cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility of a ramping protocol to measure cerebral vascular reactivity using functional magnetic resonance imaging

Though individual differences in arterial carbon dioxide and oxygen levels inherently exist, the degree of their influence on cerebral vascular reactivity (CVR) is less clear. We examined the reproducibility of BOLD signal changes to an iso-oxic ramping Pet CO2 protocol. CVR changes were induced by altering Pet CO2 while holding Pet O2 constant using a computer-controlled sequential gas delivery (SGD) device. Two MRI scans, each including a linear change in Pet CO2 , were performed using a 3-Tesla (3T) scanner. This ramp sequence consisted of 1 min at 30 mmHg followed by 4 min period during where Pet CO2 was linearly increased from 30 to 50 mmHg, 1 min at 51 mmHg, and concluded with 4 min at baseline. The protocol was repeated at a separate visit with 3 days between visits (minimum). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and coefficients of variation (CV) were used to verify reproducibility. Eleven subjects (6 females; mean age 26.5 ± 5.7 years) completed the full testing protocol. Good reproducibility was observed for the within-visit ramp sequence (Visit 1: ICC = 0.82, CV = 6.5%; Visit 2: ICC = 0.74, CV = 6.4%). Similarly, ramp sequence were reproducible between visits (Scan 1: ICC = 0.74, CV = 6.5%; Scan 2: ICC = 0.66, CV = 6.1%). Establishing reproducible methodologies for measuring BOLD signal changes in response to Pet CO2 alterations using a ramp protocol will allow researchers to study CVR functionality. Finally, adding a ramping protocol to CVR studies could provide information about changes in CVR over a broad range of Pet CO2 .
A Model and Evidence Base for Achieving Complete Recovery in Schizophrenia

Persons with schizophrenia endure several types of losses. These include clinical, functional, personal, and material losses. Recovering all these losses is complete recovery. However, the core of recovery is personal. It is the experience of full acceptance by all as an individual and fellow human being with dignity and respect.
Excitation-Contraction Coupling and Regulation of Contraction in Skeletal Muscle: The Modern Synthesis

Excitation–contraction coupling, as the name implies, was originally defined to include the events from the sarcolemma action potential to the contraction of the muscle. But with the rapidly increasing knowledge concerning the mechanisms of muscle activation, sub-disciplines developed. Now excitation-contraction coupling usually is defined in a more limited way as the events that link surface membrane depolarization to the release of Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in muscle cells (Paolini et al. 2004). The contraction part of excitation-contraction coupling is more likely now to be called regulation of contraction in striated muscle (Gordon et al. 2000).
Statin use in patients with non-HMGCR idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: A retrospective study.

Background Statins are the most widely used lipid lowering therapies which reduce cardiovascular risk, but are associated with muscular adverse events (AEs). Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are autoimmune diseases of the muscle with higher risk of cardiovascular disease. More data is needed regarding statin safety in patients with intrinsic muscle disease such as IIM. Hypothesis Statins are tolerated in patients with IIM without leading to significant increase in muscular AEs. Methods Statin use was retrospectively examined in a longitudinal IIM cohort. Safety analysis included assessment of muscular and nonmuscular AEs by chart review. IIM patients receiving a statin during the cohort follow-up period were matched to IIM patients not receiving a statin for comparative analysis of longitudinal outcomes. Results 33/214 patients had a history of statin use. 63% started for primary prevention, while others were started for clinical ASCVD events, vascular surgery, IIM related heart failure, and cardiac transplantation. A high intensity statin was used in nine patients with non-HMGCR myositis, and tolerated in 8/9 patients. Statin related muscular AE was noted in three patients. There were no cases of rhabdomyolysis, or statin related nonmuscular AEs in a median observation period of 5 years. In patients newly started on statins during cohort follow-up (n = 7) there was no change in disease activity after statin initiation. Long term outcomes were not different between statin and nonstatin IIM control groups. Conclusion Statins were well tolerated in patients with non-HMGCR positive IIM. Given the accelerated atherosclerotic risk in IIM patients, further prospective studies of statin safety in IIM patients are warranted.
Endogenous Opiates and Behavior: 2018

This paper is the forty-first consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2018 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (2), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (3) and humans (4), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (5), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (6), stress and social status (7), learning and memory (8), eating and drinking (9), drug abuse and alcohol (10), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (11), mental illness and mood (12), seizures and neurologic disorders (13), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (14), general activity and locomotion (15), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (16), cardiovascular responses (17), respiration and thermoregulation (18), and immunological responses (19).
An exploratory study on using Slippery-Liquid-Infused-Porous-Surface (SLIPS) for wind turbine icing mitigation

