cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Magnetic and electrical properties of BaSrMMoO6 (M = Mn, Fe, Co, and Ni)

Abstract The remarkable transformation of the magnetic properties of four double perovskite oxides has been studied, while the crystal structure remains unchanged between the four compounds. BaSrFeMoO6 is known to be ferrimagnetically ordered. However, our work indicates that BaSrMnMoO6, BaSrCoMoO6, and BaSrNiMoO6 are all antiferromagnetic, where the Neel temperature increases systematically as a function of the transition metal. The transition to the antiferromagnetic state occurs below 6 K, 30 K, and 75 K for the Mn, Co, and Ni compounds, respectively. We have also performed X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies on all four compounds. The XPS indicates that BaSrMnMoO6 and BaSrFeMoO6 contain molybdenum in the pentavalent state, while Mn and Fe are trivalent. The situation is different for BaSrCoMoO6 and BaSrNiMoO6, which contain hexavalent molybdenum and divalent cobalt and nickel. It should be noted that the Mn and Fe compounds can only be synthesized in 5% H2/Ar balance, while BaSrCoMoO6 and BaSrNiMoO6 can be made in pure argon. Furthermore, we have examined the electrical conductivities of all four materials in the temperature range 25–800 °C to further highlight the contrast between the Fe compound, which has a metal-like behavior, and the Mn, Co, and Ni analogs, which are semiconductors.
Absence of BBSome function leads to astrocyte reactivity in the brain

In humans, dysfunctional primary cilia result in Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS), which presents with clinical features including intellectual disabilities, obesity, and retinal degeneration, and, in mouse models, the added feature of hydrocephalus. We observed increased Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) immunoreactivity in BBS mouse brains. Increased GFAP expression is a hallmark of astrocyte reactivity that is associated with microglia activation and neuro-inflammation. To gain a better understanding of reactive astrocytes observed in BBS mice, we used two mouse models of BBS8, a BBSome protein, to characterize the reactive astrocyte phenotype. The finding of reactive astrocytes in young BBS mouse brains led us to hypothesize that loss of BBSome function leads to reactive astrocytes prior to hydrocephalus and obesity. By using two mouse models of BBS8, a congenital BBS8 knockout with hydrocephalus, and a tamoxifen-inducible BBS8 knockout without hydrocephalus, we were able to molecularly phenotype the reactive astrocytes. Molecular phenotype of reactive astrocytes shows differential regulation of inducers of Pan, A1 neurotoxic, and A2 neuroprotective astrocytes that are significantly altered in brains of both congenital and induced knockouts of BBS8, but without microglia activation. We find evidence for neuroinflammation in the brains of congenital knockout mice, but not in induced knockout mice. Protein levels of GFAP, SERPINA3N and post-synaptic density 95 (PSD95) are significantly increased in congenital knockout mice, but remain unchanged in induced knockout mice. Thus, despite the reactive astrocyte phenotype being present in both models, the molecular signature of reactive astrocytes in BBS8 mice models are distinct. Together, these findings suggest that BBS8, and by extension the BBSome, plays a role in neuro-astrocyte functions independent of hydrocephalus, and its dysregulation is associated with astrocyte reactivity without microglia activation. (Total word count 278).
The Value of Precontract Information About an Agent's Ability in the Presence of Moral Hazard and Adverse Selection

We analyze the expected value of information about an agent's type in the presence of moral hazard and adverse selection. Information about the agent's type enables the principal to sort/screen agents of different types. The value of the information decreases in the variability of output and the agent's risk aversion, two factors that are typically associated with the severity of the moral hazard problem. However, the value of the information about agent type first increases but ultimately decreases in the severity of adverse selection. The decrease comes about because the means available to the principal to induce effort—namely, the pay–performance sensitivity—must also be used to sort/screen agents, and these two goals conflict. This decline in value occurs despite the monotonically increasing importance of the information in determining the principal's expected profits. Further, we show that the peak value of information occurs at a predictable level of adverse selection. These results imply that over some range, the importance of the information will be increasing, and the value of the information will be simultaneously decreasing, in the severity of adverse selection.
Abstract WP221: Very Brief Intervention Improves Stroke Response in a Randomized Trial: Stroke Ready Very Brief Intervention

Introduction: Stroke pre-hospital delay has not improved over time. Hypothesis: Stroke Ready, a very brief (5 minute), theory based, peer-led, stroke preparedness intervention, will increase stroke...
P72 Examining Perceptions of Obesity-Related Training Opportunities and Needs for Head Start Health/Nutrition Managers

