cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unmasking of neuropeptide-Y inhibitory effects on in vitro gonadotropin secretion from pituitaries of metestrous, but not proestrous, rats.

We have recently demonstrated that GnRH-stimulated gonadotropin secretion is augmented by coadministration with neuropeptide-Y (NPY) in anterior pituitaries removed in the afternoon from proestrous, but not metestrous, rats. To test the hypothesis that these effects of NPY are due to an interaction with progesterone (P4), we conducted another cycle stage experiment using NPY, adding an in vitro treatment with P4. Pituitaries were taken from rats at 0900 h (before the rise of P4 on proestrus) on proestrus or metestrus and were perifused for 8 h, with and without GnRH pulses. P4 was given continuously in half of each of the basal or GnRH-stimulated perifusions. Pulsatile NPY was administered in half of the basal or GnRH-stimulated runs in the presence or absence of P4. P4 alone had a stimulatory effect on GnRH-induced LH secretion only on the day of metestrus. P4 did not confer responsiveness to NPY stimulation on either day. Unexpectedly, NPY reversed the P4 augmentation of GnRH-stimulated LH release on me...
Recherches sur la formation et la transformation des esters LXXXI [1]. Sur la réaction d'isothiocyanates avec l'acide hydrazinoéthylphosphorique, et de l'isocyanate de phényle avec l'acide colaminephosphoreux

Hydrazinoethyl phosphoric monoester has been prepared by reacting hydrazinoethanol with polyphosphoric acid, and isolated as di-sodium salt. Sodium hydrazinoethyl phosphate reacts with phenylisothiocyanate (in H2O+ethanol) to yield mainly the derivative thiocarbamoylated at the substituted nitrogen atom. This derivative, heated for one night at 100° in 0.5 N HCl, is cyclized to 3-amino-2-phenylimino-thiazolidine in 62% yield. Sodium hydrazinoethyl phosphate reacts with o-methoxycarbonylphenyl isothiocyanate (in H2O+dioxane) at the unsubstituted nitrogen atom to yield mainly the corresponding quinazoline derivative (IV, X = OPO3Na2). This derivative, heated for one night at 100° in 0.5 N HCl, is cyclized to 2-o-carboxyphenylamino-dihydro-δ2-1, 3, 4-thiadiazine (Va) in 55% yield (hydrolysis of the lactamic function as well). Aminoethyl phosphorous monoester (colaminephosphorous acid) reacted with phenylisocyanate (in H20+dioxane) in slightly alkaline medium (one equivalent of NaOH) yields sodium N-phenylcarbamoylaminoethyl phosphite. Refluxed for 20 minutes in 1N NaOH, this carbamoyl derivative is not cyclized but only hydrolyzed to the open-chained N-phenyl-N′-hydroxyethylurea (VII).
Mobile computing and smart spaces

The traditional view of mobile computing (such as it is) typically involves users moving through an environment, or set of environments, with their own personal computing devices. This model works as a rich extension of existing devices such as notebook computers and personal digital assistants. Without some degree of mobility, the problems associated with mobile computing are indistinguishable from those of traditional computing environments. Thus far, much of this fields research has focused on extending services developed for desktop computing environments to mobile devices and managing the challenges that result from unreliable or varying network connectivity. In a recent column, the author discussed the unique challenges presented by adopting a much more personal model of mobile computing, rather than simply considering the impact of desktop applications and services (see ibid., April-June 1998, p. 8-10). In this column, he extends that discussion to consider arrays of deeply embedded computing devices that are not fundamentally associated with an individual person. Collectively, this model and associated technologies will serve for developing a set of fundamentally new systems called smart spaces. Smart spaces incorporate embedded computing devices with sensor technology to provide automatic responses to environmental changes. Although some common examples consider the degenerate case of a single processing node (such as responsive desktops), a richer set of capabilities emerges when these nodes are composed to form larger systems.
Incomplete erythropoietin activity in normal plasma components.

SummaryCohn fractions of normal human plasma were surveyed for erythropoietin activity by an in vivo and two in vitro assay systems. Fractions II + III, II + III W, and especially fraction III, were found to stimulate glucosamine incorporation and heme synthesis of marrow cells in culture. Log dose-log response regression lines of plasma fractions and of an erythropoietin standard were found to be parallel. Only traces of activity could be detected by the exhypoxic polycythemic mouse assay. Fraction III from several different sources and species was found to be active in vitro. A human fraction III was shown to have a different specific activity relative to a common erythropoietin standard in the two in vitro assays. Subfractionation of fraction III by extraction procedures demonstrated low stability for the activity measured by the 59Fe-heme assay, whereas it was possible to obtain without loss a preparation enriched in the activity stimulating glucosamine incorporation.
Opioid receptor antagonism in the nucleus accumbens fails to block the expression of sugar-conditioned flavor preferences in rats.

