cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Currently Recommended TON Injectate Volumes Concomitantly Block the GON: Clinical Implications for Managing Cervicogenic Headache.

Background Headache (HA) is a significant cause of morbidity globally. Despite many available treatment options, HAs that are refractory to conservative management can be challenging to treat. Third occipital nerve (TON) and greater occipital nerve (GON) irritation are potential etiologic agents of primary and cervicogenic HAs that can be targeted using minimally invasive treatment options such as nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation. However, a substantial number of patients that undergo radiofrequency ablation do not experience pain relief despite a positive diagnostic medial branch block (MBB). Objective In this study, we investigate the underlying cause for the high rate of false positives associated with MBBs by evaluating injectate spread in cadaveric subjects. Study design Cadaveric study. Setting Academic medical center. Methods After obtaining exemption status from our Institutional Review Board, TON injections were performed on 5 preserved cadavers, a total of 10 TONs, using anatomic landmarks, partial dissection, and palpation to guide needle placement. Cadaveric dissections were performed to evaluate the location, vertical spread, and grossly observed injectate coating of the TON and GON for each quantity of methylene blue injectate, 0.3 mL and 0.5 mL, administered. Results The average distance between the TON and GON at their respective foraminal exit points was 1.81 cm. The average vertical spread for 0.3 mL and 0.5 mL of methylene blue injectate was 2.02 + 0.35 cm and 3.26 + 0.48 cm when performing a TON block. When using 0.3 mL injectate, both the TON and GON were simultaneously coated 60% of the time. After increasing the injectate volume to 0.5 mL, both the TON and GON were simultaneously coated 100% of the time. Limitations The cadaveric design of this study presents limitations when translating cadaveric findings to the clinical setting. Also, the small sample size limits its power and generalizability. Lastly, the potential for researcher bias exists as the investigators were not blinded. Conclusions This study demonstrates that currently recommended injectate volumes for TON blocks may result in concomitant coating of the GON. Conventional radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of these nerves may not lesion both the TON and GON given its restrictive circumferential lesioning diameter of 5 - 7 mm. As such, interventionalists should consider performing radiofrequency ablation to both the TON and GON after a positive TON block. Key words Chronic pain, cervicogenic headache, third occipital nerve, greater occipital nerve, injectate spread, radiofrequency ablation.
Line Tension Assists Membrane Permeation at the Transition Temperature in Mixed-Phase Lipid Bilayers.

The umbrella sampling method has been used to evaluate the free energy profile for a large permeant moving through a lipid bilayer, represented using a coarse-grained simulation model, at and below its gel–fluid transition temperature. At the lipid transition temperature, determined to be 302 K for the MARTINI 2.0 model of DPPC, the permeation barrier for passage through an enclosed fluid domain embedded in a patch of gel was significantly lower than that for passage through a fluid stripe domain. In contrast, permeation through a fluid domain in a stripe geometry produced a free energy profile nearly identical to that of a gel-free fluid bilayer. In both cases, insertion of the permeant into a fluid domain coexisting with the gel phase led to a shift in phase composition, as lipids transitioned from fluid to gel to accommodate the area occupied by the permeant. In the case of the enclosed fluid domain, this transition produced a decrease in the length of the fluid–gel interface as the approximately circu...
Methods to Study Lung Injury and Repair: Introduction

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality in intensive care units throughout the world. In this chapter, we briefly review ARDS pathogenesis and therapeutic options, and highlight the current gaps in our knowledge. This book focuses on new methodologies and experimental models that scientists interested in ARDS will find useful.
The Drosophila Clock Neuron Network Features Diverse Coupling Modes and Requires Network-wide Coherence for Robust Circadian Rhythms.

Summary In animals, networks of clock neurons containing molecular clocks orchestrate daily rhythms in physiology and behavior. However, how various types of clock neurons communicate and coordinate with one another to produce coherent circadian rhythms is not well understood. Here, we investigate clock neuron coupling in the brain of Drosophila and demonstrate that the fly's various groups of clock neurons display unique and complex coupling relationships to core pacemaker neurons. Furthermore, we find that coordinated free-running rhythms require molecular clock synchrony not only within the well-characterized lateral clock neuron classes but also between lateral clock neurons and dorsal clock neurons. These results uncover unexpected patterns of coupling in the clock neuron network and reveal that robust free-running behavioral rhythms require a coherence of molecular oscillations across most of the fly's clock neuron network.
RISR‐N observations of the IMF By influence on Reverse Convection During Extreme Northward IMF

