cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Case study in Ecological Planning: The Woodlands, Texas

In reviewing the publications and reports in the regional and landscape planning literature and project reports from the profession, one finds a lack of uniformity in methodology, with ad hoc procedures “suited to the particular problem” a common approach. A method is presented in this chapter for determining the inherent suitability of a landscape for assimilating human activities and their artifacts. The approach is suggested in the writings of McHarg (1969) and exemplified by Juneja (1974), and has been applied professionally to a wide array of sites and locations. The method of landscape analysis described here is one part of a more comprehensive planning process which includes the social, legal, and economic factors which must be melded into a comprehensive plan that responds to the needs, desires, and perceptions of the people for whom the planning is being done. In developing an area, one would like to achieve the best fit between each human activity and the portion of the landscape to which that activity is assigned. As a starting point, a landscape may be thought of as being comprised of elements or components which may be labeled geology, physiography, soils, hydrology, vegetation, wildlife, and climate. Each landscape element may provide opportunities for certain land uses, and likewise, there may be constraints to each kind of desired land use imposed by components of the landscape. Areas which are most suitable for a specific use will have the greatest number of opportunities provided by the landscape and the least number of, or least severe, constraints imposed by the landscape on that particular use.
Nursing Simulation Fellowships: An Innovative Approach for Developing Simulation Leaders

Abstract Background Increasingly, nurse educators with expert simulation knowledge and strong leadership skills are needed to lead simulation program implementation and faculty development efforts. The skills necessary for simulation leadership are not all innate but need to be developed and nurtured. Nursing simulation fellowships aimed at developing expert simulation knowledge and leadership skills can be a viable pathway for developing simulation leaders to fill these roles. Method We developed a one-year long immersive nursing fellowship as a solution to meet the challenge. The program's structure includes four overall objectives and seven modules with specific learning activities aimed at developing simulation expertise and leadership skills. Result In a one-year period, the nursing fellow targeted nursing quality and patient safety by developing and implementing sustainable simulation-based programs, faculty development programs, and scholarly projects. Conclusion Nursing simulation fellowships provide a longitudinal guided experience for simulation expertise and leadership skill development. This approach can be a viable solution to meet the growing challenges in implementing simulation programs. This article provides a case exemplar for an innovative approach to developing simulation nurse leaders. Supporting theoretical frameworks, curriculum structure, outcome measures, and challenges are discussed.
AMPK-dependent phosphorylation of lipid droplet protein PLIN2 triggers its degradation by CMA

Lipids stored in lipid droplets are hydrolyzed via either cytosolic lipases or a selective form of macroautophagy known as lipophagy. We recently demonstrated that chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) is required for the initiation of lipolysis by either of these independent lipolytic pathways. CMA selectively degrades the lipid droplet proteins perilipins (PLIN) 2 and 3 from the lipid droplet surface, thus, facilitating the recruitment of cytosolic lipases and autophagy effector proteins to the lipid droplets. PLIN2 phosphorylation was observed upon induction of lipolysis, but the phosphorylating kinase and the relation of this phosphorylation with CMA of PLIN2 remained unknown. Here, we report that phosphorylation of PLIN2 is dependent on AMPK and occurs after the interaction of PLIN2 with the CMA chaperone HSPA8/Hsc70. Our results highlight a role for posttranslational modifications in priming proteins to be amenable for degradation by CMA.
Fourier spatial frequency analysis for image classification: training the training set

The Directional Fourier Spatial Frequencies (DFSF) of a 2D image can identify similarity in spatial patterns within groups of related images. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) can then be used to classify images if the inter-image variance of the FSF in the training set is bounded. However, if variation in FSF increases with training set size, accuracy may decrease as the size of the training set increases. This calls for a method to identify a set of training images from among the originals that can form a vector basis for the entire class. Applying the Cauchy product method we extract the DFSF spectrum from radiographs of osteoporotic bone, and use it as a matched filter set to eliminate noise and image specific frequencies, and demonstrate that selection of a subset of superclassifiers from within a set of training images improves SVM accuracy. Central to this challenge is that the size of the search space can become computationally prohibitive for all but the smallest training sets. We are investigating methods to reduce the search space to identify an optimal subset of basis training images.
Controlling the spatial location of photoexcited electrons in semiconductor CdSe/CdS core/shell nanorods

