cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adherence to an Oxygen-Weaning Protocol in Mechanically Ventilated Adults in the Medical ICU.

BACKGROUND: Patients undergoing mechanical ventilation in the ICU often receive supplemental oxygen. If not closely monitored, this may lead to hyperoxia. The use of an oxygen-weaning protocol may reduce this risk by pacing the titration of oxygen therapy to patient needs. ICU protocols are correlated with decreased mortality and length of stay and have great potential for cost savings. The goals of this study were to determine whether the oxygen-weaning protocol at a university-affiliated hospital was followed and to measure the length of time respiratory therapists took to wean patients once the oxygen-weaning parameters were met. METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review of subjects > 18 y of age admitted to the medical ICU who underwent intubation and mechanical ventilation and were placed on an oxygen therapy protocol. The following data were collected: demographics, arterial blood gases, the length of time to change FIO2 after meeting weaning parameters, and the percent change in FIO2. RESULTS: Data were collected from 30 subjects. The most common oxygen saturation parameter measured via pulse oximetry (SpO2) used to initiate weaning oxygen was 92%. The mean ± SD FIO2 administered to subjects was 39.6 ± 15.3% prior to extubation. The majority of subjects exhibited adequate oxygenation prior to extubation (mean ± SD): PaO2 99.3 ± 6.7 mm Hg, SaO2 95.1 ± 26.9%. The mean ± SD length of time to the first change in FIO2 from the time a subject met the weaning criteria was 9.1 ± 10.6 h (range 1–39 h; interquartile range 2–13 h). CONCLUSIONS: Subjects admitted to the medical ICU who were intubated, mechanically ventilated, and placed on the oxygen therapy protocol experienced a significant delay in oxygen weaning. Closer monitoring and adherence to the oxygen-weaning protocol should be considered to reduce the potential risk for hyperoxia.
Exploiting Context for Robustness to Label Noise in Active Learning.

Several works in computer vision have demonstrated the effectiveness of active learning for adapting the recognition model when new unlabeled data becomes available. Most of these works consider that labels obtained from the annotator are correct. However, in a practical scenario, as the quality of the labels depends on the annotator, some of the labels might be wrong, which results in degraded recognition performance. In this paper, we address the problems of i) how a system can identify which of the queried labels are wrong and ii) how a multi-class active learning system can be adapted to minimize the negative impact of label noise. Towards solving the problems, we propose a noisy label filtering based learning approach where the inter-relationship (context) that is quite common in natural data is utilized to detect the wrong labels. We construct a graphical representation of the unlabeled data to encode these relationships and obtain new beliefs on the graph when noisy labels are available. Comparing the new beliefs with the prior relational information, we generate a dissimilarity score to detect the incorrect labels and update the recognition model with correct labels which result in better recognition performance. This is demonstrated in three different applications: scene classification, activity classification, and document classification.
Dynamic Modeling of Hybrid Feedforward Controlled Pulse Width Modulated Switching Converters

Hybrid feedforward control architecture is alternative to feedback control architecture and in many cases offers significant advantages over the later for synthesizing control of PWM converters. Stability of hybrid feedforward control architecture can be of concern and is analyzed here. To illustrate stability analysis, dynamic model is developed for two hybrid feedforward controllers implemented on DCM boost and four switch buck-boost converter-based PFC rectifiers. The dynamic model developed is shown to match with accurate time domain simulations for the cases presented. Experimental results verifying stable operation of the loop are also presented.
Effect of Adapted Ergometer Setup and Rowing Speed on Lower Extremity Loading in People with and without Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract Introduction Functional electrical stimulation assisted rowing (FES-rowing) on an adapted ergometer is used in spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation. A primary goal is to mechanically load the lower extremity to prevent disuse osteoporosis. Recent studies reported the small foot reaction force in FES-rowing was not sufficient to prevent bone loss. Objective This study aims to investigate the effect of ergometer setup and rowing speed on lower extremity loading in able-bodied and SCI individuals. Design Twenty able-bodied novice rowers and one experienced SCI rower rowed on an adapted ergometer with different speeds and setups. Motion capture system and force sensors were used to calculate forces and moments at the knee. Main Outcome Measures Foot reaction force and knee moment for all participants, and tibiofemoral force of the SCI rower. Results Peak foot reaction forces of able-bodied rowers ranged from 0.28 – 0.45 body weights (BW), which was less than half the force in normal rowing. A fast rowing speed, forward seat position, and large knee RoM were associated with higher foot force and knee moment during able-bodied rowing. The SCI subject had the greatest foot reaction force (0.40 BW) when rowing with small knee RoM at a rear seat position and the highest tibiofemoral force (2.23 BW) with large knee RoM at a rear seat position. Conclusion Ergometer setup and speed can double the force generation at the foot during both able-bodied rowing and FES-rowing. Rowing forms (range of motion and speed) that resulted in the greatest foot reaction force were different for able-bodied rowers and SCI rowers, indicating a trade-off between motion and force generation in FES-rowing that warrants further investigation with more SCI rowers. Clinicians and physical therapist should be aware that ergometer setups can be easily adjusted to modify rowing forms and loading patterns of users with SCI.
Imprecisely georeferenced specimen data provide unique information on species' distributions and environmental tolerances: Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good