Previous studies have demonstrated that the high-latitude ionospheric convection is strongly influenced by the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) direction. However, the temporal details of how the convection transitions from one state to another is still not understood completely. In this study, we analyze an interval on September 12, 2014 which provided a rare opportunity to examine dynamic variations in the dayside convection throat as the IMF transitioned from strong By+ to strong Bz+. Between 18:00 - 20:00 UT the northward face of the Resolute Bay Incoherent Scatter Radar (RISR-N) rotated through the noon sector and directly measured strengthening reverse convection flows in the dayside throat region that peaked at ∼2800m/s. Near-simultaneous measurements from DMSP satellites confirm the magnitude of the reverse convection and its proximity to the cusp. Time-series comparison of the RISR-N north-south flows with the IMF Bz component shows a remarkably high correlation, suggestive of strong linear coupling, with no sign of velocity saturation. Likewise, the east-west flow variations were highly correlated with the changes in IMF By. However, time-lagged correlation analysis reveals that the IMF By influence acted on a time-scale 10 minutes shorter than that of the Bz component. As a consequence, the manner in which the convection transitioned from the strong By+ condition to the strong Bz+ condition is inconsistent with either the anti-parallel and component reconnection models. Instead, we suggest that these particular observations are consistent with two separate reconnection sites on the magnetopause driven independently by the IMF By and Bz components.
Functional vs. Non-functional Properties

THE SYN tools used throughout this monograph measure (for components) and predict (for systems) two behaviors: output (usually called ‘functional behavior’) and run time (an example of a contrasting ‘non-functional behavior’). As described in Chapter 14, the tools actually process as ‘run time’ an arbitrary secondary output from components and systems. The ‘non-functional’ behavior could be any property of interest, so long as there is a way to measure it at the component level and then to combine its component values into system values. For run time, measurement is straightforward using operating-system services and the series combination operator is addition, although concurrency introduces a bit of complication (Chapter 11). Throughout this chapter, run time continues to stand in for an arbitrary non-functional property. Reliability, which can be treated in much the same way as run time, is not at all straightforward and has its own Chapter 12.
Morbidity and mortality after surgery for nonmalignant colorectal polyps.

Background and Aims Despite evidence that most nonmalignant colorectal polyps can be managed endoscopically, a substantial proportion of patients with a nonmalignant colorectal polyp are still sent to surgery. Risks associated with this surgery are not well characterized. We describe 30-day postoperative morbidity and mortality and explore risk factors for adverse events in patients undergoing surgical resection for nonmalignant colorectal polyps. Methods We analyzed data collected prospectively as part of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Our analysis included 12,732 patients who underwent elective surgery for a nonmalignant colorectal polyp from 2011 through 2014. We report adverse events within 30 days of the index surgery. Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results Thirty-day mortality was .7%. The risk of a major postoperative adverse event was 14%. Within 30 days of resection, 7.8% of patients were readmitted and 3.6% of patients had a second major surgery. The index surgery resulted in a colostomy in 1.8% and ileostomy in .4% of patients. Patients who had surgical resection of a nonmalignant polyp in the rectum or anal canal compared with the colon had a risk ratio of 1.58 (95% confidence interval, 1.09-2.28) for surgical site infection and 6.51 (95% confidence interval, 4.97-8.52) for ostomy. Conclusions Surgery for a nonmalignant colorectal polyp is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. A better understanding of the risks and benefits associated with surgical management of nonmalignant colorectal polyps will better inform discussions regarding the relative merits of management strategies.
Self-reported assistive technology outcomes and personal characteristics in college students with less-apparent disabilities.

The impact of assistive technology (AT) services for college students with less-apparent disabilities is under-reported. Using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), we assessed student Performance and Satisfaction ratings of common academic tasks at the start and end of a semester during which 105 student-clients with less-apparent disabilities received AT services. We examined if COPM scores related to personal characteristics of gender, class-level (e.g., Sophomore), and STEM education; if personal characteristics predicted a student's follow-through with an AT service referral (n=231); and if personal characteristics and initial COPM scores predicted dropout from AT services (n=187). COPM ratings significantly increased in all academic tasks (p female ratings; p=.01), and Performance changes (females were more likely to have a service-meaningful change; p=.02). Higher class-level predicted better follow-through with a referral for AT services (p=.006). Increasing class-level (p=.05) and higher initial studying (p<.006) and reading (p<.029) ratings predicted a lower likelihood for dropout. These findings demonstrate that college students with less-apparent disabilities experience substantial improvements in their self-ratings of academic performance and satisfaction following AT services. Gender, class-level, and initial self-perceived reading and studying abilities may influence if and how the student participates with AT services.
Effects of alterations of the E. coli lipopolysaccharide layer on membrane permeabilization events induced by Cecropin A.

