cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of morphology on the corrosion inhibition and mechanical properties of hybrid polymer coatings

The durability and mechanical properties of epoxy ester coatings and films has been improved by blending with rigid aromatic polyurea (PU). The interaction of PU and epoxy ester was enhanced by coupling the polymers with polymethylhydrosiloxane. The reactions between various entities are analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the change in physical and mechanical properties are studied by a dynamic mechanical analyzer. The corrosion resistance of the hybrid coatings was measured by direct current polarization method, direct current polarization (DCP). The addition of polymethylhydrosiloxane enhances the corrosion properties in the hybrid coatings. The surface morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The glass transition temperature of the films increases with increasing PU concentration and a wide glass rubber transition range for hybrid coatings was achieved which confirms the higher impact strength of the hybrid coatings and films. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
An experimental and computational study of compact torus formation, decay and heating in the Berkeley Compact Torus Experiment

A spheromak type compact torus (CT) plasma is investigated by studies of the gun type plasma formation mechanism and from the characteristics of the magnetic decay following the establishment of a CT equilibrium in the flux conserver. Radiofrequency heating in the lower hybrid range (432 MHz) is used to study the electron heat confinement using a 20 MW, 100 μs power pulse. While electron temperatures up to 200 eV have been measured with RF heating, the impact on magnetic decay from the RF heating is relatively weak. A simple model based upon parallel electron heat transport along stochastic magnetic field lines gives a scaling law for magnetic decay which fits the experimental data. Results of two dimensional MHD code calculations are given which match many details of the experimentally observed formation physics.
Algeria’s Trade with GAFTA Countries: A Synthetic Control Approach

Arab countries signed the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) agreement in 1998, while Algeria only joined in 2005. In this study, I investigate the counterfactual trade that Algeria would have had with its GAFTA trade partners had it joined the agreement in 1998. I employ synthetic control methods (SCM) in the context of the gravity approach to international trade to estimate this counterfactual outcome. The SCM creates the synthetic control unit based on a weighted average of the past characteristics and trade realizations of the countries that signed the GAFTA agreement and compares the counterfactual trade outcome against the actual outcome of the treated unit, Algeria in our case. Estimation results indicate that Algeria’s trade with nine GAFTA countries, covering more than 96 % of Algeria’s pre-treatment trade, would have improved if Algeria had signed the agreement in 1998.
Adaptation in the function of the superior orbicularis oris muscle

Abstract Electromyographic analysis of the upper lip region of the rhesus monkey demonstrated that nasal obstruction could induce long-term changes in the discharge of certain fibers of the superior orbicularis oris muscle. Normal animals were compared with 14 monkeys which had their noses blocked by nasal plugs. During the first 6 months of adaptation to oral respiration, the muscle was rhythmically recruited. The EMG pattern suggested that the muscle developed its maximum tension early in its discharge at the onset of inspiration. The total discharge, described as tonic activity, was evident in both control and experimental animals, but tended to occur more often in the experimental animals, especially later in the adaptation period to oral respiration. This suggests that synaptic control of motoneurons of the VII cranial nucleus is modified with the need for using the oral cavity as the anterior portal of the upper respiratory tract, and demonstrates a plasticity in the functional adaptation of one facial muscle.
Barriers to intrauterine device insertion in postpartum women.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of postpartum women at the University of New Mexico who choose an IUD for contraception, the number who actually obtain one and the barriers to postpartum IUD insertion. Method We conducted a retrospective chart review of 1627 postpartum women who delivered at the University of New Mexico. Those women who indicated at hospital discharge that they desired an IUD comprised the study group of 193 women. Medical records were reviewed to identify the timing of IUD placement. If an IUD was not inserted, we attempted to determine the reason by reviewing clinic records. Results Twelve percent of postpartum women requested an IUD. Records were available for 114 women. Of these, only 69 (60%) actually obtained an IUD. Barriers to postpartum IUD insertion included provider advice against the IUD, patient failure to return for a postpartum visit and early repeat pregnancy. Conclusion We conclude that postpartum women desiring an IUD may have difficulty obtaining one.
Polycationic photosensitizer conjugates: effects of chain length and Gram classification on the photodynamic inactivation of bacteria