AimConservation assessments frequently use occurrence records to estimate species geographic distributions and environmental tolerances. Typically, records with imprecise geolocality information are discarded before analysis because they cannot be matched confidently to environmental conditions. However, removing records can artificially truncate species environmental and geographic distributions. Here we evaluate the trade-offs between using versus discarding imprecise records when estimating species ranges and climatic tolerances. LocationNorth America. Time period970-2019 and 2061-2080. MethodsWe collated records from 44 species in the genus Asclepias (milkweeds). Records were designated "precise" if they could be matched confidently to environmental data, and "imprecise" if not. We compared estimates of extent of occurrence (EOO), climatic niche breadth, and exposure to climate change using precise records only, as well as precise plus imprecise records together. To estimate EOO, we conservatively assigned imprecise records to points within their area of likely collection that were closest to the centroid of precise records. Similarly, to estimate climatic tolerances and exposure to climate change, we matched imprecise records to climate values that were most similar to the mean across precise records. ResultsAcross all species, including imprecise records increased EOO by 85% (median value; range across species: 0-2011%). Univariate niche breadth in mean annual temperature and precipitation increased by 25% (0-353%) and 28% (0-292%), respectively, while multivariate niche volume increased by 175% (8-13909%). Adding imprecise records increased suitable area in the present and area that remained suitable in the future. Main conclusionsImprecise records provide novel information about species distributions and climatic niche tolerances. While the default practice of discarding imprecise records ensures that only accurate data are used, it dramatically reduces estimates of range size and overestimates exposure to climate change. The benefits of discarding imprecisely geolocated records must be balanced against the loss of information incurred by their elimination.
Buckling of Elastic Structures

THE BUCKLING OF A SLENDER COLUMN UNDER AN AXIAL LOAD AND THE COLLAPSE OF A THIN CYLINDER UNDER UNIFORM EXTERNAL PRESSURE HAVE LONG BEEN RECOGNIZED TO BE RELATED STRUCTURAL PHENOMENA. THE STRUCTURAL ACTION OF MIXED BUCKLING IS ANALYZED. ASSUMPTIONS MADE ARE: (1) THAT AT ALL POINTS THE UNIT DEFORMATIONS, OR STRAINS, ARE PROPORTIONAL TO OR ARE LINEAR FUNCTIONS OF THE STRESSES, AND (2) THE ELASTIC DEFLECTIONS FROM THE ORIGINAL SHAPE ARE SMALL AND MAY BE CONSIDERED INFINITESIMAL WHEN COMPARED WITH THE MAIN DIMENSIONS OF THE STRUCTURE, OR IN THE SENSE, THE STRUCTURES ARE ASSUMED TO BE STIFF. THE LIMITING ASSUMPTIONS ARE INTRODUCED AND EXAMPLES OF BUCKLING ARE DISCUSSED WITH DEFI- NITION OF TERMS. FORMULAS ARE PRESENTED WHICH ALLOW COLUMNS THAT ARE LOADED BY AXIAL AND TRANSVERSE FORCES AT THE SAME TIME TO BE ANALYZED. FORMULAS ARE GIVEN FOR SLABS AND SIMILAR STRUCTURES AS WELL AS FOR RECTANGULAR HOMOGENOUS SLABS. THE GENERAL THEORY OF STRUCTURAL ACTION IN WHICH THE STRESSES ARE NOT PROPORTIONAL TO THE LOADS IS DISCUSSED. HOOKE'S LAW IS FOUND TO APPLY IN EACH ELEMENT OF THE STRUCTURE EVEN THOUGH THE DEFORMATIONS ARE SMALL. CONSEQUENTLY, BY THE PRINCIPLE OF ENERGY MINIMUM, SOME GENERAL FORMULAS ARE DERIVED BY WHICH COMPUTATIONS MAY BE MADE OF ANY STRUCTURAL DEFECT, SUCH AS BENDING MOMENT, STRESS OR DEFLECTION IN MIXED BUCKLING PROVIDED THE CORRESPONDING CASE OF PURE BUCKLING IS SHOWN. DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS ARE GIVEN WHICH APPLY TO SOME DEFINITE CASES.
18F-Flourodeoxy-Glucose PET/Computed Tomography in Brain Tumors: Value to Patient Management and Survival Outcomes

(18)F-flourodeoxy-glucose (FDG) PET/computed tomography (CT) is most useful in the evaluation of primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma, important in diagnosis, pretherapy prognosis, and therapy response evaluation. Utility in working up gliomas is less effective, and FDG PET/CT is most helpful when MR imaging is unclear. FDG avidity correlates with the grade of gliomas. FDG PET/CT can be used to noninvasively identify malignant transformation. Establishing this change in the disease process has significant effects on patient management and survival outcome.
Pain in Community-Dwelling Elderly African Americans.

