cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of yohimbine on detomidine induced changes in behavior, cardiac and blood parameters in the horse.

Abstract Objective To describe selected pharmacodynamic effects of detomidine and yohimbine when administered alone and in sequence. Study design Randomized crossover design. Animals Nine healthy adult horses aged 9 ± 4 years and weighing 561 ± 56 kg. Methods Three dose regimens were employed in the current study. 1) 0.03 mg kg −1 detomidine IV, 2) 0.2 mg kg −1 yohimbine IV and 3) 0.03 mg kg −1 detomidine IV followed 15 minutes later by 0.2 mg kg −1 yohimbine IV. Each horse received all three treatments with a minimum of 1 week between treatments. Blood samples were obtained and plasma analyzed for detomidine and yohimbine concentrations by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Behavioral effects, heart rate and rhythm, glucose, packed cell volume and plasma proteins were monitored. Results Yohimbine rapidly reversed the sedative effects of detomidine in the horse. Additionally, yohimbine effectively returned heart rate and the percent of atrio-ventricular conduction disturbances to pre-detomidine values when administered 15 minutes post-detomidine administration. Plasma glucose was significantly increased following detomidine administration. The detomidine induced hyperglycemia was effectively reduced by yohimbine administration. Effects on packed cell volume and plasma proteins were variable. Conclusions and clinical relevance Intravenous administration of yohimbine effectively reversed detomidine induced sedation, bradycardia, atrio-ventricular heart block and hyperglycemia.
Moments of parameter estimates for Chung-Lu random graph models

As abstract representations of relational data, graphs and networks find wide use in a variety of fields, particularly when working in non-Euclidean spaces. Yet for graphs to be truly useful in in the context of signal processing, one ultimately must have access to flexible and tractable statistical models. One model currently in use is the Chung-Lu random graph model, in which edge probabilities are expressed in terms of a given expected degree sequence. An advantage of this model is that its parameters can be obtained via a simple, standard estimator. Although this estimator is used frequently, its statistical properties have not been fully studied. In this paper, we develop a central limit theory for a simplified version of the Chung-Lu parameter estimator. We then derive approximations for moments of the general estimator using the delta method, and confirm the effectiveness of these approximations through empirical examples.
Therapeutic Decision Making in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Low Grade Glioma

Low grade gliomas (LGG) encompass primary brain tumors that are typically well-differentiated and do not exhibit frankly malignant histologic features. These tumors can be further classified by their cellular morphology (eg, oligodendroglioma, pilocytic astrocytoma, etc), which does convey prognostic and therapeutic implications. Typically, low grade gliomas convey an overall better prognosis for patients as opposed to the higher grade primary brain tumors. Surgery for low grade gliomas and timing of such intervention remains controversial. Maximal resection of these tumors appears to prolong progression free survival. Advanced surgical techniques, including language mapping and awake craniotomies, have been shown to decrease morbidity associated with resection of lesions in eloquent areas of the brain. Radiation therapy has been proven effective in increasing time to progression in LGG, and emerging data support a role for combined modality therapy incorporating chemotherapy. Postoperative RT has been shown to have significant benefits with regards to progression free survival. Recent advances in molecular genetic markers, including the combined loss of chromosome arms 1p and 19q, and the mutation of the isocitrate dehydrogenase gene (IDH1/IDH2) have allowed for increased accuracy of predicting susceptibility to chemotherapeutic agents, as well as having some role in determining prognosis. PCV and temozolomide chemotherapy have both been studied when assessing progression free survival for LGG patients. Approaching patients with LGGs can be somewhat daunting given the lack of Class I evidence based protocols. However, significant evidence is now mounting to suggest early, maximal surgical excision; followed by fractionated RT will be the mainstays of treatment. Clearly, additional evidence is also mounting for the addition of chemotherapy in the treatment paradigm for patients with LGGs.
THE ANTERIOR PITUITARY AND ITS RELATION TO THE ADRENAL CORTEX IN WATER DIURESIS1

IT IS WELL known, particularly from work on diabetes insipidus,that the anterior pituitary contributes to the control of water exchange by exerting a diuretic influence. This is seen most clearlywhen its action is unchecked by the antagonistic secretions of theneuro-hypophysis (reviewed by Fisher, Ingram and Ranson, 1938;and Gersh, 1939). The means by which the anterior pituitary mediatesthis effect is not fully established, but is probably multiple in nature(Richter, 1934; Schweizer, Ehrenberg and Gaunt, 1943). A somewhat different aspect of the problem can be observed when,instead of focussing attention on the daily water exchange, the disposalof measured doses of water given by stomach tube to fasted hypophysectomized animals is observed in short-term experiments. Our attention was drawn to this phase of the subject in 1939 whenwe attempted to determine whether hypophysectomized rats differedfrom normal ones in their sensitivity to the antidiuretic action of vasopressin.
The Effect of Psychological Environment on Childbirth: Combined Cross -Cultural and Experimental Approach

