cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fingerprints of External Forcings on Sahel Rainfall: Aerosols, Greenhouse Gases, and Model-Observation Discrepancies

Over the 20th and 21st centuries, both anthropogenic greenhouse gas increases and changes in anthropogenic aerosols have affected rainfall in the Sahel. Using multiple characteristics of Sahel precipitation, we construct a multivariate fingerprint that allows us to distinguish between the model-predicted responses to greenhouse gases and anthropogenic aerosols. Models project the emergence of a detectable signal of aerosol forcing in the middle of the twentieth century and a detectable signal of greenhouse gas forcing at the beginning of the twenty-first. However, the signals of both aerosol and greenhouse gas forcing in observations emerge earlier and are stronger than in the models, far stronger in the case of aerosols. The similarity between the response to aerosol forcing and the leading mode of internal variability makes it difficult to attribute this model-observation discrepancy to errors in the forcing, errors in the forced response, model inability to capture the amplitude of internal variability, or some combination of these. For greenhouse gases, however, the forced response is distinct from internal variability as estimated by models, and the observations are largely commensurate with the model projections.
Reinforcement Learning for Efficient and Fair Coexistence Between LTE-LAA and Wi-Fi

Long-Term Evolution (LTE) over unlicensed spectrum extends LTE technology to the spacious unlicensed spectrum with readily available bandwidth. The provided capacity surge makes it one of the most high-profile technologies to meet the explosive growth of mobile traffic demand. Among its different variants, Licensed Assisted Access (LAA) is considered as a promising global solution attributed to its mandatory listen-before-talk (LBT) procedure. Nevertheless, although LBT effectively maintains transmission fairness between LTE and other unlicensed systems (e.g., Wi-Fi), the current LAA protocol specified in 3GPP Release 13 is far from perfect to achieve harmony coexistence. To this end, in this paper, we first develop an analytical model to evaluate the throughput performance of Category 4 (Cat 4) algorithm agreed in 3GPP release 13. Subject to the system fairness constraint, the aggregate throughput of LTE-LAA and Wi-Fi networks is maximized based on a semi branch and bound algorithm. To make the complex optimization tractable, reinforcement learning techniques are introduced to intelligently tune the contention window size for both LTE-LAA and Wi-Fi nodes. Specifically, a cooperative learning algorithm is developed assuming that the information between different systems is exchangeable. A non-cooperative version is subsequently developed to remove the previous assumption for better practicability. Extensive simulations are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the proposed learning algorithms in contrast to the analytical upper bound under various conditions. It is shown that both proposed learning algorithms can significantly improve the total throughput performance while satisfying the fairness constraints. Particularly, the proposed cooperative learning algorithm can closely approach the analytical bound.
CLINICAL CORRELATION AND PULMONARY FUNCTION AT SIX YEARS OF AGE AFTER CONGENITAL DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA REPAIR

Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the pulmonary sequelae of patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Study Design This was a prospective study of our ECMO centre at the university children hospital of Mannheim, Germany. 26 survivors after CDH repair completed pulmonary function testing at 6 years of age. 14 (54%) received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Pulmonary outcome was based on spirometry and lung volume data. Pulmonary outcome for each treatment group is reported as mean and as percent predicted. Individually subjects were also classified based on spirometry, as either normal, obstructed (defined as forced expiratory volume (FEV(1)) in 1 sec:forced vital capacity (FVC) of Results Mean FVC, FEV(1) and FEV(25–75) were reduced in the total cohort. The reduction was greater in the group with ECMO. Assessed individually, 27% of subjects had normal spirometry and lung volumes, 65% airflow obstruction, and 77% reduced FVC. Poorer pulmonary outcome was linked to ECMO and need for prolonged supplemental oxygen. Bronchospasmolysis by beta-2-sympathomimetic drugs is able to improve FEV (25–75) significantly regarding the whole cohort. Conclusion Neonates with CDH and needing ECMO are at increased risk of poorer pulmonary outcome and require close follow-up. Testing bronchospasmolysis may identify patients for targeted treatment.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in HIV

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is more prevalent in people with HIV (PWH) than in the general population and leads to an increased burden of morbidity and mortality in t...
Echocardiographic Findings Associated with Transplantation-Free Survival and Left Ventricular Systolic Function at Midterm Follow-Up after Ross Procedure in Infants with Critical Aortic Stenosis.

