cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Eating and Breathing: Interactions Between Respiration and Feeding on Solid Food

Chewed solid food accumulates in the oropharynx prior to swallowing. The mechanism for preventing aspiration during this interval is unknown, but may be related to respiration. The purpose of this study was to determine how eating, especially bolus formation in the pharynx, affects respiration. We examined nasal air pressures, masseter electromyography (EMG), and videofluorography (VFG) of four normal young adults eating 8 g each of banana and cookie (two trials each food). Resting respiration was recorded for 30 s before eating. Respiratory cycles (RCs) were classified as prefeeding, feeding (excluding cycles with included swallows), and swallowing cycles. RC duration was greater for swallowing than for feeding and prefeeding RCs (P < 0.001). There were up to three swallows in a single RC, but the increase in swallowing RC duration was greater than swallow duration. Swallow apnea began before bolus transport through the hypopharynx and ended as the bolus tail entered the esophagus. There were semirhythmic perturbations in nasal air pressure associated with masseter activity during chewing, suggesting that there was oronasal airflow during jaw closing via the velopharyngeal isthmus. The most important finding was that bolus aggregation in the valleculae usually occurred during an extended plateau in nasal air pressure following active expiration. This suggests that aspiration during eating is prevented by inhibiting respiration during bolus formation in the oropharynx.
Review article: oesophageal function testing ‐ the old and the new

Summary Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease can manifest typically with heartburn and regurgitation and atypically with extra-oesophageal symptoms, such as chest pain, worsening asthma, chronic cough or laryngitis. Although acid-suppressive therapy can help identify individuals in whom gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is the cause of their symptoms, diagnostic testing is often needed to evaluate those with persistent symptoms. Recent advances in oesophageal diagnostic testing include the advent of a wireless pH-monitoring device that eliminates the need for a transnasal catheter as well as an ambulatory impedance monitoring device that allows measurement of weakly acidic or non-acidic refluxate. The advantages and disadvantages as well as clinical utility of these new, as well as traditional, oesophageal-measuring devices are discussed in this review.
Dipole Localization of Average and Single Visual Evoked Potentials

A single dipole source was chosen as a model of the neurological generator of evoked potentials elicited by illuminated checker-board stimulation of halves and quadrants of the visual field, and a homogeneous sphere was chosen as a model for the head. Dipole locations and moments were calculated for the average evoked potentials and average dipole locations and moments were calculated for the preprocessed single evoked potentials. The average dipole locations for the single potentials appear to be more anatomically appropriate than the location due to the average evoked potentials. A relationship was demonstrated between the dipole parameters and polarity inversions in the average evoked potentials.
ER-associated complexes (ERACs) containing aggregated cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) are degraded by autophagy.

Abstract The ubiquitin–proteasome pathway and autophagy are the two major mechanisms responsible for the clearance of cellular proteins. We have used the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model system and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) as a model substrate to study the interactive function of these two pathways in the degradation of misfolded proteins. EGFP-tagged human CFTR was introduced into yeast and expressed under a copper-inducible promoter. The localization and degradation of EGFP-CFTR in live cells were monitored by time-lapse imaging following its de novo synthesis. EGFP-CFTR first appears within the perinuclear and sub-cortical ER and is mobile within the plane of the membrane as assessed by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). This pool of EGFP-CFTR is subsequently degraded through a proteasome-dependent pathway that is inhibited in the pre1-1 yeast strain defective in proteasomal degradation. Prolonged expression of EGFP-CFTR leads to the sequestration of EGFP-CFTR molecules into ER structures called ER-associated complexes (ERACs). The sequestration of EGFP-CFTR into ERACs appears to be driven by aggregation since EGFP-CFTR molecules present within ERACs are immobile as measured by FRAP. Individual ERACs are cleared from cells through the autophagic pathway that is blocked in the atg6Δ and atg1Δ yeast strains defective in autophagy. Our results suggest that the proteasomal and the autophagic pathways function together to clear misfolded proteins from the ER.
Severe vitamin D deficiency among heart and liver transplant recipients

Abstract: Introduction: Although patients with end-stage organ failure are at high risk for vitamin D deficiency because of limited sunlight exposure and hepatic dysfunction, few studies have measured 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) at the time of transplantation. Methods: We measured serum 25OHD immediately after transplantation in 69 heart and liver transplant recipients. Results: Forty-six heart and 23 liver transplant recipients were evaluated (mean age 53 yr). Mean 25OHD was well below the lower limit of the normal range (43.2 ± 21.2 nmol/L). Ninety-one percent had levels below 75 nmol/L, the threshold commonly used to denote sufficiency, and 71% had levels below 50 nmol/L. Severe deficiency (25OHD <25 nmol/L) was found in 16%. Vitamin D levels did not differ by race, age, gender, or season. Mean 25OHD was lower among liver than heart transplant recipients (34.4 ± 17.5 vs. 47.7 ± 20.7 nmol/L; p < 0.03). Among liver transplant recipients, 22% had undetectable levels (<17 nmol/L). Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among heart and liver transplant recipients; those with liver failure are at greatest risk. As vitamin D deficiency has many serious skeletal and extra-skeletal sequelae, physicians who treat transplant patients should maintain a high degree of vigilance for this problem.
INVOLVEMENT OF OXIDATIVE AND L-ARGININE-NO PATHWAYS IN THE NEUROTOXICITY OF DRUGS OF ABUSE IN VITRO

