cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Herpes Simplex Virus and CPR Training Manikins: Reducing the Risk of Cross-Infection

Two disinfecting solutions for removing herpes simplex virus (HSV) from CPR training manikin face skin were investigated. Both 70% ethanol and 70% ethanol plus 0.5% chlorhexidine solutions were effective in reducing recoverable virus at both 10 5 and 10 7 particles per milliliter inoculum concentrations (P
Geochemistry of volatile organic compounds in seawater: Mesocosm experiments with 14C-model compounds

Abstract A series of ten radiotracer experiments were conducted in controlled experimental ecosystems (mesocosms) to investigate the behavior of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in seawater. Time-series measurements of the redistribution of 14 C-activity within several major pools—dissolved, particulate, intermediate metabolite, and CO 2 —in the ecosystem made possible an evaluation of the rates of processes—volatilization, biodegradation, Sorption and sedimentation—acting to remove VOC from seawater in summer. The behavior of the model 14 C-VOC fell into three categories. Aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, naphthalene) were subject to both volatilization and biodegradation, with mineralization dominating in summer. Chlorinated C 2 -hydrocarbons (tetrachloroethylene) and chlorinated benzenes (chlorobenzene, 1,4-dichlorobenzene, and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene) were affected only by volatilization and were relatively resistant to biodegradation. Of all the model VOC studied, only aliphatic hydrocarbons (decane and octadecane) were sorbed onto suspended paniculate matter; however, the primary route of loss from the water column appeared to be biodegradation rather than sedimentation. The mesocosm-derived removal rate constants were then applied to estimate summer VOC residence times in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island of about 1 day for aromatic hydrocarbons, 1 week for the chlorinated VOC and about 1 day for aliphatic hydrocarbons. Residence times in winter might be on the order of 1 week for all VOC.
Performance of an optically transparent TDM statistical multiplexor for scalable bit-rate independent networks

We have constructed an optical 2-to-1 packet multiplexor for use in the next generation of digital networks. It has a clear advantage over conventional electronic network nodes because it can support any bit rate, theoretically up to the full bandwidth of a fiber. Since it switches on a packet-by-packet basis, the control electronics are simple and inexpensive. The multiplexor uses electronically-addressed 2 X 2 lithium niobate directional coupler switches to route packets and lengths of fiber to buffer contentious packets. The multiplexor can be cascaded to form a larger 2-to-1 multiplexor with improved packet loss performance. We present theoretical and simulated results (including packet loss rate and optical insertion loss) for this multiplexor. We also contrast the performance of the multiplexor for slotted input versus unslotted input.
Hydrogels for the Repair of Articular Cartilage Defects

The repair of articular cartilage defects remains a significant challenge in orthopedic medicine. Hydrogels, three-dimensional polymer networks swollen in water, offer a unique opportunity to generate a functional cartilage substitute. Hydrogels can exhibit similar mechanical, swelling, and lubricating behavior to articular cartilage, and promote the chondrogenic phenotype by encapsulated cells. Hydrogels have been prepared from naturally derived and synthetic polymers, as cell-free implants and as tissue engineering scaffolds, and with controlled degradation profiles and release of stimulatory growth factors. Using hydrogels, cartilage tissue has been engineered in vitro that has similar mechanical properties to native cartilage. This review summarizes the advancements that have been made in determining the potential of hydrogels to replace damaged cartilage or support new tissue formation as a function of specific design parameters, such as the type of polymer, degradation profile, mechanical properties and loading regimen, source of cells, cell-seeding density, controlled release of growth factors, and strategies to cause integration with surrounding tissue. Some key challenges for clinical translation remain, including limited information on the mechanical properties of hydrogel implants or engineered tissue that are necessary to restore joint function, and the lack of emphasis on the ability of an implant to integrate in a stable way with the surrounding tissue. Future studies should address the factors that affect these issues, while using clinically relevant cell sources and rigorous models of repair.
Nonlinear flows of stochastic linear delay equations

The sample non-linearity of the classical Wiener integral as a function of continuous integrands is pointed out. As an application it is shown that the solution of a linear stochastic delay equation is an almost surely non-linear function of the initial trajectory segment.
SU-E-I-30: Fast and Reliable Cone-Beam CT Reconstruction Using Cloud Computing

Purpose: To conceptually prove the cloud‐computing application on large‐scale medical physics problems and to develop a fast, reliable and distributed Cone‐Beam (CB) computed tomography(CT) reconstruction technique using MapReduce, a cloud‐computing framework. Methods: We propose a CBCT reconstruction algorithm based on Hadoop, an open source MapReduce model. Two functions are used to complete the process: a Map function that reconstructs partial results from each projection and a Reduce function that aggregates those partial results to form the whole volume. The map function and the reduce function are automatically parallelized on a large cluster of machines. In addition, the proposed algorithm accelerates the reconstruction in two ways: (1) Typedbytes format speeds up data transferring; (2) Efficient partial results grouping scheme optimizes communication effort. The proposed CBCT algorithm was executed on a commercial computer cloud.Results: 2.3× speedup of reconstruction time is achieved using 18 computing machines (nodes) compared with that on a single‐threaded node. Mean square error between the results using cloud and a single machine is within 0.04%. The linearity between the time and the number of nodes implies higher efficiency is expected with more computing nodes deployed. Hadoop cloud computing is also proved to be fault tolerant; the reconstruction completes successfully with identical results even half of the nodes were terminated manually during the process. Conclusions: Cloud computing provides researchers in medical physics with an efficient and reliable means of solving large‐scale problems. A fast, reliable and scalable CBCT reconstruction algorithm is developed with the MapReduce framework.
Performance of packed columns. I. Total, static, and operating holdups

