cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Manipulating earthworm abundance using electroshocking in deciduous forests

Abstract Earthworms influence the biotic and abiotic characteristics of soils, but studying these effects in situ is challenging. Secondary forests in the Mid-Atlantic have abundant earthworm communities. To investigate the interaction of earthworms with the below- and aboveground part of the ecosystem, we manipulated earthworm densities in 1 m 2 enclosures located at 12 study sites within four different-aged forest stands at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Maryland, USA. The treatment plots were created by trenching around the perimeter and lining the trenches with fiberglass mesh before backfilling. Two types of untrenched plots served as control and leaf litter treatment plots. Enclosures were electroshocked between four and nine times over a two-year period to remove earthworms and to compare densities among treatment and untrenched plots. Earthworms were weighed and identified to determine whether removal by electroshocking varied depending on body size or ecological grouping. Earthworm abundances were 30–50% lower in reduced-density enclosures than in high density enclosures; however, the efficiency of the exclusion treatments varied by earthworm size and ecological group. Manipulating earthworm populations in temperate forests to assess their influence on ecological functions is feasible using electroshocking, but careful planning is essential given the amount of effort required to set up and maintain the desired experimental conditions.
Significant New Researcher Award

SIGGRAPH is proud to recognize Olga Sorkine as the 2011 recipient of the Significant New Researcher Award. Her outstanding early contributions to the field of geometry processing, particularly her highly influential graduate research on differential coordinates, and her subsequent work on interactive mesh editing have already had a huge impact; her recent entry into new areas like color harmonization, video retargeting, and visualization demonstrate her breadth.
Influence of finite jets on mass transfer in radial‐flow, multijet CVD reactors

Etude de l'evaporation de disques de naphtalene dans un courant d'air a temperature ambiante et a des pressions comprises entre 0,26 et 2,6 kPa. Developpement d'un modele idealise d'advection/diffusion d'un simple jet.
Gastrulation in the spider Zygiella x-notata involves three distinct phases of cell internalization

The cell movements of gastrulation were analyzed in embryos of the spider Zygiella x-notata, using timelapse video, cell tracing, and improved histology. Cells are internalized near the center of the germ disc in three distinct phases. First, cumulus mesenchyme cells ingress and migrate as a group beneath the superficial layer. Second, mass internalization through a blastopore yields a diffusely organized deep layer. Third, superficial cells accumulate at the center of the germ disc to form the caudal bud. The floor is internalized, and the caudal bud moves over the nascent dorsal field to form the caudal lobe. This pattern of gastrulation differs from the canonical pattern described in the historical literature: (1) the cumulus of Z. x-notata is completely formed before any other cells internalize; and (2) the caudal lobe is formed by means of the caudal bud, which is a locus of cell internalization. Developmental Dynamics 236:3484 –3495, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Crosstalk penalty in an all-optical network using static wavelength routers

Wavelength routing for all-optical networks using WDMA has received increasing attention recently. In a wavelength-routing network, wavelength selective elements are used to route different wavelengths to their corresponding destinations. In this paper, system requirement in terms of maximum allowable crosstalk is derived for networks using static wavelength-routing devices. The methodology derived in this paper can also be applied to dynamic wavelength-routing devices. >
Glenohumeral dysplasia changes after tendon transfer surgery in children with birth brachial plexus injuries.

Background This study hypothesizes that children with glenohumeral dysplasia secondary to birth brachial plexopathy treated with tendon transfer surgery at a younger age will show greater radiographic improvement than those treated at an older age. Methods Twenty-six children treated with latissimus dorsi and teres major tendon transfer had preoperative and 1 year postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans at an average follow-up of 17 months (10 to 46 mo). Average age at surgery was 44 months (10 to 134 mo). CT scans were measured for glenoid version and percent humeral head anterior to the midscapular line (PHHA). Shoulders were classified as dislocated (PHHA 0%), subluxed (PHHA 1% to 35%), or normal positioning (>35%). Two age groups were compared: 24 months or less at the time of surgery (n=11); and greater than 2 years (n=15). Concomitant surgical techniques were also evaluated. Results For the 11 children treated at 24 months of age or less, PHHA averaged 13% preoperatively (range: 0% to 54%) and postoperatively 42% (range: 25% to 51%); glenoid version averaged -25 degrees preoperatively (range: -36 to -11 degrees) and postoperatively -14 degrees (range: -31 to -2 degrees); and preoperatively 5 shoulders were dislocated, 5 subluxed, and 1 normal; whereas postoperatively 0 shoulders were dislocated, 2 subluxed, and 9 normally positioned. For the 15 children treated at greater than 2 years of age, PHHA averaged 30% preoperatively (range: 0% to 53%) and postoperatively 33% (range: 0% to 57%); glenoid version averaged -17 degrees preoperatively (range: -27 to -4 degrees) and postoperatively -16 degrees (range: -31 to -2 degrees); and preoperatively 2 shoulders were dislocated, 6 subluxed, and 7 normal; whereas postoperatively 2 shoulders were dislocated, 5 subluxed, and 8 normally positioned. Conclusions Eleven children treated at 24 months of age or less had significantly greater improvement in the CT scan radiographic measurements of glenohumeral dysplasia, than the 15 children treated at greater than 2 years of age. The effect of age had greater correlation with improvement than open reduction. For children undergoing tendon transfer for lack of active external rotation due to brachial plexus birth injury, improvement in glenohumeral dysplasia can be achieved if the surgery is performed before 2 years of age. Level of evidence Level IV, case controlled series.
Metal Abundances and Ionization in QSO Intrinsic Absorbers

