cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Concentric Permutation Source Codes

Permutation codes are a class of structured vector quantizers with a computationally-simple encoding procedure based on sorting the scalar components. Using a codebook comprising several permutation codes as subcodes preserves the simplicity of encoding while increasing the number of rate-distortion operating points, improving the convex hull of operating points, and increasing design complexity. We show that when the subcodes are designed with the same composition, optimization of the codebook reduces to a lower-dimensional vector quantizer design within a single cone. Heuristics for reducing design complexity are presented, including an optimization of the rate allocation in a shape-gain vector quantizer with gain-dependent wrapped spherical shape codebook.
Effects of Continuous Infusion of Endothelin-1 in Pregnant Sheep

Plasma concentration of endothelin-1, a potent vasoconstrictor produced by the vascular endothelium, has been observed to be significantly increased in a number of pathophysiological states, including preeclampsia. In the present study we have evaluated the effects of elevated plasma endothelin-1 in pregnant sheep by continuous exogenous endothelin-1 administration. Nine pregnant ewes (110+/-5 days' gestation) were instrumented for measurements of maternal mean arterial pressure, renal blood flow, and uterine blood flow. After recovery, endothelin-1 was infused intravenously for 4 hours at a dose that was adjusted to raise mean arterial pressure by approximately 20 mm Hg by the end of the first hour (range 5 to 20 ng/kg per minute). Mean arterial pressure, renal blood flow, uterine blood flow, urinary protein excretion, hematocrit, and plasma endothelin-1 concentration were measured hourly, and renal and uterine vascular resistances were calculated. Endothelin-1 produced significant increases (% change from baseline at t=4 hours) in mean arterial pressure (45+/-8%), renal vascular resistance (353+/-66 %), and uterine vascular resistance (59+/-21%). Endothelin-1 also increased microvascular permeability both systemically and within the kidney, as suggested by marked increases in hematocrit (0.27+/-0.01 to 0.32+/-0.01) and urinary protein concentration (0.95+/-0.1 to 7.9+/-3.2 mg/mL per mg creatinine). There was a highly significant correlation (P<.0001) between plasma endothelin-1 and mean arterial pressure, renal vascular resistance, uterine vascular resistance, hematocrit, and urinary protein content in all sheep studied. In addition, plasma endothelin-1 corresponded well with the time course of the changes in cardiovascular parameters and urinary protein excretion observed. These results provide evidence to suggest that elevation of circulating endothelin-1 in pregnant sheep can produce cardiovascular and hemodynamic changes that in many ways resemble the human disease preeclampsia. This supports the hypothesis that endothelial cell damage and/or dysfunction that is associated with increased production of endothelin-1 could directly contribute to the progression of preeclampsia.
Structure of the bis(Mg2+)-ATP-oxalate complex of the rabbit muscle pyruvate kinase at 2.1 A resolution: ATP binding over a barrel

Pyruvate kinase from rabbit muscle has been cocrystallized as a complex with MgIIATP, oxalate, Mg2+, and either K+ or Na+. Crystals with either Na+ or K+ belong to the space group P2(1)2(1)2(1), and the asymmetric units contain two tetramers. The structures were solved by molecular replacement and refined to 2.1 (K+) and 2.35 A (Na+) resolution. The structures of the Na+ and K+ complexes are virtually isomorphous. Each of the eight subunits within the asymmetric unit contains MgIIoxalate as a bidentate complex linked to the protein through coordination of Mg2+ to the carboxylates of Glu 271 and Asp 295. Six of the subunits also contain an alpha,beta,gamma-tridentate complex of MgIIATP, and the active-site cleft, located between domains A and B, is closed in these subunits. In the remaining two subunits MgIIATP is missing, and the active-site cleft is open. Closure of the active-site cleft in the fully liganded subunits includes a rotation of 41 degrees of the B domain relative to the A domain. alpha-Carbons of residues in the B domain undergo movements of up to 17.8 A (Lys 124) in the cleft closure. Lys 206, Arg 119, and Asp 177 from the B domain move several angstroms from their positions in the open conformation to contact the MgIIATP complex in the active site. The gamma-phosphate of ATP coordinates to both magnesium ions and to the monovalent cation, K+ or Na+. A Mg2+-coordinated oxygen from the MgIIoxalate complex lies 3.0 A from Pgamma of ATP, and this oxygen is positioned for an in-line attack on the phosphorus. The side chains of Lys 269 and Arg 119 are positioned to provide leaving-group activation in the forward and reverse directions. There is no obvious candidate for the acid/base catalyst near the 2-si face of the prospective enolate of the normal substrate. A functional group linked through solvent and side-chain hydroxyls may function in a proton relay.
Preliminary Results of a Cold Flow Test in a Fuel Cell Gas Turbine Hybrid Simulation Facility

