cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deadline scheduling for large scale charging of electric vehicles with renewable energy

The problem of scheduling for the large scale charging of electric vehicles with renewable sources is considered. A new online charging algorithm referred to as Threshold Admission with Greedy Scheduling (TAGS) is proposed by formulating the charging problem as one of deadline scheduling with admission control and variable charging capacities. TAGS has low computation cost and requires no prior knowledge on the distributions of arrival traffic, battery charging (service) time, and available energy from renewable sources. It has a reserve dispatch algorithm designed to compensate the intermittency of renewable sources. Performance of TAGS is compared with benchmark scheduling algorithms such as the Earliest Deadline First (EDF) and the First Come First Serve (FCFS) with aggressive and conservative reserve dispatch algorithms.
SU-FF-T-324: On the Assay of Brachytherapy Sources

Purpose: In many of brachytherapy procedures, a large amount of radioactive sources are used to deliver desired doses to target volume. Source strength assay is usually performed to independently verify the sources' strength. Though the reports of AAPM Task Group 40 and 56 have made specific recommendations on the assay of brachytherapy sources, the relevant statistical significance of the recommendations remain unanswered. This study was conducted to use statistical theories to quantify the assay process. Method and Materials: Based on statistical theories, Student T Distribution was used to analyze the statistical distribution of a pool of sources used for a brachytherapy procedure. The analysis was based on the assayed source strength and the assayed strength distribution. The probability distribution was determined for the percent difference between the expected and the assayed source mean strength, so were the confidence intervals for this percent difference. The statistical analysis was also conducted for the confidence intervals of using manufacturer's provided source strength. Results: It was found, as expected, that the 95% confidence interval increased with number of assayed sources, and decreased with strength deviation. Therefore the quality of an assay process was really dependent on the combination of the number and strength distribution of assayed sources. Tables and Figures of this combination were generated for reference use to meet various recommended criteria. It was found that without careful consideration the use of manufacturer's provided strength instead of assayed strength may potentially lead to larger statistical deviation. Conclusions: The assay process can be determined by the obtained assay information, instead of a preset percentage of total sources. It was further found that the use of manufacturer's stated strength value may possibly lead to bigger uncertainty in source strength accuracy, unless the manufacturer's stated strength is the measured mean value of all the ordered sources.
A comparison of lipase-catalyzed ester hydrolysis in reverse micelles, organic solvents, and biphasic systems

The performance of lipases from Candida rugosa and wheat germ have been investigated in three reaction media using three acetate hydrolyses as model reactions (ethyl acetate, allyl acetate, and prenyl acetate). The effect of substrate properties and water content were studied for each system (organic solvent, biphasic system, and reverse micelles). Not unexpectedly, the effect of water content is distinct for each system, and the optimal water content for enzyme activity is not always the same as that for productivity. A theoretical model has been used to simulate and predict enzyme performance in reverse micelles, and a proposed partitioning model for biphasic systems agrees well with experimental results. While the highest activities observed were in the micellar system, productivity in microemulsions is limited by low enzyme concentrations. Biphasic systems, however, support relatively good activity and productivity. The addition of water to dry organic solvents, combined with the dispersion of lyophilized enzyme powders in the solvent, resulted in significant enzyme aggregation, which not surprisingly limits the applicability of the "anhydrous" enzyme suspension approach. (c) 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The role of multiple opioid receptors in the maintenance of stimulation-induced feeding

Abstract Feeding induced by lateral hypothalamic electrical stimulation is sensitive to opioid antagonism and has previously been blocked by naloxone and antibodies to dynorphin A fragments. In the present study, high affinity receptor-selective antagonists were used to determine the particular opioid receptor type(s) that mediates stimulation-induced feeding (SIF). Separate groups of rats were used to conduct i.c.v. dose-response studies with TCTAP (μ), naltrindole (δ) and norbinaltorphimine (κ). TCTAP, at the highest dose tested (i.e. 5.0 nmol) and norbinaltrophimine, at doses of 10.0 and 50.0 nmol, increased the brain stimulation frequency threshold for eliciting SIF. Naltrindole, at doses up to 50.0 nmol, had no effect. Results of another study, recently conducted in this laboratory, indicate that the present doses of TCTAP and norbinaltrophimine have no efefct on thresholds for lateral hypothalamic self-stimulation. This suggests that μ and κ opioid activity are associated with feeding, rather than the SIF test, where 5 determinations of threshold are obtained in serial order, naloxone characteristically increases thresholds toward the end of a test while conventional appetite suppressants increase thresholds uniformly throughout a test. TCTAP and norbinaltorphimine produce a ‘naloxone-like’ pattern of threshold elevation, suggesting that μ and κ receptors are involved in the process whereby endogenous opioid activity sustains feeding once initiated.
Autoimmune pancreatitis-related cholecystitis: a morphologically and immunologically distinctive form of lymphoplasmacytic sclerosing cholecystitis.

