Sequential treatment for proctalgia fugax. Mid-term follow-up.

PubMed

Gracia Solanas, J A; Ramírez Rodríguez, J M; Elía Guedea, M; Aguilella Diago, V; Martínez Díez, M

2005-07-01

Proctalgia fugax (PF) is a benign, self-limiting disease characterized by episodes of intense anorectal pain at frequent intervals in the absence of organic proctological disease. Even though PF was described more than a century ago, its etiology remains unclear. Currently there is no information available. Few papers quoting many ways of management have been published. The aim of this study was to investigate patients complaining of this condition and to treat them with sequential therapy. We devised a descriptive, prospective study of patients complaining of acute perianal pain--duration less than 30 minutes--without organic disease or previous perianal surgery since 1996 to 2002 in our Department. We treated these patients using a three-step treatment (1: information, hip bath, benzodiazepines; 2: sublingual nifedipine 10 mg, or topic 0.1% nitroglycerin on demand; 3: internal anal sphincterotomy if hypertrophy of the internal anal sphincter was demonstrated by anal ultrasonography and no improvement was confirmed with the previous steps of treatment). We defined remarkable improvement as a decrease in the number of episodes by half or in pain intensity by 50%. Fifteen patients with an average follow-up of 4 years. Anal endosonography confirmed a grossly thickened internal anal sphincter (IAS) in 5 cases. After the first step of treatment 7 patients improved and 1 patient was cured; after the second step of treatment 3 patients improved and 1 was cured; the third step was applied to 3 patients with a thickened IAS; 1 patient improved and 1 patient was cured. A total resolution of PF is not always possible, but we may improve symptoms and their frequency. Almost 50% of patients in our series improved with the first step of treatment; 30% of our patients had IAS hypertrophy. Anal endosonography can help in the diagnosis of organic diseases or IAS hypertrophy, for which we can perform an internal anal sphincter myectomy.

[Treatment of proctalgia fugax with botulinum toxin: results in 5 patients].

PubMed

Sánchez Romero, A M; Arroyo Sebastián, A; Pérez Vicente, F A; Serrano Paz, P; Candela Polo, F; Calpena Rico, R

2006-03-01

Proctalgia fugax can be defined as transitory but recurrent anal pain. Although its etiology remains unknown, an internal anal sphincter spasm seems to be the most likely, so that the different treatments focus on reducing the pressure of the internal anal sphincter. This study is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of botulinum A toxin in the treatment of proctalgia fugax. Prospective clinical trial of patients with proctalgia fugax treated with botulinum A toxin at the Outpatient Clinic attached to the Coloproctogy Unit, University Hospital of Elche, from January 1999 to January 2002. The patients included in the study underwent rectal digital examination, anuscopy, rectoscopy, anal manometry and ultrasonography, barium enema and pelvic CT scan to rule out any organic cause for anal pain. The treatment consisted of 25 IU of botulinum A toxin, with a supplementary dose of 50 IU in those patients with persistence of anal pain episodes within the next two months. The patients were reviewed on the first week, second month, sixth month and first and second year. Anal pain was measured by the patients, using a linear analogue scale from 0 to 10, and continence was assessed at every visit using the Cleveland Continence Grading Scale. Five patients were recluted for the study, with a predominance of females (4 vs. 1). Mean age was 45 years. Length of symptoms prior to the treatment was 13 months (range: 6-18 months). Only one female patient required a second dose of botulinum A toxin to handle the anal pain. All the patients healed and remained free of pain up to finishing the follow-up. There were no local complications. Anal manometry showed an increased MRP (mean resting pressure) in comparison to a control group of patients (114 mmHg vs. 66 mmHg; p < 0.001) that restore to normal values after the treatment (75.65 mmHg). As for the MSP (mean squeeze pressure), it showed no difference with respect to the control group nor did it vary after the treatment. Botulinum A

[Proctalgia fugax. Differential diagnosis and therapy of fleeting anal cramp].

PubMed

Staude, G

1992-05-30

Proctalgia fugax--short-lived anal spasm--is a common, extremely unpleasant, painful condition that occurs completely unexpectedly, often waking the victim at night. Scientific assessment is difficult on account of the functional nature of the condition and its multifactorial genesis. Before the patient is labeled "anal neurotic", however, he/she should be investigated by a specialist. The results of treating the rarely absent pathological organic findings give rise to optimism.

Proctalgia fugax: demographic and clinical characteristics. What every doctor should know from a prospective study of 54 patients.

PubMed

de Parades, Vincent; Etienney, Isabelle; Bauer, Pierre; Taouk, Milad; Atienza, Patrick

2007-06-01

This prospective study was designed to describe a typical attack of proctalgia fugax. Patients were recruited from May 2003 to June 2004. Whatever the reason for consultation, they were systematically asked: "Do you ever suffer intermittent and recurring anorectal pain lasting for at least three seconds?" If the answer was yes, they were interviewed with a questionnaire and had a proctologic examination. The criterion for proctalgia fugax was a positive answer with a negative examination. The study included 1,809 patients. Fifty-four of these patients (3 percent) had proctalgia fugax and 83 percent of them had never sought medical advice for this problem. The mean age was 51 (range, 18-87) years. Thirty-seven patients were females (69 percent). The onset of pain was sudden and without a trigger factor in 85 percent of cases. Attacks occurred in the daytime (33 percent) as well as at night (35 percent). The pain was described as cramping, spasm-like, or stabbing in 76 percent of cases. It did not radiate in 93 percent of cases. There were no concomitant symptoms in 81 percent of cases. Attacks stopped spontaneously in 67 percent of cases. The average duration was 15 minutes (range, 5 seconds to 90 minutes). The average annual number of attacks was 13 (range, 1-180). Proctalgia fugax affects twice as many females as males at approximately aged 50 years. Commonly the roughly once-monthly attack occurs as a sudden pain with no trigger factor, diurnally as often as nocturnally. The nonradiating cramp, spasm, or stabbing pain, without concomitant symptoms, is most severe on average after 15 minutes and declines spontaneously.

[Proctalgia Fugax--what's new over the last 100 years?].

PubMed

Amosi, Doron; Werbin, Nachum; Skornick, Yehuda; Greenberg, Ron

2004-05-01

Proctalgia Fugax is a benign, self-limiting disease characterized by episodes of intense pain in the anorectal area occurring at infrequent intervals. It is common, but most suffers do not seek medical advice. Although its classical symptomatology was describe more than a century ago, the etiology is unclear. Theories regarding the etiology have centered on alteration in the internal anal sphincter function and morphology. For most patients after gathering a detailed history, reassurance and warm baths will suffice. In persistent cases therapies that induce internal anal sphincter relaxation are the main treatment modalities.

Anorectal pain and irritation: anal fissure, levator syndrome, proctalgia fugax, and pruritus ani.

PubMed

Vincent, C

1999-03-01

Anal fissures, proctalgia fugax, levator ani syndrome, and pruritus ani are common causes of anorectal pain and irritation. The clinician who obtains a thorough history and performs a complete examination can accurately diagnose these disorders. Ancillary tests seldom are helpful and rarely are necessary. Most patients suffering from these conditions readily respond to conservative therapy provided in the primary care practitioner's office.

Hereditary vacuolar internal anal sphincter myopathy causing proctalgia fugax and constipation: a new case contribution.

PubMed

de la Portilla, Fernando; Borrero, Juan José; Rafel, Enrique

2005-03-01

Hereditary anal sphincter myopathy is rare. We present a family with one affected member with proctalgia fugax, constipation and internal anal sphincter hypertrophy. Ultrastructural findings show vacuolization of smooth muscle cells without the characteristic polyglucosan inclusion. Further relief of symptoms was obtained using an oral calcium antagonist. Based on clinical presentation, endosonography and morphological findings, we consider our case is a histological variant of the vacuolar myopathy originally described.

Proctalgia fugax.

PubMed

Thompson, W G

1981-12-01

Proctaglia fugax is a sudden severe pain in the rectum lasting a few seconds or minutes. It seems to occur in about 14% of apparently healthy adults, and there is some evidence that it is associated with the irritable bowel syndrome. The pathogenesis of the pain is unknown. Attacks are usually too brief and infrequent to warrant treatment, and no prophylactic drug has been proven effective. It is incurable but harmless, and tends to become less frequent with age.

Internal anal sphincter myopathy causing proctalgia fugax and constipation: further clinical and radiological characterization in a patient.

PubMed

Guy, R J; Kamm, M A; Martin, J E

1997-02-01

We report a case of a distinctive familial internal anal sphincter myopathy with unique histological and radiological features. A 67-year-old woman presented with a 20-year history of proctalgia fugax and outlet obstruction; other family members were similarly affected. Computed tomograpy and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a grossly hypertrophied internal anal sphincter. Strip myectomy of the sphincter was carried out with improvement in evacuation but little relief of proctalgia. Further relief of symptoms was obtained using oral and transdermal nitrates and a calcium antagonist. Histological examination of the excised muscle revealed hypertrophy and an abnormal arrangement of fibres in whorls; many fibres contained vacuoles with inclusion bodies positive for periodic acid-Schiff. This description of a specific anal sphincter myopathy illustrates the potential importance of histopathological studies of smooth muscle in functional disorders of the gut.

Hereditary proctalgia fugax and constipation: report of a second family.

PubMed Central

Celik, A F; Katsinelos, P; Read, N W; Khan, M I; Donnelly, T C

1995-01-01

A second family with hereditary proctalgia fugax and internal anal sphincter hypertrophy associated with constipation is described. Anorectal ultrasonography, manometry, and sensory tests were conducted in two symptomatic and one asymptomatic subjects within the same family and further clinical information was obtained from other family members. The inheritance would correspond to an autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetration, presenting after the second decade of life. Physiological studies showed deep, ultraslow waves and an absence of internal anal sphincter relaxation on rectal distension in the two most severely affected family members, suggesting the possibility of a neuropathic origin. Both of these patients had an abnormally high blood pressure. After treatment with a sustained release formulation of the calcium antagonist, nifedipine, their blood pressure returned to normal, anal tone was reduced, and the frequency and intensity of anal pain was suppressed. These together improved the quality of the patients' sleep, which had previously been very troubled because of night time attacks of anal pain. PMID:7737568

Hereditary proctalgia fugax and constipation: report of a second family.

PubMed

Celik, A F; Katsinelos, P; Read, N W; Khan, M I; Donnelly, T C

1995-04-01

A second family with hereditary proctalgia fugax and internal anal sphincter hypertrophy associated with constipation is described. Anorectal ultrasonography, manometry, and sensory tests were conducted in two symptomatic and one asymptomatic subjects within the same family and further clinical information was obtained from other family members. The inheritance would correspond to an autosomal dominant condition with incomplete penetration, presenting after the second decade of life. Physiological studies showed deep, ultraslow waves and an absence of internal anal sphincter relaxation on rectal distension in the two most severely affected family members, suggesting the possibility of a neuropathic origin. Both of these patients had an abnormally high blood pressure. After treatment with a sustained release formulation of the calcium antagonist, nifedipine, their blood pressure returned to normal, anal tone was reduced, and the frequency and intensity of anal pain was suppressed. These together improved the quality of the patients' sleep, which had previously been very troubled because of night time attacks of anal pain.

Use of botulinum A toxin for proctalgia fugax—a case report of successful treatment

PubMed Central

Grigoriou, Marios; Ioannidis, Aristeidis; Efthimiadis, Christoforos

2017-01-01

Abstract Proctalgia fugax is considered as intermittent anal pain of unknown etiology; a variety of treatments have been used, without, however, permanent results. Injection of botulinum A toxin is recently suggested as an alternative option. We present the case of a woman presenting proctalgia fugax that was untreatable through other current forms of treatment. After two administrations of botulinum A toxin, 80 units and 100 units each, the patient remained asymptomatic on 8-month follow-up control. Botulinum A toxin injection can reduce internal anal sphincter pressure, leading to relief of symptoms, and seems a promising option with minimal morbidity in cases on proctalgia fugax that does not respond to other current treatments. PMID:29218214

Proctalgia fugax, an evidence-based management pathway.

PubMed

Jeyarajah, Santhini; Chow, Andre; Ziprin, Paul; Tilney, Henry; Purkayastha, Sanjay

2010-09-01

Proctalgia fugax (PF) is a benign anorectal condition which has been described in the literature since the nineteenth century commonly presenting to general surgeons. There is little high level evidence on the subject and its therapeutic modalities. We aimed through this systematic literature review to outline the definition and diagnostic criteria of this condition, the aetiology and differential diagnoses and describe the different treatment modalities that have been attempted and their success. A literature search of Google Scholar and Medline using Pubmed as the search engine was used to identify all studies directly related to the definition, aetiology and treatment options for this condition (latest at 12 August 2008) was performed. The search produced 61 references with three others obtained from the references of these papers. The prevalence of PF in the general population ranges from 4% to 18%. The diagnosis is based on the presence of characteristic symptoms as defined by Rome III guidelines and physical examination. The mainstay of treatment is reassurance and careful counselling with evidence in the literature for warm baths, topical treatment with glyceryl trinitrate or diltiazem and salbutamol inhalation. In persistent cases, local anaesthetic blocks, clonidine or Botox injections can be considered after clarification of risk and benefit. Based on this we suggest that diagnosis should be made through exclusion of common organic causes such as haemorrhoids, anal fissure or anorectal carcinoma and on the fulfillment of Rome III criteria. The main treatment for this benign condition remains reassurance and topical treatment.

[Irritable bowel syndrome, levator ani syndrome, proctalgia fugax and chronic pelvic and perineal pain].

PubMed

Watier, Alain; Rigaud, Jérôme; Labat, Jean-Jacques

2010-11-01

To define functional gastrointestinal pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), levator ani syndrome, proctalgia fugax, the pathophysiology of these syndromes and the treatments that can be proposed. Review of articles published on the theme based on a Medline (PubMed) search and consensus conferences selected according to their scientific relevance. IBS is very common. Patients report abdominal pain and/or discomfort, bloating, and abnormal bowel habit (diarrhoea, constipation or both), in the absence of any structural or biochemical abnormalities. IBS has a complex, multifactorial pathophysiology, involving biological and psychosocial interactions resulting in dysregulation of the brain-gut axis associated with disorders of intestinal motility, hyperalgesia, immune disorders and disorders of the intestinal bacterial microflora and autonomic and hormonal dysfunction. Many treatments have been proposed, ranging from diet to pharmacology and psychotherapy. Patients with various types of chronic pelvic and perineal pain, especially those seen in urology departments, very often report associated IBS. This syndrome is also part of a global and integrated concept of pelviperineal dysfunction, avoiding a rigorous distinction between the posterior segment and the midline and anterior segments of the perineum. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Proctalgia fugax in patients with the irritable bowel, peptic ulcer, or inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Thompson, W G

1984-06-01

One hundred forty-eight patients with gastrointestinal disease, 50 patients with the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and 49 each with peptic ulcer and inflammatory bowel disease, were interviewed to determine if they had proctalgia fugax (PF) and if the symptom was associated with the IBS. One-third of the patients had PF. It occurred in 51% of females and 12% of males (p less than 0.001). When corrected for sex, PF was no more prevalent in IBS than in peptic ulcer or inflammatory bowel disease. Only two of six previously described IBS symptoms were more prevalent in the PF patients. Attacks occurred in the day in 94%, and one-third of sufferers related them to defecation. The pain was localized in the anus in 90%, occurred less than five times a year in 51%, and lasted less than 1 min in 57%. In most, activity was not interrupted by this pain and only 20% had ever reported it to a physician. PF is very common among patients with abdominal symptoms, but is not related to the IBS. Since it is infrequent, benign, and transient, PF is usually not mentioned to the physician.

[Evidence of pudendal neuropathy in Proctalgia Fugax: perineal neurophysiological assessment in 55 patients].

PubMed

Damphousse, M; Jousse, M; Verollet, D; Guinet, A; Le Breton, F; Lacroix, P; Sheik Ismael, S; Amarenco, G

2012-04-01

Proctalgia fugax (PF) is a very common condition especially in women. Causes and pathophysiological mechanisms of PF are unknown. Recently, a pudendal neuropathy was clinically suspected in women with PF. The goal of our study was to demonstrate, or not, such abnormalities by means electrophysiological testing. Fifty-five patients with PF (45 female and 10 male, mean age 50.2 years) were evaluated. EMG testing with motor unit potential analysis of pelvic floor muscles (bulbocavernosus muscle and striated external anal sphincter), study of bulbocavernosus reflex and pudendal nerve terminal motor latencies (PNTML) were performed. EMG testing was altered in two males out of 10 (20%) and 29/45 females (64%). In women, denervation was found bilateral in 25/29 (86%). Sacral latency was delayed in eight out of 29 (bilateral in five cases, unilateral in three cases) and PNTML altered in 17 cases (13 bilateral alteration, four unilateral). A significant difference (P<0.002 Chi(2) test) was demonstrated between male and female concerning pelvic floor muscles denervation. Pelvic floor muscles denervation was a common feature in women suffering from PF, due to a stretch bilateral pudendal neuropathy. Distal lesions of the pudendal nerves, principally due to a stretch perineal neuropathy, can be imagined as a factor or co-factor of PF. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Hereditary internal anal sphincter myopathy causing proctalgia fugax and constipation. A newly identified condition.

PubMed

Kamm, M A; Hoyle, C H; Burleigh, D E; Law, P J; Swash, M; Martin, J E; Nicholls, R J; Northover, J M

1991-03-01

A newly identified myopathy of the internal anal sphincter is described. In the affected family, at least one member from each of five generations had severe proctalgia fugax; onset was usually in the third to fifth decades of life. Three members of the family have been studied in detail. Each had severe pain intermittently during the day and hourly during the night. Constipation was an associated symptom, in particular difficulty with rectal evacuation. Clinically the internal anal sphincter was thickened and of decreased compliance. The maximum anal canal pressure was usually increased with marked ultraslow wave activity. Anal endosonography confirmed a grossly thickened internal anal sphincter. Two patients were treated by internal anal sphincter strip myectomy; one showed marked improvement and one was relieved of the constipation but had only slight improvement of the pain. The hypertrophied muscle in two of the patients showed unique myopathic changes, consisting of vacuolar changes with periodic acid-Schiff-positive polyglycosan bodies in the smooth muscle fibers and increased endomysial fibrosis. In vitro organ-bath studies showed insensitivity of the muscle to noradrenaline, isoprenaline, carbachol, dimethylpiperazinium, and electrical-field stimulation. Immunohistochemical studies for substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide, galanin, neuropeptide Y, and vasoactive intestinal peptide showed staining in a similar distribution to that in control tissue. A specific autosomal-dominant inherited myopathy of the internal anal sphincter that causes anal pain and constipation has been identified and characterized.

Linear interictal pain in Epicrania Fugax.

PubMed

Pareja, Juan A; Bandrés, Pablo

2015-01-01

Epicrania Fugax is a paroxysmal, short-lasting, head pain moving across one hemicranium, describing a linear or zag trajectory, starting and ending in territories of different nerves. Between attacks, patients are usually free of symptoms. We describe an Epicrania Fugax patient complaining of interictal pain. The interictal pain was line-shaped and extended across the usual starting and ending points of the typical Epicrania Fugax paroxysms. Although rarely encountered, persistent linear pain may be a feature of Epicrania Fugax.

Functional disorders of the anus and rectum

PubMed Central

Whitehead, W; Wald, A; Diamant, N; Enck, P; Pemberton, J; Rao, S

1999-01-01

In this report the functional anorectal disorders, the etiology of which is currently unknown or related to the abnormal functioning of normally innervated and structurally intact muscles, are discussed. These disorders include functional fecal incontinence, functional anorectal pain, including levator ani syndrome and proctalgia fugax, and pelvic floor dyssynergia. The epidemiology of each disorder is defined and discussed, their pathophysiology is summarized and diagnostic approaches and treatment are suggested. Some suggestions for the direction of future research on these disorders are also given.


Keywords: fecal incontinence; pelvic floor dyssynergia; anismus; proctalgia fugax; levator ani syndrome; constipation; Rome II PMID:10457046

Patient characteristics and treatment outcome in functional anorectal pain.

PubMed

Atkin, Gary K; Suliman, Amna; Vaizey, Carolynne J

2011-07-01

Functional anorectal pain occurs in the absence of any clinical abnormality. It is common and disabling; it has previously been reported in only a few studies involving small patient numbers. This study aimed to report the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes for patients with functional anorectal pain. Patient demographics, clinical history, and tests results for all referrals for anorectal physiological testing between 1997 and 2009 were prospectively recorded. For patients with functional anorectal pain, further information was gained from clinical notes. Clinical history, anorectal physiology, and radiological imaging data were recorded for all patients; treatment outcome was noted for patients treated and followed up at the present unit. One hundred seventy patients, 99 female, with a median age of 48 years (range, 18-86), were studied. Patients were classified as having chronic proctalgia (pain duration ≥20 min, 158 patients) or proctalgia fugax (pain duration <20 min, 12 patients). The pain was most commonly located in the anal canal (90%) and aggravated by defecation or sitting (66%). A third of patients had a history of psychological disturbance. Internal anal sphincter thickness correlated with resting anal pressures. Patients with proctalgia fugax had a higher internal anal sphincter thickness and resting pressure than patients with chronic proctalgia, whereas patients with a family history of similar symptoms were more likely to have proctalgia fugax and higher resting pressures and internal anal sphincter thickness compared with those without a family history of these symptoms. Patients referred for treatment underwent a range of interventions including biofeedback (29 patients, 17 improved), tricyclic antidepressants (26 patients, 10 improved), Botox injection (9 patients, 5 improved), and sacral nerve stimulation (3 patients, 2 improved). Biofeedback had the greatest treatment effect, especially in patients with defecatory dysfunction

Epicrania Fugax.

PubMed

Cuadrado, María Luz; Guerrero, Angel L; Pareja, Juan A

2016-04-01

Epicrania fugax (EF) is a primary headache of recent description. EF essentially consists of brief paroxysms of pain describing a linear or zigzag trajectory across the surface of one hemicranium, commencing and terminating in the territories of different nerves. The pain of forward EF originates in a particular area of the occipital, parietal or temporal regions and moves anteriorly, whereas the pain of backward EF originates in the frontal area, the eye or the nose and moves posteriorly. Some patients have ocular or nasal autonomic accompaniments, and some have triggers. Between attacks, many patients have continuous or intermittent pain and/or tenderness at the stemming area. Pain frequency is extremely variable and some patients have spontaneous remissions. Preventive therapy is required when the paroxysms are frequent and non-remitting. Neuromodulators, indomethacin, amitryptiline, nerve anesthetic blockades, and trochlear steroid injections have been used in different cases, with partial or complete response.

Frequency of functional bowel disorders among healthy volunteers in Mexico City.

PubMed

Schmulson, Max; Ortíz, Orianna; Santiago-Lomeli, Mariana; Gutiérrez-Reyes, Gabriela; Gutiérrez-Ruiz, María Concepción; Robles-Díaz, Guillermo; Morgan, Douglas

2006-01-01

The frequency of functional bowel disorders (FBD) in Mexico using the Rome II criteria is unknown. The Rome II Modular Questionnaire (RII-MQ) was translated into Spanish in coordination with the Rome Committee and their Latin American program. Volunteers were recruited by advertisement in Mexico City, and administered the RII-MQ. The study population consisted of 324 healthy volunteers, with a mean age of 35.7; 66% were female. The most prevalent disorders were heartburn 35%, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) 35%, functional bloating 21%, proctalgia fugax 21%, and functional constipation 19%. Based on gender, IBS-C was 4 times more frequent in females than males (19 vs. 4.6%) and functional bloating 3 times more frequent (10 vs. 3.7%). Differences according to occupation included a higher prevalence of ulcer-like dyspepsia (p = 0.04), IBS-C (p = 0.018) and proctalgia fugax (p = 0.034) among students. This is the first study to use RII-MQ to determine the prevalence of FBD in urban Mexico. The prevalence of IBS was significant and is related to a number of factors, including the stress of living in an overpopulated city. Selection bias is likely operative. A community-based study is warranted. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel

Chronic perineal pain: current pathophysiological aspects, diagnostic approaches and treatment.

PubMed

Andromanakos, Nikolaos P; Kouraklis, Grigorios; Alkiviadis, Kostakis

2011-01-01

Chronic perineal pain is the anorectal and perineal pain without underlying organic disease, anorectal or endopelvic, which has been excluded by careful physical examination, radiological and endoscopic investigations. A variety of neuromuscular disorders of the pelvic floor lead to the different pathological conditions such as anorectal incontinence, urinary incontinence and constipation of obstructed defecation, sexual dysfunction and pain syndromes. The most common functional disorders of the pelvic floor muscles, accompanied by perineal pain are levator ani syndrome, proctalgia fugax, myofascial syndrome and coccygodynia. In the diagnosis of these syndromes, contributing to a thorough history, physical examination, selected specialized investigations and the exclusion of organic disease with proctalgia is carried out. Accurate diagnosis of the syndromes helps in choosing an appropriate treatment and in avoiding unnecessary and ineffective surgical procedures, which often are performed in an attempt to alleviate the patient's symptoms.

Transcriptomics analysis of the flowering regulatory genes involved in the herbicide resistance of Asia minor bluegrass (Polypogon fugax).

PubMed

Zhou, Fengyan; Zhang, Yong; Tang, Wei; Wang, Mei; Gao, Tongchun

2017-12-06

Asia minor bluegrass (Polypogon fugax, P. fugax), a weed that is both distributed across China and associated with winter crops, has evolved resistance to acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) herbicides, but the resistance mechanism remains unclear. The goal of this study was to analyze the transcriptome between resistant and sensitive populations of P. fugax at the flowering stage. Populations resistant and susceptible to clodinafop-propargyl showed distinct transcriptome profiles. A total of 206,041 unigenes were identified; 165,901 unique sequences were annotated using BLASTX alignment databases. Among them, 5904 unigenes were classified into 58 transcription factor families. Nine families were related to the regulation of plant growth and development and to stress responses. Twelve unigenes were differentially expressed between the clodinafop-propargyl-sensitive and clodinafop-propargyl-resistant populations at the early flowering stage; among those unigenes, three belonged to the ABI3VP1, BHLH, and GRAS families, while the remaining nine belonged to the MADS family. Compared with the clodinafop-propargyl-sensitive plants, the resistant plants exhibited different expression pattern of these 12 unigenes. This study identified differentially expressed unigenes related to ACCase-resistant P. fugax and thus provides a genomic resource for understanding the molecular basis of early flowering.

Common anorectal disorders.

PubMed

Foxx-Orenstein, Amy E; Umar, Sarah B; Crowell, Michael D

2014-05-01

Anorectal disorders result in many visits to healthcare specialists. These disorders include benign conditions such as hemorrhoids to more serious conditions such as malignancy; thus, it is important for the clinician to be familiar with these disorders as well as know how to conduct an appropriate history and physical examination. This article reviews the most common anorectal disorders, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal incontinence, proctalgia fugax, excessive perineal descent, and pruritus ani, and provides guidelines on comprehensive evaluation and management.

Common Anorectal Disorders

PubMed Central

Foxx-Orenstein, Amy E.; Umar, Sarah B.; Crowell, Michael D.

2014-01-01

Anorectal disorders result in many visits to healthcare specialists. These disorders include benign conditions such as hemorrhoids to more serious conditions such as malignancy; thus, it is important for the clinician to be familiar with these disorders as well as know how to conduct an appropriate history and physical examination. This article reviews the most common anorectal disorders, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal incontinence, proctalgia fugax, excessive perineal descent, and pruritus ani, and provides guidelines on comprehensive evaluation and management. PMID:24987313

[Acute anal pain].

PubMed

Pittet, Olivier; Demartines, Nicolas; Hahnloser, Dieter

2013-07-01

Acute anal pain is a common proctological problem. A detailed history together with the clinical examination are crucial for the diagnosis. An acute perianal vein thrombosis can be successfully excised within the first 72 hours. Acute anal fissures are best treated conservatively using stool regulation and topical medications reducing the sphincter spasm. A chronic anal fissure needs surgery. Perianal abscesses can very often be incised and drained in local anesthesia. Proctalgia fugax and the levator ani syndrome are exclusion diagnoses and are treated symptomatically.

Amaurosis fugax in young people.

PubMed Central

O'Sullivan, F; Rossor, M; Elston, J S

1992-01-01

Nine young adults (median age 19.5 years) who suffered from amaurosis fugax (AF) are described. The attacks of AF were short in duration and preceded by premonitory symptoms in five cases and by a migrainous headache in two. In five patients the visual loss progressed in a lacunar pattern unlike the 'curtain' pattern characteristic of AF in older patients. Investigation revealed no evidence of an embolic or atheromatous aetiology. In two cases a minor abnormality was found on echocardiography. We conclude that AF in young adults has a different clinical pattern and may have a different aetiology, possibly migrainous, compared with that seen in older patients. The pattern of visual loss in some of the cases suggests that the choroidal circulation rather than the retinal circulation is primarily affected. PMID:1477040

[Anorectal pain in children: rare or rarely recognised?].

PubMed

Sonneveld, Laura J H; Engelberts, Adèle C; van den Elzen, Annette P M

2016-01-01

Anorectal pain is a common symptom, often as part of functional gastrointestinal disorders. Children seldom present with this complaint. Proctalgia fugax and chronic proctalgia are both anorectal pain syndromes but differ in duration and frequency of episodes and in pain characteristics. No research has been conducted on anorectal pain syndromes in children. We present two patients. Firstly, an 8-year-old girl who suffered from anorectal cramps. We found no underlying cause apart from constipation. The symptoms disappeared spontaneously. The second concerned an 8-year-old boy who presented with recurrent anorectal cramps. He was diagnosed with celiac disease. Anorectal dysfunction and visceral hypersensitivity have been described in adult celiac patients. Symptoms of anorectal pain in children are rare probably because it often remains unrecognised. Noninvasive diagnostic methods and interventions are preferred in paediatric medicine. Screening for celiac disease in children with anorectal pain episodes should be considered.

Chronic proctalgia and chronic pelvic pain syndromes: New etiologic insights and treatment options

PubMed Central

Chiarioni, Giuseppe; Asteria, Corrado; Whitehead, William E

2011-01-01

This systematic review addresses the pathophysiology, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment of several chronic pain syndromes affecting the pelvic organs: chronic proctalgia, coccygodynia, pudendal neuralgia, and chronic pelvic pain. Chronic or recurrent pain in the anal canal, rectum, or other pelvic organs occurs in 7% to 24% of the population and is associated with impaired quality of life and high health care costs. However, these pain syndromes are poorly understood, with little research evidence available to guide their diagnosis and treatment. This situation appears to be changing: A recently published large randomized, controlled trial by our group comparing biofeedback, electrogalvanic stimulation, and massage for the treatment of chronic proctalgia has shown success rates of 85% for biofeedback when patients are selected based on physical examination evidence of tenderness in response to traction on the levator ani muscle-a physical sign suggestive of striated muscle tension. Excessive tension (spasm) in the striated muscles of the pelvic floor appears to be common to most of the pelvic pain syndromes. This suggests the possibility that similar approaches to diagnostic assessment and treatment may improve outcomes in other pelvic pain disorders. PMID:22110274

Common anorectal disorders: diagnosis and treatment.

PubMed

Lacy, Brian E; Weiser, Kirsten

2009-10-01

Anorectal disorders affect men and women of all ages. Their management is not limited to the evaluation and treatment of hemorrhoids. Rather, a spectrum of anorectal disorders ranges from benign and irritating (pruritus ani) to potentially life-threatening (anorectal cancer). Symptoms are nonspecific, which can make the evaluation of patients difficult. In addition, treatment can be frustrating because clinicians are hamstrung by a lack of well-designed, prospective, clinical trials. Some of the most common anorectal disorders include fecal incontinence, pelvic floor dyssynergia, anal fissures, pruritus ani, proctalgia fugax, and solitary rectal ulcer syndrome. This article provides an update on the evaluation and treatment of common anorectal disorders.

Functional anorectal disorders.

PubMed

Bharucha, Adil E; Wald, Arnold; Enck, Paul; Rao, Satish

2006-04-01

This report defines criteria for diagnosing functional anorectal disorders (ie, fecal incontinence, anorectal pain, and disorders of defecation). Functional fecal incontinence is defined as the uncontrolled passage of fecal material recurring for > or =3 months in an individual with a developmental age of > or =4 years that is associated with: (1) abnormal functioning of normally innervated and structurally intact muscles, and/or (2) no or minor abnormalities of sphincter structure and/or innervation insufficient to explain fecal incontinence, and/or (3) normal or disordered bowel habits (ie, fecal retention or diarrhea), and/or (4) psychological causes. However, conditions wherein structural and/or neurogenic abnormalities explain the symptom, or are part of a generalized process (eg, diabetic neuropathy) are not included within functional fecal incontinence. Functional fecal incontinence is a common, but underrecognized symptom, which is equally prevalent in men and women, and can often cause considerable distress. The clinical features are useful for guiding diagnostic testing and therapy. Functional anorectal pain syndromes include proctalgia fugax (fleeting pain) and chronic proctalgia; chronic proctalgia may be subdivided into levator ani syndrome and unspecified anorectal pain, which are defined by arbitrary clinical criteria. Functional defecation disorders are characterized by 2 or more symptoms of constipation, with > or =2 of the following features during defecation: impaired evacuation, inappropriate contraction of the pelvic floor muscles, and inadequate propulsive forces. Functional disorders of defecation may be amenable to pelvic floor retraining by biofeedback therapy (such as dyssynergic defecation).

Nextgen Technologies for Mid-Term and Far-Term Air Traffic Control Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prevot, Thomas

2009-01-01

This paper describes technologies for mid-term and far-term air traffic control operations in the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). The technologies were developed and evaluated with human-in-the-loop simulations in the Airspace Operations Laboratory (AOL) at the NASA Ames Research Center. The simulations were funded by several research focus areas within NASA's Airspace Systems program and some were co-funded by the FAA's Air Traffic Organization for Planning, Research and Technology.

Near-Term Electric Vehicle Program. Phase II: Mid-Term Summary Report.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

None

1978-08-01

The Near Term Electric Vehicle (NTEV) Program is a constituent elements of the overall national Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Program that is being implemented by the Department of Energy in accordance with the requirements of the Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1976. Phase II of the NTEV Program is focused on the detailed design and development, of complete electric integrated test vehicles that incorporate current and near-term technology, and meet specified DOE objectives. The activities described in this Mid-Term Summary Report are being carried out by two contractor teams. The prime contractors for these contractormore » teams are the General Electric Company and the Garrett Corporation. This report is divided into two discrete parts. Part 1 describes the progress of the General Electric team and Part 2 describes the progress of the Garrett team.« less

Randomized comparison of postoperative short-term and mid-term complications between T-tube and primary closure after CBD exploration.

PubMed

Muzaffar, Iqbal; Zula, Pai; Yimit, Yusp; Jaan, Ajim Tuergan; Wen, Hao

2014-11-01

To compare the postoperative short-term and mid-term complications in patients who underwent CBD exploration and closure by using T-tube or primary closure. Prospective randomized clinical trial. Hepatobiliary Department of First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China, from August 2009 to March 2013. A total of 148 consecutive patients with Common Bile Duct Stones (CBDS) and CBD dilation were enrolled in this randomized study to undergo open cholecystectomy with CBD exploration. Pre-operative findings, postoperative short-term complications, postoperative follow-up (mid-term), and hospital stay were recorded and analyzed. A T-tube was inserted in 76 (51.35%) patients and the primary closure was done in 72 (48.64%) patients. There were no differences in the demographic characteristics and clinical presentations between the two groups. Compared with the T-tube group 8.97 ± 1.629 days, the postoperative stay in primary closure 5.34 ± 1.25 days was significantly shorter (p < 0.01). The incidence of overall postoperative short-term complications and mid-term complications were statistically but not significantly lower in the primary closure group (9.7%) than that in T-tube group (17.10%, p=0.189). Complications in the primary closure group were lower than that in T-tube group but there was no significant statistical difference. So during open surgery for CBD stones, primary closure of CBD appeared safe and effective with shorter hospital stays and less complications.

Mid-term outcomes of patients undergoing adjustable pulmonary artery banding

PubMed Central

Talwar, Sachin; Kamat, Neeraj Aravind; Choudhary, Shiv Kumar; Ramakrishnan, Sivasubramanian; Saxena, Anita; Juneja, Rajnish; Kothari, Shyam Sunder; Airan, Balram

2016-01-01

Objective The adjustable pulmonary artery band (APAB) has been demonstrated by us earlier to be superior to the conventional pulmonary artery banding (CPAB), in terms of reduced early morbidity and mortality. In this study, we assessed the adequacy of the band and its complications over the mid-term. Methods Between 2002 and 2012, 73 patients underwent adjustable PAB, and their operative and follow-up data were collected and analyzed. Results There was one early death following the APAB. Follow-up data were available for 57 patients of which 44 patients (61.7%) underwent definitive repair, 10 were awaiting definitive repair, and 3 patients were kept on medical follow-up because of inadequate fall in pulmonary artery (PA) pressures. 14 patients (19%) were lost to follow-up. Major PA distortion or stenosis was absent in the majority. 1 patient had pseudoaneurysm of the main pulmonary artery (MPA) with sternal sinus infection and required surgical reconstruction. 1 patient had infective endocarditis of the pulmonary valve managed medically. Band migration was not encountered. There were two deaths after definitive repair and one after APAB. Conclusions Patients undergoing APAB fulfilled the desired objectives of the pulmonary artery banding (PAB) with minimum PA complications in the mid-term. This added to the early postoperative benefits, makes the APAB an attractive alternative to the CPAB. PMID:26896271

Recognition of predictors for mid-long term runoff prediction based on lasso

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, S.; Huang, Y.

2017-12-01

Reliable and accuracy mid-long term runoff prediction is of great importance in integrated management of reservoir. And many methods are proposed to model runoff time series. Almost all forecast lead times (LT) of these models are 1 month, and the predictors are previous runoff with different time lags. However, runoff prediction with increased LT, which is more beneficial, is not popular in current researches. It is because the connection between previous runoff and current runoff will be weakened with the increase of LT. So 74 atmospheric circulation factors (ACFs) together with pre-runoff are used as alternative predictors for mid-long term runoff prediction of Longyangxia reservoir in this study. Because pre-runoff and 74 ACFs with different time lags are so many and most of these factors are useless, lasso, which means `least absolutely shrinkage and selection operator', is used to recognize predictors. And the result demonstrates that 74 ACFs are beneficial for runoff prediction in both validation and test sets when LT is greater than 6. And there are 6 factors other than pre-runoff, most of which are with big time lag, are selected as predictors frequently. In order to verify the effect of 74 ACFs, 74 stochastic time series generated from normalized 74 ACFs are used as input of model. The result shows that these 74 stochastic time series are useless, which confirm the effect of 74 ACFs on mid-long term runoff prediction.

Perianal pain as a presentation of lumbosacral neurofibroma: a case report.

PubMed

Moghaddasi, Mehdi; Aghaii, Mahboubeh; Mamarabadi, Mansoureh

2014-12-01

Rectal and perianal pain is a common problem. Most people have experienced it at least once in their lifetime. It usually manifests as mild discomfort, but sometimes the pain can be so severe that it is incapacitating. A 59-year-old woman admitted with a 2-year history of paroxysmal perianal pain underwent a full work-up including proctoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, full colonoscopy, and barium enema that were unremarkable. Lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium showed an intradural-extramedullary lesion at the level of L5. The pathologic diagnosis was a neurofibroma. She underwent surgery, and after a few weeks she felt well and medication was no longer needed for her paroxysmal pain. Although one should consider the usual causes of colorectal pain such as hemorrhoids, anal fissure, proctalgia fugax, and chronic perianal pain syndrome, we should keep in mind that some referral pain may mimic local pathologies and should be evaluated properly.

Perianal Pain as a Presentation of Lumbosacral Neurofibroma: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Moghaddasi, Mehdi; Aghaii, Mahboubeh; Mamarabadi, Mansoureh

2014-01-01

Rectal and perianal pain is a common problem. Most people have experienced it at least once in their lifetime. It usually manifests as mild discomfort, but sometimes the pain can be so severe that it is incapacitating. A 59-year-old woman admitted with a 2-year history of paroxysmal perianal pain underwent a full work-up including proctoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, full colonoscopy, and barium enema that were unremarkable. Lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging with and without gadolinium showed an intradural-extramedullary lesion at the level of L5. The pathologic diagnosis was a neurofibroma. She underwent surgery, and after a few weeks she felt well and medication was no longer needed for her paroxysmal pain. Although one should consider the usual causes of colorectal pain such as hemorrhoids, anal fissure, proctalgia fugax, and chronic perianal pain syndrome, we should keep in mind that some referral pain may mimic local pathologies and should be evaluated properly. PMID:25485211

[Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Using S-1 for Pancreatic Cancer - Mid-Term Results].

PubMed

Homma, Yuki; Honda, Goro; Sakamoto, Katsunori; Kurata, Masanao; Honjo, Masahiko; Hirata, Yoshihiro; Shinya, Satoshi

2016-10-01

Although surgical resection is the only curative strategy for pancreatic cancer, the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer remains poor. Recently, neoadjuvant treatment has been frequently employed as a promising treatment. Here, the mid-term results of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy(NACRT)using S-1, which has been performed in our hospital since 2008, are reported. Seventy-nine patients with resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, who had been intended to undergo NACRT treatment using S-1, were enrolled. The NACRT comprised radiotherapy( 1.8 Gy×28 days)and full-dose twice-daily oral S-1 given on the same days as the radiotherapy. The results of the NACRT and pancreatectomy and the patients' prognoses were evaluated. Fifty-five patients(69.6%)underwent pancreatectomy, with no case of mortality. The curative resection rate was 94.5%. Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was administered in 46 patients(83.6%). The 3-year survival rates of all 79 patients and 55 pancreatectomy patients were 40.1% and 50.4%, respectively. NACRT using S-1 was found to be feasible, and good mid-term outcomes were obtained. However, analysis of the long-term outcomes and comparisons with other novel anti-cancer drugs are still required.

Immediate and mid-term clinical course after percutaneous closure of paravalvular leakage.

PubMed

Sánchez-Recalde, Angel; Moreno, Raúl; Galeote, Guillermo; Jimenez-Valero, Santiago; Calvo, Luis; Sevillano, Joel Hernández; Arroyo-Ucar, Eduardo; López, Teresa; Mesa, José M; López-Sendón, José L

2014-08-01

Percutaneous closure of paravalvular leakage is an alternative to surgery in high-risk patients, but its use has been limited by a lack of specific devices. More appropriate devices-like the Amplatzer Vascular Plug III-have recently been developed, but information about their efficacy and safety is still scarce. The objective of the present study was to assess the mid-term results of paravalvular leakage closure with this device. We analyzed the clinical and echocardiographic course both in-hospital and mid-term (13 [9] months) in a series of 20 consecutive patients (age, 68 years; logistic EuroSCORE, 29) with paravalvular leakage and attempted percutaneous closure. Closure was attempted for 23 leaks (17 mitral and 6 aortic) during 22 procedures in 20 patients. Implantation was successful in 87% of the leaks and the procedure was successful in 83%-with success being defined as a reduction in regurgitation of ≥ 1 degree. Survival at 1 year was 64.7% and survival free of the composite event of death/surgery was 58.8%. The degree of residual regurgitation was not associated with mortality but was associated with functional status. Survivors showed significant improvement in functional class. Percutaneous closure of leakage with the Amplatzer Vascular Plug III is safe and efficient in the mid-term. However, mortality among high-risk patients is high independently of the degree of residual regurgitation, indicating that these procedures are performed when heart disease has reached an advanced stage. Copyright © 2014 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Perforated peptic ulcer disease: mid-term outcome among Iranian population.

PubMed

Kamani, Freshteh; Moghimi, Mehrdad; Marashi, Seyed Ali; Peyrovi, Habibollah; Sheikhvatan, Mehrdad

2010-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate midterm outcome of patients with perforated peptic ulcer disease and to determine the main predictors of mid-term mortality. Demographic and clinical characteristics of 56 patients with the diagnosis of perforated peptic ulcer who were hospitalized in Taleghani Hospital over a 10-year period (19962005) were retrospectively collected, and in-hospital mortality and morbidity were determined. Patients were also followed for one month, one year and five years after the operation. Among these patients, 85.5% were treated with omental patch closure, 7.1% underwent vagotomy pyloroplasty, 5.3% underwent concurrent vagotomy and gastrojejunostomy, and 1.8% underwent antrectomy. In-hospital mortality and morbidity were 5.3% and 48.2%, respectively. Survival rates at one month, one year and five years after the operation were 92.9%, 89.3% and 78.6%, respectively. Advanced age (p=0.001), preoperative shock (p=0.003), history of malignancy before surgery (p=0.001), treatment delay (p=0.028), intensive care unit admission (p=0.032), and size of ulcer >5 cm (p=0.043) were the main predictors of five-year mortality in the followed patients. Mid-term mortality of treated perforated peptic ulcer disease among our population was notable, and the main predictors of mortality included advanced age, history of malignancy, treatment delay, intensive care unit admission, and ulcer size.

Mid-term results of total knee arthroplasty with a porous tantalum monoblock tibial component.

PubMed

Hayakawa, Kazue; Date, Hideki; Tsujimura, Shunzo; Nojiri, Sho; Yamada, Harumoto; Nakagawa, Kenji

2014-01-01

The objectives of the present study were to assess the mid-term results of cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with the porous tantalum monoblock tibial component and to examine the time course of bone changes on plain radiographs. The subjects were 32 patients, 29 patients were available for follow-up. We investigated the mid-term results of TKA after a mean follow-up period of 7 years and 8 months. We also examined changes of the bone over time on plain radiographs. The Knee Society Clinical Rating scores showed significant improvement. Bone changes around the tibial component were as follows: new bone formation and longitudinal trabecular thickening in 41.4% (Type A), only longitudinal trabecular thickening in 41.4% (Type B), and no changes in 17.2% (Type C). Type A and B changes were more frequent in patients with osteoarthritis, whereas Type C was only seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Three knees had an initial gap, but this disappeared in all cases, and no new radiolucent lines were detected. Stress shielding was observed in seven knees (21.9%), but there was no implant loosening related to it. When we examined the relationship between the mechanical axis and the locations of the tips of the tibial pegs in patients with or without stress shielding, no significant differences were found. The results of mid-term follow-up have demonstrated favorable bone ingrowth, suggesting that porous tantalum is a promising material for cementless TKA. © 2013.

Tape functionality: position, change in shape, and outcome after TVT procedure--mid-term results.

PubMed

Kociszewski, Jacek; Rautenberg, Oliver; Kolben, Sebastian; Eberhard, Jakob; Hilgers, Reinhard; Viereck, Volker

2010-07-01

This study evaluates the relevance of the tape position and change in shape (tape functionality) under in vivo conditions for mid-term outcome. Changes in the sonographic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) position relative to the percentage urethral length and the tape-urethra distance were determined after 6 and 48 months in 41 women with stress urinary incontinence. At 48 months, 76% (31/41) of women were cured, 17% (7/41) were improved, and 7% (3/41) were failures. Disturbed bladder voiding was present in 12% (5/41), de novo urge incontinence in 7% (3/41). The median TVT position was at 63% of urethral length. Median tape-urethra distance was 2.7 mm, ranging from 2.9 mm in continent patients without complications to 1.1 mm in those with obstructive complications. Patients with postoperative urine loss had a median distance of 3.9 mm. The tape was stretched at rest and C-shaped during straining in 15 of 41 women (37%) at 48 months (all continent). Patients with this tape functionality at 6 months were also cured at 48 months in 86% of cases (19/22), and only 14% (3/22) showed recurrent incontinence. Mid-term data suggest an optimal outcome if the tape is positioned at least 2 mm from the urethra at the junction of the middle and distal thirds. Patients with optimal tape functionality at 6 months are likely to show mid-term therapeutic success.

Short- and Mid-Term Effects of Violent Victimization on Delinquency: A Multilevel Growth-Curve Modeling Approach.

PubMed

Kim, Young S; Lo, Celia C

2016-10-01

The present study investigates how adolescents' experiences of violent victimization exert short- and mid-term effects on their involvement in delinquency. The study compares and contrasts delinquency trajectories of youths whose experiences of violent victimization differ. A multilevel growth-curve modeling approach is applied to analyze data from five waves of the National Youth Survey. The results show that, although delinquency involvement increases as youths experience violent victimization, delinquency trajectories differ with the type of violent victimization, specifically, parental versus non-parental victimization. Violent victimization by parents produced a sharp initial decline in delinquency (short-term effect) followed by a rapid acceleration (mid-term effect). In turn, non-parental violence showed a stable trend over time. The findings have important implications for prevention and treatment services. © The Author(s) 2015.

Cryogenic Selective Surfaces: A Phase 2 NIAC Project: Mid-Term Continuation Review

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Youngquist, Robert; Nurge, Mark; Gibson, Tracy; Johnson, Wesley

2017-01-01

The NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program has been funding work at KSC (Kennedy Space Center) on a new coating that should allow cryogenic commodities to be stored in deep space. Recently a mid-term review of this work was given. I am requesting that this presentation be cleared for release so that the material can be presented publicly at an upcoming FISO (Future in Space) telecom.

Devising an indicator to detect mid-term abortions in dairy cattle: a first step towards syndromic surveillance of abortive diseases.

PubMed

Bronner, Anne; Morignat, Eric; Hénaux, Viviane; Madouasse, Aurélien; Gay, Emilie; Calavas, Didier

2015-01-01

Bovine abortion surveillance is essential for human and animal health because it plays an important role in the early warning of several diseases. Due to the limited sensitivity of traditional surveillance systems, there is a growing interest for the development of syndromic surveillance. Our objective was to assess whether, routinely collected, artificial insemination (AI) data could be used, as part of a syndromic surveillance system, to devise an indicator of mid-term abortions in dairy cattle herds in France. A mid-term abortion incidence rate (MAIR) was computed as the ratio of the number of mid-term abortions to the number of female-weeks at risk. A mid-term abortion was defined as a return-to-service (i.e., a new AI) taking place 90 to 180 days after the previous AI. Weekly variations in the MAIR in heifers and parous cows were modeled with a time-dependent Poisson model at the département level (French administrative division) during the period of 2004 to 2010. The usefulness of monitoring this indicator to detect a disease-related increase in mid-term abortions was evaluated using data from the 2007-2008 episode of bluetongue serotype 8 (BT8) in France. An increase in the MAIR was identified in heifers and parous cows in 47% (n = 24) and 71% (n = 39) of the departements. On average, the weekly MAIR among heifers increased by 3.8% (min-max: 0.02-57.9%) when the mean number of BT8 cases that occurred in the previous 8 to 13 weeks increased by one. The weekly MAIR among parous cows increased by 1.4% (0.01-8.5%) when the mean number of BT8 cases occurring in the previous 6 to 12 weeks increased by one. These results underline the potential of the MAIR to identify an increase in mid-term abortions and suggest that it is a good candidate for the implementation of a syndromic surveillance system for bovine abortions.

Devising an Indicator to Detect Mid-Term Abortions in Dairy Cattle: A First Step Towards Syndromic Surveillance of Abortive Diseases

PubMed Central

Bronner, Anne; Morignat, Eric; Hénaux, Viviane; Madouasse, Aurélien; Gay, Emilie; Calavas, Didier

2015-01-01

Bovine abortion surveillance is essential for human and animal health because it plays an important role in the early warning of several diseases. Due to the limited sensitivity of traditional surveillance systems, there is a growing interest for the development of syndromic surveillance. Our objective was to assess whether, routinely collected, artificial insemination (AI) data could be used, as part of a syndromic surveillance system, to devise an indicator of mid-term abortions in dairy cattle herds in France. A mid-term abortion incidence rate (MAIR) was computed as the ratio of the number of mid-term abortions to the number of female-weeks at risk. A mid-term abortion was defined as a return-to-service (i.e. a new AI) taking place 90 to 180 days after the previous AI. Weekly variations in the MAIR in heifers and parous cows were modeled with a time-dependent Poisson model at the département level (French administrative division) during the period of 2004 to 2010. The usefulness of monitoring this indicator to detect a disease-related increase in mid-term abortions was evaluated using data from the 2007–2008 episode of bluetongue serotype 8 (BT8) in France. An increase in the MAIR was identified in heifers and parous cows in 47% (n = 24) and 71% (n = 39) of the départements. On average, the weekly MAIR among heifers increased by 3.8% (min-max: 0.02–57.9%) when the mean number of BT8 cases that occurred in the previous 8 to 13 weeks increased by one. The weekly MAIR among parous cows increased by 1.4% (0.01–8.5%) when the mean number of BT8 cases occurring in the previous 6 to 12 weeks increased by one. These results underline the potential of the MAIR to identify an increase in mid-term abortions and suggest that it is a good candidate for the implementation of a syndromic surveillance system for bovine abortions. PMID:25746469

Perception of Radiation Risk as a Predictor of Mid-Term Mental Health after a Nuclear Disaster: The Fukushima Health Management Survey

PubMed Central

Miura, Itaru; Nagai, Masato; Maeda, Masaharu; Harigane, Mayumi; Fujii, Senta; Takahashi, Hideto; Ohira, Tetsuya; Yasumura, Seiji; Abe, Masafumi

2017-01-01

Predictive factors including risk perception for mid-term mental health after a nuclear disaster remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between perceived radiation risk and other factors at baseline and mid-term mental health after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster of 2011 in Japan. A mail-based questionnaire survey was conducted in January 2012 and January 2013. Mental health status was assessed using the K6 scale. Psychological distress over the 2-year period was categorized into the following four groups: chronic, recovered, resistant, or worsened. Most participants (80.3%) were resistant to the disaster. A positive association was found between the radiation risk perception regarding immediate effects and the worsened group in women. Baseline post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or a history of psychiatric disease predicted being in the chronic or worsened group in mid-term course. These results suggest that evacuees who believed that their health was substantially affected by the nuclear disaster were at an increased risk of having poor mid-term mental health in women. Careful assessment of risk perception after a nuclear disaster, including the presence of PTSD or a history of psychiatric disease, is needed for appropriate interventions. PMID:28914809

Perception of Radiation Risk as a Predictor of Mid-Term Mental Health after a Nuclear Disaster: The Fukushima Health Management Survey.

PubMed

Miura, Itaru; Nagai, Masato; Maeda, Masaharu; Harigane, Mayumi; Fujii, Senta; Oe, Misari; Yabe, Hirooki; Suzuki, Yuriko; Takahashi, Hideto; Ohira, Tetsuya; Yasumura, Seiji; Abe, Masafumi

2017-09-15

Predictive factors including risk perception for mid-term mental health after a nuclear disaster remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between perceived radiation risk and other factors at baseline and mid-term mental health after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster of 2011 in Japan. A mail-based questionnaire survey was conducted in January 2012 and January 2013. Mental health status was assessed using the K6 scale. Psychological distress over the 2-year period was categorized into the following four groups: chronic, recovered, resistant, or worsened. Most participants (80.3%) were resistant to the disaster. A positive association was found between the radiation risk perception regarding immediate effects and the worsened group in women. Baseline post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or a history of psychiatric disease predicted being in the chronic or worsened group in mid-term course. These results suggest that evacuees who believed that their health was substantially affected by the nuclear disaster were at an increased risk of having poor mid-term mental health in women. Careful assessment of risk perception after a nuclear disaster, including the presence of PTSD or a history of psychiatric disease, is needed for appropriate interventions.

Mid-term fire danger index based on satellite imagery and ancillary geographic data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stefanidou, A.; Dragozi, E.; Tompoulidou, M.; Stepanidou, L.; Grigoriadis, D.; Katagis, T.; Stavrakoudis, D.; Gitas, I.

2017-09-01

Fire danger forecast constitutes one of the most important components of integrated fire management since it provides crucial information for efficient pre-fire planning, alertness and timely response to a possible fire event. The aim of this work is to develop an index that has the capability of predicting accurately fire danger on a mid-term basis. The methodology that is currently under development is based on an innovative approach that employs dry fuel spatial connectivity as well as biophysical and topological variables for the reliable prediction of fire danger. More specifically, the estimation of the dry fuel connectivity is based on a previously proposed automated procedure implemented in R software that uses Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) time series data. Dry fuel connectivity estimates are then combined with other ancillary data such as fuel type and proximity to roads in order to result in the generation of the proposed mid-term fire danger index. The innovation of the proposed index—which will be evaluated by comparison to historical fire data—lies in the fact that its calculation is almost solely affected by the availability of satellite data. Finally, it should be noted that the index is developed within the framework of the National Observatory of Forest Fires (NOFFi) project.

Mid- and long-term clinical results of surgical therapy in unicameral bone cysts

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Unicameral (or simple) bone cysts (UBC) are benign tumours most often located in long bones of children and adolescents. Pathological fractures are common, and due to high recurrence rates, these lesions remain a challenge to treat. Numerous surgical procedures have been proposed, but there is no general consensus of the ideal treatment. The aim of this investigation therefore was to study the long-term outcome after surgical treatment in UBC. Methods A retrospective analysis of 46 patients surgically treated for UBC was performed for short and mid-term outcome. Clinical and radiological outcome parameters were studied according to a modified Neer classification system. Long-term clinical information was retrieved via a questionnaire at a minimum follow-up of 10 years after surgery. Results Forty-six patients (17 female, 29 male) with a mean age of 10.0 ± 4.8 years and with histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of UBC were included. Pathological fractures were observed in 21 cases (46%). All patients underwent surgery for UBC (35 patients underwent curettage and bone grafting as a primary therapy, 4 curettage alone, 3 received corticoid instillation and 4 decompression by cannulated screws). Overall recurrence rate after the first surgical treatment was 39% (18/46), second (17.4% of all patients) and third recurrence (4.3%) were frequently observed and were addressed by revision surgery. Recurrence was significantly higher in young and in male patients as well as in active cysts. After a mean of 52 months, 40 out of 46 cysts were considered healed. Prognosis was significantly better when recurrence was observed later than 30 months after therapy. After a mean follow-up of 15.5 ± 6.2 years, 40 patients acknowledged clinically excellent results, while five reported mild and casual pain. Only one patient reported a mild limitation of range of motion. Conclusions Our results suggest satisfactory overall long-term outcome for the surgical treatment of UBC

Mid- and long-term clinical results of surgical therapy in unicameral bone cysts.

PubMed

Hagmann, Sébastien; Eichhorn, Florian; Moradi, Babak; Gotterbarm, Tobias; Dreher, Thomas; Lehner, Burkhard; Zeifang, Felix

2011-12-13

Unicameral (or simple) bone cysts (UBC) are benign tumours most often located in long bones of children and adolescents. Pathological fractures are common, and due to high recurrence rates, these lesions remain a challenge to treat. Numerous surgical procedures have been proposed, but there is no general consensus of the ideal treatment. The aim of this investigation therefore was to study the long-term outcome after surgical treatment in UBC. A retrospective analysis of 46 patients surgically treated for UBC was performed for short and mid-term outcome. Clinical and radiological outcome parameters were studied according to a modified Neer classification system. Long-term clinical information was retrieved via a questionnaire at a minimum follow-up of 10 years after surgery. Forty-six patients (17 female, 29 male) with a mean age of 10.0 ± 4.8 years and with histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of UBC were included. Pathological fractures were observed in 21 cases (46%). All patients underwent surgery for UBC (35 patients underwent curettage and bone grafting as a primary therapy, 4 curettage alone, 3 received corticoid instillation and 4 decompression by cannulated screws). Overall recurrence rate after the first surgical treatment was 39% (18/46), second (17.4% of all patients) and third recurrence (4.3%) were frequently observed and were addressed by revision surgery. Recurrence was significantly higher in young and in male patients as well as in active cysts. After a mean of 52 months, 40 out of 46 cysts were considered healed. Prognosis was significantly better when recurrence was observed later than 30 months after therapy. After a mean follow-up of 15.5 ± 6.2 years, 40 patients acknowledged clinically excellent results, while five reported mild and casual pain. Only one patient reported a mild limitation of range of motion. Our results suggest satisfactory overall long-term outcome for the surgical treatment of UBC, although short-and mid-term

Early and mid-term results of lung transplantation with donors 60 years and older.