The dynamic interdependencies created during the integration of fuel cell and a gas turbine in a hybrid power generation system are not well understood. Because these systems are new, there are risks that unexpected complications might arise during both steady state operation and transient events. A 250kW experimental fuel cell gas turbine simulation facility has been constructed at the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), U.S. Department of Energy to examine the effects of transient events on the dynamics of these systems. A natural gas burner controlled by a real-time fuel cell model is used in the facility to simulate the thermal output of a solid oxide fuel cell during transient events. Pressure vessels are used for simulating the cathode and post combustion volumes, and are integrated into the system with a modified turbine and the fuel cell simulator. Preliminary results of system characterization are presented and discussed in context of the test scenarios proposed for experimental evaluation of thermal and mechanical transient impact on fuel cell and the gas turbine systems.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Obesity and dementia: lifecourse evidence and mechanisms

Recent work has indicated that obesity increases the risk of developing all-cause dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative processes in the brain. Given the current epidemic of obesity and the expected age-related increase in dementia incidence, even a modest association between these two conditions has far reaching public health implications. However, due to the effects of both Alzheimer’s disease-associated weight loss and age-related changes in body composition, there are methodological challenges in assessing obesity as a risk factor for developing dementia. There is a need to take a ‘life-course approach’ and to consider the role of risk factors prior to old age. In addition, there is value in assessing regional body shape distributions of adiposity. Several mechanistic pathways such as comobid disease, leptin, adiponectin and inflammatory cytokines could explain the association between obesity and increased risk of dementia.
A Critique of Lévi-Strauss’ Theory of Myth and the Elements of a Semiotic Alternative

In his early work Levi-Strauss claims that “the purpose of the myth is to provide a logical model capable of overcoming a contradiction” (1963:229). “Mythical thought always progresses from the awareness of oppositions toward their resolution.” (1963:224). Levi-Strauss suggests four logical processes whose function is precisely this mediation: In the analysis of the Oedipus myth he seems to claim that this is achieved through a homology between contradictories, i.e., the overrating of blood relations is to the underrating of blood relations as the affirmation of autochthonous origin to its denial. That is to say in general: $$ {}^{\text{s}}1{}^:{\text{ }}{}^{{\text{ - s}}}{1^{::}}^{{\text{ s}}}{2^:}{{\text{ }}^{{\text{ - s}}}}2$$
Iliosacral screw fixation of the posterior pelvic ring using local anaesthesia and computerised tomography

Various techniques have been used for the fixation of the posterior pelvis, each with disadvantages specific to the technique. In this study, a new protocol involving the placement of posterior pelvic screws in the CT suite is described and evaluated. A total of 66 patients with unstable pelvic ring injuries was stabilised under local anaesthesia with sedation. The mean length of time for the procedure was 26 minutes per screw. There were no technical difficulties or misplaced screws and no cases of infection or nonunion. All patients stated that they would choose to have the CT scan procedure again rather than a procedure requiring general anaesthesia. The charges for the procedure were approximately £1840 ($2800) per operation. CT-guided placement of iliosacral screws is a safe, feasible, and cost-effective alternative to radiologically-guided placement in the operating theatre in selected patients.
Neuropsychological sequelae of non-central nervous system cancer and cancer therapy

Cancer patients report numerous adverse symptoms associated with their disease and treatment including cognitive dysfunction, fatigue, and affective distress. Cognitive dysfunction is ubiquitous in patients with primary central nervous system (CNS) cancer and recent evidence has documented similar deficits in patients with non-CNS cancer as well. Both the cancer itself and treatments including chemotherapy, biological response modifiers, and hormonal therapies have been demonstrated to adversely impact cognitive and neurobehavioral function. Neuroimaging and neurophysiological investigations have likewise revealed alterations in brain function that are helping to account for the nature of these cognitive disorders. Similarly, preclinical animal research is assisting to identify the pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie treatment-related neurotoxicities. The coalescence of multidisciplinary clinical and research efforts hold promise for the development of interventions that may offer neuroprotection in addition to currently available symptomatic therapies and cognitive rehabilitation techniques.
Differential cognitive effects of energy drink ingredients: Caffeine, taurine, and glucose

Energy drinks containing caffeine, taurine, and glucose may improve mood and cognitive performance. However, there are no studies assessing the individual and interactive effects of these ingredients. We evaluated the effects of caffeine, taurine, and glucose alone and in combination on cognitive performance and mood in 24-hour caffeine-abstained habitual caffeine consumers. Using a randomized, double-blind, mixed design, 48 habitual caffeine consumers (18 male, 30 female) who were 24-hour caffeine deprived received one of four treatments (200 mg caffeine/0 mg taurine, 0 mg caffeine/2000 mg taurine, 200 mg caffeine/2000 mg taurine, 0 mg caffeine/0 mg taurine), on each of four separate days, separated by a 3-day wash-out period. Between-participants treatment was a glucose drink (50 g glucose, placebo). Salivary cortisol, mood and heart rate were measured. An attention task was administered 30-minutes post-treatment, followed by a working memory and reaction time task 60-minutes post-treatment. Caffeine enhanced executive control and working memory, and reduced simple and choice reaction time. Taurine increased choice reaction time but reduced reaction time in the working memory tasks. Glucose alone slowed choice reaction time. Glucose in combination with caffeine, enhanced object working memory and in combination with taurine, enhanced orienting attention. Limited glucose effects may reflect low task difficulty relative to subjects' cognitive ability. Caffeine reduced feelings of fatigue and increased tension and vigor. Taurine reversed the effects of caffeine on vigor and caffeine-withdrawal symptoms. No effects were found for salivary cortisol or heart rate. Caffeine, not taurine or glucose, is likely responsible for reported changes in cognitive performance following consumption of energy drinks, especially in caffeine-withdrawn habitual caffeine consumers.
The Moodus earthquakes and the cause of earthquakes in New England