It is commonly assumed that after an electron-hole pair is created in a semiconductor by absorption of a photon the electron and hole rapidly relax to their respective lowest-energy states before recombining with one another. In semiconductor heterostructure nanocrystals, however, intraband relaxation can be inhibited to the point where recombination occurs primarily from an excited state. We demonstrate this effect using time-resolved optical measurements of CdSe/CdS core/shell nanorods. For nanorods with large CdSe cores, an electron photoexcited into the lowest-energy state in the core remains in the core, and an electron photoexcited into an excited state in the CdS shell remains in the shell, until the electron recombines with the hole. This provides a means of controlling the spatial location of photoexcited electrons by excitation energy. The control over electron localization is explained in terms of slow relaxation into the lowest-energy electron state in the nanorods, on time scales slower than electron-hole recombination. The observation of inhibited relaxation suggests that a simple picture of band alignment is insufficient for understanding charge separation in semiconductor heterostructures.
The Aerodynamics of Three-Dimensional Vaned Diffusers in Industrial Centrifugal Compressors

Vaned diffusers have been used successfully as efficient and compact dynamic pressure recovery devices in industrial centrifugal compressor stages. Typically such diffusers consist of a cascade of two-dimensional blades distributed circumferentially at close proximity to the impeller exit. In this paper three low-solidity diffuser blade geometries are numerically investigated. The first geometry employs variable stagger stacking of similar blade sections along the blade span. The second employs linearly inclined stacking to generate blade lean along the diffuser span. The third geometry employs the conventional two-dimensional low-solidity diffuser geometry with no variable stagger or lean. The variable stagger blade arrangement has the potential of better aligning the diffuser leading edges with the highly non-uniform flow leaving the impeller. Both variable stagger and linearly leaned diffuser blade arrangements, however, have the effect of redistributing the blade loading and flow streamlines in the spanwise direction leading to improved efficiency and pressure recovery capacity of the diffuser. In this paper a description of the proposed diffuser geometries is presented. The results of Three-dimensional Navier-Stokes numerical simulations of the three centrifugal compressor arrangements are discussed. Comparisons between the performance of the two and three-dimensional diffuser blade geometries are presented. The comparisons indeed show that the variable stagger and leaned diffusers present an improvement in the diffuser operating range and pressure recovery capacity over the conventional two-dimensional diffuser geometry.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
ON THE DESIGN SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF BEAMS UNDER FREE AND FORCED NONLINEAR VIBRATIONS

A computational method for design sensi tivity analyses of nonlinear eigenproblems is presented in this paper. The nonlinear eigenproblems pertain to the nonlinear vibrations of beams under free and harmonic force. The geometric nonl ineari ty resul ts from the large deflection of beam. It is found that the equation for computing the design sensitivity of eigenvector is linear and unsymmetric. And a prior knowledge of the eigenvector design sensitivity is needed for the calculation of the eigenvalue sensitivity. Numerical results show that the proposed computational method is valid and efficient.
Analysis and Reflections on Fund Management in Colleges

The article points out the problems which exist in the fund management in higher institutions,such as low consciousness of the main body,weak internal control system,unclear jurisdiction of fund management,the not yet established mechanism of income division and the unsmooth investment system.Aiming at these problems,the article proposes corresponding suggestions to strengthen fund management,reduce fund investment risks and enhance fund operational efficiency.
Qualitative analysis of trace ricinine in edible vegetable oil by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector and ion trap mass spectrometry

Objective:To establish a qualitative method for the analysis of ricinine in the edible vegetable oil by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector and ion trap mass spectrometry(HPLC/DAD-IT-MS).Methods:After the samples were extracted by ethanol,dissolved by hot water,defatted by n-hexane,and cleaned and enriched by Waters OasisHLB solid-phase extraction(SPE) cartridges,they were separated on an Extend C18 column(250 mm×4.6 mm i.d.,5 μm)by using the mobile phase consisting of H2O+CH3OH(65+35,v/v).Detection for primary screening was carried out by HPLC/DAD through the standard comparison,the ultra-violet spectrum on line screening and the DAD three dimensional ultra-violet spectroscopy.Detection for confirmation was performed by the mass spectrometric behavior,especially,the characteristics of the alkaline metal adduct ions and the MS/MS fragment ions,by an electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry(ESI-IT-MS).Results:The DAD ultra-violet spectrum online scanning for ricinine could provide much spectral information.The HPLC combined with ultraviolet online scanning spectrum,the chromatographic retention time and the DAD three-dimensional ultra-violet spectroscopy could carry out an accurate primary qualitative determination.Ricinine has the obvious tendency for the alkaline metal adduct ions by ESI in the positive ion mode,such as the lithium,the sodium,the potassium and so on.The molecule-ion of ricinine produced abundant characteristic fragment ions by MS/MS cracking,these fragment ions were the proofs for the qualitative confirmation.Conclusion:The established method of combination with HPLC,ultra-violet spectrum and MS/MS fragment ions is suitable for the adulteration and toxicant emergency examination screening and confirmation with trace ricinine in the edible vegetable oil.
FIRE AND POLYMERS

