cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Classification of the surgical wound: a time for reassessment and simplification.

Classification of the surgical wound in the operating room by surgeons and nurses is a time-honored routine that has been practiced for at least 30 years, since the time of the National Academy of Sciences National Research Council study on the influence of ultraviolet irradiation on surgical wound infection.1 This traditional method uses four classes of wounds based on the risk level and type of contamination expected or observed at operation.2-3 Clean surgical wounds (Class I) are those in which only exogenous (airborne) contamination is expected or observed and the predicted wound infection rate is approximately 2%, largely due to gram-positive microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus. Clean-contaminated (Class II) wounds are those in which generally both exogenous and endogenous (aerobic-anaerobic) bacterial contamination occur during elective operations. The infection rate in this category is estimated at 5% to 15% and is usually due to the polymicrobic endogenous flora. Contaminated wounds (Class III) are those with early endogenous leakage or delayed exogenous contamination in the absence of established clinical infection and carry a greater than 15% infection rate. In dirty wounds (Class IV) where active infection is encountered during operation, a postoperative infection rate of greater than 30% is anticipated. During the last decade, there have been problems identified with the use of this traditional wound classification system and the accuracy of the predicted infection rates in each category. The major limitation lies in the lack of attention to the varying risk of infection among subjects in each class of wound.3 Haley et a14 at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were among the first to publish on the importance of identifying the varying individual risks for infection among patients in each of the traditional four categories of wounds. Using stepwise multiple logistic regression in nearly 59,000 patients, they developed a new predictive index using four risk factors that, when studied in an equally large group of surgical patients, was able to accurately predict the incidence of wound infection. They identified three different risk groups (low, medium, and high) in both the clean and clean-contaminated wound classes and only two risk groups (medium and high) in the contaminated and dirty classes. There were surprisingly close similarities of predicted infection rates among Class I and II and in Class III and IV wounds. The infection rates in Class I wounds were reported as 1.1% (low risk), 3.9% (medium risk), up to 15.8% (high risk) with an overall rate of 2.9%, while they were predicted as 0.6% (low), 2.8% (medium), up to 17.7% (high), with an overall 3.9% in Class II wounds. The infection rates in Class III wounds, where no low-risk group was identified, were 4.5% (medium) and up to 23.9% (high) with an overall rate of 8.5%, while in Class IV wounds, also without a low-risk group, they were predicted at 6.7% (medium), up to 27.4% (high), and 12.6% overall.
Use of the electrothermal vessel sealing system versus standard vessel ligation in thyroidectomy.

Objective The electrothermal vessel sealing system (LigaSure(tm)) facilitates operative haemostasis by fusing blood vessel walls to form a collagen seal. The LigaSure(tm) is currently used in a variety of gastrointestinal, gynaecological and urological operations. We report our experience with LigaSure(tm) for thyroidectomy to test the hypothesis that it reduces operating time without increasing complications compared with standard vessel ligation. Methods This non-randomized, retrospective review included 234 consecutive patients who underwent thyroidectomy by one surgeon. Standard vessel ligation was used in 99 patients between 1997 and 2000, and the LigaSure(tm) was used in 135 patients between 2001 and 2003. The following data were collected: patient demographics, thyroid pathology, type of operation (total thyroidectomy vs lobectomy), operating time, complications (transient or permanent hypocalcaemia, ! 8 mg/dL), recurrent or superior laryngeal nerve injury, neck haematoma, wound complications, prolonged intubation), incision length and hospital stay. Results The two groups had similar demographics, thyroid pathology, types of operations and complication rates. The LigaSure(tm) group had lower operating times and incision lengths. Conclusion We found that the LigaSure(tm) was as safe as standard vessel ligation for thyroidectomy, with the benefit of reduced operating time. A future prospective study has been designed.
Maternal and Grandmaternal Smoking Patterns Are Associated With Early Childhood Asthma

Objective: To investigate the associations of maternal and grandmaternal smoking before, during, and after pregnancy with childhood asthma. Design, setting, and participants: We conducted a case-control study nested within the Children’s Health Study in southern California. The case patients consisted of 338 children with asthma that had been diagnosed in the first 5 years of life, and 570 control subjects were countermatched on in utero exposure to maternal smoking within grade, sex, and community of residence. Measurements: Detailed maternal and household smoking histories and other asthma risk factor information was obtained by telephone interview. Results: The participation rates were 72.3% and 82.5%, respectively, for control subjects and case patients. In utero exposure to maternal smoking was associated with increased risk for asthma diagnosed in the first 5 years of life (odds ratio [OR], 1.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0 to 2.3), and for persistent asthma (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.3). The associations did not differ in children with early transient asthma compared to those with early persistent asthma. Relative to never-smokers, children whose mothers smoked throughout the pregnancy had an elevated risk of asthma in the first 5 years of life (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.6). Children of mothers who quit smoking prior to the pregnancy showed no increased risk (OR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.5 to 1.5). We were unable to assess the association of smoking cessation during pregnancy because very few mothers were reported to have done so (15%). Asthma risk did not increase in a monotonic pattern with smoking intensity during pregnancy. Postnatal secondhand smoke exposure was not independently associated with asthma. Grandmaternal smoking during the mother’s fetal period was associated with increased asthma risk in her grandchildren (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.4 to 3.2). Conclusions: Maternal and grandmaternal smoking during pregnancy may increase the risk of childhood asthma. (CHEST 2005; 127:1232–1241)
Canary Replica Feedback for Near-DRV Standby V DD Scaling in a 90nm SRAM