Objective: This study examines the type, severity, and correlates of pain among underserved elderly African Americans. Method: This cross-sectional study includes 400 non-institutionalized underser...
Do Managers Matter? Manager Effects on Organization Performance

In this study, we examine how pre-managerial experience and performance relates to managerial success. Some prior research has documented that managers contribute to organization performance, but the link between specific manager characteristics and performance has been dubious because data about managers' prior work history are typically quite limited. We overcome this limitation by examining our research question in the context of Major League Baseball, where data on pre-managerial work history are available for a large subset of managers. This allows us to focus on two questions that have not been adequately addressed in prior studies. First, does success prior to becoming a manager translate into success as a manager? Second, what is the relative importance of measurable versus unobservable manager characteristics on performance? Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observations on the antimycin A inhibition of biological oxidations. II. Electronic analog computer studies.

Abstract The present study has summarized electronic analog computer solutions of a mechanism proposed as representative of the antimycin A inhibition of the succinoxidase system of non-phosphorylating heart-muscle particles. The results obtained are compatible with kinetic experiments obtained either spectrophotometrically or polarographically during the measurement of the over-all reaction of the succinoxidase system. Computer solutions on the influence of the inhibitor on the alteration in steady-state reduction of cytochrome b and the degree of inhibition of acceptor (oxygen) utilization have been investigated. In addition computer studies have been carried out stimulating the addition of antimycin A during the aerobic steady state in order to test the hypothesis concerning the modification of antimycin A to an “active” inhibitor. Other studies, supporting the hypothesis of a difference in the mechanism of inhibition by antimycin A and the substituted naphthoquinone (SN 5949) are presented.
Evaluating and Comparing Forecasting Models

Forecasting is a very important aspect of any business, and has enormous social, economic, and environmental impacts. Various forecasting models have been developed to help people make right decisions against future uncertainties. However, all forecasting models have distinct advantages and limitations. Selecting appropriate forecasting methods from numerous alternatives is crucial to success. This article briefly summarizes the state-of-the-art forecasting methods in terms of basic procedure, underlying assumptions, applications, and limits. And then the most popular model selection criteria and guidelines are presented. Keywords: forecasting models; forecasting model selection
Media Ownership Regulation: A Comparative Perspective

For decades, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has enforced limits on the media holdings of a single owner in the United States at both the national and local level, and has generally prohibited one entity's joint ownership of a television station and major newspaper in a single community. The FCC's rules all rest on the same presumption: the amount of media ownership's concentration in private hands relates to the number of viewpoints expressed in the idea marketplace. A comparative look at broadcast regulation provides a means to examine the ownership presumption's implementation across different countries, and to determine whether governments are right to assume that a greater number of media outlet owners are more likely to provide a broad range of content than a smaller number. This Article focuses on media ownership regulation in Western Europe, in particular the United Kingdom's decision to deposit broadcast television ownership in a state monopoly through the British Broadcasting Corporation. The BBC's history shows that when governments limit media ownership, they do so out of content-based concerns. This fact brings the FCC's own actions into conflict with the First Amendment.
Mis-Specification in Phillips Curve Regressions: Quantifying Frequency Dependence in This Relationship While Allowing for Feedback

We establish that the Phillips curve is persistence-dependent: inflation responds differently to persistent versus moderately persistent (or versus transient) fluctuations in the unemployment gap. Previous work fails to model this dependence, so it finds numerous “inflation puzzles”—such as missing inflation/disinflation—noted in the literature. Our model specification eliminates these puzzles; for example, the Phillips curve has not weakened, and inflation is not “stubbornly low” at present. The model’s coefficients are stable, and it provides accurate conditional recursive forecasts through the Great Recession. The persistence-dependent relationship we uncover is interpretable as being business-cycle-phase-dependent and is thus consistent with existing theory. (This abstract was borrowed from another version of this item.)
Ethnobotany of the Jicaque of Honduras

An ethnobotanical study was conducted among the Jicaque Indians of the Montana de la Flor reservation in central Honduras to collect information regarding their plant-use practices. The data, including vernacular names, ecological settings, and uses, were recorded during collecting forays with Jicaque informants. Scientific and Jicaque names have been provided for 23 plant species used for food, 11 used for medicine, 4 used for beverages, 3 used as sources of wood, 5 in artifact manufacturing, and 3 used in other ways. Also, a list of 43 species is included for which the Jicaques have a name but no known use.
Temperature dependence of the Urbach optical absorption edge: A theory of multiple phonon absorption and emission sidebands

