cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automating Quality Measures for Heart Failure Using Natural Language Processing: A Descriptive Study in the Department of Veterans Affairs

Background: We developed an accurate, stakeholder-informed, automated, natural language processing (NLP) system to measure the quality of heart failure (HF) inpatient care, and explored the potential for adoption of this system within an integrated health care system. Objective: To accurately automate a United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) quality measure for inpatients with HF. Methods: We automated the HF quality measure Congestive Heart Failure Inpatient Measure 19 (CHI19) that identifies whether a given patient has left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40%, and if so, whether an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin-receptor blocker was prescribed at discharge if there were no contraindications. We used documents from 1083 unique inpatients from eight VA medical centers to develop a reference standard (RS) to train (n=314) and test (n=769) the Congestive Heart Failure Information Extraction Framework (CHIEF). We also conducted semi-structured interviews (n=15) for stakeholder feedback on implementation of the CHIEF. Results: The CHIEF classified each hospitalization in the test set with a sensitivity (SN) of 98.9% and positive predictive value of 98.7%, compared with an RS and SN of 98.5% for available External Peer Review Program assessments. Of the 1083 patients available for the NLP system, the CHIEF evaluated and classified 100% of cases. Stakeholders identified potential implementation facilitators and clinical uses of the CHIEF. Conclusions: The CHIEF provided complete data for all patients in the cohort and could potentially improve the efficiency, timeliness, and utility of HF quality measurements. [JMIR Med Inform 2018;6(1):e5]
Lightweight multi-carrier modulation for IoT

Visible light communications (VLC) based on intensity-modulation with direct-detection (IM/DD) is a promising technology to offer broadband wireless Internet access. A VLC system based on the well-known multi-carrier orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation has the potential to coexist with radio frequency (RF) technologies such as WiFi. Recently, the VLC technology is considered to enable wireless connectivity of resource limited devices, thus enabling the Internet-of-Things (IoT) vision. This paper presents a novel concept for modulating multiple light sources to realize a lightweight version of OFDM communication chain suitable for resource limited IoT devices. In such proposed system, different sinusoidal streams from an array of light sources are carrying the encoded OFDM time-domain samples, thus enabling the realization of the Fourier transformation in the optical domain. Accordingly, the fast Fourier transform (FFT) operation required for the demodulation at the receiver side is eliminated, which is crucial for resource limited IoT devices. In addition, the proposed concept, (1) offers the same spectral efficiency as the well-known asymmetrically clipped optical OFDM (ACO-OFDM), (2) reduces the bandwidth requirement from individual light sources, (3) reduces the peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) of the signal formed and transmitted over the optical channel, and (4) supports simultaneous sensing applications using the different sinusoidal streams that are acting as unique beaconing signals. The proposed concept is numerically evaluated and compared with ACO-OFDM. The obtained results reveal a clear reduction in the PAPR with ∼ 5dB at a complementary cumulative distribution function (CCDF) of 10−2 and remarkable enhancement in bit-error performance.
Making sense of low private returns in MENA: A human capital approach

Abstract Several scholars and media outlets have identified the low rate of return to education in the Arab World as a root cause of unrest and upheaval ( Fargues, 2011 ; Adams and Winthrop, 2011 ; Rhoads and Liu, 2009 ; Shafiq and Vignoles, 2015 ). Yet, a close inspection of extant literature reveals that there is a limited theoretical or practical understanding of why returns in the region are so low. This paper aims to begin filling that void by empirically examining the relationship between four salient features of Arab World political economy and returns to education. My findings are not causal, nor are they exhaustive or conclusive. Rather, they are suggestive, and hopefully intriguing. It is my hope that this analysis might serve as a roadmap to those who might drill down into an understudied regional issue with global consequences.
Regulation and Maintenance of Adaptive Immunity

Following their activation after recognizing specific antigen, naive T and B cells expand dramatically and carry out powerful effector functions to clear foreign invaders. Multiple regulatory mechanisms act to fine-tune B- and T-cell responses in order to avoid excess immunopathology and autoimmunity, but they can also blunt the ability of the immune system to fight certain threats, including cancer. Following successful responses, the immune system returns to a baseline state through a process in which most reactive lymphocytes die. Several pathways orchestrate this contraction of effector T and B cells. A few cells, however, survive the contraction phase and transition to become long-lived memory cells. Memory B cells produce protective antigen-specific antibodies that can prevent reinfection by neutralizing microbes when they again impinge on the immune system. Antibody-based protection can last a lifetime, but is not equally effective against all pathogens. Memory T cells are present at higher frequencies than naive T cells and are activated more efficiently. They mediate extremely potent effector responses and can provide strong protection upon reinfection, even in the absence of neutralizing antibody. Generating the most protective kinds of memory T cells through vaccination, in addition to antibody, could improve immunity against many prominent threats to human health.
Role of RNA metabolism in the action of auxin-herbicides