Canary bitcells act as online monitors in a feedback architecture to sense the proximity to the data retention voltage (DRV) for core SRAM bitcells during standby voltage scaling. This approach implements aggressive standby VDD scaling by tracking PVT variations and gives the flexibility to tradeoff between the safety of data and decreased leakage power. A 90 nm 128 Kb SRAM test chip confirms that the canary cells track changes in temperature and VDD and that they provide a reliable mechanism for protecting core cells in a closed loop VDD scaling system. Power savings improve by up to 30times compared with the conventional guard-banding approach.
Flexiform: A Model for Professional Service Organizations

This paper proposes a conceptual model in response to the lack of structural designs for professionals and professional organizations. The proposed model satisfies the unique role-creation, negotiation, and client/customer interface within the operations of professional organizations. The emerging structural form can best be described as a flexiform type. The unique features of the flexiform structure are presented, and implications and future research focus are discussed.
Particle size analysis of polymer latexes by light scattering. II. Computer analysis

Angular light scattering by polymer latex dispersions is used for determining the particle size distribution. The analysis consists of calculating the experimental Rayleigh ratios Vθ,v and Hθ,h for vertically and horizontally polarized components of scattered light. Corrections for solvent scattering and reflection effects are also applied. The polarization ratios are calculated for each concentration and extrapolated to infinite dilution, thereby correcting for multiple scattering at finite concentrations. The polarization ratios at infinite dilution are converted to polarizations and compared with theoretical values corresponding to anticipated possible size distributions. A topographical map of the root-mean-square deviations on a plot of the size parameter versus the distribution parameter is obtained. This map gives an indication of the uniqueness of the fit over the range of theoretical values searched. Data obtained on a Dow polystyrene latex are used for an example analysis. Details of the computer routine are discussed. Similar programs exist for the size distribution analysis and determination of number concentration of spherical particles utilizing the angular absolute specific intensities.
Probiotic Bacteria Induce Maturation of Intestinal Claudin 3 Expression and Barrier Function

An immature intestinal epithelial barrier may predispose infants and children to many intestinal inflammatory diseases, such as infectious enteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Understanding the factors that regulate gut barrier maturation may yield insight into strategies to prevent these intestinal diseases. The claudin family of tight junction proteins plays an important role in regulating epithelial paracellular permeability. Previous reports demonstrate that rodent intestinal barrier function matures during the first 3 weeks of life. We show that murine paracellular permeability markedly decreases during postnatal maturation, with the most significant change occurring between 2 and 3 weeks. Here we report for the first time that commensal bacterial colonization induces intestinal barrier function maturation by promoting claudin 3 expression. Neonatal mice raised on antibiotics or lacking the toll-like receptor adaptor protein MyD88 exhibit impaired barrier function and decreased claudin 3 expression. Furthermore, enteral administration of either live or heat-killed preparations of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG accelerates intestinal barrier maturation and induces claudin 3 expression. However, live Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG increases mortality. Taken together, these results support a vital role for intestinal flora in the maturation of intestinal barrier function. Probiotics may prevent intestinal inflammatory diseases by regulating intestinal tight junction protein expression and barrier function. The use of heat-killed probiotics may provide therapeutic benefit while minimizing adverse effects.
Dual chemotaxis signaling pathways in Bacillus subtilis: a sigma D-dependent gene encodes a novel protein with both CheW and CheY homologous domains.

