cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Babesia: An Emerging Infectious Threat in Transfusion Medicine

Babesiosis is an emerging zoonosis caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. The disease is endemic primarily in the Northeast and upper Midwestern United States. The genus Babesia comprises multiple species of apicomplexan parasites that infect red cells of many vertebrate hosts. Babesia divide and replicate in the hosts’ red blood cells and are called piroplasms due to their pear-shaped appearance within the RBCs (Figure 1). They are transmitted by ixodid tick vectors as they feed on a blood meal from the host [1]. Babesiosis has long been recognized as an economically important disease of cattle, but only in the last 40 years has Babesia been recognized as an important pathogen in man. The majority of cases in the United States are caused by B. microti and occur in the Northeast and upper Midwest [2]. A small number of infections caused by B. duncani and B. duncani–like organisms have been reported on the West Coast from California to Washington State [3]. Additionally, B. divergens–like organisms have been reported in Kentucky, Missouri, and Washington State [4]. In Europe, almost all reported cases have been due to B. divergens, and a few have been caused by the EU1 species, now called B. venatorum [5,6]. Sporadic cases of babesiosis have also been reported in Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America [7]. The symptomatic spectrum of human babesiosis is broad, ranging from clinically silent infections to intense malaria-like episodes resulting occasionally in death. When present, symptoms typically are nonspecific (fever, headache, and myalgia) [8]. Human babesiosis is a zoonosis, and the natural acquisition of human disease is the result of interactions with established zoonotic cycles. Emerging diseases are defined as ‘‘novel, re-emerging, or drugresistant infections whose incidence in humans has increased within the past two decades or whose incidence threatens to increase in the near future.’’ Because of the increasing number of human infections since 1990, human babesiosis can be considered an emerging disease [7]. A number of factors have contributed to the ‘‘emergence’’ of human babesiosis, including a heightened awareness among physicians, a changing ecology, and a larger population of immunocompromised individuals, where fatalities have occurred. This led the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to add babesiosis to the list of nationally notifiable diseases in 2011.
Modulation of p38 MAPK signaling enhances dendritic cell activation of human CD4+ Th17 responses to ovarian tumor antigen

The recent finding that Th17 infiltration of ovarian tumors positively predicts patient outcomes suggests that Th17 responses play a protective role in ovarian tumor immunity. This observation has led to the question of whether Th17 cells could be induced or expanded to therapeutic advantage by tumor vaccination. In this study, we show that treatment of ovarian tumor antigen-loaded, cytokine-matured human dendritic cells (DC) with a combination of IL-15 and a p38 MAP kinase inhibitor offers potent synergy in antagonism of CD4+ Treg induction and redirection toward CD4+ Th17 responses that correlate with strong CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation. Ovarian tumor antigen-specific CD4+ T cells secrete high levels of IL-17 and show reduced expression of CTLA-4, PD-1, and Foxp3 following activation with IL-15/p38 inhibitor-treated DC. We further show that modulation of p38 MAPK signaling in DC is associated with reduced expression of B7-H1 (PD-L1), loss of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase activity, and increased phosphorylation of ERK 1/2 MAPK. These observations may allow the development of innovative DC vaccination strategies to boost Th17 immunity in ovarian cancer patients.
Hyperscaling in the three-dimensional Ising model

We analyze the 21st-order series of Nickel for the susceptibility and the correlation length of the spin-$s$ Ising model for the bcc lattice with the use of an unbiased method of confluent singularity analysis tailored to the loose-packed lattices. This modified five-fit method of analysis assumes a parametrization which includes one confluent correction, e.g., for the susceptibility $\ensuremath{\chi}={\mathrm{At}}^{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}}(1+{\mathrm{Bt}}^{{\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1}})$, where $t=1\ensuremath{-}\frac{{T}_{c}}{T}$. The method determines sequences for these five parameters, e.g., ${\mathrm{lim}}_{n\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}}{\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{n}=\ensuremath{\gamma}$, by equating five consecutive even or odd coefficients in the perturbation series with the five corresponding coefficients in the expansion of the assumed parametrization and by solving the five equations for the five parameters numerically. Our analysis of the spin-$s$ Ising-model series shows that the indices $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ and $2\ensuremath{\nu}$ are smaller than indicated by early analysis on shorter series and that the confluent correction is apparently not significant for spin-\textonehalf{}, validating the use of ratio methods for the spin-\textonehalf{} series. Considering the results of both the confluent singularity analysis and the standard analysis of the spin-\textonehalf{} series, we estimate $\ensuremath{\gamma}=1.242 (+0.003, \ensuremath{-}0.005)$ and $2\ensuremath{\nu}=1.268(+0.006, \ensuremath{-}0.008)$, in basic agreement with renormalization-group calculations, hyperscaling, and the biased analysis of Nickel's series. Test-function analysis demonstrates the reliability of the method. Estimates for the leading index represent a significant improvement over older methods, e.g., the ratio method. Estimates for the correction exponent and amplitude are consistently high, presumably because the method must try to have one correction mimic all the corrections to the leading singularity.
Intraoperative pulsed Doppler assessment of carotid endarterectomy