This paper provides a general reference for deriving the ionizations and metal abundances for absorption-line clouds in photoionization equilibrium with a QSO spectrum. The results include a quantitative assessment of the theoretical uncertainties and firm lower limits on the metallicities when no ionization constraints are available. The calculations applied to the best available column densities for QSO intrinsic absorbers support previous studies; there is strong evidence for super-solar metallicities in broad absorption line (BAL) and at least some ``associated'' (z_a~z_e) absorption regions. Even in cases where the level of ionization is unknown (for example, when only H I and C IV lines are measured), firm lower limits on the metal abundances (C/H) imply Z ~> Z_o for typical BALs and some z_a~z_e absorbers. These results support the independent evidence for high metallicities in QSO broad emission-line regions. I argue that high gas-phase abundances, up to ~10 Z_o, can be expected in QSOs due to the normal enrichment by stars in the cores of young, massive (~> 10^11 M_o) galaxies. The measured column densities indicate that the gas is usually optically thin in the continuum out to energies above at least the CIV and NV ionization edges (i.e. >100 eV). The column density ratios often require a range of ionization states in the same absorber, and neighboring (blended or adjacent) systems can have ionization parameters that differ by more than an order of magnitude. These result, and the overall levels of ionization, are not consistent with single-zone models of the UV line and X-ray continuum (``warm'') absorbers.
A mixed-signal decision-feedback equalizer using a look-ahead architecture

A mixed-signal decision-feedback equalizer (DFE) that uses a look-ahead architecture is described. This look-ahead DFE doubles the data rate using parallelism with less than a doubling of the circuitry. Since much of the signal processing is carried out in the analog domain, nonidealities associated with the analog signal processing are considered. >
Letter by Shroff and Orlandi regarding article, "Randomized trial of atorvastatin for reduction of postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: results of the ARMYDA-3 (Atorvastatin for Reduction of Myocardial Dysrhythmia After Cardiac Surgery) study".

To the Editor: We read with great interest the study by Patti and colleagues1 that suggests a beneficial effect of atorvastatin in preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation in cardiac surgery patients. The placebo arm in this study had fewer patients on β-blockers (60% versus 72%, P =0.08), more patients with left atrial …
Temporal distance moderates description dependence of subjective probability

Probability judgment is description-dependent; different descriptions of the same event can elicit different judged probabilities. We propose that the temporal proximity of an event moderates the degree of description dependence in probability judgment. According to construal level theory, near future events are represented more concretely than distant future events. These more concrete representations are predicted to be more stable, and therefore less susceptible to description dependence effects. Consistent with this prediction, changing an event’s description by unpacking it into constituent parts influenced its judged probability more when the event took place in the distant rather than the near future. Specifically, greater description dependence was found for distant events regardless of whether the unpacking manipulation increased (Experiment 1) or decreased (Experiment 2) judged probability.
Ecological symmetry breaking can favour the evolution of altruism in an action-response game.

The evolution of altruistic behaviour is studied in a simple action-response game with a tuneable degree of conflict of interest. It is shown that for the continuous, mixed-medium approach no stable polymorphism favours altruism. Ecological dynamics are explored with the addition of a spatial dimension and a local energy variable. A continuous spatial model with finite local range does not introduce any substantial difference in the results with respect to the level of altruism. However, the model illustrates how ecological coupling may lead to the formation of stable spatial patterns in the form of discrete and isolated clusters of players as a consequence of inverse density dependence. A discrete, individual-based model is built in which local interactions are also modelled as occurring within a finite neighbourhood of each individual and spatial positions are not restricted as in lattice models. This model shows substantially different results. A high level of altruism is observed for low (but positive) degrees of conflict and this level decreases linearly for higher degrees of conflict. The evolution of altruism is explained by studying the broken symmetries introduced by the spatial clusters themselves, mainly between their central and peripheral regions which, in combination with the discrete and the stochastic nature of the model, result in the stabilization of strategies in which players behave altruistically towards the same type. As a consequence of the activity of the players, energy resources at the centre of an altruistic cluster are very depleted; so much so that, for low conflict, fitter non-altruistic mutants may initially invade only to become locally extinct due to their less efficient use of energy as their numbers increase. In peripheral regions invader may subsist; however, for geometrical reasons long-lasting genealogies tend to originate only at the centre of a cluster.
Multiscale Analysis of a Meso-β Frontal Passage in the Complex Terrain of the Colorado Front Range

