning Through Service Activities Using a Blueprint Model

Both course-based service-learning (S-L) and extracurricular community service activities, together referred to as Learning Through Service, provide the opportunity for rich learning, personal growth, and tangible beneficial outcomes for students, community partners, and faculty. However, to fully realize this potential careful planning and design of the Learning Through Service (LTS) effort are required. This paper describes a framework with nine important elements to consider for LTS program design: (1) stakeholders, (2) value propositions, (3) relationships, (4) channels, (5) key activities, (6) resources, (7) partnerships, (8) value stream returns, and (9) value stream costs/outlays. This LTS development framework is based on the Business Canvas Model used in developing and evaluating the business viability of an innovative product or service. For LTS, the stated program design attributes were identified based on the personal LTS experience of the research team and input from additional experts. These nine elements can be effectively presented as a blueprint for an LTS program. Thoughtful planning in each of these areas will help ensure that the program goals are met and provide optimal benefits for all of the stakeholders. These elements also help to identify where management and assessment efforts are best targeted. Specific examples for each of the nine attributes from thirty-four different LTS programs are presented. Some of these LTS programs were in the planning phases and missing elements that could make the programs more meaningful, such as student reflection or engaging community partners as equals. Together, the model and examples provide guidance for others who are interested in designing a new LTS program, or improving an existing one.
Trinkets and Beads

“Trinkets and Beads” 52 min. 1996. Color, in English, Spanish and Waorani, with English subtitles. VHS available for classroom use, Sale: video $390, Rental: video $75. First Run/Icarus Films, 32 Court Street, 21st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201, Phone: (718) 488–8900, fax: (718) 488–8642, e-mail: mailroom@frif.com
Synthesis of poly(methyl methacrylate) macromonomers with phenolic functionality by group transfer polymerization and their use in polycondensation reactions

Methyl 1-trimethylsiloxy-2-[2,5-bis(trimethylsiloxy)phenyl]vinyl ether (6) was used as the initiator for the group transfer polymerization (GTP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) to give macromonomers with aromatic hydroxyl functions. Quantitative removal of the silyl-protective groups was achieved by acidic or fluoride-catalyzed cleavage to give the deprotected macromonomer 9. The reactivity of this macromonomer in polycondensation reactions was shown by the synthesis of a liquid-crystalline main-chain polyester with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) side chains (PES-graft-PMMA) (15) and a 4,4′-isopropylidenediphenol-based polycarbonate (PC-graft-PMMA) (19).
Convex Ordering of Random Variables and its Applications in Econometrics and Actuarial Science

It is well known that in economics and finance, the data usually have “fat tail” and in this case the Normal distribution is not a good model to use. The skew normal distributions recently draw considerable attention as an alternative model. Unfortunately, the distribution of the sum of log-skew normal random variables does not have a closed form. In this work, we discuss the use of lower convex order of random variables to approximate this distribution. Further, two application of this approximate distribution are given : first to describe the final wealth of a series of payments, and second to describe the present value of a series of payments.
The sensitizing effect of estrogens and catechol estrogen on cultured pituitary cells to luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone: its antagonism by progestins.

The direct effect of steroid hormones upon LHRH-induced LH release was tested in cultured pituitary gonadotrophs. Anterior pituitary cells from adult ovariectomized rats were cultured for 2 days in the presence and absence of estrone (E1), 17β-estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE1), 2-hydroxyestradiol (2-OHE2), progesterone (P), and 20α-dihydroprogesterone (20α-OHP). The cells were then washed and incubated for 3 h with graded doses of LHRH (10-12-10-6 M) and the LH released into the media was measured by RIA. A dose-related increase in LH secretion was observed with increasing concentrations of LHRH and, in control cultures, the half-maximal effective dose (ED50) of LHRH was 1.9 ± 0.6 × 10-9 M. Pretreatment with Ei or E2 (10-10-10-8 M) sensitized gonadotrophs to LHRH and caused a 10-fold decrease in the ED50. 2-OHE2 also exhibited a sensitizing effect, but it was less effective than E2 (2-OHE2: 10-10 M, no effect; 10-8 M, ED50, 2.5 ± 0.5 × 10-10 M). NO sensitizing effect was observed wit...
Efficacy of avridine and liposomes as adjuvants for avian influenza virus antigens in turkeys.

