cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Culture change and stress in Western Samoan youth: Methodological issues in the cross-cultural study of stress and immune function.

This study was designed to pursue three objectives: 1) inves- tigate the impact of culture change on children and adolescents in Western Samoa; 2) introduce a cross-cultural perspective to studies of psychosocial stress and immune function; and 3) evaluate the utility of minimally invasive methods for assessing immune function. Seven hundred sixty individuals between the ages of 4 and 20 years were recruited from three distinct geo- graphic regions within Western Samoa that differ in degree of westerniza- tion. Finger prick samples of whole blood were collected from each individual and analyzed for antibodies against the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV; an indirect marker of cell-mediated immune function) and C-reactive protein (a nonspe- cific marker of current infection). After controlling for age, sex, and current infection, EBV antibody levels were significantly elevated in urban Apia and rural Upolu, indicating lower levels of cell-mediated immune function. The results suggest a higher degree of psychosocial stress in these regions, pos- sibly due to exposure to westernizing influences. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 12:792-
Currents and turbulence within a kelp forest (Macrocystis pyrifera): Insights from a dynamically scaled laboratory model

The effects of a Macrocystis pyrifera forest on currents and turbulence were investigated in a controlled laboratory setting using a dynamically matched 1/25-scale model. Two kelp configurations with surface canopies and one without a surface canopy were considered. Profiles of mean velocities and turbulence statistics were measured using acoustic Doppler velocimeters. Since flow within the model kelp forest was very heterogeneous, spatially averaged forms of the governing equations were used for the analysis. Stress gradients were small compared with pressure gradient, drag, and acceleration terms of the momentum budget. A good model for kelp drag is therefore required for simulating flow through a kelp forest, while the model for Reynolds and dispersive stresses is less critical. The bulk drag coefficient is highest at the up-current end of a kelp forest and decays with down-current distance as the velocity profile adjusts to the drag profile. Modeling a kelp forest as an array of vertical cylinders underestimates the net drag by a factor of 1.5 to 3 if a substantial surface canopy is present. Turbulence is generated predominantly by small-scale shear in kelp wakes. Vertical mixing of scalars is expected to be significantly smaller than in the surrounding coastal ocean because of the combination of smaller turbulent eddies and reduced currents. The decrease in horizontal transport and vertical mixing within kelp forests may have important implications for nutrient availability to kelp forest organisms and may affect the dispersal or retention of their larvae and spores. Macrocystis pyrifera (Linneaus) Agardh (commonly Giant Kelp) forests are important components of temperate coastal ecosystems, providing food and shelter for a diverse array of organisms. Many kelp forest organisms, including M. pyrifera itself, extract nutrients, plankton, or particulates from the water column. The availability of these quantities is determined by mean water motion primarily due to currents and by vertical and lateral mixing due to turbulence and spatial variations in the flow. Most kelp forest organisms release larvae or spores into the water column, and the paths and eventual destinations of these particles are also
New hope for the prevention of recurrent atrial fibrillation

This editorial refers to “Relationship between C-reactive protein concentrations during glucocorticoid therapy and recurrent atrial fibrillation”1 by J. Dernellis et al. on page 1100 Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are associated with numerous cardiovascular diseases, and have been shown to predict future cardiac events.1 Bruins and colleagues were the first to report an association between CRP elevation and the occurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF), in their case in the context of AF following cardiac surgery.2 They demonstrated that CRP levels peaked on the second post-operative day, and that increased levels of complement-CRP complexes peaked on the second or third post-operative day. The incidence of post-operative atrial arrhythmias similarly peaks at these times. AF following cardiac surgery affects 20–50% of all patients (depending on age and type of surgery), and CRP levels in this setting can increase more than 100-fold. In 2001, we reported that, apart from the surgical setting, low level CRP elevation was present in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and that these levels were even more elevated in patients with persistent AF. We concluded that CRP elevation may reflect the inflammatory processes that lead to structural remodelling of the atria, thus increasing the … *Correspondence to: David R. Van Wagonering, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. Tel.: +1-216-444-0820; fax: +1-216-444-9155 E-mail address: vanwagd{at}ccf.org
Moderate Versus Deep Hypothermia With Unilateral Selective Antegrade Cerebral Perfusion for Acute Type A Dissection