A 20 MHz pulsed Doppler velocimeter and fast Fourier transform spectrum analyzer were used at operation to assess the velocity patterns just prior to and immediately following carotid endarterectomy (TEA). In all 45 sides studied, the status of the endarterectomized segment was verified by operative arteriography. Corresponding Pre-TEA and Post-TEA internal carotid artery spectra were compared to each other and classified according to criteria developed using the ultrasonic Duplex scanner. Of 39 arteries with significant Pre-TEA flow disturbances, improvement in Post-TEA spectral characteristics was observed in 35, and 4 were not changed. Six arteries had only minimal flow disturbances both before and after endarterectomy. In one case the initial Post-TEA spectrum showed a worsening of the flow disturbance which was found on operative arteriography to be due to a stenosis secondary to a technical error. After vein patch angioplasty, the spectrum and repeat arteriogram were both improved. No other significant technical problems were encountered. Although the velocity patterns were improved by endarterectomy in most cases, some residual flow disturbance often remained. Technical factors were not a major cause of the Post-TEA flow disturbances. Lack of improvement or deterioration in the spectra after closure of the arteriotomy may be useful in selecting patients for operative arteriography. Intraoperative spectra also provide important baseline data for long term followup studies.
Analysis of practical scaling limits in nanoelectromechanical switches

The trend of miniaturization, along with modern microfabrication facilities, has led to the development of nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) switches for use in low power and harsh environment applications. Dimensional scaling is attractive to improve integration density and operating voltage of NEMS devices. However, its effect on switch performance, leakage and dynamic power as well as practical limits on dimensional scaling are not well studied. Existing work in this area models the scaling trend and device performance based on parameters like voltage and dimensions. Although, most of them do not consider the effects of some nanoscale phenomena (surface forces, tunneling current) and leakage currents at G and D (off-state leakage), which can greatly affect circuit performance. This paper reports modeling and analysis of scaling effects and practical limits of scaling in cantilever-structured NEMS switches considering effects at nanoscale dimensions. It also analyzes the effects from a circuit level perspective, which corresponds to the end application of these NEMS structures. The goal of this paper is to establish a working range of dimensions and parameters which could result in reliable operating NEMS devices that can be incorporated into circuits.
“Complete Liberty”? Gender, Sexuality, Race, and Social Change on the Lower Columbia River, 1805-1838

This article analyzes social change in the emerging colonial world of the lower Columbia River from 1805 to 1838, particularly regarding gender and sexuality. It teases out distinctions among formal marriages, informal "custom of the country" arrangements, the exercise of sexual "liberties" by young Chinookan women, and prostitution, revealing much of the complex sexual interactions between natives and newcomers. Such a focus illuminates critical, interpersonal aspects of fur trade society in this region as it developed into a complex colonial milieu, reflecting both indigenous and Western interests. Lower Chinook-ans adapted slavery and trade practices to accommodate the demands of their own social stratification and the challenges brought by newcomers. Colonial accommodations were first limited by Western racial and economic ideologies, and subsequently by the gross power inequity caused by the collapse of the native population in the early 1830s from malaria and other introduced diseases.
Context matters: Alibi strength varies according to evaluator perspective

Purpose. The nascent field of alibi evaluation research has produced interesting and inconsistent findings. We focus on a heretofore unexamined variable that may play a critical role in alibi evaluation: context. Specifically, two experiments tested the hypothesis that the same alibi can be evaluated differently when presented in the context of a police investigation vs. criminal trial. Method. In Study 1, 101 college participants evaluated an alibi in one of three contexts: police investigation, criminal trial, or a control condition devoid of specific legal context. Dependent measures included ratings of alibi strength and credibility, as well as the likelihood that the suspect was guilty. In Study 2, both context and the presence of a corroborating witness were varied in a scenario presented to 139 college participants. Results. Across studies, an alibi was rated as stronger in the police investigation vs. trial context, consistent with the prediction that the fact that a case has proceeded to trial implies to perceivers that the alibi is relatively weak. In Study 2, an alibi was deemed stronger when corroborated vs. uncorroborated, but this difference was only significant in the police investigation context. Conclusions. If alibi research is to fulfil its promise for legal and policy implications, a clearer understanding of the variables that influence alibi evaluation must be developed. The present results illustrate the importance of context in this investigation, suggesting that two researchers studying evaluations of the same alibi may arrive at different conclusions based on the simple framing of the experimental task.
Modeling of the Chiroptical Response of Chiral Amino Acids in Solution Using Explicit Solvation and Molecular Dynamics

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and TDDFT linear response computations were employed to model the molar rotations of the zwitterionic forms of glycine, alanine, proline, and phenylalanine in aqueous solution. The MD simulations inherently take into account averaging the chiroptical response of different amino acid conformers and also allow the effects from vibrational distortions and explicit solvent perturbations on the optical rotation to be modeled. The results show that the chiroptical response correlates strongly to the conformations of these molecules relative to their carboxylate functional groups. Additionally, the molar rotation of phenylalanine shows a correspondence to the molecule's internal rotation about its phenyl group. These findings may be rationalized with established and revised "sector rules" for optical activity.
The two sites of fusion of the neural folds and the two neuropores in the human embryo.