Summary Four‐week‐old turkeys were vaccinated with H4N8, H5N2 and H7N3 inactivated avian influenza viruses (AIV) in one of the following adjuvants: avridine, positively charged liposomal avridine, liposomal avridine with covalent attachment to the AIV antigens and oil‐emulsion; and without any adjuvant. Two vaccinations were given at a 4‐week interval. Antibody concentrations in sera and in respiratory lavages were measured over a period of 8 weeks. The turkeys responded with high cumulative geometric mean HI titres to the H4N8, H5N2 and H7N3 components of the vaccines, while the cumulative geometric mean HI titres for the antigens without adjuvant were significantly (P < 0.05) lower. The most efficacious adjuvant, positively charged liposomal avridine, gave the highest local immune response as measured by total antibody specific to AIV in respiratory lavages. The difference in weight gains between vaccinated and non‐vaccinated turkeys was significant (P<0.05). Virus isolations 2 weeks post‐challenge decr...
Observations of discontinuous strain in type 316 stainless steel tubes

Recently, strain discontinuities--also called strain bursts or strain jumps--have been observed in solution annealed Type 316 stainless steel in which strain was increased at rates from 5 x 10/sup -5/ s/sup -1/ to 1 x 10/sup -4/ s/sup -1/. The strains were produced by carefully controlled temperature excursions or pressure ramps. The jumps were similar to those previously observed for cast and wrought commercial annealed 316 stainless steel and composed a major portion of the total specimen strain. In addition, they were observed in both the elastic and the plastic portion of the strain curve.
Multisite Infective Endocarditis With Mural Vegetations in the Right Atrium and Right Ventricle

A 59-year-old reclusive man was found down in his home, presumably for at least 4 days. This had been preceded by progressive shortness of breath and profound generalized weakness for 2 weeks. There had been no recent use of intravenous drugs prior to onset of acute illness. On admission to the hospital, his blood pressure and body temperature were normal. He was tachycardic at 120 bpm in the presence of bilateral diffuse coarse crackles and decreased breath sounds at bases by chest auscultation. There was a 3/6 holosystolic murmur best heard at apex with radiation to the axilla. He was noted to have significant edema in bilateral lower extremities, with dry gangrene of the hands and feet bilaterally. His leukocyte count was 15,300/L (88% neutrophils) and the C-reactive protein was 146 mg/L. An echocardiogram showed sinus tachycardia, with no other abnormalities. The initial blood cultures grew out methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus anginosus. He was placed on an intravenous antibiotic regimen of oxacillin and penicillin G. Transthoracic echocardiogram revealed multiple vegetations involving both …
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for oropharyngeal carcinoma: impact of tumor volume

Abstract Purpose To assess the therapeutic outcomes in oropharyngeal cancer patients treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and analyze the impact of primary gross tumor volume (GTV) and nodal GTV (nGTV) on survival and locoregional control rates. Methods and materials Between February 1997 and September 2001, 74 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx were treated with IMRT. Thirty-one patients received definitive IMRT; 17 also received platinum-based chemotherapy. Forty-three patients received combined surgery and postoperative IMRT. The median follow-up for all patients was 33 months (range, 9–60 months). Fifty-two patients (70.3%) had Stage IV disease, 17 patients (23%) had Stage III, 3 patients (4.1%) had Stage II, and 2 patients (2.7%) had Stage I tumors. The mean prescription dose was 70 and 66 Gy, respectively, for the definitive and postoperative cohorts. The daily fraction dose was either 1.9 or 2 Gy, five times weekly. The GTV and/or nGTV were determined and derived using the Computational Environment for Radiotherapy Research, a free software package developed at Washington University. The mean GTV was 30.5 ± 22.3 cm 3 , and the mean nGTV was 23.2 ± 20.6 cm 3 . Results Ten locoregional failures were observed. Six patients died of disease and three died of concurrent disease. Distant metastasis developed in 6 patients. The 4-year estimate of overall survival was 87%, and the 4-year estimate of disease-free survival was 81% (66% in the definitive vs. 92% in the postoperative RT group). The 4-year estimate of locoregional control was 87% (78% in the definitive vs. 95% in the postoperative RT group); the 4-year estimate of distant metastasis-free survival was 90% (84% in the definitive vs. 94% in the postoperative group). Multivariate analysis showed that GTV and nGTV were independent risk factors determining locoregional control and disease-free survival for definitive oropharyngeal IMRT patients. The worst late toxicities documented were as follows: 32 patients with Grade 1 and 9 with Grade 2 xerostomia; 2 with Grade 1 and 1 with Grade 2 skin toxicity; 3 with Grade 1 late mucositis; and 3 with Grade 1 trismus. Seventeen patients required gastrostomy tube placement. Conclusion IMRT is an effective treatment modality for locally advanced oropharyngeal carcinoma. The GTV and nGTV are the most important factors predictive of therapeutic outcome.
Semiparametric proportional hazards estimation of competing risks models with time-varying covariates

