cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of chronic naloxone administration on vacuous chewing movements and catalepsy in rats treated with long-term haloperidol decanoate

Most antipsychotic medications produce motoric side effects, including parkinsonism and tardive dyskinesia (TD). Correlates of these behaviors in rats (catalepsy and vacuous chewing movements, respectively) were used as a model to assess the usefulness of chronic naloxone administration in symptom reduction. Previous studies have suggested that increased neurotransmission in the endogenous opioid system modulates neuroleptic-induced motoric side effects. Rats were treated with haloperidol decanoate or vehicle for 27 weeks, and withdrawn for 30 weeks. Subsequently, naloxone (0.5 to 2.0 mg/kg SC twice daily) was given for 5 weeks. Long-term haloperidol treatment produced a syndrome of vacuous chewing movements (VCMs) that persisted during the drug withdrawal period. Catalepsy developed rapidly and also persisted. Naloxone treatment had little effect on VCMs but increased catalepsy scores in both haloperidol and vehicle treated groups. Naloxone reduced rearing and grooming in haloperidol rats while increasing these measures in vehicle treated rats. The results indicate that neuroleptic-induced motoric side effects are not reversed by naloxone in rats. Furthermore, they suggest that increased opioid neurotransmission may not underlie the expression of VCMs. This does not rule out the possibility that endogenous opioid system may be involved in the development of VCMs. To the extent that this animal model is valid, naloxone may not be effective in treating TD and neuroleptic-induced parkinsonism in humans.
Single (left) superior vena cava draining into the left atrium. Surgical repair.

Abstract Anomalous drainage of a single left superior vena cava into the left atrium is rare, and correction presents a technical problem. This report describes a patient with absent right superior vena cava, a persistent large left superior vena cava draining to the left atrium, and an intact interatrial septum. Surgical correction was accomplished by removing the entire septum and placing a cloth baffle to cover the orifices of the pulmonary veins and mitral valve, thus partitioning pulmonary venous blood into the left ventricle. This technique of septal excision and replacement is applicable to other complicated anomalies involving the systemic and pulmonary venous channels and their relationship to the two atria. The surgical management of related anomalies of the superior vena cava is also discussed.
On particle coarsening during sintering of silicon

Abstract Pore and particle coarsening during sintering of “non-densifying” undoped silicon powder has been studied. Hydrogen ambients during sintering retard coarsening compared to helium ambients. In both cases, neck formation is believed to occur via vapor transport. In helium, silicon monoxide (SiO) is the principle volatile species and forms via the reaction Si + SiO 2 → SiO(g). (The silica (SiO 2 ) is present as a thin layer on all the silicon particles.) Hydrogen “getters” the oxygen and silane (SiH 4 ) becomes the most important vapor species. The diminished coarsening in hydrogen compared to helium is attributed to the low condensation coefficient of silane. Iron impurity in silicon also enhances coarsening. In this case, iron causes liquid phase sintering through the aegis of a low melting iron-silicon eutectic.
Satellite tobacco mosaic virus sequence variants with only five Nucleotide differences can interfere with each other in a cross protection-like phenomenon in plants

The type strain of satellite tobacco mosaic virus (STMV) contains two major variants, designated type 5 (T5) and type 6 (T6), which can be easily distinguished by RNase protection analyses. Clones containing cDNA of representative T5 and T6 STMV genomes have only five single-base differences in the entire 1059-nucleotide genome, and RNA transcribed from each clone is highly infectious when inoculated onto tobacco plants. The different RNase protection assay patterns can be used as genetic markers to identify individual STMV variants and to follow the interactions of variants and their progeny during coinfections in plants. The study described here investigated the effects of coinoculation and various delayed inoculations of T5 and T6 variants on the composition of the progeny STMV populations in systemically infected tobacco tissues. When T5 and T6 STMV RNAs were coinoculated or inoculated with 1-hr delays, the progeny from individual plants most often contained a mixture of T5 and T6 genomes. However, when there was a 24-hr delay between inoculations, the balance of T5 and T6 components in the progeny populations shifted toward predominance of the first variant inoculated. With delays of 3 or 7 days only the first variant was evident in the progeny populations, indicating that established replication of one STMV variant interferes with replication of another in a manner similar to the cross protection phenomenon.
Comprehensive concrete fracture tests: Description and results

Abstract Although hundreds of concrete fracture tests exist, their evaluation is ambiguous because they have limited ranges of specimen size, initial notch depth and postpeak response, and refer to different concretes, different batches of concrete, different ages, different environmental conditions, different loading rates and test procedures, and different specimen types. Presented is an experimental investigation of unprecedented comprehensiveness and low scatter, using specimens made from one batch of concrete. It includes: (1) notched and unnotched beams tested at virtually the same age; (2) crack depths ranging from 0% to 30% of beam depth; (3) a broad size range (1: 12.5); (4) tests in transition between type 1 and type 2 size effects; (5) virtually complete postpeak softening data; (6) properly correlated loading rates; and (7) complete standard characterization of the concrete used. The analysis is relegated to a follow-up paper.
Emergency medical services in rural areas: the supporting role of state EMS agencies.