Background Since reports on a pattern of multiple sites of fusion of the neural folds in the mouse appeared, it has been widely assumed that a similar pattern must be valid for the human. In the absence of embryological evidence, claims have been made that such a pattern can be discerned by classifying neural tube defects. Methods The neural folds and tube, as well as the neuropores, were reassessed in 98 human embryos of Stages 8–13; 61 were controlled by precise graphic reconstructions. Results Careful study of an extensive series of staged human embryos shows that two de novo sites of fusion of the neural folds appear in succession: α in the rhombencephalic region and β in the prosencephalic region, adjacent to the chiasmatic plate. Fusion from Site α proceeds bidirectionally (rostrad and caudad), whereas that from β is unidirectional (caudad only). The fusions terminate in neuropores, of which there are two: rostral and caudal. Highly variable accessory loci of fusion, without positional stability and of unknown frequency, may be encountered in Stage 10 but seemingly not later, and their existence has been known for more than half a century. Conclusions Two sites of fusion (a term preferred to closure) of the neural folds and two neuropores are found in the human embryo. No convincing embryological evidence of a pattern of multiple sites of fusion, such as has been described in the mouse, is available for the human. The construction of embryological details from information derived from other species or from the examination of later anomalies is liable to error. Neural tube defects are reviewed and although they have been considered on the basis of five, four, or three sites of fusion, interpretations based on two sites can as readily be envisaged. Teratology 65:162–170, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Home technologies to keep elders connected

This one-day workshop examines the current state of research in computing to support elders in maintaining health and well-being. A particular area of interest is in designing technologies to facilitate connectedness - staying connected with friends and family, staying connected with past, present, and future, staying connected with elders' identifying pastimes, and staying connected with the status of their health. We then identify key areas for future research, and discuss ways to foster more effective research in these areas.
Epstein-Barr virus entry into cells.

o a e 1 H 1 d Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), a gamma herpesvirus persisting in B cells of most adults, is the prototypic human tumor virus. Persistent infection associates with malignancies and proliferative syndromes mainly affecting lymphoid and epithelial tissues (Rickinson and Kieff, 1996). EBV was discovered after Denis Burkitt, working in Africa in the 1950s, proposed that an infectious agent was involved in the etiology of a childhood tumor, now known as Burkitt’s lymphoma (Burkitt, 1962). Herpesvirus-like particles were subsequently observed on electron microscopic examination of cell lines derived from these tumors (Epstein et al., 1964). In lymphoid tissues BV-associated tumors include Burkitt’s lymphoma, odgkin’s disease, and certain adult T-cell lymphomas. BV infection associates with the epithelial disorders asopharyngeal carcinoma, gastric carcinoma, and oral airy leukoplakia (Osato and Imai, 1996; Rickinson and ieff, 1996), the latter occurring in immunocompromised atients. In this group the presence of EBV also assocites with lymphoproliferative diseases and with leiomysarcoma, a tumor of smooth muscle origin. EBV geomes and gene expression have been detected in reast cancers (Bonnet et al., 1999; Labrecque et al., 995). Evidence for this association, e.g., detection of iral genomes in each malignant cell within a tumor, has een reviewed recently by Cohen (2000). As exhibited by he range of pathology described above, EBV clearly ains entry to a variety of cell types, notably B cells and pithelial cells. Studies of EBV biology have been faciliated by construction of viruses containing drug resisance markers, for example that described by Shimizu et l. (1996). A recent enhancement of this approach is evelopment of viruses carrying reporter genes, such as hat designated EBfaV–GFP (Speck et al., 1999; Speck nd Longnecker, 1999), which bears the gene for enanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and produces
Erythrocyte insulin binding studies in growth hormone deficiency

Growth hormone (GH) is known to induce insulin resistance, although the mechanism of this action is poorly understood. To investigate whether GH or somatomedin (SM) may alter insulin binding at the cell surface receptor, we have studied in GH deficient (GHD) children the effect of acute and long-term GH therapy on erythrocyte insulin receptor binding (IRB). Fifteen GHD, ages 2-13 years, were evaluated before treatment, after short-term high-dose GH (2 mg bid × 7d), and long-term maintenance GH therapy (2 mg tiw × 2-12 mo). IRB was measured after fasting (16 hrs) and feeding (4 hrs). Fasting IRB was similar in GHD, control children and adults: 8.2±2.4, 7.4±2.4, and 8.2±2.3%, respectively. Corresponding concentrations of serum glucose were 78, 88, 82 mg/dl, those of insulin 12.2±3.4, 17.3±3.4, 11.2±2.8 μU/ml. There was no change of IRB in GHD with feeding vs fasting or short-term high-dose (7.3±2.9) vs long-term maintenance GH therapy (7.0±3.1). GH increased ( 20 μU/ml), but very low IRB (3.1±1.2). IRB after GH treatment increased only in those patients in whom therapy was associated with a decrease in body weight:height ratios, suggesting IRB may be related more to changes in body fat than circulating GH or SM concentration.
Building non-traditional collaborations using new technologies