Abstract Data from a mesoscale observing network are used to describe the evolution of a complex boundary between a dry air mass near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and a shallow moist air mass over the eastern plains. Synoptic-scale analyses revealed that the origin of the moist air mass was associated with lee cyclogenesis. Mesoscale analyses provided a detailed picture of a localized anticyclonic circulation that developed within the larger-scale flow. Mixing ratio data from the mesoscale observing network indicated the position of the boundary between the air masses. It is shown that the cooler, moister air on the plains advanced toward and retreated away from the foothills during the evening. Eventually, downslope winds that were opposing the motion of the mesoscale boundary decreased, and the anticyclonic circulation on the plains became more organized. On an even smaller scale, Doppler lidar measurements revealed characteristics of the wind flow associated with the mesofront and the interacti...
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome with thalamic involvement during vasopressor treatment of vertebrobasilar vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage

Hemodynamic augmentation is the primary medical intervention employed to reverse neurological deficits associated with vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Failure to improve despite induced hypertension (IH) may raise concern for persistent hypoperfusion and prompt even more aggressive blood pressure augmentation. However, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a hyperperfusion syndrome reported as a rare complication of IH that may confound this picture. We report a case of PRES with prominent thalamic involvement and impaired level of consciousness secondary to blood pressure augmentation for the treatment of symptomatic vertebrobasilar vasospasm. Recognition of this syndrome in distinction to worsening ischemia is particularly critical, as normalization of blood pressure should lead to rapid clinical improvement.
Role of Cdc37 in Protein Kinase Folding

As nascent chains emerge from the ribosome, they interact with molecular chaperone proteins that prevent aggregation and promote protein folding. Chaperones such as Hsp70 and Hsp40 function together to protect nascent chains while still ribosome bound, and function with little if any specificity for the unfolded polypeptide. These interactions may be sufficient to promote folding, but in many cases they are not, and further binding between the nascent chain and more specific chaperones is needed. Two well-characterized chaperones that function downstream of Hsp70/Hsp40 are the chaperonins and Hsp90. Chaperonins are barrel-shaped multi-subunit proteins that have a chamber in which the unfolded polypeptide can attempt to fold. Hsp90 is known for its large number of co-chaperones or helper chaperones, and for folding of transcription factors and protein kinases among many other client types (Frydman, 2001) (Prodromou and Pearl, 2003).
An Efficient Decomposition of the Expectation of the Maximum with Normally Distributed Errors

In structural dynamic discrete choice models, one way to allow correlation across errors associated with different choices is to use the multivariate normal distribution. Unfortunately, the expectation of the maximum with normally distributed errors is relatively difficult to evaluate. In this paper, however, I show that this expectation can be decomposed as a linear combination of multivariate normal CDFs. With simulated data, I show that an estimation algorithm based on this decomposition can estimate a model both more quickly and more accurately than an algorithm based on Monte Carlo integration.
Source Localization of a N400-like Negativity in a Sentence-Reading Paradigm Using Evoked Magnetic Fields and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The N400 component of the Event-Related Potential (ERP) corresponds to a negative-going deflection that peaks at approximately 400 ms after the onset of the final word in a sentence [1]. N400 amplitude is believed to be an index of the degree that a given concept is deemed “appropriate” within a particular linguistic context [2], Little is known regarding the sources of neural activity that give rise to N400-like negativities measured from the scalp. Identifying the neural substrates of N400 activity could provide important information regarding the brain structures that participate in language comprehension. Intracranial recordings have revealed sources of electrical activity, that become active at the same latency as the scalp-recorded N400 response, in paleo- and archeocortical regions as well as in neocortical areas. The former included the hippocampus and the parahippocampal gyrus [3, 4]. Potential neocortical sources may include the inferior parietal cortex, temporal areas surrounding the collateral sulcus [3], and the middle temporal gyrus [5]. Magnetoencephalographic (MEG) measurements show excellent temporal resolution and combined with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have enabled researchers to localize the intracranial sources of several ERP components within neurologically plausible anatomical regions [6, 7, 8]. However, the only reported attempt to localize the sources of the magnetic equivalent of the N400 component (N400m) in the brain [9] has produced inconclusive results.
Timeshifting into the Night: Guidelines vs. Practices Affecting Time Zone Dependent Workers