Context EMS is an integral part of health care and is especially important in less densely populated areas. What is known about EMS in rural areas is limited because of fragmentation in the system and rudimentary data collection efforts. Purpose The goal of this study is to identify important issues faced by rural EMS systems and describe the support of rural EMS providers by state EMS agencies. Methods A telephone survey of state EMS directors (response rate 95.7%) asked questions regarding issues in medical direction, programs, and initiatives by state EMS agencies that target rural and volunteer EMS providers, integration initiatives, and anticipated effects of the new Medicare fee schedule. Findings Medical direction in rural EMS was identified as a major issue for a majority of states. Integration in EMS is seen as a possible solution but does not occur very commonly. The survey found substantial variation in the state approach to EMS issues. Less than a third of the states in the study have a statewide EMS plan. State EMS agencies address rural EMS provider needs in a limited manner. EMS state agencies focus on regulation and funding of EMS providers, with only approximately a third providing technical assistance to EMS providers. Conclusions The range in approaches to EMS issues at the state level will need to be taken into account in formulating national EMS policy. The limited provision of technical assistance leaves a void that may be addressed by other agencies and organizations in some states. In the absence of major federal funding initiatives, the development of EMS has become a state and local issue. A new national initiative may help address EMS issues and stimulate the development of EMS as a system beyond its current fragmented state.
Global continuation of branches of nondegenerate solutions

On etudie les solutions des problemes aux valeurs limites de la forme: u t =u yd y+fα(u), 0<y<L, 0=l a (u,u y )| y=0 =r a (u,u y )| y=L ou l a et r a sont de la forme l a (u,u y )=au y −(1−a)u; r a (u,u y )=au y +(1−a)u; (0≤a≤1). Le terme non lineaire f est de la forme fα(u)=u(1−u) (u−α) (0<α<1/2)
Use of rapid atrial pacing to induce 2:1 atrioventricular block with marked improvement in hemodynamics

Rapid atrial pacing by means of temporary atrial pacing wires was used to effect a regular sinus rhythm in a patient with 2:1 atrioventricular block and frequent premature atrial contractions. The change in rhythm allowed effective intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation and markedly improved the hemodynamic situation.
Relationship between Self-Actualization and Rational Thinking

The relationship between self-actualization and rational thinking was examined using scores on the Personal Orientation Inventory variables and the Rational Behavior Inventory. Seventy-nine male and female college sophomores were administered both inventories. Thirty-eight subjects completed the Personal Orientation Inventory first followed by the Rational Behavior Inventory and 41 subjects completed the tests in the reverse order. Pearson coefficients were then calculated berween over-all scores on the behavior inventory and scores on the 14 variables of the Personal Orientation Inventory. Scores for Shostcorn's inventory were derived from Riesman's system of inner- and other-directedness, Maslow's concept of self-acrualization, and May's and Perls' concept of time orientation (3) .. The inventory indudes two ratio scales, the time and support scales, and 10 sub-scales. The support scale provides a measure of "self" versus "other" reaction modes while the time scale indicates the degree to which the individual lives in the present versus the past or future. The behavior inventory provides an over-all index of rationality based upon rest scores for 11 factors measured by Gunman scales (2). The items were dweloped based on Ellis' cheory of Rational Emotive Therapy (1). Although practice based on self-actualization and rational thinking theories are often quite dissimilar, the humanistic philosophical base and central concepts of these approaches are strikingly similar. The hypothesis, that there would be significant correlations between the behavior inventory and the variables of the other scale, was supported for 13 of the 14 correlations. The correlarion for- synergy approached significance (p = .07). The following significant correlations were observed between the behavior inventory and Time integration ( -.37), Time competent (.37), Other-directed ( -.53), Inner-directed (SO), Selfacrualizing value (.33), Existentialiry (.31), Feeling reactivity (.25), Spontaneity (.33), Self-regard (.43 ) , Self-acceptance (.39), Nature of man (constructive) (.23 ) , Acceptance of aggression (.33), and Capacity for intimate contacts (.51). All p < .05, though values are only moderate to low in magnitude.
Purification and characterization of succinate dehydrogenase fromDictyostelium discoideum

Abstract Succinate dehydrogenase (EC 1.3.99.1) from Dictyostelium discoideum was purified 40-fold. The pH optimum for the reaction under in vitro conditions was 7.4. Divalent cations showed no effect on the enzyme activity. Lineweaver-Burk plots of initial velocity data were linear. The K m value for succinate was calculated to be 0.22 m M . Apparent K i values for fumarate, malonate, and oxaloacetate were 0.4, 0.02, and 0.003 m M , respectively. All three showed a competitive inhibition pattern. A comparison of the reaction rate in vivo with the calculated enzyme activity required in vivo ( V v ) suggests that succinate dehydrogenase may be rate controlling to flux through the citric acid cycle.
Dominant mode leaky-wave antenna with backfire-to-endfire scanning capability