Total and static holdups have been measured for 1/2-, and 1-in. ceramic Berl saddles, 1/2-, 1-, and 1 1/2-in. ceramic Raschig rings, and 1-in. carbon Raschig rings with air rates from 100 to 1,000 1b./(hr.) (sq. ft.) and water rates from 1,000 to 10,000 1b./ (hr.) (sq. ft.). The holdup measurements and motion picture observations of the flow of dye solutions through packings provide an explanation for the great differences observed when gas-phase mass transfer rates are measured by absorption and vaporization methods. If the effective interfacial area for vaporization is assumed to be proportional to total holdup and the area for absorption is assumed proportional to operating holdup, the raio of the two mass transfer rates should be equal to the ratio of the two holdups. The departure from equality of the two ratios can be explained by the observation that the static holdup is displaced slowly, resulting in additional effective area for absorption over that expected from the operating holdup alone.
Twice-Exceptional Students Enrolled in Advanced Placement Classes:

Twice-exceptional students, those who have disabilities and display areas of gifts or talents, frequently spend their high school years with a focus on their disabilities. Using semistructured interviews, this study explores the perceptions of parents, teachers, and guidance counselors regarding participation of twice-exceptional students in Advanced Placement (AP) and for-college-credit classes. The supports and barriers for students with disabilities participating in AP and for-college-credit classes were identified. Additionally, participants included six college students who had taken AP and/or for-college-credit classes while still in high school. The results of this study indicated that school culture and early placement decisions affect enrollment in AP and for-college-credit classes for the twice-exceptional student. Inconsistencies between students' goals and transition planning and inconsistent implementation of test and environmental accommodations were documented.
Patient-specific instrumentation improved mechanical alignment, while early clinical outcome was comparable to conventional instrumentation in TKA

The aim of this prospective study was to compare early clinical outcome, radiological limb alignment, and three-dimensional (3D)-component positioning between conventional and computed tomography (CT)-based patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) in primary mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Two hundred ninety consecutive patients (300 knees) with severe, debilitating osteoarthritis scheduled for TKA were included in this study using either conventional instrumentation (CVI, n = 150) or PSI (n = 150). Patients were clinically assessed before and 2 years after surgery according to the Knee-Society-Score (KSS) and the visual-analog-scale for pain (VAS). Additionally, the Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and the Oxford-Knee-Score (OKS) were collected at follow-up. To evaluate accuracy of CVI and PSI, hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA) and 3D-component positioning were assessed on postoperative radiographs and CT. Data of 222 knees (CVI: n = 108, PSI: n = 114) were available for analysis after a mean follow-up of 28.6 ± 5.2 months. At the early follow-up, clinical outcome (KSS, VAS, WOMAC, OKS) was comparable between the two groups. Mean HKA-deviation from the targeted neutral mechanical axis (CVI: 2.2° ± 1.7°; PSI: 1.5° ± 1.4°; p < 0.001), rates of outliers (CVI: 22.2 %; PSI: 9.6 %; p = 0.016), and 3D-component positioning outliers were significantly lower in the PSI group. Non-outliers (HKA: 180° ± 3°) showed better clinical results than outliers at the 2-year follow-up. CT-based PSI compared with CVI improves accuracy of mechanical alignment restoration and 3D-component positioning in primary TKA. While clinical outcome was comparable between the two instrumentation groups at early follow-up, significantly inferior outcome was detected in the subgroup of HKA-outliers. Prospective comparative study, Level II.
Impact of the new Dietary Reference Intakes on nutrient calculation programs

Abstract The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine has recently set Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for most of the essential vitamins and minerals, and DRIs for the macronutrients will be available shortly. In addition to impacting the data carried in nutrient databases, these new recommendations also have implications for the design of nutrient calculation programs. Several new ways of evaluating the adequacy of intakes have been recommended by the Subcommittee on Uses and Interpretation of the DRIs. For example, a probability approach to assessing the adequacy of an individual's diet allows a calculation of the confidence that a person's intake meets its requirement for a nutrient. Similar approaches may be used to calculate the likelihood that intake exceeds the Adequate Intake or the Tolerable Upper Intake Level. Although these calculations are not complex, incorporation into nutrient calculation programs will facilitate their use by practitioners who perform dietary evaluations for their patients and clients.
Characterization of immune responses to cardiac self-antigens myosin and vimentin in human cardiac allograft recipients with antibody-mediated rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy

