cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Crystal and molecular structure of (η5-C5H5)Ta(η2-C2H4)Cl2(PMe2Ph)2, a sterically crowded molecule which exhibits a distorted η5-coordination mode of the cyclopentadienyl ligand

The X-ray structure determination of (η5-C5H5)Ta(η2-C2H4)Cl2(PMe2Ph)2 has revealed that the compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic space groupFdd2 witha=21.098(9),b=29.848(9),c=7.694(3) A, andD c=1.70g cm−3 forZ=8. Least-squares refinement based on 893 independent observed reflections resulted in a finalR value of 0.026. The molecule resides on a crystallographic two-fold axis, with disordered ethylene and cyclopentadienyl groups. The Ta-Cl and Ta-P separations are 2.473(4) and 2.649(3) A, respectively. Since the two carbon atoms of the ethylene molecule are indistinguishable from two of the cyclopentadienyl carbon atoms, the Ta-C bond lengths are 2.37(1) and 2.39(2) A for the ethylene and for two of the cyclopentadienyl carbon atoms. The other three Ta-C(cyclopentadienyl) distances are much longer: 2.54(3), 2.54(3), and 2.62(3) A. In order to achieve 18e − at the tantalum atom, the cyclopentadienyl ligand must be viewed in an η5-bonding mode. The variation of the Ta-C lengths is thus considered to be steric in origin. The carbon atoms of the C5H 5 − group are planar to 0.03 A.
Object‐oriented parallel algorithms for computing three‐dimensional isopycnal flow

In this paper, we derive an object-oriented parallel algorithm for three-dimensional isopycnal flow simulations. The matrix formulation is central to the algorithm. It enables us to apply an efficient preconditioned conjugate gradient linear solver for the global system of equations, and leads naturally to an object-oriented data structure design and parallel implementation. We discuss as well, in less detail, a similar algorithm based on the reduced system, suitable also for parallel computation. Favorable performances are observed on test problems.
Effects of various image enhancement techniques on FOPEN data

An investigation of FOPEN target discrimination performance is summarized using UHF SAR data gathered at Grayling, MI by the USA Navy's P-3 SAR Sensor. The fully polarimetric data are processed using polarimetric whitening; superresolution processing is then applied to enhance the resolution of the whitened data. Several superresolution approaches are investigated and target discrimination performance achieved using superresolution processing is quantified. Discriminator ROC curves showing probability of detection versus probability of false alarm are used to compare performance; an eigenvector-based superresolution approach is shown to provide the best performance improvement.
Hierarchical Fisher Kernels for Longitudinal Data

We develop new techniques for time series classification based on hierarchical Bayesian generative models (called mixed-effect models) and the Fisher kernel derived from them. A key advantage of the new formulation is that one can compute the Fisher information matrix despite varying sequence lengths and varying sampling intervals. This avoids the commonly-used ad hoc replacement of the Fisher information matrix with the identity which destroys the geometric invariance of the kernel. Our construction retains the geometric invariance, resulting in a kernel that is properly invariant under change of coordinates in the model parameter space. Experiments on detecting cognitive decline show that classifiers based on the proposed kernel out-perform those based on generative models and other feature extraction routines, and on Fisher kernels that use the identity in place of the Fisher information.
A Modeling Framework for the Development of Provably Secure E-Commerce Applications

Developing security-critical applications is very difficult and the past has shown that many applications turned out to be erroneous after years of usage. For this reason it is desirable to have a sound methodology for developing security-critical e-commerce applications. We present an approach to model these applications with the Unified Modeling Language (UML) [1] extended by a UML profile to tailor our models to security applications. Our intent is to (semi-) automatically generate a formal specification suitable for verification as well as an implementation from the model. Therefore we offer a development method seamlessly integrating semi-formal and formal methods as well as the implementation. This is a significant advantage compared to other approaches not dealing with all aspects from abstract models down to code. Based on this approach we can prove security properties on the abstract protocol level as well as the correctness of the protocol implementation in Java with respect to the formal model using the refinement approach. In this paper we concentrate on the modeling with UML and some details regarding the transformation of this model into the formal specification. We illustrate our approach on an electronic payment system called Mondex [10]. Mondex has become famous for being the target of the first ITSEC evaluation of the highest level E6 which requires formal specification and verification.
Evaluating Research Studies That Address Prognosis for Patients Receiving Physical Therapy Care: A Clinical Update

A prognosis is a broad statement that predicts a patient's likely status, or degree of change, at some time in the future. Clinicians are likely to improve the accuracy of their judgments of prognosis by incorporating relevant research findings. In recent years, there has been substantial growth in the number of primary studies and systematic reviews addressing prognosis for people likely to receive physical therapy care. The purpose of this clinical update is to provide a framework for identifying, appraising, and utilizing these research findings to help make prognostic judgments.
On the Structure of Optimal Real-Time Encoders and Decoders in Noisy Communication

The output of a discrete-time Markov source must be encoded into a sequence of discrete variables. The encoded sequence is transmitted through a noisy channel to a receiver that must attempt to reproduce reliably the source sequence. Encoding and decoding must be done in real-time and the distortion measure does not tolerate delays. The structure of real-time encoding and decoding strategies that jointly minimize an average distortion measure over a finite horizon is determined. The results are extended to the real-time broadcast problem and a real-time variation of the Wyner-Ziv problem
Fourier-plane filtering by a thick grating: a space - bandwidth analysis.