The alternative sigma factor, sigma D, activates the expression of genes required for chemotaxis and motility in Bacillus subtilis, including those encoding flagellin, hook-associated proteins, and the motor proteins. The sigma D protein is encoded in a large operon which also encodes the structural proteins for the basal body and homologs of the enteric CheW, CheY, CheA, and CheB chemotaxis proteins. We report the identification and molecular characterization of a novel chemotaxis gene, cheV. The predicted CheV gene product contains an amino-terminal CheW homologous domain linked to a response regulator domain of the CheY family, suggesting that either or both of these functions are duplicated. Transcription of cheV initiates from a sigma D-dependent promoter element both in vivo and in vitro, and expression of a cheV-lacZ fusion is completely dependent on sigD. Expression is repressed by nonpolar mutations in structural genes for the basal body, fliM or fliP, indicating that cheV belongs to class III in the B. subtilis flagellar hierarchy. The cheV locus is monocistronic and is located at 123 degrees on the B. subtilis genetic map near the previously defined cheX locus. A cheV mutant strain is motile but impaired in chemotaxis on swarm plates. Surprisingly, an insertion in the CheW homologous domain leads to a more severe defect than an insertion in the CheY homologous domain. The presence of dual pathways for chemotactic signal transduction is consistent with the residual signaling observed in previous studies of cheW mutants (D. W. Hanlon, L. Marques-Magana, P. B. Carpenter, M. J. Chamberlin, and G. W. Ordal, J. Biol. Chem. 267:12055-12060, 1992). Images
A Study of Ancient Roof Tiles Found in Pella, Greece

The ceramic specimens examined in this study were taken from roof tiles of the Hellenistic period found in Pella, northern Greece. They represent five chronologically successive tilings of two buildings. Neutron activation analysis results showed that a different clay was used for the construction of each roof. Results of technological analysis indicate a consistency in the manufacture of the tiles, except for the first tiling which seems to be technologically different and more advanced.
A conceptual framework for the controlled islanding of interconnected power systems

Controlled islanding is a special protection strategy aimed at preventing a system-wide blackout as a result of the cascading of low probability events. This letter addresses the main issues and proposes a conceptual framework for a centralized and proactive controlled islanding strategy.
3D OCT imaging in clinical settings: toward quantitative measurements of retinal structures

The acquisition speed of current FD-OCT (Fourier Domain - Optical Coherence Tomography) instruments allows rapid screening of three-dimensional (3D) volumes of human retinas in clinical settings. To take advantage of this ability requires software used by physicians to be capable of displaying and accessing volumetric data as well as supporting post processing in order to access important quantitative information such as thickness maps and segmented volumes. We describe our clinical FD-OCT system used to acquire 3D data from the human retina over the macula and optic nerve head. B-scans are registered to remove motion artifacts and post-processed with customized 3D visualization and analysis software. Our analysis software includes standard 3D visualization techniques along with a machine learning support vector machine (SVM) algorithm that allows a user to semi-automatically segment different retinal structures and layers. Our program makes possible measurements of the retinal layer thickness as well as volumes of structures of interest, despite the presence of noise and structural deformations associated with retinal pathology. Our software has been tested successfully in clinical settings for its efficacy in assessing 3D retinal structures in healthy as well as diseased cases. Our tool facilitates diagnosis and treatment monitoring of retinal diseases.
Non‐ideal liquidus curve in the Fe‐S system and Mercury's snowing core

[1] We conducted multi-anvil experiments to investigate the melting behavior of the iron-sulfur system at moderate pressures. Our data reveal a positive departure from ideal solution behavior at 14 GPa, as indicated by the presence of two inflection points on the liquidus curve of iron-rich compositions. In contrast, the shape of the liquidus curve at 10 GPa is consistent with nearly ideal mixing between end-member components. Combined with existing data at lower pressures and above 20 GPa, our results suggest a negative liquidus temperature gradient under conditions found at shallow depths in Mercury's core. At the present time, the core is most likely precipitating solid iron in the form of snow, at a single depth or in two distinct zones. Formation and segregation of iron snow would alter the thermal and chemical state of the core and influence the origin and surface expression of the planet's magnetic field.>
Commuting boundedly decomposable perturbations

Abstract The author proves that perturbation of a decomposable operator by a commuting boundedly decomposable operator is decomposable, thus generalizing a theorem of C. Apostol. It is also proved that the sum of a regular, A -spectral operator and a commuting boundedly decomposable operator is strongly decomposable, while the sum of two commuting boundedly decomposable operators is generalized spectral. Examples show that boundedly decomposable operators form a proper intermediate class between spectral and generalized spectral operators; thus the generalization of Apostol's theorem is not trivial.
Congestion and error control for layered scalable video multicast over WiMAX

Quality of service (QoS) of wireless multimedia can be seriously degraded due to the more dynamically changing end-to-end available bandwidth caused by the wireless fading/shadowing and link adaptation. Moreover, the increased occurrence of wireless radio transmission errors also results in higher bursty rate of packet loss when compared with wired IP networks. An end-system driven solution featuring embedded probing for layered multicast of scalable video is thus proposed in this paper. By taking advantage of QoS features offered by one of the four proposed WiMAX service flow arrangement, this system aims at more flexible layer constructing and subscription while reliable in diverse channel conditions and fitting users' demand. The system optimality comes from the best tradeoff of number of video layers subscription with number of additional FEC packets insertion to simultaneously satisfy the estimated available bandwidth and the estimated wireless channel error condition
Splash: ad-hoc querying of data and statistical models

