cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Chaos in the Zero Dynamics of Kinematically Redundant Robots

Chaos is a ubiquitous and robust phenomenon that is now well documented in nonlinear dynamical systems. The recent explosion of research in the feedback linearization of nonlinear control problems has uncovered interesting internal behavior in partially linearizable system. The internal dynamics subject to the constraint that the output is zero is defined as the zero dynamics of the partially linearized system. We numerically investigate the basin of attraction of chaotic behavior on the zero dynamics submanifold. The theoretical ramifications of such studies could lead to new avenues in the global feedback stabilization of nonlinear systems when the zero dynamics converge to a compact but strange attractor.
Statistical methods for evaluating DNA methylation as a marker for early detection or prognosis.

We summarize standard and novel statistical methods for evaluating the classification accuracy of DNA methylation markers. The choice of method will depend on the type of marker studied (qualitative/quantitative), the number of markers, and the type of outcome (time-invariant/time-varying). A minimum of two error rates are needed for assessing marker accuracy: the true-positive fraction and the false-positive fraction. Measures of association that are computed from the combination of these error rates, such as the odds ratio or relative risk, are not informative about classification accuracy. We provide an example of a DNA methylation marker that is strongly associated with time to death (logrank p = 0.0003) that is not a good classifier as evaluated by the true-positive and false-positive fractions. Finally, we would like to emphasize the importance of study design. Markers can behave differently in different groups of individuals. It is important to know what factors may affect the accuracy of a marker and in which subpopulations the marker may be more accurate. Such an understanding is extremely important when comparing marker accuracy in two groups of subjects.
Fuzzy logic motor speed control with real-time interface using an 8-bit embedded processor

Fuzzy specific hardware systems, or the adaptation of standard embedded controllers, are the common approaches for real-time fuzzy logic implementation. High speed applications may require the more sophisticated hardware, but most embedded control applications do not have the high speed processing requirements that necessitate the cost prohibitive enhanced hardware. A review of embedded control fuzzy logic applications indicates a preference for 16-bit architectures; devoting significant processing resources for fuzzification, rule application, and defuzzification. While faithful to the foundations of fuzzy logic control, processor demand can limit a controller's ability to handle peripheral I/O interfaces. This paper describes a generic, hybrid approach suitable for unenhanced 8-bit microcontrollers and adaptable to most single input, single output systems. A motor speed application with real-time I/O interface provides proof of concept performance data and highlights limitations.
Macro porous silicon as pump media for electro‐osmotic pumps

Micro pumps are a critical component in micro fluidic systems. Due to its ability to generate high flowrate/pressure without using any moving parts, electro-osmotic (EO) pumps are an appealing candidate for micro applications. As part of the effort to produce miniaturized EO pumps, macro porous silicon (PS) with high aspect ratio pores has been investigated as the pump media. Initial tests in a meso-scale pump body produced a maximum pressure of 5.2 kPa and a very large flow rate of 11.9 μl min- 1 mm -2 at 60 V, demonstrating macro PS as a promising material for micro scale, high flow-rate/pressure EO pumps.
The influence of TOrl upon male fertility in t-bearing mice.

The model of Lyon & Mason (1977) which defines three subregions of the t complex ( T , tail-determining; A , abnormal transmission ratio; L , lethal) has been extended in an interpretation of male fertility data obtained from the combination of T Orl with different t haplotypes. The results demonstrate: (1) the T region of most t haplotypes ( t 12 , t 0 , t w18 and t w2 ) possess gene(s) that interact with the L region to give quasisterility; (2) the T region of t 6 lacks the allele(s) that result in quasisterility; and (3) the T region interacts with the A region to modify the transmission ratios of t haplotypes. The results were discussed in terms of an interacting genetic system controlling male fertility.
Abstract 16480: Cardiorespiratory Fitness is Associated With Decreased Risk of Incident Atrial Fibrillation: An Analysis of 66,479 Patients FromThe Henry Ford Hospital Exercise Testing (FIT) Project

Introduction: The prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasing in parallel with the aging and increasingly sedentary lifestyle of the population. The relationship of AF with cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is poorly understood. Hypothesis: CRF is inversely associated with risk of incident AF. Methods: We conducted a retrospective multiethnic cohort (enrolled 1991 - 2009) derived from a multi-hospital metropolitan health system. Patients without known AF and heart failure underwent graded exercise stress test according to Bruce protocol. Primary outcome was new onset AF, which was ascertained by linking with ≥3 encounters with new use of appropriate ICD9 codes. Relationship of CRF measured as peak metabolic equivalents (METs) with incident AF was evaluated in Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for potential confounders. Results: A total of 66,479 patients (mean age 53±13 y, 54% male, 64% whites) were analyzed. Over a median follow-up duration of 11 y (range 0 - 20 y), there were 4791(7%) incident cases of AF. Patients with incident AF were likely to be older, males, white (60% vs. 53%) and had higher prevalence of hypertension (82% vs. 64%), diabetes (25%vs19%), known cardiovascular disease (33% vs 12%) and less obesity (12 vs 22%). In adjusted Cox proportional hazard model for age, sex, race, resting heart rate, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking, known cardiovascular disease and obesity, there was a significant linear relationship between peak METs and incident AF (HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.90 - 0.92, p 12 METS) compared to the lowest quartile of exercise capacity ( Conclusions: This study suggests an independent association of exercise capacity, as measured by peak METs, with incident AF. Further studies will be needed to assess the causality.
Biogeochemistry at the zone of intermittent saturation: Field-based study of the shallow alluvial aquifer, Rio Grande, New Mexico