Background Despite improved results with surgical therapy for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD), there remains a lack of consensus regarding the optimal method of cerebral protection and circulation management during ATAAD. The purpose of this study is to determine whether in the setting of antegrade cerebral perfusion, moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest (MHCA) provides equivalent cerebral and visceral protection as deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) for patients undergoing emergent ATAAD repair. Methods A review of the Emory aortic surgery database from 2004 to 2014 identified 288 patients who underwent ATAAD with right axillary artery cannulation, unilateral selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (uSACP), and hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA). In all, 88 patients underwent HCA at 24°C or lower (DHCA), and 206 patients underwent HCA at more than 24°C (MHCA). Major adverse outcomes of death, stroke, temporary neurologic dysfunction, and dialysis-dependent renal failure were examined. Results The groups were well matched for age and major comorbidities. The DHCA patients underwent HCA at lower temperatures (DHCA 21.6 ± 3.1°C vs MHCA 27.4 ± 1.6°C, p p = 0.17). There was no significant difference in stroke, temporary neurologic dysfunction, or dialysis-dependent renal failure. There was no association with either MHCA plus uSACP or DHCA plus uSACP and any of the major adverse outcomes ( p > 0.05). Conclusions Moderate HCA with uSACP is an effective circulation management strategy that provides excellent cerebral and visceral protection during emergent ATAAD repair. In the setting of antegrade cerebral perfusion, deep hypothermia does not provide any additional benefit.
Does Commercial Space Really Need MOA

th Annual Improving Space Operations workshop in April at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the question we examine in this paper. Corollaries to this driving question are why shouldn’t MOA apply and are there factors beyond mission success with acceptable risk which apply to commercial space operations that are not present in government scientific missions? To address these questions, areas we focus on include risk (both mission and profit) management for commercial space operations and the practical extension of robotic mission MOA to commercial space operations. Another key area to look at is command file errors which are a major concern for deep space robotic missions, but can we worry about them less with manned missions or unmanned supply mission? Further, with the growing concern about space debris, we delve into the role of MOA relative to End-of-Mission activities. This paper examines these topics and in particular the perspectives presented at the workshop to begin charting the appropriate course for MOA in the emerging sector of Commercial Space Operations.
Direct link assignment approach for IEEE 802.16 networks

The point-to-multipoint (PMP) mode is considered a well-adopted transmission type supported by IEEE 802.16 standard. With the consideration of direct communications among mobile stations (MSs), the required bandwidth and packet latency are reduced. However, inappropriate arrangements of direct communications may introduce additional inter-cell interferences. In order to avoid this situation, a direct link assignment (DLA) approach for each pair of MSs that are expected to conduct direct communication is proposed in this paper. Based on calculated interference region and feasible region as well as predicted motion for each pair, the DLA approach properly arranges the MSs to conduct direct communication. The efficiency of the proposed DLA approach is evaluated via simulations. Simulation studies show that the DLA approach efficiently enhances the performance of user throughput in comparison with the original adaptive point-to-point (APC) approach and the conventional IEEE 802.16 scheme.
Institutionalization of a restructured and refocused lower division undergraduate engineering education program

Among the Gateway Engineering Education Coalition institutions are several models of restructuring the lower division undergraduate educational program. the oldest of these experiments, and the most extensive to date in restructuring the educational process, is the program at Drexel University. The objective for this session is to present the process of institutionalizing significant changes in the early engineering educational experience. The term institutionalization is taken very broadly to include the range from complete adoption of a full curriculum across the entire educational program at one institution to the adaptation and adoption of some or all of a program of change from one institution by another; overcoming the "not invented here" syndrome.
The excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate causes filopodia formation in cultured hippocampal astrocytes.

Can neurons induce surrounding glia to provide a more favorable microenvironment? Synapses and nerve growth cones have been showr. to release neurotransmitters (Hume et al. Nature 1983;305:632-634; Kater et al. Trends Neurosci. 1988;11:315-321; Young and PooNuture 1983;305:634-637) providing a possible mecha- nism for this type of control. The excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate induces an increase in the number of filopodia on the surface of astrocytes cultured from the neonatal rat hippocampus. This seems to be associated with a receptor-mediated event that is activated to a lesser degree by the quisqualate and kainate, but not NMDA receptors. In addition, time-lapse video recordings have revealed a rapid extension of filopodia from the apical margins of cells treated with glutamate. The apical margins of glutaniate-treated cells studied with electron microscopy contained dense cortical actin networks that are devoid of microtubules. Coated pits are often seen to invaginate from the the apical membrane in the vicinity of filopodia. A receptor-binding step may be followed by a rapid reorganization of cortical actin resulting in actin-containing filopodia. This process may be mediated by inositol lipid hydrolysis. Pyramidal neurons settled on gl ial cultures induced filopodia to form around the entire margin of growth cones and neurite tips suggesting that these events might occur in situ.
Root foraging in response to heterogeneous soil moisture in two grapevines that differ in potential growth rate.

Summary • Linkages between plant growth rate and root responses to soil moisture heterogeneity were investigated. • Root dynamics were studied using genetically identical shoots (Vitis vinifera cv. Merlot) with genetically distinct root systems that promote higher (HSV) and lower (LSV) shoot growth rates (1103P and 101–14 Mgt, respectively). Three quantities of irrigation replenished different amounts of evapotranspiration (0, 40 and 100%ETc) in a California vineyard. • Roots of HSV vines exhibited more plasticity, as indicated by greater preferential growth in irrigated soil during the summer, and a larger shift in root diameter with a change in soil moisture than LSV vines. Higher tolerance of low soil moisture was not observed in LSV roots – root survivorship was similar for the two rootstocks. LSV vines produced a large fraction of its roots during the winter months and increased root density over the study, while HSV vines produced roots mainly in summer and only exhibited a high initial peak in root biomass in the first year. • These results demonstrated that a plant of higher vigor has greater morphological plasticity in response to lateral heterogeneity in soil moisture but similar tolerance to moisture stress as indicated by root survivorship in dry soil.
Two calcium-sensitive spike after-hyperpolarizations in visceral sensory neurones of the rabbit.