Objectives: We have shown previously that a polycationic conjugate between poly-L-lysine and the photosensitizer chlorin e6 was effective in photodynamic inactivation (PDI) of both Gram- positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In this report we explore the relationship between the size of the polylysine chain and its effectiveness for mediating the killing of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Methods: Conjugates were prepared by attaching precisely one chlorin e6 molecule to the α-amino group of poly-(e-benzyloxycarbonyl)lysines of average length eight and 37 lysine residues, followed by deprotection of the e-amino groups, and were characterized by iso-electric focusing. The uptake of these conjugates and free chlorin e6 by Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 27659) and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (ATCC 29181) after washing was measured as a function of photosensitizer concentration (0-4 µM chlorin e6 equivalent) and incubation time. After incubation the bacteria were exposed to low fluences (10-40 J/cm 2 ) of 660 nm light delivered from a diode laser, and viability was assessed after serial dilutions by a colony- forming assay. Results: S. aureus and E. coli took up comparable amounts of the two conjugates, but free chlorin e6 was only taken up by S. aureus. After illumination S. aureus was killed in a fluence- dependent fashion when loaded with the 8-lysine conjugate and free chlorin e6 but somewhat less so with the 37-lysine conjugate. In contrast, PDI of E. coli was only effective with the 37-lysine conjugate at concentrations up to 4 µM. PDI using the 8-lysine conjugate and free chlorin e6 on E. coli was observed at a concentration of 100 µM. Transmission electron micrographs showed internal electron-lucent areas consistent with chromosomal damage. Conclusion: These results can be explained by the necessity of a large polycation to penetrate the impermeable outer membrane of Gram-negative E. coli, while Gram-positive S. aureus is more easily penetrated by small molecules. However, because S. aureus is more sensitive overall than E. coli the 37-lysine conjugate can effectively kill both bacteria.
The outer membrane of Pasteurella multocida 3:A protects rabbits against homologous challenge.

The protective efficacy of a vaccine purified from the Pasteurella multocida 3:A outer membrane (OM) was evaluated in rabbits by homologous challenge. Twenty-seven rabbits were divided into four groups: 1, vaccinated with OM and challenged; 2, nonvaccinated and challenged; 3, vaccinated with OM only; and 4, nonvaccinated and not challenged. Rabbits were immunized intranasally with 1 mg of OM protein on days 0, 7, 14, and 35, challenged intranasally on day 49, and killed on day 63. Mortality rates were 0, 67, 0, and 0% for groups 1 through 4, respectively. The prevalence of pneumonia was reduced from 73 (group 2) to 20% (group 1). The severity of pneumonia was reduced from 0.62 (group 2) to 0.07 (group 1), as measured by the group lesion index. The number of P. multocida in nasal cavities was reduced from 3.89 x 10(5) (group 2) to 6.19 x 10(2) (group 1). The geometric mean number of P. multocida in lungs was 8,360,000-fold less in group 1 than in group 2. Similarly, the prevalence of P. multocida colonization in nonrespiratory organs was reduced from 47 (group 2) to 4% (group 1). Furthermore, group 1 and 3 rabbits developed significantly elevated immunoglobulin A antibodies in nasal secretions and lung lavages and significantly elevated immunoglobulin G antibodies in lung lavages and sera. In addition, rabbit immune sera contained antibodies against P. multocida OM proteins and lipopolysaccharides and inhibited P. multocida proliferation in mouse lungs. These results indicate that a vaccine prepared from the OM of P. multocida provides a significant protection in rabbits against homologous challenge. Images
Chloroplast symbiosis in a marine ciliate: ecophysiology and the risks and rewards of hosting foreign organelles

Simultaneous use of both heterotrophic and autotrophic metabolism (“mixotrophy”) is common among protists. Strombidium rassoulzadegani is a planktonic mixotrophic marine ciliate that saves chloroplasts from its algal food and obtains a nutritional subsidy via photosynthesis. Cultures from the northeast, northwest, and southwest Atlantic Ocean show similar numerical response parameters (maximum growth rate, food concentration at which growth is half its maximum, and threshold food concentration for growth), and some isolates have been maintained in vitro for over 3 years. This ciliate grows equally well when fed on the green alga Tetraselmis chui (strain PLY429) or the cryptophyte Rhodomonas lens (strain RHODO). It appears to be an obligate mixotroph, requiring both food and light to achieve positive growth, when feeding on either of these algae. However, it has also been grown for several weeks (>10 generations) heterotrophically on the dinoflagellate Prorocentrum minimum (strain EXUV) during which it grows better in dark than in light. In this paper, we review the ecology of S. rassoulzadegani, discuss some aspects of its photo- and feeding physiology, and speculate on benefits and costs to the ciliate of chloroplast symbiosis.
The impact of sediment characteristics on polychlorinated biphenyl -dechlorinating cultures : Implications for bioaugmentation

ABSTRACT Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB)-dechlorinating cultures with complimentary activities, previously derived from estuarine Baltimore Harbor (B), marine Palos Verdes (P), and riverine Hudson River (H) sediments, were mixed and then inoculated into sterile sediments from the same sources. In the treatments containing sterile B sediment, the different inocula had limited impact on the bacterial community development and on dechlorination patterns, all of which were similar. In treatments containing sterile P or H sediment, however, different inocula resulted in significantly different PCB dechlorination patterns and bacterial communities. The B sediment appeared to support not only the most extensive and rapid dechlorination of the three sediments, but also supported a more diverse bacterial community. This was thought to be a result of nutritional richness, as it was high in organic carbon and micronutrients such as zinc and cobalt. Although mixing three PCB–dechlorinating cultures was able to produce...
Overcoming Limitations of the Conventional Strain-Life Fatigue Damage Model

