cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Growth and characterisation of InSb/In1−xAlxSb strained-layer superlattices by magnetron sputter epitaxy

The high electron mobility and low effective mass associated with InSb would suggest superior performance of devices based on systems such as InSb/In1−xAlxSb, particularly in high speed and non-linear optoelectronic applications. However, difficulties encountered in the growth of antimony/aluminum alloys by mature techniques such as MBE and MOVPE have resulted in a slower development of these systems as compared to those based on GaAs. In this study we report on the growth of InSb/In1−xAlxSb superlattices using the technique of magnetron sputter epitaxy (MSE). High purity solid targets of InSb, Sb and Al were used to deposit 20 period superlattices with periods ranging from 76 to 154 A and with x values of 0<x<0.4. X-ray analysis showed the layers to be fully strained for all compositions. The FWHM of the satellite peaks were typically less than 90 arcs indicating excellent crystallinity. The interface abruptness was probed by Raman scattering from folded acoustic modes.
Polycrystal plasticity simulations of fretting fatigue

Fretting fatigue is often the root cause of the nucleation of cracks at attachments of structural components. In fretting, cyclic plastic deformation, cumulative deformation and wear or damage occurs within depths of only several grains. Thus, it is important to resolve the deformation at the scale of individual grains in order to understand the crystallographic orientation dependence of cyclic plasticity, the heterogeneity of subsurface plasticity, and its relation to surface contact conditions. In this study, we employ state-of-the-art computational crystal plasticity constitutive laws that account for discreteness of grains, crystallographic surface texture, and heterogeneous plastic deformation at the scale of grains. The results of simulations are compared with carefully controlled and monitored fretting fatigue experiments.
Development of a pre-service teachers' self-efficacy instrument regarding teacher health education standards.

BACKGROUND Whereas many education programs expect students to use national standards in various content areas, few studies have been conducted that examine pre-service teachers' confidence in demonstrating their use of the professional teacher standards. PURPOSE The purpose of this project was 2-fold: (1) To develop the Pre-service Health Education National Standards Self-efficacy (PHENSS) Scale; and (2) To establish the instrument's ability to draw inferences from PHENSS Scale scores. METHODS The final instrument consisted of 29 items and 4 demographic items. Validation was established using qualitative and quantitative procedures. After the instrument had been validated, pre-service elementary education and pre-service secondary health education teachers were recruited to complete the instrument at 2 different times. RESULTS Items were grouped to form 7 subscales (a subscale for each standard) and were analyzed to determine test-retest reliability and internal consistency. All scales were found to be statistically significant (p ≤ .05). Cronbach's alpha for the 7 subscales ranged from .73 to .96, and α = .94 for the entire instrument. CONCLUSION The instrument, which assessed self-efficacy toward implementing Professional Teacher Standards in Health Education, was found to be both valid and reliable.
Smart Everything: Will Intelligent Systems Reduce Resource Use?

Until recently, the main environmental concerns associated with information and communication technologies (ICTs) have been their use-phase electricity consumption and the chemicals associated with their manufacture, and the environmental effects of these technologies on other parts of the economy have largely been ignored. With the advent of mobile computing, communication, and sensing devices, these indirect effects have the potential to be much more important than the impacts from the use and manufacturing phases of this equipment. This article summarizes the trends that have propelled modern technological societies into the ultralow-power design space and explores the implications of these trends for the direct and indirect environmental impacts associated with these new technologies. It reviews the literature on environmental effects of information technology (also with an emphasis on low-power systems) and suggests areas for further research.
DNA transposition by protein transduction of the piggyBac transposase from lentiviral Gag precursors

DNA transposon-based vectors have emerged as gene vehicles with a wide biomedical and therapeutic potential. So far, genomic insertion of such vectors has relied on the co-delivery of genetic material encoding the gene-inserting transposase protein, raising concerns related to persistent expression, insertional mutagenesis and cytotoxicity. This report describes potent DNA transposition achieved by direct delivery of transposase protein. By adapting integrase-deficient lentiviral particles (LPs) as carriers of the hyperactive piggyBac transposase protein (hyPBase), we demonstrate rates of DNA transposition that are comparable with the efficiency of a conventional plasmid-based strategy. Embedded in the Gag polypeptide, hyPBase is robustly incorporated into LPs and liberated from the viral proteins by the viral protease during particle maturation. We demonstrate lentiviral co-delivery of the transposase protein and vector RNA carrying the transposon sequence, allowing robust DNA transposition in a variety of cell types. Importantly, this novel delivery method facilitates a balanced cellular uptake of hyPBase, as shown by confocal microscopy, and allows high-efficiency production of clones harboring a single transposon insertion. Our findings establish engineered LPs as a new tool for transposase delivery. We believe that protein transduction methods will increase applicability and safety of DNA transposon-based vector technologies.
The Effects of a Visual Perception Training Program on Reading Achievement.

