cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Force control for spring-mass walking and running

We demonstrate in simulation that active force control applied to a passive spring-mass model for walking and running attenuates disturbances, while maintaining the energy economy of a completely passive system during steady-state operation. It is well known that spring-mass models approximate steady-state animal running, but these passive dynamic models are sensitive to disturbances that animals are able to accommodate. Active control can be used to add robustness to spring-mass walking and running, and most existing controllers add a fixed amount of energy to the system based on information from previous strides. Because spring-mass models are schematically similar to force control actuators, it is convenient to combine the two concepts in a single system. We show, in simulation, that the resulting system can attenuate sudden disturbances during a single stance phase by matching its toe force profile to that of the undisturbed spring-mass model.
Cryptosporidium parvum Sporozoite Pellicle Antigen Recognized by a Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibody Is a β-Mannosylated Glycolipid

The protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium parvum is an important cause of diarrhea in humans, calves, and other mammals worldwide. No approved vaccines or parasite-specific drugs are currently available for the control of cryptosporidiosis. To effectively immunize against C. parvum, identification and characterization of protective antigens are required. We previously identified CPS-500, a conserved, neutralization-sensitive antigen of C. parvum sporozoites and merozoites defined by monoclonal antibody 18.44. In the present study, the biochemical characteristics and subcellular location of CPS-500 were determined. CPS-500 was chloroform extractable and eluted with acetone and methanol in silicic acid chromatography, consistent with being a polar glycolipid. Following chloroform extraction and silicic acid chromatography, CPS-500 was isolated by high-pressure liquid chromatography for glycosyl analysis, which indicated the presence of mannose and inositol. To identify which component of CPS-500 comprised the neutralization-sensitive epitope recognized by 18.44, the ability of the monoclonal antibody to bind CPS-500 treated with proteases, or with α- or β-glycosidases, was determined. Monoclonal antibody 18.44 did not bind antigen treated with β-d-mannosidase but did bind antigen treated with α-d-mannosidase, other α- or β-glycosidases, or a panel of proteases. These data indicated that the target epitope was dependent on terminal β-d-mannopyranosyl residues. By immunoelectron microscopy, 18.44 binding was localized to the pellicle and an intracytoplasmic tubulovesicular network in sporozoites. Monoclonal antibody 18.44 also bound to antigen deposited and released onto substrate over the course travelled by gliding sporozoites and merozoites. Surface localization, adhesion and release during locomotion, and neutralization sensitivity suggest that CPS-500 may be involved in motility and invasion processes of the infective zoite stages.
Listeria monocytogenes in donated platelets: a potential transfusion-transmitted pathogen intercepted through screening.

Background Bacterial contamination of blood components is a potentially life-threatening complication of transfusions. In October 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted four Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) isolates cultured from four different units of donated apheresis platelets (PLTs) among Lm isolates sent to the CDC National Listeria Reference Laboratory for subtyping as part of routine surveillance activities. Study Design and Methods We describe an investigation to determine possible common sources of infection among donors or factors associated with PLT collection or storage and to determine whether human transfusion-associated listeriosis cases had been reported. We also reviewed all isolates with PLTs as a source sent to the CDC National Listeria Reference Laboratory between November 1, 2005, and December 31, 2011. Results Each PLT donor–associated isolate had a distinct pulsed-field gel electrophoresis pattern combination. Other than these four cases, no other cases of Lm-contaminated PLTs were identified by the American Red Cross or by CDC during 2005. However, two additional cases of Lm isolated from donated PLTs were detected, one in 2008 and one in 2011. Conclusion Although the source of contamination for these PLT units is unclear, and a source common to all units was not identified, this investigation underscores the value of screening for bacterial contaminants of PLTs.
On the robustness of using balanced part mix ratios to determine cyclic part input sequences into flexible flow systems

Most of the literature dealing with the determination of cyclic part input sequences in a flexible flow system is restricted in that it only searches for input sequences that are permutations of the minimal part set (MPS). This study is unique in that it investigates input sequences generated by integer programming (IP) formulations that balance or unbalance machine workloads to help maximize overall machine utilization (Stecke 1992). Also, this study integrates the input sequence determination decision with the part mix ratio determination, within the overall framework of a flexible approach to FMS operation over time. A simulation model of a flexible flow system was designed to study the effects on overall machine utilizations caused by utilizing alternative part mix ratios to help determine input sequences. The procedures used to determine the part mix ratios include IP formulations and those that are generated randomly, including the MPS mix ratios. Three different experimental settings are used to te...
Binding characteristics of the ovine membrane progesterone receptor alpha and expression of the receptor during the estrous cycle