Background The Ross operation is an important option for children with critical aortic stenosis with residual disease, but operation in infancy is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate echocardiographic correlates of transplantation-free survival, reintervention, and left ventricular (LV) function in midterm follow-up. Methods This retrospective, single-center study included all infants with critical aortic stenosis who underwent Ross by 1 year of age from January 2000 to September 2018. Serial echocardiograms were analyzed for LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and systolic and diastolic longitudinal strain. The primary outcome was mortality or transplantation; secondary outcomes were reintervention and abnormal LVEF (≤55%). Results Among 40 infants (30 male [75%]; median age at Ross, 51 days) with median follow-up duration of 3.3 years (interquartile range, 1.0–9.4 years), the primary outcome was met in 11 (28%). Rates of transplantation-free survival was 79%, 77%, and 69% at 1, 5, and 10 years after Ross. Predictors of transplantation or death included neonatal surgery, cross-clamp time, and preoperative left atrial dilatation and lower LVEF. Median freedom from reintervention was 7.1 years after Ross, with no identified associations. LV longitudinal strain improved 1 year after Ross (−21.1 ± 3.8% vs −17.4 ± 5.1%, P = .02), although LVEF did not reach significance. Lower LVEF at 1 year was related to pre-Ross left atrial dilatation (P = .02), abnormal LVEF (P = .04), and lower early diastolic longitudinal strain rate (P = .03). LVEF remained stable 3 years after Ross. Conclusions Both transplantation-free survival and normalization of LV function after Ross in infancy are associated with preoperative LV systolic and diastolic measures, highlighting the prognostic value of echocardiography in this population. Further data are necessary in a larger, multicenter cohort to allow more precise risk stratification.
Trends in Comorbidities and Complications Using ICD-9 and ICD-10 in Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasties.

Background The transition to the new ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision) coding system in the U.S. poses challenges to the ability to consistently and accurately measure trends in comorbidities and complications. We examined the prevalence of comorbidities and postoperative medical complications before and after the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 among patients who underwent primary total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA or TKA). We hypothesized that the transition to ICD-10 codes was associated with discontinuity and slope change in comorbidities and medical complications. Methods The Elixhauser comorbidities and medical complications were identified using the Premier Healthcare database from fiscal year (FY)2011 to FY2018. Using multivariable segmented regression models, we examined the changes in the levels and slopes after the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 coding. Odds ratios (ORs) of 1 indicate decreases and increases, respectively, in levels and slopes. Results Overall, 2,006,581 patients who underwent primary THA or TKA were identified. The mean age was 65.9 ± 10.5 years, and the median length of the hospital stay was 2 days (interquartile range [IQR], 2 to 3 days). Of the comorbidities studied, congestive heart failure, hypertension, and obesity had a statistically significant but clinically small discontinuity after the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 coding. Of the complications, pneumonia (OR = 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.48 to 0.90), acute respiratory failure (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.52 to 2.33), sepsis (OR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.45 to 4.44), and urinary tract infection (OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.32 to 2.42) demonstrated statistically significant discontinuity. Alcohol abuse and paralysis had an increasing prevalence before the ICD transition, followed by a decreasing prevalence after the transition. In contrast, metastatic cancer, weight loss, and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) showed a decreasing prevalence before the ICD transition followed by an increasing prevalence after the transition. Generally, complications showed a decreasing prevalence over time. Conclusions The discontinuities after the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 coding were relatively small for most comorbidities. Medical complications generally showed a decreasing trend over the quarters studied. These findings support caution when conducting joint replacement studies that rely on ICD coding and include the ICD coding transition period.
On the interpretation of triple gauge coupling measurements in $W$ pair production

$W$ boson pair production processes at $e^+e^-$ and $pp$ colliders have been conventionally interpreted as measurements of $WWZ$ and $WW\gamma$ triple gauge couplings (TGCs). Such interpretation is based on the assumption that new physics effects other than anomalous TGCs are negligible. While this "TGC dominance assumption" was well-motivated and useful at LEP2 thanks to precision electroweak constraints, it is already challenged by recent LHC data. In fact, contributions from anomalous $Z$ boson couplings that are allowed by electroweak precision data but neglected in LHC analyses, being enhanced at high energy, can even dominate over those from the anomalous TGCs considered. This limits the generality of the anomalous TGC constraints derived in current analyses, and necessitates extension of the analysis framework and change of physics interpretation. The issue will persist as we continue to explore the high energy frontier. We clarify and analyze the situation in the effective field theory framework, which provides a useful organizing principle for understanding Standard Model deviations in the high energy regime.
Calcitriol and Levothyroxine Dosing for Patients With Pseudohypoparathyroidism.