Data mining is increasingly performed by people who are not computer scientists or professional programmers. It is often done as an iterative process involving multiple ad-hoc tasks, as well as data pre- and post-processing, all of which must be executed over large databases. In order to make data mining more accessible, it is critical to provide a simple, easy-to-use language that allows the user to specify ad-hoc data processing, model construction, and model manipulation. Simultaneously, it is necessary for the underlying system to scale up to large datasets. Unfortunately, while each of these requirements can be satisfied, individually, by existing systems, no system fully satisfies all criteria.In this paper, we present a system called Splash to fill this void. Splash supports an extended relational data model and SQL query language, which allows for the natural integration of statistical modeling and ad-hoc data processing. It also supports a novel representatives operator to help explain models using a limited number of examples. We have developed a prototype implementation of Splash. Our experimental study indicates that it scales well to large input datasets. Further, to demonstrate the simplicity of the language, we conducted a case study using Splash to perform a series of exploratory analyses using network log data. Our study indicates that the query-based interface is simpler than a common data mining software package, and it often requires less programming effort to use.
Triacylglycerol mobilization is suppressed by brefeldin A in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Brefeldin A suppresses vesicle trafficking by inhibiting exchange of GDP for GTP in ADP-ribosylation factor. We report that brefeldin A suppresses mobilization of triacylglycerols in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a model organism of green microalgae. Analyses revealed that brefeldin A causes Chlamydomonas to form lipid droplets in which triacylglycerols accumulate in a dose-dependent manner. Pulse labeling experiment using fluorescent fatty acids suggested that brefeldin A inhibits the cells from degrading fatty acids. The experiment also revealed that the cells transiently form novel compartments that accumulate exogenously added fatty acids in the cytoplasm, designated fatty acid-induced microbodies (FAIMs). Brefeldin A up-regulates the formation of FAIMs, whereas nitrogen deprivation that up-regulates triacylglycerol synthesis in Chlamydomonas does not cause the cells to form FAIMs. These results underscore the role of the vesicle trafficking machinery in triacylglycerol metabolism in green microalgae.
Treating refractory advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma with interleukin-2: A phase II study

Abstract Patients with refractory advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma derive only minor benefit from chemotherapy. Based on evidence that urothelial carcinoma may be associated with impaired immunological reactivity, we conducted a phase II trial of interleukin-2 (IL-2), a biologic response modifier, to assess its efficacy and toxicity in treating refractory advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Seventeen patients with urothelial carcinoma who had undergone no more than 1 cisplatin-containing chemotherapy regimen were treated with IL-2 at a dose of 3 × 10 6 IU/m 2 /day by continuous intravenous infusion for 4 consecutive days each week for 4 weeks. Cycles were to be repeated every 6 weeks until disease progression. Toxic effects could be assessed in all 17 patients and response in 13. The most common grade III and IV toxic effects included hypotension (13/17); anemia (6/17); thrombocytopenia (4/17); granulocytopenia (3/17); and, in 1 patient each, cardiac ischemia, bowel perforation, and an increase in creatinine level. One sudden death was assumed to be treatment related. Although we found no objective antitumor activity for IL-2, median patient survival was 10.5 months (95% confidence interval, 5.8 to 17.1 months), with a 15.9-month median survival for 3 patients with poor performance status and visceral metastases. Further clinical investigation of the biological effect of IL-2 in urothelial carcinoma may be warranted.
Trustworthy Web services provisioning for differentiated customer services

With the number of e-Business applications dramatically increasing, a service level agreement (SLA) will play an important part in Web services. The SLA is a combination of several quality of services (QoS), such as security, performance, and availability, agreed between a customer and a service provider. Most existing research addresses only one of these QoS metrics. Furthermore, in the case of the response time defined as one of QoS metrics for performance, only the average time to process and complete a job is typically used. Moreover, customer requests often need to be distinguished, with different request characteristics and customer's different service requirements. In this paper, we consider a set of computer resources used by a service broker to host enterprise applications for two classes of differentiated customer services subject to a service level agreement. We study three QoS metrics, namely, trustworthiness, a percentile response time, and availability. The percentile response time metric defines a value below which the end-to-end response time has to be for a given percent of time. We present an approach for resource optimization in such an environment that minimizes the total cost of computer resources while satisfying all these three QoS metrics in a trust-based resource provisioning problem which typically arises in Web services. We formulate the trust-based resource provisioning problem as an optimization problem under SLA constraints, and then solve it using an efficient numerical procedure.
Determining track loss without truth information for distributed target tracking applications

We explore criteria for filter consistency and develop methods of determining target track lifetimes without truth information. Two statistical tests, a sliding window likelihood function and a quadratic ratio of the Wishart matrix, are applied to a distributed fusion architecture. Simulation studies are used to compare the performance of these tests against a measure of track lifetime based on using the true states.
Environmental management systems for internal corporate environmental benchmarking

