cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Brittle crack propagation in silicon single crystals

Viewing the brittle‐to‐ductile transition of fracture in intrinsically brittle solids as a crack tip initiated critical event of either nucleation of dislocation loops from the crack tip or the motion away of such dislocations from the crack tip, experiments have been devised to measure the critical activation energy of such events by measuring the arrest temperature of cleavage cracks with different velocities in experiments that were conducted on large Si single crystals subjected to a steep temperature gradient. While such experiments can provide precise information that can be related directly to mechanisms of crack tip bifurcation behavior, they are hampered by nontrivial perturbations that must be controlled. Here in the first of a series of communications we discuss the nature of these perturbations in Si single crystals, cleaving either on the {111} or the {110} planes.
CHLORIDE ABSTRACTION ACTIVITY OF CE(IV) NITRATE AND ALKOXIDE COMPLEXES : FACILE FORMATION OF CECL5(THF)CECLZ(THF)5 (Z=NO3, CL)

Ce(OCMe 3 ) 2 (NO 3 ) 2 (THF) 2 and Ce(OCMe 3 )(NO 3 ) 3 (THF) 2 react with chlorotrimethylsilane in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at room temperature to form [CeCl(NO 3 )(THF) 5 ][CeCl 5 (THF)], 1 , and [CeCl 2 (THF) 5 ][CeCl 5 (THF)], 2 . Ce(OCMe 3 ) 4 (THF) 2 is less reactive under the same conditions but was found to form a salt involving a [CeCl 5 (THF)] − anion. Ceric ammonium nitrate, [(NH 4 ) 2 Ce(NO 3 ) 6 ], does not form these polychlorinated species under these conditions. 1 crystallizes from THF to form an octahedral [CeCl 5 (THF)] − anion and a pentagonal bipyramidal [CeCl(NO 3 )(THF) 5 ] + cation, which has chloride and nitrate in the axial positions.
An efficient model for the crosscut optimisation problem in a wood processing mill

We propose a dynamic programming model for the crosscut optimisation problem. This problem arises in the context of cutting lumber (rip-first) in order to obtain cubic blocks (cut-pieces) with required dimensions and surface characteristics. We propose a novel approach for matching the pattern of defects on all four surfaces of an incoming strip of wood with the surface requirements of the cut-pieces as specified in a given cut-bill, and determine an effective cutting pattern for each incoming strip accordingly. Our proposed dynamic programming model results in fast execution times as shown by the results of a computational experiment. The model is deployed in a software package that has been implemented successfully in several major rough mills.
Extended conformations in alanine peptides

Spectroscopic evidence for the presence of local order in unfolded proteins, including polyproline II (PII) structure, now appears incontrovertible. The data supporting this order relies on analysis of short chain peptides. The dimensions of unfolded chains nevertheless conform to random coils. We have re-examined the dimensional properties of short chains using paramagnetic proton spin relaxation measurements to evaluate intermediate range distances (r) within alanine peptides linked to short proline arms.(1) Two peptides were employed in our studies,, OO-T∗-PPPA∗PPPA∗-OO and OO-T∗-PPPAAAA∗-OO, where O is Ornithine, T∗ is Toac (2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl-4-amino-4-carboxylic acid), A∗ is 15N labelled alanine. Mesostate based Monte-Carlo sampling calculations (2) were carried out to interpret the relaxation data. The conclusion of the study is that over 90% occupation of extended conformations, i.e. PII and β mesostates, is required to reproduce the experimentally observed distance averaging. Compact structures including αR, αL and turns are clearly present but are not dominant in the conformational ensemble. Analysis of the conformation of other side chains will be presented.(1) Chen, K et al. Ang. Chem. Int. Ed. 2007 46, 9036.(2) Gong, H, Fleming, PH, Rose, GD. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 2005, 102, 16227.
Conditioned responses of gamma and alpha motoneurons in the cat trained to conditioned avoidance

Abstract The relationship of gamma-efferent conditioned responses to alpha-motoneuron, or behavioral, conditioned responses has been studied. Seven cats were trained to give a consistent hind-leg conditioned avoidance response, i.e., to give overt evidence of conditioned responses in alpha fibers. In terminal experiments, these animals were immobilized and gamma and alpha units from ventral roots innervating the hind leg were monitored for conditioned changes in activity. The same CS (1000-cycles/sec tone) and US (shock to the hind paw) were used in the terminal experiments as were employed during training. In all chronically trained cats, conditioned responses of both gamma and alpha fibers were induced by the CS. When the neuromuscular block was incomplete, gamma acceleration and alpha discharge to the CS occurred concurrently with actual withdrawal of the conditioned hind leg. Acceleration of gamma-fiber discharge induced by the CS appeared with a much shorter latency than did the alpha-fiber discharge. During extinction the gamma response persisted for many trials after the alpha response was abolished. These findings support the concept that a background of conditioned proprioceptive activity, mediated by the gamma-efferent system, underlies the conditioned avoidance response.
Effects of soil acidity on the growth of sericea lespedeza

