cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Infectious Diseases Perspective of Anorectal Abscess and Fistula-in-ano Disease.

Abstract Background Anorectal abscess and fistula-in-ano is a rare disease with an exemplary prognosis. Most patients are diagnosed with cryptoglandular disease but unusual infections raise difficult antimicrobial management challenges. Methods All primary references identified in PubMed, EMBASE, the ISI Web of Knowledge database and the Cochrane Library, published between 1960 and 2015, using the keywords “anorectal abscess,” “fistula-in-ano,” “perianal abscess,” or “perianal fistula” or all, were uploaded into a database. The databases were also interrogated using keywords specific for each infection type studied. Results In all, 52 relevant primary medical publications were identified. There were also 4 relevant organizational standards guideline publications, 1 relevant review and 4 historical publications about the diagnosis and outcomes of anorectal abscess and fistula-in-ano with data derived primarily from prospective and retrospective trials as well as institutional case series to provide an evidence level opinion. The use of antimicrobial therapy in combination with surgical incision and drainage in the treatment of cryptoglandular disease has failed to improved healing times or reduce recurrences or both. Based on limited data, routine antimicrobial therapy may benefit patients with significant comorbid conditions, extensive cellulitis and systemic symptoms. For patients with unusual infecting pathogens (eg, Mycobacterium tuberculosis , Actinomyces species and Chlamydia species) outcomes are favorable with selected antimicrobial therapy agents of various durations. Conclusion Surgical incision and drainage is the main treatment for anorectal abscess and fistula-in-ano, but a select group of patients with unusual infections benefit from tailored prolonged antimicrobial therapy with the overall recurrence rate remaining low.
On the Ownership Reform of China's Public Utilities

A fixed ownership structure of properties does not mean a fixed efficiency level of transactions of properties. We should establish a competitive public utility market which all economic elements have same opportunities to participate in through competitions rather a market which is occupied by one element through monopoly. In the process of China's public utility regulatory reform, we should target at competitive transactions of property rights rather than at property ownership forms.
Peer Reviewed: Modeling the Long-Term Performance of Waste Containment Systems

An excessively large number of sites in the United States are contaminated with A hazardous substances. The prohibitive costs of cleaning up all sites and the lack of effective technologies for destroying some hazardous materials often leave containment systems as the only viable option to control contaminant migration into sensitive media. Examples of such systems are covers and liners, vertical slurry and geosynthetic walls, concrete containments, and radioactive waste repositories. Designers predict that the lives of these systems range from about 50 to more than 1000 years. How long do these facilities really last? No model can predict that perfectly yet. However, the following discussion illustrates how an integrated approach that includes time-scaled material deterioration models, system reliability frameworks, and adaptive monitoring could improve long-term performance estimates and provide a sound technical basis for facility design and maintenance, environmental risk assessments, and regulatory specifications.
All Fields of Knowledge

The P/G% software was presented in a special workshop at the 1987 annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. That workshop was partly designed to bring out how the decision-aiding software could be applied to natural science, social science, and the humanities.
Self-Assembled, Iron-Functionalized Polyoxovanadate Alkoxide Clusters.

Herein we report the synthesis of a series of iron-functionalized, mixed-valent, polyoxovanadate alkoxide clusters, [V5O6(OCH3)12Fe]X (X = Cl, Br, SO3CF3) comprised of a hexanuclear Lindqvist (M6O19n–) core. By substituting a V═O moiety from the well-defined hexavanadate clusters [VIVnVV6–nO7(OR)12]4–n (R = Me, Et) with a metal cation, we have developed a novel template for investigation of the organometallic properties of these systems. Characterization of the clusters was performed by 1H NMR, Fourier transform infrared, and electron absorption spectroscopies and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The IR and UV–vis spectra suggest substantial electronic delocalization, similar to the previously reported cluster, V6O7(OCH3)12.
Inkjet ink behaviors and its implication in adsorption deinking

ABSTRACTThe deinking process of inkjet deinking was evaluated by following INGEDE Method 11 and the influence of the pulping chemistry was studied. The inkjet ink behavior during pulping and papermaking was also investigated to distinguish between redeposited ink and bound ink, which has shown that redeposited ink is the major concern during paper recycling. In order to prevent the ink redeposition, adsorption has been used to improve inkjet removal during pulping. Chitosan was selected as an effective adsorbent, and the ISO brightness was improved by 5 points compared with flotation deinking.
Landau Level Raman Scattering