Background: Classically, progesterone has been thought to act only through the well-known genomic pathway involving hormone binding to nuclear receptors and subsequent modulation of gene expression. However, there is increasing evidence for rapid, non-genomic effects of progesterone in a variety of mammalian tissues and it is possible that a membrane PR (mPR) is causing these events. We recently isolated and characterized an ovine mPR referred to as mPRalpha, distinct from the nuclear PR. Based on predicted structural analysis, the ovine mPR-alpha possesses seven transmembrane domains typical of G protein-coupled receptors. Despite the homology to other reported mPRs, information pertaining to the steroid binding characteristics of the ovine mPR-alpha was lacking. Additionally, the ovine mPR-alpha transcript has been identified in the hypothalamus, pituitary, uterus, ovary and corpus luteum, yet changes in expression of the ovine mPR-alpha in these tissues were not known. Consequently, the purpose of this work was to determine the steroid binding characteristics of the ovine mPR-alpha and to investigate possible changes in expression of the ovine mPR-alpha in reproductive tissues throughout the estrous cycle. Methods: Binding studies were performed using crude membrane fractions from CHO cells expressing the mPR-alpha. Using quantitative Real-time PCR we determined the expression pattern of mRNA for the ovine mPR-alpha during the ovine estrous cycle in tissues known to express the mPR-alpha. Jugular blood samples were also collected and analyzed for serum concentrations of P4 to ensure ewes were at the appropriate stage of their cycle. Results: Only progesterone, 20alpha-hydroxyprogesterone and 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone were able to displace binding of 3H-P4 (P < 0.001) to membrane fractions from CHO cells expressing ovine mPR-alpha. The average B-max and Kd values for three separate experiments were 624 +/- 119 fmol/micro gram protein and 122 +/- 50 nM, respectively. Significant changes in expression of mRNA for the mPR-alpha during the estrous cycle were noted in the corpus luteum and uterus. Conclusion: The mPR-alpha specifically binds progestins and its expression was correlated to progesterone secretion during the ovine estrous cycle. Results from the present studies suggest that mPR-alpha may have an important physiological role during the ovine estrous cycle.
Chemical and Physical Structure of Neps in Selected Nonwoven Fabrics

The physical and chemical structure of neps from two nonwoven fabrics, a 50-50 blend of two polyester fibers and a 75-25 blend of rayon and polypropylene, were studied by scanning electron microscopy and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The neps in both fabrics are distinct from the fabric itself and are encased in two fabric layers. Some neps contain a fiber blend similar to the unnepped fabric, while others contain a significant quantity of binder. Identification of nep composition may be useful in determining the causes of their formation and the means to reduce their occurrence.
His-tag ELISA for the detection of humoral tumor-specific immunity

The application of high throughput molecular techniques such as SEREX are resulting in the identification of a multitude of tumor associated antigens. As newly identified antigens are incorporated into a variety of clinical trials, standardization of immunologic monitoring methods becomes increasingly important. We questioned whether mammalian cell expression of a histadine-linked human protein could be used to produce antigen suitable for detecting tumor-specific humoral immunity and whether such an assay could be amenable to standardization for clinical use. We designed a his-tagged capture ELISA based on lysate from genetically engineered CHO cells for detection of antibodies to insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2, a novel tumor antigen. We performed technical and preliminary clinical validation studies, including comparison to a standard indirect ELISA based on commercially prepared recombinant antigen. The his-tagged capture ELISA could be standardized. Precision experiments resulted in CVs < 15%. Linearity and calibration experiments demonstrated r2 values of 0.99. In comparison to Western blot analysis, his-tag and indirect ELISA accurately identified 88% and 93% of samples, respectively. Sample concordance between capture and indirect assays was highly significant (p = 0.003). Furthermore, significantly greater levels of IGFBP-2 antibody immunity were found in cancer patients compared to normal controls (p = 0.008). A genetically engineered cell lysate based ELISA can be amenable to standardization and can detect increased levels of antibody immunity to tumor-associated antigen in cancer patients compared to non tumor-bearing healthy controls.
Letter by Fisher and Johns Regarding Article, “Variable Platelet Response to Aspirin and Clopidogrel in Atherothrombotic Disease”

To the Editor: We read with great interest the recent review by Maree and Fitzgerald.1 They should be congratulated for their informative summary of a quickly evolving area. However, we are concerned about their comments in the Aspirin Formulation section of the article. In this section, they …
Optimized Icosahedral Grids: Performance of Finite-Difference Operators and Multigrid Solver

AbstractThis paper discusses the generation of icosahedral hexagonal–pentagonal grids, optimization of the grids, how optimization affects the accuracy of finite-difference Laplacian, Jacobian, and divergence operators, and a parallel multigrid solver that can be used to solve Poisson equations on the grids. Three different grid optimization methods are compared through an error convergence analysis. The optimization process increases the accuracy of the operators. Optimized grids up to 1-km grid spacing over the earth have been created. The accuracy, performance, and scalability of the multigrid solver are demonstrated.
Optimism and the Nonlinear Citizenship Behavior—Job Satisfaction Relationship in Three Studies