The purpose of this paper is to describe and reflect upon the successful results of a new collaborative effort involving various departments at the University of Richmond.
Outcomes of platelet transfusion in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a retrospective case series study

Current guidelines advise against the transfusion of platelets in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) except in cases of life-threatening hemorrhage. We conducted a retrospective medical chart review to examine the outcomes of patients with TTP who received platelet transfusion at our institution from September 2002 to September 2012. A search for "thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura" in the discharge summary identified 233 patients, out of which only 15 patients had TTP and received platelet transfusion. Primary outcomes were death due to any cause, myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, coma, seizure, or worsening neurologic status within 24 h of platelet transfusion. Secondary outcomes included bleeding and worsening thrombocytopenia. No adverse outcomes occurred within 24 h of platelet transfusion. Two patients experienced bleeding following renal biopsy despite having platelet counts of greater than 50,000/μl and receiving one pack of pooled platelets prior to the procedures. The response to transfusion was variable. In general, platelet transfusion was not detrimental in this population; however, the efficacy is uncertain.
Black Sociology and Phenomenological Sociology

This paper is a comparative analysis of black sociology and phenomenological sociology and an attempt to show how phenomenology might be used to provide an epistemological foundation for black sociology. Attention is directed toward the writings of black and phenomenological sociologists. Arguments rest on appeals to authorities—quotations from and citations to influential writers. The specific points of comparison are the way the protagonists of the perspectives (1) define their activities, (2) criticize conventional sociology, and (3) investigate social reality. Epistemological issues are examined within a framework of the standard methodological problems of validity and reliability.
The Effect of Beta-Blockers on the Adaptive Immune System in Chronic Heart Failure

It remains possible that the benefit from beta-blockers (BBs) in chronic heart failure (CHF) may not entirely be derived from a class-specific effect. Several experimental reports have alluded to the capability of immunomodulation by individual BBs. Given the increasingly recognized importance of the immune system in the pathogenesis of CHF, we studied the effects of BBs on the circulating immune system of these patients. Blood samples from CHF outpatients were prospectively analyzed using flow cytometry and gating software. Results were analyzed against comprehensive clinical details that were recorded during sample donation, including the type of BB administered. 273 blood samples were analyzed from 141 CHF patients, with an average ejection fraction of 31.9% and a mean age of 69.1 years. Patients taking carvedilol had a significantly lower expression of CD107a on cytotoxic T cells compared to bisoprolol (P= 0.001) and nebivolol (P= 0.008). They also had a significantly lower expression of HLA-DR on lymphocytes (P < 0.001 and P= 0.009 for bisoprolol and nebivolol, respectively). Cytotoxic T cells and lymphocytes expressing HLA-DR have been implicated in the pathogenesis of CHF. The fact that carvedilol, but not other commonly used beta-blockers, appears to modulate these important parameters, supports the concept that important differences exist between these agents, which may affect outcomes in CHF.
Prospect theory as an explanation of risky choice by professional investors: Some evidence

Abstract This paper examines the results of surveys of professional investment managers' risk perceptions and investment preferences. Managers are found to exhibit loss aversion, to be risk averse for gains and risk loving for loss; and to believe in time diversification. The results are consistent with the implications of the S-shaped value function of Prospect Theory.
Translocation and association of ROCK-II with RhoA and HSP27 during contraction of rabbit colon smooth muscle cells

The focus of the paper is to understand the role of HSP27 in mediating the association of RhoA with ROCK-II in sustained contraction of smooth muscle cells from the rabbit colon. In circular smooth muscle cells; acetylcholine-induced contraction (10(-7)M) was associated with translocation of ROCK-II to the particulate fraction, which remained sustained at 4 min after stimulation (135.1+/-8.1% increase, P </= 0.05). There was also an increased association of ROCK-II with RhoA particulate fraction (147.46+/-9.31 and 148.22+/-9.41, n = 3, P </= 0.05) and with HSP27 (155.6+/-10.7% increase, P </= 0.05) in the particulate fraction. Pre-incubation of cells with Y27632 resulted in the inhibition of the association of ROCK-II with RhoA in the particulate fraction. Acetylcholine (10(-7)M) induced sustained phosphorylation of MLC (122.75+/-9.97%, P </= 0.05 and 174.65+/-28.36%, P </= 0.05 increase in the di phospho-MLC at 30s and 4 min, respectively), which was inhibited upon pre-incubation with Y27632. Results suggest that ROCK-II undergoes a translocation to the particulate fraction with RhoA and with HSP27, suggesting that translocation and association of ROCK-II with RhoA is mediated by HSP27. Maintenance of the functional association of RhoA with ROCK-II in the particulate fraction mediated by HSP27 appears to be important to retain MLC in the phosphorylated state and hence the sustained contraction.
Consciousness from neurons and waves