Abstract Recent research has focused on the class of proportional hazards models which are nonparametric with respect to the form of the baseline hazard [Han and Hausman (1990), Meyer (1986), Kiefer (1987)]. This paper extends the previous literature on these semiparametric duration estimators in two distinct ways. First, I extend the regression form of the competing risks, proportional hazards model to allow covariates to vary over time. I demonstrate identification and asymptotic normality of the general estimator for the competing risks models with time-varying covariates. Second, I develop Monte Carlo simulations to assess the performance of the bivariate risk estimator for various sample sizes, in the presence and absence of unobserved heterogeneity of various forms and given temporal aggregation. The results indicate that the estimator performs well in finite samples, but that the estimates are sensitive to misspecification of the error distribution. The qualitative results are, however, relatively insensitive to an incorrect error assumption. In contrast, the effects of aggregation are potentially quite serious with parameters for the time-varying variables, in particular, showing considerable sensitivity to the degree of aggregation.
SNARE Interactions Are Not Selective: IMPLICATIONS FOR MEMBRANE FUSION SPECIFICITY

The SNARE hypothesis proposes that membrane trafficking specificity is mediated by preferential high affinity interactions between particular v (vesicle membrane)- and t (target membrane)-SNARE combinations. The specificity of interactions among a diverse set of SNAREs, however, is unknown. We have tested the SNARE hypothesis by analyzing potential SNARE complexes between five proteins of the vesicle-associated membrane protein (VAMP) family, three members of the synaptosome-associated protein-25 (SNAP-25) family and three members of the syntaxin family. All of the 21 combinations of SNAREs tested formed stable complexes. Sixteen were resistant to SDS denaturation, and most complexes thermally denatured between 70 and 90 degreesC. These results suggest that the specificity of membrane fusion is not encoded by the interactions between SNAREs.
Shelter-Based Treatment of the Homeless Alcoholic

Abstract We describe a model for integrating municipal shelter and hospital-based alcoholism outpatient treatment services for the homeless alcoholic, and report on its outcome at 12 months. The experimental program was designed to increase homeless patient's length of stay in treatment and was based on integrating clinic services for homeless men at Bellevue Hospital in New York with an abstinence oriented dormitory, the “Clean and Sober” Unit in a municipal shelter. The study sample consists of 189 consecutive male admissions to an intensive outpatient alcoholism treatment program in the Bellevue hospital. The patients' outcome was assessed in relation to their place of residence divided in three groups: the experimental group counts 100 men housed in the Clean and Sober Unit. The two contrast groups counted 34 residents of various unaffiliated shelters and 55 domiciled men with independent living arrangements. The three subject groups did not differ significantly on demographic or clinical characteristics. After 12 months, residents in unaffiliated shelters were significantly less likely to be retained than the domiciled patients and showed a trend towards less retention than the experimental group.
An exact solution for the linearized multifrequency radiation diffusion equation

An exact solution, based on Fourier and Laplace (FL) transforms, is developed for a linearization of the system modeling the multifrequency radiation diffusion and matter energy balance equations. The model uses an ideal gas equation of state. Opacities are proportional to the inverse of the cube of the frequency, thereby simulating free-free transitions. The solution is obtained in terms of integrals over the FL coefficients of the initial conditions and explicit sources. Results are presented for two special cases. (1) No sources, initially cold radiation field, and a localized matter energy profile. (2) Initially cold matter and radiation fields and a source of matter energy extending over finite space and time intervals.
The development of a taxonomy of career competencies for professional women.