Background Head Start (HS) health/nutrition managers have identified obesity as the top health concern for their preschool children. However, little information exists related to perceived training needs and professional development (PD) training opportunities available for HS managers around obesity and related measurements. Objective To examine perceptions of obesity-related PD training needs and opportunities reported by Ohio Head Start health/nutrition program managers. Study Design, Setting, Participants Phenomenology was utilized for this research study. Semi-structured, in-depth telephone interviews (n = 13) were conducted with HS Health and Nutrition Managers across Ohio who were recruited via emails distributed by the HS Director of Professional Development. Outcome Measure/Analysis Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Open coding of transcripts was conducted by trained qualitative researchers. Significant statements were coded, defined, and organized into themes. Themes enabled the description of the types of opportunities and needs (the “what” and “how”) of the phenomenon. Results Researchers identified 5 themes. Themes around professional development opportunities included attending professional health conferences (eg nursing/nutrition/early childhood/health) as part of the professional continuing education requirements; online food and nutrition-focused trainings (eg, webinars) through state and national resources, such as USDA; health-related trainings as part of professional development days organized by Head Start programs; and networking as informal education from internal staff, RD consultants, and partnerships with local universities and WIC. Participants identified a lack of knowledge and training specific to the understanding of BMI, BMI-for-age growth charts, and skills around BMI measurement. Conclusions There are a number of general nutrition, food, and health-related trainings from a variety of sources (professional organizations, USDA, Head Start), but there is a need identified for training to improve knowledge and skills specific to BMI and its measurement (height/weight) in preschoolers, and the interpretation of BMI-for-age growth charts.
$\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric quantum field theory

PT-symmetric quantum theory began with an analysis of the strange-looking non-Hermitian Hamiltonian H = p 2 + x (ix)e. This Hamiltonian is symmetric and the eigenvalues Hamiltonian are discrete, real, and positive when e ≥ 0. In this talk we describe the properties of the corresponding quantum-field-theoretic Hamiltonian in D-dimensional spacetime, where φ is a pseudoscalar field. We show how to calculate all of the Green’s functions as series in powers of e directly from the Euclidean partition function. We derive exact finite expressions for the vacuum energy density, the renormalized mass, and the connected n-point Green’s functions for all n 0 ≤ D ≤ 2. For D ≥ 2 the one-point Green’s function and the renormalized mass become infinite, but perturbative renormalization can be performed. The beautiful spectral properties of -symmetric quantum mechanics appear to persist in -symmetric quantum field theory.
Simultaneous Independent Translational and Rotational Feedback Motion Control System for a Cylindrical Magnet Using Planar Arrays of Magnetic Sensors and Cylindrical Coils

This letter describes an electromagnetic feedback control system for rigid-body motion control of a magnet. Its novel features are that sensing and actuation using magnetometer sensors and actuator coils operate simultaneously. Magnetic field models from the controlled magnet and each of the actuator coil currents are used together to calculate the three-dimensional position and orientation of the magnet. Motion is controlled simultaneously and independently in multiple degrees of freedom, including planar translation and two in rotation, leaving rotation about the cylindrical axis of magnetization uncontrolled. The system configuration and the localization and actuation methods are presented, together with experimental results of magnet localization with constant and varying coil currents, and during feedback control of trajectory-following motion of the magnet in multiple directions on a planar surface and with controlled changes in orientation. The intended application of the system is for motion control of magnetic endoscope capsules and other miniature medical devices inside the human body.
Violence Against Asexual Individuals

Asexual individuals—people who experience little or no sexual attraction to individuals of any sex or gender—comprise approximately 1% of the population but are often left out, medicalized, and dehumanized in both sexual and gender majority and minority spaces. This chapter introduces the concepts of asexuality and the asexual spectrum and discusses key forms of violence and marginalization that asexual individuals experience: medicalization and pathologizing of asexuality, isolation and erasure, and unwanted sexual experiences and corrective rape. The importance of validation and intersectionality in working with asexual individuals is also discussed.
Timing and route of contamination of hospitalized patient rooms with healthcare-associated pathogens.

Objective To investigate the timing and routes of contamination of the rooms of patients newly admitted to the hospital. Design Observational cohort study and simulations of pathogen transfer. Setting A Veterans' Affairs hospital. Participants Patients newly admitted to the hospital with no known carriage of healthcare-associated pathogens. Methods Interactions between the participants and personnel or portable equipment were observed, and cultures of high-touch surfaces, floors, bedding, and patients' socks and skin were collected for up to 4 days. Cultures were processed for Clostridioides difﬁcile, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). Simulations were conducted with bacteriophage MS2 to assess plausibility of transfer from contaminated floors to high-touch surfaces and to assess the effectiveness of wearing slippers in reducing transfer. Results Environmental cultures became positive for at least 1 pathogen in 10 (59%) of the 17 rooms, with cultures positive for MRSA, C. difficile, and VRE in the rooms of 10 (59%), 2 (12%), and 2 (12%) participants, respectively. For all 14 instances of pathogen detection, the initial site of recovery was the floor followed in a subset of patients by detection on sock bottoms, bedding, and high-touch surfaces. In simulations, wearing slippers over hospital socks dramatically reduced transfer of bacteriophage MS2 from the floor to hands and to high-touch surfaces. Conclusions Floors may be an underappreciated source of pathogen dissemination in healthcare facilities. Simple interventions such as having patients wear slippers could potentially reduce the risk for transfer of pathogens from floors to hands and high-touch surfaces.
Tracheostomy as a Bridge to Hope: Family Decision Making Surrounding Tracheostomy in a Variety of Clinical Settings