The auxin-herbicides are those herbicidal compounds which in low concentration exhibit the growth promoting properties of the native auxin, indoleacetic acid (IAA). The type compounds here are 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxy-acetic acid (MCPA). In the early 1940’s the selective herbicidal properties of these synthetic growth regulators became known. Their subsequent widespread use for the control of dicotyledonous weeds in graminaceous cereals provided the impetus for development of the herbicide industry. In addition to the several phenoxy-herbicides, substituted benzoic and pieolinic acids fall into the auxin-herbicide classification. Discussion here will largely center on 2,4-D, the best studied auxin-herbicide.
Hairy Cell Leukemia

Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a chronic lymphoid leukemia accounting for ∼2% of all lymphoid leukemias that primarily involves the blood, marrow, and spleen. Accurate diagnosis involves a multifaceted approach utilizing a combination of clinical, morphologic, and immunophenotypic data. Accurate diagnosis is critical as HCL is uniquely sensitive to therapy with purine nucleoside analogues. This article reviews the clinical and pathologic features of HCL.
Joint Value of Information and Energy Aware Sleep Scheduling in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Linear Programming Approach

We consider wireless sensor networks that nodes offload data to a central collector node (sink) via wireless communication. Sensed data are associated with a value, decaying in time. In this scenario, we address the problem of finding the path of sensed data so that the Value of Information (VoI) of the data delivered to a sink is maximized while keeping energy usage as low as possible. Sleep scheduling is a widely used technique in MAC-layer to reduce unnecessary idle energy consumption in WSN; however, when it is carried out without paying attention to network-layer routing, it may adversely affect sensed data value of information. In this paper, we employ linear programming (LP) to establish a paradigm of cross-layer formulation to capture the interplay between scheduling and routing. We propose a biobjective model of data value of information maximization and energy cost minimization in a WSN. Compared to existing work, our formulation is not only bi-objective which considers both data value of information and energy consumption jointly, but also is more realistic given that it explicitly accounts for different types of signal interference that may affect a wireless transmission.
Wasted Words? The Limitations of U.S. Strategic Communication and Public Diplomacy

For America's foes in Afghanistan and the Middle East, triumph on the battlefield is less important than winning the battle of perceptions. In response, the United States has turned to Strategic Co...
Spin torques join forces in a memory device

A combination of spin–orbit and spin-transfer torques could be used to create a versatile magnetic random access memory.
SNLOS: Non-line-of-sight Scanning through Temporal Focusing

Over the last decade, several techniques have been developed for looking around the corner by exploiting the round-trip travel time of photons. Typically, these techniques necessitate the collection of a large number of measurements with varying virtual source and virtual detector locations. This data is then processed by a reconstruction algorithm to estimate the hidden scene. As a consequence, even when the region of interest in the hidden volume is small and limited, the acquisition time needed is large as the entire dataset has to be acquired and then processed.In this paper, we present the first example of scanning based non-line-of-sight imaging technique. The key idea is that if the virtual sources (pulsed sources) on the wall are delayed using a quadratic delay profile (much like the quadratic phase of a focusing lens), then these pulses arrive at the same instant at a single point in the hidden volume – the point being scanned. On the imaging side, applying quadratic delays to the virtual detectors before integration on a single gated detector allows us to ‘focus’ and scan each point in the hidden volume. By changing the quadratic delay profiles, we can focus light at different points in the hidden volume. This provides the first example of scanning based non-line-of-sight imaging, allowing us to focus our measurements only in the region of interest. We derive the theoretical underpinnings of ‘temporal focusing’, show compelling simulations of performance analysis, build a hardware prototype system and demonstrate real results.
The Surprise Question and Self-Rated Health Are Useful Screens for Frailty and Disability in Older Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Background: Self-rated health (SRH) and the surprise question (SQ) capture perceptions of health and are independent risk factors for poor outcomes. Little is known about their association with physiologic and functional decline. Objective: Determine the association of SRH and SQ with frailty and functional status in older adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and their utility as screening tools. Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting/Subjects: Two hundred seventy-two adults, age ≥60 years, with advanced CKD seen in nephrology clinic. Measurements: Patients completed SRH and were evaluated for frailty (Fried criteria and Clinical Frailty Scale [CFS]) and functional status (Katz and Lawton indices of activities of daily living [ADLs] and instrumental ADLs [iADLs]). Providers completed the SQ. Correlations were evaluated using Spearman's rho. Results: Fifteen percent of patients were frail, 8% had ≥1 ADL deficit, and 29% had ≥1 iADL deficit. SRH and SQ were moderately correlated with frailty and iADLs. A SRH of excellent, very good, or good was predictive of nonfrail status (Fried negative predictive value [NPV]: 0.92; CFS NPV: 0.92) and preserved ADL function (NPV for ≥1 deficit: 0.96). A SQ response of 5, 4, or 3 (i.e., surprised) was predictive of nonfrail status and preserved ADL function (CFS NPV: 0.90; ADL ≥1 deficit NPV: 0.95). A SQ response of 1 or 2 had a positive predictive value of 0.64 for ≥1 iADL deficit. Conclusions: Subjective health measures may be useful screening tools for frailty and functional status.
Current practices in menstrual management in adolescents with cancer: A national survey of pediatric oncology providers.

BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adult (AYA) women with cancer are at risk of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) due to thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, and/or disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Currently, little is known about current practices to help prevent and treat HMB in AYA women with cancer. METHODS We surveyed providers from 100 pediatric oncology centers. Face and content validity were assessed prior to distribution. Descriptive statistics, Chi-squared and Fisher exact tests were used for analysis. RESULTS Ninety-four percent of respondents have recommended preventative menstrual suppression. More than half of respondents agreed that patients with the following types of cancers should receive preventative menstrual suppression: sarcomas, acute leukemias, lymphomas, and germ cell tumors. The most preferred form of menstrual suppression was GnRH agonists. Almost 95% of respondents felt that it is important to consider menstrual suppression and that a formal guideline about initiation of menstrual suppression would be helpful. Only 46% felt comfortable personally managing menstrual suppression. CONCLUSIONS The vast majority of pediatric oncologists who responded to this national survey have used preventative menstrual suppression and feel that it is important to consider in many types of AYA cancers. Although pediatric oncologists are most often managing menstrual suppression, they do not feel comfortable doing so and desire guidelines to help with management. Future studies to assess which patients require menstrual suppression and which menstrual suppression is best tolerated and efficacious is needed.
Problems with Using Odds Ratios as Effect Sizes in Binary Logistic Regression and Alternative Approaches.

The standard regression technique for modeling binary response variables in education research is logistic regression. The odds ratios from these models are used to quantify and communicate variabl...
An Edge-Intelligent, Clip-on Rogowski Current Sensor With Wide Dynamic Range

Rogowski coil current sensors are popular solutions for current sensing having several advantages over current transformers (CTs), including size, bandwidth and dynamic range. These sensors have been used by electric utilities for gaining visibility into the electric grid directly helping in grid operations. This paper presents an overview of the design principles and test results for a PCB-based Rogowski coil that can be retrofitted around any existing conductor, resulting in a sensor that can be rapidly installed in the field. Due to the absence of any magnetic components in the coil, Rogowski coils cannot saturate and thus have a very high dynamic range, only limited by the accompanying signal conditioning or data converter circuits. In order to prevent saturation of the signal conditioning stage at higher current levels, a method to auto-tune the sensor has been presented, resulting in a dynamic range that is orders of magnitude higher than state of the art. The method, called dynamic range correction (DRC), uses edge intelligence to detect fault current scenarios and adjust the analog circuit to prevent saturation or distortion, while capturing the fault current waveforms. This feature enables post-event diagnostics for electric utilities at a very low cost.
Touring in Kent: Some Observations from Records Published to Date

To date, published dramatic records from England reveal that County Kent saw more touring activity than any other English county. Some reasons for this activity include Kent’s local, pre-Reformation drama, its several towns as playing venues, and political and economic factors.
Sexually dimorphic behavioral and neural responses to a predator scent.

Abstract Male and female C57BL/6 J mice were tested on the predator odor response task, where they needed to cross through a chamber of scented bedding to reach a sucrose reward. Following the behavioral testing, mouse brains were immunohistochemically labeled for expression of the immediate early gene c-fos . In the presence of the novel odorant methyl valerate (MV), both males and females exhibited increased exploration behaviors and delayed rewards compared to control bedding. However, in the presence of the predator odor phenylethylamine (PEA), males exhibited increased exploration that strongly resembled their behavior in MV (a non-predator odor) while females behaved very similarly to the clean bedding controls, quickly traversing the chamber to achieve the reward. Expression of c-fos exhibited significant sex by odor condition interactions overall across brain regions and in the anterior piriform cortex , cingulate cortex , and dorsomedial hypothalamus specifically. In all three regions we observed the general pattern that PEA exposure evoked elevated c-fos expression in females but suppressed c-fos expression in males. Taken together these data suggest that males and females may adopt different behavioral strategies in the presence of predator threat.
Methamphetamine and Opioid Cue Database (MOCD): Development and Validation