SUMMARY 1. Inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) formation or ADP-ribosylation attenuate methamphetamine (METH)- and methyl-enedioxymetamphetamine (MDMA)-induced neurotoxicity on dopaminergic and serotonergic cells in primary cultures. 2. They also prevent METH-induced reactive gliosis in dopaminergic cultures. 3. Overexpression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in cells obtained from SOD-transgenic mice also attenuates drug-induced toxicity. 4. These data indicate a role for oxygen-based and NO free radicals in the mechanisms of cell death associated with drugs of abuse in vitro.
The effect of AC frequency on the electrowetting behavior of ionic liquids.

This paper presents a study of electrowetting of ionic liquids (ILs) under AC voltages, where nine different ILs (including mono-, di-, and tricationic varieties) with three different AC frequencies (60 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz) were experimentally investigated. The main foci of this study are (i) an investigation of AC frequency dependence on the electrowetting of ILs; (ii) obtaining theoretical relationships between the relevant factors that explain the experimentally achieved frequency dependence; and (iii) a systematic comparison of electrowetting of ILs using AC vs DC voltage fields. The frequency of the AC voltage was found to be directly related to the apparent contact angle change (Δθ) of the ILs. This relationship was further analyzed and explained theoretically. The electrowetting properties of ILs under AC voltages were compared to that under DC voltages. All tested ILs showed greater apparent contact angle changes with AC voltage conditions than with DC voltage conditions. The effect of structure and...
Step-scanning interferometer with digital signal processing

A novel step-scan FT-IR spectrometer incorporating a digital signal processor for demodulation of the detector signal is described. The potential advantages of this method of signal processing are discussed and illustrated. The instrument is based on a commercial cube-corner interferometer which has been modified by replacement of the drive motor with a stepper motor-micrometer and piezoelectric transducer combination. The interferometer retardation is feedback controlled by a 48650 personal computer, which also controls the digital signal processor and collects spectral data. More than one phase modulation frequency can be imposed simultaneously, allowing for a multiplex advantage in photoacoustic depth profiling. Digital signal processing allows for simultaneous demodulation of multiple frequencies which would normally require several lock-in amplifiers. Data that illustrate the feasibility of these concepts are presented. The suitability of this instrument for double-modulation step-scan FT-IR measurements such as polymer stretching and electrochemically modulated step-scan FT-IR is also discussed.
‘To remember too much is indeed a form of madness’: Caryl Phillips's the nature of blood and the modalities of European racism

At first thought it may seem strange that the anti‐Semite's outlook should be related to that of the Negro‐phobe. It was my philosophy professor, a native of the Antilles, who recalled the fact to ...
Neuroradiologic correlates of clinical disability and progression in the X-Linked leukodystrophy Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease

Objective To determine whether quantitative measure of magnetic resonance imaging data from patients with the inherited leukodystrophy, Pelizaeus–Merzbacher disease (PMD) correlates with clinical severity or progression.
Risky sexual behavior among women with protective orders against violent male partners

The purpose of this study was to describe risky sexual behaviors among women with protective orders against violent male partners (N=673), as well as to examine associations of relationship factors, psychological abuse, severity of partner violence, sexual violence, and women’s substance abuse with risky sexual behavior. An HIV sexual risk index was computed based on the participant’s self-reported risky sexual behavior, the participants’ estimations of the abusive partner’s extra dyadic sexual behavior and the abusive partner’s illicit drug use. The majority of women engaged in risky sexual practices and had partners who engaged in risky sexual practices. Results of OLS regression analysis showed that the participant’s age, length of the participant’s relationship with the abusive partner, severity of physical violence, substance abuse/dependence (alcohol and illicit drug) were significantly associated with risky sexual behavior. Implications for future research and HIV prevention interventions with partner violence victims are discussed.
Integration of adenovirus thymidine kinase suicide-gene therapy with surgery and radiation therapy for malignant glioma.

