cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Correction of limb-length inequality during total hip arthroplasty

Although several methods of intraoperative limb-length measurements have been described, their success in predicting the limb-length correction is not well documented. A new technique of measuring intraoperative limb lengthening using a vertical Steinmann pin at the infracotyloid groove of the acetabulum was studied in 100 consecutive primary total hip arthroplasties. Correlation of the predicted intraoperative correction was done with the postoperative radiographic measurements. Preoperative limb-length inequality ranged from -24 mm (short) to +2 mm (long) (mean, -4.2 mm). Intraoperative measurement of lengthening ranged from 0 to 15 mm (mean, 5.9 mm). Radiographic measurements of postoperative radiographs showed lengthening ranging from 0 to 17 mm (mean, 7.4 mm). There was significant correlation between the 2 values (r =.84). Postoperative limb-length inequality ranged from -7 mm to +8 mm (mean, 1.9 mm). None of the patients had to use shoe lifts for equalization of limb lengths.
Combined effects of aging and inflammation on renin-angiotensin system mediate mitochondrial dysfunction and phenotypic changes in cardiomyopathies

// Tyesha N. Burks 1 , Ruth Marx 1 , Laura Powell 1 , Jasma Rucker 2 , Djahida Bedja 2 , Elisa Heacock 1 , Barbara J. Smith 3 , D. Brian Foster 2 , David Kass 2 , Brian O’Rourke 2 , Jeremy D. Walston 1 , Peter M. Abadir 1 1 Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD 21205, USA 2 Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD 21205, USA 3 Cell Biology Imaging Facility, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD 21205, USA Correspondence to: Peter M. Abadir, e-mail: pabadir1@jhmi.edu Keywords: aging, mitochondria, AT1R, inflammation, heart Received: April 4, 2015 Accepted: May 06, 2015 Published: May 18, 2015 ABSTRACT Although the effects of aging and inflammation on the health of the cardiac muscle are well documented, the combined effects of aging and chronic inflammation on cardiac muscle are largely unknown. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been linked independently to both aging and inflammation, but is understudied in the context of their collective effect. Thus, we investigated localized cardiac angiotensin II type I and type II receptors (AT 1 R, AT 2 R), downstream effectors, and phenotypic outcomes using mouse models of the combination of aging and inflammation and compared it to a model of aging and a model of inflammation. We show molecular distinction in the combined effect of aging and inflammation as compared to each independently. The combination maintained an increased AT 1 R:AT 2 R and expression of Nox2 and exhibited the lowest activity of antioxidants. Despite signaling pathway differences, the combined effect shared phenotypic similarities with aging including oxidative damage, fibrosis, and hypertrophy. These phenotypic similarities have dubbed inflammatory conditions as premature aging, but they are, in fact, molecularly distinct. Moreover, treatment with an AT 1 R blocker, losartan, selectively reversed the signaling changes and ameliorated adverse phenotypic effects in the combination of aging and inflammation as well as each independently.
Reflections on the relationship between language, curriculum content and instruction 1

In a ‘formative experiment’ (following Newman et ah, 1989), twenty‐seven 4th‐grade students transitioning from Spanish to English read a short story (in English) about two mischievous friends and then participated in one of two video‐taped lessons by the same teacher: (1) a theme‐based discussion following a format called Instructional Conversation, or (2) a more conventional ‘basal‐like’ reading comprehension lesson. The same content was thus approached via different instructional paths, allowing for an examination of the interaction between content and instructional mode in content‐based language arts instruction. The students’ understanding of the material was subsequently gauged by a short answer comprehension test and an essay on friendship. While students in both conditions achieved equivalent levels of literal comprehension (76%), essays of students who had discussed the reading demonstrated a more complex and differentiated conceptualisation of friendship. These results suggest that the quality of...
The impact of formulation and process changes on in vitro dissolution and the bioequivalence of piroxicam capsules

The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of major compositional changes on the bioavailability of piroxicam from immediate-release formulations filled in hard gelatin capsules. The capsules were manufactured according to a 2(5-1) + star point (resolution V) experimental design to investigate the effects of sodium lauryl sulfate level, magnesium stearate level, lactose/microcrystalline cellulose ratio, piroxicam particle size, and lubricant blending time. Sodium lauryl sulfate level, lactose level, and piroxicam particle size were the most important main effects affecting dissolution. Lubricant level and lubricant blending time were either not significant (5% level) or were among the lowest ranking of factors affecting dissolution in standardized pareto analysis. Three of these formulations exhibiting slow, medium, and fast dissolution were compared to a single lot of the Innovator (commercial) product in a small bioavailability study. The slow formulation did not meet the USP dissolution specification for piroxicam capsules. Compositionally, the experimental formulations represented major changes in piroxicam particle size, level of filler, and level of sodium lauryl sulfate. Sixteen healthy volunteers received each formulation (20 mg) in a four-way crossover design. The three Maryland manufactured formulations were bioequivalent with the commercial product and were also bioequivalent among themselves. The major changes incorporated into these formulations did not result in major differences in bioavailability. The dissolution profiles which discriminated between the formulations in vitro did not accurately represent the in vivo bioavailability results. The results of this study are part of the research database that supports SUPAC-IR, an FDA guidance that provides relaxed testing and filing requirements for scale-up and post-approval changes to immediate-release oral solid dosage forms.
Preschool Integration and its Effects on the Social Interactions of Handicapped and Nonhandicapped Children: A Review