The purpose of this study was to develop a taxonomy of the competencies necessary to women's pursuit of professional-level, especially academic, careers. During the first phase of the study two research activities, a review of literature in the areas of career development, career counseling, and the psychology of women, and a semistructured “critical incidents” interview with each of 50 female faculty members from a large midwestern university, resulted in a list of 620 career-relevant behaviors and skills. This pool of career competencies was then examined by three counseling psychologists, and a classification scheme to describe the data was developed. Finally, rates attempted to assign the original competency items to the proposed categories in order to validate the taxonomy. The final, refined version of the taxonomy is presented, and the utility of these results for counseling and research in the area of women's career development is discussed.
Associations of weight-based teasing history and current eating disorder features and psychological functioning in bariatric surgery patients.

The study investigated associations between childhood history of being negatively teased (i.e., being made fun of) about weight with psychiatric history, weight and eating concerns, and psychological functioning in 174 bariatric surgery candidates. Bariatric surgery candidates participating in a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation completed a structured diagnostic interview, a psychosocial history interview, and a battery of established self-report measures assessing broad aspects of functioning. Patients who reported a history of being teased during childhood about weight were compared with those who denied having been teased in demographic features, obesity history, dietary and eating patterns and psychological functioning. Of the study group, 88 participants (50.6%) reported a weight-based childhood teasing history and 86 (49.4%) denied such a history.Teasing was not significantly associated with demographic features or current obesity level. As expected, analyses revealed that teasing was associated with younger age of onset of both obesity and dieting.Teasing was significantly associated neither with the frequency of lifetime psychiatric disorders, including eating disorder diagnoses, nor with binge eating. Analyses of covariance controlling for childhood onset of obesity, however, revealed that teasing history was associated with significantly higher current levels of weight and shape concerns, depression, body dissatisfaction, and shame, and with lower levels of self-esteem. Health-care providers should recognize the importance of a history of having been teased or made fun of about weight in bariatric surgery candidates. Although the prognostic significance of a history of such negative teasing for bariatric surgery outcomes is unknown, our findings suggest that such experiences are prevalent in this patient group and are associated with negative sequelae.
Electron transport between cytochrome c and alpha tocopherol.

Abstract Using liposomes we have demonstrated an electron transfer between tocopherol (vitamin E) and cytochrome c . Reduced cytochrome c protects vitamin E from oxidation induced either directly by ultraviolet light or indirectly by soybean lipoxygenase-catalyzed oxidation of arachidonic acid Oxidized cytochrome c is reduced by tocopherol and tocopherol homologues (chromanols) resulting in accumulation of tocopheroxyl radicals which we detected by ESR. The peak height of the ESR spectrum of tocopheroxyl radicals (which is proportional to the amount of radical present) is proportional to the ratio of reduced to oxidized cytochrome c . In mitochondrial membranes succinate-cytochrome c reduction is inhibited by antimycin A. Addition of exogenous chromanols facilitates a by-pass of the antimycin A blocked electron pathway, and succinate-dependent cytochrome c reductase activity is restored. Cytochrome c may act as a water-soluble complement to the lipid-soluble ubiquinol in regenerating mitochondrial tocopherol from tocopheroxyl radical.
Gamma relaxation in nitric acid-treated polyethylene single crystals

Abstract There has recently been considerable interest in the gamma relaxation of polyethylene (PE). Determined by dynamic mechanical measurements at 1 cps, this relaxation would be located near 150°K. The gamma loss peak has been observed both in bulk PE [1-5] and in mats of solution-grown crystals [5-8] by a variety of techniques. The origin of this relaxation has variably been attributed to the amorphous component [1-6,9,10], the crystalline component [8,11], or both [12,13]. According to the last view, the gamma relaxation consists of two superposed peaks (γa and γc) attributable, respectively, to the two components.
Detection and identification of carprofen and its in vivo metabolites in greyhound urine by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Abstract Rimadyl® (carprofen) was administered orally to the racing greyhound at a dose of 2.2 mg kg−1. Following both alkaline and enzymatic hydrolysis, postadministration urine samples were extracted by mixed mode solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges to identify target analyte(s) for forensic screening and confirmatory analysis methods. The acidic isolates were derivatised as trimethylsilyl ethers (TMS) and analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Carprofen and five phase I metabolites were identified. Positive ion electron ionisation (EI+) mass spectra of the TMS derivatives of carprofen and its metabolites show a diagnostic base peak at M+⋅ −117 corresponding to the loss of COO–Si–(CH3)3 group as a radical. GC–MS with positive ion ammonia chemical ionisation (CI+) of the compounds provided both derivatised molecular mass and some structural information. Deutromethylation-TMS derivatisation was used to distinguish between aromatic and aliphatic oxidations of carprofen. The drug is rapidly absorbed, extensively metabolised and excreted as phase II conjugates in urine. Carprofen, three aromatic hydroxy and a minor N-hydroxy metabolite were detected for up to 48 h. For samples collected between 2 and 8 h after administration, the concentration of total carprofen ranged between 200 and 490 ng ml−1. The major metabolite, α-hydroxycarprofen was detected for over 72 h and therefore can also be used as a marker for the forensic screening of carprofen in greyhound urine.
Social and political perspectives on nuclear regulation after three mile Island