Abstract Introduction Drug cue reactivity (DCR) is widely used in experimental settings for both assessment and intervention. There is no validated database of pictorial cues available for methamphetamine and opioids. Methods 360 images in three-groups (methamphetamine, opioid and neutral (control)) matched for their content (objects, hands, faces and actions) were selected in an initial development phase. 28 participants with a history of both methamphetamine and opioid use (37.71 ± 8.11 years old, 12 female) with over six months of abstinence were asked to rate images for craving, valence, arousal, typicality and relatedness. Results All drug images were differentiated from neutral images. Drug related images received higher arousal and lower valence ratings compared to neutral images (craving (0–100) for neutral (11.5 ± 21.9), opioid (87.7 ± 18.5) and methamphetamine (88 ± 18), arousal (1–9) for neutral (2.4 ± 1.9), opioid (4.6 ± 2.7) and methamphetamine (4.6 ± 2.6), and valence (1–9) for neutral (4.8 ± 1.3), opioid (4.4 ± 1.9) and methamphetamine (4.4 ± 1.8)). There is no difference between methamphetamine and opioid images in craving, arousal and valence. There is a significant positive relationship between the amount of time that participants spent on drug-related images and the craving they reported for the image. Every 10 points of craving were associated with an increased response time of 383 ms. Three image sets were automatically selected for equivalent fMRI tasks (methamphetamine and opioids) from the database (tasks are available at github). Conclusion The methamphetamine and opioid cue database (MOCD) provides a resource of validated images/tasks for future DCR studies. Additionally, researchers can select several sets of unique but equivalent images based-on their psychological/physical characteristics for multiple assessments/interventions.
Chapter 9 – Phylogenetic Analysis*

The chapter briefly discusses the principles of phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic tree and its various parts are explained. The steps involved in the construction of a phylogenetic tree are briefly reviewed. Some online tools are mentioned that users can employ to reconstruct the phylogenetic tree of their desired set of sequences. Different methods of phylogenetic-tree construction, such as UPGMA, neighbor joining, and maximum parsimony are illustrated. Finally, assessment of the reliability of the phylogenetic tree through bootstrapping is discussed.
A Hits-Based Model For Facility Location Decision

Abstract This paper presents a model to the facility location problem which incorporates both location characteristics and rival effects within a business cluster. Location characteristics in the model are predefined selection criteria such as rent, distance, safety and size. Rival effects represent the competition and collaboration relationship among close facility locations in the business cluster where candidate locations are located. The model presented uses data envelopment analysis (DEA) and weighted hyperlink-induced topic search (HITS) algorithm. DEA determines the efficient and inefficient locations as well as benchmarking relationship. The weighted HITS algorithm with the distance parameter considers the rival effects among locations to identify hubs and authorities. The applicability of our proposed model is demonstrated with a case study that rank apartments in the University area.
An endocannabinoid system is present in the mouse olfactory epithelium but does not modulate olfaction

Endocannabinoids modulate a diverse array of functions including progenitor cell proliferation in the central nervous system, and odorant detection and food intake in the mammalian central olfactory system and larval Xenopus laevis peripheral olfactory system. However, the presence and role of endocannabinoids in the peripheral olfactory epithelium have not been examined in mammals. We found the presence of cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor protein and mRNA in the olfactory epithelium. Using either immunohistochemistry or calcium imaging we localized CB1 receptors on neurons, glia-like sustentacular cells, microvillous cells and progenitor-like basal cells. To examine the role of endocannabinoids, CB1- and CB2- receptor-deficient (CB1(-/-)/CB2(-/-)) mice were used. The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) was present at high levels in both C57BL/6 wildtype and CB1(-/-)/CB2(-/-) mice. 2-AG synthetic and degradative enzymes are expressed in wildtype mice. A small but significant decrease in basal cell and olfactory sensory neuron numbers was observed in CB1(-/-)/CB2(-/-) mice compared to wildtype mice. The decrease in olfactory sensory neurons did not translate to impairment in olfactory-mediated behaviors assessed by the buried food test and habituation/dishabituation test. Collectively, these data indicate the presence of an endocannabinoid system in the mouse olfactory epithelium. However, unlike in tadpoles, endocannabinoids do not modulate olfaction. Further investigation on the role of endocannabinoids in progenitor cell function in the olfactory epithelium is warranted.
The economic determinants of the market reaction to proposed mandatory accounting changes in the oil and gas industry: A cross-sectional analysis

Abstract This paper examines the economic reasons for the observed negative abnormal common stock performance of firms whose reported earnings and stockholders' equity were negatively affected by the proposed elimination of full cost accounting in the oil and gas industry. Four explanations of the market effects of this mandatory accounting change are examined: (1) naive investor theory, (2) modified naive investor theory, (3) contracting cost theory, and (4) estimation risk theory. These hypotheses are developed in detail and used to generate variables for a cross-sectional model which explains observed return behavior. The effect of the accounting change on total stockholder's equity, the existence of financial contracts denominated in terms of accounting numbers and, to a lesser extent, firm size are shown to be important explanatory variables. The importance of these variables is consistent with both the contracting cost and estimation risk theories.
Differential propensity of dissection along the aorta