Abstract An experimental study was conducted to explore the potentials of using a Slippery-Liquid-Infused-Porous-Surface (SLIPS) for wind turbine icing mitigation. The SLIPS was prepared by infusing a lubricant oil into a nanofibrous membrane, which can stick firmly to the surface of a turbine blade model. While the SLIPS was found to effectively suppress impact ice accretion on the blade surface where strong aerodynamic forces are exerted, ice was still found to accrete in the vicinity of the blade stagnation line where aerodynamic forces are at their minimum. A novel hybrid anti-/de-icing strategy to integrate the SLIPS with a minimized leading-edge heating was demonstrated to effectively remove the ice accretion over entire blade surface. An comprehensive experimental study was also performed to evaluate the durability of the SLIPS to resist wearing away of the substrate materials and depletion of the infused lubricant oil due to “rain erosion” effects, in considering its practical usage for wind turbine icing mitigation. It was found that the “rain erosion” effects would induce significant surface wettability degradation, substantial ice adhesion increment and even structural failures to the SLIPS as the duration of the rain erosion testing increases.
Locating Religion in South Asia: Islamicate Definitions and Categories

The category of Islam as a religion—as defined within religious studies discourses—informs Islamic studies across disciplines, even as it appears in fields that may not have methodological, theoretical, or topical overlaps with the study of religion. By locating Islamicate, South Asian definitions of religion as analogous, related, and, in some cases, influences to Euro American definitions of religion, this article troubles the relationship between the study of religion, definitions of religion, and non-European, non Christian actors. This essay contributes to the growing body of literature asking how and when native definitions of categories of (or like) religion have been incorporated or ignored within the broadest definitions and specifically how Islamicate texts contribute to the history of the study of religion.
The impact of removing global periods on pediatric surgeon reimbursement

Abstract Purpose CMS has proposed removing postoperative care from the global periods for surgical procedures and instead requiring surgeons to bill for postoperative visits using evaluation & management (E&M) codes. This policy may alter reimbursement to pediatric surgeons. Methods To assess the impact of this policy, NSQIP-pediatric data were used to calculate median LOS for high-volume procedures with 10 or 90 day global periods. We then merged these data with CMS physician work time and RVU files. A CMS LOS variable was created by counting the number of hospital-based E&M codes built into the global period based on the fact that if global periods are removed, surgeons may only bill one E&M code per postoperative day. We then compared the CMS and NSQIP LOS values. Results The dataset included 201 CPT codes with NSQIP LOS estimates derived from a median of 137 operations. Twenty-nine procedures (14.4%) had higher, 24 (16.9%) had the same, and 138 (68.7%) had lower NSQIP median LOS than current CMS values. On average, NSQIP values were 40.0% (95% confidence interval [95CI] − 50.0, − 29.9%) lower than CMS values. Based on a daily average work RVU per postoperative E&M code of 1.09 (95% CI 1.05, 1.12), and $35.78 per RVU (2017 rate), surgeons in this sample would experience a cumulative annual reduction in reimbursement of approximately $3.4 M following the policy change. Conclusions Most pediatric surgical procedures have RVU valuations that include more hospital-based E&M codes than the current median number of postoperative days. Holding all else equal, the removal of global periods would therefore reduce reimbursement for pediatric surgeons. The downstream effects of this policy change, such as the impact on the quality of clinical care, are uncertain and warrant further investigation. Type of study Clinical research paper. Level of evidence Level II.
Erfahrungen im Einführungsprozess der Strategischen Personalplanung

Die Vorgehensweise der Strategischen Personalplanung (SPP) verfolgt die Ubersetzung der Unternehmens- oder Geschaftsbereichsstrategie in eine Personalstrategie. Es konnen mit ihr langfristig wirkende Entscheidungen vorgedacht, bestatigt, nachverfolgt oder hinterfragt werden. Neben der Vorgehensweise der SPP erortern die Autorinnen insbesondere die Voraussetzungen in der HR-Organisation, die fur die Implementierung einer Strategischen Personalplanung zu schaffen sind, und welche sonstigen Einflussfaktoren von den verantwortlichen Akteuren zu berucksichtigen sind. Dabei betrachten sie die SPP weniger als klassisches Planungsinstrument, sondern eher als Instrument, das eine fundierte Entscheidung zur Strategiebildung ermoglicht.
Abstract IA20: Lymph protects metastasizing melanoma cells from ferroptosis

Cancer cells, including melanoma, often metastasize regionally through lymphatics before metastasizing systemically through the blood; however, the reason for this is unclear. We discovered that melanoma cells in lymph experience less oxidative stress and form more metastases than melanoma cells in blood. Immunocompromised mice with patient-derived melanomas and immunocompetent mice with mouse melanomas had more melanoma cells per microliter of tumor-draining lymph than tumor-draining blood. Cells metastasizing through blood, but not lymph, became dependent on the ferroptosis inhibitor GPX4. Cells pre-treated with chemical ferroptosis inhibitors formed more metastases than untreated cells after intravenous, but not intralymphatic, injection. We observed multiple differences between lymph fluid and blood plasma that may contribute to decreased oxidative stress and ferroptosis in lymph, including higher levels of glutathione and oleic acid, and less free iron, in lymph. Oleic acid protected melanoma cells from ferroptosis in an Acsl3-dependent manner and increased their capacity to form metastatic tumors. Melanoma cells from lymph nodes were more resistant to ferroptosis and formed more metastases after intravenous injection than melanoma cells from subcutaneous tumors. Exposure to the lymphatic environment thus protects melanoma cells from ferroptosis and increases their ability to survive during subsequent metastasis through the blood. Citation Format: Sean J. Morrison. Lymph protects metastasizing melanoma cells from ferroptosis [abstract]. In: Abstracts: AACR Special Virtual Conference on Epigenetics and Metabolism; October 15-16, 2020; 2020 Oct 15-16. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(23 Suppl):Abstract nr IA20.
The Nature and Future of Econophysics