The near catastrophic accident at Three Mile Island, Pennsylvania in March 1979 prompted policymakers and government officials in the United States to closely examine the regulation of nuclear power, and a host of studies, panels, and special commissions were launched to examine the issue intensively. While the results are currently pouring in seemingly from everyone, the advice and recommendations have a remarkable similarity about them. For example, a study of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission by the United Stales General Accounting Office offered some fairly typical recommendations. Il concluded that the NRC's “performance can be characterized as slow, indecisive, cautious — in a word, complacent.” The report said this resulted from a “lack of aggressive leadership as evidenced by the Commissioners' failures to establish regulatory goals, control policy making, and most importantly, clearly define their roles in nuclear regulation.” Several regulatory reforms were suggested to bring about “effective and efficient regulation to the future of commercial nuclear activities,” [1] To be sure, almost everyone, including the influential President's Commission on Three Mile Island, believes there ought to be some kind, if not drastic, reform in nuclear power's administrative and regulatory machinery. [2]
Effects of number of items and visual display variability on same-different discrimination behavior.

We explored college students’ discrimination of complex visual stimuli that involved multiple-item displays. The items in each of the displays could be all the same, all different, or diverse mixtures of some same and some different items. The participants had to learn which of two arbitrary responses was correct for each of the displays without being told about thesameness ordifferentness of the stimuli. We observed a general improvement in discrimination performance—a rise in choice accuracy and a fall in reaction time—as the number of icons in the display was increased, even when the participants had been trained from the outset with displays containing different numbers of items and when smaller numbers of items were not randomly distributed but grouped in the center of the display. The participants’ discrimination behavior also depended on the mixture of same and different items in the displays. Striking individual differences in the participants’ discrimination behavior disclosed that people sometimes respond as do pigeons and baboons trained with a similar task. This and previous related research suggest that variability discrimination may lie at the root ofsame-different categorization behavior.
Resource-sharing between internal maintenance and external selection modulates attentional capture by working memory content.

It is unclear why and under what circumstances working memory (WM) and attention interact. Here, we apply the logic of the time-based resource-sharing (TBRS) model of WM (e.g., Barrouillet, Bernardin, & Camos, 2004) to explore the mixed findings of a separate, but related, literature that studies the guidance of visual attention by WM contents. Specifically, we hypothesize that the linkage between WM representations and visual attention is governed by a time-shared cognitive resource that alternately refreshes internal (WM) and selects external (visual attention) information. If this were the case, WM content should guide visual attention (involuntarily), but only when there is time for it to be refreshed in an internal focus of attention. To provide an initial test for this hypothesis, we examined whether the amount of unoccupied time during a WM delay could impact the magnitude of attentional capture by WM contents. Participants were presented with a series of visual search trials while they maintained a WM cue for a delayed-recognition test. WM cues could coincide with the search target, a distracter, or neither. We varied both the number of searches to be performed, and the amount of available time to perform them. Slowing of visual search by a WM matching distracter—and facilitation by a matching target—were curtailed when the delay was filled with fast-paced (refreshing-preventing) search trials, as was subsequent memory probe accuracy. WM content may, therefore, only capture visual attention when it can be refreshed, suggesting that internal (WM) and external attention demands reciprocally impact one another because they share a limited resource. The TBRS rationale can thus be applied in a novel context to explain why WM contents capture attention, and under what conditions that effect should be observed.
Acquisition and extinction under periodic reinforcement