Abstract The outermost layer of Gram negative bacteria is composed of a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) network that forms a dense protective hydrophilic barrier against entry of hydrophobic drugs. At low μM concentrations, a large family of cationic polypeptides known as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are able to penetrate the LPS layer and permeabilize the outer membrane (OM) and the cytoplasmic membrane (CM), causing cell death. Cecropin A is a well-studied cationic AMP from moth. Here a battery of time-resolved, single-cell microscopy experiments explores how deletion of sugar layers and/or phosphoryl negative charges from the core oligosaccharide layer (core OS) of K12 E. coli alters the timing of OM and CM permeabilization induced by Cecropin A. Deletion of sugar layers, or phosphoryl charges, or both from the core OS shortens the time to the onset of OM permeabilization to periplasmic GFP and also the lag time between OM permeabilization and CM permeabilization. Meanwhile, the 12-h minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) changes only twofold with core OS alterations. The results suggest a two-step model in which the core oligosaccharide layers act as a kinetic barrier to penetration of Cecropin A to the lipid A outer leaflet of the OM. Once a threshold concentration has built up at the lipid A leaflet, nucleation occurs and the OM is locally permeabilized to GFP and, by inference, to Cecropin A. Whenever Cecropin A permeabilizes the OM, CM permeabilization always follows, and cell growth subsequently halts and never recovers on the 45 min observation timescale.
Understanding the ethical framework for catholic health care.

A Jesuit priest discusses how the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care are the basis of Catholic health care practices. A discussion of the ethical fundamental principles within which the Catholic health care system operates. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Cytometric assessment of histone H2AX phosphorylation: a reporter of DNA damage.

DNA damage that leads to formation of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) induces phosphorylation of histone H2AX on Ser-139 at sites flanking the breakage. Immunocytochemical detection of phosphorylated H2AX (denoted as γH2AX) thus provides a marker of DSBs. The method presented in this chapter describes the detection of γH2AX for revealing the presence of DSBs, combined with differential staining of cellular DNA for revealing the cell cycle phase. The detection of γH2AX is based on indirect immunofluorescence using secondary antibody tagged with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) while DNA is counterstained with propidium iodide (PI). Intensity of cellular green (FITC) and red (PI) fluorescence is measured by flow cytometry and bivariate analysis of the data is used to correlate the presence of DSBs with the cell cycle phase.
Nonaqueous Electrolytes: Advances in Lithium Salts

The synthesis and characterization of new lithium salts has been a core component of electrolyte research for the past three decades. Upon the commercialization of Li-ion batteries with a graphite anode, LiPF6 became the dominant salt for lithium battery electrolytes. But the advent of new electrodes/cell chemistries (e.g., Si alloy anodes, high-voltage cathodes, Li-air, Li-S), as well as the need for exceptional battery safety, higher/lower temperature operation, improved durability/longer lifetimes, etc., has resulted in the pressing need for new electrolyte formulations. Lithium salts, either as a substitute for LiPF6 or as an additive, are one central focus for this electrolyte transformation.
Learning to rock: The role of prior experience and explicit instruction on learning and transfer in a music videogame

Abstract For a moment in time, music-based videogames were tremendously popular, yet we know little about how and when knowledge learned from these games can transfer to other music tasks. This paper presents a study of transfer from the game Rock Band to within-game and non-game musical tasks. Thirty-four undergraduates with low to moderate prior Rock Band experience participated in the study. For initial instruction, they were randomly assigned to either a Drill condition, using the built-in training feature of the videogame, or a teacher-led Lesson condition which focused on strategic and procedural knowledge of drumming techniques. Non-game transfer tasks included: (1) drumming along with music sequencing software (GarageBand), (2) a call and response task, and (3) a task where participants commented on the technique of other drummers. Results showed that prior experience with Rock Band was a significant predictor for the GarageBand transfer tasks but not for the call and response or commenting tasks. Both instructional conditions performed equally well on Rock Band tasks, but those in the Lesson condition performed better on commenting tasks, as well as on GarageBand tasks after controlling for Rock Band skill. These findings replicate and extend prior research on the ability of game play experience to transfer to non-game musical tasks, while adding the finding that traditional lessons can effectively augment in-game learning experiences.
Multi-Band Differential Bandpass Filters with Quasi-Elliptic-Type Passbands and Multi-Transmission Zero Common-Mode Suppression