Introduction Initiation of long-term technology, such as tracheostomy tube placement, can be a challenging and difficult decision for families. Palliative care consultation prior to tracheostomy placement can help support the family as they explore options. We hypothesize that there are a multitude of themes that drive family decision making. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study using data from the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database looking at tracheostomy placement at one urban health center over a two year period. During …
Three-Field LVAD Implantation Completely Avoids Dissection of the Heart in Patients with Previous Sternotomy

Introduction Less invasive techniques to implant a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) reduce perioperative complications, length of stay, right heart failure, and perhaps even mortality. In this case series we describe a novel three-field implant technique (3FIT) for LVAD for patients with previous sternotomies. This technique employs a left thoracotomy, a subxiphoid incision, and a right thoracotomy or upper ministernotomy. The outflow graft is tunneled from the left thoracotomy to the subxiphoid area and then subsequently to the aorta through the right pleural space. To avoid any possible compression of the outflow graft in the subxiphoid area, an additional bend relief is easily spliced with the original one (Figure). Case Report Five patients (4 with previous CABG and one with 3 prior sternotomies) underwent LVAD implantation via the 3FIT. The mean age was 55.4 ± 16.2 years and Heartmate II Risk Score (HMRS) was2.51 + 0.5 (high risk HMRS is > 2.48). Mean pre-operative eGFR was 46+ 14 mL/min. Mean right atrial pressure was 11 + 5 mmHg and pulmonary artery pulsatility index was 3.3+ 2.8. Mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 142 + 38 minutes. Post-operatively, the mean time to extubation was 10.4 ± 7.5 hours, mean ICU length of stay was 8.6 ± 5.7 days, and mean length of stay was 20.8 ± 4.7 days. No patients had severe or severe-acute right heart failure (RHF) by INTERMACS criteria, and no patients required long term renal replacement therapy. One patient died 16 months post-operatively of chronic heart failure. Summary The 3FIT completely avoids dissection and mobilization of either ventricle in patients with prior sternotomies. This is particularly important in patients with poor RV function and patent coronary grafts. Coronary angiography to assess bypass grafts preoperatively is not necessary, especially if renal function is compromised. None of our patients had significant RHF or required long-term dialysis in this high risk group of patients with prior sternotomies.
Changes in scapular bone density vary by region and are associated with age and sex.

Background Decreases in bone density of the scapula due to age and disease can make orthopedic procedures such as arthroplasty and fracture fixation challenging. There is limited information in the literature regarding the effect of age and sex on the patterns of these density changes across the bone. Characterizing these changes could assist the surgeon in planning optimal instrumentation placement. Methods Ninety-seven 3-dimensional models of the scapula were segmented from routine clinical computed tomography scans, and an opportunistic quantitative computed tomography approach was used to obtain detailed calibrated bone density measurements for each bone model. The effects of age and sex on cortical and trabecular bone density were assessed for the entire scapula. Specific regions (eg, scapular spine) where these factors had a significant effect were identified. Three-dimensional models were generated to allow clear visualization of the changes in density patterns. Results Cortical bone loss averaged 1.0 mg/cm3 and 0.3 mg/cm3 per year for female and male subjects, respectively, and trabecular bone loss averaged 1.6 mg/cm3 and 1.2 mg/cm3, respectively. However, several regions had loss rates several times greater. Areas that were significantly affected by age included the acromion, scapular spine, base of the coracoid, inferior glenoid neck, and glenoid vault. Areas that were significantly affected by sex were the scapular spine and body. Conclusions These findings provide evidence that the bone density distribution across the scapula changes non-uniformly because of factors including sex and age. Despite overall trends of bone loss, there remains significant variability between individuals, and subject-specific tools for planning surgical procedures in which scapular fixation is required may be beneficial.
Mining the Data Oceans, Profiting on the Margins

American capitalist medicine has produced a national healthcare system that is the most expensive – and producing the worse outcomes for patients – in the world. For many patients, social inequities and racial disparities embedded throughout the US healthcare system have only deepened and intensified over the last two decades, with very few realizing the promises made by medical technological innovation. Healthcare policy makers are turning to ‘data‐driven healthcare’ as a solution to these endemic problems. Yet the promise that digital technologies and data analytics will solve some of the most vexing questions in medical science, and will make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and equitable, in fact, hides the ongoing, structural inequities and injustices in health care.
Rightsizing Clusters for Time-Limited Tasks