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a widely used material, particularly in the building and construction industry for pipes and fittings, rigid profiles, film and sheet, and wire and cable. There are allegations about its environmental performance during production, use, and disposal. In Europe alone, PVC finished goods are estimated to have a value of $46.1 billion. Little technical support, however, has emerged related to the issues raised by certain environmental groups. PVC is low in cost. Its high chlorine content as discussed in this chapter makes it intrinsically fire retardant. Its replacement by other commodity resins would likely be with materials of significantly less fire retardancy. Cost reduction, recycling, and environmental preference lists have put pressure on specific fire retardants and on the use of fire retardant resins. Fire retardant resins cost 20 to 40 cents per pound more than corresponding nonfire retardant resins. The absence of fire retardants may make recycling easier as well as make compliance with environmental lists easier.
Dynamic IQC-based analysis and synthesis of networked control systems

This paper presents a new control design approach for networked control systems under the integral quadratic constraint (IQC) framework. In order to apply the IQC and dissipation theory, the networked control system with network-induced time-varying delays is first transformed to an equivalent linear fractional transformation (LFT) model. As such, dynamic IQCs can be used to capture the input-output behavior of the delay nonlinearities. Then, a novel full-information feedback control law is proposed, which utilizes both plant states and the IQC dynamic states, as well as the network-induced delay amounts, as feedback information. Robust l2 stability analysis of the resulting closed loop is performed via dynamic IQCs. Based on the analysis results, the synthesis conditions for the proposed full-information feedback controller are established in a linear matrix inequality (LMI) form, which can be solved effectively using existing convex optimization algorithms. Finally, a servo motor control system is used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed IQC-based control design scheme.
The Effect of Tacrolimus on Time to Development of Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder (PTLD).

Abstract Abstract 4500 Background: Post Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder (PTLD) is a rare but potentially fatal complication occurring after solid organ transplant. PTLD is divided pathologically into three subgroups: early lesions, polymorphic PTLD, and monomorphic PTLD. The severity of these complications ranges from reactive lymphoid hyperplasia to aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin-like lymphoma. Most PTLD are of B cell lineage associated with infection or reactivation of Epstein Barr virus (EBV). Post-transplant patients on immunosuppressive therapy may lack sufficient cytotoxic T cells to clear EBV-infected B cells, allowing unchecked polyclonal B cell proliferation and infection of other cells with EBV. Immunosuppression with cyclosporine and tacrolimus has been associated with a higher risk for development of PTLD. This study examines the relationship between tacrolimus and PTLD among solid-organ transplant patients. Methods: Differences in time to PTLD between patients with and without exposure to tacrolimus were assessed using a retrospective, case-control design. University of Virginia Health System registry records were searched to identify all patients in the post- solid organ transplant population diagnosed with malignancy in the years 1998–2009. Bone marrow transplant patients were excluded. Following IRB approval, data was collected on the type of transplant, immunosuppressive regimen, time from transplant to development of PTLD, and lymphoma treatment; from electronic charts and pathology reports were reviewed. Results: A total of 2841 patients with solid organ transplants were identified, including1486 patients who received tacrolimus for immunosuppression. There were 26 cases of PTLD: 19 with exposure to tacrolimus (1.3%), and 8 without exposure (0.6%). The mean time to PTLD was 2.52 years (SD = 0.65) in the tacrolimus group, and was 6.75 years (SD = 1.80) among those not exposed. This difference in time to event was stat istically significant (Log-Rank = 5.347, p = .0208). Conclusion: In our population of post solid organ transplant patients with PTLD, exposure to tacrolimus was associated with significantly shorter time to development. Prospective studies are needed to better elucidate the relationship between type of immunosuppression and development of PTLD. These results suggest that immunosuppressive regimens using tacrolimus may be associated with increased risk of developing PTLD. Download : Download high-res image (99KB) Download : Download full-size image Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Omics gets personal: integrative profiling of health and disease.

### Study Hypothesis Increasing accessibility to genomic and phenotypic information through the use of high-throughput techniques is greatly advancing the possibility of personalized medicine as a tool to both treat and prevent disease. However, interpreting genomic data to effectively predict disease risk in healthy individuals remains particularly challenging. Cohesive, wide-ranging approaches are required to integrate multiple levels of omics data (eg, genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic) with physiological data during healthy and disease states. In this study, the authors hypothesized that extensive profiling of an individual at multiple times, encompassing multiple physiological conditions, would allow for increased understanding of dynamic health and disease states, improving the ability to predict and treat disease. ### How Was the Hypothesis Tested? Blood samples were obtained from a healthy 54-year-old man over a 14-month study period, with additional available laboratory analyses extending the total observation time to 24 months. Extremely deep, whole-genome sequencing was conducted using 2 different platforms, whereas exome sequencing was carried out using 3 different platforms. This multiplatform approach allowed for high-confidence calling of variants and identification of …
E-fields of electrode-based through-the-earth (TTE) communication

