cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increasing Radiation Therapy Dose Is Associated With Improved Survival in Patients Undergoing Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Stage I Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Purpose To determine the comparative effectiveness of different stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) dosing regimens for early-stage non–small-cell lung cancer, using a large national database, focusing on the relative impact of dose as a function of tumor stage. Methods and Materials The study included patients in the National Cancer Database from 2003 to 2006 with T1-T2N0M0 inoperable lung cancer (n=498). The biologically effective dose (BED) was calculated according to the linear quadratic formula using an α/β ratio of 10. High versus lower-dose (HD vs LD) SBRT was defined as a calculated BED above or below 150 Gy. Overall survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazard regression. Results The 5 most common dose fractionation schemes (percentage of cohort) used were 20 Gy × 3 (34%), 12 Gy × 4 (16%), 18 Gy × 3 (10%), 15 Gy × 3 (10%), and 16 Gy × 3 (4%). The median calculated BED was 150 Gy (interquartile range 106-166 Gy). The 3-year overall survival (OS) for patients who received HD versus LD was 55% versus 46% (log–rank P =.03). On subset analysis of the T1 cohort there was no association between calculated BED and 3-year OS (61% vs 60% with HD vs LD, P =.9). Among the T2 cohort, patients receiving HD experienced superior 3-year OS (37% vs 24%, P =.01). On multivariable analysis, factors independently prognostic for mortality were female gender (hazard ratio [HR] 0.76, P =.01), T2 tumor (HR 1.99, P =.0001), and HD (HR 0.68, P =.001). Conclusions This comparative effectiveness analysis of SBRT dose for patients with stage I non–small-cell lung cancer suggests that higher doses (>150 Gy BED) are associated with a significant survival benefit in patients with T2 tumors.
Quantum size effects in metal nanofilms: Comparison of an electron-gas model and density functional theory calculations

Effects of quantum confinement of electrons in metal nanofilms are analyzed using a noninteracting electron-gas model. Electrons are confined within a potential well with infinite-height barrier. The positions of the barrier are at a fixed distance away from the geometric boundaries of the film such that the surface-charge neutrality requirement is maintained at the bulk limit. The model predicts oscillations in basic physical properties such as the Fermi energy, electron density, surface free energy, and dipole layer moment as a function of film thickness. We compare predictions of this electron-gas model with first-principles density functional theory (DFT) for ten metal films. For Ag(110), Ag(100), Mg(0001), Al(111), Al(110), and Pb(111) films, the oscillation features obtained from the model are in good quantitative agreement with those from DFT calculations. However, for Al(100), Pb(110), and Pb(100) films, oscillation behavior in the model differs from DFT calculations. For Ag(111), the electron-gas model predicts weak oscillations, in contrast to the DFT calculations, in which no noticeable regular oscillations are observed.
Bactericidal effect of hyperbaric oxygen determined by direct exposure.

SummaryExposure of small inocula of microorganisms on the surface of blood agar medium to high pressure oxygen (HPO; 100% O2 at 3 atmospheres absolute) has provided a simple direct method for quantitating its antibacterial effect upon 102 strains from among 20 microbial species. The bactericidal effect was dependent upon the duration and intensity of exposure to HPO, and was independent of common taxonomical characteristics such as cellular morphology, gramstaining reaction, and a strict or facultative growth requirement for normobaric oxygen.
“I Went to a Fight the Other Night and a Hockey Game Broke Out” Is Professional Hockey Fighting Calculated or Impulsive?

Background:The current study explored the relationship between fighting behavior and passage of time, across games and seasons, in an attempt to assess if violent behavior in hockey is impulsive or...
Novel Topical Fluoride Delivery System II: Remineralization of Human Teeth

A recently conceived calcium fluoride-containing remineralization system was tested using human teeth in vitro. The influence of several variables (surface pretreatment, demineralization time, and remineralization time) was studied. Appreciable levels of fluoride taken up by pumiced human teeth were found at depths up to 50 μm when remineralization was carried out in either the remineralizing solution or saliva. The successful performance of the delivery device in these laboratory studies is encouraging and indicates that the logical evolution of the crude devices studied thus far could lead to clinically practical fluoride delivery devices.
The Perot Candidacy and Attitudes toward Government and Politics

Prior studies of third-party movements document both an individual- and aggregate-level relationship between disatisfaction with government and its leaders and third party support. Unfortunately, t...
Imaging coherent backscatter radar studies of equatorial spread F