When a solid containing mobile charge carriers is placed in a magnetic field, the energy of the carriers is quantized in Landau levels. The inelastic light scattering from this system which results in the excitation of electrons from one Landau level to another is termed Landau level Raman scattering. A theoretical discussion of this scattering was first given by Wolff [1], who considered the process in which the Landau level quantum number of the charge carrier increases by two (Δn = 2), with no change in the spin state (Δs = 0). Kelley and Wright [2], and Yafet [3], subsequently included the effect of the actual degenerate valence band structure of InSb, and found that processes for Δn = 0 and Δn = 2 in which the spin changed (Δs = 1), were also important. Subsequent experimental investigations by Slusher et al. [4, 5, 6] confirmed these predictions, and also demonstrated that there was an important Δn=1, Δs = 0 process which had not been treated. In this paper, we present the results of a numerical calculation of the single particle Raman cross section, based on the model of Pidgeon and Brown [7] for InSb. Our model assumes that only the lowest Landau level is occupied.
Enoxaparin had lower costs than unfractionated heparin for acute coronary syndrome

Source Citation Mark DB, Cowper PA, Berkowitz SD, et al. Economic assessment of low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin) versus unfractionated heparin in acute coronary syndrome patients. Results ...
Natural Sciences Doctoral Attainment by Foreign Students at U.S. Universities

The nearly sixty thousand foreign students who attained natural sciences doctorates at United States (U.S.) universities from 1980 to 2005 are conceptualized and analyzed as a case of highly-skilled migration. Multivariate regression analyses of tendencies for foreign students from over 147 countries and regions to attain doctorates in the natural sciences at U.S. universities indicated a two time-period model corresponding to Cold War and post-Cold War eras. Highly-skilled migration patterns for the purposes of natural sciences doctoral education at U.S. universities appear to have become depoliticized with the end of the Cold War, with U.S. universities acting as de facto recruiters of a globally diverse and talented population of foreign doctoral students for the U.S. scientific workforce. These results also suggest the need for an expanded longitudinal study of this phenomenon, addressing policy implications and measuring global science and technology doctoral education migration networks in light of changing political, social, and economic conditions across countries and regions.
Catalytic Conversion of Chlamydomonas to Hydrocarbons via the Ethanol-assisted Liquefaction and Hydrotreating Processes

Ethanol-assisted liquefaction followed by a hydrotreating process has been applied to the microalgal biomass of Chlamydomonas. The intent of the research was to develop process technology to convert microalgae into drop-in fuels. The operation conditions of the ethanol-assisted liquefaction were optimized using the following variables: reaction temperatures (200–290 °C), ethanol concentration (10–90 vol. %), residence time (0.5–2 h), and the catalyst (SO42–/ZrO2). The application of a higher ethanol concentration and the solid acid enhanced extraction of algal lipids and transesterification. The highest liquid yield of 93.7% for catalytic liquefaction was obtained under the reaction conditions of (290 °C, 90 vol. % ethanol, and 0.5 h). Hydrotreating of the liquid products generated via liquefying microalgae was conducted over a Mo2C/Biochar catalyst at 340 °C and 3.44 MPa hydrogen. The obtained products contained predominantly hydrocarbon molecules falling into the diesel range.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) Shedding and Decay Rates to Model Freshwater Mussel eDNA Transport in a River

Freshwater mussels are vital components of stream ecosystems, yet remain threatened. Thus, timely and accurate species counts are critical for proper conservation and management. Mussels live in stream sediments and can be challenging to survey given constraints related to water depth, flow, and time of year. The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor mussel distributions and diversity is a promising tool. Before it can be used as a monitoring tool, however, we need to know how much eDNA mussels shed into their environment and how long the eDNA persists. Here, we present a novel application of eDNA to estimate both the presence/absence and abundance of a freshwater mussel species, Lampsilis siliquoidea. The eDNA shedding and decay rates reported within are the first for freshwater mussels. We determined that eDNA shedding was statistically similar across mussel densities, but that first-order decay constants varied between experimental treatments. Finally, we effectively modeled downstream transport o...
Rectal Anatomy: Clinical Perspective

This chapter will discuss the anatomy of the rectum and pelvis as it relates to the diagnosis and surgical management of rectal cancer.
The cerebellar cortex as a sequential associative memory: A novel structural / functional interpretation

This paper describes in brief a new theory of cerebellar cortical function. The cerebellar cortex is viewed as a sequential associative memory which is involved in concurrent learning, recognition and recall of sequences of action potentials (spike trains) reaching the cerebellum along mossy fibers. The theory attributes novel functional characteristics to the main cellular classes (Purkinje, Golgi and granule cells) and the neural circuitry in which they are involved. It has been formalized as a neural network and tested computationally on the CM-2 Connection Machine. Named after Katarina & Michael whose presence at the right place and time inspired this model.
Enhancements to a shape grammar interpreter

This paper presents a shape grammar interpreter (SGI) with enhanced features. The shape grammar interpreter is able to automatically generate geometric products according to a given set of primitive shapes and rules applied to shapes. Several new features have been implemented to this enhanced SGI. Complicated shapes can now be imported into the SGI in the forms of images or polygons. Coloring functions are introduced to the SGI. Users are allowed to fill a shape with any chosen color. The color changes with grammar rules on how to fill a shape. We approach the enhancements in a software engineering perspective and analyze the structural changes of the shape grammar interpreter due to the new features. The SGI is powerful enough to automatically generate designs in many applications. As a case study, we perform the entire process of specification and generation of a logo design. As an open source software, the enhanced SGI enables future developers to further explore this software.
Raman spectra of gases: X. Raman band contour of the v7 (E') fundamentalof PF5