An electrode-based through-the-earth (TTE), or linear TTE, communication system sends its signal directly through the earth overburden of a mine by driving an AC current into the earth. The resultant current, present at the receiver, is detected as a voltage and communication is established. The electrode-based TTE system may achieve a considerably large transmission range >305 m (1000 ft). This kind of system may be implemented for emergency communication close to an area such as a refuge alternative or other strategic location to establish communication between underground miners and the surface. Since it does not rely on extensive infrastructure underground, this communication would provide an alternate path out of the mine. Given the attenuation characteristics of the earth—which is the major factor determining the performance of TTE systems—the receiver sensitivity, transmitter antenna length and orientation, working frequency, and transmitted current required for communication can be estimated and determined. In an effort to estimate the earth attenuation, the analytic solution for the electrical field distribution of an electrode-based TTE communication system in a homogenous half-space is derived. A prototype system was built and tested at a mine site. The test data is compared with the modeling results, and a close agreement is found between them.
Bureaucratic Politics and Mixed Policy Signals: U.S. Foreign Policy for China during the George W. Bush Administration

This research project will explore U.S. foreign policy towards China during the most recent Bush Administration in order to demonstrate that bureaucratic politics play a significant role in framing policy, yet also can create confusion in terms of policy communication. Analysis is divided into three major timeframes and key actors’ interests are identified and analyzed: pre-9/11, post-9/11 and Bush’s second term. The first delineation is made because of exogenous events which caused a massive shift in the tone of U.S.-Chinese relations. The second major change in policy resulted from new cabinet appointees during the second term in office. Despite the main policy towards China shifting, though, bureaucratic policymaker’s interests and opinions did not change. Instead, certain windows of opportunity made it more likely for bureaucratic players to be successful or distracted from their goals. As a result, implementation and communication of policy decisions was often inconsistent and confusing. Ultimately, this project argues that the theory of bureaucratic politics is necessary to gain a clear understanding of how U.S. foreign policy formulation.
Photometric patch-based visual-inertial odometry

In this paper we present a novel direct visual-inertial odometry algorithm, for estimating motion in unknown environments. The algorithm utilizes image patches extracted around image features, and formulates measurement residuals in the image intensity space directly. One key characteristic of the proposed method is that it models the true irradiance at each pixel as a random variable to be estimated and marginalized out. The formulation of the photometric residual explicitly accounts for the camera response function and lens vignetting (which can be calibrated in advance), as well as unknown illumination gains and biases, which are estimated on a per-feature or per-image basis. We present a detailed evaluation of our algorithm on 50 datasets with high-precision ground truth, which amount to approximately 1.5 hours of localization data. Through a direct comparison with a point-feature based method, we demonstrate that the use of photometric residuals results in increased pose estimation accuracy, with approximately 23% lower estimation errors, on average.
Application of Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) to the study of ancient graffiti from Herculaneum, Italy

Abstract This article discusses the application of Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) to ancient graffiti from Herculaneum, Italy. RTI is a computational photography technique that makes it possible to digitally manipulate the light direction within a 2D image. This allows researchers to examine the graffiti (and individual details and letterforms) under a variety of lighting conditions. Furthermore, RTI is able to enhance the surface and color of the wall plaster on which the graffito was written. Several examples of this application to ancient graffiti show that RTI enables researchers to decipher graffiti, especially individual letterforms. RTI mimics the process of personal autopsy on site and allows scholars to reexamine the graffiti from anywhere in the world. In combination with other methods of archaeological documentation, RTI digitally preserves these inscriptions for the future.
Co-rumination and Immune Inflammatory Response in Healthy Young Adults: Associations with Interleukin-6 and C-Reactive Protein

A rich literature exists reinforcing the notion that both perceived and received social support has stress ameliorating and protective benefits both psychologically and physiologically. However, recent literature suggests that excessive dyadic negative problem talk about an issue, a phenomenon labeled co-rumination, may reverse much of the beneficial effects of social support. Healthy young adults participated in a laboratory research study exploring the associations between co-rumination and immune system inflammatory response. Partial correlations indicated a positive association between co-rumination and C-reactive protein and a negative association between co-rumination and interleukin-6 after controlling for stress, anxiety, and temperature. Discussion focuses on the means by which co-rumination may lead to negative health outcomes.
Comparison of Short-term Complications After Rotator Cuff Repair: Open Versus Arthroscopic.

