cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Computationally Efficient Consensus-Based Multiagent Distributed EMS for DC Microgrids

In this article, we present a fully distributed optimization approach for real-time energy management of dc microgrids. In the proposed approach, the energy management system (EMS) is formulated with a consensus algorithm based on incremental cost, which operates in a distributed manner for both generation and demand-side management. The proposed algorithm is privacy-preserving, scalable, plug-and-play capable, and robust against time-varying communication topologies. Furthermore, it converges very fast in terms of computation time and iterations. The scalability of the proposed algorithm was evaluated using IEEE bus systems in various sizes, number of agents, and communication topologies. A cooperative multilayered EMS optimally coordinated by multiple agents was also proposed in this article for integration. The effectiveness of the proposed system was validated through computer simulations and hardware experiments.
Brain cell somatic gene recombination and its phylogenetic foundations

A new form of somatic gene recombination (SGR) has been identified in the human brain that affects the Alzheimer's disease gene, amyloid precursor protein (APP). SGR occurs when a gene sequence is cut and recombined within a single cell's genomic DNA, generally independent of DNA replication and the cell cycle. The newly identified brain SGR produces genomic complementary DNAs (gencDNAs) lacking introns, which integrate into locations distinct from germline loci. This brief review will present an overview of likely related recombination mechanisms and genomic cDNA-like sequences that implicate evolutionary origins for brain SGR. Similarities and differences exist between brain SGR and VDJ recombination in the immune system, the first identified SGR form that now has a well-defined enzymatic machinery. Both require gene transcription, but brain SGR uses an RNA intermediate and reverse transcriptase (RT) activity, which are characteristics shared with endogenous retrotransposons. The identified gencDNAs have similarities to other cDNA-like sequences existing throughout phylogeny, including intron-less genes and inactive germline processed pseudogenes, with likely overlapping biosynthetic processes. gencDNAs arise somatically in an individual to produce multiple copies; can be functional; appear most frequently within postmitotic cells; have diverse sequences; change with age; and can change with disease state. Normally occurring brain SGR may represent a mechanism for gene optimization and long-term cellular memory, whereas its dysregulation could underlie multiple brain disorders and, potentially, other diseases like cancer. The involvement of RT activity implicates already Food and Drug Administration–approved RT inhibitors as possible near-term interventions for managing SGR-associated diseases and suggest next-generation therapeutics targeting SGR elements.
HIT-It or Quit It: Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Testing Appropriateness Using 4T Scoring and Inappropriate Testing Cost Analysis.

OBJECTIVES The American Society of Hematology's 4T scoring system is a validated tool to assess a patient's probability of having heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) before testing is performed. There is no benefit to testing patients with a low probability 4T score for HIT. This study aimed to assess for inappropriate HIT testing at our institution based on 4T scoring. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 201 patient charts and calculated 4T scores and testing costs to assess for inappropriate testing and the economic impact of such testing. RESULTS HIT testing often occurred in the least appropriate patients and resulted in tens of thousands of dollars of waste for unnecessary testing. CONCLUSIONS Inappropriate testing for HIT is still a prevalent issue despite literature supporting the 4T score for guidance in testing appropriateness.
Killer Knots: Molecular evolution of Inhibitor Cystine Knot toxins in wandering spiders (Araneae: Ctenidae)

Venom expressed by the nearly 50,000 species of spiders on Earth largely remains an untapped reservoir of a diverse array of biomolecules with potential for pharmacological and agricultural applications. A large fraction of the noxious components of spider venoms are a functionally diverse family of structurally related polypeptides with an inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) motif. The cysteine-rich nature of these toxins makes structural elucidation difficult, and most studies have focused on venom components from the small handful of medically relevant spider species such as the highly aggressive Brazilian wandering spider Phoneutria nigriventer. To alleviate difficulties associated with the study of ICK toxins in spiders, we devised a comprehensive approach to explore the evolutionary patterns that have shaped ICK functional diversification using venom gland transcriptomes and proteomes from phylogenetically distinct lineages of wandering spiders and their close relatives. We identified 626 unique ICK toxins belonging to seven topological elaborations. Phylogenetic tests of episodic diversification revealed distinct regions between cysteine residues that demonstrated differential evidence of positive or negative selection, which may have structural implications towards the specificity and efficacy of these toxins. Increased taxon sampling and whole genome sequencing will provide invaluable insights to further understand the evolutionary processes that have given rise to this diverse class of toxins.
Protein-protein interaction-Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (PPI-GaMD): Characterization of protein binding thermodynamics and kinetics

