bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process development and characterization of additively manufactured nickel–titanium shape memory parts
Authors: Walker Jason M , Haberland Christoph , Taheri Andani Mohsen , Karaca Haluk Ersin , Dean David , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: March 2016

Additive manufacturing of nickel–titanium has two distinct advantages over conventional methods. It circumvents the difficulties associated with machining of nickel–titanium and it provides a freedom-of-design that conventional processing cannot match. In this article, we analyze the effects of processing parameters on the structural and functional outcomes of selective laser melted nickel–titanium parts. Notably, we expand the parametric envelope compared to the previous studies by utilizing a higher power 300 W laser. Optimal process parameters are identified for additively manufacturing of nickel–titanium parts with verified shape memory behavior and complex structures with accurate features are fabricated.
Development of a Predictive Nomogram for the Change in PT/INR Upon Discontinuation of Bivalirudin as a Bridge to Warfarin
Authors: Hohlfelder Benjamin , DeiCicchi David , Sylvester Katelyn W. , Connors Jean M.
Published: March 2016

Appropriate timing of bivalirudin discontinuation as a bridge to warfarin is complicated, as bivalirudin may cause a falsely prolonged international normalized ratio (INR). The purpose was to evaluate patient and medication characteristics associated with differences in INR prolongation caused by bivalirudin. Adult patients receiving bivalirudin as a bridge to warfarin in 2014 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were excluded if they had known thrombophilia or inappropriate INR monitoring after discontinuation of bivalirudin. Data recorded included indication for bivalirudin use, bivalirudin dosing, and coagulation assays. Univariate analysis was performed to determine variables associated with a larger change in INR when discontinuing bivalirudin. Variables with P < .3 were included in multivariate analysis. In total, 50 patient admissions were included in the analysis. Patients with ventricular assist devices represented the majority of the patient population (74%). The most common INR goals were 2.0 to 3.0 and 2.5 to 3.5. The mean initial weight-based bivalirudin rate was 0.076 mg/kg/h, and the mean increase in INR when starting bivalirudin was 0.6. The mean final weight-based bivalirudin rate was 0.13 mg/kg/h, and the mean change in INR after stopping bivalirudin was 0.8. On multivariate analysis, factors associated with a larger change in INR after stopping bivalirudin included higher serum creatinine ( P = .033), greater change in INR after initiation of bivalirudin ( P = .028), and higher final bivalirudin rate ( P < .001). The change in INR when starting or stopping bivalirudin appears to be patient specific and dose related. A nomogram was developed to predict the ideal timing of bivalirudin discontinuation. Prospective evaluation of the nomogram is under way.
Outcomes of accelerated catheter-directed thrombolysis in patients with acute arterial thrombosis
Authors: Lukasiewicz Aleksander , Lichota Wojciech , Thews Maciej
Published: March 2016

Current intra-arterial catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) protocols recommend treatment with small doses of a thrombolytic agent, which excludes patients in need of urgent revascularization. We evaluated the effects of accelerated thrombolysis utilizing increased recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) doses. Forty-one patients with acute, thrombotic limb ischemia (ALI) were treated using accelerated CDT. The treatment consisted of an initial dose of 10 mg rt-PA for 30 minutes followed by a 3-hour course of a continuous intra-arterial 10 mg/hour rt-PA infusion. Simultaneously, intravenous unfractionated heparin (500 IU/hour) was administered. No deaths occurred. Satisfactory lysis was achieved in 37 of the 41 patients (90.2%). All significant underlying lesions were corrected (89.2%). Complications developed in nine patients (22%); the most frequent complication (four patients, 9.8%) was puncture site hematoma. The reintervention rate was 2.6% and 15.4% at the 1 and 6-month follow-ups, respectively. The major amputation rate was 10.3% and 12.8% at the 1 and 6-month follow-ups, respectively. Outflow compromise was adversely related to successful outcome at the 6-month follow-up ( p=0.01). In conclusion, this study confirms the effectiveness and safety of the accelerated CDT regimen for treatment of thrombotic ALI at a single center, but requires confirmation in further studies.
Intersectional impact of multiple identities on social work education in the UK
Authors: Liu Ben Chi-pun
Published: March 2016

The study reviews the records of 671 social work students and graduates including the seven intakes from the first cohort in 2003/2004 to the intake in 2010/2011 to examine the interacting effect of learning difficulties, ethnicity and gender on the completion of social work training at a university in the South East of England.

Findings

Among the students, 79.9% of them were female, 50.1% were black, 27.9% white, 10.7% Asian and 11.3% other ethnicities. A majority of students did not report any disability. Among those who did ( n = 84), 52.3% ( n = 44) reported a learning difficulty. The percentage of students who have successfully completed the training is 76.4%, a completion rate that is comparable to the UK's national figure. Having controlled the confounding variables, hierarchical logistic regression identified the risk factor for dropout from undergraduate social work programme as black female students with learning difficulties (odds ratio = 0.100, 95% confidence interval = 0.012–0.862, p < 0.05). Findings suggested that students with multiplicity of identities, i.e. being black and female and with a learning difficulty, have a lower probability to complete the programme successfully.