A cross-cultural survey of birth patterning revealed marked differences in the speed of labor and indicated extreme variations in the psychological environment during labor and delivery. Speedier, easier labors appear to be related to acceptance of birth as a normal physiologic phenomena uncomplicated by sexual shame or fear-inducing rituals. The hypotheses developed from cross-cultural surveys were then tested experimentally in mice. Disturbance applied during labor resulted in reduction of labor speed immediately after the disturbance. Mice continuously disturbed at term delivered first pups significantly later, and had a 54% higher pup mortality rate. When expectant mice were rotated between familiar environment with shelter and glass fish bowl imbued with cat odor, spending equal amounts of time at each, significantly fewer births took place in the latter.
PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL AND ORGANOLEPTIC PROPERTIES OF GROUND BEEF PATTIES MANUFACTURED WITH MECHANICALLY RECOVERED NECK BONE LEAN

A two fat level (10% and 20%) x four mechanically recovered neck bone lean (MRNL) level (0, 15, 30 and 45%) complete factorial design was employed to characterize ground beef patties manufactured with MRNL. Level of MRNL did not affect (P>0.05) raw proximate composition, cook yield, water-holding capacity or consumer sensory panel flavor, texture or overall desirability. The consumer panel found that juiciness increased (P<0.01) in a linear fashion with a higher MRNL level. Kramer Shear Parameters decreased (P<0.05) with increasing levels of MRNL. Ground beef patty springiness, hardness and chewiness decreased (P<0.01) linearly as MRNL increased. Patties made with 10% fat were less juicy (P<0.05), harder (P<0.05) and chewier (P<0.05) than those with 20% fat. MRNL can be used in manufacture of low-fat processed meat products. Mechanically recovered lean levels down to 15% in low-fat patties (10%) can mimic sensory texture and juiciness of 20% fat patties.
Simulation of transport protocols over wireless communication networks

In this paper, we describe a general-purpose communication network simulator that we designed to examine the performance of transport protocols over wireless networks. The general-purpose simulator can be used to study various aspects of performance of communication networks. In particular, we use it to examine, evaluate and predict the performance of wireless networks under a variety of the most commonly used transport protocols. We also examine the use of newly suggested protocols specifically designed for wireless networks. in this paper, we present our models for each protocol. We discuss performance measures that can be studied using our simulator. These measures are hard to evaluate with analytical models.
Human serum does not contain a high affinity estrogen-binding glycoprotein different from sex hormone-binding globulin

The mannoglycoprotein fraction obtained by Concanavalin-A chromatography of human serum binds both androgens and estrogens with high affinity. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a component of this fraction that binds both steroids, but the fraction may contain another component that binds only estrogen. We used several chromatographic methods to ascertain whether the estradiol-binding properties of the mannoglycoprotein fraction could be attributed to SHBG or to SHBG and the putative estrogen-binding protein. DEAE-trisacryl, chromatofocusing, and anti-SHBG-immunoglobulin Sepharose chromatography resulted in coelution of the androgen- and estrogen-binding activities. SHBG purified by ligand affinity chromatography as well as immunoaffinity-purified SHBG had estradiol-binding properties similar to those of the crude mannoglycoprotein preparation. These data strongly suggest that 1) SHBG is the only estradiol-binding protein in the mannoglycoprotein fraction obtained by Concanavalin-A chromatography of ...
Experimentally induced insulin resistance and allergy in the rabbit

I NSULIN resistance occasionally develops in patients with diabetes, who may require as much as 1,000 to 5,000 units per day to control hyperglycemia. It is also seen in patients undergoing insulin-shock therapy for psychiatric disorders, and therefore, it may occur in the absence of diabetes. The unresponsiveness in most instances has remained unexplained. Infection, the commonest cause of increased insulin requirement, does not seem t,o account for resistance to insulin in most of the cases. Endocrine disturbances have been postulated, but again, with the exception of diabetes, they have rarely been demonstrated. Evidence has been presented that an immune mechanism plays a role in some cases of insulin resistance.l-” In a previous study,? it was demonstrated that responsiveness to human insulin was present in a patient who was highly resistant to cryst,alline (beef and pork) insulin; and, furthermore, the resistance seemed to develop during periods in which insulin wa$ given and to disappear during periods in which insulin was withheld. This patient was also allergic to insulin. Injections of insulin caused swelling and generalized urticaria, and the serum contained skin-sensitizing ant,ibody. However, allergy and resistance are not, necessarily concomitant clinically, and in this patient the degree of resistance and hypersensitivity varied independently, These observations led to an attempt to induce insulin resistance on an immunological basis. Twenty-four rabbits were in jetted repeatedly over a period of many months with 25 to 50 units of crystalline (beef and pork) insulint incorporated int,o an adjuvant mixture,s containing mineral oil, Falba,$ and killed acid-fast bacilli.5 Insulin tolerance tests were done in the fasting state with 0.1 p/kg. given intravenously before immunization and at intervals thereafter. Table I summarizes the immunizing procedure in the 4 rabbits that became resistant and shows a comparison of the hypoglycemic effect of insulin before and after the development of resistance. Of the 19 rabbits similarly treated which did not become resistant, only 4 survived. Two died early in the course of the study because of overdosage with insulin; several died with diarrhea. Tuberculintype hypersensitivity of high degree to one or more of the constituents of the adjuvant mixture may have been the cause of death in some of the others. In no case was there evidence of diabetes as judged by weight, loss or hyperglycemia. One of the rabbits (No. 5) was studied in detail, and the results obtained have been reported e1sewhere.O A normal glucose tolerance test and the repeated
Comparative Proteome Analyses of Human Plasma Following in vivo Lipopolysaccharide Administration Using Multidimensional Separations Coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry

There is significant interest in characterization of the human plasma proteome due to its potential for providing biomarkers applicable to clinical diagnosis and treatment and for gaining a better understanding of human diseases. We describe here a strategy for comparative proteome analyses of human plasma, which is applicable to biomarker identifications for various disease states. Multidimensional liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has been applied to make comparative proteome analyses of plasma samples from an individual prior to and 9 h after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. Peptide peak areas and the number of peptide identifications for each protein were used to evaluate the reproducibility of LC-MS/MS and to compare relative changes in protein concentration between the samples following LPS treatment. A total of 804 distinct plasma proteins (not including immunoglobulins) were confidently identified with 32 proteins observed to be significantly increased in concentration following LPS administration, including several known inflammatory response or acute-phase mediators such as C-reactive protein, serum amyloid A and A2, LPS-binding protein, LPS-responsive and beige-like anchor protein, hepatocyte growth factor activator, and von Willebrand factor, and thus, constituting potential biomarkers for inflammatory response.
Access to resources shapes maternal decision making: evidence from a factorial vignette experiment

The fieldwork was funded by the Arts & Humanities Research Council's (United Kingdom) "Culture and Mind" Project (http:// www.philosophy.dept.shef.ac.uk/culture&mind/).
Development of an improved method of detection of infectious parvovirus B19.

Abstract Background Parvovirus B19, the only known pathogenic human parvovirus is the aetiologic agent of erythema infectiosum, transient aplastic crisis, pure red cell aplasia, and hydrops fetalis. Transmission is either by respiratory secretions or, as it can be present at high titre in plasma, by blood and blood products. B19 is only cultured with difficulty in vitro, and there is no readily available assay for detecting B19 infectivity or neutralizing antibodies. Objectives In this study, we evaluated different methods to detect viral infection for the purpose of developing automated methods for large-scale testing of viral infectivity, development of neutralizing antibody and viral inactivation assays. Study design Different cell lines were evaluated for their ability to support B19 infection and assays tested for sensitivity and ease of performing. A high-throughput assay was validated by determining infectious virus in blood pools and for determining neutralizing antibody in sera. Results B19 protein production was detected by immunofluorescence (IF) staining and increased viral DNA production by dot blot hybridization and quantitative PCR. The detection of RNA transcripts by RT-PCR assay and quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) was used as an indirect marker for infection. Of the cell lines tested, the subclone UT7/Epo-S1 showed the greatest sensitivity to B19 infection, with detection of viral transcripts by qRT-PCR the preferred assay. The assays were validated by experiments to determine the infectious titre of sera from acutely infected humans, to evaluate the presence of infectious virus in human donor plasma pools and to measure neutralizing antibodies.
Inhibitors of protein synthesis V Irreversible interaction of antibiotics with an initiation complex

The initiation complex (t-complex) formed in a cell-free system (E. coli) from Ac-Phe-tRNA, poly(U) and washed ribosomes in the presence of initiation factors (ribosomal wash) and GTP, contains the Ac-Phe-tRNA bound quantitatively in a puromycin-reactive state. The t-complex is irreversibly inactivated by spiramycin with respect to its reactivity toward puromycin. The inactivated t-complex retains all of the Ac-Phe-tRNA bound, but it does not react with puromycin (2 x10-minus-3M) within 32 min at 25 degrees. In the case of another inhibitor protein synthesis, sparsomycin, the permanently "modified" t-complex not only retains all the bound Ac-Phe-tRNA but it can still react with puromycin. In the continuous presence of sparsomycin (1 x 10-minus-7M) the bound Ac-Phe-tRNA reacts quantitatively at a rate which is one-tenth the rate at which the t-complex reacts with puromycin, at low (6.25 x 10-minus-5M) or high (2 x 10-minus-3M) concentrations. These results are not in agreement with current views according to which aparsomycin binds to the ribosome reversibly at a single site with a KI in the range of 10-minus6-10-minus-7 M and according to which this stie is at the A'-site (puromycin site) of peptidyl transferase.
The Awareness of Mortality: Continuing Kastenbaum's Developmental Legacy:

Kastenbaum's work had a strong developmental perspective. In fact, one of his first pieces explored the ways that adolescents experienced death. This article continues Kastenbaum's developmental perspective by considering the ways that a personal sense of mortality generally develops in adulthood as mid-life adults face the deaths of parents and peers as well as the inevitable signs of senescence.
Zigzag persistent homology and real-valued functions

We study the problem of computing zigzag persistence of a sequence of homology groups and study a particular sequence derived from the levelsets of a real-valued function on a topological space. The result is a local, symmetric interval descriptor of the function. Our structural results establish a connection between the zigzag pairs in this sequence and extended persistence, and in the process resolve an open question associated with the latter. Our algorithmic results not only provide a way to compute zigzag persistence for any sequence of homology groups, but combined with our structural results give a novel algorithm for computing extended persistence. This algorithm is easily parallelizable and uses (asymptotically) less memory.
Using dynamically created decision-making organizations (holarchies) to plan, commit, and execute control tasks in a chilled water system

A multi-agent architecture to automate complex industrial systems is described. The multi-agent system is created with artificial social behaviors to enable cooperation among the agents. Agents organize their respective views about the system to react to changes and to discover system capabilities. We explore the implications of using agent technology in the design and operation of a chilled water system. Our aim is to contribute with a set of guidelines on how to build autonomous agents for industrial automation.
KSAC, the First Defined Polyprotein Vaccine Candidate for Visceral Leishmaniasis

A subunit vaccine using a defined antigen(s) may be one effective solution for controlling leishmaniasis. Because of genetic diversity in target populations, including both dogs and humans, a multiple-antigen vaccine will likely be essential. However, the cost of a vaccine to be used in developing countries must be considered. We describe herein a multiantigen vaccine candidate comprised of antigens known to be protective in animal models, including dogs, and to be recognized by humans immune to visceral leishmaniasis. The polyprotein (KSAC) formulated with monophosphoryl lipid A, a widely used adjuvant in human vaccines, was found to be immunogenic and capable of inducing protection against Leishmania infantum, responsible for human and canine visceral leishmaniasis, and against L. major, responsible for cutaneous leishmaniasis. The results demonstrate the feasibility of producing a practical, cost-effective leishmaniasis vaccine capable of protecting both humans and dogs against multiple Leishmania species.
Plant–animal diversity relationships in a rocky intertidal system depend on invertebrate body size and algal cover

Considerable research has examined the influence of herbivores on the maintenance of plant diversity, but fewer studies have examined the reciprocal effect of plant diversity on the animals that use the plant community for food and shelter, particularly in marine systems. Several mechanisms could underlie such effects. Animal diversity and abundance could be increased by complementary use of different plants by different animals, or by an indirect effect of plant diversity on plant production that results in more total plant biomass in high plant-diversity communities. Alternatively, plant species identity could play a dominant role leading to sampling effects or no effect of diversity at all. We conducted a six-year field manipulation of the richness of rocky shore seaweeds in northern California and measured the effects of algal richness and identity on the invertebrate community, from meiofauna to macrofauna. We found that diverse algal communities hosted more species of both large and small invertebrates than the average algal monoculture but that the mechanisms underlying this pattern differed substantially for organisms of different size. More species of macrofauna occurred in the polycultures than in any of the monocultures, likely due to the greater total cover of algae produced in polycultures. Rare and common macrofaunal taxa responded to host plant species richness in opposite ways, with more occurrences of rare taxa and lower abundance of very common taxa in the polycultures. In contrast, meiofaunal richness in polycultures was no different than that of monocultures of finely branched species, leading to strong effects of algal identity. Our findings are similar to those from terrestrial systems in that the effects of plant diversity we observed were most related to the greater amount of habitat in polycultures as a result of overyielding in algal biomass. However, our findings differ from those in terrestrial systems in that the primary mechanisms for both richness and identity effects appear related to the value of plants as shelter from harsh abiotic conditions or predation rather than food, and in that animal body size altered the mechanisms underlying diversity effects.
Metal-Transfer-Micromolded Three-Dimensional Microelectrode Arrays for in-vitro Brain-Slice Recordings