The strain-based approach to fatigue life prediction usually relies on the conventional strain-life equation which correlates the elastic and plastic strain to the life. The correlation is based on separate log-linear curve fits of the elastic and plastic components of the strain data versus the life. It is well known, however, that these linear relationships may be valid only within a specific interval of stress or strain. When material behavior approaches elastic-perfectly plastic, for instance, it is not uncommon for the test data to deviate from linearity at both very high and very low strains. For such materials a separate fit of each curve is likely to give material constants significantly inconsistent with the fit of the cyclic stress-strain curve, especially if a good local fit over a restricted interval is obtained. In this work, some of the errors that arise as a result of this inconsistency are described, and recommended methods are developed for treating these errors. Numerical concerns are also addressed, and sample results are included.
Prediction and Prevention of Treatment-Related Inpatient Hypoglycemia

Background:Prolonged severe hypoglycemia (SH) in hospitalized patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This study was undertaken to identify risk factors for SH, to apply that knowledge to the development of a prediction algorithm, and to institute a prevention program at a tertiary medical center.Methods:We analyzed SH events for 172 patients and developed computer algorithms to predict SH that were tested on a population of 3028 inpatients who were found to have blood glucose (BG) <90 mg/dl during their hospital stay. Variables with significant bivariate associations were entered into partition analyses to identify interactions. Logistic regression was performed by calculating parameters related to the odds of hypoglycemia below each cut point. Sensitivity and specificity were determined at various cut points. The cut points resulting in 50% sensitivity for each hypoglycemia level were determined. These algorithms were tested against the initial 172 adjudicated patients.Results:Var...
The Staub-Traugott phenomenon. III. Effects of starvation.

Improved tolerance with closely spaced successive glucose loads is known as the Straub-Traugott effect. Results of previous studies from this laboratory suggest that this phenomenon is not dependent upon changes in circulating growth hormone or insulin, but may depend on ntltrient induction of essential glycogenic and glycolytic enzymes. To test this thesis, three, hourly spaced, intravenous glucose tolerance tests were administered to obese subjects before and atthe conclusion of a prolonged fast.While a clear Staub-Traugott effect was shown in the fed state, this effect was conspicuously absent after long-term caloric deprivation. Compared to the findings before fasting, insulin levels after prolonged caloric deficit were similat during the initial intravenous glucose challenge but failed to elicit incremental insulin risewith successiveglucose loads,in keeping with earlier suggestions that distinct mechanisms mediate the insulin-initiating and potentiating actions of glucose. After starvation there was greater suppression of plasma free fatty acids and immunoreactive glucagon levels. Initial intravenous glucose tolerance after fasting was either frankly improved or unchanged in all but one cf the subjects studied. Absence of the Staub-Traugott effect after fasting, however, would appear to reflect a failure of nutrient induction of improved glucose metabolism as alterations in glucoregulatory hormones and free fatty acids do not consistently explain the presence or absence of this phenomenon in the different metabolic states so far studied. Am. I. Clin.
Similar subunit architecture of archaeal and eukaryal RNA polymerases.

Protein interactions among RNA polymerase small subunits from the archaeon Methanococcus jannaschii were investigated using affinity pulldown assays in pairwise and higher-order combinations. In the most extensive study of archaeal RNA polymerase subunit interactions to date, including 37 pairs of proteins, 10 ternary combinations, and three quaternary combinations, we found evidence for pairwise interactions of subunit D with subunits L and N, and a ternary complex of subunits D, L and N. No other small subunit interactions occurred. These results are consistent with interactions observed in a crystal structure of eukaryotic RNA polymerase II and support a common archaeal/eukaryal RNA polymerase architecture. We further propose that subunit E″ is not an integral member of archaeal RNA polymerases. Finally, we discuss the relative accuracy of the various methods that have been used to predict protein–protein interactions in RNA polymerase.
Specificity of ligand binding to transport sites: Ca2+ binding to the Ca2+ transport ATPase and its dependence on H+ and Mg2+

Ligand binding to transport sites constitutes the initial step in the catalytic cycle of transport ATPases. Here, we consider the well characterized Ca2+ ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SERCA) and describe a series of Ca2+ binding isotherms obtained by equilibrium measurements in the presence of various H+ and Mg2+ concentrations. We subject the isotherms to statistical mechanics analysis, using a model based on a minimal number of mechanistic steps. The analysis allows satisfactory fits and yields information on occupancy of the specific Ca2+ sites under various conditions. It also provides a fundamental method for analysis of binding specificity to transport sites under equilibrium conditions that lead to tightly coupled catalytic activation.
Second-order generalized Van Vleck perturbation theory calculations of potential energy curves for the dissociation of the C–H bond in methane