The Rio Grande in central New Mexico (USA) flows through a semiarid alluvial valley; the river is regulated by levees, riverside drain ditches, irrigation structures, and upstream dams. As a large river in a semiarid region, the Rio Grande experiences large variability in flows and solute concentrations due to riparian evapotranspiration, aquifer recharge, and upstream contributions. In order to characterize biogeochemical processes in this setting, surface water and groundwater from the shallow alluvial aquifer between the river and a parallel drain ditch were sampled from 1 to 13 m depth, including high-resolution multilevel sampling near the fluctuating water table, at a representative site on the middle Rio Grande. The zone of intermittent saturation is a region, ∼50 cm in vertical extent at this site, in which the water table shifts in response to changes in river level and riparian evapotranspiration. Sediment extractions of iron and manganese oxides indicate that these solids are more prevalent in the zone of intermittent saturation, where oxic-anoxic cycling occurs. River water chemistry varies with time, strongly influencing influent waters to the alluvial aquifer. This chemistry evolves significantly in the ∼100 m from the river to four wells. River concentrations of dissolved oxygen (mean 6.9 mg L −1 ) and nitrate (mean 2.8 mg L −1 ) are reduced to near zero in the shallower wells (1–3 m depth), but are less reduced from the river in the deeper wells (5–13 m depth). Mn and Fe increase from near zero in the river to maximum concentrations from 1 to 3 m depth (mean 1.0 mg L −1 and 2.1 mg L −1 , respectively), with lesser increases at 5 and 13 m depth. Sulfate concentration decreases relative to chloride in many samples, especially from 1 to 3 m depth, most likely due to sulfate reduction. Overall, patterns in water and sediment chemistry indicate that waters in the region of the shifting water table are more evolved from the river via terminal electron-accepting processes than deeper waters, including aerobic respiration, denitrification, manganese oxide reduction, iron oxide reduction, and sulfate reduction. This implies that a greater extent of organic carbon metabolism occurs at shallower depths. The influence of sulfate reduction on organic carbon oxidation is facilitated by sulfate concentrations of river water that varied from 31 to 83 mg L −1 during the study. These results illustrate that sulfate reduction may constitute a significant portion of organic carbon metabolism in higher-sulfate shallow alluvial aquifers associated with freshwater rivers. Biogeochemical processes in the shallow alluvial aquifer depend on the river for solute inputs, and may in turn influence large-scale river chemistry.
Exact solution of the displacement boundary-value problem of elasticity for a torus

This paper presents an exact analytical solution to the displacement boundary-value problem of elasticity for a torus. The introduced form of the general solution of elastostatics equations allows to solve exactly a broad class of boundary-value problems in coordinate systems with incomplete separation of variables in the harmonic equation. The original boundary-value problem for a torus is reduced to infinite systems of linear algebraic equations with tridiagonal matrices. An analytical technique for solving systems of diagonal form is developed. Uniqueness of the solutions of vector boundary-value problems involving the generalized Cauchy-Riemann equations is investigated, and it is shown that the obtained solution for the displacement boundary-value problem for a torus is unique due to the specific properties of the suggested general solution. The analogy between problems of elastostatics and steady Stokes flows is demonstrated, and the developed elastic solution is used to solve the Stokes problem for a torus.
THE POLICY PERSPECTIVE: SOCIAL PROBLEMS AS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES*

It is paradoxical that the methodology of social policy analysis has come into its own during the very period in which a subjectivist approach to social problems has achieved theoretical ascendancy. It is problematic as well because sociological studies of social policy and the field of social problems will both continue to suffer in the absence of mutually beneficial ties. While functionalism might appear to be compatible with social policy analysis, it fares no better than the value-conflict approach in providing grounding for policy analysis. In Gary Becker's social economics, however, we find an orientation which, allowing us to speak of the dollar value of nonmarket social phenomena, leads directly to a policy-oriented conceptualization of social problems as investment opportunities. The central portion of the paper describes this new policy perspective. A major restructuring of the traditional research questions in the field of social problems, implied by the approach, is then outlined. Solution of two major difficulties plaguing policy analysts is made possible by it.
Duplication of Colon in a Labrador Retriever with Abnormal Spinal Column

A 9-week-old male Labrador Retriever had duplication of the entire colon and malformation of the bodies of vertebrae T4 and T5. Simultaneous occurrence of alimentary duplication and spinal abnormalities have been reported in man, and several theories have been proposed to explain these embryonic defects.
Ramifications of lubrication theory on imprint lithography