Abstract The Raman band contour of the v7 (E') fundamental of PF5 in the gas phase was recorded with a spectral slitwidth of 1.5 cm−1 Failure to observe excited state transitions under this resolution leads to a lower limit for the barrier to Berry pseudorotation of 5.7 kcal mole−1. The experimental contour was compared with a computer generated contour which gave a Coriolis constant, 0.00 ≧ XXX7 ≧ −0.30, consistent with the calculated value from the sum rule.
Broad Baseline Flux Distribution of Planetary Nuclei

We have analyzed the flux distributions of 13 planetary nuclei (NPN) spanning the full range of spectral classes known among central stars, except white dwarfs (see Table 1). We combined low-dispersion spectra from the IUE archives with absolute spectrophotometric scans taken by Dr. P. Massey at Kitt Peak with the Intensified Reticon Scanner (IRS) to obtain flux distributions covering the wavelength range λλ1150–7200 at ~ 7 A resolution. In order to get the intrinsic stellar energy distributions, we first corrected the observed fluxes for interstellar extinction, and then subtracted out the nebular fluxes, which we estimated from the Hβ flux on the IRS observations and from the nebular temperature, density and helium ionic abundances. Finally, we fitted blackbody curves to the stellar continua.
Applicability of Monoclonal Antibodies Against Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors in the Immunocytochemical Evaluation of Breast Carcinomas

The development of monoclonal antibodies against receptor proteins for estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) has opened a new perspective in the endocrinological evaluation of breast cancer patients. Indeed, a great deal of information can be obtained by applying these antibodies to tissue sections, including information that cannot be provided by steroid-binding assays. Of particular interest is the assessment of the percentage of receptor-positive cells in any given tumor, which can be easily evaluated in stained sections, but cannot be estimated by biochemical assays on tissue homogenates. Basic research in this field has been done on frozen sections which have proved to be quite reliable as documented by several reports presented at a recent symposium on Estrogen Receptor Determination with Monoclonal Antibodies (Cancer Res. Suppl. 46: 4231–4314, 1986). However, for the purpose of using immunocytochemistry for the practical assessment of the ER and PR status of breast cancer patients it should be realized that tissue for frozen sections is not always available and for this reason it is important to be able to apply these techniques to paraffin embedded tissues or to cytological preparations.
Cytotoxic Chemotherapy in Kaposi’s Sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma, recognized in the Western Hemisphere as an indolent malignant cutaneous disease affecting primarily elderly males of Jewish extraction, has in recent years been the principle malignancy associated with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The wide-spread cutaneous lesions are frequently associated with viseral involvement, particularly in the pulmonary and gastrointestinal systems. The early cutaneous manifestations of Kaposi’s sarcoma appear to respond to the administration of interferon. This biologic has not, however, afforded permanent control in this disease. A variety of chemotherapeutic regimens have been employed in an effort to control advanced cutaneous and viseral Kaposi’s sarcoma (1–7). The use of cytotoxic chemotherapy has resulted in a substantial percentage of partial and complete responses in the malignant lesions. The duration of both complete and partial responses has, however, proved disappointingly short. Another theoretical as well as practical disadvantage of cytotoxic chemotherapy, has been a further suppression of the immune system in the patient with AIDS. Although frequently difficult to quantitate, this appears to have resulted in a further increase in systemic life threatening infections by both common and opportunistic pathogens. Recent trials of chemotherapy employing both cytotoxic chemotherapy and biologic response modifiers, although too early to evaluate, seem to produce results similar to cytotoxic chemotherapy alone.
Clonazepam and Other Therapies of RBD

The Standards of Practice Committee of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has published a “best practice guide” for the treatment of RBD. The Level A recommendation was to modify the sleep environment to ensure maximal safety. The Level B recommendation identified clonazepam and melatonin as the co-first-line pharmacotherapies. The Level C recommendation identified more than ten other medications as possibly effective alternative therapies. The worldwide clinical experience and the published evidence indicate that clonazepam and melatonin are the predominant and most effective, sustained therapies of RBD. Melatonin therapy of RBD is reviewed in Chap. 24. This chapter will focus on clonazepam therapy of RBD, followed by a review of the alternative pharmacotherapies (dopaminergics, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, sodium oxybate, clonidine, desipramine/imipramine, paroxetine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, carbamazepine, zopiclone, temazepam, gabapentin, cannabidiol, and the herbal preparation Yi-Gan San). Finally, a bed alarm system that delivers a calming message can protect a patient with RBD from falling or jumping out of bed during dream enactment.
Viewpoints AI

This article describes a technical approach to movement-based interactions between a human interactor and an intelligent agent based on the theatrical Viewpoints movement framework. The Viewpoints AI system features procedural gesture interpretation using shallow semantics and deep aesthetics analysis from the Viewpoints framework. The installation creates a liminal virtual / real space for the human and AI to interact by the use of digital projection for the AI visualization and shadow play to represent the human. Observations from a recent public demonstration of the system and future directions of work are also discussed.
Professional Aspects of Engineering: Improving Prediction of Undergraduates’ Engineering Identity

AbstractIdentity, or how people choose to define themselves, is a popular lens for studying undergraduate persistence in engineering. Quantitative studies of engineering identity build on prior wor...
The role of hydration on peripheral response to cold.