This investigation attempted to determine the effects of visual perception training on beginning first grade reading achievement with children diagnosed as being deficient in visual perceptual skills and potential future reading problems. Further, the study sought to determine if such training would have a greater effect on the reading achievement of females than males, as well as of children at several levels of measured intelligence. Three groups were selected for the study. The experimental group received visual perception training while the control groups received traditional first grade instruction. The groups were compared through analysis of covariance on the Metropolitan Achievement Tests. The results showed no significant differences and suggest that visual perception training for all children must be seriously questioned.
On Pattern Ramsey Numbers of Graphs

A color pattern is a graph whose edges are partitioned into color classes. A family F of color patterns is a Ramsey family if there is some integer N such that every edge-coloring of KN has a copy of some pattern in F. The smallest such N is the (pattern) Ramsey number R(F) of F. The classical Canonical Ramsey Theorem of Erdos and Rado [4] yields an easy characterization of the Ramsey families of color patterns. In this paper we determine R(F) for all families consisting of equipartitioned stars, and we prove that ** when F consists of a monochromatic star of size s and a polychromatic triangle.
Organometallic compounds as single-source precursors to nanocomposite materials

Molecularly doped silica xerogels are prepared via sol-gel procedures by the addition of either main-group or transition metal organometallic compounds containing bifunctional ligands to conventional sol-gel recipes. These bifunctional ligands contain distal alkoxysilyl groups, so that the dopant molecules become covalently incorporated into the silica xerogel matrix as it is being formed. Subsequent thermal treatment under reducing or oxidizing-then-reducing conditions leads to the decomposition of molecular precursor and formation of a nanoparticulate material highly dispersed throughout the xerogel matrix. The formation of nanocomposites containing nanoclusters of metals, semiconductors, or binary alloys will be presented along with characterization data. Factors permitting the formation of nanoparticulates with stoichiometric precision will be discussed within this {open_quotes}molecules to nanocomposite{close_quotes} synthetic strategy.
The Wiener-Lévy Theorem and Some of Its Converses

Let G and Γ denote locally compact abelian groups, each the dual of the other. Let U ⊆ ℂ and let F be a complex-valued function defined on U. Suppose that \(\hat{\mu}\) is a Fourier-Stieltjes transform on Γ with \(\hat{\mu }\)(Γ) ⊆ U. If F ∘ \(\hat{\mu }\) is also a Fourier-Stieltjes transform, we say F operates on μ, and we let F o μ denote the measure whose transform is F ∘ \(\hat{\mu }\). This chapter discusses necessary and sufficient conditions under which F operates on all μ that belong to varying classes of measures. These results have their origin in the theorem of Wiener and Levy.
Piezooptical response associated with the interconduction band transitions in the noble metals

Abstract Expressions are obtained for the components of the piezo-optical response tensor corresponding to transitions between the conduction bands around the point L in the Brillouin zone of the noble metals. The results accurately reproduce the experimentally determined trigonal response, W 44 ( ω ), for Cu, Ag and Au and provide accurate determinations of the threshold and L u 1 − L ′ 2 gap energies and information about deformation potentials. This work resolves controversies about these energy gaps in Ag and Au.
Analyzing Large Scale Real-World Wireless Multihop Network

We present the results of analysis of Berlin's free multihop wireless network and provide topological, link reliability and traffic statistics we have captured from it. The network is relatively large compared with known wireless multihop networks and testbeds, and it had 316 participating nodes on the average. The observed properties are different from frequently used models: the network is connected but with low average node density, it has large number of bridges (some of them with very low quality of links) and the traffic distribution is highly asymmetrical.
Biliary peritonitis complicating percutaneous nephrolithomy requiring laparoscopic cholecystectomy

A 46-year-old female with a history of right nephrolithiasis was lost to followup after placement of a right ureteral stent. The patient had a history of extensive renal instrumentation, including right open pyelolithotomy, 3 right PNLs and approximately 5 right extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsies. She presented with flank discomfort and gross hematuria. Abdominal computerized tomography (CT) reveale da4c mbranched staghorn renal calculus involving the lower pole collecting system of the right kidney as well as the proximal portion of the ureteral stent. Right PNL was elected. During placement of the initial nephrostomy access intraoperative fluoroscopy demonstrated placement of the 4Fr catheter introducer into the fundus of the gallbladder. The 4Fr transitional introducer was pulled back, urine was obtained and contrast material showed a lower calix entry site (fig. 1). A guidewire was successfully navigated into the renal pelvis and down the right ureter. The nephrostomy tract was then dilated and uneventful PNL with removal of the stent was performed. A Double-J stent (Medical Engineering Corp., New York, New York) and 12Fr nephrostomy catheter were placed after the procedure. On-table nephrostogram revealed patency of the collecting system with flow into the bladder. Broad-spectrum antibiotics were initiated.
AnyInformationHiding: a stable design pattern