Corporate environmental benchmarking is difficult with the range and inconsistency of environmental information available, even from facilities within the same firm. Environmental management systems can assist firms in organizing internal corporate benchmarking efforts. They attempt to capture environmental impacts from activities throughout a facility under a single system and generally follow traditional benchmarking cycles of plan, do, check, and act. However, the systems lack important features that enable benchmarking. Based on a critical analysis of environmental management systems, the article recommends minor changes to extend environmental management systems for corporate environmental benchmarking. Consistent goals should be encouraged at all facilities to produce common metrics. Procedures should require data collection and reporting to a central office. Management review should monitor performance and determine where leading facilities can transfer better processes to lagging facilities.
Prospects for an Ethnographic Approach to Urban Education.

Studies of urban schools have been limited by methodological conventions and by the quest for statistical certainty.
Assessing Childhood Obesity Programs in Low-Socioeconomic and Diverse Communities

Background Childhood obesity disproportionately affects low-socioeconomic and diverse communities. After a nationalchildren’s health care quality organization announced a request for programs addressing the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity, 80 programs were received. The objective of this study was to identify a best practice for addressing childhood obesity in low-socioeconomic and diverse communities. Method A secondary analysis of the 80 programs was conducted in spring 2007 using a framework developed after a mini literature review using PubMed and Google, a review of the recommendations from the 1998 national childhood obesity expert committee, and 5 semistructured interviews with childhood obesity key informants. Results The key informants unanimously recommended that obesity reduction programs in low-socioeconomic and diverse communities should combine 4 themes: lifestyle changes, family-centeredness, prevention, and early community involvement. These 4 themes were combined in 50% of the 80 programs. Conclusions An evidence-based best practice for reducing childhood obesity in low-socioeconomic and diverse communities could not be identified utilizing the 4 themes recommended by the key informants. Preliminary data suggest that 1 academic program may offer promise for addressing childhood obesity in low-socioeconomic and diverse communities and improved data collection.
The plasma wave environment of an auroral arc: Electrostatic ion cyclotron waves in the diffuse aurora

Electric field plasma wave observations were made with a sounding rocket payload in and near a quiet auroral arc. This payload was launched on March 9, 1978 from Poker Flat, Alaska. The payload trajectory was close to the magnetic meridian and passed over a 40 kR auroral arc. The present investigation is concerned with ac electric field observations in the ELF and lower VLF covering a frequency range from 2.5 Hz to 8 kHz. Attention is given to aspects of instrumentation, the general situation, a data analysis, and the obtained results. Waves were observed at low altitude in a region of downward parallel current and diffuse aurora. These waves had properties consistent with those expected for hydrogen and oxygen electrostatic ion cyclotron (EIC) waves.
Large area magnetic micropallet arrays for cell colony sorting

A new micropallet array platform for adherent cell colony sorting has been developed. The platform consisted of thousands of square plastic pallets, 270 μm by 270 μm on each side, large enough to hold a single colony of cells. Each pallet included a magnetic core, allowing them to be collected with a magnet after being released using a microscope mounted laser system. The micropallets were patterned from 1002F epoxy resist and were fabricated on translucent, gold coated microscope slides. The gold layer was used as seed for electroplating the ferromagnetic cores within every individual pallet. The gold layer also facilitated the release of each micropallet during laser release. This array allows for individual observation, sorting and collection of isolated cell colonies for biological cell colony research. In addition to consistent release and recovery of individual colonies, we demonstrated stable biocompatibility and minimal loss in imaging quality compared to previously developed micropallet arrays.
‘The right path of equality’: supporting high school students with autism who type to communicate

The inclusion of students who type to communicate has been researched and strategies to accommodate such students have been recommended, but little information has been gathered about the students’ perspectives and daily school lives. This study utilises classroom observations and qualitative interviewing to explore the experiences of three high school students who type to communicate and the systems in place to support them. The study privileges and focuses on the ways that their school personnel honour the voices of those students as contributors to the construction of the spaces they enter and ways in which their active participation is supported.
Occupant Kinematics in Laboratory Rollover Tests: ATD Response and Biofidelity