Abstract Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play key roles in many fundamental biological processes such as cellular signaling and immune responses. However, it has proven challenging to simulate repetitive protein association and dissociation in order to calculate binding free energies and kinetics of PPIs, due to long biological timescales and complex protein dynamics. To address this challenge, we have developed a new computational approach to all-atom simulations of PPIs based on a robust Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD) technique. The method, termed “PPI-GaMD”, selectively boosts interaction potential energy between protein partners to facilitate their slow dissociation. Meanwhile, another boost potential is applied to the remaining potential energy of the entire system to effectively model the protein’s flexibility and rebinding. PPI-GaMD has been demonstrated on a model system of the ribonuclease barnase interactions with its inhibitor barstar. Six independent 2 μs PPI-GaMD simulations have captured repetitive barstar dissociation and rebinding events, which enable calculations of the protein binding thermodynamics and kinetics simultaneously. The calculated binding free energies and kinetic rate constants agree well with the experimental data. Furthermore, PPI-GaMD simulations have provided mechanistic insights into barstar binding to barnase, which involve long-range electrostatic interactions and multiple binding pathways, being consistent with previous experimental and computational findings of this model system. In summary, PPI-GaMD provides a highly efficient and easy-to-use approach for binding free energy and kinetics calculations of PPIs.
Deep learning for surface precipitation estimation using multidimensional polarimetric radar measurements

Traditionally, polarimetric radar-based rainfall estimates are derived through empirical parametric relations obtained from nonlinear regression between rain rates and simulated radar data. The performance of such empirical relations is highly dependent on the variations of raindrop size distribution. In real applications, such empirical algorithms often need to be adjusted for different climate regimes and/or different rainfall types, and we do not have a simple parametric expression linking radar observables to rainfall intensity. Even if one can eliminate all the random errors associated with radar measurements, the parameterization uncertainty inherent in the empirical relations is hard to reduce. In addition, it is difficult to estimate surface rain rates with the radar measurements aloft, especially during the precipitation events characterized by dramatically changing vertical structures (i.e., precipitation particle sizes and distributions are changing during the falling process). In this paper, a convolutional neural network-based machine learning approach is developed to estimate surface rainfall rate from multidimensional polarimetric measurements. This deep learning algorithm can extract the complex relation from high dimensional input space (i.e., radar data) to the target space (i.e., surface rain rate). Polarimetric radar observations and rain gauge data collected near Melbourne, Florida are utilized for demonstration. The trained model is also extended to the whole radar coverage domain to provide complete rainfall mapping. Independent verification results show that this deep learning model has superior performance to conventional fixed-parameter rainfall relations based on either single- or dual-polarization radar measurements.
Presence of Cerebral Amyloid Modulates Phenotype and Pattern of Neurodegeneration in early Parkinson’s Disease (P5.023)

OBJECTIVE: To characterize cognitive, motor, imaging, and genetic phenotypes of early Parkinson’s disease (ePD) patients based on CSF evidence of cerebral amyloidosis. BACKGROUND: A significant proportion of PD patients develop dementia, many with amyloid pathology consistent with Alzheimer’s disease at autopsy. The frequency of cerebral amyloid and its relationship with disease phenotype in early stages of PD remain unclear. DESIGN/METHODS: We evaluated 369 drug-naive ePD patients. Data were obtained from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) database. CSF amyloid-beta levels were transformed using a previously reported linear regression procedure. A cutoff of >198 pg/mL was used to define amyloid-negative (PD-) and amyloid-positive (PD+) subgroups. Grey matter (GM) density from MRI was measured using ANTs. We compared groups using linear regressions. RESULTS: We observed that 16.5[percnt] of ePD were PD+ and 84.5[percnt] were PD-. PD+ were significantly older than PD- (p<0.001) and had higher frequency of APOE e4 alleles (p=0.01). PD+ had reduced cognitive performance relative to PD- on symbol-digit matching (p=0.001), verbal category fluency (p=0.002), and delayed recall (p=0.015) tests, while recognition memory, visuospatial function, and general cognitive measures did not differ. PD+ tended to have more disruption of activities of daily living (p=0.033) and a trend towards greater motor impairment on the UPDRS-III (p=0.06). Most of these results remained when controlling for age and APOE. Imaging analysis in a subset of individuals (PD+=43; PD-=241) revealed overlapping GM atrophy relative to healthy controls in medial temporal, frontal, and brainstem structures. Direct comparisons revealed predominant reduced bilateral ventromedial prefrontal and superior frontal GM for PD+ relative to PD-, and subcortical GM reductions for PD- relative to PD+. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence of cerebral amyloid in ePD yields a unique cognitive, motor, imaging, and genetic profile that should be considered when screening patients for trials involving disease-modifying agents. Study Supported by: NIH: AG043503,AG010124,AG04027; Alzheimer9s Association; Wyncote Foundation Disclosure: Dr. McMillan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Wolk has received personal compensation for activities with Exponent, Inc. and Haymarket Medical Education.
Extralobar pulmonary sequestration. Presentation as an arteriovenous aneurysm with cardiac failure in infancy.