PubMed

López, Iker; Zapata, Ricardo; Solé, Juan; Jaúregui, Alberto; Deu, María; Romero, Laura; Pérez, Javier; Bello, Irene; Wong, Manuel; Ribas, Montse; Masnou, Nuria; Rello, Jordi; Roman, Antonio; Canela, Mercedes

2015-01-01

There are doubts about the age limit for lung donors and the ideal donor has traditionally been considered to be one younger than 55 years. The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes in lung transplantation between organs from donors older and younger than 60 years. We performed a retrospective observational study comparing the group of patients receiving organs from donors 60 years or older (Group A) or younger than 60 years (Group B) between January 2007 and December 2011. Postoperative evolution and mortality rates, short-term and mid-term postoperative complications, and global survival rate were evaluated. We analysed a total of 230 lung transplants, of which 53 (23%) involved lungs from donors 60 years of age or older (Group A), and 177 (77%) were from donors younger than 60 years (Group B). Three (5.7%) patients from Group A and 14 patients (7.9%) from Group B died within 30 days (P = 0.58). The percentage of patients free from chronic lung allograft dysfunction at 1-3 years was 95.5, 74.3 and 69.3% for Group A, and 94.5, 84.8 and 73.3% for Group B, respectively (P = 0.47). There were no statistically significant differences between Groups A and B in terms of survival at 3 years, (69.4 vs 68.8%; P = 0.28). Our results support the idea that lungs from donors aged 60-70 years can be used safely for lung transplantation with comparable results to lungs from younger donors in terms of postoperative mortality and mid-term survival. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

A mid-term analysis of progress toward international biodiversity targets.

PubMed

Tittensor, Derek P; Walpole, Matt; Hill, Samantha L L; Boyce, Daniel G; Britten, Gregory L; Burgess, Neil D; Butchart, Stuart H M; Leadley, Paul W; Regan, Eugenie C; Alkemade, Rob; Baumung, Roswitha; Bellard, Céline; Bouwman, Lex; Bowles-Newark, Nadine J; Chenery, Anna M; Cheung, William W L; Christensen, Villy; Cooper, H David; Crowther, Annabel R; Dixon, Matthew J R; Galli, Alessandro; Gaveau, Valérie; Gregory, Richard D; Gutierrez, Nicolas L; Hirsch, Tim L; Höft, Robert; Januchowski-Hartley, Stephanie R; Karmann, Marion; Krug, Cornelia B; Leverington, Fiona J; Loh, Jonathan; Lojenga, Rik Kutsch; Malsch, Kelly; Marques, Alexandra; Morgan, David H W; Mumby, Peter J; Newbold, Tim; Noonan-Mooney, Kieran; Pagad, Shyama N; Parks, Bradley C; Pereira, Henrique M; Robertson, Tim; Rondinini, Carlo; Santini, Luca; Scharlemann, Jörn P W; Schindler, Stefan; Sumaila, U Rashid; Teh, Louise S L; van Kolck, Jennifer; Visconti, Piero; Ye, Yimin

2014-10-10

In 2010, the international community, under the auspices of the Convention on Biological Diversity, agreed on 20 biodiversity-related "Aichi Targets" to be achieved within a decade. We provide a comprehensive mid-term assessment of progress toward these global targets using 55 indicator data sets. We projected indicator trends to 2020 using an adaptive statistical framework that incorporated the specific properties of individual time series. On current trajectories, results suggest that despite accelerating policy and management responses to the biodiversity crisis, the impacts of these efforts are unlikely to be reflected in improved trends in the state of biodiversity by 2020. We highlight areas of societal endeavor requiring additional efforts to achieve the Aichi Targets, and provide a baseline against which to assess future progress. Copyright © 2014, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Anorectal and Pelvic Pain

PubMed Central

Bharucha, Adil E.; Lee, Tae Hee

2016-01-01

Although pelvic pain is a symptom of several structural anorectal and pelvic disorders (eg, anal fissure, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease), this comprehensive review will focus on the three most common nonstructural, or functional, disorders associated with pelvic pain: functional anorectal pain (ie, levator ani syndrome, unspecified anorectal pain, and proctalgia fugax), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. The first two conditions occur in both sexes, while the latter occurs only in men. They are defined by symptoms, supplemented with levator tenderness (levator ani syndrome) and bladder mucosal inflammation (interstitial cystitis). Although distinct, these conditions share several similarities, including associations with dysfunctional voiding or defecation, comorbid conditions (eg, fibromyalgia, depression), impaired quality of life, and increased health care utilization. Several factors, including pelvic floor muscle tension, peripheral inflammation, peripheral and central sensitization, and psychosocial factors, have been implicated in the pathogenesis. The management is tailored to symptoms, is partly supported by clinical trials, and includes multidisciplinary approaches such as lifestyle modifications and pharmacologic, behavioral, and physical therapy. Opioids should not be avoided, and surgery has a limited role, primarily in refractory interstitial cystitis. PMID:27712641

Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty of Hepatic Artery Stenosis in Patients After Orthotopic Liver Transplantation: Mid-term Results

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jarmila, Lastovickova, E-mail: jala@ikem.cz; Jan, Peregrin

2011-12-15

Purpose: This study was designed to present our experience with percutaneous treatment of hepatic artery stenosis in orthotopic liver transplant patients and to evaluate the efficacy, technical outcomes, and mid-term clinical results of the procedure. Methods: Twenty-two percutaneous transluminal angioplasties (PTAs) were performed in 19 liver transplant recipients at our institution between 1998 and 2010. Stents were placed into the hepatic/celiac artery in 16 PTAs, but balloon dilatation alone was performed in 6 because of the anatomical condition of the vessel. PTA/stenting was indicated in 17 patients because of elevated liver enzymes; 2 patients were asymptomatic. The objective of treatingmore » stenosis was prevention of long-term complications, including thrombosis. Results: Technical success was achieved in all patients. There was only one complication: dissection of the treated artery without any subsequent adverse effects. In all patients, elevated liver enzyme levels improved after treatment. No restenosis was observed in any patient during a mean follow-up of 2.6 years (1 month to 5.5 years). Conclusions: Percutaneous angioplasty/stent placement is a safe method for the treatment of hepatic artery stenosis after orthotopic liver transplantation, with a high technical success rate and promising mid-term results.« less

Early and mid-term outcomes of endovascular and open surgical repair of non-dissected aortic arch aneurysm†.

PubMed

Hori, Daijiro; Okamura, Homare; Yamamoto, Takahiro; Nishi, Satoshi; Yuri, Koichi; Kimura, Naoyuki; Yamaguchi, Atsushi; Adachi, Hideo

2017-06-01

With the introduction of endovascular stent graft technology, a variety of surgical options are available for patients with aortic aneurysms. We sought to evaluate early-term and mid-term outcomes of patients undergoing endovascular and open surgical repair for non-dissected aortic arch aneurysm. Overall, 200 patients underwent treatment for isolated non-dissected aortic arch aneurysm between January 2008 and February 2016: 133 patients had open surgery and 67, endovascular repair. Early-term and mid-term outcomes were compared. Seventy percent ( n  = 47) needing endovascular repair underwent fenestrated stent graft and 30% ( n  = 20) underwent the debranched technique. Patients in the open surgery group were younger (71 vs 75 years, P  < 0.001) and had a lower prevalence of ischaemic heart disease (11% vs 35%, P  < 0.001). Intensive care unit stay (1 vs 3 days, P  < 0.001), hospital stay (11 vs 17 days, P  < 0.001) and surgical time (208 vs 390 min, P  < 0.001) were lower in the endovascular repair group than in the open surgery group. There were 3 in-hospital deaths each in the open surgery and endovascular groups (2% vs 5%, respectively, P  = 0.40). Mid-term survival ( P  < 0.001) and freedom from reintervention ( P  = 0.009) were better in the open surgery than in the endovascular repair group. No aneurysm-related deaths were observed. The propensity-matched comparison ( n  = 58) demonstrated that survival was better in the open surgery group ( P  = 0.011); no significant difference was seen in the reintervention rate ( P  = 0.28). Close follow-up for re-intervention may reduce the risk for aneurysm-related deaths and provide acceptable outcomes in patients undergoing endovascular repair. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Mid-Term Assessment of English 10 Students: A Comparison of Methods of Entry into the Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Isonio, Steven

In spring 1992, a mid-term assessment of English 10 students was conducted at Golden West College, in California, in order to compare four course placement methods. English 10, "Writing Essentials," is a nontransferrable course which focuses on paragraph writing and grammar review in order to prepare students for entry into English 100.…

Short-term and mid-term results with the Sorin Freedom Solo aortic valve.

PubMed

Ustunsoy, Hasim; Yasim, Alptekin; Deniz, Hayati; Gokaslan, Gokhan; Ozcaliskan, Ozerdem

2013-03-01

The study aim was to present the short- and mid-term results for patients who underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) with the Sorin Freedom Solo third-generation stentless prosthetic valve. AVR with a Sorin Freedom Solo valve was performed in 14 patients between March 2006 and March 2011. Patients aged > or = 60 years (male:female ratio 6:8; mean age 73.28 +/- 5.42 years) who required AVR with the Sorin Freedom Solo valve according to the surgeon's choice were included in the study. The valvular prosthesis was implanted in the supra-annular position, using a single suture line. Eight patients underwent an isolated AVR; combined interventions were carried out in the other patients due to concomitant cardiac disease. One patient died during the immediate perioperative period, and two more during the follow up, from non-cardiac causes. The mean maximum transvalvular gradient of patients with aortic stenosis was 88.1 +/- 20.2 mmHg, and this fell to 26.4 +/- 7.6 mmHg during the early postoperative period. The mean gradient at one year of follow up was further decreased to 19.4 +/- 5.3 mmHg. The left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters were also significantly reduced, from 4.8 +/- 0.9 to 4.3 +/- 0.6 cm and from 3.2 +/- 0.6 to 2.8 +/- 5.3 cm, respectively. The average left ventricular ejection fraction was 60.2 +/- 4.9% preoperatively, and 63.2 +/- 2.1% at one year after surgery (p = NS). No paravalvular leakage, endocarditis, prosthesis failure or neurologic events were reported among patients. The Sorin Freedom Solo stentless valve has provided good early and intermediate-term results. Implantation of the prosthesis is straightforward, with low rates of morbidity and mortality. However, these data require further support from larger patient series and long-term follow up.

Short- and mid-term outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy for morbid obesity: the experience of the Spanish National Registry.

PubMed

Sánchez-Santos, Raquel; Masdevall, Carlos; Baltasar, Aniceto; Martínez-Blázquez, Candido; García Ruiz de Gordejuela, Amador; Ponsi, Enric; Sánchez-Pernaute, Andres; Vesperinas, Gregorio; Del Castillo, Daniel; Bombuy, Ernest; Durán-Escribano, Carlos; Ortega, Luis; Ruiz de Adana, Juan Carlos; Baltar, Javier; Maruri, Ignacio; García-Blázquez, Emilio; Torres, Antonio

2009-09-01

Reports on laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) communicate very good short-term results on very high-risk morbid obese patients. However, mid- and long-term results are still unknown. A National Registry has been created in Spain to achieve information on the outcomes of this bariatric procedure. Data were obtained from 17 centers and collected in a database. Technical issues, preoperative comorbid conditions, hospital stay, early and late complications, and short- and mid-term weight loss were analyzed. Five hundred forty patients were included; 76% were women. Mean BMI was 48.1 +/- 10. Mean age was 44.1 +/- 11.8. Morbidity rate was 5.2% and mortality rate 0.36%. Complications presented more frequently in superobese patients (OR, 2.8 (1.18-6.65)), male (OR, 2.98 (1.26-7.0)), and patients >55 years old (OR, 2.8 (1.14-6.8)). Staple-line reinforcement was related to a lower complication rate (3.7 vs 8.8%; p = 0.039). Mean hospital stay was 4.8 +/- 8.2 days. Mean follow-up was 16.5 +/- 10.6 months (1-73). Mean percent excess BMI loss (EBL) at 3 months was 38.8 +/- 22, 55.6 +/- 8 at 6 months, 68.1 +/- 28 at 12 months, and 72.4 +/- 31 at 24 months. %EBL was superior in patients with lower initial BMI and lower age. Bougie caliber was an inverse predictive factor of %EBL at 12 and 24 months (RR, 23.3 (11.4-35.2)). DM is remitted in 81% of the patients and HTA improved in 63.2% of them. A second-stage surgery was performed in 18 patients (3.2%). LSG provides good short- and mid-term results with a low morbid-mortality rate. Better results are obtained in younger patients with lowest BMI. Staple-line reinforcement and a thinner bougie are recommended to improve outcome.

Mid-Term Clinical Outcome and Reconstruction of Posterior Tibial Slope after UKA.

PubMed

Franz, Alois; Boese, Christoph Kolja; Matthies, Andrej; Leffler, Jörg; Ries, Christian

2018-05-21

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has gained growing popularity over the last decades. The posterior tibial slope (PTS) has been shown to play a significant role for knee biomechanics and is thought to be crucial for clinical function of the UKA. We evaluated the clinical outcome at mid-term follow-up after UKA. Furthermore, the reconstruction of the individual PTS was analyzed. A total of 91 consecutive patients undergoing medial UKA for osteoarthritis were included. Patients were contacted by telephone for a survival analysis at a minimum of 30 months after surgery. Patient-oriented questionnaires and Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were obtained. A retrospective chart review and radiological analysis of component alignment were performed for all patients before and at 6 weeks after surgery. Of 91 patients (93 knees) undergoing UKA, 69 patients (70 knees) were available for clinical follow-up after a mean of 56.0 (range 31-81) months post-surgery. The clinical results of the examined patients in the present study showed mean subscale scores of the KOOS and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index between 71 and 91%. Overall 7 of 91 patients were revised during the course of follow-up period and underwent total knee arthroplasty. A Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a survival rate for UKA of 90.5% after 48 months. Calculated implant survival was 75.9 months (95% confidence interval 72.3-79.6) at the mean. The radiographic analysis of pre- and postoperative PTS showed no differences ( p  = 0.113).UKA for osteoarthritis of the medial knee compartment shows encouraging clinical results at mid-term follow-up. The individual PTS could be reconstructed within acceptable ranges. This is a retrospective therapeutic study with Level IV. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Short-term and mid-term effects of fasting and downset meal pattern on lipid profile in Iranian fasted women.

PubMed

Rabiee, Samira; Afghari, Narsis; Rastmanesh, Reza

2014-06-01

It is not clear that whether the effects of fasting and downset meal pattern on lipid profile are limited only to Ramadan or do they remain after that month. The cohort study was conducted on 49 women aged 20-45 who worked at Shahid Motahari hospital in Isfahan. They put on groups of 23 consuming downset meal and 26 non-consuming downset meal persons. Serum triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL, and HDL were measured on the 3 days before the beginning, 3 and 30 days after the end of Ramadan. Repeated measure test was used to determine the changes during times and the interaction effects between times and nocturnal eating pattern. This study showed that fasting causes some short-term and mid-term changes in triglyceride and HDL that is mostly attributable to changes in dietary habits during Ramadan, rather than downset meal pattern.

Epidemiology of the functional gastrointestinal disorders diagnosed according to Rome II criteria: an Australian population-based study.

PubMed

Boyce, P M; Talley, N J; Burke, C; Koloski, N A

2006-01-01

Population-based studies of the prevalence of all functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) using the Rome II criteria are lacking. It is also not certain whether subjects who meet the Rome II criteria for an FGID are different in terms of demographic and psychological characteristics from those subjects meeting exclusively the more restrictive Rome I criteria. To determine whether using the more restrictive Rome I criteria would result in a more biologically determined group of FGID than when the Rome II is applied. Subjects included individuals aged 18 years and older (n = 1,225) from the Penrith population who were initially surveyed with the Penrith District Health Survey in 1997. Subjects were sent a self-report questionnaire that contained items on gastrointestinal symptoms applying the Rome II criteria. Subjects were also assessed on psychological and personality factors and on physical and mental functioning. A total of 36.1% (n = 275) of respondents was diagnosed with an FGID according to Rome II criteria. The five most prevalent FGID were functional heartburn (10.4%), irritable bowel syndrome (8.9%), functional incontinence (7.6%), proctalgia fugax (6.5%) and functional chest pain (5.1%). Subjects meeting Rome II only criteria for FGID scored significantly higher on measures of psychological caseness and emotionality than Rome I only subjects, and these were independently associated with meeting Rome I only versus Rome II only criteria for FGID. The Rome II criteria FGID are common and do not appear to identify a vastly different group of FGID sufferers compared with the earlier Rome I criteria.

Mid-Space-Independent Deformable Image Registration

PubMed Central

Aganj, Iman; Iglesias, Juan Eugenio; Reuter, Martin; Sabuncu, Mert Rory; Fischl, Bruce

2017-01-01

Aligning images in a mid-space is a common approach to ensuring that deformable image registration is symmetric – that it does not depend on the arbitrary ordering of the input images. The results are, however, generally dependent on the mathematical definition of the mid-space. In particular, the set of possible solutions is typically restricted by the constraints that are enforced on the transformations to prevent the mid-space from drifting too far from the native image spaces. The use of an implicit atlas has been proposed as an approach to mid-space image registration. In this work, we show that when the atlas is aligned to each image in the native image space, the data term of implicit-atlas-based deformable registration is inherently independent of the mid-space. In addition, we show that the regularization term can be reformulated independently of the mid-space as well. We derive a new symmetric cost function that only depends on the transformation morphing the images to each other, rather than to the atlas. This eliminates the need for anti-drift constraints, thereby expanding the space of allowable deformations. We provide an implementation scheme for the proposed framework, and validate it through diffeomorphic registration experiments on brain magnetic resonance images. PMID:28242316

Percutaneous laser-assisted recanalization of long chronic iliac artery occlusions: primary and mid-term results.

PubMed

Balzer, Jörn O; Gastinger, Verena; Thalhammer, Axel; Ritter, Ralf G; Lindhoff-Last, Edelgard; Schmitz-Rixen, Thomas; Vogl, Thomas J

2006-02-01

We report the primary and mid-term outcome of patients with long chronic iliac artery occlusions after percutaneous excimer-laser-assisted interventional recanalization. Between 2000 and 2001, 43 patients with 46 chronic occlusions of either the common iliac artery (n=27), the external iliac artery ( n=13) or both (n=3) underwent laser-assisted percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and implantation of stents. The average length of the occlusion was 57.1+/-26 mm. After laser-assisted angioplasty and implantation of a total of 60 stents, the patients were followed up for up to 4 years. Patency rates were analyzed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) measurement and duplex ultrasound. The primary technical success rate was 95.3%, with a major complication rate of 6.9%. Clinical improvement as categorized by the Rutherford guidelines could be observed in 97.6% of cases. The ABI of all patients improved from an average of 0.46+/-0.08 before intervention to 0.97+/-0.13 at the end of the follow-up period. The overall primary patency rate was 86.1%. Four reinterventions were successful (secondary patency rate 95.4%). The mid-term results of the percutaneous recanalization of iliac artery occlusions with primary and secondary patency rates of 86.1 and 95.4% are similar to those of the treatment of short stenoses.

Mid- to long-term outcomes of posterior decompression with instrumented fusion for thoracic ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

PubMed

Koda, Masao; Furuya, Takeo; Okawa, Akihiko; Inada, Taigo; Kamiya, Koshiro; Ota, Mitsutoshi; Maki, Satoshi; Takahashi, Kazuhisa; Yamazaki, Masashi; Aramomi, Masaaki; Ikeda, Osamu; Mannoji, Chikato

2016-05-01

Posterior decompression with instrumented fusion (PDF) surgery has been previously reported as a relatively safe surgical procedure for any type of thoracic ossification of the longitudinal ligament (OPLL). However, mid- to long-term outcomes are still unclear. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the mid- to long-term clinical outcome of PDF surgery for thoracic OPLL patients. The present study included 20 patients who had undergone PDF for thoracic OPLL and were followed for at least 5years. Increment change and recovery rate of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were assessed. Revision surgery during the follow-up period was also recorded. Average JOA scores were 3.5 preoperatively and 7.1 at final follow-up. The average improvement in JOA score was 3.8 points and the average recovery rate was 47.0%. The JOA score showed gradual increase after surgery, and took 9months to reach peak recovery. As for neurological complications, two patients suffered postoperative paralysis, but both recovered without intervention. Six revision surgeries in four patients were related to OPLL. Additional anterior thoracic decompression for remaining ossification at the same level of PDF surgery was performed in one patient. Decompression surgery for deterioration of symptoms of pre-existing cervical OPLL was performed in three patients. One patient had undergone lumbar and cervical PDF surgery for de novo ossification foci of the lumbar and cervical spine. PDF surgery for thoracic OPLL is thus considered a relatively safe and stable surgical procedure considering the mid- to long-term outcomes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comorbidities and Ventricular Dysfunction Drive Excess Mid-Term Morbidity in an Indigenous Australian Coronary Revascularisation Cohort.

PubMed

Wiemers, Paul D; Marney, Lucy; White, Nicole; Bough, Georgina; Hustig, Alistair; Tan, Wei; Cheng, Ching-Siang; Kang, Dong; Yadav, Sumit; Tam, Robert; Fraser, John F

2018-04-24

There is a paucity of data in regards to longer term morbidity outcomes in Indigenous Australian patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). No comparative data on re-infarction, stroke or reintervention rates exist. Outcome data following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is also extremely limited. Addressing this gap in knowledge forms the major aim of our study. This was a single centre cohort study conducted at the Townsville Hospital, Australia which provides tertiary adult cardiac surgical services to the northern parts of the state of Queensland. It incorporated consecutive patients (n=350) undergoing isolated CABG procedures, 2008-2010, 20.9% (73/350) of whom were Indigenous Australians. The main outcome measures were major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (MACCE) at mid-term follow-up (mean 38.9 months). The incidence of MACCE among Indigenous Australian patients was approximately twice that of non-Indigenous patients at mid-term follow-up (36.7% vs. 18.6%; p=0.005; OR 2.525 (1.291-4.880)). Following adjustment for preoperative and operative variables, Indigenous Australian status itself was not significantly associated with MACCE (AOR 1.578 (0.637-3.910)). Significant associations with MACCE included renal impairment (AOR 2.198 (1.010-4.783)) and moderate-severe left ventricular impairment (AOR 3.697 (1.820-7.508)). An association between diabetes and MACCE failed to reach statistical significance (AOR 1.812 (0.941-3.490)). Indigenous Australians undergoing CABG suffer an excess of MACCE when followed-up in the longer term. High rates of comorbidities in the Indigenous Australian population likely play an aetiological role. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Short term response of herpetofaunal to oak-regeneration treatments on the mid-Cumberland Plateau of southern Tennessee

Treesearch

Andrew W. Cantrell; Yong Wang; Callie J. Schweitzer; Cathryn H. Greenberg

2013-01-01

We examined the short term response of herpetofauna to two treatments designed to regenerate oak in upland hardwood forest: (1) shelterwood (30–40% BA retention), and (2) oak-shelterwood (midstory removal by use of herbicide), along with controls. Research was conducted 1 and 2 years post treatment within an oak-hickory forest within the mid-Cumberland Plateau of...

Hereditary internal anal sphincter myopathy causing proctalgia fugax and constipation: further clinical and histological characterization in a patient.

PubMed

König, P; Ambrose, N S; Scott, N

2000-01-01

Hereditary internal anal sphincter myopathy is a very rare condition, only three families have so far been described in the literature. In this case report further clinical and histological findings of one affected member of one of the above families are presented.

Mid-space-independent deformable image registration.

PubMed

Aganj, Iman; Iglesias, Juan Eugenio; Reuter, Martin; Sabuncu, Mert Rory; Fischl, Bruce

2017-05-15

Aligning images in a mid-space is a common approach to ensuring that deformable image registration is symmetric - that it does not depend on the arbitrary ordering of the input images. The results are, however, generally dependent on the mathematical definition of the mid-space. In particular, the set of possible solutions is typically restricted by the constraints that are enforced on the transformations to prevent the mid-space from drifting too far from the native image spaces. The use of an implicit atlas has been proposed as an approach to mid-space image registration. In this work, we show that when the atlas is aligned to each image in the native image space, the data term of implicit-atlas-based deformable registration is inherently independent of the mid-space. In addition, we show that the regularization term can be reformulated independently of the mid-space as well. We derive a new symmetric cost function that only depends on the transformation morphing the images to each other, rather than to the atlas. This eliminates the need for anti-drift constraints, thereby expanding the space of allowable deformations. We provide an implementation scheme for the proposed framework, and validate it through diffeomorphic registration experiments on brain magnetic resonance images. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Synchronized Forced Running with Chronic Stress on Short, Mid and Long- term Memory in Rats.

PubMed

Radahmadi, Maryam; Alaei, Hojjatallah; Sharifi, Mohammad-Reza; Hosseini, Nasrin

2013-03-01

Impairment of learning and memory processes has been demonstrated by many studies using different stressors. Other reports suggested that exercise has a powerful behavioral intervention to improve cognitive function and brain health. In this research, we investigated protective effects of treadmill running on chronic stress-induced memory deficit in rats. Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n=10) as follows: Control (Co), Sham (Sh), Stress (St), Exercise (Ex) and Stress and Exercise (St & Ex) groups. Chronic restraint stress was applied by 6h/day/21days and also treadmill running at a speed 20-21m/min for 1h/day/21days. Memory function was evaluated by the passive avoidance test in different intervals (1, 7 and 21 days) after foot shock. OUR RESULTS SHOWED THAT: 1) Although exercise alone showed beneficial effects especially on short and mid-term memory (P<0.05) in comparison with control group, but synchronized exercise with stress had not significantly improved short, mid and long-term memory deficit in stressed rats. 2) Short and mid-term memory deficit was significantly (P<0.05) observed in synchronized exercise with stress and stress groups with respect to normal rats. 3) Memory deficit in synchronized exercise with stress group was nearly similar to stressed rats. 4) Helpful effects of exercise were less than harmful effects of stress when they were associated together. The data correspond to the possibility that although treadmill running alone has helpful effects on learning and memory consolidation, but when it is synchronized with stress there is no significant benefit and protective effects in improvement of memory deficit induced by chronic stress. However, it is has a better effect than no training on memory deficit in stressed rats.

Renal Angiomyolipoma: Mid- to Long-Term Results Following Embolization with Onyx.

PubMed

Thulasidasan, Narayanan; Sriskandakumar, Srividhiya; Ilyas, Shahzad; Sabharwal, Tarun

2016-12-01

Percutaneous transcatheter embolization is currently the preferred treatment for ruptured or enlarging renal angiomyolipoma (AML), although the optimum choice of embolic material has not yet been established. We present mid- to long-term outcomes following embolization of AMLs with Onyx. Ten AMLs in seven patients (including two with tuberous sclerosis) were embolized with Onyx. Patients were followed-up clinically, with tumour size and renal function measured pre- and post-procedure. Mean pre-treatment AML size was 63.4 mm (range 42-100). Mean clinical follow-up was 431.4 days (range 153-986) and imaging follow-up 284.2 days (range 30-741). There was no haemorrhage from treated lesions within the follow-up period. Of patients who had cross-sectional imaging pre- and post-procedure, mean decrease in AML size of 22 mm was seen after Onyx embolization (p = 0.0058, 95 % CI 9.13-34.87). No significant difference between serum creatinine was seen pre- and post-procedure (p = 0.54, 95 % CI 8.63-4.85). Onyx embolization of renal AMLs is effective in the medium to long term, with theoretical benefits in safety and durability of result.

Anorectal Disorders

PubMed Central

Rao, Satish S. C.; Bharucha, Adil E.; Chiarioni, Giuseppe; Felt-Bersma, Richelle; Knowles, Charles; Malcolm, Allison; Wald, Arnold

2016-01-01

This report defines criteria and reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of the following common anorectal disorders: fecal incontinence (FI), functional anorectal pain, and functional defecation disorders. FI is defined as the recurrent uncontrolled passage of fecal material for at least 3 months. The clinical features of FI are useful for guiding diagnostic testing and therapy. Anorectal manometry and imaging are useful for evaluating anal and pelvic floor structure and function. Education, antidiarrheals, and biofeedback therapy are the mainstay of management; surgery may be useful in refractory cases. Functional anorectal pain syndromes are defined by clinical features and categorized into 3 subtypes. In proctalgia fugax, the pain is typically fleeting and lasts for seconds to minutes. In levator ani syndrome and unspecified anorectal pain, the pain lasts more than 30 minutes, but in levator ani syndrome there is puborectalis tenderness. Functional defecation disorders are defined by ≥2 symptoms of chronic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, and with ≥2 features of impaired evacuation, that is, abnormal evacuation pattern on manometry, abnormal balloon expulsion test, or impaired rectal evacuation by imaging. It includes 2 subtypes: dyssynergic defecation and inadequate defecatory propulsion. Pelvic floor biofeedback therapy is effective for treating levator ani syndrome and defecatory disorders. PMID:27144630

Anorectal and Pelvic Pain.

PubMed

Bharucha, Adil E; Lee, Tae Hee

2016-10-01

Although pelvic pain is a symptom of several structural anorectal and pelvic disorders (eg, anal fissure, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease), this comprehensive review will focus on the 3 most common nonstructural, or functional, disorders associated with pelvic pain: functional anorectal pain (ie, levator ani syndrome, unspecified anorectal pain, and proctalgia fugax), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. The first 2 conditions occur in both sexes, while the latter occurs only in men. They are defined by symptoms, supplemented with levator tenderness (levator ani syndrome) and bladder mucosal inflammation (interstitial cystitis). Although distinct, these conditions share several similarities, including associations with dysfunctional voiding or defecation, comorbid conditions (eg, fibromyalgia, depression), impaired quality of life, and increased health care utilization. Several factors, including pelvic floor muscle tension, peripheral inflammation, peripheral and central sensitization, and psychosocial factors, have been implicated in the pathogenesis. The management is tailored to symptoms, is partly supported by clinical trials, and includes multidisciplinary approaches such as lifestyle modifications and pharmacological, behavioral, and physical therapy. Opioids should be avoided, and surgical treatment has a limited role, primarily in refractory interstitial cystitis. Copyright © 2016 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Functional Anorectal Disorders.

PubMed

Rao, Satish Sc; Bharucha, Adil E; Chiarioni, Giuseppe; Felt-Bersma, Richelle; Knowles, Charles; Malcolm, Allison; Wald, Arnold

2016-03-25

This report defines criteria and reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of common anorectal disorders: fecal incontinence (FI), functional anorectal pain and functional defecation disorders. FI is defined as the recurrent uncontrolled passage of fecal material for at least 3 months. The clinical features of FI are useful for guiding diagnostic testing and therapy. Anorectal manometry and imaging are useful for evaluating anal and pelvic floor structure and function. Education, antidiarrheals and biofeedback therapy are the mainstay of management; surgery may be useful in refractory cases. Functional anorectal pain syndromes are defined by clinical features and categorized into three subtypes. In proctalgia fugax, the pain is typically fleeting and lasts for seconds to minutes. In levator ani syndrome (LAS) and unspecified anorectal pain the pain lasts more than 30 minutes, but in LAS there is puborectalis tenderness. Functional defecation disorders are defined by >2 symptoms of chronic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, and with >2 features of impaired evacuation i.e., abnormal evacuation pattern on manometry, abnormal balloon expulsion test or impaired rectal evacuation by imaging. It includes two subtypes; dyssynergic defecation and inadequate defecatory propulsion. Pelvic floor biofeedback therapy is effective for treating LAS and defecatory disorders. Copyright © 2016 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mid-trimester induced abortion: a review.

PubMed

Lalitkumar, S; Bygdeman, M; Gemzell-Danielsson, K

2007-01-01

Mid-trimester abortion constitutes 10-15% of all induced abortion. The aim of this article is to provide a review of the current literature of mid-trimester methods of abortion with respect to efficacy, side effects and acceptability. There have been continuing efforts to improve the abortion technology in terms of effectiveness, technical ease of performance, acceptability and reduction of side effects and complications. During the last decade, medical methods for mid-trimester induced abortion have shown a considerable development and have become safe and more accessible. The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol is now an established and highly effective method for termination of pregnancy (TOP). Advantages and disadvantages of medical versus surgical methods are discussed. Randomized studies are lacking, and more studies on pain treatment and the safety of any method used in patients with a previous uterine scar are debated, and data are scarce. Pain management in abortion requires special attention. This review highlights the need for randomized studies to set guidelines for mid-trimester abortion methods in terms of safety and acceptability as well as for better analgesic regimens.

Mid-term changes in blood metal ion levels after Articular Surface Replacement arthroplasty of the hip.

PubMed

Galea, V P; Laaksonen, I; Matuszak, S J; Connelly, J W; Muratoglu, O; Malchau, H

2017-04-01

Our first aim was to determine whether there are significant changes in the level of metal ions in the blood at mid-term follow-up, in patients with an Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) arthroplasty. Secondly, we sought to identify risk factors for any increases. The study involved 435 patients who underwent unilateral, metal-on-metal (MoM) hip resurfacing (HRA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA). These patients all had one measurement of the level of metal ions in the blood before seven years had passed post-operatively (early evaluation) and one after seven years had passed post-operatively (mid-term evaluation). Changes in ion levels were tested using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. We identified subgroups at the highest risk of increase using a multivariable linear logistic regression model. There were significant increases in the levels of metal ions for patients who underwent both MoM HRA (Chromium (Cr): 0.5 parts per billion (ppb); Cobalt (Co): 1.1 ppb) and MoM THA (Cr: 0.5 ppb; Co: 0.7 ppb). In a multivariable model considering MoM HRAs, the change in the levels of metal ions was influenced by female gender (Co: Odds Ratio (OR) 1.42; p = 0.002 and Cr: OR 1.08; p = 0.006). The change was found to be irrespective of the initial level for the MoM HRAs, whereas there was a negative relationship between the initial level and the change in the level for those with a MoM THA (Co: OR -0.43; p < 0.001 and Cr: OR -0.14; p = 0.033). The levels of metal ions in the blood increase significantly over the period until mid-term follow-up in patients with both a MoM HRA and those with a MoM THA. We recommend that the levels of metal ions be measured most frequently for women with a MoM HRA. While those with a MoM THA appear to stabilise at a certain level, the accuracy of this trend is not yet clear. Vigilant follow-up is still recommended. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B(4 Supple B):33-40. ©2017 Galea et al.

Early and mid-term outcomes of trans-sternal and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for thymoma.

PubMed

Manoly, Imthiaz; Whistance, Robert N; Sreekumar, Rahul; Khawaja, Saud; Horton, Joanne M; Khan, Ali Zamir; Casali, Gianluca; Thorpe, James A; Amer, Khalid; Woo, Edwin

2014-06-01

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for thymoma has uncertain safety and effectiveness in comparison with trans-sternal resection. This feasibility study compared short- and mid-term outcomes for patients undergoing these two procedures, highlights weaknesses in current research and makes recommendations for long-term technological evaluations in this field. Consecutive thymoma cases between 2004 and 2010 were identified. Patients were divided into two groups according to surgical approach (Group I trans-sternal; Group II VATS) and comparisons were made between groups. The primary outcome was overall survival. Secondary outcomes included operative morbidity and mortality, hospital stay, recurrence rate and disease-free survival. Thirty-nine patients were included (Group I: n = 22 vs Group II: n = 17). There were no differences between groups at baseline for all measured covariates. No deaths occurred within 30 days of surgery. More patients in Group I developed complications (Group I: n = 10 vs Group II: n = 3; P = 0.093), while hospital stay was shorter in Group II (Group I: 6.4 ± 4.6 days vs Group II: 4.4 ± 1.8 days; P = 0.030). Five-year overall survival (Group I: 93.8 ± 6.1% vs Group II: 83.3 ± 11.2%; P = 0.425), 5-year disease-free survival (Group I: 71.0 ± 15.3% vs Group II: 83.3 ± 11.2%; P = 0.827) and recurrence rates at final follow-up (Group I: n = 2 vs Group II: n = 1; P = 0.363) were similar between the groups. VATS thymectomy for thymoma is feasible, safe and has comparable mid-term oncological outcomes to trans-sternal thymectomy. Future research is required to evaluate long-term oncological outcomes of VATS thymectomy for thymoma in national registries and randomized, controlled trials. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Short-term Natural History of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Infection in Mid-Adult Women Sampled Monthly (Short title: Short-term HPV Natural History in Mid-Adult Women)

PubMed Central

Fu, Tsung-chieh (Jane); Xi, Long Fu; Hulbert, Ayaka; Hughes, James P.; Feng, Qinghua; Schwartz, Stephen M.; Hawes, Stephen E.; Koutsky, Laura A.; Winer, Rachel L.

2015-01-01

Characterizing short-term HPV detection patterns and viral load may inform HPV natural history in mid-adult women. From 2011–2012, we recruited women aged 30–50 years. Women submitted monthly self-collected vaginal samples for high-risk HPV DNA testing for 6 months. Positive samples were tested for type-specific HPV DNA load by real-time PCR. HPV type-adjusted linear and Poisson regression assessed factors associated with 1) viral load at initial HPV detection and 2) repeat type-specific HPV detection. One-hundred thirty-nine women (36% of 387 women with ≥4 samples) contributed 243 type-specific HR HPV infections during the study; 54% of infections were prevalent and 46% were incident. Incident (versus prevalent) detection and past pregnancy were associated with lower viral load, whereas current smoking was associated with higher viral load. In multivariate analysis, current smoking was associated with a 40% (95%CI:5%–87%) increase in the proportion of samples that were repeatedly positive for the same HPV type, whereas incident (versus prevalent) detection status and past pregnancy were each associated with a reduction in the proportion of samples repeatedly positive (55%,95%CI:38%–67% and 26%,95%CI:10%–39%, respectively). In a separate multivariate model, each log10 increase in viral load was associated with a 10% (95%CI:4%–16%) increase in the proportion of samples repeatedly positive. Factors associated with repeat HPV detection were similar to those observed in longer-term studies, suggesting that short-term repeat detection may relate to long-term persistence. The negative associations between incident HPV detection and both viral load and repeat detection suggest that reactivation or intermittent persistence was more common than new acquisition. PMID:25976733

Renal Angiomyolipoma: Mid- to Long-Term Results Following Embolization with Onyx

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thulasidasan, Narayanan, E-mail: narayanant@doctors.net.uk; Sriskandakumar, Srividhiya; Ilyas, Shahzad

PurposePercutaneous transcatheter embolization is currently the preferred treatment for ruptured or enlarging renal angiomyolipoma (AML), although the optimum choice of embolic material has not yet been established. We present mid- to long-term outcomes following embolization of AMLs with Onyx.Materials and MethodsTen AMLs in seven patients (including two with tuberous sclerosis) were embolized with Onyx. Patients were followed-up clinically, with tumour size and renal function measured pre- and post-procedure.ResultsMean pre-treatment AML size was 63.4 mm (range 42–100). Mean clinical follow-up was 431.4 days (range 153–986) and imaging follow-up 284.2 days (range 30–741). There was no haemorrhage from treated lesions within the follow-up period. Ofmore » patients who had cross-sectional imaging pre- and post-procedure, mean decrease in AML size of 22 mm was seen after Onyx embolization (p = 0.0058, 95 % CI 9.13–34.87). No significant difference between serum creatinine was seen pre- and post-procedure (p = 0.54, 95 % CI 8.63–4.85).ConclusionsOnyx embolization of renal AMLs is effective in the medium to long term, with theoretical benefits in safety and durability of result.« less

Endovascular treatment of penetrating aortic ulcers: mid-term follow-up.

PubMed

Mestres, Gaspar; Rodríguez, Rubén; García-Madrid, Cesar; Montañà, Xavier; Burrel, Marta; Cruz, Luis Fernando; Flores, Carlos; Riambau, Vicente

2012-01-01

The aim of this work is to describe the short- and mid-term results of endovascular treatment of penetrating ulcers in the thoracic aorta. Between 1998 and 2010, 22 patients with penetrating ulcers in the thoracic aorta received endografts (mean age 69.8 years, 91% male); 50% were indicated for acute aortic syndrome (8 chest pain, 1 aortic rupture, 1 aortobronchial fistula, 1 distal embolization) and 50% for aortic or ulcer diameter. All preoperative, operative and follow-up data were recorded prospectively and met EUROSTAR criteria. Technical success was 100% with no intraoperative deaths or open conversions; 6 (27.3%) required preoperative supraaortic trunk debranching and 1.3 endografts were used per patient; 27.3% developed complications in-hospital and 9.1% required reintervention prior to discharge. Mortality at 30 days was 4.5%. After a mean 52.3 month follow-up (range 0.1-122), cumulative survival free from complications and reinterventions at 100 months was 61.7% and 79.5% respectively, with 95.5% cumulative survival free from aorta- or procedure-related death. We identified no factors significantly related to poor intra- or postoperative clinical course. Endovascular treatment of penetrating aortic ulcers is both possible and effective despite high patient comorbidity. Although a substantial rate of complications and reinterventions can be expected-especially in-hospital-(38.3% and 20.5% respectively at 100 months), long-term mortality is low (4.5%). Copyright © 2011 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Roux-en-Y fistulo-jejunostomy as a salvage procedure in patients with post-sleeve gastrectomy fistula: mid-term results.

PubMed

Chouillard, Elie; Younan, Antoine; Alkandari, Mubarak; Daher, Ronald; Dejonghe, Bernard; Alsabah, Salman; Biagini, Jean

2016-10-01

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is currently the most commonly performed bariatric procedure in France. It achieves both adequate excess weight loss and significant reduction in comorbidities. However, fistula is still the most common complication after SG, occurring in more than 3 % of cases, even in specialized centers (Gagner and Buchwald in Surg Obes Relat Dis 10:713-723. doi: 10.1016/j.soard.2014.01.016 , 2014). Its management is not standardized, long, and challenging. We have already reported the short-term results of Roux-en-Y fistulo-jejunostomy (RYFJ) as a salvage procedure in patients with post-SG fistula (Chouillard et al. in Surg Endosc 28:1954-1960 doi: 10.1007/s00464-014-3424-y , 2014). In this study, we analyzed the mid-term results of the RYFJ emphasizing its endoscopic, radiologic, and safety outcome. Between January 2007 and December 2013, we treated 75 patients with post-SG fistula, mainly referred from other centers. Immediate management principles included computerized tomography (CT) scan-guided drainage of collections or surgical peritoneal lavage, nutritional support, and endoscopic stenting. Ultimately, this approach achieved fistula control in nearly two-thirds of the patients. In the remaining third, RYFJ was proposed, eventually leading to fistula control in all cases. The mid-term results (i.e., more than 1 year after surgery) were assessed using anamnesis, clinical evaluation, biology tests, upper digestive tract endoscopy, and IV-enhanced CT scan with contrast upper series. Thirty patients (22 women and 8 men) had RYFJ for post-SG fistula. Mean age was 40 years (range 22-59). Procedures were performed laparoscopically in all but 3 cases (90 %). Three patients (10 %) were lost to follow-up. Mean follow-up period was 22 months (18-90). Mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.4 kg/m(2) (22-41). Endoscopic and radiologic assessment revealed no persistent fistula and no residual collections. Despite the lack of long-term follow-up, RYFJ could be

Percutaneous Angioplasty of Portal Vein Stenosis that Complicates Liver Transplantation: The Mid-Term Therapeutic Results

PubMed Central

Park, Kwang Bo; Do, Young Soo; Shin, Sung Wook; Cho, Sung Gi; Choo, In-Wook

2005-01-01

Objective We wanted to valuate the mid-term therapeutic results of percutaneous transhepatic balloon angioplasty for portal vein stenosis after liver transplantation. Materials and Methods From May 1996 to Feb 2005, 420 patients underwent liver transplantation. Percutaneous transhepatic angioplasty of the portal vein was attempted in six patients. The patients presented with the clinical signs and symptoms of portal venous hypertension or they were identified by surveillance doppler ultrasonography. The preangioplasty and postangioplasty pressure gradients were recorded. The therapeutic results were monitored by the follow up of the clinical symptoms, the laboratory values, CT and ultrasonography. Results The overall technical success rate was 100%. The clinical success rate was 83% (5/6). A total of eight sessions of balloon angioplasty were performed in six patients. The mean pressure gradient decreased from 14.5 mmHg to 2.8 mmHg before and after treatment, respectively. The follow up periods ranged from three months to 64 months (mean period; 32 months). Portal venous patency was maintained in all six patients until the final follow up. Combined hepatic venous stenosis was seen in one patient who was treated with stent placement. One patient showed puncture tract bleeding, and this patient was treated with coil embolization of the right portal puncture tract via the left transhepatic portal venous approach. Conclusion Percutaneous transhepatic balloon angioplasty is an effective treatment for the portal vein stenosis that occurs after liver transplantation, and our results showed good mid-term patency with using this technique. PMID:16145291

Mid-term survivorship and clinical outcomes of cobalt-chrome and oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene.

PubMed

Petis, Stephen M; Vasarhelyi, Edward M; Lanting, Brent A; Howard, James L; Naudie, Douglas D R; Somerville, Lyndsay E; McCalden, Richard W

2016-02-01

The choice of bearing articulation for total hip arthroplasty in younger patients is amenable to debate. We compared mid-term patient-reported outcomes and survivorship across 2 different bearing articulations in a young patient cohort. We reviewed patients with cobalt-chrome or oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene who were followed prospectively between 2004 and 2012. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine predicted cumulative survivorship at 5 years with all-cause and aseptic revisions as the outcome. We compared patient-reported outcomes, including the Harris hip score (HHS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short-form 12 (SF-12) scores. A total of 622 patients were followed during the study period. Mean follow-up was 8.2 (range 2.0-10.6) years for cobalt-chrome and 7.8 (range 2.1-10.7) years for oxidized zirconium. Mean age was 54.9 ± 10.6 years for cobalt-chrome and 54.8 ± 10.7 years for oxidized zirconium. Implant survivorship was 96.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 94.9%-97.1%) for cobalt-chrome and 98.7% (95% CI 98.0%-99.4%) for oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene for all-cause revisions, and 97.2% (95% CI 96.2%-98.2%) for cobalt-chrome and 99.0% (95% CI 98.4%-99.6%) for oxidized zirconium for aseptic revisions. An age-, sex- and diagnosis-matched comparison of the HHS, WOMAC and SF-12 scores demonstrated no significant changes in clinical outcomes across the groups. Both bearing surface couples demonstrated excellent mid-term survivorship and outcomes in young patient cohorts. Future analyses on wear and costs are warranted to elicit differences between the groups at long-term follow-up.

Mid-term survivorship and clinical outcomes of cobalt-chrome and oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene

PubMed Central

Petis, Stephen M.; Vasarhelyi, Edward M.; Lanting, Brent A.; Howard, James L.; Naudie, Douglas D.R.; Somerville, Lyndsay E.; McCalden, Richard W.

2016-01-01

Background The choice of bearing articulation for total hip arthroplasty in younger patients is amenable to debate. We compared mid-term patient-reported outcomes and survivorship across 2 different bearing articulations in a young patient cohort. Methods We reviewed patients with cobalt-chrome or oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene who were followed prospectively between 2004 and 2012. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to determine predicted cumulative survivorship at 5 years with all-cause and aseptic revisions as the outcome. We compared patient-reported outcomes, including the Harris hip score (HHS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short-form 12 (SF-12) scores. Results A total of 622 patients were followed during the study period. Mean follow-up was 8.2 (range 2.0–10.6) years for cobalt-chrome and 7.8 (range 2.1–10.7) years for oxidized zirconium. Mean age was 54.9 ± 10.6 years for cobalt-chrome and 54.8 ± 10.7 years for oxidized zirconium. Implant survivorship was 96.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 94.9%–97.1%) for cobalt-chrome and 98.7% (95% CI 98.0%–99.4%) for oxidized zirconium on highly crosslinked polyethylene for all-cause revisions, and 97.2% (95% CI 96.2%–98.2%) for cobalt-chrome and 99.0% (95% CI 98.4%–99.6%) for oxidized zirconium for aseptic revisions. An age-, sex- and diagnosis-matched comparison of the HHS, WOMAC and SF-12 scores demonstrated no significant changes in clinical outcomes across the groups. Conclusion Both bearing surface couples demonstrated excellent mid-term survivorship and outcomes in young patient cohorts. Future analyses on wear and costs are warranted to elicit differences between the groups at long-term follow-up. PMID:26812409

Long-term Bat Monitoring on Islands, Offshore Structures, and Coastal Sites in the Gulf of Maine, mid-Atlantic, and Great Lakes—Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Peterson, Trevor; Pelletier, Steve; Giovanni, Matt

This report summarizes results of a long-term regional acoustic survey of bat activity at remote islands, offshore structures, and coastal sites in the Gulf of Maine, Great Lakes, and mid-Atlantic coast.

Disappointing mid-term results after laparoscopic gastric banding in young patients.

PubMed

Lanthaler, Monika; Sieb, Michael; Strasser, Stefan; Weiss, Helmut; Aigner, Franz; Nehoda, Hermann

2009-01-01

When gastric banding was introduced as a bariatric operation about 12 years previously, its early results were promising, with a low complication rate. Only a few long-term studies on this subject have been published. This study was performed to assess our results with laparoscopic gastric banding in young patients afterterm outcome was regarded as a failure in 40%, fair in 4%, good in 28%, very good in 20%, and excellent in 8% of patients. Our mid-term results were disappointing, with a high complication rate and many dissatisfied patients.

Initial Weight Loss after Restrictive Bariatric Procedures May Predict Mid-Term Weight Maintenance: Results From a 12-Month Pilot Trial.

PubMed

Nikolić, Marko; Kruljac, Ivan; Kirigin, Lora; Mirošević, Gorana; Ljubičić, Neven; Nikolić, Borka Pezo; Bekavac-Bešlin, Miroslav; Budimir, Ivan; Vrkljan, Milan

2015-06-01

Background: Bariatric procedures are effective options for weight loss (WL) in the morbidly obese. However, some patients fail to lose any weight after bariatric surgery, and mid-term weight maintenance is variable. The aim of this study was to investigate whether initial WL could predict mid-term weight maintenance. Methods: Eighty patients were enrolled, of whom 44 were treated with the BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon (BIB), 21 with laparoscopic adjustable gastric lap-banding (LAGB), and 15 with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Percentage of body WL and percentage of excess weight loss (EWL) were calculated at baseline and after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Successful WL was defined as EWL >20% for patients treated with BIB and >50% for patients treated with LAGB and SG. Results: Success in the 6th and 12th month was achieved in 80% and 58% of patients in the BIB group, 33% and 40% in the LAGB group, and 60% and 73% in the LSG group. In the BIB group, WL in the 1st month correlated positively with WL at the 6th and 12th month, and an initial WL >6.5% best predicted success (sensitivity 50%, specificity 80%). A similar association was observed in the LAGB group at the 6th and 12th month and an initial WL >9.4% best predicted success (sensitivity 90.0%, specificity 81.2%). In patients treated with LSG, WL in the 3rd month correlated positively with EWL at the 6th and 12th month, with a cutoff value of 17% (sensitivity 66.7%, specificity 100%). Conclusions: WL in the 1st month in patients treated with BIB and LAGB and WL in the 3rd month in patients treated with LSG could be used as a prognostic factor to predict mid-term weight maintenance.

Mid-Term Probabilistic Forecast of Oil Spill Trajectories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castanedo, S.; Abascal, A. J.; Cardenas, M.; Medina, R.; Guanche, Y.; Mendez, F. J.; Camus, P.

2012-12-01

There is increasing concern about the threat posed by oil spills to the coastal environment. This is reflected in the promulgation of various national and international standards among which are those that require companies whose activities involves oil spill risk, to have oil pollution emergency plans or similar arrangements for responding promptly and effectively to oil pollution incidents. Operational oceanography systems (OOS) that provide decision makers with oil spill trajectory forecasting, have demonstrated their usefulness in recent accidents (Castanedo et al., 2006). In recent years, many national and regional OOS have been setup focusing on short-term oil spill forecast (up to 5 days). However, recent accidental marine oil spills (Prestige in Spain, Deep Horizon in Gulf of Mexico) have revealed the importance of having larger prediction horizons (up to 15 days) in regional-scale areas. In this work, we have developed a methodology to provide probabilistic oil spill forecast based on numerical modelling and statistical methods. The main components of this approach are: (1) Use of high resolution long-term (1948-2009) historical hourly data bases of wind, wind-induced currents and astronomical tide currents obtained using state-of-the-art numerical models; (2) classification of representative wind field patterns (n=100) using clustering techniques based on PCA and K-means algorithms (Camus et al., 2011); (3) determination of the cluster occurrence probability and the stochastic matrix (matrix of transition of probability or Markov matrix), p_ij, (probability of moving from a cluster "i" to a cluster "j" in one time step); (4) Initial state for mid-term simulations is obtained from available wind forecast using nearest-neighbors analog method; (5) 15-days Stochastic Markov Chain simulations (m=1000) are launched; (6) Corresponding oil spill trajectories are carried out by TESEO Lagrangian transport model (Abascal et al., 2009); (7) probability maps are

Effects of a Long-Term Disturbance on Arthropods and Vegetation in Subalpine Wetlands: Manifestations of Pack Stock Grazing in Early versus Mid-Season

PubMed Central

Holmquist, Jeffrey G.; Schmidt-Gengenbach, Jutta; Haultain, Sylvia A.

2013-01-01

Conclusions regarding disturbance effects in high elevation or high latitude ecosystems based solely on infrequent, long-term sampling may be misleading, because the long winters may erase severe, short-term impacts at the height of the abbreviated growing season. We separated a) long-term effects of pack stock grazing, manifested in early season prior to stock arrival, from b) additional pack stock grazing effects that might become apparent during annual stock grazing, by use of paired grazed and control wet meadows that we sampled at the beginning and end of subalpine growing seasons. Control meadows had been closed to grazing for at least two decades, and meadow pairs were distributed across Sequoia National Park, California, USA. The study was thus effectively a landscape-scale, long-term manipulation of wetland grazing. We sampled arthropods at these remote sites and collected data on associated vegetation structure. Litter cover and depth, percent bare ground, and soil strength had negative responses to grazing. In contrast, fauna showed little response to grazing, and there were overall negative effects for only three arthropod families. Mid-season and long-term results were generally congruent, and the only indications of lower faunal diversity on mid-season grazed wetlands were trends of lower abundance across morphospecies and lower diversity for canopy fauna across assemblage metrics. Treatment x Season interactions almost absent. Thus impacts on vegetation structure only minimally cascaded into the arthropod assemblage and were not greatly intensified during the annual growing season. Differences between years, which were likely a response to divergent snowfall patterns, were more important than differences between early and mid-season. Reliance on either vegetation or faunal metrics exclusively would have yielded different conclusions; using both flora and fauna served to provide a more integrative view of ecosystem response. PMID:23308297

Effects of a long-term disturbance on arthropods and vegetation in subalpine wetlands: manifestations of pack stock grazing in early versus mid-season.

PubMed

Holmquist, Jeffrey G; Schmidt-Gengenbach, Jutta; Haultain, Sylvia A

2013-01-01

Conclusions regarding disturbance effects in high elevation or high latitude ecosystems based solely on infrequent, long-term sampling may be misleading, because the long winters may erase severe, short-term impacts at the height of the abbreviated growing season. We separated a) long-term effects of pack stock grazing, manifested in early season prior to stock arrival, from b) additional pack stock grazing effects that might become apparent during annual stock grazing, by use of paired grazed and control wet meadows that we sampled at the beginning and end of subalpine growing seasons. Control meadows had been closed to grazing for at least two decades, and meadow pairs were distributed across Sequoia National Park, California, USA. The study was thus effectively a landscape-scale, long-term manipulation of wetland grazing. We sampled arthropods at these remote sites and collected data on associated vegetation structure. Litter cover and depth, percent bare ground, and soil strength had negative responses to grazing. In contrast, fauna showed little response to grazing, and there were overall negative effects for only three arthropod families. Mid-season and long-term results were generally congruent, and the only indications of lower faunal diversity on mid-season grazed wetlands were trends of lower abundance across morphospecies and lower diversity for canopy fauna across assemblage metrics. Treatment x Season interactions almost absent. Thus impacts on vegetation structure only minimally cascaded into the arthropod assemblage and were not greatly intensified during the annual growing season. Differences between years, which were likely a response to divergent snowfall patterns, were more important than differences between early and mid-season. Reliance on either vegetation or faunal metrics exclusively would have yielded different conclusions; using both flora and fauna served to provide a more integrative view of ecosystem response.

A patient cohort on long-term sequelae of sepsis survivors: study protocol of the Mid-German Sepsis Cohort.

PubMed

Scherag, André; Hartog, Christiane S; Fleischmann, Carolin; Ouart, Dominique; Hoffmann, Franziska; König, Christian; Kesselmeier, Miriam; Fiedler, Sandra; Philipp, Monique; Braune, Anke; Eichhorn, Cornelia; Gampe, Christin; Romeike, Heike; Reinhart, Konrad

2017-08-23

An increasing number of patients survive sepsis; however, we lack valid data on the long-term impact on morbidity from prospective observational studies. Therefore, we designed an observational cohort to quantify mid-term and long-term functional disabilities after intensive care unit (ICU)-treated sepsis. Ultimately, findings for the Mid-German Sepsis Cohort (MSC) will serve as basis for the implementation of follow-up structures for patients with sepsis and help to increase quality of care for sepsis survivors. All patients surviving ICU-treated sepsis are eligible and are recruited from five study centres in Germany (acute care hospital setting in Jena, Halle/Saale, Leipzig, Bad Berka, Erfurt; large long-term acute care hospital and rehabilitation setting in Klinik Bavaria Kreischa). Screening is performed by trained study nurses. Data are collected on ICU management of sepsis. On written informed consent provided by patients or proxies, follow-up is carried out by trained research staff at 3, 6 and 12 months and yearly thereafter. The primary outcome is functional disability as assessed by (instrumental) activities of daily living. Other outcomes cover domains like mortality, cognitive, emotional and physical impairment, and resource use. The estimated sample size of 3000 ICU survivors is calculated to allow detection of relevant changes in the primary outcome in sepsis survivors longitudinally. The study is conducted according to the current version of the Declaration of Helsinki and has been approved by four local/federal responsible institutional ethics committees and by the respective federal data protection commissioners. Results of MSC will be fed back to the patients and published in peer-reviewed journals. German Clinical Trials Registry DRKS00010050. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

[Comparison of mid-term surgical results between plate and intramedullary nail for humeral shaft fracture].

PubMed

Zhao, G; Liu, H N; Li, N; He, L; Wu, X B

2016-10-11

Objective: To evaluate the mid-term clinical efficacy of plate and intramedullary nail for humeral shaft fracture. Methods: In this retrospective study a total of 122 patients with humeral shaft fracture were divided into 2 groups according to surgery type from May 2010 to July 2012. There were 63 patients in plate group and 59 patients in intramedullary nail group. The factors related to the operation for each group were compared respectively. The clinical outcome was evaluated by the Neer scores, Myao scores and EuroQol 5 dimensions scores (EQ-5D). All the patients were followed up periodically in the next 3 years. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups on hospital stay and time of returning to work ( P >0.05). While the operation time, amount of intraoperative blood loss and complication rate were less in intramedullary nail group. The mean follow-up duration was (41.2±4.2) months in plate group and (42.1±4.7) months in intramedullary nail group respectively. At the last follow-up the postoperative Neer scores, Myao scores and EQ-5D scores showed no significant differences between the 2 groups[Neer: (93.8±6.1) vs(92.1±4.2); Myao: (94.9±2.9) vs(96.2±1.5), P >0.05]. There were no cases complicated with nonunion, delayed union, infection and deformity during the follow-up period. Conclusions: The mid-term outcome of open reduction and internal fixation with plate and close reduction with intramedullary nail for humeral shaft fracture is satisfactory. Although both surgeries are safe and effective, they also have some defaults. The doctors should choose the right surgery carefully according to the actual situation of the patients.

Diurnal and twenty-four hour patterning of human diseases: acute and chronic common and uncommon medical conditions.