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) is a rare hormone resistance syndrome caused by mutations in GNAS. This cross-sectional study investigated whether PHP patients with parathyroid hormone (PTH), thyrotropin (thyroid stimulating hormone; TSH), and free thyroxine (T4) levels at goal required higher doses of levothyroxine and calcitriol than recommended by current guidelines to overcome mineral ion abnormalities due to hormone resistance. Baseline demographic and clinical data of participants enrolled in PHP research studies between 2012-2021 were collected via retrospective chart review. Longitudinally, data were recorded at a maximum frequency of once a year starting at 1 year of age. The PTH at goal (PAG) group was defined as PTH < 150 pg/mL and calcium ≥ 8.4 mg/dL, and the TSH and free T4 at goal (TAG) group was defined as TSH < 5 mIU/L and free T4 ≥ 0.8 ng/dL. The PAG group (n = 74) was prescribed higher calcitriol doses than the PTH not at goal (PNAG) group (n = 50) (0.9 ± 1.1 vs 0.5 ± 0.9 mcg/day, P = 0.04) and 21% of individual patients were prescribed ≥ 1.5 mcg of calcitriol daily. This remained true after normalization for body weight (0.013 ± 0.015 vs 0.0067 ± 0.0095 mcg/kg/day, P = 0.008). There was no statistically significant difference in levothyroxine dosing between the TAG group (n = 122) and TSH and free T4 not at goal (TNAG) group (n = 45) when normalized for weight (2.0 ± 0.7 vs 1.8 ± 0.7 mcg/kg/day, P = 0.2). More than one-third of patients with PHP had PTH levels not at goal and some patients required calcitriol doses ≥ 1.5 mcg/day to meet current treatment goals.
A Pyramid of Paperwork: Labors of Imagination and Interpretation in Late Twentieth Century Architectural Practice

A fundamental shift in employment patterns among architects in North America during the 1960s and 1970s impacted how particular kinds of tasks were either monopolized or delegated within firms. This article uses the archive of the U.S.-based architectural firm Gunnar Birkerts and Associates to show evidence of a growing gulf between executive architects and employee architects (particularly women assigned to work on interiors), as well as the persistence of chauvinistic ideals of practice under changed circumstances. The design for the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis building (1967- 73) is shown to be illustrative of this gulf between imaginative and interpretive labor.
Studies to improve fixation of human nerves: Part 1. Effect of duration of glutaraldehyde fixation on peripheral nerve morphometry

Abstract No change in the transverse fascicular area of rat peroneal nerve occurred when the duration of fixation in 2% glutaraldehyde was increased from 1 to 12 hr. Shrinkage in endoneurial area was inferred from the development of clefts. The number of myelin lamellae remained constant when the nerve was fixed in glutaraldehyde for 1 or for 12 hr. Unequivocal shrinkage of axis cylinders occurred with prolongation of glutaraldehyde fixation beyond 1 hr. In nerves fixed for 12 hr, this shrinkage was approximately 20%, compared to the area at 1 hr.
The network metaphor as key to the analysis of complex production and service relations in a global economy

This concept paper examines the nature and role of social networks in the complex production and service relations of the contemporary globalizing political economy. As structural patterns of social interaction and relations among sets of actors or nodes, strategic networks are conceived as new organizational forms and as alternatives to institutional constructs such as bureaucratic hierarchies, rational or natural systems, democratic associations, governmental polities, and markets. The emergence and operation of networks are seen as instances of institutional transformation or extrainstitutional exchange, strategic alliance, and governance at the level of organizations as well as regional, national, and transnational political economies. Contemporary interactive information and telecommunications technology has significantly enhanced the effectiveness and innovativeness of informal, privatized, non-regulated and unaccountable social networks as alternatives to their institutional counterparts in production, research and development, marketing, and transnational, knowledgeintensive business services. Der Artikel analysiert die Art und Funktionsweise sozialer Netzwerke in den komplexen Produktions- und Dienstleistungsverhaltnissen der gegenwartig sich global entwickelnden politischen Okonomie. Strategische Netzwerke werden begrifflich als strukturelle Muster sozialer Interaktionen und Beziehungen zwischen Akteuren oder Knotenpunkten erfasst und stellen neue organisatorische Formen dar, sowie Alternativen zu institutionellen Strukturen wie burokratische Hierarchien, rationale oder naturliche Systeme, demokratische Verbande, Regierungsordnungen und Markte. Die Entstehung und Funktionsweise von Netzwerken werden als Beispiele des Institutionenwandels gesehen sowie als ausser-institutionelle Formen des Tausches, strategischer Bundnisse, und der Steuerung auf organisatorischer Ebene wie auch auf der Ebene regionaler, nationaler, und transnationaler politischer Okonomien. Die gegenwartige Informations- und Kommunikationstechnik hat die Wirkungskraft und Innovationsfahigkeit informeller, privater, nicht-regulierter und unantastbarer sozialer Netzwerke als Alternativen zu ihrem institutionellen Spiegelbild in Produktion, Forschung und Entwicklung, Vertrieb und transnationalen, wissensintensiven, unternehmensorientierten Dienstleistungen bedeutend erhoht.
Relationship between Explosive Leg Strength and Performance in the Vertical Jump

Abstract The leg strength of 70 college men was measured in a position designed to involve the power thrust of the major muscle groups used in the vertical jump. The subjects then performed a modified Sargent jump that used no arm snap. Although the reliability of all measures was high, individual differences in the ratio of tested strength to body mass showed only a low and nonsignificant correlation with jumping performance. The results are interpreted to support the hypothesis that strength exerted against a dynamometer involves a different neuromotor pattern than strength exerted by the muscles during a movement. Tables of means, variabilities, and intercorrelations are included in the report.
Rapid Recycling of Organic‐Rich Carbonates during Transgression: A Complex Coastal System in Southwest Florida