The AnyInformationHiding design pattern models the concept of information hiding and the interactions between parties associated with it in any application. Information hiding is used in different domains for reasons specific to each domain. This pattern makes it easy to model information hiding in any application in a generic way by capturing the core knowledge of information hiding. It uses the software stability model to develop a generic model that can be extended for different application scenarios. This reduces the repetition of modeling information hiding in each domain separately.
Readership competition and the ‘monopoly’ press

Most American newspapers are published in cities in which no other daily newspaper is published. While these newspapers are considered city monopolists, this study examines the effect of readership competition across cities. By using a sample of 386 newspaper firms that publish in cities in which no other daily newspaper is published, this paper demonstrates that these ‘monopoly’ newspapers face significant readership competition from newspapers published in other cities.
Antifolate-induced misincorporation of deoxyuridine monophosphate into DNA: inhibition of high molecular weight DNA synthesis in human lymphoblastoid cells

In vitro exposure of a human lymphoblastoid cell line (WIL-2) to the antifolate metoprine (DDMP), when followed by the addition of exogenous deoxyuridine, led to intracellular accumulation of deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) and incorporation of deoxyuridine monophosphate (dUMP) into DNA. When newly synthesized DNA was extracted from DDMP-treated cells that had been labeled with deoxyuridine for up to 3 min, most of the DNA synthesized was no larger than 4 S on alkaline sucrose gradients. In contrast, the predominant form of newly synthesized alkali-stable DNA in cells not treated with drug was larger than 4 S. Abnormal progression of DNA synthesis, degradation of newly synthesized DNA, or both occurred as a delayed consequence of DDMP treatment in the absence of exogenous deoxyuridine when thymidine was used to label DNA of DDMP-treated stability of antifolate-induced misincorporation of dUMP into DNA was not elucidated, it was clear that antifolates can directly perturb the quality as well as the quantity of DNA synthesized by drug-treated cells.
The EPICS based virtual accelerator-concept and implementation

A virtual accelerator (VA) concept and an implementation founded on TRACE3D and PARMILA codes are presented. This virtual accelerator is suitable for accelerators with a control system based on EPICS and consists of the EPICS portable channel access server (PCAS), the EPICS client providing communication between a simulation model and PCAS, and the simulation model itself. The virtual accelerators for the SNS linac and experience in using these VAs are discussed.
Sonography in Benign and Malignant Renal Masses

Ultrasonography and CT have allowed improved detection of renal mass lesions. Though ultrasonography is less sensitive in the characterization of the renal mass lesions, it is often the first imaging modality for evacuation of the kidneys. This article gives an overview of the benign and malignant renal mass lesions and the role of ultrasonography in their characterization.
Esophagectomy Timing After Neoadjuvant Therapy for Distal Esophageal Adenocarcinoma.

Background The time elapsed between completion of neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy may influence response rate and possibly allow for avoidance of surgical intervention in selected cases ("wait and see" approach). However, a very long postradiation interval has been associated with worsened surgical outcomes in esophageal carcinoma. Therefore we analyzed outcomes of patients with invasive distal esophageal adenocarcinoma treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation and esophagectomy based on the time elapsed between completion of neoadjuvant chemoradiation and resection. Methods Patients with invasive distal esophageal carcinoma diagnosed between 2003 and 2011 and treated by neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by esophagectomy within 26 weeks were identified in the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB). Primary outcome measures were 30- and 90-day postsurgical mortality and overall survival. Results In all, 4,284 patients aged 60.3 ± 9.4 years were analyzed (mean ± standard deviation). The interval after radiation therapy until esophagectomy was 7.8 ± 3.4 weeks (median, 7.1 weeks). The postradiation interval was 8 weeks or more in 35% of patients. Thirty-day mortality was 2.9% (n = 127), and 90-day mortality was 7.8% (n = 336). A postradiation interval of 9 weeks or more was associated with increased perioperative mortality odds both at the 30-day (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.160; 95% confidence interval, 1.099–4.242; p = 0.025) and 90-day follow-up (adjusted OR, 1.912; 95% confidence interval, 1.290–2.835; p p = 0.017). Conclusions Perioperative mortality and overall survival are significantly associated with the time interval between neoadjuvant chemoradiation and esophagectomy. A "wait and see" approach after neoadjuvant therapy for esophageal adenocarcinoma may not be safe. Further studies based on more detailed data are needed.
Using Data to Inform Institutional Decision Making at Tufts University