Abstract A new interferometric imaging technique has been used at Jicamarca to study the morphology and dynamics of plasma irregularities occurring during spread F conditions. The technique produces two-dimensional, in-beam images of the coherent scatter from these irregularities, instantaneously mapping the structure of the underlying plasma instabilities in the equatorial plane. We present sequences of images depicting backscatter from bottom-type layers, bottomside layers, and topside plumes drifting and rising through the ionospheric regions illuminated by the Jicamarca radar. The high spatial and temporal resolution of the images permits us to observe dynamical phenomena missed by conventional fixed- and steered-beam techniques. The new images show evidence of intermediate- and large-scale plasma depletions bifurcating and pinching off from the bottomside as they ascend. Analytic models are presented to describe these dynamical effects. The images also differentiate between bottom-type and bottomside spread F layers, the former being shown to have much smaller scale primary waves than the latter. Ample evidence of secondary plasma instabilities appear throughout the images. The consequences of these secondary instabilities and of shear flow are discussed.
Baryon generation, the K-M mechanism, and minimal SU(5)

Abstract We show that in the minimal SU(5) model the out-of-equilibrium decays of superheavy Higgs bosons ( M H ≳ 10 13 GeV) are just able to produce the observed baryon asymmetry, kn B / s ≈ 10 −10.8±1 , if there exists at least one more generation of heavy quarks ( M ≈ 30–200 GeV). The requisite CP violation in their decays is given by complex Yukawa couplings, and can be calculated in terms of parameters which can be measured (up to a single unknown angle) at low energies ( E ⪅ 1000GeV).
Use of the Draw-a-Person with Conduct-Disordered Children

The Draw-A-Person test was administered to 40 conduct-disordered and 40 nonconduct-disordered children and adolescents. There were 20 boys and 20 girls, ages 10 to 16 years, in each group. Two inde...
A Note on the Biosynthesis of Clavine Alkaloids in Claviceps purpurea Strain 15B

The data obtained with a replacement culture technique indicate two types of precursors are required for the formation of the ergoiine nucleus in ergot strain ISB. L-Tryptophan was shown to be the most efficient aromatic precursor. DL-Phenylalanine and DL- β -phenyllactic acid were found to suppress alkaloid accumulation.
Dynamic changes in CA1 dendritic spines associated with ischemic tolerance

Hippocampal CA1 neurons are particularly vulnerable to 5-10 min durations of global ischemia. These cells can develop tolerance to ischemia through prior exposure to brief episodes of ischemia (ischemic preconditioning, IP). Dendritic spines are implicated in various forms of neuroplasticity including memory and recovery of function. Here we characterized the changes in hippocampal CA1 dendritic spines during the development of ischemic tolerance and the subsequent postischemic recovery period. Gerbils received 5 min, bilateral carotid artery occlusions preceded by two 1.5 min occlusions each of which were 24 h apart (tolerance groups). Spine densities were calculated from CA1 apical and basilar dendrites in tolerant animals that survived 3 (IP3), 10 (IP10) or 30 (IP30) days as well as sham-operated animals and those that received only the two preconditioning episodes (PO). Habituation to a novel open-field was assessed 3, 7, 10 and 30 days after ischemia to gauge CA1 functional integrity. Dendritic spines were quantified from Golgi-Cox stained sections of the CA1 subfield. IP10, IP30 and PO animals had significantly higher CA1 basilar and apical spine densities than all other groups. Tolerant animals initially displayed open-field habituation impairments at a time when spine densities were reduced. Behavioral impairments gradually subsided over time in coincidence with an increase in CA1 spine densities. These findings suggest that dendritic spines may play a role in recovery of function associated with ischemic tolerance and stroke.
The NORC Supportive Services Model: The Role of Social Capital in Community Aging Initiatives

Access to community-based programs and services that address housing, physical and emotional health, well-being, and social interaction is essential in order to achieve a goodness of fit between adults and their environment as they transition into late adulthood. Social capital can be used to facilitate and nurture the relationships necessary to create community features that collectively benefit residents. This article describes how the social capital features of the Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) supportive services model that can be used to enhance the viability of community aging initiatives. Implications for civic engagement and participation among older adults are discussed.
Preparation and modification of carbon nanotubes: Review of recent advances and applications in catalysis and sensing

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have become one of the most intensely studied nanostructures because of their unique properties. The inherent physical properties of carbon nanotubes make them ideal supports for metal nanoparticles. The use of electrodeposition to modify SWNTs in order to facilitate applications in areas related to catalysis and sensing is presented in this manuscript. Preparation of raw SWNT material for electrochemical experiments involves various mild or oxidative pretreatments. In this review we focus on progress toward functionalization of SWNTs with metal nanoparticles using electrochemical methods and the applications of metal decorated carbon nanotubes in energy related applications.
The Role of Advanced Lipid Testing in Clinical Practice