Abstract : Ten men were dehydrated by restriction of fluid intake and by exercise over 2-1/2 days (weight loss: 4.6%), Body weight returned to -1.6% within 10 hours after rehydration, suggesting the weight loss was fluid loss. Measures of blood and urine constituents also were indicative of dehydration. These subjects experienced a cold test prior to and after dehydration and after rehydration. The fingers, but not the back of the hand, of the dehydration group were significantly colder (P<0.5) following dehydration. A group of 10 control subjects tested under identical conditions, but hydrated at all times, showed no changes.
Santonic acid: catemeric hydrogen bonding in a γ,∊-diketo carboxylic acid

The title compound, (-)-2,3,3a,4,5,6,7,7a-octahydro-α,3a,5-trimethyl-6,8-dioxo-1,4-methano-1H-indene-1-acetic acid (C 15 H 20 O 4 ), exists in the solid state as a catemer, with the hydrogen bonding following a 2 1 screw axis from the carboxyl to the e-ketone of a neighboring molecule [O…O = 2.752(3) A]. Two parallel counterdirectional screw-related single-strand helices pass through the cell in the a direction. Four intermolecular C=O…H-C close contacts were found, involving all three carbonyl groups.
Anemia and Neutropenia

Clinical features of autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) include cytopenias, chronic lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly
Impact of local broadband turbidity estimation on forecasting of clear sky direct normal irradiance

Abstract Clear-sky modeling is of critical importance for the accurate determination of Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), which is the relevant component of the solar irradiance for concentrated solar energy applications. Accurate clear-sky modeling of DNI is typically best achieved through the separate consideration of water vapor and aerosol concentrations in the atmosphere. Highly resolved temporal measurements of such quantities is typically not available unless a meteorological station is located in close proximity. When this type of data is not available, attenuating effects on the direct beam are modeled by Linke turbidity-equivalent factors, which can be obtained from broadband observations of DNI under cloudless skies. We present a novel algorithm that allows for a time-resolved estimation of the average daily Linke turbidity factor from ground-based DNI observations under cloudless skies. This requires a method of identifying clear-sky periods in the observational time series (in order to avoid cloud contamination) as well as a broadband turbidity-based clear-sky model for implicit turbidity calculations. While the method can be applied to the correction of historical clear-sky models for a given site, the true value lies in the forecasting of DNI under cloudless skies through the assumption of a persistence of average daily turbidity. This technique is applied at seven stations spread across the states of California, Washington, and Hawaii while using several years of data from 2010 to 2014. Performance of the forecast is evaluated by way of the relative Root Mean Square Error (rRMSE) and relative Mean Bias Error (rMBE), both as a function of solar zenith angle, and benchmarked against monthly climatologies of turbidity information. Results suggest that rRMSE and rMBE of the method are typically smaller than 5% for both historical and forecasted CSMs, which compare favorably against the 10–20% range that is typical for monthly climatologies.
Deep-Plane Approach to the Vertical Platysma Advancement: Technical Modifications and Nuances over 25 Years

In this article, we will provide the reader with the anatomical and embryologic evidence supporting the use of the deep-plane approach in rhytidectomy and insight into the evolution of the technique into the vertical platysma advancement. The original description of the deep-plane technique only described a basic superficial muscular aponeurotic system dissection in the midface with the ability to use tension on the flap without aesthetic consequences. This plane of dissection provides additional advantages not previously described, including access to deeper anatomical structures such as the buccal fat pad, and allows in vivo assessment and treatment of jowling. We describe how extension of this dissection and selective release of facial ligaments allows us to optimize treatment outcomes and longevity, especially in cases of difficult anatomy or revisions. Further advancements include case-specific facial volume enhancement, created by complex flap design, and facial narrowing by preauricular contouring and parotid hypertrophy treatment. Insights into anatomical landmarks, technical nuances, and alternative approaches for facial variations are presented.
SHIMS 3.0: Highly efficient single-haplotype iterative mapping and sequencing using ultra-long nanopore reads

The reference sequence of structurally complex regions can only be obtained through a highly accurate clone-based approach that we call Single-Haplotype Iterative Mapping and Sequencing (SHIMS). In recent years, improvements to SHIMS have reduced the cost and time required by two orders of magnitude, but internally repetitive clones still require extensive manual effort to transform draft assemblies into reference-quality finished sequences. Here we introduce SHIMS 3.0, using ultra-long nanopore reads to resolve internally repetitive structures and minimize the need for manual finishing of Illumina-based draft assemblies. This protocol proceeds from clone-picking to finished assemblies in 2 weeks for about 80 dollars per clone. We have used SHIMS 3.0 to finish the structurally complex TSPY array on the human Y chromosome, which could not be resolved by previous sequencing methods. Our protocol provides access to structurally complex regions that would otherwise be inaccessible from whole-genome shotgun data or require an impractical amount of manual effort to generate an accurate assembly.
The transcription factor CLAMP is required for neurogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster.