Evaluation of: Chiocca EA, Aguilar LK, Bell SD et al. Phase IB study of gene-mediated cytotoxic immunotherapy adjuvant to up-front surgery and intensive timing radiation for malignant glioma. J. Clin. Oncol. 29(27), 3611–3619 (2011). This report of a clinical Phase IB trial uses adenoviral vectors injected in a dose escalation manner during surgical excision of primary gliomas to express thymidine kinase and activate the prodrugvalacyclovir, which is administered so as to overlap in part with a standard radiation therapy schedule. The approach aimed to exploit several mechanisms associated with this form of gene therapy, namely tumor cell suicide, radiosensitization and the antitumor immunotherapeutic response that it can activate. The most novel aspect of the trial was the early start to radiation therapy 1 week after surgery that was designed to allow for radiosensitization by orally administered valacyclovir. In general, the treatment was well tolerated and the overall median survival for patients was ...
A modified analysis for stress transfer in fibre-reinforced composites with bonded fibre ends

The elastic stress transfer from the matrix to the embedded fibre in fibre-reinforced composites has been analysed previously when the loading direction is parallel to the fibre axis and the fibre is bonded to the matrix. Stress transfer occurs both at the interface along the fibre length and at the ends of the fibre. However, the boundary condition at the bonded ends is ambiguous, and various assumptions have been made to obtain solutions for this stress transfer problem. To satisfy more rigorously the boundary condition for the bonded ends, a new technique of assuming imaginary fibres in the composite is proposed in the present study. Compared to the previous analytical solution, the present analytical solution bears more physical meaning and is in better agreement with numerical and experimental results
A review of monitoring and evaluation in support of orphans and vulnerable children in East and Southern Africa

Monitoring and evaluating national and subnational responses in support of children orphaned or made vulnerable by AIDS (OVC) present a number of challenges. Most OVC programmes require multiple interventions across different sectors. In most countries, targeting parameters for identifying ‘vulnerable’ children are fluid and difficult to define or measure concretely. Along with weak national monitoring systems and a lack of development partner or government interest and funds, these factors make the monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of OVC programmes difficult. Of the 15 countries in East and Southern Africa (ESA), which have developed national plans of action (NPAs) in support of OVC, nine have M&E plans. In their early periods of implementation, most countries are piloting the development of data collection systems and tools at community, district and national levels. Along with a desk review, semi-structured consultations were held with over 100 national OVC M&E stakeholders from 10 countries in ESA as p...
Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in a renal allograft recipient

In the current immunosuppression era, most renal transplant recipients with a functioning allograft are living healthier and longer lives. In men, because of prostate-specific antigen screening, more patients are diagnosed with early prostate cancer and offered curative treatment with radical prostatectomy. Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is an accepted minimally invasive treatment for a middle-aged man with organ-confined prostate cancer. To our knowledge, laparoscopic prostatectomy has not yet been reported in renal transplant recipients. This is a case report of laparoscopic prostatectomy for biopsy-proven localized prostate cancer in a renal transplant recipient.
Presentation of choledochal cysts without intrabiliary communication on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

Choledochal cysts have generally been described to communicate with the biliary system. We recently saw three adult patients in whom we could not demonstrate biliary communication between the cyst and the biliary tree, despite a carefully performed endoscopic cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). These cases may represent a variant of type II choledochal cysts. During the 5-year period of review of ERCP records, 30 choledochal cysts were diagnosed, of which 3 (10%) were the noncommunicating cases described in this report. Copyright © 1996 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.
Open-sky pupilloplasty during phakic penetrating keratoplasty to treat a fixed, dilated pupil

We report a technique in which penetrating keratoplasty is performed in conjunction with open-sky pupilloplasty in a phakic patient. The technique was used in a 27-year-old man with poor vision and severe light sensitivity in the left eye dating back to an episode of presumed herpes simplex keratouveitis 13 years previously. Examination showed a best corrected visual acuity of 20/40, a paracentral midstromal corneal scar, a fixed dilated pupil, and a clear lens. Postoperatively, the pupil was relatively round with a diameter of approximately 4.0 mm, the cosmetic result was favorable, the photophobia had resolved, and the lens and corneal transplant were clear.
Spectral Evolution of a Photochemical Protecting Group for Orthogonal Two-Color Uncaging with Visible Light

Caged compounds are molecules rendered functionally inert by derivatization with a photochemical protecting group. We describe the design logic behind the development of a diethylaminocoumarin (DEAC) caging chromophore, DEAC450, that absorbs blue light strongly (e450 = 43,000 M–1 cm–1) and violet light 11-fold more weakly. The absorption minimum is in the wavelength range (340–360 nm) that is traditionally used for photolysis of many widely used nitroaromatic caged compounds (e.g., 4-carboxymethoxy-5,7-dinitroindolinyl(CDNI)-GABA). We used this chromophore to synthesize DEAC450-caged cAMP and found this probe was very stable toward aqueous hydrolysis in the electronic ground state but was photolyzed with a quantum efficiency of 0.78. When DEAC450-cAMP and CDNI-GABA where co-applied to striatal cholinergic interneurons, the caged compounds were photolyzed in an chromatically orthogonal manner using blue and violet light so as to modulate the neuronal firing rate in a bidirectional way.
A new fast, reliable filtering method for multiple criteria decision making