Intracellular recordings were made from rabbit nodose neurones in vitro. Two temporally distinct spike after-hyperpolarizations (a.h.p.s) were identified in a subpopulation of C-type neurones. The fast a.h.p. after a single spike lasted no longer than 500 ms, while the slow a.h.p. persisted for seconds. Both a.h.p.s. were increased in amplitude in low K+ (0.56 mM) solutions and decreased in amplitude in high K+ (11.2 mM) solutions, and both were reversed at hyperpolarized membrane potentials. The slow a.h.p. was reduced in low Ca2+ (0.22 mM), in the presence of Ca2+ antagonists (Ni2+, 1 mM; Cd2+, 100 microM; or Co2+, 1 mM) and was enhanced in tetraethylammonium (5 mM). In approximately half of the cells tested, the fast a.h.p. was reduced in low Ca2+ and in the presence of the Ca2+ antagonists. In the remaining cells the fast a.h.p. was insensitive to these procedures. Prostaglandin (PGE1, 1-10 micrograms/ml) reduced the slow a.h.p. in all cells tested. Neither the Ca2+-sensitive nor the Ca2+-insensitive fast a.h.p. was affected by the prostaglandin. It is concluded that there is a subpopulation of C-type nodose neurones possessing a slow a.h.p. which is due to a Ca2+-dependent K+ current. This subpopulation of neurones can further be divided on the basis of the presence of a Ca2+-sensitive fast a.h.p. Furthermore, PGE1 pharmacologically separates the fast and slow a.h.p.s by selectively blocking the slow one. The blockage by the PGE1 is most probably not due to a reduction in Ca2+ influx.
Electronically tunable and switchable filters using microstrip ring resonator circuits

Two microstrip ring resonator circuits are described: an electrically switchable filter and a tunable switchable filter, both using p-i-n diodes. In the first circuit, a microstrip ring resonator loaded with two p-i-n diodes is developed as a switchable filter. By replacing one p-i-n diode with a varactor diode, the switchable filter is made electronically tunable. Over 20-dB isolation with 9% tuning bandwidth has been demonstrated. Equivalent circuits have been developed for both circuits. The analysis was based on the transmission-line model including the effects of diode parasitics, coupling gaps, dispersion, and mounting gap capacitance. The experimental results agree very well with the theoretical calculation. >
Respiratory epithelial expression of integrin αvβ6 in chronic progressive allograft rejection

Abstract Background Obliterative bronchiolitis (OB) is the major cause of morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation. One initiating event in the development of obliteration of the airway lumen is epithelial injury. In our model of chronic rejection, initial ischemic injury and denudation of the epithelium occurs in the isografts, with eventual re-epithelialization and partial patency of the airway lumen. In contrast, allografts do not recover epithelium, and the airway lumen becomes obliterated. We hypothesized that because integrin αVβ6 is expressed in healing epithelium, integrin αVβ6 expression would be greatly increased in isografts, but not in allografts. Methods Using a rat tracheal allograft rejection model as a source of 4- to 5-μm tissue sections, we compared integrin staining in allografts vs isografts from animals at post-transplant Days 7, 14, 28, and 60. We analyzed the sections using immunohistochemistry after incubation with a specific monoclonal antibody E7P6 against integrin αVβ6. Negative control slides were processed identically, except that primary antibody was omitted. Results The sections from healing, re-epithelializing isografts showed intense staining when using the antibody recognizing integrin αVβ6, compared with the allografts studied. Days 7 and 14 isografts had increased epithelial expression of αVβ6. As the isograft epithelium recovered, the intensity diminished at Days 28 and 60. In allografts, at Days 7 to 60, we detected only a comparatively low-level of expression in injured epithelium. Conclusions Integrin αVβ6 is readily detectable in healing isografts. Integrin αVβ6 may be crucial in maintaining a viable epithelial cell layer, which is related to slowed progression of airway obliteration in OB.
A three dimensional augmented finite element for modeling arbitrary cracking in solids

This paper presents a new three dimensional (3D) augmented finite element method (A-FEM) that can account for arbitrary crack initiation and propagation in 3D solids without the need of additional DoF or phantom nodes. The method permits the derivation of explicit, fully condensed elemental equilibrium equations which are of mathematical exactness in the piece-wise linear sense. The method has been implemented with a 4-node tetrahedron element and a simple local tracking algorithm has been employed for calculating and recording the evolving planar or non-planar crack surface. It has been demonstrated through ample numerical examples that the new 3D A-FEM can provide significantly improved numerical accuracy and efficiency when dealing with crack propagation problems in 3D solids with planar or non-planar crack surfaces.
Are Land Use Planning and Congestion Pricing Mutually Supportive