Higher education institutions employ a variety of techniques in order to obtain information to facilitate data-driven decision making. This chapter will describe a variety of activities utilized by members of Tufts University to inform their decision making processes.
Sampling frequency, response times and embedded signal filtration in fast, high efficiency liquid chromatography: A tutorial

With increasingly efficient columns, eluite peaks are increasingly narrower. To take full advantage of this, choice of the detector response time and the data acquisition rate a.k.a. detector sampling frequency, have become increasingly important. In this work, we revisit the concept of data sampling from the theorem variously attributed to Whittaker, Nyquist, Kotelnikov, and Shannon. Focusing on time scales relevant to the current practice of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and optical absorbance detection (the most commonly used method), even for very narrow simulated peaks Fourier transformation shows that theoretical minimum sampling frequency is still relatively low (<10 Hz). However, this consideration alone may not be adequate for real chromatograms when an appreciable amount of noise is present. Further, depending on the instrument, the manufacturer's choice of a particular data bunching/integration/response time condition may be integrally coupled to the sampling frequency. In any case, the exact nature of signal filtration often occurs in a manner neither transparent to nor controllable by the user. Using fast chromatography on a state-of-the-art column (38,000 plates), we evaluate the responses produced by different present generation instruments, each with their unique black box digital filters. We show that the common wisdom of sampling 20 points per peak can be inadequate for high efficiency columns and that the sampling frequency and response choices do affect the peak shape. If the sampling frequency is too low or response time is too large, the observed peak shapes will not remain as narrow as they really are - this is especially true for high efficiency and high speed separations. It is shown that both sampling frequency and digital filtering affect the retention time, noise amplitude, peak shape and width in a complex fashion. We show how a square-wave driven light emitting diode source can reveal the nature of the embedded filter. We discuss time uncertainties related to the choice of sampling frequency. Finally, we suggest steps to obtain optimum results from a given system.
Exploring/contesting expertise: communication, context and connection(s) in Latvian–Canadian criminal justice reform

AbstractWhile international legal technical assistance has emerged since the 1990s as a means to assist developing and transition countries reform governance structures, debate exists about its value, role and delivery. This article explores the views of 27 Latvian and Canadian participants involved in a Latvian justice reform project between 2002 and 2004. While existing literature is often skeptical about the role of Western reform models, this project was successful in helping establish the State Probation Service (SPS). Beyond numeric outcomes of project efficacy, of specific interest are the ways participants presented and problematised the provision of expertise. The findings reported in this article suggest that sustainable knowledge transfer can be understood through efforts to democratise the provision of training and justice education.
Underidentification and undertreatment issues.

Summary Despite the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) guidelines and strong evidence that reduction of blood cholesterol levels favorably decreases the morbidity and mortality associated with coronary heart disease (CHD), a significant number of patients remain undiagnosed and untreated. With the aggressive detection and evaluation methods ATP III advocates, more than 65 million Americans are now eligible for lipid modification through lifestyle changes and/or drug therapy. Recent data suggest, however, that as many as 50% of all patients do not have their cholesterol assessed and less than 45% receive lipid-modifying therapy. Additionally, more than 75% of patients who receive therapy fail to achieve their National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goal. Persistence with therapy is another challenge, as less than 30% of patients continue with therapy beyond one year. If a realistic attempt is to be made to reduce the CHD risk among Americans, diagnosis of dyslipidemia and treatment to therapeutic targets must be improved.
INVESTIGATION OF THE ROLE OF SULFHYDRYL GROUPS IN BACTERIA IN RELATION TO THE GRAM STAIN

Fischer and Larose (1952a, b) proposed a chemical explanation of the gram positive and gram negative states. Essentially their concept is that the reduction of disulfide (S-) linkages to sulfhydryl (-SH) groups in intact wool and gram negative bacteria will convert these to a gram positive state. Reformation of disulfide linkages or other stable groups (such as CS-C) will restore these same materials to their original gram negative state. Alkalis or reducing agents would convert intact wool and all gram negative bacteria to a gram positive state, whereas acids and oxidizing agents would convert these materials to a gram negative state. Although Fischer and Larose state that the explanation of the chemistry of the gram reaction is probably not as simple as that given above, they strongly implied that these reactions are the essence of gram conversions. If this concept were correct then gram positive bacteria should have a higher sulfhydryl content than gram negative bacteria. This paper reports the results of quantitative sulfhydryl measurements made on gram positive and gram negative bacteria.
Depression Screening in Chronic Disease Management: A Worksite Health Promotion Initiative