The article presents an overview of econophysics, its main issues, history and possible paths of future development. Descriptions of the subject, problems and methodology are provided. The questions are raised such as what the contribution of the new discipline to the core issues in economics is and whether the new methods and approaches could be applied in physics. The role of the interdisciplinary research which tends to become the main engine of development in econophysics is discussed in detail.
Grief Lessons of the Apocalypse: Self-care Is a Joyful Jab in the Arm

When the pandemic hit New York City, life changed overnight. In an effort to stay as safe as possible, usual roles and activities shifted. People became isolated, both from each other and from their usual ways of functioning and defining themselves. The professional practices of social work and social work education morphed at the same time, as did the personal lives of practitioners, students, and educators. The author describes navigating shifts in multiple roles: doctoral student, professor, social worker, patient, friend, and human being. Themes of shared trauma, object relations, grief, and parallel process are described in the context of the existential angst of the pandemic from a first-person narrative of the first few months of quarantine.
Vicarious Learning under Implicit Contracts

ABSTRACT: Employee contracts often allow for managerial discretion, such that the manager decides after observing an employee's performance how that employee will be rewarded or penalized. Importantly, the effects of such evaluation outcomes can extend beyond the employee(s) directly affected, because such outcomes can be observed by other employees within the firm. The net effect of such vicarious learning as an indirect control depends on the inferences employees make after observing a peer's evaluation outcome. In this study, we use an experiment to investigate whether the inferences observer-employees make about how managers evaluate and reward employee behavior depend on whether the valence of the observed outcome is positive or negative. Using the setting of a strategic performance measurement system, we test and find support for a causal model, in which the valence of the observed outcome influences observer-employees' inferences and subsequent behavioral focus via their psychological distance from...
Jet Ventilation for ENT Surgery

Jet ventilation is a valuable technique for airway management in airway surgeries. It enables the ENT surgeon to operate uninterrupted and unimpeded by an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask airway. It does not require the anesthesiologist to keep a patient spontaneously ventilating. However, it is a nuanced technique that requires careful coordination between the ENT surgeon and anesthesiologist. There are careful requirements that must be maintained in order to prevent potentially catastrophic complications, particularly barotrauma, pneumothorax, subcutaneous infiltration of air, severe hypercarbia, and interference with surgery. These are outlined in this chapter on jet ventilation for ENT surgery.
Case report: Trans-clavicular plating and pedicled rectus abdominis flap for treatment of an open segmental clavicle fracture and scapulothoracic dissociation

Abstract Scapulothoracic dissociation, particularly in combination with open fractures of the shoulder girdle, can be associated with significant soft tissue injury and present challenges with coverage and fixation. A single case of an open scapulothoracic dissociation was reviewed. Case presentation, clinical course and initial outcomes are discussed. A 22-year-old patient presented with an open left segmental clavicle fracture, sternoclavicular dislocation and scapulothoracic dissociation after being ejected in a motor vehicle collision. The shoulder girdle was initially stabilized with trans-clavicular trans-manubrial plating followed by staged pedicled rotational rectus abdominis flap. Follow-up at 1 month revealed well healed wounds and 90 degrees of forward flexion. Patients with open fractures and scapulothoracic dissociation can present multiple challenges when considering fixation and soft tissue coverage. A viable option in these patients is a pedicled rotational rectus abdominis flap when more typical coverage options are precluded from associated injuries.
Physics Inventory of Quantitative Literacy: A tool for assessing mathematical reasoning in introductory physics

The physics inventory of quantitative literacy is a 20-item instrument to assess quantitative reasoning in introductory physics contexts.
Bone Biopsy and Histomorphometry in Clinical Practice

SUMMARY Transilial bone biopsy after tetracycline labeling coupled with histomorphometry has become an indispensable tool in the clinical research of metabolic bone disease, especially in evaluating the long-term safety and efficacy of therapeutic agents proposed for treatment of bone disease. It is probably not necessary for the majority of patients who seek medical care for bone diseases such as osteoporosis. It is particularly useful in the management of patients with end-stage renal disease who develop symptomatic bone disease because it may be the only means of deciding on proper treatment. The biopsy can be performed safely by nearly any clinician after brief training. Tetracycline labeling must be accomplished before the biopsy, and the specimen must be handled carefully to avoid removal of the mineral or disturbing the label. Embedding, sectioning, staining, and analysis must be performed without removal of the mineral. The difficulty of this methodology has limited its availability. Nevertheless, it can be applied in most situations in which there is clear benefit to patient management.
History as Ideology: Philip Hamburger's Separation of Church and State