Problem: Congestion pricing and land use planning have been proposed as two promising strategies to reduce the externalities associated with driving, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. However, they are often viewed by their proponents as substitutive instead of complementary to each other. Purpose: Using data from a pilot mileage fee program run in Portland, OR, we explored whether congestion pricing and land use planning were mutually supportive in terms of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduction. We examined whether effective land use planning could reinforce the benefit of congestion pricing, and whether congestion pricing could strengthen the role of land use planning in encouraging travelers to reduce driving. Methods: VMT data were collected over 10 months from 130 households, which were divided into two groups: those who paid a mileage charge with rates that varied by congestion level (i.e., congestion pricing) and those who paid a mileage charge with a flat ...
Recently Bred Willow (Salix spp.) Biomass Crops Show Stable Yield Trends Over Three Rotations at Two Sites

Yields of willow biomass crops have large impacts on production, economic, energy, and environmental assessments of these systems. Studies that report data for three or more rotations show various yield quantities and patterns, and few of these studies investigate North American cultivars. This study reports yield data from 18 willow cultivars over three rotations at two research sites (Belleville and Tully) in New York State, USA. Mean yields of the top five cultivars after three rotations were 12.5 Mg ha−1 year−1 (Belleville) and 10.8 Mg ha−1 year−1 (Tully). Seven cultivars had statistically higher yields at Belleville than at Tully. Repeated measures modeling indicated that site by cultivar by time interaction was present, with 13 out of 36 site-cultivar combinations showing quadratic yield trends over time, three showing linear trends, and 20 showing no trend. The large proportion of site-cultivar combinations with consistent yields indicates stability in biomass production over time. Spearman rank correlation coefficients analyzing cultivar rank after one and three rotations were 0.91 (Belleville) and 0.83 (Tully), though the highest yielding cultivars varied by site. Planting a suite of five cultivars evaluated for high yield after the first rotation led to 1.6–1.7 % losses in potential yield compared to the highest producing suite evaluated after three rotations at the same site. However, planting a suite of cultivars evaluated for high yield after the first rotation at a different site led to 10.7–13.6 % losses in potential yield with considerable economic consequences.
The Pegmatite Puzzle

Virtually every conceivable model to explain the internal evolution of granitic pegmatites had been proposed by the 1920s. Two of these hypotheses have prevailed: (1) the fractional crystallization of flux-bearing granitic melt inward from the margins of the pegmatite body to the center, and (2) the buoyant separation of an aqueous fluid from the silicate melt and its effects on the redistribution of components. A recent model combining aspects of both concepts invokes the formation of a flux-enriched boundary layer of silicate liquid in advance of a crystallization front. Though most of the internal chemical and textural features of pegmatites can now be reconciled, the puzzle of pegmatites is far from solved.
ASC Trilab L2 Codesign Milestone 2015

For the FY15 ASC L2 Trilab Codesign milestone Sandia National Laboratories performed two main studies. The first study investigated three topics (performance, cross-platform portability and programmer productivity) when using OpenMP directives and the RAJA and Kokkos programming models available from LLNL and SNL respectively. The focus of this first study was the LULESH mini-application developed and maintained by LLNL. In the coming sections of the report the reader will find performance comparisons (and a demonstration of portability) for a variety of mini-application implementations produced during this study with varying levels of optimization. Of note is that the implementations utilized including optimizations across a number of programming models to help ensure claims that Kokkos can provide native-class application performance are valid. The second study performed during FY15 is a performance assessment of the MiniAero mini-application developed by Sandia. This mini-application was developed by the SIERRA Thermal-Fluid team at Sandia for the purposes of learning the Kokkos programming model and so is available in only a single implementation. For this report we studied its performance and scaling on a number of machines with the intent of providing insight into potential performance issues that may be experienced when similar algorithms are deployed onmore » the forthcoming Trinity ASC ATS platform.« less
Resection of the head and neck of the femur with and without angulation osteotomy. A follow-up study of thirty-eight patients.