Aims: Gallbladder involvement in autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is reported to be histologically similar to that seen in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and biliary obstruction secondary to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The aim was to identify unique morphological and immunological features that could help distinguish gallbladders of AIP from those associated with PSC and PDACs. Methods and results: Archival gallbladders from well-characterized individuals with AIP (n = 22), PSC (n = 13) and PDAC (n = 23) were examined. Quantitative immunohistochemical analysis for IgG and IgG4 plasma cells was performed and an IgG4/IgG ratio was derived. Dense extramural infiltrates were almost exclusively seen in AIP cases (41%), but seen in only 4% of PDAC-associated cases and 0% of PSC cases (P = 0.001). Phlebitis was more frequently noted in AIP cases (41%) (P = 0.03). Inflammatory nodules were almost exclusively seen in AIP (27%) (P = 0.04). AIP gallbladders showed higher IgG4/IgG ratios (P = 0.0001) than PDAC-associated and PSC gallbladders. Conclusions: The findings support our hypothesis that gallbladder involvement in AIP is a primary manifestation of this disease and not a secondary phenomenon related to biliary obstruction. In conjunction with imaging and serology, examination of the gallbladder could provide collaborative evidence of AIP. Evaluation of the gallbladder could also distinguish PSC from AIP-related cholangitis.
Eight base pairs encompassing the transcriptional start point are the major determinant for baculovirus polyhedrin gene expression

The effects of mutations within the 92-bp region immediately upstream from the translational initiation ATG of the polyhedrin gene of the baculovirus Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus (AcMNPV) were determined by plasmid transient expression assays in the presence of wild-type (wt) AcMNPV DNA. Clustered point mutations were generated by substitution of 10-bp stretches of the polyhedrin promoter/leader region with a 10-bp HindIII linker. Three of these linker scan (LS) mutations in the region from nucleotides (nt) -62 to -84 (relative to the original polyhedrin ATG at +1, +2, +3) had no effect or a mild stimulatory effect on reporter gene expression. One mutation immediately upstream (nt -52 to -60) from the transcription start point (at nt -50) reduced expression four-fold. Three overlapping mutations affecting 8 bp from nt -44 to -51 (encompassing the transcriptional start point) reduced expression by 1000-fold. A 1000-fold reduction was also observed for a total deletion of nt -1 and -92. Five LS mutations between nt -1 and -43 each reduced expression two- to five-fold, whereas combining an LS mutation and a 9-bp deletion mutation in the leader reduced expression approx. nine-fold. Reversing the orientation of the reporter gene along with the wt 92-bp upstream polyhedrin promoter/leader sequences resulted in slightly higher expression levels than those observed for the normal orientation indicating that all the essential cis-acting promoter elements, with the possible exception of long-range enhancer sequences, are located downstream from nt -92. Sequences of the AcMNPVhr5 enhancer (homologous region No. 5 of AcMNPV) had only a minor effect on expression from the polyhedrin promoter in transient assays. The results show that 8 bp encompassing the transcriptional start point, a sequence which is conserved in all late AcMNPV promoters, is essential for polyhedrin gene expression. Additional nucleotides within the leader region are necessary for optimal expression.
Single-Atom Spin-Flip Spectroscopy

We demonstrate the ability to measure the energy required to flip the spin of single adsorbed atoms. A low-temperature, high-magnetic field scanning tunneling microscope was used to measure the spin excitation spectra of individual manganese atoms adsorbed on Al2O3 islands on a NiAl surface. We find pronounced variations of the spin-flip spectra for manganese atoms in different local environments.
Dimensionality reduction for trajectory learning from demonstration

Programming by demonstration is an attractive model for allowing both experts and non-experts to command robots' actions. In this work, we contribute an approach for learning precise reaching trajectories for robotic manipulators. We use dimensionality reduction to smooth the example trajectories and transform their representation to a space more amenable to planning. Key to this approach is the careful selection of neighboring points within and between trajectories. This algorithm is capable of creating efficient, collision-free plans even under typical real-world training conditions such as incomplete sensor coverage and lack of an environment model, without imposing additional requirements upon the user such as constraining the types of example trajectories provided. Experimental results are presented to validate this approach.
Development of high-temperature UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy for the measurement of free energies of complexation at elevated temperatures

We have developed instrumentation capable of measuring optical absorption spectra over a wavelength range of 200--1200 nm and a temperature range of 20--100{degree}C. This fiber-optic based spectrometer generates data which allow the computation of metal-ligand equilibrium constants. Studies at five temperatures have been completed using praseodymium-diglycolate as a model system. Fundamental thermodynamic values (free energies, enthalpies, entropies) were obtained from the experimentally-determined stability constants. Thermodynamic data pertinent to the interactions of actinides and long-lived fission products with groundwater, waste package components, and geologic media are critical input to modeling programs. 9 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.
Chandra Spectra of the Prototype Dwarf Nova U Geminorum at Quiescence