In this paper, the RF design of differential quasi-elliptic-type dual-and tri-band bandpass filters (BPFs) is reported. They are based on series-cascaded multi-resonant cells that result in: i) quasi-elliptic-type passbands in the differential-mode of operation that are shaped by 3N poles and 3N-1 transmission zeros (TZs)―N is the number of bands―and ii) high common mode (CM) suppression through multi-TZ generation―5N-1 in total―and resistively-loaded poles. Coupling-routing diagrams that facilitate the RF design of these type of filters with standard coupled-resonator synthesis are presented. For proof-of-concept demonstration purposes, a dual-band microstrip prototype was manufactured and measured with the following RF performance characteristics: passbands centered at 2.53 and 3.49 GHz, fractional bandwidths of 13 and 12%, and minimum in-band insertion loss levels of 1.27 and 1.43 dB, respectively. Moreover, the CM is suppressed by >52 and >38 dB at the center of the bands.
A randomized-controlled trial to assess the effect of ibuprofen on postpartum blood pressure in women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Abstract Objectives To test the hypothesis that ibuprofen is equivalent to acetaminophen in its effect on postpartum blood pressure in women with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia without severe features. Study design Single-center randomized, crossover, equivalence trial among women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy without severe features after vaginal delivery. Participants were assigned in a double-blind fashion to ibuprofen 600 mg or acetaminophen 650 mg every 6 h for 24 h followed by crossover to the other drug. We assessed clinical blood pressures and ambulatory blood pressure monitor measurements. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed using a linear mixed model adjusted for time period. Main outcome measures The mean difference in systolic blood pressure through 24 h of drug exposure with an equivalence margin of 10 mmHg. Results Of 185 screened women, 74 enrolled prior to delivery. Forty-three women remained eligible and were randomized to ibuprofen first (n = 20, 46.5%) or acetaminophen first (n = 23, 53.5%). A total of 37 women (86.0%) received study drug (ibuprofen first n = 19, acetaminophen first n = 18). Most participants were white (91.9%) and had gestational hypertension (86.5%); mean (SD) age was 31.0 (6.5) years. The mean adjusted difference in systolic blood pressure was 1.0 mmHg (95% CI, −3.7 to 5.7 mmHg), which was within the equivalence margin. A linear mixed model did not demonstrate a main effect of group assignment, nor did it show an interaction effect with time period. Conclusions Among women with gestational hypertension and preeclampsia without severe features, ibuprofen is an equally safe option as acetaminophen with respect to postpartum blood pressure concerns.
EFFECTS OF MEDICARE COMORBIDITIES, SELF-REPORTED FACTORS, AND POLYGENIC RISK SCORES IN RISKS OF AD/ADRD

At this time there is no consensus on the origin, development, and progression of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) and the extent to which variation in the effects of potential risk factors affects the risk for this disorder is underexplored. In this paper we used HRS-Medicare-genetics data to evaluate the effects of risk factors from three groups: i) Medicare-based indicators of chronic diseases that have shown an association with AD/ADRD in the literature, ii) individual heath state, behavior, functional status, education and socioeconomic status, and iii) polygenic risk scores that incorporate known-to-date genetic risk factors for AD/ADRD. We found that: i) the effects of Medicare disease indicators are higher than the effects of self-reported diseases; ii) heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, and depression had a strong impact on AD/ADRD, while the presence of cancers sometimes decreases the risk of AD/ADRD; iii) systemic hypotension, chronic kidney disease, and chronic liver disease showed unexpectedly strong effects; iv) compared to females, males are affected by a lower number of risk factors albeit at higher magnitudes; v) BMI, alcohol, drinking, income, and number of education years are protective, vi) genetic scores associated with neurotransmitters (synapse functioning and loss) and neuroinflammation demonstrated strong significant effects, and vii) Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition demonstrated the important role of genetic factors in racial disparities in AD risk. The analyses show the extent to which links between the distinct differences in comorbidities, behavioral and socioeconomic factors can predict the risk for AD/ADRD.
Focused ultrasound induced-blood-brain barrier opening in mouse brain receiving radiosurgery dose of radiation enhances local delivery of systemic therapy

Objective:Investigate the temporal effects of focused ultrasound (FUS)-induced blood–brain barrier (BBB) opening in post-radiotherapy mouse brains.Methods and materials:C57B6 mice without tumors we...
Performance Evaluation of an Evacuated Flat Plate Photovoltaic-Thermal (PVT) Collector for Heat and Electricity

The photovoltaic (PV) systems produce heat and electricity at the same time. Heat produced by conventional PV systems is of low-grade nature that cannot be used efficiently in high temperature application. In this article a novel PV thermal air collector has been worked out that can produce heat of high-grade nature as well as electricity. To obtain high temperature vacuum has been created between the solar cells and glass glazing that will reduce the thermal loss. Currently, in this work, a mathematical model is presented for single glazed evacuated flat plate photovoltaic-thermal (EFPVT) air collector to investigate its performance under different working conditions. The model is established on heat balance equations constructed for each component of the EFPVT air collector, considering a steady state heat transfer. MATLAB software is used to develop the computer code for the heat balance model and to run the iterative simulations. Simulations are performed at different mass flow rates (0.001-0.08 kg/s), collector length (1–10 m) and different configurations (evacuated/non-evacuated, with PV lamination and without PV lamination). The results indicate that thermal efficiency for EFPVT collector is higher and achieved higher outlet air temperature. A slight reduction in PV electrical efficiency is also observed due to rise in absorber temperature, in EFPVT collector case as compared to conventional non-evacuated configuration. The proposed mathematical model is suitable for steady state simulation and can successfully predict the system's electrical and thermal performance, in good conformity with the literature.
Challenges and Successes of Implementing NOAA/NESDIS/NCEI's Ingest of Archival Data in a Cloud Environment

Since its formation in 2015, the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) has used disparate, legacy systems spread across several IT networks of the National Environmental Satellite, ...
Analysis of a Truck Driver's Square Root Algorithm.