Cluster rightsizing facilitates cost-performance trade-off in resource-constrained clouds. Multidimensional bin-packing algorithms can address this rightsizing problem, but these assume that every task on the cluster is always active. In contrast, real-world tasks may be active only during specific time-periods, which allows reusing resources via time sharing and optimal packing. This motivates our generalized problem of rightsizing for time-limited tasks: given a timeline, time-periods and resource demands for tasks, the objective is to place the tasks on a minimum cost cluster of nodes without violating node capacities at any time instance. We design a baseline two-phase algorithm that performs penalty-based mapping of task to node-type and then, solves each node-type independently. We prove that the algorithm has an approximation ratio of O(D. min(m, T)), where D, m and $T$ are the number of resources, node-types and timeslots, respectively, We then present an improved linear programming based mapping strategy, enhanced further with a cross-node-type filling mechanism. Our experiments on synthetic and real-world cluster traces show significant cost reduction by LP-based mapping compared to the baseline, and the filling mechanism improves further to produce solutions within 20% of (a lower-bound to) the optimal solution.
Theory of user acceptance of information technologies: an examination of health care professionals

TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) has been developed to explain user acceptance of new information technologies. Empirical studies of this and other models however, have based their conclusions on surveys of middle managers or MBA students. Given strong differences between middle managers or MBAs and physicians, we argue that these models may not predict the attitudes of physicians towards new IT very well. Therefore, we propose to extend TAM by adding a new dimension of perceived usefulness: perceived usefulness towards professional status. Our paper suggests strategies that health care decision makers may take to influence physicians' attitudes in a positive way.
Using Machine Learning to Advise a Student Model

Human learning is complex, dynamic, and non-monotonic. Currently it cannot be accurately modeled or measured, and present-day student models are too simplistic and too static to reason effectively about it. This paper explores several machine learning mechanisms which might enhance the functionality of a student model. Human learning experiments are described demonstrating the spontaneous nature of learning, for which action-oriented student model components are needed. An existing student model, built as part of a physics tutoring system, is described which begins to handle non-monotonic reasoning, makes little commitment to a static model of student knowledge, and uses a Multi-layered representation of inferences about student knowledge. The paper asks how a learning mechanism might inform such a student model and represent the dynamicism and spontaneity of human learning.
The effectiveness of using legortm mindstormsrtm robotics activities to influence self-regulated learning in a university introductory computer programming course

The research described in this dissertation examines the possible link between self-regulated learning and LEGO Mindstorms robotic activities in teaching concepts in an introductory university computer programming course. The areas of student motivation, learning strategies, and mastery of course objectives are investigated. In all three cases analysis failed to reveal any statistically significant differences between the traditional control group and the experimental LEGO Mindstorms group as measured by the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire and course exams. Possible reasons for the lack of positive results include technical problems and limitations of the LEGO Mindstorms systems, limited number and availability of robots outside of class, limited amount of time during the semester for the robotic activities, and a possible difference in effectiveness based on gender. Responses to student follow-up questions, however, suggest that at least some of the students really enjoyed the LEGO activities. As with any teaching tool or activity, there are numerous ways in which LEGO Mindstorms can be incorporated into learning. This study explores whether or not LEGO Mindstorms are an effective tool for teaching introductory computer programming at the university level and how these systems can best be utilized.
Optical delta sigma modulator system design: The best approach for THz A/D conversion

Delta Sigma modulation is the most powerful technique for optical signal processing due to its high bandwidth, noise immunity and cost. In this paper an optical delta sigma modulation theory is presented along with the calculation and design issues for optical system implementation. Simulation results are also attached which confirm the theory and possibility of reaching THz frequency in chip level implementation.
Effects of retinal laser photocoagulation on photoreceptor basic fibroblast growth factor and survival.

Purpose. In an unpublished study, the authors found that immunoreactivity for basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is increased in rod photoreceptors adjacent to long-standing laser burns in human diabetic retinas. The goal of this study was to determine whether laser photocoagulation produces a similar increase in photoreceptor bFGF and promotes survival of these cells in dystrophic rodent retinas. METHODS. Threshold (whitening) and subthreshold (nonwhitening) laser bums were made in retinas of normal and Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats and normal and rds mice. The retinas were processed for immunocytochemical and morphometric analyses. REsults. In nonlasered normal rat and mouse retinas, bFGF immunoreactivity was prominent in the nuclei of Muller cells and astrocytes. Photoreceptors were bFGF negative except for a zone of bFGF-immunoreactive rods near the ora serrata. Some photoreceptors in nonlasered retinas of RCS rats and rds mice became bFGF immunoreactive. After laser treatment, hFGF immunoreactivity was markedly increased in all photoreceptors flanking the threshold burns and within the subthreshold burns in normal and mutant rats and mice. In RCS rat retinas, photoreceptor bFGF immunoreactivity remained elevated within subthreshold burns and flanking the threshold burns, and photoreceptor survival was prolonged. In rds mouse retinas, increased bFGF immunoreactivity in photoreceptors was not sustained and their degeneration was not retarded. Conclusions. Laser treatment of RCS rat retinas produced a sustained increase in bFGF immunorcactivity in photoreceptors and prolonged their survival, but laser treatment of rds mouse retinas did not have a long-term effect on photoreceptor bFGF immunoreactivity or survival. Although species differences in laser effects on photoreceptor bFGF and survival are apparent, the finding that rods flanking laser burns in human retinas have sustained increases in hFGF immunoreactivity suggests that laser treatment may be useful for prolonging survival of mutant photoreceptors in retinas of patients with retinitis pigmentosa.
Reliability of lithium niobate Mach Zehnder modulators for digital optical fiber telecommunication systems