PubMed

Smolensky, Michael H; Portaluppi, Francesco; Manfredini, Roberto; Hermida, Ramon C; Tiseo, Ruana; Sackett-Lundeen, Linda L; Haus, Erhard L

2015-06-01

The symptom intensity and mortality of human diseases, conditions, and syndromes exhibit diurnal or 24 h patterning, e.g., skin: atopic dermatitis, urticaria, psoriasis, and palmar hyperhidrosis; gastrointestinal: esophageal reflux, peptic ulcer (including perforation and hemorrhage), cyclic vomiting syndrome, biliary colic, hepatic variceal hemorrhage, and proctalgia fugax; infection: susceptibility, fever, and mortality; neural: frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobe seizures, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, hereditary progressive dystonia, and pain (cancer, post-surgical, diabetic neuropathic and foot ulcer, tooth caries, burning mouth and temporomandibular syndromes, fibromyalgia, sciatica, intervertebral vacuum phenomenon, multiple sclerosis muscle spasm, and migraine, tension, cluster, hypnic, and paroxysmal hemicranial headache); renal: colic and nocturnal enuresis and polyuria; ocular: bulbar conjunctival redness, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, intraocular pressure and anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, and recurrent corneal erosion syndrome; psychiatric/behavioral: major and seasonal affective depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, parasuicide and suicide, dementia-associated agitation, and addictive alcohol, tobacco, and heroin cravings and withdrawal phenomena; plus autoimmune and musculoskeletal: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, axial spondylarthritis, gout, Sjögren's syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Knowledge of these and other 24 h patterns of human pathophysiology informs research of their underlying circadian and other endogenous mechanisms, external temporal triggers, and more effective patient care entailing clinical chronopreventive and chronotherapeutic strategies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The AES total ankle replacement: A mid-term analysis of 93 cases.

PubMed

Henricson, Anders; Knutson, Kaj; Lindahl, Johan; Rydholm, Urban

2010-06-01

There are few studies concerning specific total ankle arthroplasties. This study reports mid-term survival data for the AES prosthesis. Ninety-three AES ankle arthroplasties were performed by the senior authors. The mean follow-up was 3.5 years. The 5-year survivorship and also the number of simultaneous procedures, reoperations, additional procedures and revisions are analyzed. The 5-year survivorship with revision for any reason as end-point was 90%. Simultaneous procedures were performed in 25 patients, deltoid release and subtalar fusion being the most common. There were seven revisions, one due to loosening, and two due to infection, instability and fractures, respectively. Twenty-seven reoperations or additional procedures were performed in 23 patients with a procedure for malleolar impingement being the most common reoperation, and correction of hindfoot varus being the most common reason for an additional procedure. The AES total ankle replacement seems to be a reasonably safe procedure in experienced hands. Copyright 2009 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH, MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT IN THE MID-ATLANTIC REGION

EPA Science Inventory

EPA Region 3 to implement a long-term research, monitoring, and assessment program in the Mid-Atlantic region - the Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment (MAIA). The MAIA mission is to develop a broad-based partnership to integrate scientific knowledge into the decision-making proc...

Mid-latitude Plasma Irregularities During Sub-Auroral Polarization Streams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, N.; Loper, R. D.

2017-12-01

Geomagnetic storming impacts the ionosphere in different ways at different latitudes. In the mid latitudes, Sub-Auroral Polarization Streams (SAPS) may trigger a redistribution of plasma leading to the creation of ionospheric troughs, storm enhanced density plumes, and acceleration of sub-auroral ion drifts. Solar cycle data, real time space weather satellite data, and radar data will be analyzed to study mid-latitude plasma densities and characterize the plasma anomalies SAPS create in order to increase short-term mid-latitude space weather forecasting.

[Mid-term effectiveness of rotating hinge knee prosthesis for severe knee deformity].

PubMed

Zeng, Min; Hu, Yihe; Xie, Jie; Li, Mingqing; Lin, Shaoru

2014-01-01

To evaluate the mid-term effectiveness of rotating hinge knee prosthesis for severe knee deformity. A retrospective analysis was made on the clinical data of 24 patients (24 knees) who received rotating hinge knee prosthesis for total knee arthroplasty between January 2003 and June 2011. There were 14 males and 10 females, aged from 60 to 81 years (mean, 70 years). The disease causes included osteoarthritis in 5 cases, rheumatoid arthritis in 7 cases, traumatic arthritis in 9 cases, and Charcot's arthropathy in 3 cases. The disease duration ranged from 5 to 25 years (mean, 14.5 years). Of them, 13 cases had flexion deformity, 7 cases had valgus deformity, and 16 cases had varus deformity. The operation time, the amount of bleeding between operation and drainage-tubes removal, hospitalization time, incision healing, and complications were recorded. The results were evaluated according to Knee Society Score (KSS), visual analogue scale (VAS), and the range of motion (ROM) of knee. Short-form 36 health survey scale (SF-36) was used to evaluate the life quality of patients. The position of prosthesis was observed through X-ray examination. The operation time ranged from 70 to 90 minutes (mean, 78 minutes). The amount of bleeding between operation and drainage-tubes removal ranged from 400 to 1 000 mL (mean, 650 mL). The hospitalization time ranged from 14 to 18 days (mean, 15.2 days). Patellar fracture occurred in 1 case (4.17%) during operation, swelling and effusion of incision in 1 case (4.17%), and periprosthetic infections in 2 cases (8.33%) after operation. All patients were followed up 2-10 years (mean, 5.5 years). The X-ray films showed no evidence of obvious radiolucent line, osteolysis, prosthesis subsidence, and limb alignment change. The results of KSS, VAS socres, and ROM of knee at 1 year postoperatively and last follow-up were significantly better than preoperative ones (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was found between at 1 year postoperatively

Long-term observations of seafloor pressure variations at Lucky Strike volcano, Mid-Atlantic Ridge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ballu, V.; de Viron, O.; Crawford, W. C.; Cannat, M.; Escartin, J.

2012-12-01

Lucky Strike volcano is a segment-center volcano on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge at 37°N. Extensive faulting reveals an important tectonic component in its formation, while a seismically imaged axial magma chamber reflector and active high-temperature hydrothermal vents reveal an important present-day magmatic component. Lucky Strike volcano has been the subject of long-term multidisciplinary seafloor observations to understand relations between magmatism, tectonism, hydrothermal circulation, biology and chemistry as part of the MoMAR (Monitoring of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge) program. Absolute pressure gauges have been recording on the volcano since 2007, to identify deformations associated with tectonism or magmatism. Deformation measurements are one of the principal means of determining volcanic activity, but the amount of deformation associated with volcanic events varies greatly between different volcanos. We installed two sites: one in the volcano's summit "lava lake" (1700 m depth) and another on the volcano's flank (2000 m depth). Pressure is recorded every thirty seconds, giving a data set that constrains movements on the scale from minutes to years. No major deformation event has been detected by the instruments since their installation (nor has any significant tectonic event been detected by a seismic network in place since 2007), so we concentrate here on the detection limit of these instruments and on variations in the long-period ocean wave climate. Using the statistical characteristics of the pressure signal, modeled by an auto-regressive process, we determine that a movement between the sites of 1 cm over less than 10 days is detectable; the detection threshold decreases to about 0.2 cm for the shortest time periods and increases for longer time periods due to instrumental drift. We compare the statistical characteristics and short- and long-term sensitivity of three different types of gauges used during the experiment: Paroscientific standard

Mid-term results of aortic valve surgery in redo scenarios in the current practice: results from the multicentre European RECORD (REdo Cardiac Operation Research Database) initiative†.

PubMed

Onorati, Francesco; Biancari, Fausto; De Feo, Marisa; Mariscalco, Giovanni; Messina, Antonio; Santarpino, Giuseppe; Santini, Francesco; Beghi, Cesare; Nappi, Giannantonio; Troise, Giovanni; Fischlein, Theodor; Passerone, Giancarlo; Heikkinen, Juni; Faggian, Giuseppe

2015-02-01

Although commonly reported as single-centre experiences, redo aortic valve replacement (RAVR) has overall acceptable results. Nevertheless, trans-catheter aortic valve replacement has recently questioned the efficacy of RAVR. Early-to-mid-term results and determinants of mortality in 711 cases of RAVR from seven European institutions were assessed in the entire population and in selected high-risk subgroups [elderly >75 years, urgent/emergent procedures, preoperative New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional Class IV and endocarditis]. Hospital mortality was 5.1%, major re-entry cardiovascular complications (MRCVCs) 4.9%, low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) 15.3%, stroke 6.6%, acute respiratory failure (ARF) 10.6%, acute renal insufficiency (ARI) 19.3% and need for continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) 7.2%, transfusions 66.9% and for permanent pacemaker (PMK) 12.7%. Mid-term survival, freedom from acute heart failure (AHF), reinterventions, stroke and thrombo-embolisms were 77.2 ± 2.7, 84.4 ± 2.6, 97.2 ± 0.8, 97.2 ± 0.9 and 96.3 ± 1.2%, respectively; 87.5% of patients were in NYHA functional Class I-II. Preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction of <30% [odds ratio (OR) 8.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1-35.6], MRCVCs (OR 20.9, 95% CI 5.6-78.3), cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.1), perioperative LCOS (OR 17.2, 95% CI 5.1-57.4) and ARI (OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.5-18.1) predicted hospital death. Endocarditis (OR 7.5, 95% CI 2.9-19.1), preoperative NYHA functional Class IV (OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.0-24.0), combined RAVR + mitral surgery (OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.5-17.3) and AHF at follow-up (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.3-6.0) predicted late death at the Cox proportional hazard regression model. Elderly >75 years had similar hospital mortality (P = 0.06) and major morbidity, except for a higher need for PMK (P = 0.03), as well as comparable mid-term survival (P = 0.89), freedom from AHF (P = 0.81), reinterventions (P = 0.63), stroke (P = 0.21) and thrombo

Mid-term 4-Year Outcomes with Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery at a Single US Center.

PubMed

Zaveri, Hinali; Surve, Amit; Cottam, Daniel; Cottam, Austin; Medlin, Walter; Richards, Christina; Belnap, LeGrand; Cottam, Samuel; Horsley, Benjamin

2018-06-16

Single anastomosis duodenal-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) is a modification of Roux-en-Y duodenal switch (RYDS). Long-term data on this operation is lacking in the literature. We reviewed our mid-term data of this RYDS modification. To analyze the outcomes with SADI-S at 4 years. Data from patients who underwent a primary SADI-S procedure performed by three surgeons at a single institution from June 2013 through February 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. All revision bariatric surgeries were excluded. Regression analyses were performed for all follow-up weight loss data. There were 437 patients in our database. The pre-operative mean body mass index (BMI) was 49.8 ± 8.8 kg/m 2 . The 30-day complication rate was 7.7%. The 30-day readmission, reoperation, and mortality rates were 1.8, 1.3, and 0.2%, respectively. The long-term complication rate was 10.9%. Seventy-nine patients were 4 years post SADI-S surgery and follow-up was possible for 44 patients (55.7%). At 4 years, patients had an average change in BMI of 18.1 ± 6 units with an excess weight loss (EWL) of 85.7 ± 27.3%. At 4 years, 97.6% patients were able to maintain HbA1c < 6% with or without the use of diabetic medication. There was a statistically significant difference between most of the pre-operative and post-operative nutritional data. SADI-S is a safe and effective procedure in both short- and mid-term data points. Diabetes resolution and weight loss appear similar to traditional RYDS and better than RYGB.

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in patients with dysfunction of a "native" right ventricular outflow tract - Mid-term results.

PubMed

Georgiev, Stanimir; Tanase, Daniel; Ewert, Peter; Meierhofer, Christian; Hager, Alfred; von Ohain, Jelena Pabst; Eicken, Andreas

2018-05-01

To investigate the feasibility and mid-term results of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in patients with conduit free or "native" right ventricular outflow tracts (RVOT). We identified all 18 patients with conduit free or "native" right ventricular outflow tract, who were treated with percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in our institution. They were divided into two groups - these in whom the central pulmonary artery was used as an anchoring point for the preparation of the landing zone (n=10) for PPVI and these, in whom a pulmonary artery branch was used for this purpose (n=8). PPVI was performed successfully in all patients with significant immediate RVOT gradient and pulmonary regurgitation grade reduction. Four patients had insignificant paravalvular regurgitation. In one patient the valve was explanted after 4months because of bacterial endocarditis. A follow-up of 19 (4-60) months showed sustained good function of the other implanted valves. The MRI indexed right ventricular end diastolic volume significantly decreased from 108(54-174) ml/m 2 before the procedure to 76(60-126) ml/m 2 six months after PPVI, p=0.01. PPVI is feasible with good mid-term results in selected patients with a "native" RVOT without a previously implanted conduit. Creating a stable landing zone with a diameter less than the largest available valve (currently 29mm) is crucial for the technical success of the procedure. Further studies and the development of new devices could widen the indications for this novel treatment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mid-term haemodynamic and clinical results after aortic valve replacement using the Freedom Solo stentless bioprosthesis versus the Carpentier Edwards Perimount stented bioprosthesis.

PubMed

van der Straaten, Ellen P J; Rademakers, Leonard M; van Straten, Albert H M; Houterman, Saskia; Tan, M Erwin S H; Soliman Hamad, Mohamed A

2016-04-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the mid-term haemodynamic and clinical results after aortic valve replacement (AVR) using the Sorin Freedom Solo (SFS) stentless bioprosthesis, compared with the standard Carpentier Edwards Perimount (CEP) stented bioprosthesis. In this retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data, 116 patients were included in the SFS group (53 males; median age 74 years, range 56-85 years), and 122 patients in the CEP group (85 males; median age 73 years, range 43-88 years) between July 2007 and January 2013. Echocardiography was performed at 6 weeks after surgery in our centre, and the most recent echocardiography (in our centre or in referring cardiology departments) was requested. Between September 2013 and April 2014, all patients were called by the same researcher to gain clinical follow-up data. Mid-term mortality was 16.4% in the SFS group (19 patients) and 21.3% in the CEP group (26 patients); (P = 0.3). The mean transvalvular gradient was 7.4 ± 3.1 mmHg in the SFS group, and 11.6 ± 3.2 mmHg in the CEP group at 6 weeks postoperatively (P < 0.001). When stratified by labelled valve size, mean gradients were significantly lower in the SFS group for every size (P ≤ 0.03). After 3.3 ± 1.4 years of follow-up, the mean gradient was still significantly lower in the SFS group than that in the CEP group (P < 0.001). Clinical follow-up showed relatively low complication rates. These data suggest that the Sorin Freedom Solo stentless bioprosthesis is as safe as the Carpentier Edwards bioprosthesis, and provides better short- and mid-term haemodynamic performance than the Carpentier Edwards bioprosthesis. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

The Boyd–McLeod procedure for tennis elbow: mid- to long-term results

PubMed Central

Jeavons, Richard; Richards, Ian; Bayliss, Neil

2014-01-01

Background Tennis elbow is a common condition that usually responds to conservative measures. In refractory cases, surgical intervention is indicated. A plethora of surgical techniques have been described. We report the mid- to long-term outcomes of the Boyd–McLeod procedure for refractory tennis elbow. Methods A retrospective analysis and current review of patients that had undergone the Boyd–McLeod procedure over a 12-year period was undertaken. Demographics, time to discharge, length of follow-up and outcome scores were collected. Results Seventy patients underwent surgery. Mean time to discharge was 15.35 weeks, with 88% successful outcomes. Fifty-four patients were available for current follow-up at mean of 5.52 years (range 1.17 years to 11.49 years). Range of motion in all patients was unchanged. There were no revision procedures. Mean (SD) Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 90.85 (13.11), with 75.5% returning a good or excellent score and 24.5% a fair outcome. The mean (SD) Oxford Elbow Score was 44.04 (6.92); mean (SD) pain score was 89.5 (17.58); mean (SD) function score was 95.34 (9.59) and mean (SD) socio-psychological score was 91.50 (17.01). Overall, 83% of patients had an Oxford Elbow Score of 43 or greater, suggesting excellent outcome. Conclusions We show that the Boyd–McLeod procedure is an excellent option over both the short- and long-term for refractory tennis elbow. PMID:27582946

Mid-term periodicities and heliospheric modulation of coronal index and solar flare index during solar cycles 22-23

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Prithvi Raj; Saxena, A. K.; Tiwari, C. M.

2018-04-01

We applied fast Fourier transform techniques and Morlet wavelet transform on the time series data of coronal index, solar flare index, and galactic cosmic ray, for the period 1986-2008, in order to investigate the long- and mid-term periodicities including the Rieger ({˜ }130 to {˜ }190 days), quasi-period ({˜ }200 to {˜ }374 days), and quasi-biennial periodicities ({˜ }1.20 to {˜ }3.27 years) during the combined solar cycles 22-23. We emphasize the fact that a lesser number of periodicities are found in the range of low frequencies, while the higher frequencies show a greater number of periodicities. The rotation rates at the base of convection zone have periods for coronal index of {˜ }1.43 years and for solar flare index of {˜ }1.41 year, and galactic cosmic ray, {˜ }1.35 year, during combined solar cycles 22-23. In relation to these two solar parameters (coronal index and solar flare index), for the solar cycles 22-23, we found that galactic cosmic ray modulation at mid cut-off rigidity (Rc = 2.43GV) is anti-correlated with time-lag of few months.

Mid- and long-term runoff predictions by an improved phase-space reconstruction model.

PubMed

Hong, Mei; Wang, Dong; Wang, Yuankun; Zeng, Xiankui; Ge, Shanshan; Yan, Hengqian; Singh, Vijay P

2016-07-01

In recent years, the phase-space reconstruction method has usually been used for mid- and long-term runoff predictions. However, the traditional phase-space reconstruction method is still needs to be improved. Using the genetic algorithm to improve the phase-space reconstruction method, a new nonlinear model of monthly runoff is constructed. The new model does not rely heavily on embedding dimensions. Recognizing that the rainfall-runoff process is complex, affected by a number of factors, more variables (e.g. temperature and rainfall) are incorporated in the model. In order to detect the possible presence of chaos in the runoff dynamics, chaotic characteristics of the model are also analyzed, which shows the model can represent the nonlinear and chaotic characteristics of the runoff. The model is tested for its forecasting performance in four types of experiments using data from six hydrological stations on the Yellow River and the Yangtze River. Results show that the medium-and long-term runoff is satisfactorily forecasted at the hydrological stations. Not only is the forecasting trend accurate, but also the mean absolute percentage error is no more than 15%. Moreover, the forecast results of wet years and dry years are both good, which means that the improved model can overcome the traditional ''wet years and dry years predictability barrier,'' to some extent. The model forecasts for different regions are all good, showing the universality of the approach. Compared with selected conceptual and empirical methods, the model exhibits greater reliability and stability in the long-term runoff prediction. Our study provides a new thinking for research on the association between the monthly runoff and other hydrological factors, and also provides a new method for the prediction of the monthly runoff. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transfemoral, transapical and transcatheter aortic valve implantation and surgical aortic valve replacement: a meta-analysis of direct and adjusted indirect comparisons of early and mid-term deaths.

PubMed

Ando, Tomo; Takagi, Hisato; Grines, Cindy L

2017-09-01

Clinical outcomes of transfemoral-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TF-TAVI) versus surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transapical (TA)-TAVI are limited to a few randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Because previous meta-analyses only included a limited number of adjusted studies or several non-adjusted studies, our goal was to compare and summarize the outcomes of TF-TAVI vs SAVR and TF-TAVI vs TA-TAVI exclusively with the RCT and propensity-matched cohort studies with direct and adjusted indirect comparisons to reach more precise conclusions. We hypothesized that TF-TAVI would offer surgical candidates a better outcome compared with SAVR and TA-TAVI because of its potential for fewer myocardial injuries. A literature search was conducted through PUBMED and EMBASE through June 2016. Only RCTs and propensity-matched cohort studies were included. A direct meta-analysis of TF-TAVI vs SAVR, TA-TAVI vs SAVR and TF-TAVI vs TA-TAVI was conducted. Then, the effect size of an indirect meta-analysis was calculated from the direct meta-analysis. The effect sizes of direct and indirect meta-analyses were then combined. A random-effects model was used to calculate the hazards ratio and the odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals. Early (in-hospital or 30 days) and mid-term (≥1 year) all-cause mortality rates were assessed. Our search resulted in 4 RCTs (n = 2319) and 14 propensity-matched cohort (n = 7217) studies with 9536 patients of whom 3471, 1769 and 4296 received TF, TA and SAVR, respectively. Direct meta-analyses and combined direct and indirect meta-analyses of early and mid-term deaths with TF-TAVI and SAVR were similar. Early deaths with TF-TAVI vs TA-TAVI were comparable in direct meta-analyses (odds ratio 0.64, P = 0.35) and direct and indirect meta-analyses combined (odds ratio 0.73, P = 0.24). Mid-term deaths with TF-TAVI vs TA-TAVI were increased (hazard ratio 0.83, P = 0.07) in a direct meta-analysis and became significant

Mid-term morbidity and mortality of patients after arterial switch operation in infancy for transposition of the great arteries.

PubMed

Rodríguez Puras, María José; Cabeza-Letrán, Luisa; Romero-Vazquianez, Manuela; Santos de Soto, José; Hosseinpour, Reza; Gil Fournier, Mauro; Alvarez Madrid, Antonio; González, Antonio; Pérez, Pilar; Gallego, Pastora

2014-03-01

The arterial switch operation is currently the preferred surgical approach for complete transposition of the great arteries. We sought to determine the mid-term results of this intervention. A single-institution retrospective review of clinical records of all consecutive patients who underwent the arterial switch surgery between 1985 and 2010. Overall, the operation was performed on 155 patients (68% boys) at a median age of 13 days: 64% with an intact septum, 46% with a ventricular septal defect, and 4.5% with associated aortic arch anomaly. The usual coronary pattern was found in 63%. Palliative surgery was performed prior to arterial switch in 6.5%. In all, 137 perioperative survivors were followed for a median of 6 years. Late mortality was 2.9%, of which 50% was due to coronary complications. Eighteen percent required surgical and/or percutaneous reintervention: 95.6% for right-sided obstruction and 4.3% for aortic regurgitation. At last follow-up, 92% had functional class I symptoms and 95% were free of arrhythmias. The left ventricular ejection fraction was greater than 55% in 95%, 28% had neoaortic regurgitation (78% mild regurgitation), and 31% had right ventricular outflow tract obstruction with a mean gradient according to echocardiography greater than 25mmHg. Mid-term survival of patients after arterial switch operation is excellent and their functional status is good. However, a few patients have residual lesions and a need for further intervention during follow-up, mostly for right-sided obstructions. Late mortality was uncommon and was related to coronary complications. Neoaortic root dilation and regurgitation are not major issues in early adulthood, but the long-term course of these lesions is still unknown. Copyright © 2013 Sociedad Española de Cardiología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Epidemiology of uninvestigated gastrointestinal symptoms in adolescents: a population-based study applying the Rome II questionnaire.

PubMed

Sohrabi, Sahand; Nouraie, Mehdi; Khademi, Hooman; Baghizadeh, Somayyeh; Nasseri-Moghaddam, Siavosh; Malekzadeh, Reza

2010-07-01

: Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders in early life contribute to a lower quality of life and more persistent GI symptoms during the rest of life. Epidemiologic data on adolescence GI disorders are scarce. We aimed to perform a population-based study to assess the prevalence of GI symptoms in adolescents and their relation to sex, age, and socioeconomic status. : A multistage random sample of Tehran middle and high school students (ages 14-19 years) was selected. A validated Persian version of the Rome II questionnaire was used to measure the frequency of different GI disorders as well as demographic socioeconomic variables. : A total of 1436 participants were enrolled in the study, 736 (51.3%) of whom were men. Mean (SD) age was 16.9 (1.8) years. The frequency of at least 1 GI symptom was 32.4%. The 4 most prevalent GI symptoms were bloating (16.9%), heartburn (4.9%), incontinence (4.3%), and irritable bowel syndrome (4.1%). Bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, and proctalgia fugax were significantly more common in girls (P < 0.05). Incontinence was significantly more prevalent in lower socioeconomic status levels (P = 0.01). In logistic regression, age was a risk factor for abdominal bloating and dysphagea and a protective factor for incontinence. : Our study indicates that GI symptoms are common among adolescents. Girls are more prone to these disorders. Special psychological and medical interventions are necessary for high-risk groups.

Chronic idiopathic anal pain. Results of a diagnostic-therapeutic protocol in a colorectal referral unit.

PubMed

Armañanzas, Laura; Arroyo, Antonio; Ruiz-Tovar, Jaime; López, Alberto; Santos, Jair; Moya, Pedro; Gómez, María Amparo; Candela, Fernando; Calpena, Rafael

2015-01-01

Chronic idiopathic anal pain (CIAP) remains a diagnosis of exclusion. Its study and management still lack a standardized protocol. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results obtained with the diagnostic-therapeutic protocol established in our service. We performed a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with CIAP at the Colorectal Unit of the General University Hospital of Elche, between 2005 and 2011. We evaluated 57 patients with a diagnosis of chronic anal pain for functional anorectal disease (FAD). After the application of our diagnostic protocol, final diagnosis of chronic anal pain (CAP) was achieved in 43 cases (75%), including 22 cases of descending perineum syndrome, 12 of proctalgia fugax, 2 of pudendal neuritis and 7 of coccydynia. In 14 patients exclusion diagnosis of CIAP was established. Among the therapies used on patients with CIAP, biofeedback combined with conservative measures improved symptoms in 43% of the cases. Sacral nerve stimulation was assessed in patients who did not respond to other treatments. Through proper anamnesis, physical examination and complementary tests, a specific diagnosis of the cause of CAP by FAD can be achieved, reducing exclusion diagnosis of CIAP to 25% of cases. Conservative measures combined with biofeedback achieved an improvement in pain in more than 40% of the cases of CIAP in our study. Sacral nerve stimulation can be considered as a treatment option in refractory cases. Copyright © 2013 AEC. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Role of three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound in assessing the anal sphincter morphology of female patients with chronic proctalgia

PubMed Central

Xue, Ya-Hong; Ding, Shu-Qing; Ding, Yi-Jiang; Pan, Li-Qun

2017-01-01

AIM To assess the role of three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3D-EAUS) for morphological assessment of the anal sphincter of female patients with chronic proctalgia (CP). METHODS In this unmatched case control study, 30 consecutive female patients with CP and 25 normal women (control group) were enrolled. 3D-EAUS was performed in all subjects. Thickness and length of internal anal sphincter (IAS), thickness of puborectalis muscle (PR), length of the external anal sphincter (EAS) plus PR, and puborectalis angle were measured and compared between the two groups. RESULTS Patients with CP had significantly shorter IAS length and greater PR thickness, as compared to those in normal individuals (26.28 ± 3.59 mm vs 28.87 ± 4.84 mm, P < 0.05 and 9.67 ± 1.57 mm vs 8.85 ± 0.97 mm, P < 0.05, respectively). No significant between-group differences were observed with respect to IAS thickness and the EAS plus PR length (P > 0.05). Puborectalis angle in the CP group was significantly decreased, both in resting (88.23° ± 1.81° vs 89.94° ± 2.07° in control group, P < 0.05) and straining (88.47° ± 3.32° vs 90.72° ± 1.87° in control group, P < 0.05) phases, which suggest the presence of paradoxical contraction of PR in patients with CP. In the CP group, no significant difference in puborectalis angle was observed between the resting and straining phases (88.23° ± 1.81° vs 88.47° ± 3.32° respectively, P > 0.05). CONCLUSION The association of greater PR thickness and paradoxical contraction of PR with CP suggest their potential value as markers of CP. PMID:28638230

Hook plate fixation of acute displaced lateral clavicle fractures: mid-term results and a brief literature overview

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The clavicle hook plate achieves like most other operative techniques, a high percentage of union and a low percentage of complications however concerns about long term complications still exist, particularly the involvement of the acromioclavicular joint. Methods To evaluate the results and long term effects in use of this plate we performed a retrospective analysis with a mean follow up of 65 months (5.4 years) of 28 consecutive patients with acute displaced lateral clavicle fractures, treated with the clavicle hook plate. Results Short term functional results in all patients were good to excellent. All but one patient had a united fracture (96%). Nine patients (32%) developed impingement symptoms and in 7 patients (25%) subacromial osteolysis was found. These findings resolved after plate removal. Twenty-four patients were re-evaluated at a mean follow-up period of 5.4 years. The Constant-Murley score was 97 and the DASH score was 3.5. Four patients (14%) developed acromioclavicular joint arthrosis of which one was symptomatic. Three patients (11%) had extra articular ossifications of which one was symptomatic. There was no relation between the impingement symptoms, subacromial osteolysis and development of acromioclavicular joint arthrosis or extra articular ossifications. Conclusions The clavicle hook plate is a good primary treatment option for the acute displaced lateral clavicle fracture with few complications. At mid term the results are excellent and no long term complications can be addressed to the use of the plate. PMID:22236647

The challenge of Monteggia-like lesions of the elbow: mid-term results of 46 cases.

PubMed

Jungbluth, P; Tanner, S; Schneppendahl, J; Grassmann, J-P; Wild, M; Hakimi, M; Windolf, J; Laun, R

2018-02-01

The aim of this retrospective multicentre study was to evaluate mid-term results of the operative treatment of Monteggia-like lesions and to determine the prognostic factors that influence the clinical and radiological outcome. A total of 46 patients (27 women and 19 men), with a mean age of 57.7 years (18 to 84) who had sustained a Monteggia-like lesion were followed up clinically and radiologically after surgical treatment. The Mayo Modified Wrist Score (MMWS), Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Broberg and Morrey Score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score were used for evaluation at a mean of 65 months (27 to 111) postoperatively. All ulnar fractures were stabilized using a proximally contoured or precontoured locking compression plate. Mason type I fractures of the radial head were treated conservatively, type II fractures were treated with reconstruction, and type III fractures with arthroplasty. All Morrey type II and III fractures of the coronoid process was stabilized using lag screws. Good results were found for the MMWS, with a mean of 88.4 (40 to 100). There were 29 excellent results (63%), nine good (20%), seven satisfactory (15%), and one poor (2%). Excellent results were obtained for the MEPS, with a mean of 90.7 (70 to 100): 31 excellent results (68%), 13 good (28%), and two fair (4%). Good results were also found for the functional rating index of Broberg and Morrey, with a mean score of 86.6 (57 to 100). There were 16 excellent results (35%), 22 good (48%), six fair (13%), and two poor (4%). The mean DASH score was 15.1 (0 to 55.8). Two patients had delayed wound healing; four patients had nonunion requiring bone grafting. One patient had asymptomatic loosening of the radial head prosthesis. Monteggia-like lesions are rare. With correct identification, classification, and understanding using CT scans followed by appropriate surgical treatment that addresses all components of the injury, good to excellent mid-term

Long-term outcome of patients with triphasic mitral flow with a mid-diastolic L wave: prognostic role of left atrial volume and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide.

PubMed

Kim, Sung-Ai; Son, Jungwoo; Shim, Chi-Young; Choi, Eui-Young; Ha, Jong-Won

2017-09-01

A mid-diastolic L wave has been recognized as a marker of advanced left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. However, its prognostic implication is unclear. This study assessed long-term prognosis and independent predictors of adverse outcomes in patients with a mid-diastolic L wave. A total of 144 consecutive patients (mean age 63 ± 12 years, 88 female) with a mid-diastolic L wave of ≥0.2 m/s and in sinus rhythm were identified. Patients with significant valvular heart disease, low LV ejection fraction and arrhythmias were excluded. Subjects were followed up for cardiovascular (CV) mortality and hospitalization for heart failure (HF). During follow-up for a median of 44 months (1-76), CV deaths and hospitalization for HF occurred in 41 (28%) patients. In multivariate Cox analysis, age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.11; p = 0.001), log N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)(HR 3.81; 95% CI 1.78-8.15; p = 0.001), and left atrial volume index (HR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.04; p = 0.019) were independent predictors of adverse outcomes in patients with a mid-diastolic L wave. In a stepwise model, NT-proBNP showed an incremental prognostic value for prediction of adverse outcomes when added to the clinical and echocardiographic parameters (Chi square from 30.1 to 41.1, p < 0.001). Patients with a mid-diastolic L wave and clinical, biochemical, and echocardiographic evidence of advanced diastolic dysfunction showed poor long-term clinical outcome.

The assessment of treated wastewater quality and the effects of mid-term irrigation on soil physical and chemical properties (case study: Bandargaz-treated wastewater)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaboosi, Kami

2017-09-01

This study was conducted to investigate the characteristics of inflow and outflow wastewater of the Bandargaz wastewater treatment plant on the basis of the data collection of operation period and the samples taken during the study. Also the effects of mid-term use of the wastewater for irrigation (from 2005 to 2013) on soil physical and chemical characteristics were studied. For this purpose, 4 samples were taken from the inflow and outflow wastewater and 25 quality parameters were measured. Also, the four soil samples from a depth of 0-30 cm of two rice field irrigated with wastewater in the beginning and middle of the planting season and two samples from one adjacent rice field irrigated with fresh water were collected and their chemical and physical characteristics were determined. Average of electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, sodium adsorption ratio, chemical oxygen demand and 5 days biochemical oxygen demand in treated wastewater were 1.35 dS/m, 707 ppm, 0.93, 80 ppm and 40 ppm, respectively. Results showed that although some restrictions exist about chlorine and bicarbonate, the treated wastewater is suitable for irrigation based on national and international standards and criteria. In comparison with fresh water, the mid-term use of wastewater caused a little increase of soil salinity. However, it did not lead to increase of soil salinity beyond rice salinity threshold. Also, there were no restrictions on soil in the aspect of salinity and sodium hazard on the basis of many irrigated soil classifications. In comparison with fresh water, the mid-term use of wastewater caused the increase of total N, absorbable P and absorbable K in soil due to high concentration of those elements in treated wastewater.

Mid-term outcomes of endovascular aortic aneurysm repair with carbon dioxide-guided angiography.

PubMed

Takeuchi, Yuriko; Morikage, Noriyasu; Matsuno, Yutaro; Nakamura, Tamami; Samura, Makoto; Ueda, Koshiro; Harada, Takasuke; Ikeda, Yoshitaka; Suehiro, Kotaro; Ito, Hiroshi; Sakata, Kensuke; Hamano, Kimikazu

2018-05-14

Although iodinated contrast (IC) agents are commonly used in endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), perioperative use in patients with renal dysfunction or IC allergies is avoided. Carbon dioxide (CO 2 )-guided angiography is a promising alternative. We aimed to evaluate short-term and mid-term outcomes of EVAR using CO 2 -guided angiography. Three hundred and eighty-one patients who underwent EVAR from January 2012 to September 2016 were retrospectively reviewed and divided into an IC-EVAR group (n=351) and CO 2 -EVAR group (n=30). Subjects in the CO 2 -EVAR group had severe renal dysfunction (n=27) and IC allergy (n=4). Intraoperative, postoperative, and follow-up variables were compared. Compared to the IC-EVAR group, preoperative serum creatinine level was significantly higher (2.0 vs. 0.92 mg/dL, P < .0001) and mean IC dose significantly lower (18 vs. 55 mL P < .0001) in the CO 2 -EVAR group. The fluoroscopy time, operative time, number of stent grafts placed, and technical success rates of the groups were similar; no type I and/or type III endoleaks were detected on completion angiography. There was no acute kidney injury and one case of intestinal necrosis in the CO 2 -EVAR group, potentially due to cholesterol embolism. Postoperative endoleak, enlargement of aneurysms, survival, freedom from secondary intervention, and renal function change up to 3 months postoperatively were similar between groups. CO 2 -EVAR is technically feasible and exhibits prominent renal protection. However, consideration of the aortic lumen status remains an important challenge. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Progress and Achievements at the Mid Term of the Dragon 3 Programme

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desnos, Yves-Louis; Li, Zengyuan; Zmuda, Andy; Gao, Zhihai

2014-11-01

The Dragon Programme is a joint undertaking between ESA and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) of China and the National Remote Sensing Center of China (NRSCC). Its purpose is to encourage increased exploitation of ESA and Chinese space resources within China as well as stimulate increased scientific cooperation in the field of Earth Observation (EO) science and applications between China and Europe. Since 2004, this pioneering programme has become a model for scientific and technological cooperation between China and Europe. By successfully encouraging joint research using ESA, Third Party Missions and Chinese EO data across a range of thematic areas, Dragon continues to deliver outstanding scientific results. The programme has successfully completed two phases, Dragon 1 from 2004 to 2008, Dragon 2 from 2008 to 2012. The third phase of Dragon was started in 2012 and will be completed in 2016. The Dragon 3 project teams are led by leading EO scientists and young scientists are also engaged on the projects. Advanced training in land, ocean and atmospheric applications is a feature of the programme and a course on land and one course on ocean applications have been successfully held in 2012 and 2013 in China. Here-in provided is an overview of the results, reporting and training activities at the mid-term stage of the programme.

Mid-term Results of Total Knee Arthroplasty Using PFC Sigma RP-F.

PubMed

Kim, Jun-Young; Cheon, Sang-Ho; Kyung, Hee-Soo

2012-12-01

We compared the mid-term results after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using PFC Sigma RP-F mobile model with PFC Sigma PS fixed model. We analyzed 45 knees that underwent TKA with PFC Sigma RP-Fn (study group) and 45 knees with PFC Sigma PS (control group). The mean follow-up period was 65 months (range, 60-69 months). The evaluation system of the American knee society was used for clinical and radiological assessment. Also, the maximal knee flexion angle was assessed. The mean maximum flexion angle in the study group (135°) was greater than that in the control group (125°) at the early post-operation & final follow-up period (p=0.033). The range of motion (ROM) in the study group was recovered earlier at the postoperative 6 months, and ROM gain was improved to a greater extent at the final follow-up period (p=0.039). The knee score and function score and radiographic evaluation were no difference between the two groups (p>0.05) at the final follow-up. The two cases of radiolucency in posterior condyle and medial tibial plateau and one case of patellar elongation were seen in the study group. The PFC Sigma RP-F mobile system appears to facilitate greater maximum flexion angle and ROM gain with two cases of radiolucent line.

Impact of severe left ventricular dysfunction on in-hospital and mid-term outcomes of Chinese patients undergoing first isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

PubMed

Ji, Qiang; Xia, Li Min; Shi, Yun Qing; Ma, Run Hua; Shen, Jin Qiang; Ding, Wen Jun; Wang, Chun Sheng

2017-10-10

Few studies focused on evaluating the impacts of preoperative severe left ventricular dysfunction on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (OPCAB). This single center retrospective study aimed to evaluate the impacts of severe left ventricular dysfunction on in-hospital and mid-term clinical outcomes of Chinese patients undergoing first, scheduled, and isolated OPCAB surgery. From January 2010 to December 2014, 2032 eligible patients were included in this study and were divided into 3 groups: a severe group (patients with preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of ≤35%, n = 128), an impaired group (patients with preoperative LVEF of 36-50%, n = 680), and a normal group (patients with preoperative LVEF of >50%, n = 1224). In-hospital and follow-up clinical outcomes were investigated and compared. Patients in the severe group compared to the other 2 groups had higher in-hospital mortality and higher incidences of low cardiac output and prolonged ventilation. Kaplan-Meier curves showed a similar cumulative follow-up survival between the severe group and the impaired group (χ 2  = 1.980, Log-rank p = 0.159) and between the severe group and the normal group (χ 2  = 2.701, Log-rank p = 0.102). Multivariate Cox regression indicated that grouping was not a significant variable related to mid-term all-cause mortality. No significant difference was found in the rate of repeat revascularization between the severe group (2.4%) and the other 2 groups. Patients with preoperative LVEF of ≤35% compared to preoperative LVEF of >35% increased the risk of in-hospital death and incidences of postoperative low cardiac output and prolonged ventilation, but shared similar mid-term all-cause mortality and repeat revascularization after OPCAB surgery.

Donor cause of death and mid-term survival in lung transplantation.

PubMed

Ganesh, J Saravana; Rogers, Chris A; Banner, Nicholas R; Bonser, Robert S

2005-10-01

The influence of donor cause of death (DCD) on survival after lung transplantation (LTx) is uncertain. This was investigated using data from a national prospective cohort study of adult single and bilateral LTx undertaken between July 1995 and June 2002. DCD was categorized a priori into vascular and tumor (V), traumatic (T), hypoxic brain damage (H) and infective (I) causes. All T donor deaths were the result of blunt trauma. Risk factors for early (30 days), late (30 days to 5 years) and overall (5 years) mortality were identified using Cox regression analysis. Of 580 eligible transplants, DCDs were classified as V (n = 372), T (n = 153), H (n = 38) and I (n = 17). V donors were older (median 42 years) than the others (medians < 27 years) (p < 0.001). T donors were more likely to be of male gender (p < 0.001). Two hundred fifty-nine patients died within 5 years of surgery. The median follow-up time of survivors was 37 months. Unadjusted 5-year Kaplan-Meier survival rates did not vary with DCD (p = 0.6). Cox analysis identified donor age group, recipient diagnosis, pre-operative recipient ventilation, donor-recipient size mismatch, donor-recipient blood group variance, cytomegalovirus (CMV) mismatch and recipient creatinine clearance as predictors of mortality. After adjustment for these risk factors, DCD was not identified as a predictor of early (p = 0.2), late (p = 0.5) or overall mortality (p = 0.4) in LTx recipients. We found that DCD did not affect mid-term survival after LTx.

Pentraxin-3 Predicts Short- and Mid-term Mortality in Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock During Intensive Care Treatment.

PubMed

Hamed, Sonja; Behnes, Michael; Pauly, Dominic; Lepiorz, Dominic; Barre, Max; Becher, Tobias; Lang, Siegfried; Akin, Ibrahim; Borggrefe, Martin; Bertsch, Thomas; Hoffmann, Ursula

2018-06-01

The prognostic value of the acute phase protein Pentraxin 3 (PTX-3) is not well evaluated in patients with septic shock, which reveal an unacceptably high short- and long-term mortality. New Sepsis-3 definitions are not yet implemented in most biomarker studies. Therefore, this study assesses the prognostic value of PTX-3 for short- and mid-term mortality in patients with sepsis or septic shock, as defined by the latest definitions, treated at a medical intensive care unit (ICU). The study includes 213 ICU patients with clinical criteria of sepsis and septic shock. Plasma levels of PTX-3, procalcitonin (PCT) and interleukin-6 were measured on day 1, 3, and 8. All-cause mortality was followed up to 30 days and at 6 months. On all three days, PTX-3 levels were able to discriminate non-survivors from survivors at 30 days and 6 months (AUC range: 0.59 - 0.70; 95% CI: 0.52 - 0.79; p ≤ 0.02). Highest PTX-3 levels within the fourth quartiles during the first week of ICU treatment were associated with an increased mortality rate at 30 days (OR = 7; 95% CI: 2.0 - 23.5; p ≤ 0.002) and at 6 months (OR = 5; 95% CI: 2.1 - 11.4; p ≤ 0.006). Additionally, the prognostic value of PTX-3 was proven for all patients as well as in subcohorts of patients with sepsis and septic shock, according to Sepsis-3 criteria, both in univariate and multivariate analyses for 30-day and 6-months all-cause mortality, especially predicting all-cause mortality in septic shock (HRs range: 1.0 - 2.9; 95% CI: 0.3 - 5.1; p ≤ 0.03). PTX-3 offers prognostic value for the prediction of short- and mid-term all-cause mortality in patients suffering from sepsis and septic shock according to the latest Sepsis-3 criteria.

The British Chinese Adoption Study: Orphanage Care, Adoption and Mid-Life Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rushton, Alan; Grant, Margaret; Feast, Julia; Simmonds, John

2013-01-01

Background: While studies of ex-orphanage care show adverse effects on development, the longer-term impact on mid-life psychosocial functioning and physical health has not been established. Methods: Orphanage records provided baseline data on a sample of 100 Hong Kong Chinese girls who were subsequently adopted into the UK. A mid-life follow-up…

Life satisfaction in patients with and without spinal cord ischemia after advanced endovascular therapy for extensive aortic disease at mid-term follow-up.

PubMed

Mehmedagic, Irma; Santén, Stefan; Jörgensen, Sophie; Acosta, Stefan

2016-11-11

Advanced endovascular aortic repair can be used to treat patients with extensive and complex aortic disease who are at risk of spinal cord ischaemia. The aim of this study was to compare whether life satisfaction differs between patients with and without spinal cord ischaemia at mid-term follow-up. Nested case-control study. Among patients undergoing advanced endovascular aortic repair between 2009 and 2012, 18 patients with spinal cord ischaemia and 33 without were interviewed at home. The Life Satisfaction Questionnaire (LiSat-11) and the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) were used. LiSat-11 found that patients with spinal cord ischaemia were more dissatisfied with their activities of daily living than were patients without spinal cord ischaemia (p=0.012). Both groups had similar, very low, scores in the sexual life domain; median 2.0 (interquartile range (IQR) 1.5-3.0) and 3.0 (IQR 2.0-4.0), respectively. There was no difference in SWLS between the groups. This study cohort of patients who underwent advanced endovascular aortic repair was rather homo-genous in their rating of life satisfaction and there was little difference between mid-term survivors who had spinal cord ischaemia and those who did not.

A Review of Literature on Formative Evaluation of Teachers through Mid-Term Student Feedback and How the Reiser and Dick Instructional Planning Model Can Enhance This Feedback.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hampton, Scott E.

Research has shown that student mid-term feedback has significantly increased subsequent ratings of teacher effectiveness, student achievement, and student attitudes when the feedback results were accompanied by expert consultation. A gap in the literature is an instrument intended to provide specific feedback on systematic planning and delivery…

Mid-infrared transmitter and receiver modules for free-space optical communication.

PubMed

Hao, Qiang; Zhu, Guoshen; Yang, Song; Yang, Kangwen; Duan, Tao; Xie, Xiaoping; Huang, Kun; Zeng, Heping

2017-03-10

We report on the experimental implementation of single-frequency fiber-laser pumped mid-infrared (mid-IR) transmitter and receiver modules for free-space communications. These modules enable frequency upconversion and downconversion between the 1550-nm telecom wavelength and the mid-IR, thus providing essential free-space transmission links with mid-IR single-frequency lasers in the 3.6 μm region. Specifically, based on difference frequency generation (DFG) in MgO-doped periodically poled LiNbO₃ (MgO:PPLN), the mid-IR transmitter produces 9.3-mW power at 3594 nm with 5-W pump power at 1083 nm (<10  kHz linewidth) and 3-W signal power at 1550 nm (<10  kHz linewidth), and the mid-IR receiver reproduces 12-μW power at 1550 nm with 4.7-W pump power at 1083 nm and 5-mW laser at 3594 nm. The whole modules are integrated into portable and compact devices by incorporating single-frequency fiber lasers, fiber amplifiers, DFG units, and related electronic circuits. In addition, the uses of all polarization-maintaining fiber configuration and well-controlled heat dissipation make the mid-IR transmitter and receiver exhibit a long-term stability.

Progress and Achievements at the Mid Term Stage of the Dragon 3 Programme

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desnos, Yves-Louis; Li, Zengyuan; Zmuda, Andy; Gao, Zhihai

2014-11-01

The Dragon Programme is a joint undertaking between ESA and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) of China and the National Remote Sensing Center of China (NRSCC). Its purpose is to encourage increased exploitation of ESA and Chinese space resources within China as well as stimulate increased scientific cooperation in the field of Earth Observation (EO) science and applications between China and Europe. Since 2004, this pioneering programme has become a model for scientific and technological cooperation between China and Europe. By successfully encouraging joint research using ESA, Third Party Missions and Chinese EO data across a range of thematic areas, Dragon continues to deliver outstanding scientific results. The programme has successfully completed two phases, Dragon 1 from 2004 to 2008, Dragon 2 from 2008 to 2012. The third phase of Dragon was started in 2012 and will be completed in 2016. The Dragon 3 project teams are led by leading EO scientists and young scientists are also engaged on the projects. Advanced training in land, ocean and atmospheric applications is a feature of the programme and a course on land and one course on ocean applications have been successfully held in 2012 and 2013 in China. Here-in provided is an overview of the results, reporting and training activities at the mid-term stage of the programme.

Sleep quality and functional gastrointestinal disorders. A psychological issue.

PubMed

Bouchoucha, Michel; Mary, Florence; Bon, Cyriaque; Bejou, Bakhtiar; Airinei, Gheorghe; Benamouzig, Robert

2018-02-01

Sleep disorders are often associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). This study aims to evaluate the association of sleep disorders with specific FGIDs and to assess the related importance of psychological disorders. We included 1009 consecutive patients with FGIDs (70.9% females). The patients completed a Rome III questionnaire and after a psychological evaluation on anxiety and depression they were classified according to their sleep disorders using a 7-point grading scale: Groups 1-3, drowsiness (severe, moderate, mild); Group 4, no change; Groups 5-7, insomnia (mild, moderate, severe). Multinomial logistic regression using sleep group as a dependent variable with no sleep change as reference and body mass index, FGIDs, anxiety and depression as independent variables were used for statistical analysis. Altogether 667 (66.1%) patients reported changes in sleep disorders, of whom 487 (48.3%) had decreased sleep and 180 (17.8%) had increased sleep while 342 (33.9%) reported no change. Depression was lower in patients with no change in sleep pattern and increased with the severity of their sleep disorder (P < 0.001). State-anxiety is associated with moderate drowsiness (P = 0.024), while trait anxiety is associated with mild insomnia (P = 0.048). FGIDs associated with sleep disorders included chest pain, epigastric pain syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, diarrhea, bloating, fecal incontinence and proctalgia fugax. Sleep disorders are associated with FGIDs, especially in the presence of depressive symptoms. © 2018 Chinese Medical Association Shanghai Branch, Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Presacral abscess as a rare complication of sacral nerve stimulator implantation.

PubMed

Gumber, A; Ayyar, S; Varia, H; Pettit, S

2017-03-01

A 50-year-old man with intractable anal pain attributed to proctalgia fugax underwent insertion of a sacral nerve stimulator via the right S3 vertebral foramen for pain control with good symptomatic relief. Thirteen months later, he presented with signs of sepsis. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a large presacral abscess. MRI demonstrated increased enhancement along the pathway of the stimulator electrode, indicating that the abscess was caused by infection introduced at the time of sacral nerve stimulator placement. The patient was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics, and the sacral nerve stimulator and electrode were removed. Attempts were made to drain the abscess transrectally using minimally invasive techniques but these were unsuccessful and CT guided transperineal drainage was then performed. Despite this, the presacral abscess progressed, developing enlarging gas locules and extending to the pelvic brim to involve the aortic bifurcation, causing hydronephrosis and radiological signs of impending sacral osteomyelitis. MRI showed communication between the rectum and abscess resulting from transrectal drainage. In view of the progressive presacral sepsis, a laparotomy was performed with drainage of the abscess, closure of the upper rectum and formation of a defunctioning end sigmoid colostomy. Following this, the presacral infection resolved. Presacral abscess formation secondary to an infected sacral nerve stimulator electrode has not been reported previously. Our experience suggests that in a similar situation, the optimal management is to perform laparotomy with drainage of the presacral abscess together with simultaneous removal of the sacral nerve stimulator and electrode.

Presacral abscess as a rare complication of sacral nerve stimulator implantation

PubMed Central

Gumber, A; Ayyar, S; Varia, H

2017-01-01

A 50-year-old man with intractable anal pain attributed to proctalgia fugax underwent insertion of a sacral nerve stimulator via the right S3 vertebral foramen for pain control with good symptomatic relief. Thirteen months later, he presented with signs of sepsis. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a large presacral abscess. MRI demonstrated increased enhancement along the pathway of the stimulator electrode, indicating that the abscess was caused by infection introduced at the time of sacral nerve stimulator placement. The patient was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics, and the sacral nerve stimulator and electrode were removed. Attempts were made to drain the abscess transrectally using minimally invasive techniques but these were unsuccessful and CT guided transperineal drainage was then performed. Despite this, the presacral abscess progressed, developing enlarging gas locules and extending to the pelvic brim to involve the aortic bifurcation, causing hydronephrosis and radiological signs of impending sacral osteomyelitis. MRI showed communication between the rectum and abscess resulting from transrectal drainage. In view of the progressive presacral sepsis, a laparotomy was performed with drainage of the abscess, closure of the upper rectum and formation of a defunctioning end sigmoid colostomy. Following this, the presacral infection resolved. Presacral abscess formation secondary to an infected sacral nerve stimulator electrode has not been reported previously. Our experience suggests that in a similar situation, the optimal management is to perform laparotomy with drainage of the presacral abscess together with simultaneous removal of the sacral nerve stimulator and electrode. PMID:28071947

[Effect of mid- and long-term schistosomiasis control plan and discussion of consolidation strategy in marshland endemic regions].

PubMed

Shen, Xue-hui; Sun, Le-ping; Li, Ye-fang; Wang, Lin; Chen, Xiang-ping; Wang, He-sheng; Dai, Jian-rong

2015-10-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of mid- and long-term schistosomiasis control plan and explore the consolidation strategy in marshland endemic regions, so as to provide an effective approach for interrupting and eliminating schistosomiasis in the regions. A prospective field study was designed. Dantu District of Zhenjiang City, a marshland schistosomiasis endemic region, was selected, and the "key village, key environment, and key water regions" comprehensive control strategy was implemented according to the endemic level of schistosomiasis. The morbidity due to schistosomiasis in humans and domestic animals, and Oncomelania hupensis snails were surveyed, and the data of the implementation of control measures were collected. The schistosomiasis morbidity and snail status were compared before and after the implementation of the mid- and long-term plan for schistosomiasis prevention and control, and the changing trends of human, domestic animal and snail infections were plotted. During the implementation of the plan from 2005 to 2014, 16.84 km concrete and bank protection and 9 snail sinks were built, 10 culverts re-built, 3.85 hm2 fences were constructed, 29.5 thousand domestic animals were examined and treated, 170 cattle were eliminated, 4930 hm2 fishing farms were built for snail control, 1 560.00 hM2 land were improved, and 376.00 hm2 forests were built for snail control. In addition, 19,364.80 hm2 snail areas were surveyed, 4694.6 hm2 area received molluscicide, 207.9 thousand of people (person-times) received the examination and treatment, 69.1 thousand of harmless toilets were built, 282.2 thousand health education materials and protection materials were allocated, 958 warning signs were established, and 5435 slogans were pasted or hung. After the implementation of the mid- and long-term plan, the percentages of human, bovine and snail infections appeared decline tendencies year by year, and reduced from 0.08%, 1.28% and 0.13% in 2005 to 0 in 2014, respectively

Prolene hernia system compared with mesh plug technique: a prospective study of short- to mid-term outcomes in primary groin hernia repair.

PubMed

Huang, C S; Huang, C C; Lien, H H

2005-05-01

Two types of anterior tension-free hernioplasty, prolene hernia system (PHS) repair and mesh plug technique (MPT), were introduced to Taiwan in 2001. This study compared the short- to mid-term outcomes following primary groin hernia repair with PHS and MPT. From January 2001 to December 2003, 393 patients with 426 primary groin hernias were operated on by a single surgeon using MPT (n=192) and PHS (n=234). Baseline perioperative details and follow-up information were compared. Demographic characteristics of both groups were similar. The laterality, types of anesthesia, postoperative stay, postoperative wound pain scores, wound complications and days to return to activities of daily life were equally distributed between the two groups. However, the distribution of Gilbert types in the PHS group was shifted a little to the right compared with that of the MPT group. PHS repair had longer operative time (34+/-17 vs 25+/-9 minutes, p<0.01). No recurrence was noted in both groups during the follow-up from 5 to 41 months. Chronic non-disabling groin pains were noted in 2.8% (6/218) of patients in the PHS group and 8.9% (14/175) in the MPT group (p=0.01). Our results show that both PHS and MPT repairs can be performed with short operation time, minor wound pain and quick return to activities of daily life without short- to mid-term recurrences, but postoperatively the MPT group had higher incidence of chronic non-disabling groin pain. Although the MPT is less invasive, the additional protective patch in the preperitoneal space of the PHS may provide a further safeguard against recurrences, especially for those patients with attenuated inguinal floor. Long-term follow-up is needed.

Cardiac rehabilitation and mid-term follow-up after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

PubMed Central

Zanettini, Renzo; Gatto, Gemma; Mori, Ileana; Pozzoni, Maria Beatrice; Pelenghi, Stefano; Martinelli, Luigi; Klugmann, Silvio

2014-01-01

Background Evaluation of patient outcomes following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has usually been based on survival and clinical improvement. Studies on quality of life are limited, and data from comprehensive assessments after the procedure are lacking. Methods Sixty patients referred for cardiac rehabilitation after TAVI underwent in-hospital and after-discharge multidimensional assessments to evaluate clinical, functional, and nutritional statuses, degree of autonomy, cognitive impairment, depression and quality of life. Results On admission to rehabilitation, approximately half of the patients had severe functional impairment and dependence for basic activities of daily living. During their hospital stay, one-third of the patients suffered significant clinical complications and two had to be transferred to the implantation center. Despite this, the overall outcome was very good. All of the remaining patients were clinically stable at discharge and functional status, autonomy and quality of life were improved in most. During a mean follow-up of 540 days (range: 192–738 days), five patients died from noncardiac causes, three were hospitalized for cardiac events, and nine for non cardiac reasons. Functional status and autonomy remained satisfactory in the majority of patients and most continued to live independently. Conclusions Patients referred for rehabilitation after TAVI are often very frail, with a high grade of functional impairment, dependence on others and high risk of clinical complications. During a rehabilitation programme, based on a multidimensional assessment and intervention, most patients showed significant improvement in functional status, quality of life, and autonomy, which remained stable in the majority of subjects during mid-term follow-up. PMID:25593575

On the causes of mid-Pliocene warmth and polar amplification

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lunt, Daniel J.; Haywood, Alan M.; Schmidt, Gavin A.; Salzmann, Ulrich; Valdes, Paul J.; Dowsett, Harry J.; Loptson, Claire A.

2012-01-01

The mid-Pliocene (~ 3 to 3.3 Ma ago), is a period of sustained global warmth in comparison to the late Quaternary (0 to ~ 1 Ma ago), and has potential to inform predictions of long-term future climate change. However, given that several processes potentially contributed, relatively little is understood about the reasons for the observed warmth, or the associated polar amplification. Here, using a modelling approach and a novel factorisation method, we assess the relative contributions to mid-Pliocene warmth from: elevated CO2, lowered orography, and vegetation and ice sheet changes. The results show that on a global scale, the largest contributor to mid-Pliocene warmth is elevated CO2. However, in terms of polar amplification, changes to ice sheets contribute significantly in the Southern Hemisphere, and orographic changes contribute significantly in the Northern Hemisphere. We also carry out an energy balance analysis which indicates that that on a global scale, surface albedo and atmospheric emmissivity changes dominate over cloud changes. We investigate the sensitivity of our results to uncertainties in the prescribed CO2 and orographic changes, to derive uncertainty ranges for the various contributing processes.

On the Causes of Mid-Pliocene Warmth and Polar Amplification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lunt, Daniel J.; Haywood, Alan M.; Schmidt, Gavin A.; Salzmann, Ulrich; Valdes, Paul J.; Dowsett, Harry J.; Loptson, Claire A.

2012-01-01

The mid-Pliocene (approximately 3 to 3.3 Ma ago), is a period of sustained global warmth in comparison to the late Quaternary (0 to approximately 1 Ma ago), and has potential to inform predictions of long-term future climate change. However, given that several processes potentially contributed, relatively little is understood about the reasons for the observed warmth, or the associated polar amplification. Here, using a modelling approach and a novel factorisation method, we assess the relative contributions to mid-Pliocene warmth from: elevated CO2, lowered orography, and vegetation and ice sheet changes. The results show that on a global scale, the largest contributor to mid-Pliocene warmth is elevated CO2. However, in terms of polar amplification, changes to ice sheets contribute significantly in the Southern Hemisphere, and orographic changes contribute significantly in the Northern Hemisphere. We also carry out an energy balance analysis which indicates that that on a global scale, surface albedo and atmospheric emmissivity changes dominate over cloud changes. We investigate the sensitivity of our results to uncertainties in the prescribed CO2 and orographic changes, to derive uncertainty ranges for the various contributing processes.