The space–bandwidth requirements of thick gratings in the Fourier plane of a coherent optical image processor are analyzed. Based on Kogelnik’s relationship for the diffraction efficiency, relations for the space–bandwidth products of the input image and the point-spread function are obtained in terms of grating parameters. It is concluded that thick gratings, such as photorefractive crystals, are not well suited for implementing shift-invariant operations through Fourier-plane filtering.
Translator's Note on “Mathematical Methods in Economics”

A short explanation of the significance of the article Dadayan, V., Yu. Chernyak. 1961. Mathematical methods in economics. Management Sci.74 323--334 prepared at the request of the editors of Management Science.
Determination of the Size Distribution and Chemical Composition of Fine Particulate Semivolatile Organic Material in Urban Environments Using Diffusion Denuder Technology

AbstractCollection of particles on a filter results in underestimation of particulate organic compounds due to losses from the semivolatile organic fraction during sample collection, that is, a “negative sampling artifact.” This sampling-induced change in the phase distribution of semivolatile organic material resulted in the loss of an average of 35% of the particulate organic material in samples collected at the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) sampling site at Azusa, CA, in the Los Angeles Basin. These semivolatile organic compounds lost from particles were measured using two diffusion denuder sampling systems. A multichannel diffusion denuder sampling system (BOSS) was used to determine the concentrations of fine particulate carbonaceous material, and a multisystem, multichannel, high-volume diffusion denuder sampler (BIG BOSS) was used for the determination of the particle size distribution and chemical composition of semivolatile organic compounds in fine particles. Results obtai...
Efficient pairwise RNA structure prediction using probabilistic alignment constraints in Dynalign

Joint alignment and secondary structure prediction of two RNA sequences can significantly improve the accuracy of the structural predictions. Methods addressing this problem, however, are forced to employ constraints that reduce computation by restricting the alignments and/or structures (i.e. folds) that are permissible. In this paper, a new methodology is presented for the purpose of establishing alignment constraints based on nucleotide alignment and insertion posterior probabilities. Using a hidden Markov model, posterior probabilities of alignment and insertion are computed for all possible pairings of nucleotide positions from the two sequences. These alignment and insertion posterior probabilities are additively combined to obtain probabilities of co-incidence for nucleotide position pairs. A suitable alignment constraint is obtained by thresholding the co-incidence probabilities. The constraint is integrated with Dynalign, a free energy minimization algorithm for joint alignment and secondary structure prediction. The resulting method is benchmarked against the previous version of Dynalign and against other programs for pairwise RNA structure prediction. The proposed technique eliminates manual parameter selection in Dynalign and provides significant computational time savings in comparison to prior constraints in Dynalign while simultaneously providing a small improvement in the structural prediction accuracy. Savings are also realized in memory. In experiments over a 5S RNA dataset with average sequence length of approximately 120 nucleotides, the method reduces computation by a factor of 2. The method performs favorably in comparison to other programs for pairwise RNA structure prediction: yielding better accuracy, on average, and requiring significantly lesser computational resources. Probabilistic analysis can be utilized in order to automate the determination of alignment constraints for pairwise RNA structure prediction methods in a principled fashion. These constraints can reduce the computational and memory requirements of these methods while maintaining or improving their accuracy of structural prediction. This extends the practical reach of these methods to longer length sequences. The revised Dynalign code is freely available for download.
Is distal locking of long nails for intertrochanteric fractures necessary? A clinical study

Abstract Background Few clinical studies have examined the utility of distal interlocking nails when fixing intertrochanteric fractures with intramedullary devices. In this study we performed a retrospective analysis comparing fixation method of intertrochanteric fractures with either a long unlocked cephalomedullary nail versus a long locked cephalomedullary nail. Our hypothesis was there would be no difference in device related failures or complications in stable intertrochanteric fractures treated with long locked or long unlocked cephalomedullary nails. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed of all stable intertrochanteric fractures treated with a long cephalomedullary nail between 2006 and 2012 at our institution. Clinical history as well as perioperative radiography was carefully reviewed for all subjects. AO classification, the use of locked or unlocked technique, and failure status was recorded. Results Overall, a device related failure rate of 1.8% (2/107) was observed for stable intertrochanteric fractures treated with long cephalomedullary nails. No statistical difference in failure rate was found between locked and unlocked nails within our studied population (0% long locked (0/56) versus 3.9% long unlocked (2/51), p = 0.224). Conclusion This clinical study supports our hypothesis that long cephalomedullary nails do not need to be locked for stable intertrochanteric fractures. We found no difference in failure rates between the two approaches across 107 patients.
Social Networks and the Formation and Maintenance of River Otter Groups