In the November 1978 issue of the Arith metic Teacher, John Risoen and Jane Sten zel describe an algorithm for approximat ing square roots discovered one night by a lonely trucker hauling cheese between Los Angeles and Sacramento. The purposes of the present paper are twofold: to analyze this algorithm and to argue that its analysis is a good exercise for secondary school mathematics students. In all our classes, mathematics instruc tion too often reduces to practicing al gorithms, whereas understanding how the algorithms work is neglected. The truck driver's algorithm, described below, could also be taught in a rote fashion, but it is such a simple, yet strange algorithm that we immediately want to know why it works. Fortunately, in this case, algebra is the only tool we need to understand the al gorithm. So an analysis of the algorithm also provides a much needed opportunity to show that algebra is useful for something besides solving unusual story problems. In this case, algebra also provides the neces sary tool to do an error analysis of the al gorithm and below we determine that 0.25 is the maximal error ever perpetrated by the truck driver's algorithm.
North Africa Nomadic Indigenous Knowledge: Ayt Khabach Nomads Urban Challenges in Southeastern Morocco

Ayt Khabach, nomads of Asamer, southeastern regions of Morocco, have struggled for many decades to preserve their language and cultural identity as well as their Tussna, Indigenous ancestral knowledge. Early French colonial policies of sedentarization, the politics of proximity to the Algerian borders and the harsher desert climate forced these Irehalen, desert dwellers, to settle in villages and cities round Tafilalet which affected not only their world but also the way they understood it. In this chapter, we examine these developments as part of a larger process of displacement and sedentarization that proved too costly for these Indigenous nomadic peoples who still have economic and cultural ties to the desert. How have their Azdugh d Tussna, settlement and ways of knowing and learning, changed as they continue move between the Sahara and new urban spaces? Now these communities are facing many challenges in re-creating structures and methods to teach their stories (anthologies) and ways of knowing (epistemologies) to younger generations who are becoming less interested in nomadic knowledge now that they live in towns.
Influence of Fluid Delivery Schedule and Composition on Fluid Balance, Physiologic Strain, and Substrate Use in the Heat.

INTRODUCTION Wildfire suppression is characterized by high total energy expenditure and water turnover rates. Hydration position stands outline hourly fluid intake rates. However, dose interval remains ambiguous. We aimed to determine the effects of microdosing and bolus-dosing water and microdosing and bolus-dosing carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions on fluid balance, heat stress (physiologic strain index [PSI]), and carbohydrate oxidation during extended thermal exercise. METHODS In a repeated-measures cross-over design, subjects completed four 120-min treadmill trials (1.3 m·s-1, 5% grade, 33°C, 30% relative humidity) wearing a US Forest Service wildland firefighter uniform and a 15-kg pack. Fluid delivery approximated losses calculated from a pre-experiment familiarization trial, providing 22 doses·h-1 or 1 dose·h-1 (46±11, 1005±245 mL·dose-1). Body weight (pre- and postexercise) and urine volume (pre-, during, and postexercise) were recorded. Heart rate, rectal temperature, skin temperature, and steady-state expired air samples were recorded throughout exercise. Statistical significance (P 0.05) and cumulative urine output (n=11, 677±440 mL, P>0.05) were not different across trials. The micro-dosed carbohydrate-electrolyte trial sweat rate was lower than that of the bolus-dosed carbohydrate-electrolyte, bolus-dosed water, and microdosed water trials (n=11, 0.8±0.2, 0.9±0.2, 0.9±0.2, 0.9±0.2 L·h-1, respectively; P<0.05). PSI was lower at 60 than 120 min (n=12, 3.6±0.7 and 4.5±0.9, respectively; P<0.05), with no differences across trials. The carbohydrate-electrolyte trial's carbohydrate oxidation was higher than water trial's (n=12, 1.5±0.3 and 0.8±0.2 g·min-1, respectively; P<0.05), with no dosing style differences. CONCLUSIONS Equal-volume diverse fluid delivery schedules did not affect fluid balance, PSI, or carbohydrate oxidation during extended thermal work.
A Robotic Augmented Reality Virtual Window for Law Enforcement Operations

In room-clearing tasks, SWAT team members suffer from a lack of initial environmental information: knowledge about what is in a room and what relevance or threat level it represents for mission parameters. Normally this gap in situation awareness is rectified only upon room entry, forcing SWAT team members to rely on quick responses and near-instinctual reactions. This can lead to dangerously escalating situations or important missed information which, in turn, can increase the likelihood of injury and even mortality. Thus, we present an x-ray vision system for the dynamic scanning and display of room content, using a robotic platform to mitigate operator risk. This system maps a room using a robot-equipped stereo depth camera and, using an augmented reality (AR) system, presents the resulting geographic information according to the perspective of each officer. This intervention has the potential to notably lower risk and increase officer situation awareness, all while team members are in the relative safety of cover. With these potential stakes, it is important to test the viability of this system natively and in an operational SWAT team context.
The Sociopolitical Integrity of the Roman State: Intragroup Competition, Intergroup Competition, and Economic Dynamics