A novel dominant mode leaky-wave antenna is proposed. This antenna is a transmission line structure with radiating wavenumber increasing from negative to positive values, providing backward to forward scanning capability as the frequency is increased. The characteristics and performances of the antenna are demonstrated by full-wave simulation and measurement results.
Subglottic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma presenting as biphasic stridor

Abstract The management of airway obstruction in children is often challenging with acute presentation and uncertainty in the diagnosis. We report a case of a young child with acute onset biphasic stridor who was found to have a large subglottic lesion causing significant airway obstruction. We were able to successfully resect it to achieve a pathologic diagnosis and address the subglottic stenosis with an anterior laryngofissure followed by laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) using a rib graft. The final pathology was diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, anaplastic variant, and patient had complete response to chemotherapy and is currently free of disease.
A Prospective Evaluation of the Effects of a 12-Week Outpatient Exercise Program on Clinical and Behavioral Outcomes in Patients with Epilepsy

Purpose. We hypothesized that patients randomized to an exercise program would demonstrate a measurable improvement in behavioral outcomes with no adverse clinical outcomes, as compared with control patients.Methods. This randomized, prospective, parallel, and controlled study spanned 12 weeks. Twenty-eight patients were randomized either to participate in a supervised exercise program (Exercise) or to continue their current level of activity with no planned intervention (Control). The Exercise group worked with an exercise physiologist three times per week. At specific intervals, behavioral (QOLIE-89, POMS, PSDQ, Self-Esteem) and clinical (seizure activity, antiepileptic drug (AED) concentrations) outcomes were measured.Results. Twenty-three patients completed the study (Exercise n = 14, Control n = 9). Of the four patients in the Exercise group with active seizures, two had no change, one had an increase, and one had a decrease in seizure activity. Of the three patients in the Control group with active seizures, one had no change, one had an increase, and one had a decrease in seizure activity. In all patients, there was <26% coefficient of variation in AED concentrations over the 12-week study, suggesting little or no impact of the exercise intervention. The overall quality of life and two domain scores improved from baseline to Week 12 in the Exercise group (P = 0.031), while the Control group score did not change (P = 0.943). In the Exercise group, there were several measures of physical self-concept and vigor that improved and total mood disturbance decreased from the beginning to the end of the program.Conclusion. This is the first randomized, controlled study of exercise in patients with epilepsy. Behavioral outcomes are positively influenced by moderate exercise and there is no impact on seizure frequency. This suggests that exercise should not be discouraged in the care of epilepsy patients. The ability to offer an exercise program adds a health promotion component to the current plan of care provided by our comprehensive epilepsy program.
Oxygen or glucose deprivation-induced neuronal injury in cortical cell cultures is reduced by tetanus toxin

We examined glutamate-mediated neurotoxicity in cortical cell cultures pretreated with 1-5 micrograms/ml tetanus toxin to attenuate the Ca(2+)-dependent release of neurotransmitters. Efficacy of the tetanus toxin pretreatment was suggested by blockade of electrical burst activity induced by Mg2+ removal and by reduction of glutamate efflux induced by high K+. Tetanus toxin reduced neuronal injury produced by brief exposure to elevated extracellular K+ or to glutamate, situations in which release of endogenous excitatory neurotransmitter is likely to play a role. Furthermore, although glutamate efflux evoked by anoxic conditions may occur largely via Ca(2+)-independent transport, tetanus toxin attenuated both glutamate efflux and neuronal injury following combined oxygen and glucose deprivation. With prolonged exposure periods, the neuroprotective efficacy of tetanus toxin was comparable to that of NMDA receptor antagonists. Presynaptic inhibition of Ca(2+)-dependent glutamate release may be a valuable approach to attenuating hypoxic-ischemic brain injury.
RNA-based computation in live cells

Man-made molecular ‘computers’ that operate inside live cells will enable unprecedented level of control over cellular physiology. A promising approach to building these computers uses RNA molecules and RNA-based regulation. RNA naturally lends itself to create ‘digital’ molecular networks that embody standardized (normal) forms of logic functions. The network's inputs, that may or may not be inverted by single-input NOT logic gates, feed into multi-input AND gates whose outputs are in turn integrated in a multi-input OR gate. Below I review recent steps that have been taken toward implementing these networks with allosteric riboswitches and ribozymes in bacteria and yeast, and RNAi in mammalian cells. I also propose how to co-opt recently discovered additional RNA regulation mechanisms into future construction efforts.
Superheating and Homogeneous Single Bubble Nucleation in a Solid-State Nanopore

Scientists have now developed a controlled method to superheat liquids and induce the formation of bubbles in a nanoscale container.
Ciliary elongation in blastulae of Arbacia punctulata induced by trypsin.