The occurrence of two small earthquakes at Moodus, Connecticut, early in March, 1940, has presented a fresh opportunity to study this active seismic area and to review its history. The writer is indebted to the Connecticut Geological and Natural History Survey for permission to use parts of an unpublished manuscript, by the late Professor Wilbur Foye of Wesleyan University, dealing with the seismic history of the region as one phase of his study of the Eastern Highlands of Connecticut. Moodus, in the township of East Haddam, has long been famous for its earthquakes and earth-noises. The latter are sounds undoubtedly associated with seismic activity but occurring at times when no perceptible shock is noted. No record has ever been kept of the numerous small shocks which have occurred here since colonial days, but there is every indication that the total must be several hundred. About a dozen larger shocks, probably ranging between V and VI on the Rossi-Forrel scale, have been noted, and one shock has been estimated at VIII, that is, strong enough to crack the walls of buildings.
Open water test of the SonTek acoustic Doppler velocimeter

In June of 1994, the SonTek acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV) was deployed for two days from the dock at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and for one day from the R/V Asterias in Buzzards Bay. The ADV was hung at a depth of approximately 2 meters below the surface. A vector averaging current meter (VMCM), used as a standard, was deployed along side. The ADV had a signal to noise of 18 to 20 dB and the velocity record is very clean with very few dropouts. During a two hour time period, 7 second averaged speeds from the two current meters had a correlation coefficient of 0.955, a mean difference of 1.8 cm s/sup -1/ and a standard deviation of 2.1 cm s/sup -1/. In an effort to characterize the high frequency response of the ADV, burst sample data, with sampling at 25 Hz and collected in different wave conditions, in artificially introduced bubble clouds and in the wake of the ship propeller, is examined.
DM EMI noise prediction in constant on-time PFC

The EMI characteristics of the constant on-time PFC have not been carefully identified because its EMI performance is unclear. In this paper, a mathematical model based on the principle of the quasi-peak detection is proposed to predict the EMI noise of the constant on-time PFC. The developed prediction method is verified by experimental results. The predicted DM EMI noise can match the measured quasi-peak DM EMI noise very well. The proposed mathematical model would be very helpful to the investigation of the EMI characteristics of the constant on-time PFC and the design of the EMI filter.
Class formations: Competing forms of black middle-class identity

Although some scholars continue to debate the relative significance of race versus class, others have argued for an analysis that underscores the interlocking nature of these stratification systems. This research builds upon the intersectionality perspective to investigate the importance of culture in understanding racial and class stratification and identity. By describing a racialized class structure, this research challenges race scholars to rethink the meanings of socioeconomic class. It also identifies ways in which class shapes the articulation of a black racial identity. The article presents two competing forms of black middle-class identity (multi-class and middle-class minded) in the USA that highlight the intersections of race, class and culture. The data is based on a three-year community ethnography, including interviews with 35 residents. Results show the centrality of morality and a racial ideology of resistance as prominent resistance strategies of action with a black middle-class habitus. ...
Cyclooxygenase-2 and Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1 Are Overexpressed in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Penis

Purpose: Prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) promotes malignant growth. Cyclooxygenase (COX) catalyzes the synthesis of PGH 2 , which is converted, in turn, by microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES-1) to PGE 2 . One strategy for inhibiting carcinogenesis is to prevent PGE 2 production in premalignant and malignant tissues. It is important, therefore, to determine whether enzymes involved in PGE 2 biosynthesis are deregulated in neoplasia. The main purpose of this study was to determine whether amounts of COX-2 or mPGES-1 were increased in intraepithelial neoplasia or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the penis. Because human papillomavirus (HPV) has been linked to the development of penile SCC, a secondary objective was to determine whether COX-2 was overexpressed in SCC arising in an HPV16 transgenic mouse. Experimental Design: Immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were used to evaluate the expression of COX-2 and mPGES-1 in benign and malignant lesions including metastases to lymph nodes. Amounts of intratumoral PGE 2 were quantified by enzyme immunoassay. Reverse transcription-PCR was used to determine the expression of each of the four known receptors (EP 1–4 ) for PGE 2. Results: Immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased expression of COX-2 and mPGES-1 in dysplasia, carcinoma in situ , invasive SCC, and metastases to lymph nodes. Immunoblot analysis confirmed that COX-2 and mPGES-1 were consistently overexpressed in SCC. PGE 2 and all four of the PGE 2 receptor subtypes were detected in each of the tumor samples. Elevated levels of COX-2 were also detected in SCC arising in an HPV16 transgenic mouse. Conclusions: Increased amounts of COX-2 and mPGES-1 were detected in penile intraepithelial neoplasia and carcinoma. These findings provide the basis for evaluating whether inhibiting COX-2 will be useful in the prevention or treatment of penile SCC.
Plant Community Structure and Conservation of a Northern Peru Sclerophyllous Forest