Abstract In our prior studies, systemic administration of the opioid receptor antagonist naltrexone (NTX) did not block flavor preference conditioning by the sweet taste or post-oral actions of sugar despite reducing intake. Because opioid signaling in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is implicated in food reward, this study determined if NTX administered into the NAc would block the expression of sugar-conditioned preferences. In Experiment 1, food-restricted rats with bilateral NAc shell or core cannulae were trained to drink a fructose (8%) + saccharin (0.2%) solution mixed with one flavor (CS+) and a less-preferred 0.2% saccharin solution mixed with another flavor (CS−) during one-bottle sessions. Two-bottle tests with the two flavors mixed in saccharin solutions occurred 10 min following total bilateral NAc shell or core doses of 0, 1, 25 and 50 μg of NTX. The rats preferred the CS+ over CS− following vehicle (80%) and all NTX doses in the shell and core. The CS+ preference was reduced to 64% and 72% by 50 μg NTX in the shell and core, although only the core effect was significant. In Experiment 2, food-restricted rats were trained to drink one flavored saccharin solution (CS+) paired with an intragastic (IG) glucose (8%) infusion and a second flavored saccharin solution (CS−) paired with an IG water infusion. In subsequent two-bottle tests, the rats displayed significant preferences for the CS+ (81–91%) that were unaltered by any NTX dose in the shell or core. CS+ intake, however, was reduced by NTX in the shell, but not the core. These data indicate that accumbal opioid antagonism slightly attenuated, but did not block the expression of sugar-conditioned flavor preferences. Therefore, while opioid drugs can have potent effects on sugar intake they appear less effective in altering sugar-conditioned flavor preferences.
Control variate models for estimating transient performance measures in repairable item systems

We develop a new modeling idea for comparing infinite-source, ample-server models ∞/∞ and finite-source, finite-server models f/f. The comparison provides an efficient estimate of the error when approximating an f/f system with an ∞/∞ system and allows the analytical solution of the ∞/∞ model to be used as a control variate. We show that using ∞/∞ models as control variates for f/f systems can be an effective variance reduction technique for system performance estimates. Using these estimates will allow us to determine more efficiently when ∞/∞ models are good approximations for f/f systems.
A randomized double-blind study assessing 4 versus 8 mg. doxazosin for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Purpose: We compare the efficacy of 4 versus 8 mg. doxazosin for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Materials and Methods: A total of 82 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia successfully treated with 4 mg. doxazosin were randomized in a double-blind fashion to take 4 or 8 mg. Patients were evaluated with American Urological Association (AUA) symptom score, Boyarsky score, uroflowmetry and side effect profile before, and 1 and 3 months following randomization. Results: Of the patients 42 and 40 were randomized to receive 4 and 8 mg. doxazosin, respectively. Both groups were similar with respect to patient age, baseline Boyarsky and AUA symptom scores, and baseline maximum urinary flow rate. At 3 months mean improvement from baseline plus or minus standard deviation in Boyarsky score was 0.6 ± 6.5 and 4.9 ± 6.6 in the 4 and 8 mg. groups (p 0.05). Of the patients 7 and 8 in the 4 and 8 mg. groups dropped out of the study, and there were no statistical differences in side effects between dosages. Conclusions: A dose of 8 mg. doxazosin was more efficacious than 4 mg. and the side effects associated with both dosages appeared to be similar. The 8 mg. dose should be tried in patients who have not achieved an adequate therapeutic response to 4 mg. and are tolerating the medication. Consideration should be given to increasing the dosage to 8 mg. in patients who are clinically improved at lower dosages.
A Visible Near-Infrared Hadamard Transform Spectrometer Based on a Liquid Crystal Spatial Light Modulator Array: A New Approach in Spectrometry

A stationary Hadamard encodement mask has been designed from a liquid crystal display. This mask, when properly installed and positioned in a dispersive instrument, allows the selected Hadamard encoded spectral elements to be focused on a single detector. Discussion of the advantages derived by this technique is presented. Several emission spectra in the visible and near-infrared region demonstrate the usefulness of the Hadamard transform technique. This novel spectrometer can provide a no-moving-parts spectroscopy for future spectral applications.
Relative costs and reactions to threats

A 3 by 3 by 2 design was employed in which 72 male Ss were assigned across three levels of a linearly transformed Prisoner’s Dilemma Game (PDG) pay off matrix, three levels of punishment magnitude, and two levels of threat credibility. Occasional threats of a loss of points were sent by a simulated player during 150 PDG trials. Unanticipated effects of both matrices and punishment magnitude were obtained on overall cooperation. An effect of matrices was obtained on compliance to threats. Postimpressions of the simulated source were that the 10% credible threatener was perceived as strongly potent, while the highly credible source was considered mildly impotent.
A retrospective exploration of patient-ventilator monitoring intensity, therapeutic intervention intensity, and compliance with lung protective guidelines in a cohort of patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome.