This study reexamined the processes of acquisition and extinction under periodic reinforcement. During the first phase of the experiment, pigeons were exposed to a fixed-interval schedule either 40 or 80 s long. During the second phase, each session started with the fixed-interval schedule but changed to extinction at an unpredictable moment. The results showed that during phase 1 the curve for the average rate of pecking along the interval rotated across sessions, that is, the rate immediately after food decreased, whereas the rate at the end of the interval increased. The initial and terminal rates approached their steady state at different speeds. During the extinction trials of phase 2, behavior was characterized by pause-peck oscillations with a period slightly longer than the fixed-interval duration. These findings concerning acquisition and extinction under periodic reinforcement were then compared with the predictions of some current theories of timing.
Three-Dimensional Supersonic Viscous Flow over a Cone at Incidence

Abstract : The viscous supersonic flow over a sharp cone at incidence is examined numerically with a coupled strongly implicit algorithm for the properties in the plane normal to the cone axis. The Navier-Stokes equations are considered in a boundary layer-like or parabolized manner and global relaxation is considered for the pressure interaction. It is shown that departure effects can be effectively eliminated by forward differencing for the axial pressure gradient. Moreover, this approximation retains the implicit free pressure interaction required for geometries where axial flow separation is possible. (Author)
Paclitaxel poliglumex for ovarian cancer.

Introduction: Despite an 80% initial response rate to the standard primary regimen of carboplatin and paclitaxel, most women with ovarian cancer will experience recurrence with incurable disease within five years and will be treated with several successive palliative regimens. Consequently, a significant need exists for chemotherapeutic agents, which are not only clinically efficacious, but have acceptable side-effect profiles. Paclitaxel poliglumex (PPX) is a recently developed taxane in which paclitaxel is conjugated to poly(l-glutamic acid), which renders it water soluble, reduces hypersensitivity reactions and preferentially targets it to the tumor. Areas covered: This review covers pre-clinical pharmacokinetic data and key Phase I and II clinical trial results in ovarian cancer. Expert opinion: While PPX is active in ovarian cancer, it is unclear at present whether it offers significant benefit in terms of its side-effect profile or outcomes over a standard taxane-based regimen as first-line therapy,...
Multivariate calibration leverages and spectral F-ratios via the filter factor representation

Diagnostics are fundamental to multivariate calibration (MC). Two common diagnostics are leverages and spectral F-ratios and these have been formulated for many MC methods such as partial least square (PLS), principal component regression (PCR) and classical least squares (CLS). While these are some of the most common methods of calibration in analytical chemistry, ridge regression is also common place and yet spectral F-ratios have not been developed for it. Noting that ridge regression is a form of Tikhonov regularization (TR) and using the unifying filter factor representation for MC, this paper develops the filter factor form of leverages and spectral F-ratios. The approach is applied to a spectral data set to demonstrate computational speed-up advantages and ease of implementation for the filter factor representation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Balloon-assisted removal of tilted inferior vena cava filters with embedded tips.

Purpose The successful removal of most retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filters requires the capture of the filter apex. The severely tilted filter with an apex in contact with the caval wall and covered by an endothelial cap represents a major technical challenge to removal. While a variety of techniques to deal with this problem have been reported, most require complex wire manipulations or the use of rigid endobronchial forceps. This article describes the successful use of a standard angioplasty balloon to free the apex of severely tilted filters with endothelial apical caps. Materials and Methods A retrospective review of those patients who presented for removal of their Bard Recovery or G2 IVC filter between June 2005 and August 2008 was performed. Imaging studies and medical records were reviewed for those patients who had their IVC filters removed using the balloon-assisted technique. The presence of filter tilt and movement as well as the outcome of the technique was recorded for each case. Results Forty-eight Recovery and 209 G2 filters presented for removal. Ten of these 257 filters (3.6%) were found to be severely tilted with filter apex embedded into the wall of the cava. Eight of these filters were successfully removed using the balloon-assisted technique. No complications resulting from the technique occurred. Conclusions Balloon-assisted removal of severely tilted embedded G2 and Recovery filters is an effective technique that can be performed using tools commonly available and familiar to most interventionalists.
Admissible modeling errors or modeling simplifications