Purpose To define and compare the incidence and risk factors for short-term complications after arthroscopic and open rotator cuff repair (RTCR), and to identify independent risk factors for complications after RTCR. Methods All patients who underwent open or arthroscopic RTCR from 2005 to 2013 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Short-term complications were categorized as surgical, medical, mortality, and unplanned 30-day readmission. Univariate analysis allowed the comparison of patient demographics and comorbidities. Propensity score matching was used to control for demographic differences between arthroscopic and open RTCR patient groups. Independent risk factors for complication were identified using multivariate logistic regression. Results Overall, 11,314 RTCRs were identified (24% open, 76% arthroscopic). The mean operative time for open RTCR was 78 minutes compared with 91 minutes for arthroscopic repairs ( P P = .006). The overall infection rate after RTCR was 0.56%, with deep wound infection higher in the open repair patient group ( P = .003). Multivariate analysis identified age >65 years (odds ratio [OR] 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-2.3), operative time >90 minutes (OR 1.5; CI 1.1-2.1), and open RTCR (OR 1.6; CI 1.1-2.3) as independent risk factors for complications. Conclusions Short-term complications after RTCR are rare. Total complications are higher after open RTCR in propensity-matched patient groups and in multivariate analysis. Risk factors for complications include patient age >65, operative time >90 minutes, and open repair. Open RTCR is associated with an increased risk of surgical infections. Level of Evidence Level III, retrospective comparative trial.
EFFECT OF COOPERATIVE ENFORCEMENT STRATEGIES ON WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT

This paper examines the influence of the environmental enforcement approach on the effects of government interventions on corporate environmental management. The paper contrasts a potentially innovative cooperative approach with the standard coercive approach. Empirical results show that the effectiveness of enforcement at inducing better environmental management depends on the overall regulatory enforcement approach. For example, greater cooperation undermines the effectiveness of more severe enforcement forms. Specifically, as the environmental enforcement approach becomes more cooperative, the effectiveness of federal inspections and monetary penalties decreases. These results generally demonstrate that a cooperative enforcement approach proves less effective than a coercive approach. (JEL D22, K32, Q52, Q58)
Direction dependence analysis: A framework to test the direction of effects in linear models with an implementation in SPSS

In nonexperimental data, at least three possible explanations exist for the association of two variables x and y: (1) x is the cause of y, (2) y is the cause of x, or (3) an unmeasured confounder is present. Statistical tests that identify which of the three explanatory models fits best would be a useful adjunct to the use of theory alone. The present article introduces one such statistical method, direction dependence analysis (DDA), which assesses the relative plausibility of the three explanatory models on the basis of higher-moment information about the variables (i.e., skewness and kurtosis). DDA involves the evaluation of three properties of the data: (1) the observed distributions of the variables, (2) the residual distributions of the competing models, and (3) the independence properties of the predictors and residuals of the competing models. When the observed variables are nonnormally distributed, we show that DDA components can be used to uniquely identify each explanatory model. Statistical inference methods for model selection are presented, and macros to implement DDA in SPSS are provided. An empirical example is given to illustrate the approach. Conceptual and empirical considerations are discussed for best-practice applications in psychological data, and sample size recommendations based on previous simulation studies are provided.
The Politics of Climate Change Adaptation

Climate action has two pillars: mitigation and adaptation. Mitigation faces collective action issues because its costs are focused on specific locations/actors but benefits are global and nonexclud...
Nemisys: An Expert-System for Nematode Identification

The purpose of this paper is severalfold. We wish to give some sense of what an expert system is and how one can be used in the process of identification of plant-parasitic nematodes. That is, what are some of the problems with current identification aids, and how can expert system technology assist in overcoming these limitations?
The Effect of Saponins on Mineral Availability

It has been suggested that increased consumption of saponins might be beneficial to certain sectors of the population because of their ability to lower serum cholesterol.1 Some saponins, however, are able to form insoluble complexes with Fe and Zn in vitro2 and so may reduce the amount of mineral available for absorption and metabolism in vivo. The present investigation was undertaken to determine the effect of dietary saponins on mineral utilisation in the rat. In order to evaluate the effects under conditions of suboptimal mineral intake, the study included feeding diets which were low in Fe and Zn, as well as control mineral-replete diet.
Biological effects of alkali-treated protein and lysinoalanine: an overview.

The renal alterations induced by alkali-treated protein and lysinoalanine are reviewed and their biological implications discussed. Alkali-treated proteins and lysinoalanine, an unusual amino acid formed in proteins during alkali treatment, have been shown to produce a renal alteration characterized by nuclear and cytoplasmic enlargement, with alterations in DNA synthesis, mitotsis and nucleoprotein. These changes are localized in the straight portion of the proximal renal tubule and have been observed in rats but not in several other species. The nephrotoxic effect of syrt thetic lysinoalanine has been consistently demonstrated, but the ability of alkali-treated protein to induce renal alterations is apparently modified by factors other than lysinoalanine content. Factors which may influence the development of the kidney lesions in animals fed alkali-treated protein are discussed, including nutritional factors, the chemical form of lysinoalanine in the protein, species differences, and metabolic fate. Other clinical and experimental conditions that result in similar renal alterations are presented for comparison with the lysinoalanine induced lesion, and possible functional consequences are considered.
Clonal Variation in Lateral and Basal Rooting of Populus Irrigated with Landfill Leachate