Recent investigative studies on the integration of young handicapped children with nonhandicapped children in preschool settings and its effect on their social interactions are reviewed. Studies reviewed are divided into two sections: (a) those that report the spontaneous occurrence of social interactions between young handicapped and nonhandicapped children; and (b) those that report the need for structure and training to facilitate appropriate social interactions. A summary of the research related to the efficacy of integrated settings is provided. It is suggested that, based on available literature, young handicapped children can benefit from integrated settings.
Computerized method for evaluating the suitability of trailing cables

A program to develop models for the enable computer calculation of conductor temperature rise versus time in trailing cables has been initiated. To date, a common model equation has been developed and parameters determined for two round trailing cables typically used on continuous miners, type G-GC, sizes 2/0 AWG and 4/0 AWG, rated 90 degrees C. The resulting cable models have been tentatively confirmed in laboratory trials using repetitive four-level constant-current cycles and triangular currents in which the peak current varied on succeeding cycles. Model refinement and additional laboratory trials are projected using randomly varying current, simulating actual current conditions in mine trailing cables. >
The common parameter estimation basis of adaptive filtering, identification, and control

This paper elucidates the parameter estimation basis common to adaptive filtering, identification, and control. This is achieved by converting the input-output form of the discrete adaptive infinite impulse response filtering, adaptive output error identification, and model reference adaptive control problems to a single state-variable form stable error model. This interconnection encourages further cross fertilization of problems and solutions among these often disjointedly pursued applications of adaptive parameter estimation.
When Should Bankruptcy Be an Option (for People, Places or Things)?

When many people think about bankruptcy, they have a simple left-to-right spectrum of possibilities in mind. The spectrum starts with personal bankruptcy, moves next to corporations and other businesses, and then to municipalities, states, and finally countries. We assume that bankruptcy makes the most sense for individuals; that it makes a great deal of sense for corporations; that it is plausible but a little more suspect for cities; that it would be quite odd for states; and that bankruptcy is unimaginable for a country.In this Article, I argue that the left-to-right spectrum is sensible but mistaken. After defining "bankruptcy," I outline a serious of puzzles for the standard intuitions, such as the absence of personal bankruptcy in many countries and the fact that state and bankruptcy is in some respects more defensible than municipal bankruptcy. I then develop and apply a five factor framework that considers 1) whether unsustainable debt is a potential problem; 2) the benefits of reshaping decision making incentives; 3) the risk of premature liquidation; 4) the dignity of the debtor; and 5) spillover effects.
Availability modeling for the Federal Aviation Administration

Mathematical models developed to meet the FAA special availability requirements are described. These models must account for frequency of failure, sharing of backup resources, service restoration time, and repair time. An application of one of the models to a particular FAA service is provided, and these results are compared to the results obtained from applying two typical classical models. The comparison shows two things. First, the three models definitely do not agree, even within some tolerance for error. This alone does not indicate a 'correct' model, it merely underscores such important differences between the models that one or another must be preferred and the others abandoned. Second, there is a need for increased fidelity as the computed unavailability approached zero, due to the heightened sensitivity to small periods of outage. Finally, in view of the fact that the greatest source of FAA service failure is due to telephone-line problems over which the FAA has little control, the application of the model shows that supplying critical services with functional backup and fast automated switching is the most realistic method to reach the unavailability goal of 10/sup -5/. >
Complex local flap design in cheek reconstruction

Reconstruction of cheek skin and soft tissue defects requires in-depth knowledge of skin and soft tissue mechanics, proper soft tissue handling, and flap geometry and design. In circumstances in which primary repair or secondary intention healing are not appropriate, complex local flaps can allow closure of even very large skin defects. Myriad varieties of local flaps have been described, and each possesses distinct advantages. With an understanding of some basic concepts, the surgeon may approach each cheek defect individually and choose the appropriate reconstruction strategy, while avoiding undesirable outcomes. This article describes the authors' technique for selection and design of complex local flaps in reconstruction of the cheek.
Corporal Punishment Cessation Social Contexts and Parents' Experiences