During photo-imprint lithography processes, such as Step and Flash Imprint Lithography, a fluid is displaced from the gap between a template and a substrate. Since the width of the template is much greater than the gap height from which the fluid is being expelled, lubrication theory approximations can be applied to the equations of continuity and momentum that describe the fluid behavior. Several methods of fluid delivery have been evaluated for Step and Flash Imprint Lithography, in particular, but are applicable to other imprint lithography techniques. This paper summarizes the forces generated using three primary template actuation schemes: constant velocity; constant applied force; constant applied pressure. It also compares the force required to displace a single droplet to that of a spincoated film, and the force to displace a fixed volume of fluid in a single droplet to that of the same volume divided into n identical droplets. The multi-droplet approach has been proposed and implemented as an effective alternative means of fluid delivery for dispensing low viscosity imprint solutions.
Adaptive Mismatch Compensation for Rate Integrating Vibratory Gyroscopes With Improved Convergence Rate

This paper presents an online adaptive algorithm to compensate damping and stiffness frequency mismatches in rate integrating Coriolis Vibratory Gyroscopes (CVGs). The proposed adaptive compensator consists of a least square estimator that estimates the damping and frequency mismatches, and an online compensator that corrects the mismatches. In order to improve the adaptive compensator’s convergence rate, we introduce a calibration phase where we identify relations between the unknown parameters (i.e. mismatches, rotation rate and rotation angle). Calibration results show that the unknown parameters lie on a hyperplane. When the gyro is in operation, we project parameters estimated from the least square estimator onto the hyperplane. The projection will reduce the degrees of freedom in parameter estimates, thus guaranteeing persistence of excitation and improving convergence rate. Simulation results show that utilization of the projection method will drastically improve convergence rate of the least square estimator and improve gyro performance.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Mechanical behavior of SBR-glass bead composites

Mechanical properties of stryene-butadiene rubber glass bead composites, and theoretical model on isothermal volume dilatation and stress-strain relationship in filler concentration
Compressive forces achieved in simulated equine third metacarpal bone lateral condylar fractures of varying fragment thickness with Acutrak Plus screw and 4.5 mm AO cortical screws.

Objectives— To compare compression pressure (CP) of 6.5 mm Acutrak Plus (AP) and 4.5 mm AO cortical screws (AO) when inserted in simulated lateral condylar fractures of equine 3rd metacarpal (MC3) bones. Study Design— Paired in vitro biomechanical testing. Sample Population— Cadaveric equine MC3 bones (n=12 pair). Methods— Complete lateral condylar osteotomies were created parallel to the midsagittal ridge at 20, 12, and 8 mm axial to the epicondylar fossa on different specimens grouped accordingly. Interfragmentary compression was measured using a pressure sensor placed in the fracture plane before screw placement for fracture fixation. CP was acquired and mean values of CP for each fixation method were compared between the 6.5 mm (AP) and 4.5 mm (AO) for each group using a paired t-test within each fracture fragment thickness group with statistical significance set at P<.05. Results— AO screw configurations generated significantly greater compressive pressure compared with AP configurations. The ratio of mean CP for AP screws to AO screws at 20, 12, and 8 mm, were 21.6%, 26.2%, and 34.2%, respectively. Conclusion— Mean CP for AP screw fixations are weaker than those for AO screw fixations, most notably with the 20 mm fragments. The 12 and 8 mm groups have comparatively better compression characteristics than the 20 mm group; however, they are still significantly weaker than AO fixations. Clinical Relevance— Given that the primary goals of surgical repair are to achieve rigid fixation, primary bone healing, and good articular alignment, based on these results, it is recommended that caution should be used when choosing the AP screw for repair of lateral condylar fractures, especially complete fractures. Because interfragmentary compression plays a factor in the overall stability of a repair, it is recommended for use only in patients with thin lateral condyle fracture fragments, as the compression tends to decrease with an increase in thickness.
CAUCASIAN PARENTS' EXPERIENCE WITH TRANSNATIONAL-TRANSRACIAL ADOPTION: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

This qualitative research explored American Caucasian parents’ experience with transnational-transracial adoption. Guided by social constructivism and phenomenology, the goal of this study was to understand how parents perceive and interpret their experience when adopting a child transracially, specifically from China and Korea. Data from in-depth interviews with 17 parents revealed the essence of their experience as embedded in family relations distinctive at various stages of the adoption process. Prior to adoption, transracial adoptive parents possessed well-established ideas about the family and parenthood, which enhanced their commitment and sense of ownership throughout the adoption process. While meeting the child and developing a relationship, parents experienced a complicated mixture of emotions, including tension, anxiety, guilt, and grief. The results also offer further insight into the perspective of American Caucasian parents regarding the cultural socialization of their children. The lack of knowledge and resources regarding the adopted child’s birth culture influenced the parents, often resulting in feelings of helplessness.
Guiding a physical design closure system to produce easier-to-route designs with more predictable timing