The vegetation near El Bosque Petrificado Piedra Chamana, in the northern Peruvian Andes, is evergreen sclerophyllous forest with significant shrub, epiphyte, and mat components. Important/characteristic genera include Dodonaea, Polylepis, Oreopanax, Oreocallis, Myrcianthes, and the mat-forming orchid Pleurothallis. A vegetation survey including 12 transects and 240 plots in high- and low-grazed areas documented 96 plant species. Compared with low-grazed areas, high-grazed areas had significantly fewer tree species, more herbs, and higher density of individuals. Both grazing categories exhibited high connectedness (as seen in network metrics) and positive biotic associations (nestedness), suggesting facilitation of some species by others, but high-grazed areas showed greater indications of positive associations (as seen in the C-score and V-ratio). These positive biotic associations may relate to the harsh environment and the role of keystone taxa such as Dodonaea viscosa, canopy trees, and mat-forming elements in moderating conditions and promoting species establishment. Only in the low-grazed areas was there any indication of competitive interactions (negative C-score/ less than expected species-pair occurrence). The shift in sign of the C-score, from negative in low-grazed areas to positive in high-grazed areas, indicates a loss of competitive interactions as a factor influencing community structure where grazing pressure is higher. Conservation of the area's natural resources would be advanced by protection of areas where the vegetation structure is more intact, better controls on grazing animals, and identification of development alternatives that would reduce pressure on the area's unique vegetation.
Learning Traffic Patterns at Intersections by Spectral Clustering of Motion Trajectories

We address the problem of automatically learning the layout of a traffic intersection from trajectories of vehicles obtained by a vision tracking system. We present a similarity measure which is suitable for use with spectral clustering in problems that emphasize spatial distinctions between vehicle trajectories. The robustness of the method to small perturbations and its sensitivity to the choice of parameters are evaluated using real-world data.
Increased expression of δ-catenin/neural plakophilin-related armadillo protein is associated with the down-regulation and redistribution of E-cadherin and p120ctn in human prostate cancer

Summary δ -Catenin, or neural plakophilin-related armadillo protein, is a unique armadillo domain-containing protein in that it is neural-specific and primarily expressed in the brain. However, our recent analysis of the human genome revealed a consistent association of δ-catenin messenger RNA sequences with malignant cells, although the significance of these findings was unclear. In this study, we report that a number of δ -catenin epitopes were expressed in human prostate cancer cells. Western blot and tissue microarray revealed a close association between increased δ -catenin expression and human primary prostatic adenocarcinomas. The analyses of 90 human prostate cancer and 90 benign prostate tissue samples demonstrated that an estimated 85% of prostatic adenocarcinomas showed enhanced δ -catenin immunoreactivity. δ -Catenin expression increased with prognostically significant increased Gleason scores. By analyzing the same tumor cell clusters using consecutive sections, we showed that an increased δ -catenin immunoreactivity was accompanied by the down-regulation and redistribution of E-cadherin and p120 ctn , major cell junction proteins whose inactivation is frequently associated with cancer progression. Furthermore, overexpression of δ -catenin in tumorigenic CWR-R1 cells that are derived from human prostate cancer xenograft resulted in reduced immunoreactivity for E-cadherin and p120 ctn at the cell-cell junction. This is the first study comparing overexpression of δ -catenin with the E-cadherin/catenin system in cancer and shows that δ -catenin may be intimately involved in regulating E-cadherin/p120 ctn cell-cell adhesion in prostate cancer progression.
TREE ROOSTING BY MALE AND FEMALE EASTERN PIPISTRELLES IN A FORESTED LANDSCAPE

Little information has been published on selection of tree roosts by eastern pipistrelles (Perimyotis subflavus )i n forested environments, and no radiotelemetry-based studies have been conducted on males in forested settings. Therefore, we used radiotelemetry to characterize summer roost selection by 21 male (33 roosts) and 7 female (14 roosts) eastern pipistrelles during 6 years in a forested region of the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. All roosts were located in the vegetation of tree canopies; 50% of roosts of females and 91% of roosts of males were in dead leaves of deciduous trees. Three (43%) of 7 maternity colonies were in dead needles of large live pines (Pinus echinata); this is the 1st documented use of pines by this species for roosting. Males selected tree sizes randomly but females selected trees that were larger (P , 0.05) than random. For males, 87% of roosts were in oaks (Quercus), and males roosted at sites with more midstory hardwoods, more large pines in the overstory, less canopy cover, and farther from the nearest trees than random locations. In a landscape offering a diversity of forest habitats, eastern pipistrelles during summer roosted mostly in leaves of oaks in mature (� 50-year-old) forest with a relatively complex structure and a hardwood component.
And on the Eighth Day, God Created Rhetoricians: A Case Study of the Creation Museum