Thirty-eight patients who underwent resection of the head and neck of the femur were followed for from six months to ten years. The primary indications for the operation were relief of pain and control of infection. In eleven of the twelve patients who were operated on for infection, the infection eventually healed; thirty-two (84 per cent) of the patients obtained significant and lasting pain relief. The average postoperative hip rating on the Iowa hip rating scale was 70, compared with the average preoperative rating of 35. One-half of the patients were able to walk with a cane; 81 per cent expressed satisfaction with their functional result. Angulation osteotomy enhanced the functional results of the operation in five patients, the procedure is technically simple and gives predictable results.
An Exploration of Tie-Breaking for Microblog Retrieval

Microblog retrieval enables users to access relevant information from the huge number of tweets posted on social media. Since tweets are different from traditional documents, existing IR models might not be the optimal choice for this problem. Tie-breaking has been recently proposed as a new way of combining multiple retrieval signals. In this paper, we focus on studying the potential of this approach in microblog retrieval and propose new methods to further improve the performance. Experiment results show that these tie-breaking based methods can achieve comparable performance with the top runs in the TREC Microblog track.
Bohr, Heisenberg, Schrödinger, and the Principles of Quantum Mechanics

The conceptual core of this chapter is Heisenberg’s discovery of quantum mechanics, considered as arising from certain fundamental principles of quantum physics and as established by giving these principles a mathematical expression. The chapter also considers Bohr’s 1913 atomic theory, a crucial development in the history of quantum theory ultimately leading to Heisenberg’s discovery, and Schrodinger’s discovery of wave mechanics, initially from very different physical principles. At the same time, Schrodinger had implicitly used some of the same principles that were expressly used by Heisenberg, thus meeting Heisenberg’s program, against Schrodinger’s own grain. After a general introduction given in Sect. 2.1, Sect. 2.2 considers some of the key aspects of Einstein’s and Bohr’s work in the old quantum theory, especially significant for the invention of quantum mechanics by Heisenberg and Schrodinger, discussed in Sects. 2.3 and 2.4, respectively. Sect. 2.5, by way of a conclusion, reflects on the new relationships between mathematics and physics established by quantum mechanics in nonrealist, RWR-principle-based, interpretations.
Circular movement algorithm for gas tracking in indoor environment

This paper introduces the design and experiments of a gas tracking algorithm, named a circular movement algorithm, which is for natural indoor environment without a strong and constant wind. A graph of gas concentration shows tumultuous flow under the condition [8]. To solve the turbulent gas concentration problem, we defined cumulative-gas concentration (CGC) value to compute gradient of gas concentration and compare gas concentration values. Using the circular movement algorithm, the robot performs circular movement and collects gas concentration data to determine directions of gas source. The algorithm makes the robot able to track the directions of the gas source. This paper also introduces a tracking method using relative coordinate system for the tracking robot in the gas leaking circumstances which can calculate the location of the gas leakage without an absolute coordinate of a room or a building. As a result of experiments, the robot was able to detect a location of possible gas source by using the proposed circular movement algorithm and the relative coordinate system.
Video as a tool to increase understanding and support for the Endangered Species Act

Research into the effectiveness of video as a tool to educate students about environmental issues and cause a change in their attitudes toward them in a classroom setting is limited. We sought to add to this sparse body of research. We created three videos that showcased a species in a different stage of protection under the Endangered Species Act. Each video focused on a different species and employed different strategies to deliver content to the students who viewed them. The videos were screened to students in six classes. Data was collected via preassessments and postassessments from 140 students and analyzed using Wilcoxen Matched-Pairs Signed Ranks test. Each video significantly increased student content understanding and one video, “The Champion Chub,” improved student attitudes toward the Endangered Species Act. The study provides additional support for the effectiveness of video content as an environmental education tool.
Soil Health Concerns Facing Dryland Agroecosystems

About 40% of the world’s total land area is considered drylands and is of increasing importance to meeting the food and fiber needs of a growing and more prosperous world population. Soils in dryland regions have been seriously degraded by erosion, excessive tillage, compaction, and other processes. Loss of soil organic carbon (SOC) has perhaps been the greatest concern because this affects chemical, physical, and biological properties simultaneously that seriously affect soil health. The restoration of SOC in dryland agroecosystems is particularly challenging because the low and highly variable amounts of precipitation limit biomass production required for carbon sequestration. Dryland regions also generally have high temperatures that hasten the decomposition of organic matter. Cropping systems that include the principles of conservation agriculture appear the best approach to maintain or enhance soil health in these regions. These principles are minimum soil disturbance, permanent soil cover with crops or plant residues, and diversification of crop species.
Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis With Prolonged Glucosuria Associated With the Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Canagliflozin:

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improve glycemic control by a reversible inhibition of the sodium-glucose cotransporters in the renal proximal tubules resulting in increased urinary glucose. This unique mechanism, independent of insulin secretion and beta cell function, has made this class of medication desirable in patients with type 2 diabetes. However in May 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a safety warning pertaining to the development of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with the use of SGLT2 inhibitors. DKA associated with SGLT2 inhibitors frequently develops in the absence of hyperglycemia, which makes the diagnosis more challenging. Due to the reversible inhibition of SGLT2 by this class of medication, a quick recovery of glucosuria after cessation of medication is expected. In this article, we present a case of a 50-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes who developed euglycemic DKA after initiating therapy with canagliflozin. This case of DKA associated with SGLT2 inhibitor use was unique due to her hypoglycemic presentation and persistent glucosuria. SGLT2 inhibitors such as canagliflozin may predispose patients not only to diabetic ketoacidosis but also to prolonged glucosuria.
Is sarcopenia associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality and functional disability?