[Mid-Term to Long-Term Results of Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty Using the Oval-Shaped Acetabular Cup - TC Type].

PubMed

Šťastný, E; Trč, T; Frýdl, J; Kopečný, Z; Philippou, T; Lisý, J

2017-01-01

INTRODUCTION The purpose of our paper is to evaluate the mid-term to long-term results and to confirm the basic criteria of a high-quality revision implant: safe bridging of bone defects, achievement of reliable primary fixation of revision acetabular cup, achievement of good secondary stability with documentable osteointegration of cup and demonstration of remodelling of transplanted bone tissue in the area of defects and in spaces between the implant ribs. MATERIAL AND METHODS Altogether 36 patients (38 cups) were evaluated who had undergone revision hip arthroplasty in the period from 2004 to 2010. The mean follow-up was 8.2 years (5.1-11.6 years after the reimplantation, more than 10 years in 16 patients who underwent surgery). The position and osseointegration of the implant were assessed by digital radiography, the remodelling of transplanted bone tissues in the area of defects and between the implant ribs by computed tomography with reducing artefacts around the metal implant (Aquilion 64 - Toshiba Medical Systems), and for the clinical outcomes the Harris Hip Score was used. RESULTS Preoperatively, the condition of the hip joint based on the Harris Hip Score was in 30 cases evaluated as poor, in 8 patients as satisfactory. At the time of final evaluation, 8 patients achieved excellent results, in 19 patients the condition of the joint was very good (in 2 patients bilaterally), in 6 patients it was considered satisfactory and in 3 patients poor. The mean value for HHS increased from 39.5 to 84.5. Based on the radiography evaluation, in 27 patients (in 2 patients bilaterally) the osseointegration of the revision cup was good, in 8 cases with a radiolucent line of 2-4 mm in width in DeLee zone III, in one case proximal migration of the cup occurred caused by deep infection. The informed consent form for pelvic CT was signed by 25 patients of our cohort. Remodelling of bone tissue in the space between the ribs of the implant was always detected, the presence of

Image-guided percutaneous microwave ablation of small renal tumours: short- and mid-term outcomes.

PubMed

Genson, Pierre-Yves; Mourey, Eric; Moulin, Morgan; Favelier, Sylvain; Di Marco, Lucy; Chevallier, Olivier; Cercueil, Jean-Pierre; Krausé, Denis; Cormier, Luc; Loffroy, Romaric

2015-10-01

The purpose is to assess the short- and mid-term outcomes of microwave ablation (MWA) of small renal tumours in selected patients. From August 2012 to February 2015, 29 renal tumours in 23 patients (17 male, 6 female, mean age 75 years) were treated by percutaneous MWA under imaging guidance. The tumours were 1-4.7 cm in diameter (mean size, 2.7 cm). Therapeutic effects were assessed at follow-up with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All patients were followed up for 2-25 months (mean, 12.2 months) to observe the therapeutic effects and complications. Changes in renal function at day 1 after treatment were statistically analyzed using the Student paired t-test or the paired Wilcoxon test. Technical success was achieved in all cases. One severe bleeding complication post-procedure occurred leading to death. No other unexpected side effects were observed after the MWA procedures. Clinical effectiveness was 100%. None of the patients showed recurrence on MRI imaging follow-up. No significant changes in renal function were noted after treatment (P=0.57). Our preliminary study demonstrates that the use of MWA for the treatment of small renal tumours can be applied as safely and efficiently as other ablative techniques in selected patients not eligible for surgery.

Progress and Achievements At the Mid Term Stage of the Dragon 2 Programme

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desnos, Yves-Louis; Li, Zhengyuan; Zmuda, Andy; Gao, Zhihai

2010-10-01

The cooperation between ESA and National Remote Sensing Center of China (NRSCC) / Ministry Of Science and Technology of China (MOST) in the development of Earth Observation (EO) applications started 15 years ago. In 2004, a new phase in cooperation began with the start of the Dragon Programme which focused on science and application using ESA satellite data. The programme was completed in 2008. Following on, the cooperation took on greater momentum with the start of a four-year EO science and exploitation programme called 'Dragon 2'. This programme brings together joint Sino-European teams to investigate land, ocean and atmospheric applications in P.R. China using data from ESA, Third Party Mission and Chinese Earth Observation satellites. The teams are led by leading EO scientists and young scientists are also engaged on the projects. Advanced training in land, ocean and atmospheric applications is a feature of the programme and after 2 years, two courses on land and one course on atmospheric applications have been successfully held in 2008, 2009 and 2010 in China. Here-in provided is an overview of the results, reporting and training activities at the mid term stage of the programme. The Sino-European teams continue to deliver world-class scientific results across a wide range of disciplines. The programme provides a platform for the joint exploitation of ESA, TPM and Chinese EO data from optical, infrared, thermal and microwave sensors for science and application development.

Concomitant coronary artery bypass graft and aortic and mitral valve replacement for rheumatic heart disease: short- and mid-term outcomes.

PubMed

Davarpasand, Tahereh; Hosseinsabet, Ali; Jalali, Arash

2015-09-01

It has been reported that the short-term mortality of concomitant aortic and mitral valve replacement (AVR and MVR) is considerable and concomitant coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) has adverse effects on the survival of patients with valve replacement surgery. We summarize the short- and mid-term outcome after concomitant CABG, AVR and MVR in our centre. Between 2003 and 2013, 103 patients (68 males, 35 females, age: 60.1 ± 10.1 years) underwent CABG, AVR and MVR for rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and coronary artery disease (CAD). The median follow-up was 47.6 months. Most of the patients were asymptomatic at rest. We analysed demographic, clinical and operative data of patients to define independent predictors of overall survival, cardiac event-free survival as well as cardiac death. The rate of 30-day survival was 93% (n = 96). The corresponding rates of overall survival and cardiac event-free survival and the cumulative incidence rate of cardiac death at 1 year were 80.2, 77.3 and 10.9%; the same at 4 years were 73.7, 64.6 and 15.8%. The corresponding freedom rates from anticoagulation-associated major haemorrhage; a composite of major bleeding events, thromboemboli and valvular thrombosis; cardiac rehospitalization; major adverse valve-associated events; and significant malfunction of the prosthetic valve were 96.2, 95.3, 94.7, 81.6 and 97.7% at 1 year. The corresponding freedom rates from anticoagulation-associated major haemorrhage; a composite of major bleeding events, thromboemboli and valvular thrombosis; cardiac rehospitalization; major adverse valve-associated events; and significant malfunction of the prosthetic valve were 93.5, 91.0, 91.4, 73.5 and 95.5% at 4 years. The independent predictors of overall survival were age, cigarette smoking, chronic kidney diseases and balloon pump insertion. The independent predictors of cardiac event-free survival were age and previous myocardial infarction, while age, cigarette smoking, history of cerebrovascular

Patterns and Rates of Historical Shoreline Change along the New England and Mid-Atlantic Coasts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kratzmann, M. G.; Hapke, C. J.; Himmelstoss, E. A.; List, J. H.; Thieler, E. R.

2010-12-01

The U.S. Geological Survey is analyzing historical shoreline changes along open-ocean shores of the conterminous United States and parts of Hawaii, Alaska and the Great Lakes to calculate trends and rates of shoreline movement. This accurate and detailed coastal change information is necessary as growing coastal communities and infrastructure are threatened by erosion. Repeatable analytical methods were developed for shoreline movement calculations to facilitate periodic updates of coastal change in a systematic and internally consistent manner. The U.S. New England and Mid-Atlantic coasts from Maine to Virginia are the most recent to be completed in the National Assessment of Shoreline Change project. Shorelines from the 1800s through 2007 were derived from historical maps, orthophotos, and airborne lidar (1997-2007). All shoreline change rates are calculated using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) developed by the U.S. Geological Survey. Long-term rates of change are calculated using linear regression through all available shorelines (n = 4 to 12) for the full period of record (100-150 years). Short-term rates of change are calculated for the most recent 25-30 years, using the end-point method. Shoreline change rates were calculated for 78% of the 1360 km of coast in the study area. Complete coverage is lacking due to data gaps, as well as locations (rocky coastlines, large embayments, and beaches) where robust data are unavailable. The average rates of shoreline change for New England and the Mid-Atlantic are erosional, with higher erosion rates observed in the long-term than in the short-term. The average rates of long- and short-term shoreline change in New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island) are -0.4 m/yr ± 0.1 m/yr and -0.2 ± 0.09 m/yr, respectively. The average long-term rate in the Mid-Atlantic (New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia) is -0.6 ± 0.1 m/yr and the short-term rate of change is -0.3 ± 0.1 m

Reimplantation versus remodelling with ring annuloplasty: comparison of mid-term outcomes after valve-sparing aortic root replacement.

PubMed

Lenoir, Marien; Maesen, Bart; Stevens, Louis-Mathieu; Cartier, Raymond; Demers, Philippe; Poirier, Nancy; Tousch, Michaël; El-Hamamsy, Ismail

2018-02-08

Remodelling with extra-aortic ring annuloplasty has emerged as an alternative approach to root reimplantation. However, no studies have yet compared outcomes between procedures. The aim of this study was to compare mid-term outcomes in patients undergoing reimplantation versus remodelling with extra-aortic annuloplasty. From 2001 to 2017, 142 patients underwent root remodelling with extra-aortic annuloplasty (n = 83, 48 ± 13 years) or a reimplantation technique (n = 59, 48 ± 12 years) at the Montreal Heart Institute. No differences were observed in the incidence of connective tissue disease (24% vs 29%, P = 0.9) or preoperative aortic insufficiency ≥3 (37% vs 23%, P = 0.24). However, in the remodelling group, there were more bicuspid aortic valves (31% vs 9%; P < 0.01), and the mean preoperative aortic annulus diameter was larger (27.2 ± 3.6 mm vs 25.6 ± 2.4 mm; P = 0.01). The mean follow-up duration was 3.9 years (100% complete). There were no hospital deaths and 5 late deaths. At 5 years, overall survival was similar in both groups (100%, P = 0.98). Similarly, 5-year freedom from aortic valve reoperation was equivalent (97 ± 2% in both groups, P = 0.95). Furthermore, 5-year survival free from aortic insufficiency ≥2 or reoperation was 84 ± 5% in the remodelling with annuloplasty group vs 83 ± 6% in the reimplantation group (P = 0.62). The mean annular diameter was 24.3 ± 0.5 mm at 5 years vs 23.6 ± 0.3 mm at discharge in the remodelling group (P = 0.28) and 24.4 ± 0.6 mm vs 23.2 ± 0.3 mm, respectively, in the reimplantation group (P = 0.1). Despite a higher prevalence of bicuspid aortic valves and larger aortic annular diameters, mid-term outcomes after remodelling with extra-aortic annuloplasty and reimplantation are comparable. Extra-aortic ring annuloplasty is effective at stabilizing annular dimensions. © The Author(s) 2018. Published

National Assessment of Shoreline Change; historical shoreline change along the New England and Mid-Atlantic coasts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hapke, Cheryl J.; Himmelstoss, Emily A.; Kratzmann, Meredith G.; List, Jeffrey H.; Thieler, E. Robert

2011-01-01

Beach erosion is a chronic problem along many open-ocean shores of the United States. As coastal populations continue to grow and community infrastructures are threatened by erosion, there is increased demand for accurate information regarding past and present trends and rates of shoreline movement. There is also a need for a comprehensive analysis of shoreline movement that is consistent from one coastal region to another. To meet these national needs, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting an analysis of historical shoreline changes along open-ocean sandy shores of the conterminous United States and parts of Hawaii, Alaska, and the Great Lakes. One purpose of this work is to develop standard, repeatable methods for mapping and analyzing shoreline movement so that periodic, systematic, internally consistent updates regarding coastal erosion and land loss can be made nationally. In the case of this study, the shoreline is the interpreted boundary between the ocean water surface and the sandy beach. This report on the New England and Mid-Atlantic coasts is the fifth in a series of reports on historical shoreline change. Previous investigations include analyses and descriptive reports of the Gulf of Mexico, the Southeast Atlantic, and, for California, the sandy shoreline and the coastal cliffs. The rates of change presented in this report represent conditions up to the date of the most recent shoreline data and therefore are not intended for predicting future shoreline positions or rates of change. Because of the geomorphology of the New England and Mid-Atlantic (rocky coastlines, large embayments and beaches) as well as data gaps in some areas, this report presents beach erosion rates for 78 percent of the 1,360 kilometers of the New England and Mid-Atlantic coasts. The New England and Mid-Atlantic shores were subdivided into a total of 10 analysis regions for the purpose of reporting regional trends in shoreline change rates. The average rate of long-term

Measuring progress from nationally determined contributions to mid-century strategies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iyer, Gokul; Ledna, Catherine; Clarke, Leon; Edmonds, James; McJeon, Haewon; Kyle, Page; Williams, James H.

2017-12-01

The Paris Agreement requires countries to articulate near-term emissions reduction strategies through to 2025 or 2030 by communicating nationally determined contributions (NDCs), as well as encouraging the formulation of long-term low-emission development strategies (Article 4.19)1. In response, many countries have either submitted or are preparing mid-century strategies2. Most NDCs set high-level near-term goals—such as limits on emissions or emissions intensity3—which do not provide information about the extent to which they lay the foundations of technology, infrastructure and institutions for deeper reductions in the future, which is a key question for decision makers. Here, using a state-level model of the US embedded within a global integrated assessment model4,5, we demonstrate that although the US NDC lies on a straight-line emissions pathway towards its mid-century strategy, the resulting energy system transitions involve nonlinear transformations. The rates of capacity additions and capital investments in electricity generation beyond 2025 are more than three times the rates during the next decade. Our results demonstrate the need for global stocktaking exercises to evaluate the NDCs using metrics broader than emissions to better illuminate their effectiveness in addressing the Paris Agreement's long-term goals6,7.

Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

Arlington VA 22202-4302. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to a penalty for failing to...Estimate DoD - Department of Defense DSN - Defense Switched Network Econ - Economic Eng - Engineering Est - Estimating FMS - Foreign Military Sales FY...fighter aircraft, bombers, helicopters, ships, and ground sites . The MIDS Program consists of the MIDS Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT) and the MIDS

A simple technique to strengthen the initial and mid-term to long-term stability of the cup during total hip arthroplasty in developmental dysplasia of the hip.

PubMed

Guan, Mingqiang; Zhou, Guanming; Li, Xue

2018-04-01

To assess the effects of a technique of cup blocking screws combined with impaction bone grafting during total hip arthroplasty (THA) for patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). From August 2011 to July 2015, 53 patients (59 hips) with DDH in our hospital were treated with THA using the technique of cup blocking screws combined with impaction particulate bone grafting. These patients were prospectively followed, and the clinical and imaging results were collected. Harris hip score (HHS) was raised from 41.24 before surgery to 91.49 at the latest follow-up (p less than 0.001). Length discrepancy (LLD) was reduced from 28.97 mm before surgery to 6.08 mm after surgery (p less than 0.001). No loosening of the cup was detected at the last follow-up. The differences were insignificant in cup inclination and rate of cup coverage among the 3 groups of Crowe type II, type III, and type IV DDH (p greater than 0.05). The technique of cup blocking screws combined with impaction particulate bone grafting is simple and reliable, and it not only simplifies the attainment of initial stability, but also strengthens the mid-term to long-term stability during THA in DDH.

Predictors of Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Insertion in Coronary Surgery and Mid-Term Results

PubMed Central

Yurekli, Ismail; Celik, Ersin; Yetkin, Ufuk; Yilik, Levent; Gurbuz, Ali

2013-01-01

Background We aimed to investigate the preoperative, operative, and postoperative factors affecting intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) insertion in patients undergoing isolated on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). We also investigated factors affecting morbidity, mortality, and survival in patients with IABP support. Methods Between January 2002 and December 2009, 1,657 patients underwent isolated CABG in İzmir Katip Celebi University Atatürk Training and Research Hospital. The number of patients requiring support with IABP was 134 (8.1%). Results In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time and prolonged operation time were independent predictive factors of IABP insertion. The postoperative mortality rate was 35.8% and 1% in patients with and without IABP support, respectively (p=0.000). Postoperative renal insufficiency, prolonged ventilatory support, and postoperative atrial fibrillation were independent predictive factors of postoperative mortality in patients with IABP support. The mean follow-up time was 38.55±22.70 months and 48.78±25.20 months in patients with and without IABP support, respectively. The follow-up mortality rate was 3% (n=4) and 5.3% (n=78) in patients with and without IABP support, respectively. Conclusion The patients with IABP support had a higher postoperative mortality rate and a longer length of intensive care unit and hospital stay. The mid-term survival was good for patients surviving the early postoperative period. PMID:24368971

Trucking and Size and Weight Regulations in the Mid-Continent Corridor

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-11-01

This thesis is an empirical analysis of trucking and truck size and weight (TS&W) regulations in the Mid-continent corridor. Based on this analysis, it compares and contrasts plausible near term TS&W policy options relating to this corridor. The appr...

[Role of physical, psychological and sexual abuse in functional digestive disorders. A case-controls trial.].

PubMed

Remes-Troche, J M; Cid-Juárez, S; Campos-Ramos, I; Ramos-de la Medina, A; Galmiche, A; Schmulson-Wasserman, M; Roesch-Dietlen, F

2008-01-01

Abuse has been considered a significant factor on the development of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID), especially for severe and treatment-refractory patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the presence of all FGID according to Rome II criteria, in a group of women with history of physical, psychological and/or sexual abuse. A cross sectional study was performed in 96 women (37 +/- 12 years of age) with history of physical, psychological and/or sexual abuse (cases); and 96 open population women (36 +/- 14 years of age) (controls). The following evaluations were administered: Rome II questionnaire, a self-administered instrument to evaluate history of physical (beating), psychological(insults, public humiliation) and/or sexual abuse (rape, coercion), and HAD questionnaire. Among 96 women with history of abuse,91 (95%) reported to have suffered psychological abuse, 72 (75%) physical abuse, and 24 (25%)sexual abuse. Women with history of abuse had a higher prevalence of rumination (6% vs. 0%, p= 0.02), functional heartburn (26% vs. 13%, p =0.04), aerofagia (17% vs. 5%, p = 0.019), irritable bowel syndrome (38% vs. 18%, p = 0.002), fecalin continence (16% vs. 4%, p = 0.01), elevator anisyndrome (5% vs. 0%, p = 0.05), and proctalgia fugax (29% vs. 15%, p = 0.02) compared to controls. There was a positive correlation between anxiety (r = 0.5, p = 0.001) and depression scores(r = 0.45, p = 0.001), and the number of FGID. We demonstrated a high prevalence of FGID among women with history of physical,psychological, and/or sexual abuse. In this association,concomitant anxiety and depression play a significant role.

Pituitary estrogen receptor alpha is involved in luteinizing hormone pulsatility at mid-gestation in the South American plains vizcacha, Lagostomus maximus (Rodentia, Caviomorpha).

PubMed

Proietto, Sofía; Yankelevich, Lorena; Villarreal, Federico Martín; Inserra, Pablo Ignacio Felipe; Charif, Santiago Elías; Schmidt, Alejandro Raúl; Cortasa, Santiago Andrés; Corso, María Clara; Di Giorgio, Noelia Paula; Lux-Lantos, Victoria; Vitullo, Alfredo Daniel; Halperin, Julia; Dorfman, Verónica Berta

2018-04-12

The South American plains vizcacha, Lagostomus maximus, is a caviomorph rodent native from Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. It shows peculiar reproductive features like pre-ovulatory follicle recruitment during pregnancy with an ovulatory process at around mid-gestation. We have described the activation of the hypothalamic - pituitary - ovarian (HPO) axis during pregnancy. A progressive decrease of progesterone (P4) at mid-pregnancy elicits the delivery of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) with the consequent secretion of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (E 2 ) followed by luteinizing hormone (LH) release resulting in follicular luteinization and the P4 concentration recover. Pituitary gland is the central regulator of the HPO axis being E 2 a key hormone involved in the regulation of its activity. In this work we analyzed the action of E 2 on the pituitary response to the GnRH wave as well as its involvement on LH secretion at mid-gestation in L. maximus. The expression of GnRHR at the pituitary pars distalis showed a significant decrease at mid-pregnancy compared to early- and term-gestating females. ERα showed a significant increment from mid-gestation whereas ERβ did not show variations throughout pregnancy; whereas the LH expression in the pituitary pars distalis showed a significant increase at mid-gestation, concordantly with serum LH, which was followed by a decrease at term-gestation with similar values than at early-pregnancy. The number of cells with co-localization of ERα and GnRHR showed a decline at mid-pregnancy related to early- and term-gestation, whereas the cells with co-localization of ERα and LH increased at mid- and term-pregnancy. On the other hand, ex vivo measuring of LH pulsatility showed a significant increment in the total mass of LH delivered at mid-pregnancy followed by a decrease at term-gestation. The stimulation of ERα with the PPT specific agonist induced a significant increment in the total mass of LH

The Present, Mid-Term, and Long-Term Supply Curves for Tellurium; and Updates in the Results from NREL's CdTe PV Module Manufacturing Cost Model (Presentation)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Woodhouse, M.; Goodrich, A.; Redlinger, M.

2013-09-01

For those PV technologies that rely upon Te, In, and Ga, first-order observations and calculations hint that there may be resource constraints that could inhibit their successful deployment at a SunShot level. These are only first-order approximations, however, and the possibility for an expansion in global Te, In, and Ga supplies needs to be considered in the event that there are upward revisions in their demand and prices.In this study, we examine the current, mid-term, and long-term prospects of Tellurium (Te) for use in PV. We find that the current global supply base of Te would support <10 GW ofmore » annual traditional CdTe PV manufacturing production. But as for the possibility that the supply base for Te might be expanded, after compiling several preliminary cumulative availability curves we find that there may be significant upside potential in the supply base for this element - principally vis a vis increasing demand and higher prices. Primarily by reducing the Tellurium intensity in manufacturing and by increasing the recovery efficiency of Te in Cu refining processes, we calculate that it may prove affordable to PV manufacturers to expand the supply base for Te such that 100 GW, or greater, of annual CdTe PV production is possible in the 2030 - 2050 timeframe.« less

Mid-Life Career Influence

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heald, James E.

1977-01-01

Events common to all people, although in differing degrees, such as physiological and technological changes at mid-life, constitute important influences on career change and development in the mid-life period. (Author)

Mid-term outcome of endovascular treatment for acute lower extremity deep venous thrombosis.

PubMed

Jiang, Kun; Li, Xiao-Qiang; Sang, Hong-Fei; Qian, Ai-Min; Rong, Jian-Jie; Li, Cheng-Long

2017-04-01

Purposes of the study To evaluate the benefit of stenting the iliac vein in patients with residual iliac vein stenosis treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis for acute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis. Procedures In this randomized prospective study, patients with a first-time acute lower extremity deep venous thrombosis that had persisted <14 days were treated with catheter-directed thrombolysis. After catheter-directed thrombolysis, patients with >50% residual iliac vein stenosis were randomly divided into two groups: catheter-directed thrombolysis + Stent Group and catheter-directed thrombolysis Alone Group. Patients received urokinase thrombolysis and low-molecular-weight heparin/oral warfarin during the hospitalization period and were administrated oral warfarin after discharge. Cumulative deep vein patency, the Clinical Etiology Anatomic Pathophysiologic classification system, the Venous Clinical Severity Score and the Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire score were evaluated. Findings The cumulative deep vein patency rate was 74.07% in the catheter-directed thrombolysis + Stent Group and 46.59% in the catheter-directed thrombolysis Alone Group. The mean postoperative Clinical Etiology Anatomic Pathophysiologic classification and Venous Clinical Severity Score was significantly lower in the catheter-directed thrombolysis + Stent Group than in the catheter-directed thrombolysis Alone Group. The mean postoperative Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire score was significantly higher in the catheter-directed thrombolysis + Stent Group than the catheter-directed thrombolysis Alone Group. Conclusions Placement of an iliac vein stent in patients with residual iliac vein stenosis after catheter-directed thrombolysis for acute lower extremity deep venous thrombosis increases iliac vein patency and improves clinical symptoms and health-related quality of life at mid-term follow-up compared to patients treated with catheter

Mid-Term Vascular Safety of Renal Denervation Assessed by Follow-up MR Imaging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmid, Axel, E-mail: axel.schmid@uk-erlangen.de; Schmieder, Raphael; Lell, Michael

Background/AimsRenal denervation (RDN) emerged as a treatment option for reducing blood pressure (BP) in patients with treatment-resistant hypertension (TRH). However, concerns have been raised regarding the incidence of late renal artery stenosis or thromboembolism after RDN. The goal of the current study was, therefore, to conduct a prospective clinical trial on the mid-term vascular integrity of the renal arteries and the perfusion of the renal parenchyma assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the follow-up after catheter-based RDN.MethodsIn our single-centre investigator initiated study, 51 patients with true TRH underwent catheter-based RDN using the Symplicity Flex{sup TM} catheter (Medtronic Inc., Palomore » Alto, CA). Follow-up MRI was performed at a median of 11 months (interquartile range 6–18 months) after RDN on a 1.5T MR unit. High-resolution MR angiography (MRA) and MRI results were compared to the baseline digital angiography of renal arteries obtained at time of RDN. In case of uncertainties (N = 2) catheter angiography was repeated.ResultsBoth office and 24-h ambulatory BP were significantly reduced 6 and 12 months after RDN. Renal function remained unchanged 6 and 12 months after RDN. In all patients, MRA excluded new or progression of pre-existing low grade renal artery stenosis as well as focal aneurysms at the sites of radiofrequency ablation. In none of the patients new segmental perfusion deficits in either kidney were detected on MRI.ConclusionsNo vascular or parenchymal complications after radiofrequency-based RDN were detected in 51 patients followed up by MRI.« less

SELF-ORGANIZING MAPS FOR INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT OF THE MID-ATLANTIC REGION

EPA Science Inventory

A. new method was developed to perform an environmental assessment for the
Mid-Atlantic Region (MAR). This was a combination of the self-organizing map (SOM) neural network and principal component analysis (PCA). The method is capable of clustering ecosystems in terms of envi...

Next-generation mid-infrared sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, D.; Bank, S.; Lee, M. L.; Wasserman, D.

2017-12-01

The mid-infrared (mid-IR) is a wavelength range with a variety of technologically vital applications in molecular sensing, security and defense, energy conservation, and potentially in free-space communication. The recent development and rapid commercialization of new coherent mid-infrared sources have spurred significant interest in the development of mid-infrared optical systems for the above applications. However, optical systems designers still do not have the extensive optical infrastructure available to them that exists at shorter wavelengths (for instance, in the visible and near-IR/telecom wavelengths). Even in the field of optoelectronic sources, which has largely driven the growing interest in the mid-infrared, the inherent limitations of state-of-the-art sources and the gaps in spectral coverage offer opportunities for the development of new classes of lasers, light emitting diodes and emitters for a range of potential applications. In this topical review, we will first present an overview of the current state-of-the-art mid-IR sources, in particular thermal emitters, which have long been utilized, and the relatively new quantum- and interband-cascade lasers, as well as the applications served by these sources. Subsequently, we will discuss potential mid-infrared applications and wavelength ranges which are poorly served by the current stable of mid-IR sources, with an emphasis on understanding the fundamental limitations of the current source technology. The bulk of the manuscript will then explore both past and recent developments in mid-infrared source technology, including narrow bandgap quantum well lasers, type-I and type-II quantum dot materials, type-II superlattices, highly mismatched alloys, lead-salts and transition-metal-doped II-VI materials. We will discuss both the advantages and limitations of each of the above material systems, as well as the potential new applications which they might serve. All in all, this topical review does not aim

Mid-infrared multiheterodyne spectroscopy with phase-locked quantum cascade lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Westberg, J.; Sterczewski, L. A.; Wysocki, G.

2017-04-01

Fabry-Pérot (FP) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) provide purely electronically controlled monolithic sources for broadband mid-infrared (mid-IR) multiheterodyne spectroscopy (MHS), which benefits from the large gain bandwidth of the QCLs without sacrificing the narrowband properties commonly associated with the single mode distributed feedback variant. We demonstrate a FP-QCL based multiheterodyne spectrometer with a short-term noise-equivalent absorption of ˜3 × 10-4/ √{ H z } , a mid-IR spectral coverage of 25 cm-1, and very short acquisition time (10 μs) capability. The broadband potential is demonstrated by measuring the absorption spectra of ammonia and isobutane under atmospheric pressure conditions. The stability of the system is enhanced by a two-stage active frequency inter-locking procedure, where the two QCLs are pre-locked with a slow feedback loop based on an analog frequency discriminator, followed by a high bandwidth optical phase-locked loop. The locking system provides a relative frequency stability in the sub kHz range over seconds of integration time. The strength of the technique lies in the ability to acquire spectral information from all optical modes simultaneously and individually, which bodes for a versatile and cost effective spectrometer for mid-IR chemical gas sensing.

Towards the mid-infrared optical biopsy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seddon, Angela B.; Benson, Trevor M.; Sujecki, Slawomir; Abdel-Moneim, Nabil; Tang, Zhuoqi; Furniss, David; Sojka, Lukasz; Stone, Nick; Jayakrupakar, Nallala; Lloyd, Gavin R.; Lindsay, Ian; Ward, Jon; Farries, Mark; Moselund, Peter M.; Napier, Bruce; Lamrini, Samir; Møller, Uffe; Kubat, Irnis; Petersen, Christian R.; Bang, Ole

2016-03-01

We are establishing a new paradigm in mid-infrared molecular sensing, mapping and imaging to open up the midinfrared spectral region for in vivo (i.e. in person) medical diagnostics and surgery. Thus, we are working towards the mid-infrared optical biopsy (`opsy' look at, bio the biology) in situ in the body for real-time diagnosis. This new paradigm will be enabled through focused development of devices and systems which are robust, functionally designed, safe, compact and cost effective and are based on active and passive mid-infrared optical fibers. In particular, this will enable early diagnosis of external cancers, mid-infrared detection of cancer-margins during external surgery for precise removal of diseased tissue, in one go during the surgery, and mid-infrared endoscopy for early diagnosis of internal cancers and their precision removal. The mid-infrared spectral region has previously lacked portable, bright sources. We set a record in demonstrating extreme broad-band supercontinuum generated light 1.4 to 13.3 microns in a specially engineered, high numerical aperture mid-infrared optical fiber. The active mid-infrared fiber broadband supercontinuum for the first time offers the possibility of a bright mid-infrared wideband source in a portable package as a first step for medical fiber-based systems operating in the mid-infrared. Moreover, mid-infrared molecular mapping and imaging is potentially a disruptive technology to give improved monitoring of the environment, energy efficiency, security, agriculture and in manufacturing and chemical processing. This work is in part supported by the European Commission: Framework Seven (FP7) Large-Scale Integrated Project MINERVA: MId-to-NEaR- infrared spectroscopy for improVed medical diAgnostics (317803; www.minerva-project.eu).

EFA Mid-Decade Assessment Meeting Report. Annual EFA Coordinators Meeting/EFA Mid-Decade Assessment Planning Meeting (7th, Bangkok, Thailand, October 24-29, 2005)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tung, Ko-Chih

2006-01-01

Six Education For All (EFA) goals were agreed to in the World Education Forum in Dakar, Senegal in 2000. Since then, UNESCO Bangkok, UNICEF and the Regional Thematic Working Group on EFA have been jointly assisting countries in conducting assessment of progress and gaps towards the EFA goals and mid-term review of policies and reforms. In October…

Mid-term migration analysis of a femoral short-stem prosthesis: a five-year EBRA-FCA-study.

PubMed

Freitag, Tobias; Fuchs, Michael; Woelfle-Roos, Julia V; Reichel, Heiko; Bieger, Ralf

2018-05-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the mid-term migration pattern of a femoral short stem. Implant migration of 73 femoral short-stems was assessed by Ein-Bild-Roentgen-Analysis Femoral-Component-Analysis (EBRA-FCA) 5 years after surgery. Migration pattern of the whole group was analysed and compared to the migration pattern of implants "at risk" with a subsidence of more than 1.5 mm 2 years postoperative. Mean axial subsidence was 1.1 mm (-5.0 mm to 1.5 mm) after 60 months. There was a statistical significant axial migration until 2 years postoperative with settling thereafter. 2 years after surgery 18 of 73 Implants were classified "at risk." Nevertheless, all stems showed secondary stabilisation in the following period with no implant failure neither in the group of implants with early stabilisation nor the group with extensive early onset migration. In summary, even in the group of stems with more pronounced early subsidence, delayed settling occurred in all cases. The determination of a threshold of critical early femoral short stem subsidence is necessary because of the differing migration pattern described in this study with delayed settling of the Fitmore stem 2 years postoperatively compared to early settling within the first postoperative year described for conventional stems.

Surface temperatures of the Mid-Pliocene North Atlantic Ocean: Implications for future climate

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dowsett, Harry J.; Chandler, Mark A.; Robinson, Marci M.

2009-01-01

The Mid-Pliocene is the most recent interval in the Earth's history to have experienced warming of the magnitude predicted for the second half of the twenty-first century and is, therefore, a possible analogue for future climate conditions. With continents basically in their current positions and atmospheric CO2 similar to early twenty-first century values, the cause of Mid-Pliocene warmth remains elusive. Understanding the behaviour of the North Atlantic Ocean during the Mid-Pliocene is integral to evaluating future climate scenarios owing to its role in deep water formation and its sensitivity to climate change. Under the framework of the Pliocene Research, Interpretation and Synoptic Mapping (PRISM) sea surface reconstruction, we synthesize Mid-Pliocene North Atlantic studies by PRISM members and others, describing each region of the North Atlantic in terms of palaeoceanography. We then relate Mid-Pliocene sea surface conditions to expectations of future warming. The results of the data and climate model comparisons suggest that the North Atlantic is more sensitive to climate change than is suggested by climate model simulations, raising the concern that estimates of future climate change are conservative.

A point of minimal important difference (MID): a critique of terminology and methods.

PubMed

King, Madeleine T

2011-04-01

The minimal important difference (MID) is a phrase with instant appeal in a field struggling to interpret health-related quality of life and other patient-reported outcomes. The terminology can be confusing, with several terms differing only slightly in definition (e.g., minimal clinically important difference, clinically important difference, minimally detectable difference, the subjectively significant difference), and others that seem similar despite having quite different meanings (minimally detectable difference versus minimum detectable change). Often, nuances of definition are of little consequence in the way that these quantities are estimated and used. Four methods are commonly employed to estimate MIDs: patient rating of change (global transition items); clinical anchors; standard error of measurement; and effect size. These are described and critiqued in this article. There is no universal MID, despite the appeal of the notion. Indeed, for a particular patient-reported outcome instrument or scale, the MID is not an immutable characteristic, but may vary by population and context. At both the group and individual level, the MID may depend on the clinical context and decision at hand, the baseline from which the patient starts, and whether they are improving or deteriorating. Specific estimates of MIDs should therefore not be overinterpreted. For a given health-related quality-of-life scale, all available MID estimates (and their confidence intervals) should be considered, amalgamated into general guidelines and applied judiciously to any particular clinical or research context.

The Mid-Term Efficacy and Safety of a Permanent Nitinol IVC Filter (TrapEase)

PubMed Central

Liu, Wei Chiang; Choo, Sung Wook; Kim, Dong-Ik; Kim, Young Wook; Kim, Duk-Kyung; Shin, Sung Wook; Park, Kwang Bo; Jeon, Yong Hwan; Choo, In-Wook

2005-01-01

Objective 1) To evaluate the mid-term efficacy and safety of a permanent nitinol inferior vena cava (IVC) filter; 2) to evaluate filter effectiveness, filter stability and caval occlusion. Materials and Methods A prospective evaluation of the TrapEase IVC filter was performed on 42 patients (eight men, 34 women) ranging in age from 22 to 78 years (mean age 66 years). All patients were ill with a high risk of pulmonary embolism (PE). Indications for filter placement were: 1) deep vein thrombosis with recurrent thromboembolism; 2) and/or free-floating thrombus with contraindication to anticoagulation; and 3) complications in achieving adequate anticoagulation. Follow-up evaluations (mean: 15.4 months, range: 2 to 28 months) were performed at 6- and 12-month intervals after the procedure and included clinical histories, chart reviews, plain film, Doppler ultrasounds, and contrasted abdominal CT scans. Results In follow-up evaluations, the data analysis revealed no cases of symptomatic PE. There were no cases of filter migration, insertion site thrombosis, filter fracture, or vessel wall perforation. During the study, there was one case of filter thrombosis; early symptomatic thrombosis that was successfully treated in the hospital. Of the 42 subjects, eight died. These deaths were not related to the filter device or the implantation procedure, but to the underlying disease. Conclusion This study demonstrates that the TrapEase permanent IVC filter is a safe and an effective device with low complication rates and is best used in patients with thromboembolic disease with a high risk of PE. PMID:15968150

Mid-Term Outcomes After Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Dorsal Fracture-Dislocations Through a Volar, Shotgun Approach and a Review of the Literature

PubMed Central

Giugale, Juan Marcelo; Wang, Juntian; Kaufmann, Robert A.; Fowler, John R.

2017-01-01

Background: Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) fracture dislocations remain a complex injury pattern to treat. There are several treatment methods available aimed to restore stability, preserve range of motion, and reconstitute the articular surface. This study looked at the mid-term clinical and radiographic results of open reduction internal fixation through a shotgun approach of comminuted PIP fracture dislocations. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of all PIP fracture dislocations treated through a volar, shotgun approach at a single institution over a 15-year period. Patients identified were contacted and asked to return to the office for clinical and radiographic evaluation. Patient reported outcomes were assessed with the Michigan hand questionnaire (MHQ) and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. Results: 5 patients returned to the office for further evaluation with average follow-up of 69 months (range, 33-133 months). 3 patients were found to have post traumatic arthritis on radiographs. 1 case had recurrent instability and one case had a deep infection, both necessitating further surgical intervention. Average PIP arc of motion was found to be 79°. Average VAS score of 0 and MHQ result of 95 (out of a possible score of 100) indicating no residual pain and excellent functionality of the affected hand. Conclusion: Open reduction internal fixation of comminuted PIP fracture dislocations utilizing the volar, shotgun approach provides excellent mid-term functional results despite the high incidence of post traumatic arthritis. PMID:29151999

A study of mid-arm and chest circumferences as predictors of low birthweight.

PubMed

Rogo, K; Nyagudi, O; Ferguson, A

1991-02-01

Nine hundred ninety-nine newborns were examined in order to determine the relationship between birthweight and mid-arm and chest circumstances. An early neonatal mortality rate of 51/1000 was recorded, being much higher for preterm (301/1000) than term babies (2.5/1000). Both mid-arm and chest circumference showed highly significant correlations with birthweight (r = 0.872, P less than 0.0001 and r = 0.918, P less than 0.0001, respectively). The correlation between weight and chest circumstances was upheld even for very small babies.

Nitrogen Dioxide long term trends at mid and high latitudes by means of ground based observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bortoli, D.; Petritoli, A.; Giovanelli, G.; Kostadinov, I.; Ravegnani, F.

2003-04-01

The interactions between mid- and high latitudes atmospheric changes are going to be one of the main issue for the future of stratospheric and tropospheric chemistry research. A more detailed study of the ozone trends as well as a wider comprehension of the interactions with lower and higher latitudes are maybe the main arguments to which scientist should address their works in order to build-up a more detailed picture of what scenarios we have to face in the near future. GASCODs type spectrometers (Gas Analyzer Spectrometer Correlating Optical Differences) are installed at the "Ottavio Vittori" research station (44.11N, 10.42E, 2165 m asl) since June 1993, at the Italian Antarctic Station (74.69S, 164.12E) since December 1995 and at the STIL-BAS station (42.42N, 25.63E) since 1999. The instruments measure zenith scattered solar radiation between 407 and 464 nm. Nitrogen dioxide total column is retrieved with DOAS methodology. The seasonal trend of NO2 vc values is reported and it shows the expected behaviour: maximum values during the summer period while the minimum occur in the winter season in both the hemispheres. A typical behaviour of the AMPM ratio at high latitudes is highlight. A Fourier analysis is proposed as a tool to investigate the long-term components of nitrogen dioxide stratospheric amount. Results are presented and the NO2 trend is evidenced and commented. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: The author Daniele Bortoli was financially supported by the Subprograma Ciência e Tecnologia do 3° Quadro Comunitário de Apoio. The National Antarctic Research Program (PNRA) and the Quantification and Interpretation of Long-Term UV-Vis Observations of the Stratosphere (QUILT) project supported this research.

Is the mid-term outcome of free right internal thoracic artery with a proximal anastomosis modification inferior to in situ right internal thoracic artery?

PubMed

Yoshizumi, Tomo; Ito, Toshiaki; Maekawa, Atsuo; Sunada, Masatoshi; Wakai, Kenii; Usui, Akihiko; Ueda, Yuichi

2012-08-01

We investigated the mid-term results of free right internal thoracic artery (RITA) grafts used in an aorto-coronary fashion with a modified proximal anastomosis. The subjects were 214 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting with anastomosis to the left circumflex arteries using the RITA as a free graft (Group A: 158 patients) or an in situ graft (Group B: 56 patients). In Group A, the proximal end of the free RITA was anastomosed onto the ascending aorta interposing free graft tissue or to part of its own tissue as a cuff. The number of RITA anastomoses was 1.38 ± 0.50 in Group A and 1.04 ± 0.19 in Group B (P < 0.001). The relationship between perioperative variables and mid-term outcomes was assessed using Cox proportional hazard models. Survival was not associated with the way the RITA graft was performed (Hazard Ratio 5.26, 95 % CI 0.52-53.1, P = 0.159), however, the number of cardiac events was decreased in Group A (Hazard Ratio 2.55, 95 % CI 1.03-6.33, P = 0.043). The graft patency was evaluated in 187 of 214 patients, and at 1, 3 and 5 years was 97.0, 97.0 and 97.0 % in Group A, and 97.9, 92.5 and 80.5 % in Group B (P = 0.378), respectively. By modifying the proximal anastomosis of the free RITA, cardiac events may be decreased, while survival and graft patency comparable with in situ RITA can be obtained, and a significantly larger number of targets can be revascularized.

Mid-infrared tunable metamaterials

DOEpatents

Brener, Igal; Miao, Xiaoyu; Shaner, Eric A.; Passmore, Brandon Scott

2017-07-11

A mid-infrared tunable metamaterial comprises an array of resonators on a semiconductor substrate having a large dependence of dielectric function on carrier concentration and a semiconductor plasma resonance that lies below the operating range, such as indium antimonide. Voltage biasing of the substrate generates a resonance shift in the metamaterial response that is tunable over a broad operating range. The mid-infrared tunable metamaterials have the potential to become the building blocks of chip based active optical devices in mid-infrared ranges, which can be used for many applications, such as thermal imaging, remote sensing, and environmental monitoring.

Mid-infrared tunable metamaterials

DOEpatents

Brener, Igal; Miao, Xiaoyu; Shaner, Eric A; Passmore, Brandon Scott; Jun, Young Chul

2015-04-28

A mid-infrared tunable metamaterial comprises an array of resonators on a semiconductor substrate having a large dependence of dielectric function on carrier concentration and a semiconductor plasma resonance that lies below the operating range, such as indium antimonide. Voltage biasing of the substrate generates a resonance shift in the metamaterial response that is tunable over a broad operating range. The mid-infrared tunable metamaterials have the potential to become the building blocks of chip based active optical devices in mid-infrared ranges, which can be used for many applications, such as thermal imaging, remote sensing, and environmental monitoring.

Mid- to long-term outcome comparison of the Medtronic Hancock II and bi-leaflet mechanical aortic valve replacement in patients younger than 60 years of age: a propensity-matched analysis.

PubMed

Wang, Yin; Chen, Si; Shi, Jiawei; Li, Geng; Dong, Nianguo

2016-03-01

This study aims to compare mid-long-term clinical outcomes between patients younger than 60 years of age undergoing bioprosthetic and mechanical aortic valve replacement. From January 2002 to December 2009, patients younger than 60 years of age who received Medtronic Hancock II porcine bioprostheses were selected and compared with those who received mechanical bi-leaflet valves in the aortic position. A stepwise logistic regression propensity score identified a subset of 112 evenly matched patient-pairs. Mid-long-term outcomes of survival, valve-related reoperations, thromboembolic events and bleeding events were assessed. The follow-up was only 95.1% complete. Fourteen measurable variables were statistically similar for the matched cohort. Postoperative in-hospital mortality was 3.6% (bioprosthetic valves) and 2.7% (mechanical valves) (P = 0.700). Survival at 5 and 10 years was 96.3 and 88.7% for patients receiving bioprosthetic valve replacement versus 96.3 and 87.9% for patients receiving mechanical valve replacement (P = 0.860), respectively. At 5 and 10 years after operations, freedom from valve-related reoperation was 97.2 and 94.8% for patients receiving mechanical valve replacement, and 96.3 and 90.2% for patients receiving bioprosthetic valve replacement (P = 0.296), respectively. There was no difference between freedom from thromboembolic events (P = 0.528) and bleeding events (P = 0.128) between the matched groups during the postoperative 10 years. In patients younger than 60 years of age undergoing aortic valve replacement, mid-long-term survival rate was similar for patients receiving bioprosthetic versus mechanical valve replacement. Bioprosthetic valves were associated with a trend for a lower risk of anticoagulation treatment and did not have significantly greater likelihood of a reoperation. These findings suggest that a bioprosthetic valve may be a reasonable choice for AVR in patients younger than 60 years of age. © The Author 2015. Published by

Sort-Mid tasks scheduling algorithm in grid computing.

PubMed

Reda, Naglaa M; Tawfik, A; Marzok, Mohamed A; Khamis, Soheir M

2015-11-01

Scheduling tasks on heterogeneous resources distributed over a grid computing system is an NP-complete problem. The main aim for several researchers is to develop variant scheduling algorithms for achieving optimality, and they have shown a good performance for tasks scheduling regarding resources selection. However, using of the full power of resources is still a challenge. In this paper, a new heuristic algorithm called Sort-Mid is proposed. It aims to maximizing the utilization and minimizing the makespan. The new strategy of Sort-Mid algorithm is to find appropriate resources. The base step is to get the average value via sorting list of completion time of each task. Then, the maximum average is obtained. Finally, the task has the maximum average is allocated to the machine that has the minimum completion time. The allocated task is deleted and then, these steps are repeated until all tasks are allocated. Experimental tests show that the proposed algorithm outperforms almost other algorithms in terms of resources utilization and makespan.

Final report on mid-polarity analytes in food matrix: mid-polarity pesticides in tea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sin, Della W. M.; Li, Hongmei; Wong, S. K.; Lo, M. F.; Wong, Y. L.; Wong, Y. C.; Mok, C. S.

2015-01-01

At the Paris meeting in April 2011, the CCQM Working Group on Organic Analysis (OAWG) agreed on a suite of Track A studies meant to support the assessment of measurement capabilities needed for the delivery of measurement services within the scope of the OAWG Terms of Reference. One of the studies discussed and agreed upon for the suite of ten Track A studies that support the 5-year plan of the CCQM Core Competence assessment was CCQM-K95 'Mid-Polarity Analytes in Food Matrix: Mid-Polarity Pesticides in Tea'. This key comparison was co-organized by the Government Laboratory of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (GL) and the National Institute of Metrology, China (NIM). To allow wider participation, a pilot study, CCQM-P136, was run in parallel. Participants' capabilities in measuring mid-polarity analytes in food matrix were demonstrated through this key comparison. Most of the participating NMIs/DIs successfully measured beta-endosulfan and endosulfan sulphate in the sample, however, there is room for further improvement for some participants. This key comparison involved not only extraction, clean-up, analytical separation and selective detection of the analytes in a complex food matrix, but also the pre-treatment procedures of the material before the extraction process. The problem of incomplete extraction of the incurred analytes from the sample matrix may not be observed simply by using spike recovery. The relative standard deviations for the data included in the KCRV calculation in this key comparison were less than 7 % which was acceptable given the complexity of the matrix, the level of the analytes and the complexity of the analytical procedure. Main text. To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual

Multi-wavelength mid-IR light source for gas sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karioja, Pentti; Alajoki, Teemu; Cherchi, Matteo; Ollila, Jyrki; Harjanne, Mikko; Heinilehto, Noora; Suomalainen, Soile; Viheriälä, Jukka; Zia, Nouman; Guina, Mircea; Buczyński, Ryszard; Kasztelanic, Rafał; Kujawa, Ireneusz; Salo, Tomi; Virtanen, Sami; Kluczyński, Paweł; Sagberg, Hâkon; Ratajczyk, Marcin; Kalinowski, Przemyslaw

2017-02-01

Cost effective multi-wavelength light sources are key enablers for wide-scale penetration of gas sensors at Mid-IR wavelength range. Utilizing novel Mid-IR Si-based photonic integrated circuits (PICs) filter and wide-band Mid-IR Super Luminescent Light Emitting Diodes (SLEDs), we show the concept of a light source that covers 2.5…3.5 μm wavelength range with a resolution of <1nm. The spectral bands are switchable and tunable and they can be modulated. The source allows for the fabrication of an affordable multi-band gas sensor with good selectivity and sensitivity. The unit price can be lowered in high volumes by utilizing tailored molded IR lens technology and automated packaging and assembling technologies. The status of the development of the key components of the light source are reported. The PIC is based on the use of micron-scale SOI technology, SLED is based on AlGaInAsSb materials and the lenses are tailored heavy metal oxide glasses fabricated by the use of hot-embossing. The packaging concept utilizing automated assembly tools is depicted. In safety and security applications, the Mid-IR wavelength range covered by the novel light source allows for detecting several harmful gas components with a single sensor. At the moment, affordable sources are not available. The market impact is expected to be disruptive, since the devices currently in the market are either complicated, expensive and heavy instruments, or the applied measurement principles are inadequate in terms of stability and selectivity.

Mid-term study of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in an Asian population with severe aortic stenosis: two-year Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 outcomes

PubMed Central

Chew, Nicholas; Hon, Jimmy Kim Fatt; Yip, Wei Luen James; Chan, Siew Pang; Poh, Kian-Keong; Kong, William Kok-Fai; Teoh, Kristine Leok Kheng; Yeo, Tiong Cheng; Tan, Huay Cheem; Tay, Edgar Lik Wui

2017-01-01

INTRODUCTION Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an effective treatment for high-risk or inoperative patients with severe aortic stenosis. Given the unique characteristics of Asian populations, questions regarding mid-term outcomes in Asians undergoing TAVI have yet to be addressed. We evaluated the two-year clinical outcomes of TAVI in an Asian population using Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 definitions. METHODS This prospective study recruited 59 patients from a major academic medical centre in Singapore. The main outcomes were two-year survival rates, peri-procedural complications, symptom improvement, valvular function and assessment of learning curve. RESULTS Mean age was 76.8 years (61.0% male), mean body surface area 1.6 m2 and mean logistic EuroSCORE 18.7%. Survival was 93.2%, 86.0% and 79.1% at 30 days, one year and two years, respectively. At 30 days post TAVI, the rate of stroke was 1.7%, life-threatening bleeding 5.1%, acute kidney injury 25.0%, major vascular complication 5.1%, and new permanent pacemaker implantation 6.8%. 29.3% of TAVI patients were rehospitalised (47.1% cardiovascular-related) within one year. These composite outcomes were measured: device success (93.2%); early safety (79.7%); clinical efficacy (66.1%); and time-related valve safety (84.7%). Univariate analysis found these predictors of two-year all-cause mortality: logistic EuroSCORE (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07; p < 0.001); baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (HR 0.97; p = 0.048); and acute kidney injury (HR 5.33; p = 0.022). Multivariate analysis identified non-transfemoral TAVI as a predictor of cardiovascular-related two-year mortality (HR 14.64; p = 0.008). CONCLUSION Despite the unique clinical differences in Asian populations, this registry demonstrated favourable mid-term clinical and safety outcomes in Asians undergoing TAVI. PMID:27516113

Mid-term study of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in an Asian population with severe aortic stenosis: two-year Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 outcomes.

PubMed

Chew, Nicholas; Hon, Jimmy Kim Fatt; Yip, Wei Luen James; Chan, Siew Pang; Poh, Kian-Keong; Kong, William Kok-Fai; Teoh, Kristine Leok Kheng; Yeo, Tiong Cheng; Tan, Huay Cheem; Tay, Edgar Lik Wui

2017-09-01

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an effective treatment for high-risk or inoperative patients with severe aortic stenosis. Given the unique characteristics of Asian populations, questions regarding mid-term outcomes in Asians undergoing TAVI have yet to be addressed. We evaluated the two-year clinical outcomes of TAVI in an Asian population using Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 definitions. This prospective study recruited 59 patients from a major academic medical centre in Singapore. The main outcomes were two-year survival rates, peri-procedural complications, symptom improvement, valvular function and assessment of learning curve. Mean age was 76.8 years (61.0% male), mean body surface area 1.6 m 2 and mean logistic EuroSCORE 18.7%. Survival was 93.2%, 86.0% and 79.1% at 30 days, one year and two years, respectively. At 30 days post TAVI, the rate of stroke was 1.7%, life-threatening bleeding 5.1%, acute kidney injury 25.0%, major vascular complication 5.1%, and new permanent pacemaker implantation 6.8%. 29.3% of TAVI patients were rehospitalised (47.1% cardiovascular-related) within one year. These composite outcomes were measured: device success (93.2%); early safety (79.7%); clinical efficacy (66.1%); and time-related valve safety (84.7%). Univariate analysis found these predictors of two-year all-cause mortality: logistic EuroSCORE (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07; p < 0.001); baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (HR 0.97; p = 0.048); and acute kidney injury (HR 5.33; p = 0.022). Multivariate analysis identified non-transfemoral TAVI as a predictor of cardiovascular-related two-year mortality (HR 14.64; p = 0.008). Despite the unique clinical differences in Asian populations, this registry demonstrated favourable mid-term clinical and safety outcomes in Asians undergoing TAVI. Copyright: © Singapore Medical Association

Amaurosis fugax

MedlinePlus

... other symptoms with the vision loss, seek medical attention right away. Alternative Names Transient monocular blindness; Transient monocular visual loss; TMLV; Transient monocular visual loss; Transient binocular ...

Diversification of de-agrarianization? Income diversification, labor, and processes of agrarian change in southern and northern Malawi, mid-1930s to mid-1950s.

PubMed

Green, Erik

2008-01-01

This article investigates the links between market-oriented activities and subsistence production among peasant farmers in the Thyolo and Mzimba districts in Malawi from the mid-1930s to the mid-1950s. The two districts were chosen because of their differences in terms of land-labor ratios, quality of soils, and structure of market engagement. Exploring the different paths of agrarian change in these two districts demonstrates that they were dependent on the structure of market engagement and its effects on the supply and flexibility of labor. African agricultural history is best understood when agricultural systems are viewed in connection to the overall economic activities of rural households. More simply put, the dynamics of agrarian change in rural Africa cannot be understood without linking such changes to the wider economy and their impact on local labor processes.

Mid-term survival analysis of closed wedge high tibial osteotomy: A comparative study of computer-assisted and conventional techniques.

PubMed

Bae, Dae Kyung; Song, Sang Jun; Kim, Kang Il; Hur, Dong; Jeong, Ho Yeon

2016-03-01

The purpose of the present study was to compare the clinical and radiographic results and survival rates between computer-assisted and conventional closing wedge high tibial osteotomies (HTOs). Data from a consecutive cohort comprised of 75 computer-assisted HTOs and 75 conventional HTOs were retrospectively reviewed. The Knee Society knee and function scores, Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score and femorotibial angle (FTA) were compared between the two groups. Survival rates were also compared with procedure failure. The knee and function scores at one year postoperatively were slightly better in the computer-assisted group than those in conventional group (90.1 vs. 86.1) (82.0 vs. 76.0). The HSS scores at one year postoperatively were slightly better for the computer-assisted HTOs than those of conventional HTOs (89.5 vs. 81.8). The inlier of the postoperative FTA was wider in the computer-assisted group than that in the conventional HTO group (88.0% vs. 58.7%), and mean postoperative FTA was greater in the computer-assisted group that in the conventional HTO group (valgus 9.0° vs. valgus 7.6°, p<0.001). The five- and 10-year survival rates were 97.1% and 89.6%, respectively. No difference was detected in nine-year survival rates (p=0.369) between the two groups, although the clinical and radiographic results were better in the computer-assisted group that those in the conventional HTO group. Mid-term survival rates did not differ between computer-assisted and conventional HTOs. A comparative analysis of longer-term survival rate is required to demonstrate the long-term benefit of computer-assisted HTO. III. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Repeat prostate biopsies prior to radical prostatectomy do not impact erectile function recovery and mid- to long-term continence.

PubMed

Furrer, Marc A; Vilaseca, Antoni; Corradi, Renato B; Boxler, Silvan; Thalmann, George N; Nguyen, Daniel P

2018-06-01

A growing number of men undergo repeat biopsies prior to radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. However, the long-term impact of repeat biopsies on functional outcomes in this patient population remains unelucidated. Thus, we compared functional outcomes between patients who underwent single biopsy versus repeat biopsies before radical prostatectomy. From 1996 to 2015, 1015 consecutive patients underwent radical prostatectomy, and subsequently had urinary continence and erectile function assessed for >2 years follow-up. One-fourth of patients (275; 27%) had ≥2 biopsies before prostatectomy. Logistic regression models tested whether repeat biopsy before prostatectomy predicted continence or erectile function recovery. For the overall cohort, continence rates were 84%, 92%, 96%, and 98% at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Repeat biopsy before prostatectomy was associated with lower continence rate at 3 months compared to single biopsy (P = 0.03); however, no significant differences were observed at 6, 12, or 24 months. In multivariable analyses adjusting for age, body mass index and diabetes/cardiovascular disease/smoking, the association between repeat biopsy and lower likelihood of continence at 3 months remained (odds ratio 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.47-0.97; P = 0.03). Overall erectile function recovery rates were 16%, 33%, 51%, and 55% at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. No difference in erectile function recovery rates was seen at any time point for single biopsy versus repeat biopsy. In multivariable analyses, repeat biopsy was not predictive of erectile function recovery at any time point. Repeat biopsy before radical prostatectomy impairs early continence after surgery. However, erectile function recovery and mid-term to long-term continence are not affected. These data support the current trend towards active surveillance and delayed local treatment in patients with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer. © 2018 Wiley

Mid-term results of the BIOLOX delta ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty.

PubMed

Lee, Y K; Ha, Y C; Yoo, J-I; Jo, W L; Kim, K-C; Koo, K H

2017-06-01

We conducted a prospective study of a delta ceramic total hip arthroplasty (THA) to determine the rate of ceramic fracture, to characterise post-operative noise, and to evaluate the mid-term results and survivorship. Between March 2009 and March 2011, 274 patients (310 hips) underwent cementless THA using a delta ceramic femoral head and liner. At each follow-up, clinical and radiological outcomes were recorded. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was undertaken to estimate survival. Four patients (four hips) died and 18 patients (20 hips) were lost to follow-up within five years. The remaining 252 patients (286 hips) were followed for a mean of 66.5 months (60 to 84). There were 144 men (166 hips) and 108 women (120 hips) with a mean age of 49.7 years (16 to 83) at surgery. The mean pre-operative Harris Hip Score of 47.1 points improved to 93.8 points at final follow-up. Six patients reported squeaking in seven hips; however, none were audible. Radiolucent lines involving Gruen zones one and/or seven were seen in 52 hips (18.2%). No hip had detectable wear, focal osteolysis or signs of loosening. One hip was revised because of fracture of the ceramic liner, which occurred due to an undetected malseating of the ceramic liner at the time of surgery. One hip was revised for a periprosthetic fracture of the femur, and one hip was treated for periprosthetic joint infection. The six-year survivorship with re-operation for any reason as the endpoint was 99.0% (95% confidence interval 97.8% to 100%). The rate of delta ceramic fracture was 0.3% (one of 286). While ceramic head fracture was dominant in previous ceramic-on-ceramic THA, fracture of the delta ceramic liner due to malseating is a concern. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:741-8. ©2017 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

Calibrated Mid-wave Infrared (IR) (MidIR) and Long-wave IR (LWIR) Stokes and Degree-of-Liner Polarization (DOLP)

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-01

LWIR long-wave IR MCT mercury cadmium telluride MidIR mid-wave IR NUC nonuniformity corrections ROI regions-of-interest 22 No. of Copies...Calibrated Mid-wave Infrared (IR) (MidIR) and Long-wave IR ( LWIR ) Stokes and Degree-of-Liner Polarization (DOLP) by Kristan P. Gurton and... LWIR ) Stokes and Degree-of-Liner Polarization (DOLP) Kristan P. Gurton and Melvin Felton Computational and Information Sciences Directorate

Fetal size in mid- and late pregnancy is related to infant alertness: the generation R study.