The National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) guidelines recommend assessing an individual's cardiovascular (CV) risk from the Framingham risk score; however, the Framingham risk score may underestimate coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. Current guidelines have identified some emerging lipid risk factors that can be measured by several commercially available advanced cholesterol tests. These emerging lipid risk factors are meant to supplement the Framingham risk score to help the clinician to better assess CV risk. Although advanced lipid testing cannot be recommended for routine screening, it may be of value in individuals with a family history of premature CHD, postmenopausal women, and individuals at intermediate risk for CHD, especially if they are near the boundary of being at high risk. This review examines the role of advanced lipid testing in clinical practice.
Children of schizophrenic women: Early factors predictive of schizophrenia

The present report reviews some findings of a 20-year longitudinal study of Danish children at risk for schizophrenia. Early factors predictive of later schizophrenia in high-risk children, including infant temperament and the effect of perinatal complications, are reviewed. In addition, the role of maternal absence as a stressor is examined. Findings related to sex differences in the vulnerability of high-risk children to later pathology are discussed. Possible interactions of these factors and maternal psychopathology are briefly explored.
Focus group analysis of hand-held radiation detector design

Abstract A focus group session is a useful tool for learning user expectations, preferences, and suggested enhancements during the design stage of a new product. This paper showcases the usefulness of using a mixed-method focus group study of first responders to examine the design of a hand-held radiation detector. The study used a survey and a semi-structured script that explored five main topics: difficulties of using radiation detection with respect to the equipment and environment; preferences for handle design; preferences for control design; preferences for screen, menu, and interface design, and instructional and maintenance issues. The focus group indicated a desire for fewer and bigger buttons to control the device, a desire for a san serif font type for the display, a request to minimize the use of abbreviations and symbols in the text display, having a color coding display bar to describe radiation levels, and a need for detailed maintenance procedures and processes. These results provide important feedback for planning the development and testing of a more ergonomic radiation detector. Relevance to industry A hand-held radiation detector to test for fissionable materials is one of the essential tools used by first responders. This paper presents the results from a focus group of first responders exploring characteristics for a more ergonomic detector.
Optimal PMU placement considering number of analog channels

In view of the instance that miscellaneous types of PMUs exist with different number of analog channels and function modules, an advanced PMU with more functions or channels normally costs more money than a simple PMU. In both economic and planning reasons, it is necessary to conduct a study in designing a PMU placement constrained by number of analog channels. In this study, both Integer Linear Programming method and Genetic Algorithm are implemented to optimize the PMU placement considering number of analog channels. The proposed methods are tested on IEEE-14 and IEEE-30 buses systems. Detailed placement strategies are presented for the test systems. In conclusion, a comparison and discussion of the usability of both methods are concluded.
Hostility conflict and the effect of chlordiazepoxide on change in hostility level.

Abstract Dimascio, Shader, Salzman and their colleagues 1–5 conducted a series of experiments providing evidence that chlordiazepoxide produced a significantly greater increment in self-reported and behaviorally expressed hostility over a 1-week interval than did placebo in groups of college age normal male volunteers. Rickels and Downing 6 presented data indicating that a group of anxious, nonpsychotic outpatients treated with chlordiazepoxide in 4-week double-blind drug trials showed greater decrements in physician rated irritability and hostility and in self-assessed anger-hostility than did placebo treated patients. These latter findings were considered to strongly suggest that caution be exercised in generalizing results obtained in samples of asymptomatic volunteers to psychiatric patient groups. Kochansky et al. 3 have suggested that the ratings employed by Rickels and Downing to assess clinical hostility may focus upon "manifest angry affects" rather than hostility as "inner motivational or arousal level;" Kochansky et al. employed the Buss Durkee Hostility Inventory (BDHI) to assess such arousal level. The present study examines 4-week changes in hostility in anxious neurotic outpatients treated with either chlordiazepoxide (CDZ) or placebo using four scales from the BHDI (verbal hostility, indirect hostility, irritability, and resentment) in an effort to assess hostility as an inner motivational level. An Hostility Conflict Scale 7 intended to assess the level of conflict or guilt about the expression of hostility was also administered. It was felt that the potential for CDZ-facilitated hostility increase might be greater among patients with greater amounts of conflict associated with hostility expression since the drug might be expected to allay anxiety associated with such conflict.
Evaluation of a finite volume method for compressible shear layers

An implicit second-order finite volume method for solving the compressible laminar Navier-Stokes equations in two dimensions is evaluated for possible use in the simulation of transitional flows. Comparisons are made with results from a spectral linear-stability code, which provides accurate growth rates, as well as perturbation eigenfunctions, for a temporally growing free shear layer. The accuracy of the growth rates of isolated modes and the physical and numerical interactions of multiple modes is the focus of this study.
Fresnel's interface reflection coefficients for the parallel and perpendicular polarizations: global properties and facts not found in your textbook