Physical synthesis has emerged as one of the most important tools in design closure, which starts with the logic synthesis step and generates a new optimized netlist and its layout for the final signoff process. As stated in [1], "it is a wrapper around traditional place and route, whereby synthesis-based optimization are interwoven with placement and routing." A traditional physical synthesis tool generally focuses on design closure with Steiner wire model. It optimizes timing/area/power with the assumption that each net can be routed with optimal Steiner tree. However, advanced design rules, more IP and hierarchical design styles for super-large billion-gate designs, serious buffering problems from interconnect scaling and metal layer stacks make routing a much more challenging problem [2]. This paper discusses a series of techniques that may relieve this problem, and guide the physical design closure system to produce not only easier to route designs, but also better timing quality. Open challenges are also overviewed at the end.
Comprehensive Approaches to Molecular Biomarker Discovery for Detection and Identification of Cronobacter spp. (Enterobacter sakazakii) and Salmonella spp.

Cronobacter spp. (formerly Enterobacter sakazakii) and Salmonella spp. are increasingly implicated internationally as important microbiological contaminants in low-moisture food products, including powdered infant formula. Estimates indicate that 40 to 80% of infants infected with Cronobacter sakazakii and/or Salmonella in the United States may not survive the illness. A systematic approach, combining literature-based data mining, comparative genome analysis, and the direct sequencing of PCR products of specific biomarker genes, was used to construct an initial collection of genes to be targeted. These targeted genes, particularly genes encoding virulence factors and genes responsible for unique phenotypes, have the potential to function as biomarker genes for the identification and differentiation of Cronobacter spp. and Salmonella from other food-borne pathogens in low-moisture food products. In this paper, a total of 58 unique Salmonella gene clusters and 126 unique potential Cronobacter biomarkers and putative virulence factors were identified. A chitinase gene, a well-studied virulence factor in fungi, plants, and bacteria, was used to confirm this approach. We found that the chitinase gene has very low sequence variability and/or polymorphism among Cronobacter, Citrobacter, and Salmonella, while differing significantly in other food-borne pathogens, either by sequence blasting or experimental testing, including PCR amplification and direct sequencing. This computational analysis for Cronobacter and Salmonella biomarker identification and the preliminary laboratory studies are only a starting point; thus, PCR and array-based biomarker verification studies of these and other food-borne pathogens are currently being conducted.
How much should we invest in preventing childhood obesity

Policy makers generally agree that childhood obesity is a national problem. However, it is not always clear whether enough is being spent to combat it. This paper presents nine scenarios that assume three different degrees of reduction in obesity/overweight rates among children in three age groups. A mathematical model was then used to project lifetime health and economic gains. Spending $2 billion a year would be cost-effective if it reduced obesity among twelve-year-olds by one percentage point. The analysis also found that childhood obesity has more profound economic consequences than previously documented. Large investments to reduce this major contributor to adult disability may thus be cost-effective by widely accepted criteria.
The effect of vitamins during maturation of caprine oocytes on subsequent developmental potential in vitro.

Abstract Only a small proportion of goat oocytes selected for in vitro oocyte maturation (IVM) can successfully complete cytoplasmic maturation and support embryonic development. To produce goat blastocysts more efficiently in vitro, it is necessary to identify factors required during oocyte maturation. The objective of this study was to determine the role of vitamins during maturation of caprine oocytes in semi-defined medium on subsequent developmental capacity in vitro. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) collected from a local abattoir were matured in synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF) medium supplemented with BSA, LH, FSH, and EGF in the presence or absence of MEM vitamins for 24 h. The COCs were co-incubated with frozen–thawed sperm in Bracket and Oliphant fertilization medium for 18–22 h. Embryos were cultured in G1.2 medium for 72 h followed by culture in G2.2 medium for an additional 72 h. Addition of vitamins significantly increased (P
Using ECT in schizophrenia: A review from a clinical perspective

AbstractObjectives. Despite the fact that many studies have addressed the use of ECT in schizophrenia questions on clinical use remain poorly answered and clinical application is largely based on data originating from depressed patients. Methods. We review data on the use of ECT in schizophrenic patients drawn from original studies indicated by a Pubmed search and referenced in recent and older expert reviews with a specific focus on four issues: symptom response, technical application, continuation/maintenance ECT and combination with medication. Results. Catatonic patients are the most responsive. Positive symptoms such paranoid delusions and affective symptoms follow. There are indications that ECT may improve responsivity to medication. No particular technical features stand out in studies except lengthier courses, but not for catatonia. Combination with medication appears to be preferable over either treatment alone and effective combination particularly with clozapine is supported by data. Use of co...
Herbicidal Activity and Site of Action of the Natural Product Sorgoleone