Background: The current approach to mechanical ventilation for Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and Acute Lung Injury (ALI) involves maintaining key patient-ventilator parameters within established lung protective targets. Monitoring is part of the processes of nursing care believed to guide therapeutic intervention and facilitate compliance with these targets. Empirical relationships between monitoring, therapeutic intervention, and compliance with these practice guidelines have not been adequately explored. Methods: A retrospective observational design was used to explore relationships between monitoring intensity, therapeutic intervention intensity, and compliance with a lung protective philosophy of mechanical ventilation in a cohort of patients with ARDS or ALI. Compliance with lung protective targets was measured as the proportion of time oxygen saturation, alveolar distending pressure, and tidal volume were maintained within recommended guidelines as evidenced by medical record documentation. Monitoring intensity and therapeutic intervention intensity were based on the frequency of recorded assessments and interventions in the medical record. Results: Monitoring intensity correlated positively with both severity of illness (r = 0.39) and with therapeutic intervention intensity (r = 0.30), and was inversely related to compliance with lung protective guidelines (CLPG) (r =−0.34). A regression model including monitoring intensity, severity of illness, risk for abdominal hypertension, and CLPG was statistically significant (p = 0.02) but explained little of the variance in compliance with lung protective parameters (R2= 0.13). Discussion and Conclusions: Compliance with recommended lung protective parameters in the absence of standardized monitoring and intervention protocols is suboptimal. Preliminary evidence of positive relationships between monitoring and both severity of illness and therapeutic intervention was established. Control for nursing and physician practice variation is needed to rule out the influence of surveillance and performance bias on collaborative practice outcomes. Explicit standardized protocols that address the frequency of assessments and interventions along with therapeutic targets are recommended for collaborative practice guidelines.
Estimating sample properties of principal components using SAS

An SAS (statistical analysis system) program for computing the standard errors of principal component coefficients (obtained using the covariance matrix) is presented. The standard errors are useful for checking the stability of the coefficients, which prevents the user from overinterpreting the results. An application of the usefulness of the program is illustrated through an example.
Diffuse optical imaging of the whole head.

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy NIRS and diffuse optical im- aging DOI are increasingly used to detect hemodynamic changes in the cerebral cortex induced by brain activity. Until recently, the small number of optodes in NIRS instruments has hampered measurement of optical signals from diverse brain regions. Our new DOI system has 32 detectors and 32 sources; by arranging them in a specific pattern, we can cover most of the adult head. With the increased number of optodes, we can collect optical data from prefrontal, sensorimotor, and visual cortices in both hemispheres simultaneously. We describe the system and report system characterization measurements on phan- toms as well as on human subjects at rest and during visual, motor, and cognitive stimulation. Taking advantage of the system's larger number of sources and detectors, we explored the spatiotemporal pat- terns of physiological signals during rest. These physiological signals, arising from cardiac, respiratory, and blood-pressure modulations, in- terfere with measurement of the hemodynamic response to brain stimulation. Whole-head optical measurements, in addition to provid- ing maps of multiple brain regions' responses to brain activation, will enable better understandings of the physiological signals, ultimately leading to better signal processing algorithms to distinguish physi- ological signal clutter from brain activation signals. © 2006 Society of
Controlled sensing for hypothesis testing

In this paper, the problem of multiple hypothesis testing with observation control is considered. The structure of the optimal controller under various asymptotic regimes is studied. First, a setup with a fixed sample size is considered. In this setup, the asymptotic quantity of interest is the optimal exponent for the maximal error probability. For the case of binary hypothesis testing, it is shown that the optimal error exponent corresponds to the maximum Chernoff information over the choice of controls. It is also shown that a pure stationary control policy, i.e., a fixed policy which does not depend on specific realizations of past measurements and past controls (open-loop), is asymptotically optimal even among the class of all causal control policies. We also derive lower and upper bounds for the optimal error exponent for the case of multiple hypothesis testing. Second, a sequential setup is considered wherein the controller can also decide when to stop taking observations. In this case, the objective is to minimize the expected stopping time subject to the constraints of vanishing error probabilities under each hypothesis. A sequential test is proposed for testing multiple hypotheses and is shown to be asymptotically optimal.
Internal gravity waves, boundary integral equations and radiation conditions

Three-dimensional time-harmonic internal gravity waves are generated by oscillating a bounded object (or by scattering from a fixed object) in a stratified fluid. Energy is found in conical wave beams: the problem is to calculate the wave fields for an object of arbitrary shape. An integral formula for the pressure is derived, using a reciprocal theorem and a Green’s function. The boundary integrals are singular: their integrands are infinite along a certain curve (not just at a point) on the boundary, and this happens even when the field point is off the boundary (but within one of the conical wave beams). This is very different to the situation with classical potential theory (Laplace’s equation) or linear acoustics (Helmholtz’s equation), and is a consequence of the hyperbolic nature of the governing partial differential equation. The boundary integrals are identified as single-layer and double-layer potentials. A method is given for calculating the far field of these potentials. It is verified by comparing with known solutions for spherical objects.
In Vivo Assessment of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ Grade: A Model Incorporating Dynamic Contrast-enhanced and Diffusion-weighted Breast MR Imaging Parameters