This paper reviews recently obtained results related to Fresnel's reflection coefficients which play a central role in the optics of light reflection by surfaces and thin films. Topics include conjugate and reciprocal interfaces between transparent media, reflectance matching between normal and oblique incidence, and reflectance switching. For light reflection at interfaces between transparent and absorbing media, contours of constant pseudo-Brewster angle and of constant principal angle are presented in the complex plane, along with a discussion of a condition of maximum minimum parallel reflectance at oblique incidence. Conformal mappings that describe the transformation of the Fresnel coefficients between normal and oblique incidence, and between the s and p polarizations at the same angle, are included. Reflectance for incident light of arbitrary polarization is also considered. Finally, trajectories that describe the evolution of the Fresnel coefficients with angle of incidence are presented.
Low-cost wafer bumping

As the demand for flip-chip interconnects mounts across an increasingly large spectrum of products and technologies, several wafer-bumping proeesses have been developed to produce the small solder features required for this interconnect technology. These processes differ signicantly in complexity and commensurate cost. Recently, a new bumping process developed at IBM Research called injection-molded solder, or IMS, has shown the capability to combine low-cost attributes with high-end capabilities. The development of IMS technology was driven by the need to reduce wafer-bumping costs while simultaneously addressing the conflicting needs of increasing wafer dimensions to 300 mm, decreasing bump and pitch dimensions below 75 µm on 150-µm centers, and optimal Pb-free alloy selection and processing. This paper describes IMS technology for both standard eutectic SnPb and Pb-free wafer bumping. Existing mainstream bumping technologies are also reviewed, with a focus on the challenges of new industry requirements. Early manufacturing challenges are addressed, including solutions that demonstrated the appropriateness of IMS technology for low-cost 300-mm Pb and Pb-free wafer bumping. Early process and reliability data are also reviewed.
Helix formation in the polymer brush

This work considers the physics of a brush formed by polymers capable of undergoing a helix-coil transition. A self-consistent field approximation for strongly stretched polymer chains is used in combination with a lattice model of the interaction energy in helix-coil mixtures. Crowding-induced chain stretching stabilizes helix formation at moderate tethering densities while high tethering density causes sufficiently strong stretching to unravel segments of the helix, resulting in distinct layers of monomer density and helical content. Compared to a random-coil brush at low-to-moderate tethering density, a helicogenic brush is less resistant to compression in the direction perpendicular to stretching due to easy alignment of helices and fewer unfavorable interactions between helical segments. At higher tethering density, the abovementioned stretch-induced decrease in helical content resists further compression. The proposed model is useful for understanding an emerging class of biomaterials that utilize helix-forming polymer brushes to induce shape changes or to stabilize biofunctional helical peptide sequences.
Coherent k- d interactions at 12.6 gev/c

Abstract We report on coherent interactions in a 2.5 event/μb K−d exposure. The predominant channel studied is K−d → K−π+gp−d (415 events). We find strong Q- and L-production in the (Kππ) system. The production mechanism determines I = 1 2 for both enhancements and a spin-parity in the series 0−, 1+,2−… . A spin-parity analysis shows the Q to be a 1+ object, while the L is 1+ or 2−, although a higher spin cannot be excluded. The cross sections for Q and L production and other final states are presented.
The effects of cocaine, chlorpheniramine and tripelennamine on the cardiac responses to sympathetic nerve stimulation☆

Abstract The effects of cocaine (COC), chlorpheniramine (CHL), and tripelennamine (TRI) on the cardiac responses to sympathetic neural stimulation were compared in open-chest, anesthetized dogs. The amplitudes of the chronotropic responses were not significantly altered by any of these drugs. Similarly, the amplitudes of the inotropic responses were not affected significantly by either COC or TRI, but they were increased moderately by CHL. All three drugs prolonged the inotropic and especially the chronotropic responses. CHL and TRI, and addition to being antihistaminics, are inhibitors of the neuronal uptake of norepinephrine. Therefore, the similarity of the effects of CHL, TRI, and COC on the cardiac responses to sympathetic stimulation is probably ascribable to their inhibitory activities on the neuronal uptake mechanism.
Distribution of ten laminin chains in dystrophic and regenerating muscles