Abstract Background While a recent meta-analysis of observational studies reported a statistically significant association between sarcopenia and both all-cause mortality and functional decline, a recently developed inverse heterogeneity (IVhet) model has been shown to be more valid than the traditional random-effects model used. Objective The objective of this short report was to use a previous meta-analysis to compare the two approaches. Methods Aggregate data meta-analysis of prospective observational studies conducted in any setting. Men and women 60 years of age and older in which all-cause mortality (12 studies, 14,169 participants) or functional decline (6 studies, 8561 participants) was assessed. Using the IVhet model, pooling of previous studies regarding the association between sarcopenia and all-cause mortality as well as functional decline. Absolute and relative differences between IVhet and random-effects results were also calculated as well as influence analysis with each study deleted once. Non-overlapping 95% confidence intervals (CI) for odds ratios (OR) were considered statistically significant. Results Sarcopenia was associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality (OR = 3.64, 95% CI = 2.94 to 4.51) and functional decline (OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.33 to 4.99). Compared to the random-effects model, the OR was slightly higher (0.04 or 1.1%) but with wider CI (0.16 or 11.3%) for all-cause mortality and 0.45 (14.9%) lower with a CI that was 0.34 (10.2%) wider for functional decline. With each study deleted from the model once, results remained statistically significant for both all-cause mortality and functional decline. Conclusion These results provide additional and more accurate evidence in support of an association between sarcopenia and an increased risk for both all-cause mortality and functional decline.
Coherent μ-e Conversion at Next-to-Leading Order

We analyze next-to-leading-order (NLO) corrections and uncertainties for coherent μ−e conversion. The analysis is general, but numerical results focus on ^(27)Al, which will be used in the Muon-to-electron conversion (Mu2e) experiment. We obtain a simple expression for the branching ratio in terms of Wilson coefficients associated with possible physics beyond the standard model and a set of model-independent parameters determined solely by standard model dynamics. For scalar-mediated conversion, we find that NLO two-nucleon contributions can significantly decrease the branching ratio, potentially reducing the rate by as much as 50%. The pion-nucleon σ term and quark masses give the dominant sources of parametric uncertainty in this case. For vector-mediated conversion, the impact of NLO contributions is considerably less severe, while the present theoretical uncertainties are comparable to parametric uncertainties.
Trends in lipid profiles and descriptive characteristics of U.S. adults with and without diabetes and cholesterol-lowering medication use-National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003-2012, United States.

BACKGROUND With a cholesterol-lowering focus for diabetic adults and in the age of polypharmacy, it is important to understand how lipid profile levels differ among those with and without diabetes. OBJECTIVE Investigate the means, differences, and trends in lipid profile measures [TC, total cholesterol; LDL-c, low-density lipoprotein; HDL-c, high-density lipoprotein; and TG, triglycerides] among US adults by diabetes status and cholesterol-lowering medication. METHODS Population number and proportion of adults aged ≥21 years with diabetes and taking cholesterol-lowering medication were estimated using data on 10,384 participants from NHANES 2003-2012. Age-standardized means, trends, and differences in lipid profile measures were estimated by diabetes status and cholesterol medication use. For trends and differences, linear regression analysis were used adjusted for age, gender, and race/ethnicity. RESULTS Among diabetic adults, 52% were taking cholesterol-lowering medication compared to the 14% taking cholesterol-lowering medication without diabetes. Although diabetic adults had significantly lower TC and LDL-c levels than non-diabetic adults [% difference (95% confidence interval): TC = -5.2% (-6.8 --3.5), LDL-c = -8.0% (-10.4 --5.5)], the percent difference was greater among adults taking cholesterol medication [TC = -8.0% (-10.3 --5.7); LDL-c = -13.7% (-17.1 --10.2)] than adults not taking cholesterol medication [TC = -3.5% (-5.2 --1.6); LDL-c = -4.3% (-7.1 --1.5)] (interaction p-value: TC = <0.001; LDL-c = <0.001). From 2003-2012, mean TC and HDL-c significantly decreased among diabetic adults taking cholesterol medication [% difference per survey cycle (p-value for linear trend): TC = -2.3% (0.003) and HDL-c = -2.3% (0.033)]. Mean TC, HDL-c, and LDL-c levels did not significantly change from 2003 to 2012 in non-diabetic adults taking cholesterol medication or for adults not taking cholesterol medications. CONCLUSIONS Diabetic adults were more likely to have lower lipid levels, except for triglyceride levels, than non-diabetic adults with profound differences when considering cholesterol medication use, possibly due to the positive effects from clinical diabetes management.
Characterization of Au Irradiated Glassy Polymeric Carbon at 2,000°C for Nuclear Applications