Ab initio calculations of the potential energy curve for the dissociation of methane have been performed using second-order generalized Van Vleck multireference perturbation theory (GVVPT2), based on CASSCF reference functions, with the cc-pVDZ and cc-pVTZ basis sets. The results show that the GVVPT2 method provides a correct description of the entire curve, including the region of 2.0–3.0 A, which is known to be problematic even for high-order many-body perturbation theories, including full fourth order. Non-parallelity errors (NPEs) calculated relative to MRCISD show that GVVPT2, MRD-CI extrapolated to full CI, and coupled cluster with iterative triples have curves similar to MRCISD, with NPEs of 4–5 kcal mol−1. The predicted D e of 109.8 kcal mol−1 at the GVVPT2/cc-pVTZ level is in close agreement with that seen at previous high levels of theory, e.g. 109.5 kcal mol−1 at the MRD-CI/6-31G* extrapolated to full CI level and 109.2 kcal mol−1 at the CCSDT-1a/DZP level, and is close to the experimental valu...
Histone deacetylases facilitate sodium/calcium exchanger up-regulation in adult cardiomyocytes

It is becoming increasingly evident that histone deacetylases (HDACs) have a prominent role in the alteration of gene expression during the growth remodeling process of cardiac hypertrophy. HDACs are generally viewed as corepressors of gene expression. However, we demonstrate that class I and class II HDACs play an important role in the basal expression and up-regulation of the sodium calcium exchanger (Ncx1) gene in adult cardiomyocytes. Treatment with the HDAC inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) prevented the pressure-overload-stimulated up-regulation of Ncx1 expression. Overexpression of HDAC5 resulted in the dose-dependent up-regulation of basal and α-adrenergic stimulated Ncx1 expression. We show that Nkx2.5 recruits HDAC5 to the Ncx1 promoter, where HDAC5 complexes with HDAC1. Nkx2.5 also interacts with transcriptional activator p300, which is recruited to the Ncx1 promoter. We demonstrate that when Nkx2.5 is acetylated, it is found associated with HDAC5, whereas deacetylated Nkx2.5 is in complex with p300. Notably, TSA treatment prevents p300 from being recruited to the endogenous Ncx1 promoter, resulting in the repression of Ncx1 expression. We propose a novel model for Ncx1 regulation in which deacetylation of Nkx2.5 is required for the recruitment of p300 and results in up-regulation of exchanger expression.—Chandrasekaran, S., Peterson, R. E., Mani, S. K., Addy, B., Buchholz, A. L., Xu, L., Thiyagarajan, T., Kasiganesan, H., Kern, C. B., Menick, D. R. Histone deacetylases facilitate sodium/calcium exchanger up-regulation in adult cardiomyocytes.
Probing the in Vivo Relevance of Oxidative Stress in Aging Using Knockout and Transgenic Mice

In 1956, Denham Harman, proposed the free radical theory of aging [1]. The free radical theory has since expanded to include not only strictly free radicals but also other forms of activated oxygen such as peroxy nitrite and peroxides. We shall refer to this slightly modified version of the free radical theory as the oxidative stress theory of aging, and use the term reactive oxygen species (ROS) to denote all forms of activated oxygen, including free radicals. In its current form, the oxidative stress hypothesis of aging can be stated as follows [2, 3]: A chronic state of oxidative stress exists in cells of aerobic organisms even under normal physiological conditions. This results in a steady-state accumulation of oxidative damage in a variety of macromolecules. Oxidative damage increases during aging,which results in a progressive loss in the functional efficiency of various cellular processes,ultimately leading to age-related disease and death. The theory has proved remarkably resilient and adaptable: it provides an important mechanistic basis for the rate of living theory, and the two concepts have now essentially merged [2]. Although the oxidative stress theory is currently one of the most popular explanations for how aging occurs at the biochemical level, most of the evidence in its support is correlative.
Contagion Effects and Ethnic Contribution Networks

Many political behavior theories explicitly incorporate the idea that context matters in politics. Nonetheless, the concept of spatial dependence—in particular, that behavior in geographic units is somehow related to and affected by behavior in neighboring areas—is not extensively explored. The study of campaign finance is no exception. Research in this area concentrates on the attributes of the individual donor, leaving context underexplored. Concepts such as contribution networks, for instance, are not rigorously tested. This article reexamines the impact of conventional socio-demographic covariates on campaign donation behavior by ethnic contributors and explicitly models spatial effects. The spatial analysis reveals that patterns of campaign donations are geographically clustered (exhibiting both spatial dependence, implying a neighborhood effect, and spatial heterogeneity, implying a regional effect), and that this clustering cannot be explained completely by socio-economic and demographic variables. While socio-demographic characteristics are important components of the dynamic underlying campaign contributions, there is also evidence consistent with a contagion effect whereby ethnic contribution networks are fueling funds to candidate coffers.
Safety assurance for safety-critical embedded systems: Qualification of tools for complex electronic hardware