As exemplified by the history of the Roman State, economic distress can decrease the level of intrasocietal cohesion even in the absence of external pressures. Since its inception, the Roman Republic faced numerous foreign threats, from rival cites in the Italian peninsula to tribal confederacies in Gaul. A chronic state of intergroup conflict favored the evolution of cultural variants necessary for sustaining large-scale cooperation. These innovations allowed the Republic to conquer its neighbors and expand outside the Italian peninsula. Even though the spoils of war created a climate of macroeconomic prosperity in Rome, the rising income and wealth inequality, along with the elimination of ultrasocial institutions, increased popular discontent. It was during these times of turmoil that ambitious men dismantled the foundations designed to guard the State from the exploitation of autocrats. Debates concerning land and wealth distribution, at first restricted to senatorial rhetoric, escalated into street revolts and political assassinations. The mobilization of “private armies,” as part of a series of civil wars, would eventually lead to the end of the Republic.
Is second-growth rainforest good enough? Going beyond community composition

Tropical rainforests are the most biodiverse terrestrial ecosystems on the planet. Since so much old-growth rainforest continues to be destroyed, much effort has gone into understanding the conservation value of second-growth rainforests. However, the primary measuring stick for old-growth/second-growth comparisons is overall community similarity, and while presence-absence or abundance metrics are important initial data, it is also vital to determine whether species that are present in second-growth rainforests are actually viable, self-sustaining populations. To address this question, we assessed glass frog communities in old and second-growth rainforests at ten study sites in two countries. We compared: (1) glass frog community similarity, (2) patterns of species abundance, (3) embryonic survival, (4) reproductive success and (5) abiotic conditions in old and second-growth rainforests. Results indicated that glass frog community composition was consistently similar and that abundances did not differ between forest types for any species. No species were restricted to old-growth. Similarly, short-term embryonic survival was not significantly different between old-growth and second-growth forests. For one species that was intensively studied (H. orientale tobagoense), female clutch size was not significantly different among forest types and male reproductive success was significantly higher in second-growth. Our work suggests that glass frog communities in second-growth rainforests are similar to old-growth and are likely viable and self-sustaining populations. Conserving remnant old-growth forests remains vitally important but it is becoming clear that protecting second growth is also an important strategy to conserve biodiversity in the face of today’s unprecedented environmental challenges.
Design and optimization strategy for ejectors applied in refrigeration cycles

Abstract Implementation of an ejector for expansion work recovery in transcritical Carbon Dioxide (CO2) cycles provides an opportunity to improve the efficiency of these environmentally-friendly refrigeration systems. However, literature outlining an approach to ejector design for a given application is lacking. This paper presents a tool to design a complete ejector applied in a vapor compression cycle. In this work, the developed design tool was validated using experimentally-derived polynomials at air conditioning conditions, then efficiencies were input to broaden the analysis to study a transcritical CO2 system with an ejector operating in the evaporating temperature range of −15 °C to 20 °C and gas cooler pressure in the range of 80–110 bar. The design tool allows for the calculation of the motive and suction nozzle throat diameters, the mixing section diameter, and the diffuser outlet diameter, as well as the lengths of each section, to output a full internal geometry of the ejector based on performance requirements. Individual component sub-models are presented within the proposed model structure. The model which forms the basis of the design tool was experimentally validated with a mean absolute error (MAE) between 3% and 4%. Additionally, the sensitivity of the ejector geometry and performance to component efficiencies, operating conditions, and component versus system optimization was investigated. The optimization and parametric studies conducted provided novel insights into the impact of desired efficiency and operating conditions on ejector geometry, thus allowing a designer to make decisions based on the tradeoff between ejector size and performance. For example, as the diffuser length increased by 5.1 mm to obtain an efficiency increase, to obtain a further efficiency increase of the same amount would require a 17.1 mm length increase in diffuser length. Potential model improvements and other future work are also discussed.
Effects of Augmented Feedback and Motor Learning Adaptation on Human–Automation Interaction Factors

Increased interest in body–machine interfaces necessitates understanding how to train users to use nontraditional inputs. In this study, a control task driven by subject-activated surface electromy...
Valvular Heart Disease

The ACC/AHA guidelines have identified severe valvular disease as an “Active Cardiac Condition” (i.e., high risk) for noncardiac surgery [1]. Identifying pathologic murmurs and distinguishing them from functional murmurs by careful history and exam is the first essential step. The type and degree of valvular dysfunction, as well as the nature of the planned surgery, all influence perioperative risk and determine the need for intervention. Abnormalities of the aortic and mitral valves are the most common, and generally pose the most clinically significant risk.
Student Evaluation of Teaching: A Study Exploring Student Rating Instrument Free-form Text Comments