Background Herein we study the role of donor-specific antibodies (DSA) to mismatched human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and antibodies (Abs) to the cardiac self-antigens myosin (MYO) and vimentin (VIM) in the pathogenesis of acute antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in the early post-transplant period (EP, 12 months) after heart transplantation (HTx). Methods One hundred forty-eight HTx recipients (65 in EP, 83 in LP) were enrolled in the study. Development of DSA was determined by Luminex. Circulating Abs against MYO and VIM in sera were measured using enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Frequency of CD4 + T-helper cells (CD4 + Th) secreting interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-17, IL-10 or IL-5 specific to either MYO or VIM were analyzed in vitro using ELISpot assays. Results AMR patients were more likely DSA positive (AMR − : 15%; AMR + : 70%; p = 0.03) and demonstrated increased Abs to MYO (AMR − : 144 ± 115 μg/ml; AMR + : 285 ± 70 μg/ml; p = 0.033) and VIM (AMR − : 37 ± 19 μg/ml; AMR + : 103 ± 43 μg/ml; p = 0.014). AMR patients demonstrated increased IL-5 CD4 + Th cells specific to MYO (5.2 ± 0.9 fold, p = 0.003) and VIM (7.3 ± 2.9-fold, p = 0.004) and decreased IL-10 CD4 + Th cells specific to MYO (2.2 ± 0.4-fold, p = 0.009) and VIM (1.7 ± 0.2-fold, p = 0.03). CAV patients were more likely DSA positive (CAV − : 25%; CAV + : 79%; p = 0.03) and demonstrated increased Abs to MYO (CAV − : 191 ± 120 μg/ml; CAV + : 550 ± 98 μg/ml; p = 0.025) and VIM (CAV − : 55 ± 25 μg/ml; CAV + : 255 ± 49 μg/ml; p = 0.001). CAV patients demonstrated increased IL-17 CD4 + Th cells specific to MYO (10.5 ± 7.3-fold, p = 0.002) and VIM (7.0 ± 3.9-fold, p = 0.003). Conclusions The presence of DSA in AMR and CAV is significantly associated with development of Abs to MYO and VIM in post-HTx patients. Induction of high CD4 + Th cells specific to cardiac self-antigens that secrete predominantly IL-5 and IL-17 plays a significant role in the development of Abs to self-antigens leading to AMR and CAV, respectively.
Is abdominal aortic aneurysm repair appropriate in oxygen-dependent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients?

Background The life expectancy of patients with oxygen-dependent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is significantly reduced, but the risk of any intervention is considered prohibitive. However, severe COPD may increase the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture. We reviewed our experience with AAA repair in oxygen-dependent patients to determine whether operative risk and expected long-term survival justify surgical intervention. Methods A retrospective review of 44 consecutive patients with oxygen-dependent COPD undergoing AAA repair over an 8-year period was performed. Information was recorded for survival, length of follow-up, patient age, medical comorbidities, pulmonary function tests, and operative approach. Survival data were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curves and compared with published cohorts of oxygen-dependent patients and the natural history of untreated aneurysms. Results Twenty-four patients underwent endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), and 20 underwent open procedures (14 retroperitoneal and 6 transabdominal). The mean AAA diameter was 6.1 cm (range, 5-9.5 cm). The mean age was 71.4 years, and 82% of patients were male. Operative mortality was 0%. The mean length of stay was 11.2 days for open procedures and 4.3 days for EVAR (significantly longer than that for standard-risk patients). The mean survival time was 37.9 months (range, 2-91 months). Preoperative medical comorbidities, type of repair, and pulmonary function tests were not predictive of survival. Postoperative morbidity was significantly higher with open repair. Long term survival was comparable to historical series of the natural history of O2 dependent patients without AAA but better than untreated 6 cm AAA cohorts. At 42 months, almost 50% of patients in our study group were still alive, compared to 20% survival at 34 months for those with untreated 6 cm AAAs. Conclusions It is reasonable to continue to offer AAA repair to home oxygen–dependent COPD patients who are ambulatory and medically optimized and who are without untreated coronary artery disease. Although EVAR may be the most suitable treatment for oxygen-dependent COPD patients, our results show that even open repair may be safely performed in this population, with acceptable results.
Exploring the CI value equation

To quantify the added value that competitive intelligence provides, focus on four key “I” variables: information, interpretation, insight, and impression. Providing unbiased, filtered, and relevant information is the core of intelligence efforts, but without analytical interpretation, information is often useless. And unless the findings provide specific competitive insight, the intelligence is limited. Overall, the impression you make can be enhanced through professionalism in presentation, as well as by possessing and using advanced analytical and methodological toolkits. To best demonstrate value, CI practices should heavily engage internal customers. Moreover, they should integrate all available resources for collecting intelligence, including frontline employees such as customer service reps and maintenance technicians. Findings should be distributed to a wide range of users, rather than limited to a small group, as often there is a large, latent need for intelligence by peripheral departments within the enterprise. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Luteal-phase support in stimulated cycles in an in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer program: progesterone versus human chorionic gonadotropin