In 1802, Thomas Jefferson wrote to the Danbury Baptist Association of "a wall of separation between Church & State."2 This concept of "separation," dating back to an earlier giant of religious liberty, Roger Williams, captured the essence of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. A growing consensus in the United States embraced the phrase's fundamental idea, and legislators dismantled all the remaining state establishments of religion by 1833. In 1878, the Supreme Court treated the phrase as almost "an authoritative declaration of the scope and effect" of the First Amendment's religion clauses.3 When the Courtrelying on the Fourteenth Amendment to make the First Amendment operate as a restriction on state power-first applied the Establishment Clause to the states in Everson v. Board of Education in 1947, the Court adopted the separation metaphor as its guide.4 The notion of separation of church and state, which the Court continues to enunciate, thus stretches over more than two centuries of American history as a core principle of American
Cognitive flexibility differentiates young adults exhibiting obsessive-compulsive behaviors from controls

Abstract The National Institute of Mental Health has proposed a shift toward classifying clusters of disorders on the basis of underlying biomarkers and neurological correlates. The present study sought to determine whether cognitive flexibility represents one such construct underlying obsessive-compulsive behaviors (OCBs), a cluster of behaviors characteristic of OCD and other body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), including trichotillomania, pathological skin picking, nail biting, and tic disorders. One-hundred and twenty-four undergraduate students completed the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales, Padua Inventory—Washington State University Revision, Massachusetts General Hospital—Hairpulling Scale, Skin Picking Scale, and an Intradimensional/Extradimensional Shift (IDED) Test. Analyses were performed using a subsample of participants who met criteria for inclusion in the OCB group and a control group ( N =56). Results indicated that young adults in the OCB group demonstrated significantly poorer performance on the IDED compared to controls. However, hierarchical regression analyses revealed that increased deficits in cognitive flexibility failed to predict worsened OCB severity—as assessed via a composite score. These results suggest that while cognitive flexibility differentiates those exhibiting OCBs from controls, it does not appear to be related to OCB severity. Future research is needed to replicate these results in larger clinical samples.
A general theory of third-order intermodulation distortion in common-emitter radio frequency circuits

This paper presents a general analysis of the 3rd-order nonlinearity of a single-ended and differential common-emitter (CE) radio frequency (RF) amplifier. With direct computation of the third-order nonlinear response, a closed-form expression was derived. The results suggested several novel ways to cancel the third-order nonlinearity without affecting the in-band Noise Figure of the amplifier.
Data elements and validation methods used for electronic surveillance of health care-associated infections: A systematic review

Background We describe the primary data sources, data elements, and validation methods currently used in electronic surveillance systems (ESS) for identification and surveillance of health care-associated infections (HAIs), and compares these data elements and validation methods with recommended standards. Methods Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a PubMed and manual search was conducted to identify research articles describing ESS for identification and surveillance of HAIs published January 1, 2009-August 31, 2014. Selected articles were evaluated to determine what data elements and validation methods were included. Results Among the 509 articles identified in the original literature search, 30 met the inclusion criteria. Whereas the majority of studies (83%) used recommended data sources and validated the numerator (80%), only 10% of studies performed external and internal validation. In addition, there was variation in the ESS data formats used. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the majority of ESS for HAI surveillance use standard definitions, but the lack of widespread internal data, denominator, and external validation in these systems reduces the reliability of their findings. Additionally, advanced programming skills are required to create, implement, and maintain these systems and to reduce the variability in data formats.
Defining the Subjective Experience of Workload

Flight scenarios that represent different types and levels of pilot workload are needed in order to conduct research about, and develop measures of, pilot workload. In order to be useful, however, the workload associated with such scenarios and the component tasks must be determined independently. An initial study designed to provide such information was conducted by asking a panel of general aviation pilots to evaluate flight-related tasks for the overall, perceptual, physical, and cognitive workload they impose. These ratings will provide the nucleus for a data base of flight-related primary tasks that have been independently rated for workload to use in workload assessment research.
Going Under Cover: Passing as Human

This chapter discusses strategies for building a computer program to pose as a human for the Turing test, including the use of humor to distract the human judge from the task of evaluating the conversation. Experiences of computer programs from the Loebner Prize competitions are analyzed to give a “top 10” list of mistakes that computers make when trying to appear human.
DNA distortion and multimerization: novel functions of the glutamine-rich domain of GAGA factor.