Abstract Hatched sea urchin blastulae, which have primarily short 25-μm cilia except for some long 40-to 70-μm cilia at the apical tuft, were induced to form long (40- to 70-μm) cilia around most of their circumference when treated with trypsin (0.008–0.1%) or concanavalin A. Other animalizing agents did not induce the formation of long cilia when applied to the normal blastulae. The formation of long cilia by trypsin was both time and concentration dependent. The long cilia first appeared around the apical tuft after 6–8 hr in trypsin (21°C), and by 18–22 hr most of the blastula was covered with the long cilia. Length distribution studies on cilia isolated at various times showed that the percentage of long cilia increased from approximately 10% in the normal blastula to over 66% in the 22-hr trypsin-treated embryo, and indicated that the long cilia formed by the elongation of the original short cilia. Only the blastulae and gastrulae could be induced to form long cilia; the prisms and plutei could not. Once development was inhibited by the trypsin and the first long cilia appeared, the trypsin effect could not be reversed. When blastulae with long cilia were removed from the trypsin for 10 hr, the cilia remained long; when the long cilia were detached, the blastulae regenerated long cilia in the absence of trypsin. The induced long cilia moved poorly, similar to the long, apical tuft cilia of normal embryos. The formation of long cilia by trypsin treatment of sea urchin blastulae provides a model system for studying the mechanisms of ciliary length control.
Several unresolved conceptual problems of mathematical psychology

Abstract This article is a personal commentary on the following, to my mind, unresolved issues of mathematical psychology: (1) the failure of the field to have become a fully accepted part of most departments of psychology; (2) the great difficulty we have in studying dynamic mechanisms, e.g., learning, because large samples are difficult to obtain: time samples wipe out the phenomena and subject samples are unrepresentative because of profound and ill understood individual differences; (3) the failure to unify successfully statistical and measurement theories which, I believe, are two facets of a common problem; (4) the proliferation of free parameters in many types of theories with little success in developing theories of such parameters; (5) the difficulties we have had in successfully formulating the mathematics of uncertainty and vagueness; and (6) the issues of modeling what are presumably discrete attributes and phenomena by continuous mathematics: when and how is this justified?
First ionization potentials of tungsten and rhenium by mass-selected double-resonance ionization spectroscopy

We have determined the first ionization potentials of tungsten and rhenium atoms to be 63427.7 ± 0.8 cm−1 (7.86404 ± 0.00010 eV) (2σ error bound) and 63181.6 ± 0.9 cm−1 (7.83352 ± 0.00011 eV), respectively, by fitting ns and nd Rydberg series obtained by performing mass-selected double-resonance ionization spectroscopy on supersonic beams of laser-vaporized tungsten and rhenium atoms.
Tryptic activation of plasma renin activity.

Trypsinization of human plasma, like acid activation or cryoactivation, increases renin activity, as determined by subsequent enzymatic assay. In three plasma pools, tryptic activation was maximal within 2 min at a trypsin concentration of 500 μg/ml, decreasing athigher concentrations. Neither prolongation of trypsin exposure for up to 1 h nor temperature (0or 37 C) mattered. In plasmas from 26 healthy volunteers ambulatory for 3 h, trypsin increased PRA3-fold from 2.8 ± 0.4 to 8.3 ± 0.7 ng/ml.h(P<0.001). Plasma renin reactivity (the amount of angiotensin I generated in plasma by the addition of active renin) and plasma renin substrate were unaltered by trypsin in concentrations up to 500, μg/ml. By exclusion, these data support the concept that an inactive precursor form ofrenin normally exists in human plasma. At concentrations of trypsin of 1 mg/ml or greater,tryptic activation diminished due to degradative effects of trypsin on the renin assay system, indicating the need for careful selection of condi...
A Test of “Annual Resolution” in Stalagmites Using Tree Rings

So-called annual banding has been identified in a number of speleothems in which the number of bands approximates the time interval between successive U-series dates. The apparent annual resolution of speleothem records, however, remains largely untested. Here we statistically compare variations in band thickness from a late Holocene stalagmite in Carlsbad Cavern, Southern New Mexico, USA, with three independent tree-ring chronologies form the same region. We found no correspondence. Although there may be various explanations for the discordance, this limited exercise suggests that banded stalagmites should be held to the same rigorous standards in chronology building and climatic inference as annually resolved tree rings, corals, and ice cores.
Facilitation of Soft Tissue Surgery: Surgical Staplers and Vessel Sealing Devices

Recent advances and acceptance of various medical devices have clearly helped in the efficiency, simplicity, and effectiveness of veterinary surgery. The goals of surgery include efficient methods and minimal surgical times, delicate tissue handling techniques, confidence with tissue reconstruction, and minimizing contamination, leakage and complications. Mechanical means of suturing, cutting, and hemostasis assist with accomplishing these goals. Most recently, stapling instrumentation and vascular sealing devices have become common instruments on all levels of surgery because of their ease of use and increase in surgical efficiency.
Requirements and Constraints on Optimizing UV Processing of Low-k Dielectrics