This article examines the cessation of corporal punishment by parents who start out spanking their children and then make a concerted effort to stop. Drawing on semistructured interviews with 22 parents, the qualitative analysis identifies five contexts in which those concerted efforts arose: experiential, ideological, regulatory, relational, and biographical. The key features of each context are discussed, and case descriptions are provided. Although parents' reasons for quitting vary, cessation is generally associated with new meanings that turn old beliefs into excuses and that define nonspanking as progress. It is argued that cessation should be conceptualized as a social process and as part of a corporal punishment career and not simply as a behavioral omission. These data suggest that cultural inducements and social support may be as important as learning alternative disciplinary techniques in explaining parents' cessation efforts. The implications for a better understanding of reductions in corpora...
High Resolution Tem Studies of Defects Near Si-SiO2 Interface

Small defects with habit parallel to (100) and (311) matrix planes were observed using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HREM) with 100 nm from the Si-SiO/sub 2/ interface after one step oxidation in dry O/sub 2/ at 900/sup 0/C, 100/sup 0/C and 1150/sup 0/C of Czochralski (CZ) grown (100) p-type boron doped, 1.5 to 20 ..cap omega.. cm Si wafers with concentrations of oxygen 1.4 x 10/sup 18/cm/sup -3/ and carbon 4. to 10. x 10/sup 16/cm/sup -3/. The defects were less than 10 nm wide and 1 nm thick. The (100) and (311) defect are interpreted tentatively as thin silica plateletes and (311) stacking faults respectively. Distribution of defects near the interface was random although their density appeared to be lower for higher oxidation temperatures. It is not yet clear whether the defects were formed during the oxidation treatments or were present near the surfaces of the as-received wafers.
Quantification of metals released by metallothionein adsorbates at mercury film electrodes by electrochemical ICP-atomic emission spectrometry

Electrochemistry combined on-line with inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (EC/ICP-AES) was used to study the electrode reactions of rabbit liver metallothionein (MT) adsorbates at thin mercury films (TMFs). Three major oxidation peaks, with peak potentials at −1.20, −0.75 and −0.32 V, were observed. Through the correlation of the DPV characteristics to the elution of the Zn 2 + and Cd 2 + ions monitored by time-resolved ICP-AES responses, the peak at − 1.20 V was assigned to the anodic stripping of Zn(Hg). For the first time, both Zn 2 + and Cd 2 + were found to be associated with the initial oxidation at − 0.75 V by EC/ICP-AES. In the subsequent voltammetric scans, the peak at − 0.75 V decreased but remained steady and did not result in the elution of additional metals. The initial decrease in current is suggested to originate from the anodic stripping of the Cd(Hg) amalgam and the Zn–Cd intermetallic compound in the TMF. The anodic peak remaining at − 0.75 V was attributed to the formation of the cystine analog from the electrodimerization of the uncomplexed cysteine residues in MT molecules. The quantities of Cd 2 + and Zn 2 + under the oxidation peaks were measured by EC/ICP-AES. Our work demonstrates that EC/ICP-AES is a viable technique for elucidating relatively complicated electrode reactions that involve metal release and transfer. © 2001 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Proficiency Maintenance: Impact of Ongoing Simulator Training on Laparoscopic Skill Retention

Background Proficiency-based training in laparoscopic suturing and knot tying translates to the operating room, but little is known about the durability of acquired skill. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of maintenance training on skill retention after demonstration of proficiency. Study design Medical students (n=18) with no previous laparoscopic or simulator experience were enrolled in an IRB-approved randomized controlled trial. All subjects trained to proficiency (score of 512, based on time and errors) on a previously validated suturing model (Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery videotrainer). Subjects were then randomized to a control group, which received no additional training, and an ongoing training group, which trained again to proficiency at 1 and 3months (immediately after testing). Simulator testing was repeated at 2weeks, 1month, 3months, and 6months after initial training. No subject had interval operative experience. Results Both groups demonstrated excellent skill retention during followup; performance scores, reported as means ± SD, were 488±57 versus 482±55 at 2weeks (p=ns), 483±81 versus 491±64 at 1month (p=ns), 467±75 versus 470±67 at 3months (p=ns), and 462±62 versus 492±43 at 6months (p=0.02) for the control versus ongoing training groups, respectively. At 6months, the ongoing training group showed better skill retention (95% versus 90%; p=0.02) and a trend for achieving the proficiency level (33% versus 18%; p=0.2) more often than the control group. Conclusions Although proficiency-based training results in excellent skill retention, ongoing training substantially enhances performance and minimizes skill loss. Curricula should incorporate training that fosters maintenance of proficiency.
ROI reconstruction of motion-contaminated data with a backprojection filtration algorithm