A study was undertaken to compare the hormonal parameters [serum concentrations of estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P) and P/E2 ratios] of patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer to whom either progesterone in oil or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was administered as luteal support. Seventeen patients were studied in 20 cycles. In 10 randomly assigned cycles 25 mg of intramuscular progesterone in oil was administered daily from the day of embryo transfer (day +4) until day +18. In the other 10 cycles, 1500 IU of hCG was given intramuscularly on days +4, +7, +10, and +13. Even when accounting for the differences in recruitment in the two groups, the hCG-treated group had significantly higher concentrations of serum P (P less than 0.01) and E2 (P less than 0.05) during the luteal phase. The luteal P/E2 ratios were higher in the progesterone-treated group because of the lower E2 levels in that group, although the difference was not statistically significant. The ratio of the mean luteal P to the preovulatory serum E2 was significantly higher in the hCG-treated group (P less than 0.01). There were three clinical pregnancies in the hCG-treated group. We conclude that (1) higher P concentrations are achieved with hCG treatment than with progesterone treatment during the luteal phase; (2) high luteal P/E2 ratios per se may not be an important determinant of implantation; (3) progesterone production by the corpus luteum is not maximal in progesterone-treated cycles; and (4) the usefulness of hCG as a luteal support agent should be further evaluated.
A predictive time-optimal controller for second-order systems with time delay

This paper presents a method of interactive or real-time predictive control which can be implemented without a stored program computer. By restricting the process dy namic model to a second-order-plus-dead-time format, a configuration which is satisfactory for many chemical or petroleum processing systems, a time-optimal controller can be built entirely on a small analog/hybrid computer. For set-point changes, the controller utilizes an analog model of the process to search out the predicted optimum input switching sequence and continuously maintains the process on the time-optimal trajectory. Because of the predictive nature of the method there is no necessity to include the time-delay term in the high-speed model; the predicted switches in the process input are simply ad vanced in time by the amount of the time-delay.
Seasonal phenology of the gall‐making fly Fergusonina sp. (Diptera: Fergusoninidae) and its implications for biological control of Melaleuca quinquenervia

A gall-making fly, Fergusonina sp., is under study as a potential biological control agent of Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S. T. Blake, an invasive weed in Florida, USA. The seasonal phenology of Fergusonina sp. and its host M. quinquenervia was studied over 2 years in northern New South Wales and south-eastern Queensland. Fergusonina sp. populations followed an annual cycle, with gall numbers peaking in August/September. Gall density was strongly correlated with leaf bud density and temperature, but not rainfall. Comparison of climates in Australia across the native range of Fergusonina sp. with the climate of Miami, Florida, predicts that climate should not be a limiting factor in its establishment. The fly/nematode complex of Fergusonina/Fergusobia sp. is compared with other gall-making agents used in biological control programs. Galls are formed from primordial leaf bud and reproductive structures of the plant and have many of the attributes of a moderately powerful metabolic sink. High gall densities could potentially suppress seed production and reduce the vigour of the tree, which would make this insect species an effective biological control agent of M. quinquenervia.
Insights to fungal biology through LaeA sleuthing

Abstract LaeA was first identified as a novel Aspergillus nuclear protein which functions as a global regulator of secondary metabolism, morphogenetic development, and antibiotic production in various filamentous fungi. Since then, it has been studied extensively by research groups around the world in order to identify virulence factors, transcription factors and/or cryptic secondary metabolite gene clusters regulated by LaeA. The coupling of LaeA with VeA and VelB as a nuclear complex, the “Velvet Complex”, has greatly impacted our understanding of transcriptional complexes in filamentous fungi and their association with epigenetic processes. This review will highlight insights into fungal biology by LaeA-led studies and areas of research that need further investigation.
Aging and social welfare in transition: the case of the United States

In the United States at the end of the twentieth century, government policies regarding elderly people appear to be in transition. In part this reflects the traditional American ambivalence between radical individualism and collective assistance - especially in the form of tax-supported public welfare provided through government agencies - for those unable to earn or save for their own support. But in part this reflects new concerns about the growth of welfare “entitlements” for elderly people and the presumed “generational inequity” of public support for the aged at the expense of funds for children and young families. We review 1) the changing demography of the United States elderly population, 2) the complex and ambivalent history of welfare policy in the United States and 3) the evidence for tensions and conflicts between older and younger Americans in the context of politicized “generational inequity” debates, with special attention to changing government health care policies. We conclude that in American society, particularly in terms of federal assistance to the aged, there is considerable public support for current policy measures, and - contrary to the predictions of many - it is not likely that there will be dramatic policy changes in the near future.
Sonographic measurement of renal length in children: does the position of the patient matter?