We report the development of metal-transfer-micromolded 3-D microelectrode arrays (3-D MEAs) and demonstrate successful electrical characterization, biocompatibility measurements, and electrophysiological recordings from rat hippocampal brain slices with these MEAs. Metal transfer micromolding is introduced as a manufacturing technology for producing nonplanar metallized patterned microelectromechanical-systems devices such as MEAs on polymeric substrates. This technology provides a self-aligned metallization scheme that eliminates the need for complex 3-D lithography. Two techniques, i.e., an intentionally formed nonplanar mold and a shadow mask, are demonstrated for the self-aligned metallization scheme. The MEAs have further been packaged using custom-designed commercial printed circuit boards and insulated using parylene deposition. Recording sites have been defined using two techniques: laser micromachining/reactive ion etching (RIE) of parylene and selective deposition of parylene using a “capping” technique. Electrical (impedance spectroscopy), biocompatibility (2-D planar cultures of neurons), electrophysiological (tissue slice recordings) characterizations of the MEAs are successfully demonstrated in this paper. The impedance of the electrodes was modeled based on a classical equivalent circuit, and high-frequency impedance estimation techniques were studied. We believe this fabrication approach offers an attractive route to disposable and biocompatible 3-D MEAs, utilizable by the neurophysiology and pharmacology communities.
Blockage of Tubular Epithelial to Myofibroblast Transition by Hepatocyte Growth Factor Prevents Renal Interstitial Fibrosis

Activation of alpha-smooth muscle actin-positive myofibroblast cells is a key event in the progression of chronic renal diseases that leads to end-stage renal failure. Although the origin of these myofibroblasts in the kidney remains uncertain, emerging evidence suggests that renal myofibroblasts may derive from tubular epithelial cells by a process of epithelial to mesenchymal transition. It was demonstrated that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) exhibited a remarkable ability to block this phenotypic transition both in vitro and in vivo. HGF abrogated the alpha-smooth muscle actin expression and E-cadherin depression triggered by transforming growth factor-beta1 in tubular epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. HGF also blocked morphologic transformation of tubular epithelial cells and inhibited the expression and extracellular deposition of fibronectin. In a mouse model of renal fibrosis disease induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction, transforming growth factor-beta type I receptor expression was specifically increased in renal tubules, and myofibroblastically phenotypic transition of the tubules was evident in vivo. Remarkably, injections of exogenous HGF blocked myofibroblast activation and drastically prevented renal interstitial fibrosis in the obstructed kidneys. These results suggest that tubular epithelial to myofibroblast conversion may play an important role in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis and that blocking this phenotypic transition could provide a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of fibrotic diseases.
MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS OF THE FORMOSAN SUBTERRANEAN TERMITE (ISOPTERA: RHINOTERMITIDAE)

Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shriaki, is a serious pest of structures in portions of United States. A 467-bp region of the mtDNA 16S rRNA gene was subjected to DNA sequencing from 12 Coptotermes species, including 64 populations of C. formosanus. Genetic diversity among species ranged from 1.8% to 7.0%, with C. formosanus at least 3.0% divergent to the other Coptotermes taxa. No genetic variation was detected among the C. formosanus populations for this marker making it ideal for diagnostics. Comparison of nucleotide sequence of mitochondrial rRNA 16S was used to design polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers specific for C. formosanus. The diagnostic assay consists of two independent PCR runs of the 16S primer pair along with the C. formosanus primer set. PCR product from samples that are not C. formosanus can be subjected to DNA sequencing and compared with the database of termite 16S sequences on GenBank for identification. This technique provides a non-morphological method to identify field collected termites and may facilitate future quarantine programs for C. formosanus.
Anticoagulant Activity in Salivary Gland Extracts of Black Flies (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Anticoagulant activity was determined in salivary gland extracts from four species of black flies, i.e., Simulium vittatum Zetterstedt, Simulium argus Williston, Simulium metallicum Bellardi, and Simulium ochraceum Walker. Inhibition of coagulation factor Xa occurred among all four, whereas thrombin inhibition was detected in S. argus and S. vittatum only. Both bovine and human alpha-thrombins were inhibited with the highest activity occurring with S. argus salivary gland extracts. Factor Xa inhibition was highest in S. ochraceum, an anthropophilic species and vector of Onchocerca volvulus, and lowest in S. vittatum, a primiparous autogenous species that is also zoophilic. Total soluble salivary gland extract protein also varied among the four species with the highest concentration measured in S. ochraceum and the lowest in S. vittatum. A positive correlation was observed between the amount of soluble protein and percentage of inhibition of factor Xa for the four species.
Application of Stochastic Network Models for the Study of Molecular Transport Processes in Bone