GAGA factor (GAF) is an essential protein in Drosophila melanogaster, important for the transcriptional regulation of numerous genes. The effect of GAF on chromatin structure and promoter function has been the subject of much attention, yet little is known of the actual mechanism and the specific contributions of individual GAF domains to its function. The DNA-binding activity of GAF, as specified by the single zinc finger binding domain (Zn), has been examined in some detail; however, the functions of the POZ/BTB and glutamine domain (Q) remain poorly understood. Here, we report three separate activities of the Q domain of GAF; promoter distortion, single-strand binding, and multimerization. In vitro, GAF binding to the hsp70 promoter produces extended DNase I protection and KMnO4 hypersensitivity. These activities require both the Zn domain and Q domain of GAF, and appear independent of the POZ/BTB domain. GAF also has a single-stranded DNA binding affinity, as does the Q-rich region alone. GAF forms multimers both in vitro and in vivo, and the Q domain itself forms multimers. Protein-protein interactions mediated by the Q domain may, therefore, be at least partially responsible for the multimerization capabilities of GAF. We discuss these findings in the context of their possible function in GAF mediated transcriptional regulation.
Using entertainment media to inform student affairs teaching and practice related to leadership

This chapter provides a simple and effective model for using film, television and other popular media in student leadership development activities.
Mixed-reality learning in the art museum context

We describe the realization of two interactive, mixed-reality installations arising from a partnership of K-12, university, and museum participants. Our goal was to apply emerging technologies to produce an innovative, hands-on arts learning experience within a conventional art museum. Suspended Animation, a Reflection on Calder is a mixed-reality installation created in response to a sculpture by Alexander Calder. Another Rack for Peto was created in response to a painting by John Frederick Peto. Both installations express formal aspects of the original artworks, and allow visitors to explore specific conceptual themes through their interactions. The project culminated in a six-month exhibition where the original artworks were presented alongside these new installations. We present data that the installations were well received by an audience of 25,000 visitors.
Mathematical simulation of normal nephron function in rat and man.

Abstract A mathematical model of the nephron was developed by writing a set of material balance equations for the flow of water, sodium and urea along the length of the nephron. The differential equations derived incorporate the geometrics of an average nephron. The parameters of these equations were calculated using the analytical solutions and the available micro-puncture data. The model yielded piecewise continuous curves for volume flow rate and sodium and urea concentration profiles emphasizing the sequential processing of the filtrate along the consecutive nephron segments. The simulation of normal function in the rat nephron agreed reasonably well with the tubular fluid to plasma ratio data for inulin, urea and sodium along the proximal and distal tubules. Assuming a linear medullary interstitial solute concentration profile, the model generated continuous curves for the luminal concentrations of sodium and urea along the descending and ascending limbs of the loop of Henle. The simulated curves were consistent with available micropuncture data for sodium and suggested a possible mechanism for the handling of urea by the nephron to account for the passive recirculation of this solute and its role in the development of the longitudinal medullary concentration gradient. The simulation of the human nephron, after making certain necessary extrapolations from the rat nephron, gave comparable curves for water, sodium and urea transport.
Synthesis of titanium carbide/chromium carbide multilayers by the co-evaporation of multiple ingots by electron beam physical vapor deposition

Abstract Titanium carbide and chromium carbide multilayer coatings with varying individual layer thicknesses were synthesized by the co-evaporation of titanium, chromium, and carbon (through tungsten) ingots by electron beam-physical vapor deposition. The adhesion of the multilayer coatings was found to be greater than 50 N. The hardness of the titanium carbide/chromium carbide multilayer coatings was found to increase from 1302 VHN 0.050 to 2052 VHN 0.050 by decreasing the thickness of the individual layer from 1.2 to 0.1 μm. In addition, the average grain diameter was also found to decrease from 3.315 to 0.356 μm by decreasing the thickness of the individual layers. The fracture toughness of the TiC/CrC multilayer coatings decreased from 4.179 to 1.411 MPa-m 1 2 with decreasing layer thickness. Lastly, the amount of compressive stress in both the TiC and CrC layers within the multilayer coating was found to decrease with decreasing individual layer thickness. The samples were characterized by various techniques including Vicker's hardness, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, scratch testing and fracture toughness, with the results being presented.
Mechanics of multi-pulley flexible drive systems

Resume Cet article presente un traitament elementaire de la mecanique ds systemes d'entrainement flexibles a poulies multiplies. Afin de preserver la simplicite du modele, on suppose que la pression initiale entre les surface de la courroie et de la poulie en contact est suffisante pour eviter tout glissement, que la courroie est legere, inextensible et assez flexible pour que l'on puisse negliger les effets de cisaillement et de torsion.
Effects of L-dopa on behavior and on brain amines in mice treated with 6-hydroxydopamine.