Purpose. This prospective study was designed to determine the effect of patient positioning on sonographic measurements of renal length in children.Materials and methods. Two dedicated pediatric ultrasonographers (observers A and B) measured the sonographic lengths of 48 kidneys in 25 children (two had unilateral renal agenesis). Each observer obtained the two “longest possible” measurements for each kidney with the patient in three positions: supine, contralateral decubitus, and prone. Patients with myelomeningocele, hydronephrosis, and renal cysts were excluded.Results. Both examiners obtained significantly higher values for renal lengths with the children lying supine (observerA P ≤ 0.0017; observer BP ≤ 0.0409) or in contralateral decubitus (observerA P ≤ 0.0001; observerB P ≤ 0.0419) than with them lying prone. There was no significant difference between the supine and decubitus measurements. The mean difference between the supine and prone measurements for the observers was 3.0 mm for observer A and 1.8 mm for observer B. The mean difference between the contralateral decubitus and prone measurements was 3.0 mm for observer A and 1.6 mm for observer B.Conclusion. Sonographic measurements of renal length made with the patient lying supine or in contralateral decubitus yield slightly higher values than those made with the patient prone.
A Comparison of Grading Patterns between Full- and Part-Time Humanities Faculty: A Preliminary Study

The author analyzed grades submitted over three consecutive spring semesters by 6 full-time and 12 part-time humanities faculty at a community college in New Jersey to determine if differences coul...
Expression of fatty acid-binding proteins in the developing mouse mammary gland.

Abstract Proteins of 14,000 daltons (SLP-14) were isolated and partially characterized from mouse mammary glands of different developmental stages. The purified proteins were partially sequenced at the amino acid level. The SLP-14 belong to the family of fatty acid-binding (FABP) proteins. The major SLP-l4 expressed was a reflection of the differentiation stage of the mammary gland. Within the regions sequenced for each protein, virgin mouse mammary gland (primarily adipocytes) expressed a protein 100% homologous to adipocyte lipid binding protein whereas pregnant and lactating mouse mammary glands expressed a protein highly homologous to mouse heart fatty acid binding protein. In the lactating gland, the isolated protein was 97% identical to the heart FABP over a 98 amino acid stretch. We could not detect the 14Kd protein identified as mammary gland growth inhibitor (MDGI) which is also a member of the FABP family and highly homologous to heart FABP. A rabbit antiserum to the rat mammary SLP-14 recognized the SLP-14 proteins in mouse and rat mammary gland, skeletal muscle and heart, whereas it failed to recognize the SLP-14 in liver, intestine and other organs. These data indicate that the SLP-14 detected in rodent mammary gland is of the fatty acid-binding protein family. On the basis of amino acid sequence, the major form in the differentiated mouse mammary gland is apparently FABP and not MDGI. MDGI may he a protein in tow abundance and/or localized to a specific group of mammary epithelial cells.
Measurement of Sound Velocity in a Fermi Gas near a Feshbach Resonance

Sound waves are excited in an optically trapped degenerate Fermi gas of spin-up and spin-down atoms with magnetically tunable interactions. Measurements are made throughout the crossover region, from a weakly interacting Fermi gas through the resonant Fermi superfluid regime to a Bose condensate of dimer molecules. The measured sound velocities test theories of hydrodynamic wave propagation and predictions of the equation of state. At resonance, the sound velocity exhibits universal scaling with the Fermi velocity, to within 1.8% over a factor of 30 in density.
Silicon L2, 3 near-edge fine structure in confined volumes

Abstract Silicon L 2,3 edge spectra have been obtained with 0.2–0.3 eV resolution in 5–50 nm thick specimens. The shapes of the spectra are thickness-dependent, becoming indistinct in thickness less than about 20 nm. In the lateral direction, however, the core scattering is insensitive to the presence of a surface until the probe actually hits the surface. Lifetime broadening increases from 0.1 eV for an infinite foil to 0.4 eV at 6 nm thickness. This behavior can be explained qualitatively if the plasmon wake potential influences the spatial extent of the final state for the core absorption.
Renal sympathetic nerve activity during cardiac ischemia and reperfusion in rats.

We studied the role played by prostaglandins and oxygen-derived free radicals in mediating reflex changes in renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) during myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. Ligation of the left coronary artery for 20 min and reperfusion for 10 min were performed in anesthetized rats with sinoaortic denervation and with intact cardiac afferent nerves (control, n = 7), with cardiac sympathetic denervation (SD, n = 6), with vagal denervation (VD, n = 7), and with combined SD + VD (n = 6). In control rats, RSNA decreased by 10 +/- 3% from baseline (P 10 min) and during reperfusion in both VD (n = 7) and SD (n = 7) rats were abolished by the antioxidant deferoxamine (20 mg/kg i.v., 20 min before ischemia). Deferoxamine also diminished the increase of RSNA at the onset of ischemia in VD rats. Thus, in rats, the vagal afferent reflex predominates during early ischemia and the sympathetic afferent reflex predominates during prolonged ischemia and reperfusion. Reflex changes in RSNA that occur at the onset of ischemia are mediated by activation of vagal and sympathetic afferent endings by prostaglandins. Reflex changes in RSNA after prolonged ischemia and during reperfusion are mediated by activation of vagal and sympathetic afferent endings by oxygen-derived free radicals.
Redundancy resolution of manipulators through torque optimization