Despite a voluminous body of work demonstrating the positive benefits of organizational citizenship behaviors (OCB), recent theory has highlighted the potential trade-offs individuals face when performing such activities. This evidence calls into consideration the “more is always better” philosophy, suggesting the existence of potentially more complex OCB—work outcome relationships. The present research investigates the interactive relationship between optimism and OCB on job satisfaction in a series of three independent samples, examining moderated polynomial relationships. Based on self-regulation and self-perception theories, the authors hypothesized that optimism would moderate the relationship between OCB and job satisfaction, demonstrating a linear relationship for those high in optimism and a nonlinear relationship (i.e., assuming an inverted U-shaped form) for those low in optimism. Consistent results were found across all three studies, providing support for the hypothesized moderated polynomial ...
Religion, Education, and the State: The Contrasting Views of James Dwyer and Warren Nord

In Experience and Education, John Dewey noted that "All social movements involve conflicts which are reflected intellectually in controversies. It would not be a sign of health if such an important social interest as education were not also an arena of struggles, practical and theoretical" (Dewey 1938, v). If Dewey is right, this is a healthy time for education. Among the most heated conflicts that generate intellectual controversy are those involving the relationship between education and religion. For example, the movement to support school vouchers that parents may use at religious schools is a subject of regular reports in the media. This is a movement James Dwyer, the author of one of the books under review, would adamantly oppose unless voucher programs mandated a level of oversight by secular authorities that no advocate of religious schooling could abide. A second example: the movement by evangelical Protestants to include the biblical version of creation along with the biological theory of evolution in textbooks and classrooms continues to simmer; this movement has received as-
On homogeneous transforms, quaternions, and computational efficiency

Three-dimensional modeling of rotations and translations in robot kinematics is most commonly performed using homogeneous transforms. An alternate approach, using quaternion-vector pairs as spatial operators, is compared with homogeneous transforms in terms of computational efficiency and storage economy. The conclusion drawn is that quaternion-vector pairs are as efficient as, more compact than, and more elegant than their matrix counterparts. A robust algorithm for converting rotational matrices into equivalent unit quaternions is described, and an efficient quaternion-based inverse kinematics solution for the Puma 560 robot arm is presented. >
Cochlear polyamines : markers of otitis media-induced cochlear damage

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) set to the femtomole [corrected] sensitivity level was used to identify and quantify the polyamines spermidine and spermine as well as the diamine putrescine in the different tissues of the inner ears of guinea pigs with experimentally induced otitis media. The tissues examined were the lateral wall (stria vascularis and the spiral ligament), the organ of Corti, and the cochlear nerve. The difference in polyamine profile in the different tissues of the control noninfected guinea pigs suggests a relation to the particular function of each of these tissues [see erratum notice re: preceding sentence]. The difference in polyamine profile in infected different inner ear tissues compared to controls encourages the assumption that the polyamines may be involved in a repair process of the inner ear after injury and that they may be considered as biochemical markers for inner ear damage secondary to acute otitis media.
Applying design-dependent knowledge in structural engineering design

Recent knowledge-based expert systems for structural engineering design have focused on design-independent knowledge (abstract reasoning rules for designing), and while great strides have been made in that area, there is still a significant need to develop systems to take advantage of the wealth of knowledge contained in every substantial structural design. On the other hand, previous database-oriented design efforts have focused primarily on knowledge-poor databases of solutions, in which the traditional engineering handbook of solutions has simply been replaced by digital data. The challenge is to find a way to capture and apply the kind of case-based, design-dependent knowledge that structural engineers have traditionally used. The long-term results will be better structural designs and better structural designers. This paper discusses the character of the design-dependent knowledge in a structural engineering context, describes two initial applications of case-based reasoning to component design, and presents a general paradigm for a knowledge-based design system integrating rule-based and case-based reasoning.
MULTI-TEAM INTEGRATION: INTERDEPENDENCE AND INTEGRATIVE MECHANISMS

The drive towards Integrated Product Development (IPD) includes an impetus to organize around Integrated Product Teams (IPTs). The use of IPTs has brought with it many issues, including those at the IPT interfaces. Program integration (cross- functional, upstream/downstream, customer and supplier) can exist at several levels, within IPTs and between IPTs. This paper focuses on the realm of IPT interdependence and categorizes several Integrative Mechanisms (IMs) to facilitate interteam integration. IMs are strategies and tools for effectively coordinating actions across IPTs within a program. This paper is based on studies in the aerospace industry, but the implications extend to any large, complex development program.
Ampicillin/Sulbactam and Cefoxitin in the Treatment of Cutaneous and Other Soft-Tissue Abscesses in Patients With or Without Histories of Injection Drug Abuse