In order to evaluate the potential of using the backprojection filtration (BPF) algorithm for reconstructing images from motion-contaminated data, simulation studies were conducted with three virtual phantoms. The first was a uniform elliptical phantom, which underwent rotational motion during half of its temporal cycle. The second was a normal-sized modified FORBILD phantom with a dynamic insert undergoing contractile motion during 65% of its temporal cycle. This phantom was expanded to form a third phantom, whose portions extended beyond the field-of-view (FOV). For the elliptical phantom, the BPF algorithm was able to obtain an exact reconstruction of a region-of-interest (ROI) covering a portion of the ellipse, whereas the fanbeam filtered backprojection (FFBP) algorithm could not. For the normal-sized phantom, nine full-scan data sets were acquired with percents of motion-contaminated data PMCDs ranging from 17.5% to 100%. For each data set, the mean absolute difference MAD, root mean square error RMS, and correlation CORR metrics were used to assess the differences between a defined ROI reconstructed from motion-contaminated data from the same ROI reconstructed from motion-free data. The BPF algorithm using a reduced-scan interval was able to produce better MAD, RMS, and CORR metrics than both FFBP and BPF algorithms using the same short-scan interval over all PMCDs. For the expanded phantom, the presence of truncations in the data sets did not affect the overall trends of the three metrics in BPF reconstructions of eight data sets with PMCDs ranging from 15% to 100%.
Fully sequential procedures for comparing constrained systems via simulation

We consider the problem of finding the system with the best primary performance measure among a finite number of simulated systems in the presence of a stochastic constraint on a single real-valued secondary performance measure. Solving this problem requires the identification and removal from consideration of infeasible systems (Phase I) and of systems whose primary performance measure is dominated by that of other feasible systems (Phase II). We use indifference zones in both phases and consider two approaches, namely, carrying out Phases I and II sequentially and carrying out Phases I and II simultaneously, and we provide specific example procedures of each type. We present theoretical results guaranteeing that our approaches (general and specific, sequential and simultaneous) yield the best system with at least a prespecified probability, and we provide a portion of an extensive numerical study aimed at evaluating and comparing the performance of our approaches. The experimental results show that both new procedures are useful for constrained ranking and selection, with neither procedure showing uniform superiority over the other. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 57: 403-421, 2010
Arthritis and vasculitis during the incubation period of varicella.

Messaritakis J, Psychou F, Dracou C, Nicolaidou P, Kakourou T. Arthritis and vasculitis during the incubation period of varicella. Acta Prediatr 1994;83:681–3. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5253 Arthritis and vasculitis are very rare complications of varicella occurring almost exclusively after the eruption of the characteristic rash. We report two children, aged three and seven years, who developed vasculitis and polyarthritis (patient No. 1) and arthritis (patient No. 2) 13 and 9 days, respectively, before the onset of their typical varicella. Arthritis and vasculitis so early in the incubation period of varicella have not been described previously. In all previously reported cases the arthritis occurred after or together with the onset of varicella and only in one instance preceded the exanthem by 2 days. Although this may have been an unfortunate coincidence, an association between varicella zoster virus and these manifestations should be seriously considered. Clinicians confronted with such cases must be cautious and search for varicella infection, especially in times of epidemics.
ON THE FORMATION OF MAGNETIC STRUCTURES BY THE COMBINED ACTION OF VELOCITY SHEAR AND MAGNETIC BUOYANCY

Using numerical simulations of a compressible, stably stratified, magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) flow, we investigate a mechanism for producing a series of rising tubelike magnetic structures. In this process, a steadily forced shear flow stretches a weak poloidal background magnetic field to create a strong toroidal field that is magnetically buoyant. The subsequent evolution of this system depends on the parameters: At moderate magnetic Reynolds numbers (Rm), the system reaches a stable nonstatic equilibrium. At larger values of Rm, this equilibrium becomes unstable to a shear-buoyant instability, involving a modification of the background velocity shear by the magnetically induced buoyant poloidal flow. The system then produces a series of buoyant magnetic structures at regular intervals that are expelled from the region of strong velocity shear. Even higher Rm causes the magnetic intensity of the structures to strengthen and the intervals between expulsion events to become irregular. For large enough kinetic Reynolds numbers (Re), the magnetic modification of the background shear can trigger a secondary three-dimensional Kelvin-Helmholtz instability that can twist the magnetic structures into a helical shape. Subject headings: MHD — Sun: interior — Sun: magnetic fields — sunspots
The United States in Central America, 1860-1911: Episodes of Social Imperialism and Imperial Rivalry in the World System

This work combines multi-country archival research with a theoretical framework grounded in world systems theory to elucidate the relations between the USA and Central America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Schoonover's archival research in Central America, Europe and the USA encompasses public, business, organizational and individual records. The text describes the role of personalities such as John C. Fremont, Otto von Bismarck, Theodore Roosevelt, Manuel Estrada Cabrera and Jose Santos Zelaya; the impact of railroad building and canal projects; and the role of pan-Americanism, nationalism, racism and anti-Americanism.
Increased sensitivity to dietary cholesterol in diabetic and hypothyroid rats associated with low levels of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase expression.