Applications

Strategies for tackling the intersecting disadvantages of race, gender and disabilities in social work training should embrace three principles: providing continuous support, focusing on how the support is provided and addressing contextual and structural barriers.
Social work support for employment of people with learning disabilities: Findings from the English Jobs First demonstration sites
Authors: Stevens Martin , Harris Jess
Published: March 2016

This article brings together two key themes in recent public policy in England affecting social work practice: the value of having a paid job for social inclusion and increasing self-worth, and the personalisation of public services. The article draws on a mixed method evaluation of Jobs First, which was a government-funded demonstration site project that aimed to show how personal budgets (a key mechanism for personalisation) could be used by people with learning disabilities, often with their families, to purchase employment support. The evaluation involved secondary analysis of case record data and 142 semi-structured interviews with a wide range of participants (we mainly draw on 79 interviews with professionals for this article). Jobs First is placed within the frame of Active Labour Market Policy.

Findings

The attitudes of social workers to Jobs First were broadly positive, which was an important factor supporting employment outcomes. However, social workers’ involvement was often limited to a coordinating role, undertaking basic assessments linked to resource allocation and ensuring that support plans, which had often been developed by non-social work practitioners, were ‘signed off’ or agreed by the local authority.

Applications

The study points to important elements of the role of social workers in this new field of practice and explores potential tensions that might emerge. It highlights a continuing theme that social workers are playing more of a coordinating, managing role, rather than working directly with individuals to support their choices.
Effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors on cardiac and endothelial function in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A pilot study
Authors: Leung Melissa , Leung Dominic Y , Wong Vincent W
Published: March 2016

Aims:

Recent studies have raised concerns regarding increased heart failure in patients on dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors. We examined whether dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, compared to non-incretin–based therapies, have differential effects on left ventricular and endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods:

A total of 25 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients commenced on a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor were compared with 50 matched controls. Left ventricular systolic and diastolic function and flow-mediated dilatation were compared before and 12 months after treatment.

Results:

At baseline, both dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor and control groups had elevated HbA1c and comparable subclinical left ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular global longitudinal strain: −15.4% vs −15.9%, p = 0.538; e′ velocities: 6 vs 6 cm/s, p = 0.151, where e′ is the peak mitral annular early diastolic tissue velocity). After 12 months, both groups had similar improvement in HbA1c. However, patients on dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors had greater improvement in systolic (ΔGLS: 3.6% vs 1.3%, p < 0.001), despite no significant differences in weight, blood pressure or lipid parameters in both groups. Diastolic (Δe′: 38% vs 17%, p = 0.001) and endothelial function improved in the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor group but not the control group (ΔFMD: 5% vs −1%, p = 0.029).

Conclusion:

We demonstrated significant improvements in LV systolic, diastolic and endothelial function in patients treated with a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor over 12 months. These beneficial effects may provide some reassurance regarding the cardiovascular safety of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors.
Relationship between physical and mechanical properties of accelerated weathering and outdoor weathering of PVC-coated membrane material under tensile stress
Authors: Yang Xudong , Jiang Xiuting , Hu Jiyong , Wang Fangjuan , Hu Chun
Published: March 2016

To estimate the photo-oxidation aging performance of PVC-coated membrane material in atmospheric conditions under tensile stresses, the relationship between physical and mechanical properties under accelerated weathering test and outdoor weathering test is studied with the same cumulative UV radiation energy. And then, both tensile strength and whiteness index were measured and compared to characterize the property change of membrane material after aging under four different tensile stresses (0%, 5%, 10% and 20% of the breaking strength), respectively. In addition, FTIR spectrometry was applied to characterize the chemical components of the samples under different weathering conditions, and the carbonyl index was extracted. The results show that there were significant differences of tensile strength and carbonyl index between two kinds of aging conditions, whereas with the increasing tensile stresses, the whiteness index represented a consistent increasing deviation of accelerated weathering from the outdoor weathering. However, the relationship have been built between both whiteness index and tensile strength retention of accelerated weathering and those of outdoor weathering conditions after a Schwarzschild’s modification. Therefore, the service lifespan of PVC-coated membrane materials can be evaluated by accelerated weathering tests under tensile stresses.
Introduction
Authors: Alexander Bryant Keith
Published: March 2016

This essay serves as the introduction to a Special Issue on “policing race in America.” It was initiated on the occasion of the Michael Brown case in Ferguson Missouri as endemic of a nation-wide epidemic of police attacks on unarmed African Americans in the United States of America.
Decreasing PTSD and Depression Symptom Barriers to Weight Loss Using an Integrated CBT Approach
Authors: Trahan Lisa H. , Carges Elizabeth , Stanley Melinda A. , Evans-Hudnall Gina
Published: March 2016