Aortic dissections progress, in part, by delamination of the wall. Previous experiments on cut-open segments of aorta demonstrated that fluid injected within the wall delaminates the aorta in two distinct modes: stepwise progressive tearing in the abdominal aorta and a more prevalent sudden mode of tearing in the thoracic aorta that can also manifest in other regions. A microstructural understanding that delineates these two modes of tearing has remained wanting. We implemented a phase-field finite-element model of the aortic wall, motivated in part by two-photon imaging, and found correlative relations for the maximum pressure prior to tearing as a function of local geometry and material properties. Specifically, the square of the pressure of tearing relates directly to both tissue stiffness and the critical energy of tearing and inversely to the square root of the torn area; this correlation explains the sudden mode of tearing and, with the microscopy, suggests a mechanism for progressive tearing. Microscopy also confirmed that thick interlamellar radial struts are more abundant in the abdominal region of the aorta, where progressive tearing was observed previously. The computational results suggest that structurally significant radial struts increase tearing pressure by two mechanisms: confining the fluid by acting as barriers to flow and increasing tissue stiffness by holding the adjacent lamellae together. Collectively, these two phase-field models provide new insights into the mechanical factors that can influence intramural delaminations that promote aortic dissection.
Reproduction and Maternal Characteristics of Diverse Breeds of Cattle used for Beef production

Grading up or straightbreeding to Shorthorns, Herefords and Angus was the dominant system employed in beef production from the late 1800's until the 1960's in the United States. Although most cattlemen had their favorite breed, the adage that "there is more variation within breeds than between breeds" was generally accepted as a truism among beef cattle breeders throughout this period. As, Lush1 pointed out, stockmen were misled by this attitude into believing that genetic differences between breeds were "not real after all" or at least not very important. Recognition of the importance of heterosis (difference between mean for F1 crosses and mean for parental breeds) from diallel crossing experiments conducted in the 1960's and interest in increasing output components fo beef production, stimulated interest in crossbreeding to breeds with greater genetic potential for milk production, growth rate and mature size. As a result, a large number of breeds, introduced from Europe via quarantine facilities in Canada, became available to North American beef producers. Interest in the newly introduced breeds and in other breeds previously considered only for dairying coincided with the establishment of the Roman L. Hruska U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (MARC) in the late 1960's. The Germ Plasm Evaluation (GPE) Program was initiated in 1969 at MARC to characterize a broad spectrum of breeds that differed widely in genetic potential for growth rate, milk production, carcass composition and mature size. The purpose of this paper is to review results from the GPE program concerning genetic variation among breeds relative to that within breeds for reproduction and maternal traits important to beef production.
"Dry Arthroscopy" is a Valuable Tool in the Excisional Curettage of Chondroblastoma: A Case Series.

Introduction Chondroblastomas are benign, locally aggressive bone tumors that occur in the epiphysis of young patients, requiring surgical excision. The anatomic locations of these lesions pose technical challenges to the surgeon; their proximity to the articular surface and the physis make surgical approach and visualization difficult. This case series describes the use of intramedullary arthroscopic assistance during excisional curettage of three distal femoral chondroblastomas. Case report Three patients with distal femoral chondroblastomas underwent excisional curettage with intraosseous "dry" arthroscopic assistance. We describe a two-tunnel technique, using medial and lateral windows so the arthroscope and working instruments could be within the lesion simultaneously; as well as two variations of a single-tunnel technique. Conclusion Achieving adequate ex---posure and visualization, while protecting the articular surface and physis, during excision of chondroblastomas, is essential for avoiding local recurrence and complications. "Dry" arthroscopic assistance provides the surgeon with an enhanced view of the tumor and tumor cavity, minimizes invasiveness, and has the potential to reduce complications without compromising the completeness of the excision.
The IT AGE and Future Education

Both the Educational Technologies and the Internet Technologies have evolved dramatically during the last decade. These technologies promote development of the future generation of the Ubiquitous Internet access to educational resources, omnipresent Web2-3 technologies and ultimate automated information cyberspace. The current research and development in the areas of Next Generation of Internet and Telecommunications Technologies combined with educational technologies such as CMAP Tools, WebCT, etc., promotes formation of interdisciplinary international teams of experts, scientists, researchers and engineers to create a new generation of applications and technologies that will facilitate the fully-automated educational environment and information cyberspace systems. Author will present his vision on trends in Engineering Education with FuteNet, as well as Fully-Automated-Home in tomorrow’s world. The author discusses a brief historical account, the current state of the art in the world of Engineering Education, Telecommunications and Internet Technologies, new technological trends directions in the Internet and Automation Industries, Ubiquity, Convergence, as well as the concept of the Fully-automated Home, 2006 Web Report with the Microsoft project on Easy Living, while promoting research and development in the interdisciplinary projects conducting by multinational team world-wide. Author believes that engineering educators and technology maker should work together and prepare foundation for the future level of engineering education that would reflect the FutureNet.
A multi-center prospective study of re-irradiation with bevacizumab and temozolomide in patients with bevacizumab refractory recurrent high-grade gliomas.