Osteocytes are the most abundant cells in bone. They are entombed in lacunae within the bone matrix, but are interconnected via their processes that run within the canaliculi with other osteocytes, as well as with the osteoblasts and bone lining cells on the bone surfaces, and thus from a cellular syncytium. However, the osteocytes are not immediately connected with the vasculature of bone, which means that the transport of nutrients and hormones to the cells and the removal of waste products from the cells, as well as transport of signaling molecules between the cells, has to occur either via the pericellular fluid spaces in the lacunocanalicular network, via the matrix micropores between the collagen fibers and the apatite crystals, or via intracellular transport mechanisms. Only recently our laboratory and other research groups have started to examine the transport pathways of different molecular size substances within bone systematically, using experimental tracer methods (e.g. [1, 7]). These experiments have unveiled the molecular sieving characteristics of bone: While small tracers with molecular weights of 300 Daltons (Da, e.g. glucose and small amino acids) are found in abundance throughout the bone matrix and the lacunocanalicular network, larger molecules (e.g. cytokines and serum derived proteins) are only transported through the pericellular spaces of the lacunocanalicular network. Furthermore, the transport of these substances through the lacunocanalicular network can be enhanced by mechanical loading of bone [1]. These findings highlight the importance of the lacunocanalicular network for the survival of the osteocytes and thereby tissue health. However, the state of the osteocyte syncytium is affected by age and bone diseases. It has been shown that the number of osteocytes in cortical bone decreases with age [6]. Furthermore, a histological study of cortical bone tissue samples from donors undergoing hip replacement surgery has shown that the morphology of the lacunocanalicular network is altered in diseased bone [2].© 2004 ASME
The emergence of “fat bikes” in the USA: Trends, potential consequences and management implications

Abstract In the USA, sales and use of “fat bikes” (bicycles with 75–120 mm-wide tires) have increased dramatically in the past five years. These bikes are designed to open new terrain to cyclists, including snow-covered trails and softer ground surfaces impossible to ride with a standard mountain bike. In this paper, we discuss the extent and possible trends of fat bike use, potential impacts, conflicts and land management approaches. Our preliminary information gathering suggests that fat bikes are used equally on footpaths and snow trails and that riders rarely stray from established trails. Because snow riding represents a new use for bikes we focus on that aspect. Fat biking on snow is likely to have limited environmental impacts due to use on typically frozen ground with the greatest ecological effects most likely to occur during ‘shoulder season’ use when riding may damage muddy trails. From a visitor experience perspective, conflicts among winter users appear to be common, with cyclists reporting issues with both cross country skiers and snowmobilers. One rapidly developing approach for mitigating these conflicts is the development of maintained winter trails specifically for fat bikes. In the USA, state managed lands are leading the way with trail designation and management while Federal lands remain more restrictive. With proper management, winter fat biking offers an opportunity to increase low-season use of public lands for a healthy pursuit with potentially low environmental impact and positive economic impacts. Management implications • Fat bikes—specialty mountain bikes with very wide tires and other modifications—have gained substantially in popularity over the last five years. These bikes open new terrain for cyclists, particularly winter snow trails. • As riders explore new terrain, or ride in areas maintained for other types of winter recreation, management concerns have emerged including ecological impacts, conflict with other recreationists, trail safety, and increased trail maintenance costs. • Many areas in the USA are actively perusing solutions to the above issues. Although little data exist, spatial and/or temporal separation of riders and other uses appears to be a particularly effective solution for many issues.
Modeling and dynamic simulations of a direct driven permanent magnet synchronous generator based wind turbine unit

The modeling and converter control strategy of a direct driven permanent magnet synchronous generators based wind turbine (D-PMSG) unit were presented. The model of the D-PMSG and the proposed control strategy were realized with the power system simulation software DIgSILENT/Power Factory. The simulation of a real power grid verifies the validity of the model and the feasibility of the control strategies.
Regression analysis of PEM fuel cell transient response

To develop operating strategies in polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell-powered applications, precise computationally efficient models of the fuel cell stack voltage are required. Models are needed for all operating conditions, including transients. In this work, transient evolutions of voltage, in response to load changes, are modeled with a sum of three exponential decay functions. Amplitude factors are correlated to steady-state operating data (temperature, humidity, average current, resistance, and voltage). The obtained time constants reflect known processes of the membrane heat/water transport. These model parameters can form the basis for the prediction of voltage overshoot/undershoot used in computational-based control systems, used in real-time simulation. Furthermore, the results provide an empirical basis for the estimation of the magnitude of temporary voltage loss to be expected with sudden load changes, as well as a systematic method for the analysis of experimental data. Its applicability is currently limited to thin membranes with low to moderate humidity gases, and with adequately high reactant-gas stoichiometry.
Effects of Gender Differences on Short-term Outcomes in Patients with Type B Aortic Dissection

Background Gender-related differences in type B aortic dissection (TBAD) presentation and outcomes are not well understood. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of gender on short-term outcomes in patients with TBAD. Methods Patients with TBAD were identified from the National Inpatient Sample datasets from 2009 to 2012 according to previously published methods. The primary outcomes of interest were in-hospital mortality and major complications (renal, cardiac, pulmonary, paraplegia, and stroke related) between men and women. An inverse propensity-weighted regression was used to balance comorbid and clinical presentation differences. Subgroup analyses were performed on those undergoing endovascular (thoracic endovascular aortic repair [TEVAR]) and open repair, and for elderly patients over the age of 70. Results We identified 9855 patients with TBAD; women were fewer (43.6%, n = 4293) and presented at a later age (69.8 ± 15.5 vs. 62.8 ± 15.6, P Conclusions In comparison with men, women with TBAD presented at a later age, were more likely to undergo TEVAR, sustain a perioperative cardiac event with open surgery, and were less likely to experience acute renal complications overall. Elderly women were additionally more likely to sustain a cardiac event regardless of operative status. Future studies should attempt to identify anatomic and epidemiologic reasons for these differences.
Gaining Coverage Through Medicaid Or Private Insurance Increased Prescription Use And Lowered Out-Of-Pocket Spending