Purpose – This paper aims to introduce a new method for the evaluation and selection (filtering) of alternatives in a complex multi‐criteria decision environment.Design/methodology/approach – The method uses an original modified outranking methodology to select optimal opportunities among competing alternatives for adoption.Findings – The process has application in scenarios such as wherein an executive or manager of a technology‐intensive enterprise faces the significant challenges of making effective investment decisions for new business processes and product technology.Practical implications – As applied in an enterprise technology decision‐making environment, the method reduces uncertainty in the process of filtering and selecting the best technology opportunities evaluated against multiple criteria or business objectives.Originality/value – The value of the method is in its simplicity and expediency to identify, assess, and then isolate the most appropriate technology opportunities among many.
Real-time shearing interferometry for studying interfacial crack tip fields under quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions

A real-time dual grating shearing interferometer with an online spatial filtering arrangement has been applied for interfacial fracture mechanics investigation. This optical technique, called coherent gradient sensing (CGS) measures out-of-plane slopes when used in the reflective mode with opaque objects and in-plane gradients of ((sigma) x + (sigma) y) when used in the transmission mode with phase objects. The attributes such as real-time measurements, simplicity of the optical set-up, and the relative insensitivity for rigid motions/vibrations are useful in mapping deformation fields to study the failure of dissimilar material interfaces subjected to quasi-static as well as dynamic loading. Here, large elastic mismatch bimaterial systems such as polymer-metal interfaces between model materials (PMMA and Aluminum) are considered. The crack tip fields are mapped using CGS and fracture parameters are subsequently quantified by analyzing the interference patterns. A linear relationship between the remote load mixity and the crack tip mixity is observed. Crack tip parameters are examined under quasi-static conditions for a wide range of remote field loading ratios of shear and tension. Also, low velocity impact loading experiments are conducted to study transient crack tip fields using CGS and high speed photography, and dynamic fracture parameters are extracted from the fringes.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
On-Board Entry Trajectory Planning Expanded to Sub-orbital Flight

A methodology for on-board planning of sub-orbital entry trajectories is developed. The algorithm is able to generate in a time frame consistent with on-board environment a three-degree-of-freedom (3DOF) feasible entry trajectory, given the boundary conditions and vehicle modeling. This trajectory is then tracked by feedback guidance laws which issue guidance commands. The current trajectory planning algorithm complements the recently developed method for on-board 3DOF entry trajectory generation for orbital missions, and provides full-envelope autonomous adaptive entry guidance capability. The algorithm is validated and verified by extensive high fidelity simulations using a sub-orbital reusable launch vehicle model and difficult mission scenarios including failures and aborts.
Methylation of Ylidene-Triazenes: Insight and Guidance for 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions

Reaction of 1,3-dimesitylimidazolylidene (1) with p-functionalized phenyl azides 2 (a: H, b: OCH 3 , c: NO 2 ) afforded the respective imidazolylidene-triazenes 3 in good yields (65-99 %). Subsequent treatment with methyl iodide produced the corresponding methylated products 4 in near-quantitative yields (99 %). Analysis by NOESY 1D NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction revealed that the methylation reaction was regioselective and occurred at the nitrogen atom most distal from the heterocycle. Consistent with the formation of ionic salts, the 1 H NMR signals for the imidazole protons in 4 were shifted > 0.5 ppm downfield compared to 1, indicating the accumulation of positive charge. Similarly, the λ max values recorded for 4 exhibited a much narrower range than those for 3 (16 vs. 77 nm, respectively), suggesting that the frontier orbital energies within the former were dominated by Coulombic effects (i.e., the acquisition of positive charge) as opposed to electronic effects from the electron-donating or withdrawing groups of the aryl azide. Whereas computational analyses revealed that the observed regioselectivity of the methylation reaction may be explained by thermodynamics, kinetic factors (e.g., sterics) may also be important contributors and render one reaction pathway significantly more accessible due to a lower activation energy.
Langevin dynamics simulations of charged model phosphatidylinositol lipids in the presence of diffusion barriers: toward an atomic level understanding of corralling of PIP2 by protein fences in biological membranes