In recent decades, multiple application domains emerged that use computational devices embedded in commercial products that are sensitive to safety concerns. They include not only typical areas, such as nuclear technology and aircraft avionics, but also many medical devices, cars, railway transportation, and others. The essential requirements for this kind of products are so strict that they are regulated by respective government agencies, for example FAA and FDA in the U.S. This paper addresses the most important aspects of using software tools for designing complex electronic hardware for such systems and focuses on special assessment criteria for these tools.
VARIATION IN AFRICAN-AMERICAN HOMICIDE RATES: AN ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL EXPLANATIONS*

Using 1990 data for 222 metropolitan areas, this study extends the traditional variables examined in models of homicide and uses regression analysis to test the viability of three alternative theories that may explain high rates of African-American homicide victimization. The first approach examines the extent to which weak forms of social control have contributed to high homicide rates. The second approach tests the notion that discrimination and inequality have increased levels of absolute and relative deprivation for blacks, which in turn engender frustration and contribute to higher levels of violence. The third approach posits that engagement in violent activity may be a rational act for young African-American males faced with the reality of highly limited economic opportunities. While all three approaches contribute to explaining high African-American homicide, this study shows the greatest support for the social control explanation.
A Double-Angular Propagation Model With Cluster Scattering

A statistical multipath propagation model is developed in the double-angular domain to include effects of both angle of departure and angle of arrival. The model is characterized by a discrete stochastic double-angular spectrum of the Green's function between two volumes that communicate with each other in the presence of cluster scattering. The whole modeling process is a combination of theories, assumptions, and numerical verification by rigorous full wave electromagnetic simulations. Notably, an uncorrelated scattering assumption for received fields is extended to the double-angular domain, and the transport theory plays a key role defining the statistical properties of the spectrum of the Green's function. The spectrum is eventually modeled as a random matrix whose entries are uncorrelated zero-mean complex Laplacian random variables. The real and imaginary parts of the matrix entries are independent and identically distributed, and the variance profile follows the reduced incident intensity of the waves through random media. The parameters of the model are completely obtained from bulk statistical knowledge of the scattering environments, and the resulting model demonstrates good performance on EM DOF and MIMO capacity estimation.
CTL escape - progress in identifying therapeutic avenues to control HIV viraemia

The central role of HIV-specific cellular immunity in controlling HIV replication is now established. Knowledge of how the virus in the majority of infected persons successfully evades these immune responses is critical to vaccine design. Virus escape from recognition by HIV-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses has been a contentious issue for almost a decade, but recent data from the SIV macaque model of HIV infection suggest that CTL escape is a major factor in AIDS pathogenesis. This review describes the challenges to investigating CTL escape in HIV infection, and discusses the implications of recent studies in macaques and humans to improving our understanding of how effective immune-mediated control of HIV may ultimately be achieved.
Cleaving to Clients and Colleagues: Attorney Liability for Tortious Interference

Are you an attorney who is thinking about soliciting clients of a competing law firm or leaving your current firm and taking clients and colleagues with you? You should pause before doing so and consider the possibility of being liable for a claim of tortious interference. This short article explains when attorneys could be liable for tortious interference and discusses several acts that are improper and actionable (such as taking client files with you).
Atomic Force Microscopy of Olivine

To investigate the processes behind the space weathering of asteroids and meteorites, we examined polished and irradiated samples of a common asteroidal mineral, olivine, with the atomic force microscope. To simulate the weathering that would take place in the space environment, we bombarded the olivine with 1 keV H+ and 4 keV He+ ions in ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Prior to the ion bombardment, the mineral samples were fitted with electron microscopy grids to enable comparison of exposed portions of the surface immediately adjacent to protected areas. To contrast these results with an atomically flat surface, freshly cleaved mica was bombarded in a similar fashion. Olivine surfaces exposed to the ions swelled up in contrast to mica surfaces, which were eroded by bombardment. The change in surface roughness of olivine samples was evaluated, increasing about 300% under H+ bombardment and 2000% under He+ bombardment.
US Pension Funds' Labour Friendly Investments

Pension funds can be thought of as deferred workers wages. In many cases occupational pension funds have been established at the bargaining table through union representation. While all pension funds are established for the benefit of the pension plan beneficiaries, these deferred workers wages also have a significant impact on the communities in which they are invested. Labor friendly investments seek to direct the impacts of investment in a manner that creates strong and healthy communities and supports union or fair wage employment practices. Labor friendly pension funds in the US are generally either Taft-Hartley pension plans (jointly trusteed or union trusteed multi-employer plans) or public sector pension funds with a significant presence of union trustees. These funds often have a range of labor friendly policies and programs aimed at building strong and healthy communities. Such programs include responsible contractors' policies, responsible investors' policies, and specific allocations for targeted (or economically targeted) investments in their investment portfolio. These targeted investments often require union built construction (in the case of real estate or fixed income mortgage backed securities) or are aimed at job creation and retention (in the case of private equity investments). This paper explores the evolution of labor friendly US investments by pension funds in the period since the downturn of the financial markets in 2001. It argues that both pension funds and investment vehicles that bring intentional targeting to their investments are becoming increasingly sophisticated financial players. Labor friendly investments that focus on risk adjusted rates of return as the driver for investment are increasingly able to point to strong track records that encourage a wide range of pension fund investors to engage with these vehicles and practices.
The Reduction of Implant-Related Errors and Waste in Total Knee Arthroplasty Using a Novel, Computer Based, e.Label and Compatibility System