Successful establishment and productivity of Populus depends upon adventitious rooting from: 1) lateral roots that develop from either preformed or induced primordia and 2) basal roots that differentiate from callus at the base of the cutting in response to wounding. Information is needed for phytotechnologies about the degree to which Populus adventitious rooting is controlled by effects of individual genotypes, waste waters used as alternative fertigation sources, and their interactions. Our objective was to irrigate twelve Populus clones with well water (control) or municipal solid waste landfill leachate and to test for differences between initiation of lateral versus basal roots, as well as root growth rate and distributional trends for both root types. We evaluated number and length of lateral roots initiated from upper, middle, and lower thirds of the cutting, as well as basal callus roots. Overall, leachate irrigation affected lateral roots but not basal roots, and there was broad clonal variation between and within root types.
Experimental Exclusion of Insectivorous Predators Results in No Responses Across Multiple Trophic Levels in a Water-Limited, Sagebrush-Steppe Ecosystem

Abstract Predators can have strong influences on ecological processes through impacts on individuals at lower trophic levels, and changes in predator-prey dynamics can alter ecosystem functioning. However, much of what we currently know about interactions across trophic levels comes from mesic or relatively fertile systems, with fewer studies examining trophic interactions and resulting ecosystem processes in arid or infertile systems. To address this knowledge gap, we excluded avian predators from shrubs during the growing season using netting in a sagebrush steppe environment. We compared arthropod abundance, shrub herbivory damage, physiology (gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence), litter chemistry (C/N ratios and concentrations of phenolic compounds) and decomposition between netted and un-netted (control) sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis) shrubs across a growing season. While there were clear seasonal patterns in measurements, we observed no statistically significant differences between netting treatments in any of these measurements, though abundances of arthropods in the sap-feeding trophic guilds were appreciably greater (although not significantly) on netted compared to un-netted shrubs. Our results suggest that in the short-term, either top-down effects in this sage-steppe ecosystem are minimal, and/or inter-trophic interactions (vertebrate predators-arthropods-plants) are relatively weak and more dependent on bottom-up processes that are linked with abiotic variables.
Confidence in eating disorder knowledge does not predict actual knowledge in collegiate female athletes.

Background Eating disorders are serious psychological disorders with long term health impacts. Athletic populations, tend to have higher incidences of eating disorders compared to the general population. Yet there is little known about athletes' eating disorder knowledge and how it relates to their confidence in their knowledge. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to evaluate collegiate female athletes' eating disorder (ED) knowledge and confidence in their knowledge. 51 participants were recruited from a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) university in the mid-west and asked to complete a 30-question exam assessing one's knowledge of five different categories related to eating disorders. Confidence in the correctness of answers was assessed with a 5-point Likert-scale (1 = very unconfident, 5 = very confident). A one-way ANOVA was used to determine differences between scores on different categories and overall scores. A simple regression analysis was used to determine if confidence or age was predictive in knowledge scores. Results The average score of participants was 69.1%, SD = 10.8% with an average confidence of 3.69/5, SD = 0.33. Athletes scored lowest with regards to Identifying Signs and Symptoms of EDs compared to other sub-scores (p < 0.05). There was no relationship between knowledge and confidence scores. Discussion There is limited ED knowledge among collegiate female athletes. This may be problematic as many athletes appear confident in the correctness of their answers despite these low scores. Coaches should be aware of this lack of knowledge and work with clinical practitioners, such as dieticians, team physicians and athletic trainers to educate and monitor their athletes on eating disorders, specifically signs and symptoms.
The Post-GWAS Era: How to Validate the Contribution of Gene Variants in Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with strong genetic associations. Here, we provide an update on recent advancements in validating SLE candidate genes and risk variants identified in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A pairing of computational biology with new and emerging techniques has significantly increased our understanding of SLE associated variants. Specifically, generation of mutations within mice and examination of patient samples has been the dominant mechanisms for variant validation. While progress has been made in validating some genes, the number of associated genes is growing with minimal exploration of the effects of individual variants on SLE. This indicates that further examination of SLE risk variants in a cell-type-specific manner is required for better understanding of their contributions to SLE disease mechanisms.
Financial Impact of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Surgical Treatment of Foot and Ankle Osteomyelitis