Rollover crashes are a serious public health problem in United States, with one third of traffic fatalities occurring in crashes where rollover occurred. While it has been shown that occupant kinematics affect the injury risk in rollover crashes, no anthropomorphic test device (ATD) has yet demonstrated kinematic biofidelity in rollover crashes. Therefore, the primary goal of this study was to assess the kinematic response biofidelity of six ATDs (Hybrid III, Hybrid III Pedestrian, Hybrid III with Pedestrian Pelvis, WorldSID, Polar II and THOR) by comparing them to post mortem human surrogate (PMHS) kinematic response targets published concurrently; and the secondary goal was to evaluate and compare the kinematic response differences among these ATDs. Trajectories (head, T1, T4, T10, L1 and sacrum), spinal segment (head-to-T1, T1-to-T4, T4-T10, T10-L1, and L1-to-sacrum) rotations relative to the rollover buck, and spinal segment extension/compression were calculated from the collected kinematics data from an optical motion tracking system. Response differences among the ATDs were observed mainly due to the different lateral bending stiffness of the spine from their varied architecture, while the additional thoracic joint in Polar II and THOR did not seem to provide more flexion/extension compliance than the other ATDs. In addition, the ATD response data were compared to PMHS response corridors developed from similar tests for assessing ATD biofidelity. All of the ATDs, generally, drifted outboard and upward during the tests similar to the PMHS. However, accompanied with this upward and outward motion, the ATD head and upper torso pitched forward (~10 degrees) while the PMHS' head and upper torso pitching rearward (~10 to ~15 degrees), due to the absence of flexion/extension compliance in the ATD spine. The differences in these pitch motions resulted in a difference of 130 mm to 160 mm in the longitudinal position of the head at 195 degrees of roll angle. Finally, substantially less lateral spinal bending was also observed in the ATDs compared to the PMHS. The results of the current study suggests there is greater upper spine flexion/extension, and lateral bending stiffness in all of the ATDs in comparison to the PMHS, and provided information for improvement of ATD biofidelity in future for rollover crashes.
Special Applications of far Infrared Interferometry — Internal Rotation of Molecules with two c3v Rotors

Internal rotation was once thought to be essentially “free”. Thermodynamic studies gradually provided stronger evidence for the fact that internal rotation is not “free”. Despite the fact that internal rotational barriers are relatively small when compared to the total energy of a molecule or even of a bond, heat capacity, entropy, equilibrium constants, etc. contain appreciable contributions from internal rotation. From a chemist’s viewpoint it is then important that information be obtained on barriers to internal rotation. The prediction of barriers to internal rotation from factors such as substituent effects, electronegativities and nonbonded interactions have also proven to be useful.
Telemedicine for retinopathy of prematurity.

Purpose of review To examine and review digital retinal imaging via telemedicine as an important screening and diagnostic tool in the management of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Recent findings The use of wide-angle digital retinal photography to detect clinically significant ROP has been described in numerous reports since 2000. Comparisons with the gold standard of binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy have been favorable. Digital image capture can provide more objective information for disease detection, thereby facilitating internet consultation and retrospective analysis as part of the electronic medical record. As the presence of plus disease in ROP is now the most important criteria for determining the need for laser treatment, computer-based image analysis can potentially provide additional benefit to digital retinal imaging. Telemedicine screening also allows for the extension of diagnostic expertise to underserved areas in both the developed and third world. The role of telemedicine in ROP education will impact both screening efforts and traditional fellowship training in future years. Summary As the worldwide incidence of ROP continues to rise, the use of telemedicine for screening, diagnostic and educational purposes will assume increasing importance in the delivery of healthcare for premature infants.
A Strategic Framework for Marketing Control

How to evaluate performance against plan, when the plan includes crucial factors like market size, market share, growth, etc.
Notes on the Choanephoraceae

Blakeslea circinans Naganishi & Kawakami has been recombined as Choanephora circinans. Description of its growth on synthetic mucor agar and its natural distribution are given. The zygospores are r...
Transparency, Third Party Participation and Access to Documents in International Investment Arbitration

IN RECENT years the participation of non-disputing parties in arbitral proceedings has gained importance both in the context of NAFTA Chapter 11 arbitration as well as in proceedings under the auspices of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). Investment Tribunals have been confronted with requests from NGOs to be granted permission to take part in the proceedings as amicus curiae. Requests have included the intention to make written submissions as well as to have access to documents. This article addresses both of these issues. Recently the ICSID Arbitration Rules have been amended in reaction to the developments in arbitral practice. These amendments provide clarity and guidance for Tribunals as well as disputing and non-disputing parties on how this issue should be dealt with in practice. It seems, however, problematic to identify where to draw the line between the advantages of increased transparency and the avoidance of the risk of jeopardizing confidentiality. It has to be ensured that NGOs and other potential non-disputing parties being granted access to the proceedings do not abuse their position. Frequently it is difficult to determine exactly what the intentions of NGOs are, whose interests they represent and whether they can be held accountable for their actions. Hence there is a debate whether and to what extent these groups should be allowed to participate in any given case. Despite the fact that the Statement of the NAFTA Free Trade Commission and the amendments to the ICSID Arbitration Rules has certainly increased clarity, there is still room for discussion. This article will analyze the practice of the Tribunals that have so far been confronted with applications for participation as amicus curiae. Defining the scope of what constitutes public interest in a particular case as well as determining the intentions of those aspiring participants as …
Muscular and Skeletal Anomalies in Human Trisomy in an Evo-Devo Context Using 3-D Imaging and Anatomical Dissections, with Notes on Down Syndrome, Cyclopia and Medical Implications