UV curing of low-k dielectrics presents a unique challenge in that the cure process is expected to do the impossible – increase hardness, modulus, cohesive strength, adhesion and reliability, decrease water absorbtion and dielectric constant, remove porogens (for porogen containing films), improve dielectric breakdown and chemical stability, all while minimizing shrinkage and contributions to film stress. Achieving this, in general, requires optimization of all of the cure parameters, such as UV spectral intensity, temperature, time, pressure, background gas, and process sequence, as well as the formulation of the low-k material itself. The spectral dependence of many of these important parameters will be discussed. A good figure of merit for modulus and k-value is the ratio of modulus/k-value. If one plots the spectral response of this ratio, one finds it peaks at a specific wavelength range. In principle it is possible to measure the UV spectral response of all of the critical parameters (not just modulus and k-value) and by overlaying these responses together determine what the proper UV exposure wavelength ranges should be. An example of this will be shown for an idealized porogen containing low-k material, for modulus, k-value, porogen removal and porogen crosslinking. A real low-k dielectric system has many more wavelength parameters to consider and the problem of bulb spectral intensity optimization becomes complex. It is also found that the relative intensity of the important wavelength bands also plays a significant role, requiring a great deal of spectral optimization experiments. UV cure performance is also dependent on cure temperature, time, background gases and ironically, the deposition or post-deposition bake temperature. Most cure parameters such as modulus, hardness, leakage, adhesion, etc, have a strong and generally exponential dependence on cure temperature. As a result, most UV cures are performed at the highest temperature allowable as defined by thermal budget constraints and copper voiding thresholds. Background ambient can also play a critical role in the UV cure, especially for porous low-k materials and those containing porogens. Changes in composition of the background gases can alter interface. The ultimate in performance is obtained when the low-k material formulation itself is included as a key parameter in the cure optimization. By optimizing the material, UV spectrum, and cure parameters together, significant improvements can be made. In conclusion, UV curing cannot be implemented without serious consideration to the wavelength dependence on many critical process factors. The interdependence of all components that makeup the optical system such as the wavelengths employed, light source technology, chamber design and ironically, the dielectric film itself must be considered. Only with these factors in mind, can the full benefit of UV curing be realized.
Intimate blend of poly(ethylene terephthalate) and poly(ethylene 2,6‐naphthalate) via formation with and coalescence from their common inclusion compound with γ‐cyclodextrin

The experimental procedures to place poly(ethylene 2,6-naphthalate) (PEN) guest molecules within γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD) host molecules are described along with the subsequent verification of inclusion-compound (IC) formation. In addition, the simultaneous complexing of PEN and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) with γ-CD to form their common IC is documented. Coalescence from their common γ-CD IC generates an intimate blend of the PET and PEN polymers contained therein. Thermal analysis via differential scanning calorimetry reveals thermal behavior indicative of an intimate blend of PET and PEN. 1H NMR analysis confirms that the intimate blending of PET and PEN achieved by coalescence from their common γ-CD IC is not due to transesterification into a PET/PEN copolymer during thermal analysis. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 41: 139–148, 2003
An induction machine model for predicting inverter-machine interaction

The conventional qd induction motor model typically used in drive simulations is very inaccurate in predicting machine performance, except perhaps for the fundamental component of the current and the average torque near rated operating conditions. Predictions of current and torque ripple are often in error by a factor of two to five. This work sets forth an induction machine model specifically designed for use with inverter models to study machine-inverter interaction. Key features include stator and rotor leakage saturation as a function of current and magnetizing flux, distributed effects in the rotor circuits, and a highly computationally efficient implementation. The model is considerably more accurate than the traditional qd model, particularly in its ability to predict switching frequency phenomena. The predictions of the proposed model are compared with those of the standard qd model and to experimental measurements on a 37 W induction motor drive.
Recent Component Solderability Test Enhancements

Critical parameters of the MIL‐STD‐202 Method 208 and MIL‐STD‐883 Method 2003 component solderability tests were determined from laboratory experiments. Among the variables examined were steam ager atmosphere, steam ager water quality, component drying, flux quantity, static versus wave pots and visual inspection variability. The test results indicate that one of the most important variables is steam ager atmosphere. This was evaluated by vapour temperature vs metal coupon weight gain. Other critical parameters are the drying process and inspection method. Experimental data for some parameters suggest necessary changes to the relevant Military‐Standard test methods. These changes are proposed based on the experimental work presented, and would improve correlation of solderability test results between suppliers and users.
SMT single-versus dual-sided modules: a case study

The kind of thermal and reliability effect that can be expected when two single-sided surface mount technology (SMT) modules are combined into a single dual-sided SMT module is discussed. Temperature differences between like components mounted on a single-sided module and those mounted on a dual-sided module have been examined, and a mean time between failures (MTBF) difference is predicted for the case studied. >
In-vitro Comparison of 4 Large-Volume Nebulizers in 8 Hours of Continuous Nebulization