Abstract Mice treated intracerebrally with 6-OH dopamine (6-OHDA) developed exaggerated behavioral response to L-DOPA; the response was evaluated by employing a rating scale of mouse behavior. Presence of a monamine oxidase inhibitor was not necessary for the occurrence of the maximal response to L-DOPA. The hypersensitivity to L-DOPA appeared as soon as 4 hr after 6-OHDA treatment and was still marked 30 days later. Norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) brain content was drastically reduced in 6-OHDA treated animals; administration of L-DOPA to these animals increased significantly the brain levels of these two amines. Acetycholine levels were not affected by 6-OHDA treatment throughout the 20 days of the testing period. α-methyl DOPA prevented the exaggerated L-DOPA response. These data suggest that L-DOPA hypersensitivity is due to NE and DA formed by L-DOPA, and to the decrease of their uptake by the nerve terminals destroyed by the 6-OHDA treatment.
Rocky Mountain foreland uplifts: Products of a rotating stress field or strain partitioning?

Stress-tensor analysis of minor faults near the structural range fronts of diversely oriented Laramide foreland uplifts in the central Rocky Mountains, Wyoming, indicates that paleo-σ 1 was horizontal and oriented nearly perpendicular to uplift trends. Trend directions for σ 1 vary from east-northeast in the north-trending Laramie Range, to northeast in the northwest-trending Bighorn Mountains, to north at east-trending Casper Mountain and in the east-trending central Owl Creek Mountains. Although these compression directions are compatible with models invoking temporally changing stress directions during the Laramide orogeny, the apparent similarity in timing of uplift in these ranges suggests that the computed stress tensors may not reflect regional stress conditions. Recent stress determinations in transpressional regimes suggest that strain partitioning may be an important factor in considering local stress patterns in the vicinity of mountain belt structures oblique to regional trends. In light of these studies, caution should be used in interpreting regional paleostress from structures measured close to the tectonic fronts of Laramide uplifts.
Space telescope performance prediction using the optical surface analysis code (OSAC)

The optical surface analysis code (OSAC) is used to predict the optical performance of the Hubble Space Telescope. We describe the analysis in detail and compare some of the results with those of a standard optical transfer function analysis. Also, we discuss the mathematical foundation of the OSAC code and describe in detail the error data that were used as input. OSAC is shown to be a valuable tool for separating and analyzing the effects of misalignments, figure errors, and mid and high frequency statistical mirror surface errors on optical performance.
Spatial and temporal patterns of enzootic raccoon rabies adjusted for multiple covariates

Background With the objective of identifying spatial and temporal patterns of enzootic raccoon variant rabies, a spatial scan statistic was utilized to search for significant terrestrial rabies clusters by year in New York State in 1997–2003. Cluster analyses were unadjusted for other factors, adjusted for covariates, and adjusted for covariates and large scale geographic variation (LSGV). Adjustments were intended to identify the unusual aggregations of cases given the expected distribution based on the observed locations.
Moist Heat or Dry Heat for Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Background: Heat is commonly used in physical therapy following exercise induced delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Most heat modalities used in a clinical setting for DOMS are only applied for 5 to 20 minutes. This minimal heat exposure causes little, if any, change in deep tissue temperature. For this reason, long duration dry chemical heat packs are used at home to slowly and safely warm tissue and reduce potential heat damage while reducing pain associated from DOMS. Clinically, it has been shown that moist heat penetrates deep tissue faster than dry heat. Therefore, in home use chemical moist heat may be more efficacious than dry heat to provide pain relief and reduce tissue damage following exercise DOMS. However, chemical moist heat only lasts for 2 hours compared to the 8 hours duration of chemical dry heat packs. The purpose of this study was to compare the beneficial effect of dry heat versus moist heat on 100 young subjects after exercise induce DOMS. Methods: One hundred subjects exercised for 15 minutes accomplishing squats. Before and for 3 days after, strength, muscle soreness, tissue resistance, and the force to passively move the knee were recorded. Heat and moist heat were applied in different groups either immediately after exercise or 24 hours later. Results: The research results of this study showed that immediate application of heat, either dry (8 hours application) or moist (2 hours application), had a similar preservation of quadriceps muscle strength and muscle activity. Results also revealed that the greatest pain reduction was shown after immediate application of moist heat. Never the less, immediate application of dry heat had a similar effect but to a lesser extent. Conclusion: It should be noted that moist heat had not only similar benefits of dry heat but in some cases enhanced benefits, and with only 25% of the time of application of the dry heat. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4021/jocmr1521w
High‐Cot sequence analysis of the maize genome

Higher eukaryotic genomes, including those from plants, contain large amounts of repetitive DNA that complicate genome analysis. We have developed a technique based on DNA renaturation which normalizes repetitive DNA, and thereby allows a more efficient outcome for full genome shotgun sequencing. The data indicate that sequencing the unrenatured outcome of a Cot experiment, otherwise known as High-Cot DNA, enriches genic sequences by more than fourfold in maize, from 5% for a random library to more than 20% for a High-Cot library. Using this approach, we predict that gene discovery would be greater than 95% and that the number of sequencing runs required to sequence the full gene space in maize would be at least fourfold lower than that required for full-genome shotgun sequencing.
Modeling the micro structural evolution of thermoplastic composites

We present a new model for simulating the microstructural evolution and transformation kinetics of semi-crystalline thermoplastic composites. The model is based on a front-tracking method coupled with a cellular discretization to track the microstructural evolution. The model can predict not only the shape and size distribution of the spherulites in the sample, but also the shape of the lamellae within each of the spherulites. It is, to our knowledge, the first method which accurately models the impingement between spherulites and inclusions for a macroscopic sample. We compare our results with experiments and demonstrate the versatility of the model by using it to study the effect of different nucleation conditions on the final microstructure of fiber reinforced thermoplastic matrix composites. We show the effect of transcrystallinity on the transformation kinetics and microstructural evolution.
The multifaceted career of Louis Borsch.