Abstract Inhibition of photosynthetic electron transport in isolated spinach ( Spinacea oleracea L.) thylakoids and competitive binding to spinach, redroot pigweed ( Amaranthus retroflexus L.), and potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) thylakoids were investigated for sorgoleone (2-hydroxy-5-methoxy-3-[(8′Z, 11′Z)-8′,11′,14′-pentadecatriene]- p -hydroquinone) in comparison with other photosystem II inhibitors. Sorgoleone inhibited photosynthetic electron transport as effectively as DCMU (diuron) [ N ′-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)- N,N -dimethylurea]. Rapid inhibition was observed by both compounds at concentrations of less than 0.2 μ M. Sorgoleone competed with atrazine [6-chloro- N -ethyl- N′ -(1-methylethyl)-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine] for binding to spinach, triazine-susceptible redroot pigweed or potato thylakoids as effectively as metribuzin [4-amino-6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-3-(methylthio)-1,2,4-triazine-5(4H)-one] or diuron. No competition was observed for bentazon [3-(methylethyl)-(1H)-2,1,3-benzothiadiazin-4(3H)-one 2,2-dioxide]. Double reciprocal plots in the presence or absence of 0.5 μ M sorgoleone showed that sorgoleone is a competitive inhibitor of atrazine. Competitive binding was not observed in atrazine-resistant redroot pigweed or potato thylakoids. We conclude that sorgoleone is a potent inhibitor of photosynthetic electron transport and binds to the same Q B niche of the D1 protein as diuron, atrazine, or metribuzin.
A Qualitative Examination of the Political and Policy Development of Indiana’s School Scholarship Act (House Bill 1003)

This research investigation examines the policy context of Indiana’s School Scholarship Act. John Kingdon’s work on agenda setting will serve as the conceptual framework for analyzing the problems, policies, and politics that arose prior to and during the passage of this legislation. The goal of this study is to identify specific social, economic, and political problems that drew attention to the need for this Act as well as to understand of the political behaviors and decision-making of stakeholders during the legislation’s drafting. This cross-sectional qualitative study will use multiple in-depth interviews conducted with key stakeholders in addition document analyses in order to understand this phenomenon. Unfortunately due to time restraints, interviews were not conducted and only press releases and public statements made by stakeholders were coded to discern thematic opinions and behaviors. This investigation found that the document analysis supports the literature on this subject. Concepts that emerged include: civic capacity, equal opportunity, and quality of education. The conclusion is drawn that political parties struggled to define vouchers and charters as a solution to Indiana’s educational issues. Overall, the state Republican Party had more agenda setting power and greater influence than Democrats and thus was able to gain wider support for vouchers. Implications of this research are such that political endeavor may not directly support the education of children. Recommendations for corrective actions are discussed. Limitations of this research are discussed.
Music Industry: Toward A New Business Model?

The last ten years have seen many changes in the music industry, mainly caused by Internet music downloading, legal and illegal. The traditional business model of the recording music industry, based on the sales of CDs in retail stores, seems to be on its way out. No clear new model has emerged yet, but several trends are noticeable for the recording music industry. First, the decline of CD sales since the peak year of 2000 has accelerated, totaling 30% in the USA. Second the recording music industry is going through a restructuring, marked by sell offs and mergers among the recording labels, by the disappearance of music retail stores, and by the foray of the majors in new directions, such as concerts. Finally, revenues from digital music sales are increasing, partially compensating for the decrease in CD sales. Whereas the providers of content, namely the labels and the artists, can be seen as victims of music downloading, the providers of the technology have benefited. The sales of its iPod/iTunes systems have provided Apple’s more revenues than the sales of its computers. Other manufacturers are also entering this market. Meanwhile, academics and policy makers have been studying new types of copyright licenses. One idea is to impose a global license, paid by Internet service providers, and repaid to them by Internet users. Many technological and legal questions must be resolved for such a scheme to become viable.
Commutative Law for the Multiplication of Matrices as Viewed in Terms of Hankel's Principle

Many rules of arithmetic for real numbers also hold for matrices, but a few do not. The commutative law for the multiplication of matrices, however, can be also considered as an extension of the law for real numbers. The transpose of a matrix conserves ``the principle of the permanence of form and its transition" for the commutative law for multiplication.
Lumped Parameter Model for Stability Analysis

The problem of column instability due to axial compressive loading is treated frequently. For most simple cases an exact analytical solution is possible. However, a column with in-span conditions, such as varying axial forces, changing cross-sectional properties, multiple supports, or foundations, is quite complex and requires a numerical technique. A common approach, especially for computer programs available commercially, employs tranfer matrices. This is inefficient because repetitive analyses of the beam are required in the eigenvalue search, and it is difficult to automate since root estimates are necessary. This note suggests using a modeling scheme with the axial force as the discretized parameter. This is particularly convenient since experience is so great with the similar approach of lumping the masses (Myklestadt method) of vibrating members. It is shown that use of the lumped parameter model in a transfer matrix analysis leads to an efficient computational technique that requires neither root estimates nor repetitive member analyses. Although the beams are considered in depth, the technique can be extended to other members, such as plates and symmetric shells of revolution. These members can have arbitrary changes in geometry, axial load distribution, and in-span occurrences such as supports or foundations.
Is active skeletal muscle functionally vasoconstricted during dynamic exercise in conscious dogs