This paper is about the reliability of lithium niobate external modulators, one of the first major commercial successes for integrated optical circuits in fiber optics. Results from Bellcore type qualification programs along with long term aging tests at several temperatures for 2.5 Gb/s and 10 Gb/s modulator types will be presented., Additional published reliability data will be referenced and shown, however, limited information is available. Actual field data will also be presented. Where fitting or noteworthy, references will be made to other types of integrated optical circuits as this technology field is much greater than modulators alone. For the purposes of this paper, lasers, electro-absorption modulators, acousto-optic devices and optical detectors are not considered even though they too are highly commercially successful integrated photonic devices.
A Morphing-Based Technique for the Verification of Precipitation Forecasts

AbstractThis paper describes a morphing-based approach for the verification of precipitation forecasts. This approach employs a pyramid matching algorithm to morph the precipitation features in a forecast into features that match the related precipitation features in the verifying analysis (observations) as closely as possible. The algorithm computes an optical flow (vector field) that maps the original forecast features into the morphed forecast features. The optical flow also provides quantitative information about the error in the location of the forecast features. This information, combined with information about the error in the prediction of the total precipitation over the verification domain, is used to quantify the structure error in the precipitation forecast. The proposed approach has three novel aspects compared to the published morphing-based verification strategies. First, it imposes a constraint on the pyramid matching algorithm to prevent overconvergence toward strong precipitation feature...
Temperature and the free-running circadian rhythm of the mouse finch

Abstract 1. 1. The free-running circadian activity rhythm of the house finch (a hometherm) can be slowed by cool environmental temperatures. 2. 2. The magnitude of the temperature effect depends upon the intensity of the prevailing constant light, i.e. light intensity and temperature interact in a non-additive manner in their influence on the period of the unsynchronized rhythm. 3. 3. At light intensities between 0·1 and 1 lux, the observed periods of the activity rhythms were 9–33 min longer at 2°C than at 20°C; at light intensities of about 0·02 lux, no consistent influence of temperature on period of the rhythm was observed.
Comparing clinician- and patient-reported outcome measures after hemicraniectomy for ischemic stroke.

Abstract Background The association between clinician- and patient-reported health status measures (HSM) after hemicraniectomy for ischemic stroke is understudied. We compared HSMs to determine how HSM type and follow-up affect the interpretation of outcomes. Methods We identified patients that underwent hemicraniectomy for ischemic stroke at the Cleveland Clinic (CC) from January 2009 through May 2013. HSMs were obtained from the CC Knowledge Program Data Registry. Outpatient follow-up was divided into “Early” (3 ± 2 months (standard deviation)) and “Late” (9 ± 3 months) time periods. Clinician-reported HSMs (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS)) were compared to patient-reported HSMs (EuroQol quality of life index (EQ-5D), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Stroke Impact Scale-16 (SIS-16)). Results 11 of 32 patients completed all HSMs during both follow-up periods. Clinician-reported median NIHSS scores improved from 12 to 7 (p = 0.003). Median mRS scores demonstrated little improvement from 4 to 3 (p = 0.2). Patient-reported median EQ-5D scores improved from 0.33 to 0.69 (p = 0.03). Among EQ-5D sub-scores, “usual activity” improved from a median score of 3 (extreme problems) to 2 (some problems) (p = 0.008). Median PHQ-9 scores improved from 9 to 1 (p = 0.06) as did SIS-16 scores from 23 to 57 (p = 0.01). EQ-5D and mRS score differences between periods were correlated (r = −0.65, p = 0.03), but only the EQ-5D showed significant improvement over time. Conclusions Both HSM types, clinician- and patient-reported outcome measures, improved over time. The structure of clinical trials, and, in particular, defining clinical endpoints and framing outcomes, has a profound impact on the interpretation of what a “favorable” outcome means.
Elucidating the Metabolic Regulation of Liver Regeneration

The regenerative capability of liver is well known, and the mechanisms that regulate liver regeneration are extensively studied. Such analyses have defined general principles that govern the hepatic regenerative response and implicated specific extracellular and intracellular signals as regulated during and essential for normal liver regeneration. Nevertheless, the most proximal events that stimulate liver regeneration and the distal signals that terminate this process remain incompletely understood. Recent data suggest that the metabolic response to hepatic insufficiency might be the proximal signal that initiates regenerative hepatocellular proliferation. This review provides an overview of the data in support of a metabolic model of liver regeneration and reflects on the clinical implications and areas for further study suggested by these findings.
A unified treatment of the relaxation phenomenon in radiating argon plasma flows.