Many studies have evaluated why male mammals form social groups; few however have investigated how these groups are formed and maintained. We observed behavioral interactions of 15 male river otters (Lontra canadensis) captured in Prince William Sound (PWS), Alaska, and held in captivity for 10 mo. Because the otters were captured in various areas and differed in age and relatedness, we were able to test how kinship and age influenced social interactions. We also explored how kinship, age and social interactions in captivity related to geographic spacing after the otters were released back in PWS. In 284 h of observations, the otters exhibited more positive than negative interactions. Social network models indicated that in the early stage of captivity, there were more links among individuals than in the late stage. In the late-stage period, older animals that had higher testosterone levels exhibited increased social distance and lower information centrality (a network connectivity metric). Social distance was not related to genetic distance, nor did it relate directly to age, although both social distance and age were correlated with post-release geographic distance. Thus, the formation of male groups in coastal river otters is largely influenced by familiarity and past experience, rather than kinship. The maintenance of groups, especially during the mating season, is a function of reproductive status and age, with older animals withdrawing from the social network during that time. What other phenotypic characters may contribute to the formation and maintenance of river otter groups merit future exploration.
A tool for designing realizable hyperlenses

We developed an on-line simulation tool, which facilitates designing experimentally realizable hyperlenses with discrete-layered cylindrical structures. A design working at 340 nm with a resolution of a quarter wavelength is presented.
Plant functional traits of a shrub invader relative to sympatric native shrubs

Woody expansion has been documented for years in many different systems, often the result of anthropogenic changes to the environment. Causes and consequences of woody expansion have been well documented, but comparatively few studies have focused on functional traits that mechanistically allow for dramatic expansion in range. Our objectives were to investigate functional traits and plant resource strategies that contribute to rapid expansion of an invasive, nitrogen-fixing shrub, Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb. (Elaeagnaceae) compared with two sympatric native shrubs, Clethra alnifolia L. (Clethraceae) and Vaccinium corymbosum L. (Ericaceae). We quantified morphological, physiological and biochemical functional traits linked explicitly to three main resources that directly influence plant growth: light, water and nutrients. We attribute high photosynthetic efficiency found in E. umbellata to traits associated with light capture and use (e.g., specific leaf area, pigment concentrations, leaf display). Compared to coexisting species, leaf-level water demand was supported through high hydraulic capacity, yet E. umbellata also maintained high water use efficiency evident in δ13C values. Fixed nitrogen allowed for higher foliar %N observed in E. umbellata. This supports both high rates of electron transport and hydraulic capacity as seen in the relationships between foliar %N and electron transport rate (ETR) and percent loss of conductivity (PLCmidday). Overall, functional traits of E. umbellata allowed for high resource acquisition that when combined contribute to success in a wide variety of habitats. Conversely, native sympatric shrubs exhibited functional traits representative of slower-growing species (e.g., lower light capture, water use and nutrient acquisition). Our results support the hypothesis that traits associated with photosynthesis, water use efficiency, specific leaf area and leaf N are under selective pressure and highlight the importance of relationships among photosynthetic efficiency, hydraulic capacity and leaf N content that allow for the success of an expanding woody species.
Effect of Fuse Resistance on EML Capacitor Bank Solid-State Switching

The U.S. Navy is considering the development of an electromagnetic launcher (EML) for surface-fire support and other missions as discussed in. The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory has assembled a facility to develop and test materials for the study of barrel lifetime in electromagnetic launchers (EML) for surface-fire support and other missions as discussed in. The pulsed power system utilizes modules that can be individually triggered to shape the output current pulse. Each bank module consists of capacitors from General Atomics Electronics Systems. The switching thyristors and crowbar diodes are from ABB. A series inductor is used to limit the peak current, isolate modules from each other, and ensure the current is delivered to the test system. Several launch events have been performed, and the pulsed power systems have operated as intended as shown in. The capacitor banks are protected from internal or external capacitor faults using fuses. During low-power operations, the fuses can be considered as wire of constant low resistance. During high power shots, however, the fuses will heat up during discharge and change their resistance similar to. While the current through the thyristors is slightly decreased, most of the effect of the increased resistance after discharge occurs with the freewheeling diodes, dampening the ringing and reducing the peak current. The increased resistance due to heating will be shown at various power levels and the resulting effect on switch action will be demonstrated.
Self-selected speeds and metabolic cost of longboard skateboarding.