This paper presents a theory of consciousness based on the following evidence: [1] Complex stimuli are decomposed by the exogenous system into attributes transmitted to synapses of pyramidal neurons in lower cortical layers, encoding fragments of sensations as nonrandom synchronization that increases local voltages; [2] Endogenous readouts from representational systems encoding memories in a mesolimbic system are transmitted to synapses of the pyramidal neurons in upper layers; [3] Excitability of pyramidal neurons receiving convergent exogenous and endogenous inputs is enhanced, converting fragments of sensations to fragments of perception and creating high voltage islands of non-random synchrony; [4] Local Field Potential (LFP) oscillations are homeostatically regulated, imposing dynamically maintained local voltage thresholds that define a “Ground State”; [5] Deviations from these most probable levels constitute local perturbations of entropy; [6] Modulation of cortex by LFPs, facilitating coherent cortico-thalamic (C-T) volleys of cells with suprathreshold excitability, binds dispersed fragments of local perturbations of entropy; [7] The thalamic cells from which convergence arose respond to these volleys by coherent T-C-T-C reverberations; [8] Sustained reverberation establishes a resonating electromagnetic field of information, the vehicle sustaining unified perception; [9] The resonating field of information constitutes Global Negative and generates the content of consciousness; [10] Invariant reversible LFP changes occur upon loss of consciousness and persistent shifts accompany many clinical disorders.
Comparison of Scrapie and Transmissible Mink Encephalopathy in Hamsters. I. Biochemical Studies of Brain during Development of Disease

A series of 15 different biochemical measurements were made on brains taken at stages throughout the development of scrapie and of transmissible mink encephalopathy in hamsters. With both diseases biochemical abnormalities were found only after the development of early histologic lesions, when animals showed clinical signs of disease. Changes were recorded in body weight, in the activities of six glycosidases, and in the rates of incorporation of DNA and of glycoprotein precursors. The profiles of changes in hamster brain were almost indistinguishable, qualitatively and quantitatively, in the two diseases, an observation suggesting a close similarity in the way both disease-producing agents interact with this particular host species. However, there were some major differences between the profile of changes in hamster scrapie and that previously observed in mouse scrapie. Thus it would appear that many of the well-characterized abnormalities of mouse scrapie are not fundamentally involved in the development of disease but represent mainly secondary changes. Epidemiologic studies of several outbreaks of transmissible mink encephalopathy (TME) have provided strong circumstantial evidence that these outbreaks were associated with the ingestion of animal carcasses that were incorporated into the mink feed [1-4]. Furthermore, it has been proposed that the ingestion of tissues from scrapieaffected sheep was responsible for these outbreaks
Endogenous Cytosolic Ca2+ Buffering is Necessary for TRPM4 Activity in Cerebral Artery Smooth Muscle Cells

The melastatin transient receptor potential (TRP) channel, TRPM4, is a critical regulator of smooth muscle membrane potential and arterial tone. Activation of the channel is Ca(2+)-dependent, but prolonged exposures to high global Ca(2+) causes rapid inactivation under conventional whole-cell patch clamp conditions. Using amphotericin B perforated whole cell patch clamp electrophysiology, which minimally disrupts cytosolic Ca(2+) dynamics, we recently showed that Ca(2+) released from 1,2,5-triphosphate receptors (IP(3)R) on the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) activates TRPM4 channels, producing sustained transient inward cation currents (TICCs). Thus, Ca(2+)-dependent inactivation of TRPM4 may not be inherent to the channel itself but rather is a result of the recording conditions. We hypothesized that under conventional whole-cell configurations, loss of intrinsic cytosolic Ca(2+) buffering following cell dialysis contributes to inactivation of TRPM4 channels. With the inclusion of the Ca(2+) buffers ethylene glycol-bis(2-aminoethylether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA, 10mM) or bis-ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA, 0.1mM) in the pipette solution, we mimic endogenous Ca(2+) buffering and record novel, sustained whole-cell TICC activity from freshly-isolated cerebral artery myocytes. Biophysical properties of TICCs recorded under perforated and whole-cell patch clamp were nearly identical. Furthermore, whole-cell TICC activity was reduced by the selective TRPM4 inhibitor, 9-phenanthrol, and by siRNA-mediated knockdown of TRPM4. When a higher concentration (10mM) of BAPTA was included in the pipette solution, TICC activity was disrupted, suggesting that TRPM4 channels on the plasma membrane and IP(3)R on the SR are closely opposed but not physically coupled, and that endogenous Ca(2+) buffer proteins play a critical role in maintaining TRPM4 channel activity in native cerebral artery smooth muscle cells.
Reliability of plantar pressure platforms