Abstract Field experiments were conducted in 1992 and 1993 to examine effects of soil acidity on growth and N2 fixation by “Serala”; sericea lespedeza [Lespedeza juncea (L.F.) var. sericea (Mig.)]. Effects of acidified soil on N2 fixation could not be determined because nodulation was suppressed, apparently by sufficient availability of N. Apparently‐suppressive, mean 1993 levels of KCl‐extractable NH4 and NO3 in zero nitrogen (N) control treatments were 20 and 13 mg‐kg‐1, respectively. In soil acidified with sulfur (S), growth of sericiea lespedeza was significantly reduced (PO.05) when the concentration of water‐extractable Mn exceeded 1.3 mM or calculated Mn2+ activity exceeded 0.4 mM. This occurred at pH values of 4.1 to 4.3 depending on S treatment. At a given value of pH, shoot dry weight production was greater in S‐amended soil than in Al2SO4‐amended soil. Reduced growth in the latter did not appear to be directly related to higher measured levels of toxic Al but may have been caused by a combinati...
The mobilizing action toward community health partnership study: multisector partnerships in US counties with improving health metrics.

INTRODUCTION Multisector partnerships are promoted as a mechanism to improve population health. This study explored the types and salient features of multisector partnerships in US counties with improving population health metrics. METHODS We used the "Framework for Understanding Cross-Sector Collaborations" proposed by Bryson, Crosby, and Stone to guide data collection and interpretation. Comparative case studies were conducted in 4 counties selected on the basis of population, geographic region, an age-adjusted mortality decline better than the US average, and stable per capita income. Data were collected through website and report reviews and through in-depth interviews with key informants (N = 59) representing multiple sectors. County reports were developed and cross-case themes related to partnership types and salient features were derived. RESULTS Multisector collaboration was common in all 4 counties despite substantial variations in population, geographic size, demographic diversity, and other characteristics. Most partnerships were formed by professionals and organizations to improve delivery of health and social services to vulnerable populations or to generate policy, system, and environment changes. Multisector collaboration was valued in all cases. Outcomes attributed to partnerships included short- and long-term effects that contributed to improved population health. CONCLUSION The Bryson, Crosby, and Stone model is a useful framework for conducting case study research on multisector partnerships. Outcomes attributed to the multisector partnerships have the potential to contribute to improvement in population health. Further study is needed to confirm whether multisector partnerships are necessary for improving population health within counties and to understand which partnership characteristics are critical for success.
A visual representation system for drug abuse counselors

Node-link mapping is a technique that consists of drawing spatial-verbal displays to visually represent interrelationships between ideas, feelings, facts, and experiences. These multirelational maps are drawn during ongoing counseling sessions to represent a variety of personal and nonpersonal topics. This article provides an overview of this technique, including rationale, related and supporting research, and an example of its use during counseling. In addition, this article describes the potential impacts of mapping and comments on practical considerations related to the effective use of this tool in drug abuse counseling.
Biomarkers for NeuroAIDS: recent progress in the field.

In June, 2012, we held our second annual colloquium at the University of Nebraska Medical Center on current research and clinical issues concerning the effects of HIV on the brain. This day-long event focused on “Biomarkers for NeuroAIDS: Recent Progress in the Field.” The talks, questions, and subsequent discussions were quite illuminating not only for progress, but to point out gaps in our knowledge as well as existing controversies. To help further advance efforts in disseminating information and spurring further work addressing issues raised, in conjunction with the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology (and special thanks to the Managing Editor Robin Taylor and Editor-in-Chief Dr. Howard Gendelman), we are proud to publish a series of papers in this issue centering on biomarkers for neuroAIDS.
Voltage-dependent Inactivation of T-Tubular Skeletal Calcium Channels in Planar Lipid Bilayers

Single-channel properties of dihydropyridine (DHP)-sensitive calcium channels isolated from transverse tubular (T-tube) membrane of skeletal muscle were explored. Single-channel activity was recorded in planar lipid bilayers after fusion of highly purified rabbit T-tube microsomes. Two populations of DHP-sensitive calcium channels were identified. One type of channel (noninactivating) was active (2 microM +/- Bay K 8644) at steady-state membrane potentials and has been studied in other laboratories. The second type of channel (inactivating) was transiently activated during voltage pulses and had a very low open probability (Po) at steady-state membrane potentials. Inactivating channel activity was observed in 47.3% of the experiments (n = 84 bilayers). The nonstationary kinetics of this channel was determined using a standard voltage pulse (HP = -50 mV, pulse to 0 mV). The time constant (tau) of channel activation was 23 ms. During the mV). The time constant (tau) of channel activation was 23 ms. During the pulse, channel activity decayed (inactivated) with a tau of 3.7 s. Noninactivating single-channel activity was well described by a model with two open and two closed states. Inactivating channel activity was described by the same model with the addition of an inactivated state as proposed for cardiac muscle. The single-channel properties were compared with the kinetics of DHP-sensitive inward calcium currents (ICa) measured at the cellular level. Our results support the hypothesis that voltage-dependent inactivation of single DHP-sensitive channels contributes to the decay of ICa.
Passive-silicon-carrier design and characteristics

