Example of function optimization via hybrid computation

Iterative techniques for function optimization have been considered extensivezy for use in all-digital computation. Relatively little has been done to take advantage of the much higher integration speed of hybrid computation systems. This paper demonstrates application of one simple procedure in a hybrid envi ronment and compares the results to those obtained by an efficient digital procedure. Even though a much more efficient procedure was used on the digital, time-saving factors between 8 and 2 were obtained via the simpler hybrid implementation. Since the dollar cost of the hybrid is much less than that of the digital, the hybrid has a large advantage per solution.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/68324/2/10.1177_003754977302100204.pd

Press-Fit-Hybrid Technique for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Autologous Hamstring Tendons

Arthroscopic-assisted anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction follows standardized protocols. Multiple fixation techniques are known. Discussion has been raised about osseus fixation and integration. To improve a biological osseous fixation of the anterior cruciate ligament transplant, a Press-Fit-Hybrid technique has been developed. The basic principle is to recycle bony cylinders obtained from the femoral and tibial tunnel to fix the transplant in the femoral and tibial tunnel. In addition to the biological advantage, there are additional economic benefits, such as no extra fixation material is necessary compared with common fixation techniques, and the overall surgical procedure requires minimal effort

In Vitro Monitoring of in Vivo Development of Human Anti-Thymoglobulin Antibodies by ELISA

Thymoglobulin (rATG), polyclonal immunoglobulin, is prepared from rabbits immunized with human thymocytes. It is effective in prevention and treatment of renal allograft rejection. Human antibodies against antilymphocyte preparations can reduce efficacy by accelerating drug clearance or by inducing serum sickness. We developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to study posttreatment development of anti-rATG. In an Institutional Review Board–approved trial, we tested 101 allograft recipients for anti-rATG antibodies. Patients received rATG intravenously at 1.25 to 2.0 mg/kg/d for 2 to 14 days. Serum samples were obtained pretreatment and at weeks 1, 2, 4, 6, and months 3 and 6 post-rATG. ELISA plates were coated with rATG (10 μg/mL). Samples were diluted 1:100 and tested in quadruplicate. Positive samples were titrated. Horseradish peroxidase-conjugated (HRPO) affinity-purified goat anti-human immunoglobulin G (H&L) antibody reacted with bound human antibody. A chromagenic substrate for HRPO was added and optical density (OD, 490 nm) was read. An OD of twice the negative control was considered positive. Mean ODs of negative and positive controls were 0.113 ± 0.030 and 1.042 ± 0.196, respectively. Ten patients had detectable anti-rATG before rATG administration (1:100). Thirty-five of 101 patients (35%) developed anti-rATG antibody. Patients showed an initial positive anti-rATG antibody from days 8 to 59 after infusion and titers from 1:100 to 1:4000. In spite of rATG’s postulated anti-B-cell activity, this study confirms that rATG induces sensitization at a frequency and titer seen with other xenogeneic antilymphocyte antibodies. Formation of such antixenoantibodies can have a negative impact on treatment response and hence warrant monitoring