This pilot project aimed to improve depression symptoms and quality-of-life measures for individuals in a worksite disease management program. Two hundred forty-three individuals were invited to participate, out of which 69 enrolled. The participants had a history of diabetes, hypertension, or hyperlipidemia, and demonstrated depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The project consisted of counseling sessions provided every 2 to 4 weeks by a family nurse practitioner. PHQ-9 scores and those of an instrument that measures quality of life, the Veteran's Rand-12 (VR-12), were compared pre-intervention and post-intervention to evaluate the effectiveness of the project. PHQ-9 and VR-12 Mental Health Component (MHC) scores improved significantly after 3 months of nurse practitioner-led individual counseling sessions. This project demonstrated that depression screening and therapeutic management, facilitated by a nurse practitioner, can improve depression and perceived quality of life in individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or type 2 diabetes.
Note: Simple and portable setup for loading high purity liquids in diamond anvil cell

Here we explain a simple and inexpensive procedure to preserve the original purity of the liquid samples during the loading process in a diamond anvil cell. The idea is to keep the sample in frozen form during the loading process while preventing the condensation of the water or other introduction of contaminants. The system can be quickly and easily assembled in a basic laboratory setup. This process can be used for loading some of the common pressure media in a diamond anvil cell.
What Does It Take for a Roving Bandit to Settle Down? Theory and an Illustrative History of the Visigoths

A roving bandit provides exclusive (rivalrous) collective goods to members of its in- group. A stationary bandit further provides inclusive (nonrivalrous; public) collective goods to the out-group. The inclusive goods are an input to the production of the exclusive goods enjoyed by the in-group. As such, the transition from roving to stationary bandit is likely to involve the redefinition of the in-group, its collective interest, and the type of goods that it provides. To illustrate these points, I employ a case study of the roving Visigothic confederacy as it evolved during the fourth and fifth centuries towards the stationary Visigothic Kingdom. The illustration provides insights into why competition amongst roving bandits does not always (or often) lead to the emergence of a non-predatory state.
Nutritional circulation in the heart. IV. Effect of calcium chloride and potassium chloride on myocardial hemodynamics and clearance of 86 rubidium.

The effect of a constant intracoronary infusion of potassium chloride and calcium chloride upon myocardial hemodynamics and clearance of 86Rubidium in the heart was studied in the isolated supported dog heart preparation (ISHP). In the ISHP with a constant coronary blood flow, potassium chloride in doses up to 4mg/min had no significant effect upon either the myocardial hemodynamics (MH), clearance of 86Rubidium (C86Rb) or the capillary transport coefficient, PS. Calcium chloride in small doses had no effect upon the MH, C86Rb or PS. A higher dose of calcium chloride (4mg/min) produced an increase in myocardial contractile force, left ventricular peak systolic pressure, myocardial oxygen consumption and a decrease in C86Rb and PS. Pretreatment of the ISHP with practolol (0.25mg/Kg), an agent which blocks adrenergic β-receptors, did not modify the effects of calcium chloride upon the MH, C86Rb or PS. It is concluded that the effects of calcium chloride are exerted directly, independent of a β-receptor mediation.
AB0389 Cognitive symptoms and health realted quality of life in pss: psychometric properties of the brief cognitive symptoms index

Background Severe central nervous system disorders are rare in patients with Sjogren’s syndrome, whereas cognitive symptoms are reported by as many as 30-40% of pSS patients 1 The Cognitive Symptoms Inventory(CSI) has been validated in patients with SLE 2 . The Brief Cognitive Symptoms Index(BCSI) consists of 6 items selected from the 21-item CSI 3 . The BCSI provides a state measure of cognitive symptoms insofar as it indicates present levels of functioning and is limited to the four-week interval preceding its administration. Objectives To measure mood, sleep quality, cognitive symptoms and health-related quality of life in patients with pSS and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the BCSI in the SS population. Methods 68 pSS patients at two university centers completed a health survey which included the SF-12, FSS, HADs, PSQI, SIQR and BCSI. Internal consistency of the BCSI was evaluated with Chronbach’s alpha. The pattern of interrelationship between items comprising the BCSI was assessed with principal components analysis. Pearson Correlation coefficients were calculated to assess relationships between cognitive scores and other clinical variables. Results Missing response rate was 0.5.) Internal consistency reliability was high (Chronbach’s alpha = .907) and item-to-total correlations for the individual test questions ranged from .61 to .85, indicating that all items measured the same construct. Principal Factor Analysis revealed only one underlying factor, indicating a single domain structure of the BCSI. The BCSI correlated with anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue and with the SF-12 emotional and physical domain scores (all r’s - .40-.70, all p’s ≤.0001). Image/graph Conclusions Cognitive function as measured by the BCSI is correlated with mood, fatigue, pain, sleep quality and overall health related quality of life in patients with PSS. The BCSI is a simple, easily administered measure of cognitive symptoms which is suitable for assessment of patients in clinical research and practice settings. References Segal BM et al. Involvement of Nervous system pathways in primary Sjogren’s syndrome. Rheumatic Disease Clinics of North America Vol 34, number 4; 2008, editor Carsons SE. WB Saunders Co. Philadelphia. Alarcon GS et al. Systemic lupus Erythematosus in Three Ethnic Groups. X. Measuring Cognitive Impairment with the Cognitive Symptoms Inventory. ArthRheum 2002;47, 310-319. Yu EB, et al Validation of LUP-QOL: a lupus-specific measure of health-related quality of life. AnnRheumDis 2006;65 Supple II: 601. Disclosure of Interest None Declared
Subacute Demyelinating Polyneuropathy