A silicon-on-silicon package for nine VLSI chips is presented. The carrier is especially designed to support the high-frequency current surges of complementary logic like CMOS or BiCMOS. It contains integrated decoupling capacitors and uses three layers of metal. The chips are mounted by controlled-collapse chip connection. A /370 processor containing nine CMOS chips has been assembled. Functionality and manufacturability have successfully been demonstrated. >
Advances in Forefoot Trauma

Forefoot traumas, particularly involving the metatarsals, are commonly occurring injuries. There have been several advances in management of these injuries. These advances include updates in operative technique, internal fixation options, plating constructs, and external fixation. In addition, the advances of soft tissue management have improved outcomes. This article outlines these injuries and provides an update on techniques, principles, and understanding of managing forefoot trauma.
Novel therapies for the treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (juvenile idiopathic arthritis)

The majority of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis respond well to conventional treatment. However, some children will have a more aggressive disease course and will be resistant to standard management. Over the past 20 years, growth in our understanding of the immunopathogenesis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis and related diseases has facilitated significant therapeutic advances. In this report, recently released antirheumatic drugs, as well as some treatments currently in development, will be discussed. Biological agents, such as antiTNF and other cytokines inhibitors, and unique drugs, such as thalidomide, provide new opportunities to suppress the inflammation found in severe cases of systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis and can obtain a satisfactory outcome.
Processable, high temperature polymers from 1,4,5,8-tetrahydro-1,4;5,8-diepoxyanthracene and bis-dienes

1,4,5,8-tetrahydro-1,4;5,8-diepoxyanthracene reacts with various anthracene end-capped polyimide oligomers to form Diels-Alder cycloaddition copolymers. The polymers are soluble in common organic solvents, and have molecular weights of approximately 21,000 to 32,000. These resins exhibit lower weight loss in air than in nitrogen. This is suggested to be due to dehydration (loss of water ranges from 2 to 5 percent) at temperatures of 390 to 400 C to give thermooxidatively stable pentiptycene units along the polymer backbone. Because of their high softening points and good thermooxidative stability, the polymers have potential as processable, matrix resins for high temperature composite applications.
Smooth Vertical Surface Climbing With Directional Adhesion

Stickybot is a bioinspired robot that climbs smooth vertical surfaces such as glass, plastic, and ceramic tile at 4 cm/s. The robot employs several design principles adapted from the gecko including a hierarchy of compliant structures, directional adhesion, and control of tangential contact forces to achieve control of adhesion. We describe the design and fabrication methods used to create underactuated, multimaterial structures that conform to surfaces over a range of length scales from centimeters to micrometers. At the finest scale, the undersides of Stickybot's toes are covered with arrays of small, angled polymer stalks. Like the directional adhesive structures used by geckos, they readily adhere when pulled tangentially from the tips of the toes toward the ankles; when pulled in the opposite direction, they release. Working in combination with the compliant structures and directional adhesion is a force control strategy that balances forces among the feet and promotes smooth attachment and detachment of the toes.
Laparoscopic Live Donor Nephrectomy: The Initial 3 Cases

AbstractPurpose: Successful laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy in 3 patients is described.Materials and Methods: The procedures were performed completely laparoscopically and the kidneys were extracted via 8 cm. infraumbilical incisions.Results: In all 3 cases warm ischemic time was less than 5 minutes, and the renal vessels and ureter of the harvested kidneys were of adequate length for routine transplantation. Donors required minimal postoperative parenteral analgesia and were discharged home 1 to 3 days after the procedure. All harvested kidneys were successfully transplanted, and functioned well initially and at hospital discharged.Conclusions: Laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy may be an alternative surgical modality to conventional open nephrectomy. Advantages include less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay and convalescence, and a more desirable cosmetic result. Additionally, these advantages may encourage more individuals to consider live donation, resulting in an increase in organ supply.
Infrared imaging of defects in materials with chaotic Sonic excitation

Infrared imaging of defects in materials has become a standard tool in nondestructive evaluation (NDE). The most recent version of this technology uses ultrasound to excite the defects by friction or other dissipative effects. This version is greatly enhanced by the use of "chaotic" sound.
Steady-state invariant genetics: probing the role of morphogen gradient dynamics in developmental patterning