A randomized, double-blind trial compared the clinical and bacteriologic efficacy of ampicillin/sulbactam (2 g/1 g) and cefoxitin (2 g) administered intravenously every 6 h to patients with (n=49) or without (n=47) histories of injection drug abuse who presented with cutaneous or other soft-tissue infections. Cure or improvement occurred in 89.8% of ampicillin/sulbactam-treated patients, compared with 93.6% of cefoxitin-treated patients. The median time to resolution of all symptoms was 10.5 days with ampicillin/sulbactam treatment and 15.5 days with cefoxitin treatment. Mixed aerobic-anaerobic infection was encountered frequently in both treatment groups. A significantly higher percentage of Streptococcus species was found in the major abscesses of the patients with histories of injection drug abuse, compared with those without such histories (37% vs. 19%, respectively; P=.0009). Overall, ampicillin/sulbactam eradicated pathogens from the major abscesses in 100% of patients, whereas the eradication rate with cefoxitin was 97.9%. The 2 drugs were well tolerated. Ampicillin/sulbactam and cefoxitin were equally effective for the empirical treatment of cutaneous or other soft-tissue infections in injection drug abusers and patients who did not inject drugs.
CRUSH: Data collection and analysis framework for power capped data intensive computing

Hadoop system has been widely used to support large-scale data intensive computing tasks on enterprise software infrastructure. Deploying and operating Hadoop incur high costs including hardware expenditure to build computer clusters and energy consumption to run the clusters. Building sustainable and scalable systems requires optimal power management schemes. In this paper, we present a framework, namely CRUSH, which collects power and resource usage data and provides statistical analysis for power management. We also demonstrate the usage of CRUSH in studying the effects of power capping on Hadoop jobs.
Hiring in an Academic Library: Fit is Essential

Candidates readily assure search committees that they will join up, collaborate, and participate in a group. The challenge for the search committee is learning whether the candidate will truly fit with the existing group and organizational culture. How do we gauge how a new hire will fit? Hiring for fit is critical in libraries because each member of the group interacts on behalf of the library with students, faculty, administrators, and staff. Such work demands not only collaboration but also a shared vision. This article describes how one library altered the hiring practice to address the issue of “fit.”
Dynamic cerebral autoregulation is preserved during acute head-down tilt

Complete ganglion blockade alters dynamic cerebral autoregulation, suggesting links between systemic autonomic traffic and regulation of cerebral blood flow velocity. We tested the hypothesis that ...
Color In Discriminative Learning By Children

DURING RECENT YEARS a number of studies of discriminative learning in children have demon strated that elementary school pupils (kindergar ten through grade five) discriminated less well between stimulus objects which differed only in hue than between those which differed only in shape or in degrees of brightness (2,3,4). Clifford and Calvin (4) reported that in a discrimination prob lem where color was the cue, 63% of all Ss failed to reach criterion of ten consecutive succe s s f u 1
Application of OpenClinica in Clinical Trial Data Management System

The paper introduces the necessity of developing clinical data management system,points out that OpenClinica is consistent with the requirements of clinical trail data standardized management and its position in the industry,elaborates the application of OpenClinica data management system from the aspects of system characteristics,function modes,etc.
Monitoring and phenotype characteristics study on food-borne Aeromonas species

Objective To investigate the distribution and phenotype characteristics of food borne Aeromonas spp. in Pudong New Area. Methods Aeromonas strains were isolated and identified to species level in 3 types of fresh food samples collected from 2 markets during May to November in 2011,and the difference of phenotype characteristics among isolates were analyzed. Results 74 strains of Aeromonas,including 23 strains of A. hydrophila,35 strains( 12. 0%) of A. veronii biovar sobia and 16 strains of A. caviae,were isolated from 291 samples. The highest isolation rate was 34. 1% in meat product,followed by 18. 9% in aquatic product and 18. 7 % in vegetable. Of all the 74 isolated strains,51 strains produced β-hemolysin, 59 strains produced protease, and 48 strains produced both β-hemolysin and protease. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests to 12 antibiotics showed most strains were highly susceptible to Cefotaxime,Ceftazidime, Cefepime,Gentamicin,Ciprofloxacin and levoflxacin,while highly resistant to Ampicillin and the antibiotic resistance rate to Amoxicillin-Clavulanic acid had statistical difference among species. Low level of multi-drug resistance( MDR) existed in Aeromonas spp. Conclusion Fresh foods in markets were highly contaminated by Aeromonas spp. during prevalent seasons. Aeromonas strains other than A. hydrophila also carried virulence factors. Though resistance to antibiotics was not serious,integrated monitoring of food borne disease based on food chain was necessary.
What makes a $$\mathbf{D}_0$$D0 graph Schur positive?