Using immunohistochemical methods, we assessed the distribution of all 10 known laminin chains (alpha1-5, beta1-3, gamma1 and gamma2) in skeletal muscles from patients with Duchenne, congenital, limb girdle, or Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophies. The alpha2, beta1 and gamma1 chains were abundant in the basal lamina surrounding muscle fibers in normal controls; alpha1, alpha3-alpha5, beta3, and gamma2 were undetectable; and beta2 was present at a low level. Compared to controls, levels of the alpha5 chain were increased in muscles from many dystrophic patients; levels of beta1 were reduced and/or levels of beta2 were increased in a minority. However, these changes were neither specific for, nor consistent within, diagnostic categories. In contrast, levels of alpha4 were increased in muscles from all patients with alpha2 laminin (merosin)-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy. Loss of alpha2 laminin in congenital dystrophy is disease-specific but some other changes in laminin isoform expression in dystrophic muscles could be secondary consequences of myopathy, denervation, regeneration or immaturity. To distinguish among these possibilities, we compared the laminins of embryonic, denervated, regenerating, and mutant mouse muscles with those in normal adult muscle. Embryonic muscle basal lamina contained alpha4 and alpha5 along with alpha2, and regenerating muscle re-expressed alpha5 but not alpha4. Levels of alpha5 but not alpha4 were increased in dystrophin (mdx) mutants and in dystrophin/utrophin double mutants (mdx:utrn -/-), models for Duchenne dystrophy. In contrast, laminin alpha4 was upregulated more than alpha5 in muscles of laminin alpha2 mutant mice (dy/dy; a model for alpha2-deficient congenital dystrophy). Based on these results, we hypothesize that the expression of alpha5 in many dystrophies reflects the regenerative process, whereas the selective expression of alpha4 in alpha2-deficient muscle is a specific compensatory response to loss of alpha2.
Elastic strain in thin epitaxial electrodeposits of gold and nickel on copper

Abstract In order to establish the factors responsible for residual stress in thin electroplates, an investigation was made of epitaxial deposits ( Homogeneous strain in the epitaxial electrodeposits was determined from X-ray diffraction measurements. Nickel was formed with large tensile strains an Electron-microscope observations on thin bicrystrals and nickel and copper demonstrated that nickel films become continuous quite rapidly (⪡50 A) w The observations made in this study suggest that the stresses in the thin epitaxial electrodeposited films result from the equilibrium misfit strain be
Matter from G2 manifolds

Abstract We describe how chiral matter charged under SU ( N ) and SO (2 N ) gauge groups arises from codimension seven singularities in compactifications of M-theory on manifolds with G 2 holonomy. The geometry of these spaces is that of a cone over a six-dimensional Einstein space which can be constructed by (multiple) unfolding of hyper-Kahler quotient spaces. In type IIA the corresponding picture is given by stacks of intersecting D6-branes and chiral matter arises from open strings stretching between them. Usually one obtains (bi)fundamental representations but by including orientifold six-planes in the type IIA picture we find more exotic representations like the anti-symmetric, which is important for the study of SU (5) grand unification, and trifundamental representations. We also exhibit many cases where the G 2 metrics can be described explicitly, although in general the metrics on the spaces constructed via unfolding are not known.
YERSINIA ENTEROCOLITICA ARTHRITIS

Human infections with Yersinia were first recognized and reported in upper New York State almost forty years ago. Little attention was paid to these reports and few efforts made to identify these organisms in the United States since that time. Recently, there have been increasing numbers of reports from Scandinavia of episodes of polyarthritis associated with Yersinia infections. The patient to be presented is a six-month old girl transferred from an upstate New York hospital because of two weeks of fever to 104°, green watery diarrhea and irritability noted when she was handled. An evanescent rash was most apparent at times of temperature elevations. Her mother and father had had diarrhea during the month preceding the child's illness. Stool cultures were grown with an effort to identifying Yersinia enterocolitica if it was present and the organism was found. Confirmation of this identification was afforded by the Plague Research Center of the United States Public Health Service where over the next month a rise in serum agglutination titer against polyvalent Y. enterocolitica was demonstrated from zero to 1:256 dilutions. The clinical spectrum of disease so far known to be associated with these organisms will be discussed and the necessity for special culture techniques emphasized.
Antihypertensive Medication Adherence in the Department of Veterans Affairs

Abstract Purpose Adherence measures the extent to which patients take medications as prescribed by their health care provider. The control of hypertension is dependent on medication adherence and may vary on the basis of antihypertensive medication class and other factors. Methods The Department of Veterans Affairs' automated pharmacy database captures pharmacy medication use; International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, diagnostic codes; and laboratory and patient demographic data on a monthly basis. Hypertensive patients who used thiazide diuretics, beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium channel antagonists, and alpha-blockers from July 2002 to December 2003 were studied. The first date of prescription filling for each patient within the date range was the index date from which fill and refill dates were collected for up to 18 months to calculate medication posession ratios and days out of medication ratios. Patients were categorized as adherent if the medication posession ratio was 80% or greater. Logistic regression was used to study the association of medication class, age, gender, ethnicity, Veterans Affairs facility, and co-diagnosis with diabetes, schizophrenia/psychosis, depression, and dementia with medication adherence. Results We studied 40,492 hypertensive patients taking at least one antihypertensive drug class. The average age per class ranged from 67.4 to 72.9 years; 96% were male; and 51% were white, 8% were African-American, 4% were Asian-American, and 3% were Hispanic. Unadjusted adherence rates based on the medication posession ratio ranged from 78.3% for thiazide diuretics to 83.6% for angiotensin receptor blockers ( P Conclusions Adherence rates with all antihypertensive medications were high. Although there were statistical differences by drug class, these differences were small. Ethnicity and depression identified groups that might benefit from programs to improve adherence.
Diabetic Nephropathy: A National Dialogue