A growing body of literature describes how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has expanded health insurance coverage. What is less well known is how these coverage gains have affected populations that are at risk for high health spending. To investigate this issue, we used prescription transaction data for a panel of 6.7 million prescription drug users to compare changes in coverage, prescription fills, plan spending, and out-of-pocket spending before and after the implementation of the ACA’s coverage expansion. We found a 30 percent reduction in the proportion of this population that was uninsured in 2014 compared to 2013. Uninsured people who gained private coverage filled, on average, 28 percent more prescriptions and had 29 percent less out-of-pocket spending per prescription in 2014 compared to 2013. Those who gained Medicaid coverage had larger increases in fill rates (79 percent) and reductions in out-of-pocket spending per prescription (58 percent). People who gained coverage who had at least one of th...
CSF Makes Waves in the Neural Stem Cell Niche.

Adult neural stem cells reside in specialized niches that maintain neurogenesis, but the components of the niche and its secretome are only partially understood. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Silva-Vargas et al. (2016) show that choroid plexus, within the lateral ventricles of the adult brain, secretes signals that regulate adult neurogenesis in an age-dependent manner.
Is posttraumatic growth trauma-specific? Invariance across trauma- and stressor-exposed groups.

Objective Posttraumatic growth (PTG), or multidimensional positive change following a traumatic event (TE), is conceptualized as qualitatively distinct from growth following a nontraumatic stressful event (NTSE; Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004; Zoellner & Maercker, 2006). However, the degree to which PTG is a trauma-specific phenomenon has yet to be established. Although research indicates that individuals who experience TEs endorse greater PTG than those who experience NTSEs (Kastenmuller et al., 2012; Tedeschi & Calhoun, 1996), factorial invariance and latent mean differences in PTG between these groups have yet to be examined. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to extend previous findings by examining the factorial invariance of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) across groups whose worst stressor was a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. [DSM-5]; American Psychiatric Association, 2013) Criterion A event or a non-Criterion A event. Method Participants were 644 undergraduates who reported experiencing a stressful event and completed the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5 (LEC-5) and PTGI. Results Results indicated that the previously identified 5-factor model of the PTGI provided the best fit, although fit was mediocre. A higher order model significantly worsened model fit and thus was rejected. Unexpectedly, strong factorial invariance and equivalence of latent means were found, indicating that the factor structure and latent means of PTG were identical across groups. Conclusions Findings indicate that PTG might not be qualitatively or quantitatively distinct from growth due to NTSEs, and TEs and NTSEs elicit similar levels of PTG. Limitations include cross-sectional design. (PsycINFO Database Record
Security Constrained Multi-Stage Transmission Expansion Planning Considering a Continuously Variable Series Reactor

This paper introduces a continuously variable series reactor (CVSR) to the transmission expansion planning (TEP) problem. The CVSR is a flexible ac transmission system (FACTS)-like device, which has the capability of controlling the overall impedance of the transmission line. However, the cost of the CVSR is about one-tenth of a similar rated FACTS device, which potentially allows large numbers of devices to be installed. The multi-stage TEP with the CVSR considering the $N-1$ security constraints is formulated as a mixed-integer linear programming model. The nonlinear part of the power flow introduced by the variable reactance is linearized by a reformulation technique. To reduce the computational burden for a practical large-scale system, a decomposition approach is proposed. The detailed simulation results on the IEEE 24-bus and a more practical Polish 2383-bus system demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach. Moreover, the appropriately allocated CVSRs add flexibility to the TEP problem and allow reduced planning costs. Although the proposed decomposition approach cannot guarantee global optimality, a high-level picture of how the network can be planned reliably and economically considering CVSR is achieved.
Predictors of survival in VA-ECMO: Whom should we cannulate?

The application of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is becoming an increasingly frequent procedure in emergency medicine. 1 Correct appraisal of clinical conditions and patient selection are critical not only in terms of expected outcome, but also in terms of adequate temporary support configuration, optimization of resources, and organization of daily hospital activities, since inappropriate implant may remarkably impact all these aspects. According to recent analysis of ECMO use in the USA, 1 VA-ECMO was most commonly applied in post-cardiac surgery candidates, however with a constant decline for the period from 2007 to 2011. Indeed, from 57% of the total ECMO cases, post-cardiotomy VA-ECMO went to 38%, but with a significant rise in cases of cardio-pulmonary failure (from 3.9 to 11.1%). 1 This situation is certainly further changing during the last 5 years as VA-ECMO in cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest is becoming more popular. Cardiac arrest: Patient selection in this se...
Tell me a story! A plea for more compelling conference presentations