We recently postulated that hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase functions as a cholesterol buffer to protect against the serum and tissue cholesterol raising action of...
A new generalized finite element method for two-scale simulations of propagating cohesive fractures in 3-D

Summary This paper presents a novel numerical framework based on the generalized finite element method with global–local enrichments (GFEMgl) for two-scale simulations of propagating fractures in three dimensions. A non-linear cohesive law is adopted to capture objectively the dissipated energy during the process of material degradation without the need of adaptive remeshing at the macro scale or artificial regularization parameters. The cohesive crack is capable of propagating through the interior of finite elements in virtue of the partition of unity concept provided by the generalized/extended finite element method, and thus eliminating the need of interfacial surface elements to represent the geometry of discontinuities and the requirement of finite element meshes fitting the cohesive crack surface. The proposed method employs fine-scale solutions of non-linear local boundary-value problems extracted from the original global problem in order to not only construct scale-bridging enrichment functions but also to identify damaged states in the global problem, thus enabling accurate global solutions on coarse meshes. This is in contrast with the available GFEMgl in which the local solution field contributes only to the kinematic description of global solutions. The robustness, efficiency, and accuracy of this approach are demonstrated by results obtained from representative numerical examples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ontology-driven Requirements Elicitation in Product Configuration Systems

Producing timely and customer-oriented products is a key factor for manufacturers‘ success in competing in the recent global economic era. Customer needs are becoming more complex as a result of rapid changes in social, technical, and economic conditions. Manufacturers must provide more flexibility and individual customizations of the products. This is not an easy task due to the different perspectives between manufacturer and customer during the pre-contract phase. Product configuration systems are generally used to improve the quotation process. However, it is still difficult to provide customer satisfying products because customers often cannot clearly articulate their requirements. This paper introduces an approach that assists the customer in articulating their requirements and supports the manufacturer to capture the customer needs completely. We propose an intelligent product configuration system that harmonizes both customer and manufacturer perspectives, based on an ontology-based integrated knowledge model. We utilize ontology-based methods and techniques to develop a recommender system in the product configuration system to improve the requirements elicitation and to avoid requirement inconsistencies.
Development of 3D-QSAR model for acetylcholinesterase inhibitors using a combination of fingerprint, molecular docking, and structure-based pharmacophore approaches

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), a serine hydrolase vital for regulating the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in animals, has been used as a target for drugs and pesticides. With the increasing availability of AChE crystal structures, with or without ligands bound, structure-based approaches have been successfully applied to AChE inhibitors (AChEIs). The major limitation of these approaches has been the small applicability domain due to the lack of structural diversity in the training set. In this study, we developed a 3 dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) for inhibitory activity of 89 reversible and irreversible AChEIs including drugs and insecticides. A 3D-fingerprint descriptor encoding protein-ligand interactions was developed using molecular docking and structure-based pharmacophore to rationalize the structural requirements responsible for the activity of these compounds. The obtained 3D-QSAR model exhibited high correlation value (R(2) = 0.93) and low mean absolute error (MAE = 0.32 log units) for the training set (n = 63). The model was predictive across a range of structures as shown by the leave-one-out cross-validated correlation coefficient (Q(2) = 0.89) and external validation results (n = 26, R(2) = 0.89, and MAE = 0.38 log units). The model revealed that the compounds with high inhibition potency had proper conformation in the active site gorge and interacted with key amino acid residues, in particular Trp84 and Phe330 at the catalytic anionic site, Trp279 at the peripheral anionic site, and Gly118, Gly119, and Ala201 at the oxyanion hole. The resulting universal 3D-QSAR model provides insight into the multiple molecular interactions determining AChEI potency that may guide future chemical design and regulation of toxic AChEIs.
Place of birth effects on self-reported discrimination: Variations by type of discrimination

Researchers have suggested that perceptions of discrimination may vary depending on place of birth and the length of time spent living in the U.S., variables related to acculturation. However, the existing literature provides a mixed picture, with data suggesting that the effects of acculturation on perceptions of discrimination vary by race and other sociodemographic factors. This study evaluated the role of place of birth (POB: defined as U.S.-born vs. foreign-born), age at immigration, and length of residence in the U.S. on self-reported discrimination in a sample of urban-dwelling Asian and Black adults (n= 1454). Analyses examined POB effects on different types of discrimination including race-related stigmatization, exclusion, threat, and workplace discrimination. Sociodemographic variables (including age, gender, employment status and education level) were tested as potential moderators of the relationship between POB and discrimination. The results revealed a significant main effect for POB on discrimination, with U.S.-born individuals reporting significantly more discrimination than foreign-born individuals, although the effect was reduced when sociodemographic variables were controlled. Across the sample, POB effects were seen only for race-related stigmatization and exclusion, not for threat and workplace discrimination. With the exception of limited effects for gender, sociodemographic variables did not moderate these effects. Younger age at immigration and greater years of residence in the U.S. were also positively associated with higher levels of perceived discrimination. These findings suggest increasing acculturation may shape the experience and perception of racial and ethnic discrimination.
Diode pumped thulium doped fiber laser at 2.29 µm