PubMed

Henrichs, Jens; Schenk, Jacqueline J; Schmidt, Henk G; Arends, Lidia R; Steegers, Eric A P; Hofman, Albert; Jaddoe, Vincent W V; Verhulst, Frank C; Tiemeier, Henning

2009-03-01

The vulnerability for behavioral problems is partly shaped in fetal life. Numerous studies have related indicators of intrauterine growth, for example, birth weight and body size, to behavioral development. We investigated whether fetal size in mid- and late pregnancy is related to infant irritability and alertness. In a population-based birth cohort of 4,255 singleton full-term infants ultrasound measurements of fetal head and abdominal circumference in mid- and late pregnancy were performed. Infant irritability and alertness scores were obtained by the Mother and Baby Scales at 3 months and z-standardized. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed curvilinear associations (inverted J-shape) of measures of fetal size in both mid- and late pregnancy with infant alertness. Fetal size characteristics were not associated with infant irritability. These results suggest that alterations of intrauterine growth affecting infant alertness are already detectable from mid-pregnancy onwards.

ECOLOGICAL CONDITION OF THE U.S. MID-ATLANTIC ESTUARIES: THE MID-ATLANTIC INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT (MAIA)

EPA Science Inventory

The Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment (MAIA-Estuaries) evaluated ecological conditions in US Mid-Atlantic estuaries during the summers of 1997 and 1998. Over 800 probability-based stations were monitored in four main estuarine systems?Chesapeake Bay, the Delaware Estuary, Maryla...

Sort-Mid tasks scheduling algorithm in grid computing

PubMed Central

Reda, Naglaa M.; Tawfik, A.; Marzok, Mohamed A.; Khamis, Soheir M.

2014-01-01

Scheduling tasks on heterogeneous resources distributed over a grid computing system is an NP-complete problem. The main aim for several researchers is to develop variant scheduling algorithms for achieving optimality, and they have shown a good performance for tasks scheduling regarding resources selection. However, using of the full power of resources is still a challenge. In this paper, a new heuristic algorithm called Sort-Mid is proposed. It aims to maximizing the utilization and minimizing the makespan. The new strategy of Sort-Mid algorithm is to find appropriate resources. The base step is to get the average value via sorting list of completion time of each task. Then, the maximum average is obtained. Finally, the task has the maximum average is allocated to the machine that has the minimum completion time. The allocated task is deleted and then, these steps are repeated until all tasks are allocated. Experimental tests show that the proposed algorithm outperforms almost other algorithms in terms of resources utilization and makespan. PMID:26644937

Heat export from the tropics drives mid to late Holocene palaeoceanographic changes offshore southern Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perner, Kerstin; Moros, Matthias; De Deckker, Patrick; Blanz, Thomas; Wacker, Lukas; Telford, Richard; Siegel, Herbert; Schneider, Ralph; Jansen, Eystein

2018-01-01

The Leeuwin Current (LC), an eastern boundary current, transports tropical waters from the Indo-Pacific Warm Pool (IPWP) towards southern latitudes and modulates oceanic conditions offshore southern Australia. New, high-resolution planktic foraminifer assemblage data and alkenone-derived sea surface temperatures (SST) provide an in-depth view on LC variability and mechanisms driving the current's properties during the mid to late Holocene (last c. 7.4 ka BP). Our marine reconstructions highlight a longer-term mid to late Holocene reduction of tropical heat export from the IPWP area into the LC. Mid Holocene (c. 7.4 to 3.5 ka BP) occurrence of high SSTs (>19.5 °C), tropical planktic foraminifera and a well-stratified water column document an enhanced heat export from the tropics. From c. 3.5 ka BP onwards, a weaker LC and a notably reduced tropical heat export cause oceanic cooling offshore southern Australia. The observed mid to late Holocene trends likely result from large-scale changes in the IPWP's heat storage linked to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon. We propose that a strong and warm LC occurs in response to a La Niña-like state of ENSO during the mid Holocene. The late Holocene LC cooling, however, results from a shift towards an El Niño-like state and a more variable ENSO system that causes cooling of the IPWP. Superimposed on these longer-term trends we find evidence of distinct late Holocene millennial-scale phases of enhanced El Niño/La Niña development, which appear synchronous with northern hemispheric climatic variability. Phases of dominant El Niño-like states occur parallel to North Atlantic cold phases: the '2800 years BP cooling event', the 'Dark Ages' and the 'Little Ice Age', whereas the 'Roman Warm Period' and the 'Medieval Climate Anomaly' parallel periods of a predominant La Niña-like state. Our findings provide further evidence of coherent interhemispheric climatic and oceanic conditions during the mid to late

Methods and apparatus for mid-infrared sensing

DOEpatents

Lin, Pao Tai; Cai, Yan; Agarwal, Anuradha Murthy; Kimerling, Lionel C.

2015-06-02

A chip-scale, air-clad semiconductor pedestal waveguide can be used as a mid-infrared (mid-IR) sensor capable of in situ monitoring of organic solvents and other analytes. The sensor uses evanescent coupling from a silicon or germanium waveguide, which is highly transparent in the mid-IR portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, to probe the absorption spectrum of fluid surrounding the waveguide. Launching a mid-IR beam into the waveguide exposed to a particular analyte causes attenuation of the evanescent wave's spectral components due to absorption by carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and/or nitrogen bonds in the surrounding fluid. Detecting these changes at the waveguide's output provides an indication of the type and concentration of one or more compounds in the surrounding fluid. If desired, the sensor may be integrated onto a silicon substrate with a mid-IR light source and a mid-IR detector to form a chip-based spectrometer.

THE MID-INFRARED EXTINCTION LAW AND ITS VARIATION IN THE COALSACK NEBULA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang Shu; Gao Jian; Jiang, B. W.

In recent years, the wavelength dependence of interstellar extinction from the ultraviolet (UV) to the near- and mid-infrared (IR) has been studied extensively. Although it is well established that the UV/optical extinction law varies significantly among the different lines of sight, it is not clear how IR extinction varies among various environments. In this work, using the color-excess method and taking red giants as the extinction tracer, we determine interstellar extinction A{sub {lambda}} in the four Spitzer/IRAC bands in [3.6], [4.5], [5.8], [8.0] {mu}m (relative to A{sub K{sub s}}, extinction in the Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS) K{sub s}more » band at 2.16 {mu}m) of the Coalsack nebula, a nearby starless dark cloud, based on the data obtained from the 2MASS and Spitzer/GLIMPSE surveys. We select five individual regions across the nebula that span a wide variety of physical conditions ranging from diffuse and translucent to dense environments, as traced by the visual extinction, the Spitzer/MIPS 24 {mu}m emission, and CO emission. We find that A{sub {lambda}}/A{sub K{sub s}}, mid-IR extinction relative to A{sub K{sub s}}, decreases from diffuse to dense environments, which may be explained in terms of ineffective dust growth in dense regions. The mean extinction (relative to A{sub K{sub s}}) is calculated for the four IRAC bands as well and exhibits a flat mid-IR extinction law consistent with previous determinations for other regions. Extinction in the IRAC 4.5 {mu}m band is anomalously high, much higher than that of the other three IRAC bands, and cannot be explained in terms of CO and CO{sub 2} ice. Mid-IR extinction in the four IRAC bands has also been derived for four representative regions in the Coalsack Globule 2, which respectively exhibit strong ice absorption, moderate or weak ice absorption, and very weak or no ice absorption. The derived mid-IR extinction curves are all flat, with A{sub {lambda}}/A{sub K{sub s}} increasing with the decrease

Early- or mid-trimester amniocentesis biomarkers for predicting preterm delivery: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Liu, Yinglin; Liu, Yukun; Zhang, Rui; Zhu, Liqiong; Feng, Ziya

2017-02-01

To determine the value of early- or mid-trimester amniotic fluid levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), and glucose for predicting preterm delivery. Randomized controlled trials and two-arm prospective, retrospective, cohorts, and case-controlled studies in which patients received early- or mid-trimester amniocentesis for karyotyping, and biomarker testing of the amniotic fluid was performed and delivery data were available were included in the analysis. Outcome measures were the associations of amniotic fluid IL-6, MMP-8, and glucose levels with preterm delivery. Differences in means with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Of 288 articles identified, 14 were included in the meta-analysis with a total of 675 patients who had preterm birth and 2518 patients who had term births. The preterm-delivery group had significantly higher amniotic fluid IL-6 and MMP-8 levels, and a significantly lower glucose level than the term delivery group (IL-6: difference in means = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.22-0.43, p < 0.001; MMP-8: difference in means = 4.47, 95% CI: 0.83-8.11), p = 0.016; glucose: difference in means = -5.22, 95% CI: -8.19 to -2.26, p = 0.001) Conclusion: Early- or mid-trimester amniotic fluid IL-6, MMP-8, and glucose levels are useful for predicting the risk of preterm delivery. KEY MESSAGES Median amniotic fluid ferritin and IL-6 levels, and mean amniotic fluid ALP levels were higher in the preterm group. The preterm-delivery group had significantly higher amniotic fluid IL-6 and MMP-8 levels, and a significantly lower glucose level than the term-delivery group.

[Mid- to long-term outcomes of cervical disc arthroplasty for symptomatic cervical disc disease: a meta-analysis].

PubMed

Kan, S L; Yang, B; Ning, G Z; Gao, S J; Sun, J C; Feng, S Q

2016-12-01

Objective: To compare the benefits and harms of cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion(ACDF) for symptomatic cervical disc disease at mid- to long-term follow-up. Methods: Electronic searches were made in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials with at least 48 moths follow-up.Outcomes were reported as relative risk or standardized mean difference.Meta-analysis was carried out using Revman version 5.3 and Stata version 12.0. Results: Seven trials were included, involving 2 302 participants.The results of this meta-analysis indicated that CDA brought about fewer secondary surgical procedures, lower neck disability index (NDI) scores, lower neck and arm pain scores, greater SF-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary(MCS) scores, greater range of motion (ROM) at the operative level and less superior adjacent-segment degeneration( P <0.05) than ACDF.CDA was not statistically different from ACDF in inferior adjacent-segment degeneration, neurological success, and adverse events ( P >0.05). Conclusions: CDA can significantly reduce the rates of secondary surgical procedures compared with ACDF.Meanwhile, CDA is superior or equivalent to ACDF in other aspects.As some studies without double-blind are included and some potential biases exites, more randomized controlled trials with high quality are required to get more reliable conclusions.

Tunable Microcavity-Stabilized Quantum Cascade Laser for Mid-IR High-Resolution Spectroscopy and Sensing.

PubMed

Borri, Simone; Siciliani de Cumis, Mario; Insero, Giacomo; Bartalini, Saverio; Cancio Pastor, Pablo; Mazzotti, Davide; Galli, Iacopo; Giusfredi, Giovanni; Santambrogio, Gabriele; Savchenkov, Anatoliy; Eliyahu, Danny; Ilchenko, Vladimir; Akikusa, Naota; Matsko, Andrey; Maleki, Lute; De Natale, Paolo

2016-02-17

The need for highly performing and stable methods for mid-IR molecular sensing and metrology pushes towards the development of more and more compact and robust systems. Among the innovative solutions aimed at answering the need for stable mid-IR references are crystalline microresonators, which have recently shown excellent capabilities for frequency stabilization and linewidth narrowing of quantum cascade lasers with compact setups. In this work, we report on the first system for mid-IR high-resolution spectroscopy based on a quantum cascade laser locked to a CaF₂ microresonator. Electronic locking narrows the laser linewidth by one order of magnitude and guarantees good stability over long timescales, allowing, at the same time, an easy way for finely tuning the laser frequency over the molecular absorption line. Improvements in terms of resolution and frequency stability of the source are demonstrated by direct sub-Doppler recording of a molecular line.

Mid-Western Educational Researcher, 1999.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bainer, Deborah L., Ed.; Kramer, Gene A., Ed.; Smith, Richard M., Ed.

1999-01-01

Volume 12 of the Mid-Western Educational Researcher contains four issues. The first issue includes kick-off, keynote, luncheon, and presidential addresses from the annual meeting of the Mid-Western Educational Research Association (MWERA), held in Chicago, Illinois, in October 1998. Issue 3 is the program for MWERA's annual meeting in Chicago,…

Robotic versus laparoscopic surgery for mid or low rectal cancer in male patients after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy: comparison of short-term outcomes.

PubMed

Serin, Kursat Rahmi; Gultekin, Fatma Ayca; Batman, Burçin; Ay, Serden; Kapran, Yersu; Saglam, Sezer; Asoglu, Oktar

2015-09-01

The aim of our study was to compare short-term outcomes of robotic and laparoscopic sphincter-saving total mesorectal excision (TME) in male patients with mid-low rectal cancer (RC) after neadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT). The study was conducted as a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database, and we analyzed 14 robotic and 65 laparoscopic sphincter saving TME (R-TME and L-TME, respectively) performed by one surgeon between 2005 and 2013. Patient characteristics, perioperative recovery, postoperative complications and and pathology results were compared between the two groups. The patient characteristics did not differ significantly between the two groups. Median operating time was longer in the R-TME than in the L-TME group (182 min versus 140 min). Only two conversions occurred in the L-TME group. No difference was found between groups regarding perioperative recovery and postoperative complication rates. The median number of harvested lymph nodes was higher in the RTME than in the L-TME group (32 versus 23, p = 0.008). The median circumferential margin (CRM) was 10 mm in the R-TME group, 6.5 mm in the L-TME group (p = 0.047. The median distal resection margin (DRM) was 27.5 mm in the R-TME, 15 mm in the L-TME group (p = 0.014). Macroscopic grading of the specimen in the R-TME group was complete in all patients. In the L-TME group, grading was complete in 52 (80%) and incomplete in 13 (20%) cases (p = 0.109). R-TME is a safe and feasible procedure that facilitates performing of TME in male patients with mid-low RC after NCRT.

Triple-orifice valve repair in severe Barlow disease with multiple-jet mitral regurgitation: report of mid-term experience.

PubMed

Fucci, Carlo; Faggiano, Pompilio; Nardi, Matilde; D'Aloia, Antonio; Coletti, Giuseppe; De Cicco, Giuseppe; Latini, Leonardo; Vizzardi, Enrico; Lorusso, Roberto

2013-09-10

Barlow disease represents a surgical challenge for mitral valve repair (MR) in the presence of mitral insufficiency (MI) with multiple regurgitant jets. We hereby present our mid-term experience using a modified edge-to-edge technique to address this peculiar MI. From March 2003 till December 2010, 25 consecutive patients (mean age 54 ± 7 years, 14 males) affected by severe Barlow disease with multiple regurgitant jets were submitted to MR. Preoperative transesophageal echo (TEE) in all the cases showed at least 2 regurgitant jets, involving one or both leaflets in more than one segment. In all the patients, a triple orifice valve (TOV) repair with annuloplasty was performed. Intra-operative TEE and postoperative transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) were carried out to evaluate results of the TOV repair. There was no in-hospital death and one late death (non-cardiac related). At intra-operative TEE, the three orifices showed a mean total valve area of 2.9 ± 0.1cm(2) (range 2.5-3.3 cm(2)) with no residual regurgitation (2 cases of trivial MI) and no sign of valve stenosis (mean transvalvular gradient 4.6 ± 1.5 mmHg). At follow up (mean 38 ± 22 months), TTE showed favourable MR and no recurrence of significant MI (6 cases of trivial and 1 of mild MI). Stress TTE was performed in 5 cases showing persistent effective valve function (2 cases of trivial MI at peak exercise). All the patients showed significant NYHA functional class improvement. This report indicates that the TOV technique is effective in correcting complex Barlow mitral valves with multiple jets. Further studies are required to confirm long-term applicability and durability in more numerous clinical cases. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mid South Middle Start: Studies of Three Middle Start Schools in the Mid South Delta

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rose, Lea Williams; Cheney, Nancy

2005-01-01

These three case studies highlight the implementation and impact of Mid South Middle Start by: (1) contributing toward an in-depth understanding of what it means to be a school implementing Middle Start; (2) describing a holistic portrait of the schools' participation in Mid South Middle Start; and (3) assisting the Academy for Educational…

Mid-term prognosis of non-functioning pituitary adenomas with high proliferative potential: really an aggressive variant?

PubMed

Ogawa, Yoshikazu; Jokura, Hidefumi; Niizuma, Kuniyasu; Tominaga, Teiji

2018-05-01

Pituitary adenomas with high proliferation rate and rapid growth are well known, but the clinical characteristics, prognosis, and treatment algorithm remain unclear. The clinical characteristics and mid-term prognosis of patients with non-functioning pituitary adenomas with high proliferative potential were retrospectively investigated. This study identified 53 patients with Ki-67 labeling index of > 3% among 845 patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma (6.3%) initially treated by surgery. Prophylactic treatment was not applied for patients with residual tumor, but salvage treatment was performed if tumor progression was identified within the follow-up period. Twenty-two patients remained progression-free, whereas 31 patients suffered tumor progression. Comparison of gross total removal (n = 22) and non-total removal (n = 31) groups showed significantly longer progression-free period in the former group (P < 0.001). As salvage treatment gamma knife radiosurgery was applied for 11 patients resulting in 10 patients remaining progression-free and regrowth in 1 patient. Fractionated irradiation was applied for 10 patients, resulting in 2 patients remaining progression-free, deaths in 5 patients including 3 of transformation to pituitary carcinoma, dementia in 1 patient caused by frontal lobe dysfunction, and progression in 2 patients requiring additional surgery and gamma knife radiosurgery. Temozolomide was administered in 2 patients, resulting in deaths in both patients including 1 transformation to pituitary carcinoma. Total removal and gamma knife radiosurgery can result in good outcome. However, the prognosis is extremely poor for patients inadequate for gamma knife radiosurgery. Development of new salvage treatments is essential.

Acute and mid-term outcomes after treatment of multiple, recurrent restenoses of the lower limb arteries.

PubMed

Meyborg, M; Engelbertz, C; Lüders, F; Gebauer, K; Malyar, N M; Reinecke, H

2015-06-01

Recanalization of long segmental occlusions of femoropopliteal arteries can be achieved by angioplasty and implantation of nitinol stents with high procedural success rates. However, due to recurrent in-stent restenoses (ISR) some patients need repeated interventions and their intermediate success rates are uncertain. Patients who were treated in our center from March 2008 through February 2011 due to symptomatic ISR (as determined by Duplex sonography) were retrospectively included in the study. After endovascular treatment of their ISR, they were prospectively evaluated with regard to recurrent ISR of the target lesions. A total of 36 limbs (=lesions) in 32 patients (69% male, mean age 69±9 years) were successfully treated by balloon-angioplasty. Adjunctive cutting balloons and drug eluting balloons were used in 78% and 8%, respectively. Mean follow-up was 326 days. Recurrent ISR occurred in 10 (28%) lesions, while 26 (78%) lesions showed no recurrence of ISR. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, age, gender, cardiovascular risk factors, renal failure and medication with cilostazol were not significantly associated with recurrent ISR. Moreover, the number of previous interventions of the target lesions was not an independent predictor of recurrent ISR. Patients with multiple recurrences of ISR seem to have the same prospects of acute and mid-term success for endovascular treatment as those with first presentation of ISR. However, this observation has to be confirmed by prospective, large scale studies with a longer follow-up period to determine the significance of endovascular intervention within the scope of different revascularization approaches for treatment of recurrent ISR.

COMPARISON OF MID-WESTERN AND MID-ATLANTIC REGIONS EXPOSURE CRITERIA FOR PETROLEUM AND COMBUSTION BY-PRODUCTS

EPA Science Inventory

Regional background levels of exposure to fish from petroleum and combustion by-products were determined for the state of Ohio (mid-Western) and the mid-Atlantic region. Exposures were measured using bile metabolites that fluoresce at 290/335 nm for naphthalene (NAPH)-type compou...

Mid-sagittal plane and mid-sagittal surface optimization in brain MRI using a local symmetry measure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stegmann, Mikkel B.; Skoglund, Karl; Ryberg, Charlotte

2005-04-01

This paper describes methods for automatic localization of the mid-sagittal plane (MSP) and mid-sagittal surface (MSS). The data used is a subset of the Leukoaraiosis And DISability (LADIS) study consisting of three-dimensional magnetic resonance brain data from 62 elderly subjects (age 66 to 84 years). Traditionally, the mid-sagittal plane is localized by global measures. However, this approach fails when the partitioning plane between the brain hemispheres does not coincide with the symmetry plane of the head. We instead propose to use a sparse set of profiles in the plane normal direction and maximize the local symmetry around these using a general-purpose optimizer. The plane is parameterized by azimuth and elevation angles along with the distance to the origin in the normal direction. This approach leads to solutions confirmed as the optimal MSP in 98 percent of the subjects. Despite the name, the mid-sagittal plane is not always planar, but a curved surface resulting in poor partitioning of the brain hemispheres. To account for this, this paper also investigates an optimization strategy which fits a thin-plate spline surface to the brain data using a robust least median of squares estimator. Albeit computationally more expensive, mid-sagittal surface fitting demonstrated convincingly better partitioning of curved brains into cerebral hemispheres.

Mid-Life Nuances and Negotiations: Narrative Maps and the Social Construction of Mid-Life in Sport and Physical Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Partington, Elizabeth; Partington, Sarah; Fishwick, Lesley; Allin, Linda

2005-01-01

This paper adopts a narrative perspective on the study of mid-life experiences in sport. Different types of stories about sporting mid-life are identified and discussed. Drawing upon the concept of narrative mapping, the potential of these stories to serve as narrative maps for those approaching mid-life is considered. Data from an interview study…

Tunable Microcavity-Stabilized Quantum Cascade Laser for Mid-IR High-Resolution Spectroscopy and Sensing

PubMed Central

Borri, Simone; Siciliani de Cumis, Mario; Insero, Giacomo; Bartalini, Saverio; Cancio Pastor, Pablo; Mazzotti, Davide; Galli, Iacopo; Giusfredi, Giovanni; Santambrogio, Gabriele; Savchenkov, Anatoliy; Eliyahu, Danny; Ilchenko, Vladimir; Akikusa, Naota; Matsko, Andrey; Maleki, Lute; De Natale, Paolo

2016-01-01

The need for highly performing and stable methods for mid-IR molecular sensing and metrology pushes towards the development of more and more compact and robust systems. Among the innovative solutions aimed at answering the need for stable mid-IR references are crystalline microresonators, which have recently shown excellent capabilities for frequency stabilization and linewidth narrowing of quantum cascade lasers with compact setups. In this work, we report on the first system for mid-IR high-resolution spectroscopy based on a quantum cascade laser locked to a CaF2 microresonator. Electronic locking narrows the laser linewidth by one order of magnitude and guarantees good stability over long timescales, allowing, at the same time, an easy way for finely tuning the laser frequency over the molecular absorption line. Improvements in terms of resolution and frequency stability of the source are demonstrated by direct sub-Doppler recording of a molecular line. PMID:26901199

Ways to study mid-crustal properties and behaviour - the great flow debate continues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torvela, Taija

2015-04-01

The properties and behaviour of middle and lower crust during and at the late stages of an orogen remain largely elusive. Especially the theory so-called mid-crustal flow has been a centre of hot debates since its inception. Mid-crustal flow, resulting from proposed drastic weakening of thickened, partially molten middle and lower orogenic crust, is suggested to be the reason for the formation of e.g. the high-grade mid-crustal channel in the frontal Himalayas, and for the present eastward movement of the Tibetan upper crust. However, there are very few ways to observe the potential mid-crustal flow, directly or indirectly. One can use exposed analogues in old, eroded orogenic roots, or study currently exposed rocks in Himalayas or Tibet and attempt deducing the large-scale processes at depth from them. Another option is to use geophysical methods, such as seismic reflection/refraction data or seismic tomography. The biggest problem is, that a huge gap in terms of data and observation scale exists between these two approaches make observations - field data is usually collected at the scale of an outcrop, but can be extrapolated in a well exposed area for kilometres; however, the data lacks significant depth component, i.e. lacks 3D information, and, furthermore, the observed geometries in e.g. dome complexes are not unique in terms of their genesis, so that multiple genetic interpretations of a single geometry are often possible. Geophysical data on the other hand gives 3D information, but all detail is lost as geophysical data from the crust is usually at a scale of at least hundreds of meters or more. In this presentation, I will discuss these and other problems related to the verification vs. falsification of mid-crustal flow theory. I will also present a potential way to improve seismic reflection data, using seismic attributes, to gain more detailed information about the crustal structures and fabrics at depth, which may help in the study of Himalayas, Tibet

Do Knee Bracing and Delayed Weight Bearing Affect Mid-Term Functional Outcome after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction?

PubMed

Di Miceli, Riccardo; Marambio, Carlotta Bustos; Zati, Alessandro; Monesi, Roberta; Benedetti, Maria Grazia

2017-12-01

Purpose  The aim of this study was to assess the effect of knee bracing and timing of full weight bearing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) on functional outcomes at mid-term follow-up. Methods  We performed a retrospective study on 41 patients with ACLR. Patients were divided in two groups: ACLR group, who received isolated ACL reconstruction and ACLR-OI group who received ACL reconstruction and adjunctive surgery. Information about age at surgery, bracing, full or progressive weight bearing permission after surgery were collected for the two groups. Subjective IKDC score was obtained at follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the two groups for IKDC score. Subgroup analysis was performed to assess the effect of postoperative regimen (knee bracing and weight bearing) on functional outcomes. Results  The mean age of patients was 30.8 ± 10.6 years. Mean IKDC score was 87.4 ± 13.9. The mean follow-up was 3.5 ± 1.8 years. Twenty-two (53.7%) patients underwent ACLR only, while 19 (46.3%) also received other interventions, such as meniscal repair and/or collateral ligament suture. Analysis of overall data showed no differences between the groups for IKDC score. Patients in the ACLR group exhibited a significantly better IKDC score when no brace and full weight bearing after 4 weeks from surgery was prescribed in comparison with patients who worn a brace and had delayed full weight bearing. No differences were found with respect to the use of brace and postoperative weight bearing regimen in the ACLR-OI group. Conclusion  Brace and delayed weight bearing after ACLR have a negative influence on long-term functional outcomes. Further research is required to explore possible differences in the patients operated on ACLR and other intervention with respect to the use of a brace and the timing of full weight bearing to identify optimal recovery strategies. Level of Evidence  Level III, retrospective observational

Long-term changes in tree-ring – climate relationships at Mt. Patscherkofel (Tyrol, Austria) since the mid 1980s

PubMed Central

Oberhuber, Walter; Kofler, Werner; Pfeifer, Klaus; Seeber, Andrea; Gruber, Andreas; Wieser, Gerhard

2011-01-01

Although growth limitation of trees at Alpine and high-latitude timberlines by prevailing summer temperature is well established, loss of thermal response of radial tree growth during last decades has repeatedly been addressed. We examined long-term variability of climate-growth relationships in ring width chronologies of Stone pine (Pinus cembra L.) by means of moving response functions (MRF). The study area is situated in the timberline ecotone (c. 2000 – 2200 m a.s.l.) on Mt. Patscherkofel (Tyrol, Austria). Five site chronologies were developed within the ecotone with constant sample depth (≥ 19 trees) throughout most of the time period analysed. MRF calculated for the period 1866-1999 and 1901-1999 for c. 200 and c. 100 yr old stands, respectively, revealed that mean July temperature is the major and long-term stable driving force of Pinus cembra radial growth within the timberline ecotone. However, since the mid 1980s, radial growth in timberline and tree line chronologies strikingly diverges from the July temperature trend. This is probably a result of extreme climate events (e.g. low winter precipitation, late frost) and/or increasing drought stress on cambial activity. The latter assumption is supported by a < 10 % increase in annual increments of c. 50 yr old trees at the timberline and at the tree line in 2003 compared to 2002, when extraordinary hot and dry conditions prevailed during summer. Furthermore, especially during the second half of the 20th century, influence of climate variables on radial growth show abrupt fluctuations, which might also be a consequence of climate warming on tree physiology. PMID:21532976

Mid and long term outcomes of dural arteriovenous fistula endovascular management with Onyx. Experience of a single tertiary center.

PubMed

Rangel-Castilla, Leonardo; Barber, Sean M; Klucznik, Richard; Diaz, Orlando

2014-10-01

The natural history of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) with cortical venous drainage is unfavorable, and treatment is recommended in most cases. Early reports have documented excellent initial clinical and radiographic outcomes after Onyx embolization of DAVFs but little evidence is available regarding the long term durability of this technique. We retrospectively reviewed a database of 63 DAVFs in 53 consecutive patients who underwent Onyx embolization of a DAVF between 2001 and 2012 at our institution. Cognard types I and III were seen most commonly. A total of 72 Onyx embolization procedures were successfully completed during the study period, resulting in complete or near complete occlusion by the end of the study period in 58 (92.1%) DAVFs. For DAVFs in which complete or near complete obliteration was attained, stability of obliteration at 6, 12, 24, and 46 months was 100%, 95.4%, 93.8%, and 92.3%, respectively. DAVF recanalization/regrowth was discovered on delayed follow-up angiography in only five instances in which immediate post-embolization angiography revealed complete obliteration. Complications were seen in seven embolization procedures and included cranial nerve palsies (n=3), embolic infarcts (n=2), intraparenchymal hemorrhage (n=1), and unintentional stent deployment (n=1). Early evidence has indicated that endovascular Onyx embolization is safe and effective at achieving an initial angiographic cure. Results of our series suggest that angiographic and clinical outcomes of Onyx embolization remain relatively stable at mid and long term follow-up. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Larval Mid-Gut Responses to Sub-Lethal Dose of Cry Toxin in Lepidopteran Pest Achaea janata.

PubMed

Chauhan, Vinod K; Dhania, Narender K; Chaitanya, R K; Senthilkumaran, Balasubramanian; Dutta-Gupta, Aparna

2017-01-01

The lack of homogeneity in field application of Bacillus thuringiensis formulation often results in ingestion of sub-lethal doses of the biopesticide by a fraction of pest population and there by promotes the toxin tolerance and resistance in long term. Gut regeneration seems to be one of the possible mechanism by which this is accomplished. However, the existing information is primarily derived from in vitro studies using mid-gut cell cultures. Present study illustrates cellular and molecular changes in mid-gut epithelium of a Bt -susceptible polyphagous insect pest castor semilooper, Achaea janata in response to a Cry toxin formulation. The present report showed that prolonged exposure to sub-lethal doses of Cry toxin formulation has deleterious effect on larval growth and development. Histological analysis of mid-gut tissue exhibits epithelial cell degeneration, which is due to necrotic form of cell death followed by regeneration through enhanced proliferation of mid-gut stem cells. Cell death is demonstrated by confocal microscopy, flow-cytometry, and DNA fragmentation analysis. Cell proliferation in control vs. toxin-exposed larvae is evaluated by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling and toluidine blue staining. Intriguingly, in situ mRNA analysis detected the presence of arylphorin transcripts in larval mid-gut epithelial cells. Quantitative PCR analysis further demonstrates altered expression of arylphorin gene in toxin-exposed larvae when compared with the control. The coincidence of enhanced mid-gut cell proliferation coincides with the elevated arylphorin expression upon Cry intoxication suggests that it might play a role in the regeneration of mid-gut epithelial cells.

Mid-frequency MTF compensation of optical sparse aperture system.

PubMed

Zhou, Chenghao; Wang, Zhile

2018-03-19

Optical sparse aperture (OSA) can greatly improve the spatial resolution of optical system. However, because of its aperture dispersion and sparse, its mid-frequency modulation transfer function (MTF) are significantly lower than that of a single aperture system. The main focus of this paper is on the mid-frequency MTF compensation of the optical sparse aperture system. Firstly, the principle of the mid-frequency MTF decreasing and missing of optical sparse aperture are analyzed. This paper takes the filling factor as a clue. The method of processing the mid-frequency MTF decreasing with large filling factor and method of compensation mid-frequency MTF with small filling factor are given respectively. For the MTF mid-frequency decreasing, the image spatial-variant restoration method is proposed to restore the mid-frequency information in the image; for the mid-frequency MTF missing, two images obtained by two system respectively are fused to compensate the mid-frequency information in optical sparse aperture image. The feasibility of the two method are analyzed in this paper. The numerical simulation of the system and algorithm of the two cases are presented using Zemax and Matlab. The results demonstrate that by these two methods the mid-frequency MTF of OSA system can be compensated effectively.

Modelling Stellar Optical and Mid-Ultraviolet Spectra from First Principles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, R. C.; Carney, B. W.; Dorman, B.; Green, E. M.; Landsman, W.; Liebert, J.; O'Connell, R. W.; Rood, R. T.; Schiavon, R. P.

2004-05-01

We present comparisons of theoretical and observational high-resolution spectra for a half-dozen stars of a wide range of temperature and abundance, from A star to K giant. These show the fits achieved to date by our ab initio spectral calculations. These comparisons form the first phase of our three-year Hubble Treasury program GO-9455/9974, aimed at providing mid-ultraviolet spectral templates to improve the determination of the age and metallicity of old stellar systems. From matches such as these, we have modified the input atomic-line parameters and guessed the identifications of spectral lines missing from the calculations, as described by Peterson, Dorman, & Rood (2001, ApJ, 559, 372). With this new line list, we now match well the optical spectra of stars of all line strengths. We have begun to calculate a grid of optical indices from the theoretical spectra. In the mid-UV, while the fits at solar abundance are much improved, we are still missing very weak absorption lines near 2650Å and 2900Å. This will be addressed as additional mid-ultraviolet spectra are taken for a larger range of stellar targets during Cycle 13. Support for this work includes grants GO-9455 and GO-9974 from the Hubble Space Telescope Science Institute, and an award from the NASA-OSS Long Term Space Astrophysics program.

Scotland's forgotten carbon: a national assessment of mid-latitude fjord sedimentary carbon stocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smeaton, Craig; Austin, William E. N.; Davies, Althea L.; Baltzer, Agnes; Howe, John A.; Baxter, John M.

2017-12-01

Fjords are recognised as hotspots for the burial and long-term storage of carbon (C) and potentially provide a significant climate regulation service over multiple timescales. Understanding the magnitude of marine sedimentary C stores and the processes which govern their development is fundamental to understanding the role of the coastal ocean in the global C cycle. In this study, we use the mid-latitude fjords of Scotland as a natural laboratory to further develop methods to quantify these marine sedimentary C stores on both the individual fjord and national scale. Targeted geophysical and geochemical analysis has allowed the quantification of sedimentary C stocks for a number of mid-latitude fjords and, coupled with upscaling techniques based on fjord classification, has generated the first full national sedimentary C inventory for a fjordic system. The sediments within these mid-latitude fjords hold 640.7 ± 46 Mt of C split between 295.6 ± 52 and 345.1 ± 39 Mt of organic and inorganic C, respectively. When compared, these marine mid-latitude sedimentary C stores are of similar magnitude to their terrestrial equivalents, with the exception of the Scottish peatlands, which hold significantly more C. However, when area-normalised comparisons are made, these mid-latitude fjords are significantly more effective as C stores than their terrestrial counterparts, including Scottish peatlands. The C held within Scotland's coastal marine sediments has been largely overlooked as a significant component of the nation's natural capital; such coastal C stores are likely to be key to understanding and constraining improved global C budgets.

Mid-infrared supercontinuum generation in fluoride fiber amplifiers: current status and future perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gauthier, Jean-Christophe; Robichaud, Louis-Rafaël; Fortin, Vincent; Vallée, Réal; Bernier, Martin

2018-06-01

The quest for a compact and efficient broadband laser source able to probe the numerous fundamental molecular absorption lines in the mid-infrared (3-8 µm) for various applications has been going on for more than a decade. While robust commercial fiber-based supercontinuum (SC) systems have started to appear on the market, they still exhibit poor energy conversion into the mid-infrared (typically under 30%) and are generally not producing wavelengths exceeding 4.7 µm. Here, we present an overview of the results obtained from a novel approach to SC generation based on spectral broadening inside of an erbium-doped fluoride fiber amplifier seeded directly at 2.8 µm, allowing mid-infrared conversion efficiencies reaching up to 95% and spectral coverage approaching the transparency limit of ZrF4 (4.2 µm) and InF3 (5.5 µm) fibers. The general concept of the approach and the physical mechanisms involved are presented alongside the various configurations of the system to adjust the output characteristics in terms of spectral coverage and output power for different applications.

Nonlinear photothermal mid-infrared spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Totachawattana, Atcha; Erramilli, Shyamsunder; Sander, Michelle Y.

2016-10-01

Mid-infrared photothermal spectroscopy is a pump-probe technique for label-free and non-destructive sample characterization by targeting intrinsic vibrational modes. In this method, the mid-infrared pump beam excites a temperature-induced change in the refractive index of the sample. This laser-induced change in the refractive index is measured by a near-infrared probe laser using lock-in detection. At increased pump powers, emerging nonlinear phenomena not previously demonstrated in other mid-infrared techniques are observed. Nonlinear study of a 6 μm-thick 4-Octyl-4'-Cyanobiphenyl (8CB) liquid crystal sample is conducted by targeting the C=C stretching band at 1606 cm-1. At high pump powers, nonlinear signal enhancement and multiple pitchfork bifurcations of the spectral features are observed. An explanation of the nonlinear peak splitting is provided by the formation of bubbles in the sample at high pump powers. The discontinuous refractive index across the bubble interface results in a decrease in the forward scatter of the probe beam. This effect can be recorded as a bifurcation of the absorption peak in the photothermal spectrum. These nonlinear effects are not present in direct measurements of the mid-infrared beam. Evolution of the nonlinear photothermal spectrum of 8CB liquid crystal with increasing pump power shows enhancement of the absorption peak at 1606 cm-1. Multiple pitchfork bifurcations and spectral narrowing of the photothermal spectrum are demonstrated. This novel nonlinear regime presents potential for improved spectral resolution as well as a new regime for sample characterization in mid-infrared photothermal spectroscopy.

Rapid measurement of human milk macronutrients in the neonatal intensive care unit: accuracy and precision of fourier transform mid-infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Smilowitz, Jennifer T; Gho, Deborah S; Mirmiran, Majid; German, J Bruce; Underwood, Mark A

2014-05-01

Although it is well established that human milk varies widely in macronutrient content, it remains common for human milk fortification for premature infants to be based on historic mean values. As a result, those caring for premature infants often underestimate protein intake. Rapid precise measurement of human milk protein, fat, and lactose to allow individualized fortification has been proposed for decades but remains elusive due to technical challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and precision of a Fourier transform (FT) mid-infrared (IR) spectroscope in the neonatal intensive care unit to measure human milk fat, total protein, lactose, and calculated energy compared with standard chemical analyses. One hundred sixteen breast milk samples across lactation stages from women who delivered at term (n = 69) and preterm (n = 5) were analyzed with the FT mid-IR spectroscope and with standard chemical methods. Ten of the samples were tested in replicate using the FT mid-IR spectroscope to determine repeatability. The agreement between the FT mid-IR spectroscope analysis and reference methods was high for protein and fat and moderate for lactose and energy. The intra-assay coefficients of variation for all outcomes were less than 3%. The FT mid-IR spectroscope demonstrated high accuracy in measurement of total protein and fat of preterm and term milk with high precision.

Possible tectonomagnetic effect observed from mid-1989, to mid-1990, in Long Valley Caldera, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mueller, R.J.; Johnston, M.J.S.; Langbein, J.O.

1991-01-01

Precise measurements of local magnetic fields have been obtained with a differentially connected array of three proton magnetometers in the Long Valley Caldera region since 1984. After correction for secular variation, it is apparent that an anomalous 2 nT decrease in the magnetic field occurred from mid-1989 to mid-1990 at the magnetometer located closed to the center of the resurgent dome inside the caldera. During this period a significant increase in geodetic strain rate of 8.5 ppm/a was observed on the two-color geodimeter network within the caldera from October, 1989, to mid-1990 and a dramatic increase in seismic activity occurred from December, 1989 to July, 1990. A simple dilatational point-source model with pressure increasing by 52 Mpa from October 1989 to August 1990 at a depth of about 7 km beneath the center of the resurgent dome can be fit to the strain data. Magnetic, seismic and geodetic data suggest that an episode of active magmatic intrusion occurred from late 1989 to mid-1990 at a depth of about 7-8 km beneath the resurgent dome within the caldera. -from Authors

Experimental evaluation of achromatic phase shifters for mid-infrared starlight suppression.

PubMed

Gappinger, Robert O; Diaz, Rosemary T; Ksendzov, Alexander; Lawson, Peter R; Lay, Oliver P; Liewer, Kurt M; Loya, Frank M; Martin, Stefan R; Serabyn, Eugene; Wallace, James K

2009-02-10

Phase shifters are a key component of nulling interferometry, one of the potential routes to enabling the measurement of faint exoplanet spectra. Here, three different achromatic phase shifters are evaluated experimentally in the mid-infrared, where such nulling interferometers may someday operate. The methods evaluated include the use of dispersive glasses, a through-focus field inversion, and field reversals on reflection from antisymmetric flat-mirror periscopes. All three approaches yielded deep, broadband, mid-infrared nulls, but the deepest broadband nulls were obtained with the periscope architecture. In the periscope system, average null depths of 4x10(-5) were obtained with a 25% bandwidth, and 2x10(-5) with a 20% bandwidth, at a central wavelength of 9.5 mum. The best short term nulls at 20% bandwidth were approximately 9x10(-6), in line with error budget predictions and the limits of the current generation of hardware.

Mid-Career PhD Physicists: Academia & Beyond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, Susan

2017-01-01

What jobs do mid-career PhD physicists hold? In a first-ever study, we collected data in 2011 from over 1,500 physics PhD recipients from the classes of 1996, 1997, 2000, and 2001. About 45% of the physics PhD recipients in these classes immediately took jobs that were not temporary, and over 40% accepted postdocs. How does taking a postdoc affect mid-career employment? What is the relationship between first job (after any postdocs) and mid-career employment? How do physicists' actual jobs compare with what they thought they would be doing when they graduated? Using our initial employment and mid-career data, I will answer these questions and more.

Preparedness actions towards seismic risk mitigation for the general public in Martinique, French Lesser Antilles: a mid-term appraisal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Audru, J. C.; Vernier, J. L.; Capdeville, B.; Salindre, J. J.; Mouly, É.

2013-08-01

Martinique is a French island in the Lesser Antilles, with a high seismic hazard. In 2006, Martinican stakeholders involved in seismic safety formed the "Réplik" working group ("Aftershock" in French), the first of its kind in this region. This paper addresses a mid-term appraisal of the first seismic awareness campaign organised by Réplik from 2006 to 2011, and how it has modified, or not, local earthquake and tsunami preparedness. Despite efforts from Réplik to assess its efficiency through surveys, a growing gap is noted between the observed awareness and the actual preparedness of the public. As usual, gender, age, educational level, then boredom and saturation contribute to this discrepancy; strong cultural items may also influence the perception of actions. To remain efficient and respond to the public's expectations, Réplik must redirect its actions towards a cultural congruence of information: consideration of religion and local beliefs, comprehensive messages on TV and radio, use of the Creole language, participatory experiences and drills, and a little science. With this, the Réplik stakeholders can hope to increase Martinicans' involvement into the preparedness process, to cope quickly with a strong earthquake and this know-how can be shared with other seismically active islands in the Caribbean.

Simultaneous mobile- and fixed-bearing total knee replacement in the same patients. A prospective comparison of mid-term outcomes using a similar design of prosthesis.

PubMed

Kim, Y-H; Kim, D-Y; Kim, J-S

2007-07-01

We conducted a randomised prospective study to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of a mobile- and fixed-bearing total knee replacement of similar design in 174 patients who had bilateral simultaneous knee replacement. The mean follow-up was for 5.6 years (5.2 to 6.1). The total knee score, pain score, functional score and range of movement were not statistically different (p > 0.05) between the two groups. Osteolysis was not seen in any knee in either group. Two knees (1%) in the mobile-bearing group required revision because of infection; none in the fixed-bearing group needed revision. Excellent results can be achieved with both mobile- and fixed-bearing prostheses of similar design at mid-term follow-up. We could demonstrate no significant clinical advantage for a mobile bearing.

12 CFR 252.145 - Mid-cycle stress test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Mid-cycle stress test. 252.145 Section 252.145... (CONTINUED) ENHANCED PRUDENTIAL STANDARDS (REGULATION YY) Company-Run Stress Test Requirements for Covered Companies § 252.145 Mid-cycle stress test. (a) Mid-cycle stress test requirement. In addition to the stress...

12 CFR 252.145 - Mid-cycle stress test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Mid-cycle stress test. 252.145 Section 252.145... (CONTINUED) ENHANCED PRUDENTIAL STANDARDS (REGULATION YY) Company-Run Stress Test Requirements for Covered Companies § 252.145 Mid-cycle stress test. (a) Mid-cycle stress test requirement. In addition to the stress...

Mid-infrared-to-mid-ultraviolet supercontinuum enhanced by third-to-fifteenth odd harmonics.

PubMed

Mitrofanov, A V; Voronin, A A; Mitryukovskiy, S I; Sidorov-Biryukov, D A; Pugžlys, A; Andriukaitis, G; Flöry, T; Stepanov, E A; Fedotov, A B; Baltuška, A; Zheltikov, A M

2015-05-01

A high-energy supercontinuum spanning 4.7 octaves, from 250 to 6500 nm, is generated using a 0.3-TW, 3.9-μm output of a mid-infrared optical parametric chirped-pulse amplifier as a driver inducing a laser filament in the air. The high-frequency wing of the supercontinuum spectrum is enhanced by odd-order optical harmonics of the mid-infrared driver. Optical harmonics up to the 15th order are observed in supercontinuum spectra as overlapping, yet well-resolved peaks broadened, as verified by numerical modeling, due to spatially nonuniform ionization-induced blue shift.

Mid-urethral slings in female incontinence: Current status

PubMed Central

Krlin, Ryan M.; Murphy, Alana M.; Ingber, Michael S.; Vasavada, Sandip P.

2011-01-01

The advent of the mid-urethral sling (MUS) 15 years ago has drastically changed the surgical management of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Both retropubic and transobturator MUS can be placed in the ambulatory setting with excellent results. The tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) sling has the most robust and long-term data, but more recent literature suggests that the transobturator tape sling may offer comparable efficacy in appropriately selected patients. Single incision sling (SIS) is the newest addition to the MUS group and was developed in an attempt to minimize morbidity and create an anti-incontinence procedure that could be performed in the office. The efficacy of SIS remains unknown as the current literature regarding SIS lacks long-term results and comparative trials. The suprapubic arc sling appears to have equally effective outcomes in at least the short-term when compared with TVT. Although evolution of the SIS has led to a less invasive procedure with decreased post-op pain and reduced recovery time, durability of efficacy could be the endpoint we are sacrificing. Until longer-term data and more quality comparison trials are available, tailoring one's choice of MUS to the individual patient and her unique clinical parameters remains the best option. PMID:22022053

Mid-America Trades with the World.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Social Studies Development Center, Bloomington, IN.

The booklet is designed to be used as a teaching resource for junior high or secondary classes studying global affairs and interdependence. It describes the transnational exchange of farm products and manufactured goods between mid-America and foreign countries. Mid-America is made up of the 12 Great Lakes and Plains states, which include prime…

Dynamical consequences of mantle heterogeneity in two-phase models of mid-ocean ridges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katz, R. F.

2010-12-01

The mid-ocean ridge system, over 50,000 km in length, samples the magmatic products of a large swath of the asthenosphere. It provides our best means to assess the heterogeneity structure of the upper mantle. Interpretation of the diverse array of observations of MOR petrology, geochemistry, tomography, etc requires models that can map heterogeneity structure onto predictions testable by comparison with these observations. I report on progress to this end; in particular, I describe numerical models of coupled magma/mantle dynamics at mid-ocean ridges [1,2]. These models incorporate heterogeneity in terms of a simple, two-component thermochemical system with specified amplitude and spatial distribution. They indicate that mantle heterogeneity has significant fluid-dynamical consequences for both mantle and magmatic flow. Models show that the distribution of enrichment can lead to asymmetry in the strength of upwelling across the ridge-axis and channelised magmatic transport to the axis. Furthermore, heterogeneity can cause off-axis upwelling of partially molten diapirs, trapping of enriched melts off-axis, and re-fertilization of the mantle by pooled and refrozen melts. Predicted consequences of geochemical heterogeneity may also be considered. References: [1] Katz, RF, (2008); Magma dynamics with the Enthalpy Method: Benchmark Solutions and Magmatic Focusing at Mid-ocean Ridges. Journal of Petrology, doi: 10.1093/petrology/egn058. [2] Katz RF, (2010); Porosity-driven convection and asymmetry beneath mid-ocean ridges. Submitted to G3.

Nonlinear photothermal Mid-Infrared Microspectroscopy with Superresolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erramilli, Shyamsunder; Mertiri, Alket; Liu, Hui; Totachawattana, Atcha; Hong, Mi; Sander, Michelle

2015-03-01

We describe a nonlinear method for breaking the diffraction limit in mid-infrared microscopy using nonlinear photothermal microspectroscopy. A Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) tuned to an infrared active vibrational molecular normal mode is used as the pump laser. A low-phase noise Erbium-doped fiber (EDFL) laser is used as the probe. When the incident intensity of the mid-infrared pump laser is increased past a critical threshold, a nanobubble is nucleated, strongly modulating the scatter of the probe beam, in agreement with prior work. Remarkably, we have also found that the photothermal spectral signature of the mid-infrared absorption bifurcates and is strongly narrowed, consistent with an effective ``mean-field'' theory of the observed pitchfork bifurcation. This ultrasharp narrowing can be exploited to obtain mid-infrared images with a resolution that breaks the diffraction limit, without the need of mechanical scanning near-field probes. The method provides a powerful new tool for hyperspectral label-free mid-infrared imaging and characterization of biological tissues and materials science and engineering. We thank our collaborators H. Altug, L. D. Ziegler, J. Mertz, for their advice and generous loan of equipment.

Market Forces in Higher Education--Chinese and British Experience between Mid-1980s and Mid-1990s

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhao, Xiaonan

2010-01-01

This paper tries to examine how higher education in China and Britain has been affected by market forces between the mid-1980s and the mid-1990s, from three major issues. Comparing the experiences of both places, the paper argues that unlike the case of British counterpart, where marketisation of education has shifted to a corporate management…

Does Donor Age of Nonirradiated Achilles Tendon Allograft Influence Mid-Term Results of Revision ACL Reconstruction?

PubMed Central

Zaffagnini, Stefano; Roberti di Sarsina, Tommaso; Bonanzinga, Tommaso; Nitri, Marco; Macchiarola, Luca; Stefanelli, Federico; Lucidi, Gianandrea; Grassi, Alberto

2018-01-01

Purpose  The purpose of the present study was to investigate if the donor age of nonirradiated Achilles tendon allograft could influence the clinical results of revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods  All patients that underwent ACL revision between 2004 and 2008 with at least 4 years of follow-up were included. For all the patients that met the inclusion criteria, the age of the graft donor was obtained from the tissue bank. Lysholm score was administered to patients that met inclusion criteria. In addition, patients were divided in two groups based on the donor age (<45 years vs. ≥45 years), and the baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared. Results  Fifty-two patients were evaluated at a mean 4.8 ± 0.8 years follow-up with Lysholm score. The Lysholm significantly improved from 62.3 ± 6.6 at preoperative status to 84.4 ± 12.3 at final follow-up. The mean donor age was 48.7 ± 8.4 years; a significant difference in Lysholm score was noted between patients that received an allograft with a donor age <45 years (14 patients; 27%) and those receiving an allograft with a donor age ≥45 years (38; 73%) (89.5 ± 3.2 vs. 80.1 ± 11.1, respectively; p  = 0.0469). The multiple regression model showed the donor age, the final follow-up, and the preoperative Lysholm score as significant predictors of postoperative Lysholm score ( p  < 0.0002). Conclusion  Donor age of nonirradiated Achilles tendon allograft influenced the mid-term results of revision ACL reconstruction, thus advising the use of grafts from young donors. Level of Evidence  Level III, retrospective comparative study. PMID:29675501

Mid-term results of cardiac autotransplantation as method to treat permanent atrial fibrillation and mitral disease.

PubMed

Troise, Giovanni; Cirillo, Marco; Brunelli, Federico; Tasca, Giordano; Amaducci, Andrea; Mhagna, Zen; Tomba, Margherita Dalla; Quaini, Eugenio

2004-06-01

The results of current surgical options for the treatment of permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) associated with mitral surgery are widely different, particularly in very enlarged left atria. The aim of this study was to assess the mid-term efficacy of cardiac autotransplantation for this goal, through a consistent reduction of left atrium volume and a complete isolation of the pulmonary veins. From April 2000 to September 2002, 30 patients (male/female 5/25) underwent cardiac autotransplantation for the treatment of mitral valve disease and concomitant permanent AF (>1 year). Surgical technique of bicaval heart transplantation was modified maintaining the connection of inferior vena cava in all but three cases. Twenty-eight patients had mitral valve replacement and two had mitral valve repair. Associated procedures were: aortic valve replacement (6 cases), tricuspid valve repair (2 cases), coronary re-vascularization (2 cases) and right atrium volume reduction (4 cases). No hospital death occurred; 1 patient died 3 months post-operatively for pneumonia. At a mean follow-up of 21.1+/-7.7 months (range 6-35), 26 patients (89.7%) were in sinus rhythm and 3 (10.3%) in AF. Santa Cruz Score was 0 in 3 patients, 2 in 2 patients and 4 in the remaining 24 patients (82.7%). Mean left atrial diameter and volume decreased from 65.1+/-16.4 mm (range 50-130 mm) to 49.9+/-8.4 mm (range 37-78) (P < 0.001) and from 118.3+/-68.4 ml (range 60-426) to 69.4+/-34.1 ml (range 31-226) (P = 0.001), respectively, after the operation. Cardiac autotransplantation is a safe and effective option for the treatment of permanent AF in patients with mitral valve disease and severe dilation of left atrium.

The challenge of pelvic discontinuity: cup-cage reconstruction does better than conventional cages in mid-term.

PubMed

Abolghasemian, M; Tangsaraporn, S; Drexler, M; Barbuto, R; Backstein, D; Safir, O; Kuzyk, P; Gross, A

2014-02-01

The use of ilioischial cage reconstruction for pelvic discontinuity has been replaced by the Trabecular Metal (Zimmer, Warsaw, Indiana) cup-cage technique in our institution, due to the unsatisfactory outcome of using a cage alone in this situation. We report the outcome of 26 pelvic discontinuities in 24 patients (20 women and four men, mean age 65 years (44 to 84)) treated by the cup-cage technique at a mean follow-up of 82 months (12 to 113) and compared them with a series of 19 pelvic discontinuities in 19 patients (18 women and one man, mean age 70 years (42 to 86)) treated with a cage at a mean follow-up of 69 months (1 to 170). The clinical and radiological outcomes as well as the survivorship of the groups were compared. In all, four of the cup-cage group (15%) and 13 (68%) of the cage group failed due to septic or aseptic loosening. The seven-year survivorship was 87.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) 71 to 103) for the cup-cage group and 49.9% (95% CI 15 to 84) for the cage-alone group (p = 0.009). There were four major complications in the cup-cage group and nine in the cage group. Radiological union of the discontinuity was found in all successful cases in the cup-cage group and three of the successful cage cases. Three hips in the cup-cage group developed early radiological migration of the components, which stabilised with a successful outcome. Cup-cage reconstruction is a reliable technique for treating pelvic discontinuity in mid-term follow-up and is preferred to ilioischial cage reconstruction. If the continuity of the bone graft at the discontinuity site is not disrupted, early migration of the components does not necessarily result in failure.

Mid-term cost-effectiveness analysis of open and endovascular repair for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.

PubMed

Rollins, K E; Shak, J; Ambler, G K; Tang, T Y; Hayes, P D; Boyle, J R

2014-02-01

Emergency endovascular repair (EVAR) for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) may have lower operative mortality rates than open surgical repair. Concerns remain that the early survival benefit after EVAR for rAAA may be offset by late reinterventions. The aim of this study was to compare reintervention rates and cost-effectiveness of EVAR and open repair for rAAA. A retrospective analysis was undertaken of patients with rAAA undergoing EVAR or open repair over 6 years. A health economic model developed for the cost-effectiveness of elective EVAR was used in the emergency setting. Sixty-two patients (mean age 77·9 years) underwent EVAR and 85 (mean age 75·9 years) had open repair of rAAA. Median follow-up was 42 and 39 months respectively. There was no significant difference in 30-day mortality rates after EVAR and open repair (18 and 26 per cent respectively; P = 0·243). Reintervention rates were also similar (32 and 31 per cent; P = 0·701). The mean cost per patient was €26,725 for EVAR and €30,297 for open repair, and the cost per life-year gained was €7906 and €9933 respectively (P = 0·561). Open repair had greater initial costs: longer procedural times (217 versus 178·5 min; P < 0·001) and intensive care stay (5·0 versus 1·0 days; P = 0·015). Conversely, EVAR had greater reintervention (€156,939 versus €35,335; P = 0·001) and surveillance (P < 0·001) costs. There was no significant difference in reintervention rates after EVAR or open repair for rAAA. EVAR was as cost-effective at mid-term follow-up. The increased procedural costs of open repair are not outweighed by greater surveillance and reintervention costs after EVAR. © 2014 BJS Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Early and mid-term results of off-pump endarterectomy of the left anterior descending artery

PubMed Central

Takahashi, Mitsuko; Gohil, Sunir; Tong, Bonnie; Lento, Patrick; Filsoufi, Farzan; Reddy, Ramachandra C.

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVES Many patients referred for coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) today have diffusely diseased coronary vessels, and some of them may require coronary endarterectomy to provide adequate revascularization. Most reports of coronary endarterectomy describe an on-pump procedure. As off-pump coronary artery bypass graft has become safer and more routine, there is renewed interest in off-pump coronary endarterectomy. We report on our series of patients who underwent off-pump coronary endarterectomy of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery using an open endarterectomy technique. METHODS All patients undergoing open heart surgery at The Mount Sinai Medical Center are entered into a state-mandated, audited database. A retrospective review of this database revealed 12 patients between January 2008 and June 2012 who underwent off-pump endarterectomy of the LAD as part of their coronary revascularization. Additional data were collected from a review of the patients' charts. RESULTS There were a total of 12 patients, with a mean age of 72 ± 4 years. Nine (75%) were male and 3 (25%) were female. Comorbidities included hypertension in 11 (92%) patients, dyslipidaemia in 10 (83%), diabetes in 8 (67%), renal failure in 6 (50%) and stroke in 1 (8%). The mean number of diseased coronary territories was 3 ± 0.4 (range 2–3), and the mean number of coronary bypass grafts performed was 4 ± 0.8 (range 2–5). Eight patients required transfusion with packed red blood cells (67%). One (8%) patient was converted from off-pump to on-pump. The mean intensive care unit stay was 3 ± 2.8 (range 1–8 days), and the mean hospital length of stay was 15 ± 13 (range 4–54 days). Postoperative follow-up (mean 24 ± 19 months, range 1–53) is complete, and no ischaemic events have occurred in the early and mid-term follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that off-pump endarterectomy of the LAD is a viable option for patients with diffuse LAD disease. PMID:23190620

Mid- and long-term outcomes of carotid-cavernous fistula endovascular management with Onyx and n-BCA: experience of a single tertiary center.