Morphogen-mediated patterning is the predominant mechanism by which positional information is established during animal development. In the classical view, the interpretation of positional signals depends on the equilibrium distribution of a morphogen, regardless of the dynamics of gradient formation. The problem of whether or not morphogen dynamics contribute to developmental patterning has not been explored in detail, partly because genetic experiments, which selectively affect signalling dynamics while maintaining unchanged the steady-state morphogen profile, are difficult to design and interpret. Here, I present a modelling-based approach to identify genetic mutations in developmental patterning that may affect the transient, but leave invariant the steady-state signalling gradient. As a case study, this approach is used to explore the dynamic properties of Hedgehog (Hh) signalling in the developing wing of the fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster. This analysis provides insights into how different properties of the Hh gradient dynamics, such as the duration of exposure to the signal or the maximum width of the transient gradient, can be genetically perturbed without affecting the steady-state distribution of the Hh concentration profile. I propose that this method can be used as an experimental design tool to investigate the role of transient morphogen gradients in developmental patterning and discuss the generality of these ideas in other problems.
Flocking while preserving network connectivity

Coordinated motion of multiple agents raises fundamental and novel problems in control theory and robotics. In particular, in applications such as consensus seeking or flocking by a group of mobile agents, a great new challenge is the development of robust distributed motion algorithms that can always achieve the desired coordination. In this paper, we address this challenge by embedding the requirement for connectivity of the underlying communication network in the controller specifications. We employ double integrator models for the agents and design nearest neighbor control laws, based on potential fields, that serve a twofold objective. First, they contribute to velocity alignment in the system and second, they regulate switching among different network topologies so that the connectivity requirement is always met. Collision avoidance among neighboring agents is also ensured and under the assumption that the initial network is connected, the overall system is shown to asymptotically flock for all initial conditions. In particular, it is shown that flocking is achieved even in sparse communication networks where connectivity is more prone to failure. We conclude by illustrating a class of interesting problems that can be achieved while preserving connectivity.
Yeast Golgi-localized, γ-Ear–containing, ADP-Ribosylation Factor-binding Proteins Are but Adaptor Protein-1 Is Not Required for Cell-free Transport of Membrane Proteins from the Trans-Golgi Network to the Prevacuolar Compartment

Golgi-localized, gamma-Ear-containing, ADP-ribosylation factor-binding proteins (GGAs) and adaptor protein-1 (AP-1) mediate clathrin-dependent trafficking of transmembrane proteins between the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and endosomes. In yeast, the vacuolar sorting receptor Vps10p follows a direct pathway from the TGN to the late endosome/prevacuolar compartment (PVC), whereas, the processing protease Kex2p partitions between the direct pathway and an indirect pathway through the early endosome. To examine the roles of the Ggas and AP-1 in TGN-PVC transport, we used a cell-free assay that measures delivery to the PVC of either Kex2p or a chimeric protein (K-V), in which the Vps10p cytosolic tail replaces the Kex2p tail. Either antibody inhibition or dominant-negative Gga2p completely blocked K-V transport but only partially blocked Kex2p transport. Deletion of APL2, encoding the beta subunit of AP-1, did not affect K-V transport but partially blocked Kex2p transport. Residual Kex2p transport seen with apl2Delta membranes was insensitive to dominant-negative Gga2p, suggesting that the apl2Delta mutation causes Kex2p to localize to a compartment that precludes Gga-dependent trafficking. These results suggest that yeast Ggas facilitate the specific and direct delivery of Vps10p and Kex2p from the TGN to the PVC and that AP-1 modulates Kex2p trafficking through a distinct pathway, presumably involving the early endosome.
Sociology in the Academy: How the Discipline is Viewed by Deans: Pacific Sociological Association 2007 Presidential Address

Though sociologists study a wide range of institutions, very little time is spent studying sociology's position and status in the academy. Using a variant of Dillman's “total design method,” the au...
Who is Sovereign

All states are legally sovereign. However, as a behavioral matter, most states lack the institutional or political capacity to fully exercise the authority associated with legal sovereignty. This article argues that states vary in the extent to which they are behaviorally sovereign, depending on the extent of their domestic institutional development and global power. This perspective exposes the myth that the sovereignty of all states is weakening: purported challenges from nonstate actors, international organizations, and other changes in the global social or political environment are neither eroding the state system nor diminishing the enjoyment of behavioral sovereignty by powerful states.
Carotid Plaque Characterization, Stenosis, and Intima-Media Thickness According to Age and Gender in a Large Registry Cohort

Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a well-established predictor of cardiovascular disease events. Not well described, however, is the prevalence of plaque and stenosis severity and how this varies according to extent of CIMT, age, and gender. We evaluated the extent of carotid plaque and stenosis severity according to CIMT, age, and gender in a large CIMT screening registry. We studied 9,347 women and 12,676 men (n = 22,023) who received carotid ultrasound scans. The presence and severity of both carotid plaque and stenosis was compared according to extent of CIMT (≥1 mm vs 30% of patients demonstrated mixed or soft plaque potentially prone to rupture. Of those with CIMT ≥1 mm, more than 70% had such mixed or soft plaque and more than 40% demonstrated stenoses of 30% or greater. In conclusion, we describe in a large CIMT registry study a substantial age-related increase in both men and women of increased CIMT, plaque presence, and severity, and stenosis. Even in those with normal CIMT, mixed or soft plaque was common, further demonstrating the value in assessing for plaque when doing carotid ultrasound.
Severe Hyponatremia Associated with Use of Black Cohosh during Prolonged Labor and Unsuccessful Home Birth.