The optical absorption coefficient for subgap electronic transitions in crystalline and disordered semiconductors is calculated by first-principles means with use of a variational principle based on the Feynman path-integral representation of the transition amplitude. This incorporates the synergetic interplay of static disorder and the nonadiabatic quantum dynamics of the coupled electron-phonon system. Over photon-energy ranges of experimental interest, this method predicts accurate linear exponential Urbach behavior of the absorption coefficient. At finite temperatures the nonlinear electron-phonon interaction gives rise to multiple phonon emission and absorption sidebands which accompany the optically induced electronic transition. These sidebands dominate the absorption in the Urbach regime and account for the temperature dependence of the Urbach slope and energy gap. The physical picture which emerges is that the phonons absorbed from the heat bath are then reemitted into a dynamical polaronlike potential well which localizes the electron. At zero temperature we recover the usual polaron theory. At high temperatures the calculated tail is qualitatively similar to that of a static Gaussian random potential. This leads to a linear relationship between the Urbach slope and the downshift of the extrapolated continuum band edge as well as a temperature-independent Urbach focus. At very low temperatures, deviations from these rules are predicted arising from the true quantum dynamics of the lattice. Excellent agreement is found with experimental data on c-Si, a-Si:H, a-${\mathrm{As}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Se}}_{3}$, and a-${\mathrm{As}}_{2}$${\mathrm{S}}_{3}$. Results are compared with a simple physical argument based on the most-probable--potential-well method.
Interventional Therapy for Pulmonary Embolism

Venous thromboembolism is a common cause of death. Acute massive pulmonary embolism (PE) is life-threatening and may require vigorous more invasive treatment. Several risk factors are related to increased incidence of massive PE. Anticoagulation is the most traditional treatment for PE but may not suffice in cases of massive PE. Systemic thrombolytic therapy, catheter-directed thrombolysis, percutaneous embolectomy, and more recently, percutaneous thrombus fragmentation techniques with a multitude of devices are now available to treat the most severe cases of massive PE. Successful treatment of PE includes implementation of a treatment protocol and the use of associated techniques and devices.
Coordinated Replenishments from a Common Supplier

Coordinated replenishment strategies may be implemented by jointly ordering multiple items from a common supplier. A major benefit of coordinated replenishment is that it increases the size of shipments, permitting the buyer to enjoy transportation economies without a major increase in average inventory levels. The coordinated replenishment problem is complex because side constraints govern the attainment of transportation rate breaks. The problem is further complicated by the presence of purchase quantity discount opportunities. Thus, the buyer must decide which items to order independently, which items to include in a group order, and the order quantities of each item, governed by the frequency of independent or group orders. We present a mathematical model and a heuristic solution procedure that provide analytical support to the buyer seeking to minimize total costs of replenishing multiple items from a common supplier. The relevant costs are purchase prices, ordering costs, holding costs, and transportation costs. Coordinated replenishment provides nearly a 30 percent reduction in controllable costs relative to independent control. Experimentation with the heuristic has yielded optimal solutions over 88 percent of the time. When optimality was not obtained, the mean penalty was much less than one percent. The average heuristic search was more than two orders of magnitude faster than branch and bound, even for small problems, and possessed a much tighter distribution around the mean search time.
Seller-buyer System Co-operation in a Monopolistic Market

This paper deals with a situation in which the buyer is in a monopolistic position with respect to the seller, and examines the issues and advantages of co-operation in a seller-buyer inventory control system. Game theory concepts form the foundation for the analysis of these issues. Initially, the relationship between the seller and the buyer is modelled as a non-cooperative two-stage game, and it is noted that the traditional EOQ formula is one of the results. Then, interactive game theory is utilized to address the problem of system co-operation as well as to determine optimal system order quantity-pricing strategies. Mutual incentives and motivations for system co-operation are also discussed. Among several alternative methods, the combination of an equal profit sharing role implemented via quantity discounting is demonstrated as the best mechanism for achieving system co-operation. Finally, the similarities and differences between the proposed model and those in the literature are discussed.
Effect of repeated ingestion of aspartame-sweetened beverage on plasma amino acid, blood methanol, and blood formate concentrations in normal adults

Aspartame (APM) is a widely used dipeptide sweetener (L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester). It has been suggested that excessive use of APM might elevate plasma aspartate, phenylalanine, and/or methanol concentrations to levels that are potentially harmful. Six normal young adults ingested eight successive servings of unsweetened and APM-sweetened beverage at one-hour intervals in a balanced crossover design. In one part, the beverage was not sweetened. In the other, each serving of beverage provided 600 mg APM, a dose equivalent to the amount provided by 36 oz of APM-sweetened diet beverage. Plasma aspartate concentration was not significantly increased after ingestion of unsweetened or APM-sweetened beverage. Similarly, ingestion of the unsweetened beverage had no significant effect on plasma phenylalanine concentration. However, ingestion of APM-sweetened beverage significantly increased plasma phenylalanine levels 1.41 to 2.35 mumol/dL above baseline 30 minutes after ingestion. Plasma phenylalanine values reached a steady state after administration of four to five servings and did not exceed normal postprandial values at any time. Blood methanol and formate concentrations remained within normal limits. The data indicate ready metabolism of APM when administered at levels that may be ingested by normal individuals who are heavy users of diet beverages.
Partial weight-bearing gait retraining for persons following traumatic brain injury: preliminary report and proposed assessment scale