The purpose of this study was to determine self-selected speeds, metabolic rate, and gross metabolic cost during longboard skateboarding. We measured overground speed and metabolic rate while 15 experienced longboarders traveled at their self-selected slow, typical and fast speeds. Mean longboarding speeds were 3.7, 4.5 and 5.1 m s−1, during slow, typical and fast trials, respectively. Mean rates of oxygen consumption were 24.1, 29.1 and 37.2 ml kg−1 min−1 and mean rates of energy expenditure were 33.5, 41.8 and 52.7 kJ min−1 at the slow, typical and fast speeds, respectively. At typical speeds, average intensity was ~8.5 METs. There was a significant positive relationship between oxygen consumption and energy expenditure versus speed (R 2 = 0.69 (P < 0.001), and R 2 = 0.78 (P < 0.001), respectively). The gross metabolic cost was ~2.2 J kg−1 m−1 at the typical speed, greater than that reported for cycling and ~50 % smaller than that of walking. These results suggest that longboarding is a novel form of physical activity that elicits vigorous intensity, yet is economical compared to walking.
Estimation and pricing under long-memory stochastic volatility

We treat the problem of option pricing under a stochastic volatility model that exhibits long-range dependence. We model the price process as a Geometric Brownian Motion with volatility evolving as a fractional Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process. We assume that the model has long-memory, thus the memory parameter H in the volatility is greater than 0.5. Although the price process evolves in continuous time, the reality is that observations can only be collected in discrete time. Using historical stock price information we adapt an interacting particle stochastic filtering algorithm to estimate the stochastic volatility empirical distribution. In order to deal with the pricing problem we construct a multinomial recombining tree using sampled values of the volatility from the stochastic volatility empirical measure. Moreover, we describe how to estimate the parameters of our model, including the long-memory parameter of the fractional Brownian motion that drives the volatility process using an implied method. Finally, we compute option prices on the S&P 500 index and we compare our estimated prices with the market option prices.
Spatial and temporal dynamics of stream chemistry in a forested watershed

Abstract. Spatial dynamics of solute chemistry and natural abundance isotopes of nitrate (15N and 18O) were examined in seven locations and at the watershed outlet in 2001 and 2002 in a forest watershed in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State, USA. Temporal dynamics were examined during five discharge periods: winter, snowmelt, spring, summer, and fall, based on discharge levels at the watershed outlet. Solute concentrations were variable across space and time with significant (p≤0.05) interaction effects. Year*period was significant for pH, NH4+, NO3-, total N, DOC, and total Al suggesting that inter-annual variability in discharge levels was more important for these solutes than intra-annual variability. Period*sampling point was significant for pH, Mg2+, Ca2+, sum of base cations, Si, and total Al suggesting that the differences in concentration of these solutes among sampling points were moderated by discharge levels. In general, groundwater sources located in upper watershed controlled stream chemistry at higher elevations with highest pH, Ca2+, sum of base cations, Si, and SO42- concentrations, with higher values in summer, and dilution effects during snowmelt. Two low elevation wetlands had a substantial influence over stream chemistry at those locations contributing lowest NO3- and highest DOC. Snowmelt exhibited among the lowest pH, sum of base cations, and SO42-, and highest NO3-, total N, and total Al; snowmelt appeared to dilute groundwater, and flush stored soil-derived solutes. Summer discharge, composed mainly of groundwater, exhibited the lowest flow, among the highest Mg2+, Ca2+, and lowest DON, DOC, and total Al concentrations. Isotopic analysis indicated that NO3- was microbial with primary source in upper watershed soil, from where it was flushed to stream under high discharge-conditions, or drained to groundwater which became its secondary source when discharge was low. Watershed outlet did not exhibit specific solute levels found at source-areas, but represented solute dynamics in the rest of the watershed well.
Persistent enterprise components: improving the availability of legacy systems

Systems engineers are using object-oriented enterprise components to integrate and provide access to legacy information systems and databases. These components may extend the useful lifetime of a legacy system by making a subset of its data and functionality available to new applications, including intranets and extranets. However, the availability of the legacy systems often does not meet the requirements of these new applications. This paper presents a strategy for migration to enterprise components that improves the effective availability of legacy functionality and data by storing component data in native, object form. It proposes the use of persistence services embedded in the component execution environment to store persistent enterprise data. It compares the approach to alternatives and relates the initial experience in applying this strategy to command and control systems.
PANDURALIMULUS BABCOCKI N. GEN. AND SP., A NEW LIMULACEAN HORSESHOE CRAB FROM THE PERMIAN OF TEXAS