Neural stem cell (NSC) differentiation is controlled by cell-intrinsic and external signals from the stem cell niche including niche surface glia (SG). However, the mechanisms by which transcription factors drive NSC differentiation within the niche remain largely unknown. Here, we show that the transcription factor, Chromatin-linked adaptor for MSL proteins (CLAMP) is required for NSC differentiation. CLAMP promotes transcription of genes involved in stemness, proliferation, and glial development and represses transcription of genes involved in neurogenesis and niche survival. Consistent with transcriptional changes, CLAMP promotes NSC proliferation and SG production. Furthermore, glial-specific knock-down of clamp causes similar phenotypes to clamp null mutants. CLAMP motifs are present at many target genes including the glial-determining gene, glial cells missing, and Notch, a key regulator of neurogenesis. Collectively, our results suggest that CLAMP regulates a transcriptional program which drives NSC proliferation and differentiation via cell-intrinsic and niche-dependent mechanisms that involve niche glia.
Experimental investigation of the adsorption and desorption of cellulase enzymes on zeolite-β for enzyme recycling applications

The recyclability of cellulase enzymes using zeolite and polyethylene glycol (PEG) was investigated. The cellulase enzymes from cellulose hydrolysate suspensions were adsorbed onto zeolite-β under typical working conditions (pH 5). PEG having a molecular weight of 200 Da and 20 kDa was used as an eluent to desorb the cellulase enzymes from zeolite-β. Adsorption and desorption profiles of cellulase enzymes were studied by varying pH, PEG concentration, and salt concentration. Maximum binding capacity, qm of the zeolite decreased by increasing the pH, or by introducing PEG. At pH 5, the qm of the zeolite was determined to be 121 × 10−3 g/g. About 24%, 51% and 75% of the adsorbed enzyme can be recovered using 1 M NaCl, PEG 200 and PEG 20000, respectively. The specific activity of the recovered enzyme increased by 57% due to the presence of residual PEG.
Impact characterization of RTM composites. part I Metrics

The use of textile based architectures and the dry compaction of preform layers prior to resin infusion creates the potential for highly tailored resin transfer-moulded composites that have significantly different response to impact than traditional prepreg-based composites. The response of a number of resin transfer moulding (RTM) composites is characterized using both traditional and new metrics of performance. Impact performance maps are used to differentiate between materials response at a fundamental level and key differences are traced to differences in preform fabric architecture. Global and local differences in response based on architecture are elucidated through the determination of damage and energy absorbance, and are related to materials' specific characteristics in an attempt to allow comparison of impact response of composites on a more quantitative basis.
False Asystole Alarms Post-Temporary Pacemaker Placement Due to Pseudo-fusion

An infant with congenital heart block and hemodynamically significant bradycardia underwent therapeutic temporary pacing wires placement. Post-operatively, frequent "asystole" alarms were observed on telemetry causing distress to both the family and the nursing staff. Investigation of these alarms showed that pacemaker malfunction led to monitor pseudo-malfunction. The alarms were alleviated with mindful setting of the pacemaker and telemetry monitor parameters. This case highlights the challenges of pacemaker placement and monitoring of very small infants in the intensive care setting. Awareness of these challenges would help in troubleshooting pacemaker and telemetry monitor issues.
Hashtags for gatekeeping of information on social media

Abstract Since the inception of gatekeeping research in the 1940s, most studies on gatekeeping have been human‐centric, treating and studying individuals as gatekeepers, who perform their gatekeepi...
The Diabetic Foot