We investigated whether the increase in hindlimb blood flow and vascular conductance in conscious dogs during graded dynamic exercise is functionally restrained by the sympathetic nervous system. Dogs were chronically instrumented to monitor terminal aortic blood flow (TAQ) as an index of hindlimb skeletal muscle blood flow and mean arterial pressure (MAP). The extent of functional sympathetic tone was assessed by measuring the increase in TAQ and terminal aortic vascular conductance (TAC, calculated as TAQ/MAP) in response to intra-arterial infusion of the alpha-adrenergic antagonist prazosin (PZ; 50 micrograms/kg) into the hind-limbs at rest and during steady-state dynamic (treadmill) exercise ranging from mild (3.2 km/h, 0% grade to moderately heavy (8 km/h, 15% grade) workloads. This dose of PZ completely abolished the large hindlimb vasoconstrictor response to phenylephrine (1 microgram/kg ia). At rest, PZ increased TAQ by 0.10 +/- 0.02 l/min and TAC by 1.85 +/- 0.53 ml.min-1.mmHg-1. During exercise, as workload increased and the control levels of TAQ and TAC rose progressively delta TAQ and delta TAC with PZ infusion also increased. At the highest workload, PZ increased TAQ by 0.41 +/- 0.07 l/min and TAC by 4.81 +/- 0.38 ml.min-1.mmHg-1. The increase in TAQ and TAC with PZ were linearly related to the control level of TAQ, indicating that as workload increases progressively greater restraint of muscle vasodilation by the sympathetic nervous system occurs. We conclude that during dynamic exercise in conscious dogs the sympathetic nervous system progressively restrains the normal vasodilation in active skeletal muscle, thereby limiting skeletal muscle perfusion.
Soluble versus cell-bound CD4, CD8 from bronchoalveolar lavage: correlation with pulmonary diagnoses in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals

Identification and assessment of cell populations in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens may he used to follow the course of a disease state or response to specific therapy. Beyond cellular assessment, there are indications that the presence and quantity of soluble surface antigens released from activated cells may lead to improved understanding and facilitated diagnosis of a number of disease states. This study evaluated soluble markers (sCD4 and sCD8) in BAL and serum from HIV-infected individuals undergoing diagnostic bronchoscopy, and compared these values to flow cytometry-quantified BAL and peripheral blood cell CD4 and CD8. Patient pulmonary diagnosis (based on cytology and microbiology) was compared with patient blood and BAL-soluble and cell-bound CD4 and CD8 to determine the relationship of these markers to disease states in this population. Serum sCD8 in patients with fungal infections was significantly elevated above sCD8 in patients with Pneumocystis carinii or pulmonary bacterial infections, p = 0.0001. BAL sCD4/sCD8 ratio was also significantly different in patients with bacterial vs. fungal pulmonary infections, p = 0.01. These findings suggest that soluble markers, particularly elevated sCD8, may be an important indication of pulmonary disease progression in these HIV+ patients with fungal infections.
Changing Orientations to Corporal Punishment: A Randomized, Control Trial of the Efficacy of a Motivational Approach to Psycho-Education

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a motivational interviewing (MI) approach in changing positive attitudes toward corporal punishment (CP), behavioral intentions, and behavior. CP has been linked to a variety of negative outcomes for children, and parents' attitudes toward CP strongly predicts its use. Five brief interventions have been reported in the literature designed to target CP attitudes. The current study adopts a novel approach by evaluating the effects of a brief, psycho-educational intervention incorporating aspects of MI. METHOD: Forty-three mothers of children ages 3 to 5 completed 1 motivational psycho-education session. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention or waitlist, completing assessments at baseline, postintervention, and 1-month follow-up. After follow-up, the waitlist condition crossed over, completing the intervention and further assessments. RESULTS: The intervention was associated with greater reductions in CP attitudes and intentions versus the waitlist; these effects were replicated in the crossover group. Further, participants' in-session change-talk predicted greater changes in CP attitudes. The effect size of the current approach was stronger than the prior interventions. CONCLUSIONS: MI is a promising approach to address parental use of CP, though this approach needs replication with a larger sample. Several ways of incorporating this approach on a wider scale are considered. ©2016 American Psychological Association Language: en
Update in the Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock

Sepsis and septic shock are syndromes that often overlap in clinical manifestation. Emerging evidence suggests that early recognition and early initiation of therapy for sepsis are the most important components in the management of sepsis and septic shock. The current review is to update the management of sepsis and septic shock,including early recognition and management of sepsis significantly improves short-term and long-term mortality; early fluid resuscitation and appropriate antibiotic therapy have the most impact on survival; and infection source should be controlled within 24 hours of initiating management.
Vaccines for Emerging Viral Diseases