We define a $${D}_0$$D0graph to be a graph whose vertex set is a subset of permutations of n, with edges of the form $$\cdots \mathsf {bac} \cdots \leftrightsquigarrow \cdots \mathsf {bca} \cdots $$źbacźźźbcaź or $$\cdots \mathsf {acb} \cdots \leftrightsquigarrow \cdots \mathsf {cab} \cdots $$źacbźźźcabź (Knuth transformations), or $$\cdots \mathsf {bac} \cdots \leftrightsquigarrow \cdots \mathsf {acb} \cdots $$źbacźźźacbź or $$\cdots \mathsf {bca} \cdots \leftrightsquigarrow \cdots \mathsf {cab} \cdots $$źbcaźźźcabź (rotation transformations), such that whenever the Knuth and rotation transformations at positions $$i-1, i, i+1$$i-1,i,i+1 are available at a vertex, exactly one of these is an edge. The generating function of such a graph is the sum of the quasisymmetric functions associated to the descent sets of its vertices. Assaf studied D$$_0$$0 graphs in (Dual equivalence and Schur positivity, http://www-bcf.usc.edu/~shassaf/degs.pdf, 2014) and showed that they provide a rich source of examples of the D graphs of (Dual equivalence graphs and a combinatorial proof of LLT and Macdonald positivity, http://www-bcf.usc.edu/~shassaf/positivity.pdf, 2014). A key construction of Assaf expresses the coefficient of $$q^t$$qt in an LLT polynomial as the generating function of a certain D$$_0$$0 graph. LLT polynomials are known to be Schur positive by work of Grojnowski-Haiman, and experimentation shows that many D$$_0$$0 graphs have Schur positive generating functions, which suggests a vast generalization of LLT positivity in this setting. As part of a series of papers, we study D$$_0$$0 graphs using the Fomin-Greene theory of noncommutative Schur functions. We construct a D$$_0$$0 graph whose generating function is not Schur positive by solving a linear program related to a certain noncommutative Schur function. We go on to construct a D graph on the same vertex set as this D$$_0$$0 graph.
Phenotypic characterization of breast invasive carcinoma via transferable tissue morphometric patterns learned from glioblastoma multiforme

Quantitative analysis of whole slide images (WSIs) in a large cohort may provide predictive models of clinical outcome. However, the performance of the existing techniques is hindered as a result of large technical variations (e.g., fixation, staining) and biological heterogeneities (e.g., cell type, cell state) that are always present in a large cohort. Although unsupervised feature learning provides a promising way in learning pertinent features without human intervention, its capability can be greatly limited due to the lack of well-curated examples. In this paper, we explored the transferability of knowledge acquired from a well-curated Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) dataset through its application to the representation and characterization of tissue histology from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Breast Invasive Carcinoma (BRCA) cohort. Our experimental results reveals two major phenotypic subtypes with statistically significantly different survival curves. Further differential expression analysis of these two subtypes indicates enrichment of genes regulated by NF-kB in response to TNF and genes up-regulated in response to IFNG.
Graphical Displays of Internet Traffic Data

The threat of cyber attacks motivates the need to monitor Internet traffic data for potentially abnormal behavior. Due to the enormous volumes of such data, statistical process monitoring tools, such as those used traditionally on data in the product manufacturing departments, are inadequate. The detection of “exotic” data, which may indicate a potential attack, requires a characterization of “typical” behavior. We propose some simple graphical tools that permit ready visual identification of unusual Internet traffic patterns in “streaming” data. These methods are illustrated on a moderate-sized data set (135,605 records) collected at George Mason University.
Radioprotection of Rat Eyes by a Superoxide Dismutase Mimic: a Metalloporphyrin Compound

The search for a therapeutic radioprotectant that could protect normal tissues surrounding the treated area is important in radiation therapy. The purpose of present study was to study the role of antioxidant MnTE-2-PyP in protecting the ocular tissue and retinal microvessels from radiation damage by evaluating the histology and quantifying the photoreceptor cell populations and changes in retinal capillaries. 75 rats were treated with MnTE-2-PyP at 2.5mg/injection into one eye an hour before irradiation. Proton irradiation was given to same eye at doses of 8Gy or 28Gy. Rats were sacrificed every three months. By 6 months following radiation, there was significant loss of photoreceptor outer and inner nuclear layers in the radiation-only group (28Gy) (p<0.05) compared to controls and to the metalloporphyrin-treated group. Retinal microvessel length density decreased significantly 6 months following 28Gy (p<0.05) compared to controls and MnTE-2-PyP treated rats. By 12 months following irradiation, 28Gy caused complete damage to the photoreceptor layer, whereas there was almost no morphological damage in photoreceptor layer in the 28Gy+MnTE-2-PyP group. These results demonstrated that MnTE-2-PyP has protective effects on photoreceptor and retinal capillary from radiation damage, suggesting metalloporphyrin antioxidants may play an important role regulating the oxidative damage induced by radiation.
Love, Sex, and Satisfaction in On-Again/Off-Again Relationships: Exploring What Might Make These Relationships Alluring