We have observed the prototypical dwarf nova U Gem at quiescence with the Chandra medium- and high-resolution gratings to accomplish the first study of resolved X-ray emission lines in a disk-accreting cataclysmic variable. Doppler tomograms constructed from optical spectra obtained close in time to the X-ray observation show a typical quiescent disk structure with an irradiated secondary but no prominent disk hot spot. The unprecedented spectral resolution of Chandra over past X-ray telescopes reveals prominent narrow emission lines of O, Ne, Mg, Si, S, and Fe. The line fluxes, ratios, and widths indicate that X-ray emission arises from a range of temperatures in a high-density (greater than 1014 cm-3) gas, moving at low (less than 300 km s-1) velocity, with a small (less than 107 cm) scale height compared to the white dwarf radius. Simple models with cooling flows, cooling flows plus isothermal zones, and thermal conduction give reasonable agreement with the low-temperature emission lines, but a good fit to the entire range of lines will require a better understanding of all the parameters that affect the boundary layer.
CORD-A WDM optical network: design and experiment of fast data synchronization by pilot-tone transport

CORD is a 2.5-Gb/s//spl lambda/ wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) packet switched network experiment. We have experimentally demonstrated a pilot-tone transport for the high-speed data synchronization in CORD. The optical power penalty is minimized to about 1 dB by equalizing the frequency response of the payload data channel and optimizing the pilot-tone modulation depth. The main advantages of the pilot-tone transport are: 1) a simple transceiver structure; and 2) a fast clock recovery time (within 40 b, 16 ns).
Review and preview of wideband radar polarimetry conferences, workshops, and symposia

A succint overview of basic events in the development of polarimetry--low frequency to optical regions--is followed by a succinct summary of the basic underlying principles of 'Direct and Inverse Methods in Polarimetry', including some pertinent examples. A critical assessment of solved and unresolved problems is followed with a listing of recent workshops, providing the incentives for planning and executing a series of coordinated international meetings such as the SPIE, Radar Polarimetry Conference, San Diego, CA, 1992 July 23-24 the Second Polarimetric Radar Workshop, JIPR-2, Nantes, France, 1992 Sept 7-10, and the 'Wideband Imaging and Sensing Polarimetry: WISP', Adelaide, South Australia, 1992 August 14.
Geomorphic analysis of Hohokam settlement patterns on alluvial fans along the western Flank of the Tortolita Mountains, Arizona

Geoarchaeological investigations of the alluvial piedmont or bajada emanating from the Tortolita Mountains, Arizona, show that the distribution of Hohokam sites apparent from the surface is complete and undisturbed by geological processes. Late Holocene geomorphic processes and their resultant deposits on the bajada affected the location of prehistoric Hohokam agricultural settlements. Hohokam settlements were commonly situated on small alluvial fans dominated by sheetwash processes and deposition of fine-grained alluvium, where floodwater farming could be easily pursued with little modification of the natural surface. Large alluvial fans, dominated by channel processes and coarse-grained alluvium were avoided by the Hohokam farmer because these areas were less suitable for floodwater farming.
The role of thoracoscopy in the AIDS/immunocompromised patient

Abstract A review of the thoracic complications associated with the immunosuppression seen in the setting of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), transplantation, and cancer chemotherapy was undertaken to define the role of thoracoscopy and video-assisted thoracic surgery in this context. Pulmonary parenchymal disease, pleural effusions, pneumothorax, and pericardial effusions are the primary conditions in which thoracoscopy can be helpful. Thoracoscopic wedge biopsy can be used in patients with parenchymal disease when bronchoalveolar lavage, transbronchial biopsy, or an empiric trial of antibiotics fail to yield a diagnosis. If pleural effusions are loculated and highly fibrinous, effective drainage can be achieved thoracoscopically. Early bleb stapling and apical pleurectomy are often necessary in the management of AIDS-related pneumothorax and can be readily done using video-assisted thoracic surgical techniques. Successful thoracoscopy in the immunocompromised patient requites the ability to tolerate one-lung anesthesia, a manageable lung parenchyma, and a satisfactory coagulation profile.
The design of APL

This paper discusses the development of APL, emphasizing and illustrating the principles underlying its design. The principle of simplicity appears most strongly in the minimization of rules governing the behavior of APL objects, while the principle of practicality is served by the design process itself, which relies heavily on experimentation. The paper gives the rationale for many specific design choices, including the necessary adjuncts for system management.
The pediatrician's role in child abuse interviewing