Plantar pressure measurement is common practice in many research and clinical protocols. While the accuracy of some plantar pressure measuring devices and methods for ensuring consistency in data collection on plantar pressure measuring devices have been reported, the reliability of different devices when testing the same individuals is not known. This study calculated intra-mat, intra-manufacturer, and inter-manufacturer reliability of plantar pressure parameters as well as the number of plantar pressure trials needed to reach a stable estimate of the mean for an individual. Twenty-two healthy adults completed ten walking trials across each of two Novel emed-x(®) and two Tekscan MatScan(®) plantar pressure measuring devices in a single visit. Intraclass correlation (ICC) was used to describe the agreement between values measured by different devices. All intra-platform reliability correlations were greater than 0.70. All inter-emed-x(®) reliability correlations were greater than 0.70. Inter-MatScan(®) reliability correlations were greater than 0.70 in 31 and 52 of 56 parameters when looking at a 10-trial average and a 5-trial average, respectively. Inter-manufacturer reliability including all four devices was greater than 0.70 for 52 and 56 of 56 parameters when looking at a 10-trial average and a 5-trial average, respectively. All parameters reached a value within 90% of an unbiased estimate of the mean within five trials. Overall, reliability results are encouraging for investigators and clinicians who may have plantar pressure data sets that include data collected on different devices.
Stochastic Variability in Silicon Double-Gate Lateral Tunnel Field-Effect Transistors

Device-level variability in silicon double-gate lateral tunnel field-effect transistors (TFETs) due to line-edge roughness (LER) and random dopant fluctuation (RDF) is investigated for designs with a 20-nm gate length and body widths of 5 or 10 nm (“20/5” and “20/10,” respectively). Variability in TFET threshold voltage (VT), on-state drive current (Ion), off-state leakage current (Ioff), and subthreshold swing is examined by means of statistical technology computer-aided design simulations with consideration of body LER up to 1 nm in amplitude as well as RDF for body heights ranging from 10 to 40 nm. The effects of body LER and RDF are found to be similar in magnitude and also comparable to those in similarly designed fin FETs, with the exception of Ion variability which is roughly three times higher for TFETs. Arguments are presented to explain these findings based on the operating principle of TFETs compared to standard metal-oxide-semiconductor-FET-based technology.
A new MOSFET output conductance measurement technique

A new technique is presented for accurate measurement of the output conductance of a metal-oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET). This technique allows the measurement of output conductance down to the sub mu S region with an accuracy of better than 1%. Measurements in this range of output conductance are plagued by stray capacitances and noise. The new technique effectively combats these sources of error. The above-mentioned accuracy is maintained even when the susceptance due to the stray capacitance is as much as five times the conductance being measured. >
Dynamics and control of aggregate thin film surface morphology for improved light trapping: Implementation on a large-lattice kinetic Monte Carlo model

This work demonstrates the use of feedback control, coupled with a suitable actuator design, in manufacturing thin films whose surface morphology is characterized by a desired visible light reflectance/ transmittance level. The problem is particularly important in the context of thin film manufacturing for thin film solar cells where it is desirable to produce thin films with precisely tailored light trapping characteristics. Initially, a thin film deposition process involving atom adsorption and surface migration is considered and is modeled using a large-lattice (lattice size¼ 40,000) kinetic Monte Carlo simulation. Subsequently, thin film surface morphology characteristics like roughness and slope are computed with respect to different characteristic length scales ranging from atomic to the ones corresponding to visible light wavelength and it is found that a patterned actuator design is needed to induce thin film surface roughness and slope at visible light wavelength spatial scales, which lead to desired thin film reflectance and transmittance levels. Then, an Edwards–Wilkinson-type equation (a second-order stochastic partial differential equation) is used to model the surface evolution at the visible light wavelength spatial scale and form the basis for the design of a feedback controller whose objective is to manipulate the deposition rate across the spatial domain of the process. The model parameters of the Edwards–Wilkinson equation are estimated from kinetic Monte Carlo simulations and their dependence on the deposition rate is used in the formulation of the predictive controller to predict the influence of the control action on the surface roughness and slope throughout the thin film growth process. Analytical solutions of the expected surface roughness and surface slope at the visible light wavelength spatial scale are obtained by solving the Edwards–Wilkinson equation and are used in the control action calculation. The cost function of the controller involves penalties on both surface roughness and slope from set-point values as well as constraints on the magnitude and rate of change of the control action. The controller is applied to the largelattice kinetic Monte Carlo simulation. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controller and patterned actuator design successfully regulate aggregate surface roughness and slope to set-point values at the end of the deposition that yield desired levels of thin film reflectance and transmittance.
Subzero Glass Transition of Waxy Maize Starch Studied by Differential Scanning Calorimetry