Coastal and shallow marine environments are actively responding to accelerated rise in sea-level, eroding in some areas and rapidly accreting in others. Cape Sable in southwest Florida, with several natural and anthropogenic triggering events in the past century, illustrates the nearly instantaneous response that can occur in a sediment-rich coastal system. This paper presents results of a field study that documents a shallowing-upwards sediment package as a response to a transgressive phase. Patterns and rate of sedimentation are reported, the different sediment sources identified and the governing processes which control sedimentation style determined. The study integrates sedimentological and geochemical data with hydrodynamic time series measurements of water level, currents, suspended sediment concentration and salinity. Results show a rapid, sequential infilling of the intertidal zone from the most seaward marine, to transitional marine-freshwater sub-environments, as accommodation space becomes available due to sea-level rise, increased flood tidal volume and collapse of interior freshwater marshes. Average in situ sedimentation rates of 6.2 cm/yr are reported on the intertidal mudflats and daily tides are the most important agent responsible for the erosion, transportation and deposition of the fine-grained sediment. A significant amount of sediment is sourced from one coastal compartment and transported to another within the intracoastal system. The shallowing-upwards sediment package contains organic-rich carbonates with 15-35% total organic matter. In contrast to common stratigraphic wisdom, the shallowing-upwards peritidal sediments as recorded in southwest Florida, are the depositional response to several small, rapid pulses of sea-level instead of being diagnostic single high-stand lithofacies such as commonly described in ancient epeiric sequences.
Energetics of Solar Coronal Holes

We examine the energetics of a solar coronal hole in the framework of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). Given typical values of the observed parameters, it is estimated that the Poynting flux maintained by the solar rotation and a trailing magnetic field is potentially capable of driving and heating a wind stream in a coronal hole region.
Simultaneous x-ray nano-ptychographic and fluorescence microscopy at the bionanoprobe

Hard X-ray fluorescence (XRF) microscopy offers unparalleled sensitivity for quantitative analysis of most of the trace elements in biological samples, such as Fe, Cu, and Zn. These trace elements play critical roles in many biological processes. With the advanced nano-focusing optics, nowadays hard X-rays can be focused down to 30 nm or below and can probe trace elements within subcellular compartments. However, XRF imaging does not usually reveal much information on ultrastructure, because the main constituents of biomaterials, i.e. H, C, N, and O, have low fluorescence yield and little absorption contrast at multi-keV X-ray energies. An alternative technique for imaging ultrastructure is ptychography. One can record far-field diffraction patterns from a coherently illuminated sample, and then reconstruct the complex transmission function of the sample. In theory the spatial resolution of ptychography can reach the wavelength limit. In this manuscript, we will describe the implementation of ptychography at the Bionanoprobe (a recently developed hard XRF nanoprobe at the Advanced Photon Source) and demonstrate simultaneous ptychographic and XRF imaging of frozen-hydrated biological whole cells. This method allows locating trace elements within the subcellular structures of biological samples with high spatial resolution. Additionally, both ptychographic and XRF imaging are compatible with tomographic approach for 3D visualization.
Comparison of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation between 1960 and 2007 in six ocean reanalysis products

The mean and variability of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC), as represented in six ocean reanalysis products, are analyzed over the period 1960–2007. Particular focus is on multi-decadal trends and interannual variability at 26.5°N and 45°N. For four of the six reanalysis products, corresponding reference simulations obtained from the same models and forcing datasets but without the imposition of subsurface data constraints are included for comparison. An emphasis is placed on identifying general characteristics of the reanalysis representation of AMOC relative to their reference simulations without subsurface data constraints. The AMOC as simulated in these two sets are presented in the context of results from the Coordinated Ocean-ice Reference Experiments phase II (CORE-II) effort, wherein a common interannually varying atmospheric forcing data set was used to force a large and diverse set of global ocean-ice models. Relative to the reference simulations and CORE-II forced model simulations it is shown that (1) the reanalysis products tend to have greater AMOC mean strength and enhanced variance and (2) the reanalysis products are less consistent in their year-to-year AMOC changes. We also find that relative to the reference simulations (but not the CORE-II forced model simulations) the reanalysis products tend to have enhanced multi-decadal trends (from 1975–1995 to 1995–2007) in the mid to high latitudes of the northern hemisphere.
Pathogen Avirulence Genes and Elicitors of Plant Defense

The hypersensitive response (HR) is an active, inducible defense reaction employed by plants against pathogens. Its main superficial feature is the rapid necrosis of plant cells surrounding the infection site of an invading pathogen. Of more functional importance, 30 or more plant genes are specifically derepressed following recognition of a pathogen, some of which account for the inhibition of subsequent pathogen invasion. These ‘defense response genes’ control a wide range of expressive mechanisms associated with the HR, including the production of chitinases, antiviral proteins, protease inhibitors, s-1,3 glucanases and hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins as well as encoding enzymes involved in the production of lignin, callose and phytoalexins at the infection site.
Neutrinos help reconcile Planck measurements with both the early and local Universe