The objectives of this investigation were to (1) document the recovery patterns of walking ability in two patients recovering from traumatic brain injury receiving partial weight-bearing gait retraining, and (2) introduce a new assessment scale of gait progress for patients receiving partial weight support therapy. The two patients were categorized as acute ( 2 years) injury. Each patient received extensive in-patient rehabilitation, including physical therapy designed with twice-weekly partial body support gait training. The subjects made improvements in all measured indicators of gait ability (i.e. muscle strength, spasticity, standing balance). However, assessment of their improvement using standard assessment scales showed little progress. The newly devised Missouri Assisted Gait (MAG) scale, which includes developmental components of gait ability measured dramatic gains. This added precision of measurement was useful in communicating progress to both patients and providers.
Association of Adenylate Cyclase 10 (ADCY10) Polymorphisms and Bone Mineral Density in Healthy Adults

Phenotypic variation in bone mineral density (BMD) among healthy adults is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Sequence variations in the adenylate cyclase 10 (ADCY10) gene, which is also called soluble adenylate cyclase, have previously been associated with low spinal BMD in hypercalciuric patients. Since ADCY10 is located in the region linked to spinal BMD in our previous linkage analysis, we tested whether polymorphisms in this gene are also associated with normal BMD variation in healthy adults. Sixteen single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distributed throughout ADCY10 were genotyped in two healthy groups of American whites: 1692 premenopausal women and 715 men. Statistical analyses were performed in the two groups to test for association between these SNPs and the femoral neck and lumbar spine areal BMD. We observed significant evidence of association (p < 0.01), with one SNP each in men and women. Genotypes at these SNPs accounted for <1% of hip BMD variation in men but 1.5% of spinal BMD in women. However, adjacent SNPs did not corroborate the association in either men or women. In conclusion, we found a modest association between an ADCY10 polymorphism and the spinal areal BMD in premenopausal white women.
Vicriviroc and Peripheral Neuropathy: Results from AIDS Clinical Trials Group 5211

AbstractPurpose: To evaluate the effect of vicriviroc (VCV) on peripheral neuropathy (PN), the most prevalent neurological complication of HIV infection in HIV-1–infected treatment- experienced population.Method: A5211 is a randomized placebo- controlled trial evaluating VCV in treatment-experienced HIV participants failing current therapy. Participants were randomized to VCV (5, 10, or 15 mg) or placebo with optimized ritonavir-containing antiretroviral therapy and followed for 48 weeks. PN was defined as having at least mild loss of vibration bilaterally or ankle reflexes absent or hypoactive bilaterally. We estimated the association between VCV (pooled doses) with PN using a logistic generalized estimating equation. Additional outcomes included symptomatic neuropathy (SPN), painful neuropathy (PPN), and neuropathic signs and symptoms.Results: 118 participants (92% male, 65% white, median age of 46 years, median baseline CD4 139, median HIV-1 RNA 4.58 log) were randomized (90 on VCV and 28 on placebo). ...
Clear cell change in colonic adenomas: case report and review of the literature

Clear cell change is a very rare finding in colonic adenomas and adenocarcinomas. The few described cases were predominantly in elderly male patients with a predilection for the left colon and rectum. Here we present the second case of clear cell morphology in a colonic adenoma with high-grade dysplasia, occurring in the ascending colon of an elderly female patient. Immunohistochemical and special stains analyses were performed showing findings similar to prior reports of this unusual morphologic entity and excluding the possibility of other synchronous tumors or metastases to the colon with clear cell morphology. A review of primary colonic tumors with clear cell features was also performed and is discussed here.
Magnetic amplifiers for shipboard applications

Magnetic amplifiers are becoming more and more important in many industries. This article indicates how such desirable characteristics as ruggedness, long life, high-power possibilities, a-c operation, and practically no maintenance requirements are being applied to naval shipboard applications.
Histochemical use of the cyanocarbon organic compounds.

MEMBERS of the new group of organic compounds called ‘cyanocarbons’1 appear worthy of investigation as histochemical localization reagents on the basis of preliminary studies made with one of the series, tetracyanoethylene. These compounds are chemically quite active and will take part in a large number of organic reactions.1–4 For example, tetracyanoethylene may, in proper circumstances, react through additions to its double bonding with such radicals as dienes, ketones and hydrogen, and through replacement of cyano groups, it will react with the alkoxy, hydroxy, and aminoaryl radicals. The products of many such reactions are coloured. Tetracyanoethylene produces an intense yellow colour with benzene, orange with toluene, and red with xylene. Reactions with certain amines will produce 4-tricyanovinylamines, a class of brilliant orange to blue dyes.
Phase diagram of the antiferromagnetic triangular Ising model with anisotropic interactions

It is argued that there exist two antiferromagnetic phases in the triangular Ising model with anisotropic interactions. A method due to Muller-Hartmann and Zittartz (MZ) is used to derive a closed-form expression for the phase boundary. We also give a criterion under which the MZ method is expected to be applicable and accurate.
Poor efficacy of teicoplanin in treatment of deep-seated staphylococcal infections