We found that it is possible to assess in vivo the grade of ductal carcinoma in situ by using dynamic contrast-enhanced and diffusion-weighted imaging features on breast MR images.
Assessment of pharmacy studentsʼ attitudes regarding professional development portfolios: Before and after practitionersʼ roundtable discussion

Abstract Schools and colleges of pharmacy were recently called on to evaluate students based on portfolios that document progressive achievement of competencies. Student buy-in is recognized as an important consideration related to implementation, and in order to better communicate the relevance of maintaining a portfolio, a Practitionersʼ Roundtable Discussion was initiated in one college of pharmacy. To assess studentsʼ attitudes towards portfolio-based learning and determine the effect of a Practitionersʼ Roundtable Discussion on student perceptions of portfolio-based learning, a survey was administered to 146 P1 pharmacy students before and after the discussion. The pre- and post-discussion response rates were 95% and 85%, respectively. Students maintained a neutral attitude towards the impact, value, and practical application of maintaining a Professional Development Portfolio (PDP). Pre- and post-intervention analyses of P1 student results suggest that the intervention of the Practitionersʼ Roundtable Discussion positively affected student attitudes, but in a limited capacity.
Development of a MPEG data stream characterization for use with ATM networks

The various parameters which affect MPEG data streams are discussed. An AR model is developed to characterize both constant bit rate and variable bit rate videos. Three videos with different bit rate modes, audio content, frame type mixture, and group of pictures sizes are analyzed. The accuracy of the AR model in predicting the size of the next frame based on previous frames is examined. Possible enhancements to the AR model are also introduced. The role of the AR model in the development of ATM networks is discussed.
Histologic studies of human skin test responses to ragweed and compound 48/80. III. Effects of alternate-day steroid therapy.

Abstract Our previous studies have shown depressed eosinophil responses in skin test reactions to pollen antigens and compound 4880 in those just completing a 1-wk course of daily steroids. Wheal reactions were unaffected. In this study, 6 ragweed-sensitive atopic subjects were studied before and on the seventh day ("day on") and day 8 ("day off") of a course of alternate-day steroids. Blood neutrophil levels rose on day 7 and were similar to baseline on day 8, whereas blood eosinophil levels were significantly reduced on both days 7 and 8. Neutrophil responses in skin test reactions were depressed on day 7 and normal on day 8. In contrast, the tissue eosinophil responses were depressed significantly, and to similar degree, on both days 7 and 8. These findings are of potential significance in evaluating the clinical effects of steroids in allergic diseases.
Regenerator Loss Measurements at Low Temperatures and High Frequencies

We report the design of an experiment characterizing the loss mechanisms in a regenerator operating with a cold end temperature between 10 and 20 K, and in a frequency range of 30–60 Hz. The regenerator is designed as part of a two-stage pulse tube system, incorporating 400-mesh stainless steel screens and 100-micron lead shot in the first and second stages respectively. The sinusoidal pressure wave generated by the linear flexure-bearing compressor provides an average pressure of 2.5 MPa and a pressure ratio of 1.4. Flow rates at both the warm and cold ends of the regenerator are measured as well as the pressure and temperature at the ends and intermediate locations. A laminar flow element has been designed to measure flow at the warm end, while the pressure oscillation in a cold reservoir permits calculation of the flow rate at the cold end. A cold inertance tube provides the desired phase shift. Loss measurements on the regenerator alone are achieved without the use a pulse tube by anchoring the intermediate and cold end temperatures to the first and second stages, respectively, of a Gifford-McMahon cryocooler. Loss mechanisms including conduction, radiation, PV degradation, and regenerator ineffectiveness will be measured as a function of cold end temperature and frequency. The experimental apparatus allows future measurements to be taken of the pulse tube losses in the same temperature and frequency range.
It Had to Be You (Not Me)! Women’s Attributional Rationalization of Their Contribution to Successful Joint Work Outcomes

We investigated the tendency of women to undervalue their contributions in collaborative contexts. Participants, who believed they were working with another study participant on a male sex-typed task, received positive feedback about the team’s performance. Results indicated that women and men allocated credit for the joint success very differently. Women gave more credit to their male teammates and took less credit themselves unless their role in bringing about the performance outcome was irrefutably clear (Studies 1 and 2) or they were given explicit information about their likely task competence (Study 4). However, women did not credit themselves less when their teammate was female (Study 3). Together these studies demonstrate that women devalue their contributions to collaborative work, and that they do so by engaging in attributional rationalization, a process sparked by women’s negative performance expectations and facilitated by source ambiguity and a satisfactory “other” to whom to allocate credit.
Visualization of Axonally Transported Horseradish Peroxidase Using Enhanced Immunocytochemical Detection: A Direct Comparison with the Tetramethylbenzidine Method:

Visualization of the neuronal tract tracer horseradish peroxidase (HRP) is commonly achieved through the histochemical detection of its enzymatic activity using 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) as a chromogen. However, the TMB product is unstable and is incompatible with tissue processing methods that render the enzyme inactive, or when a combination of HRP tract tracing with neuronal phenotype identification is required. In this study we evaluated the applicability of the immunocytochemical detection method for horseradish peroxidase (HRP) visualization using an enhanced detection meth-od based on the Elite ABC peroxidase amplification protocol. The results provide evidence for the immunocytochemical visualization of both anterograde and transganglionic HRP transport in the rat spinal cord. This immunocytochemical method not only showed similar sensitivity to the TMB protocol in detecting HRP-labeled motor neuron perikarya but provided enhanced resolution in the identification of individual neuronal fibers compared to the TMB method. Immunodetection of the HRP tracer also allowed its co-localization with specific neuronal markers using double immunofluorescence techniques. These results offer the first demonstration that sensitive identification of axonally transported HRP can be achieved by immunocytochemistry and provides further support for its use in HRP tract tracing studies.
Aldosteronism revisited: Perspectives on less well-recognized actions of aldosterone

Abstract Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid with protean actions in both epithelial and nonepithelial cells. These include endocrine properties of circulating aldosterone that promote Na + resorption at the expense of well-recognized K + excretion and less well-recognized Mg 2+ excretion in classic target tissues: kidneys, colon, and sweat and salivary glands. The regulation of adrenal aldosterone secretion by [Mg 2+ ] o is also less well appreciated. More recently recognized endocrine actions of aldosterone include induction of Mg 2+ efflux in exchange for Na + in such nonepithelial cells as peripheral-blood mononuclear cells and influence on epithelial cells of the choroid plexus, where aldosterone alters the composition of cerebrospinal fluid that contributes to blood-pressure regulation. An association between primary aldosteronism and idiopathic intracranial hypertension has recently been reported. Extraadrenal steroidogenesis with de novo aldosterone production by the cardiovasculature, where its auto-/paracrine properties may contribute to tissue repair at sites of injury, has been observed. These less well-recognized actions of aldosterone have led to a revival of interest in how this steroid molecule contributes to the pathophysiology of various clinical disorders.
Low-frequency noise measurement-based reliability testing of VLSI interconnects with different geometry

Low-frequency noise measurements were performed on thin metallic very large-scale integration (VLSI) interconnects of three different geometries. These measurements were carried out under stressing current densities between 1.0/spl times/10/sup 5/ A/cm/sup 2/ and 2.2/spl times/10/sup 6/ A/cm/sup 2/ at different ambient temperatures up to 280/spl deg/C, in order to investigate the dependence of low-frequency noise on the geometrical shape of the VLSI interconnects. The behavior of these samples under these conditions is analyzed in this letter.
SURFACE REACTIONS OF 3,3',5,5'-TETRAMETHYL BENZIDINE ON HECTORITE

The adsorption and oxidation of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethyl benzidine (TMB) on hectorite has been investigated using X-ray powder diffraction, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, and infrared spectroscopy. The molecule adsorbed by cation exchange at low adsorption levels and oxidized to the monomeric radical cation (yellow). At higher adsorption levels, intercalation of TMB occurred in amounts greater than the cation-exchange capacity of the hectorite, and the ~r-~r charge-transfer complex (blue) became much more evident. The TMB monomers appeared to lie fiat in the layer silicate interlayers, whereas the molecules in the charge-transfer complexes assumed a near-vertical orientation relative to the surface. The oxidation of adsorbed TMB was probably due to diffusion of O2 to the surface, because the structural Fe 3+ content of the hectorite was too low to facilitate a significant quantity of direct Fe 3+- TMB electron transfer.
Toward a Tripartite Model of Research Motivation: Development and Initial Validation of the Research Motivation Scale

An instrument designed to measure a 3-factor model of research motivation was developed and psychometrically examined in the present research. Participants were 437 graduate students in biology, chemistry/biochemistry, physics/astronomy, and psychology. A principal components analysis supported the retention of 20 items representing the 3-factor structure. Intrinsic Reward explained 32.19% of the variance in the data, followed by Failure Avoidance (15.84%), and Extrinsic Reward (7.49%). A follow-up confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the 3-factor model provided a better fit to the data than competing 1-, 2-, and 4-factor models. A nomological network of relations with academic achievement motivation, fear of failure, behavioral activation/inhibition sensitivity, and other constructs also revealed support for the measure’s convergent and discriminant validity. Implications for theory and research in the achievement motivation and career development domains are discussed.
Carotid endarterectomy with reconstruction techniques tailored to operative findings