Time-zone dependent (TZD) workers have some dependency on another entity in a far-away time zone in order to complete their immediate task. For example, Asian call center workers timeshift by working at night to answer calls from daytime North America. We examine TZD practices in three key countries: the U.S., Philippines, and India. We examine five sets of guidelines that have the potential to directly impact TZD work: International Labour Organization Night Work Convention (1990); European Union Working Time Directive; UNI Global Union Call Center Charter, UNI Global Union Offshoring Code for Managers, and the Philippines Magna Carta For Call Center Workers. We found gaps between guidelines and practice using secondary data analysis. Do workers receive more for night shift as guidelines recommend? Data are mixed. Are the shifts longer in duration? Again, mixed data. Work hours do not generally appear to be longer than recommended -- and some may be part of a condensed workweek. Are workers given amenities for night shift, such as food availability and safe transport? The gap here is small, but there is little evidence for broader social services that ease the burden of night work. Is there attention to health? After all, there is overwhelming evidence that working the night shift is bad for one’s health. There does not appear to be a systematic approach to assessing and mitigating the negative health impacts of night work in any of the countries. Finally, are workers given control/flexibility over schedule. After all increased control diminishes work-life conflict. Our data suggest that workers do not appear to be regularly engaged in the decision making process around schedules.
Nutritional Concerns for Bariatric Surgery

Obesity is present in 34 % of the population in the USA, and its presence has increased markedly in other countries at a surprising rate. The obesity rates are expected to rise further in many Asian and Middle Eastern countries, and to a greater extent in former socialist countries and Latin America. Also, the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013 states that while the epidemic might have peaked in developed countries, obesity rates are expected to rise to over 40 % in a number of developing countries. In the past decade more persons have reached the level of stage II and severe obesity making them eligible for bariatric surgery. In addition, for those individuals who reach this level of obesity, usual weight loss diets are often not successful. Bariatric surgery offers these individuals the opportunity to lose weight that is permanent and is often the only way for many to reduce their obesity related comorbidities. Improved techniques in the field have led to a dramatic rise in the number of bariatric procedures performed. Hence, understanding the acute and long-term nutritional outcomes is important as these patients continue to need care from clinicians after their surgical procedures.
Pay Formalization Revisited: Considering the Effects of Manager Gender and Discretion on Closing the Gender Wage Gap

While most studies of the formalization of pay systems suggest that it helps reduce inequality, some recent studies suggest the opposite. The present study draws on social identity theory to shift this debate from whether formalization reduces inequality to when, or under what conditions, less formalized pay systems may also serve to reduce inequality. Specifically, I consider both the gender of the decision maker and the job of the employee being evaluated. The goal of this study is to determine whether male and female managers differ in how they use the discretion afforded by less formalized pay systems, and to identify the implications for pay among employees at different levels of the organizational hierarchy. Among 857 employees in 120 retail branches of a financial services firm, I find evidence of less gender pay inequality in terms of less formalized components of pay for employees reporting to a female manager. However, this effect is only among employees in the lowest organizational ranks. These...
Guidewire path tracking and segmentation in 2D fluoroscopic time series using device paths from previous frames

Recent efforts to perform a 3D reconstruction of interventional devices such as guidewires from monoplane and biplane fluoroscopic images require the segmentation of the exact device path in the respective 2D projection images. The segmentation of the device in low dose fluoroscopy images can be challenging since noise and motion artifacts degrade the image quality. Additionally, extracting the device path from the segmented region may result in ambiguous results due to overlapping device parts or discontinuities in the device segmentation. The purpose of this work is to present a novel guidewire tracking and segmentation algorithm, which segments the device region based on three different features based on a ridge detection filter, noise reduction for curvilinear structures as well as an a priori probability map. The features are calculated from background subtracted as well as unsubtracted fluoroscopic images. The device path extraction is based on a topology preserving thinning algorithm followed by a path search, which minimizes a cost function based on distance and directional difference between adjacent segments as well as the similarity to the device path extracted from the previous frame. The quantitative evaluation was performed using 7 data sets acquired from a canine study. Device shapes with different complexities are compared to semi-automatic segmentations. An average segmentation accuracy of 0.50 0.41 mm was achieved where each point along the device was compared to the point on the reference device centerline with the same distance to the device tip. In all cases the device path could be resolved correctly, which would allow a more accurate and reliable reconstruction of the 3D path of the device.
Dimensions of the posterior cerebral circulation: an analysis based on advanced non-invasive imaging