The electroclinical characteristics of 5 children (ages 4-13 years) with subacute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (SIDP) are reported from the Royal Children’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
Ultrasonographic diagnosis of branchial cleft anomalies in children

Objective To discuss the diagnostic value of branchial cleft anomalies with ultrasonography. Methods Ultrasonographic features of 15 cases of branchial cleft anomalies were analyzed and compared with surgical-pathology retrospectively. Results Branchial cleft cysts were found as cystic masses with echoes inside in 6 cases,as branchial cleft cyst with fistula communicating skin or pharynx in other 6 cases,whereas sinuses were detected in the rest 3 cases. Thirteen of 15 branchial cleft anomalies were at the front of the neck,one was at the cheek blow the clavicle,the rest one was beyond the ear. The consistant rate of the ultrasonic diagnosis with surgical-pathology was 86.70%. Conclusion Ultrasonic diagnosis of branchial cleft anomalies is accurate and reliable,which is valuable for surgical operation.
Exploiting Spatial and Temporal Flexibility for Exploiting Spatial and Temporal Flexibility for Plan Execution of Hybrid, Under-actuated Systems

Robotic devices, such as rovers and autonomous spacecraft, have been successfully controlled by plan execution systems that use plans with temporal flexibility to dynamically adapt to temporal disturbances. To date these execution systems apply to discrete systems that abstract away the detailed dynamic constraints of the controlled device. To control dynamic, under-actuated devices, such as agile bipedal walking machines, we extend this execution paradigm to incorporate detailed dynamic constraints. Building upon prior work on dispatchable plan execution, we introduce a novel approach to flexible plan execution of hybrid under-actuated systems that achieves robustness by exploiting spatial as well as temporal plan flexibility. To accomplish this, we first transform the high-dimensional system into a set of low dimensional, weakly coupled systems. Second, to coordinate these systems such that they achieve the plan in real-time, we compile a plan into a concurrent timed flow tube description. This description represents all feasible control trajectories and their temporal coordination constraints, such that each trajectory satisfies all plan and dynamic constraints. Finally, the problem of runtime plan dispatching is reduced to maintaining state trajectories in their associated flow tubes, while satisfying the coordination constraints. This is accomplished through an efficient local search algorithm that adjusts a small number of control parameters in real-time. The first step has been published previously; this paper focuses on the last two steps. The approach is validated on the execution of a set of bipedal walking plans, using a high fidelity simulation of a biped.
Biology of large bowel cancer

Cancer of the large bowel offers a unique opportunity to understand the events in carcinogenesis and tumor progression because the biologist has ready access to tissues at key stages of cancer progression. This review considers what is known regarding the development and progression of large bowel cancer and describes model systems which are being utilized to further our understanding of the mechanisms involved in this disease process.
Emergency total proctocolectomy in an uninsured patient with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Syndrome and acute lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage in a community hospital: A case report.

Introduction Rectal bleeding is the most common symptom of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). This case investigates the efficacy of emergency surgery for FAP with total proctocolectomy end ileostomy for recurrent lower gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage in an uninsured patient in a 266-bed community hospital. The optimal treatment for FAP with acute lower GI hemorrhage and hemodynamic compromise unresponsive to conservative management is unclear.
Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Oncology Nurses Report Attitudes and Barriers to Discussing Fertility Preservation

Background Fertility issues have been found to be an important topic for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. Medical technology has made fertility preservation (FP) increasingly effective for postpubertal patients whose treatment course may inhibit their future ability to achieve biologic parenthood. Oncology providers' recommendations have been shown to vary, potentially affecting patients' decision-making processes regarding FP. Objectives This study was designed to assess oncology nurses' recommendations for patients to consider FP options and to explore what patient-related factors may influence discussion of FP with AYAs with cancer. Methods 116 oncology nurses participated in this study and were randomized to read one of four vignettes about a patient whose proposed treatment course could affect his or her fertility. Participants' recommendations to partake in FP were analyzed to test for differences by patient age and gender. Open-ended responses to questions about their experiences as oncology nurses were analyzed descriptively. Findings Nurses strongly recommended that all patients explore FP options before the start of treatment. Oncology nurses endorsed stronger opinions that young adult female patients should be given independent decision-making power to delay treatment for FP, compared to male and female adolescent patients and young adult male patients. Participants mentioned barriers to discussions that included concerns about exacerbating negative emotions and the decision-making capacity of young patients.
Book Review of Eric Posner, the Twilight of Human Rights Law