With the rising prevalence of diabetes mellitus, the impact of foot complications has been recognized worldwide. The potentially devastating effects of this disease have led to substantial personal, social, medical, and economic costs, therefore fueling the search for effective preventative measures and definitive treatment strategies. The main diabetic foot complications include neuropathic ulcerations, infections, amputations, and Charcot deformities. Understanding the pathways to these clinical manifestations provides a foundation for appropriate medical management and surgical intervention when indicated. Many complications are preventable with proper and frequent diabetic foot screenings, patient education in the overall management of diabetes mellitus and its related multi-organ manifestations, and directing high-risk patients into comprehensive treatment programs. Once a diabetic foot complication has ensued, early and aggressive treatment efforts under a multidisciplinary medical and surgical team approach should be targeted at maintaining the patient’s function and preserving their quality of life.
Asynchrony During Pediatric Noninvasive Ventilation With a Nasal Cannula Interface: A Lung Model Study.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is used commonly in the acute care setting and is associated with high incidence of patient ventilator asynchrony. METHODS: An ASL 5000 breathing simulator was used to model pediatric patients with varying patient efforts and lung conditions. For delivery of NIV, a commonly used acute care ventilator was used by connecting a nasal cannula interface to model nares produced with a 3-dimensional printer. The modes of ventilation were NIV pressure control continuous mandatory ventilation and NIV pressure control continuous spontaneous ventilation. Patient and ventilator waveforms were analyzed using the ASL 5000 software to assess for asynchrony events and determine the asynchrony index (AI). RESULTS: Significant asynchrony (AI > 0.1) existed in the majority of scenarios for both pressure control continuous mandatory ventilation and pressure control continuous spontaneous ventilation (79% and 93%, respectively). The most common asynchrony event was ineffective trigger, accounting for 81.9% of events in pressure control continuous mandatory ventilation and 79.3% in pressure control continuous spontaneous ventilation. There were no statistically significant differences in the AI when comparing simulated patient effort or lung condition. CONCLUSIONS: Significant asynchrony exists during NIV with a commonly used acute care ventilator and nasal cannula interface, which raises questions regarding its utility in clinical practice in the pediatric population.
Education of Control and Over-Current Protection Strategy for Active Three-Phase Rectifiers

Understanding rectifiers and modern control is extremely important for new graduates to know entering the electrical field. Graduate and undergraduate students were able to work together to help understand control and overcurrent protection for active three-phase rectifiers. Rectifiers are used to generate DC power from an AC source. For rectification of low-voltage, high-current power, rectifiers with low forward voltage drop are needed. As such, power MOSFETs are preferred to diodes. The proposed circuit design enables low forward voltage drop across the rectifiers by using power MOSFETs while providing protection strategy using sensor resistances. The circuit is also designed to be general for power scalability and tunable to fit device specifications for different power requirements. As a senior design project, students were able to create a full wave rectifier of a single-phase demonstrating use of mosfets. The requirements were based on creating a DC supply from one leg of a three-phase power system from an aircraft engine.
Costs of Employment and Flexible Labor Demand: Evidence from Maternity and Parental Leave Reforms

This study examines the effects on workers from the labor-demand response to the costs of mandated maternity and parental leave programs. Japan introduced generous parental leave policies in the 1990s, but for many years, firms still had to pay for the worker's social insurance payments during leave, amounting to 13 percent of earnings. A series of reforms occurring in 2000, 2001 and 2014 gradually reduced these costs to zero. This paper uses this quasi-experimental variation in the cost of female employment to measure the labor demand response. I focus on two key outcomes: starting wages of women of child-bearing age and the probability they are hired on permanent contracts. I find that a 100 thousand yen (approximately $1,000 USD) decrease in costs of employment during leave increase the probability of starting on a permanent contract by 1.6 percentage points, and increase starting pay by 3.3 percentage points. In contrast with previous studies, the unique setting I study allows me to separate the effects of changes in costs from endogenous responses by workers and firms to the menu of benefits. These findings have important implications for other countries mandating similar benefit schemes.
Visualized atom by atom.

The processes of metallic asperities moving across each other, which are decisive in most machinery, have been visualized at the atomic scale, revealing unexpected behaviour especially when under tensile stress.
There’s a Hole in the Heart: Part II

Intracardiac shunts can occur at various locations and may be the result of a congenital heart defect, other intracardiac pathology (i.e., infectious process), or iatrogenic complications of surgical or structural interventions. When analyzing a ventricular septal defect several parameters must be assessed in order to obtain a comprehensive evaluation. These include type and size of the defect, magnitude and direction of the shunt, cardiac response to the overload (chamber size and function), pulmonary pressures, and pulmonary vascular resistance. Interrogating VSD flow can provide important hemodynamic information and data regarding intracardiac pressures. It is important to make sure that all the flows present are interrogated and measured and obtained parameters should “make sense” when evaluated together; discrepancy in data obtained should prompt a thorough evaluation in order to attain an understanding of the nature of the discordant data.
Nutshells as granular activated carbons: physical, chemical and adsorptive properties†

Nutshells from seven different sources (pistachio, hazelnut, almond, black walnut, English walnut, macadamia nut, pecan) were converted to granular activated carbons (GACs) by carbon dioxide activation. A portion of the GACs were oxidized with compressed air and the physical (yield, surface area, attrition), chemical (pH, surface charge) and adsorptive (organics uptake, metal ion uptake) properties of both oxidized and non-oxidized carbons were determined. Differences in uptake of organics, especially of polar compounds, were found between GACs made from almond shells, the group consisting of black walnut shells, English walnut shells and pecan shells, and macadamia nutshells. Oxidation had its greatest effects on pH, surface charge and uptake of metal ions. The changes due to oxidation were found to be independent of carbon source material. GACs with specific properties can be produced with judicious selection of carbon precursor and oxidative treatment. © 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Role of kidney arginase in variations of the arginine requirement of chicks.