Introduction There has been an increase in the use of herbal supplements during pregnancy, which are frequently of unproven efficacy and safety. We present a case of severe hyponatremia and altered mental status associated with the use of black cohosh during prolonged labor. Case A 39-year-old primigravida at 38 5/7 weeks of gestational age presented to the emergency department after she became disoriented and lethargic while laboring at home with a midwife. She had consumed several doses of black cohosh to induce and augment labor. On presentation, she was nonverbal and unable to follow commands. Her serum sodium was 114 mmol/L (range, 132–145 mmol/L), serum osmolality was 253 mOsm/kg (range, 275–300 mOsm/kg), urine osmolality was 190 mOsm/kg (range, 300–900 mOsm/kg), and urine sodium was Discussion Clinically significant hyponatremia associated with pregnancy is rare. Further investigation is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of black cohosh and other commonly used herbal supplements during pregnancy and labor.
Analysis of the Effect of the Intervention on Discrimination against Tuberculosis among the Students at the Communist Party School

Objectives To explore the attitude and behavior of the students at the Communist Party School towards tuberculosis(TB)patients,and to provide TB health education and intervention for them.Methods One hundred and thirty students at the Communist Party School were selected randomly,training of tuberculosis knowledge was provided for them.The attitude and behavior of the discrimination for the tuberculosis was surveyed by the questionnaire.Results There was certain discrimination against tuberculosis among the students at the Communist Party School,and the discriminatory behaviors for the tuberculosis were improved compared with the behaviors before training.The difference was statistically significant(P0.01).Conclusions It is urgent to reinforce knowledge dissemination and policy advocacy of tuberculosis prevention and control,and to change discrimination attitude and behavior of the major government and party officials towards tuberculosis patients.
Surveillance Results of Hand-foot-mouth Disease in Urumqi City in 2010

[Objective]To carry out the pathogenic detection of hand-foot-mouth disease,learn the pathogenic characteristics of hand-foot-mouth disease in Urumqi city in 2010.[Methods]By using RT-PCR,EV71 and CA16 were detected in 236 samples(including 105 throat swabs samples,104 excrement samples and 27 anus wiping samples) which collected from 208 patients with hand-foot-mouth disease.[Results]Among 208 samples,there were 104 cases of EV71,66 cases of CA16 and 14 cases of other enterovirus.The pathogenic surveillance showed that EV71 and CA16 were the main pathogen in 2010,cases were dominated by EV71 virus in every month,and EV71 virus were detected in the patients from all districts and counties.[Conclusion]RT-PCR is a rapid and specific method for detection of EV71 and CA16 in hand-foot-mouth disease,which can amplify the virus in throat swabs samples,excrement samples and anus wiping samples rapidly and accurately.The epidemic situation of hand-foot-mouth disease in Urumqi city has a significant increasing tendency since May 2010.Most of cases are dispersed,and there exists aggregated cases.The main pathogens are EV71 and CA 16 virus.
Magnetism of Finite Systems: From Clusters to Crystals

Using self-consistent molecular orbital theory as well as ab-initio tight-binding formalism, we have investigated the magnetic moments of atomically engineered materials as a function of their size, dimensionality, symmetry and topology. The magnetic moments of magnetic materials can be enhanced by reducing their size as well as dimension. Similarly, atoms of otherwise non-magnetic materials are found to be magnetic in lower dimension. In small isolated clusters, the effect of externally applied magnetic field and temperature can have substantial effect on the measured magnetic moment.
Dynamical estimation of State-of-Health of batteries by using adaptive observer