Methods for resolving kinematic redundancies of manipulators by the effect on joint torque are examined. When the generalized inverse is formulated in terms of accelerations and incorporated into the dynamics, the effect of redundancy resolution on joint torque can be directly reflected. One method chooses the joint acceleration null-space vector to minimize joint torque in a least squares sense; when the least squares is weighted by allowable torque range, the joint torques tend to be kept within their limits. Contrasting methods employing only the pseudoinverse with and without weighting by the inertia matrix are presented. The results show an unexpected stability problem during long trajectories for the null-space methods and for the inertia-weighted pseudoinverse method, but more seldom for the unweighted pseudoinverse method. Evidently, a whiplash action develops over time that thrusts the endpoint off the intended path, and extremely high torques are required to overcome these natural movement dynamics.
PBIS Is (Not) Behavior Analysis: a Response to Horner and Sugai (2015)

I comment on Horner’s and Sugai’s article regarding the lessons learned from implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS)—that is, the things to consider when attempting to extend other works in behavior analysis to the likes of mainstream society. In adopting a critical eye toward the PBIS model, I comment first on the need for dissemination of behavioral principles to a public audience, and then outline the suggestions made by the authors for enhancing acceptance across disciplines. I clarify the definition of PBIS presented by the authors, and summarize the benefits and drawbacks associated with the conceptual argument surrounding the contention that PBIS is a behavior analytic approach to system-wide change, and argue instead for the distinction of elements in the PBIS model and their respective empirical effectiveness. I refer to other works in behavior analysis that are relevant to the current discussion and offer additional considerations for behavior analysts interested in forging ahead with endeavors that aim increase dissemination, particularly those that incorporate a culmination of alternative professional practices.
Toward more usable electronic voting: testing the usability of a smartphone voting system.

Objective:The goal of this research was to assess the usability of a voting system designed for smartphones.Background:Smartphones offer remote participation in elections through the use of pervasive technology. Voting on these devices could, among other benefits, increase voter participation while allowing voters to use familiar technology. However, the usability of these systems has not been assessed.Method:A mobile voting system optimized for use on a smartphone was designed and tested against traditional voting platforms for usability.Results:There were no reliable differences between the smartphone-based system and other voting methods in efficiency and perceived usability. More important, though, smartphone owners committed fewer errors on the mobile voting system than on the traditional voting systems.Conclusion:Even with the known limitations of small mobile platforms in both displays and controls, a carefully designed system can provide a usable voting method. Much of the concern about mobile vot...
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE HISTORY OF PSYCHOLOGY: XXI. HISTORY OF RATING OF EMINENCE IN PSYCHOLOGY REVISITED

S~mznory.-The rating of eminence of 1040 individuals in the history of psychology was replicated. The elimination of certain biases and the change in che composirion of the panel led to a different distribution of ratings that was more in accord with the theoretically expected shape. Methodological inadequacies of the original study are pointed out and corrective measures suggested. In 1968, Annin, Boring, and Watson presented the results of a racing of 1040 names in the history of psychology. A panel of nine judges (Panel A), all prominent psychologists, three of them historians of psychology, rated these names on a 3-point familiarity/evaluation scale. Ratings ranged between 0 and 27. The Annin, et al. paper gives the ratings of the 538 individuals who rated 11 or more. The object was co arrive at approximately 500 most eminent names. My concern was aroused when I noticed the shape of the frequency distrib~ltion of the ratings, which was practically rectangular. The expected shape of the distribution of excellence ratings is one in which most of the objects rated are at the low end of the distribution, with fewer being given medium ratings, and the high end of the distribution having the smallest number of objects. A rectangular distribution could therefore mean one of two things: either the attribute rated was uniformly distributed throughout the sample, a clearIy untenable hypothesis, or that some bias was at work. Several biases, in fact, could be identified. (1) Two of the judges on Panel A, R. I. Watson and E. G. Boring, supplied almost 80% of the names. It is hard to see how a name could be selected without the selector's knowing something about the individual or learning about him in the process. Since cwo of the three criteria used in judging the eminence of the names were the same as were used in selecting the original sample, the result was that very few individuals obtained a rating of zero. A frequency count of the 502 names which received a rating of 10 or less showed the same rectangular distribution as the names rated 11 and above, only 13 individuals receiving a rating of zero. (2 ) Panel A was not given any instructions relative to whether or not they could consult any sources of information concerning the individuals rated. In the absence of evidence to the contrary it must be assumed that some of the judges at least did obtain additional information. This would have contributed to the rectangular appearance of the distribution of ratings. (3) Of the three points that could be assigned an individual by a judge, two were to be given on the basis of the judge's familiarity with him. Thus, while
The Clinical Performance of Highly Cross-linked UHMWPE in Hip Replacements