This is a single-case study of an obese African American female Veteran who has posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Her presenting psychological symptoms included clinically significant night terrors, insomnia, low self-worth, low motivation, and social isolation. Poor dietary and physical activity responses to her psychological symptoms contributed to her weight gain, as well as interfered with weight-loss efforts. A telephone-based cognitive behavioral treatment integrating mental and behavioral health principles was provided. Over the course of eight sessions, the Veteran learned psychological symptom and behavioral monitoring, thought stopping, cognitive restructuring, deep breathing, calming thoughts, social support, sleep hygiene, and problem-solving skills. Client-centered PTSD and weight-management treatment goals were integrated into each session. The client evidenced weight loss, improved dietary and physical activity habits, and experienced a reduction in PTSD and depression symptoms. This case study demonstrates that an integrated cognitive behavioral treatment approach can be beneficial for decreasing PTSD and depression barriers to weight loss.
Brief Communication: Discordant ability of the triglyceride to apolipoprotein B ratio to predict triglyceride-rich lipoprotein particle size in normal-weight and obese men
Authors: Amigo-Benavent Miryam , Sinausia Laura , Montero Emilio , Perona Javier S
Published: March 2016

The atherogenicity of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) is dependent of their particle size as it determines their metabolic fate. Since TRL possess a single apolipoprotein B (Apo B) molecule per particle, the triglyceride (TG)/Apo B ratio has been used as a convenient method to estimate TRL size. The aim of this study was to validate this approach by correlating the serum TG/Apo B ratio, and the TRL particle size measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Twenty-four male volunteers (12 normal-weight and 12 obese individuals) received a high-fat meal. Preprandial (0 h) and postprandial (2 and 4 h) serum samples were collected after meal ingestion, and TRLs were isolated. Serum TG and Apo B levels were quantified, and the TG/Apo B ratio was plotted against TRL particle size measured by DLS for correlation. A strong association between TRL particle size and serum TG/Apo B ratio for normal-weight subjects ( P ≤ 0.001) was observed but not for obese subjects ( P = 0.6116). TG/Apo B ratio correlates with particle size in healthy normal-weight males but not in obese individuals. Whether this ratio is useful to estimate TRL size in females and in other dyslipidemic patients should be subject of future investigations.
Health Information Behavior of Expectant and Recent Fathers
Authors: Cramer Emily M.
Published: March 2016

Given the importance of paternal involvement in maternal and child health, the current investigation takes a closer look at expectant and recent (E/R) fathers’ health information behavior during pregnancy, childbirth, and child care. A total of 186 E/R fathers (68 low-income) completed a survey gauging information needs, sources of information, and information-seeking behavior. Results are summarized in four statements that may help low-income E/R fathers get the information they need during a partner’s pregnancy or after a child is born: (a) paternal information needs are diverse, (b) information needs change across stages of child development, (c) interpersonal sources are important before and after birth, and (d) relationships matter.
Conflict in Men’s Experiences With Antidepressants
Authors: Gibson Kerry , Cartwright Claire , Read John
Published: March 2016

While men’s experiences of depression and help seeking are known to be shaped by gender, there is little research which examines their experience of using antidepressants to treat this. This study is based on in-depth, narrative-style interviews with 20 New Zealand men who had used antidepressants. The analysis identified a number of areas of conflict in the men’s accounts of using this medication. Conflict centered on the way taking antidepressants was seen as undermining personal control while also allowing users to take charge of their problems; facilitating general functioning while undermining sexual functioning; relieving emotional distress while undermining emotional vitality; and the tension participants felt between making autonomous judgments about the value of antidepressants and relying on the “expertise” of others. Participants negotiated these conflicts in a variety of ways. In some cases, antidepressants were positioned as being able to affirm aspects of traditional masculinity, while a smaller number of participants managed these conflicts by redefining aspects of their own masculinity in ways that contrasted with dominant constructions. This research is limited by the sample of older, more privileged men in the context of New Zealand culture which favors macho forms of masculinity. In similar contexts, mental health practitioners should be mindful of the conflicts that men might experience in relation to their antidepressant use. Facilitating men’s exploration of these issues may enable them to make better decisions about treatment options or to provide more effective support to those who have opted for antidepressant treatment.
The role of unfractionated heparin for the antiaggregatory effect of aspirin in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy: Results of an observational clinical study
Authors: Brenner Thorsten , Schmitt Felix CF , Demirel Serdar , Salgado Eduardo , Celi de la Torre Juan Antonio , Göring Martin , Bruckner Thomas , Böckler Dittmar , Weigand Markus A , Hofer Stefan , Attigah Nicolas
Published: March 2016