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases-supported Kidney Research National Dialogue (KRND) asked the scientific community to formulate and prioritize research objectives that would improve our understanding of kidney function and disease. Several high-priority objectives for diabetic nephropathy were identified in data and sample collection, hypothesis generation, hypothesis testing, and translation promotion. The lack of readily available human samples linked to comprehensive phenotypic, clinical, and demographic data remains a significant obstacle. With data and biological samples in place, several possibilities exist for using new technologies to develop hypotheses. Testing novel disease mechanisms with state-of-the-art tools should continue to be the foundation of the investigative community. Research must be translated to improve diagnosis and treatment of people. The objectives identified by the KRND provide the research community with future opportunities for improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
Data-Parallel String-Manipulating Programs

String-manipulating programs are an important class of programs with applications in malware detection, graphics, input sanitization for Web security, and large-scale HTML processing. This paper extends prior work on BEK, an expressive domain-specific language for writing string-manipulating programs, with algorithmic insights that make BEK both analyzable and data-parallel. By analyzable we mean that unlike most general purpose programming languages, many algebraic properties of a BEK program are decidable (i.e., one can check whether two programs commute or compute the inverse of a program). By data-parallel we mean that a BEK program can compute on arbitrary subsections of its input in parallel, thus exploiting parallel hardware. This latter requirement is particularly important for programs which operate on large data: without data parallelism, a programmer cannot hide the latency of reading data from various storage media (i.e., reading a terabyte of data from a modern hard drive takes about 3 hours). With a data-parallel approach, the system can split data across multiple disks and thus hide the latency of reading the data. A BEK program is expressive: a programmer can use conditionals, switch statements, and registers--or local variables--in order to implement common string-manipulating programs. Unfortunately, this expressivity induces data dependencies, which are an obstacle to parallelism. The key contribution of this paper is an algorithm which automatically removes these data dependencies by mapping a B EK program into a intermediate format consisting of symbolic transducers, which extend classical transducers with symbolic predicates and symbolic assignments. We present a novel algorithm that we call exploration which performs symbolic loop unrolling of these transducers to obtain simplified versions of the original program. We show how these simplified versions can then be lifted to a stateless form, and from there compiled to data-parallel hardware. To evaluate the efficacy of our approach, we demonstrate up to 8x speedups for a number of real-world, BEK programs, (e.g., HTML encoder and decoder) on data-parallel hardware. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first data parallel implementation of these programs. To validate that our approach is correct, we use an automatic testing technique to compare our generated code to the original implementations and find no semantic deviations.
The effect of patient choice of intervention on health outcomes

Abstract Background: Patient preference may influence intervention effects, but has not been extensively studied. Randomized controlled design ( N = 1075) assessed outcomes when women (60 years+) were given a choice of two formats of a program to enhance heart disease management. Methods: Randomization to “no choice” or “choice” study arms. Further randomization of “no choice” to: 1) Group intervention program format, 2) Self-Directed program format, 3) Control Group. “Choice” arm selected their preferred program format. Baseline, four, twelve, and eighteen month follow-up data were collected. Two analyses: health outcomes for choice compared to being randomized; and preference effect on treatment efficacy. Results: Women who chose a format compared to being assigned a format had better psychosocial functioning at four months ( p = 0.02) and tended toward better physical functioning at twelve months ( p = 0.07). At eighteen months women who chose versus being assigned a format had more symptoms measured as: number ( p = 0.004), frequency ( p = 0.006) and bother ( p = 0.004). At four months women who preferred the Group format had better psychosocial functioning when assigned the Group format than when they were assigned the Self-Directed format ( p = 0.03). At eighteen months women preferring a Group format had more symptoms: number ( p = 0.001), frequency ( p = 0.001), bother ( p = 0.001) when assigned the Group format than when assigned the Self-Directed format. Conclusions: Choice and preference for the Group format each enhanced psychosocial and physical functioning up to one year. Despite the preference for Group format, over the longer term (eighteen months) cardiac symptoms were fewer when assigned the Self-Directed format.
Comparing radiation toxicities across species: an examination of radiation effects in Mus musculus and Peromyscus leucopus.