Abstract Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is generally considered the most sensitive imaging for diagnosis of osteomyelitis; however, it is associated with significant cost and is at times ordered as initial screening imaging when a less resource-intensive test would suffice. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to examine the differences between patients with osteomyelitis of the foot and ankle, and their subsequent treatment course, who underwent MRI compared with those who did not. Financial impact of MRI as it relates to clinical decision-making was also calculated. Patients treated for a diagnosis of osteomyelitis of the foot and ankle from 2009 to 2015 were retrospectively identified. Demographics, imaging modalities, and operative procedures for each patient were collected. An “impact MRI” was defined as one that led to a subsequent operative procedure within the same admission. The impact cost of an MRI was estimated using the equation: (average MRI cost) × (total MRIs/impact MRIs). A total of 144 patients underwent 220 MRIs, and 399 patients did not have MRIs. The operative rate between the 2 groups was similar (70.8% versus 70.4%, p = .93). Multiple linear regression showed that MRI was not a significant predictor of operation (p = .50). However, we found a significant correlation between MRI use and operative intervention for patients with increased comorbidities. From 2011 to 2015, there was a significant increase in impact cost, while controlling for average MRI cost ($8172 to $15,292, p ≤ .05). Over the study period, the impact cost of an MRI significantly increased from 1.8 to 5.0 times the average cost.
Further study on wall film effects and flame quenching under engine thermodynamic conditions

Abstract In direct-injection engines, the formation of fuel wall film on piston surface and liner wall is a primary cause for emissions of unburnt hydrocarbons and particulate matter. It is therefore important to investigate the behavior and effect of a wall fuel film under typical engine conditions. Following our previous study of wall film effects on flame propagation and quenching under constant thermodynamic conditions (Tao et al. IJER, 2018), more complexities rooted in real engine conditions have been considered in the current work, including two real engine in-cylinder thermodynamic trajectories occurring at catalyst warming (CW) and low-speed high-load (LSHL) conditions, varying fuel wall film thickness accounting for both vaporization and condensation, and the stagnation boundary layer flow over the wall film. To shed light on the role of wall heat transfer, parameter sweeping of wall temperature is conducted from 303 K to 363 K. Two representative wall film models using empirical vaporization rate and gas-liquid interface heat flux are compared with our numerical simulation. A good correlation between vapor boundary thickness and quenching distance has been found. Competition between enhanced vaporization due to tangential convection and aggravate condensation from elevated pressure is also demonstrated. The results lead to useful insights into the behavior of a wall film in real engine in-cylinder thermodynamic conditions and could be used to construct low dimensional empirical wall film models in three-dimensional engine combustion modeling.
Osteoporosis in Older Men

The importance of osteoporosis as a factor in the care of older men is often unrecognized. Osteoporosis is more common in women; however, 20–25% of all hip fractures in the United States and northern Europe occur in men.
Atomic-Resolution Study of β-Si3N4/SiO2 Interfaces

In this chapter I describe results of the experimental study of \(\hbox{Si}_3\hbox{N}_4/\hbox{SiO}_2\) interface. This work was carried out in an effort to examine the morphology of \(\hbox{Si}_3\hbox{N}_4\,(10\overline{1}0)\) surface in the absence of rare-earth elements to better understand their importance in stabilizing the ceramics open-ring termination discussed in Chap. 4. The chapter commences with an introduction to \(\hbox{Si}_3\hbox{N}_4/\hbox{SiO}_2\) interfaces, followed by a short summary of the experimental methods used in this study. Next, the results of the investigation are presented in detail, focusing in particular on the composition and bonding characteristics across the interface.
A Quality Improvement initiative to decrease chest x-ray utilization for asthma and bronchiolitis in a Pediatric Emergency Department

TITLE: A Quality Improvement initiative to decrease chest x-ray utilization for asthma and bronchiolitis in a Pediatric Emergency Department Background: Asthma and bronchiolitis are common emergency department presentations. Chest x-rays (CXRs) for these diagnoses are not routinely recommended, but are often obtained. Reducing unnecessary CXRs to minimize cost, radiation exposure, and length of stay aligns clinical practice with current evidence based recommendations. Objective: To reduce CXR utilization in patients with asthma and bronchiolitis by 25% from baseline value of 40% to 30% over a 12 month period (Mar …
Current research: effect of time restricted eating on weight and cardiometabolic health

Intermittent fasting has grown in popularity as a weight loss strategy in recent years. In particular, time restricted eating (TRE) has been popularized in the diet industry with dozens of books touting its ability to promote weight loss and improve glucose regulation. TRE involves confining the eating window to a specified number of hours per day (usually 4-10 h), and fasting (with zero-calorie beverages) for the remaining hours of the day. While several studies of TRE have been performed in rodent models, human studies are only now emerging. The goal of this review is to summarize the effects of TRE on body weight and cardiometabolic disease risk factors in human subjects. Accumulating evidence shows that TRE may spontaneously decrease energy intake by 20-30% under ad libitum conditions, producing small but statistically significant weight loss of 1-4%. In addition, TRE may significantly decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure independent of weight loss. Further, improvements in fasting insulin and insulin resistance have also been reported. Taken together, these preliminary data suggest that TRE produces mild weight loss, and also may improve some aspects of cardiometabolic health by lowering blood pressure and insulin resistance.
Anesthetic management of children undergoing drug-induced sleep endoscopy: A retrospective review.