The aims of the present study were to examine the influence of a low-dose unfractionated heparin regime on platelet aggregation and to additionally assess the prevalence of primary aspirin resistance in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Therefore, 50 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy were enrolled. A bolus of 3000 IU unfractionated heparin was administered 2 min before carotid cross-clamping additionally to standard antiaggregatory therapy. Haemostaseological point of care testing was performed twice, prior to surgery and 10 min after unfractionated heparin administration by the use of aggregometric and viscoelastic point of care testing. Following unfractionated heparin administration, the activated partial thromboplastin time increased significantly and clotting time in viscoelastic INTEM test was shown to be significantly prolonged. In contrast, the antiaggregatory effect of aspirin was not diminished in aggregometric ASPI test. A low-dose unfractionated heparin regime during carotid endarterectomy was therefore considered to be safe, without diminishing the antiplatelet effect of aspirin. Moreover, aggregometric point of care testing was identified to be a suitable tool for the identification of patients with primary aspirin resistance ( n = 3).
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Forsyth James Michael
Published: March 2016

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a serious condition, due to its frequency and high mortality with rupture; however, there is an improved outlook achieved with elective versus emergency repair. The drive is to identify these aneurysms early, so that patients can have surgical fixation in an elective setting. This article will highlight the areas where GPs are essential in improving the management of AAA, in particular, prompt diagnosis and referral of ruptured AAAs, and early AAA diagnosis through screening. It will also explore the different surgical options, with particular emphasis on the risks associated with AAA repair, especially in an emergency setting.
The Impact of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder on the 6-Month Outcomes in Collaborative Care Management for Depression
Authors: Angstman Kurt B. , Marcelin Alberto , Gonzalez Cesar A. , Kaufman Tara K. , Maxson Julie A. , Williams Mark D.
Published: March 2016

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has symptoms that exist along a spectrum that includes depression and the 2 disorders may coexist. Collaborative care management (CCM) has been successfully used in outpatient mental health management (especially depression and anxiety) with favorable outcomes. Despite this, there exist limited data on clinical impact of a diagnosis of PTSD on depression outcomes in CCM. The present study used a retrospective cohort design to examine the association of PTSD with depression outcomes among 2121 adult patients involved in CCM in a primary care setting. Using standardized self-report measures, baseline depression scores and 6-month outcome scores were evaluated. Seventy-six patients had a diagnosis of PTSD documented in their electronic medical record. Patients with PTSD reported more severe depressive symptoms at baseline (Patient Health Questionnaire–9 score of 17.9 vs 15.4, P < .001) than those without PTSD. Controlling for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, a clinical diagnosis of PTSD was associated with lower odds (AOR = 0.457, CI = 0.274-0.760, P = .003) of remission at 6 months and was also associated with higher odds (AOR = 3.112, CI = 1.921-5.041, P < .001) of persistent depressive symptoms at 6 months after CCM. When coexisting with depression, a diagnosis of PTSD was associated with worse depression outcomes, when managed with CCM in primary care. Opportunities still exist for more aggressive management of depression in these patients to help improve remission as well as reduce persistent depressive symptoms.
Is watch and wait still acceptable for patients with low-grade follicular lymphoma?
Authors: Armitage James O. , Longo Dan L.
Published: March 2016

Follicular lymphoma (FL) represents more than 20% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas worldwide and approximately 30% of the non-Hodgkin lymphomas diagnosed in the United States. Although occasionally localized at the time of diagnosis, most patients have disseminated disease. However, patients are frequently asymptomatic, and this, in combination with a long median survival, led to the initial studies of observing asymptomatic patients without initial therapy, ie, “watch and wait.” Since the initial report of watch and wait as a treatment strategy for patients with low-grade FL, our understanding of the biology of the disease has advanced; multiple active new agents have been introduced into practice, and the survival of patients with low-grade FL has improved. Given these changes, is watch and wait still an acceptable treatment recommendation for a newly diagnosed patient with low-grade FL?
Perturbed MafB/GATA1 axis after burn trauma bares the potential mechanism for immune suppression and anemia of critical illness
Authors: Johnson Nicholas B , Posluszny Joseph A , He Li K , Szilagyi Andrea , Gamelli Richard L , Shankar Ravi , Muthumalaiappan Kuzhali
Published: March 2016