AbstractPurpose: Life shortening and pathological complications in similarly irradiated cohorts of the laboratory mouse Mus musculus and the white-footed mouse Peromyscus leucopus were recorded in the course of the Janus studies conducted at Argonne National Laboratory from 1970–1992. This study examines how lifespan, tumor and non-tumor disease incidence, and tumor multiplicity are differentially affected by gamma-rays and neutron radiation exposure in two different animal species.Materials and methods: Survival analyses examined differences in lifespan across species, while decision tree analyses examined statistically significant associations between lifespan, radiation exposure, and specific diseases. Logistic regression models were generated to examine the likelihood of disease incidence in these two species following gamma-ray or neutron radiation exposure.Results: Life shortening in response to radiation was more significant in Peromyscus leucopus than in Mus musculus, irrespective of radiation qua...
Effect of cubic nonlinearity on auto-parametrically amplified resonant MEMS mass sensor

Abstract Parametric resonance has been well established in many areas of science, including the stability of ships, the forced motion of a swing and Faraday surface wave patterns on water. We have previously investigated a linear parametrically driven torsional oscillator and along with other groups have mentioned applications including mass sensing, parametric amplification, and others. Here, we thoroughly investigate the design of a highly sensitive mass sensor. The device we use to carry out this study is an in-plane parametrically resonant oscillator. We show that in this configuration, the nonlinearities (electrostatic and mechanical) have a large impact on the dynamic response of the structure. This result is not unique to this oscillator—many MEMS oscillators display nonlinearities of equal importance (including the very common parallel plate actuator). We report the effects of nonlinearity on the behavior of parametric resonance of a micro-machined oscillator. A nonlinear Mathieu equation is used to model this problem. Analytical results show that nonlinearity significantly changes the stability characteristics of parametric resonance. Experimental frequency response around the first parametric resonance is well validated by theoretical analysis. Unlike parametric resonance in the linear case, the jumps (very critical for mass sensor application) from large response to zero happen at additional frequencies other than at the boundary of instability area. The instability area of the first parametric resonance is experimentally mapped. Some important parameters, such as damping co-efficient, cubic stiffness and linear electrostatic stiffness are extracted from the nonlinear response of parametric resonance and agree very well with normal methods.
Correlation between Grain Size and Thermal Expansion for Aluminum Titanate Materials

Al2TiO5 materials were sintered under different conditions to produce different grain sizes. The resultant microcracked materials exhibited a range of bulk thermal expansions which showed a strong correlation with average grain size. An Al2TiO5 average grain size of 3 to 4 μm was the minimum at which the size and population of microcracks effectively reduced the apparent thermal expansion of the polycrystalline material. Further increases in grain size resulted in a rapid drop in the bulk thermal expansion, followed by diminishing decreases with further increases in grain size. Small amounts of phase stabilizers (<2.1 wt% MgO or Fe2O3) or limited mullite additions in mullite—aluminum titanate composites had no significant effect on this correlation.
Teaching Children with Autism to Use Photographic Activity Schedules: Maintenance and Generalization of Complex Response Chains.

We used a graduated guidance procedure to teach 4 boys with autism to follow photographic activity schedules to increase on-task and on-schedule behavior. The multiple baseline across participants design included baseline, teaching, maintenance, resequencing of photographs, and generalization to novel photographs phases. The results indicated that photographic activity schedules (albums depicting after-school activities) produced sustained engagement, and skills generalized to a new sequence of photographs and to new photographs. The acquisition of schedule-following skills enabled these children with severe developmental disabilities to display lengthy response chains, independently change activities, and change activities in different group home settings in the absence of immediate supervision and prompts from others.
Effect of spatial fading correlation on performance of space-time codes

The performance of space-time codes is investigated over Rayleigh fading channels with spatially correlated fading between transmit antennas. An exact pairwise error probability is derived based on which an analytical estimate for bit error probability is computed. The analytical results are verified through computer simulation.
A Bayesian approach to joint modeling of protein-DNA binding, gene expression and sequence data

The genome-wide DNA-protein-binding data, DNA sequence data and gene expression data represent complementary means to deciphering global and local transcriptional regulatory circuits. Combining these different types of data can not only improve the statistical power, but also provide a more comprehensive picture of gene regulation. In this paper, we propose a novel statistical model to augment protein-DNA-binding data with gene expression and DNA sequence data when available. We specify a hierarchical Bayes model and use Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations to draw inferences. Both simulation studies and an analysis of an experimental data set show that the proposed joint modeling method can significantly improve the specificity and sensitivity of identifying target genes as compared with conventional approaches relying on a single data source.
Convective Instability of a Gravity Modulated Fluid Layer with Surface Tension Variation