Abstract Purpose: Reconstruction techniques tailored to operative findings were applied to 466 consecutive carotid endarterectomies (CEA) performed on 408 patients over 5 years. The choice of reconstructive technique was based on the extent of the arteriotomy incision required to obtain a complete internal CEA endpoint, the ability to obtain a complete endpoint, and the quality or redundancy of the endarterectomized internal carotid artery (ICA) segment. The hypothesis was that a complete internal CEA endpoint and a tapered, smooth, nonkinked reconstruction minimize complications. Methods: Complete distal endpoint feathering was obtained in 437 (94%) CEA. Patch reconstruction was performed in the 429 (92%) CEA in which the arteriotomy extended distal to the ICA bulb. Before patching, 16 (3.4%) redundant endarterectomized ICA segments were shortened by transverse-eversion suture plication to prevent kinking. A saphenous vein interposition graft was used in nine (1.9%) CEA. The other 28 (6.0%) CEA had an arteriotomy that did not extend distal to the bulb and were primarily closed. Results: Two (0.4%) patients died of myocardial infarction in the hospital; one of these patients also had a stroke. Three (0.6%) patients had nonfatal strokes in the hospital. Five patients had hyperperfusion syndrome after CEA, one of which occurred without complications in the hospital. The other four occurred after discharge from the hospital. Three of these patients had a stroke, and two with strokes died. The combined 30-day mortality and nonfatal stroke rate was 2.1% for CEA and 2.4% for patients. There were no patch ruptures, false aneurysms, or ICA occlusions. Three patients had a >50% diameter carotid artery stenosis 6 months after CEA. Conclusions: These results support an aggressive attempt to obtain a complete or optimal ICA endpoint with reconstruction techniques based on operative findings. Recognition of patients at risk for and treatment of hyperperfusion syndrome after CEA remains a clinical challenge. (J VASC SURG 1993;17:141-51.)
The economic impact of a transient hazard on property values: The 1988 Pepcon explosion in Henderson, Nevada

This article investigates the effect of the May 1988 explosion of a chemical plant in Henderson, Nevada on residential property values (1) before the explosion (anticipation), (2) between the time of the explosion and an announcement of relocation, and (3) subsequent to an announcement in July 1988 that the plant would be rebuilt 100 miles away in Cedar City, Utah. This article uses the conventional hedonic model wherein the real prices of residential houses are related to the characteristics of the property (age, size, and amenities); the timing of the sale; and distance from the site of the explosion, rounded to the nearest mile. A quadratic specification of the model showed that the model was sensitive to the mean distance from the hazard. In a sample of properties throughout the Las Vegas Valley, property values decreased with distance from the explosion, indicating the presence of other hazards. The quadratic specification was stable only for properties within six miles of the explosion site, which included the communities of old Henderson (to the east) and the master planned community of Green Valley (to the west). A discontinuous specification of the model, in which distance was measured by a set of dummy variables (i.e., within two miles, within three miles, etc.) proved to be much more stable. Property within two miles of the hazard were depressed both before and after the explosion, although after the relocation announcement, property values rebounded to reflect the reduction in the number of hazardous plants. This article lends weight to the accumulating body of evidence that real estate markets do behave efficiently.
Nondestructive evaluation of civil structures and materials using stereo camera measurements

Discusses the feasibility of using stereo camera measurements to monitor motion in civil engineering structures; these measurements would be useful for nondestructive evaluation of large scale structures. The authors use stereo camera information to estimate the locations and translations of specific structural features under various nondestructive loadings. The authors then combine these measurements with a priori knowledge of structural geometry and topology to estimate structural parameters. The authors combine system identification techniques with methods for subpixel measurement and reliable feature matching to resolve measured motions. The authors discuss the issues associated with making these measurements and illustrate the technique on a small physical model of a single tier, two storey frame structure. >
Effect of Differing Temperature Cycles on Broiler Performance

Abstract Commercial male broilers were used in five trials conducted to determine whether lowering the temperature during the cool portion of the 24-hr period in summer affected broiler performance. Treatments used were 24-hr linear temperature cycles ranging from a high of 35 C to a low of either 26.7 or 21.1 C. Results obtained showed that lowering the low portion of the temperature cycle from 26.7 to 21.1 C during the 24-hr period significantly increased broiler body weight at 48 days of age.
First Report of Diplodia corticola Causing Branch Cankers on Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) in Florida.

Numerous cankers on small branches showing dieback were observed on live oak (Quercus virginiana) trees in September 2010 in Marion County, FL. Approximately 24 12-year-old landscape trees planted on a farm displayed symptoms. Samples were collected from six of the symptomatic trees and returned to the laboratory for processing. Isolations were made from canker margins after surface sterilization of samples in 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and by plating on potato dextrose agar (PDA). A suspect Botryosphaeriaceae sp. (based on colony morphology) was consistently isolated from the symptomatic branches from all six trees sampled. Fungal colonies consisted of plentiful, white, aerial mycelium that turned dark olive after 5 to 7 days at 23°C with the underside of the cultures turning black (1). Total genomic DNA from three representative Botryosphaeriaceae sp. isolates was extracted and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8s-ITS2) region of the rDNA (GenBank Accessions Nos. JF798638, JF798639, and JF798640) us...
Experimental Comparison Study of Control Architectures for Bilateral Teleoperators