Abstract A case of extralobar sequestration precipitating cardiac failure in infancy is presented. The pre- and postoperative hemodynamic and angiocardiographic findings are reported. The literature is briefly reviewed. This case is possibly the first such case fully investigated and successfully treated in early infancy. It illustrates another cause of high output cardiac failure in this age group.
Factor Analysis of Selected Muscular Strength and Motor Performance Tests

Abstract The study investigated the factor structure of the three-factor strength model proposed by Fleishman. A theoretical model of nine hypothesized factors was developed, and 25 tests sampled the hypothesized factors. The data collected on 76 college men were subjected to eight derived factor solutions. The evidence presented in these analyses did not support the three-factor strength model reported by Fleishman. The analyses yielded five common factors which were robust among all eight derived solutions. The analyses of four derived solutions suggested that an additional two factors may exist in the domain sampled by the 25 experimental tests.
Coordinated Control of Four Wheel Braking and Rear Steering

In this paper, we consider a coordinated control of four-wheel independent braking and rear steering. The objective of the control system is to improve the overall vehicle handling performance during combined braking and turning maneuvers. The braking and steering inputs of the driver are interpreted as vehicle deceleration and yaw rate commands, respectively. The control system is designed using the robust servomechanism design methodology and is based on a linearized vehicle dynamic model. The objective of the controller is to track the commanded deceleration and yaw rate by coordinating the four brake torques and the rear steer angle. The effectiveness of the control system is evaluated by computer simulations using a full vehicle model. Simulation results show that the integrated braking and steering control system improves the vehicle directional stability, path tracking, and performance robustness to parameter variations and uncertainties.
Demonstration of a functional blood-testis barrier to acetaldehyde: Evidence for lack of acetaldehyde effect on ethanol-induced depression of testosterone in vivo

Abstract In vitro studies have shown that acetaldehyde is a more potent inhibitor of testicular steroidogenesis than ethanol. The present study examined the in vivo role of acetaldehyde in ethanol-induced reduction of testosterone by (1) determining the levels of acetaldehyde to which the testes were exposed subsequent to acute ethanol administration to mice; and (2) examining the effect of ethanol on testosterone in animals subsequent to drug pretreatment which decreased or increased ethanol-derived acetaldehyde. Ethanol-induced (3 g/kg) depression of testosterone was dependent upon gonadotropin stimulation. The increase in hCG-induced testosterone was suppressed (P μ M). This functional blood-testis barrier to acetaldehyde could be explained by testicular aldehyde dehydrogenases in the mitochondria ( K m for acetaldehyde = 1.5 μ M) and in the cytosol ( K m = 123 μ M) whose maximal activities totaled to more than 25-fold greater than that of testicular alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). ADH was concentrated in the Leydig cells, while aldehyde dehydrogenase was evenly distributed in the testis. Ethanol prevented further hCG-induced rises in testosterone rather than inhibiting testosterone production to below pre-ethanol values. The above data argue against a significant role of acetaldehyde in the in vivo response of testosterone to ethanol. Ethanol appears to impair gonadotropin-testicular receptor interaction in vivo .
The Mount Sinai division of gastroenterology at the beginning of the 21st century.

The Mount Sinai Division of Gastroenterology has an international reputation for outstanding contributions to the study of digestive diseases, especially inflammatory bowel disease. A discussion of the current structure of the gastroenterology (GI) fellowship training program is provided, along with an overview of the GI Division at the turn of the 21 st century
Anthranilate synthetase of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus. Separation and partial characterization of subunits.

Abstract Anthranilate synthetase of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus is a multimeric protein made up of two nonidentical subunits. It is not associated with anthranilate-5-phosphoribosylpyrophosphate phosphoribosyltransferase, the second enzyme of the tryptophan pathway. Two classes of mutants lacking anthranilate synthetase activity are described. One is defective in the chorismate-binding subunit (E), although a normal glutamine-binding subunit (G) is produced. This class is incapable of catalyzing the anthranilate synthetase reaction. The second class is defective in the G subunit but produces an active E subunit. The second type of mutation results in a requirement for p-aminobenzoate in addition to anthranilate, suggesting a dual role for the G subunit in anthranilate and p-aminobenzoate synthesis. When extracts of the two mutant classes are mixed, normal E and G subunits can reassociate to form an active complex able to catalyze the synthesis of anthranilate. Wild type anthranilate synthetase complex is readily dissociated into E and G subunits by gel filtration through Sephadex G-100. Glycerol and glutamine stabilize the enzyme, glycerol affording complete protection while glutamine is less active. In addition to stabilizing enzyme activity, 30% glycerol enhances the association of subunits during gel filtration. Molecular weights of the individual subunits estimated from Sephadex G-100 column chromatography are 70,000 and 14,000 for the E and G subunits, respectively. The molecular weight of the anthranilate synthetase complex estimated in the presence of 30% glycerol is 86,000. Anthranilate synthetase subunits from A. calcoaceticus are capable of reassociating with those of Pseudomonas putida to form active hybrids which are approximately 50% as efficient as the native A. calcoaceticus enzyme in catalyzing anthranilate formation.
Optimal route planning for wheeled mobile robots. An optical approach