BACKGROUND: Continuous albuterol nebulization has become the standard of care for patients with status asthmaticus. Predictable albuterol delivery is paramount for effective therapy. We compared the aerosol characteristics, solution output, and albuterol output of 4 brands of largevolume nebulizer. METHODS: We studied 6 units of the following nebulizer brands: AirLife Misty Finity (Cardinal Health), Flo-Mist (Smith’s Medical), Heart (WestMed), and Hope (BB other nebulizers’ tubing-retained-solution ranged from 6–9%. Albuterol output corrected for the tubing-retained solution rendered similar results. Aerosol temperature decreased with aerosol production and increased in the corrugated tubing, but was below the ambient temperature at the patient interface. CONCLUSIONS: The tested nebulizers had similar performance during the first 5 hours. The nebulizer solution might need to be replaced if treatment is planned for longer period. The Misty Finity and Hope nebulizers had a more consistent solution output. Key words: nebulizer; nebulization; aerosol; particle size; albuterol. [Respir Care 2010;55(12):1671–1679. © 2010 Daedalus Enterprises]
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Nonstructural Protein 2 Interacts with a Host Protein Complex Involved in Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Intracellular Signaling

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) generates 16 nonstructural proteins (nsp's) through proteolytic cleavage of a large precursor protein. Although several nsp's exhibit catalytic activities that are important for viral replication and transcription, other nsp's have less clearly defined roles during an infection. In order to gain a better understanding of their functions, we attempted to identify host proteins that interact with nsp's during SARS-CoV infections. For nsp2, we identified an interaction with two host proteins, prohibitin 1 (PHB1) and PHB2. Our results suggest that nsp2 may be involved in the disruption of intracellular host signaling during SARS-CoV infections.
Energy efficient scheduling for datapath synthesis

In this paper, we describe two new algorithms for datapath scheduling which aim at energy reduction while maintaining performance. The proposed algorithms, time constrained and resource constrained, utilize the concepts of multiple supply voltage and dynamic clocking for energy minimization. In dynamic clocking, the functional units can be operated at different frequencies depending on the computations occurring within the datapath during a given clock cycle. The strategy is to schedule high energy units, such as the multipliers at lower frequencies such that they can be operated at lower voltages to reduce energy consumption and the low energy units, such as adders at higher frequencies, to compensate for speed. The algorithms have been applied to various high level synthesis benchmark circuits under different time and resource constraints. The experimental results show that for the time constrained algorithm, energy savings in the range of 33-75% are obtained. Similarly, for the resource constrained algorithm, under various resource constraints using two supply voltage levels (5.0 V, 3.3 V), energy savings in the range of 24 - 53% can be obtained.
Simulation of semiconductor devices

The simulation of semiconductor devices is a powerful means for optimizing the performance of semiconduc tor circuits and devices. various classes of semi conductor models exist, but accurate simulations re quire exact ("total") computer models. The exact models allow the use of arbitrary initial conditions and internal distributions and describe the device accurately over wide ranges of operation.This article discusses the leading numerical formula tions used to generate exact semiconductor models and describes the simulation of an NP junction, a bipolar transistor, and a MOS field effect transistor using exact models.
Sun ray self-help guide

Having deployed Sun Ray thin clients throughout our computer labs, computer classrooms, a residence hall, some administrative offices, and some graduate student offices, we were faced with the challenge of disseminating basic usage information for these unfamiliar devices, particularly in the public areas. To assist with this, we developed a large format poster which introduced the devices, provided quick tips and answers for common problems, and basic usage information. As one aspect of our communication efforts around the Sun Ray devices, these posters have had a significantly positive impact.
PID feedback for load-balanced parallel gridless DSMC

Parallel code presents a non-trivial problem of load balancing computational workload throughout a system of hardware and software resources. The task of load balancing is further complicated when the number of allowable processors changes through time. This paper presents a two-component load-balancing mechanism using optimal initial workload distribution and dynamic load maintenance. The initial guess is provided by inversion of the workload distribution function. Workload distribution inversion enables efficient domain decomposition for arbitrary workloads and easily compensates for changes in system resources. Dynamic load balancing is provided by process feedback control as used, for example, in control mechanisms of physical processes. Proportional, integral, and differential (PID) feedback readily allows controls to compensate for runtime-changes of the workload distribution function. This paper demonstrates a one-dimensional realization of the ideas presented here. We apply this load-balancing technique to our gridless direct simulation Monte Carlo algorithm. We demonstrate that the method does indeed maintain uniform workload distribution across available resources as the workload and usable system resources undergo change through time.
Inhibition of Rat Smooth Muscle Proliferation by Radiation after Arterial Injury: Temporal Characteristics In Vivo and In Vitro

Abstract Mayberg, M.R., London, S., Rasey, J. and Gajdusek.C. Inhibition of Rat Smooth Muscle Proliferation by Radiation after Arterial Injury: Temporal Characteristics In Vivo and In Vitro. Although several studies have suggested that inhibition of arterial narrowing by radiation after angioplasty is dependent on both time and dose, little is known regarding the temporal aspects of this effect and the mechanisms by which radiation affects the response of smooth muscle cells to injury. To determine the time course of inhibition of intimal hyperplasia by radiation, 135 rats were given single-fraction external γ irradiation (1–10 Gy) to one carotid artery at intervals from 5 days before to 5 days after bilateral carotid artery balloon catheter injury, and intimal cross-sectional area was determined from histological sections at 20 days after injury. There was a prominent time- and dose-dependent inhibition of intimal hyperplasia by radiation when it was administered before or after balloon injury, with the ...
Cytotoxic γδ T lymphocytes associated with an Epstein-Barr virus-induced posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder

Abstract T cells expressing the γδ T cell receptor have been implicated in anti-Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) immunity and in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system. However, they have never been isolated from human brain tissue for direct analysis. We now report a 6-year-old girl with EBV-associated posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disease involving inflammatory brain lesions. A high proportion of γδ T cells was found in the blood and in a brain lesion. Cultured T cell lines were found to have a remarkably high frequency of responsiveness to an EBV-transformed line, with a 17-fold enrichment in the brain lesion. These T cells expressed predominantly the γδ T cell receptor and mediated non-MHC-restricted cytotoxicity against EBV-infected target cells. These results provide the first demonstration of an association of γδ T cells with a posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disease and suggest a role of γδ T cells in mediating inflammatory processes in the brain.
Quantitative Analysis of Sports

In 2003, Michael C. Lewis published the book Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game, detailing Billy Beane’s (the general manager of the Oakland Athletics Major League Baseball [MLB] team) contemporary use of advanced statistical methods to draft or select players and to devise strategic approaches to game play in hope of launching the team into the competitive echelon of the MLB, despite the numerous odds against them. To the novice reader or sports enthusiast, this simple description seems an endearing tale of an underdog’s success, and rightly so – the Oakland Athletic’s, with a salary budget of only $41 million, competed against teams with much higher salaries, such as the New York Yankees with $200 million to spend on its players. Transcending beyond this “triumph over adversity” tale, however, Lewis’s Moneyball has become a panacea for analytically maximizing outcomes from an economic approach.
The Role of Clostridium septicum in Paraneoplastic Sepsis

Abstract Context.—Clostridium septicum infections are rare but often associated with serious if not fatal outcomes. Clostridium septicum infection does not appear to be associated with a single specific defect in cellular or humoral immunity. It has been associated with multiple medical problems, including but not limited to leukemia, malignancy of the bowel, other solid tumors, cyclic neutropenia with enterocolitis, diabetes mellitus, and severe arteriosclerosis. Most cases of C septicum are associated with malignancy, and mortality approaches 100% if care is not rendered within 12 to 24 hours. Objectives.—To evaluate outcomes of patients with C septicum bacteremia, whether treated medically or surgically or both, and to note associated conditions. Design.—Retrospective evaluation of patients found to have C septicum bacteremia in the past 6 years. Setting.—Two teaching hospitals, Brooke Army Medical Center (250 beds) and Wilford Hall Medical Center (292 beds), were the source of our patients. Patients.—...
Hybrid learning using genetic algorithms and decision trees for pattern classification

This paper introduces a hybrid learning methodology that integrates genetic algorithms (GAs) and decision tree learning (ID3) in order to evolve optimal subsets of discriminatory features for robust pattern classification. A GA is used to search the space of all possible subsets of a large set of candidate discrimination features. For a given feature subset, ID3 is invoked to produce a decision tree. The classification performance of the decision tree on unseen data is used as a measure of fitness for the given feature set, which, in turn, is used by the GA to evolve better feature sets. This GA-ID3 process iterates until a feature subset is found with satisfactory classification performance. Experimental results are presented which illustrate the feasibility of our approach on difficult problems involving recognizing visual concepts in satellite and facial image data. The results also show improved classification performance and reduced description complexity when compared against standard methods for feature selection.
Cognitive Impairments in Chronic Heart Failure: A Case Controlled Study

Abstract Background There are limited data describing the prevalence, type, and severity of cognitive impairments (CIs) in the general population with chronic heart failure (HF). The primary purpose of this study was to fill this gap in the literature by comparing the cognitive function of patients with chronic HF and community-dwelling control subjects. Methods and Results A case controlled design was used. Fifty patients with HF were recruited and matched to 50 healthy control subjects on age (± 3 years), gender, and estimated intelligence (intelligence quotient ± 1 standard deviation). In the patient sample, mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 27% ± 14%, 22 patients had New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II, 23 patients had NYHA class III, and 5 patients had NYHA class IV heart disease. Neuropsychologic tests assessed cognitive outcomes in orientation, attention, memory, executive function, motor speed, and reaction times. Patients had significantly poorer scores than controls on 14 of 19 variables assessed. After standardization of the neuropsychologic test scores to T-scores (mean 50 ± 10 SD), 23 patients (46%) had mild to severe CI and 8 of the control subjects had mild CI. Both patients and controls were impaired in 1 or more of the 4 memory outcomes assessed. Logistic regression analysis indicated CI was independently associated with HF (odds ratio = 4.47, confidence interval = 1.75–11.43, P 002). Severity of CI was associated with depressed learning ( P 0001), previous myocardial infarction (MI) ( P 02), and the number of MIs ( P 01). CI severity was not associated with LVEF, HF duration, NYHA class, anxiety, depression, positive affect, social support, or physical functioning. Severity of MI (≥2 MIs) was associated with deficits in early recall ( P 01), delayed recall ( P 03), and learning ( P 03). In contrast, patients with idiopathic or hypertensive cardiomyopathies without coronary artery disease when compared with patients with greater MI severity were not cognitively impaired on these outcome variables. Conclusion The prevalence, type, and severity of CI in the community-dwelling patients with HF are consistent with the results found in patients with end-stage HF awaiting heart transplantation. Patients with heart failure incur a more than 4-fold risk for CI compared with matched community controls. The relationship of MI severity to deficits in memory outcomes and learning suggests that ischemic cardiomyopathy may be a significant factor in the development of CI in heart failure.
A mixed-signal decision-feedback equalizer that uses parallelism