In light of the recent BICEP2 B-mode polarization detection, which implies a large inflationary tensor-to-scalar ratio ${r}_{0.05}=0.{2}_{\ensuremath{-}0.05}^{+0.07}$, we re-examine the evidence for an extra sterile massive neutrino, originally invoked to account for the tension between the cosmic microwave background (CMB) temperature power spectrum and local measurements of the expansion rate ${H}_{0}$ and cosmological structure. With only the standard active neutrinos and power-law scalar spectra, this detection is in tension with the upper limit of $rl0.11$ (95% confidence) from the lack of a corresponding low multipole excess in the temperature anisotropy from gravitational waves. An extra sterile species with the same energy density as is needed to reconcile the CMB data with ${H}_{0}$ measurements can also alleviate this new tension. By combining data from the Planck and ACT/SPT temperature spectra, WMAP9 polarization, ${H}_{0}$, baryon acoustic oscillation and local cluster abundance measurements with BICEP2 data, we find the joint evidence for a sterile massive neutrino increases to $\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Delta}}{N}_{\text{eff}}=0.98\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.26$ for the effective number and ${m}_{s}=0.52\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.13\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{eV}$ for the effective mass, or $3.8\ensuremath{\sigma}$ and $4\ensuremath{\sigma}$ evidence, respectively. We caution the reader that these results correspond to a joint statistical evidence and, in addition, astrophysical systematic errors in the clusters and ${H}_{0}$ measurements, and small-scale CMB data could weaken our conclusions.
Application of Sherman–Morrison matrix inversion formula to damped vibration absorbers attached to multi-degree of freedom systems

Abstract Dynamic (tuned mass) vibration absorbers are among the most commonly used devices for vibration suppression. A new method is introduced based on the Sherman–Morrison matrix inversion formula for calculation of the optimal absorber parameter values for attachment to a damped multi-degree of freedom system. The new method can be used to minimize the motion of particular physical masses or modes of vibration, regardless of their location relative to the placement of the absorber subsystem. The new method can also minimize a linear summation of the degrees of freedom. Case studies illustrate the method's superior performance relative to classical analytical techniques for determining absorber parameters.
HiRISE observations of slope streaks on Mars

[1] Images from the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment have revealed new details on the morphologic and topographic characteristics of slope streaks on Mars. Over 1500 HiRISE images were analyzed with 78 unique image sites having slope streaks. Images with low sun illumination reveal that dark slope streaks have topographic relief where streaked surfaces are lower than their surroundings. Slope streaks often initiate below localized features such as rock outcrops, individual boulders, and impact craters. They are also abundant in great numbers within the blast zones of small young impact craters 10–50 m in diameter. These observations suggest that slope streaks can be triggered by localized disturbances such as rockfalls and impact blasts. Seismic activity from external (e.g., impacts) or internal forces could also trigger slope streaks. The topographic relief and triggering mechanisms of slope streaks seem to best fit models that involve dry dust avalanches. Martian slope streaks and meters-thick avalanche scars are part of a continuum of active mass-wasting features at meter to sub-meter scales.
Design and analysis of dual-camera dual-band infrared imaging system

Emerging dual-camera dual-band (DCDB) infrared camera systems are playing an increasing role in temperature estimation and range measurement. This paper discusses the optimal design of a DCDB imaging system that makes use of contemporary filter fabrication technologies and improving detector performance. A two-color stereographic system allows for the temperatures of the objects to be measured without assuming a priori knowledge of emissivities, as well as providing a basis for estimating the distances to the objects. Multiple system design approaches are compared and key elements of the design trade space are described, including the selection of camera separation distance and specific infrared passbands. Analytical support for the methodology is provided by analyzing data from simulated infrared scenes. Finally, data from a laboratory-based DCDB system are analyzed and compared with model predictions.
2.1.3 The US Ballistic Missile Defense System: A Case Study in Architecting Systems‐of‐Systems