Survival is dismal for bevacizumab refractory high-grade glioma patients. We prospectively investigated the efficacy of re-irradiation, bevacizumab, and temozolomide in bevacizumab-naive and bevacizumab-exposed recurrent high-grade glioma, without volume limitations, in a single arm trial. Recurrent high-grade glioma patients were stratified based on WHO grade (4 vs. grade 3 lymphopenia and 2 with > grade 3 thrombocytopenia. No radiographic or clinical radiation necrosis occurred. Re-irradiation with bevacizumab and temozolomide is a safe and feasible salvage treatment for patients with large volume bevacizumab-refractory high-grade glioma. Patients further from their initial radiotherapy may derive greater benefit with this regimen.
A Framework of Controlled Robot Language for Reliable Human-Robot Collaboration.

Effective and efficient communication is critical for human-robot collaboration and human-agent teaming. This paper presents the design of a Controlled Robot Language (CRL) and its formal grammar for instruction interpretation and automated robot planning. The CRL framework defines a formal language domain that deterministically maps linguistic commands to logical semantic expressions. As compared to Controlled Natural Language, which aims for general knowledge representation, CRL expressions are particularly designed to parse human instructions in automated robot planning. The grammar of CRL is developed in accordance with the IEEE CORA ontology, which defines the majority of formal English domain, accepting large range of intuitive instructions. For sentences outside the grammar coverage, CRL checker is used to detect linguistic patterns, which can be further processed by CRL translator to recover back an equivalent expression in CRL grammar. The final output is formal semantic representation using first-order logic in large discourse. The CRL framework was evaluated on various corpora and it outperformed CRL in balancing coverage and specificity.
Analytical solutions for two hollow vortex configurations in an infinite channel

Abstract New analytical solutions for a co-travelling hollow vortex pair and a single row of hollow vortices in an infinite channel are presented. These new solutions generalise several known classical solutions for hollow vortices. The mathematical problems to be solved in each geometry are particular types of free boundary problem over a multiply connected domain. We present concise formulae for the conformal mapping determining the shape of the boundaries of the hollow vortices in both channel geometries by employing free streamline theory in combination with the function theory of the Schottky–Klein prime function. Various properties of the solutions are also presented.
Maximal Monotone Multifunctions of Brøndsted–Rockafellar Type

We consider whether the “inequality-splitting” property established in the Brondsted–Rockafellar theorem for the subdifferential of a proper convex lower semicontinuous function on a Banach space has an analog for arbitrary maximal monotone multifunctions. We introduce the maximal monotone multifunctions of type (ED), for which an “inequality-splitting” property does hold. These multifunctions form a subclass of Gossez"s maximal monotone multifunctions of type (D); however, in every case where it has been proved that a multifunction is maximal monotone of type (D) then it is also of type (ED). Specifically, the following maximal monotone multifunctions are of type (ED): • ultramaximal monotone multifunctions, which occur in the study of certain nonlinear elliptic functional equations; • single-valued linear operators that are maximal monotone of type (D); • subdifferentials of proper convex lower semicontinuous functions; • “subdifferentials” of certain saddle-functions. We discuss the negative alignment set of a maximal monotone multifunction of type (ED) with respect to a point not in its graph – a mysterious continuous curve without end-points lying in the interior of the first quadrant of the plane. We deduce new inequality-splitting properties of subdifferentials, almost giving a substantial generalization of the original Brondsted–Rockafellar theorem. We develop some mathematical infrastructure, some specific to multifunctions, some with possible applications to other areas of nonlinear analysis: • the formula for the biconjugate of the pointwise maximum of a finite set of convex functions – in a situation where the “obvious” formula for the conjugate fails; • a new topology on the bidual of a Banach space – in some respects, quite well behaved, but in other respects, quite pathological; • an existence theorem for bounded linear functionals – unusual in that it does not assume the existence of any a priori bound; • the 'big convexification" of a multifunction.
An architecture for interactive tetrahedral volume rendering

We present a new architecture for interactive unstructured volume rendering. Our system moves all the computations necessary for order-independent transparency and volume scan conversion from the CPU to the graphics hardware, and it makes a software sorting pass unnecessary. It therefore provides the same advantages for volume data that triangle-processing hardware provides for surfaces. To address a remaining bottleneck — the bandwidth between main memory and the graphics processor — we introduce two new primitives, tetrahedral strips and tetrahedral fans. These primitives allow performance improvements in rendering tetrahedral meshes similar to the improvements triangle strips and fans allow in rendering triangle meshes. We provide new techniques for generating tetrahedral strips that achieve, on the average, strip lengths of 17 on representative datasets. The combined effect of our architecture and new primitives is a 72 to 85 times increase in performance over triangle graphics hardware approaches. These improvements make it possible to use volumetric tetrahedral meshes in interactive applications.
Individual and family characteristics associated with BRCA1/2 genetic testing in high‐risk families