A detailed experimental comparison study of several published algorithms for motion and force control of bilateral teleoperators, with emphasis on Internet-based teleoperation, is presented. The study investigates the effects of data losses, communication delays, and environmental constraints on a teleoperation system for different control techniques, which are based on wave variables, Smith predictors, and recent algorithms on synchronization. The controllers are compared on stability, transparency, and complexity using two identical nonlinear robots coupled via a stochastic network model that allowed transmission round-trip delays and data-loss rates to range from 8 to 1088 ms and 0% to 50%, respectively. A total of 18 subjects, which were distributed among 26 experiments with the aims of regulating the effects of the operators learning process and dynamic properties, participated in this study. Overall, the comparison study reports a deteriorating effect in the performance (i.e., larger position errors and lower fidelity of contact information) from delays and data losses. Yet, the effect of data losses is less critical when compared with time delays. In addition, the preference for a particular control framework is shown to strongly depend on the operational conditions of the system, such as the characteristics of the coupling channel, the specifics of the remote task, and the computational capabilities of the manipulators.
Teamwork And Productivity Improvements In Mixed-Model Assembly Lines

Motivated by the practices of Japanese and European automotive manufacturers who use teams in car assembly processes, this paper develops two models of teamwork for assembly line workers. The implications of teamwork arrangements on productivity of the assembly line are studied. The findings support the conventional wisdom that teamwork improves productivity. However there are situations when teamwork leads to a decline in productivity. The performance of the two team models were tested using the real assembly line data obtained from an automobile manufacturer. The approach developed in this paper provides computational means of revaluating the implications on productivity of different team structures, team sizes and position of teams in the line.
The Effect of Financial Constraints on Tax-Motivated Income Shifting by U.S. Multinationals

When a U.S. multinational corporation shifts income from the U.S. to foreign jurisdictions, it incurs costs and reaps benefits. The benefits may be reduced if the shifted income must be returned to the U.S. as a dividend in the short term and face the same U.S. tax it would have if the income had not been shifted. Firms, then, have incentive to defer repatriation of earnings and to fund domestic cash needs with external financing. The cost of external financing, however, is increasing in financial constraints, leading to the prediction that constrained firms will be unable to defer repatriation and, therefore, will reap no benefits from shifting. Consistent with this prediction, we find that financially constrained firms shift less income from the U.S. to foreign countries than their unconstrained peers. We estimate that financially constrained firms shift out 20% less of pre-shifted income than unconstrained firms. Translating this percentage to dollar values, the mean (median) constrained firm shifts $16 million ($7 million) out of the U.S. each year while the mean (median) unconstrained firm shifts $321 million ($134 million) out of the U.S. each year. Assuming that the inability to defer repatriation is the primary constraint preventing the U.S. worldwide tax system from being a de facto territorial system, we use our findings to estimate that changing to a pure territorial tax system would increase outbound income shifting by U.S. multinationals by 8%.
Evidence that sea lampreys ( Petromyzon marinus ) complete their life cycle within a tributary of the Laurentian Great Lakes by parasitizing fishes in inland lakes

Abstract The sea lamprey ( Petromyzon marinus ) invaded the upper Laurentian Great Lakes and feeds on valued fish. The Cheboygan River, Michigan, USA, is a large sea lamprey producing tributary to Lake Huron and despite having a renovated dam 2 km from the river mouth that presumably blocks sea lamprey spawning migrations, the watershed upstream of the dam remains infested with larval sea lamprey. A navigational lock near the dam has been hypothesized as the means of escapement of adult sea lampreys from Lake Huron and source of the upper river population (H1). However, an alternative hypothesis (H2) is that some sea lampreys complete their life cycle upstream of the dam, without entering Lake Huron. To evaluate the alternative hypothesis, we gathered angler reports of lamprey wounds on game fishes upstream of the dam, and captured adult sea lampreys downstream and upstream of the dam to contrast abundance, run timing, size, and statolith microchemistry. Results indicate that a small population of adult sea lampreys (n
Normative Data for the Hand Dynamometer

206 normal adults, aged 22 to 77 yr., were administered the hand dynamometer to obtain normative data with respect to age, sex, and dominant-nondominant hand differences. Application of commonly accepted criteria for detection of motor dysfunction using this instrument were made to the data and resulted in a significant number of false positive classifications. The findings have implications for the clinical use of this instrument.
The Thermal Conductivity of Amorphous Insulators

The temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity, κ, of amorphous materials exhibits a nearly universal behavior which is very different from that observed for crystalline materials. One finds that at low temperatures (T ≤ 5 K), κ ∝ T2 for amorphous materials. This is followed by a plateau in the thermal conductivity (5 ≤ T ≤ 10 K) where κ changes very little with temperature. At higher temperatures (10 κ ≤ T), κ rises slowly with increasing temperature.
Use of the Serious Illness Conversation Guide in Advanced Parkinsonism: Pilot Study of a Palliative Care Communication Intervention (P6.087)