A mixture of waxy maize starch and water (1:2, w/w) was heated in a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) pan to different temperatures to obtain different degrees of gelatinization. Each pan was then quenched to -30°C and rescanned, and the subzero glass transition temperature (T g ') of the content was determined. A three-phase model of a starch granule—a mobile amorphous phase, a rigid amorphous phase, and a crystalline phase—was used to interpret results and explain the glass transitions in starch. Waxy maize starch had an onset gelatinization temperature (T o ) of 61.5°C, peak temperature (T p ) of 70.3°C, and completion temperature (T c ) of 81.7°C. The T g ' was clearly noted after the starch and water mixture was heated to T p and T c , but was small and barely observable when the mixture was heated up to T o and immediately cooled to -30°C. When the starch and water mixture was heated to 55°C, which was 6°C below the T o , and held for 2 h, a T g ' was observed. Moreover, T g ' began to appear and was observable if the starch and water mixture was heated to 10°C below gelatinization onset temperature (51°C) and annealed for 2 h without any gelatinization. Further holding at -7°C showed a clear subzero glass transition of annealed native starch granules.
Agricultural disturbance response models for invertebrate and algal metrics from streams at two spatial scales within the U.S.

As part of the USGS study of nutrient enrichment of streams in agricultural regions throughout the United States, about 30 sites within each of eight study areas were selected to capture a gradient of nutrient conditions. The objective was to develop watershed disturbance predictive models for macroinvertebrate and algal metrics at national and three regional landscape scales to obtain a better understanding of important explanatory variables. Explanatory variables in models were generated from landscape data, habitat, and chemistry. Instream nutrient concentration and variables assessing the amount of disturbance to the riparian zone (e.g., percent row crops or percent agriculture) were selected as most important explanatory variable in almost all boosted regression tree models regardless of landscape scale or assemblage. Frequently, TN and TP concentration and riparian agricultural land use variables showed a threshold type response at relatively low values to biotic metrics modeled. Some measure of habitat condition was also commonly selected in the final invertebrate models, though the variable(s) varied across regions. Results suggest national models tended to account for more general landscape/climate differences, while regional models incorporated both broad landscape scale and more specific local-scale variables.
HOW PRESSURE GROUPS ACTIVATE VOTERS AND MOVE CANDIDATES CLOSER TO THE MEDIAN

This article shows how uninformed but rational voters can respond intelligently to political advertising. The article models a situation where a candidate must rely on a pressure group for financing political advertising and making endorsements. The pressure group uses its power over the purse to influence the position chosen by the candidate. Nevertheless, when uninformed voters use a strategic rule of thumb, pressure-group contributions always move the outcome of the election closer to the median voter. By using such a rule of thumb, when there is advertising, uninformed voters can have the same influence on the election as informed voters. How should uninformed but rational voters respond to political advertising? Can pressure groups, with financial resources to fund political campaigns that provide information on the candidates, gain at the expense of the median voter? This article seeks to answer these and related questions. Building on the framework introduced by Baron (1994) and used extensively by others, I model the case where there are two types of voters: informed and uninformed. I investigate two opposing assumptions regarding candidate preferences:
Transitional Flow between Orifice and Nonorifice Regimes at a Rectangular Sluice Gate

The hydraulic transition between nonorifice and orifice flow regimes at a rectangular sluice gate was analyzed to determine the value of a coefficient ( Co ) used to define the threshold between the two regimes. The transition coefficient was defined as the ratio of vertical gate opening to upstream water depth. Several dozen data sets were collected in a hydraulic laboratory, each including the measurement of upstream and downstream water depth for five different vertical gate openings, and 17 different steady-state discharges from 0.02 to 0.166 m3 ∕s . Various approaches were tested to define the limits of the nonorifice-to-orifice regime transition, but the one presented herein uses the specific-energy equation for open-channel flow. After the transition limits were defined, an estimation of the nonorifice-to-orifice transition coefficient, Co , was made. The experimental results indicate that orifice flow always exists when Co is less than 0.83, and nonorifice flow always exists when Co is greater tha...
Ketorolac prevents recurrent withdrawal induced hyperalgesia but does not inhibit tolerance to spinal morphine in the rat

Chronic use of opioid is associated with pro-nociceptive phenomena such as hyperalgesia or tolerance. The interaction between opioid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with respect to opioid-associated hyperalgesia and tolerance remains largely unknown. This study examines the effect of subcutaneous or intrathecal administration of ketorolac, an NSAID, on recurrent withdrawal induced hyperalgesia and tolerance to spinal morphine in rats. Animals were infused with morphine intrathecally, and daily subcutaneous naloxone was used for recurrent withdrawal purpose. We observed that escape latencies on hot box were decreased in animals subjected to withdrawal, and this decrease was reversed by subcutaneous ketorolac pretreatment. In addition, we observed that recurrent withdrawal did not significantly affect the magnitude of spinal morphine tolerance. Compared to controls, all morphine infused animals showed similar changes in their dose responses to spinal morphine, effective dose 50 values and tolerance ratios; and these changes were not affected by the ketorolac given subcutaneously. The effect of ketorolac on tolerance was further examined by directly delivering ketorolac to the spinal cord, and again we observed similar changes in the daily latency, percentage of area under the curve and percentage of maximal possible effects among groups infused with morphine, regardless of intrathecal ketorolac treatment. Together, our results demonstrate that recurrent withdrawal is associated with hyperalgesia but this has no effect on the tolerance development; ketorolac protects against recurrent withdrawal induced hyperalgesia without significantly altering spinal morphine tolerance.
Differential modulation of CACO-2 mediated transport of rhodamine-123 by 17-beta estradiol, progesterone and testosterone