The battery performance relative to the initial conditions such as usable capacity, thermal behavior, and electrical response are correlated to its State-of-Health (SOH) that determines its remaining life cycles. The most direct and simple way for estimating the SOH is to measure or estimate the electrical characteristics of the battery. Such the characteristics can be modeled by equivalent circuit that is mostly composed of a series resistor and parallel RC networks. It implies the parametric estimation of the equivalent circuit model can facilitate the determination of the SOH. In this study, an adaptive observer incorporated with estimator for unobservable RC state is devised to accurately estimate the relevant parameters. A simulation is presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. This proposed scheme can be applied to different types of batteries, and dynamically monitor the parameters relating to the SOH.
Therapeutic Potential of Adenovirus Mediated Interleukin-12 Gene Therapy for Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is characterized by extreme heterogeneity and multifocality of the primary tumour. The available clinical, pathological and molecular data suggest a lack of substantial clonal expansion at the primary site, yet metastatic progression of the disease often proceeds in an unpredictable and clinically undetectable fashion. Clinical and experimental data suggest that primary prostate cancer tumour cells can seed from relatively small tumour foci at the primary site. Overall, this unique biological pattern of progression presents unique and challenging problems regarding the detection and treatment of the disease. In general, currently used potentially curative therapies involve a single cytoablative modality (radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy) and are exclusively directed at the malignant cells within the prostate gland. At present the widespread use of these treatments has not resulted in substantial reduction in mortality from prostate cancer. Gene therapy used alone or as an adjuvant approach could, at least conceptually, provide a rational solution for the prostate cancer dilemma. With gene therapy protocols designed to stimulate antitumour immunity, it may be possible to treat localized and systemic disease effectively and simultaneously. Our previous preclinical and clinical studies have focused on the use of adenoviral vector-mediated HSV-tk+GCV (Herpes Simplex Virus thymidine kinase + ganciclovir) in situ gene therapy for prostate cancer. More recently, specific immunomodulatory genes, such as interleukin-12 (IL-12), have been tested using adenoviral vector-mediated in situ and gene-modified cell based vaccine protocols. The results of these preclinical studies are promising and demonstrate the possibility of effectively generating cytotoxic activities in localized prostate cancers through the recruitment of activated immunocytes while generating systemic anti-tumour immunity that results in antimetastatic activities. We discuss the potential of IL-12 gene therapy for prostate cancer in this review.
Barriers and facilitators to use of non-pharmacological treatments in chronic pain

Consensus guidelines recommend multi-modal chronic pain treatment with increased uptake of non-pharmacological pain treatment modalities (NPMs). We aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators to uptake of evidence-based NPMs from the perspectives of patients, nurses and primary care providers (PCPs). We convened eight separate groups and engaged each in a Nominal Group Technique (NGT) in which participants: (1) created an individual list of barriers (and, in a subsequent round, facilitators) to uptake of NPMs; (2) compiled a group list from the individual lists; and (3) anonymously voted on the top three most important barriers and facilitators. In a separate process, research staff reviewed each group’s responses and categorized them based on staff consensus. Overall, 26 patients (14 women) with chronic pain participated; their mean age was 55. Overall, 14 nurses and 12 PCPs participated. Seven healthcare professionals were men and 19 were women; the mean age was 45. We categorized barriers and facilitators as related to access, patient-provider interaction, treatment beliefs and support. Top-ranked patient-reported barriers included high cost, transportation problems and low motivation, while top-ranked facilitators included availability of a wider array of NPMs and a team-based approach that included follow-up. Top-ranked provider-reported barriers included inability to promote NPMs once opioid therapy was started and patient skepticism about efficacy of NPMs, while top-ranked facilitators included promotion of a facility-wide treatment philosophy and increased patient knowledge about risks and benefits of NPMs. In a multi-stakeholder qualitative study using NGT, we found a diverse array of potentially modifiable barriers and facilitators to NPM uptake that may serve as important targets for program development.
Dosimetric Evaluation of a Flexible Dual Balloon-Constructed Applicator in Treating Anorectal Cancer.

Background and Purpose:To assess the dosimetric flexibility of a dual balloon brachytherapy applicator developed for the treatment of anorectal lesions.Materials and Methods:Different amounts of water were infused into the inner and outer balloon separately to study the asymmetrical distribution of the catheter, the radial distance of the active source channel to the inner surface of the global target volume , the space between the active source channels, and their dosimetric impact to target tissues and uninvolved rectum.Results:Increasing inner balloon volume directly increased both the space between the active source channels and the radial distance of the active source channel to the inner surface of the global target volume. The space between the active source channels and the percentage of global target volume received 150% or more of the prescribed dose to target had a strong inverse correlation (−0.881/P = .007, −0.976/P = .001, respectively) with the radial distance of the active source channel t...
The Effect of Counterexemplars and Victim Expectations on Crime Perceptions and Hostile Attitudes Toward Racial Minorities

Heavy consumers of crime news are more likely to hold negative attitudes and stereotyped expectations of racial minorities. Attempts to reduce stereotyping with counterexemplars that portray racial minorities in a positive light have yielded mixed results. Do prior crime expectations or frequency of crime news exposure moderate the efficacy of counter-exemplar interventions? An experiment ( N = 240) was conducted to test this question using a 2 (exemplar typicality: atypical victim vs. no victim control) × 2 (victim expectations: White vs. Black) between-subjects design. Results revealed that counterexemplars that conflicted with viewers’ preexisting victim expectations decreased hostile attitudes among light consumers of crime news, but increased racial stereotyping among heavy news consumers. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings for media psychology are discussed.
Poster: Vocal Resonance as a Passive Biometric