PubMed

Barber, Sean M; Rangel-Castilla, Leonardo; Zhang, Y Jonathan; Klucznik, Richard; Diaz, Orlando

2015-10-01

Endovascular therapy is the preferred treatment for most carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). Early reports have documented excellent initial clinical and radiographic outcomes after embolization of CCFs with Onyx or n-butyl cyanoacrylate (n-BCA), but little evidence is available about the long-term durability of this technique. To characterize the long-term durability of CCF liquid embolization. The authors retrospectively reviewed a database of 24 CCFs in 21 consecutive patients who underwent Onyx or n-BCA embolization of a CCF from 2006 to 2013 at our institution. A total of 25 Onyx or n-BCA embolization procedures were attempted and 24 successfully completed during the study, resulting in complete or near-complete occlusion by the end of the study in all 24 CCFs (obliteration success, 100%). Attempted embolization in a single CCF failed initially, but was performed successfully at a later date by a different approach. None of the 24 CCFs recanalized, regrew, or required any further treatment subsequent to Onyx or n-BCA embolization throughout a mean 12.4 months of angiographic follow-up (range 1-36 months). Clinically significant complications were seen in three embolization procedures, including cranial nerve palsies (n=1), embolic infarct (n=1), and intraperitoneal hemorrhage (n=1). Early evidence has indicated that endovascular embolization with Onyx is relatively safe and effective at achieving an initial angiographic cure for CCFs. Results of our series suggest that angiographic and clinical outcomes of Onyx and n-BCA embolization remain stable at mid- and long-term follow-up. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Towards mid-infrared supercontinuum generation: Ge-Sb-Se mid-infrared step-index small-core optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butterworth, J. H.; Jayasuriya, D.; Li, Q. Q.; Furniss, D.; Moneim, N. A.; Barney, E.; Sujecki, S.; Benson, T. M.; Sanghera, J. S.; Seddon, A. B.

2014-02-01

In the 21st century, cancer has become a common and feared illness. Early detection is crucial for delivering the most effective treatment of patients, yet current diagnostic tests depend upon the skill of a consultant clinician and histologist for recognition of the cancerous cells. Therefore it is necessary to develop a medical diagnostic system which can analyze and image tissue instantly, removing the margin of human error and with the additional benefit of being minimally invasive. The molecular fingerprint of biological tissue lies within the mid-infrared (IR) region of the electromagnetic spectrum, 3-25μm wavelength. This can be used to determine a tissue spectral map and provide information about the absence or existence of disease, potentially in real-time and in vivo. However, current mid-IR broadband sources are not bright enough to achieve this. One alternative is to develop broadband, mid-IR, supercontinuum generation (SCG). Chalcogenide glass optical fibers have the potential to provide such mid-IR SC light. A popular chalcogenide glass fiber type is based on Ge-As-Se. For biomedical applications it is prudent to avoid the use of arsenic, on account of its toxicity. This paper investigates replacing arsenic with antimony, towards Ge-Sb-Se smallcore optical fibers for SCG. Physical properties of candidate glass pairs are investigated for glass stability via differential thermal analysis etc. and fiber optical loss measurements of associated fibers are assessed. These results are compared to analogous arsenic-containing chalcogenide glasses and optical fibers, and conclusions are drawn focusing on whether there is potential for antimony chalcogenide glass to be used for SCG for mid-infrared medical diagnostics.

Long term benefits of stabilizing soil subgrades

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-06-01

Chemical admixtures have been used extensively since the mid-eighties in Kentucky to improve bearing strengths of soil subgrades. Most pavements in Kentucky are constructed on clayey soils. Although short-term observations at a small number of sites ...

Military Benefits that Retain Mid-Career Army Officers

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-14

MILITARY BENEFITS THAT RETAIN MID-CAREER ARMY OFFICERS A thesis presented to the Faculty of the U.S. Army Command and General...SUBTITLE Military Benefits That Retain Mid-Career Army Officers 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S...was to identify how important direct service benefits are to mid-career U.S. Army officer decisions to continue serving in the Army on active duty

Introduction of an interdisciplinary heart team-based transcatheter aortic valve implantation programme: short and mid-term outcomes.

PubMed

Martínez, G J; Seco, M; Jaijee, S K; Adams, M R; Cartwright, B L; Forrest, P; Celermajer, D S; Vallely, M P; Wilson, M K; Ng, M K C

2014-09-01

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been developed to treat symptomatic aortic stenosis in patients deemed too high risk for open-heart surgery. To address this complex population, an interdisciplinary heart team approach was proposed. Present the short- and mid-term outcomes of the first 100 patients in the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital multidisciplinary TAVI programme. Single-centre registry. Baseline and procedural data were prospectively recorded. Outcomes were recorded according to Valve Academic Research Consortium - version 2 guidelines. All patients underwent a comprehensive interdisciplinary pre-procedural evaluation. Sixty-eight transfemoral and 32 transapical implantations were performed. Mean age was 82 (±8.9) years old with an average logistic EuroSCORE of 33. Although 13 procedures had major complications, there was no intraprocedural mortality. During the first month, 9% of patients were re-admitted due to heart failure and 13% had a permanent pacemaker implanted. A 3% 30-day and 8% follow-up (mean 17 months) mortalities were recorded. While no significant differences in the rate of complications were found between the first and second half of the experience, all cases of mortality within 30 days (n = 3) occurred in the initial half. Sustained haemodynamic results were obtained with TAVI (immediate mean aortic valve gradient reduction from 47 to 9 mmHg; 1-year echocardiographic gradient 9.9 mmHg, with no moderate or severe aortic regurgitation). Excellent results can be achieved with TAVI in very high-risk patients at an Australian institution. A comprehensive evaluation based on a heart team can overcome most of the difficulties imposed by this challenging population. © 2014 The Authors; Internal Medicine Journal © 2014 Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

"Mid-Week Pictorial": Pioneer American Photojournalism Magazine.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kenney, Keith

In 1914 (22 years before the inception of "Life" magazine), the "New York Times" began publishing "Mid-Week Pictorial" to absorb a flood of war pictures pouring in from Europe. Several sociological and technological forces shaped "Mid-Week Pictorial" as a pioneer of American photojournalism magazines,…

A Transverse Colectomy is as Safe as an Extended Right or Left Colectomy for Mid-Transverse Colon Cancer.

PubMed

Leijssen, Lieve G J; Dinaux, Anne M; Amri, Ramzi; Kunitake, Hiroko; Bordeianou, Liliana G; Berger, David L

2018-03-19

Although extended colectomy is often chosen for patients with transverse colon cancer, the optimal surgical approach for mid-transverse colon cancer has not been established. We identified patients who underwent a transverse (TC) or an extended colectomy (EC) for mid-transverse colon cancer between 2004 and 2014. To adjust for potential selection bias between the groups, a propensity score matching analysis was performed. A total of 103 patients were included, of whom 63% underwent EC (right 47%, left 17%) and 37% TC. EC patients tend to have worse short-term outcomes. Although fewer lymph nodes were harvested after TC, 5-year overall (OS) ad disease-free survival (DFS) was comparable between the groups. When comparing long-term outcomes stage-by-stage, worse OS and DFS were seen in stage-II. All stage-II patients died of a non-cancer-related cause and recurrence occurred in pT4 TC patients who did not receive adjuvant therapy. The propensity-matched cohort demonstrated similar postoperative morbidity, but more laparoscopic procedures in EC. Additionally, TC tumors were correlated with poorer histopathological features and disease recurrence was only seen after TC. Our study underlines the oncological safety of a transverse colectomy for mid-transverse colon cancer. Although TC tumors were associated with poorer histopathological features, survival rates were comparable.

Large scale variability, long-term trends and extreme events in total ozone over the northern mid-latitudes based on satellite time series

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rieder, H. E.; Staehelin, J.; Maeder, J. A.; Ribatet, M.; Davison, A. C.

2009-04-01

Various generations of satellites (e.g. TOMS, GOME, OMI) made spatial datasets of column ozone available to the scientific community. This study has a special focus on column ozone over the northern mid-latitudes. Tools from geostatistics and extreme value theory are applied to analyze variability, long-term trends and frequency distributions of extreme events in total ozone. In a recent case study (Rieder et al., 2009) new tools from extreme value theory (Coles, 2001; Ribatet, 2007) have been applied to the world's longest total ozone record from Arosa, Switzerland (e.g. Staehelin 1998a,b), in order to describe extreme events in low and high total ozone. Within the current study this analysis is extended to satellite datasets for the northern mid-latitudes. Further special emphasis is given on patterns and spatial correlations and the influence of changes in atmospheric dynamics (e.g. tropospheric and lower stratospheric pressure systems) on column ozone. References: Coles, S.: An Introduction to Statistical Modeling of Extreme Values, Springer Series in Statistics, ISBN:1852334592, Springer, Berlin, 2001. Ribatet, M.: POT: Modelling peaks over a threshold, R News, 7, 34-36, 2007. Rieder, H.E., Staehelin, J., Maeder, J.A., Ribatet, M., Stübi, R., Weihs, P., Holawe, F., Peter, T., and Davison, A.C.: From ozone mini holes and mini highs towards extreme value theory: New insights from extreme events and non stationarity, submitted to J. Geophys. Res., 2009. Staehelin, J., Kegel, R., and Harris, N. R.: Trend analysis of the homogenized total ozone series of Arosa (Switzerland), 1929-1996, J. Geophys. Res., 103(D7), 8389-8400, doi:10.1029/97JD03650, 1998a. Staehelin, J., Renaud, A., Bader, J., McPeters, R., Viatte, P., Hoegger, B., Bugnion, V., Giroud, M., and Schill, H.: Total ozone series at Arosa (Switzerland): Homogenization and data comparison, J. Geophys. Res., 103(D5), 5827-5842, doi:10.1029/97JD02402, 1998b.

Mid-IR femtosecond frequency conversion by soliton-probe collision in phase-mismatched quadratic nonlinear crystals.

PubMed

Liu, Xing; Zhou, Binbin; Guo, Hairun; Bache, Morten

2015-08-15

We show numerically that ultrashort self-defocusing temporal solitons colliding with a weak pulsed probe in the near-IR can convert the probe to the mid-IR. A near-perfect conversion efficiency is possible for a high effective soliton order. The near-IR self-defocusing soliton can form in a quadratic nonlinear crystal (beta-barium borate) in the normal dispersion regime due to cascaded (phase-mismatched) second-harmonic generation, and the mid-IR converted wave is formed in the anomalous dispersion regime between λ=2.2-2.4  μm as a resonant dispersive wave. This process relies on nondegenerate four-wave mixing mediated by an effective negative cross-phase modulation term caused by cascaded soliton-probe sum-frequency generation.

Evaluation of MidIR fibre optic reflectance: Detection limit, reproducibility and binary mixture discrimination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sessa, Clarimma; Bagán, Héctor; García, José Francisco

2013-11-01

MidIR fibre optic reflectance (MidIR-FORS) is a promising analytical technique in the field of science conservation, especially because it is non-destructive. Another advantage of MidIR-FORS is that the obtained information is representative, as a large amount of spectral data can be collected. Although the technique has a high potential and is almost routinely applied, its quality parameters have not been thoroughly studied in the specific application of analysis of artistic materials. The objective of this study is to evaluate the instrumental capabilities of MidIR-FORS for the analysis of artwork materials in terms of detection limit, reproducibility, and mixture characterisation. The study has been focused on oil easel painting and several paints of known composition have been analysed. Paint layers include blue pigments not only because of their important role along art history, but also because their physical and spectroscopic characteristics allow a better evaluation of the MidIR-FORS capabilities. The results of the analysis indicate that MidIR-FORS supplies a signal affected by different factors, such as the optical, morphological and physical properties of the surface, in addition to the composition of materials analysed. Consequently, the detection limits established are relatively high for artistic objects (Prussian blue - PB 2.1-6.5%; Phthalocyanine blue - Pht 6.3-10.2%; synthetic Ultramarine blue - UM 12.1%) and may therefore lead to an incomplete description of the artwork. Reproducibility of the technique over time and across surface has been determined. The results show that the major sources of dispersion are the heterogeneity of the pigments distribution, physical features, and band shape distortions. The total dispersion is around 4% for the most intense bands (oil) and increases up to 26% when weak or overlapped bands are considered (PB, Pht, UM). The application of different pre-treatments (cutoff of fibres absorption, Savizky-Golay smoothing

Short-term and long-term effects of GDP on traffic deaths in 18 OECD countries, 1960-2011.

PubMed

Dadgar, Iman; Norström, Thor

2017-02-01

Research suggests that increases in gross domestic product (GDP) lead to increases in traffic deaths plausibly due to the increased road traffic induced by an expanding economy. However, there also seems to exist a long-term effect of economic growth that is manifested in improved traffic safety and reduced rates of traffic deaths. Previous studies focus on either the short-term, procyclical effect, or the long-term, protective effect. The aim of the present study is to estimate the short-term and long-term effects jointly in order to assess the net impact of GDP on traffic mortality. We extracted traffic death rates for the period 1960-2011 from the WHO Mortality Database for 18 OECD countries. Data on GDP/capita were obtained from the Maddison Project. We performed error correction modelling to estimate the short-term and long-term effects of GDP on the traffic death rates. The estimates from the error correction modelling for the entire study period suggested that a one-unit increase (US$1000) in GDP/capita yields an instantaneous short-term increase in the traffic death rate by 0.58 (p<0.001), and a long-term decrease equal to -1.59 (p<0.001). However, period-specific analyses revealed a structural break implying that the procyclical effect outweighs the protective effect in the period prior to 1976, whereas the reverse is true for the period 1976-2011. An increase in GDP leads to an immediate increase in traffic deaths. However, after the mid-1970s this short-term effect is more than outweighed by a markedly stronger protective long-term effect, whereas the reverse is true for the period before the mid-1970s. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

A Mid-Infrared Search for Kardashev Civilizations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sigurdsson, Steinn; Wright, J.; Griffith, R.; Povich, M. S.

2014-01-01

We are using the WISE all-sky Source Catalog to search for and put upper limits on the existence of extraterrestrial civilizations with large energy supplies. Any galaxy-spanning (Type III) civilization with an energy supply of more than about one percent of its stellar luminosity will have detectable mid-infrared excess, and nearby (extended) galaxies with civilizations with supplies more than about 80% of their stellar luminosity will be well-distinguished from nearly all natural sources in WISE color-color space. Mid-infrared spectra, far-infrared photometry, and radio emission from CO can all be used to distinguish extraterrestrial mid-infrared radiation from dust.

40 CFR 51.1011 - Requirements for mid-course review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Requirements for mid-course review. 51... PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards § 51.1011 Requirements for mid-course review. (a) Any... attainment date of nine or ten years from the date of designation also must submit to EPA a mid-course review...

40 CFR 51.1011 - Requirements for mid-course review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Requirements for mid-course review. 51... PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards § 51.1011 Requirements for mid-course review. (a) Any... attainment date of nine or ten years from the date of designation also must submit to EPA a mid-course review...

Resilience of Mediterranean terrestrial ecosystems and fire severity in semiarid areas: Responses of Aleppo pine forests in the short, mid and long term.

PubMed

González-De Vega, S; De Las Heras, J; Moya, D

2016-12-15

In recent decades, the fire regime of the Mediterranean Basin has been disturbed by various factors: climate change; forest management policies; land cover; changed landscape. Size and severity have notably increased, which in turn have increased large fires events with >500ha burned (high severity). In spite of Mediterranean ecosystems' high resilience to fire, these changes have implied more vulnerability and reduced natural recovery with irreparable long-term negative effects. Knowledge of the response of ecosystems to increasing severity, mainly in semiarid areas, is still lacking, which is needed to rehabilitate and restore burned areas. Our approach assessed the resilience concept by focusing on the recovery of ecosystem functions and services, measured as changes in the composition and diversity of plant community vegetation and structure. This will be validated in the long term as a model of ecosystem response. Also, depending on the pre-fire characteristics of vegetation, fire severity and the post-fire management, this approach will lead to tools that can be applied to implement post-fire restoration efforts in order to help decision making in planning activities. Regarding Mediterranean ecosystems' ability to recover after wildfires, this study concludes that pre-fire communities are resilient in these fire-prone areas, but the window for natural recovery in semiarid areas of Aleppo pine forest in SE Iberian Peninsula varied from 3 to 15 post-fire years. Fire severity was also key for effects on the ecosystem: the vegetation types of areas burned with low and medium severity recovered naturally, while those areas with a high-severity burn induced shrublands. We concluded that very strong regeneration activity exists in the short term, and that the negative effects of medium- and high-severity fire are evidenced in the mid and long term, which affect natural recovery. Adaptive forest management to rehabilitate and restore burned Mediterranean ecosystems

Concepts for compact mid-IR spectroscopy in photochemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cu-Nguyen, Phuong-Ha; Wang, Ziyu; Zappe, Hans

2016-11-01

Mid-infrared (IR) spectroscopy, typically 3 to 5 µm, is often the technology of choice to monitor the interaction between and concentration of molecules during photochemical reactions. However, classical mid-IR spectrometers are bulky, complex and expensive, making them unsuitable for use in the miniaturized microreactors increasingly being employed for chemical synthesis. We present here the concept for an ultra-miniaturized mid-IR spectrometer directly integrated onto a chemical microreactor to monitor the chemical reaction. The spectrometer is based on micro-machined Fabry-Perot resonator filters realized using pairs of Bragg mirrors to achieve a high spectral resolution. The fabrication of the optical filters is outlined and the measurement of transmittance spectra in the mid-IR range show a good agreement with theory and are thus promising candidates for a fully integrated system.

Altered newborn gender distribution in patients with low mid-trimester maternal serum human chorionic gonadotropin (MShCG).

PubMed

Santolaya-Forgas, J; Meyer, W J; Burton, B K; Scommegna, A

1997-01-01

to determine if the sex ratio (male/female) is altered in infants born to patients with low mid-trimester maternal serum human chorionic gonadotropin (MShCG). Between 2/1/90 and 1/3/91, 3,116 patients underwent prenatal screening using second-trimester maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP), MShCG, and maternal serum unconjugated estriol (MSuE3). Among these, there were 132 patients with low second-trimester MShCG (< 0.4 MoM), normal MSAFP and MSuE3. The gender distribution of these term, normal newborns was compared to that of 237 controls, matched for race, maternal age, and referral source and delivered at term to mothers with normal mid-trimester MSAFP, MSuE3, and MShCG. The gender distribution of these two groups of newborns was also compared to that of 78 term newborns from the same obstetrical population delivered to mothers with second-trimester MShCG > 2.5 MoM and normal MSAFP and MSuE3. All patients had a complete obstetrical history. Forty-nine percent of the controls were male vs. 62% of the group with slow second-trimester MShCG (P < .01). Within the group with low MShCG, 59% of infants were male when the MShCG was between 0.19 and 0.4 MoM (A) and 80% when the MShCG was < 0.2 MoM (B) (control vs. A vs. B P < .005). The sex ratio in the high-MShCG group was similar to control. The data suggest that gender distribution is different from normal in patients with low mid-trimester MShCG.

The Mid-Ocean Ridge.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Macdonald, Kenneth C.; Fox, Paul J.

1990-01-01

Described are concepts involved with the formation and actions of the Mid-Ocean Ridge. Sea-floor spreading, the magma supply model, discontinuities, off-axis structures, overlaps and deviation, and aquatic life are discussed. (CW)

Mid-IR supercontinuum generation and applications: a review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Shizhuo; Ruffin, Paul; Brantley, Christina; Edwards, Eugene; Luo, Claire

2014-09-01

In this paper, a review on mid-IR supercontinuum generation (SCG) and its applications is presented. First, the physical mechanism of the supercontinuum generation in IR crystal fiber is introduced. Second, the recent progress on IR single crystal fiber, in particular ultrathin core double cladding IR single crystal fiber is described. Third, the transmission characteristics of mid-IR crystal fiber is illustrated. Fourth, the mid-IR supercontinuum generation in IR single crystal fiber is presented. Finally, the application of IR supercontinuum for smart target recognition is illustrated

Mid-infrared integrated photonics on silicon: a perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Hongtao; Luo, Zhengqian; Gu, Tian; Kimerling, Lionel C.; Wada, Kazumi; Agarwal, Anu; Hu, Juejun

2017-12-01

The emergence of silicon photonics over the past two decades has established silicon as a preferred substrate platform for photonic integration. While most silicon-based photonic components have so far been realized in the near-infrared (near-IR) telecommunication bands, the mid-infrared (mid-IR, 2-20-μm wavelength) band presents a significant growth opportunity for integrated photonics. In this review, we offer our perspective on the burgeoning field of mid-IR integrated photonics on silicon. A comprehensive survey on the state-of-the-art of key photonic devices such as waveguides, light sources, modulators, and detectors is presented. Furthermore, on-chip spectroscopic chemical sensing is quantitatively analyzed as an example of mid-IR photonic system integration based on these basic building blocks, and the constituent component choices are discussed and contrasted in the context of system performance and integration technologies.

Is Previous Cardiac Surgery a Risk Factor for Short and Mid-term Mortality Following Total Aortic Arch Replacement in Patients with Stanford Type A Aortic Dissection?

PubMed

Ge, Yi-Peng; Li, Cheng-Nan; Chen, Lei; Liu, Wei; Cheng, Li-Jian; Liu, Yong-Min; Zheng, Jun; Ma, Wei-Guo; Zhu, Jun-Ming; Sun, Li-Zhong

2015-11-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate if the previous cardiac surgery (PCS) is the risk factor for short- and mid-term mortality following total aortic arch replacement in patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection. Between February 2009 and February 2012, a total of 384 patients who suffered Stanford type A aortic dissection involving aortic arch underwent total aortic arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk. Of these patients, 36 patients had PCS. Logistic regression was used to identify if the previous cardiac surgery was the risk factor for in-hospital mortality. Propensity score-matching (1:1 match) was used to yield patients from the primary surgery group who matched PCS group with respect to pre-operative clinical characteristics and post-operative complications. Survival analysis and differences between the two groups were performed by the Kaplan-Meier estimate and the log-rank test. The overall in-hospital mortality was 8%. Logistic multiple regression identified that cardiopulmonary bypass time≥ 300minutes (OR=12.05, p<0.001) and surgical period from symptom onset shorter than one week (OR=2.43, p=0.04) were final risk factors for in-hospital mortality and PCS was not the final risk factor. Of 36 patients with PCS, three patients died in the hospital and 33 patients were discharged from the hospital. Of these 33 patients, 32 patients matched primary surgery group successfully. During the follow-up period, two patients died in PCS group, one patient died in primary surgery group. The mean follow-up time was 35.38±14.12 months. The five-year survival was 96% for the primary surgery group. Previous cardiac surgery group five-year survival was 73%. Five-year survival was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.84 log-rank test). PCS is not the risk factor for short- and mid-term mortality following total aortic arch replacement in patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection. Copyright © 2015 Australian and New Zealand

Comparison between tubularised incised plate urethroplasty and onlay island flap repair in mid and proximal penile hypospadias.

PubMed

Javid, Latif; Pansota, Mudassar Saeed; Ahmad, Iftikhar; Tariq, Muhammad; Tabassum, Shafqat Ali

2014-04-01

To evaluate the surgical outcome of tubularised incised plate urethroplasty and onlay island flap repair for mid and proximal penile hypospadias. The prospective study was conducted at the Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur from June 2011 to May 2013. A total of 60 patients with mid and proximal penile hypospadias in the age range of 02 to 06 years were included. Patients with hypospadias other than mid and proximal penile, with chordee and history of previous hypospadias repair were excluded. Patients were divided into two equal groups. Urethroplasty was done for group I and flap repair for group II. The follow-up period was 12-24 months. SPSS 16 was used for statistical analysis. The mean duration of surgery was 62 +/- 8.72 minutes for group I and 90 +/- 11.25 minutes for group II (p < 0.0001). In group I, only 03 (10.0%) patients had complications, while in group II, 09 (30.0%) patients developed complications (p = 0.02). Cosmetic results were also excellent in group I compared to group II. Tubularised incised plate urethroplasty was better and superior than onlay island flap repair in terms of less operative time, complication rate and satisfactory cosmetic results for mid and proximal penile hypospadias.

Fiber Delivery of mid-IR lasers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kriesel, J.M.; Gat, N.; Bernacki, Bruce E.

2011-08-24

Fiber optics for the visible to near infrared (NIR) wavelength regimes (i.e. = 0.42 {mu}m) have proven to be extremely useful for a myriad of applications such as telecommunications, illumination, and sensors because they enable convenient, compact, and remote delivery of laser beams. Similarly, there is a need for fiber optics operating at longer wavelengths. For example, systems operating in the mid-IR regime (i.e., = 314 {mu}m) are being developed to detect trace molecular species with far-reaching applications, such as detecting explosives on surfaces, pollutants in the environment, and biomarkers in the breath of a patient. Furthermore, with the increasingmore » availability of quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) which are semiconductor lasers that operate in the mid-IR regime additional uses are rapidly being developed. Here, we describe the development of hollow-core fibers for delivery of high-quality mid-IR laser beams across a broad spectral range.« less

Mid-late Holocene climatic changes in the Southwestern Iberian shelf

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomes, S.; Naughton, F.; Rodrigues, T.; Drago, T.; Sanchez-Goñi, M.; Freitas, C.

2012-04-01

Vegetation (pollen analysis) and alkenone-derived Sea Surface Temperature (SST) reconstructions from a south western Iberian shelf core (POPEI VC2B) (36°53'12,99'' N, 8°03'57,98'' W) show orbital and suborbital climate variability at extremely high resolution for the last 6000 years in this region. In particular, the mid-late Holocene is marked by a long-term cooling revealed by the gradual decrease of arboreal pollen (AP) percentages and SST which parallels the general decreasing trend of the δ18-O isotope composition recorded in Greenland ice records and the decrease of the mid-latitudes summer insolation. The short-term vegetation changes, reflecting millennial scale climatic variability, are clearly identified in the POPEI VC2B over the last 6000 years. In particular, the basement of this record is marked by the presence of semi-desert plants (Chenopodiaceae, Artemisia and Ephedra) reflecting dry conditions. These particular dry conditions have been detected elsewhere in the southern Iberian Peninsula and in North African records. Following the particularly dry period, there is a decline of semi-desert plants and an increase of Ericaceae and Pinus associated with establishment of an incipient forest of Quercus deciduous type reflecting temperate and humid conditions. This period was followed by a decrease of arboreal pollen percentages, suggesting a relative climate cooling. Finally, the last 2500/2000 years, are marked by the presence of anthropogenic associations (including Cerealia-type, Plantago lanceolata-coronopus type, and Olea) and are characterized by several vegetation and climate oscillations associated with the Roman Period (RP), the Dark Ages (DA), the Medieval Climatic Anomaly (MCA), and the Little Ice Age (LIA).

8.76 W mid-infrared supercontinuum generation in a thulium doped fiber amplifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michalska, Maria; Grzes, Pawel; Swiderski, Jacek

2018-07-01

A stable mid-infrared supercontinuum (SC) generation with a maximum average power of 8.76 W in a spectral band of 1.9-2.65 μm is reported. To broaden the bandwidth of SC, a 1.55 μm pulsed laser system delivering 1 ns pulses at a pulse repetition frequency of 500 kHz was used as a seed source for one-stage thulium-doped fiber amplifier. The power conversion efficiency for wavelengths longer than 2.4 μm and 2.5 μm was determined to be 28% and 18%, respectively, which is believed to be the most efficient power distribution towards the mid-infrared in SC sources based on Tm-doped fibers. The power spectral density of the continuum was calculated to be >13 mW/nm with a potential of further scaling-up. A long-term power stability test, showing power fluctuations <3%, proved the robustness and reliability of the developed SC source.

Minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis for mid-distal third humeral shaft fractures.

PubMed

Lian, Kejian; Wang, Lei; Lin, Dasheng; Chen, Zhiwen

2013-08-01

Mid-distal third humeral shaft fractures can be effectively treated with minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis and intramedullary nailing (IMN). However, these 2 treatments have not been adequately compared. Forty-seven patients (47 fractures) with mid-distal third humeral shaft fractures were randomly allocated to undergo either minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis (n=24) or IMN (n=23). The 2 groups were similar in terms of fracture patterns, fracture location, age, and associated injuries. Intraoperative measurements included blood loss and operative time. Clinical outcome measurements included fracture healing, radial nerve recovery, and elbow and shoulder discomfort. Radiographic measurements included fracture alignment, time to healing, delayed union, and nonunion. Functional outcome was satisfactory in both groups. Mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score and Mayo score were both better for the minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis group than for the IMN group (98.2 vs 97.6, respectively, and 93.5 vs 94.1, respectively; P<.001). Operative time was shorter and less intraoperative blood loss occurred in the minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis group than in the IMN group. Average time to union was similar in both groups. Primary union was achieved in 23 of 24 patients in the minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis group and in 22 of 23 in the IMN group. Minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis may have outcomes comparable with IMN for the management of mid-distal third humeral shaft fractures. Minimally invasive plating osteosynthesis is more suitable for complex fractures, especially for radial protection and motion recovery of adjacent joints, compared with IMN for simple fractures. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.

Mid-infrared laser filaments in the atmosphere

PubMed Central

Mitrofanov, A. V.; Voronin, A. A.; Sidorov-Biryukov, D. A.; Pugžlys, A.; Stepanov, E. A.; Andriukaitis, G.; Flöry, T.; Ališauskas, S.; Fedotov, A. B.; Baltuška, A.; Zheltikov, A. M.

2015-01-01

Filamentation of ultrashort laser pulses in the atmosphere offers unique opportunities for long-range transmission of high-power laser radiation and standoff detection. With the critical power of self-focusing scaling as the laser wavelength squared, the quest for longer-wavelength drivers, which would radically increase the peak power and, hence, the laser energy in a single filament, has been ongoing over two decades, during which time the available laser sources limited filamentation experiments in the atmosphere to the near-infrared and visible ranges. Here, we demonstrate filamentation of ultrashort mid-infrared pulses in the atmosphere for the first time. We show that, with the spectrum of a femtosecond laser driver centered at 3.9 μm, right at the edge of the atmospheric transmission window, radiation energies above 20 mJ and peak powers in excess of 200 GW can be transmitted through the atmosphere in a single filament. Our studies reveal unique properties of mid-infrared filaments, where the generation of powerful mid-infrared supercontinuum is accompanied by unusual scenarios of optical harmonic generation, giving rise to remarkably broad radiation spectra, stretching from the visible to the mid-infrared. PMID:25687621

Atomically thin noble metal dichalcogenide: a broadband mid-infrared semiconductor.

PubMed

Yu, Xuechao; Yu, Peng; Wu, Di; Singh, Bahadur; Zeng, Qingsheng; Lin, Hsin; Zhou, Wu; Lin, Junhao; Suenaga, Kazu; Liu, Zheng; Wang, Qi Jie

2018-04-18

The interest in mid-infrared technologies surrounds plenty of important optoelectronic applications ranging from optical communications, biomedical imaging to night vision cameras, and so on. Although narrow bandgap semiconductors, such as Mercury Cadmium Telluride and Indium Antimonide, and quantum superlattices based on inter-subband transitions in wide bandgap semiconductors, have been employed for mid-infrared applications, it remains a daunting challenge to search for other materials that possess suitable bandgaps in this wavelength range. Here, we demonstrate experimentally for the first time that two-dimensional (2D) atomically thin PtSe 2 has a variable bandgap in the mid-infrared via layer and defect engineering. Here, we show that bilayer PtSe 2 combined with defects modulation possesses strong light absorption in the mid-infrared region, and we realize a mid-infrared photoconductive detector operating in a broadband mid-infrared range. Our results pave the way for atomically thin 2D noble metal dichalcogenides to be employed in high-performance mid-infrared optoelectronic devices.

The Magmatic Structure of Mid-ocean Ridges: Integrating Geophysical and Petrological Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maclennan, J.; Singh, S.

Geophysical surveys, petrological observations and numerical models have all played an important role in the study of magmatic processes at mid-ocean ridges. However, few studies have attempted to integrate the constraints from both geophysical and geochemical observations in order to develop models of mid-ocean ridges. Composi- tional variation within the oceanic crust must be considered when geophysical models are interpreted in terms of variation in temperature or fluid fraction. Modellers com- monly assume that the crust is compositionally homogeneous and that the relationship between temperature and melt fraction does not vary within the crust. However, the compositions of oceanic crustal rocks collected from the Oman ophiolite vary widely and their predicted solidus temperatures vary from 990­1240C and their liquidus temperatures from 1250­1700C. Compositional variation within the solid part of the oceanic crust causes variation in seismic velocities. At fixed temperature and pressure the compositional variation present in crustal rocks can give P-wave velocity variation of 1 km s-1 or more. This has the same effect as a temperature variation of 1500C in the solid or of a variation of 20% in the melt fraction. The importance of this petrolog- ical framework for the interpretation of the seismic structure of mid-ocean ridges and for the development of thermal models of oceanic crustal accretion is demonstrated using an example from the East Pacific Rise near 9N.

Long-Term Effects of Safinamide on Dyskinesia in Mid- to Late-Stage Parkinson's Disease: A Post-Hoc Analysis.

PubMed

Cattaneo, Carlo; Ferla, R La; Bonizzoni, Erminio; Sardina, Marco

2015-01-01

Safinamide is a novel α-aminoamide with dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic properties developed as adjunctive therapy for patients with PD. Results from a 24-month double-blind controlled study suggested that as add-on to levodopa (and other PD medications) the benefits of safinamide on dyskinesia may be related to severity of dyskinesia at baseline. This post-hoc analysis further characterized the effects of safinamide on dyskinesia in mid- to late-stage PD patients. Patients were stratified by the presence or absence of dyskinesia at baseline, and by whether or not the dose of levodopa had been changed during the 24-month treatment period. Differences between safinamide and placebo were evaluated using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. For the overall treated population (with or without baseline dyskinesia), safinamide 100 mg/day significantly improved the dyskinesia rating scale score, compared with placebo, in the subgroup of patients with no change in levodopa dose (p = 0.0488). For patients with baseline dyskinesia, improvements over placebo were also significant (p = 0.0153) in patients with or without changes in levodopa dose, and nearly significant (p = 0.0546) in patients with no change in levodopa dose, suggesting that these improvements were not due to levodopa dose reductions. While no statistically significant difference in mean DRS scores was seen between safinamide and placebo in the original study population, the present post-hoc analysis helps to provide a meaningful interpretation of the long-term effects of safinamide on dyskinesia. These results may be related to safinamide state- and use-dependent inhibition of sodium channels and stimulated glutamate release, and are unlikely due to reduced dopaminergic stimulation.

A Mid-Level Dental Provider in Oregon: Dental hygienists' perceptions.

PubMed

Coplen, Amy E; Bell, Kathryn; Aamodt, Gail L; Ironside, Lynn

2017-10-01

Purpose: Many states are exploring alternative provider models and examining the role of the dental hygienist to address access to care challenges as the United States continues to face increasing demands for oral healthcare services. The purpose of this study was to assess dental hygienists' opinions in the state of Oregon regarding the current limitations of dental hygienists' scope of practice, perceived need for a mid-level provider in Oregon, and personal interest in becoming a mid-level provider. Methods: In December 2013 a survey was mailed to a sample of 1,231 dental hygienists registered in Oregon representing 30% of the licentiates. All licentiates holding expanded practice permits (EPP) were included in the sample (n=351). The following categories were included in the 32-question survey: scope of practice, mid-level provider, current practice, and demographics. Results: A total of 440 surveys were returned for a response rate of 36%. Of the EPP holders, 51% responded to the survey. Over half of respondents (59%) believe that a mid-level provider is needed in the state. Respondents holding membership in the American Dental Hygienists' Association, as well as EPP holders, were significantly more likely to respond that a mid-level dental provider was needed in the state (p<0.0001). Ninety-one percent (n=400) of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that if a mid-level provider was introduced in Oregon, the new provider should be a registered dental hygienist model. Forty-three percent (n=186) of respondents were interested in becoming mid-level providers and 47% (n=203) of respondents believed that the minimum education for a mid-level provider should be a bachelor's degree. The majority, 74% (n=137), of those interested in becoming a mid-level provider indicated a preference in completing their education through online teaching combined with a clinical internship. Conclusion: There is strong support from dental hygienists in Oregon that a need exists for a

Mid-Frequency Sonar Interactions with Beaked Whales

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-30

1 Mid-Frequency Sonar Interactions with Beaked Whales PI Kenneth G. Foote Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 98 Water Street, Woods Hole, MA...modeling and visualization system, called the Virtual Beaked Whale, to enable users to predict mid-frequency sonar -induced acoustic fields inside beaked...nature of sonar interactions with beaked whales, and may prove useful in evaluating alternate sonar transmit signals that retain the required

Chalcogenide glass mid-infrared on-chip sensor for chemical sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Hongtao

Chemical sensing in the mid-infrared (mid-IR) has been considered to be significant for molecular detection for decades, but until recently has mostly relied on benchtop spectroscopic instruments like Fourier transform infrared spectrometers, etc. Recent strides in planar photonic integration envision compact, standalone "sensor-on-a-chip" devices for molecular analysis as a potentially disruptive technology as compared to their conventional bulky counterparts. However, the difficulty of achieving adequate sensitivity in integrated optical sensors is still a key barrier towards their practical application, limited by the weak interactions between photons and molecules over the short optical path length accessible on a chip. To solve the sensitivity challenge, a novel mid-IR photothermal spectroscopic sensing technique was proposed and theoretically examined. Through dramatically amplified photothermal effects in an optical nano-cavity doubly resonant at both mid-IR pump and near infrared probe wavelengths, a device design based on nested 1-D nanobeam photonic crystal cavities is numerically analyzed to demonstrate the technique's potential for single small gas molecule detection without the need for cryogenically cooled mid-IR photo-detectors. Furthermore, since silica becomes opaque at wavelengths beyond 3.5 microm, new material platforms and fabrication techniques are needed for mid-IR on-chip chemical sensors. Chalcogenide glasses (ChG), amorphous compounds containing S, Se and Te, are ideal material choices for mid-IR chemical sensors given their broad mid-IR transparency window, large photothermal figure-of-merit, amorphous structure and low processing temperature. A ChG lift-off process and a nano-fabrication technique using focused ion beam milling have been developed to fabricate mid-IR ChG resonators and photonic crystal waveguide cavities. ChG resonators on CaF2 substrate claimed a high quality factor around 4 x 105. Using these devices, we have also

Retinol-Binding Protein 4 and Lipids Prospectively Measured During Early to Mid-Pregnancy in Relation to Preeclampsia and Preterm Birth Risk.

PubMed

Mendola, Pauline; Ghassabian, Akhgar; Mills, James L; Zhang, Cuilin; Tsai, Michael Y; Liu, Aiyi; Yeung, Edwina H

2017-06-01

Maternal retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and lipids may relate to preeclampsia and preterm birth risk but longitudinal data are lacking. This study examines these biomarkers longitudinally during pregnancy in relation to preeclampsia and preterm birth risk. Maternal serum samples from the Calcium for Preeclampsia Prevention (CPEP) trial were analyzed at baseline: average 15 gestational weeks; mid-pregnancy: average 27 weeks; and at >34 weeks. We measured RBP4, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides and lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)). Cross-sectional logistic regression analyses estimated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for preterm preeclampsia (n = 63), term preeclampsia (n = 104), and preterm delivery (n = 160) associated with RBP4 and lipids at baseline and mid-pregnancy compared with controls (n = 136). Longitudinal trajectories across pregnancy were assessed using mixed linear models with fixed effects. Adjusted models included clinical and demographic factors. RBP4 concentrations at baseline and mid-pregnancy were associated with a 4- to 8-fold increase in preterm preeclampsia risk but were not associated with term preeclampsia. RBP4 measured mid-pregnancy was also associated with preterm birth (OR = 6.67, 95% CI: 1.65, 26.84). Higher triglyceride concentrations in mid-pregnancy were associated with a 2- to 4-fold increased risk for both preeclampsia and preterm birth. Longitudinal models demonstrate that both preterm preeclampsia and preterm birth cases had elevated RBP4 throughout gestation. Elevated RBP4 is detectable early in pregnancy and its strong relation with preterm preeclampsia merits further investigation and confirmation to evaluate its potential use as a predictor, particularly among high-risk women. © Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of American Journal of Hypertension Ltd 2017. This work is written by (a) US Government employees(s) and is in the public domain in the US.

Strengthened African summer monsoon in the mid-Piacenzian

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ran; Zhang, Zhongshi; Jiang, Dabang; Yan, Qing; Zhou, Xin; Cheng, Zhigang

2016-09-01

Using model results from the first phase of the Pliocene Model Intercomparison Project (PlioMIP) and four experiments with CAM4, the intensified African summer monsoon (ASM) in the mid-Piacenzian and corresponding mechanisms are analyzed. The results from PlioMIP show that the ASM intensified and summer precipitation increased in North Africa during the mid-Piacenzian, which can be explained by the increased net energy in the atmospheric column above North Africa. Further experiments with CAM4 indicated that the combined changes in the mid-Piacenzian of atmospheric CO2 concentration and SST, as well as the vegetation change, could have substantially increased the net energy in the atmospheric column over North Africa and further intensified the ASM. The experiments also demonstrated that topography change had a weak effect. Overall, the combined changes of atmospheric CO2 concentration and SST were the most important factor that brought about the intensified ASM in the mid-Piacenzian.

Training-induced recovery of low-level vision followed by mid-level perceptual improvements in developmental object and face agnosia

PubMed Central

Lev, Maria; Gilaie-Dotan, Sharon; Gotthilf-Nezri, Dana; Yehezkel, Oren; Brooks, Joseph L; Perry, Anat; Bentin, Shlomo; Bonneh, Yoram; Polat, Uri

2015-01-01

Long-term deprivation of normal visual inputs can cause perceptual impairments at various levels of visual function, from basic visual acuity deficits, through mid-level deficits such as contour integration and motion coherence, to high-level face and object agnosia. Yet it is unclear whether training during adulthood, at a post-developmental stage of the adult visual system, can overcome such developmental impairments. Here, we visually trained LG, a developmental object and face agnosic individual. Prior to training, at the age of 20, LG's basic and mid-level visual functions such as visual acuity, crowding effects, and contour integration were underdeveloped relative to normal adult vision, corresponding to or poorer than those of 5–6 year olds (Gilaie-Dotan, Perry, Bonneh, Malach & Bentin, 2009). Intensive visual training, based on lateral interactions, was applied for a period of 9 months. LG's directly trained but also untrained visual functions such as visual acuity, crowding, binocular stereopsis and also mid-level contour integration improved significantly and reached near-age-level performance, with long-term (over 4 years) persistence. Moreover, mid-level functions that were tested post-training were found to be normal in LG. Some possible subtle improvement was observed in LG's higher-order visual functions such as object recognition and part integration, while LG's face perception skills have not improved thus far. These results suggest that corrective training at a post-developmental stage, even in the adult visual system, can prove effective, and its enduring effects are the basis for a revival of a developmental cascade that can lead to reduced perceptual impairments. PMID:24698161

Training-induced recovery of low-level vision followed by mid-level perceptual improvements in developmental object and face agnosia.

PubMed

Lev, Maria; Gilaie-Dotan, Sharon; Gotthilf-Nezri, Dana; Yehezkel, Oren; Brooks, Joseph L; Perry, Anat; Bentin, Shlomo; Bonneh, Yoram; Polat, Uri

2015-01-01

Long-term deprivation of normal visual inputs can cause perceptual impairments at various levels of visual function, from basic visual acuity deficits, through mid-level deficits such as contour integration and motion coherence, to high-level face and object agnosia. Yet it is unclear whether training during adulthood, at a post-developmental stage of the adult visual system, can overcome such developmental impairments. Here, we visually trained LG, a developmental object and face agnosic individual. Prior to training, at the age of 20, LG's basic and mid-level visual functions such as visual acuity, crowding effects, and contour integration were underdeveloped relative to normal adult vision, corresponding to or poorer than those of 5-6 year olds (Gilaie-Dotan, Perry, Bonneh, Malach & Bentin, 2009). Intensive visual training, based on lateral interactions, was applied for a period of 9 months. LG's directly trained but also untrained visual functions such as visual acuity, crowding, binocular stereopsis and also mid-level contour integration improved significantly and reached near-age-level performance, with long-term (over 4 years) persistence. Moreover, mid-level functions that were tested post-training were found to be normal in LG. Some possible subtle improvement was observed in LG's higher-order visual functions such as object recognition and part integration, while LG's face perception skills have not improved thus far. These results suggest that corrective training at a post-developmental stage, even in the adult visual system, can prove effective, and its enduring effects are the basis for a revival of a developmental cascade that can lead to reduced perceptual impairments. © 2014 The Authors. Developmental Science Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

X-linked microtubule-associated protein, Mid1, regulates axon development

PubMed Central

Lu, Tingjia; Chen, Renchao; Cox, Timothy C.; Moldrich, Randal X.; Kurniawan, Nyoman; Tan, Guohe; Perry, Jo K.; Ashworth, Alan; Bartlett, Perry F.; Xu, Li; Zhang, Jing; Lu, Bin; Wu, Mingyue; Shen, Qi; Liu, Yuanyuan; Richards, Linda J.; Xiong, Zhiqi

2013-01-01

Opitz syndrome (OS) is a genetic neurological disorder. The gene responsible for the X-linked form of OS, Midline-1 (MID1), encodes an E3 ubiquitin ligase that regulates the degradation of the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2Ac). However, how Mid1 functions during neural development is largely unknown. In this study, we provide data from in vitro and in vivo experiments suggesting that silencing Mid1 in developing neurons promotes axon growth and branch formation, resulting in a disruption of callosal axon projections in the contralateral cortex. In addition, a similar phenotype of axonal development was observed in the Mid1 knockout mouse. This defect was largely due to the accumulation of PP2Ac in Mid1-depleted cells as further down-regulation of PP2Ac rescued the axonal phenotype. Together, these data demonstrate that Mid1-dependent PP2Ac turnover is important for normal axonal development and that dysregulation of this process may contribute to the underlying cause of OS. PMID:24194544

X-linked microtubule-associated protein, Mid1, regulates axon development.

PubMed

Lu, Tingjia; Chen, Renchao; Cox, Timothy C; Moldrich, Randal X; Kurniawan, Nyoman; Tan, Guohe; Perry, Jo K; Ashworth, Alan; Bartlett, Perry F; Xu, Li; Zhang, Jing; Lu, Bin; Wu, Mingyue; Shen, Qi; Liu, Yuanyuan; Richards, Linda J; Xiong, Zhiqi

2013-11-19

Opitz syndrome (OS) is a genetic neurological disorder. The gene responsible for the X-linked form of OS, Midline-1 (MID1), encodes an E3 ubiquitin ligase that regulates the degradation of the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2Ac). However, how Mid1 functions during neural development is largely unknown. In this study, we provide data from in vitro and in vivo experiments suggesting that silencing Mid1 in developing neurons promotes axon growth and branch formation, resulting in a disruption of callosal axon projections in the contralateral cortex. In addition, a similar phenotype of axonal development was observed in the Mid1 knockout mouse. This defect was largely due to the accumulation of PP2Ac in Mid1-depleted cells as further down-regulation of PP2Ac rescued the axonal phenotype. Together, these data demonstrate that Mid1-dependent PP2Ac turnover is important for normal axonal development and that dysregulation of this process may contribute to the underlying cause of OS.

Mid-pregnancy circulating immune biomarkers in women with preeclampsia and normotensive controls.

PubMed

Taylor, Brandie D; Tang, Gong; Ness, Roberta B; Olsen, Jørn; Hougaard, David M; Skogstrand, Kristin; Roberts, James M; Haggerty, Catherine L

2016-01-01

To determine if mid-pregnancy circulating immune biomarkers are associated with preeclampsia. Nested case-control study of 410 preeclamptic women and 297 normotensive controls with primiparous singleton pregnancies enrolled in the Danish National Birth Cohort. The mean gestational age in our cohort is 16 weeks (range 9-26). Preeclampsia was defined by blood pressure ⩾140/90 mmHg and proteinuria ⩾3 g/24 h. Serum immune biomarkers included interleukin (IL)-6, IL-6 receptor, IL-4, IL-4 receptor, IL-5, IL-12, IL-2, TNF-α, TNF-β, TNF-receptor, IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, IL-18, macrophage migration inhibitory factor, macrophage inflammatory protein, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and RANTES. Associations with preeclampsia, term preeclampsia and preterm preeclampsia were determined using two logistic regression models; (1) biomarkers were dichotomized by the limit of detection (LOD); (2) on the continuous scale, non-detectable values were imputed by LOD/2 and transformed (base 2). All models were adjusted for body mass index and smoking. IL1β was significantly associated with a decrease in the log odds of preeclampsia (p=0.0065), term preeclampsia (p=0.0230) and preterm preeclampsia (p=0.0068). Results were similar for IL4r and preeclampsia (p=0.0383). In the dichotomized models, detectable TNF-β was significantly associated with preeclampsia (ORadj 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.3) and term preeclampsia (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1-2.5) but not preterm preeclampsia. Detectable IL6 was significantly with term preeclampsia only (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1-2.2). Mid-pregnancy circulating IL1β, IL4r, IL6, and TNFβ were associated with preeclampsia. However, results were not consistent across statistical models. As the relationship is complex, future studies should explore cytokine clusters in preeclampsia risk. Copyright © 2015 International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

2013 New Mexico Mid-Region Travel Survey | Transportation Secure Data

Science.gov Websites

Center | NREL 3 New Mexico Mid-Region Travel Survey 2013 New Mexico Mid-Region Travel Survey The 2013 New Mexico Mid-Region Travel Survey assessed travel behavior patterns to update a travel ) contracted with Westat to conduct the survey. Methodology The survey included the collection of socio

Mid-infrared materials and devices on a Si platform for optical sensing

PubMed Central

Singh, Vivek; Lin, Pao Tai; Patel, Neil; Lin, Hongtao; Li, Lan; Zou, Yi; Deng, Fei; Ni, Chaoying; Hu, Juejun; Giammarco, James; Soliani, Anna Paola; Zdyrko, Bogdan; Luzinov, Igor; Novak, Spencer; Novak, Jackie; Wachtel, Peter; Danto, Sylvain; Musgraves, J David; Richardson, Kathleen; Kimerling, Lionel C; Agarwal, Anuradha M

2014-01-01

In this article, we review our recent work on mid-infrared (mid-IR) photonic materials and devices fabricated on silicon for on-chip sensing applications. Pedestal waveguides based on silicon are demonstrated as broadband mid-IR sensors. Our low-loss mid-IR directional couplers demonstrated in SiNx waveguides are useful in differential sensing applications. Photonic crystal cavities and microdisk resonators based on chalcogenide glasses for high sensitivity are also demonstrated as effective mid-IR sensors. Polymer-based functionalization layers, to enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of our sensor devices, are also presented. We discuss the design of mid-IR chalcogenide waveguides integrated with polycrystalline PbTe detectors on a monolithic silicon platform for optical sensing, wherein the use of a low-index spacer layer enables the evanescent coupling of mid-IR light from the waveguides to the detector. Finally, we show the successful fabrication processing of our first prototype mid-IR waveguide-integrated detectors. PMID:27877641

Mid-pregnancy maternal leptin levels, birthweight for gestational age and preterm delivery

PubMed Central

Shroff, M.R.; Holzman, C.; Tian, Y.; Evans, R. W.; Sikorskii, A.

2014-01-01

Summary Objective Maternal blood leptin levels are positively associated with adiposity. Recent studies suggest that leptin is also abundantly produced by the placenta and may function as a regulator of fetal growth. Our goal was to examine mid-pregnancy levels of leptin in maternal blood in relation to birthweight for gestational age (BW/GA) and timing of delivery after accounting for maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (prepreg-BMI) and pregnancy complications. Patients Data were from 1,304 sub-cohort mother/infant pairs who participated in the Pregnancy Outcomes and Community Health (POUCH) Study (1998–2004). Measurements Leptin levels, measured at 16–27 weeks’ gestation, were log-transformed. Geometric mean (GMean) leptin levels were estimated by weighted linear regression with gestational age at blood draw as a covariate. GMean was re-transformed to the original scale for reporting. Results Using the GMeans leptin in mothers of term appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) neonates as the referent (25.2 μg/L), we observed lower levels in mothers of preterm AGA (21.9 μg/L), term small-for-gestational age (SGA) (20.3 μg/L), and preterm SGA neonates (21.7 μg/L). Results were largely unchanged after adjustment for prepreg-BMI. Leptin levels were higher in mothers who delivered large-for-gestational age (LGA) neonates, both preterm (33.6 μg/L) and term (29.1 μg/L), but the GMeans were markedly attenuated after adjustment for prepreg-BMI. Conclusion The association between BW/GA and maternal leptin levels after adjustment for prepreg-BMI may represent: 1) a residual effect of maternal adiposity that is not fully captured by BMI; and/or 2) variation in placental leptin levels entering the maternal circulation. In conclusion, mid-pregnancy maternal blood leptin levels may be an early indicator of fetal growth status. PMID:22934578

Mid-pregnancy maternal leptin levels, birthweight for gestational age and preterm delivery.

PubMed

Shroff, Monal R; Holzman, Claudia; Tian, Yan; Evans, Rhobert W; Sikorskii, Alla

2013-04-01

Maternal blood leptin levels are positively associated with adiposity. Recent studies suggest that leptin is also abundantly produced by the placenta and may function as a regulator of foetal growth. Our goal was to examine mid-pregnancy levels of leptin in maternal blood in relation to birthweight for gestational age (BW/GA) and timing of delivery after accounting for maternal prepregnancy body mass index (prepreg-BMI) and pregnancy complications. Data were from 1304 subcohort mother/infant pairs who participated in the Pregnancy Outcomes and Community Health (POUCH) Study (1998-2004). Leptin levels, measured at 16-27 weeks' gestation, were log-transformed. Geometric mean (GMean) leptin levels were estimated by weighted linear regression with gestational age at blood draw as a covariate. GMean was re-transformed to the original scale for reporting. Using the GMeans leptin in mothers of term appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) neonates as the referent (25·2 μg/l), we observed lower levels in mothers of preterm-AGA (21·9 μg/l), term small-for-gestational age (SGA) (20·3 μg/l) and preterm-SGA neonates (21·7 μg/l). Results were largely unchanged after adjustment for prepreg-BMI. Leptin levels were higher in mothers who delivered large-for-gestational age (LGA) neonates, both preterm (33·6 μg/l) and term (29·1 μg/l), but the GMeans were markedly attenuated after adjustment for prepreg-BMI. The association between BW/GA and maternal leptin levels after adjustment for prepreg-BMI may represent: (i) a residual effect of maternal adiposity that is not fully captured by BMI; and/or (ii) variation in placental leptin levels entering the maternal circulation. In conclusion, mid-pregnancy maternal blood leptin levels may be an early indicator of foetal growth status. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Mid-infrared spectroscopy in skin cancer cell type identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Kemper, Björn; Lloyd, Gavin R.; Nallala, Jayakrupakar; Stone, Nick; Naranjo, Valery; Penaranda, Francisco; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2017-07-01

Mid infrared spectroscopy samples were developed for the analysis of skin tumor cell types and three dimensional tissue phantoms towards the application of midIR spectroscopy for fast and reliable skin cancer diagnostics.

Degeneration of Phrenic Motor Neurons Induces Long-Term Diaphragm Deficits following Mid-Cervical Spinal Contusion in Mice

PubMed Central

Nicaise, Charles; Putatunda, Rajarshi; Hala, Tamara J.; Regan, Kathleen A.; Frank, David M.; Brion, Jean-Pierre; Leroy, Karelle; Pochet, Roland; Wright, Megan C.

2012-01-01

Abstract A primary cause of morbidity and mortality following cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) is respiratory compromise, regardless of the level of trauma. In particular, SCI at mid-cervical regions targets degeneration of both descending bulbospinal respiratory axons and cell bodies of phrenic motor neurons, resulting in deficits in the function of the diaphragm, the primary muscle of inspiration. Contusion-type trauma to the cervical spinal cord is one of the most common forms of human SCI; however, few studies have evaluated mid-cervical contusion in animal models or characterized consequent histopathological and functional effects of degeneration of phrenic motor neuron–diaphragm circuitry. We have generated a mouse model of cervical contusion SCI that unilaterally targets both C4 and C5 levels, the location of the phrenic motor neuron pool, and have examined histological and functional outcomes for up to 6 weeks post-injury. We report that phrenic motor neuron loss in cervical spinal cord, phrenic nerve axonal degeneration, and denervation at diaphragm neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) resulted in compromised ipsilateral diaphragm function, as demonstrated by persistent reduction in diaphragm compound muscle action potential amplitudes following phrenic nerve stimulation and abnormalities in spontaneous diaphragm electromyography (EMG) recordings. This injury paradigm is reproducible, does not require ventilatory assistance, and provides proof-of-principle that generation of unilateral cervical contusion is a feasible strategy for modeling diaphragmatic/respiratory deficits in mice. This study and its accompanying analyses pave the way for using transgenic mouse technology to explore the function of specific genes in the pathophysiology of phrenic motor neuron degeneration and respiratory dysfunction following cervical SCI. PMID:23176637

Extended phase-matching properties of periodically poled potassium niobate crystals for mid-infrared polarization-entangled photon-pair generation.

PubMed

Lee, Kwang Jo; Lee, Sunmi; Shin, Heedeuk

2016-12-01

We report the extended phase-matching (EPM) properties of two kinds of periodically poled potassium niobate (KNbO₃ or KN) crystals (i.e., periodic 180°- and 90°-domain structures) that are highly useful for the generation of polarization-entangled photon pairs in the mid-infrared (IR) spectral region. Under the degenerate Type II spontaneous parametric downconversion process satisfying the EPM condition, an input single photon with a frequency of 2ω generates a pair of synchronized photons with identical frequencies of ω that are orthogonally polarized with respect to each other (i.e., the frequency-coincident, polarization-entangled biphoton states). Our simulation results illustrate that the EPM is achievable in the mid-IR spectral region: at the wavelengths of 3.80 μm and 4.03 μm for periodic 90°- and 180°-domain structures, respectively. We will describe in detail the EPM properties of both cases in terms of interaction types and the corresponding nonlinear optic coefficients, phase-matching bandwidths, and domain poling periods. The calculated EPM bandwidths are much broader than 200 nm in the mid-IR for both cases, exhibiting a great potential for nonlinear-optic signal processing in quantum communication systems operating in the mid-IR bands.

Mid infrared LHS system packaging using flexible waveguides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yu, Chung

1987-01-01

As mid IR fiber optic systems are rapidly approaching a reality, so is the feasibility of fiber optic laser heterodyne systems. Laser heterodyne spectroscopy for high resolution monitoring of atmospheric gaseous pollutants is necessarily in the mid IR, the region in which the absorption signature of gaseous species is most prominent. It so happens that the lowest theoretical loss due to Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering also lies in the mid IR. Prospects of highly efficient laser heterodyne systems are thus very good. Such fibers are now beginning to be commercially available, and a test program is being conducted for such fibers with ambient temperature ranging from cryogenic to above room, and stringest mechanical flexibility requirements. Preliminary results are encouraging. A program is being started to explore the possibility of mid IR fiber optic device applications, by taking advantage of this phonon rich region. The potential long interaction length in fibers coupled with predicted extremely low losses point to stimulated Brillouin scattering based devices in the mW range. The generation of backscattered sBs at low laser powers is significant not only as an ultimate power limiting factor for laser transmission in fibers in the mid IR, but also the presence of frequency-shifted multiple order sBs Stokes and antiStokes lines will certainly have severe effect on the laser beats crucial in high resolution heterodyne spectroscopy.

GLOBAL CHANGE RESEARCH NEWS #17: PUBLICATION OF MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL ASSESSMENT

EPA Science Inventory

The report, "Preparing for a Changing Climate: The Potential Consequences of Climate Variability and Change - Mid-Atlantic Overview", summarizes the findings of the first Mid-Atlantic Regional Assessment. The Mid-Atlantic Regional Assessment was led by a team from The Pennsylvani...