Long-range route planning is important to prepare missions for autonomous wheeled mobile robots in space applications. Usually a lack of energy resources has to be considered, when an exploration path for a space rover is predefined off-line. This leads to an optimization problem taking into account a number of target positions embedded in a cluttered environment. The fundamental landscape features of the rover's environment are known in advance by satellite exploration. The resulting topographical map consists of regions with different traversal costs. The optical approach to the route planning problem considered here is based on landscape substitution by an optical analogous refractive index distribution, and consequent application of a numerical beam propagation method.
Monitoring deep‐ocean temperatures using acoustic ambient noise

Measuring temperature changes of the deep oceans, important for determining the oceanic heat content and its impact on the Earth's climate evolution, is typically done using free-drifting profiling oceanographic floats with limited global coverage. Acoustic thermometry provides an alternative and complementary remote sensing methodology for monitoring fine temperature variations of the deep ocean over long distances between a few underwater sources and receivers. We demonstrate a simpler, totally passive (i.e., without deploying any active sources) modality for acoustic thermometry of the deep oceans (for depths of ~ 500–1500 m), using only ambient noise recorded by two existing hydroacoustic stations of the International Monitoring System. We suggest that passive acoustic thermometry could improve global monitoring of deep-ocean temperature variations through implementation using a global network of hydrophone arrays.
An efficient word lattice parsing algorithm for continuous speech recognition

An efficient word lattice parsing algorithm is introduced for continuous speech recognition. A word lattice is a set of hypothesized words with different starting and ending positions in the input signal. Parsing a word lattice involves much more search than typed natural language parsing, and a very efficient algorithm is desired. The algorithm is based on the context-free parsing algorithm recently developed by the author. Our algorithm (1) is fast due to utilization of LR parsing tables, (2) produces all possible parses in an efficient representation, and (3) processes an input word lattice in a strict left-to-right manner, which may allow the algorithm to pipeline with lower level processes (i.e. word hypothesizers). The algorithm has been implemented in the continuous speech recognition project at Carnegie-Mellon University, and is being tested against real speech data.
Dominance of Mutations Affecting Viability in Drosophila melanogaster

There have been several attempts to estimate the average dominance (ratio of heterozygous to homozygous effects) of spontaneous deleterious mutations in Drosophila melanogaster, but these have given inconsistent results. We investigated whether transposable element (TE) insertions have higher average dominance for egg-to-adult viability than do point mutations, a possibility suggested by the types of fitness-depressing effects that TEs are believed to have. If so, then variation in dominance estimates among strains and crosses would be expected as a consequence of variation in TE activity. As a first test, we estimated the average dominance of all mutations and of copia insertions in a set of lines that had accumulated spontaneous mutations for 33 generations. A traditional regression method gave a dominance estimate for all mutations of 0.17, whereas average dominance of copia insertions was 0.51; the difference between these two estimates approached significance (P = 0.08). As a second test, we reanalyzed Ohnishi 1974 data on dominance of spontaneous and EMS-induced mutations. Because a considerable fraction of spontaneous mutations are caused by TE insertions, whereas EMS induces mainly point mutations, we predicted that average dominance would decline with increasing EMS concentration. This pattern was observed, but again fell short of formal significance (P = 0.07). Taken together, however, the two results give modest support for the hypothesis that TE insertions have greater average dominance in their viability effects than do point mutations, possibly as a result of deleterious effects of expression of TE-encoded genes.
Supporting a software engineering course with Lotus Notes

Managing an undergraduate single-project software engineering course with 40 to 70 students is quite challenging. Many instructors are still not teaching this type of course, because of its high demand of time and involvement. In this paper we show how we have automated three of the most time-consuming processes associated with single-project courses: project registration, team assignment and review of documents. We describe the design issues and an implementation based on Domino, the Lotus Notes solution for the Web. We implemented our system in an undergraduate software engineering project course at Carnegie-Mellon University and found that the electronic processes provide major time savings when compared with traditional mechanisms based on paper. We believe that these savings will make single-project courses more teachable by a wider range of instructors.
Overexpression of nerve growth factor in epidermis of transgenic mice causes hypertrophy of the peripheral nervous system