Systems-of-Systems (SoS) engineering for modern complex systems is one of the most difficult challenges facing today's engineer. This paper provides a detailed case study of architecting for a major modern SoS: the US Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). The BMDS is a massive SoS that encompasses several existing and new missile defense programs on a variety of platforms covering most of the world. This paper includes a review of currently defined practices for architecting SoS, a discussion of how the BMDS was architected, and then suggestions for architecting future additions to the program.
Revision total knee arthroplasty for aseptic and septic causes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Revision total knee arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging. We asked whether we could confirm previously reported high failure rates following revision total knee arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We therefore determined the Knee Society knee score and function scores, radiographic evidence of failure, and overall survival of the revision procedure in these patients. We retrospectively reviewed 39 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent 45 TKA revisions from 1994 to 2006. Twenty-seven of the 45 TKA revisions were for mechanical failure of the prosthetic components and 18 for infection. Five of the 27 knees (19%) revised for mechanical failure subsequently failed a second time. Five of the 18 patients who underwent revision for infection died within 6 months and three of the remaining knees failed secondary to reinfection. Excluding the knees that failed, the average Knee Society knee score and function score improved in both subgroups. Two knees had radiographic evidence of nonprogressive tibial radiolucencies. The probability of survival for all knees (revision as the end point) was 76% ± 9% at 5 years. We confirmed the previously reported high mortality and subsequent failure rates following revision total knee arthroplasty for both mechanical issues and infection in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and emphasize the potential difficulties in treating these patients. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Central Montana Tectonics: ABSTRACT

The major tectonic elements of Central Montana include: (1) the Little Belt-Big Snowy-Porcupine anticlinorium, (2) the northern High Plains region with its igneous intrusions, (3) the Sweetgrass arch, and (4) a southern area that consists of the Crazy Mountain syncline, Lake Basin fault zone, and the northern end of the Bighorn-Pryor uplift. The economic and academic significance of these features and their important subdivisions are reviewed. The literature is reviewed in an effort to present a picture of the geological development of these tectonic elements. In order to do this, outstanding contributions including those by Erdmann, by Sloss, and by other geologists have been slightly modified by use of new information available at this time. Revised isopach maps and generalized lithofacies maps are presented for central Montana for the Madison-Colorado shale interval. The effect or significance of certain features or conditions is discussed. These include: (1) the generally positive Sweetgrass arch, (2) the generally negative Beltan (Montana) trough-Big Snowy axis, (3) shallow and deep-seated igneous intrusives of the High Plains, (4) en echelon faults in central Montana, and (5) thrust faulting east of the main Rocky Mountain front. End_of_Article - Last_Page 2615------------
A discussion on the absence of plasma in spark plasma sintering

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a remarkable method for synthesizing and consolidating a large variety of both novel and traditional materials. A number of mechanisms have been proposed to account for the enhanced sintering abilities of the SPS process. Of these mechanisms, one commonly put forth, and the one that draws the most controversy, involves the presence of momentary plasma generated between particles. This experimental study and subsequent discussion advocates the absence of plasma during SPS.
Gender differences of psychological abuse in high school dating relationships

It is becoming increasingly evident that physical abuse is often accompanied by psychological abuse in marital as well as college dating relationships. However, no known research has been conducted to examine psychological abuse in the high school population, nor have gender differences been explored in relationship to psychological abuse of high school students. For this study, the Psychological Maltreatment of Women Inventory (PMWI) has been modified so that it could explore the experiences of psychological abuse of 736 male and female respondents from a large Midwest school.
Goodpasture's syndrome in childhood: Treatment with plasmapheresis and immunosuppression

Goodpasture's syndrome rarely affects children. Therefore, we present our experience in a young boy whose pulmonary hemorrhage was dramatically resolved by three plasma exchanges. We believe the hemorrhage was caused primarily by acute capillaritis. He received cytoxan and steroids and a series of plasma exchanges which removed/suppressed his anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) antibody production. However, after a year, his renal function did not return, and he required renal transplantation and continues to do well.
Knowledge Sharing in Peer-to-Peer Online Communities: The Effects of Recommendation Agents and Community Characteristics

Knowledge sharing (KS) is generally performed in a centralized fashion, through a knowledge repository. However, the centralized knowledge management systems may sometimes cause problems in sharing knowledge. One potential solution is to conduct KS in a decentralized network supported by peer-to-peer technology. While extensive research has been done to address the flaws of current reputation-based feedback mechanisms for promoting knowledge diffusion in peer-to-peer communities, some serious drawbacks of feedback mechanisms, namely dimensionality and interaction-dependency effects, have been overlooked. Using an agent-based simulation, this paper examines these effects while also considering characteristics of the community. Results of our simulation show interesting findings, for example, that negligence of knowledge dimensionality and interaction-dependency in designing reputation mechanisms has a major negative effect on community knowledge performance. Further, more complex knowledge adversely affects community-level diffusion outcomes whereas greater network density improves them.
Computer aided speckle interferometry: a technique for measuring deformation of the surface of the heart.