Predictions of ultralow losses in fluorozirconate fibers at around 2.5 µm have brought about an interest in rare earth doped fibers for amplification and laser applications in this spectral range. We are investigating laser action directly in these materials and recently reported1 pulsed laser action in a thulium doped ZBLAN fiber at 2.3 µm pumped by an alexandrite laser. We now report for the first time, we believe, lasing in a thulium doped ZBLAN fiber at 2.29µm pumped by a laser diode array. Continuous wave laser emission at 2.7 µm in an erbium doped fluorozirconate fiber pumped by an argon laser has also been reported.2
Automated Extraction of Natural Drainage Density Patterns for the Conterminous United States through High-Performance Computing

Hydrographic networks form an important data foundation for cartographic base mapping and for hydrologic analysis. Drainage density patterns for these networks can be derived to characterize local landscape, bedrock and climate conditions, and further inform hydrological and geomorphological analysis by indicating areas where too few headwater channels are represented. Natural drainage density patterns are not consistently available in existing hydrographical data bases for the United States because compilation and capture criteria historically varied, along with climate, during the period of data collection over the various terrain types throughout the country. This paper demonstrates an automated workflow that is being tested in a high-performance computing environment by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to map natural drainage density patterns at the 1:24,000-scale (24K) for the conterminous United States. Hydrographic network drainage patterns may be extracted from elevation data to guide corrections...
Evidence for the transport function of uricase, an oxidative enzyme.

[2-14C]urate uptake was examined in proteoliposomes prepared with phosphatidylcholine and either pig liver uricase or albumin, and in protein-free liposomes. Urate uptake was only evident in proteo...
The Founding of the Insecticide Society of Washington, D.C. 1934

Not everyone now concerned with insect pest management knows that there is a local society called the Insecticide Society of Washington, that has been meeting once a month from October to May for 44 years. It is relatively unknown because it does not publish the research of its members in its own journal as does the Entomological Society of Washington. Nevertheless, the ISW has certainly been a factor in the advancement of insect pest management since its founding. It is time to tell the story of ISW from its beginning to the present, but no one qualified member has volunteered to do it. I have accepted the partial task of describing its founding.
Stiffness, resilience, compressibility. Atomic scale force spectroscopy of biomolecules

The flexibility of a protein is an important component of its functionality. We use nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy (NRVS) to quantify the flexibility of the heme iron environment in the electron-carrying protein cytochrome c by measuring the stiffness and the resilience. These quantities are sensitive to structural differences between the active sites of different proteins, as illustrated by a comparative analysis with myoglobin. The elasticity of the entire protein, on the other hand, can be probed quantitatively from NRVS and high energy-resolution inelastic X-ray scattering (IXS) measurements, an approach that we used to extract the bulk modulus of cytochrome c.
Stochastic Approximation with Smoothing for Optimization of an Adaptive Recursive Filter

A major concern of adaptive IIR filter is that with the objective function being non- convex, currently used gradient methods have a tendency to converge to the local minimum. The stochastic approximation with convolution smoothing represents a simple approach for deriving a global optimization algorithm for adaptive filtering. This stochastic approximation method has been derived for adaptive system identification. Optimization is based on minimizing the mean square error objective function. The mean square error is a function of time series data that is statistically varying. An experimental result demonstrates the viability of using stochastic approximation for adaptive filtering.
A Note on Stimulus Control Shaping and One-Trial Learning in Two- and Three-Year-Old Children

Fifty-nine children were exposed to one of three discrimination training procedures that might teach them to discriminate a circle from an ellipse. One procedure was an extensively studied, well-validated stimulus control shaping program that used intensity fading procedures. The other two procedures used no fading and relied primarily on simple differential reinforcement of the final performance. The stimulus control shaping program established the circle-ellipse discrimination in 18 of 19 subjects with few or no errors, thus replicating previous research. An unexpected finding was the high success rate of the other two procedures. The circle-ellipse discrimination was established in 36 of 40 subjects. Many of these subjects also learned with few or no errors. In general, the findings demonstrate that extremely rapid (even one-trial) discrimination learning is achievable with very young children without stimulus control shaping. The findings also point to variables that may be important in analysis of learning that occurs in the course of the circle-ellipse stimulus control shaping program.
Analytical/Experimental Study of Interphase Effects on Composite Compression Strength