Survival of developing neurons is dependent on access to a limited supply of target-derived neurotrophic factors. NGF is the most extensively characterized of these molecules and during development is synthesized by neuronal and nonneuronal target tissues such as the skin. To investigate how target-derived NGF affects neuron survival and development of the PNS, we used an epidermal-specific gene promoter to produce transgenic mice that overexpress the mouse NGF cDNA in skin. Analysis of transgenic skin mRNA synthesis by Northern and in situ hybridizations showed increased levels of transgene-derived mRNA in the epidermis and associated hair follicles. The increase in NGF mRNA correlated with a hypertrophy of peripheral sensory and sympathetic nerves. Immunological analysis of skin using an anti-150 kDa neurofilament antibody showed numerous large nerve bundles and fibers coursing throughout the dermis. Increased numbers of nerve processes in the transgenic skin had immunoreactivity for calcitonin gene-related peptide and tyrosine hydroxylase, indicating that both the sensory and sympathetic systems were hypertrophied. The trigeminal and superior cervical ganglia were greatly enlarged. Cell counts of trigeminal ganglia of control and transgenic mice showed a 26–117% increase in the number of neurons in the transgenics, indicating a reduction or total prevention of the program of naturally occurring cell death. These results demonstrate that NGF production by the epidermal target tissue controls neuronal survival, and in so doing, establishes the level of innervation.
Formation of the L-proline pool of the cestode, Hymenolepis diminuta.

Abstract The properties of the formation of the steady state proline pool in the cestode, Hymenolepis diminuta, were studied. After immediate removal from the host, the proline pool of 10-day old H. diminuta has a mean value of 1.29 μmoles/gm wet worm tissue. In vitro, a steady state pool is established when the rates of influx and efflux become equal. Both in vitro and in vivo the pool level is influenced by substrate concentration and the presence of inhibitory amino acids. The addition of glucose in vitro suppresses the proline pool level, while in vivo a constant supply of glucose to the tapeworms elevates the pool level.
Study of acetylene poisoning of Pt cathode on proton exchange membrane fuel cell spatial performance using a segmented cell system

Abstract Acetylene is a welding fuel and precursor for organic synthesis, which requires considering it to be a possible air pollutant. In this work, the spatial performance of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell exposed to 300 ppm C 2 H 2 and different operating currents was studied with a segmented cell system. The injection of C 2 H 2 resulted in a cell performance decrease and redistribution of segments' currents depending on the operating conditions. Performance loss was 20–50 mV at 0.1–0.2 A cm −2 and was accompanied by a rapid redistribution of localized currents. Acetylene exposure at 0.4–1.0 A cm −2 led to a sharp voltage decrease to 0.07–0.13 V and significant changes in current distribution during a transition period, when the cell reached a voltage of 0.55–0.6 V. A recovery of the cell voltage was observed after stopping the C 2 H 2 injection. Spatial electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) data showed different segments' behavior at low and high currents. It was assumed that acetylene oxidation occurs at high cell voltage, while it reduces at low cell potential. A detailed analysis of the current density distribution, its correlation with EIS data and possible C 2 H 2 oxidation/reduction mechanisms are presented and discussed.
Applying perturbation analysis to traffic shaping

This paper presents an idea of designing semi-open-loop traffic-shaping mechanisms for real-time network applications on the conceptual bases of perturbation analysis and stochastic optimization. A simple, representative traffic-shaping scheme is introduced, which ensures that the time between successive PDU entries into the network is not smaller than parameter @q. A stochastic algorithm based on an infinitesimal perturbation analysis is proposed to evaluate the optimal value of @q for a cost function, which takes into account the fact that the queueing delay in the network is costlier than the waiting time in the source premise. The waiting time in the source premise and the queueing delay in the network are modeled by the delays in tandem queues. This paper also illustrates the use of the renewal theory in stochastic optimization. It is suggested that the stochastic algorithm be used to track the optimal values of @q for time-varying bandwidth provision.
Surgical management of impactedthird molars

Teeth may become impacted when they fail to erupt or develop into the proper functional location. As such, impacted teeth are considered nonfunctional, abnormal, and pathological. The mandibular third molar is the most common tooth to become impacted. The cause of impacted third molars is thought to be inadequate space. Several studies indicate that a change from a coarse, attritive diet to a modern, refined diet has lead to an increased incidence of impacted teeth. Interproximal attrition allows for greater mesial migration of teeth and space for third molar teeth. Teeth that fail to attain a functional position may be pathological and should be considered for removal. The indications for removing impacted teeth can be divided into those of acute or chronic pathology. Impacted third molars are often associated with pain, infection, cyst formation, benign tumors, root resorption, bone loss, periodontal disease, and caries. The decision to surgically remove impacted third molars is often unclear. There are no absolute treatment protocols established. The dentist must consider a variety of factors and make an informed decision with the patient. Most experienced clinicians combine objective data and common sense to arrive at a logical treatment plan. The purpose of this article is to discuss factors related to impacted teeth and help the orthodontist understand the general management of impacted third molars. The decision for surgery will be assisted by an understanding of all of the risk factors associated with impacted teeth and presenting the options to the patient.
ACTION OF ADRENALINE ON THE PERFUSED FISH HEART

The response of the heart of Scyllium to adrenaline and related drugs is described and discussed in terms of its permeability to ions in the perfusing solution. It is a pleasure to express thanks to Dr Allen and the staff at Plymouth for their aid in procuring material, as well as to Dr Lancelot Hogben for his suggestions and assistance in the conduct of these experiments.
Experiences in mixed reality-based collocated after action review