The current study explored positive relational qualities — love, need satisfaction, sexual satisfaction— to better understand what might be alluring to on-again/off-again (cyclical) partners given that they typically report lower relational quality and functioning than non-cyclical partners (i.e., those who have not broken up and renewed). A sample of 558 young adults in current romantic relationships (27.6% in cyclical relationships) reported on Sternberg's (1997) three love components (intimacy, passion, and commitment), relationship need satisfaction (e.g., companionship, emotional involvement), and their sexual satisfaction. Results supported the bulk of research showing cyclical partners report lower relational quality — cyclical partners reported less love, need satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction. A pattern of findings regarding passion and need satisfaction regarding sexual and physical intimacy, however, suggests that cyclical partners might value the physical component of relationships more, and further, that passion might be more strongly related to global satisfaction as compared to non-cyclical partners. Overall, the value of this study is not in what differences were found but in ruling out certain explanations of what perpetuates cycling in young adult relationships. The current findings suggest the reasons individuals return to less satisfying relationships is complex and might require novel theoretical models.
Managing Bibliographic Data Quality for Electronic Resources

This article presents a case study of quality management issues for electronic resource metadata to assess the support of user tasks (find, select, and obtain library resources) and potential for i...
Development of equations to predict the influence of floor space on average daily gain, average daily feed intake and gain : feed ratio of finishing pigs

Floor space allowance for pigs has substantial effects on pig growth and welfare. Data from 30 papers examining the influence of floor space allowance on the growth of finishing pigs was used in a meta-analysis to develop alternative prediction equations for average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI) and gain : feed ratio (G : F). Treatment means were compiled in a database that contained 30 papers for ADG and 28 papers for ADFI and G : F. The predictor variables evaluated were floor space (m2/pig), k (floor space/final BW0.67), Initial BW, Final BW, feed space (pigs per feeder hole), water space (pigs per waterer), group size (pigs per pen), gender, floor type and study length (d). Multivariable general linear mixed model regression equations were used. Floor space treatments within each experiment were the observational and experimental unit. The optimum equations to predict ADG, ADFI and G : F were: ADG, g=337.57+(16 468×k)-(237 350×k 2)-(3.1209×initial BW (kg))+(2.569×final BW (kg))+(71.6918×k×initial BW (kg)); ADFI, g=833.41+(24 785×k)-(388 998×k 2)-(3.0027×initial BW (kg))+(11.246×final BW (kg))+(187.61×k×initial BW (kg)); G : F=predicted ADG/predicted ADFI. Overall, the meta-analysis indicates that BW is an important predictor of ADG and ADFI even after computing the constant coefficient k, which utilizes final BW in its calculation. This suggests including initial and final BW improves the prediction over using k as a predictor alone. In addition, the analysis also indicated that G : F of finishing pigs is influenced by floor space allowance, whereas individual studies have concluded variable results.
Endophthalmitis: Then and Now.

Purpose To report historically evolving strategies (then and now) in prevention and management of endophthalmitis. Design A perspective on relevant topics in the prophylaxis and management of endophthalmitis. Methods This is an author-selected review of studies leading to changes in strategies for endophthalmitis management over the last 100 years. Results The current perspective discusses the trends and strategies over the past century. Historically, 3 endophthalmitis time-periods have existed and include the pre-antimicrobial era, the predominantly systemic antimicrobial era, and the current intravitreal antimicrobial era. The management of endophthalmitis from different etiologies, including endogenous, postinjection, post–cataract surgery, and other anterior segment–related (eg, post–penetrating keratoplasty), bleb-associated, glaucoma drainage device–associated, and open globe injury–associated, are discussed. Specific etiologies may predict most common microbial causes and may guide differing management strategies. Pars plana vitrectomy offers theoretical advantages but is generally reserved for patients with more advanced disease. Conclusions Despite advances over the past 100 years, endophthalmitis is an important sight-threatening complication. Timely management with the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents may optimize visual outcomes.
Effects of fondaparinux on wound drainage after total hip and knee arthroplasty

Abstract Background The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of fondaparinux on postoperative wound drainage, length of hospital stay (LOS) and rate of surgical site infection in total joint patients. Methods 117 patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty treated with fondaparinux for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis were prospectively studied. Results The average time to a dry wound was 3.4 days, with an average LOS of 3.77 days. Perioperative complications included 2 cases each of superficial cellulitis, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism; there were no cases of deep infection. Multi-variate analysis showed increased patient BMI increased LOS (p = 0.0169). Conclusion Fondaparinux is an effective drug for VTE prophylaxis in total joint arthroplasty with wound drainage and LOS comparable to historical controls of enoxaparin, warfarin, and rivaroxaban.
The Fall of the Firefly: An Assessment of a Failed Project Strategy:

Choices made early in a project determine future success. Missteps in early phases will cause trouble later in the project's life cycle. The U.S. Air Force's acquisition of the T-3A “Firefly” train...
Multiresolution instance-based learning

Instance-based learning methods explicitly remember all the data that they receive. They usually have no training phase and only at prediction time do they perform computation Then they take a query search the database for similar datapoints and build an on-line local model (such as a local average or local regression) with which to predict an output value. In this paper we review the advantages of instance based methods for autonomous systems but we also note the ensuing cost hopelessly slow computation as the database grows large. We present and evaluate a new way of structuring a database and a new algorithm for accessing it that maintains the advantages ot instance-based learning. Earlier attempts to combat the cost of instancebased learning have sacrificed the explicit retention of all data or been applicable only to instancebased predictions based on a small number of near neighbors, or have had to reintroduce an explicit training phase in the form of an interpolative data structure. Our approach builds a multiresolution data structure to summarize the database of experiences at all resolutions of interest simultaneously. This permits us to query the database with the same flexibility as a conventional linear search but at greatly reduced computational cost.
Electrical Treatment of Poultry Chiller Water to Destroy Campylobacter jejuni.