Patients who survive initial burn injury are susceptible to nosocomial infections. Anemia of critical illness is a compounding factor in burn patients that necessitates repeated transfusions, which further increase their susceptibility to infections and sepsis. Robust host response is dependent on an adequate number and function of monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells. In addition to impaired RBC production, burn patients are prone to depletion of dendritic cells and an increase in deactivated monocytes. In steady-state hematopoiesis, RBCs, macrophages, and dendritic cells are all generated from a common myeloid progenitor within the bone marrow. We hypothesized in a mouse model of burn injury that an increase in myeloid-specific transcription factor V-maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog B at the common myeloid progenitor stage steers their lineage potential away from the megakaryocyte erythrocyte progenitor production and drives the terminal fate of common myeloid progenitors to form macrophages vs. dendritic cells, with the consequences being anemia, monocytosis, and dendritic cell deficits. Results indicate that, even though burn injury stimulated bone marrow hematopoiesis by increasing multipotential stem cell production (LinnegSca1poscKitpos), the bone marrow commitment is shifted away from the megakaryocyte erythrocyte progenitor and toward granulocyte monocyte progenitors with corresponding alterations in peripheral blood components, such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, RBCs, monocytes, and granulocytes. Furthermore, burn-induced V-maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog B in common myeloid progenitors acts as a transcriptional activator of M-CSFR and a repressor of transferrin receptors, promoting macrophages and inhibiting erythroid differentiations while dictating a plasmacytoid dendritic cell phenotype. Results from small interfering RNA and gain-of-function (gfp-globin transcription factor 1 retrovirus) studies indicate that targeted interventions to restore V-maf musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog B/globin transcription factor 1 balance can mitigate both immune imbalance and anemia of critical illness.
Bayesian rock classification and petrophysical uncertainty characterization with fast well-log forward modeling in thin-bed reservoirs
Authors: Xu Chicheng , Yang Qinshan , Torres-Verdín Carlos
Published: March 2016

Rock typing is critical in deepwater reservoir characterization to construct stratigraphic models populated with static and dynamic petrophysical properties. Rock typing based on multiple well logs is subject to large uncertainty in thinly bedded reservoirs because true physical properties cannot be resolved by low-resolution logging tools due to shoulder-bed effects. We have introduced a new Bayesian approach that inherently adopts the scientific method of iterative hypothesis testing to perform rock typing by simultaneously honoring different logging-tool physics in a multilayered earth model. In addition to estimating the vertical distribution of rock types with maximum likelihood, the Bayesian method quantifies the uncertainty of rock types and the associated petrophysical properties layer by layer. Bayesian rock classification is performed with a fast sampling technique based on the Markov-chain Monte Carlo method, thereby enabling an efficient search of rock types to obtain the final results. We have used a fast linear iterative refinement method to simulate nuclear logs and a 2D forward modeling code to simulate array-induction resistivity logs. A rock-type distribution hypothesis is considered acceptable only when all the observed well logs are reproduced with forward modeling. In a field case of offshore deltaic gas reservoir, the Bayesian method differentiates rock types that exhibit subtle petrophysical variations due to grain size change. The new method provides more than 77% agreement between log- and core-derived rock types, whereas conventional deterministic methods achieve only 60% agreement due to the presence of thin beds and laminations. Even though large uncertainty is observed in thinly bedded and laminated zones, the Bayesian rock-typing method still yields rock types and petrophysical properties that agree well with core-plug measurements acquired in these layers. As a result, the overall correlation between log-derived permeability and core-measured permeability is improved by approximately 16% when compared with conventional deterministic methods.
Multiscale characterization of pore structure in carbonate formations: Application to the Scurry Area Canyon Reef Operators Committee Unit
Authors: Oyewole Emmanuel , Saneifar Mehrnoosh , Heidari Zoya
Published: March 2016

Carbonate formations consist of a wide range of pore types with different shapes, pore-throat sizes, and varying levels of pore-network connectivity. Such heterogeneous pore-network properties affect the fluid flow in the formation. However, characterizing pore-network properties (e.g., effective porosity and permeability) in carbonate formations is challenging due to the heterogeneity at different scales and complex pore structure of carbonate rocks. We have developed an integrated technique for multiscale characterization of carbonate pore structure based on mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) measurements, X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) 3D rock images, and well logs. We have determined pore types based on the pore-throat radius distributions obtained from MICP measurements. We developed a new method for improved assessment of effective porosity and permeability in the well-log domain using pore-scale numerical simulations of fluid flow and electric current flow in 3D micro-CT core images obtained in each pore type. Finally, we conducted petrophysical rock classification based on the depth-by-depth estimates of effective porosity, permeability, volumetric concentrations of minerals, and pore types using an unsupervised artificial neural network. We have successfully applied the proposed technique to three wells in the Scurry Area Canyon Reef Operators Committee (SACROC ) Unit. Our results find that electrical resistivity measurements can be used for reliable characterization of pore structure and assessment of effective porosity and permeability in carbonate formations. The estimates of permeability in the well-log domain were cross-validated using the available core measurements. We have observed a 34% improvement in relative errors in well-log-based estimates of permeability, as compared with the core-based porosity-permeability models.
Intra-specific variation in wing morphology and its impact on take-off performance in blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus) during escape flights
Authors: McFarlane Laura , Altringham John D. , Askew Graham N.
Published: March 2016