INTRODUCTION Wasted implants represent both an increased risk and cost to our healthcare system. In our institution, a sterilely packaged implant that is opened and not implanted is wasted in one out of 20 primary total knee replacement procedures. The cost of these wasted implants exceeds $1 million per year. We propose the introduction of a novel, computer based, e.Label and compatibility system to reduce implant-related medical errors and waste in total knee arthroplasty. We hypothesize that the implementation of this system will help reduce medical errors and wasted implants by improving and standardizing the visual markers and by ensuring that parts are compatible so that implant mismatches and inappropriate laterality are prevented. METHODS A software program was implemented which creates an e.Label for all components (Figure 1) and checks imbedded, manufacturer provided, compatibility charts to ensure that parts are of appropriate laterality, and are compatible with each other. Upon implementation, the program was studied prospectively for seven months and compared to a retrospective cohort in regards to number, type, and cost of wasted implants. Critical errors that were detected were also recorded. RESULTS During the retrospective period there were 83 wasted implants in 1450 surgeries, or an incidence of 5.7%. After implementation of the computer based system, there were two wasted implant in 244 surgeries performed by the study physicians, or an incidence of 0.8% (Figure 2). One critical medical error was identified and prevented during the study period (Figure 3). The annualized cost savings from this decrease in wasted implants was over $200,000 among our six study surgeons. CONCLUSION The introduction of this system was able to prevent at least one serious medical error, while dramatically decreasing the number and cost of wasted implants in our institution. Implementation on a larger scale may provide potential for safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective orthopaedic care.
Lymphocyte-Specific Protein 1 Expression in Eukaryotic Cells Reproduces the Morphologic and Motile Abnormality of NAD 47/89 Neutrophils

Despite its name, the actin-binding protein lymphocyte-specific protein1 (LSP1) is found in all hematopoetic cells, and yet its role in cell function remains unclear. Recently, LSP1 was identified as the 47-kD protein overexpressed in the polymorphonuclear neutrophils of patients with a rare neutrophil disorder, neutrophil actin dysfunction with abnormalities of 47-kD and 89-kD proteins (NAD 47/89). These neutrophils are immotile, defective in actin polymerization in response to agonists, and display distinctive, fine, "hairlike" F-actin-rich projections on their cell surfaces. We now show that overexpression of LSP1 produces F-actin bundles that are likely responsible for the morphologic and motile abnormalities characteristic of the NAD 47/89 phenotype. Coincident with LSP1 overexpression, cells from each of several different eukaryotic lines, including a highly motile human melanoma line, develop hairlike surface projections that branch distinctively and contain F-actin and LSP1. The hairlike projections are supported at their core by thick actin bundles, composed of actin filaments of mixed polarity, which periodically anastomose to generate a branching structure. The motility of the melanoma cells is inhibited even at low levels of LSP1 expression. Therefore, these studies show that overexpression of LSP1 alone can recreate the morphologic and motile defects seen in NAD 47/89 and suggest that LSP1 is distinct from other known actin binding proteins in its effect on F-actin network structure.
Retrosigmoid Craniotomy for Auditory Brainstem Implantation in Adult Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 2.

Objective To report our technique and experience using a retrosigmoid craniotomy approach for auditory brainstem implantation (ABI) placement in adult neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) patients. Design Retrospective case series. Setting Single-center study, Boston, Massachusetts, United States. Participants All NF2 patients who underwent evaluation at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital from 2009 to 2013 were reviewed. Six cases of retrosigmoid craniotomy for ABI surgery in five adult NF2 patients were identified. The clinical history, operative course, and outcomes in these patients were reviewed. Main Outcome Measures Postoperative complications and audiological outcomes. Results Indications for ABI surgery were profound hearing loss associated with growth or treatment of bilateral vestibular schwannomas. In all cases, a retrosigmoid craniotomy was performed for tumor resection and ABI placement without complication. Electrode placement was confirmed intraoperatively using electrical-evoked auditory brainstem responses. The ABI was activated in the awake patient 4 to 6 weeks postoperatively. Audiological testing was used to evaluate sound detection and speech perception with the ABI. There were no cases of cerebrospinal fluid leak. Conclusion Retrosigmoid craniotomy is a safe and effective means to provide access to the cochlear nucleus for ABI placement following tumor resection in the adult NF2 patient. Preliminary data indicate that this approach has few complications while offering benefits for hearing. The retrosigmoid craniotomy should be considered a reasonable alternative to the traditional translabyrinthine approach for placement of the ABI in deaf patients who are not candidates for the cochlear implant.
Estimation of Parameters of Converging Overland Flow Model