To control bacterial contamination in poultry processing, pulsed electricity in combination with a salt was evaluated as an electrical pasteurization method to kill Campylobacter jejuni in poultry chiller water. Chiller water from a poultry processing plant was mixed with either sodium chloride (NaCI) or trisodium phosphate (Na 3 PO 4 12H 2 O or TSP) at 0.1%, 0.2% or 0.3% concentration, and inoculated with C. jejuni at 1 x 10 6 CFU/ml. The inoculated chiller water was treated at 4°C for 20 min using pulsed electrical signals at 10 mA/cm 2 current, 1 kHz frequency and 50% duty cycle. Samples taken at different intervals were serially diluted, pre-enriched in Brucella-FBP broth, plated on Campy-Cefex agar and incubated, and colony-forming units (CFU) were counted. The results showed that C. jejuni was reduced and that the bacterial death rate was dependent upon pH of the salt solution, salt concentration, and treatment time. In the electrical treatments, C. jejuni was reduced linearly on log scale in the chiller water mixed with TSP, but nonlinearly with NaCI. Bacterial destruction rate was accelerated by higher concentrations or higher pH of NaCl or TSP added to chiller water.
Depression Screening Patterns, Predictors, and Trends Among Adults Without a Depression Diagnosis in Ambulatory Settings in the United States.

Objective:This study examined national patterns, predictors, and trends in depression screening among adults without a diagnosis of depression in the United States.Methods:A cross-sectional design ...
The Realm of Ichnology, its Strengths and Limitations

Ichnology is the study of all manner of gouges, scrapes, and traces made by living or ancient organisms. At first glance, these oddities might seem to offer little encouragement for serious study. But many looks later, a surprisingly sophisticated body of information begins to emerge, most of it unavailable from any other source. Fossils that once were dismissed simply as “indirect evidence of ancient life” or “secondary sedimentary structures” now are proving to be invaluable in interpreting many forms of ancient life and the associated sedimentological and environmental conditions.
Hayek on Market Theory and the Price System

Hayek’s economics is fundamentally price theoretic. Economy-wide dynamics can only be understood as the result of individual agents, each endowed with dispersed, subjective, and often contradictory knowledge, carrying out their plans according to the information conveyed by the price system. This insight has been extremely influential to the development of economics since the Second World War, especially in the fields of information economics and mechanism design theory. This appropriation of Hayek’s ideas has fallen short of truly incorporating the radical challenge to our understanding of the economic system due to the profession’s focus on formalism, equilibrium analysis, and logical validity. A fully Hayekian economics must place the limits of human knowledge and the coordinating role of institutions at its core.
Cost-Effectiveness of Alirocumab: A Just-in-Time Analysis Based on the ODYSSEY Outcomes Trial.

Background The ODYSSEY Outcomes (Evaluation of Cardiovascular Outcomes After an Acute Coronary Syndrome During Treatment With Alirocumab) trial included participants with a recent acute coronary syndrome. Compared with participants receiving statins alone, those receiving a statin plus alirocumab had lower rates of a composite outcome including myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and death. Objective To determine the cost-effectiveness of alirocumab in these circumstances. Design Decision analysis using the Cardiovascular Disease Policy Model. Data sources Data sources representative of the United States combined with data from the ODYSSEY Outcomes trial. Target population U.S. adults with a recent first MI and a baseline low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level of 1.81 mmol/L (70 mg/dL) or greater. Time horizon Lifetime. Perspective U.S. health system. Intervention Alirocumab or ezetimibe added to statin therapy. Outcome measures Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in 2018 U.S. dollars per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. Results of base-case analysis Compared with a statin alone, the addition of ezetimibe cost $81 000 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], $51 000 to $215 000) per QALY. Compared with a statin alone, the addition of alirocumab cost $308 000 (UI, $197 000 to $678 000) per QALY. Compared with the combination of statin and ezetimibe, replacing ezetimibe with alirocumab cost $997 000 (UI, $254 000 to dominated) per QALY. Results of sensitivity analysis The price of alirocumab would have to decrease from its original cost of $14 560 to $1974 annually to be cost-effective relative to ezetimibe. Limitation Effectiveness estimates were based on a single randomized trial with a median follow-up of 2.8 years and should not be extrapolated to patients with stable coronary heart disease. Conclusion The price of alirocumab would have to be reduced considerably to be cost-effective. Because substantial reductions already have occurred, we believe that timely, independent cost-effectiveness analyses can inform clinical and policy discussions of new drugs as they enter the market. Primary funding source University of California, San Francisco, and Institute for Clinical and Economic Review.
Topical vancomycin for neurosurgery wound prophylaxis: an interim report of a randomized clinical trial on drug safety in a diverse neurosurgical population.