Diurnal and seasonal increases in body mass and seasonal reductions in wing area may compromise a bird's ability to escape, as less of the power available from the flight muscles can be used to accelerate and elevate the animal's centre of mass. Here we investigated the effects of intra-specific variation in wing morphology on escape take-off performance in blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus). Flights were recorded using synchronised high-speed video cameras and take-off performance was quantified as the sum of the rates of change of the kinetic and potential energies of the centre of mass. Individuals with a lower wing loading, WL (WL=body weight/ wing area) had higher escape take-off performance, consistent with the increase in lift production expected from relatively larger wings. Unexpectedly, it was found that the total power available from the flight muscles (estimated using an aerodynamic analysis) was inversely related to WL. This could simply be because birds with a higher WL have relatively smaller flight muscles. Alternatively or additionally, variation in the aerodynamic load on the wing resulting from differences in wing morphology will affect the mechanical performance of the flight muscles via effects on the muscle's length trajectory. Consistent with this hypothesis is the observation that wing beat frequency and relative downstroke duration increase with decreasing WL; both are factors that are expected to increase muscle power output. Understanding how wing morphology influences take-off performance gives insight into the potential risks associated with feather loss and seasonal and diurnal fluctuations in body mass.
Determination of the wingsnap sonation mechanism of the Golden-collared manakin (Manacus vitellinus)
Authors: Bodony Daniel J. , Day Lainy , Friscia Anthony R. , Fusani Leonida , Kharon Aharon , Swenson George W. , Wikelski Martin , Schlinger Barney A.
Published: March 2016

Male Golden-collared manakins (Manacus vitellinus), small suboscine passeriform birds of Panamanian forests, communicate acoustically using a variety of nonvocal sonations. The most prominent sonations are single or multiple intense ‘wingsnaps’ with a dominant acoustic frequency around 5 kHz. Several hypotheses have been proposed addressing the source of the sound, ranging from purely aerodynamic origins (due to a rapid jet of air formed by the wings or by a ‘whiplike’ motion) to purely structural origins (such as physical contact of the wings), but without deﬁnitive assessment. Using anatomical analysis as well as high-speed video and synchronized audio recordings, we show that compared to related species, Manacus radii are morphologically unique and confirm that they collide over the back of the bird at the moment (± 1 ms) the wingsnap is produced. Using aeroacoustic theory, we quantitatively estimate the acoustic signatures from three previously proposed sonation mechanisms. We conclude that only the physical contact hypothesis, wherein the wing collisions create the sound, is consistent with the measured sonation.
Sperm chemotaxis promotes individual fertilization success in sea urchins
Authors: Hussain Yasmeen H. , Guasto Jeffrey S. , Zimmer Richard K. , Stocker Roman , Riffell Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2016

Reproductive success fundamentally shapes an organism's ecology and evolution, and gamete traits mediate fertilization, which is a critical juncture in reproduction. Individual male fertilization success is dependent on the ability of sperm from one male to outcompete the sperm of other males when searching for a conspecific egg. Sperm chemotaxis, the ability of sperm to navigate towards eggs using chemical signals, has been studied for over a century, but such studies have long assumed that this phenomenon improves individual male fitness without explicit evidence to support this claim. Here, we assess fertilization changes upon use of a chemoattractant-digesting peptidase and use a microfluidic device coupled with a fertilization assay to determine the effect of sperm chemotaxis on individual male fertilization success in the sea urchin Lytechinus pictus. We show that removing chemoattractant from the gametic environment decreases fertilization success. We further find that individual male differences in chemotaxis to a well-defined gradient of attractant correlate with individual male differences in fertilization success. These results demonstrate that sperm chemotaxis is an important contributor to individual reproductive success.
Using accelerometers to remotely and automatically characterize behavior in small animals
Authors: Hammond Talisin T. , Springthorpe Dwight , Walsh Rachel E. , Berg-Kirkpatrick Taylor
Published: March 2016

Activity budgets in wild animals are challenging to measure via direct observation because data collection is time consuming and observer effects are potentially confounding. Although tri-axial accelerometers are increasingly employed for this purpose, their application in small-bodied animals has been limited by weight restrictions. Additionally, accelerometers engender novel complications, as a system is needed to reliably map acceleration to behaviors. In this study we describe newly-developed, tiny acceleration-logging devices (1.5-2.5 grams) and use them to characterize behavior in two chipmunk species. We collected paired accelerometer readings and behavioral observations from captive individuals. We then employed techniques from machine learning to develop an automatic system for coding accelerometer readings into behavioral categories. Finally, we deployed and recovered accelerometers from free-living, wild chipmunks. This is the first time to our knowledge that accelerometers have been used to generate behavioral data for small-bodied (<100 gram), free-living mammals.
Evidence for a role of heme oxygenase-1 in the control of cardiac function in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae exposed to hypoxia
Authors: Tzaneva Velislava , Perry Steve F.
Published: March 2016