John Louis Borsch Jr, MD (1873-1929), was an ophthalmologist from Philadelphia who spent most of his career in France. During his lifetime he was probably best known as the inventor of the first fused bifocal lens, which was marketed very successfully as the Kryptok lens. He may be better known today for performing cataract surgery on Mary Cassatt (1844-1926), the American Impressionist artist, and on James Joyce (1882-1941), the Irish author. Little known, but remarkable, is his thesis for his second medical degree, Le Traitement Chirurgical de l’Astigmie ( The Surgical Treatment of Astigmatism ).
Some lipid-protein interactions involved in prothrombin activation.

Abstract 1. 1. Bovine plasma prothrombin forms a macromolecular complex with an equimolar mixture of phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylcholine in aqueous dispersion. Complex formation, as detected by gel filtration on columns of Sephadex G-200, occurs only in the presence of an optimal concentration of Ca 2+ . 2. 2. Thrombin, bovine plasma albumin and an α 1 -acid glycoprotein are not adsorbed by the lipid particles either in the presence or absence of Ca 2+ . 3. 3. At—1°, prothrombin becomes attached to the particulate prothrombin activator complex consisting of activated factor X, factor V, phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine mixture and Ca 2+ . At 37° in this system, prothrombin is converted to thrombin which itself is not adsorbed by the lipoprotein complex. 4. 4. The kinetics of prothrombin activation are consistent with a model involving catalysis of the reaction at the lipid-water interface and subsequent release of thrombin into the aqueous phase. Such a mechanism would favour the forward reaction by removing the reaction products from the site of their formation, at the same time creating sites for the renewed adsorption of prothrombin.
Scheduling projects with multi-skilled personnel by a hybrid MILP/CP benders decomposition algorithm

We study an assignment type resource-con- strained project scheduling problem with resources being multi-skilled personnel to minimize the total staffing costs. We develop a hybrid Benders decomposition (HBD) algorithm that combines the complimentary strengths of both mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) and constraint programming (CP) to solve this NP-hard optimization problem. An effective cut-generating scheme based on temporal analysis in project scheduling is devised for resolving resource conflicts. The computational study shows that our hybrid MILP/CP algorithm is both effective and efficient compared to the pure MILP or CP method alone.
Quality Measures for the U.S. Hospice System

Academic research analyzing hospice quality and performance is limited. The purpose of this exploratory study is to investigate potential measurements to address quality within the U.S. hospice system. We endeavor to use Medicare Hospice Cost Report data for 2000 through 2007 to operationalize three constructs of quality—operational, labor, and clinical. These constructs are an attempt to answer the call for quality measures that focus on the following areas: (1) how the organization is functioning, (2) how the workforce is improving, and (3) how to measure changes in the patient’s condition. We examine these hospice quality measures in both nonprofit (NP) and for-profit (FP) hospice providers. Our sample includes 7,039 observations for the investigation period. Our results indicate that hospice quality significantly improves for our sample. These findings also hold when separately examining for-profit and nonprofit hospice providers. To our knowledge, research has not fully explored potential measures of hospice quality. Our exploratory study is an attempt to bridge dialogue between research and practice to further the discussion of quality in hospice care. Quality is a difficult concept to measure when referring to hospice care especially since the patients are terminally ill and are expected to die. Quality care consists of keeping the patient comfortable as he/she goes through the dying process. For this reason typically quality standards are not applicable, and our findings assist in the development of performance-related hospice quality measures.
Low ON-resistance and high current GaN Vertical Electron Transistors with buried p-GaN layers

Current Aperture Vertical Electron Transistors (CAVETs) benefit from the high electron mobility of the 2-dimensional electron gas (2-DEG) in the lateral direction and the better field distribution of the vertical geometry. Current flows laterally in the 2-DEG at the AlGaN/GaN heterojunction and is directed vertically down to the drain, through the aperture (Fig.1). A current blocking layer (CBL) is used to define the low resistance aperture. In this work, we use conductive Mg-doped MOCVD p-GaN as the CBL, hence blocking the current flow by the use of a reverse biased p-n junction as opposed to using insulating layers[1,2].
Accuracy of potassium supplementation of fluids administered intravenously.