Near-room-temperature Mid-infrared Photoconductor Signal and Noise Characterization

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

Near-room-temperature Mid-infrared Photoconductor Signal and Noise Characterization by Justin R. Bickford, Neal K. Bambha, and Wayne H. Chang...Adelphi, MD 20783-1197 ARL-TR-6169 September 2012 Near-room-temperature Mid-infrared Photoconductor Signal and Noise Characterization...temperature Mid-infrared Photoconductor Signal and Noise Characterization 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6

Ice particle production in mid-level stratiform mixed-phase clouds observed with collocated A-Train measurements

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Damao; Wang, Zhien; Kollias, Pavlos

In this study, collocated A-Train CloudSat radar and CALIPSO lidar measurements between 2006 and 2010 are analyzed to study primary ice particle production characteristics in mid-level stratiform mixed-phase clouds on a global scale. For similar clouds in terms of cloud top temperature and liquid water path, Northern Hemisphere latitude bands have layer-maximum radar reflectivity (ZL) that is ~1 to 8 dBZ larger than their counterparts in the Southern Hemisphere. The systematically larger ZL under similar cloud conditions suggests larger ice number concentrations in mid-level stratiform mixed-phase clouds over the Northern Hemisphere, which is possibly related to higher background aerosol loadings.more » Furthermore, we show that springtime northern mid- and high latitudes have ZL that is larger by up to 6 dBZ (a factor of 4 higher ice number concentration) than other seasons, which might be related to more dust events that provide effective ice nucleating particles. Our study suggests that aerosol-dependent ice number concentration parameterizations are required in climate models to improve mixed-phase cloud simulations, especially over the Northern Hemisphere.« less

Ice particle production in mid-level stratiform mixed-phase clouds observed with collocated A-Train measurements

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Damao; Wang, Zhien; Kollias, Pavlos; ...

2018-03-28

In this study, collocated A-Train CloudSat radar and CALIPSO lidar measurements between 2006 and 2010 are analyzed to study primary ice particle production characteristics in mid-level stratiform mixed-phase clouds on a global scale. For similar clouds in terms of cloud top temperature and liquid water path, Northern Hemisphere latitude bands have layer-maximum radar reflectivity (ZL) that is ~1 to 8 dBZ larger than their counterparts in the Southern Hemisphere. The systematically larger ZL under similar cloud conditions suggests larger ice number concentrations in mid-level stratiform mixed-phase clouds over the Northern Hemisphere, which is possibly related to higher background aerosol loadings.more » Furthermore, we show that springtime northern mid- and high latitudes have ZL that is larger by up to 6 dBZ (a factor of 4 higher ice number concentration) than other seasons, which might be related to more dust events that provide effective ice nucleating particles. Our study suggests that aerosol-dependent ice number concentration parameterizations are required in climate models to improve mixed-phase cloud simulations, especially over the Northern Hemisphere.« less

Water masses transform at mid-depths over the Antarctic Continental Slope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mead Silvester, Jess; Lenn, Yueng-Djern; Polton, Jeffrey; Phillips, Helen E.; Morales Maqueda, Miguel

2017-04-01

The Meridional Overturning Circulation (MOC) controls the oceans' latitudinal heat distribution, helping to regulate the Earth's climate. The Southern Ocean is the primary place where cool, deep waters return to the surface to complete this global circulation. While water mass transformations intrinsic to this process predominantly take place at the surface following upwelling, recent studies implicate vertical mixing in allowing transformation at mid-depths over the Antarctic continental slope. We deployed an EM-Apex float near Elephant Island, north of the Antarctic Peninsula's tip, to profile along the slope and use potential vorticity to diagnose observed instabilities. The float captures direct heat exchange between a lens of Upper Circumpolar Deep Water (UCDW) and surrounding Lower Circumpolar Deep Waters (LCDW) at mid-depths and over the course of several days. Heat fluxes peak across the top and bottom boundaries of the UCDW lens and peak diffusivities across the bottom boundary are associated with shear instability. Estimates of diffusivity from shear-strain finestructure parameterisation and heat fluxes are found to be in reasonable agreement. The two-dimensional Ertel potential vorticity is elevated both inside the UCDW lens and along its bottom boundary, with a strong contribution from the shear term in these regions and instabilities are associated with gravitational and symmetric forcing. Thus, shear instabilities are driving turbulent mixing across the lower boundary between these two water masses, leading to the observed heat exchange and transformation at mid-depths over the Antarctic continental slope. This has implications for our understanding of the rates of upwelling and ocean-atmosphere exchanges of heat and carbon at this critical location.

The Mid-Atlantic Twin Registry, revisited.

PubMed

Lilley, Emily C H; Silberg, Judy L

2013-02-01

The Mid-Atlantic Twin Registry (MATR) is a population-based registry of more than 56,000 twins primarily born or living in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The MATR employs several methods of ascertaining twins, and devotes considerable resources to tracking and maintaining communication with MATR participants. Researchers may utilize the MATR for administration of research services including study recruitment, collection of DNA, archival data set creation, as well as data collection through mailed, phone, or online surveys. In addition, the MATR houses the MATR Repository, with over 1,200 blood samples available for researchers interested in DNA genotyping. For over 35 years MATR twins have participated in research studies with investigators from diverse scientific disciplines and various institutions. These studies, which have resulted in numerous publications, have covered a range of topics, including the human microbiome, developmental psychopathology, depression, anxiety, substance use, epigenetics of aging, children of twins, pre-term birth, social attitudes, seizures, eating disorders, as well as sleep homeostasis. Researchers interested in utilizing twins are encouraged to contact the MATR to discuss potential research opportunities.

Broadband mid-infrared measurements for shock induced chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGrane, Shawn; Bowlan, Pamela; Brown, Kathryn; Bolme, Cynthia; Cawkwell, Marc

2017-06-01

Vibrational absorption spectroscopy across the mid-infrared range is a ubiquitous diagnostic of chemical effects due to its sensitivity to small variations in bonding. At the high temperatures and pressures relevant to shock induced chemistry, vibrational spectral peaks become very broad, and accessing as much spectral range as possible with high time resolution can significantly aid in deducing chemical dynamics. Here, we report experiments using broadband (<500 cm-1 to >2000 cm-1) mid-infrared femtosecond supercontinua created by four wave mixing in filaments to perform absorption spectroscopy. These broadband mid-infrared supercontinua are detected through upconversion to visible light. Initial efforts to utilize these methods for measurement of chemical dynamics in shocked nitromethane will be reported.

Mid-Term Results of Surgical Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation in Valvular Heart Disease Assesed by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography

PubMed Central

Lorenzo, Natalia; Mendez, Irene; Taibo, Mikel; Martinis, Gianfranco; Badia, Sara; Reyes, Guillermo; Aguilar, Rio

2018-01-01

Background Atrial fibrillation frequently affects patients with valvular heart disease. Ablation of atrial fibrillation during valvular surgery is an alternative for restoring sinus rhythm. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate mid-term results of successful atrial fibrillation surgical ablation during valvular heart disease surgery, to explore left atrium post-ablation mechanics and to identify predictors of recurrence. Methods Fifty-three consecutive candidates were included. Eligibility criteria for ablation included persistent atrial fibrillation <10 years and left atrium diameter < 6.0 cm. Three months after surgery, echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter monitoring and electrocardiograms were performed in all candidates who maintained sinus rhythm (44 patients). Echo-study included left atrial deformation parameters (strain and strain rate), using 2-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. Simultaneously, 30 healthy individuals (controls) were analyzed with the same protocol for left atrial performance. Significance was considered with a P value of < 0.05. Results After a mean follow up of 17 ± 2 months, 13 new post-operative cases of recurrent atrial fibrillation were identified. A total of 1,245 left atrial segments were analysed. Left atrium was severely dilated in the post-surgery group and, mechanical properties of left atrium did not recover after surgery when compared with normal values. Left atrial volume (≥ 64 mL/m2) was the only independent predictor of atrial fibrillation recurrence (p = 0.03). Conclusions Left atrial volume was larger in patients with atrial fibrillation recurrence and emerges as the main predictor of recurrences, thereby improving the selection of candidates for this therapy; however, no differences were found regarding myocardial deformation parameters. Despite electrical maintenance of sinus rhythm, left atrium mechanics did not recover after atrial fibrillation ablation performed during valvular heart disease surgery. PMID

Early and mid-term outcome of the arterial switch operation in 114 consecutive patients : A single centre experience.

PubMed

Prandstetter, C; Hofer, A; Lechner, E; Mair, R; Sames-Dolzer, E; Tulzer, G

2007-10-01

The arterial switch operation (ASO) has become the treatment of choice in patients with simple or complex transposition of the great arteries (TGA). The purpose of this study was to assess early and mid-term outcome after ASO in a single centre. Between 1995 and December 2005, 114 consecutive patients underwent an ASO at our institution, performed by one single surgeon. Patients charts, surgical reports and echocardiograms were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were analyzed in 3 different groups: Group I consisted of 77 neonates with TGA and intact ventricular septum, group II of 13 patients with TGA and ventricular septal defect which had to be closed surgically and group III of 24 patients with various forms of TGA in a complex setting. The patient's median weight was 3.23 kg (1.65-8.30). Twenty-five neonates were born preterm, 18 were diagnosed prenatally. Median follow-up time was 20.7 months (0.3-128.6). The thirty day mortality was 1.75% (2/114), late mortality 0.88% (1/112) accounting for an overall mortality of 2.63%. There was only one early coronary event and so far no late events. Ten of 111 survivors required reoperation, all but 1 from group III. Prevalence of supravalvular pulmonary stenosis was 4.7%. Freedom from reoperation at 5 years of follow-up time was 87.5%. One patient required permanent pacing, no other late arrhythmias occurred. In our series the only risk factor for increased mortality and morbidity was a body weight of less than 2500 g at the time of operation. No better outcome could be demonstrated in the prenatally diagnosed patients. The ASO can be performed safely and with low mortality and morbidity even in patients with complex TGA. Follow-up of these patients is required to detect residual problems like supravalvular pulmonary stenosis, coronary problems, arrhythmias and aortic valve dysfunction.

Masked Symptoms: Mid-Life Women, Health, and Work

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abramson, Zelda

2007-01-01

Data from the Canadian Labour Force Survey (1997) reveal that relatively few mid-life women offer ill health as a reason for leaving their job or downshifting to part-time employment, implying that the role of ill health may be inconsequential in effecting changing patterns in mid-life women's labour force activity. In contrast, interviews with 30…

Fully stabilized mid-infrared frequency comb for high-precision molecular spectroscopy.

PubMed

Vainio, Markku; Karhu, Juho

2017-02-20

A fully stabilized mid-infrared optical frequency comb spanning from 2.9 to 3.4 µm is described in this article. The comb is based on half-harmonic generation in a femtosecond optical parametric oscillator, which transfers the high phase coherence of a fully stabilized near-infrared Er-doped fiber laser comb to the mid-infrared region. The method is simple, as no phase-locked loops or reference lasers are needed. Precise locking of optical frequencies of the mid-infrared comb to the pump comb is experimentally verified at sub-20 mHz level, which corresponds to a fractional statistical uncertainty of 2 × 10^-16 at the center frequency of the mid-infrared comb. The fully stabilized mid-infrared comb is an ideal tool for high-precision molecular spectroscopy, as well as for optical frequency metrology in the mid-infrared region, which is difficult to access with other stabilized frequency comb techniques.

A Lagrangian analysis of mid-latitude stratospheric ozone variability and long-term trends.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koch, G.; Wernli, H.; Staehelin, J.; Peter, T.

2002-05-01

A systematic Lagrangian investigation is performed of wintertime high-resolution stratospheric ozone soundings at Payerne, Switzerland, from January 1970 to March 2001. For every ozone sounding, 10-day backward trajectories have been calculated on 16 isentropic levels using NCEP reanalysis data. Both the minimum/maximum latitude and potential vorticity (PV) averaged along the trajectories are used as indicators of the air parcels' ``origin''. The importance of transport for the understandin g of single ozone profiles is confirmed by a statistical analysis which shows that negative/positive ozone deviations gener ally coincide with transport from regions with climatologically low/high ozone values. The stable relationship between PV and ozone for the 32 year period indicates either no direct chemical impact or no temporal change of this impact. In the upper layer the PV-ozone relationship changes significantly after 1987 and a separate trend analysis for air masses transported from the polar, midlatitude and subtropical regions shows negative ozone trends in all three categories (with a maximum for the polar region). This is not direct evidence for, but would be in agreement with, an increased chemical ozone depletion in the Arctic since the late 1980s. The reasons for the negative trend in the mid-stratospheric air masses with subtropical origin that are in qualitative agreement with recent satellite observations are presently unknown.

Anaortic off-pump versus clampless off-pump using the PAS-Port device versus conventional coronary artery bypass grafting: mid-term results from a matched propensity score analysis of 5422 unselected patients.

PubMed

Furukawa, Nobuyuki; Kuss, Oliver; Preindl, Konstantin; Renner, André; Aboud, Anas; Hakim-Meibodi, Kavous; Benzinger, Michael; Pühler, Thomas; Ensminger, Stephan; Fujita, Buntaro; Becker, Tobias; Gummert, Jan F; Börgermann, Jochen

2017-10-01

Meta-analyses from observational and randomized studies have demonstrated benefits of off-pump surgery for hard and surrogate endpoints. In some of them, increased re-revascularization was noted in the off-pump groups, which could impact their long-term survival. Therefore, we analyzed the course of all patients undergoing isolated coronary surgery regarding the major cardiac and cerebrovascular event (MACCE) criteria. A prospective register was taken from a high-volume off-pump center recording all anaortic off-pump (ANA), clampless off-pump (PAS-Port) and conventional (CONV) coronary artery bypass operations between July 2009 and June 2015. Propensity Score Matching was performed based on 28 preoperative risk variables. We identified 935 triplets (N = 2805). Compared with CONV, in-hospital mortality of both the ANA group (OR for ANA [95% CI] 0.25 [0.06; 0.83], P = 0.021), and the PAS-Port group was lower (OR for PAS-Port [95% CI] 0.50 [0.17; 1.32], P = 0.17). In the mid-term follow-up there were no significant differences between the groups regarding mortality (HR for ANA [95%-CI] 0.83 [0.55-1.26], P = 0.38; HR for PAS-Port [95%-CI] 1.06 [0.70-1.59], P = 0.79), incidence of stroke (HR for ANA 0.81 [0.43-1.53], P = 0.52; HR for PAS-Port 0.78 [0.41-1.50], P = 0.46), myocardial infarction (HR for ANA 0.53 [0.22-1.31], P = 0.17; HR for PAS-Port 0.78 [0.37-1.66], P = 0.52) or re-revascularization rate (HR for ANA 0.99 [0.67-1.44], P = 0.94; HR for PAS-Port 0.95 [0.65-1.38], P = 0.77). Both off-pump clampless techniques were associated with lower in-hospital mortality compared with conventional CABG. The mid-term course showed no difference with regard to the MACCE criteria between anaortic off-pump, clampless off-pump using PAS-Port and conventional CABG. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Appalachia meets the mid-south in Tennessee

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGowan, Richard S.; Jackson, Michel T.-T.

2003-04-01

The father of bluegrass and long-time member of the Opry in Nashville, Bill Monroe, had a number of musical influences, including blues, gospel, and the American versions of Anglo-Scots-Irish folk music endemic to Appalachia. (Although Bill Monroe was from western Kentucky, the Appalachian influence is apparent.) In 1946 he recorded a song for Columbia Records that he had written. This song was recorded again in 1954 at Sun Studios as a ``B side'' by the future king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley. Raised in East Tupelo, MS and Memphis, Elvis' music derived from the mid-south's blues and gospel music, but with a peculiar honkytonk-informed, Memphis style. We will compare these artists through this common song and their spoken interviews in terms of voice quality and English dialect. Some copy-synthesis of these artists will be attempted in our search for the high, lonesome and rock and roll sounds.

Marital Biography and Health at Mid-Life*

PubMed Central

Hughes, Mary Elizabeth; Waite, Linda J.

2011-01-01

This article develops a series of hypotheses about the long-term effects of one’s history of marriage, divorce, and widowhood on health, and it tests those hypotheses using data from the Health and Retirement Study. We examine four dimensions of health at mid-life: chronic conditions, mobility limitations, self-rated health, and depressive symptoms. We find that the experience of marital disruption damages health, with the effects still evident years later; among the currently married, those who have ever been divorced show worse health on all dimensions. Both the divorced and widowed who do not remarry show worse health than the currently married on all dimensions. Dimensions of health that seem to develop slowly, such as chronic conditions and mobility limitations, show strong effects of past marital disruption, whereas others, such as depressive symptoms, seem more sensitive to current marital status. Those who spent more years divorced or widowed show more chronic conditions and mobility limitations. PMID:19711810

The Mid-plane of the Main Asteroid Belt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cambioni, Saverio; Malhotra, Renu

2018-03-01

We measure the mid-plane of the main asteroid belt by using the observational data of a nearly complete and unbiased sample of asteroids and find that it has inclination \\bar{I}=0\\buildrel{\\circ}\\over{.} 93+/- 0\\buildrel{\\circ}\\over{.} 04 and longitude of ascending node \\bar{{{Ω }}}=87\\buildrel{\\circ}\\over{.} 6+/- 2\\buildrel{\\circ}\\over{.} 6 (in J2000 ecliptic-equinox coordinate system). This plane differs significantly from previously published measurements, and it is also distinctly different than the solar system’s invariable plane as well as Jupiter’s orbit plane. The mid-plane of the asteroid belt is theoretically expected to be a slightly warped sheet whose local normal is controlled by the gravity of the major planets. Specifically, its inclination and longitude of ascending node varies with semimajor axis and time (on secular timescales) and is defined by the forced solution of secular perturbation theory; the ν 16 nodal secular resonance is predicted to cause a significant warp of the mid-plane in the inner asteroid belt. We test the secular theory by measuring the current location of the asteroids’ mid-plane in finer semimajor axis bins. We find that the measured mid-plane in the middle and outer asteroid belt is consistent, within the 3σ confidence level, with the prediction of secular perturbation theory, but a notable discrepancy is present in the inner asteroid belt near ∼2 au.

Titan Moving Mid-Latitude Clouds

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-03-17

This image shows clouds in the mid-southern latitudes of Saturn largest moon, Titan, one of a series of images captured by NASA Cassini spacecraft a few months after fall began in the southern hemisphere.

Mid-term outcomes of orbital atherectomy combined with drug-coated balloon angioplasty for treatment of femoropopliteal disease.

PubMed

Foley, T Raymond; Cotter, Ryan P; Kokkinidis, Damianos G; Nguyen, Daniel D; Waldo, Stephen W; Armstrong, Ehrin J

2017-05-01

To assess the intraprocedural and mid-term outcomes of orbital atherectomy (OA) combined with drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty for the treatment of calcified femoropopliteal disease. In this single-center cohort, 89 patients (139 lesions) were treated with DCB angioplasty for claudication or critical limb ischemia (CLI). Angiographic characteristics and procedural outcomes were reviewed for patients treated with or without adjunctive OA. Lesion calcification was graded using two previously published scoring systems, the angiographic calcium score (ACS) and the peripheral artery calcification scoring system (PACSS). Among 139 lesions, 40 (29%) were treated with OA + DCB. Mean lesion length was 135 ± 100 mm for lesions treated with OA + DCB and 139 ± 100 mm for DCB alone (P = 0.9). Moderate to severe calcification was present in 83% of patients treated with OA, compared to 42% of patients treated with DCB alone (P < 0.001). Lesions treated with OA + DCB were less likely to require bailout stenting (18% vs. 39%, P =0.01). Rates of embolization (0% in OA + DCB vs. 2% in DCB only, P = 0.4), dissection (13% vs. 14%, P = 0.8), and perforation (0%) did not differ significantly between groups. The freedom from TLR at 1 year was 82% in both groups (P = 0.6) while primary patency was 81% in-patients treated with DCB alone and 77% in-patients treated with DCB with concomitant OA (P = 0.8). In this single-center analysis of patients undergoing DCB angioplasty for claudication or CLI, OA was most often used for the treatment of severely calcified lesions. These lesions were more likely to be treated with scoring balloons and less likely to require bailout stenting. At 1 year, target lesion revascularization and primary patency was similar in patients treated with and without adjunctive OA, despite the higher lesion complexity among those receiving the combination procedure. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley

Morphologies of mid-IR variability-selected AGN host galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polimera, Mugdha; Sarajedini, Vicki; Ashby, Matthew L. N.; Willner, S. P.; Fazio, Giovanni G.

2018-05-01

We use multi-epoch 3.6 and 4.5 μm data from the Spitzer Extended Deep Survey (SEDS) to probe the AGN population among galaxies to redshifts ˜3 via their mid-IR variability. About 1 per cent of all galaxies in our survey contain varying nuclei, 80 per cent of which are likely to be AGN. Twenty-three per cent of mid-IR variables are also X-ray sources. The mid-IR variables have a slightly greater fraction of weakly disturbed morphologies compared to a control sample of normal galaxies. The increased fraction of weakly distorted hosts becomes more significant when we remove the X-ray emitting AGN, while the frequency of strongly disturbed hosts remains similar to the control galaxy sample. These results suggest that mid-IR variability identifies a unique population of obscured, Compton-thick AGN revealing elevated levels of weak distortion among their host galaxies.

Mid-term results of lateral unicondylar mobile bearing knee arthroplasty: a multicentre study of 363 cases.

PubMed

Walker, T; Zahn, N; Bruckner, T; Streit, M R; Mohr, G; Aldinger, P R; Clarius, M; Gotterbarm, T

2018-01-01

The aim of this independent multicentre study was to assess the mid-term results of mobile bearing unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) for isolated lateral osteoarthritis of the knee joint. We retrospectively evaluated 363 consecutive, lateral UKAs (346 patients) performed using the Oxford domed lateral prosthesis undertaken in three high-volume knee arthroplasty centres between 2006 and 2014. Mean age of the patients at surgery was 65 years (36 to 88) with a mean final follow-up of 37 months (12 to 93) RESULTS: A total of 36 (10.5%) patients underwent revision surgery, giving a survival rate of 90.1% at three years (95% confidence intervals (CI) 86.1 to 93.1; number at risk: 155) and 85.0% at five years (95% CI 77.9 to 89.9; number at risk: 43). Dislocation of the mobile bearing occurred in 18 patients (5.6%) at three years (95% CI 1.0 to 16.4; number at risk: 154) and in 20 patients (8.5%) at five years (95% CI 1.0 to 27.0; number at risk: 42). There were no significant differences in the dislocation rate between the participating centres or the surgeons. We were not able to identify an effect of each surgeon's learning curve on the dislocation rate of the mobile bearing. The clinical outcome in patients without revision surgery at final follow-up was good to excellent, with a mean Oxford knee score of 40.3 (95% CI 39.4 to 41.2), a mean Tegner activity score of 3.2 (95% CI 3.1 to 3.3) and a mean University of California, Los Angeles score of 5.7 (95% CI 5.5 to 5.9). Our data, which consists of a high number of patients treated with mobile bearing UKA in the lateral compartment, indicates a high revision rate of 15% at five years with dislocation of the mobile bearing being the main reason for implant failure. Despite the good functional and clinical results and the high patient satisfaction in our study group, we therefore discontinued using mobile-bearing lateral UKA in favour of a fixed-bearing component. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:42-9. ©2018

Promising Mid-term Results With a Cup-cage Construct for Large Acetabular Defects and Pelvic Discontinuity.

PubMed

Amenabar, Tomas; Rahman, Wael A; Hetaimish, Bandar M; Kuzyk, Paul R; Safir, Oleg A; Gross, Allan E

2016-02-01

Restoring normal anatomy and achieving stable fixation of the acetabular component can be especially challenging when the surgeon must deal with severe acetabular defects and/or pelvic discontinuity. The cup-cage (CC) construct, where an ilioischial cage is cemented within a biologically fixed porous metal cup, has emerged as an excellent option to treat such challenges. We sought to determine (1) mid-term Kaplan-Meier survival; (2) clinical outcomes based on Merle d'Aubigné-Postel scores; (3) radiological outcomes based primarily on construct migration; and (4) the complication rate for a series of 67 CC procedures performed at our institution. All hip revision procedures between January 2003 and March 2012 where a CC was used (with the exception of tumor cases or acute fracture; four total cases) that had a minimum 2-year followup and that had been seen within the last 2 years were included in this retrospective review. Acetabular bone loss and presence of pelvic discontinuity were assessed according to the Gross classification. Sixty-seven CC procedures with an average followup of 74 months (range, 24-135 months; SD, 34.3) months were identified; 26 of 67 (39%) were Gross Type IV and 41 of 67 (61%) were Gross Type V (pelvic discontinuity). Postoperative clinical and radiological evaluation was done annually. Merle d'Aubigné-Postel scores were recorded and all radiographs were compared with the 6-week postoperative radiographs to evaluate for radiographic loosening or migration. Failure was defined as revision surgery for any cause, including infection. The 5-year Kaplan-Meier survival rate with revision for any cause representing failure was 93% (95% confidence interval [CI], 83.1-97.4), and the 10-year survival rate was 85% (95% CI, 67.2-93.8). The Merle d'Aubigné-Postel score improved significantly from a mean of 6 preoperatively to 13 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Four CC had nonprogressive radiological migration of the ischial flange and they remain stable

Training-Induced Recovery of Low-Level Vision Followed by Mid-Level Perceptual Improvements in Developmental Object and Face Agnosia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lev, Maria; Gilaie-Dotan, Sharon; Gotthilf-Nezri, Dana; Yehezkel, Oren; Brooks, Joseph L.; Perry, Anat; Bentin, Shlomo; Bonneh, Yoram; Polat, Uri

2015-01-01

Long-term deprivation of normal visual inputs can cause perceptual impairments at various levels of visual function, from basic visual acuity deficits, through mid-level deficits such as contour integration and motion coherence, to high-level face and object agnosia. Yet it is unclear whether training during adulthood, at a post-developmental…

Mid-infrared plasmonic inductors: Enhancing inductance with meandering lines

PubMed Central

Torres, Víctor; Ortuño, Rubén; Rodríguez-Ulibarri, Pablo; Griol, Amadeu; Martínez, Alejandro; Navarro-Cía, Miguel; Beruete, Miguel; Sorolla, Mario

2014-01-01

We present a mid-infrared inductor that when applied to an extraordinary transmission hole array produces a strong redshift of the resonant peak accompanied by an unprecedented enlargement of the operation bandwidth. The importance of the result is twofold: from a fundamental viewpoint, the direct applicability of equivalent circuit concepts borrowed from microwaves is demonstrated, in frequencies as high as 17 THz upholding unification of plasmonics and microwave concepts and allowing for a simplification of structure design and analysis; in practical terms, a broadband funnelling of infrared radiation with fractional bandwidth and efficiency as high as 97% and 48%, respectively, is achieved through an area less than one hundredth the squared wavelength, which leads to an impressive accessible strong field localization that may be of great interest in sensing applications. PMID:24393839

Doctors or mid-level providers for abortion.

PubMed

Barnard, Sharmani; Kim, Caron; Park, Min Hae; Ngo, Thoai D

2015-07-27

The World Health Organization recommends that abortion can be provided at the lowest level of the healthcare system. Training mid-level providers, such as midwives, nurses and other non-physician providers, to conduct first trimester aspiration abortions and manage medical abortions has been proposed as a way to increase women's access to safe abortion procedures. To assess the safety and effectiveness of abortion procedures administered by mid-level providers compared to doctors. We searched the CENTRAL Issue 7, MEDLINE and POPLINE databases for comparative studies of doctor and mid-level providers of abortion services. We searched for studies published in any language from January 1980 until 15 August 2014. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (clustered or not clustered), prospective cohort studies or observational studies that compared the safety or effectiveness (or both) of any type of first trimester abortion procedure, administered by any type of mid-level provider or doctors, were eligible for inclusion in the review. Two independent review authors screened abstracts for eligibility and double-extracted data from the included studies using a pre-tested form. We meta-analysed primary outcome data using both fixed-effect and random-effects models to obtain pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We carried out separate analyses by study design (RCT or cohort) and type of abortion procedure (medical versus surgical). Eight studies involving 22,018 participants met our eligibility criteria. Five studies (n = 18,962) assessed the safety and effectiveness of surgical abortion procedures administered by mid-level providers compared to doctors. Three studies (n = 3056) assessed the safety and effectiveness of medical abortion procedures. The surgical abortion studies (one RCT and four cohort studies) were carried out in the United States, India, South Africa and Vietnam. The medical abortion studies (two RCTs and one cohort study) were carried

Warm Mediterranean mid-Holocene summers inferred from fossil midge assemblages

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samartin, Stéphanie; Heiri, Oliver; Joos, Fortunat; Renssen, Hans; Franke, Jörg; Brönnimann, Stefan; Tinner, Willy

2017-02-01

Understanding past climate trends is key for reliable projections of global warming and associated risks and hazards. Uncomfortably large discrepancies between vegetation-based summer temperature reconstructions (mainly based on pollen) and climate model results have been reported for the current interglacial, the Holocene. For the Mediterranean region these reconstructions indicate cooler-than-present mid-Holocene summers, in contrast with expectations based on climate models and long-term changes in summer insolation. We present new quantitative and replicated Holocene summer temperature reconstructions based on fossil chironomid midges from the northern central Mediterranean region. The Holocene thermal maximum is reconstructed 9,000-5,000 years ago and estimated to have been 1-2 °C warmer in mean July temperature than the recent pre-industrial period, consistent with glacier and marine records, and with transient climate model runs. This combined evidence implies that widely used pollen-based summer temperature reconstructions in the Mediterranean area are significantly biased by precipitation or other forcings such as early land use. Our interpretation can resolve the previous discrepancy between climate models and quantitative palaeotemperature records for millennial-scale Holocene summer temperature trends in the Mediterranean region. It also suggests that pollen-based evidence for cool mid-Holocene summers in other semi-arid to arid regions of the Northern Hemisphere may have to be reconsidered, with potential implications for global-scale reconstructions.

Organic carbon preservation in Southeastern Arabian Sea sediments since mid-Holocene: Implications to South Asian Summer Monsoon variability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagoji, Siddhesh S.; Tiwari, Manish

2017-09-01

The earlier studies show a contrasting long-term trend of the South Asian Summer Monsoon (SASM) after attaining the precessional forcing induced mid-Holocene maximum. The increasing total organic carbon (TOC) concentration of marine sediments in the Southeastern Arabian Sea (SEAS) has been interpreted to imply strengthening SASM since mid-Holocene by a few studies. However, TOC concentration is also influenced by redox conditions, sedimentation rate, and an influx of terrigenous matter depending on the regional settings. So, it needs to be ascertained whether the TOC concentration of the sediments in the SEAS is a signal of productivity related to the SASM strength or preservation. Therefore, we studied multiple proxies (TOC, total nitrogen, atomic C/N, δ13Corg, CaCO3, and major and trace elements concentration) for determining the productivity, redox conditions, detrital supply, and provenance in a sediment core from the upper continental slope of the SEAS spanning the past ˜4700 years at centennial scale resolution. The present study shows that the observed increase in the TOC values since the mid-Holocene is a result of better preservation caused by increased sedimentation rate and enhanced reducing conditions. We further show that the SASM has been declining since mid-Holocene after attaining a precession-forced maximum, which corroborates the earlier model ensemble studies.

Mid-Pliocene Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation Not Unlike Modern

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, Z.-S.; Nisancioglu, K. H.; Chandler, M. A.; Haywood, A. M.; Otto-Bliesner, B. L.; Ramstein, G.; Stepanek, C.; Abe-Ouchi, A.; Chan, W. -L.; Sohl, L. E.

2013-01-01

In the Pliocene Model Intercomparison Project (PlioMIP), eight state-of-the-art coupled climate models have simulated the mid-Pliocene warm period (mPWP, 3.264 to 3.025 Ma). Here, we compare the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), northward ocean heat transport and ocean stratification simulated with these models. None of the models participating in PlioMIP simulates a strong mid-Pliocene AMOC as suggested by earlier proxy studies. Rather, there is no consistent increase in AMOC maximum among the PlioMIP models. The only consistent change in AMOC is a shoaling of the overturning cell in the Atlantic, and a reduced influence of North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) at depth in the basin. Furthermore, the simulated mid-Pliocene Atlantic northward heat transport is similar to the pre-industrial. These simulations demonstrate that the reconstructed high-latitude mid-Pliocene warming can not be explained as a direct response to an intensification of AMOC and concomitant increase in northward ocean heat transport by the Atlantic.

Nightside Quiet-Time Mid-Latitude Ionospheric Convection and Its Connection to Penetration Electric Fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruohoniemi, J. M.; Maimaiti, M.; Baker, J. B.; Ribeiro, A. J.

2017-12-01

Previous studies have shown that during quiet geomagnetic conditions F-region subauroral ionospheric plasma exhibits drifts of a few tens of m/s, predominantly in the westward direction. However, the exact driving mechanisms for this plasma motion are still not well understood. Recent expansion of SuperDARN radars into the mid-latitude region has provided new opportunities to study subauroral ionospheric convection over large areas and with greater spatial resolution and statistical significance than previously possible. Mid-latitude SuperDARN radars tend to observe subauroral ionospheric backscatter with low Doppler velocities on most geomagnetically quiet nights. In this study, we have used two years of data obtained from the six mid-latitude SuperDARN radars in the North American sector to derive a statistical model of quiet-time nightside mid-latitude plasma convection between 52°- 58° magnetic latitude. The model is organized in MLAT-MLT coordinates and has a spatial resolution of 1°x 7 min with each grid cell typically counting thousands of velocity measurements. Our results show that the flow is predominantly westward (20 - 60 m/s) and weakly northward (0 -20 m/s) near midnight but with a strong seasonal dependence such that the flows tend to be strongest and most spatially variable in winter. These statistical results are in good agreement with previously reported observations from ISR measurements but also show some interesting new features, one being a significant latitudinal variation of zonal flow velocity near midnight in winter. In this presentation, we describe the derivation of the nightside quite-time subauroral convection model, analyze its most prominent features, and discuss the results in terms of the Ionosphere-Thermosphere coupling and penetration electric fields.

Ultra-thin high-efficiency mid-infrared transmissive Huygens meta-optics.

PubMed

Zhang, Li; Ding, Jun; Zheng, Hanyu; An, Sensong; Lin, Hongtao; Zheng, Bowen; Du, Qingyang; Yin, Gufan; Michon, Jerome; Zhang, Yifei; Fang, Zhuoran; Shalaginov, Mikhail Y; Deng, Longjiang; Gu, Tian; Zhang, Hualiang; Hu, Juejun

2018-04-16

The mid-infrared (mid-IR) is a strategically important band for numerous applications ranging from night vision to biochemical sensing. Here we theoretically analyzed and experimentally realized a Huygens metasurface platform capable of fulfilling a diverse cross-section of optical functions in the mid-IR. The meta-optical elements were constructed using high-index chalcogenide films deposited on fluoride substrates: the choices of wide-band transparent materials allow the design to be scaled across a broad infrared spectrum. Capitalizing on a two-component Huygens' meta-atom design, the meta-optical devices feature an ultra-thin profile (λ 0 /8 in thickness) and measured optical efficiencies up to 75% in transmissive mode for linearly polarized light, representing major improvements over state-of-the-art. We have also demonstrated mid-IR transmissive meta-lenses with diffraction-limited focusing and imaging performance. The projected size, weight and power advantages, coupled with the manufacturing scalability leveraging standard microfabrication technologies, make the Huygens meta-optical devices promising for next-generation mid-IR system applications.

40 CFR 51.1011 - Requirements for mid-course review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Requirements for mid-course review. 51.1011 Section 51.1011 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS... PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards § 51.1011 Requirements for mid-course review. (a) Any...

40 CFR 51.1011 - Requirements for mid-course review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Requirements for mid-course review. 51.1011 Section 51.1011 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS... PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards § 51.1011 Requirements for mid-course review. (a) Any...

40 CFR 51.1011 - Requirements for mid-course review.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Requirements for mid-course review. 51.1011 Section 51.1011 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS... PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards § 51.1011 Requirements for mid-course review. (a) Any...

Mid-Infrared Reflectance Imaging of Thermal-Barrier Coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edlridge, Jeffrey I.; Martin, Richard E.

2009-01-01

An apparatus for mid-infrared reflectance imaging has been developed as means of inspecting for subsurface damage in thermal-barrier coatings (TBCs). The apparatus is designed, more specifically, for imaging the progression of buried delamination cracks in plasma-sprayed yttria-stabilized zirconia coatings on turbine-engine components. Progression of TBC delamination occurs by the formation of buried cracks that grow and then link together to produce eventual TBC spallation. The mid-infrared reflectance imaging system described here makes it possible to see delamination progression that is invisible to the unaided eye, and therefore give sufficiently advanced warning before delamination progression adversely affects engine performance and safety. The apparatus (see figure) includes a commercial mid-infrared camera that contains a liquid-nitrogen-cooled focal plane indium antimonide photodetector array, and imaging is restricted by a narrow bandpass centered at wavelength of 4 microns. This narrow wavelength range centered at 4 microns was chosen because (1) it enables avoidance of interfering absorptions by atmospheric OH and CO2 at 3 and 4.25 microns, respectively; and (2) the coating material exhibits maximum transparency in this wavelength range. Delamination contrast is produced in the midinfrared reflectance images because the introduction of cracks into the TBC creates an internal TBC/air-gap interface with a high diffuse reflectivity of 0.81, resulting in substantially higher reflectance of mid-infrared radiation in regions that contain buried delamination cracks. The camera is positioned a short distance (.12 cm) from the specimen. The mid-infrared illumination is generated by a 50-watt silicon carbide source positioned to the side of the mid-infrared camera, and the illumination is collimated and reflected onto the specimen by a 6.35-cm-diameter off-axis paraboloidal mirror. Because the collected images are of a steady-state reflected intensity (in

Study on the mechanism of human blood glucose concentration measuring using mid-infrared spectral analysis technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang

2016-10-01

All forms of diabetes increase the risk of long-term complications. Blood glucose monitoring is of great importance for controlling diabetes procedure, preventing the complications and improving the patient's life quality. At present, the clinical blood glucose concentration measurement is invasive and could be replaced by noninvasive spectroscopy analytical techniques. The mid-infrared spectral region contains strong characteristic and well-defined absorption bands. Therefore, mid-infrared provides an opportunity for monitoring blood glucose invasively with only a few discrete bonds. Although the blood glucose concentration measurement using mid-infrared spectroscopy has a lot of advantages, the disadvantage is also obvious. The absorption in this infrared region is fundamental molecular group vibration. Absorption intensity is very strong, especially for biological molecules. In this paper, it figures out that the osmosis rate of glucose has a certain relationship with the blood glucose concentration. Therefore, blood glucose concentration could be measured indirectly by measuring the glucose exudate in epidermis layer. Human oral glucose tolerance tests were carried out to verify the correlation of glucose exudation in shallow layer of epidermis layer and blood glucose concentration. As it has been explained above, the mid-infrared spectral region contains well-defined absorption bands, the intensity of absorption peak around 1123 cm-1 was selected to measure the glucose and that around 1170 cm-1 was selected as reference. Ratio of absorption peak intensity was recorded for each set of measurement. The effect and importance of the cleaning the finger to be measured before spectrum measuring are discussed and also verified by experiment.

A Continued Census of Mid-IR Variability from ULXs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lau, Ryan; Kasliwal, Mansi; Heida, Marianne; Walton, Dom

2017-04-01

The nature of ultraluminous X-ray sources (ULXs) that radiate at luminosities >10^39 erg/s is still a mystery. ULXs are believed to be binaries with an accreting compact object and stellar mass-donor companion, but such high luminosities require accretion rates that are factors of 100 greater than the Eddington limit for accretion onto a neutron star or stellar mass black hole. The difficulties in interpreting ULXs are largely attributed to current observational challenges in determining their orbital properties as well as the properties of the mass-donor companion. Recently, near- and mid-infrared (IR) observations have been demonstrated as powerful diagnostics of the mass-donor companion and the circumstellar environment of ULXs. For example, serendipitous Spitzer/IRAC observations of the ULX Holmberg II X-1 in our Spitzer Infrared Intensive Transients Survey (SPIRITS) revealed the first detection of mid-IR variability from a ULX, where we claimed that the mid-IR emission arises from a dusty circumbinary torus in the winds of a supergiant B[e] mass-donor companion. We identified 5 additional mid-IR ULX counterparts detected by Spitzer/IRAC, one of which shows significant variability like Holmberg II X-1. Although we are finding a growing sample of ULXs exhibiting mid-IR variability, it is unclear what causes it. Notably, the week - year cadence baselines of the SPIRITS observations are inadequate for resolving variability timescales consistent with several observed ULX orbital periods. In this proposal, we request time-series observations of 6 ULXs with cadence baselines ranging from 0.5 days to 1 week in order to identify the timescales associated mid-IR variability.

Developmental Trajectories of Marijuana Use among Men: Examining Linkages with Criminal Behavior and Psychopathic Features into the Mid-30s

PubMed Central

Pardini, Dustin; Bechtold, Jordan; Loeber, Rolf; White, Helene

2015-01-01

Objectives Examine whether young men who chronically use marijuana are at risk for engaging in drug-related and non-drug-related criminal offending and exhibiting psychopathic personality features in their mid-30s. Methods Patterns of marijuana use were delineated in a sample of predominately Black and White young men from adolescence to the mid-20s using latent class growth curve analysis. Self-report and official records of criminal offending and psychopathic personality features were assessed in the mid-30s. Analyses controlled for multiple factors indicative of a preexisting antisocial lifestyle and co-occurring use of other substances and tested for moderation by race. Results Four latent marijuana trajectory groups were identified: chronic high, adolescence-limited, late increasing, and low/nonusers. Relative to low/nonusers, chronic high and late increasing marijuana users exhibited more adult psychopathic features and were more likely to engage in drug-related offending during their mid-30s. Adolescence-limited users were similar to low/nonusers in terms of psychopathic features but were more likely to be arrested for drug-related crimes. No trajectory group differences were found for violence or theft, and the group differences were not moderated by race. Conclusions Young men who engage in chronic marijuana use from adolescence into their 20s are at increased risk for exhibiting psychopathic features, dealing drugs, and enduring drug-related legal problems in their mid-30s relative to men who remain abstinent or use infrequently. PMID:26568641

El Niño Variability in the Coastal Desert of Southern Peru during the Mid-Holocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fontugne, Michel; Usselmann, Pierre; Lavallée, Danièle; Julien, Michèle; Hatté, Christine

1999-09-01

Fourteen organic-rich sedimentary layers in the deposits at Quebrada de los Burros, in coastal southern Peru (Tacna department), lie between two debris-flow units, interpreted to result from El Niño events, at 8980 cal yr B.P. and after 3380 cal yr B.P., respectively. The accumulation of the fine-grained and low-energy sediments of this deposit during the mid-Holocene is incompatible with the occurrence of El Niño events in this region, as these would produce catastrophic flood deposits. The occurrence of organic-rich sediments and evidence of an enhancement of upwelling strength at this time imply the existence of a permanent water supply resulting from an increased condensation of fog at mid-altitudes. These results suggest a lower intensity and, perhaps, a lower frequency of occurrence of the El Niño phenomenon during the mid-Holocene. It is precisely during this period that the most important human settlements are found at this site, probably indicating the presence of reliable supply of fresh water. The chronologies for wetlands in the central south altiplano are out of phase with those indicating increased soil moisture episodes on the coast, implying a long-term difference in climate between these two regions.

Mid- to high-frequency noise from high-speed boats and its potential impacts on humpback dolphins.

PubMed

Li, Songhai; Wu, Haiping; Xu, Youhou; Peng, Chongwei; Fang, Liang; Lin, Mingli; Xing, Luru; Zhang, Peijun

2015-08-01

The impact of noise made by vessels on marine animals has come under increased concern. However, most measurements on noise from vessels have only taken into account the low-frequency components. For cetaceans operating in the mid- and high-frequencies, such as the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis), mid- to high-frequency noise components may be of more concern, in terms of their potential impacts. In this study, noise made by a small high-speed boat was recorded using a broadband recording system in a dolphin watching area focusing on the effects on humpback dolphins in Sanniang Bay, China. The high-speed boat produced substantial mid- to high-frequency noise components with frequencies to >100 kHz, measured at three speeds: ∼40, 30, and 15 km/h. The noise from the boat raised the ambient noise levels from ∼5 to 47 decibels (dB) root-mean-square (rms) across frequency bands ranging from 1 to 125 kHz at a distance of 20 to 85 m, with louder levels recorded at higher speeds and at closer distances. To conclude, the noise produced by the small high-speed boat could be heard by Sousa chinensis and therefore potentially had adverse effects on the dolphins.

Mid-latitude continental temperatures through the early Eocene in western Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inglis, Gordon N.; Collinson, Margaret E.; Riegel, Walter; Wilde, Volker; Farnsworth, Alexander; Lunt, Daniel J.; Valdes, Paul; Robson, Brittany E.; Scott, Andrew C.; Lenz, Olaf K.; Naafs, B. David A.; Pancost, Richard D.

2017-02-01

Branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (brGDGTs) are increasingly used to reconstruct mean annual air temperature (MAAT) during the early Paleogene. However, the application of this proxy in coal deposits is limited and brGDGTs have only been detected in immature coals (i.e. lignites). Using samples recovered from Schöningen, Germany (∼48°N palaeolatitude), we provide the first detailed study into the occurrence and distribution of brGDGTs through a sequence of early Eocene lignites and associated interbeds. BrGDGTs are abundant and present in every sample. In comparison to modern studies, changes in vegetation type do not appear to significantly impact brGDGT distributions; however, there are subtle differences between lignites - representing peat-forming environments - and siliciclastic nearshore marine interbed depositional environments. Using the most recent brGDGT temperature calibration (MATmr) developed for soils, we generate the first continental temperature record from central-western continental Europe through the early Eocene. Lignite-derived MAAT estimates range from 23 to 26 °C while those derived from the nearshore marine interbeds exceed 20 °C. These estimates are consistent with other mid-latitude environments and model simulations, indicating enhanced mid-latitude, early Eocene warmth. In the basal part of the section studied, warming is recorded in both the lignites (∼2 °C) and nearshore marine interbeds (∼2-3 °C). This culminates in a long-term temperature maximum, likely including the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO). Although this long-term warming trend is relatively well established in the marine realm, it has rarely been shown in terrestrial settings. Using a suite of model simulations we show that the magnitude of warming at Schöningen is broadly consistent with a doubling of CO2, in agreement with late Paleocene and early Eocene pCO2 estimates.

Standardized cell samples for midIR technology development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Rommel, Christina E.; Kemper, Björn; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2015-03-01

The application of midIR spectroscopy towards human cell and tissue samples is impaired by the need for technical solutions and lacking sample standards for technology development. We here present the standardization of stable test samples for the continuous development and testing of novel optical system components. We have selected cell lines representing the major cellular skin constituents keratinocytes and fibroblasts (NIH-3T3, HaCaT). In addition, two skin cancer cell types (A-375 and SK-MEL-28 cells) were analyzed. Cells were seeded on CaF2 substrates and measured dried and under aqueous medium as well as fixated and unfixated. Several independent cell preparations were analyzed with an FTIR spectrometer in the wave number range from 1000 - 4000 cm-1. The obtained data demonstrate that fixed and dehydrated cells on CaF2 can be stored in pure ethanol for several weeks without significant losses in quality of the spectral properties. The established protocol of cell seeding on CaF2 substrates, chemical fixation, dehydration, storage under ethanol and air-drying is suitable for the production of reliable midIR standards. The retrieved spectra demonstrate that fixed cells on CaF2 can be prepared reproducibly; with stable midIR spectral properties over several weeks and properties mimicking reliable unfixed cells. Moreover, the fixated samples on CaF2 show clear differences in the cell type specific spectra that can be identified by principle component analysis. In summary, the standardized cell culture samples on CaF2 substrates are suitable for the development of a midIR device and the optimization of the specific midIR spectra.

A phenological mid-domain effect in flowering diversity.

PubMed

Morales, Manuel A; Dodge, Gary J; Inouye, David W

2005-01-01

In this paper, we test the mid-domain hypothesis as an explanation for observed patterns of flowering diversity in two sub-alpine communities of insect-pollinated plants. Observed species richness patterns showed an early-season increase in richness, a mid-season peak, and a late-season decrease. We show that a "mid-domain" null model can qualitatively match this pattern of flowering species richness, with R(2) values typically greater than 60%. We find significant or marginally significant departures from expected patterns of diversity for only 3 out of 12 year-site combinations. On the other hand, we do find a consistent pattern of departure when comparing observed versus null-model predicted flowering diversity averaged across years. Our results therefore support the hypothesis that ecological factors shape patterns of flowering phenology, but that the strength or nature of these environmental forcings may differ between years or the two habitats we studied, or may depend on species-specific characteristics of these plant communities. We conclude that mid-domain null models provide an important baseline from which to test departure of expected patterns of flowering diversity across temporal domains. Geometric constraints should be included first in the list of factors that drive seasonal patterns of flowering diversity.

Hydrologic response of the Crow Wing Watershed, Minnesota, to mid-Holocene climate change

USGS Publications Warehouse

Person, M.; Roy, P.; Wright, H.; Gutowski, W.; Ito, E.; Winter, T.; Rosenberry, D.; Cohen, D.

2007-01-01

In this study, we have integrated a suite of Holocene paleoclimatic proxies with mathematical modeling in an attempt to obtain a comprehensive picture of how watersheds respond to past climate change. A three-dimensional surface-water-groundwater model was developed to assess the effects of mid-Holocene climate change on water resources within the Crow Wing Watershed, Upper Mississippi Basin in north central Minnesota. The model was first calibrated to a 50 yr historical record of average annual surface-water discharge, monthly groundwater levels, and lake-level fluctuations. The model was able to reproduce reasonably well long-term historical records (1949-1999) of water-table and lake-level fluctuations across the watershed as well as stream discharge near the watershed outlet. The calibrated model was then used to reproduce paleogroundwater and lake levels using climate reconstructions based on pollen-transfer functions from Williams Lake just outside the watershed. Computed declines in mid-Holocene lake levels for two lakes at opposite ends of the watershed were between 6 and 18 m. Simulated streamflow near the outlet of the watershed decreased to 70% of modern average annual discharge after ???200 yr. The area covered by wetlands for the entire watershed was reduced by ???16%. The mid-Holocene hydrologic changes indicated by these model results and corroborated by several lake-core records across the Crow Wing Watershed may serve as a useful proxy of the hydrologic response to future warm, dry climatic forecasts (ca. 2050) made by some atmospheric general-circulation models for the glaciated Midwestern United States. ?? 2007 Geological Society of America.

Nonsequential double ionization with mid-infrared laser fields

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Ying -Bin; Wang, Xu; Yu, Ben -Hai

Using a full-dimensional Monte Carlo classical ensemble method, we present a theoretical study of atomic nonsequential double ionization (NSDI) with mid-infrared laser fields, and compare with results from near-infrared laser fields. Unlike single-electron strong-field processes, double ionization shows complex and unexpected interplays between the returning electron and its parent ion core. As a result of these interplays, NSDI for mid-IR fields is dominated by second-returning electron trajectories, instead of first-returning trajectories for near-IR fields. Here, some complex NSDI channels commonly happen with near-IR fields, such as the recollision-excitation-with-subsequent-ionization (RESI) channel, are virtually shut down by mid-IR fields. Besides, the finalmore » energies of the two electrons can be extremely unequal, leading to novel e-e momentum correlation spectra that can be measured experimentally.« less

Nonsequential double ionization with mid-infrared laser fields

DOE PAGES

Li, Ying -Bin; Wang, Xu; Yu, Ben -Hai; ...

2016-11-18

Using a full-dimensional Monte Carlo classical ensemble method, we present a theoretical study of atomic nonsequential double ionization (NSDI) with mid-infrared laser fields, and compare with results from near-infrared laser fields. Unlike single-electron strong-field processes, double ionization shows complex and unexpected interplays between the returning electron and its parent ion core. As a result of these interplays, NSDI for mid-IR fields is dominated by second-returning electron trajectories, instead of first-returning trajectories for near-IR fields. Here, some complex NSDI channels commonly happen with near-IR fields, such as the recollision-excitation-with-subsequent-ionization (RESI) channel, are virtually shut down by mid-IR fields. Besides, the finalmore » energies of the two electrons can be extremely unequal, leading to novel e-e momentum correlation spectra that can be measured experimentally.« less

Blue whales respond to simulated mid-frequency military sonar

PubMed Central

Goldbogen, Jeremy A.; Southall, Brandon L.; DeRuiter, Stacy L.; Calambokidis, John; Friedlaender, Ari S.; Hazen, Elliott L.; Falcone, Erin A.; Schorr, Gregory S.; Douglas, Annie; Moretti, David J.; Kyburg, Chris; McKenna, Megan F.; Tyack, Peter L.

2013-01-01

Mid-frequency military (1–10 kHz) sonars have been associated with lethal mass strandings of deep-diving toothed whales, but the effects on endangered baleen whale species are virtually unknown. Here, we used controlled exposure experiments with simulated military sonar and other mid-frequency sounds to measure behavioural responses of tagged blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) in feeding areas within the Southern California Bight. Despite using source levels orders of magnitude below some operational military systems, our results demonstrate that mid-frequency sound can significantly affect blue whale behaviour, especially during deep feeding modes. When a response occurred, behavioural changes varied widely from cessation of deep feeding to increased swimming speed and directed travel away from the sound source. The variability of these behavioural responses was largely influenced by a complex interaction of behavioural state, the type of mid-frequency sound and received sound level. Sonar-induced disruption of feeding and displacement from high-quality prey patches could have significant and previously undocumented impacts on baleen whale foraging ecology, individual fitness and population health. PMID:23825206

Blue whales respond to simulated mid-frequency military sonar.

PubMed

Goldbogen, Jeremy A; Southall, Brandon L; DeRuiter, Stacy L; Calambokidis, John; Friedlaender, Ari S; Hazen, Elliott L; Falcone, Erin A; Schorr, Gregory S; Douglas, Annie; Moretti, David J; Kyburg, Chris; McKenna, Megan F; Tyack, Peter L

2013-08-22

Mid-frequency military (1-10 kHz) sonars have been associated with lethal mass strandings of deep-diving toothed whales, but the effects on endangered baleen whale species are virtually unknown. Here, we used controlled exposure experiments with simulated military sonar and other mid-frequency sounds to measure behavioural responses of tagged blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) in feeding areas within the Southern California Bight. Despite using source levels orders of magnitude below some operational military systems, our results demonstrate that mid-frequency sound can significantly affect blue whale behaviour, especially during deep feeding modes. When a response occurred, behavioural changes varied widely from cessation of deep feeding to increased swimming speed and directed travel away from the sound source. The variability of these behavioural responses was largely influenced by a complex interaction of behavioural state, the type of mid-frequency sound and received sound level. Sonar-induced disruption of feeding and displacement from high-quality prey patches could have significant and previously undocumented impacts on baleen whale foraging ecology, individual fitness and population health.

The total ozone at mid latitudes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mendeva, Bogdana

The total ozone at mid latitudes B.D.Mendeva 1, D.G. Krastev 1, Ts.N.Gogosheva 2 1 Solar Terrestrial Influences Laboratory, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Stara Zagora De-partment, Bulgaria, bmendeva@abv.bg 2 Institute of Astronomy, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria, This paper presents the total ozone content (TOC) behaviour over Bulgaria from satellite ex-periments (TOMS on the Earth Probe satellite and SCIAMACHY on board ENVISAT (ESA)). The long-term variations of the total ozone monthly means values in the period 1997-2009 are examined. The calculated linear ozone trend for this time interval is shown. An analysis of the total ozone over the Balkan region is also presented. For this purpose data from the SCIA-MACHY are used. The investigation is made for Athens (37o 59'N, 23o46'E), Thessaloniki (40o31'N, 22o58'E), Sofia (42o39'N, 23o23'E) and Bucharest (44o28'N, 26o17'E) in the period 2003-2009. A comparison between the courses of the monthly mean ozone values over these places is shown.

Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation with Ipsilateral Mid Third Clavicle, Mid Shaft Humerus and Coracoid Process Fracture - A Case Report.

PubMed

Sharma, Naveen; Mandloi, Avinash; Agrawal, Ashish; Singh, Shailendra

2016-01-01

The clavicle, humerus and acromioclavicular (AC) joint separately are very commonly involved in traumatic injuries around the shoulder. Acromioclavicular joint dislocation with distal clavicle fracture is a well recognized entity in clinical practice. AC joint dislocation with mid shaft clavicle fracture is uncommon and only few cases have been reported in literature. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe an acromioclavicular dislocation with ipsilateral mid shaft clavicle, mid shaft humerus and coracoid process fracture. Fractures of the humerus and clavicle along with the acromioclavicular joint dislocation were fixed at the same setting. A 65-year-old male met with a high velocity road traffic accident. Plain radiographs showed displaced mid third clavicle fracture with acromioclavicular joint dislocation with mid shaft humerus fracture. Surgical fixation was planned for humerus with interlocking nail, clavicle with locking plate and acromioclavicular joint with reconstruction of coracoclavicular ligaments. Intraoperatively, coracoid process was found to have a comminuted fracture. The operative plan had to be changed on table as coracoclavicular fixation was not possible. So acromioclavicular joint fixation was done using tension band wiring and the coracoclavicular ligament was repaired using a 2-0 ethibond. The comminuted coracoid fracture was managed conservatively. K wires were removed at 6 weeks. Early mobilization was started. In acromioclavicular joint injuries, clavicle must be evaluated for any injury. Although it is more commonly associated with distal clavicle fractures, it can be associated with middle third clavicle fractures. As plain radiographs, AP view are most of the times insufficient for viewing integrity of coracoid process, either special views like Stryker notch or CT scan may help in diagnosing such concealed injuries. When associated with fractures of the humerus and clavicle, anatomical

Free Space Optical Communication Utilizing Mid-Infrared Interband Cascade Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soibel, A.; Wright, M.; Farr, W.; Keo, S.; Hill, C.; Yang, R. Q.; Liu, H. C.

2010-01-01

A Free Space Optical (FSO) link utilizing mid-IR Interband Cascade lasers has been demonstrated in the 3-5 micron atmospheric transmission window with data rates up to 70 Mb/s and bit-error-rate (BER) less than 10 (exp -8). The performance of the mid-IR FSO link has been compared with the performance of a near-IR link under various fog conditions using an indoor communication testbed. These experiments demonstrated the lower attenuation and scintillation advantages of a mid-IR FSO link through fog than a 1550 nm FSO link.

Long-Term Effects of Safinamide on Dyskinesia in Mid- to Late-Stage Parkinson’s Disease: A Post-Hoc Analysis

PubMed Central

Cattaneo, Carlo; Ferla, R. La; Bonizzoni, Erminio; Sardina, Marco

2015-01-01

Abstract Background: Safinamide is a novel α-aminoamide with dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic properties developed as adjunctive therapy for patients with PD. Results from a 24-month double-blind controlled study suggested that as add-on to levodopa (and other PD medications) the benefits of safinamide on dyskinesia may be related to severity of dyskinesia at baseline. Objective: This post-hoc analysis further characterized the effects of safinamide on dyskinesia in mid- to late-stage PD patients. Methods: Patients were stratified by the presence or absence of dyskinesia at baseline, and by whether or not the dose of levodopa had been changed during the 24-month treatment period. Differences between safinamide and placebo were evaluated using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Results: For the overall treated population (with or without baseline dyskinesia), safinamide 100 mg/day significantly improved the dyskinesia rating scale score, compared with placebo, in the subgroup of patients with no change in levodopa dose (p = 0.0488). For patients with baseline dyskinesia, improvements over placebo were also significant (p = 0.0153) in patients with or without changes in levodopa dose, and nearly significant (p = 0.0546) in patients with no change in levodopa dose, suggesting that these improvements were not due to levodopa dose reductions. Conclusions: While no statistically significant difference in mean DRS scores was seen between safinamide and placebo in the original study population, the present post-hoc analysis helps to provide a meaningful interpretation of the long-term effects of safinamide on dyskinesia. These results may be related to safinamide state- and use-dependent inhibition of sodium channels and stimulated glutamate release, and are unlikely due to reduced dopaminergic stimulation. PMID:26406127

77 FR 51968 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-28

... Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National... Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (Council) Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) will....mafmc.org . Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201...