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gaseous neurotransmitter produced from the breakdown of heme via heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1; hypoxia inducible isoform) and 2 (HO-2; constitutively expressed isoform). In mammals, CO is involved in modulating cardiac function. The role of the HO-1/CO system in the control of heart function in fish, however, is unknown and investigating its physiological function in lower vertebrates will provide a better understanding of the evolution of this regulatory mechanism. We explored the role of the HO-1/CO system in larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) in vivo by investigating the impact of translational gene knockdown of HO-1 on cardiac function. Immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of HO-1 in the pacemaker cells of the heart at 4 days post fertilization and thus the potential for CO production at these sites. Sham zebrafish larvae (experiencing normal levels of HO-1) significantly increased heart rate (fH) when exposed to hypoxia (PwO2=30 mmHg). Zebrafish larvae lacking HO-1 expression after morpholino knockdown (morphants) exhibited significantly higher fH under normoxic (but not hypoxic) conditions when compared to shams. The increased fH in HO-1 morphants was rescued (fH was restored to control levels) after treatment of larvae with a CO releasing molecule (40 µM CORM). The HO-1 deficient larvae developed significantly larger ventricles and when exposed to hypoxia they displayed higher cardiac outputs (Q) and stroke volumes (SV). These results suggest that under hypoxic conditions, HO-1 regulates Q and SV presumably via the production of CO. Overall, this study provides a better understanding into the role of the HO-1/CO system in controlling heart function in lower vertebrates. We demonstrate for the first time the ability for CO to be produced in presumptive pacemaker cells of the heart where it plays an inhibitory role in setting the resting cardiac frequency.
Phenophysiological variation of a bee that regulates hive humidity, but not hive temperature
Authors: Ayton Sasha , Tomlinson Sean , Phillips Ryan D. , Dixon Kingsley W. , Withers Philip C.
Published: March 2016

Seasonal acclimatisation of thermal tolerance, evaporative water loss and metabolic rate, along with regulation of the hive environment, are key ways whereby hive-based social insects mediate climatic challenges throughout the year, but the relative importance of these traits remains poorly understood. We examined seasonal variation in metabolic rate and evaporative water loss of worker bees, and seasonal variation of hive temperature and humidity, for the stingless bee Austroplebeia essingtoni (Apidae; Meliponini) in arid tropical Australia. Both water loss and metabolic rate were lower in the cooler, dry winter than in the hot, wet summer at most ambient temperatures between 20°C and 45°C. Contrary to expectation, thermal tolerance thresholds were higher in the winter than in the summer. Hives were cooler in the cooler, dry winter than in the hot, wet summer, linked to an apparent lack of hive thermoregulation. The humidity of hives was regulated at approximately 65% RH in both seasons, which is higher than unoccupied control hives in the dry season, but less than unoccupied control hives in the wet season. While adaptations to promote water balance appear more important for survival of A. essingtoni than traits related to temperature regulation, their capacity for water conservation is coincident with increased thermal tolerance. For these small, eusocial stingless bees in the arid tropics, where air temperatures are relatively high and stable compared with temperate areas, regulation of hive humidity appears to be of more importance than temperature in maintaining hive health.
Analytic and numerical solution for duffing equations
Authors: AL-Jawary Majeed , Abd- AL- Razaq Sayl
Published: March 2016

Daftardar Gejji and Hossein Jafari have proposed a new iterative method for solving many of the linear and nonlinear equations namely (DJM). This method proved already the effectiveness in solved many of the ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations and integral equations. The main aim from this paper is to propose the Daftardar-Jafari method (DJM) to solve the Duffing equations and to find the exact solution and numerical solutions. The proposed (DJM) is very effective and reliable, and the solution is obtained in the series form with easily computed components. The software used for the calculations in this study was MATHEMATICAÂ® 9.0.
A preliminary analysis of California’s New Local Control Funding Formula
Authors: Wolf Rebecca , Sands Janelle
Published: March 2016

California recently overhauled its K–12 public education finance system. Enacted in 2013, the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) replaced California’s 40-year-old funding formula. The LCFF increases district officials’ fiscal flexibility; provides more resources to districts serving larger proportions of low-income, English learner (EL), and foster youth students; and requires district officials to engage community members in district decisions. This article expands on a study conducted by a team of 12 independent researchers that investigated the early implementation of the LCFF. The study sought to answer three research questions: (a) how are district officials using their newfound budget flexibility? (b) how are district officials engaging parents and other stakeholders? (c) what are the opportunities provided to districts under the LCFF and the challenges it creates for them? Data include 71 semi-structured interviews with district stakeholders across 10 diverse districts in California and 22 interviews with county office of education (COE) officials across the state. Findings include that respondents were cautiously optimistic about the LCFF. District officials appreciated increased budget flexibility and the focus on community engagement. Inevitably, however, district and COE officials experienced challenges in implementing the law during its first year.
INHIBITION OF Escherichia coli O157:H7 CONTAMINATION ON CHICKEN MEAT BY NATURAL VINEGAR PREPARED FROM BANANA PEEL AND COCONUT WATER
Authors: Miskiyah M. , Juniawati J. , Andriani A.
Published: March 2016