The history of sexual abuse that a child gives to the pediatrician may be the single most important factor in determining if a child has been abused. Most children have completely normal anogenital examinations; very rarely is definitive forensic evidence obtained or a sexually transmitted disease discovered. Physicians, in general, are given unique authority and privilege in reporting such hearsay evidence. The pediatrician often is the first professional with whom a child has contact when an allegation of abuse is made. Child protective issues then become paramount. It is important, therefore, for the physician to have the basic skills and knowledge of the developmentally appropriate approach to interviewing a child. How that interview is preserved and documented is also critically important and will be scrutinized in any legal proceedings. The physician's interview should not replace a skilled forensic interview but be considered a supplement, whose purpose is foremost the health, well-being, and protection of the child. Language: en
Ontological framework for a free-form query based grid search engine

If the model of free-form queries, which has proved successful for HTML based search on the Web, is made available for Grid services, it will serve as a powerful tool for scientists to retrieve information on resources, monitoring, replica location sets, and meta-data on scientific data sets, etc., in a seamless manner. To enable this vision, there is a critical need to design and develop tools that abstract away the fundamental complexity of XML based Grid specifications and toolkits, and provide an elegant, intuitive, simple, and powerful free-form query based invocation system to end users. Current implementations of XML-based Grid service descriptions require end users to have intimate knowledge of service descriptions, related toolkits, and query languages. We present our research project and initial results that employ self-learning mechanisms, matching algorithms and optimizations to match free-form user queries with corresponding operations in Grid services, and present the results to the end user. Our system uses Semantic Web concepts and Ontologies to automate discovery and matchmaking of Grid services. The research focus of this project is on the development of novel algorithms for matching user queries with correct operation names and quantifying the exact gains in accuracy due to knowledge acquisition.
Localized Requirements for windbeutel and pipe Reveal a Dorsoventral Prepattern within the Follicular Epithelium of the Drosophila Ovary

Establishment of dorsoventral polarity within the Drosophila embryo requires extraembryonic positional information generated during oogenesis. The genes windbeutel, pipe, and nudel are required within the somatic follicle cells of the ovary for production of this spatial cue. Using a novel follicle cell marker system, we have directly evaluated the effect of mutant follicle cell clones on the embryonic dorsoventral pattern. We find no spatially localized requirement for nudel activity. In contrast, windbeutel and pipe are required only within a restricted ventral region of the follicular epithelium. This ventral region can determine lateral embryonic cell fates nonautonomously, indicating that spatial information originating ventrally is subsequently refined, perhaps via diffusion, to yield the gradient of positional information that determines the embryonic dorsoventral pattern.
Restoration of the periovulatory follicle-stimulating hormone surges in sera by luteinizing hormone releasing hormone in phenobarbital-blocked rats

Abstract The periovulatory increases of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in rat sera can be divided into two phases. The first phase consists of a rise and fall during proestrus and the second phase consists of a rise and fall during estrus. The second phase was not blocked by phenobarbital (100 mg/kg BW) injected i.p. between the first and second phases. In contrast, phenobarbital administered prior to the onset of the first phase blocked both phases of increased serum FSH. In phenobarbital-blocked rats, administration of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) during proestrus, either by s.c. injection (10 μg) or by a 3 hr constant-rate i.v. infusion (50 ng/hr), simulated both the proestrous and estrous phases of increased serum FSH. These results indicate that 1) the second phase of the serum FSH rise is itself not susceptible to phenobarbital blockade, 2) a proestrous mechanism susceptible to phenobarbital alteration is necessary for both phases of increased serum FSH to occur, and 3) administration of LHRH to phenobarbital-blocked rats during proestrus restores both phases of FSH release.
Solid-phase synthesis of bis-heterocyclic compounds from resin-bound orthogonally protected lysine.

An efficient method for the solid-phase synthesis of bis-heterocyclic compounds from resin-bound orthogonally protected lysine is presented. The initial reaction step involves the exhaustive reduction of resin-bound tetra-amides using borane-THF, followed by cyclization of the resulting tetra-amine with either carbonyldiimidazole, thiocarbonyldiimidaziole, or oxalyldiimidazole to generate resin-bound bis-cyclic ureas, bis-cyclic thioureas, and bis-cyclic diketopiperazines, respectively. Cleavage from the solid support using hydrogen fluoride, followed by extraction and lyophilization, yields the desired bis-heterocyclic compounds in excellent yield and high purity.
Growth of homoepitaxial Ge(001)2×1 by ultrahigh vacuum ion beam sputter deposition