Teicoplanin in a 400 mg intravenous loading dose followed by 200 mg/day intravenously or intramuscularly was given to 19 patients with deep-seated staphylococcal infections. Only eight patients (44.4 %) were considered cured, failure mostly being observed in patients with osteomyelitis, endocarditis and bacteremia. Poor tissue kinetics of teicoplanin and the presence of foreign bodies are probable explanations for the reported failures. Future trials using a higher dose of teicoplanin with or without the addition of rifampicin or gentamicin seem to be justified.
CIDNP assisted assignment of carbon-13 NMR lines in α-tetralone and α-indanone

The reversible abstraction of hydrogen from benzene-1,3,5-triol by photoexcited α-tetralone or α-indanone in solutions of methanol leads to CIDNP in the 13C NMR spectra of these compounds. The information gained from the phase of the polarization in the CIDNP spectra is used to resolve the ambiguities in the assignment of the 13C NMR lines for α-indanone and α-tetralone, arising from conflicting literature data. Chemical shifts for both compounds in methanol are reported. 2′-Methylacetophenone does not exhibit CIDNP in the 13C spectrum under similar conditions.
Intraindividual variation in the coordination of social perspectives

The focus in the present study was on the relationship between the ability to coordinate social perspectives and levels of anxiety induced by the social context. Following a procedure devised by Feffer, levels of perspective coordination were assessed by having participants construct stories based on pictures of people engaged in some form of social interaction. In addition to an initial story, participants reconstructed stories from the perspectives of each of the pictured figures. The task was administered under 2 experimental conditions, a “neutral” and an “anxious” condition. The quality of the experimental conditions was determined by independent ratings of the nature of social interaction depicted in the stimulus pictures. Results showed a relative failure to coordinate perspectives in the “anxious” compared with the “neutral” condition and were discussed in terms of the social contextual effects on aspects of social cognitive functioning.
Fuel Assembly Combined Lateral and Axial Model

The objective of this paper is to develop a purely mechanistic fuel assembly structural model that will predict the fuel assembly’s static and dynamic characteristics from the knowledge of the fuel assembly’s geometry and component properties. This model provides a method for analyzing the static and dynamic lateral and axial properties of the fuel assembly. A comparison of various in-air fuel assembly test data such as lateral and axial stiffnesses and lateral natural frequencies is provided to demonstrate the analytical model. The fuel assembly model developed by Shah, Brenneman, etc. (1), achieved very good agreement with assembly lateral impact test data by utilizing a “3-beam” model. In that model, the fuel rod-to-spacer grid interfaces were represented by spring and friction elements. The fuel assembly was restrained at each grid position by means of rotational springs, which were benchmarked to the test frequencies. This newly developed model eliminates the need for using rotational springs at the grid locations. Hence, it fully simulates the fuel assembly lateral and axial behavior based on the fuel assembly geometric properties. The fuel assembly model is a 2-D planar model of beams in both lateral and axial directions. The grids are modeled with plate elements. At each grid location there are springs, preload, and frictional sliders representing the lateral and axial connectivity characteristics to the fuel assembly beam model. As the Zircaloy grid preloads relax from irradiation, they can be easily simulated by removing the preload. Hence, this model can represent the fuel assembly structural properties for all aspects of fuel assembly cycles. This model can be used to analyze the fuel assembly lateral static stiffness, first mode and higher order lateral natural frequencies, mode shapes, axial stiffness, in-grid stiffness, through-grid stiffness, and fuel assembly lateral and axial seismic and LOCA response. The model will also estimate the fuel rod frequencies and mode shapes. This model may eliminate the need for some expensive prototype fuel assembly testing.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Lipofuscin and Lipid Oxidation in Human Coronary Endothelium

Abstract Coronary artery endothelium was studied in 13 human hearts removed in the course of heart transplants. Plasma cholesterol ranged from 60 to 240 mg/dl (median 151). In all cases, abundant endothelial lipid and lipofuscin droplets were found, with images of transition between the two types; ultrastructural evidence indicated that lipofuscin derived both by fusion of smaller lipofuscin droplets as well as by oxidation of lipid droplets. There was no evidence of lipofuscin generation by autophagocytosis as seen in other organs. It is concluded that endothelial lipofuscin is not “wear-and-tear pigment” but a byproduct of lipid oxidation, a process normally carried out by the endothelial cells. In the endothelium of human veins, lipofuscin granules were much smaller and rare; this points to a biological difference between arterial and venous endothelium.
Evidence demonstrating poor kidney graft survival when acute rejections are associated with IgG donor-specific lymphocytotoxin.