Fossil horseshoe crabs are rare, and new discoveries have the potential for providing important taxonomic and biostratigraphic information. The superfamily Limulacea Zittel, 1885, embraces the lineal ancestors of the modern genera, including Limulus Muller, 1785, within the Limulidae Zittel, 1885. The geologically oldest of the limulaceans are arrayed within the late Paleozoic Paleolimulidae Raymond, 1944. The first discovery, as well as all authentic specimens, of fossil paleolimulids have been from the Late Paleozoic rocks of Kansas and Illinois. This paper not only describes a new genus and species of horseshoe crab but also records the first occurrence of the family in north-central Texas, and clarifies placement of taxa within the Paleolimulidae. Specimens were collected in Baylor County aproximately 15 km northeast of Seymour, Texas, from a layer of clastic sediment within the Lower Permian (Leonardian) Maybelle Limestone, the member comprising the lower part of the Lueders Formation (National Museum of Natural History site USNM 41884) (Fig. 1). The Lueders Formation ranges from 50 to 275 ft (15–82 m) thick and is comprised of alternating shale and limestone (Stafford, 1960). The limestones of the Maybelle Member are thick, massive, fossiliferous, and resistant (Beede and Waite, 1918). The paleoenvironment in which these rocks were deposited was most likely deltaic; gymnosperms, pteridosperms, horseshoe crabs, bivalves, and other fossil fragments occur together in a fine-grained, blue-gray matrix suggesting a marginal marine setting. Babcock and Merriam (2000) suggested that xiphosurans might be preserved in tidally influenced coastal settings like this because high depositional rates would favor preservation of the delicate cuticle. Figure 1 —Generalized stratigraphic section showing the position from which the xiphosurans were collected ### Subclass XiphosuraLatreille, 1802 Order Xiphosurida Latreille, 1802 Suborder Limulina Richter and Richter, 1929 Superfamily Limulacea Zittel, 1885 Family Paleolimulidae Raymond, 1944 #### Diagnosis Ophthalmic ridges meeting anterior to cardiac lobe; …
Rapid identification of anonymous subjects in large criminal databases: problems and solutions in IAFIS III/FBI subject searches

The high incidence of recidivism (repeat offenders) in the criminal population makes the use of the IAFIS III/FBI criminal database an important tool in law enforcement. The problems and solutions employed by IAFIS III/FBI criminal subject searches are discussed for the following topics: (1) subject search selectivity and reliability; (2) the difficulty and limitations of identifying subjects whose anonymity may be a prime objective; (3) database size, search workload, and search response time; (4) techniques and advantages of normalizing the variability in an individual's name and identifying features into identifiable and discrete categories; and (5) the use of database demographics to estimate the likelihood of a match between a search subject and database subjects.
University Home Economics Programs In The United States: A Survey Of International Involvement

One hundred and seventeen home economics institutions in the United States, including Puerto Rico, were surveyed to identify how international perspectives are incorporated into coursework, curricula, and research. Four units reported either an international major, minor, or emphasis area within home economics; three units reported required or elective home economics courses for institu tional international programs of study. About one-fifth of the respondents planned student experiences in international settings and placed students in international positions after graduation. In contrast, almost half are involved in grantsmanship, research activities and curricular planning on an international scope. Contributions cited were training students from other countries and as sisting individuals and families to improve their quality of life throughout the world, especially women. Future directions recommended by respondents were building a research base for international program development and researching issues impacting quality of life. Since survey replies indicated that faculty involve ment in international programs appears to be based on interest, and activity ap pears to be limited in course and curriculum planning, many questions can be raised in home economics about present educational programs in home eco nomics and relevancy to intercultural-international programs and research.
Immediate postpartum tubal ligation. An intraumbilical approach.

Abstract This is a review of 392 cases of immediate postpartum tubal ligations, performed without any deaths during a 6 year period. There were only minor complications (1.5 per cent) and, as yet, no failures have been reported. From the data the procedure seems to be safe and relatively fast and saves the patient a second anesthesia and operative procedure. There does not seem to be much comparison with laparoscopic tubal sterilization, since most authorities do not recommend this immediately post partum; however, the incisions are very comparable in size and location.
Protein Changes in Multidrug-Resistant Cells

Cultured cells selected for resistance to such natural-product chemotherapeutic agents as vincristine, daunorubicin, dactinomycin, or doxorubicin and simultaneously cross-resistant to the other drugs in this category are termed multidrug resistant (MDR). Tables I and II in this chapter and Tables II and III in Chapter 6 contain selected lists of MDR Chinese hamster, mouse, and human cell lines derived and studied in this laboratory, with several characteristics of each line.
Toward Physical Realizations of Thermodynamic Resource Theories

“This is your arch-nemesis.” The thank-you slide of my resentation remained onscreen, and the question-and-answer session had begun.
Rapid removal of organic micropollutants from water by a porous β-cyclodextrin polymer

The global occurrence in water resources of organic micropollutants, such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals, has raised concerns about potential negative effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Activated carbons are the most widespread adsorbent materials used to remove organic pollutants from water but they have several deficiencies, including slow pollutant uptake (of the order of hours) and poor removal of many relatively hydrophilic micropollutants. Furthermore, regenerating spent activated carbon is energy intensive (requiring heating to 500-900 degrees Celsius) and does not fully restore performance. Insoluble polymers of β-cyclodextrin, an inexpensive, sustainably produced macrocycle of glucose, are likewise of interest for removing micropollutants from water by means of adsorption. β-cyclodextrin is known to encapsulate pollutants to form well-defined host-guest complexes, but until now cross-linked β-cyclodextrin polymers have had low surface areas and poor removal performance compared to conventional activated carbons. Here we crosslink β-cyclodextrin with rigid aromatic groups, providing a high-surface-area, mesoporous polymer of β-cyclodextrin. It rapidly sequesters a variety of organic micropollutants with adsorption rate constants 15 to 200 times greater than those of activated carbons and non-porous β-cyclodextrin adsorbent materials. In addition, the polymer can be regenerated several times using a mild washing procedure with no loss in performance. Finally, the polymer outperformed a leading activated carbon for the rapid removal of a complex mixture of organic micropollutants at environmentally relevant concentrations. These findings demonstrate the promise of porous cyclodextrin-based polymers for rapid, flow-through water treatment.
Outcome of infections with extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing organisms in children