This article begins with a literature review that, first, justifies museums as rhetorical artifacts and situates the Creation Museum within museum theory; second, it outlines my theoretical framework: Bormann’s fantasy theme analysis, his rhetorical form “fetching good out of evil” (a derivative of the Puritan jeremiad), and Paul Messaris’s mechanisms of visual persuasion, foundational to museum analysis. With Bormann as my analytical frame, I examine the various rhetorical techniques the Creation Museum uses to fortify believers’ faith by showing the intrinsic beauty of Eden, depicting calamities within the post-fall world, and positing the inerrancy of scripture.
Statin Intolerance From a Clinician’s Perspective

The value of statins in decreasing the incidence of cardiovascular (CV) events is well established. However, a significant problem is patient adherence, and this is where the difficulties and frustration begin. In a recent viewpoint published in Journal of the American Medical Association, Newman and Tobert conclude that statin intolerance usually occurs from a perception that these drugs cause muscle symptoms and that most such patients can tolerate a statin. At times, it is difficult for any experienced clinician not to feel this way after dealing with the frustration of one statin failure after another, including even a low-dose statin twice weekly.
Studies of Two Species of Endogone in Culture

(1936). Studies of Two Species of Endogone in Culture. Mycologia: Vol. 28, No. 1, pp. 47-62.
Further Studies of Metabolic Removal of Alkyl Groups from Nitrogen in Barbituric Acid Derivatives.

SummaryAnalytical methods are described for the simultaneous determination in plasma of N-ethyl barbital and barbital or N-propyl barbital and barbital. These methods have been used to study the metabolic fate in the dog of the N-ethyl and N-propyl derivatives of barbital. Both of these compounds disappear slowly from the plasma. N-ethyl barbital is converted in considerable part to barbital, the concentration of that substance in plasma increasing for more than a day. N-propyl barbital is converted to barbital only to a very small extent. By means of methods previously developed for the simultaneous determination of N-methyl barbital and barbital in plasma, the fate of N;N′-dimethyl barbital has been studied. Both methyl groups are removed from this compound, the first much more rapidly than the second.
Failure of aureomycin and terramycin to increase resistance to toxic action of influenza virus.

SummaryAureomycin and terramycin, administered subcutaneously and orally, did not increase the resistance of mice or rats to the acute toxic action of influenza A virus.
Some Early Effects of Ionizing Radiation on the German Cockroach, Blattella germanica

Large nymphs of the German cockroach have been exposed to ionizing radiation at two similar Cobalt-60 sources. The insects received dosages ranging from 100r-9600r. A number of effects of these total body irradiations became apparent shortly after exposure, and are described. Data are given on mortality occurring at the 6400r and 9600r levels, on male and female sterility at 3200r, and on the progressive decrease in numbers of reproductive females, offspring per egg case and normal ovarioles at the lower dosages. Dissections of both normal and irradiated males and females, showing visible effects of irradiation on the ovaries, testes and on spermatogenesis, are also described. An explanation of the decrease in reproductivity and the occurrence of sterility is made on the basis of the probable presence of dominant lethals and on information obtained from dissection.
Accuracy of calculations of heats of reduction/hydrogenation: application to some small ring systems.

The enthalpies of reduction of carbonyl compounds and hydrogenation of alkenes have been calculated at the HF, B3LYP, M06, MP2, G3, G4, CBS-QB3, CBS-APNO, and W1BD levels and, in the case of the first four methods, using a variety of basis sets up to aug-cc-pVTZ. The results are compared with the available experimental data, and it is found that the compound methods are generally more satisfactory than the others. Large basis sets are usually needed in order to reproduce experiments. Some C–C bond hydrogenolysis reactions also have been examined including those of bicycloalkanes and propellanes. In addition, the dimerization of the remarkably strained bicyclo[2.2.0]hex(1,4)ene was studied. The reaction forming a pentacyclic propellane was calculated to have ΔH = −57 kcal/mol, and the cleavage of the propellane to give a diene had ΔH = −71 kcal/mol. The strain energies of these compounds were estimated.
Evaluating Online Resources for College and University Libraries: Assessing Value and Cost Based on Academic Needs

ABSTRACTThis guide presents several fundamental principles for the evaluation and selection of online resources in academic libraries. It first describes the universe of scholarly documents: the narrow scope of most academic library collections; the distinctions between information, documents, titles, information resources, and products; and the striking variations in impact and importance that can be seen among both articles and journals. Second, the article discusses the ways in which libraries can help meet academic needs by selecting only high-quality resources that strengthen the links between course requirements and broader educational goals. Specifically, it addresses the distinction between students’ wants and needs, the primacy of content, the importance of comparative assessments, the advantages of title-by-title selection, and the need for resource coherence by subject or function. Third, the article presents seven guidelines for assessing and promoting cost-effectiveness—guidelines that focus ...
Disparities in Outcomes for African Americans and Whites Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Literature Review