After action review (AAR) is a widely used training practice in which trainees and trainers review past training experiences and performance for the purpose of learning. AAR has often been conducted with video-based systems whereby a video of the action is reviewed afterward, usually at another location. This paper proposes collocated AAR of training experiences through mixed reality (MR). Collocated AAR allows users to review past training experiences in situ with the user's current, real-world experience, i.e., the AAR is conducted at the same location where the action being reviewed occurred. MR enables a user-controlled egocentric viewpoint, augmentation such as a visual overlay of virtual information like conceptual visualizations, and playback of recorded training experiences collocated with the user's current experience or that of an expert. Collocated AAR presents novel challenges for MR, such as collocating time, interactions, and visualizations of previous and current experiences. We created a collocated AAR system for anesthesia education, the augmented anesthesia machine visualization, and interactive debriefing system. The system enables collocated AAR in two applications related to anesthesia training: anesthesia machine operation training and skin disinfection training with a mannequin patient simulator. Collocated AAR was evaluated in two informal pilot studies by students (n = 19) and an educator (n = 1) not directly affiliated with the project. We review the anecdotal data collected from the studies and point toward ways to refine and improve collocated AAR.
Fabrication of perforated silicone rubber implant

Abstract A technique is described to make perforated RTV silicone rubber implants for tissue augmentation.
PAH and soot formation in fuel-rich turbulent coal liquid and natural gas diffusion flames

A study of soot and PAH formation and destruction in two fuel-rich turbulent diffusion flames using a coal-derived liquid fuel (EDS) and natural gas (NG) was carried out in the 1.2 m × 1.2 m × 4.5 m test section of the MIT Combustion Research Facility. The heat input rate was 1 MWth and the fuel-equivalence ratio =1.3, corresponding to the optimal fuel-rich zone conditionfor minimization of NOx in a staged combustion system. Axial molar fluxes of PAH and soot along the flemas were calculated from measured profiles of gas velocities and chemical species concentrations. Comparison of the EDS and NG flames gave information on PAH and soot formation processes for the cases when PAH compounds were or were not present in the fuel, respectively. In flames of both fuels soot is formed in regions of PAH decay, consistent with aromatic compounds being soot precursors. The PAH compounds formed and the sequence of the appearance of their peak fluxes are qualitatively similar in the methane turbulent diffusion flame and in low pressure premixed laminar flames. It appears that similar chemistry may control PAH formation and destruction under these greatly different conditions.
Effect of deep inspiration on airway conductance in subjects with allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma

Abstract We measured specific airway conductance (GawVtg) in a body plethysmograph before and after a deep inspiratory maneuver in 8 subjects with allergic rhinitis and 8 subjects with allergic asthma. In hay fever subjects deep inspiration had no effect on GawVtg if it was performed in the control state; however, when methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction was present, deep inspiration transiently increased GawVtg. In asthmatic subjects deep inspiration was followed by a transient fall in baseline GawVtg in the control state; however, when bronchoconstriction was present, deep inspiration was followed by small and variable changes in GawVtg in 7 subjects and marked improvement in GawVtg in 1 subject. In asthmatic subjects the bronchoconstrictor response to deep inspiration performed in the control state is thought to be due to reflex changes in bronchomotor tone mediated by cholinergic (vagal) nerve pathways. Like asthmatic subjects, hay fever subjects also possess cholinergic-mediated airway hyperreactivity compared with normals. Our results indicate that, in spite of their increased airway reactivity, hay fever subjects respond more like normal subjects than like asthmatic subjects after a deep inspiratory maneuver.
Computation of heat transfer in turbine rotor blade cooling channels with angled rib turbulators

The effects of rotation and Reynolds number on heat transfer in rotating two-pass square and rectangular channels with smooth walls and walls with 45 degree angled and V-shaped rib turbulators were investigated numerically using an unstructured, incompressible, Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes flow solver. The influence of 45 degree angled ribs and channel orientation on the local Nusselt number ratios for leading and trailing surfaces in a two-pass square channel (AR=1) are compared to experimental data for Reynolds numbers from 5,000 to 25,000 and dimensionless rotation numbers from 0.0 to 0.118. The influence of V-shaped ribs and channel orientation on the local Nusselt number ratios for leading and trailing surfaces in a two-pass rectangular channel (AR=2) are compared to experimental data for Reynolds numbers from 5,000 to 40,000 and rotation numbers from 0.0 to 0.210. It is concluded that rotation causes significant changes to the local Nusselt number ratio distribution relative to stationary conditions. Generally, the first pass trailing and second pass leading surfaces have increased local Nusselt number ratios due to the secondary ow impingement induced by rotation. Alternatively, the first pass leading and second pass trailing surface Nusselt number ratios tend to decrease with increased rotation.
Psychosexual aspects of hysterectomy.