The TRISO fuel has been used in some of the Generation IV nuclear reactor designs [1]. It consists of a fuel kernel of UOx coated with several layers of materials with different functions. Pyrolytic carbon (PyC) is one of the materials in the layers. In this study we investigate the possibility of using Glassy Polymeric Carbon (GPC) as an alternative to PyC. In this work, we are comparing the changes in physical and microstructure properties of GPC after exposure to irradiation fluence of 5 MeV Au equivalent to a 1 displacement per atom (dpa) for GPC prepared at 2,000°C. The GPC material is manufactured and tested at the Center for Irradiation Materials (CIM) at Alabama A&M University using Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and stopping range of ions in matter (SRIM) software.
Evidence-Based Best Practices for Outpatient Management of Warfarin:

Many best practices have been described for organizing a clinic to manage warfarin. Although these practices may have face validity, they may not be based on empirical analysis. Here, we describe our decade-long effort to apply the Structure-Process-Outcome model of quality measurement as a basis for measuring and improving outpatient warfarin management in the Veterans Health Administration. The purpose of the article is to raise awareness of this body of work with pharmacists who could potentially incorporate the findings of this work into their own practice settings. We conclude with concrete suggestions for immediate implementation in clinical settings.
Oral sodium citrate increases nausea amongst elective Cesarean delivery patients.

Purpose Historically, aspiration of gastric contents with subsequent pneumonia was a major cause of anesthesia-related maternal mortality. Before elective Cesarean delivery, gastric fluid can be neutralized with histamine-2 blockers or with oral sodium citrate. Although sodium citrate is commonly used, many patients dislike its taste. We designed this study to determine whether or not patients are more likely to experience nausea during Cesarean delivery when sodium citrate is administered preoperatively.
Some control-theoretic questions for a free boundary problem

We consider a number of control-theoretic questions related to a free boundary problem modeling growth and dissolution of a crystal grain surrounded by a dilute solution of the same substance.
ArArCALC-software for 40 Ar/ 39 Ar age calculations

ArArCALC is a Microsoft Excel® 97-2000-XP application for performing calculations in 40Ar/39Ar geochronology. It is coded in Visual Basic for Applications and can be used under the Windows® 95/98/NT/2000/ME/XP operating systems. ArArCALC provides an easy-to-use graphical interface for the calculation of age plateaus, total fusion ages and isochrons following the regression of 40Ar/39Ar mass spectrometry data. Results are stored in single Excel workbooks including nine different data tables and four different diagrams. Analytical, internal and external errors are calculated based on error propagation of all input parameters, analytical data and applied corrections. Finally, the age calculation results can be recalibrated with reference to the primary K-Ar standards (e.g. GA-1550, MMhb-1) in order to obtain more consistent absolute 40Ar/39Ar age determinations. ArArCALC is distributed as freeware.
Exercise training and/or diet on reduction of intra-abdominal adipose tissue and risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

To test the effects of weight loss with and without exercise training (aerobic or resistance) on intra-abdominal adipose tissue (IAAT) and risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Additionally, CVD risk factors was evaluated before and after weight loss using previously established IAAT cut-points. One hundred twenty-two overweight premenopausal women were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) diet only (Diet); (2) diet and aerobic training (Diet + AT); or (3) diet and resistance training (Diet + RT); until a BMI of 110 cm2 (IAAT associated with high CVD risk) after weight loss. We also observed that decreases of IAAT were associated with decreased CVD risk factors after weight loss independent of race, changes in %fat mass and changes in maximal oxygen uptake. Caloric restriction leading to significant weight loss with or without exercise training appears to be equally effective for reducing IAAT and CVD risk factors.
First-year seminar focused on study skills: an ill-suited attempt to improve student retention

College student attrition rates remain a major concern and many students leave due to unsatisfactory academic performance. Colleges have responded by offering first-year seminars focused on study s...
Optimal systems and their group-invariant solutions to geodesic equations

We find one-dimensional optimal systems of the Lie subalgebras of Noether symmetries associated with systems of geodesic equations. Further, we find invariants corresponding to each element of the ...
Simultaneous PET/MRI in the Evaluation of Breast and Prostate Cancer Using Combined Na[ 18 F] F and [ 18 F]FDG: a Focus on Skeletal Lesions

The purpose of this study is to prospectively evaluate the performance of sodium 18F]fluoride (Na[18F]F)/2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) simultaneous time-of-flight enabled positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detection of skeletal metastases in selected patients with advanced breast and prostate cancers. The institutional review board approved this HIPAA-compliant protocol. Written informed consent was obtained from each patient. A total of 74 patients (23 women and 51 men with breast and prostate cancer, respectively) referred for standard-of-care whole-body bone scintigraphy (WBBS) were enrolled in this prospective study. All patients underwent a [99mTc]methyldiphosphonate ([99mTc]MDP) WBBS followed by Na[18F]F/[18F]FDG PET/MRI. Lesions detected by each imaging modality were tabulated and a lesion-based and patient-based analysis was conducted. On a patient-based analysis, [99mTc]MDP WBBS identified skeletal lesions in 37 patients and PET/MRI in 45 patients. On a lesion-based analysis, WBBS identified a total of 81 skeletal lesions, whereas PET/MRI identified 140 lesions. Additionally, PET/MRI showed extra-skeletal lesions in 19 patients, including lymph nodes (16), prostate (4) lung (3), and liver (2) lesions. The ability of Na[18F]F/[18F]FDG PET/MRI to identify more skeletal lesions than 99mTc-MDP WBBS and to additionally identify extra-skeletal disease may be beneficial for patient care and represent an alternative to the single modalities performed separately. Na[18F]F/[18F]FDG PET/MRI is a promising approach for evaluation of skeletal and extra-skeletal lesions in a selected population of breast and prostate cancer patients.
A framework for distributed problem solving