An investigation of the inhomogeneous and anisotropic properties of myocardium necessitates a whole field measurement technique with high spatial resolution. Computer aided speckle interferometry (CASI) may be applied to measuring deformation on the epicardial surface of the heart. Silicone carbide particles (approximately 40 μm in diameter) were sprinkled randomly onto the epicardial surface of isolated rabbit hearts. When illuminated with white light, speckles may be observed with a charge coupled device (CCD) camera. A balloon was placed in the left ventricle to control the intracavitary load on the arrested heart. To compare CASI to the “gold” standard technique of sonomicrometry, two ultrasonic transducers were implanted into the wall of the myocardium. Three hearts were exposed to various loading conditions, and at each condition speckle images were recorded. CASI was used to determine the distribution of displacement vectors (both direction and magnitude) in the region imaged by the CCD camera. Strain along the axis of the implanted transducers was determined with CASI and compared to that obtained with sonomicrometry. Strain determined from CASI and sonomicrometry produced equivalent results. Unlike sonomicrometry, whereby the displacement between two points with a relatively large gauge length is obtained, CASI is able to determine displacement vectors for hundreds of “points” within the same region. In conclusion, CASI produced equivalent results to those obtained from sonomicrometry (although not with the same temporal resolution), but it is a whole field deformation mapping technique that has a spatial resolution three orders of magnitude higher than that of sonomicrometry. © 2001 Biomedical Engineering Society.
A Precision Non-Linear Analog Transfer Function Generator

A technique for generating driving waveforms having non-linear dependence on an independent variable is described. Forward biased high-conductance silicon diodes are used as feedback elements in an operational amplifier circuit. A FORTRAN time-sharing computer program has been written and used to aid in the selection of circuit components. A radio frequency program generator has been designed and built to provide the drive to a voltage-controlled oscillator as a function of the NAL main accelerator bend magnet current.
A Chironomus tentans bioassay for testing synthetic fuel products and effluents, with data on acridine and quinoline.

Sensitive tests of toxicity to aquatic insects are useful for assessing the effects of potential pollutants on aquatic ecosystems. Within the last few years, research emphasis has included the toxicity of coal-related synthetic fuel products and effluents to aquatic biota. As part of an Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) program to evaluate the environmental effects of synthetic fuel products and effluents, a series of tests is being used to measure the toxicity of whole and fractionated synthetic fuel products and effluents and representative pure compounds (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, and azaarenes) to aquatic organisms. Synthetic fuel materials are complex mixtures of inorganic and organic substances, including aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, and N-, S-, and O-substituted aromatics. By testing fractions and components of whole materials, we can begin to explain observed toxic effects and recommend further treatment to reduce toxicity. Test organisms include freshwater crustaceans (Daphnia pulex and magna), green algae (Selenastrum capricornutum), blue-green algae (Microcystis aeruginosa), snails (Physa heterostropha and Helisoma sp.), fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus), and rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri).
In vitro release of LHRH from the bovine pituitary stalk-median eminence: Alterations during the postpartum period

Abstract Superfusion techniques were developed to investigate in vitro release of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) from the bovine pituitary stalk-median eminence (SME) obtained from suckled beef cows during the postpartum period. Mature beef cows were allotted at random to be slaughtered at either day 5 (n=5), 10 (n=6), 20 (n=6) or 30 (n=5) after calving. After isolation from the brain, the pituitary SME was divided mid-sagittally with one-half of the tissue placed in a vessel containing ice-cold superfusion medium and transported to the laboratory for superfusion. Krebs-Ringer phosphate solution supplemented with BSA, glucose and bacitracin served as the superfusion medium. A 10-min pulse of high K + Krebs-Ringer phosphate medium was passed through the superfusion chamber at two different times to provoke membrane depolarization causing release of LHRH. Treatment of SME tissue with high K + media increased LHRH release over basal pre-K + levels attesting to the viability of the preparation. The maximum K + -induced peak release of LHRH at the first K + pulse was greater on day 5 than day 20. These results indicate that: Dour superfusion system can be used to evaluate releasable pools of LHRH from the bovine pituitary SME, and 2) in vitro release of LHRH in response to K + depolarization is reduced by day 20 postpartum possibly indicating increases in in vivo release between day 5 and day 20.
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) due to Legionnaire's disease

Fevers of unknown origin (FUOs) may be due to any of over 200 different disorders. We present a most unusual case of an FUO in a returning traveler from the Dominican Republic. Work-up for Q fever, Brucellosis, Bartonella, malaria and HIV were negative, but very highly elevated ESRs and ferritin levels suggested possible Legionnaire's disease. This is the third reported case of Legionnaire's disease presenting as an FUO.
Influences of Harvest Date and Location on the Levels of β-Carotene, Ascorbic Acid, Total Phenols, the in Vitro Antioxidant Capacity, and Phenolic Profiles of Five Commercial Varieties of Mango (Mangifera indica L.)