Abstract Discovering modeling errors on large finite element models is complex and can often go unnoticed, particularly once good “correlation” is achieved. The signs of trouble and/or inaccuracies need to be recognized and, at the very least, the effects of system simplifications on a model's accuracy need to be known. One danger in using simplified models occurs when the models, which have been correlated to test results, are used for predictive work. When predictive work begins, it is extremely difficult to determine if model “simplifications” have a small or large influence on the predictions. Fortunately, there are things that can be done to help recognize potential trouble. Similar to the examples shown in this paper, a library of small test models should be created in order to evaluate modeling techniques and code features. The evaluation should include determining limitations of the techniques and features that may cause modeling errors when applied to larger systems. This is analogous to the design process itself, where components must first be designed and thoroughly tested and understood before they can be reliably used in larger systems.
Controlled release and gradient formation of human glial-cell derived neurotrophic factor from heparinated poly(ethylene glycol) microsphere-based scaffolds

Introduction of spatial patterning of proteins, while retaining activity and releasability, is critical for the field of regenerative medicine. Reversible binding to heparin, which many biological molecules exhibit, is one potential pathway to achieve this goal. We have covalently bound heparin to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) microspheres to create useful spatial patterns of glial-cell derived human neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in scaffolds to promote peripheral nerve regeneration. Labeled GDNF was incubated with heparinated microspheres that were subsequently centrifuged into cylindrical scaffolds in distinct layers containing different concentrations of GDNF. The GDNF was then allowed to diffuse out of the scaffold, and release was tracked via fluorescent scanning confocal microscopy. The measured release profile was compared to predicted Fickian models. Solutions of reaction-diffusion equations suggested the concentrations of GDNF in each discrete layer that would result in a nearly linear concentration gradient over much of the length of the scaffold. The agreement between the predicted and measured GDNF concentration gradients was high. Multilayer scaffolds with different amounts of heparin and GDNF and different crosslinking densities allow the design of a wide variety of gradients and release kinetics. Additionally, fabrication is much simpler and more robust than typical gradient-forming systems due to the low viscosity of the microsphere solutions compared to gelating solutions, which can easily result in premature gelation or the trapping of air bubbles with a nerve guidance conduit. The microsphere-based method provides a framework for producing specific growth factor gradients in conduits designed to enhance nerve regeneration.
Electrodeposition of Ni matrix composite coatings with embedded CrAlY particles

An electrolytic sediment codeposition process was employed to fabricate composite coatings containing CrAlY particles embedded in an Ni matrix. The effects of three main deposition parameters and their interactions on the amount of CrAlY particles incorporated in the composite coating were investigated using a design of experiments (DoEs) method. Current density, agitation rate and concentration of CrAlY particles in the solution were the parameters considered in the 23 full factorial design. With different combinations of the deposition parameters, the amount of CrAlY particles in the composite coatings ranged from 20 to 49 vol.-%. The DoE results show that the agitation rate exhibited the greatest influence on the amount of CrAlY particles incorporated in the composite coating, followed by the interaction between agitation and particle loading and then the particle loading itself. Current density did not appear to affect the particle incorporation for the present set-up.
The information network: its structure and role in higher education

The most suitable system architecture for higher education has been dramatically altered by rapid change in information technology and its use. The low cost of mini‐ and microcomputer technology has not only decentralized academic computing, it has made computing a ubiquitous tool for the student, faculty, and staff community across all disciplines. The microcomputer provides access to substantial computing at low cost, and stimulates distributed investment in computing capacity. However, the radical decentralization of computing in the university has also created substantial liabilities, such as increased difficulty in sharing information and resources. The characteristics of a powerful institution‐wide network, which will overcome existing problems with a decentralized environment, are detailed.
Optical Dispersion and Molar Refraction at Zero Frequency for Compressed Nitrogen, Argon, and Carbon Dioxide Measured as Functions of Density

Data obtained by displacement interferometry have been reduced to give the variation of refractive index at infinite wave-length with density for pure nitrogen up to 0.01656 gram per cc. Precise data are also presented for dispersion in pure argon, and the Cauchy constants under NTP conditions are evaluated as follows for this gas: ${A}_{0}\ensuremath{-}1=0.0002771\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0000008$, ${B}_{0}=1.477\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}14}$. It is also noted that the Lorentz-Lorenz function, and hence the molar refraction at zero frequency, are independent of density for these two gases; the density range for argon extending up to 0.03342 gram per cc. The values of molar refraction are found to be 4.369\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.003 cc for nitrogen and 4.138\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.012 cc for argon. Preliminary work on carbon dioxide indicates a slight negative deviation from linearity for ($A\ensuremath{-}1$) with density, and a marked negative variation of the Lorentz-Lorenz function with density. The latter means a decrease in the molar refraction at zero frequency, and suggests a decrease in the molar polarization with density. This is not in accord with the findings of Keyes and Oncley who report an increase of molar polarization with density for this gas. The NTP values of the Cauchy constants for C${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ are also evaluated as follows: $({A}_{0}\ensuremath{-}1)=0.0004419\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0000036$, and ${B}_{0}=2.791\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}14}$. The extrapolated value of the molar refraction at zero frequency is found to be approximately 6.65 cc.
Thermodynamic characterization of the U3O8−zz phase