OBJECTIVE: To enhance communication around end-of-life issues and goals of care in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD) using a structured palliative care communication tool. BACKGROUND: Eliciting and honoring patients’ care goals in the context of a chronic illness is an essential component to quality care. Identifying appropriate timing for such discussions can be challenging in PD, whose course is typically characterized by adequate early symptom control and slow progression. Difficult prognostication and other barriers result in missed opportunities for goals-of-care discussions. The Serious Illness Conversation Guide (SICG) represents a structured tool to facilitate communication between patients and clinicians, and has not been formally studied in this patient population. DESIGN/METHODS: The intervention was modeled on the original Serious Illness Care Program trial. Appropriate patients were identified by review of clinic panels and posing the “surprise” question to clinicians: “Would you be surprised if this patient died within the next year?” Patients were invited to participate and include a surrogate. Clinicians were triggered to complete the SICG by reminder email and provision of appropriate materials at the time of the patient visit. Patients were prepared for the conversation with a pre-visit letter encouraging them to think ahead about relevant issues. Outcomes of the discussion were documented in a structured format in the EMR. Patients were provided with a Family Communication Guide to relay their wishes to their loved ones. 1 week post visit, patients were briefly surveyed by phone regarding satisfaction with the conversation. RESULTS: The regularity and ease of goals-of-care discussions improved, as did clear documentation of patients’ wishes in the EMR. Patients were receptive to use of the SICG with favorable impressions of the experience. CONCLUSIONS: The Serious Illness Conversation Guide provides a useful and well-received structured format for improving goals-of-care communication with advanced PD patients. Disclosure: Dr. Mangin has received personal compensation for activities with Teva CNS as a speaker.
A prospective algorithm to reduce anastomotic leaks after rectosigmoid resection for gynecologic malignancies

Abstract Objective Determine whether a standardized protocol for temporary bowel diversion after rectosigmoid resection (RSR) for cytoreduction can reduce the rate of anastomotic leak (AL). Methods A prospective quality improvement project for patients undergoing RSR during debulking surgery from 07/2013 to 01/2016 was conducted. Patients with any of the following underwent temporary diversion: preoperative albumin ≤3.0g/dL, prior pelvic radiation, RSR plus additional large bowel resection (LBR), anastomosis (AS) ≤6cm from the anal verge, failed leak test or contamination of the pelvis with stool. The AL rate was compared to the historic AL rate from 01/04–06/11. Results Seventy-seven patients underwent RSR, with 27 (35.1%) receiving diverting stomas vs. 25/309 (8.1%) in the historic cohort. Additional LBR (33.3%) and AS at ≤6cm from anal verge (26.3%) were the most common indications for diversion. No AL was observed among diverted patients. If one AL which occurred following protocol violation (failed leak test but not diverted) is excluded, the theoretical AL rate is 1.3% (1/77) vs. 7.8% (24/309; P =0.039) in the historic cohort. Not excluding this case, the AL rate was 2.6% (2/77) vs. 7.8% ( P =0.11). Short-term outcomes following primary surgery were not different between diverted and non-diverted patients. Stoma-related complications were observed in 7/27 (25.9%) patients, primarily related to dehydration. Reversal surgery was successfully performed in 24/75 (88.9%) patients. Conclusions Criteria-based temporary bowel diversion for patients undergoing RSR for gynecologic cancer reduced the AL rate. Diversion was associated with acceptable morbidity and high reversal rate.
556. Comparative In Vitro Transduction Efficiency of AAV Vector Serotypes 1-9 in Different Cellular Models

Recombinant viral vectors can be useful tools for expressing transgenes in neuronal cells to study disease mechanisms and to test for therapeutic effect. Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV), generated from a nonpathogenic parvovirus, has become the most widely used vector in gene therapy applications in human. However, lack of suitable animal models that accurately reflect the human disease phenotype often stalls the development of treatment strategies. To overcome this problem, research is focused on generating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from affected human subjects as in vitro models to explore the potential of gene augmentation therapy. An advantage of iPSCs is that these cells can be differentiated along a retinal cell lineage. In this study, we differentiated iPSCs into Neural Progenitor Cells (NPC) and compared the in vitro transduction efficiency of AAV serotypes 1-9. Differentiated NPCs were characterized by immunocytochemistry with the expression of NPCs specific markers (Sox2, Nestin, Pax6). Experiments were carried out using different AAVs serotypes containing the same transgene cassette: an enhanced green-fluorescent protein (eGFP) reporter gene driven by the cytomegalovirus immediate-early (CMV) promoter. At 24 to 48 hours post transduction, positive GFP expressing cells are examined by laser scanning in Typhoon. Relative GFP expression was evaluated by using the software ImageJ. In addition to the laser scanning method, flow cytometry was used to evaluate GFP expression in the cell population. Live cell imaging and flow cytometry evaluation revealed that AAV2 is the most efficient vector for in vitro transduction in NPC followed by AAV1, AAV3 and AAV6 while AAV4, AAV5, AAV7, AAV8 and AAV9 showed no transduction or extremely low transduction efficiency.