Background Little is known about family members' interrelated decisions to seek genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility. Methods The specific aims of this cross-sectional, descriptive, cohort study were (i) to examine whether individual and family characteristics have a direct effect on women's decisions to use genetic testing for hereditary susceptibility to breast cancer and (ii) to explore whether family characteristics moderate the relationships between individual characteristics and the decision to use genetic testing. Participants were women (>18 years old) who (i) received genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer and who agreed to invite one of their female relatives into the study and (ii) female relatives who had NOT obtained genetic testing and were identified by pedigree analysis as having >10% chances of hereditary susceptibility to breast cancer. Results The final sample consisted of 168 English-speaking, family dyads who completed self-administered, mailed surveys with validated instruments. Multivariate conditional logistic regression analyses showed that the proposed model explained 62% of the variance in genetic testing. The factors most significantly associated with genetic testing were having a personal history of cancer; perceiving genetic testing to have more benefits than barriers; having greater family hardiness; and perceiving fewer negative consequences associated with a breast cancer diagnosis. No significant interaction effects were observed. Conclusions Findings suggest that both individual and family characteristics are associated with the decision to obtain genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer; hence, there is a need for interventions that foster a supportive family environment for patients and their high-risk relatives. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping animal genomes

Publisher Summary Advances in molecular genetic technology and a worldwide assault on mapping and sequencing the human genome have made genome research highly visible to the public and one of the exciting new frontiers in the life sciences. The availability of large numbers of inbred strains and a collection of mutant stocks produced a linkage map in Mus musculus, which became the prototypic mammalian genetic map. It has subsequently been enhanced by the availability of biochemical and molecular markers and the widespread use of interspecific hybrid backcrosses. The genomic revolution is most apparent, however, in the human genome project. The agricultural sciences, long concerned with germ plasm improvement, are beginning to invest in building maps and localizing important traits to chromosomal regions. The genomic revolution has finally extended its borders to the study of animals used in agriculture and this chapter reviews the progress and problems of genome analysis in those domestic animals. The chapter describes several methods for animal genome mapping, including synteny mapping, in situ hybridization, linkage mapping, and comparative mapping.
Obstacle avoidance control for the REMUS autonomous underwater vehicle

Abstract Future Naval operations necessitate the incorporation of autonomous underwater vehicles into a collaborative network. In future complex missions, a forward look capability will also be required to map and avoid obstacles such as sunken ships. This work examines obstacle avoidance behaviors using a hypothetical forward-looking sonar for the autonomous underwater vehicle REMUS. Hydrodynamic coefficients are used to develop steering equations that model REMUS through a track of specified points similar to a real-world mission track. A two-dimensional forward-looking sonar model with a 120° horizontal scan and a 110 meter radial range is modeled for obstacle detection. Sonar mappings from geographic range-bearing coordinates are developed for implementation in MATLAB simulations. The product of bearing and range weighting functions form the gain factor for a dynamic obstacle avoidance behavior. The overall vehicle heading error incorporates this obstacle avoidance term to develop a path around detected objects. REMUS is a highly responsive vehicle in the model and is capable of avoiding multiple objects in proximity along its track path.
Application of the DSMC and NS Techniques to the Modeling of a Dense, Low Reynold’s Number MEMS Device

The modeling of micro flows through a 3D micro nozzle was investigated by means of the DSMC and NS techniques in order to verify the influence of the computational scheme parameters on the predicted flow quantities. The investigated low Reynold’s number flow has a complex structure containing subsonic and supersonic parts. Since the influence of the boundary layer on the flow characteristics is significant, a strong effort was made to predict the boundary layer structure as exactly as possible.
Structural Active Object Systems for Manufacturing Control

A structural active object system SAOS is a transition-based object-oriented system suitable for the design of various concurrent systems. A SAOS consists of a collection of interacting structural active objects SAOs whose behaviors are determined by the transition statements provided in their class definitions. We can compose SAOs structurally and hierarchically from their component SAOs. These features allow SAOs to model components in manufacturing systems more naturally than passive objects used in ordinary object-oriented programming. Because the configuration of a SAOS can be made similar to a real manufacturing system, the SAOS model can be used throughout the lifecycle of a manufacturing system, including the design, control software implementation, simulation, test, and operation stages. In fact, a composite SAO can be automatically generated from the computer-aided design data that specifies the configuration of the hardware subsystem with which the SAO is associated. Prototype simulation programs with graphical user interfaces have been developed as SAOSs for flow-line manufacturing and flexible manufacturing.
Painful Hours? The Potential Costs of Extra Work Hours and Schedule Inflexibility to Workers’ Physical Well-Being