A study was conducted to assess the role of kidney arginase activity in variations of the arginine requirement of chicks. Kidney arginase activity and urea excretion were measured in chicks for which the arginine requirement was altered by the feeding of amino acid excesses or by genetic selection. Marked increases in arginase activity and urea excretion were associated with increases in the arginine require ment. Time-course studies revealed that the initial increases in kidney arginase activ ity and urea excretion corresponded in time with the initial decreases in rate of growth and food intake when chicks were fed arginine-limiting diets. The feeding of a-amino- isobutyric acid, a-amino-i-hydroxyvaleric acid, glycine and threonine depressed the kidney arginase activity and urea excretion of chicks fed arginine-limiting diets, and resulted in improved gain and efficiency of feed utilization. Kidney arginase was found to be readily altered by a variety of dietary amino acids when arginine content of the diet was limiting for growth. It is proposed that the alteration of the activity of this enzyme is a major factor in variations of the arginine requirement of chicks.
Safety of Pulsed High Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Enhanced Drug and Gene Delivery

For a limited range of exposure parameters, pulsed high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been shown to increase the delivery of certain systemically administered macromolecular diagnostic and therapeutic agents in mice. The mechanism for the enhanced delivery has not been demonstrated definitively and, in principle, can include thermal, cavitational, and non‐cavitation mechanical effects. The sonicated tissue has no damage on histology. As a step towards clinical translation, the safety of this technique needs to be assessed in a clinically relevant manner. In this study, the safety of pulsed HIFU is evaluated with near real‐time phase shift magnetic resonance (MR) thermometry and anatomic MR imaging using rabbits as subjects. MR guidance enables pulsed HIFU enhanced delivery to be implemented safely from a thermal standpoint. Although the effects of pulsed HIFU are not seen on anatomic MR images, they may be detected on MR sequences sensitive to permeability, diffusion, and elasticity. Such work t...
Optimal policies for two-stage, pull-type production/inventory systems

The authors consider a two-stage, pull-type production/inventory system with a known service mechanism at the first stage. Set-ups and start-ups are involved in the operation of the second stage. It is assumed that the first stage has always raw material to process. Between the two stages, there is an intermediate storage of work-in-process inventory that operates with the base-stock policy. Under this policy, the first stage produces as long as the intermediate buffer is not full. The second stage produces to store in the finished-product warehouse and operates with the continuous-review (R,r) policy. This policy implies that if the inventory is below or equal to the reorder level r, then a request for production is placed at stage 2. The production continues until the warehouse inventory reaches the capacity limit R. A semi-Markov decision model is used to obtain an optimal policy for the operation of the second stage. The structure of the optimal policy suggests use of a suboptimal look-back policy that delays the set-up at the second stage if the buffer lacks sufficient material. >
Constrained Lot-Sizes Under Conditions of Inventory Growth

When average aggregate inventory levels are constrained to equal a constant level over time, optimal lot sizes can be identified which strike a balance between holding costs and set-up costs among items which form the aggregate. However, when it is desirable to change aggregate inventory levels over time, assumptions implicit in the traditional formulation are violated. The procedure proposed generates lot sizes which are consistent not only with the current average aggregate inventory level but also with its projected growth over the planning horizon. Comparison is made to lot sizes generated by the misapplication of traditional lot sizing methods to the inventory growth situation.
Continuum Source Atomic Fluorescence of Arsenic

Although continuum sources in atomic fluorescence spectrometry have been thought to be of little use for studies below 200 nm, a high pressure xenon are continuum source has proved to be effective for exciting arsenic at 189.0, 193.7, and 197.2 nm. To enable good atomization characteristics and a constant signal for wavelength scans, a commercially prepared mixture of arsine in H2 was used as the sample. A wavelength scan is presented, comparisons of sensitivities at various wavelengths are shown, and some indication of the quenching characteristics of Ar and N2 are included in this work. Analytical studies show that the 189.0 nm line has the greatest sensitivity and when this line is used in conjunction with the 235.0 nm line, a dynamic range of approximately 700 is expected. The detection limit in terms of mass flow of As, is found to be about 0.5 ng/s at the 189.0 nm line.
Modification of human spinal stretch reflexes: Preliminary studies

Modulation of the human spinal stretch reflex (SSR) may be important in treating hyperactive reflexes or may be a tool to enhance normal performance. Eight of 9 subjects given feedback of biceps brachii SSR amplitude and instructed to increase (uptrain) or decrease (downtrain) this response were able to do so in the appropriate direction. These results imply that, as in non-human primates, SSR amplitude can be modified.
Computer supported collaborative learning using CLARE: the approach and experimental findings