The use of vinegar as a natural preservative to inactivate microbial growth in meat was investigated. Vinegar was prepared from banana peel and coconut water, and the efficacy against Escherichia coli O157:H7 was tested. Chicken meat were treated with vinegar solution (equals to 1% acetic acid), acetic acid solutions (1%), and lactic acid solutions (2%), control (distilled water). Samples were soaked with acid solution treatment for 1 minute (1.125:1 w/v; chicken meat: solution treatment). Treated samples were inoculated with E. coli O157:H7 on the surface of the chicken meat, then left for 20 minutes for absorption of bacteria into the meat. Observation was done at 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 days at low temperature storage, and at 0, 6, 12, 18, 24 hours at room temperature storage. The results showed that banana peel vinegar and coconut water vinegar were effective as natural preservative. In conclusion, the vinegar were potentially inhibited E. coli O157:H7 growth at chicken meat until 12 hours at room temperature storage and 9 days at cold temperatures.
SYNCHRONIZATION OF CARBOHYDRATE AND PROTEIN SUPPLY IN THE SUGARCANE BAGASSE BASED RATION ON IN SITU NUTRIENT DEGRADABILITY
Authors: Sani F. F. , Nuswantara L. K. , Pangestu E. , Wahyono F. , Achmadi J.
Published: March 2016

Two adult male sheeps fitted with rumen cannula were used in two experiments to study the effects of synchronization of carbohydrate and nitrogen supply in sugarcane bagasse based total mixed ration (TMR) on in situ nutrient degradation. The first experiment was aimed to create three TMR with different synchronization index. Ingredient feedstuffs of TMR were evaluated for its in situ organic matter (OM) and nitrogen (N) degradation kinetics. On the basis of the OM and N degradation kinetics of feedstuffs, three sugarcane bagasse based TMR were formulated with synchronization indexes of 0.37; 0.50; and 0.63; respectively. The TMR had similar levels of crude protein (CP), total digestible nutrients, and neutral detergent fiber (NDF). In the second experiment, the three TMR with different synchronization index were evaluated for in situ degradability characteristics of OM, CP, NDF, and sulfur. The in situ degradation of OM in TMR were decreased (P<0.05) with the increasing of synchronization index. The higher synchronization index in TMR increased (P<0.05) CP degradation of CP. The NDF degradation decreased slightly by the alteration of synchronization index in TMR. The higher synchronization index in TMR reduced (P<0.05) in situ sulfur degradation, and this may not support to effects of synchronization of carbohydrate and nitrogen supply.
Mountain pass solutions for perturbed Hardy–Sobolev equations on compact manifolds
Authors: Jaber Hassan
Published: March 2016

Let

where
Crystal structure of 2-benzoyl-3-(4-fluorophenyl)cyclopropane-1,1-dicarbonitrile, C18H11FN2O
Authors: Yang Pinghua , Wang Changqing
Published: March 2016

C18H11FN2O, monoclinic C2/c (no. 15), a = 21.221(13) Å, b = 6.325(4) Å, c = 22.732(14) Å, β = 108.922(16)°, V = 2886(3) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt
(F) = 0.0410, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1139, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of 9-allyl-4,5-dichloro-12-cyano-9,10-dihydro-9,10-ethanoanthracen-12-yl acetate, C22H17Cl2NO2
Authors: Sultan Mujeeb A. , Karama Usama , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Al-saeedi Adel , Ghabbour Hazem A.
Published: March 2016

C22H17Cl2NO2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.9960(2) Å, b = 15.9202(4) Å, c = 13.2049(3) Å, β = 94.369(1)°, V = 1885.69(8) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0420, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1237, T = 100 K.
Atorvastatin and Kidney: the Pros and Cons of the Cholesterol Killer
Authors: Kristoff Karen Lynn
Published: March 2016

Atorvastatin, one of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, takes effect on regulating the level of cholesterol. It is beneficial in most of the cases like preventing stoke and coronary heart disease. Whereas it has been noted that atorvastatin can the breakdown of the tissues in the skeletal muscle thus leading to the kidney failure. Atorvastatin itself or in combination with other drugs can result in toxin effect on non-targeted organs. We should be cautious when prescribe this drug with thorough evaluation and careful consideration. Individualized or personalized usage of atorvastatin should be an evidence-based manner. Kidneys, as the outlet of the wastes from cellular metabolism, have been shown that function as the causing aspect of many other diseases due to the problem of its blood vessels narrowing which eventually results in piling up of the disease-causing wastes. The fact that the kidney is not able to function normally and extract the waste in the body like cholesterol means that the cholesterol in the body blood vessel will be deposited on the wall. Even atorvastatin functions as the killer of cholesterol, it still should be cautious when prescribe this drug to patients with reduced renal function, especially to those with chronic kidney disease, because of its nephritic toxic effect.