Electronic relaxation of shock-heated nonequilibrium argon plasma flow in microscopic- macroscopic treatment
Economic feasibility and evaluation of a novel manure collection and anaerobic digestion system at a commercial swine finisher enterprise.

Abstract A case study conducted at a commercial swine-finishing farm demonstrated that a novel manure management system increased economic feasibility of an anaerobic digester by eliminating the need for post-digestion manure storage construction at the farm. Uniquely designed underfloor manure storage pits collected manure for delivery to the digester, and then stored post-digested manure (digestate) in underfloor storage within the same swine houses. It was unknown if the introduction of biologically active digestate into these pits would produce pig living space air quality that was adverse to pig health, growth or survival, or if explosive methane levels would be generated within the buildings. Monitoring of air quality indicators both before and after digestate introduction to underfloor manure storage pits resulted in no observations of hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) or methane (CH 4 ) concentrations above critical safety levels in swine housing. Hourly mean ammonia (NH 3 ) concentrations at pig level (0.15 m above the floor) before digestate was present in the buildings were higher ( P
Considering sex differences in anxiety and its disorders across the life span: A construct-validation approach

Abstract One neglected avenue to understanding anxiety disorders is through studying patterns of sex differences, which may suggest the need for modification in definitions of anxiety and its disorders, their operationalization and measurement, and the theories associated with these constructs. This article begins with a comprehensive review of sex diffrences across the life span that supports the widely held view that most anxiety disorders are more common among females than males. Subsequently, we offer an analysis of the possible sources of sex differences from a construct-validity perspective, with emphasis on understanding whether sex differences have their basis in methodological problems, measurement or definitional problems, or problems in extant theories of anxiety themselves.
Selenium promotes adipogenic determination and differentiation of chicken embryonic fibroblasts with regulation of genes involved in fatty acid uptake, triacylglycerol synthesis and lipolysis

Selenium (Se) has been utilized in the differentiation of primary pig and rat preadipocytes, indicating that it may have proadipogenic potential; however, some studies have also demonstrated that Se has antiadipogenic activity. In this study, chicken embryonic fibroblasts (CEFs) were used to investigate the role of Se in adipogenesis in vitro and in ovo. Se supplementation increased lipid droplet accumulation and inhibited proliferation of cultured CEFs isolated from 6-day-old embryos dose-dependently. This suggests that Se may play a role in cell cycle inhibition, thereby promoting the differentiation of fibroblasts to adipocytes. Se did not stimulate adipogenic differentiation of CEFs isolated from 9- to 12-day-old embryos, implying a permissive stage of adipogenic determination by Se at earlier embryonic ages. Microarray analysis comparing control and Se treatments on CEFs from 6-day-old embryos and confirmatory analysis by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that genes involved in adipocyte determination and differentiation, fatty acid uptake and triacylglycerol synthesis were up-regulated. In addition, up-regulation of an anti-lipolytic G0/G1 switch gene 2 and down-regulation of a prolipolytic monoglyceride lipase may lead to inhibition of lipolysis by Se. Both osteogenic and myogenic genes were down-regulated, and several genes related to oxidative stress response during adipogenesis were up-regulated. In ovo injection of Se at embryonic day 8 increased adipose tissue mass by 30% and caused adipocyte hypertrophy in 17-day-old chicken embryos, further supporting the proadipogenic role of Se during the embryonic development of chickens. These results suggest that Se plays a significant role in several mechanisms related to adipogenesis.
Rundown of secretion after depletion of intracellular calcium stores in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells.

Abstract: In this study, the relationship between intracellular calcium stores and depolarization-evoked stimulation was examined in bovine chromaffin cells, using changes in membrane capacitance to monitor both exocytosis and endocytosis. Cells were voltage-clamped using the perforated whole-cell patch configuration to minimize alterations in intracellular constituents. Control cells exhibited reproducible secretory responses each time the cell was stimulated. However, the same stimulation protocol elicited progressively smaller secretory responses in cells where their intracellular calcium store was emptied by thapsigargin. Transient elevation of the intracellular calcium concentration with a brief histamine treatment enhanced subsequent secretory responses in control but not in thapsigargin-treated cells. A series of depolarizations to -20 mV, which allowed small amounts of Ca2+ influx but which by itself did not trigger catecholamine secretion, enhanced subsequent exocytosis in both control and thapsigargin-treated cells. Caffeine-pretreated cells exhibited a rundown in the secretory response that was similar to that produced by thapsigargin. These results suggest that brief elevations of [Ca2+]i could enhance subsequent secretory responses. In addition, the data suggest that intracellular calcium stores are vital for the maintenance of exocytosis during repetitive stimulation.
Error probability and free distance bounds for two-user tree codes on multiple-access channels