Abstract High quality epitaxial Ge (001)2 × 1 films have been grown on Ge(001) substrates by ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) ion beam sputter deposition. The load-locked multichamber growth system is equipped with in situ reflection high-energy electron diffraction. Sputter deposition was carried out using a 1 keV Kr + ion beam generated by a modified UHV Kaufman-type ion source with post-extraction electrostatic ion optics. All films were 1 microm thick and deposited at a rate of 0.5 microm h −1 . Results of plan-view, cross-sectional, and convergent-beam transmission electron microscopy analyses showed that films deposited at temperatures T s between 300 and 650°C had a high degree of perfection with no observable defects. Temperature-dependent carrier mobilities were found to be equal to or to exceed the best reported values for bulk Ge. A1-doped p-type films grown at T s = 400–600° C exhibited 77 K hole mobilities ranging from 3890 to 1200 cm 2 V −1 s −1 for corresponding hole concentrations between 2.8 × 10 16 and 1.5 × 10 17 cm −3 .
Modeling the influence of morphology on the movement ecology of groups of infant rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Body morphology appears to strongly determine the behavior of infant rats in an arena (May et al., 2006). In this article, we systematically examined the influence of body-flexibility on the group behavior of infant rats (Rattus norvegicus) by comparing one-, two-, and three-segmented simulated rats with 7- and 10-day-old rats in an arena. Simulated rats provided very different fits to 7-day-old rat pups compared with 10-day-old pups. With respect to 7-day-old pups, three-segmented rats were similar on 83% of our metrics, two-segmented rats were similar on 33% of our metrics, and one-segmented rats were similar on 66% of our metrics. Both one- and three-segmented simulated agents matched 7-day-old rats better than two-segment agents, but it is still premature to conclude which of the three simulated agents best matched the 7-day-old rats. However, no group of simulated rats was similar to 10-day-old pups on any metric. Our results suggest that morphology strongly determines behavior in groups of 7-day-old rats, but that other mechanisms, from more active intersegment control to more influential top-down control, are required to explain the group behavior of 10-day-old rats.
Modeling the effects of UV variability and the QBO on the troposphere-stratosphere system. Part I: The middle atmosphere

Abstract Results of experiments with a GCM involving changes in UV input (±25%, ±10%, ±5% at wavelengths below 0.3 µm) and simulated equatorial QBO are presented, with emphasis on the middle atmosphere response. The UV forcing employed is larger than observed during the last solar cycle and does not vary with wavelength, hence the relationship of these results to those from actual solar UV forcing should be treated with caution. The QBO alters the location of the zero wind line and the horizontal shear of the zonal wind in the low to middle stratosphere, while the UV change alters the magnitude of the polar jet and the vertical shear of the zonal wind. Both mechanisms thus affect planetary wave propagation. The east phase of the QBO leads to tropical cooling and high-latitude warming in the lower stratosphere, with opposite effects in the upper stratosphere. This quadrupole pattern is also wen in the observations. The high-latitude responses are due to altered planetary wave effect, while the model's trop...
Language and Communication Technology: Introduction to the Special Issue

This article contextualizes the special issue of the journal by discussing the importance of language variables in the study of communication technology. It asserts three reasons to study technolog...
Characterizing Mother’s Dating After Divorce

Mothers dating after divorce is a dynamic process, where not all mothers date the same way after divorce. However, few studies have examined the different ways that mothers date after divorce, which should influence maternal well-being, risk behaviors, and the quality of their relationships. This study characterizes four different approaches to mothers’ repartnering (referred to as repartnering histories): no dating, dating one partner monogamously, dating multiple partners serially, and dating multiple partners simultaneously. Each repartnering history is characterized by demographic variables, relationship quality, and maternal well-being. Implications of the study are discussed.
Sherrington was right about the Trapezius muscle innervation

Beim Eichhornchen,Saimiri sciureus wurde elektromyographisch gezeigt, dass die Nerven in der Region der Nackenwirbelsaule den Trapeziusmuskel mit innervieren. Der obere Anteil dieser uber den Trapezius verteilten Bewegungsinnervationen enthalt starkere Beteiligung durch die Nackenbewegungsinnervation.
Accessibility of the subliminal mind: Transcendence vs. immanence

It has long been taken for granted in modern psychology that access to the unconscious is indirectly gained through the interpretation of a trained psychoanalyst, evident in theories of Freud, Jung and others. However, my essay problematizes this very indirectness of access by bringing in a Yogācāra Buddhist formulation of the subliminal mind that offers a direct access. By probing into the philosophical significance of the subliminal mind along the bias of its access, I will argue that the different views of the subliminal consciousness correspond to different models of “transcendence” and “immanence.” We will see that the involvement of the transcendence principle in Freud’s and Jung’s conceptualizations of the unconscious results in the denial of direct access to the unconscious; only the Buddhist immanence-based formulation provides direct access. This East-West comparative approach is an attempt to examine how different models of reasoning, vis-a-vis transcendence and immanence, can lead to drastically different theories as well as the practices they instruct.
Quantitative MRI of the brain in children with sickle cell disease reveals abnormalities unseen by conventional MRI.