With continuing advances in the development of low-power electronics, including sensors and actuators, we anticipate a rapid expansion of pervasive computing. Wearable devices, in particular, require new modes for interaction -- many have no keyboard or touchscreen. In this work, we focus on user authentication on wearable devices. For an entertainment device, such as a VR headset, it can recognize the user and load the right game profile or music playlist. For a house climate-control system, it can adjust the environment to the wearer's preference. Most compellingly, for a health-monitoring device, it can label the sensor data with the correct identity so that the data can be stored in the correct health record. (A mix-up of sensor data could lead to incorrect decisions, with harm to the patient.) Because not all devices are personal devices -- my phone, your fitness sensor -- many devices will need to automatically recognize their wearer. They may have no interface for user identification (or PIN or password for authentication). Thus, we need a simple, wearable biometric technique to identify the user -- which could be embedded in one authentication device that shares the identity with a body-area network of other devices (earlier confirmed to be on the same body). This device should be trained once, for each user that might wear it, but thenceforth be completely automatic. Although a wristband could use a physiological biometric to recognize its wearer; we seek an alternative biometric, notably, one that might work for devices mounted on the head, neck, or chest.
Threshold N-Policy for MX/H2/1 Queueing System with Un-reliable Server and Vacations

In this paper, we consider a M X /H 2 /1 queueing system under N-policy with vacation and un-reliable server. Whenever the system becomes empty, the server may take vacation. After returning from vacation, if the server finds at least N customers waiting in the queue, it immediately provides service to all the customers who are waiting in the queue. If the number of the customers waiting in the queue is less than N, then the server may take another vacation and this process is continued. Some performance measures of the system are derived, which are further evaluated by using Adaptive Network-based Fuzzy Interference Systems (ANFIS). Numerical results and sensitivity analysis are carried out by taking an illustration.
Learning on Graphs for Predictions of Fracture Propagation, Flow and Transport

Microstructural information plays a key role in governing the dominant physics for various applications involving fracture networks. Resolving the interactions of thousands of interconnected sub-micron scale fractures is computationally intensive, and is intractable with current technologies. Coarsening of the domain and simplification of the physics are two commonly used workarounds, but these methods often eliminate features critical to accurately predicting macroscale behavior. Additionally, traditional Uncertainty Quantification (UQ) methods which account for parametric and model uncertainties have been shown to be inadequate in failure predictions that do not include these subgrid scale effects. We propose to overcome this hurdle by exploiting the fact that fracture networks have an underlying discrete structure that can be compactly represented and propagated via graphs. We have outlined two separate approaches for two separate applications -- prediction of flow in the subsurface and brittle failure at the macroscale. In the first approach, we expect to discover accurate graph representations of previously neglected microscale physics. An alternate approach would be using machine learning algorithms to mimic the detailed physics at the microscale. The resulting workflow using either approach will be memory/computationally efficient by at least one to two orders of magnitude over existing methods.
David Oliver: Blaming hospitals for systemwide problems will make winter bleaker

Our increasing inability to meet the four hour target for emergency departments has been used as a surrogate for all the NHS’s ills. Stories of overcrowding, long waits on trolleys, and ambulances stacking up outside make the headlines week after week. But there have been lamentably few informed discussions in the media of the complex underlying systemic causes behind the pressures at the hospital front door. Last week a Department of Health spokesperson said that “we have robust plans for winter,”1 in response to the Labour Party’s call for an urgent £500m cash injection.2 We can all keep calm and carry on, then? Dangerously full hospitals, struggling to cope with demand they can’t control, are no longer just for winter but a year round phenomenon.34 But fears of …
CARDIOVASCULAR SIGNALING PROTEINS AS PREDICTORS OF DOXORUBICIN-RELATED CARDIAC EFFECTS IN CHILDREN WITH ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKEMIA

Cardiac signaling proteins regulate the intrinsic cardioprotective and repair response to doxorubicin cardiotoxicity. We estimated the relationship between these proteins, serum biomarkers of cardiac status and imaging in doxorubicin-treated children with ALL. Concentrations of the proteins
A Polymer-Alloy Binder for Structures-Properties Control of Battery Electrodes

Abstract The microstructures of electrodes play a critical role in controlling the charge transport in electrode composites. Achieving uniform and stable microstructures for battery electrodes with aid of binder materials is an important task in battery research. Here, we propose a polymer alloy binder rich in amorphous structures to address that need. This alloy binder is fabricated by complexing poly(vinylidene fluoride) and ultra-high molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide). Due to a good compatibility of the two polymers and the ultra-long chain of poly(ethylene oxide), the crystallization of each component is greatly suppressed and more amorphous phase is achieved. The amorphous structure of the alloy binder can dramatically improves the adhesion properties (by ca. 150%), structure uniformity and interface stability of the final electrode simultaneously, as compared with the electrodes with a traditional PVDF binder. As a result, the mechanical flexibility, electrolyte wettability, the electron/ion transport and electrochemical performance of the final electrodes are notably improved as compared with pure PVDF binder. This study brings about a cost-effective binder solution based on polymer alloys for controlling the microstructures/interfaces and properties of battery electrodes.
Kir2 inward rectification–controlled precise and dynamic balances between Kir2 and HCN currents initiate pacemaking activity