Two-user tree codes are considered for use on an arbitrary two-user discrete memoryless multiple-access channel (MAC). A two-user tree Is employed to achieve true maximum likelihood (ML) decoding of two-user tree codes on MAC's. Each decoding error event has associated with it a configuration indicating the specific time slots in which a decoding error has occurred for the first user alone, for the second user alone, or for both users simultaneously. Even though there are many possible configurations, it is shown that there are five fundamental configuration types. An upper bound on decoding error probability, similar to Liao's result for two-user block codes, is derived for sets of error events having a particular configuration. The total ML decoding error probability is bounded using a union bound first over all configurations of a given type and then over the five configuration types. A two-user tree coding error exponent is defined and compared with the corresponding block coding result for a specific MAC. It is seen that the tree coding error exponent is larger than the block coding error exponent at all rate pairs within the two-user capacity region. Finally, a new lower bound on free distance for two-user codes is derived using the same general technique used to bound the error probability.
Functional dependence on calcineurin by variants of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae vacuolar Ca2+/H+ exchanger Vcx1p

The Ca 2+ -dependent protein phosphatase calcineurin is an important regulator of ion transporters from many organisms, including the Saccharomyces cerevisiae vacuolar Ca 2+ /H + exchanger Vcx1p. In yeast and plants, cation/H + exchangers are important in shaping cytosolic Ca2 + levels involved in signal transduction and providing tolerance to potentially toxic concentrations of cations such as Ca 2+ , Mn 2+ and Cd 2+ . Previous genetic evidence suggested Vcx1p is negatively regulated by calcineurin. By utilizing direct transport measurements into vacuolar membrane vesicles, we demonstrate that Vcx1p is a low-affinity Ca 2+ transporter and may also function in Cd 2+ transport, but cannot transport Mn 2+ . Furthermore, direct Ca 2+ transport by Vcx1p is calcineurin sensitive. Using a yeast growth assay, a mutant allele of VCX1 (VCX1-5204A/L208P), termed VCX1-M1, was previously found to confer strong Mn 2+ tolerance. Here we demonstrate that this Mn 2+ tolerance is independent of the Ca 2+ /Mn 2+ -ATPase Pmr1p and results from Mn 2+ -specific vacuolar transport activity of Vcx1-M1p. This Mn 2+ transport by Vcx1-M1p is calcineurin dependent, although the localization of Vcx1-M1p to the vacuole appears to be calcineurin independent. Additionally, we demonstrate that mutation of L208P alone is enough to confer calcineurin-dependent Mn 2+ tolerance. This study demonstrates that calcineurin can positively regulate the transport of cations by VCX1-M1p.
The role of sea ice in 2 x CO2 climate model sensitivity. Part 1: The total influence of sea ice thickness and extent

As a first step in investigating the effects of sea ice changes on the climate sensitivity to doubled atmospheric CO2, the authors use a standard simple sea ice model while varying the sea ice distributions and thicknesses in the control run. Thinner ice amplifies the atmospheric temperature senstivity in these experiments by about 15% (to a warming of 4.8 C), because it is easier for the thinner ice to be removed as the climate warms. Thus, its impact on sensitivity is similar to that of greater sea ice extent in the control run, which provides more opportunity for sea ice reduction. An experiment with sea ice not allowed to change between the control and doubled CO2 simulations illustrates that the total effect of sea ice on surface air temperature changes, including cloud cover and water vapor feedbacks that arise in response to sea ice variations, amounts to 37% of the temperature sensitivity to the CO2 doubling, accounting for 1.56 C of the 4.17 C global warming. This is about four times larger than the sea ice impact when no feedbacks are allowed. The different experiments produce a range of results for southern high latitudes with the hydrologic budget over Antarctica implying sea level increases of varying magnitude or no change. These results highlight the importance of properly constraining the sea ice response to climate perturbations, necessitating the use of more realistic sea ice and ocean models.
Death education--where is thy sting?

Abstract We are not free to choose whether anyone will learn about death, though we have some choice about how they will learn. The author discusses the basic questions that need to be answered in planning death education at any level, and the possible goals, in terms of cognitive gain, skills, and attitudinal objectives. Some principles in regard to teaching methods and evaluation are described, with illustrations from the experiences of medical students and others. It is important that the teacher should be able to deal with the problems that such programs may arouse. Cheap emotional arousal is easy to produce, but trivial, unless creatively used for a valued purpose and adequately resolved. Death is infinitely exploitable, and the growth of death voyeurism via “education” is alarming. The capacity to recognize and avoid being exploited or exploiting others must be one of our principle educational objectives.
The role of cytokine DNAs as vaccine adjuvants for optimizing cellular immune responses

Cytokines represent a diverse group of immunologic effector and regulatory proteins that are critical components of the host response to invading pathogens. They have also been utilized as adjuvants to enhance immune responses to vaccines. In particular, plasmid cytokines have been studied extensively as candidate adjuvants for DNA vaccines in preclinical models and are now entering early-phase clinical trials. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of cytokine biology, T-lymphocyte differentiation, and potential applications of plasmid cytokines in the rational design of improved vaccines.
Cardiovascular Effects and Placental Passage of Dantrolene in the Maternal-fetal Sheep Model