The converging overland flow model contains five parameters, three geometric and two kinematic. An attempt is made in this study to estimate these parameters utilizing watershed topographic characteristics. By applying the model, with parameters estimated in the proposed fashion, to natural agricultural watersheds, its potential in the prediction of surface runoff is indicated.
Ministry to US Catholic LGBTQ Youth: A Call for More Openness and Affirmation

This article evaluates the current Catholic youth ministry practice to, with, and for Catholic LGBTQ youth. The methodology utilized is both descriptive and prescriptive, and calls into question the lack of ministerial presence afforded to Catholic LGBTQ youth. The essay briefly examines the official ecclesiastical documents on homosexuality and their relevance for LGBTQ youth. Next it assesses the major US ecclesial youth ministry document, Renewing the Vision, and calls for its renewal and revision. In particular the article offers concrete recommendations for the two areas of Catholic youth ministry—advocacy and pastoral care—that would have the most positive impact for LGBTQ youth and Catholic youth ministry. Finally, the article calls for the US Catholic bishops, youth ministers, and parents to be more open and affirming with LGBTQ youth and provides some practical suggestions.
LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE OCCLUSION DEVICE AND NOVEL ORAL ANTICOAGULANTS VERSUS WARFARIN FOR STROKE PREVENTION IN NON-VALVULAR ATRIAL FIBRILLATION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROL TRIALS

Different strategies have been evaluated for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). We sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of different approaches compared to standard therapy with warfarin. We conducted electronic database searches of phase III
Optical Properties and Structure of Defects in Silica Glass

This paper reviews what is known about the structures and optical properties of point defects in silica glass and other amorphous forms of SiO2. The available structural information derives mainly from the results of electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrometry-a method which is directly applicable only to the subclass of defects which are paramagnetic. The intrinsic paramagnetic centers so far identified by ESR include E' centers (≡Si·), nonbridging-oxygen hole centers (≡Si-O·), peroxy radicals (≡Si-O-O·), and self-trapped holes. Examples of intrinsic diamagnetic defects believed to occur in silica in include neutral oxygen vacancies (≡Si-Si≡), two-coordinated silicone (O-Si-O-), and peroxy linkages (≡Si-O-O-Si≡). The most common extrinsic defects are associated with hydroxyl and chloride impurities. Radiolytically induced H0 and H2 play important roles in the post-irradiation growth and decay kinetics of defects in glasses containing_??_100ppm OH. A compendium of ESR/optical correlations taken from the literature points to the most likely origins of many defect-related optical absorption bands in the visible, ultraviolet and vacuumultraviolet spectral regions. Others of these bands have been ascribed to interstitial O2, O3 and Cl2 molecules on the basis of similarities of their spectral positions and widths to those of the corresponding species in the gas phase.
Experimental of effects of boiler structures and burner models on NO_x emission from coal-fired boiler

The emissions of boilers with different furnace forms and burners were measured to analyze the effect of boiler structures and burner models on NOx emission.Analysis results show that the NOx emission of W-flame boiler is the highest.The boiler of quadrilateral tangential combustion fashion with direct-current burner is the second.The NOx emission of boiler with revolving combustion burner using low-NOx technology is more lower.The NOx emission of CFB boiler is the lowest,because of its low combustion temperature.The boiler with quadrilateral tangential combustion fashion burning bituminous coal emits less NOx than the boiler burning lean coal.Burner retrofitting on two existing boilers gives positive results on combustion stability,combustion efficiency increase,and NOx emission reduction.
Chorangiosis of Chorionic Villi: What Does It Really Mean?

Context.—Chorangiosis has been regarded as a result of low-grade placental hypoxia associated with pregnancy risk factors and abnormal outcomes. It is unknown whether these are a consequence of chorangiosis itself or of associated other placental pathology. Objective.—To prove that chorangiosis itself does not portend an increased risk for pregnancy unless associated with other placental pathology. Design.—This retrospective statistical study analyzes 1231 consecutive placentas with diffuse or focal hypervascularity of chorionic villi: 328 with preuterine pattern of chronic hypoxic placental injury (group 1), 297 with uterine type of chronic hypoxic placental injury (group 2), and 606 cases with chorangiosis (group 3) not fulfilling the inclusion criteria for groups 1 or 2. Results.—Group 2, with 33 cases of chorangiosis (11.1%), featured 10 and 11 statistically significant highest percentages of abnormal clinical and placental variables, respectively; group 3 featured the highest percentages of multiple ...
Developing Problem-Solving Heuristics in the Middle School: A Qualitative Study

The purpose of this qualitative study was to document the development of heuristics for mathematics problem solving using a variety of instructional techniques. Heuristics generally refers to follo...
Q-Optimized Lateral Free-Free Beam Micromechanical Resonators

Laterally vibrating free-free beam micromechanical resonators have been demonstrated that utilize second-mode flexural supports and optimal dc-bias application to suppress anchor dissipation and thereby attain Q’s greater than 10,000 at 10.47 MHz, while eliminating some of the key deficiencies associated with previous vertical-mode resonators. In addition to demonstrating lateral FF-beams, this work utilizes these resonators to quantify the degree to which the use of energy isolating supports actually influences the Q of this device.
Quantum Chemical Analysis of the CO-HNN+ Proton-Bound Complex.