Infections with organisms producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases are associated with well established risk factors and poor outcomes in adults, but these are less well defined in children. Our case-control analysis showed that infections with extended-spectrum beta-lactamases producing organisms are linked to prolonged antibiotic usage and are possibly associated with prolonged length of stay and worse overall outcomes in hospitalized children. Efforts to limit the duration and narrow the spectrum of antimicrobial therapy may assist in controlling infections due to these organisms.
Natural Distribution of Entomopathogenic Nematodes (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae and Steinernematidae) in Oregon Soils

To determine the natural distribution of entomopathogenic nematodes (Heterorhabditidae and Steinernematidae) in Oregon, 255 soil samples were taken from 59 sites representing ecologically diverse habitats and different geographic regions of the state. The presence or absence of entomopathogenic nematodes in samples was determined using the Galleria mellonella (L.) bioassay. Entomopathogenic nematodes were recovered from 30 soil samples representing 14 different sites. Twenty-four soil samples from 10 sites contained Heterorhabditis spp. and seven samples from five sites contained Steinernema spp. We found significant association among geographic regions, habitats, soil textures, and genera of nematodes recovered. More Heterorhabditis spp. were recovered than Steinernema spp. at the high latitude of Oregon. Geographic region and soil texture may be the most important factors influencing the natural distribution of Heterorhabditis spp. in Oregon.
Possibility for Recent Origin of the Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Fungal Pathogen Entomophaga maimaiga (Zygomycetes: Entomophthorales) in North America

A model based on weather records and gypsy moth and pathogen developmental times was used to investigate environments favorable for development of the fungus Entonwphaga maimaiga Humber, Shimazu & Soper, a pathogen of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), in the northeastern United States. The fungus was first noticed in 1989, and model results were obtained using data from that year from almost 400 weather stations from Pennsylvania and New Jersey to Maine. The most favorable areas in that year were parts of Connecticut, the northern third of Pennsylvania, and the southern half of New York State. The distribution of the fungus during that year, and the known ability of the fungus to spread, is consistent with an origin for the epizootic in Connecticut. When the model was run using weather records in Connecticut from 1969 to 1995, the most favorable year for development of E. maimaiga was 1989, the year in which the pathogen was first discovered in North America. However, extensive defoliation and at least moderately favorable weather conditions suggested that the fungus would also have been observed in 1971 if it had been present then. Also, model results using weather records in Massachusetts showed that the year 1945 was very favorable for development of E. maimaiga in that state. Because there is no evidence that the fungus was present at these times, it is probable that E. maimaiga became established in North America relatively recently.
Hyperglycemic Conditions Prime Cells for RIP1-dependent Necroptosis

Necroptosis is a RIP1-dependent programmed cell death (PCD) pathway that is distinct from apoptosis. Downstream effector pathways of necroptosis include formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), both of which depend on glycolysis. This suggests that increased cellular glucose may prime necroptosis. Here we show that exposure to hyperglycemic levels of glucose enhances necroptosis in primary red blood cells (RBCs), Jurkat T cells, and U937 monocytes. Pharmacologic or siRNA inhibition of RIP1 prevented the enhanced death, confirming it as RIP1-dependent necroptosis. Hyperglycemic enhancement of necroptosis depends upon glycolysis with AGEs and ROS playing a role. Total levels of RIP1, RIP3, and mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) proteins were increased following treatment with high levels of glucose in Jurkat and U937 cells and was not due to transcriptional regulation. The observed increase in RIP1, RIP3, and MLKL protein levels suggests a potential positive feedback mechanism in nucleated cell types. Enhanced PCD due to hyperglycemia was specific to necroptosis as extrinsic apoptosis was inhibited by exposure to high levels of glucose. Hyperglycemia resulted in increased infarct size in a mouse model of brain hypoxia-ischemia injury. The increased infarct size was prevented by treatment with nec-1s, strongly suggesting that increased necroptosis accounts for exacerbation of this injury in conditions of hyperglycemia. This work reveals that hyperglycemia represents a condition in which cells are extraordinarily susceptible to necroptosis, that local glucose levels alter the balance of PCD pathways, and that clinically relevant outcomes may depend on glucose-mediated effects on PCD.
Study on Test Ability of UHV Transmission Tower Test Base