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a tropical fruit grown worldwide with excellent nutritional value and widely attributed health-promoting properties. Extensive studies have been made of the high concentrations of phenolic antioxidants in mango peels, seeds, and leaves, yet less is known about the phenolic antioxidants of mango fruit pulp. Five varieties of mangoes from four countries were evaluated with multiple harvests over 1 year to compare the beta-carotene, ascorbic acid, and total phenolic contents and antioxidant capacities of the fruit pulp and to compare the phenolic profiles of the individual varieties. To minimize ripeness variability, only soft fruit (0.5-1 N compression) with a minimum of 10% soluble solids were used for these measurements. Ascorbic acid ranged from 11 to 134 mg/100 g of pulp puree, and beta-carotene varied from 5 to 30 mg/kg among the five varieties. Total phenolic content ranged from 19.5 to 166.7 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 g of puree. The varieties Tommy Atkins, Kent, Keitt, and Haden had similar total phenolic contents, averaging 31.2+/-7.8 mg GAE/100 g of puree, whereas the variety Ataulfo contained substantially higher values. Similar trends were observed in the DPPH radical scavenging activities among the five varieties. In contrast, the country of origin and harvest dates had far less influence on these parameters. Ataulfo mangoes contained significantly higher amounts of mangiferin and ellagic acid than the other four varieties. Large fruit-to-fruit variations in the concentrations of these compounds occurred within sets of mangoes of the same cultivar with the same harvest location and date.
Response to commentary by Huang et al. regarding “Conceptual model for complex river responses using an expanded Lane's relation” Geomorphology, volume 139–140, March 2012, pages 109–121

In a short communication, Huang et al. (2013) presented arguments for invalidating the expanded Lane's relation that we proposed in Dust and Wohl (2012) and reproposed their approach for modifying the balance schematic of the Lane's relation that they first proposed in Nanson and Huang (2008). We contend that their arguments do not invalidate any aspect of the expanded Lane's relation that we proposed and find, conversely, key aspects of their proposed alternative approach problematic. We provide detailed counter arguments for their key points regarding our proposed expanded Lane's relation and for their proposed alternative approach.
CD8(+) T cell differentiation: choosing a path through T-bet.

Activated CD8+ T cells can differentiate into transient effector cells or long-lived memory cells. In this issue of Immunity, Joshi et al. (2007) suggest that inflammatory cytokines dictate this balance by regulating the expression of the transcription factor T-bet.
Higher-order-mode (HOM) power in elliptical superconducting cavities for intense pulsed proton accelerators

In linacs for intense pulsed proton accelerators, the beam has a multiple time-structure, and each beam time-structure generates resonance. When a higher-order mode (HOM) is near these resonance frequencies, the induced voltage could be large and accordingly the resulting HOM power, too. In order to understand the effects of a complex beam time-structure on the mode excitations and the resulting HOM powers in elliptical superconducting cavities, analytic expressions are developed, with which the beam-induced voltage and corresponding power are explored, taking into account the properties of HOM frequency behavior in elliptical superconducting cavities. The results and understandings from this analysis are presented with the beam parameters of the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) superconducting linac.
Neuroprotection by Acetyl-L-Carnitine after Traumatic Injury to the Immature Rat Brain

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children and is characterized by reduced aerobic cerebral energy metabolism early after injury, possibly due to impaired
Evidence-based treatment of neurocognitive disorders: measured optimism about select outcomes.

here were 35.6 million people living with deTmentia worldwide in 2010, increasing to 65.7 million by 2030 and 115.4 million by 2050. The disease creates a tremendous emotional and economic burden on individuals, family, and society. Worldwide, the estimated costs of informal and formal care, combined, was $604 billion in 2010 (U.S. dollars). Older adults with dementia may commonly present for treatment of dementia and/or comorbid psychiatric symptoms of dementia in geriatric psychiatry settings; indeed, in some individuals psychiatric symptoms may be the early indicator of a dementing disorder. While the search for primary prevention and curative treatment continues, psychopharmacological and psychosocial interventions may provide important benefits in ameliorating specific aspects of the disorder. Five articles in this issue provide insights into the potential benefits and notable limitations of therapies for dementia from an international perspective.
Lipid metabolism in cells grown in tissue culture: O-alkyl, O-alk-1-enyl, and acyl moieties of L-M cells

Abstract 1. 1. The lipid composition of L-M cells, a variant of L-cells that can be grown in a lipid-free, chemically defined medium in the absence of serum, has been determined. The effect of 10% horse serum, a requirement for growth of regular L-strain fibroblasts, on the lipid composition of the L-M cell has also been investigated. The lipid classes of the L-M cells grown on horse serum are quantitatively similar to those of the L-M cells grown on the chemically defined medium; the lipid composition of the cells grown under both conditions is different from that of the horse serum. However, L-M cells utilize fatty acids from the serum since large levels of linoleic acid are found in the lipid classes of those cells grown on horse serum. 2. 2. The L-M cells and the tumors induced by injecting L-M cells into mice are rich sources of glyceryl ethers. Glyceryl ether diesters are most abundant in the L-M cells grown on the chemically defined medium (20% of the neutral lipids), whereas the tumors contain approx. 8% glyceryl ether diesters in the neutral lipid fraction. The phospholipids of L-M cells grown with and without serum and of L-M tumors contain near equal percentages of glyceryl ethers (12.3–15.9%). The O-alkyl and O-alk-1-enyl moieties are saturated or monounsaturated and have chain lengths of 16 and 18 carbon atoms.