The polyvalent acidic lipid phosphatidylinositol, 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) is important for many cellular functions. It has been suggested that different pools of PIP2 exist in the cytoplasmic leaflet of the plasma membrane, and that such pooling could play a role in the regulation of PIP2. The mechanism of fencing, however, is not understood. This study presents the results of Langevin dynamics simulations of PIP2 to elucidate some of the molecular level considerations that must be applied to models for fencing. For each simulation, a pool of PIP2 (modeled as charged spheres) was placed in containments with boundaries modeled as a single row of rods (steric or electrostatic) or rigid protein filaments. It is shown that even a small gap (20 A, which is 1.85 times larger than the diameter of a PIP2 sphere) leads to poor steric blocking, and that electrostatic blockage is only effective at very high charge density. Filaments of human septin, yeast septin, and actin also failed to provide adequate blockage when placed on the membrane surface. The two septins do provide high blockage consistent with experiment and with phenomenological considerations of permeability when they are buried 9 A and 12 A below the membrane surface, respectively. In contrast, burial does not improve blockage by the “arch-shaped” actin filaments. Free energy estimates using implicit membrane-solvent models indicate that burial of the septins to about 10 A can be achieved without penetration of charged residues into the hydrophobic region of the membrane. These results imply that a functioning fence assembled from protein filaments must either be buried well below the membrane surface, have more than a single row, or contain additional components that fill small gaps in the filaments.
Statin Use and the Risk of Cholecystectomy in Women

Background & Aims Statins can reduce biliary cholesterol secretion independently of their ability to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Statins also prevent the formation of gallstones in animal studies, although the effect of statins on human gallstone disease has been controversial. Methods We examined the relationship between the use of statins and the risk of cholecystectomy in a cohort of US women. As part of the prospective Nurses' Health Study, participants biennially reported their history of gallstone disease and whether they had undergone cholecystectomy. Women also reported lifetime use of statins retrospectively in 2000. We conducted a retrospective analysis of statin using data collected in 2000, to define use from 1994 forward, and a prospective analysis for general lipid-lowering drugs from 1994 to 2004. Results In the statin analysis we ascertained 2479 cases of cholecystectomy during 305,197 person-years of follow-up evaluation. The multivariate relative risk for current statin users, compared with nonusers, was 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.70–0.96). In the analysis of general cholesterol-lowering drugs, we ascertained 3420 cases of cholecystectomy during 511,411 person-years of follow-up evaluation. Compared with nonusers, the multivariate relative risk for current users of general cholesterol-lowering drugs, mostly statins in this cohort, was 0.88 (95% confidence interval, 0.79–0.98). Conclusions Statin use appears to reduce the risk of cholecystectomy in women.
B7h, a Novel Costimulatory Homolog of B7.1 and B7.2, Is Induced by TNFα

In a screen to identify genes induced by NF-kappaB/Rel transcription factors, we cloned a novel gene, b7h, that is a close homolog of B7 costimulatory ligands expressed on antigen-presenting cells. B7h can costimulate proliferation of purified T cells through a receptor on T cells distinct from CD28 or CTLA-4. Surprisingly, although B7h is expressed in unstimulated B cells, its expression is induced in both 3T3 cells and embryonic fibroblasts treated with TNFalpha, and it is upregulated in nonlymphoid tissues of mice treated with LPS, a potent activator of TNFalpha. These data define a novel costimulatory ligand for T cells and suggest that induction of B7h by TNFalpha may function as a mechanism to directly augment recognition of self during inflammation.
Emerging Issues in Agricultural Labor Relations

Labor relations in agriculture have been characterized by the absence of formal agreements negotiated by employer and labor representatives. Historically, labor law has assured agriculture a "special and exempt" status, a condition obviating any legal responsibility for employers to respond to employee demands, making organizing efforts more difficult. The hired farm work force found self-organization nearly impossible. Despite periodic resurgences of interest in the agricultural labor problem associated with the periodic "rediscovery" of migrant farm laborers, the extension of minimum wages and, more recently, unemployment insurance to farmworkers, and the proper role of alien labor in American agriculture, agricultural labor relations within a defined legal framework are a product of the mid-1970s.' The 1975 passage of the Agricultural Labor Relations Act (ALRA) in California, the state with the largest hired work force, marks a new era in agricultural labor relations. A system of labor relations is usually defined by the actors or participants in the process (e.g., employers, workers, and government), a context or framework within which the participants interact, and a body of rules that govern participant behavior in the course of negotiating and interpreting labor agreements. The identification of participants, frameworks, and rules implies a sense of formality and continuity, attributes uncharacteristic of past labor-management interactions in agriculture. The fact that an orderly system of labor relations is just emerging forces an analysis of two related issues: factors giving rise to unionism and bargaining, i.e., the existence of unionism and the share of the agricultural labor force that is organized, and factors shaping the direction and content of labor relations, i.e., the type of labor-management relationship that evolves. This paper explores salient aspects of current labor relations in agriculture and erects a framework for predicting the course of future labor-management interactions. After exploring the impacts of agricultural structure and labor force composition on the functioning of the agricultural labor market, the evolution of public policy that culminated in California's ALRA is described. Predictions about the existence and shape of agricultural labor relations are made within the framework of structural, composition, and public policy influences, and it is suggested that the ability of the competing employers and unions to secure favorable public intervention will be as important as raw economic power for achieving partisan goals. Although data are drawn from national sources, we conclude by noting that agricultural labor relations are most likely to be confined to the labor-intensive fruit and vegetable sectors in the South and West.
Interior point SQP strategies for structured process optimization problems