Current collaborative learning systems focus on maximizing shared information. However, “meaningful learning” is not simply information sharing but, more importantly, knowledge construction. CLARE is a computer-supported learning environment that facilitates meaningful learning through collaborative knowledge construction. CLARE provides a semi-formal representation language called RESRA and an explicit process model called SECAI. Experimental evaluation through 300 hours of classroom usage indicates that CLARE does support meaningful learning, and that a major bottleneck to computer-mediated knowledge construction is summarization. Lessons learned through the design and evaluation of CLARE provide new insights into both collaborative learning systems and collaborative learning theories.
Optimizing mobile display brightness by leveraging human visual perception

Modern smartphones and tablets are battery-constrained by their mobility; this constraint is heavily factored into any design decision made on the device. Furthermore, the display is one of the most power-consuming subsystems. Adaptive display brightness systems attempt to address this high display power consumption by setting the brightness depending on the surrounding ambient light levels.In this work, we run a series of user studies aimed at gauging the accuracy of these adaptive brightness models. These studies compare subjective satisfaction and readability metrics on a common smartphone display and find that the adaptive brightness system isn't well-tuned to user preferences. We also find that subjective ratings and readability are closely correlated with one another across different display brightness levels, which can be used to give a better understanding of how screen brightness levels impact users.Additionally, we note that operating systems need to reduce the power envelope of the device for a variety of reasons. This is done without understanding the impact of these decisions on user satisfaction, and can significantly degrade user experience. In this work, we propose a user-aware method of reducing display power consumption, which allows display power to be throttled while understanding the resulting impact on the user. By considering this impact on the user, we devise an optimal dimming scheme which can reduce the time-weighted readability degradation by upwards of 21.5%.
Incubation rhythm in the Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis : Annual variation and sex roles

I monitored the incubation schedules of Fulmars Fulmarus glacialis in an Alaskan colony by observing nests where the male and female were of different colour phases. Complete shifts of up to 16 days were recorded; the average shift in mid-incubation was 4–6 days. Mean shift length was inversely correlated with hatching success in 5 years, suggesting that Fulmars adjusted their foraging patterns to annual differences in food availability. Males assumed the larger share (55%) of incubation on average, and a larger share in years with lower hatching success. Serial correlation in the length of incubation shifts had two components—the influence of prior shift lengths on time spent foraging and individual variation. Failure of the male to relieve the female soon after laying resulted in a few breeding failures and egg losses were associated with exceptionally long shifts throughout incubation.
Quantitative investigation of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis over 6 years after cardiac transplantation

Abstract Objectives. This study was performed to determine the degree and time course over 6 years of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis of the cardiac allograft in transplanted patients. Background. Diastolic dysfunction and to a certain extent systolic dysfunction are common cardiac findings after heart transplantation. The development of posttransplant cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis likely contributes to these derangements. Methods. Cardiomyocyte diameter and percent fibrosis were determined in serial endomyocardial biopsy specimens obtained from 1 month up to 6 years following heart transplantation in 50 patients. Endomyocardial biopsy specimens from 40 patients with primary dilated cardiomyopathy and 11 normal subjects were similarly analyzed for control data. Analyses were performed in a blinded format using a validated computerized image analysis system (Optimas 5.2). Results. Early (1 month) cardiomyocyte enlargement decreased to the smallest diameter 6 months posttransplant, but thereafter progressively increased by 10% to 20% over the subsequent 5- to 6-year period. Although not statistically established, principal stimuli may include a discrepancy in body size (recipient > donor), coronary allograft vasculopathy and posttransplant systemic hypertension. Percent myocardial fibrosis rose early (1 to 2 months) posttransplant and thereafter remained at the same modest level of severity. Conclusions. Cardiomyocyte diameter of the transplanted heart gradually increases over time, while percent myocardial fibrosis rises early and remains in a modestly elevated plateau after 2 months posttransplant. These histostructural changes likely contribute to the hemodynamic and cardiac functional alterations commonly observed posttransplant.
First test results from FORCAST: the facility mid-IR camera for SOFIA

We report laboratory tests amd development progress for the Faint Object Infrared Camera for the SOFIA Telescope (FORCAST). FORCAST is a two-channel camera with selectable filters for continuum and line imaging in the 5 - 40 micron wavelength region. Simultaneous imaging will be possible in the two channels: 5 - 25 microns using a Si:As 256x256 blocked impurity band (BIB) detector array, and 25-40 microns using a Si:Sb BIB. FORCAST will sample 0.75 arcseconds per pixel allowing a 3.2'x3.2' instantaneous field-of view in both channels simultaneously. Imaging will be diffracted limited for lambda> 15 microns on the SOFIA telescope. Since FORCAST operates in the wavelength range where the seeing is best from SOFIA, it will provide the highest spatial resolution possible from the airborne observatory. In addition to imaging, the FORCAST optical design provides for a simple upgrade to include spectroscopic observations using grisms mounted in the filter wheels. FORCAST will be available for facility testing and astronomical observations at SOFIA first (f)light.