Background Our goal was to provide measurements of the posterior cerebral circulation using non-invasive imaging and advanced software analysis tools. Methods 100 consecutive patients aged ≥40 years (50 men and 50 women) who had undergone CT angiography (CTA) but had no vascular abnormality were analyzed. Specific software was used to make vessel measurements along the center line. The length of the intracranial vertebral artery (VA), the basilar artery (BA) and the distance from the mid-basilar artery to the posterior cerebral artery (mBA-PCA) was recorded. Vessel diameter was measured at the proximal and distal ends of these vessel lengths. Vessel taper was calculated as the change in diameter in millimeters per centimeter of length. Results The mean lengths of the intracranial VA, the BA and the mBA-PCA were 40±10.6 mm, 27.3±5.7 mm and 25.6±4.3 mm, respectively. The proximal and distal diameters were 3.9±0.8 mm and 2.8±0.6 mm for the VA and 3.6±0.6 mm and 3.1±0.5 mm for the BA, respectively. The mean mid-BA diameter and the proximal PCA diameter were 3.2±0.5 mm and 2.2±0.4 mm, respectively. There was a significant increase in arterial caliber in patients aged ≥60 years compared with those aged 40–59 years. Men also tended to have longer vessels with a larger diameter than women. Conclusions Advanced software and non-invasive imaging can be used to perform accurate vessel analysis. The posterior circulation measurements showed an increase in arterial caliber with age. This baseline information may be useful in planning neurovascular procedures and endovascular device development.
Nonlinear supersonic flutter and reliability of uncertain laminated plates

It is the intent of this paper to study the geometrically nonlinear supersonic flutter characteristics of laminated composite thin plate structures using a 48 degree-of-freedom rectangular plate element developed on the basis of the classical lamination theory. The aerodynamic pressure due to supersonic potential flow is simplified using the quasi-steady first-order piston theory. Another intent is to study the reliability of laminated thin plates with structural uncertainties due to variabilities occurred during fabricating process. Interactive effects between the in-plane load and aerodynamic pressure for the uncertain plates are also studied. The stochastic finite element formulation is accomplished by including the effects of structural uncertainties. The stochastic solution procedure is based on the mean-centered secondmoment perturbation technique. To evaluate the validity and to demonstrate the applicability of the present developments, a series of nonlinear free vibration and supersonic flutter analyses of isotropic and laminated composite thin plates are performed. The results quantify the effect of geometric nonlinearity on the mechanical behavior and structural reliability of the present laminated plates.
The normal and the abnormal pupil.

There is hardly a nervous function without direct or indirect influence on pupillary reactions. To mention only a few of the important pupillary abnormalities, a dilated pupil might be a sign of Adie's syndrome or peripheral third nerve injury, constriction might signify syphilis, and papillary irregularity might be due to ocular trauma or previous iritis.
Community reintegration: Transition between the figured worlds of military and family life

ABSTRACTThis paper argues the benefits of characterizing occupational transitions as movement between figured worlds, which are socially constructed units that are characterized by particular people and activities, and that shape identities. Further, positive withdrawal, which is a purposeful decision to limit participation when the requirements of engaging surpass self-perceived ability, describes limited engagement with a figured world. To illustrate the utility of this lens, the community reintegration of military service members as they finish deployment and return to family and community life is explored. The figured worlds of military and family are drawn from first person accounts of deployment and reintegration experiences from the perspectives of both service members and spouses. The constructs of figured world and positive withdrawal are found to be useful ways to describe community reintegration for both service members and families and the complex shifts in identity associated with the transit...
Drug interactions with cimetidine

Drug-drug interactions of cimetidine and possible mechanisms of interaction are discussed. Cimetidine has several actions in vivo that may result in drug-drug interactions. By decreasing acid secretion into the stomach, cimetidine increases the pH of the gastric contents. This may lead to decreased absorption of drugs that require a lower pH for dissolution, or increased absorption of drugs whose absorption is normally decreased by acid inactivation in the stomach. Cimetidine also reduces hepatic blood flow significantly and inhibits microsomal metabolism of drugs inactivated by this system. Both of these actions impair inactivation of numerous drugs. Cimetidine's increase of gastric pH has not been shown to result in clinically important drug-drug interactions. Cimetidine's effects of hepatic metabolism and blood flow are clinically relevant, and several interactions are attributable to them.
Research on Relationship between Different Width of Working Faces and Heighst of Water-flowing Fractured Zone

The text researched the relationship between different width of working faces and height of water - flowing fractured zone,and determined critical width of working face,in order to provide a basis of the roof water prevention and cure of mine,in condition of fully-mechanized top-coal caving in Shui Lian-dong mine. According to the working technique conditions and mechanical properties of rock,the text utilized FLAC3D to simulate 23 numerical models that the width of working faces are from 80m to 300m,and then determined the height of water-flowing fractured zone under different width of working faces,finally judged the reliability of the numerical simulation result by the observational data of multiple working faces in the several adjoining mines. While the width of working faces are between 80m and 170m,the height of water-flowing fractured zone increases by piecewise linearity as the width of working faces in- crease. While the width of working faces is 180m,the height of water-flowing fractured zone is largest unacted on the width of working faces. According to the numerical simulation,the critical width of working face is 180m and the ratio of height of water-flowing fractured zone and width of working face is 19. 2,under the specific geology conditions in the mine. The paper offered a new and effective method to reach the relation between width of working face and height of water-flowing fractured zone in different hydrogeology conditions.
Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control