Infectious diseases continue to plague mankind and evolve to keep pace with the efforts to control them. Sir William Osler captured the ongoing fear of infectious pathogens when he said, “Humanity has but three great enemies: fever, famine, and war; of these by far the greatest, by far the most terrible, is fever.” Despite the significant impact of antimicrobials and vaccines on public health, there has only been one major human pathogen eradicated—variola virus, the agent of smallpox. In its place have been a series of new and reemerging microbes responsible for isolated infections, regional outbreaks, and global pandemics. Bacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens have the capacity to cause widespread epidemics such as the “Black Death” caused by Yersinia pestis in 14th century Europe. However, bacteria, fungi, and parasites are less likely to cause widespread human pandemics at this point in history and are less amenable to vaccine strategies than viral diseases. Focusing on viruses, a catalog of newly discovered human pathogens from the beginning of the 20th century shows a predictable and nearly linear rate of new agents discovered over time. However, of the more than 100 virus families, only 22 have been associated with human infections, a number that seems to have plateaued. In the chapter we will concentrate on vaccines for emerging viral diseases.
Exploring Prejudice, Miscegenation, and Slavery's Consequences in Mark Twain's Pudd'nhead Wilson

This research paper analyzes Mark Twain's use of racist speech and racial stereotypes in his novel Pudd'nhead Wilson. Twain has often been criticized for his seemingly inflammatory language. However, a close reading of the text, supplemented by research in several anthologies of critical essays, reveals that Twain was actually interested in social justice. This is evident in his portrayal of Roxana as a sympathetic character who is victimized by white racist society in Dawson's Landing, Mississippi during the time of slavery. In the final analysis, Twain's writing was a product of the time period during which he wrote. This knowledge helps students understand the reasons behind Twain's word choices, characterization, and portrayal of race.
Do sex hormones or hormone therapy modify the relation of n-3 fatty acids with incident depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women? The MESA Study

Introduction Considering that estradiol (E2) and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have roles in neurogenesis and in neurotransmission, we examined whether the association of PUFAs with incident depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women is modified by hormone therapy (HT) use or estrogen status.
A review of the Mexican power system market policies for competiveness and a more diverse generation portfolio

After more than five decades of state monopoly, Mexican Power Market has been restructured and wholesale transactions started in January 1st, 2016. This paper discusses the market design features, its goals and challenges. Since deregulated market transactions and clean energy oriented policies are new to Mexican grid operations, a transition ensuring a successful establishment of the market design should be assessed in order to verify that ongoing transformation can lead to the accomplishment of its economic and environmental targets. The expected outcomes are underlined based on the impact that applied policies have had in the North American context.
Ultrafast conductivity study of Dirac surface states via THz pump and THz probe spectroscopy

Intense THz excitation in topological insulator Bi 2 Se 3 induces negative low-frequency conductivity and energy-dependent relaxation dynamics, different from high-energy pumping, which allows us to isolate intrinsic quasi-particle scattering dynamics inside the surface states.
PBL Group Autonomy in a High School Environmental Science Class

With increasing class sizes, teachers and facilitators alike hope for learning groups where students work together in self-contained and autonomous ways requiring reduced teacher support. Yet many instructors find the idea of developing independent learning in small groups to be elusive particularly in K-12 settings (Ertmer and Simons in Interdiscip J Probl Based Learn 1(1):5, doi: 10.7771/1541-5015.1005 , 2006; Simons and Klein in Inst Sci 35(1):41–72, 2007). Autonomy in small learning groups is actively promoted in many of the forms of problem-based learning (PBL). A PBL learning group is traditionally defined as students with tutor assigned to the group. However, as PBL is introduced into K-12 environments, the assumption of group autonomous functioning is tenuous for a variety of reasons. The purpose of this research is to determine the extent to which a K-12 PBL learning group functions in autonomous ways when a computer-based scaffold provides some student support normally provided by the teacher or tutor during a PBL environmental science unit. If a computer-based scaffold can successfully enable key elements of autonomous group functioning by supplying process level support normally provided by a tutor or teacher, K-12 teachers anxious to attempt PBL may be able to venture with greater confidence that they can provide multiple learning groups adequate support. Results suggest that a computer-based scaffold informed by Moore’s transactional distance theory can promote process elements of autonomous group functioning.
Apomixis and Parthenogenesis

Asexual reproduction occurs in plants as well as in animals. In plants, asexual reproduction is commonly known as apomixis.
Directed Cell Differentiation by Inductive Signals in Salivary Gland Regeneration: Lessons Learned from Pancreas and Liver Regeneration

Xerostomia (dry mouth) is a deleterious condition that patients with radiation therapy for head and neck cancer or autoimmune Sjogren’s syndrome suffer from. Current remedies for this condition provide no substantial relief of xerostomia. As a result, new alternatives to these palliative remedies, such as artificial salivary glands, gene therapy, or cell-based interventions, are on the horizon. An urgent demand for acquisition of knowledge on stem cell regulation, which is critical for salivary gland regeneration, has allowed systematic and mechanistic research endeavor focusing on the identification of key regulators for cell lineage determination. This book chapter summarizes the key inductive signals, which include extrinsic factors secreted from the microenvironment and cell intrinsic factors that drive differentiation of the stem cells into the cells of the pancreas, liver, and salivary glands as they share the endodermal origin during development. The plethora of information available in pancreas and liver regeneration studies provides insight into key signals that govern vital processes during orchestrated stem cell differentiation for salivary epithelial cells. Some examples of transdifferentiation between differentiated cells of different organs and in vivo applications of inductive factors offer perspectives on future clinical applications with improved safety and efficacy.
Association of Diopsys® Short-duration Transient Visual Evoked Potential Latency with Visual Field Progression in Chronic Glaucoma.