Background Potassium (K+) supplementation of isotonic crystalloid fluids in daily fluid therapy is commonly performed, yet its accuracy in veterinary medicine is undetermined. Objective To investigate the accuracy of K+ supplementation in isotonic crystalloid fluids. Animals None. Methods Observational study. 210 bags of fluid supplemented with KCl being administered to hospitalized dogs and cats intravenously (IV) were sampled over a 3-month period. Measured K+ concentration ([K+]) was compared to the intended [K+] of the bag. In a second experiment, 60 stock fluid bags were supplemented to achieve a concentration of 20 mmol/L K+, mixed well and [K+] was measured. In another 12 bags of 0.9% NaCl, K+ was added without mixing the bag, and [K+] of the delivered fluid was measured at regular time points during constant rate infusion. Results The measured [K+] was significantly higher than intended [K+] (mean difference 9.0 mmol/L, range 6.5 to >280 mmol/L, P < .0001). In 28% of clinical samples measured [K+] was ≥5 mmol/L different than intended [K+]. With adequate mixing, K+ supplementation of fluids can be accurate with the mean difference between measured and intended [K+] of 0.7 (95% CI −0.32 to 1.7) mmol/L. When not mixed, K+ supplementation of 20 mmol/L can lead to very high [K+] of delivered fluid (up to 1410 mmol/L). Conclusions and Clinical Importance Inadequate mixing following K+ supplementation of fluid bags can lead to potentially life threatening IV infused [K+]. Standard protocols for K+ supplementation should be established to ensure adequate mixing.
Tetralogy of Fallot and aortic root dilation: a long-term outlook.

Dilation of the sinus of Valsalva (SoV) has been increasingly observed after repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). We estimate the prevalence of SoV dilation in adults with repaired TOF and analyze possible factors related to aortic disease. Adults with TOF [n = 109, median age 33.2 years (range 18.1 to 69.5)] evaluated at Johns Hopkins Hospital from 2001 to 2009 were reviewed in an observational retrospective cohort study. Median follow-up was 27.3 (range 0.1–48.8) years. SoV dilation was defined as >95 % confidence interval adjusted for age and body surface area (z-score > 2). The prevalence of SoV dilation was 51 % compared with that of a normal population with a mean z-score of 2.03. Maximal aortic diameters were ≥4 cm in 39 % (42 of 109), ≥4.5 cm in 21 % (23 of 109), ≥5 cm in 8 % (9 of 109), and ≥5.5 cm in 2 % (2 of 109). There was no aortic dissection or death due contributable to aortic disease. Aortic valve replacement was performed in 1.8 % and aortic root or ascending aorta (AA) replacement surgery in 2.8 % of patients. By multivariate logistic regression analysis, aortic regurgitation (AR) [odds ratio (OR) = 3.09, p = 0.005], residual ventricular septal defect (VSD) (OR = 4.14, p < 0.02), and TOF with pulmonary atresia (TOF/PA) (OR = 6.75, p = 0.03) were associated with increased odds of dilated aortic root. SoV dilation after TOF repair is common and persists with aging. AR, residual VSD, and TOF/PA are associated with increased odds of dilation. AA evaluation beyond the SoV is important. Indexed values are imperative to avoid bias on the basis of age and body surface area.
Differential immune responses to albumin adducts of reactive intermediates of trichloroethene in MRL+/+ mice

Trichloroethene (TCE) is an industrial degreasing solvent and widespread environmental contaminant. Exposure to TCE is associated with autoimmunity. The mode of action of TCE is via its oxidative metabolism, and most likely, immunotoxicity is mediated via haptenization of macromolecules and subsequent induction of immune responses. To better understand the role of protein haptenization through TCE metabolism, we immunized MRL+/+ mice with albumin adducts of various TCE reactive intermediates. Serum immunoglobulins and cytokine levels were measured to determine immune responses against haptenized albumin. We found antigen-specific IgG responses of the IgG subtypes IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b, with IgG1 predominating. Serum levels of G-CSF were increased in immunized mice, suggesting macrophage activation. Liver histology revealed lymphocyte infiltration in the lobules and the portal area following immunization with formyl-albumin. Our findings suggest that proteins haptenized by metabolites of TCE may act as neo-antigens that can induce humoral immune responses and T cell-mediated hepatitis.
Pit-and-Fissure Sealants Are More Effective Than Fluoride Varnish in Caries Prevention on Occlusal Surfaces

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Pit and fissure sealants versus fluoride varnishes for preventing dental decay in children and adolescents. Hiiri A, Ahovuo-Saloranta A, Nordblad A, Makela M. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2010;(3):CD003067. Reviewer Steven M. Levy, DDS, MPH Purpose/Question What is the comparative effectiveness of pit-and-fissure sealants versus fluoride varnish in caries prevention on occlusal surfaces in children and adolescents? Source of Funding Finnish Office for Technology Assessment/Finohta, National Institute for Health and Welfare/THL, Finland Type of Study/Design Systematic review Level of Evidence Level 1: Good-quality, patient-oriented evidence Strength of Recommendation Grade Grade A: Consistent, good-quality patient-oriented evidence