Abstract Objective To determine the best anesthetic technique for DISE based on a retrospective review of the current literature and to highlight research gaps that should be addressed in future studies. Methods A comprehensive retrospective review of the literature on anesthetic regimens for pediatric DISE through March 2020 was performed. Specific medical subject heading (MesH) terms included: drug-induced sleep endoscopy and anesthesia, DISE, child, obstructive sleep apnea, sleep disordered breathing. Results Twelve articles were included. One study was a retrospective comparative study while the remaining 11 were case series. Five studies described anesthetic technique for DISE pre-T&A, two post-T&A, and four both pre- and post-T&A. The heterogeneity of the studies did not allow for a meta-analysis. A total of 1110 children ages 2 months to 19 years were included. Sedation depth and anesthetic outcomes with DISE were infrequently described. Eleven studies used a sevoflurane inhalational induction and mostly transitioned to a total IV anesthetic for maintenance. Propofol was the most commonly used sole anesthetic. A total of three studies used a combination of remifentanil and propofol, one used dexmedetomidine alone, one used sevoflurane alone, and one compared different regimens. Dexmedetomidine and ketamine have the most favorable profile for pediatric DISE but are not universally used. DISE completion, as reported in two studies, was 93% and 100%. Conclusion There are several anesthetic regimens for DISE that achieve good sedation and outcomes. The combination of ketamine and dexmedetomidine may be the ideal regimen. Limited data and lack of protocols/high-quality studies exist on anesthetic regimens for pediatric DISE.
Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation: Outcomes in Veterans with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Common Comorbid Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Veterans have an increasing prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and high levels of intolerance to positive airway pressure (PAP). The hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HNS) is a promising alternative surgical treatment for OSA in these patients, many of whom suffer from mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that may negatively affect their ability to use PAP. Our aims were: 1) to assess postoperative changes in OSA severity and sleepiness in a veteran only population after HNS; 2) to compare postoperative changes in OSA severity, sleepiness and HNS adherence between veterans with and without PTSD; and 3) to compare HNS adherence in our population to HNS adherence in the current literature as well as published PAP adherence data. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective and prospective case series. METHODS Clinical data on consecutive patients undergoing HNS in a Veterans Affairs hospital were examined for demographic data as well as medical, sleep, and mental health comorbidities. The overall cohort as well as subsets of patients with and without PTSD were examined for postoperative changes in OSA severity (apnea hypopnea index [AHI], lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT]), and sleepiness (Epworth sleepiness scale [ESS]), as well as for device adherence. PTSD and depression symptomatology were measured using the PTSD Checklist 5 (PCL-5) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9). RESULTS Forty-six veterans were included. Forty-four patients were male (95.6%), 45 were white (97.8%), and the mean age was 61.3 years. Twenty-six patients met PCL-5 criteria for PTSD and 17 did not. OSA severity and sleepiness improved significantly in the overall cohort after HNS; median (IQR) AHI decreased from 39.2 (24.0, 63.0) to 7.4 (1.2, 20.8) events/hour (P < .0001), mean LSAT increased from 81% to 88% (P < .0001) and mean ESS decreased from 10.9 to 6.7 (P < .0001). These improvements were similar between patients with and without PTSD (P = .434-.918). Overall device adherence was 6.1 hours/night for the overall cohort and was not significantly different between patients with and without PTSD (P = .992). CONCLUSIONS HNS is an efficacious therapy in a veteran population, providing patients with significant improvements in OSA severity and sleepiness. Veterans with and without PTSD benefited similarly from HNS when comparing improvements in sleep apnea severity and sleepiness as well as device usage. Adherence was similar to previously published HNS adherence data and better than PAP adherence reported in the literature. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 131:S1-S11, 2021.
Identifying roles in older adults’ emergency department transitions:

Older adults frequently visit the emergency department (ED) and participate in multiple transitions of care following an ED visit. These transitions of care, e.g. to hospital, long-term care facili...
Perspectives on formaldehyde dysregulation: Mitochondrial DNA damage and repair in mammalian cells.

Abstract Maintaining genome stability involves coordination between different subcellular compartments providing cells with DNA repair systems that safeguard against environmental and endogenous stresses. Organisms produce the chemically reactive molecule formaldehyde as a component of one-carbon metabolism, and cells maintain systems to regulate endogenous levels of formaldehyde under physiological conditions, preventing genotoxicity, among other adverse effects. Dysregulation of formaldehyde is associated with several diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. In the present review, we discuss the complex topic of endogenous formaldehyde metabolism and summarize advances in research on fo dysregulation, along with future research perspectives.