Objective. African Americans in the United States undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) less often than whites, in part because of lower expectations among African Americans for successful surgery. Whether this lower expectation is justified is unknown. Our objective is to compare health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and satisfaction after TKA between African Americans and whites. Methods. A systematic review of English language articles using Medline, the Cochrane register, Embase (April 21, 2015), and a hand search of unlisted disparities journals was performed. Search terms included total knee replacement, quality of life, outcomes, and satisfaction. High-quality cohort studies that examined HRQOL in African Americans and white adults 6 months or more after TKA were included. Results. Of the 4781 studies screened by title, and 346 by abstract, 7 studies included race in their analysis. Results included 5570 TKA patients, 4077 whites (89%), and 482 (11%) blacks. Because studies used different outcome measures and were inconsistent in their adjustment for confounders, we could not perform a quantitative synthesis of results. In 5 studies, US blacks had worse pain, in 5 worse function, and in 1 less satisfaction 6 months to 2 years after TKA. Conclusion. US blacks may derive less benefit from TKA than whites as measured by HRQOL, pain, function, and satisfaction. Many studies assessing predictors of patient-related TKA outcomes fail to analyze race as a variable, which limited our study. More studies assessing the effect of race and socioeconomic factors on TKA outcome are needed.
The Problems with Rule-Based Rationing

Centralized, democratic rules are often asserted as a superior basis for rationing than individualized physician discretion. This article counters this prevailing wisdom by exploring the deficiencies of rule-based rationing. Rules are too imprecise to accurately reflect all the nuances of physical and mental impairment and the complexity of medical science, particularly considering the widely varying personal values that different patients attach to medical risk and benefit. Rule-based rationing also suffers from the biasing effects of interest group pressure on political processes and the tendency to absolve physicians from any moral responsibility for the rationing decisions they implement. Internalizing cost constraints is a more socially and professionally acceptable means of rationing and, in any event, it is inevitable since even a preponderance of rule-based rationing will leave considerable areas of discretion for physician judgment in the implementation and interpretation of the rules. As a consequence, despite the flaws of bedside rationing, it is foolhardy to dispense with it entirely in favor of an exclusively rule-based system.
Does a Patient-centered Educational Intervention Affect African-American Access to Knee Replacement? A Randomized Trial

Background A TKA is the most effective and cost-effective surgical option for moderate to severe osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Yet, black patients are less willing to undergo knee replacement surgery than white patients. Decision aids help people understand treatment options and consider the personal importance of possible benefits and harms of treatments, including TKA.
Impacts of Large Scale Wind Power Integration on Grid Voltage and Reactive Power Compensation

From the view of static voltage stability,the influence of several factors,such as the system operating mode,wind turbine type,wind turbine control strategy and peak load regulating strategy,on the system voltage fluctuation,after A wind power was connected into the C grid was researched.The corresponding reactive power compensation schemes and voltage control measures were recommended to solve the voltage control problem caused by A large-scale wind power integration.The effectiveness of the recommended measures was verified through simulation.The conclusions have the certain reference value to the safe and stable operation of the C power grid.
Design of Mine Production Automation System Based on Configuration Software

The paper put forward a design scheme of mine production automation system based on configuration software taking Huangling No.2 Coal Mine as an example,and introduced general design scheme,key technologies in application,functions and charaeteristics of the system.The practical application showed that the system is safe and reliable, easy in control and strong in expansibility.
11: THE ADENOSINE A2A RECEPTOR AGONIST UK-432,097 STIMULATES ANTI-ATHEROGENIC REVERSE CHOLESTEROL TRANSPORT PROTEINS IN THP-1 HUMAN MACROPHAGES

Purpose of Study Methotrexate (MTX) is an anti-rheumatic drug with atheroprotective properties mediated through adenosine release and activation of the adenosine A 2A receptor (A 2A R). A 2A R ligation increases reverse cholesterol transport via upregulation of cholesterol efflux proteins ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABC)A1 and ABCG1, liver X receptor (LXR) and cholesterol 27-hydroxylase. MTX is non-specific and associated with adverse effects on liver and kidney. Therefore, this study examines the anti-atherogenic efficacy of a specific A 2A R agonist, UK-432,097, a drug with an established safety profile in humans. Methods Used THP-1 human macrophages were incubated in the following conditions: (1) RPMI media (untreated control); (2) dimethyl sulfoxide vehicle control; (3) UK-432,097 (100 nM); (4) ZM-241385 (1 µM) (A 2A R antagonist)+UK-432,097 (100 nM). Gene expression analysis was performed using QRT-PCR for cholesterol efflux genes, normalized to the housekeeping gene GAPDH. Western blotting was performed using specific antibodies. All data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA with P values Summary of Results Following 6 h exposure to UK-432,097, mRNA and protein levels of ABCA1 increased by 88.75±5.4% and by 56.34±12.4% above control (P 2A R blockade with ZM-241385 negated the effect of UK-432,097. UK-432,097 decreased oxidized LDL uptake by 28.9% in THP-1 macrophages (P Conclusions This study demonstrates that UK-432,097 increases anti-atherogenic reverse cholesterol transport proteins with concomitant reduction in oxidized lipid accumulation in THP-1 macrophages. Since MTX is already being used in clinical trials to reduce cardiovascular risk, our results encourage further studies of specific A 2A R agonists as cardioprotective treatment in high risk individuals.
Inorganic dissolvable electronics: materials and devices for biomedicine and environment