During the 1980s and early 1990s, aseptic loosening and osteolysis emerged as major problems in orthopedics that were perceived to limit the longevity of joint replacements. It was not until the early 1990s that the production of UHMWPE debris at the articulating surface of joint replacements was widely recognized to play a central role in initiating osteolysis. Since that time, orthopedic research efforts have focused increasingly on improving UHMWPE for joint replacements, with the goals of reducing wear and, by implication, improving implant survival, especially for young active patients. Throughout this chapter, we will refer to UHMWPE that has been irradiated with the historical sterilization dose of 25–40 kGy as “conventional” material, whereas UHMWPE that has been irradiated with a dose of greater than 40 kGy will be termed “highly cross-linked” and abbreviated as “HXLPE.”
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) analysis approach for band migration to provide spectrum for the President's Spectrum Initiative

When communication systems operating in one band must be moved to another band occupied by existing (incumbent) systems, an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) analysis is used to evaluate the viability of spectrum sharing and frequency reassignments. The analysis starts with gathering all of the transmitter and receiver parameters of both systems. The correct propagation model for different geometric scenarios is then used to accurately estimate the signal strength of the interfering signal and determine the noise level of the victim receiver. If the separation distance is not adequate to reduce the interfering signal to an acceptable level, then the necessary frequency dependent rejection (FDR) must be determined. Finally, the interference-to-noise ratio (I/N) can be calculated which will allow a determination of frequency separation versus separation distance from the FDR curves.
Some Inter-Relationships of Readability, Cloze and Multiple Choice Scores on a Reading Comprehension Test

Seven passages of a published reading comprehension test were administered to college students to compare the regular multiple chioce test scores with scores on two forms of a cloze test, standard ...
Correlation of pharmacodynamic activity, pharmacokinetics, and anti-product antibody responses to anti-IL-21R antibody therapeutics following IV administration to cynomolgus monkeys

Anti-IL-21R antibodies are potential therapeutics for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This study evaluated correlations between the pharmacodynamic (PD) activity, pharmacokinetics, and anti-product antibody responses of human anti-IL-21R antibodies Ab-01 and Ab-02 following IV administration to cynomolgus monkeys. The PD assay was based on the ability of recombinant human IL-21 (rhuIL-21) to induce expression of the IL-2RA gene in cynomolgus monkey whole blood samples ex vivo. Monkeys screened for responsiveness to rhuIL-21 stimulation using the PD assay, were given a single 10 mg/kg IV dosage of Ab-01, Ab-02, or a control antibody (3/group), and blood samples were evaluated for PD activity (inhibition of IL-2RA expression) for up to 148 days. Anti-IL-21R antibody concentrations and anti-product antibody responses were measured in serum using immunoassays and flow cytometry. Following IV administration of Ab-01 and Ab-02 to cynomolgus monkeys, PD activity was observed as early as 5 minutes (first time point sampled). This PD activity had good correlation with the serum concentrations and anti-product antibody responses throughout the study. The mean terminal half-life (t1/2) was ~10.6 and 2.3 days for Ab-01 and Ab-02, respectively. PD activity was lost at ~5-13 weeks for Ab-01 and at ~2 weeks for Ab-02, when serum concentrations were relatively low. The estimated minimum concentrations needed to maintain PD activity were ~4-6 nM for Ab-01 and ~2.5 nM for Ab-02, and were consistent with the respective KD values for binding to human IL-21R. For Ab-01, there was noticeable inter-animal variability in t1/2 values (~6-14 days) and the resulting PD profiles, which correlated with the onset of anti-product antibody formation. While all three Ab-01-dosed animals were positive for anti-Ab-01 antibodies, only one monkey (with the shortest t1/2 and the earliest loss of PD activity) had evidence of neutralizing anti-Ab-01 antibodies. All three Ab-02-dosed monkeys developed neutralizing anti-Ab-02 antibodies. For anti-IL-21R antibodies Ab-01 and Ab-02, there was good correlation between PD activity and PK profiles following IV administration to cynomolgus monkeys. Compared with Ab-01, Ab-02 was eliminated markedly faster from the circulation, which correlated with a shorter duration of PD activity.
The survival benefit of simultaneous heart-kidney transplantation extends beyond dialysis-dependent patients.

Background This study evaluated the effect of simultaneous heart-kidney transplantation (SHK) on survival stratified by preoperative renal function. Methods Patients undergoing SHK or heart transplant alone (HTA) between 1992 and 2012 were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing database. Patients were primarily stratified by the need for dialysis before transplantation. Nondialysis patients were further stratified by preoperative glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and likelihood of postoperative development of renal failure requiring new-onset dialysis (high risk defined as ≥75th percentile according to a previously derived and validated risk score). The primary outcome was 5-year survival, evaluated by Kaplan-Meier and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results Included were 665 (2%) SHK and 38,488 (98%) HTA patients. SHK improved 5-year survival in dialysis-dependent patients (69% vs 54%, p Conclusions SHK improves long-term survival not only in dialysis-dependent patients but also in patients with reduced preoperative GFR who are at high risk for postoperative new-onset dialysis. Expansion of SHK into this subset warrants further study, especially considering its low current utilization.
Mechanoreceptors in human ankle ligaments

Chronic ankle instability after ligamentous injuries has been attributed to loss of proprioception, but there has been no previous study of the mechanoreceptors in human ligaments at this joint. We have examined the ligaments from five cadaver ankles for mechanoreceptors and classified them into the four types described by Wyke and Freeman in their study of feline ligaments. Type-II receptors, thought to provide the sensation of the beginning of joint motion, and type-III receptors, thought to be activated at the extremes of movement, were the most common. Our findings provide some neuroanatomical data to validate further research into the use of proprioceptive training after ligamentous injuries about the ankle.
Performance and emissions of a spark-ignited engine driven generator on biomass based syngas.