Spontaneous rhythmic action potential or pacemaking activity of pacemaker cells controls rhythmic signaling such as heartbeat. The mechanism underlying the origin of pacemaking activity is not well understood. In this study, we created human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells that show pacemaking activity through heterologous expression of strong inward rectifier K+ subfamily 2 isoform 1 (Kir2.1) channels, hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated isoform 2 (HCN2) nonselective cation channels, and voltage-gated Na+ subfamily 1 isoform 5 or Ca2+ subfamily 3 isoform 1 (Nav1.5 or Cav3.1) channels. A range of relative levels of Kir2.1 and HCN2 currents dynamically counterbalance, generating spontaneous rhythmic oscillation of resting membrane potential between -64 and -34 mV and determining oscillation rates. Each oscillation cycle begins with an autodepolarization phase, which slowly proceeds to the threshold potential that activates Nav1.5 or Cav3.1 channels and triggers action potential, causing engineered HEK293 cells to exhibit pacemaking activity at a rate of ≤67 beats/min. Engineered HEK293 cells with Kir2.1 and either HCN3 or HCN4 also show the oscillation. Engineered HEK293 cells expressing HCN2 and other Kir2 channels, which lack Kir2.1-like complete inward rectification, do not show the oscillation. Therefore, Kir2.1-like inward rectification-controlled precise and dynamic balances between Kir2 and HCN currents initiate spontaneous rhythmic action potential and form an origin of pacemaking activity; Kir2 and HCN channels play essential roles in pacemaking activity.-Chen, K., Zuo, D., Wang, S.-Y. Chen, H. Kir2 inward rectification-controlled precise and dynamic balances between Kir2 and HCN currents initiate pacemaking activity.
Alternatives to Red Blood Cell Transfusion

Anemia is common in the critically ill and patients with anemia tend to have worse clinical outcomes. Red blood cell transfusion as a treatment for anemia is associated with risk but little evidence of clinical benefit. As a consequence, alternatives to red blood cell transfusion for the treatment of anemia in the critically ill have been sought. This chapter will examine the clinical evidence regarding the current status of iron supplementation, erythropoietin-stimulating agents, and hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers in the treatment of anemia in the critically ill.
Husserls Genuss: Über den Zusammenhang von Leib, Affektion, Fühlen und Werthaftigkeit

A travers le parcours phenomenologique de la subjectivite theorique a la subjectivite concrete, l'A. etudie la relation intentionnelle entre l'affection, la corporeite et la valeur chez Husserl. Definissant l'affectivite comme un moment de la realite et de l'experience, l'A. montre que l'emotionnalisme de Husserl developpe une ethique de la personne humaine fondee sur l'aspiration a la connaissance de la valeur.
Arachidonic Acid Metabolism in Endotoxemia and Sepsis: Therapeutic Approaches

Administration of endotoxin to animals or stimulation of inflammatory cells with endotoxin has been shown to induce formation of lipids, peptides, and oxygen metabolites which are implicated as secondary mediators for endotoxin-induced shock sequelae [1]. One major class of mediators is the arachidonic acid metabolites.
The neural basis of motion sickness.

Although motion of the head and body has been suspected or known as the provocative cause for the production of motion sickness for centuries, it is only within the last 20 yr that the source of th...
AB0192 Influence of exercise on bone mineral density

Background Parameters of the ideal exercise programs, such as type, frequency, intensity and duration of activity are unknown. When women with sedentary way of life ( Objectives The aim of study was to assess the effects of our exercise program on bone mineral density in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Methods We developed a exercise program in Institute of Rheumatology and the patients with low bone mineral density (BMD) exercised 3 times a week (for 4 weeks). After that period patients continued regularly with exercise at home. BMD was measured by dual x-ray absorptiometry (Lunar DXA system). Results Group of 24 pts who only exercised without taking any drugs for osteoporosis, mean age 57,38 (46–73) years and mean BMD 0,915 ± 0,12 gr/cm2 with average T score -2,40 ± 0,98. The control DXA was done after average period of 10, 3 months. BMD was increased to mean 0,925 ± 0,10 gr/cm2 (1,5%), and T score to -2,28 ± 0,88 (3,7%), (N. S.) Sixteen patients with BMD 9,23 ± 0,07 gr/cm2 did not continued with exercising, and after average 11,7 months BMD was decreased to 9,04 ± 0,06 gr/cm2 (2,1%);(t = 2,21; p Conclusion Our result suggests that exercise have a positive effect on BMD even without medical therapy. It is necessary to continue with exercise at home because BMD decreased more than returned to baseline.