Recent advancement of inorganic dissolvable electronics nucleates around a realization that single-crystal silicon nanomembrane undergoes hydrolysis in biologically relevant conditions. The silicon-based high-performance dissolvable electronic devices are initially conceived for biomedical implants that function for a programmed timeframe followed by a complete dissolution to eliminate the need for recollection. The technology developed for biomedicine also presents unique opportunities in security devices that physically destruct and in environmentally benign electronics that dissolve without a trace to reduce electronic wastes. The new class of devices with this emerging technology complements the existing efforts in organic biodegradable devices. Compatible with state-of-the-art fabrication facilities for commercial microelectronics, the technology has a huge potential for future commercialization. This mini review will first discuss the relevant materials for the inorganic dissolvable electronics and then present the demonstrated applications in functional devices, followed by a perspective for the future developments.
An integrated supplier selection and inventory problem with multi-sourcing and lateral transshipments

Abstract In this research, we consider the supplier selection problem of a firm offering a single product via multiple warehouses. The warehouses face stationary, stochastic demand and replenish their inventory via multiple suppliers, to be determined from a set of candidates, with varying price, capacity, quality, and disruption characteristics. Additionally, the warehouses may simultaneously replenish their inventory from other warehouses proactively. With these characteristics, the problem is a multi-sourcing, supplier selection, and inventory problem with lateral transshipments. Even though the benefits of multi-sourcing and lateral transshipments have been presented in the literature individually to mitigate risks associated with uncertain demand and disrupted supply, the intertwined sourcing and inventory decisions under these settings have not been investigated from a quantitative perspective. We develop a decomposition based heuristic algorithm, powered with simulation. While the decomposition based heuristic determines a solution with supplier selection and inventory decisions, the simulation model evaluates the objective function value corresponding to each generated solution. Experimental results show, contrary to the existing literature, inferior decisions may result when considering the selection of suppliers solely on unit and/or contractual costs. We also evaluate the impact of multi-sourcing with rare but long disruptions compared to frequent but short ones.
Deceased donor uterine transplantation

Objective To share our experience in performing the first-ever deceased-donor uterine transplant in the United States. Design This video uses an animation and footage from a uterine transplantation procedure to review the steps and techniques involved in performing a uterine transplant. Setting Academic, multisite medical center. Patient(s) A reproductive-age patient with Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome. Intervention(s) Transplantation of a viable uterus from a deceased donor. Main Outcome Measure(s) Assessment of posttransplantation uterine graft viability. Result(s) This video article describes the essential steps in the uterine transplant process, including selecting an appropriate donor with no history of infertility or uterine malformations. Furthermore, a deceased donor should exhibit brain death but not cardiac death. We also review our inclusion criteria for suitable recipients. In this video we outline the key steps in a uterine transplantation procedure and demonstrate footage from an actual transplant procedure. These steps include establishing bilateral end-to-side vascular anastomoses between the donor uterine artery and vein and the recipient's external iliac vessels. Once this has been completed and reperfusion noted of the donor uterus, connection to the recipient vaginal cuff is then performed. Conclusion(s) Uterine transplantation, although currently experimental, has gained the potential to become the first true treatment for uterine factor infertility. This procedure can become a promising option for the approximately 1.5 million women worldwide for whom pregnancy is not possible because of the absence of the uterus or presence of a nonfunctional uterus. Deceased donor uterine transplantation will further serve to broaden accessibility for this procedure.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) is a microangiopathic hemolytic anemia characterized by endothelial dysfunction, hemolysis, platelet aggregation, fibrin clot formation, and degradation. After clotting factors and platelets become depleted, bleeding may occur. The underlying pathophysiology is generally initiated by endothelial or other cell injury, releasing thromboplastic factors which propagate the extrinsic coagulation pathway. The evaluation of DIC includes laboratory investigation of the International Normalized Ratio (INR), Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT), platelet count, fibrinogen level, D-dimer and peripheral blood smear. The distinguishing characteristics of DIC are the elevation in both the INR and PTT, with simultaneous reduction of fibrinogen and platelet counts.
Enhanced Evaporation in a Multilayer Porous Media under Heat Localization: A Numerical Study

Evaporation and steam generation are two of the most vital processes in industry. A new method to advance the efficiency of evaporation involves localizing heat at the water surface where the vapor...
Cross-sectional area of the murine aorta linearly increases with increasing core body temperature