Conventional MRI (cMRI) has shown that brain abnormalities without clinical stroke can manifest in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). We used quantitative MRI (qMRI) and psychometric testing to determine whether brain abnormalities can also be present in patients with SCD who appear normal on cMRI. Patients 4 years of age and older with no clinical evidence of stroke were stratified by cMRI as normal (n = 17) or abnormal (n = 13). Spin-lattice relaxation time (T1) of gray and white matter structures was measured by the precise and accurate inversion recovery (PAIR) qMRI method. Patient cognitive ability was assessed with a standard psychometric instrument (WISC-III or WISC-R). In all 30 patients with SCD, qMRI T1 was lower than in 24 age- and race-matched controls, in cortical gray matter (P < .0006) and caudate (P < .0009), as well as in the ratio of gray-to-white matter T1 (P < .008). In the 17 patients who were shown to be normal by cMRI, qMRI T1 was still lower than in controls, in both cortical gray matter (P < .02) and caudate (P < .004). Histograms of voxel T1 show that the proportion of voxels with T1 values intermediate between gray and white matter (ie, consistent with encephalomalacia) was 9% higher than controls in patients shown to be normal by cMRI (P < .05) and 15% higher than controls in patients shown to be abnormal by cMRI (P < .0005). The full scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) of all patients with SCD was 75, compared to the FSIQ of 88 in a historical control group of patient siblings (P < .001). The FSIQ of patients shown to be normal by cMRI was 79, significantly lower than the FSIQ of patient siblings (P < .04). The FSIQ of 71 in patients shown to be abnormal by cMRI was significantly lower than both the patient siblings (P < .005) and the patients shown to be normal by cMRI (P < .04). Patients shown to be abnormal by cMRI scored lower than patients shown to be normal by cMRI, specifically on the subtests of vocabulary (P = .003) and information (P = .03). Cognitive impairment is thus significant, even in patients with SCD who were shown to be normal by cMRI, suggesting that cMRI may be insensitive to subtle neurologic damage that can be detected by qMRI. Because cognitive impairment can occur in children normal by cMRI, our findings imply that prophylactic therapy may be needed earlier in the course of SCD to mitigate neurologic damage.
Use of an Intra-oral Model to Evaluate 0.05% Sodium Fluoride Mouthrinse in Radiation-induced Hyposalivation

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of a twice-daily topical application of a 0.05% NaF mouthrinse on de- and remineralization in the oral cavities of subjects suffering from radiation-induced hyposalivation. Six subjects each wore a bonded intra-oral appliance containing a sound and a demineralized human enamel slab for four weeks. During that period, the subjects used 0.05% NaF rinses, twice daily, instead of the 1.1% NaF gel that had previously been a part of their preventive regimen. Salivary flow rates, plaque pH profiles following a 10% sucrose rinse, S. mutans and lactobacillus counts, fluoride clearance, and enamel microhardness were determined during the study. Sound enamel samples displayed no evidence of demineralization, and the previously demineralized enamel showed remineralization in the outer 50 μm in three of the six subjects. The results suggest that a twice-daily oral rinse with 0.05% NaF can prevent demineralization and enhance remineralization in subjects with radi...
Serum copper levels in lymphoma and leukemia. Special reference to Hodgkin's disease

This pilot study comprises observations of serum copper changes in 70 patients with lymphoma and leukemia. The largest groups consisted of 28 patients with Hodgkin's disease and 23 patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia. The results obtained support the following tentative conclusions: (1) The general activity of Hodgkin's disease is reflected in serum copper levels—if rising, increasing activity of the disease; if declining, decreasing activity. (2) Serum copper determinations have a role in the differentiation of active and inactive status in patients with Hodgkin's disease. (3) Serum copper levels may anticipate clinical response to treatment in Hodgkin's disease. (4) Serum copper levels are helpful in determining disease activity and response to therapy in other lymphomas but are of doubtful value in patients with reticulum cell sarcoma. (5) Serum copper levels reflect bone marrow activity and response to treatment in previously untreated acute leukemic individuals. Each of these interpretations must be verified by further clinical studies.
Psychosocial treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults: Current evidence and future directions.

Summary and Limitations of Psychosocial TreatmentStudies To date, the aforementioned researchers have laid an initialempirical foundation for the benefit of psychosocial treatments foradult ADHD. Most of these studies made an effort to stabilizemedication treatment before introducing therapy to assess thedistinct contribution of psychosocial interventions (apart frommedication effects) to clinical and functional improvements. Therewere no significant differences between the few treatment partic-ipants who were not taking medications for ADHD and those whowere, either before or after treatment.Comparisons across the different studies must be made cau-tiously as there was great variability in the manner in whichADHD was diagnosed, the focus of change in the treatments, andhow therapeutic change was measured. A common outcome vari-able in all studies was a measure of overall ADHD symptoms.When collapsed across the studies reporting posttreatment ratingsof overall ADHD symptom severity, the mean effect size ( d) forADHD symptom improvement was 1.59, which is considered alarge effect size (i.e., d .80; Cohen, 1992).
Radiation induced molecular modulations in human breast adenocarcinoma cells after single (10Gy) and fractionated (2Gy x 5) dose irradiation.

CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2008 Abstracts Abstract #5133 Background : Radiotherapy a recognized treatment modality for breast cancer patients is now considered mandatory for most patients undergoing conservative surgery and is considered appropriate for women at high risk of recurrence after mastectomy. However, relapse due to radio-resistance of cancer cells significantly affects the success of radiotherapy and cancer patient survival. Ascertaining the fractionated irradiation (FIR) modulated molecular targets is important to make tumors more susceptible to molecular targeted therapy. Accordingly, we investigated the (i) expression of 84 genes representing 6 functional pathways including Cell cycle and DNA damage repair, Apoptosis and cell senescence, Signal transduction and transcription, Adhesion, Invasion and metastasis and Angiogenesis; (ii) nuclear translocation and DNA-binding activity of NFκB and; (iii) expression of radio-responsive TNFα, IL-1α, pAKT, cIAP1, cIAP2 and survivin molecules after single dose (SDR) radiation and FIR protocols in human breast adenocarcinoma cells. Methods : MCF-7 cells exposed to either SDR (10Gy) or FIR (2Gy x 5 days) and harvested after 24h were analyzed for alterations in gene expression using real-time Q-PCR-profiling. NFκB-DNA binding activity was analyzed using electrophoretic mobility shift assay and pIκB levels was measured using immunoblotting. Relative changes in the expression patterns of TNFα, IL-1α, pAKT, cIAP1, cIAP2 and survivin were determined using Q-PCR analysis and immunoblotting. Results : Compared to the SDR, FIR treated cells showed an induced expression 61 (Cell cycle & DNA damage repair - 12, Apoptosis & cell senescence - 10, Signal transduction & transcription - 7, Adhesion - 8, Invasion & metastasis – 11 and Angiogenesis – 13) genes. Furthermore, we observed a relatively induced DNA binding activity of NFκB and phosphorylation of IκBα after FIR. Like-wise, we observed an induced expression of TNF α , IL-1 α , pAKT, cIAP1, cIAP2 and survivin mRNA in cells exposed to FIR . The changes in these genes were confirmed at the protein level. Discussion : These results along with the differential gene expression pattern support our hypothesis that FIR can induce molecular targets. In this initial analysis, NFκB and known NFκB regulated radio-responsive genes were found to be modulated. Currently, we are in the process of identifying similar FIR-induced targets and evaluate their potential for selective drug-targeted manipulation. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 5133.
The Responses of White‐crowned Sparrows to Songs of Different Dialects and Subspecies

The responsiveness of breeding pairs of White-crowned Sparrows to songs of a different subspecies and to those of three different dialects was investigated. The Nuttall dialects used were the local San Francisco dialect, the adjoining Presidio dialect, and the distant Sunset Beach dialect. There was hardly any response to the alien pugetensis subspecies song, and little response to the distant dialect. The females responded more strongly to the adjacent dialect than to the local one. The males sang more to the local dialect but trilled and fluttered most often to the adjacent dialect. Problems with the use of playback experiments to draw conclusions regarding the functional significance of dialects are discussed. Zusammenfassung An Brutpaaren des nicht wandernden Weiskopf-Ammerfinken (Zonotrichia leucophrys nuttalli) wurden die Reaktionen auf vorgespielte Gesange verschiedener Dialektgruppen untersucht. Alle Paare stammten aus der San-Francisco-Dialekt-Zone. Sie reagierten kaum auf den Gesang der Unterart pugetensis, mehr auf den weiter entfernten nuttalli-Dialekt von Sunset Beach. Die Weibchen reagierten starker auf den benachbarten Presidio-Dialekt als auf ihren eigenen, aber sehr schwach auf den Gesang vom weit entfernten Sunset Beach. Die Mannchen sangen eifriger als Antwort auf den eigenen Dialekt; Triller und Flattern zeigten sie eher beim Nachbardialekt. Bisherige Vorspielversuche mit verschiedenen Dialekten sind wahrschein-lich nicht sauber, da der geographische Abstand und die Ahnlichkeit nicht getrennt wurden. Das mus man aber tun, ehe man Schlusse aus Vorspielversuchen auf die biologische Funktion von Gesangsdialekten zieht.
Midas: fabricating custom capacitive touch sensors to prototype interactive objects

An increasing number of consumer products include user interfaces that rely on touch input. While digital fabrication techniques such as 3D printing make it easier to prototype the shape of custom devices, adding interactivity to such prototypes remains a challenge for many designers. We introduce Midas, a software and hardware toolkit to support the design, fabrication, and programming of flexible capacitive touch sensors for interactive objects. With Midas, designers first define the desired shape, layout, and type of touch sensitive areas, as well as routing obstacles, in a sensor editor. From this high-level specification, Midas automatically generates layout files with appropriate sensor pads and routed connections. These files are then used to fabricate sensors using digital fabrication processes, e.g., vinyl cutters and conductive ink printers. Using step-by-step assembly instructions generated by Midas, designers connect these sensors to the Midas microcontroller, which detects touch events. Once the prototype is assembled, designers can define interactivity for their sensors: Midas supports both record-and-replay actions for controlling existing local applications and WebSocket-based event output for controlling novel or remote applications. In a first-use study with three participants, users successfully prototyped media players. We also demonstrate how Midas can be used to create a number of touch-sensitive interfaces.
Morphological Features of the Ovaries During Oogenesis of the Oriental Fruit Fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, in Relation to the Physiological State