Cooperative adaptive cruise control (CACC) includes multiple concepts of communication-enabled vehicle following and speed control. Definitions and classifications are presented to help clarify the distinctions between types of automated vehicle-following control that are often conflated with each other. A distinction is made between vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) CACC, based on vehicle–vehicle cooperation, and infrastructure-to-vehicle CACC, in which the infrastructure provides information or guidance to the CACC system (such as the target set speed value). In V2V CACC, communication provides enhanced information so that vehicles can follow their predecessors with higher accuracy, faster response, and shorter gaps; the result would be enhanced traffic flow stability and possibly improved safety. A further distinction is made between CACC, which uses constant-time-gap vehicle following (forming CACC strings), and automated platooning, which uses tightly coupled, constant-clearance, vehicle-following strategies....
Effects of exercise training alone vs a combined exercise and nutritional lifestyle intervention on glucose homeostasis in prediabetic individuals: a randomised controlled trial

Aims/hypothesis Although the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) established lifestyle changes (diet, exercise and weight loss) as the ‘gold standard’ preventive therapy for diabetes, the relative contribution of exercise alone to the overall utility of the combined diet and exercise effect of DPP is unknown; furthermore, the optimal intensity of exercise for preventing progression to diabetes remains very controversial. To establish clinical efficacy, we undertook a study (2009 to 2013) to determine: how much of the effect on measures of glucose homeostasis of a 6 month programme modelled after the first 6 months of the DPP is due to exercise alone; whether moderate- or vigorous-intensity exercise is better for improving glucose homeostasis; and to what extent amount of exercise is a contributor to improving glucose control. The primary outcome was improvement in fasting plasma glucose, with improvement in plasma glucose AUC response to an OGTT as the major secondary outcome.
The Ionic Mechanism of Membrane Potential Oscillations and Membrane Resonance in Striatal LTS Interneurons

Striatal low-threshold spiking (LTS) interneurons spontaneously transition to a depolarized, oscillating state similar to that seen after sodium channels are blocked. In the depolarized state, whether spontaneous or induced by sodium channel blockade, the neurons express a 3- to 7-Hz oscillation and membrane impedance resonance in the same frequency range. The membrane potential oscillation and membrane resonance are expressed in the same voltage range (greater than -40 mV). We identified and recorded from LTS interneurons in striatal slices from a mouse that expressed green fluorescent protein under the control of the neuropeptide Y promoter. The membrane potential oscillation depended on voltage-gated calcium channels. Antagonism of L-type calcium currents (CaV1) reduced the amplitude of the oscillation, whereas blockade of N-type calcium currents (CaV2.2) reduced the frequency. Both calcium sources activate a calcium-activated chloride current (CaCC), the blockade of which abolished the oscillation. The blocking of any of these three channels abolished the membrane resonance. Immunohistochemical staining indicated anoctamin 2 (ANO2), and not ANO1, as the CaCC source. Biophysical modeling showed that CaV1, CaV2.2, and ANO2 are sufficient to generate a membrane potential oscillation and membrane resonance, similar to that in LTS interneurons. LTS interneurons exhibit a membrane potential oscillation and membrane resonance that are both generated by CaV1 and CaV2.2 activating ANO2. They can spontaneously enter a state in which the membrane potential oscillation dominates the physiological properties of the neuron.
Resilience in the Classroom: Wise Interventions to Enhance Creative and Reflective Learning

Wise interventions are short, targeted interventions that aim to alter a specific aspect of a personA¢â¬â¢s daily functioning in order to help them flourish. In the context of well-being scholarship, wise interventions can promote growth in knowledge and personal well-being, and data suggests that increases in resilience promote academic excellence. In this presentation, we discuss and demonstrate how instructors across academic disciplines and levels can deliver brief (30 minute) wise interventions to teach students the foundational concepts of resilience and in turn, help students build their personal reservoirs of resilience. We demonstrate an interactive framework for presenting these interventions: do, understanding, learn, and apply. In particular, we share modules that are already prepared and available for all faculty to access from the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being.AÂ While a range of resilience topics will be provided, this presentation highlights two key data driven resilience topics: 1) affirming oneA¢â¬â¢s values and 2) exercising oneA¢â¬â¢s personal strengths. Other modules will be introduced so that faculty can pick what best meets their studentsA¢â¬â¢ needs, knowing that all modules have existing data suggesting effectiveness of these interventions.AÂ We will also discuss ways that instructors can address potential challenges in delivering these interventions, including managing studentsA¢â¬â¢ uncomfortable or distressing emotions. In summary, this presentation will offer tools for instructors that engage creative and reflective learning, teach the latest science behind resilience, and ultimately build studentsA¢â¬â¢ capacity to be resilient in the face of adversity.
Cognitive Impairment in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Sclerosis: Does It Differ between Racial/Ethnic Groups? (P2.168)