We report the muscular and skeletal abnormalities observed in a very rare and precious 28-week human Trisomy 18 cyclopic fetus, and compare this individual with other humans with Trisomy 18 (Edward...
Effect of oral vitamin D on IL-2 and IgG, IgA, IgM levels in premature infants

Objective To analyze the early effect of vitamin D on interleukin IL-2(IL-2) levels and the immune globulin protein concentrations in premature infants. Methods Two hundred premature infants were selected in our hospital from September 2013 to September 2014, including 100 infants of small age and 100 infants of older age. The small age infants and the older age infants were then divided into observation group and control group according to the random number table, respectively: observation group 1 and control group 1 of small age infants, observation group 2 and control group 2 of older age infants, with 50 cases in each group. The infants in control group 1 and control group 2 were given formula feeding three days later born, while the infants of observation group 1 and observation group 2 were given oral vitamin D based on formula feeding. At postnatal 3 d and 10 d, the serum IL-2 and immunoglobulin G(Ig G) and immune globulin A(Ig A), immunoglobulin M(Ig M), 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25-(OH)D] levels were determined, and infants' health status were analyzed. Results The average values of serum 25(OH)D concentration at postnatal 3 d and 10 d were(22.921±6.253) nmol/L,(27.51±6.932) nmol/L in observation group 1 and(28.121±8.253) nmol/L,(33.192±8.932) nmol/L in observation group 1, with statistical significant differences between the two observation groups(P0.05). And the 25-(OH)D concentrations in the two observation groups were significantly higher than those in the two control groups(P0.05). The average values of IL-2 level at postnatal 3 d and 10 d were(3.121±2.19) pg/L,(4.623±2.80) pg/L in observation group 1 and(3.29±1.12) pg/L,(3.35±2.32) pg/L in observation group 2, with statistically significant differences between the two groups(P0.05). The IL-2 levels at postnatal10 d were significantly higher than those at postnatal 3 d in the two observation groups(P0.05). The IL-2 levels in observation group 1 were significantly higher than those in control group 1(P0.05). The serum Ig A, Ig G, Ig M concentrations at postnatal 3 d and 10 d showed no significant changes(P0.05). Conclusion Early preterm infants taking appropriate vitamin D helps improve the IL-2 and 25(OH)D concentrations and enhance immunity, but the effects of vitamin D on Ig A, Ig G, Ig M concentrations are yet to be confirmed.
Life support: the doctor's dilemma--moral issues

The doctor's dilemma regarding life support arises from opportunities in modern medicine to prolong life beyond the wildest dreams of medical doctors in previous eras. The traditional ethical framework based on duties to respect life, do what is best for the patient, be faithful to patients' reasonable expectations and avoid doing harm provides an adequate general guide for practitioners regarding what they are ethically required to do and must refrain from doing. However, a third category, ethical permissibility, allows for conduct that may not be ideal but is the most ethical in life-support dilemmas. Discussions of withholding and withdrawing life support, ordinary and extraordinary measures, proportionality and medical futility are enriching today's ethical debate about ethically permissible conduct in such situations.
The Pyomo Command-line Interface

This chapter describes Pyomo’s command-line interface, which can be used to construct a model, perform optimization, and summarize the results. Although these steps can be easily executed within a Python script, this command simplifies this process so users can focus on modeling.
Circulating interferon-γ in women sensitized to sperm: new mechanisms of infertility*

The relationship between antisperm antibodies and IFN-gamma production was examined. Interferon-gamma was identified in 15 of 40 sera (37.5%) from women with antisperm antibodies, but in only 2 of 28 sera (7.4%) from women who lacked these antibodies. In four of six women with circulating antisperm antibodies, but in zero of six controls, in vitro incubation of their peripheral blood mononuclear cells led to the spontaneous release of both antisperm antibodies and IFN-gamma. In women sensitized to sperm, coitus-induced IFN-gamma production may impair fertility and early embryo development by mechanisms other than a direct effect of antisperm antibodies on the male gamete.
The Global “Rush” for Land: Does it Provide Opportunities for African Countries?