Determination of physiological state in insects is useful in furthering the understanding of how insect behavior changes with age. Central to this determination is the identification of characters that allow assessment of physiological age. While non-destructive measures produce the most desired outcomes, internal markers may be more diagnostic and reliable. In this study, key morphological characters during previtellogenesis through vitellogenesis and ovulation were assessed as markers to determine physiological states of the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae). Ovary length and width, ovarian index (length × width), and egg load of laboratory-reared B. dorsalis females recorded daily from eclosion up to 80 days old suggested significant differences in the ovarian index and egg load between females from each oogenesis stage. Parity status determined by the presence of follicular relics was found to provide high-accuracy classifications for B. dorsalis females. The presence of follicular relics with distinct morphological features provides a reliable identification tool to determine the physiological state of wild female oriental fruit fly. The potential applications of this technique to identify the physiological age of female fruit flies to study behavioral attributes in their natural habitat, and also the potential applications in relation to field control, are discussed.
Social Media and Community Engagement in Trials Using Exception From Informed Consent

The field of emergency research has come a long way. Once stymied by the difficulties in obtaining informed consent from patients with catastrophic injury or illness, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services published regulations 21 CFR 50.24 in 1996 to guide the ethical and legal conduct of emergency research using exception from informed consent.1 For studies to qualify, subjects must have a life-threatening condition, available treatments are unproven or unsatisfactory, valid scientific evidence is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of the intervention, and obtaining informed consent is not feasible.2 Because these critically ill patients are quintessentially vulnerable subjects, 21 CFR 50.24 incurred extra responsibilities for parties involved in such research including consultation with communities from which subjects would be drawn and public disclosure of information before study commencement and after study completion (Table).1 These guidelines are used in studies evaluating FDA-approved therapies and devices and other interventions not under the direct purview of FDA, as well. Local institutional review boards (IRBs) have the responsibility to review a study’s plans for community consultation and public disclosure (CC/PD) and to ensure their adequacy. The FDA recommends that IRB members attend community consultation activities to hear community views and inform their decision as to a study’s disposition.2 View this table: Table. Key Elements of the Community Consultation and Public Disclosure Process Article see p 267 Traditional approaches to CC/PD have not been particularly successful in eliciting community attitudes toward research or informing communities of planned research. Commonly used methods include community meetings (town halls), random-digit telephone dialing, traditional media (print, television, radio), and Web sites. Among emergency department patients, awareness of an ongoing study involving the exception from informed consent that had used 5 community meetings, local newspaper, television, and radio spots, …
Hospital and emergency department crowding in the United States

Every emergency physician in the United States and, for that matter, in many countries around the world recognizes that the demand for timely access to quality emergency care is one that patients highly value. Unfortunately, hospitals in the USA have become stretched beyond capacity, resulting in overloaded emergency departments, diverted ambulances, and greater risks for patients and providers. Some of the causes and consequences of emergency department crowding are unique to the USA health care system, while others are common to countries throughout the world. The goals for this paper are to provide a brief overview of hospital and emergency department crowding in the USA, to identify commonly cited causes of the problem, and to outline future directions in the search for solutions. A large number of hospitals, inpatient beds, and emergency departments have closed during the past 10 years in the USA. In 1992 there were around 6000 hospitals with emergency departments and there are now less than 4000. While hospitals scrambled to decrease an excess supply of inpatient beds, the demand for emergency department care steadily rose. Between 1992 and 2000, the annual number of emergency department visits in the USA increased from 89.8 to 108 million. While some areas of the USA have been affected more seriously than others (particularly the coasts), almost every state has reported problems with boarding of inpatients in the emergency department. Inpatient boarding is the most frequently cited reason for emergency department crowding within the emergency medicine community. United States hospitals are also struggling with a shortage of health care professionals, particularly registered nurses. There are several policy issues that must be addressed to alleviate hospital and emergency department crowding over the long term. We list these as 'long-term' goals simply because policy changes, in the USA, are often incremental and rarely occur quickly. In order to achieve any of these changes in policy over the long term, advocates for reform must aggressively pursue them today.
Time-varying steering control for an autonomous highway vehicle

An automated steering controller design is presented for a fundamentally new driving maneuver. The task for the controller is to steer the vehicle through a series of lane change maneuvers while travelling at a time-varying speed. A linear, time-varying steering controller is synthesized using a design procedure based on the solution of a H/sub /spl infin// optimal control problem. This controller is compared to several time-invariant steering controllers and it is shown that the time-varying controller provides performance that a time-invariant controller can not achieve.