Successive Quadratic Programming (SQP) has been the method of choice for the solution of nonlinear programming problems. For the solution of large problems with SQP based codes, the combinatorial complexity associated with active set methods for the treatment of inequalities has been a bottleneck in exploiting the problem structure. In this paper, we examine the merits of incorporating an interior point method within an SQP framework and the significant computational savings are demonstrated on problems drawn from optimal control. We also provide a novel intepretation of the popularly used predictor-corrector interior point method using the principles of reduced Hessian SQP (rSQP).
Effect of intertrial reinforcement and nonreinforcement on reversal learning

Two experiments were run. In the first, 33 rats learned a black-white discrimination and were then reversed. Eleven Ss received an ITR in the acquisition goal box before each reversal trial. Eleven Ss received ITR in the reversal goal box, and 11 got regular reversal. The second experiment was exactly the same except Ss received ITNR instead of ITR. The only significant difference was that Ss receiving ITNR in the acquisition goal box reversedfaster than their controls.
SAS and SPSS macros to calculate standardized Cronbach's alpha using the upper bound of the phi coefficient for dichotomous items.

Cronbach’s α is widely used in social science research to estimate the internal consistency of reliability of a measurement scale. However, when items are not strictly parallel, the Cronbach’s α coefficient provides a lower-bound estimate of true reliability, and this estimate may be further biased downward when items are dichotomous. The estimation of standardized Cronbach’s α for a scale with dichotomous items can be improved by using the upper bound of coefficient ϕ. SAS and SPSS macros have been developed in this article to obtain standardized Cronbach’s α via this method. The simulation analysis showed that Cronbach’s α from upper-bound ϕ might be appropriate for estimating the real reliability when standardized Cronbach’s α is problematic.
Reopening of Ca2+ channels in mouse cerebellar neurons at resting membrane potentials during Recovery from Inactivation

Recordings of single-channel activity from cerebellar granule cells show that a component of Ca2+ entry flows through L-type Ca2+ channels that are closed at negative membrane potentials following a strong depolarization, but then open after a delay. The delayed openings can be explained if membrane depolarization drives Ca2+ channels into an inactivated state and some channels return to rest through the open state after repolarization. Whole-cell recordings show that the charge carried by Ca2+ during the tail increases as inactivation progresses, whereas the current during the voltage step decreases. Voltage-dependent inactivation may be a general mechanism in central neurons for enhancing Ca2+ entry by delaying it until after repolarization, when the driving force for ion entry is large. Modifying the rate and extent of inactivation would have large effects on Ca2+ entry through those channels that recover from inactivation by passing through the open state.
Best linear unbiased filtering for target tracking with spherical measurements

In tracking applications, target dynamics is usually modeled in the Cartesian coordinates, while target measurements are directly available in the original sensor coordinates. Measurement conversion is widely used to do linearization such that the Kalman filter can be applied in the Cartesian coordinates. A number of improved measurement-conversion techniques have been proposed recently. However, they have fundamental limitations, resulting in performance degradation, as pointed out in Part III of a recent survey conducted by the authors. This paper proposes a recursive filter that is theoretically optimal in the sense of minimizing the mean-square error among all linear unbiased filters in the Cartesian coordinates. The proposed filter is free of the fundamental limitations of the measurement-conversion approach. Results of an approximate implementation for measurements in the spherical coordinates are compared with those obtained by two state-of-the-art conversion techniques. Simulation results are provided.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Rectus sheath hematoma complicating an exacerbation of asthma

Hematoma of the rectus sheath is a rare complication of asthma. We describe a case of rectus sheath hematoma precipitated by a paroxysm of cough during an exacerbation of asthma. Diagnosis and management of this clinical entity is discussed.
Non-developmental modifications induced in submandibular glands of young rats by chronic isoproterenol administration

Abstract Isoproterenol induces changes resembling developmental maturation in the submandibular gland. The protein content of these glands was compared by acrylamide-gel electrophoresis to proteins of glands from adult controls, and from adults treated with isoproterenol. Extensive modifications in protein patterns appeared to be unique to isoproterenol treatment, rather than similar to developmental changes. This suggests that any developmental changes induced by isoproterenol are accompanied by changes unique to the treatment itself.
A Phase I trial of continuous hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion with tumor necrosis factor and cisplatin in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis

BACKGROUND Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), hyperthermia, and cisplatin have synergistic cytotoxicity against cancer cells in vitro. This combination may be well suited to the regional treatment of peritoneal tumor spread in patients. Continuous hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion (CHPP) is a technique that allows uniform delivery of cytotoxic agents and heat to the peritoneal surface. A Phase I trial of CHPP with TNF and cisplatin was conducted to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for TNF and cisplatin under moderate hyperthermia in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis. METHODS Twenty-seven patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis underwent exploratory laparotomy and tumor debulking followed by a 90-minute CHPP with cisplatin (100-350 mg/m2) and TNF (0-0.3 mg/L). Perfusion parameters included a perfusate volume of 3-9 L, a peritoneal temperature of 42-430C, and a flow rate of 1.5 L/minute. Sodium thiosulfate was administered systemically during and after the perfusion as a cisplatin binding agent. RESULTS There was no operative or treatment-related mortality in this study. CHPP resulted in a 14-fold higher area under the concentration versus time curve (AUC) for cisplatin in the perfusate compared with plasma, and a 4854-fold higher AUC for TNF. The MTD was defined as 250 mg/m2 cisplatin plus 0.1 mg/L TNF. The dose-limiting toxicity was renal insufficiency. No other systemic toxicity was identified, and no significant regional toxicity was identified. The median time to toleration of a regular diet was 8 days (range, 5-20 days). CONCLUSIONS The favorable regional pharmacologic profile of the combination of cisplatin and TNF suggests that these agents administered via CHPP warrant further evaluation as prophylaxis against or treatment for peritoneal carcinomatosis. Cancer 1998;83:1251-1261. © 1998 American Cancer Society.
Vocalization in the cat and kitten.

Vocal responses of kittens and mature cats were recorded in a variety of standard behavioral situations. Sonographic analysis of these responses showed similarities of responses obtained repeatedly from different cats within each recording situation. Marked differences in responses patterns were noted in different recording situations. The kitten and cat vocal repertoires thus include a variety of specific responses to particular motivational or behavioral circumstances.
New Species of Gregarines from Millipedes of Mysore State, India*

Five species of millipedes under investigation revealed the presence of six species of gregarines, five of which are new. A new method for the study of development of the gametocyst is described. A list of the millipedes and their gregarine parasites is given below:
Intensive care utilization among nursing home residents with advanced cognitive and severe functional impairment.

Abstract Background: Dementia is a progressive terminal illness which requires decisions around aggressiveness of care. Objective: The study objective was to examine the rate of intensive care unit (ICU) utilization and its regional variation among persons with both advanced cognitive and severe functional impairment. Methods: We utilized the Minimum Data Set (MDS) to identify a cohort of decedents between 2000 and 2007 who (1) were in a nursing home (NH) 120 days prior to death and (2) had an MDS assessment indicating advanced cognitive and functional impairment as identified by cognitive performance scale (CPS) ≥5 and total dependence or extensive assistance in seven activities of daily living (ADLs). ICU utilization in the last 30 days of life was determined from Medicare claims files. A multivariate logistic regression model examined the likelihood of ICU admission in 2007 versus 2000 adjusting for sociodemographics, orders to limit life sustaining treatment, and health status. Results: Among 474,829 ...
Transmission and Eradication of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in Chickens

Abstract PATHOGENIC avian mycoplasma are of great economic concern to the chicken and turkey industries (Anonymous, 1963; Yoder, 1965). Research endeavors have been very productive in broadening our knowledge concerning the various serotypes that have been identified (Adler, 1960; Edward and Kanarek, 1960; Kleckner, 1960; Yoder and Hofstad, 1964). The importance of egg transmission of the different serotypes in the perpetuation of avian mycoplasmosis has been further elucidated (Adler et al., 1956; Fabricant et al., 1959; Olesiuk and Van Roekel, 1960; Van Roekel et al., 1952, 1958; Yamamoto et al., 1965; Yoder and Hofstad, 1964). The universal existence of these organisms among domestic poultry has been confirmed (Yoder, 1965). The serological tests have been improved and have served as useful tools in the diagnosis of the disease (Adler, 1954, 1958; Cover et al., 1960; Crawley and Fahey, 1957; Dierks, 1963; Hofstad, 1957; Jungherr et al., 1955). Attempts to control avian mycoplasmosis …
Trust Me, Trust Me Not: An Experimental Analysis of the Effect of Transparency on Organizations

Seen as a solution to lapses of organizational ethics and misdeeds, transparency helps to restore trust and diminish reputational risk or damage. Research has identified 2 types of transparency: (a) an organization's reputation for transparency and (b) its efforts to communicate transparently. Using experimental design, this study examined the relationship between the 2 types of transparency on trust and behavioral intentions of stakeholders in a crisis situation. Results determined that organizations demonstrating both types of transparency achieved more than twice the levels of trust and positive behavioral intentions than organizations that demonstrated neither type of transparency.
An Introduction to Eating Disorders Clinical Presentation, Epidemiology, and Prognosis

The spectrum of eating disorders varies widely, ranging from mildly abnormal eating habits to life-threatening chronic disease. Given the many different cultural food norms and individual preferences, along with the fact that dieting behavior is extremely common, it can be challenging to differentiate unusual eating behaviors from clinically significant eating disorders. In this article, the authors provide an introduction to eating disorders including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and eating disorders not otherwise specified, focusing on the clinical presentation, epidemiology, and prognosis.
Effects of methyl salicylate on honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) foraging