SGCC UHV Transmission Tower Test Base is the largest UHV transmission tower research and test base with the best test ability,the most advanced test equipment in the world.This paper details with the construction target,the main technical parameter and plan layout of SGCC UHV Transmission Tower Test Base.
Modeling, simulation and testing of MCT under zero voltage resonant switching

An MCT (MOS controlled thyristor) model based on a two-transistor SCR (series resonant converter) model is developed which is useful in determining the behavior of the MCT in different circuits. The model is found to work successfully in PSPICE simulations under zero voltage square wave and resonant switching. An experimental prototype was built, tested, and compared with the simulation results. A major part of the prototype construction is to investigate the gate drive requirements for the MCT. The model shows fair correspondence to experimental behavior found in both hard and soft switched circuits. >
Window-Shaping: 3D Design Ideation by Creating on, Borrowing from, and Looking at the Physical World

We present, Window-Shaping, a tangible mixed-reality (MR) interaction metaphor for design ideation that allows for the direct creation of 3D shapes on and around physical objects. Using the sketch-and-inflate scheme, our metaphor enables quick design of dimensionally consistent and visually coherent 3D models by borrowing visual and dimensional attributes from existing physical objects without the need for 3D reconstruction or fiducial markers. Through a preliminary evaluation of our prototype application we demonstrate the expressiveness provided by our design workflow, the effectiveness of our interaction scheme, and the potential of our metaphor.
Sensitivity and Specificity of MRI and EMG in Diagnosing Clinically Evident Cervical Radiculopathy: A Retrospective Study (P02.224)

OBJECTIVE: To determine the sensitivity and specificity of MRI and electrodiagnostic studies in diagnosing 9 clinically positive cervical radiculopathy9. BACKGROUND: Cervical radiculopathy (CR) can be caused by structural or non structural abnormalities.MRI cervical spine (MRIC) can detect structural causes and EMG/NCS (EDX) can detect CR in the presence of a normal imaging study although limited by the timing of the study and the number of muscles sampled. DESIGN/METHODS: This is a retrospective chart review of all consecutive patients (2007-2009,age>18) referred to the EMG lab for the evaluation of CR and who had MRIC.The patients had to have at least 4 of the following for at least 3 weeks to have 9 clinically positive CR9 : muscle spasm,weakness, paresthesias/numbness,positive Spurling test,and depressed reflexes.EDX was done between 4 weeks and 18 months from symptom onset.Chi square analysis was used to assess the significance of the association between clinically positive CR,MRI positive CR,and EDX positive CR and the sensitivity/specificity of MRIC and EDX in diagnosing the clinically positive CR was calculated. RESULTS: 131 patients (age:53.6;male:70 female:61;Caucasian:70% Hispanics:28%) were included.Pain in a radicular distribution was seen in 89% followed by numbness 71%, weakness in myotomal distribution in 37% and absent reflexes in 23%.50 (38%) were clinically positive,43 (33%) MRI positive,38(29%) EDX positive.88% of those who were clinically positive were also MRI positive and only 44% of those who were clinically positive were EDX positive.There is a significant association between MRI Positive and Clinically Positive (χ 2 = 68.4, p 2 = 0.98, p > 0.05).The sensitivity of MRIC in diagnosing a clinically positive CR is 76% and specificity is 93% where as the sensitivity of EDX is 34% and specificity is 74%. CONCLUSIONS: MRI of the cervical spine is more sensitive and specific than EDX in confirming a clinically evident cervical radiculopathy. Disclosure: Dr. Govindarajan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kolb has nothing to disclose. Dr. Salgado has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity from Belvoir Media Group as Consulting Editor of A Special Report published by the editors of Heart Advisor Cleveland Clinic STROKE: Advances in Prevention and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Disease.
Patterns for Modeling Operational Control of Discrete Event Logistics Systems (DELS)

Designing smart operational control systems for discrete event logistics systems (DELS) requires a standard description of control behaviors executed at the operational management level of DELS control. In this paper, we propose a set of patterns for modeling the operational control mechanisms, organized by classes of control questions that all DELS must be able to answer. The pattern for each control question includes an analysis-agnostic functional definition of the control problem for that question, as well as a mapping of the decision variable in that problem to a particular function and execution mechanism in the base system.
Xaa-Arg Dipeptidase

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the structural chemistry and the biological aspects of X-Arg dipeptidase. Enzyme activity was determined following incubation of substrate and enzyme in a Tris–HCl buffer, pH 7.0. After the termination of the reaction with 10% trichloracetic acid, released amino acids were measured with an amino acid analyzer. The enzyme generally hydrolyzed dipeptides in which a basic amino acid was present at C-terminus. The preparation method involves a 62-fold purification from the supernatant of a homogenate of 10 kg of hog kidney that was achieved by ammonium sulfate and acetone fractionation and hydroxyapatite chromatography. In the initial step, the enzyme precipitates at 35% ammonium sulfate saturation and is solubilized in a buffer containing 0.4% sodium deoxycholate. The chapter discusses that this enzyme is widely distributed. In the rat, the highest activity is present in skeletal muscle; whereas in the rabbit, the highest activity is present in the kidney. It is possible that the enzyme plays a wider role than hydrolysis of Nα-(γ-aminobutyryl) lysine, perhaps acting in the general hydrolysis of dipeptides containing C-terminal lysine or arginine.
When Poverty Becomes Profitable: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Microfinancial Development in Haiti