PURPOSE The cardiovascular (CV) system plays a vital role in thermoregulation. To date, the response of core vasculature to increasing core temperature has not been adequately studied in vivo. Our objective was to non-invasively quantify the arterial response in murine models due to increases in body temperature, with a focus on core vessels of the torso and investigate whether responses were dependent on sex or age. METHODS Male and female, adult and aged mice were anaesthetised and underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Data were acquired from the circle of Willis (CoW), heart, infrarenal aorta and peripheral arteries at core temperatures of 35, 36, 37 and 38 °C (±0.2 °C). RESULTS Vessels in the CoW did not change. Ejection fraction decreased and cardiac output (CO) increased with increasing temperature in adult female mice. Cross-sectional area of the aorta increased significantly and linearly with temperature for all groups, but at a diminished rate for aged animals (p < 0.01; male and female: adult, 0.019 and 0.024 mm2/°C; aged, 0.017 and 0.011 mm2/°C). Aged male mice had a diminished response in the periphery (% increase in femoral artery area from 35 to 38 °C, male and female: adult, 67 and 65%; aged, 0.1 and 57%). CONCLUSION Previously unidentified increases in aortic area due to increasing core temperature are biologically important because they may affect conductive and convective heat transfer. Leveraging non-invasive methodology to quantify sex and age dependent vascular responses due to increasing core temperature could be combined with bioheat modelling in order to improve understanding of thermoregulation.
Optimal Stochastic Control of Linear Systems with State and Control Dependent Noise: Efficient Computational Algorithms

In this paper two new numerically efficient algorithms to solve the state-and control-dependent noise linear-quadratic optimal control problem are proposed. The formulation extends the (Hoskins-Walton, 1978) method for square-root matrix computations and some recent results (Incertis, 1982) for deterministic algebraic Riccati equations resolution. Implementation requires as basic operations only additions, products and inversions in the field of the positive definite matrices being the approach quite general since it can be applied to solve optimal control problems associated to processes with multiple independent noises in the control and state vectors.
COMPUTER SYMBOLIC SOLUTION OF NONLINEAR ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS WITH ARBITRARY BOUNDARY CONDITIONS BY THE TAYLOR SERIES

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the computer symbolic solution of nonlinear ordinary differential equations with arbitrary boundary conditions by Taylor series. Many theoretical tools are available for obtaining qualitative properties of the solutions of differential equations, such as solution existence over an interval of the independent variable, periodicity, quasi-periodicity, and boundedness. However, these same tools have seldom been used in actually exhibiting the analytic solution or an analytic approximation of the solution. The Taylor expansion power series can be generated by polynomial manipulation so that the size of expressions do not grow so rapidly. The computer can perform these manipulations readily. The analytical mathematical use of the digital computer is well established. There have been a number of studies dealing with the automatic computer generated analytic solution of ordinary differential equations.
Loading Rate Effect on Tensile Failure Behavior of Gelatins under Mode I

For decades, ballistic gelatin has been used as a tissue surrogate to test and evaluate bullets and firearms due to its similar viscosity to natural tissue. However, the high water content in ballistic gelatin makes it unstable at room temperature, and therefore causes it to have a poor shelf life. The development of polymer-based gels has shown promise as an alternative tissue surrogate. Polymer gels such as Perma-Gel are stable at room temperature and can be stored for long periods of time. Gels often fail due to tensile stresses during penetration. The failure behavior in tension is highly influenced by the presence of defects, such as cracks and voids, in the bulk material. A mode I experimental method was developed to obtain tensile failure criteria for the initiation and propagation behavior of these types of soft materials. Digital image correlation is used to determine the full-field surface strains around the crack tip to obtain a quantitative measure of the critical strain-field required for initiation and propagation of failure due to a defect. This systematic study utilizes these experimental techniques to determine the critical criteria for crack growth initiation and crack propagation of ballistic gelatins and a polymer gel as a function of loading rate. This paper presents experimental methodologies and results from Mode I fracture experiments including measured critical energy and strain-based criteria for failure initiation and growth, as well as their dependence on the rate of loading.
Feasibility trial of an unsupervised, facility-based exercise programme for depressed outpatients

This pilot study examined feasibility of an unsupervised, facility-based exercise programme for promoting exercise adherence among depressed adult outpatients. The potential effect of adding physical activity counselling on depressive symptoms and physical activity was also explored. Participants were randomly assigned to a 12-week programme comprising an orientation and access to fitness centre resources (control, n = 18) or that programme plus 6 physical activity counselling sessions (intervention, n = 18). Outcome measures were feasibility (fitness centre attendance over 12 weeks); Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) completed at baseline and week 12; and qualitative programme feedback. Fitness centre attendance averaged only 12 days (14% of all possible days) with no differences between study groups. No group differences were found on IPAQ or BDI-II scores at week 12. Increases from baseline in IPAQ moderate/vigorous activity minutes were associated with decreases in BDI-II scores at week 12 (p < 0.001). The most helpful programme aspect reported was connecting participants to fitness centre resources. In this pilot study of depressed outpatients, an unsupervised fitness centre based program was not feasible for promoting exercise adherence and adding physical activity counselling was not useful for increasing physical activity levels or reducing depression.