Situations in which several agents must interact to achieve goals present difficulties of coordination and cooperation not found in single-agent problem solving contexts. Techniques for coordination and cooperation required in group problem solving are not well understood because most AI models deal with cases in which problems are solved by a single agent. In this paper we present a framework for distributed problem solving that describes some of the expertise an agent working in an multi-agent environment must have. An application of the framework to the domain of air-traffic control is discussed. Here each aircraft is viewed as an agent that must cooperate with others to achieve a conflict-free plan.
Tri-Modality Intravascular Imaging System

Atherosclerosis is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Early detection of plaque lesions is the first and most necessary step in preventing the lethal consequences of atherosclerosis. Currently, most intravascular imaging systems focus on single- or dual-modality imaging which are not enough to provide an accurate characterization of vulnerable plaque. To address this issue, tri-modality imaging system has been developed and shown improved characteristization. This chapter outlines two tri-modality intravascular imaging systems which combine IVUS, OCT, and NIRF imaging together, discusses the design of a tri-modality imaging system and probe, and present representative experimental results.
Agency as collectivity: Community-based research for educational equity

In this article, we highlight the affordances of agency that is not merely individual, but rather emerges in and through collectivities. We take up these issues within the context of our own work i...
Folic Acid Fortification and Neural Tube Defect Risk: Analysis of the Food Fortification Initiative Dataset

The United States implemented mandatory fortification of cereal grains with folic acid in 1998 to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) during pregnancy. The health benefits of folate (vitamin B9) are well documented; however, there are potential risks of exceeding the upper tolerable limit, particularly in vulnerable populations. We conducted a population-based analysis of the Food Fortification Initiative dataset to determine the strength of the evidence regarding reports of decreased NTDs at the national level in response to mandatory folic acid fortification of cereal grains. We found a very weak correlation between NTD prevalence and the level of folic acid fortification, irrespective of the cereal grain fortified (wheat, maize or rice). Stratification of the data based on socioeconomic status (SES) indicated a strong linear relationship between reduced NTDs and better SES. We conclude that national fortification with folic acid is not associated with a significant decrease in the prevalence of NTDs at the population level.
Impact of Mind-Body Medicine Professional Skills Training on Healthcare Professional Burnout.

BackgroundHealthcare professional burnout has reached epidemic proportions, with downstream effects on personal and patient health and on our institutions. Solutions lie in the domains of work cult...
Levothyroxine prescriptions trends may indicate a downtrend in prescribing.

Background:There has been a trend for increased prescribing of levothyroxine (LT4) in many countries, including the United States. Several different factors have been suggested to be the cause of t...
The Silent Battle on the Budget: The Effect of Centralized Indexing on Collection Analysis in Primo and EBSCO

Significant cuts to the collections budget and a fire in the main library at Kansas State University transitioned the Libraries toward an increased focus upon electronic resources management. As el...
Risk sharing versus financial contagion in Asia: An asset price perspective

This paper assesses financial integration in Asia in terms of risk-sharing benefit versus financial contagion cost. We construct a new measure of risk sharing based on a term structure model, which allows identification of realized stochastic discount factors. Risk sharing is low in Asia, and varies across time and countries, whereas contagion risks are more significant intra-regionally, and relatively stable over the past decade. An overall tradeoff exists between risk sharing and contagion, but the terms of tradeoffs vary across countries, depending on relative economic fluctuations and inflation differentials. Asia therefore can potentially enhance risk sharing without raising contagion risk.
Value and Unmet Needs in Non-Invasive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Testing for Oropharyngeal Cancer

The burden of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) has risen, now representing the most common HPV-related malignancy. For years, researchers have explored the utility of measuring HPV-related markers from mouth, throat, and blood samples, often with the aim of gathering more information about an existing HPV-related tumor in a given patient. We review the widely varying methods for collecting and testing saliva and blood samples and offer guidance for standardizing these practices. We then review an array of clinical contexts in which non-invasive testing holds the most promise for potentially addressing unmet needs. In particular, such testing could help clinicians and researchers monitor the effects of vaccination and treatment. Meanwhile, due to the currently incomplete understanding of how carrying HPV relates to infection and subsequent oncogenesis, non-invasive testing methods may not be suitable for the screening setting at this time.