The current prospective investigation was conducted to determine whether development of IgG donor-specific lymphocytotoxins detected at the onset of acute rejections was predictive of a poor-prognosis acute rejection. Between January 1990 and August 1993, 206 kidney transplants were performed. Cadav
The Use of Geophysical Data in Studies of the Historical Solar-Terrestrial Environment

Recent studies of the solar-terrestrial environment for the past 500 years have necessitated the use of a variety of historical databases: nitrates in ice cores, knowledge of large volcanic eruptions, sunspot numbers, mid-latitude aurora and geomagnetic records. The nitrate data are being used to identify large solar proton fluence events. The volcanic record helps to provide time markers for the ice core. The records of major geomagnetic storms and mid-latitude aurora have been used for additional identification. We also know that the Earth’s magnetic field is evolving with a present rapid decrease in magnitude. In addition the wandering magnetic pole must be considered in ascertaining what was “mid latitude” in historic times versus “mid latitude” in 2000. We illustrate how these databases are being used in recent studies of historic solar proton events.
Community engagement with genetics: public perceptions and expectations about genetics research.

Background Knowledge of molecular biology and genomics continues to expand rapidly, promising numerous opportunities for improving health. However, a key aspect of the success of genomic medicine is related to public understanding and acceptance. Design Using community consultations and an online survey, we explored public attitudes and expectations about genomics research. Results Thirty-three members of the general public in Newfoundland, Canada, took part in the community sessions, while 1024 Atlantic Canadians completed the online survey. Overall, many participants noted they lacked knowledge about genetics and associated research and took the opportunity to ask numerous questions throughout sessions. Participants were largely hopeful about genomics research in its capacity to improve health, not only for current residents, but also for future generations. However, they did not accept such research uncritically, and a variety of complex issues and questions arose during the community consultations and were reflected in survey responses. Discussion With the proliferation of biobanks and the rapid pace of discoveries in genomics research, public support will be crucial to realize health improvements. If researchers can engage the public in regular, transparent dialogue, this two-way communication could allow greater understanding of the research process and the design of efficient and effective genetic health services, informed by the public that will use them.
Urolithiasis update: biophysical and radiologic advances enhance antistone therapy.

Understandings of the molecular mechanisms of urolithiasis and rationale antistone therapy have undergone significant advances with the application of biophysical theories and techniques to urine, uroliths, and the urinary tract. In addition, the development and combinations of radiologic and surgical techniques have dramatically improved the treatment of existing stones in both the upper and lower urinary tracts. This review is designed to cover the biophysical advances in diagnosis and antistone preventive therapy, plus the technical advances in stone removal by endoscopic, radiographic-enhanced manipulative and dissolution techniques, and open surgical procedures which maximize nephron preservation.
Structure-activity correlations for β-phenethylamines at human trace amine receptor 1

Abstract A cell line in which RD-HGA16 cells were stably transfected with the hTAAR 1 receptor was created and utilized to carry out a systematic evaluation of a series of β-phenethylamines. Fair agreement was observed with data obtained for aryl and ethylene chain substituted analogs in an AV12-664 cell line in which hemagglutinin-tagged hTAAR 1 was stably co-expressed with rat Gαs. Analogs with multiple substituents as well as analogs with bulky groups were found to be partial agonists. Analogs in which the primary amino group was converted to a secondary or a tertiary amino group by N-methylation were also partial agonists. Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (CoMFA) using the potency data yielded a regression coefficient r2 of 0.824. The steric field contribution to the model was 61% with the balance (39%) contributed by the electrostatic field. The collective results suggest that increasing steric bulk both at the amino nitrogen, particularly by N-dimethylation, and at the 4-position of the aromatic ring leads to low efficacy ligands.
What can we learn about extragalactic jets from galactic jets

Abstract Jets are powerful features of extragalactic radio sources; yet jets are also seen in young stellar objects and X-ray binaries within our own galaxy. These occupy a very different parameter space from the extragalactic jets, and yet many are similar in appearance and nature to their powerful extragalactic cousins. In many cases far more information is available for the galactic jets, due to, e.g., rapid evolution and knowledge of emission line ratios and Doppler velocities. We review properties of galactic jets and speculate at implications they have for extragalactic ones. Specifically we consider central engine mass, jet opening angle and Mach number, the nature of the emission knots, the symmetry of the ejection process, and the source history.
Cytochemical localization of adenylate cyclase and of calcium ion, magnesium ion-activated ATPases in the dense tubular system of human blood platelets.