ABSTRACT Effective communication with other scientists is an essential component of the scientific process, underlying success in publishing papers, building collaborations, securing grants and jobs, and stimulating further research. Oral presentations at professional meetings provide an opportunity to share research findings with a relatively broad scientific audience. However, many scientists give talks that are crowded with methods and data, accompanied by poor visuals, and, most unfortunately, lacking in narrative arc. Here, I provide strategies for distilling research findings into a short-format talk, capturing the audience's attention, and delivering a compelling and visually engaging story. I argue that the material should be designed to interest a wide range of meeting attendees, not just experts in a narrow field. I also advocate principles of good storytelling, with the aim of leading the audience through a compelling journey of discovery that concludes with a memorable takeaway message.
Occupancy-driven smart register for building energy saving (Conference Presentation)

The new era in energy-efficiency building is to integrate automatic occupancy detection with automated heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC), the largest source of building energy consumption. By closing off some air vents, during certain hours of the day, up to 7.5% building energy consumption could be saved. In the past, smart vent has received increasing attention and several products have been developed and introduced to the market for building energy saving. For instance, Ecovent Systems Inc. and Keen Home Inc. have both developed smart vent registers capable of turning the vent on and off through smart phone apps. However, their products do not have on-board occupancy sensors and are therefore open-loop. Their vent control was achieved by simply positioning the vent blade through a motor and a controller without involving any smart actuation. This paper presents an innovative approach for automated vent control and automatic occupancy (human subjects) detection. We devise this approach in a smart register that has polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) frame with embedded Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators. SMAs belong to a class of shape memory materials (SMMs), which have the ability to ‘memorise’ or retain their previous form when subjected to certain stimulus such as thermomechanical or magnetic variations. And it can work as actuators and be applied to vent control. Specifically, a Ni-Ti SMA strip will be pre-trained to a circular shape, wrapped with a Ni-Cr resistive wire that is coated with thermally conductive and electrically isolating material. Then, the SMA strip along with an antagonistic SMA strip will be bonded with PZT sensor and thermal sensors, to be inserted into a 3D printed mould which will be filled with silicone rubber materials. In the end, a demoulding process yields a fully integrated blade of the smart register. Several blades are installed together to form the smart register. The PZT sensors can feedback the shape of the actuator for precise shape and air flow control. The performance and the specification of the smart registers will be characterized experimentally. Its capacity of regulating airflow, forming air curtain will be demonstrated.
OBJECTIVES OF FINANCIAL REPORTING, ABORIGINAL COST, AND POOLING OF INTERESTS ACCOUNTING

ABSTRACT Through the years, pooling of interest accounting was criticized as contrary to the decision usefulness objective of financial reporting and potentially misleading to stockholders and creditors, the assumed principal users of financial reports. This paper does not dispute those criticisms. It demonstrates, however, that there were some very good reasons for permitting pooling accounting for certain business combinations when the method was developed in the 1940s. At that time, the basic objectives of financial accounting encompassed stewardship and decision usefulness for multiple users, including public utility regulators and public policy makers. Pooling accounting developed in part to satisfy the information needs of public utility regulators who favored aboriginal (original historical) cost to determine the utility rate base; additionally, it was favored by public policy makers who sought lower utility rates (prices) to foster social and economic goals.
COPING WITH CONFLICT: DEFENSIVE STRATEGIES AND CHRONIC WARFARE IN THE PREHISPANIC NAZCA REGION

Warfare was a prevalent phenomenon throughout the Andes during the Late Intermediate period (LIP; AD 1000–1450). A salient research topic within broader investigations of conflict is how populations cope with chronic warfare. This article utilizes statistical and GIS-based analyses of architectural features and settlement patterns to reconstruct defensive coping mechanisms among groups living in 15 fortified settlements in the Nazca region of Peru. This research evaluates how populations deployed artificial defenses (fortifications), natural defensibility, and settlement placement to best protect themselves and critical resources from enemy incursions. Intersite variation in fortification was primarily driven by population size: the smallest and most vulnerable settlements were the most heavily fortified and occupied the least accessible areas. Variation in fortification investment within each site was driven by differences in the accessibility of approaches leading to the residential sector of a site. Settlement patterns were largely driven by natural defensibility, large viewsheds, and proximity to economic resources. This research demonstrates that LIP populations made optimal trade-offs between competing defensive variables, revealing highly patterned regional defensive strategies. Broader spatial, settlement, and architectural data indicate that warfare in the region was chronic and internecine.
Hemoglobinopathies in Pregnancy

Adult hemoglobin is composed of two alpha and two beta chains. Hemoglobinopathies result when there is an alteration in these chains. The two most salient diagnoses are the thalassemias and sickle cell disease. Pregnant patients with sickle cell disease are at high risk for poor outcomes and should have antenatal surveillance [1].