p b atient permission to allow the performance of a hysterectomy is an W area of medicine where informed consent is of critical importance because not only does this operation carry the operative morbidity and mortality that other surgical procedures have, but it also alters the genital anatomy of the patient and in so doing may carry detrimental psychosexual consequences for some patients. 1-s Although there is controversy regarding the causal relationship of the procedure and psychosexual sequelae, reports of psychological and sexual morbidity can be found in medical literature both from the United States and abroad. 6-16 However, other studies have found no increase in adverse psychological outcome from hysterectomy as compared with cholecystectomy or tubal ligation. 17-23 When reported, postoperative psychosexual problems appear to be more prevalent in patients with the following profiles: 1) preoperative history of depression, sexual dysfunction, or other psychological disturbancesgA°A2,1s,24,25; 2) age less than 35-40 years, limited educational attainment, or conflict about future childbearing9,12A4,21,25-28; 3) poor preoperative understanding of the proposed surgery and what changes to expect postoperatively29-32; 4) belief that the uterus has unique psychological and sexual importancea°'32-34; and 5) absence of pelvic pathology. 14As Since ancient times, the uterus has had important psychosexual and sociocultural significance. 35 Symbols of the uterus existed as early as the Paleolithic era, and in Sanskrit the same word is used for womb and for temple. 36 The ancient Greek word for uterus (hystera) is derived from the word meaning after, referring to the placenta or, in lay terms, the afterbirth. 3s Over time, the word hysteria (derived from hystera) came to have negative connotations because the uterus was felt to be central to diseases of women. 37 Galen taught that most of the ills of women could be traced to the womb. 38 George Engelmann, addressing the American Gynecological Society in 1877 on a series of different diseases, believed the etiology of illness in women could be traced to uterine pathology; he coined the term "hystero-neuroses. ''as The condition of hysteria was attributed to the wandering of the uterus to different parts of a woman's body, causing a variety of symptoms and erratic behavior. 3a Although this notion has been discarded, hysteria, defined as a psychoneurotic condition characterized by emotional outbursts and sensory disturbances, 39 is still considered by many to be more common in women. © 1990 by The Jacobs Institute of Women's Health 1049-3867/90/$3.50
Current nursing practice related to sexuality

Nurses' practices related to sexuality were examined using the Survey on Sexuality in Nursing Practice (SSNP). The sample consisted of 155 practicing, registered nurses from a variety of practice settings. Twenty percent of subjects indicated they were never involved in any sexuality-related activities and only about 12% addressed sexuality with a majority of their clients. Although subjects consistently identified sexuality as a necessary part of nursing practice, few addressed sexual concerns with clients. Weighted least squares analysis of 12 variables revealed that only those variables measuring practice setting and area, nurses' knowledge, responsibility, and comfort were useful predictors of nurses' practice related to sexuality. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Water uptake, transport and structure characterization in poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate hydrogels

Abstract Crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) free-standing films were prepared by UV-induced photopolymerization of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) crosslinker in the presence of varying amounts of water or monofunctional poly(ethylene glycol) acrylate (PEGA). The crosslinked PEGDA films exhibited polymerization induced phase separation (PIPS) when the water content of the prepolymerization mixture was greater than 60 wt%. These phase separated films contain pores that scatter visible light, rendering them translucent or opaque. Visible light absorbance measurements, water uptake, water permeability, and salt kinetic desorption experiments were used to characterize the structure of these phase separated, crosslinked hydrogels. The films with PIPS exhibited a porous morphology in CryoSEM studies. Dead-end filtration experiments using deionized water and 1 g/l bovine serum albumin (BSA) solutions were performed to explore the fundamental transport and fouling properties of these materials. The total flux of pure water through the films after prior exposure to BSA solution was nearly equal to that measured for the as-prepared material, indicating that these PEGDA films resist fouling by BSA under the conditions studied.
Bilirubin toxicity in the developing nervous system

Bilirubin toxicity remains a significant problem despite recent advances in the care of jaundiced (hyperbilirubinemic) neonates. A recent surge in reported cases of classical kernicterus, due in part to earlier hospital discharge and relaxation of treatment criteria for hyperbilirubinemia, and new reports of hyperbilirubinemia-induced auditory dysfunction using evoked potential based infant testing and hearing screening, underscore the need to better understand how hyperbilirubinemia causes brain damage in some infants, especially because the damage is preventable. Recent progress in understanding bilirubin binding and neurotoxicity resulting from unbound or "free" unconjugated bilirubin, how bilirubin affects the central nervous system in vivo and in vitro, and the use of new clinical tools in neonates, for example magnetic resonance imaging revealing bilateral lesions in globus pallidus and subthalamus, and abnormal brainstem auditory evoked potentials with normal inner ear function, may lead to improved detection and prevention of neurologic dysfunction and damage from bilirubin. Finally, the concern is raised that partial or isolated neurologic sequelae, for example auditory neuropathy and other central auditory processing disorders, may result from excessive amount and duration of exposure to free, unconjugated bilirubin at different stages of neurodevelopment.
Chemotherapy of skeletal metastases