Abstract Cytochemical techniques have been employed to study the localization of adenylate cyclase and (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-stimulated ATPase activities in platelets after fixation. Biochemical analysis of adenylate cyclase demonstrated a 70% reduction in activity in homogenates from fixed cells, but the residual activity could be stimulated 10–20 times by prostaglandin E1 (1 μM) under the same incubation conditions as employed in the cytochemical studies (e.g. media containing 2 mM lead nitrate and 10 mM NaF). Adenylate cyclase activity employing 5′-adenylyl-imiodiphosphate (AMP-P(NH)P) as substrate was found to be associated with the dense tubular system (smooth endoplasmic reticulum) in intact fixed platelets, and was apparent only when the cells were incubated with prostaglandin E1. Less activity was found along the membranes of the surface connected open canalicular system and occasionally at the outer cell surface. Enzymatic activity was blocked by the adenylate cyclase inhibitor 9-(tetrahydro-2-furyl) adenine and was not due to AMP-P(NH)P phosphohydrolase activity. The low adenylate cyclase activity in the surface membranes may be due to enzyme inactivation as a result of fixation, since a surface membrane fraction obtained by the glycerol lysis technique from unfixed cells had an adenylate cyclase specific activity equivalent to that in the microsomal membrane fraction. (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-stimulated ATPase activity was found associated with the membranes of the surface connected open canalicular system in unfixed cells. After brief fixation (5–15 min) with glutaraldehyde, strong (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase activity became apparent in the dense tubular system. Longer periods of fixation inactivated enzymatic activity. Addition of Ca2+ (1.0 mM) to incubation medium with low Mg2+ (0.2 mM), or increasing Mg2+ to 4.0 mM, in both cases strongly stimulated enzyme activity. The ATPase activity in the platelet membranes was not inhibited by ouabain. It is suggested that the Ca2+-stimulated ATPase and adenylate cyclase activities in the dense tubules may possibly be involved in regulation of intra-cellular Ca2+ transport.
A note on the superposition principle

Two theorems concerning the superposition principle are stated and proved. These theorems are useful in the computation of total power dissipated in a network.
A comparison of ages estimated by the polarized light method with ages estimated by vertebrae in females of Coryphaenoides acrolepis (Pisces: Macrouridae)

Abstract Rings of scales seen by the use of polarized light are compared to those of vertebral centra of the Pacific grenadier Coryphaenoides acrolepis (Bean). Although the number of rings in the two structures from the same individual show significant statistical agreement, strict numerical agreement occurred in only 22 out of 100 comparisons. Ageing by either technique produced comparable logistic growth curves.
Applying virtual reality techniques to the interactive stress analysis of a tractor lift arm

The objective of this research is to examine the challenges of applying virtual reality techniques to the interactive stress analysis of a tractor lift arm. NURBS-based free form deformation, finite element analysis, sensitivity analysis, collision detection, and virtual reality are combined to create an interactive environment for designers to view and modify part shape, evaluate the resulting stresses, and check for interference of the new part shape and surrounding parts in real-time. These methods are implemented using a surround screen virtual environment where the part of interest and associated geometry surrounding that part are displayed together using stereo projection to provide a three-dimensional view of the assembly.
An ADC controller and MOS buffer for the laboratory-oriented computer.

Abstract This work describes a relatively inexpensive device constructed for use on computers without DMA or API that has the effect of freeing considerable amounts of CP time while digitizing large numbers of channels at relatively high sampling rates. The device consists of the logic needed to control the analog-to-digital conversion, and a MOS shift-register buffer to provide temporary storage of from 1 to 64 channels of multiplexed analog input. After all channels have been converted, the computer receives a single interrupt at which time it reads the converted values from the shift-register memory into the computer at maximum speed. Although the unit has been constructed especially for the PDP-7 computer, it is described in such a way as to allow its implementation on many different computer systems.
Microwear and morphology: Functional relationships between human dental microwear and the mandible

Microscopic pits and scratches form on teeth during chewing, but the extent to which their formation is influenced by mandibular morphology is unknown. Digitized micrographs of the base of facet nine of the first, second, and third mandibular molar were used to record microwear features from an archaeological sample of modern humans recovered from Semna South in northern Sudan (n ¼ 38; 100 BC to AD 350). Microwear patterns of the molar row are correlated with mandibular corpus width and depth, and with mandibular length. Variations in shear and compression at the base of facet nine during chewing were inferred. It may be that some correlations between microwear and mandibular morphology are predictable, reflecting similar aspects of masticatory loading, though the full extent of the relationship remains to be resolved. 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Performance evaluation of a vision dimension metrology system

A performance evaluation approach for a vision metrology system has been developed for the application of automated dimensional inspection. The approach is designed so that parameters and conditions, when the system functions as planned or fails, are clear and well understood. Statistical stability of the measured object properties as well as the overall system error are analyzed.
Side‐scan sonar along the north wall of the Hess Deep Rift: Processing, texture analysis, and geologic ground truth on an oceanic escarpment

[1] Side-scan sonar data collected along the steep, faulted north wall of the Hess Deep Rift provide images of a cross section of the upper oceanic crust. These data are integrated with ground truth from the submersible Alvin and the Argo II remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to evaluate faulting and mass wasting associated with the opening of the rift and to help trace geologic contacts between widely spaced dives and ROV surveys. Initial shipboard and subsequently processed data show excellent backscatter returns with well-imaged textures and distinctive patterns corresponding to specific rock units and surficial deposits. Four backscatter textures are widely developed and found to correspond to outcrops of basaltic lavas, outcrops of sheeted dikes and gabbroic rocks, surficial talus and rubble deposits, and pelagic sedimentary material. Using test areas identified by Alvin dives, the side-scan sonar data were processed to automatically classify the backscatter returns in terms of major rock units. The resultant processed image is used for further manual and computer-aided classification of the scarp geology. These techniques are evaluated for mapping the geology in rugged terrains similar to the steep walls of Hess Deep Rift.