For the past thirty years, policymakers have lauded microfinance for its promises to reduce poverty and empower women in developing nations. First conceived by the Bangladeshi economist Muhammed Yunus and the bank he founded, microfinance has been hailed as a visionary project that promises to advance the economic interests of the poor by engaging them directly. Conventional studies by political scientists explore the place of microfinance in the global development architecture of international financial institutions, governments, and NGOs. Economic studies of its effectiveness are contributing to a crisis of legitimacy since they reveal that thousands of clients in developing nations continue to default on their loans due to predatory lending practices. Drawing on discourse analysis methodology, this article seeks to explain how microfinance, an industry embedded in the financialization of development, is now concerned with high financial returns for investments, not the social goals promised by its original raison d'etre. Treating microfinance as a discourse, I argue that there is a fundamental tension between the short-term social goals promised by microfinance and the long-term financial objectives of sustainability of investors.
Stephen J. Gould’s Intellectual Legacy to Anthropology

It is rare for an invertebrate paleontologist and evolutionary theorist to make a significant impact in the rather insular field of biological anthropology. But in this case, as in so many others, Stephen Jay Gould was a shining exception to the rule. His contribution to anthropology was to a large degree an indirect one, accomplished through his contributions to evolutionary thought in general, and more specifically through his extraordinarily effective Natural History columns. But it was no less forceful for that. In a field in thrall to the “hardened” (his term) Evolutionary Synthesis, Steve’s energetic promotion during the 1970s of the notion of punctuated equilibria opened up new perspectives leading to a more rational appraisal of the diversity evident in the human fossil record. And his tireless advocacy of the idea that human phylogeny presents us with a “bush” rather than with a “ladder” introduced into paleoanthropological thought a powerful and compelling metaphor that continues to gather momentum. His Natural History columns additionally covered anthropological subjects as diverse as bipedality as the fundamental human adaptation; the single African origin of Homo sapiens; the authorship of the Piltdown fossil hoax; the fate of the Neanderthals; the unity of mankind; and nature versus nurture and the relationship of race and IQ. In each of these areas, and many more, Steve’s strong stances influenced the thought of professional anthropologists as well as of general readers. As a result, paleoanthropology today, and indeed anthropology in general, would be very different places without him. What’s more, even a decade after his premature death, Steve continues to provoke controversy among biological anthropologists. In his book The Mismeasure of Man, Steve excoriated the early nineteenth century craniologist Samuel Morton as an example of science in the service of unconscious prejudice: something against which he warned scientists should always be on guard. Now Steve himself has been accused of something similar in his attack on Morton; and the ongoing furor should help keep the current generation of biological anthropologists on their intellectual toes.
Immune cell infiltration patterns and survival in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

PURPOSE This study examines the tumour-host immune interactions in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and their relationship to human papillomavirus (HPV) infectivity and patient survival. METHODS The adaptive and innate immune profile of surgical tumour specimens obtained from HNSCC patients was determined using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Intratumoural and invading margin leukocyte populations (CD3, CD8, CD16, CD20, CD68, FoxP3 and HLA-DR) were quantified and compared with patient disease-specific survival. Additionally, the expression of 41 immune activation- and suppression-related genes was evaluated in the tumour microenvironment. Tumour cells were also assessed for expression of HLA-A, HLA-G and HLA-DR. HPV infectivity of tumour biopsies was determined using HPV consensus primers (MY09/MY11 and GP5+/GP6+) and confirmed with p16 immunohistochemistry. RESULTS HPV+ patient samples showed a significantly increased infiltration by intratumoural CD20+ B cells, as well as by invasive margin FoxP3+Treg, compared with HPV- patient samples. There was also a trend towards increased intratumoural CD8+ T cells and HLA-G expression on tumour cells in HPV+ samples. qRT-PCR data demonstrated a general pattern of increased immune activation and suppression mechanisms in HPV+ samples. Additionally, a combined score of intratumoural and invasive margin FoxP3 infiltration was significantly associated with disease-specific survival (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate significant differences in the immune cell profile of HPV+ and HPV- HNSCC. This study identifies several possible targets for immunotherapy and possible prognostic markers (FoxP3 and HLA-G) that may be specific to HNSCC.
To intervene: a transcending and reorienting goal for public speaking

ABSTRACTThis essay proposes a view of public speaking as “interventional” that incorporates and subsumes the traditional speaking goals of informative, persuasive, and invitational. Additionally, t...