This review maintains that the Posner misunderstands several basic principles of international human rights law and rejects his argument that human rights law is no longer relevant.
Structure and Mobility of the Automobile Industry, 1960–94

The importance of the automobile industry in the world’s economy would be hard to overestimate. By any measure, the top auto manufacturers are among the world’s largest firms. There are 4 million workers directly producing automobiles, with another 16 million involved in component production, sales or service (Dicken, 1992, p. 268).
Economic Prospects of Primary Products

Economists have long been at odds with one another on what the future holds for primary products. Disagreements run deep and the stakes are important as may be seen from the recommendations for economic development. One school of thought is firmly of the belief that the prospects for primary products are bleak and that the production of these products is likely to be poor business. This group sees the market ahead as unfavourable not only because the prices of these products usually fluctuate widely but also because, in their view, the demand for these products is of slow and uneven growth and their supply prices tend to fall relative to the prices of intermediate and finished goods. Moreover, the expansion of production of primary products is not conducive to economic development. It is, therefore, deemed to be unwise for a country to stake its economic future on this class of products. There are other economists, one can hardly call them a school, who believe that primary products are in a strong and strategic position because of widespread industrialization and because of the upsurge in population growth now under way. Industrialization requires vast additional quantities of raw materials and much more food is needed to feed the growing population and to provide improved diets as incomes rise.
Aspartame-Induced Headache

A double-blind crossover study in 32 subjects with self-identified aspartame-induced headache is reported from the University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA.
Operative Autonomy among Senior Surgical Trainees during Infrainguinal Bypass Operations Is Not Associated with Worse Long-term Patient Outcomes.

Background In an era of rapidly evolving surgical training, intraoperative teaching remains paramount to the education of surgical trainees. The impact of surgical trainees' level of expertise on outcomes after infrainguinal bypass surgery, a technically demanding operation, remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of surgical residents' experience on outcomes after infrainguinal bypass surgery. Methods Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we identified patients who underwent infrainguinal bypass from 2005 to 2012. Patients were stratified according to the training level of the most senior operating trainee. Univariate and multivariate analyses, as well as propensity score matched analysis, were performed to compare patient cohorts on operative time, length of hospital stay (LOS), bleeding, early graft failure, unplanned readmission, and 30-day mortality. Results A total of 19,579 patients were identified, of which 35.6% were female and 64.4% were male; mean age was 67.6 years. A PGY1 (postgraduate year) was the highest level trainee operating on 2.5%, a PGY2–4 for 26.2%, and a PGY5+ (postgraduate year 5 or greater) for 37.1%. Attending surgeons operated without trainees on 34.2%. PGY5+s were more likely to operate on patients who were younger, non-White, male, and on dialysis. In multivariable analysis, involvement of any surgical trainee was associated with procedures that took a greater length of time, had a greater odds of blood transfusion, and necessitated a longer hospital LOS relative to procedures performed by an attending surgeon alone. Only bypasses wherein PGY5+s were involved were associated with greater odds of early graft failure, unplanned readmission, and 30-day mortality when compared with procedures done without trainee involvement. After excluding lower extremity bypasses in which an attending surgeon operated without a trainee, propensity score matching analysis showed that patients operated on by PGY5+s had longer operative time (4.11 vs. 3.96 hr, P < 0.0001) and greater rates of postoperative bleeding (9.77% vs. 8.15%, P = 0.004) relative to patients operated on by attendings assisted by PGY1–4s, but no statistically significant difference in LOS, early graft failure, unplanned readmission, and perioperative mortality. Conclusions Operative involvement of senior trainees was associated with worse outcomes during infrainguinal bypass, potentially reflecting a lesser extent of attending surgeon involvement, but no difference in patient outcomes after bypass procedure.
The Effect of Diode Laser on Planktonic Enterococcus faecalis in Infected Root Canals in an Ex Vivo Model.