Growing food demand from an expanding and more affluent population and greater use of land for non—food purposes such as biofuels translated into to higher commodity prices and competition for land and other natural resources. Together with the pricing of environmental amenities, this led to a surge in investments in farmland, often d national borders. In addition to traditional agribusiness investors, demand from actors such as sovereign wealth, pension and private equity funds who traditionally had little interest in agriculture has also increased markedly, mainly in response to land being considered a very desirable asset class in the current volatile environment.
Managing Emotional Responses in Therapy: An Adapted EFT Supervision Approach

Therapists often encounter experiences in therapy that elicit emotionality, this could be in the form of self-of-the-therapist issues, compassion fatigue, or professional burnout. Whereas approaches to supervision for self-of-the-therapist issues recognize the need for accessing the supervisee’s emotionality, approaches have not focused on how the clinical and professional system could also be part of the cycle. We propose an adapted emotionally focused supervision approach that employs steps one through six of the EFT model. To display how this approach would work, we provide the example of work with longer-term clients. Working with longer-term clients can be a challenge for many therapists, and both the professional and client system come with factors increasing emotional risk to the therapist. Engaging the therapist’s emotionality through supervision has the potential to improve therapeutic outcomes, as well as reduce loss of good therapists in the field to professional burnout.
3He Spin Diffusion Measurements for 3He - 4He Mixture Films on Nuclepore

Preliminary3He spin diffusion results for3He - 4He mixture films on Nuclepore are presented as a function of3He coverage for 0.1 ≤ T ≤ 0.3 K. We report measurements for a constant4He coverage of 4.41 bulk density atomic layers with3He coverages between 0.3 and 2.1 layers. The diffusion is observed to decrease with increasing amounts of3He, and some structure as a function of temperature is present.
Recovered Goods: Durkheimian Sociology as Virtue Ethics

Emile Durkheim envisioned sociology as a “moral science.” Today, this phrase jars the ear. The orthodox view is that sociology can and should be “ethically neutral” (Weber). The purpose of this essay is to determine what Durkheim could have meant by this unsettling phrase and whether the project it implied is a defensible one.
Are Firm-Level Idiosyncratic Shocks Important for U.S. Aggregate Volatility?

This paper quantitatively assesses whether firm-specific shocks can drive the U.S. business cycle. Firm-specific shocks to the largest firms can directly contribute to aggregate fluctuations whenever the firm size distribution is fat-tailed giving rise to the granular hypothesis. I use a novel, comprehensive data set compiled from administrative sources that contains the universe of firms and trade transactions, and find that the granular hypothesis accounts at most for 16 percent of the variation in aggregate sales growth. This is about half of that found by previous studies that imposed Gibrat’s law where all firms are equally volatile regardless of their size. Using the full distribution of growth rates among U.S. firms, I find robust evidence of a negative relationship between firm-level volatility and size, i.e. the size-variance relationship. The largest firms (whose shocks drive granularity) are the least volatile under the size-variance relationship, thus their influence on aggregates is mitigated. I show that by taking this relationship into account the effect of firm-specific shocks on observed macroeconomic volatility is substantially reduced. I then investigate several plausible mechanisms that could explain the negative sizevariance relationship. After empirically ruling out some of them, I suggest a “market power” channel in which large firms face smaller price elasticities and therefore respond less to a givensized productivity shock than small firms do. I provide direct evidence for this mechanism by estimating demand elasticities among U.S. manufactures. Lastly, I construct an analytically tractable framework that is consistent with several empirical regularities related to firm size.
Concomitant Induction of CMVpp65-Specific CD4+ and CD8+ T Cells Using Dendritic Cells Transfected with mRNA Encoding an Invariant Chain-pp65 Fusion Protein.

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease is increasingly recognized as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in post-stem cell transplant (SCT) recipients due to a lack of cellular immunity. Thus, novel therapies that offer the restoration of cellular immunity in SCT patients are highly desirable for clinical use. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses against CMV represent a major effector arm of the immune system to control viremia. However, it is well established that the efficient induction and persistence of CTL responses in vivo requires the concomitant induction of antigen-specific CD4 + T helper cells. In this study, we sought to determine whether human dendritic cells (DC) transfected with mRNA encoding an invariant chain-CMVpp65 fusion protein (Ii-pp65) were capable of inducing concomitant CMV-specific CTL and CD4 + responses, thereby constituting a useful strategy for immunotherapy of CMV disease. We show that transfection of DC with Ii-pp65 mRNA leads to enhanced stimulation of CMV-specific CTL in vitro (Figure 1). Furthermore, DC expressing Ii-pp65 are potent inducers of primary CMV-specific CD4 + T cell responses as evidenced by ELISPOT analyses of primed CD4 + CD45RA + T cells (Figure 2). Lastly, efficient routing of Ii-pp65 into the MHC class II presentation pathway is demonstrated by confocal microscopy (data not shown). Based on these preclinical findings, we propose a clinical trial to administer DC, transfected with mRNA encoding a chimeric Ii-pp65, to post-SCT patients. Our primary goal will be to prevent CMV infection and reactivation by inducing strong immune reactivities against CMV.
Kinetics of Excited-State Proton Transfer of Doubly Protonated 2-Aminoacridine

2-Aminoacridine has been used to extend the quantitation of excited-state proton-transfer kinetics in concentrated acid media to ≃13 M sulfuric acid. The reasons for the large discrepancy between the excited-state dissociation constant determined from kinetic measurements and that calculated from a thermodynamic cycle are discussed.