Aim To determine the association of Diopsys® NOVA-LX amplitude and latency abnormality scores with perimetric staging of chronic glaucoma, and to explore potential single-visit short-duration transient visual evoked potential (SD-tVEP) trend detection ability utilizing Humphrey 30-2 field progression data. Materials and methods Setting: Glaucoma subspecialty clinic. Participants: Treated adult chronic glaucoma patients undergoing SD-tVEP evaluation. Main outcome measures: (1) Proportion of eyes designated as suspect or abnormal by the NOVA-LX multifactorial algorithm were determined as a function of glaucoma severity using the most recent Humphrey visual field analyzer (HVFA) 30-2 field. (2) Association between long-term HVFA-guided progression analysis (GPA) annual slopes and SD-tVEP abnormality was assessed to determine whether a single VEP test might help to identify eyes more prone to progressive visual field (VF) loss. Results One hundred and thirty-three eyes of 84 patients (mean age 68 years) were analyzed. The SD-tVEP abnormality increased proportionately with severity of VF loss under high-contrast (Hc) test conditions for both latency (p = 0.001) and amplitude (p 0.7 dB/year (n = 29) had single-visit VEP latency abnormalities. Fewer than half (46.7%) of the remainder (n = 62) showed latency abnormality. Mean progression for eyes with abnormal vs normal VEP latency was -0.87 ± 0.3 dB/year vs -0.32 ± 0.4 dB/year. Conclusion Diopsys NOVA-LX Hc latency abnormality shows strong association with VF loss among a diverse population of clinical patients undergoing active treatment for chronic glaucoma, and appears likely to afford clinically useful trend-detecting test. Clinical significance The SD-tVEP has the potential to serve as a single-visit clinical indicator to identify glaucoma patients at high risk for VF progression.How to cite this article: Trevino R, Sponsel WE, Majcher CE, Allen J, Rabin J. Association of Diopsys® Short-duration Transient Visual Evoked Potential Latency with Visual Field Progression in Chronic Glaucoma. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2018;12(1):29-35.
Factors Affecting Adjuvant Therapy in Stage III Pancreatic Cancer-Analysis of the National Cancer Database.

Background:Adjuvant therapy after curative resection is associated with survival benefit in stage III pancreatic cancer. We analyzed the factors affecting the outcome of adjuvant therapy in stage III pancreatic cancer and compared overall survival with different modalities of adjuvant treatment.Methods:This is a retrospective study of patients with stage III pancreatic cancer listed in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) who were diagnosed between 2004 and 2012. Patients were stratified based on adjuvant therapy they received. Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox regression analysis were performed.Results:We analyzed a cohort included 1731 patients who were recipients of adjuvant therapy for stage III pancreatic cancer within the limits of our database. Patients who received adjuvant chemoradiation had the longest postdiagnosis survival time, followed by patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy, and finally patients who received no adjuvant therapy. On multivariate analysis, advancing age and ...
Accuracy of the Bayley-II mental development index at 2 years as a predictor of cognitive impairment at school age among children born extremely preterm

To describe the accuracy of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-Second Edition (BSID-II) Mental Development Index (MDI) at 2 years of age for prediction of cognitive function at school age of children born extremely preterm. Study participants were enrolled in the Extremely Low Gestational Age Newborn Study between 2002 and 2004. Two-thirds of surviving children (n = 795) were assessed at 2 years with the BSID-II and at 10 years with an intelligence quotient (IQ) test. We computed test characteristics for a low MDI (<70), including predictive value positive. Almost two-thirds of children with a low MDI had a normal IQ (≥ 70) at 10 years. Concordance between MDI and IQ was highest among children with major motor and/or sensory impairment, and when MDI was adjusted for gestational age. Most children born extremely preterm with low BSID-II MDI at 2 years have normal intelligence at school age.
Why outcomes matter: reclaiming distributive justice

A significant strain of libertarian thinking is hostile to the idea that distributions of wealth and/or income (economic outcomes) can be judged according to antecedently determined normative stand...
ON SEQUENTIAL RANK TESTS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses sequential rank tests. It reviews some properties of the sample distribution function. The non-linear renewal theorem is used to determine the asymptotic distribution of the excess over the boundary. The chapter describes a sequential probability ratio test.
The rate of aqueous humor formation in buphthalmic rabbit eyes

Aqueous humor turnover (Koat min.- 1 ) for buphthalmic rabbits was 0.003 ± 0.0015 at steady state. This is equivalent to a rate of aqueous humor formation of 2.0 /iL/min., and is only 46 per cent of the value (4.2 fiL/min.) obtained in normal rabbits of the same strain.