In this work we present an analytical model of a composite containing coated cylindrical fibers subjected to a compressive loading. The modeling approach used in this paper is a blend of two conventional analytical techniques to predict the composites compression strength as a function of microparameters. The model presented here explicitly includes interphase influences and the circular geometry of the fiber which causes substantial stress concentrations at key locations. Analytical results suggest that a specific coating may increase the compression strength of a composite. Experimental studies are conducted on several composite systems fabricated with coated glass fibers as the reinforcing fiber. Results indicate that coating effects, adhesion, and fiber geometry play a critical role in compression strength. Comparison of the experimental results with the analytical model yield reasonable correlation between the two, thus supporting the theoretical claims of the model.
Microstructural and Mechanical Characteristics of Cladding Billets with Different Clad Ratios

AA4045/AA3003 cladding billets with different clad ratios were fabricated by direct chill casting process. The macrostructures, microstructures, compositions distribution and the mechanical properties near the bonding interface were investigated in detail. The results show that the cladding billet with few defects could be obtained by semi-continuous casting process. The metallurgical bonding was formed due to the diffusions of elements. The decreasing of clad ratio changed the microstructure at the interface and reduced the thickness of diffusion layer. The hardness around the interface is higher than that of AA3003 side but lower than that of the other side, indicating that the interface yield strength is also higher than that of AA3003. After extrusion process, the characteristics of the interface remain that of as-cast cladding billet.
Teaching population health to medical students through the community health assessment.

Clinical medicine and population health typically operate independently in the United States but they should be more integrated. Recent calls to integrate include an Institute of Medicine report[1]...
Diachronous uplift and cooling history of the Menderes core complex, western Anatolia (Turkey), based on new Zircon (U-Th)/He ages

Abstract New (U-Th)/He thermochronology data from the syn-extensional granitoids in the central part of the Menderes Massif in western Turkey reveal a minimum slip rate of 12.5 km/Myr along the Alasehir detachment (~ 14° dip angle) and denudation rates between 1.75 km/Myr and 3.25 km/Myr between 4 Ma and 2 Ma. These values suggest relatively fast exhumation of the Central sub-massif, associated with cooling rates between 53 °C/Myr and 128 °C/Myr, which are higher than the estimated footwall cooling rates (60 °C/Myr to 120 °C/Myr) from the Northern sub-massif. Based on the initial crystallization ages of the syn-extensional granitoid intrusions and their exhumation–related cooling ages, our thermochronological findings suggest that the Central sub-massif in Menderes underwent accelerated uplift and faster exhumation in the latest Cenozoic than the Northern and Southern sub-massifs. This latest doming and rapid extension of the Central sub-massif was associated with the asthenospheric upwelling beneath the region and the related Na-alkaline, Kula volcanism. Our results indicate that the Menderes Massif has had a diachronous uplift and cooling history during its extensional tectonic evolution in the late Cenozoic. Thermal weakening of the young orogenic crust in western Anatolia via both lithospheric and asthenospheric melting episodes and magmatism produced higher than normal geothermal gradients and played a significant role in core complex formation.
Ceratopetalum (Cunoniaceae) fruits of Australasian affinity from the early Eocene Laguna del Hunco flora, Patagonia, Argentina.

Background and aims Radially symmetrical, five-winged fossil fruits from the highly diverse early Eocene Laguna del Hunco flora of Chubut Province, Patagonia, Argentina, are named, described and illustrated. The main goals are to assess the affinities of the fossils and to place them in an evolutionary, palaeoecological and biogeographic context. Methods Specimens of fossil fruits were collected from the Tufolitas Laguna del Hunco. They were prepared, photographed and compared with similar extant and fossil fruits using published literature. Their structure was also evaluated by comparing them with that of modern Ceratopetalum (Cunoniaceae) fruits through examination of herbarium specimens. Key results The Laguna del Hunco fossil fruits share the diagnostic features that characterize modern and fossil Ceratopetalum (symmetry, number of fruit wings, presence of a conspicuous floral nectary and overall venation pattern). The pattern of the minor wing (sepal) veins observed in the Patagonian fossil fruits is different from that of modern and previously described fossil Ceratopetalum fruits; therefore, a new fossil species is recognized. An apomorphy (absence of petals) suggests that the fossils belong within crown-group Ceratopetalum . Conclusions The Patagonian fossil fruits are the oldest known record for Ceratopetalum . Because the affinities, provenance and age of the fossils are so well established, this new Ceratopetalum fossil species is an excellent candidate for use as a calibration point in divergence dating studies of the family Cunoniaceae. It represents the only record of Ceratopetalum outside Australasia, and further corroborates the biogeographic connection between the Laguna del Hunco flora and ancient and modern floras of the Australasian region.
Stopping conventional showering decreases Pseudomonas infections in left ventricular assist device patients.

BackgroundLeft ventricular assist device (LVAD) exit-site infections represent a major challenge in the era of modern LVADs. Infections caused by Pseudomonas are particularly difficult to treat due...
Persistent Pulmonary Embolism Rates Following Total Knee Arthroplasty Even With Prophylactic Anticoagulants.