A mixed-signal decision-feedback equalizer (DFE) that uses parallelism is described. The parallelism in the look-ahead DFE achieves an increase in the data rate over that of a conventional DFE. The DFE occupies 23 mm/sup 2/ in a 2-/spl mu/m CMOS process, operates at 55 Mb/s and dissipates 450 mW.
An ab initio molecular orbital study of hydrogen bonding and ion‐molecule association in model systems for DNA bases

Ab initio calculations have been performed to investigate hydrogen bonding and ion-molecule association in complexes of H2O with the neutral, protonated, and Li+ complexes of N-formylformaldehyde and N-formylformamidine. In the complexes with the neutral bases, H2O assumes an in-plane bridging position in the amide and amidine regions. The most stable complex is the bridging N-formylformamidine–H2O complex in the amidine region, which has an MP2/6–31 + G(d,p) binding energy of −9 kcal/mol. Hydrogen bonded complexes of H2O with the oxygen-protonated bases have open structures with the protonated bases as proton donors, and binding energies ranging from −16 to −24 kcal/mol. Nitrogen protonation of N-formylformamidine leads to an equilibrium chelated hydrogen bonded structure with a stabilization energy of –21 kcal/mol. When Li+ associates with these bases at a carbonyl oxygen, hydrogen-bonded bridging structures with H2O reappear, and wobble complexes exist in the amide and amidine regions of N-formylformaldehyde and N-formylformamidine. These complexes have binding energies of –13 to –14 kcal/mol. However, the most stable comples has H2O directly bonded to Li+, with an MP2 binding energy of –30 kcal/mol. No hydrogen bonded structures of H2O with N-formylformamidine exist in the amide region when Li+ associates with this base at the CN group. Hydrogen bond energies computed at the single-determinant Hartree–Fock level with the 6−31G(d) basis set approximate correlated MP2/6–31 + G(d, p) energies to within 1 kcal/mol for all of the neutral and charged complexes. However, when H2O is bonded to Li+, HF6–31G(d) association energies overestimate MP2/6–31 + G(d, p) energies by 3 kcal/mol.
A 24-GHz CMOS Direct-Conversion Sub-Harmonic Downconverter

A 24 GHz sub-harmonic mixer based downconverter is presented. Fabricated in a 0.13 um CMOS process the downconverter includes a pre-amplifier and an IF buffer and consumes 13.6 mW with a 1.6 V supply. The quadrature LO buffer consumes 15 mA at 1.2 V. The circuit includes a single-ended to differential phase splitter for the LO. The downconverter has a conversion gain of 3.2 dB and DSB noise figure of 10 dB. The measured input referred 1 dB compression point is -12.7 dBm.
Implications Of The Selection Of A Method To Allocate State Income Taxes In Order To Determine Net Foreign-Source Income

Internal Revenue Code Sections 861-864 determine the source of income and Sections 861(a) and 862(a) specifically allocate certain items of gross income to sources within or without the United States. Sections 861(b) and 862(b) state generally how to determine taxable income for a taxpayer with income sources within or without the United States after such source has been determined. Regulation § 1.861-8 provides more information on allocating state and local taxes to U.S. - and foreign-source income. Regulation § 1.861-8 is based on the factual relationship of deductions to gross income test. This Regulation provides a concise rule requiring that the deduction for state, local, and foreign income, war profits, and excess profits taxes under Section 164 are definitely related and allocable to the gross income with respect to which such taxes are imposed. Under Regulation § 1.861(e)(6) if foreign-source of a corporation related by ownership to a corporate taxpayer is attributed to the activities conducted by the taxpayer in a state and is subject to state income tax, as in a state unitary income tax, the state tax deduction is allocable to the foreign-source income of the related corporation for purposes of the foreign tax credit used § 904. This paper first considers the most common methods for allocating state income taxes, the presumptive, analytic, and state-by-state methods. In the Chevron case, the Tax Court was asked to consider whether any of the following methods comply with the regulations; these methods are the gross income, factor operations, statutory notice, the pro rata, and the example methods. This paper will also consider the requirements and validity of related regulations.