Objective: Determine whether cognitive impairment is present in blacks or Hispanics with newly diagnosed MS/CIS and whether this differs by racial/ethnic group. Background: Cognitive impairment early in the disease course of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its’ potential precursor, clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), has been reported in whites. Methods: Reported results are from the MS Sunshine study. MS/CIS cases diagnosed within the past 1.5 years and controls matched on sex, age, race/ethnicity and geography were recruited from the membership of Kaiser Permanente Southern California between 2011 and 2014. Cognitive function was measured by using the symbol digit modalities test (SDMT), semantic (VFTs) and phonemic (VFTp) verbal fluency test. Socioeconomic indicators were collected via interview. Results: Included are 107 incident black cases and 123 controls; 154 and 156 Hispanics and 216 and 217 whites, respectively. SDMT was impaired more often than VFT among cases compared to controls (SDMT <55 60[percnt] vs. 38[percnt] p <0.0001; VFTs <20 or VFTp <10, 6.3[percnt] vs 5.5[percnt], p=0.56). Mean SDMT scores among cases were significantly lower across all 3 groups compared with controls (blacks 47.5 cases /54.5 controls; Hispanics 52.6/57.7 and whites 54.0/60.7). Having MS/CIS, black or Hispanic race/ethnicity, older age and lower socioeconomic status were all independently associated with lower SDMT scores (multivariable linear regression). Among cases, older age, male sex, lower socioeconomic status and black (adjusted OR=3.20 95[percnt]CI 1.87-5.47; p<0.0001) or Hispanic race/ethnicity (adjusted OR=2.16 95[percnt]CI=1.35-3.46; p=0.0014) were independently associated with impaired SDMT score (<55). Conclusions: Blacks, Hispanics and whites with newly diagnosed MS/CIS are more likely than matched controls to have impaired cognitive function. Whether the greater degree of cognitive impairment in blacks and Hispanics with newly diagnosed MS/CIS is related to more aggressive disease at onset, different MS/CIS phenotypes, underlying population differences or a longer delay in diagnosis is unclear. Disclosure: Dr. Schroeder has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gonzales has nothing to disclose. Dr. Haraszti has nothing to disclose. Dr. Langer-Gould has received research support from Biogen-Idec, Inc. and Roche, Inc.
A phenotypic female with 49 chromosomes, presumably XXXXX: A case report

A 2-year-old girl is presented whose cultured peripheral blood consistently hasprovided metaphase cells with 49 chromosomes. She is physically and behaviorally retarded and was born with patent ductus arteriosus which has been ligated. Minor stigmas of facies, irises, and extremities are described. On the basis of chromosome morphology, the presence of a significant number of buccal epithelial cells with 4 chromatin bodies, and the asynchronous segregation of 4 chromosomes in Group C as determined by uptake of tritiated thymidine, it is concluded that the extra chromosomes are of the X type. This aneuploid pattern has probably resulted from nondysjunction during both meiotic phases of ovular maturation and subsequent fertilization by an X-bearing sperm. It has been suggested that this be termed the penta X constitution pending description of other individuals with a similar chromosome pattern.
An Intelligent SPN Dialogue Model for Extracting Non-Measurable Pathological Symptoms

The increasing occurrence of chronic conditions among the ageing population and people at risk is one of the major challenges for our society and the high cost for its healthcare systems. Prevention, early detection and efficient management of chronic, long-term conditions contribute radically to the individual wellbeing and the economic sustainability of social and healthcare systems. In response to this need, this paper offers a human-machine interaction (HMI) model using Stochastic Petri Nets (SPNs). This HMI is based on a dialogue model between a virtual medical doctor and a patient for the efficient extraction of non-measurable pathological symptoms. Thus, the goal of such a model is the improvement of life critical situations and long delays (or appointments) for certain categories of people in need, like the elderly or people with disabilities.
Arthroscopically Assisted Transosseous Foveal Repair of Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex

The radioulnar ligament of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), especially the deep fibers inserted at the ulnar fovea, is the key component for the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stability. Traumatic injuries to the TFCC foveal insertion would cause DRUJ instability. Traditionally, arthroscopic techniques of the TFCC repair are suturing the ulnar-sided disruption peripherally to the dorsal or ulnar capsule instead of suturing the TFCC to the fovea and thus fail to restore the DRUJ stability if the TFCC is detached from the fovea. Recently, some arthroscopic foveal repair techniques have been reported using a suture anchor or transosseous sutures to address the foveal tear. This technical note describes an arthroscopic transosseous technique to reattach the foveal-disrupted TFCC. A 1.6-mm small osseous tunnel is created on the radial border of the fovea and 4 sutures are passed into the tunnel by using a 16-gauge needle. The TFCC could be sutured arthroscopically with these 4 sutures and be compressed against the fovea. Our technique provides not only a good suture construct for TFCC foveal reattachment but also an anatomic contact surface between the torn TFCC and its foveal footprint for healing. We recommend this technique as an alternative for repairing TFCC foveal tear.
Non-seminomatous mediastinal germ cell tumor and acute megakaryoblastic leukemia.