Steroidal hormones may play a significant role in the modulation of gender differences in pharmacokinetics. P-glycoprotein (P-gp), an ATP-binding cassette transport protein, can transport a variety of hormones, including some steroid hormones. Although interactions between progesterone (P) and P-gp have been reported, little is known about interactions with 17-β estradiol (E2) or testosterone (T). We used an in vitro model of intestinal drug transport to assess the effects of steroid hormones on rhodamine-123 (Rho-123) transport. E2 treatment (2.5ηM to 25μM) consistently resulted in approximately 20% or greater elevation of AUC0–120 values (AU*min) when compared to control (C) (C: 8,830, 25μM E2: 11,566). Co-administration of tamoxifen or Go6983 (a protein kinase C inhibitor), at concentrations that do not alter Rho-123 transport, inhibit the E2 dependent activation. Unlike E2, 17-α ethinyl estradiol, an estrogenic component of many oral contraceptives, demonstrates no effect on Rho-123 transport. Conversely, T and P demonstrated significant inhibition of AUC0–120 values at concentrations within the micro-molar range (C: 10,359, 25μM P: 4,315, C: 8,787, 25μM T: 3,886). Linear regression analysis of these data confirms these interactions. These data suggest that hormonal modulation of P-gp may be an important factor in determining gender specific alterations in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of P-gp substrates, and should be explored further. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2004) 75, P87–P87; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2003.11.331
Microdosimetric properties of ionizing electrons in water: a test of the PENELOPE code system.

The ability to simulate the tortuous path of very low-energy electrons in condensed matter is important for a variety of applications in radiobiology. Event-by-event Monte Carlo codes such as OREC, MOCA and PITS represent the preferred method of computing distributions of microdosimetric quantities. However, event-by-event Monte Carlo is computationally expensive, and the cross sections needed to transport simulations to this level of detail are usually only available for water. In the recently developed PENELOPE code system, 'hard' electron and positron interactions are simulated in a detailed way while 'soft' interactions are treated using multiple scattering theory. Using this mixed simulation algorithm, electrons and positrons can be transported down to energies as low as 100 eV. To our knowledge, PENELOPE is the first widely available, general purpose Monte Carlo code system capable of transporting electrons and positrons in arbitrary media down to such low energies. The ability to transport electrons and positrons to such low energies opens up the possibility of using a general purpose Monte Carlo code system for microdosimetry. This paper presents the results of a code intercomparison study designed to test the applicability of the PENELOPE code system for microdosimetry applications. For sites comparable in size to a mammalian cell or cell nucleus, single-event distributions, site-hit probabilities and the frequency-mean specific energy per event are in reasonable agreement with those predicted using event-by-event Monte Carlo. Site-hit probabilities and the mean specific energy per event can be estimated to within about 1–10% of those predicted using event-by-event Monte Carlo. However, for some combinations of site size and source-target geometry, site-hit probabilities and the mean specific energy per event may only agree to within 25–60%. The most problematic source-target geometry is one in which the emitted electrons are very close to the tally site (e.g., a point source on the surface of a cell). Although event-by-event Monte Carlo will continue to be the method of choice for microdosimetry, PENELOPE is a useful, computationally efficient tool for some classes of microdosimetry problem. PENELOPE may prove particularly useful for applications that involve radiation transport through materials other than water or for applications that are too computationally intensive for event-by-event Monte Carlo, such as in vivo microdosimetry of spatially complex distributions of radioisotopes inside the human body.
An application of beam dynamics to a damper design

Flexural wave propagation may be used as a means of absorbing impact energy to prevent excessive rebound or to shorten the cycle time of high-speed printing devices. For optimal damping action, however, the dynamic analysis of beams used in the mechanism is necessary; this paper presents such an analysis. It also presents an application of a damper ring design that is used to prevent so-called "shadow printing" by suppressing the rebound of the type elements in a disk printer.
NMR magnet technology at MIT

Two key issues in the construction of high field NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) magnets are discussed: field drift due to the index of the superconductor and the shimming of large high order gradients. It is noted that the index of the conductor as measured at the critical current gives a conservative guide to the drift rate of the magnet. With the assumption of a Gaussian distribution of critical current the effective index increases as the current decreases. The use of ferromagnetic shimming to improve the quality of the field generated by a nonuniform winding is a relatively simple procedure, particularly if linear programming is used to calculate the shim array. A commercial device maps the field along a helical path. Those field measurements are then used for a least squares fit to the harmonics. From that a shim array is designed by linear programming. >