Proton-bound complexes produce exceptionally bright vibrational modes for stretches involving the hydrogen atom. Binding a proton between various arrangements of N2 and carbon monoxide molecules is known to produce such behavior, and there are four distinct structures involving N2, CO, and a proton. The problem arises in that all four have the same mass and are, consequently, extremely difficult, if not impossible, to resolve experimentally. Fortunately, quantum chemical predictions have produced accurate descriptions of this bright mode and other spectral features for OCHCO+, NNHNN+, and NN–HCO+. The last of this family to be analyzed is CO–HNN+, which is done here. Utilizing high-level coupled cluster computations and quartic force fields, the bright vibrational mode of CO–HNN+ is shown to shift to the red, and the C–O bond is destabilized in this arrangement as opposed to the lower-energy NN–HCO+ isomer studied previously. Furthermore, the 1.87 D center-of-mass dipole moment, spectroscopic constants, a...
Survey and development on fault diagnosis in distribution network with distributed generators

The access of distributed generator (DG) is inevitable in the construction of smart distribution network, but it will cause original fault-diagnosis methods failure. In this paper, based on deeply analysis of diagnosis information structure in distribution network with DGs, study fruits within the domain at home and abroad are surveyed. Firstly, from the aspects of accuracy and rapidity, the main evaluation index and impact factors for fault diagnosis methods are pointed out. Then, the paper analyzes the basic concepts, general principles, sources of information and implementations about fault diagnosis in distribution network with DGs, and classifies the existing technology at home and abroad into three categories including matrix operation type, indicator comparison type and intelligent reasoning type. The principle, merit and demerit, application and limitations are researched separately for each type. In the end, problems in today's technology are pointed out and prospects are made for further development.
Noise reduction for Multi-Harmonic Phase Analysis of gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging

Multi-Harmonic Phase Analysis (MHPA) has been developed for heart failure prognosis by reliably measuring left-ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony from conventional gated single photon emission tomography (GSPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Although MHPA has been evaluated in multiple clinical studies, its accuracy can be limited under highly noisy conditions. The purpose of this study is to develop a 4D postreconstruction method for suppressing noise in GSPECT MPI data. SPECT images acquired at different temporal points were first registered to the same point. By summing the registered images, the uncorrelated noise was greatly reduced and the myocardial signals were strengthened. The same process then repeated for different temporal points. A deformable registration with a simulated annealing optimization scheme was implemented in this work. The proposed method was evaluated using a simulation study on an extended cardiac torso phantom (XCAT). The projection data were first calculated analytically and Poisson noise was added with a level matching that in clinical data. An ordered subsets expectation maximization (OSEM) algorithm was used in the reconstruction. The comparison of SPECT images without versus with the noise reduction showed that the proposed noise reduction method increased the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by an average factor of ∼2.3. Our approach was able to substantially reduce image noise without losing faithful information of myocardial activities. The next step is to use this method to reduce noise in clinical GSPECT MPI data to improve the accuracy of MHPA, especially in a region with severe myocardial scar.
A comparison of the performance of the CSM-CERES-Maize and EPIC models using maize variety trial data

Abstract Multiple crop models are now being used in climate change impact studies. However, calibration of these models with local data is still important, but often this information is not available. This study determined the feasibility of using maize variety trial data for the evaluation of the CSM-CERES-Maize and EPIC models. The models were calibrated using observed grain yield from variety trials conducted in Blairsville, Calhoun, Griffin, Midville, Plains, and Tifton, Georgia, USA. The software program GenCALC was used to calibrate the yield component coefficients of CSM-CERES-Maize, while the coefficients for EPIC were manually adjusted. The criteria for evaluating the performance of the two crop models included the slope of linear regression, R2, d-stat, and RMSE. Following model calibration and evaluation, both models were used to simulate rainfed and irrigated grain yield during 1958 to 2012 for the same six locations that were used for model evaluation. The differences between the simulations of CSM-CERES-Maize and observations were no more than 3% for calibration and no more than 8% for evaluation. However, the differences between the simulations of EPIC and observations ranged from 2% to 23% for calibration and evaluation, which was larger than for the CSM-CERES-Maize model. This analysis showed that calibration of CSM-CERES-Maize was slightly superior than EPIC for some cultivars. Although this study only used observed grain yield for calibration and evaluation, the results showed that both calibrated models can provide fairly accurate simulations. Therefore, it can be concluded that limited data sets from maize variety trials can be used for model calibration when detailed data from growth analysis studies are not readily available.