Abstract The emergence of biomass based energy warrants the evaluation of syngas from biomass gasification as a fuel for personal power systems. The objectives of this study were to determine the performance and exhaust emissions of a commercial 5.5 kW generator modified for operation with 100% syngas at different syngas flows and to compare the results with those obtained for gasoline operation at same electrical power. The maximum electrical power output for syngas operation was 1392 W and that for gasoline operation was 2451 W. However, the overall efficiency of the generator at maximum electrical power output for both the fuels were found to be the same. The concentrations of CO and NO x in the generator exhaust were lower for the syngas operation, respectively by 30–96% and 54–84% compared to the gasoline operation. However, the concentrations of CO 2 in the generator exhaust were significantly higher by 33–167% for the syngas operation.
MYC, Metabolism, Cell Growth, and Tumorigenesis

The MYC proto-oncogene is frequently activated in human cancers through a variety of mechanisms. Its deregulated expression, unconstrained by inactivation of key checkpoints, such as p53, contributes to tumorigenesis. Unlike its normal counterpart, which is restrained by negative regulators, the unleashed MYC oncogene produces a transcription factor that alters global gene expression through transcriptional regulation, resulting in tumorigenesis. Key genes involved in ribosomal and mitochondrial biogenesis, glucose and glutamine metabolism, lipid synthesis, and cell-cycle progression are robustly activated by MYC, contributing to the acquisition of bioenergetics substrates for the cancer cell to grow and proliferate.
A Rare Case of Hemolytic Anemia in a Pediatric Patient Due to Ring Dehiscence After Mitral Valve Repair: Utility of Real-Time Three-Dimensional Imaging and Management

A rare case of hemolytic anemia in a 3-year-old child due to mitral valve ring dehiscence is described. The dehiscence of mitral valve ring was diagnosed utilizing real-time three-dimensional echocardiography. The patient subsequently underwent reoperation with successful resolution of hemolysis after replacement of the ring.
Tolerance and immunity to maternally derived incompatible igg2a- -globulin in mice.

Progeny mice were confronted with maternal γ-globulin of a different allotype by either back-cross mating, intercross mating, or by foster nursing. In all cases, many mice subsequently produced alloantibodies directed against the incompatible maternal type of IgG2a-globulin. In one series of experiments, immunologic tolerance to the maternally derived γ-globulin was demonstrated to exist in the period before formation of spontaneous antibody. The state of tolerance was then lost, unless maintenance injections of foreign γ-globulin were given. These studies demonstrate in a natural situation that maternally derived foreign proteins can first induce a state of immunological tolerance which is followed, after disappearance of the antigen, by a state of immunity. As such, this parallels the experimental induction of tolerance to foreign proteins by neonatal injections.
Relationship of 1,25 dihydroxy Vitamin D Levels to Clinical Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients with Acute Kidney Injury

Background: Calcitriol [1,25(OH)2D] plays a central role in endocrine regulation of bone and mineral metabolism. Low 1,25(OH) 2 D levels in chronic kidney disease (CKD) are associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the role of 1,25(OH)2D in acute kidney injury (AKI) is unclear, with very limited data. This pilot study examined the relationship between 1,25(OH) 2 D levels in critically ill patients with AKI and clinical outcomes. Methods: Plasma 1,25(OH)2D, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), 25-OH Vitamin D (VitD), calcium and phosphorus were measured in 34 patients with AKI without pre-existing chronic kidney disease and 12 healthy controls. Results: The mean 1,25(OH)2D levels were significantly lower in patients with AKI compared to controls, (42 ± 5.6 pg/mL vs. 76.1 ± 5.3 pg/mL, P<0.0001). The mortality in patients with AKI was 30%. 1,25(OH) 2 D levels were higher in non-survivors than survivors (62 ± 41.4 pg/mL vs. 33.7 ± 24.2 pg/mL respectively, P=0.046) and serum phosphorus was also higher in non-survivors (6.2 ± 2.1 mg/dL vs. 4.6 ± 1.6 mg/dL, P=0.019). However, on multivariate regression analysis, accounting for age and APACHE II score, higher levels of 1,25(OH) 2 D was not associated with mortality in critically ill patients with AKI. Conclusion: Mineral metabolism is dysregulated within days of acute renal injury in critically ill patients. On univariate analysis, high levels of calcitriol were associated with adverse clinical outcome in AKI. This association was not apparent after adjusting for age and APACHE II. Large controlled studies are needed to confirm these results, and determine if higher 1,25(OH)2D mediates worse outcomes in AKI.