Gravity modulation of an unbounded fluid layer with surface tension variations along its free surface is investigated. In parameter space of (wavenumber, Marangoni number) modulation has a destabilizing effect on the unmodulated neutral stability curve for large Prandtl number, Pr, and small modulation frequency, Omega, while a stabilizing effect is observed for small Pr and large Omega. As Omega yields infinity, the modulated neutral stability curves approach the unmodulated neutral stability curve. At certain values of Pr and L2 multiple minima are observed and the neutral stability curves become highly distorted. Closed regions of subharmonic instability are also observed. Alternating regions of synchronous and subharmonic instability separated by very thin stable regions are observed in (1/Omega,g(sub 1)) space for the singly diffusive cases. Quasiperiodic behavior in addition to the synchronous and subharmonic responses, are observed for the case of a double diffusive fluid layer. Minimum acceleration amplitudes were observed to closely correspond with a subharmonic response, Lambda(sub im) = Omega/2 .
Individual differences in Temptation and responses to alcohol cues

Objective: Research on the Temptation and Restraint Inventory has established that the Temptation factor is associated with greater use of alcohol, more alcohol-related problems, and more severe symptoms of alcohol dependence. However, there is little known about the mechanisms by which Temptation may be associated with these higher levels of alcohol involvement. The present study was designed to examine how individual differences in Temptation are associated with responses to alcohol cues. Method: Eighty-nine hazardous drinkers were exposed to the sight and smell of their favorite alcoholic beverage, attempted to control their urges, and then participated in a beer taste test. Subjective experience, alcohol-related cognitive processing, and behavioral responses were assessed in the context of these cues. Results: Hierarchical regression analyses showed that Temptation was associated with stronger urges to drink alcohol, greater difficulty controlling urges, and increased alcohol consumption, even when co...
Decentralized inventory control for large-scale supply chains

In this work, we illustrate a new decentralized optimization method for inventory control across large-scale supply-chains. The decentralized optimization method and the coordination algorithm provide a convenient approach to find the cooperative solution that is best for the whole supply-chain. Specifically, the scheme does not require each company to have explicit knowledge about the individual cost functions and the local constraints of the other companies. This factor helps eliminate the problems that result from informational deficiencies in large-scale supply-chains.
Genetic analysis of resistance to total bromodeoxyuridine substitution in mammalian cell hybrids.

Somatic cell hybrids derived from the fusion of Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) and mutant Syrian hamster melanoma cells (2E) were tested for their ability to grow with all of the thymidine (dThd) in their DNA replaced with 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU), a phenotypic capability of the 2E cells but not of the CHO cells. Under these conditions, the 2E cells survived and grew, all of the hybrid clones survived and grew to varying degrees, and the CHO cells did not survive at all. When 2E cells were tested, they were also found to be resistant to the toxic effects of BrdU substitution and white light irradiation, relative to CHO cells. Thus, when the DNAs of 2E and CHO cells were equally (50%) substituted with BrdU, and the two cell lines irradiated with identical doses of white light, the survival of CHO cells was reduced to <1% of that of unirradiated cells, while 40% of the 2E cells survived. The 2E × CHO hybrid clones were found to survive at values from 10% to 40% under these identical conditions. Thus, the phenotypic characteristics of 2E cells involving total substitution and resistance to the toxic effects of BrdU substitution and white light irradiation appear to be expressed in a codominant fashion in somatic cell hybrids.
Visceral adipose tissue measured by DXA correlates with measurement by CT and is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in children

Summary Background Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) generally demonstrates a stronger relationship with cardiometabolic risk factors than total body fat or subcutaneous adipose tissue. Objectives The purpose of this study was to compare VAT estimated in children by total volume dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) with a gold standard measurement, single slice (L4–L5) computed tomography (CT). Methods A total of 329 (152 females, 177 males) children ages 6–18 years (mean age 12.3 ± 3.6) and with average body mass index percentile of 54.9% (3–99%) had their VAT estimated by both CT and DXA. Linear association between methods was measured using Pearson's correlation. Multiple linear regressions compared the associations between cardiometabolic risk factors and both CT-VAT and DXA-VAT, respectively. Results In children, DXA-VAT was correlated significantly with CT-VAT, with a stronger relationship in overweight and obese children. Multiple regression analysis showed that both estimates of VAT were significantly associated with lipids and insulin sensitivity, measured by euglycaemic-hyperinsulinaemic clamp. Additionally, DXA-VAT was associated with diastolic blood pressure, homeostasis model of insulin resistance and fasting insulin, but CT-VAT was not. Conclusion In children, total volume DXA-VAT and single slice CT-VAT are significantly correlated and each demonstrates similar associations with cardiometabolic risk factors. This suggests that DXA is a useful and valid method for estimation of VAT in children.
Who is protected from budget cuts

Standard policy advice at times of fiscal adjustment is to protect public spending on the poor. However, the political economy of fiscal adjustment could well indicate the opposite direction, to protect the non‐poor from adjustment. This point is illustrated by three case studies based on research on social programs in Argentina, Bangladesh, and India, focusing on how targeting performance varied with aggregate outlays. The results suggest a tendency for program spending on the non‐poor that is protected from budget cuts.