One of the costs organizations may incur is those associated with controlling employees’ work hours and schedules. This chapter examines the empirical association between long work hours, ability to control their work timing and their self reported experience of adverse physical health. One such inflexibility is the inability of a worker to refuse extra work hours, so that it is more mandatory than strictly voluntary. The other is the inability to change starting and quitting times of work on a daily basis. In the 2002 General Social Survey Quality of Work module, a total of 28 percent of the employed face the working condition of mandatory extra work hours, about half say they are not able to set their own starting and ending time of work at least some of the time and 15 percent have both inflexible daily work schedules and mandatory overtime work. The analysis focuses on three direct indicators of physical pain and also indirect contributors, work stress and daily fatigue. Cross tabulations find that adverse effects of long and extra work hours are exacerbated when the overtime work is mandatory in nature and also if schedules are inflexible. Multinomial logistic regression analysis investigates the extent to which inflexibility is associated with more frequent back, arm and wrist or neck pain, risk of getting hurt at work, work stress or daily fatigue. It attempts to disentangle the detrimental effects of long work hours per se from the working condition that extra hours are required or schedules are flexible for employees. Extra work hours generally are associated with cumulative injury and chronic pain more than suffering an acute type of injury at work, and also with elevated work stress and daily fatigue. When overtime is perceived as mandatory it further raises the incidence of back and arm pain. In contrast, having inflexible start and end times is associated with suffering an acute injury at work. When regressions control for a wide range of demographic and job factors, including the heavy lifting and hand movements required at the job, back pain is more prevalent when overtime is mandatory than when voluntary, but arm and wrist pain is associated with long work hours per se. Back pain and arm pain are also associated with perceived safety of the workplace when overtime work is not strictly voluntary. Thus, for cumulative types of pain, the mandatory nature of overtime is often at least as important as the overtime itself. Investing in greater choice to refuse extra hours may be quite low cost and the return in terms of improved worker physical health and safety at the workplace may be high.
COATING AND MANDREL EFFECTS ON FABRICATION OF GLOW DISCHARGE POLYMER NIF SCALE INDIRECT DRIVE CAPSULES

OAK A271 COATING AND MANDREL EFFECTS ON FABRICATION OF GLOW DISCHARGE POLYMER NIF SCALE INDIRECT DRIVE CAPSULES. Targets for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) need to be about 200 {micro}m thick and 2 mm in diameter. These dimensions are well beyond those currently fabricated on a routine basis. They have investigated fabrication of near NIF scale targets using the depolymerizable mandrel technique. Poly-alpha-methylstyrene (PAMS) mandrels, about 2 mm in diameter, of varying qualities were coated with as much as 125 {micro}m of glow discharge polymer (GDP). The surface finish of the final shells was examined using a variety of techniques. A clear dependence of the modal spectrum of final GDP shell on the quality of the initial PAMS mandrels was observed. isolated features were found to be the greatest cause for a shell not meeting the NIF standard.
Feasibility of blood oxygen saturation levels using non-contact microwave measurements at 60 GHz

This paper investigates the feasibility of remotely detecting and monitoring blood oxygen saturation levels in humans. The technique relies on the detection of resonances induced by electromagnetic absorption in the presence of oxygen, which are observed at frequencies around 60 GHz (T. A. Ricard, Ph.D. Dissertation. University of South Florida, 2008). In this paper, we develop an electromagnetic model for the cutaneous blood vessels distributed just beneath the skin layer to investigate the feasibility of detecting resonant responses due to the blood oxygen levels.
Continuous elimination of oxidized nucleotides is necessary to prevent rapid onset of cellular senescence

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) appear to play a role in limiting both cellular and organismic lifespan. However, because of their pleiotropic effects, it has been difficult to ascribe a specific role to ROS in initiating the process of cellular senescence. We have studied the effects of oxidative DNA damage on cell proliferation, believing that such damage is of central importance to triggering senescence. To do so, we devised a strategy to decouple levels of 8-oxoguanine, a major oxidative DNA lesion, from ROS levels. Suppression of MTH1 expression, which hydrolyzes 8-oxo-dGTP, was accompanied by increased total cellular 8-oxoguanine levels and caused early-passage primary and telomerase-immortalized human skin fibroblasts to rapidly undergo senescence, doing so without altering cellular ROS levels. This senescent phenotype recapitulated several salient features of replicative senescence, notably the presence of senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA beta-gal) activity, apparently irreparable genomic DNA breaks, and elevation of p21Cip1, p53, and p16INK4A tumor suppressor protein levels. Culturing cells under low oxygen tension (3%) largely prevented the shMTH1-dependent senescent phenotype. These results indicate that the nucleotide pool is a critical target of intracellular ROS and that oxidized nucleotides, unless continuously eliminated, can rapidly induce cell senescence through signaling pathways very similar to those activated during replicative senescence.