Objective Postoperative surgical site infections (SSIs) in neurosurgical patients carry a significant risk of increased morbidity and mortality. With SSIs accounting for approximately 20% of nosocomial infections and costing approximately $1.6 billion USD annually, there is a need for additional prophylaxis to improve current standards of care. Topical vancomycin is increasingly utilized in instrumented spinal and cardiothoracic procedures, where it has been shown to reduce the risk of SSIs. A randomized controlled trial assessing its efficacy in the general neurosurgical population is currently underway. Here, the authors report their initial impressions of topical vancomycin safety among patients enrolled during the 1st year of the trial. Methods This prospective, multicenter, patient-blinded, randomized controlled trial will enroll 2632 patients over 5 years. Here, the authors report the incidence of adverse events, the degree of systemic vancomycin absorption in treated patients, and pattern changes of antibiotic-resistant profiles of Staphylococcus aureus flora among patients enrolled during the 1st year. Results The topical vancomycin treatment group comprised 257 patients (514 total enrolled patients), of whom 2 exhibited weakly positive serum levels of vancomycin (> 3.0 mg/dl). S. aureus was detected preoperatively in the anterior nares of 35 (18.1%) patients and the skin near the surgical site of 9 (4.7%). Colonization in the nares remained for many patients (71.4%) through postoperative day 30. The authors found a significant association between preoperative S. aureus colonization and postoperative colonization. Seven methicillin-resistant isolates were detected among 6 different patients. Two isolates were detected preoperatively, and 5 were de novo postoperative colonization. No adverse responses to treatment have been reported to date. Conclusions The authors' data indicate that the use of topical vancomycin is safe with no significant adverse effects and minimal systemic absorption, and no development of vancomycin-resistant microorganisms.Clinical trial registration no.: NCT02284126 (clinicaltrials.gov).
The development of a manual-based digital memory notebook intervention with case study illustrations.

ABSTRACTThere is currently a need to identify feasible and effective interventions to help older individuals suffering from memory loss maintain functional independence and quality of life. To impr...
Temperature mapping of exothermic in situ chemistry: imaging of thermoembolization via MR

AbstractPurpose: MR temperature imaging (MRTI) was employed for visualizing the spatiotemporal evolution of the exotherm of thermoembolization, an investigative transarterial treatment for solid tu...
A CMOS Two-Element 170-GHz Fundamental-Frequency Transmitter With Direct RF-8PSK Modulation

A CMOS 170-GHz fundamental-frequency transmitter (TX) realizing the 8PSK modulation scheme directly in the RF domain is presented. The use of direct RF modulation obviates the need for high-resolution high-speed mixed-signal blocks. The proposed architecture extends the conventional quadrature modulation by performing additional phase modulation on I and Q components of the LO signal, which helps increase modulation order. The TX employs high-speed switchable phase shifters to achieve LO phase modulation and fundamental-frequency over-neutralized power amplifiers to drive an integrated two-element tapered dipole antenna array. Fabricated in a 65-nm CMOS process ( $f_{T}/f_{\text {max}} = 230$ /260 GHz), the RF-8PSK TX prototype occupies $3.2 \times 2.8$ mm2 of die area. The free-space wireless measurement of the TX over a 10-cm link range yields 15 Gb/s data rate at an error vector magnitude (EVM) of −14.8 dB. The TX achieves an EIRP of 4 dBm while consuming 560-mW power.
Viral evolution identifies a regulatory interface between paramyxovirus polymerase complex and nucleocapsid that controls replication dynamics

Paramyxoviruses are negative-polarity RNA viruses of major clinical importance. The dynamic interaction of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) complex with the encapsidated RNA genome is mechanistically and structurally poorly understood. Having generated recombinant measles (MeV) and canine distemper (CDV) viruses with truncated nucleocapsid (N) protein showing defects in replication kinetics, we have applied a viral evolution approach to the problem. Passaging of recombinants resulted in long-range compensatory mutations that restored RdRP bioactivity in minigenome assays and efficient replication of engineered viruses. Compensatory mutations clustered at an electronically compatible acidic loop in N-core and a basic face of the phosphoprotein X domain (P-XD). Co-affinity precipitations, biolayer interferometry, and molecular docking revealed an electrostatic-driven transiently forming interface between these domains. The compensatory mutations reduced electrostatic compatibility of these microdomains and lowered coprecipitation efficiency, consistent with a molecular checkpoint function that regulates paramyxovirus polymerase mobility through modulation of conformational stability of the P-XD assembly.