Using the chronic maternal-fetal sheep preparation, nine pregnant ewes were studied to determine the effects of intravenous dantrolene sodium on maternal and fetal physiology, with particular reference to its placental passage, and its effects on uterine blood flow and uterine tone. Two doses of dantrolene sodium were studied: 1.2 mg/kg and 2.4 mg/kg. After 2.4 mg/kg, maternal cardiac output increased 29% (P less than 0.05) after 1 min and returned to normal after 30 min. Maternal mean arterial pressure increased 13% after 1 min and remained significantly elevated (P less than 0.01) for 3 h. No significant changes (P greater than 0.05) were observed in maternal heart rate, uterine artery blood flow, or central venous pressure. Maternal arterial pH declined from 7.42 to 7.39 (P less than 0.01) after 1 min and returned to baseline values after 10 min. Fetal heart rate decreased 24% (P less than 0.01) after 3 min and returned to normal after 10 min; the mean fetal arterial pressure remained unchanged (P greater than 0.05). Fetal arterial pH declined from 7.29 to 7.27 (P less than 0.05) after 1 min and remained significantly decreased for 120 min. Similar changes of lesser magnitude and shorter duration were seen following the 1.2 mg/kg dose. Maternal levels of dantrolene were less than 3 micrograms/ml. Although an equilibrium between maternal and fetal plasma dantrolene concentrations was apparent at 5 min, the fetal levels of dantrolene were approximately 10% of the mother's. The results indicate that the administration of intravenous dantrolene at 1.2 mg/kg or 2.4 mg/kg has no clinically significant adverse effect on mother or fetus in the sheep model.
Impact of Shape on Residential Buildings Energy Performance

The impact of the shape on energy performance for residential buildings has been investigated using a series of simulation analyses. The shape of a building is quantified by its compactness relative to a reference building. In this paper, the performance of a prototypical residential building with various shapes is investigated for selected locations in the US. Various window-to-wall ratios are considered in the analysis. The findings indicate that significant energy can be saved when the shape and the window-to-wall ratio of the building are optimized. A simplified evaluation method is provided to help designers assess the impact of basic building architectural features on the energy performance of residential buildings.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Mechanical Ventilation of a Dog with Pentobarbital Intoxication

Summary A 9-year old spayed female American bulldog presented 5 hours after ingesting a portion of a recently euthanized sheep carcass. The dog was comatose, intubated and manually ventilated on arrival. On physical examination, the dog had stable cardiovascular parameters but was hypothermic. Cranial nerve reflexes were absent and spinal reflexes were depressed. Mechanical ventilation was initiated and maintained for 18 hours before spontaneous respiration returned. Elevated serum pentobarbital concentration (19.1 mg/ml) confirmed pentobarbital intoxication as the cause of neurological signs. This is the first report of a dog with pentobarbital toxicity that was successfully managed with mechanical ventilation. Neurologic and functional recovery was complete and the dog was discharged 48 hours after admission. (J Vet Emerg Crit Care 2001; 11(1):33–37)
Current Concepts in the Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure

Heart failure is a complex syndrome; therapy should be aimed at the independent goals of prolonging life and of improving symptoms and quality of life. Some therapies are effective in achieving one go
Prenatal detection of cardiovascular malformations by echocardiography: An indication for cytogenetic evaluation

Prenatal diagnosis of congenital cardiovascular malformations by echocardiography may signal associated chromosome abnormalities. The exact proportion of these associations is not known but is expected to be higher than that with live-birth. To estimate the risk that a fetus with an echocardiographically detected heart defect has an autosomal trisomy or Turner syndrome, we adjusted the known frequency of aneuploidy in live-born infants with congenital cardiovascular malformations by the reported rate of spontaneous abortion, with data from a population-based case-control study of congenital cardiovascular malformations in which 268 cases (12.7%) had both congenital cardiovascular malformations and a chromosome abnormality. Included in the present analysis were 188 aneuploid infants with congenital cardiovascular malformations that would have been detectable by fetal echo. When data are adjusted for the high spontaneous abortion rate of aneuploid fetuses, we estimate that there would have been more than a threefold increase in aneuploidy over the 13% seen at live-birth. Thus cytogenetic analysis is appropriate in a fetus with echo-diagnosed congenital cardiovascular malformations.
Interstellar scintillation and ultra-low-frequency gravitational wave observations

High precision pulsar timing measurements have been used to set upper limits on the flux of ultralong period (T greater than 3 years) stochastic gravitational waves. The data used to produce the current limits appear to be limited by timing noise that is intrinsic to the pulsars. Recently, however, there have been very low noise timing observations of the 1.5-millisecond pulsar. This suggests that significant sensitivity improvements in searches for ultralow frequency (ULF) gravitational waves may be possible. Here, the effects of the heretofore secondary noise source of phase scintillations caused by interstellar electron density fluctuations are calculated, and the prospects for improved ULF gravitational wave measurements using pulsar timing are discussed.