A thermodynamic investigation of the U3O8−z phase, mole ratio n(O)/n(U) from 2.60 to 2.67, from 840 to 1450 K via measured partial pressures of O2, p(O2), ranging from 10−6 to 1 atm was obtained by a thermogravimetric gas-equilibration method. Values of the chemical potential of O2 and the standard Gibbs free energy of formation of the U3O8−z phase were calculated for various compositions and temperatures. The nature of the defect structure of the sub-stoichiometric U3O8 at low temperature and/or high p(O2) appears to be randomly distributed doubly charged oxygen vacancies. However, at high temperature and/or low p(O2), i.e. greater departure from stoichiometry, a more complex defect structure appears to occur. The z-dependence of the standard Gibbs free energy of formation of solid U3O8−z was calculated, and hence, a more accurate evaluation of the standard Gibbs free energy of formation of the gaseous UO3 was made via the reaction: ( 1 / 3 ) U 3 O 8 − z ( s ) + { ( 1 + z ) / 6 } O 2 ( g ) = U O 3 ( g ) .
Anterior composite resins and veneers: treatment planning, preparation, and finishing

Today's esthetic dental restorations are limited only by the practitioner's artistic ability and imagination. Less invasive procedures such as bleaching, bonding, and veneer placement are useful adjuncts and economic alternatives to more extensive procedures such as crown placement, orthodontic treatment, and orthognathic surgery. In addition to a discussion of the considerations when planning esthetic restorative treatment, technique and material selection, tooth preparation, material placement, and finishing are presented.
Endoscopic evaluation of the gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic gastric bypass. A series of 340 patients without postoperative leak.

A significant and potentially deadly complication of the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is leakage from the gastrojejunostomy (GJ). The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative endoscopy in preventing postoperative anastomotic leakage. The study enrolled 340 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic gastric bypass procedures performed from January 2001 to July 2004. In all cases, an endoscopist performed video gastroscopy to evaluate the integrity of the GJ using air insufflation of the pouch after distal clamping of the Roux limb. Intraoperative leaks were repaired and the anastomosis was retested. Demographic, operative, and endoscopic data were collected and analyzed. Logistic regression was used in both univariate and multivariate modeling to identify independent preoperative variables associated with the presence of intraoperative leak. Model parameters were estimated by the maximum likelihood method. From these estimates, odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed. There were no postoperative anastomotic leaks or mortalities in our series. Overall, endoscopic evaluation of the GJ resulted in the detection of 56 intraoperative leaks (16.4%). There was a significant difference in the incidence of intraoperative leakage for patients older than 40 years (21%) vs those younger than 40 years (10.5%; p = 0.01). In the initial 91 cases, the GJ was performed by the end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) technique; the subsequent 249 were performed with a combination of linear stapling and handsewn technique. There was a trend toward more leakage in the GIA group (18%) versus EEA (12%); however, the difference was not significant (p = 0.188). Age remained an independent risk factor for leak detected intraoperatively in the multivariate logistic regression model after adjusting for covariates. Age >40 years increased the risk of intraoperative leakage by 2.3 times (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.2–4.6; p = 0.01). The rate of postoperative anastomotic stricture was the same among patients detected with an intraoperative leak (5.4%) and those without (5.6%; p = 0.934). Endoscopic evaluation of the GJ is a sensitive and reliable technique for demonstrating anastomotic integrity and preventing postoperative morbidity after gastric bypass. Age >40 years was identified as an independent risk factor for intraoperative leak in this series.
An urushiol derivative from poison sumac

Abstract GC analysis of the ethanolic extract of poison sumac ( Toxicodendron vernix ) showed five urushiol components four of which were identical with those