Abstract Bee poisoning from pesticides used in agriculture, forestry, urban environments, and public health is a serious problem affecting many bee colonies worldwide. A bee repellent adjuvant would be useful in reducing the bee injury when pesticides are applied to bloom. Applications of methyl salicylate to blooming apples did not appear to repel foraging honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) or reduce fruit set. Applications of methyl salicylate at the highest rate reduced honey bee foraging on blooming dandelions for 4 h or less, and probably not long enough to reduce bee kills.
Assessment of decorin-binding protein A to the infectivity of Borrelia burgdorferi in the murine models of needle and tick infection.

Decorin-binding proteins (Dbps) A and B of Borrelia burgdorferi, the agent of Lyme disease, are surface-exposed lipoproteins that presumably bind to the extracellular matrix proteoglycan, decorin. B. burgdorferi infects various tissues including the bladder, heart, joints, skin and the central nervous system, and the ability of B. burgdorferi to bind decorin has been hypothesized to be important for this disseminatory pathogenic strategy. To determine the role of DbpBA in the infectious lifecycle of B. burgdorferi, we created a DbpBA-deficient mutant of B. burgdorferi strain 297 and compared the infectious phenotype of the mutant to the wild-type strain in the experimental murine model of Lyme borreliosis. The mutant strain exhibited a 4-log decrease in infectivity, relative to the wild-type strain, when needle inoculated into mice. Upon complementation of the DbpBA-mutant strain with DbpA, the wild-type level of infectivity was restored. In addition, we demonstrated that the DbpBA-deficient mutant was able to colonize Ixodes scapularis larval ticks after feeding on infected mice and persist within the ticks during the molt to the nymphal state. Moreover, surprisingly, the DbpBA-mutant strain was capable of being transmitted to naive mice via tick bite, giving rise to infected mice. These results suggest that DbpBA is not required for the natural tick-transmission process to mammals, despite inferences from needle-inoculation experiments implying a requirement for DbpBA during mammalian infection. The combined findings also send a cautionary note regarding how results from needle-inoculation experiments with mice should be interpreted.
COOK’S COLLAGE

Many people regularly multitask while cooking at home. Juggling household chores, reusing limited kitchen utensils, and coordinating overlapping cooking times for multiple recipes can cause frequent task switching and simultaneous task monitoring while cooking. As a result, the cook occasionally loses track of his cooking progress especially when determining which ingredients have already been added, counting multiple scoops of an ingredient, and keeping watch of cooking times. People compensate for these memory slips by devising memory strategies or deferring to memory aids with varying degrees of success. In this paper, we present a novel memory aid for cooks called Cook’s Collage. We describe how the system constructs a visual summary of ongoing cooking activity. Then, we report a task simulation study evaluating the effectiveness of Cook’s Collage as a memory aid. We argue that a memory aid is helpful only if it is balanced correctly with a complementary memory strategy and only if the accuracy of the memory aid is trusted. Lastly, we discuss how the six design features of the Cook’s Collage suggest a general framework for memory aids in the home, which we term deja vu displays.
A Note on the Chemical Composition of the Red Sea Brines

Samples of brine from the Atlantis II Deep, the Discovery Deep, and the layer of 44°C brine overlying the Atlantis II Deep, have been analyzed for the major, and some minor, components. The data are compared with those of other workers and some significant differences are noted. In particular, the Atlantis II brine has been found to have different concentrations of chloride, bromide, sodium and potassium than previously reported. The major ion compositions of the Atlantis II brine and Discovery brine are similar.
Use of Mefloquine in Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium avium Complex Pulmonary Disease in an HIV-Negative Patient

Introduction: Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is a leading cause of pulmonary disease (PD), even in those with intact immunity, representing about 30% of the cases of pleuropulmonary mycobacterial infection. Based on previous studies, macrolides are the only agents used in the treatment of MAC disease for which there is a correlation between in vitro susceptibility and in vivo (clinical) response. However, resistance develops rapidly if single-agent treatment is used. Data regarding treatment of macrolide-resistant MAC (MRMAC) and multidrug-resistant MAC (MDRMAC) are sparse. Case summary: A 50-year-old, HIV-negative white man, weighing 53.6 kg, with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis was initially on treatment for MAC-PD and MRMAC. The patient was followed between 1999 and 2006. His treatment history revealed that in addition to the multiple drugs administered during the course of his illness, thalidomide, interferon-γ, and mefloquine were also administered. The patient died ~7 years later due to respiratory failure and overwhelming infection Conclusions: This case report describes the use of mefloquine as adjunct treatment in an HIV-negative patient with MDRMAC-PD and discusses the associated outcomes of drug resistance.