Student rating instruments are recognised to be valid indicators of effective instruction, providing a valuable tool to improve teaching. However, free-form text comments obtained from the open-ended question component of such surveys are only infrequently analysed comprehensively. We employed an innovative, systematic approach to the analysis of text-based feedback relating to student perceptions of and experiences with a recently developed university program. The automated nature of the semantic analysis tool Leximancer enabled a critical interrogation across units of study, mining the cumulative text for common themes and recurring core concepts. The results of this analysis facilitated the identification of issues that were not apparent from the purely quantitative data, thus providing a deeper understanding of the curriculum and teaching effectiveness that was constructive and detailed.
Internet of Things: Convenience vs. privacy and secrecy

Abstract In this article we introduce the Internet of Things to the broad managerial community and explore one of its central tensions: convenience vs. privacy and secrecy. We clarify the ways in which IoT differs from Web 2.0 and then highlight opportunities, challenges, and managerial guidance. In addition, we explore the prominent issue of privacy and secrecy. Due to substantial increases in amounts of consumer-related data and their accessibility as well as potential tradeoffs in benefits associated with IoT and in properties of humanness associated with the consumer experience, the managerial issue of privacy is elevated to a level never before realized—perhaps on par with, or worthy of inclusion as an element of, the classic marketing mix.
Feasibility and early outcomes of robotic‐assisted laparoscopic Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy in patients with prune belly syndrome

Objectives To evaluate the feasibility and report our initial experience with Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Mitrofanoff Appendicovesicostomy (RALMA) in patients with prune belly syndrome. The Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy procedure uses the appendix to create an easily accessible continent, catheterizable channel into the urinary bladder. Historically, the procedure is performed by an open surgical approach in prune belly patients. We describe our initial experience herein. Materials and methods Between October 2008 and February 2010 three patients with prune belly syndrome underwent RALMA. The appendicovesicostomy anastomosis was performed on the anterior bladder wall and the stoma was brought to the umbilical site or right lower quadrant. At least 4 cm of detrusor backing was ensured. The appendicovesicostomy stent was left in place for 4 weeks postoperatively before initiation of catheterization. Results Mean age at surgery was 9.7 years (range 5-14 years). Blood loss volume was 20 mL in each case. Overall mean operative time was 352 min (range 319-402 min). There were no intraoperative complications and no open conversions. There was one postoperative complication in the form of wound infection. All patients are catheterizing their stomas and are continent at an average follow-up of 14.7 months (range 5-21 months). Conclusion In our initial experience, RALMA is a feasible option with encouraging early experience for creating a continent catheterizable channel into the urinary bladder in patients with prune belly syndrome.
Surface classification for sensor deployment from UAV landings

Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to deploy sensor networks promises an autonomous and useful method of installation in remote or hard to access locations. Some sensors, such as soil moisture sensors, must be physically installed in soft soil, yet UAVs cannot easily determine soil softness with remote sensors. In this paper, we use data from an onboard accelerometer measured during UAV landings to determine the softness of the ground. We collect and analyze over 200 data sets gathered from 8 different materials: foam, carpet, wood, tile, grass, dirt, concrete, and woodchips. Based on this analysis, we examine a number of features from the accelerometer and four classification algorithms: LDA, QDA, SVM, and binary decision trees. The decision tree performs well and is simple to implement onboard the UAV. We implement this in our UAV control system and perform experiments to verify that the UAV can accurately classify the softness of the surface with 90% accuracy. This lays the groundwork for our future work on developing a UAV capable of installing sensors in soft soil.
Kinetic differences between the isoforms of glutamate decarboxylase: implications for the regulation of GABA synthesis

Glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) exists as two isoforms, GAD65 and GAD67. GAD activity is regulated by a cycle of activation and inactivation determined by the binding and release of its co-factor, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate. Holoenzyme (GAD with bound co-factor) decarboxylates glutamate to form GABA, but it also catalyzes a slower transamination reaction that produces inactive apoGAD (without bound co-factor). Apoenzyme can reassociate with pyridoxal phosphate to form holoGAD, thus completing the cycle. Within cells, GAD65 is largely apoenzyme (∼93%) while GAD67 is mainly holoenzyme (∼72%). We found striking kinetic differences between the GAD isoforms that appear to account for this difference in co-factor saturation. The glutamate dependent conversion of holoGAD65 to apoGAD was about 15 times faster than that of holoGAD67 at saturating glutamate. Aspartate and GABA also converted holoGAD65 to apoGAD at higher rates than they did holoGAD67. Nucleoside triphosphates (such as ATP) are known to affect the activation reactions of the cycle. ATP slowed the activation of GAD65 and markedly reduced its steady-state activity, but had little affect on the activation of GAD67 or its steady-state activity. Inorganic phosphate opposed the effect of ATP; it increased the rate of apoGAD65 activation but had little effect on apoGAD67 activation. We conclude that the apo-/holoenzyme cycle of inactivation and reactivation is more important in regulating the activity of GAD65 than of GAD67.
Signaling Pathways that Regulate Cell Fate in the Embryonic Spinal Cord