The association between mediastinal germ cell tumors (MGCT) and acute megakaryoblastic (M7) leukemia has been known for many years. We hereby present this review to better characterize the coexistence of these entities as well as the salient features, the treatment options, and the overall prognosis. A search of PUBMED, Medline, and EMBASE databases via OVID engine for primary articles and case reports under keywords “germ cell tumors” and “acute myeloid leukemia” revealed a total of 26 cases in English that reported MGCT and M7 leukemia. The median age at diagnosis of MGCT was 24 (13–36) years. All cases were stage III. All cases of MGCT were of non-seminomatous origin and one case was unclassified. MGCT occurred prior to the diagnosis of leukemia in 46% of cases and concomitantly in 31% of cases. M7 leukemia was never reported prior to the appearance of MGCT. Complex cytogenetics and hyperdiploidy were the most commonly reported cytogenetic abnormalities. In the 23 cases where the treatment regimen was available, platinum-based chemotherapy directed towards management of the germ cell tumors was used initially in 21 cases and leukemia-directed treatment was used initially in 2 cases only. The median time from diagnosis of MGCT to development of M7 leukemia was 5 (2.25–39) months. Median time to death from the initial diagnosis of MGCT was 6 (0.5–60) months. Patients with a history of MGCT are at higher risk of developing M7 leukemia. They need long-term follow-up with a particular attention to the development of hematological malignancies. The overall prognosis remains poor.
Therapeutic Hypothermia in Experimental Models of Traumatic Brain Injury

The beneficial effects of mild-to-moderate hypothermia in experimental models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) have been demonstrated in many laboratories [4,11,21,40,45,67]. Using models of diffuse and focal injuries, brain cooling has been shown to both protect against neuronal damage and improve behavioral outcome. Recently, post-traumatic hypothermia has also been reported to protect against axonal damage [39,43]. In addition, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) consequences of TBI are also attenuated by moderate hypothermia [37,57]. Taken together, these investigations using different animal models and various morphological and functional endpoints emphasize how remarkably effective hypothermia can be in protecting the brain. Importantly, these experimental findings with therapeutic hypothermia have been supported by clinical data where hypothermic protection has been demonstrated in patients with severe brain injury [12,13,42].
How to Share Data for Collaboration

Within the statistics community, a number of guiding principles for sharing data have emerged; however, these principles are not always made clear to collaborators generating the data. To bridge th...
Nonlinear classification of hyperspectral signatures in high noise

Accurate spectral signature classification is crucial to hyperspectral signal and image analysis, especially where classification accuracy depends on correct spectral endmember determination. In practice, signatures can be corrupted by possibly-nonergodic noise and clutter, which induces suboptimal object class separation and erroneous classification. We have elsewhere shown that the accuracy of computed pattern recognition applied to signature detection can, like its human counterpart, benefit from adaptive processes of cognition such as learning and forgetting. In spectral signature classification, this can support adaptive tracking of input nonergodicities. This paper summarizes our recent work in acquiring or inserting a new pattern such as a hyperspectral signature into a classifier's knowledge base, and its beneficial effect on classification. For example, in neural nets (NNs), this insertion process corresponds to the superposition of a new pattern onto the NN weight matrix. We similarly model forgetting as the deletion of a pattern or signature currently stored in the classifier knowledge base, for example, as a pattern deletion from an NN weight matrix. Although a difficult goal with classical neural nets, we have implemented feedback controlled pattern insertion and deletion operations for lattice associative memories (LAMs) to achieve accurate hyperspectral signature classification in the presence of nonergodic noise, for example, at peak-to-peak signal-to-noise ratios in the range SNR ≥ 0.1:1.
Divisorial Prime Ideals in Prüfer Domains

For an integral domain R with quotient field K ≠ R, the inverse of a nonzero fractional ideal I of R is the set (R: I) = {t ∈ K ∈ tI ⊆ R}. The divisorial closure of I with respect to R is the fractional ideal (R: (R: I)). In addition I is divisorial as an ideal of R if I = (R: (R: I)). Of concern here are divisorial prime ideals in Prufer domains. In some cases one can have a pair of comparable Prufer domains \(T \subsetneq R\) with a common nonzero prime ideal P such that P is divisorial as an ideal of T but is not divisorial as an ideal of R. For example, if P = P2 is a nonzero nonmaximal prime of a valuation domain V, then P is divisorial as an ideal of V but P = PV P is not divisorial as an ideal of V P . We review several relevant results on divisorial primes and present some new sufficient conditions on when P is divisorial as an ideal of R, and if not when a \(T \subsetneq R\) exists such that P = P ∩ T is divisorial as an ideal of T.