Abstract Background Symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE), a significant and life-threatening complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), has been described as a “never event.” Despite a number of advancements in care, PE continues to occur following TKA. This study evaluates symptomatic PE rates over time in TKA patients enrolled in multicenter randomized clinical trials assessing the efficacy of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis regimens. Methods The MEDLINE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched to identify clinical trials assessing prophylactic anticoagulation in patients undergoing TKA between January 1995 and December 2016. A random effect model was used to combine PE rates across studies. The pooled proportion of symptomatic PEs was calculated and heterogeneity was quantified with the I2 statistic. A 95% prediction interval was constructed to examine what the expected range in the proportion of symptomatic PEs would be in future studies. Meta-regression was used to explore the effect of time on the rate of symptomatic PEs. Results A total of 18 studies representing 27,073 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The symptomatic PE rate was 0.37% (95% confidence interval, 0.24%-0.52%). There was significant heterogeneity across studies, I2 = 66%. Between 1996 and 2010, the proportion of PEs did not change in the regression analysis. The 95% prediction interval was 0.0002 to 0.0106, indicating that in similar future studies, the true proportion of symptomatic PEs would range from 0.02% to 1.06%. Conclusion Over a 14-year period, the symptomatic PE rate after TKA was relatively constant even when patients received potent anticoagulation. These results suggest that some patients may have a genetic predisposition to develop a PE and more effective risk stratification protocols need to be developed to make sure patients receive appropriate anticoagulation.
Microcrystalline Avian Keratin Protein Fibers

Biopolymers compose the morphological structures generated in all living organisms. The macroscopic physical properties of biopolymers like keratin are due both to molecular level structure and microcrystallinity, the self-consistent packing arrays of molecular order within a defined space. Processing fiber into end products can retain the microcrystalline properties of the starting materials.
Heart Failure: A State of Brain Natriuretic Peptide Deficiency or Resistance or Both!

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome associated with progressive cardiac, vascular, and renal dysfunction. Regardless of the initial cause of the cardiac dysfunction, investigations over the past 3 decades have demonstrated that neurohormones play an important role in the complex multiorgan and
Comparison of Two Methods for Calculating the P Sorption Capacity Parameter in Soils

Phosphorus cycling in soils is an important process affecting P movement through the landscape. The P cycling routines in many computer models are based on relationships developed for the EPIC model. An important parameter required for this model is the P sorption capacity parameter (PSP). Using previously published data, we compare two methods for estimating PSP values: (i) measurement of changes in labile inorganic P (Pi) concentrations following 6-mo soil incubation studies, and (ii) calculation of PSP from concentrations of total Pi and labile Pi estimated from commonly used soil test P extraction methods. Depending on how labile Pi was estimated, we either found a very poor correlation or large (>50%) median differences in PSP between these two methods suggesting they are not estimating the same soil parameter. We also found that PSP values calculated from soil incubation studies significantly underpredicted total Pi. It is not clear whether this underprediction is due to limitations in the experimental approach for measuring PSP using 6-mo incubation studies, or whether it is a result of limitations with the model itself. Our results also challenge the validity of the assumption in EPIC that stable P is four-fold the size of the active Pi pool. While calibrating PSP from measured soil P data is less costly and time consuming than long-term soil incubation studies, we show that the fitted values are dependent on how labile Pi is estimated and thus are not representative of an independently measurable physically based parameter.
Defect Characterization by Indirect Experimental Techniques

The use of measurements of the oxygen pressure dependence of the defect concentrations in metal oxides to determine the nature of the predominant point defects present is reviewed. Difficulties arising from defect-structure transitions are discussed and an analysis of such data is given for the case of NiO.
Mosher and Baxter: Robert Frost's Early Supporters

(1990). Mosher and Baxter: Robert Frost's Early Supporters. ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 3, No. 4, pp. 179-181.
Implementing the TDS System at University Hospital of Cleveland

In early 1994, the board of trustees at University Hospitals of Cleveland (UHC) approved an expenditure of $6.5 million dollars to purchase an information system with far-reaching capabilities. The system was expected to eliminate paper-based order entry, eliminate some portion of the paper medical record, enable monitoring of physician adherence to patient care pathways, and provide a variety of cost control mechanisms. The approved expenditure was to cover the software product itself, development costs to be paid to the software vendor, and hardware purchases necessary to run the new software. A key feature of the new system was to be a complex array of computer screen formats tailored to the needs of hundreds of different user types, with the appropriate users participating in the design of these individualized user interfaces. A major initiative had been undertaken in early 1995 to mobilize employees throughout the hospital system in order to prepare for the first phase of implementation which was scheduled for June 1996. By the end of 1995, significant progress had been made. However, the project was approximately four months behind schedule, and several previously unanticipated challenges had arisen.