INTRODUCTION Metastatic cancer to bone is the most common bone cancer,23 unlike primary bone tumors, occurs at multiple sites 90% of the time.13 The axial skeleton is most often affected; the extremities rarely. Neoplasms of the breast, lung, prostate, kidney and thyroid account for nearly 80% of bone metastases. Skeletal metastases from the colon, pancreas and stomach are uncommon, occurring in less than 10% of patients with these tumors.‘.‘333 Radiographic appearance of the bone metastases aids in the identification of the primary source. Osteoblastic lesions in males most frequently will be of prostatic origin, rarely from pancreas, colon, lung, carcinoid tumor, Hodgkin’s disease, or myeloma. _41though the majority of skeletal breast lesions are lytic, the most common source of blastic bony metastases in women is breast cancer. Lytic bone lesions generally are without characteristic identifying features which would help in the identification of the primary cancer, with the exception of kidney, which often presents as a solitary radiolucent expansile bone lesion. Radiotherapy is the treatment of choice for skeletal metastases which are painful and few in number or located in strategic areas of skeletal support. However, many bone lesions, can be expected to respond favorably to chemotherapy. The effectiveness of chemotherapy on various skeletal metastases is reviewed. THYROID Thyroid carcinomas characteristically have many long term survivors following surgical therapy, 80-90% live 10 years or greater. The small number that succumb to ‘their disease often have bone or pulmonary metastases or both.1%1834 Papillary carcinoma occurs in approximately 66% of patients and tends to metastasize to local lymph nodes. Follicular carcinoma occurs in 20% of patients with a predilection for vessel invasion and subsequent bone and lung metastases. Treatment other than surgery has resided consistently with oral 13’1 administration. The dose is generally lOO-300mCi given repeatedly over 2 years for a total dose of 500 mCi.” I31 I has been documented to accumulate in bone metastases and to have a favorable effect on survival. In one study, all of 10 patients lived 5 years, with 3 patients living 6, 15 and 25 years after ‘9 therapy.” There is even documentation of roentgenograms returning to normal in 5 of 30 patients, with total regression of pain in all patients.” Other chemotherapeutic agents used in metastatic thyroid cancer without success are 5-fluorouracil, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, phenylaline mustard, and others.” The use of bleomycin has had conflicting reports.‘6 Adriamycin (75 mglm’ q3 week) achieved 4 partial remissions in 12 patients with bone involvement, it was documented as 50% radiographic regression for 1 month. One patient had relief of pain.‘O 13’1 appears to be the agent of choice when metastases are small and capable of concentrating 1311. Thus far, adriamycin is the only chemotherapeutic agent shown to be effective in advanced bone metastases.
A combined social action, mixed methods approach to vocational guidance efficacy research

This article proposes a social action, mixed methods approach to verifying the efficacy of vocational guidance programs. Research strategies are discussed in the context of how the processes and purposes of efficacy research have been conceptualized and studied in vocational psychology. Examples of how to implement this approach in future efficacy research are provided.
Are preoperative obesity and cachexia risk factors for post heart transplant morbidity and mortality: a multi-institutional study of preoperative weight-height indices

Abstract Background: The relationship between pre-transplant body weight and post-transplant outcome has only recently been identified using a single, indirect measure of weight (percent ideal body weight [PIBW]). The literature is equivocal regarding which index is the better indicator of body weight. The purpose of this study was to determine (1) if pre-heart transplant body weight, measured by body mass index (BMI) and PIBW, is associated with post-heart transplant morbidity and mortality and (2) if patient gender, age, and etiology of heart disease affect this association. Methods The sample included 4,515 patients who received a heart transplant from January 1, 1990–December 31, 1995 at 38 institutions participating in the Cardiac Transplant Research Database (CTRD). Patients were divided into groups according to their BMI and PIBW. Data were described using frequencies, measures of central tendency, Pearson correlation coefficients, stratified actuarial analyses and log rank tests for comparisons, and a multivariable risk factor analysis in the hazard domain. Results For all patients ( n = 4,515), being 140% of IBW before heart transplant was a risk factor for increased mortality after heart transplant. The association between pre-heart transplant PIBW and post-heart transplant survival was affected by gender, age, and etiology of heart disease. In males, a higher PIBW was a significant risk factor for death early after transplant ( p = .0003). Although not significant, there was a trend for a higher PIBW being a risk factor for death in females throughout the post transplant period ( p = .07). No differences in cause of death were found for PIBW and BMI. In male and female recipients 140% of IBW. Pre-heart transplant BMI and PIBW were not associated with acute rejection or cardiac allograft arteriopathy after transplant. Conclusions In conclusion, being cachectic or obese preoperatively is associated with decreased survival in all patients after heart transplantation. Being obese preoperatively is associated with increased infection after heart transplant in males and females