Abstract Objective: This study examined the bactericidal effect of diode laser irradiation against intracanal Enterococcus faecalis. Methods and materials: m total of 128 extracted single-rooted an...
Set-Theoretic Comparative Study

The set-theoretic compatibility measures are the predominant ones found in the historical survey of compatibility measure in Chapter 3 and continue to provide the foundation for similarity assessment in the majority of approximate reasoning applications. Table 12.1 gives the compatibility measure and its subclass for measures considered in this set of experiments. For each subclass, at least two compatibility measures with different scalar evaluators are examined. The Description column provides a common name for the compatibility measure and/or a reference to what purpose it has been used.
Elevated seasonal temperatures eliminate thermal barriers of reproduction of a dominant invasive species: A community state change for northern communities?

Aim Couple field and modelling studies to evaluate the effects of rising water temperature on reproduction of a dominant marine species and how temperature induced changes in a species' phenology may affect fouling communities that occur along a temperature gradient. Location North western Atlantic. Methods We examined the interaction between maximum and seasonal elevations in seawater temperature and reproductive phenology of a global invader to forecast the effect of climate warming on traits associated with the spread and establishment (i.e., growth and reproduction) of an invasive species. We then coupled these data with a study of early succession along a temperature gradient to forecast invasion success in species assemblages across a range of latitudes. Results Elevated seasonal temperature will lead to greater asexual reproduction and to multi-annual sexual reproduction in areas that currently have bi-annual or annual reproduction. The output from our model combined with our field studies of early succession in communities suggest that in colder environments, communities may be more affected by climate-induced shifts in reproductive phenology as they have more free space at the beginning of the growing season and fewer competitively superior species. Main conclusions Predicted elevated water temperature will eliminate the thermal barriers that limit reproductive success of a cosmopolitan invasive species. Increased reproduction combined with limited biological resistance in regions with cooler water temperatures may lead to a community state change.
PP-45 Gentamicin exposure in neonates according to swiss neo-natal intensive care dosing regi-mens and international guidelines

Background To assess the achievement of adequate gentamicin exposure for dosing regimens used across Swiss neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and interna-tional guidelines. Methods Gentamicin dosing regimens were collected from 7 Swiss level III NICUs and 8 international guidelines (Frank Shann`s, BNF for children, Nelson Textbook of Pedi-atrics, Neonatal Formulary 7th edition, The Blue Book, Lex-icomp Paediatric and Neonatal Dosage Handbook, The Red Book and Neofax). Variables used for selection of individ-ualized dosing regimen (single dose, dosing interval, total daily dose and demographic characteristics) from each guideline were assessed. Model-based simulations were performed to compare the various dosing regimens with respect to their ability to achieve effective peak drug con-centrations according to predefined minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), peak concentrations (Cmax/MIC >10) and safe trough concentration (Cmin Results Gentamicin dosing regimens based on Swiss NICUs and international guidelines showed consider-able variability with respect to dose, dosing interval and demographic variables (weight, gestational age, post-menstrual age and postnatal age) to determine a priori individual dosing regimens. Doss and dosing intervals ranged from 4 mg/kg to 6 mg/kg and from 24 hours to 48 hours, respectively. Overall, this resulted in seven possible dosing regimens for gentamicin in neonates, which can vary between neonatal subgroups when neonates were categorised based on demographic variables. Based on demographic variables, six different alternatives could be distinguished for the determination of individualised dos-ing regimens of gentamicin; either based on one patient characteristic (GA: n=1; PNA: n=1), a combination of characteristics (WT and PNA: n=3; GA and PNA: n=5; PMA and PNA: n=2) or no characteristics at all (n=2). Model-based simulations suggested that for a MIC breakpoint of 0.5 mg/L (i.e. target Cmax >5 mg/L), a high proportion of neonates [range: 26%–36%] did not reach the target af-ter the first dose according to current dosing approaches. Assuming a target MIC breakpoint of 2 mg/L, an effective. Cmax is not achieved with any evaluated dosing recom-mendation. On the safety side, potential toxic trough con-centrations (≥2 mg/L) were observed in less than 5% of neonates. Conclusion Current neonatal dosing approaches for gentamicin are associated with subtherapeutic drug ex-posures in a considerable portion of neonates. These sub-therapeutic exposures are associated with increasing MIC breakpoint. Therefore, there is a clear need for harmoniza-tion and simplification of dosing regimen for gentamicin in the neonatal patient population, based on quantitative rationale to achieve the effective and safe exposure.
The architecture of clinical research (From the "Biostatistics and Epidemiology Lecture Series, Part 1").

I am flattered to present the inaugural talk in the biostatistics and clinical research design series on the architecture of clinical research. This content is based on the teachings of my mentor, Dr. Alvan Feinstein, who together with Dr. David Sackett, is credited with pioneering clinical
Vedroprevir in the management of hepatitis C virus infection

Introduction: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a chronic infection of the liver and the leading cause of liver failure and liver transplantation worldwide. While prior HCV therapies were prolonged and ha...