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an understanding on the developmental process of dorsal and ventral spinal cord. The embryonic dorsal spinal cord is made up of interneurons (INs) organized into six distinct classes, which arise in an orderly fashion from specific regions of the progenitor zone. Dorsal INs can be subdivided into two subclasses that include those which are dependent on the roof plate for formation and those that are independent. Each of the six classes of INs expresses a unique set of transcription factors that change as progenitor cells in the ventricular zone mature and migrate to the mantle. An important source of patterning signals in the developing spinal cord is the roof plate and adjacent neural epithelial cells, which express overlapping and nested combinations of several TGFβ members, including BMP4/5/7, Gdf6/7, and Dsl1. The expression pattern of the TGFβs suggests that a high-dorsal to low-ventral gradient of the proteins is present within the neural tube. Only one hedgehog member is involved in ventral spinal cord patterning in higher vertebrates. The active Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling molecule is autoprocessed and cholesterol-modified, and binds to the patched/smoothened receptor complex. The active Shh signaling molecule is autoprocessed and cholesterol-modified, and binds to the patched/smoothened receptor complex. In the absence of Shh, patched inhibits smoothened from signaling, and this inhibition is relieved when Shh binds patched. Decreasing concentrations of Shh progressively induce cell types found further from the ventral midline, recapitulating the normal organization of cells in the ventral spinal cord. At early stages Shh acts on progenitor cells to trigger motor neuron (MN) differentiation, but later in ventral spinal cord development oligodendrocytes are produced instead of MNs.
Chromosome Structural Aberrations

Structural chromosome abnormalities are relatively frequent in human populations. They are the result of breaks that disrupt the continuity of one or more chromosomes. Chromosome breaks in the germline can lead to heritable structural abnormalities; those occurring in somatic cells may increase the risk of cancer. Chromosomes may break at almost any point, but there are sites of preferred breakage, called hotspots. The breaks may be repaired, but because any two broken ends that are sufficiently close together in the nucleus may rejoin, an extremely wide variety of structurally altered chromosomes occur. The main classes of structural abnormalities are described in this and the next two chapters, and some of the resulting phenotypes, or clinical syndromes, in Chapters 15–20.
A Review of “Curse of the Black Gold: 50 Years of Oil in the Niger Delta”

Curse of the Black Gold is jarring. As a kind of confrontational assemblage of photojournalism, history, biography, reportage, personal accounts, and fragments of poetry, the book provides a vivid,...
Design and fabrication of low noise high diffraction efficiency diffractive optical elements

We demonstrate a method to fabricate high quality and environmentally rugged monolithic Diffractive Optical Elements (DOEs). Analog direct-write e-beam lithography was used to produce analog resist profiles that were transferred into their substrates using Chemically Assisted Ion Beam Etching (CAIBE) in one single etching step. The Point Spread Function of the e-beam during exposure caused by forward electron scattering in the resist and back scattering from the substrate was determined by measuring the exposure of a step function. An iterative method that makes use of the point spread function was developed to adjust the electron exposure file and compensate for the proximity effect caused by electron scattering. Slope dependent etch rates that occur during the microstructure transfer process were characterized and also compensated for by exposure file adjustment. Finally, the DOE was divided into regions with different periodicity ranges. For each periodicity range the range of clock speed for the exposure is set to achieve even and accurate feature depth in the final element. Many DOEs have been fabricated by this technique including a Fresnel lens of 32 phase levels. DOEs fabricated using this technique, can be used as high quality masters for a following replication process based on molding, casting etc. Moreover comparing with conventional binary optics fabrication methods, which require multiple exposure and processing steps for master generation, our approach requires only a single lithography and etching step. Therefore the fabrication method presented in this paper will not only yield high quality masters, but will also result in a general cost reduction and reduce the turnaround time between design and replication.
Antiretroviral Therapy Protects against Frailty in HIV-1 Infection

HIV-1-infected patients are surviving longer and by 2015 half will be older than 50 years of age. Frailty is a syndrome associated with advanced age but occurs in HIV-1-infected patients at younger...
Volar Radioscapholunate Arthrodesis for Malunited Distal Radius Fracture With Unsalvageable Wrist Articular Degeneration: Case Report

Fractures of the distal radius occur commonly, and volar plating has emerged as a current, successful, and popular treatment for this injury. When this technology fails, salvage procedures must be selected that aim to maximize wrist motion and minimize pain. We present a case of volar radioscapholunate wrist arthrodesis in the setting of unfeasible intraoperative volar osteotomy to treat a malunited distal radius fracture.
An inexpensive solid state amplifier for measuring bioelectric potentials

Abstract 1. 1. A solid state electrometer-amplifier was constructed that permits the detection and measurement of most bioelectric potentials. 2. 2. It can be used as a resistance sensor to detect very small mechanical movements occurring in a group of muscles or in a single muscle fiber. 3. 3. This device can be easily built in any laboratory for less than $100 (£40).