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy using mid-infrared femtosecond pulses

DOE PAGES

Hartig, K. C.; Colgan, J.; Kilcrease, D. P.; ...

2015-07-30

Here, we report on a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) experiment driven by mid-infrared (2.05-μm) fs pulses, in which time-resolved emission spectra of copper were studied. Ab-initio modeling is consistent with the results of new fs measurements at 2.05 μm and traditional 800-nm fs-LIBS. Ablation by mid-infrared fs pulses results in a plasma with a lower plasma density and temperature compared to fs-LIBS performed at shorter laser wavelength. LIBS driven by mid-infrared fs pulses results in a signal-to-background ratio ~50% greater and a signal-to-noise ratio ~40% lower than fs-LIBS at near-infrared laser wavelength.

76 FR 16620 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-24

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration RIN 0648-XA316 Mid-Atlantic... Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of public meeting. SUMMARY: The Social and Economic Sub-Committee of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (Council) Scientific...

76 FR 9553 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-18

... Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National... Social and Economic Sub-Committee of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (Council) Scientific...; telephone: (410) 859-3000. Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street...

75 FR 56509 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-16

... Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Meeting AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National... Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (MAFMC) Squid, Mackerel, and Butterfish Committee will hold...; (telephone: 215- 365-4500). Council Address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street...

Joint trajectories of cigarette smoking and depressive symptoms from the mid-twenties to the mid-thirties predicting generalized anxiety disorder

PubMed Central

Lee, Jung Yeon; Brook, Judith S.; Finch, Stephen J.; De La Rosa, Mario; Brook, David W.

2017-01-01

The current study examines the longitudinal patterns of both cigarette smoking and depressive symptoms as predictors of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) using data from the Harlem Longitudinal Development Study. There were 674 African American (53%) and Puerto Rican (47%) participants. Among the 674 participants, 60% were females. In the logistic regression analyses, the indicator variables of membership in each of the joint trajectories of cigarette smoking and depressive symptoms from the mid 20s to the mid 30s were used as the independent variables, and the diagnosis of GAD in the mid 30s was used as the dependent variable. The high cigarette smoking with high depressive symptoms group and the low cigarette smoking with high depressive symptoms group were associated with an increased likelihood of having GAD as compared to the no cigarette smoking with low depressive symptoms group. The findings shed light on the prevention and treatment of GAD. PMID:28281938

A Reconstruction of Sea Surface Temperature Gradients and an Assessment of the Suspected Presence of Continental Ice During the Cold Mid-Paleocene (61-57 Ma)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bijl, P.; Cramwinckel, M.; Frieling, J.; Peterse, F.

2016-12-01

The early Eocene `hothouse' climate experienced paratropical vegetation on high latitudes and high (>1100 ppmv) atmospheric CO2 concentrations. It is generally considered as analogous to the endmember climate state should we use up all available fossil fuels. However, we do not know exactly through which processes this long-term warm episode came to be nor do we understand what the initial climate state was at the onset of this long-term climate. Deep-sea warming towards early Eocene hothouse conditions started in the mid-Paleocene, ending a 2 Myr time interval of relatively cold deep ocean temperatures. Reconstructed pCO2 concentrations of the mid-Paleocene seem to have been close to those of present-day, although data is scarce. The mid-Paleocene is notoriously sparsely represented in shelf sedimentary records, as most records show a conspicuous hiatus between 58 and 60 Mys. This gives the suggestion of a major global low in sea level, which is inconsistent with estimates of global ocean spreading rates, which suggest a relatively high sea level on long time scales for the Cretaceous-early Paleogene. The cold deep-sea temperatures, the conspicuously low sea level and low atmospheric CO2 during the mid-Paleocene have stimulated suggestions of the presence of major ice sheets on the poles, yet the absence of any trace for continental ice, either direct ice-proximal evidence or from benthic foraminiferal oxygen isotope records, calls the presence of such ice sheets into question. I will present a number of high resolution sea surface temperature records (based mostly on organic geochemical biomarker proxies) which start to reveal a latitudinal temperature gradient for the mid-Paleocene. Reconstructions come from shelf sediments from Tasmania, Australia, Tanzania, Tropical Atlantic Ocean, New Jersey). With these new records, I put Paleogene climate evolution into context. I will further present a review of shelf sedimentary records across the mid-paleocene to assess

Compact, High-Power, Fiber-Laser-Based Coherent Sources Tunable in the Mid-Infrared and THz Spectrum

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-02-20

conversion sources and optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) for the deep mid-infrared (mid-IR) spectral regions >5 μm. We have successfully developed... oscillators (OPOs) for the deep mid-infrared (mid-IR) spectral regions >5 µm. We have successfully developed tunable deep mid-IR systems in both...the advancement of nonlinear frequency conversion sources and optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) for the deep mid-infrared (mid- IR) spectral

Chalcogenide glass waveguide-integrated black phosphorus mid-infrared photodetectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deckoff-Jones, Skylar; Lin, Hongtao; Kita, Derek; Zheng, Hanyu; Li, Duanhui; Zhang, Wei; Hu, Juejun

2018-04-01

Black phosphorus (BP) is a promising 2D material that has unique in-plane anisotropy and a 0.3 eV direct bandgap, making it an attractive material for mid-IR photodetectors. So far, waveguide integrated BP photodetectors have been limited to the near-IR on top of Si waveguides that are unable to account for BP’s crystalline orientation. In this work, we employ mid-IR transparent chalcogenide glass (ChG) both as a broadband mid-IR transparent waveguiding material to enable waveguide-integration of BP detectors, and as a passivation layer to prevent BP degradation during device processing as well as in ambient atmosphere post-fabrication. Our ChG-on-BP approach not only leads to the first demonstration of mid-IR waveguide-integrated BP detectors, but also allows us to fabricate devices along different crystalline axes of BP to investigate, for the first time, the impact of in-plane anisotropy on photoresponse of waveguide-integrated devices. The best device exhibits responsivity up to 40 mA W-1 and noise equivalent power as low as 30 pW Hz-1/2 at 2185 nm wavelength. We also found that photodetector responsivities changed by an order of magnitude with different BP orientations. This work validates BP as an effective photodetector material in the mid-IR, and demonstrates the power of the glass-on-2D-material platform for prototyping of 2D material photonic devices.

Mid-latitude thermospheric dynamics from an inter-hemispheric prospective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Q.; Wang, W.; Li, T.; Huang, C.; Zhang, X.; McCarthy, M.; Noto, J.; Kerr, R.

2017-12-01

Mid-latitude thermosphere is strongly affected by mesospheric tides and geomagnetic latitude variations. Past mid-latitude observations are mostly from the northern hemisphere. Only recently, thermospheric wind instruments are being deployed in the southern mid-latitude regions. In this study, we will examine simultaneous northern and southern mid-latitude thermospheric winds and investigate how seasonal and geomagnetic latitude differences affecting the thermospheric winds. We will use thermospheric winds from two southern Fabry-Perot interferometers (FPI) at Palmer (64°S, 64°W, MLAT 54°S) and Mt. John (44°S, 170.5°E, MLAT 47.5°S) and compare to three northern FPIs at Millstone Hill (42°N, 71°W, MLAT 52°N), Boulder (40°N, 105°W, MLAT 47°N), and Kelan (38.7°N, 111.6°E, MLAT 28.9°N). These instruments distributed in both the American and Asia-Pacific sectors. In the American sector northern hemisphere and the Asia-Pacific sector southern hemisphere, the geomagnetic latitude is larger than the geographic. In each of the respective opposite the hemisphere, the geographic latitude is larger than the geomagnetic. Observations in these two longitudinal sectors with opposite geomagnetic and geographic offsets will allow us to examine the magnetic latitude and seasonal effects in greater details. We will compare the observations with NCAR TIEGCM simulations to perform an inter-hemispheric comparison of the mid-latitude thermospheric dynamics.

Metrological-grade tunable coherent source in the mid-infrared for molecular precision spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Insero, G.; Clivati, C.; D'Ambrosio, D.; Cancio Pastor, P.; Verde, M.; Schunemann, P. G.; Zondy, J.-J.; Inguscio, M.; Calonico, D.; Levi, F.; De Natale, P.; Santambrogio, G.; Borri, S.

2018-02-01

We report on a metrological-grade mid-IR source with a 10-14 short-term instability for high-precision spectroscopy. Our source is based on the combination of a quantum cascade laser and a coherent radiation obtained by difference-frequency generation in an orientation-patterned gallium phosphide (OP-GaP) crystal. The pump and signal lasers are locked to an optical frequency comb referenced to the primary frequency standard via an optical fiber link. We demonstrate the robustness of the apparatus by measuring a vibrational transition around 6 μm on a metastable state of CO molecuels with 11 digits of precision.

Anthropogenic Changes in Mid-latitude Storm and Blocking Activities from Observations and Climate Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, D.

2017-12-01

Fingerprints of anthropogenic climate change can be most readily detected in the high latitudes of Northern Hemisphere, where temperature has been rising faster than the rest of the globe and sea ice cover has shrunk dramatically over recent decades. Reducing the meridional temperature gradient, this amplified warming over the high latitudes influences weather in the middle latitudes by modulating the jet stream, storms, and atmospheric blocking activities. Whether observational records have revealed significant changes in mid-latitude storms and blocking activities, however, has remained a subject of much debate. Buried deep in strong year-to-year variations, the long-term dynamic responses of the atmosphere are more difficult to identify, compared with its thermodynamic responses. Variabilities of decadal and longer timescales further obscure any trends diagnosed from satellite observations, which are often shorter than 40 years. Here, new metrics reflecting storm and blocking activities are developed using surface air temperature and pressure records, and their variations and long-term trends are examined. This approach gives an inkling of the changes in storm and blocking activities since the Industrial Revolution in regions with abundant long-term observational records, e.g. Europe and North America. The relationship between Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation and variations in storm and blocking activities across the Atlantic is also scrutinized. The connection between observed centennial trends and anthropogenic forcings is investigated using a hierarchy of numerical tools, from highly idealized to fully coupled atmosphere-ocean models. Pre-industrial control simulations and a set of large ensemble simulations forced by increased CO2 are analyzed to evaluate the range of natural variabilities, which paves the way to singling out significant anthropogenic changes from observational records, as well as predicting future changes in mid-latitude storm and

Mid-L/D Lifting Body Entry Demise Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ling, Lisa

2017-01-01

The mid-lift-to-drag ratio (mid-L/D) lifting body is a fully autonomous spacecraft under design at NASA for enabling a rapid return of scientific payloads from the International Space Station (ISS). For contingency planning and risk assessment for the Earth-return trajectory, an entry demise analysis was performed to examine three potential failure scenarios: (1) nominal entry interface conditions with loss of control, (2) controlled entry at maximum flight path angle, and (3) controlled entry at minimum flight path angle. The objectives of the analysis were to predict the spacecraft breakup sequence and timeline, determine debris survival, and calculate the debris dispersion footprint. Sensitivity analysis was also performed to determine the effect of the initial pitch rate on the spacecraft stability and breakup during the entry. This report describes the mid-L/D lifting body and presents the results of the entry demise and sensitivity analyses.

77 FR 23662 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-20

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration RIN 0648-XB170 Mid-Atlantic... Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of a public meeting. SUMMARY: The Social and Economic Sub-Committee of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (Council) Scientific...

75 FR 72791 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-26

... Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National... Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and its River Herring and Shad Committee, its Joint...: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State St., Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901-3910; telephone...

76 FR 68719 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-07

....org . Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201...., Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE.... Dated: November 1, 2011. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National...

WATERSHED RESTORATION AND FISHERIES MANAGEMENT IN THE MID-ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation is about watershed restoration and fisheries management in the Mid-Atlantic Highlands. The goal of the Canaan Valley Institue is to develop and implement solutions to restore damaged areas and protect aquatic systems in the Mid-Atlantic Highlands. A decision ana...

Crewmember working on the mid deck Zeolite Crystal Growth experiment.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

View showing Payload Specialist Bonnie Dunbar, in the mid deck, conducting the Zeolite Crystal Growth (ZCG) Experiment in the mid deck stowage locker work area. View shows assembly of zeolite sample in the metal autoclave cylinders prior to insertion into the furnace.

[Distal fixation prosthesis for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients: a mid-term follow-up study].

PubMed

Zhang, Zhan-feng; Min, Ji-kang; Zhong, Jian-ming; Wang, Dan

2016-06-01

To explore mid-term follow up results of distal fixation prosthesis in treating unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients. From May 2008 to March 2014,58 elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric were treated with distal fixation prosthesis, among them, there were 15 males and 43 females aged from 75 to 87 years old with an average of 83.2 years old. Fracture were classified according to Evans classification, 39 cases were type I c and 19 cases were type I d. Surgical risk was evaluated before operation, 9 patients were performed total hip arthroplasty and 49 patients were performed prosthetic replacement hip joint function of patients with different age period, Evans classificaton, prothesis type, fixation method were evaluated respectively by using Harris score. Fifty-six patients were followed up from 13 to 36 months with an average of 21.6 months. Harris score was 83.51 ± 6.40, 5 cases got excellent results, 38 cases good and 13 cases moderate. Harris score of patients aged from 75 to 80 years old was 88.64 ± 2.35, 81.64 ± 6.40 in patients aged more than 80 years old, and had significant differences between two groups; Harris score in patients with type Evans I c was 83.64 ± 6.53, and 83.11 ± 6.08 in type Evans I d, while there was no significant differences between two groups. There was no obvious meaning in Harris score between patients with tension band (83.63 ± 6.15) and without tension band (82.41 ± 6.57). There was no significant meaning in Harris score between patients with normal distal fixation prosthesis (83.34 ± 6.43) and femoral moment reconstruction distal fixation prosthesis (83.92 ± 6.51). There was 1 patient occurred hip joint dislocation on the operative side and re-dislocation after manual reduction, then received open reduction. Two patients occurred femoral osteolysis without clinical symptoms, and treated conservative treatment. Artificial joint replacement for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly

Mid-term follow-up of patients with hindfoot arthrodesis with retrograde compression intramedullary nail in Charcot neuroarthropathy of the hindfoot.

PubMed

Chraim, M; Krenn, S; Alrabai, H M; Trnka, H-J; Bock, P

2018-02-01

Hindfoot arthrodesis with retrograde intramedullary nailing has been described as a surgical strategy to reconstruct deformities of the ankle and hindfoot in patients with Charcot arthropathy. This study presents case series of Charcot arthropathy patients treated with two different retrograde intramedullary straight compression nails in order to reconstruct the hindfoot and assess the results over a mid-term follow-up. We performed a retrospective analysis of 18 consecutive patients and 19 operated feet with Charcot arthropathy who underwent a hindfoot arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary compression nail. Patients were ten men and eight women with a mean age of 63.43 years (38.5 to 79.8). We report the rate of limb salvage, complications requiring additional surgery, and fusion rate in both groups. The mean duration of follow-up was 46.36 months (37 to 70). The limb salvage rate was 16 of 19 limbs. Three patients had to undergo below-knee amputation due to persistent infection followed by osteomyelitis resistant to parenteral antibiotic therapy and repeated debridement. Complications including infection, hardware removal, nonunion, and persistent ulcers requiring further intervention were also observed. Postoperative functional scores revealed significant improvement compared with preoperative scores on American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) - Hindfoot scale, Foot Function Index (FFI), visual analogue scale (VAS), and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). The use of retrograde intramedullary compression nail results in good rates of limb salvage when used for hindfoot reconstruction in patients with Charcot arthropathy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:190-6. ©2018 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

Cosmological Symbolism in the Decorative Cycles of Mid-Byzantine Churches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shrimplin, V.

2016-01-01

Fundamental links between theology and astronomy are widely reflected in the Judaeo-Christian tradition. From Genesis to Revelation, the great mysteries of the beginning and end of the universe, and the cycles of birth and death of individuals, are explained in terms of cosmological concepts. These are in turn reflected in art and architecture and nowhere more broadly, perhaps, than in Byzantine architecture and decoration. Following the Iconoclast prohibition of images in the Orthodox church (726-843), the mid-Byzantine period (843-1204) witnessed the primacy of the representation of the heavens in art and architecture. Reinforced by such writers as Cosmas Indicopleustes and Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite, not only were individual images reflective of the heavens (nativity and rebirth at the winter solstice, and rebirth/resurrection at the spring equinox) but entire cycles of church decoration were devised so as to reflect the ordering of God's universe. The architecture and decoration of the quintessential mid-Byzantine cross-in-square church was symbolic itself of the universe, as at Hosios Loukas and Daphni (eleventh century). From the location of the Pantocrator in the central celestial dome, to the descending zones of squinches and pendentives and the lowest earthly zones, decorative schemes are used to reflect the view of the sky/heavens above earth. Hierarchical systems depicting the life of Christ and ascending/descending ranks of saints and angels were rigorously adhered to, with Mary in the apse as bridge between heaven and earth.

The National Stroke Strategy - is it achievable?

PubMed

Reid, T D; Finney, L J; Hedges, A R

2009-11-01

Timing of intervention in symptomatic carotid disease is critical. The UK Department of Health's National Stroke Strategy published in December 2007 recommends urgent carotid intervention within 48 h, in appropriate patients, who have suffered a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), amaurosis fugax or minor stroke. Despite the running of a rapid-access clinic for patients with symptoms of TIA, the time from symptom to surgery is rarely less than 2 weeks. To date, there has been little published research on the UK public response to the symptoms of TIA, and no study at all of the response of primary care to such patients. The aim of this study was to ascertain both these responses to see whether a 48-h target is achievable. A total of 402 men attending our aortic aneurysm screening sessions were asked to complete a questionnaire requesting their most likely response to an episode of amaurosis fugax or TIA. All 45 GP practices in the hospital catchment area were asked how they would respond to patients requesting to be seen with the symptoms used in the questionnaire. Nearly one in six patients would ignore the symptom unless it recurred, approximately half would request a GP appointment and a third would see an optician if they had amaurosis fugax. The mean waiting time to see a GP was 2 days for a routine appointment and within 24 h for an emergency appointment. It is clear that a significant number of people would ignore the first symptom of carotid ischaemia; for those with amaurosis fugax, nearly a third would initially seek help from their optician. Those given a routine GP appointment would have to wait a minimum of 2 days. If the Department of Health is serious about reducing the incidence of stroke and introducing a target of 48 h from symptom to treatment, then there needs to be a wide-spread public and healthcare education programme, in particular alerting opticians and GP receptionists that these symptoms constitute a medical emergency.

Mid-infrared chalcogenide fiber devices for medical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chenard, Francois; Alvarez, Oseas; Buff, Andrew

2018-02-01

High-purity chalcogenide glasses and fiber draw processes enable the production of state-of-the-art mid-infrared fibers for 1.5 to 10 micron transmission. Multimode and single-mode mid-infrared fibers are produced with low-loss (<0.2 dB/m), high tensile strength (>25 kpsi), and high power laser handling capability (>11.8 MW/cm2). Chalcogenide fibers support the development of cutting-edge devices for mid-infrared medical applications. Connectorized cables transmit laser power to a sample or mid-infrared radiation to a detector. Broadband antireflection microstructures are thermally stamped on the chalcogenide fiber tip to reduce the surface reflection from 17% to <5%. Also custom fiber-optic probe bundles are made with multiple fiber legs (source, sample, signal) for reflection and backscatter spectroscopy measurement. For example, a 7 x 1 fiber probe bundle is presented. Additionally imaging fiber bundle is made to perform remote thermal and spectral imaging. Square preforms are drawn, stacked, squared and fused multiple times to produce a 64 x 64 imaging fiber bundle with fiber pixel size of 34 microns and the numerical aperture of 0.3. The 2- meter long imaging fiber bundle is small (2.2 mm x 2.2 mm), flexible (bend radius >10 mm) and transmits over the spectral range of 1.5 to 6.5 micron.

Cr:ZnSe planar waveguide mid-IR laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Willimas, J. E.; Martyshkin, D. V.; Fedorov, V. V.; Moskalev, I. S.; Camata, R. P.; Mirov, S. B.

2011-02-01

Middle infrared (mid-IR) chromium-doped zinc selenide (Cr:ZnSe) bulk lasers have attracted a lot of attention due to their unique combination of optical and laser properties facilitating a wide range of potential scientific, industrial, and medical applications. Utilization of thin film waveguide geometry enabling good thermal management and control of beam quality is a viable pathway for compact chip-integrated optical laser design. Cr:ZnSe thin films are also promising as saturable absorbers and mode-lockers of the cavities of solid state lasers operating over 1.3-2.1 μm. We recently reported the first successful demonstration of mid-IR Cr:ZnSe planar waveguide lasing at 2.6 μm under gain-switched short-pulse (5 ns) 1.56 μm excitation as well as the passive Q-switching of the cavity of a fiber-pumped Er:YAG laser operating at 1645 nm using a highly doped Cr:ZnSe thin film. PLD grown Cr:ZnSe waveguide were fabricated on sapphire substrates (Cr:ZnSe/sapphire) with chromium concentration of 1018-1019 cm-3. Further development of mid-IR lasing in the Cr:ZnSe planar waveguide under continuous wave excitation were investigated. In addition, deposition of Cr:ZnSe-based thin film structures on n-type GaAs substrates were also investigated for possible mid-IR electroluminescence.

78 FR 50395 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-19

... Address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone... meeting date. Dated: August 14, 2013. William D. Chappell, Acting Deputy Director, Office of Sustainable...

Narratives of desire in mid-age women with and without arousal difficulties.

PubMed

Brotto, Lori A; Heiman, Julia R; Tolman, Deborah L

2009-01-01

There is controversy about the nature of women's sexual desire. The aim was to explore narrative descriptions of sexual desire among mid-aged women in hopes of clarifying how women define and experience sexual desire, and how these might differ among women with and without female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). Mid-aged women without (age: M = 45, n = 12) and with (age: M = 55, n = 10) FSAD took part in in-depth interviews that invited them to share personal stories of sexual desire. Women also completed the Brief Index of Sexual Functioning and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Women in both groups described sexual desire in genital, non-genital physical, and in cognitive-emotional terms. Although women with FSAD had low ratings of sexual desire on the FSFI, they could recall recent experiences of desire that did not differ from the control group. Women identified a number of triggers of desire including touch, memories, and partner's responses--the latter of which acted as both a trigger and an inhibitor. Women in the control group were more likely to express conflation about the distinction between desire and arousal. Among the different "objects" of women's desire, most women acknowledged emotional connection as most important.

Optimally designed narrowband guided-mode resonance reflectance filters for mid-infrared spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Liu, Jui-Nung; Schulmerich, Matthew V.; Bhargava, Rohit; Cunningham, Brian T.

2011-01-01

An alternative to the well-established Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometry, termed discrete frequency infrared (DFIR) spectrometry, has recently been proposed. This approach uses narrowband mid-infrared reflectance filters based on guided-mode resonance (GMR) in waveguide gratings, but filters designed and fabricated have not attained the spectral selectivity (≤ 32 cm−1) commonly employed for measurements of condensed matter using FT-IR spectroscopy. With the incorporation of dispersion and optical absorption of materials, we present here optimal design of double-layer surface-relief silicon nitride-based GMR filters in the mid-IR for various narrow bandwidths below 32 cm−1. Both shift of the filter resonance wavelengths arising from the dispersion effect and reduction of peak reflection efficiency and electric field enhancement due to the absorption effect show that the optical characteristics of materials must be taken into consideration rigorously for accurate design of narrowband GMR filters. By incorporating considerations for background reflections, the optimally designed GMR filters can have bandwidth narrower than the designed filter by the antireflection equivalence method based on the same index modulation magnitude, without sacrificing low sideband reflections near resonance. The reported work will enable use of GMR filters-based instrumentation for common measurements of condensed matter, including tissues and polymer samples. PMID:22109445

Balloon-borne radiometer measurements of Northern Hemisphere mid-latitude stratospheric HNO3 profiles spanning 12 years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toohey, M.; Quine, B. M.; Strong, K.; Bernath, P. F.; Boone, C. D.; Jonsson, A. I.; McElroy, C. T.; Walker, K. A.; Wunch, D.

2007-12-01

Low-resolution atmospheric thermal emission spectra collected by balloon-borne radiometers over the time span of 1990-2002 are used to retrieve vertical profiles of HNO3, CFC-11 and CFC-12 volume mixing ratios between approximately 10 and 35 km altitude. All of the data analyzed have been collected from launches from a Northern Hemisphere mid-latitude site, during late summer, when stratospheric dynamic variability is at a minimum. The retrieval technique incorporates detailed forward modeling of the instrument and the radiative properties of the atmosphere, and obtains a best fit between modeled and measured spectra through a combination of onion-peeling and optimization steps. The retrieved HNO3 profiles are consistent over the 12-year period, and are consistent with recent measurements by the Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment-Fourier transform spectrometer satellite instrument. We therefore find no evidence of long-term changes in the HNO3 summer mid-latitude profile, although the uncertainty of our measurements precludes a conclusive trend analysis.

Shrub-Steppe Seasons A Natural History of the Mid-Columbia Basin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LE Rogers

1995-08-01

This book collects and updates a series of articles about the natural history of the Mid-Columbia region. The articles first appeared as a monthly column titled ''Natural History'' in the Tri-City Herald, beginning in May 1991. My approach has been to condense the best of what is known about the ecology of the region to a manageable length with little in the way of technical language and terms. Admittedly, there is a bias toward those topics and species on which I have either been personally involved or observed as part of the ecology research programs conducted on the Fitzner/Eberhardt Aridmore » Lands Ecology (ALE) Reserve. The ALE Reserve is situated on the northeast-facing flank of the Rattlesnake Hills. Rattlesnake Mountain with a crest of over 3,600 feet is visible throughout much of the Mid-Columbia. Shrub-steppe grasslands once covered a large part of the western United States but most have been converted to other uses. The ALE site is the only remaining sizeable acreage (120 square miles) that is in near pristine condition and provides the only clear indication as to what the early trappers, traders, pioneers, and tribal members may have encountered in their day-to-day activities. In this respect, ALE provides a visible touchstone linking the past with the present for all of us.« less

Mid-infrared pulsed laser ultrasonic testing for carbon fiber reinforced plastics.

PubMed

Kusano, Masahiro; Hatano, Hideki; Watanabe, Makoto; Takekawa, Shunji; Yamawaki, Hisashi; Oguchi, Kanae; Enoki, Manabu

2018-03-01

Laser ultrasonic testing (LUT) can realize contactless and instantaneous non-destructive testing, but its signal-to-noise ratio must be improved in order to measure carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRPs). We have developed a mid-infrared (mid-IR) laser source optimal for generating ultrasonic waves in CFRPs by using a wavelength conversion device based on an optical parametric oscillator. This paper reports a comparison of the ultrasonic generation behavior between the mid-IR laser and the Nd:YAG laser. The mid-IR laser generated a significantly larger ultrasonic amplitude in CFRP laminates than a conventional Nd:YAG laser. In addition, our study revealed that the surface epoxy matrix of CFRPs plays an important role in laser ultrasonic generation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mid-life socioeconomic status, depressive symptomatology and general cognitive status among older adults: inter-relationships and temporal effects.

PubMed

Chiao, Chi; Weng, Li-Jen

2016-04-20

Few longitudinal studies have analyzed how socioeconomic status (SES) influences both depressive and cognitive development over an individual's life course. This study investigates the change trajectories of both depressive symptomatology and general cognitive status, as well as their associations over time, focusing on the effects of mid-life SES. Data were obtained from the Taiwan Longitudinal Study on Aging (1993-2007), a nationally representative cohort study of older adults in Taiwan. The short form of the Center of Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale that measures depressive symptomatology in two domains (negative affect and lack of positive affect) was used. General cognitive status was assessed using the brief Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire scale. Assessments of the subjects' mid-life SES included measurement of the participant's education and occupation. Analyses were conducted by the parallel latent growth curve modeling. The participants' initial levels of depressive symptomatology and general cognitive status were significantly and negatively correlated; furthermore, any changes in these two outcomes were also correlated over time. The initial assessment of general cognitive status significantly contributed to any advancement towards more severe depressive symptomatology over time, particularly when this occurred in a negative manner. Furthermore, a mid-life SES advantage resulted in a significant reduction in late-life depressive symptomatology and also produced a slower decline in general cognitive status during later life. In contrast, lower mid-life SES exacerbated depressive symptomatology during old age, both at the initial assessment and in terms of the change over time. In addition, female gender was significantly associated with lower general cognitive status and more severe depressive symptomatology in negative affect. These findings suggest a complex and longitudinal association between depressive symptomatology and

An introduction to mid-Atlantic seasonal pools

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brown, L.J.; Jung, R.E.

2005-01-01

Seasonal pools, also known as vernal ponds, provide important ecological services to the mid-Atlantic region. This publication serves as an introduction to seasonal pool ecology and management; it also provides tools for exploring seasonal pools, including a full-color field guide to wildlife. Seasonal pools are defined as having four distinctive features: surface water isolation, periodic drying, small size and shallow depth, and support of a characteristic biological community. Seasonal pools experience regular drying that excludes populations of predatory fish. Thus, pools in the mid-Atlantic region provide critical breeding habitat for amphibian and invertebrate species (e.g., spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculatum), wood frog (Rana sylvatica), and fairy shrimp (Order Anostraca)) that would be at increased risk of predation in more permanent waters. The distinctive features of seasonal pools also make them vulnerable to human disturbance. In the mid-Atlantic region, land-use changes pose the greatest challenges to seasonal pool conservation. Seasonal pools are threatened by direct loss (e.g., filling or draining of the pool) as well as by destruction and fragmentation of adjoining terrestrial habitat. Many of the species that depend on seasonal pools for breeding spend the majority of their lives in the surrounding lands that extend a radius of 1000 feet or more from the pools; these vital habitats are being transected by roads and converted to other land uses. Other threats to seasonal pools include biological introductions and removals, mosquito control practices, amphibian diseases, atmospheric deposition, and climate change. The authors recommend a three-pronged strategy for seasonal pool conservation and management in the mid-Atlantic region: education and research, inventory and monitoring of seasonal pools, and landscape-level planning and management.

Monolithic beam steering in a mid-infrared, surface-emitting, photonic integrated circuit.

PubMed

Slivken, Steven; Wu, Donghai; Razeghi, Manijeh

2017-08-16

The mid-infrared (2.5 < λ < 25 μm) spectral region is utilized for many purposes, such as chemical/biological sensing, free space communications, and illuminators/countermeasures. Compared to near-infrared optical systems, however, mid-infrared component technology is still rather crude, with isolated components exhibiting limited functionality. In this manuscript, we make a significant leap forward in mid-infrared technology by developing a platform which can combine functions of multiple mid-infrared optical elements, including an integrated light source. In a single device, we demonstrate wide wavelength tuning (240 nm) and beam steering (17.9 degrees) in the mid-infrared with a significantly reduced beam divergence (down to 0.5 degrees). The architecture is also set up to be manufacturable and testable on a wafer scale, requiring no cleaved facets or special mirror coating to function.

76 FR 14378 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-16

... below. Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover..., Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901... meeting date. Dated: March 11, 2011. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries...

Abyssal Upwelling in Mid-Ocean Ridge Fracture Zones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clément, Louis; Thurnherr, Andreas M.

2018-03-01

Turbulence in the abyssal ocean plays a fundamental role in the climate system by sustaining the deepest branch of the overturning circulation. Over the western flank of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in the South Atlantic, previously observed bottom-intensified and tidally modulated mixing of abyssal waters appears to imply a counterintuitive densification of deep and bottom waters. Here we show that inside fracture zones, however, turbulence is elevated away from the seafloor because of intensified downward propagating near-inertial wave energy, which decays below a subinertial shear maximum. Ray-tracing simulations predict a decay of wave energy subsequent to wave-mean flow interactions. The hypothesized wave-mean flow interactions drive a deep flow toward lighter densities of up to 0.6 Sv over the mid-ocean ridge flank in the Brazil Basin, and the same process may also cause upwelling of abyssal waters in other ocean basins with mid-ocean ridges with fracture zones.

Small and mid-sized carnivores

Treesearch

Steven W. Buskirk; William J. Zielinski

2003-01-01

Small and mid-sized carnivores of western forests represent an ecologically diverse and influential guild of forest vertebrates. They comprise over a dozen species with varied life histories and habitat associations, highly species-specific responses to human-caused habitat change, and varied conservation status across western North America. Forested habitats fulfill...

Achromatic wave plates for the mid-infrared

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beasley, J. Donald; Marlowe, Philip D.

2012-06-01

Achromatic wave plates are useful in various mid-IR applications, such as analyzing or controlling the spectrum available from CO2 and other lasers, and for the study of IR spectra from distant stars. Their production relies upon the technical skills of those who grow the required high quality crystals and upon those who fabricate the optical parts to the needed precision. Two materials are described - one useful for light in the spectral range of the visible through the near IR and another that functions well in mid-IR applications from 2.5 μm to 11.5 μm. Some limitations imposed by inherent material properties will also be discussed.

Mid-IR laser ultrasonic testing for fiber reinforced plastics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kusano, Masahiro; Hatano, Hideki; Oguchi, Kanae; Yamawaki, Hisashi; Watanabe, Makoto; Enoki, Manabu

2018-04-01

Ultrasonic testing is the most common method to detect defects in materials and evaluate their sizes and locations. Since piezo-electric transducers are manually handled from point to point, it takes more costs for huge products such as airplanes. Laser ultrasonic testing (LUT) is a breakthrough technique. A pulsed laser generates ultrasonic waves on a material surface due to thermoelastic effect or ablation. The ultrasonic waves can be detected by another laser with an interferometer. Thus, LUT can realize instantaneous inspection without contacting a sample. A pulse laser with around 3.2 μm wavelength (in the mid-IR range) is more suitable to generate ultrasonic waves for fiber reinforced plastics (FRPs) because the light is well absorbed by the polymeric matrix. On the other hand, such a laser is not available in the market. In order to emit the mid-IR laser pulse, we came up with the application of an optical parametric oscillator and developed an efficient wavelength conversion device by pumping a compact Nd:YAG solid-state laser. Our mid-IR LUT system is most suitable for inspection of FRPs. The signal-to-noise ratio of ultrasonic waves generated by the mid-IR laser is higher than that by the Nd:YAG laser. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the performance of the mid-IR LUT system in reflection mode. We investigated the effects of the material properties and the laser properties on the generated ultrasonic waves. In addition, C-scan images by the system were also presented.

Ionosphere variability at mid latitudes during sudden stratosphere warmings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pedatella, N. M.; Maute, A. I.; Maruyama, N.

2015-12-01

Variability of the mid latitude ionosphere and thermosphere during the 2009 and 2013 sudden stratosphere warmings (SSWs) is investigated in the present study using a combination of Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC) observations and model simulations. The simulations are performed using the Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Mesosphere-Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIME-GCM) and Ionosphere Plasmasphere Electrodynamics (IPE) model. Both the COSMIC observations and TIME-GCM simulations reveal perturbations in the F-region peak height (hmF2) at Southern Hemisphere mid latitudes during SSW time periods. The perturbations are ~20-30 km, which corresponds to 10-20% variability in hmF2. The TIME-GCM simulations and COSMIC observations of the hmF2 variability are in overall good agreement, and the simulations can thus be used to understand the physical processes responsible for the hmF2 variability. The simulation results demonstrate that the mid lattiude hmF2 variability is primarily driven by the propagation of the migrating semidiurnal lunar tide (M2) into the thermosphere where it modulates the field aligned neutrals winds, which in-turn raise and lower the F-region peak height. The importance of the thermosphere neutral winds on generating the ionosphere variability at mid latitudes during SSWs is supported by IPE simulations performed both with and without the neutral wind variability. Though there are subtle differences, the consistency of the behavior between the 2009 and 2013 SSWs suggests that variability in the Southern Hemisphere mid latitude ionosphere and thermosphere is a consistent feature of the SSW impact on the upper atmosphere.

Development of Mid-Frequency Multibeam Sonar for Fisheries Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

Development of Mid-Frequency Multibeam Sonar for Fisheries Applications John K. Horne University of Washington, School of Aquatic and Fishery ...AND SUBTITLE Development of Mid-Frequency Multibeam Sonar for Fisheries Applications 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT...Washington,School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences,Box 355020,Seattle,WA,98195 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME

Development of Mid-Frequency Multibeam Sonar for Fisheries Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

Development of Mid-Frequency Multibeam Sonar for Fisheries Applications John K. Horne University of Washington, School of Aquatic and Fishery ...SUBTITLE Development of Mid-Frequency Multibeam Sonar for Fisheries Applications 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6...School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences,Box 355020 ,Seattle,WA,98195 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND

Reconciliation of Antarctic marine and terrestrial geologic records: climate and ice-sheet variability in the mid-Miocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halberstadt, A. R. W.; DeConto, R.; Gasson, E.; Kowalewski, D. E.; Levy, R. H.; Naish, T.; Chorley, H.

2017-12-01

The mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum ( 17-15 Ma) serves as a possible analog for future Antarctic conditions, as atmospheric CO2 concentrations were similar to those projected for the next few decades. During the subsequent mid-Miocene Climatic Transition, the Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS) developed from a more variable ice sheet to a continental, marine-terminating ice sheet resembling the modern configuration. Near-shore marine records from the Ross Sea (ANDRILL-2A; Levy et al., 2016) imply highly dynamic AIS behavior in the mid-Miocene. Reconstructed environmental conditions during this time period range from full glaciation of the area to a warm interglacial environment. Multiple AIS expansions during the mid-Miocene are interpreted from geophysical evidence including seismic surveys correlated to drill core data (Chow & Bart, 2003). These marine records are seemingly at odds with sedimentary and geomorphic studies in the McMurdo Dry Valleys (MDVs) that suggest the East Antarctic Ice Sheet was mostly invariable since the mid-Miocene (Sugden & Denton, 2004). Well-preserved landforms, observed by Marchant et al. (2013) and others, lack any indication of surface modification from glacial advance or wet cryoturbation, suggesting that hyper-arid cold-desert conditions have persisted in the MDVs since the mid-Miocene. This long-term landform stability in the MDVs implying a stable ice sheet is seemingly inconsistent with the highly dynamic AIS behavior reconstructed by Levy et al. (2016). Here, we use a Regional Climate Model (cf. Gasson et al., 2016) with a range of greenhouse gas concentrations, orbital configurations, ice sheet and shelf geometries, and sea surface conditions to reconcile the apparent dichotomy between marine and terrestrial records. Preliminary results reveal lapse-rate-corrected temperatures in the MDVs that generally remained below freezing in the austral summer, even under the warmest Miocene simulations (840 ppmv atmospheric CO2, `warm' austral

Structural development of human brain white matter from mid-fetal to perinatal stage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ouyang, Austin; Yu, Qiaowen; Mishra, Virendra; Chalak, Lina; Jeon, Tina; Sivarajan, Muraleedharan; Jackson, Greg; Rollins, Nancy; Liu, Shuwei; Huang, Hao

2015-03-01

The structures of developing human brain white matter (WM) tracts can be effectively quantified by DTI-derived metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), mean, axial and radial diffusivity (MD, AD and RD). However, dynamics of WM microstructure during very early developmental period from mid-fetal to perinatal stage is unknown. It is difficult to accurately measure microstructural properties of these WM tracts due to severe contamination from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In this study, high resolution DTI of fetal brains at mid-fetal stage (20 weeks of gestation or 20wg), 19 brains in the middle of 3rd trimester (35wg) and 17 brains around term (40wg) were acquired. We established first population-averaged DTI templates at these three time points and extracted WM skeleton. 16 major WM tracts in limbic, projection, commissural and association tract groups were traced with DTI tractography in native space. The WM skeleton in the template space was inversely transformed back to the native space for measuring core WM microstructures of each individual tract. Continuous microstructural enhancement and volumetric increase of WM tracts were found from 20wg to 40wg. The microstructural enhancement from FA measurement is decelerated in late 3rd trimester compared to mid-fetal to middle 3rd trimester, while volumetric increase of prefrontal WM tracts is accelerated. The microstructural enhancement from 35wg to 40wg is heterogeneous among different tract groups with microstructures of association tracts undergoing most dramatic change. Besides decreases of RD indicating active myelination, the decrease of AD for most WM tracts during late 3rd trimester suggests axonal packing process.

Observational Studies of Protoplanetary Disks at Mid-Infrared Wavelengths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Dan; Telesco, Charles; Wright, Christopher; Packham, Christopher; Marinas, Naibi

2013-07-01

We have used mid-infrared cameras on 8-to-10 m class telescopes to study the properties of young circumstellar disks. During the initial phases of this program we examined a large sample of mid-IR images of standard stars delivered by T-ReCS at Gemini South to evaluate its on-sky performance as characterized by, for example the angular resolution, the PSF shape, and the PSF temporal stability, properties that are most relevant to our high-angular resolution study of disks. With this information we developed an Interactive Data Language (IDL) package of routines optimized for reducing the data and correcting for image defects commonly seen in ground-based mid-IR data. We obtained, reduced, and analyzed mid-IR images and spectra of several Herbig Ae/Be disks (including HD 259431, MWC 1080, VV Ser) and the debris disk (β Pic), and derived their physical properties by means of radiative transfer modeling or spectroscopic decomposition and analyses. These results are highlighted here. During this study, we also helped commission CanariCam, a new mid-IR facility instrument built by the University of Florida for the 10.4 m Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC) on La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain. CanariCam is an imager with spectroscopic, polarimetric, and coronagraphic capabilities, with the dual-beam polarimetry being a unique mode introduced with CanariCam for the first time to a 10 m telescope at mid-IR wavelengths. It is well known that measurements of polarization, originating from aligned dust grains in the disks and their environments, have the potential to shed light on the morphologies of the magnetic fields in these regions, information that is critical to understanding how stars and planets form. We have obtained polarimetric data of several Herbig Ae/Be disks and YSOs, and the data reduction and analyses are in process. We present preliminary results here. This poster is based upon work supported by the NSF under grant AST-0903672 and AST-0908624 awarded to C.M.T.

The evolution of compliance in the human lateral mid-foot

PubMed Central

Bates, Karl T.; Collins, David; Savage, Russell; McClymont, Juliet; Webster, Emma; Pataky, Todd C.; D'Aout, Kristiaan; Sellers, William I.; Bennett, Matthew R.; Crompton, Robin H.

2013-01-01

Fossil evidence for longitudinal arches in the foot is frequently used to constrain the origins of terrestrial bipedality in human ancestors. This approach rests on the prevailing concept that human feet are unique in functioning with a relatively stiff lateral mid-foot, lacking the significant flexion and high plantar pressures present in non-human apes. This paradigm has stood for more than 70 years but has yet to be tested objectively with quantitative data. Herein, we show that plantar pressure records with elevated lateral mid-foot pressures occur frequently in healthy, habitually shod humans, with magnitudes in some individuals approaching absolute maxima across the foot. Furthermore, the same astonishing pressure range is present in bonobos and the orangutan (the most arboreal great ape), yielding overlap with human pressures. Thus, while the mean tendency of habitual mechanics of the mid-foot in healthy humans is indeed consistent with the traditional concept of the lateral mid-foot as a relatively rigid or stabilized structure, it is clear that lateral arch stabilization in humans is not obligate and is often transient. These findings suggest a level of detachment between foot stiffness during gait and osteological structure, hence fossilized bone morphology by itself may only provide a crude indication of mid-foot function in extinct hominins. Evidence for thick plantar tissues in Ardipithecus ramidus suggests that a human-like combination of active and passive modulation of foot compliance by soft tissues extends back into an arboreal context, supporting an arboreal origin of hominin bipedalism in compressive orthogrady. We propose that the musculoskeletal conformation of the modern human mid-foot evolved under selection for a functionally tuneable, rather than obligatory stiff structure. PMID:23966646

Mid-frontal theta activity is diminished during cognitive control in Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Singh, Arun; Richardson, Sarah Pirio; Narayanan, Nandakumar; Cavanagh, James F

2018-05-23

Mid-frontal theta activity underlies cognitive control. These 4-8 Hz rhythms are modulated by cortical dopamine and can be abnormal in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we investigated mid-frontal theta deficits in PD patients during a task explicitly involving cognitive control. We collected scalp EEG from high-performing PD patients and demographically matched controls during performance of a modified Simon reaction-time task. This task involves cognitive control to adjudicate response conflict and error-related adjustments. Task performance of PD patients was indistinguishable from controls, but PD patients had less mid-frontal theta modulations around cues and responses. Critically, PD patients had attenuated mid-frontal theta activity specifically associated with response conflict and post-error processing. These signals were unaffected by medication or motor scores. Post-error mid-frontal theta activity was correlated with disease duration. Classification of control vs. PD from these data resulted in a specificity of 69% and a sensitivity of 72%. These findings help define the scope of mid-frontal theta aberrations during cognitive control in PD, and may provide insight into the nature of PD-related cognitive dysfunction. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mid-Term Quasi-Periodicities and Solar Cycle Variation of the White-Light Corona from 18.5 Years (1996.0 - 2014.5) of LASCO Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barlyaeva, T.; Lamy, P.; Llebaria, A.

2015-07-01

We report on the analysis of the temporal evolution of the solar corona based on 18.5 years (1996.0 - 2014.5) of white-light observations with the SOHO/LASCO-C2 coronagraph. This evolution is quantified by generating spatially integrated values of the K-corona radiance, first globally, then in latitudinal sectors. The analysis considers time series of monthly values and 13-month running means of the radiance as well as several indices and proxies of solar activity. We study correlation, wavelet time-frequency spectra, and cross-coherence and phase spectra between these quantities. Our results give a detailed insight on how the corona responds to solar activity over timescales ranging from mid-term quasi-periodicities (also known as quasi-biennial oscillations or QBOs) to the long-term 11 year solar cycle. The amplitude of the variation between successive solar maxima and minima (modulation factor) very much depends upon the strength of the cycle and upon the heliographic latitude. An asymmetry is observed during the ascending phase of Solar Cycle 24, prominently in the royal and polar sectors, with north leading. Most prominent QBOs are a quasi-annual period during the maximum phase of Solar Cycle 23 and a shorter period, seven to eight months, in the ascending and maximum phases of Solar Cycle 24. They share the same properties as the solar QBOs: variable periodicity, intermittency, asymmetric development in the northern and southern solar hemispheres, and largest amplitudes during the maximum phase of solar cycles. The strongest correlation of the temporal variations of the coronal radiance - and consequently the coronal electron density - is found with the total magnetic flux. Considering that the morphology of the solar corona is also directly controlled by the topology of the magnetic field, this correlation reinforces the view that they are intimately connected, including their variability at all timescales.

Improving College Students English Learning with Dr. Eye Android Mid

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yang, Ju Yin; Che, Pei-Chun

2015-01-01

This paper investigates college students' English language learning through use of Dr. Eye Android handheld mobile Internet device (MID). Compared to related studies, students' English learning using MIDs has not been evaluated and fully understood in the field of higher education. Quantitatively, the researchers used TOEIC pretest and posttest to…

Earthquake swarms on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge - Products of magmatism or extensional tectonics?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bergman, Eric A.; Solomon, Sean C.

1990-01-01

The spatial and temporal patterns and other characteristics of earthquakes in 34 earthquake swarms on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge were compared with those of well-studied earthquake swarms which accompany terrestrial volcanic eruptions, to test the assumption that the teleseismically observed earthquake swarms along mid-ocean ridges are indicators of volcanism. Improved resolution of these patterns for the mid-ocean ridge events was achieved by a multiple-event relocation technique. It was found that the teleseismically located earthquake swarms on the mid-ocean ridge system have few features in common with swarms directly associated with active magmatism in terrestrial volcanic rift zones such as Hawaii and Iceland. While the possibility that some of the mid-ocean earthquake swarms might be directly associated with a current episode of eruptive activity on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge cannot be excluded, none of the 34 swarms studied in this work was found to be a conspicuously attractive candidate for such a role.

Ozone Depletion at Mid-Latitudes: Coupling of Volcanic Aerosols and Temperature Variability to Anthropogenic Chlorine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solomon, S.; Portmann, R. W.; Garcia, R. R.; Randel, W.; Wu, F.; Nagatani, R.; Gleason, J.; Thomason, L.; Poole, L. R.; McCormick, M. P.

1998-01-01

Satellite observations of total ozone at 40-60 deg N are presented from a variety of instruments over the time period 1979-1997. These reveal record low values in 1992-3 (after Pinatubo) followed by partial but incomplete recovery. The largest post-Pinatubo reductions and longer-term trends occur in spring, providing a critical test for chemical theories of ozone depletion. The observations are shown to be consistent with current understanding of the chemistry of ozone depletion when changes in reactive chlorine and stratospheric aerosol abundances are considered along with estimates of wave-driven fluctuations in stratospheric temperatures derived from global temperature analyses. Temperature fluctuations are shown to make significant contributions to model calculated northern mid-latitude ozone depletion due to heterogeneous chlorine activation on liquid sulfate aerosols at temperatures near 200-210 K (depending upon water vapor pressure), particularly after major volcanic eruptions. Future mid-latitude ozone recovery will hence depend not only on chlorine recovery but also on temperature trends and/or variability, volcanic activity, and any trends in stratospheric sulfate aerosol.

Early and Mid-Term Outcome of Pediatric Congenital Mitral Valve Surgery

PubMed Central

Baghaei, Ramin; Tabib, Avisa; Jalili, Farshad; Totonchi, Ziae; Mahdavi, Mohammad; Ghadrdoost, Behshid

2015-01-01

Background: Congenital lesions of the mitral valve are relatively rare and are associated with a wide spectrum of cardiac malformations. The surgical management of congenital mitral valve malformations has been a great challenge. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the early and intermediate-term outcome of congenital mitral valve (MV) surgery in children and to identify the predictors for poor postoperative outcomes and death. Patients and Methods: In this retrospective study, 100 consecutive patients with congenital MV disease undergoing mitral valve surgery were reviewed in 60-month follow-up (mean, 42.4 ± 16.4 months) during 2008 - 2013. Twenty-six patients (26%) were under one-year old. The mean age and weight of the patients were 41.63 ± 38.18 months and 11.92 ± 6.12 kg, respectively. The predominant lesion of the mitral valve was MV stenosis (MS group) seen in 21% and MR (MR group) seen in 79% of the patients. All patients underwent preoperative two-dimensional echocardiography and then every six months after surgery Results: Significant improvement in degree of MR was noted in all patients with MR during postoperative and follow-up period in both patients with or without atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) (P = 0.045 in patients with AVSD and P = 0.008 in patients without AVSD). Decreasing trend of mean gradient (MG) in MS group was statistically significant (P = 0.005). In patients with MR, the mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) had improved postoperatively (P < 0.001). Although PAP in patients with MV stenosis was reduced, this reduction was not statistically significant (P = 0.17). In-hospital mortality was 7%. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that age (P < 0.001), weight (P < 0.001), and pulmonary stenosis (P = 0.03) are strong predictors for mortality. Based on the echocardiography report at the day of discharge from hospital, surgical results were optimal (up to moderate degree for MR group and up to mild degree for MS group) in

Control of intracellular ionic concentrations by mid-infrared laser irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takebe, G.; Yamauchi, T.; Shimizu, Y.; Dougakiuchi, T.

2018-02-01

We successfully induced intracellular ion concentration changes in live culture cells using mid-infrared laser irradiation. The laser used for irradiation was a quantum cascade laser with a wavelength of 6.1 micrometers. We tuned the power of the laser to be between 30 to 60 mW at the sample. Cell lines, namely HeLa and Chinese hamster ovary cell lines, were used. They were cultured on specially fabricated silicon-bottom dishes. Live cells were stained using ion-sensitive dyes such as Calcium Green-1. The mid-infrared light was incident on the cell samples from the bottom of the dish through the silicon plate, and fluorescence imaging of the ion concentrations was performed using an upright fluorescence microscope placed on top of the sample stage. The mid-infrared lasers were operated in the continuous wave mode and light irradiations onto the cells were temporally controlled using a mechanical shutter in a periodical on-and-off pattern in the second timescale. The cells showed oscillations in their ionic concentration, which was synchronized with the periodical mid-infrared irradiation, and the threshold power needed for evoking the ion concentration change was dependent on the cell types and ion species. These results demonstrated that mid-infrared light directly changed the ionic response within cells and had the ability to change cell functions.

The mid-Cretaceous super plume, carbon dioxide, and global warming

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Caldeira, Ken; Rampino, Michael R.

1991-01-01

Carbon-dioxide releases associated with a mid-Cretaceous super plume and the emplacement of the Ontong-Java Plateau have been suggested as a principal cause of the mid-Cretaceous global warming. A carbonate-silicate cycle model is developed to quantify the possible climatic effects of these CO2 releases, utilizing four different formulations for the rate of silicate-rock weathering as a function of atmospheric CO2. CO2 emissions resulting from super-plume tectonics could have produced atmospheric CO2 levels from 3.7 to 14.7 times the modern preindustrial value of 285 ppm. Based on the temperature sensitivity to CO2 increases used in the weathering-rate formulations, this would cause a global warming of from 2.8 to 7.7 C over today's glogal mean temperature. Altered continental positions and higher sea level may have been contributed about 4.8 C to mid-Cretaceous warming. Thus, the combined effects of paleogeographic changes and super-plume related CO2 emissions could be in the range of 7.6 to 12.5 C, within the 6 to 14 C range previously estimated for mid-Cretaceous warming. CO2 releases from oceanic plateaus alone are unlikely to have been directly responsible for more than 20 percent of the mid-Cretaceous increase in atmospheric CO2.

An Abrupt Centennial-Scale Drought Event and Mid-Holocene Climate Change Patterns in Monsoon Marginal Zones of East Asia

PubMed Central

Li, Yu; Wang, Nai'ang; Zhang, Chengqi

2014-01-01

The mid-latitudes of East Asia are characterized by the interaction between the Asian summer monsoon and the westerly winds. Understanding long-term climate change in the marginal regions of the Asian monsoon is critical for understanding the millennial-scale interactions between the Asian monsoon and the westerly winds. Abrupt climate events are always associated with changes in large-scale circulation patterns; therefore, investigations into abrupt climate changes provide clues for responses of circulation patterns to extreme climate events. In this paper, we examined the time scale and mid-Holocene climatic background of an abrupt dry mid-Holocene event in the Shiyang River drainage basin in the northwest margin of the Asian monsoon. Mid-Holocene lacustrine records were collected from the middle reaches and the terminal lake of the basin. Using radiocarbon and OSL ages, a centennial-scale drought event, which is characterized by a sand layer in lacustrine sediments both from the middle and lower reaches of the basin, was absolutely dated between 8.0–7.0 cal kyr BP. Grain size data suggest an abrupt decline in lake level and a dry environment in the middle reaches of the basin during the dry interval. Previous studies have shown mid-Holocene drought events in other places of monsoon marginal zones; however, their chronologies are not strong enough to study the mechanism. According to the absolutely dated records, we proposed a new hypothesis that the mid-Holocene dry interval can be related to the weakening Asian summer monsoon and the relatively arid environment in arid Central Asia. Furthermore, abrupt dry climatic events are directly linked to the basin-wide effective moisture change in semi-arid and arid regions. Effective moisture is affected by basin-wide precipitation, evapotranspiration, lake surface evaporation and other geographical settings. As a result, the time scales of the dry interval could vary according to locations due to different

An abrupt centennial-scale drought event and mid-holocene climate change patterns in monsoon marginal zones of East Asia.

PubMed

Li, Yu; Wang, Nai'ang; Zhang, Chengqi

2014-01-01

The mid-latitudes of East Asia are characterized by the interaction between the Asian summer monsoon and the westerly winds. Understanding long-term climate change in the marginal regions of the Asian monsoon is critical for understanding the millennial-scale interactions between the Asian monsoon and the westerly winds. Abrupt climate events are always associated with changes in large-scale circulation patterns; therefore, investigations into abrupt climate changes provide clues for responses of circulation patterns to extreme climate events. In this paper, we examined the time scale and mid-Holocene climatic background of an abrupt dry mid-Holocene event in the Shiyang River drainage basin in the northwest margin of the Asian monsoon. Mid-Holocene lacustrine records were collected from the middle reaches and the terminal lake of the basin. Using radiocarbon and OSL ages, a centennial-scale drought event, which is characterized by a sand layer in lacustrine sediments both from the middle and lower reaches of the basin, was absolutely dated between 8.0-7.0 cal kyr BP. Grain size data suggest an abrupt decline in lake level and a dry environment in the middle reaches of the basin during the dry interval. Previous studies have shown mid-Holocene drought events in other places of monsoon marginal zones; however, their chronologies are not strong enough to study the mechanism. According to the absolutely dated records, we proposed a new hypothesis that the mid-Holocene dry interval can be related to the weakening Asian summer monsoon and the relatively arid environment in arid Central Asia. Furthermore, abrupt dry climatic events are directly linked to the basin-wide effective moisture change in semi-arid and arid regions. Effective moisture is affected by basin-wide precipitation, evapotranspiration, lake surface evaporation and other geographical settings. As a result, the time scales of the dry interval could vary according to locations due to different geographical

Mid-rotation silviculture timing influences nitrogen mineralization of loblolly pine plantations in the mid-south USA

Treesearch

Michael A. Blazier; D. Andrew Scott; Ryan Coleman

2015-01-01

Intensively managed loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations often develop nutrient deficiencies near mid-rotation. Common silvicultural treatments for improving stand nutrition at this stage include thinning, fertilization, and vegetation control. It is important to better understand the influence of timing fertilization and vegetation control...

Performance of mid infrared spectroscopy in skin cancer cell type identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Kemper, Björn; Lloyd, Gavin R.; Nallala, Jayakrupakar; Stone, Nick; Naranjo, Valery; Penaranda, Francisco; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2017-02-01

Marker free optical spectroscopy is a powerful tool for the rapid inspection of pathologically suspicious skin lesions and the non-invasive detection of early skin tumors. This goal can be reached by the combination of signal localization and the spectroscopical detection of chemical cell signatures. We here present the development and application of mid infrared spectroscopy (midIR) for the analysis of skin tumor cell types and three dimensional tissue phantoms towards the application of midIR spectroscopy for fast and reliable skin diagnostics. We developed standardized in vitro skin systems with increasing complexity, from single skin cell types as fibroblasts, keratinocytes and melanoma cells, to mixtures of these and finally three dimensional skin cancer phantoms. The cell systems were characterized with different systems in the midIR range up to 12 μm. The analysis of the spectra by novel data processing algorithms demonstrated the clear separation of all cell types, especially melanoma cells. Special attention and algorithm training was required for closely related mesenchymal cell types as dedifferentiated melanoma cells and fibroblasts. Proof of concept experiments with mixtures of in vivo fluorescence labelled skin cell types allowed the test of the new algorithms performance for the identification of specific cell types. The intense training of the software systems with various samples resulted in a increased sensitivity and specificity of the combined midIR and software system. These data highlight the potential of midIR spectroscopy as sensitive and specific future optical biopsy technology.

MID-ATLANTIC LANDCOVER CHANGE DATA BROWSER

EPA Science Inventory

The Mid-Atlantic region is comprised of southern New York, southern and western New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, northeastern North Carolina, Delaware, and Washington, DC. It is an ecosystem rich in streams, wetlands, forests, estuaries, breeding birds...

40 CFR 81.83 - Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 18 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate... Designation of Air Quality Control Regions § 81.83 Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region. The Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region (New Mexico) is revised to...

40 CFR 81.83 - Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 18 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate... Designation of Air Quality Control Regions § 81.83 Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region. The Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region (New Mexico) is revised to...

40 CFR 81.83 - Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 18 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate... Designation of Air Quality Control Regions § 81.83 Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region. The Albuquerque-Mid Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region (New Mexico) is revised to...

[Study of Japanese anatomical terms, such as 'sphenoid bone'].

PubMed

Sawai, Tadashi

2008-12-01

Japanese anatomical terms (butterfly-shaped bone) have an interesting history. Galen named a bone (wedge-like). This Greek term was introduced into Latin anatomical texts by transcribing into 'os sphnoides' or translating it as 'os cuneiforme'. Both terms mean equally wedge-like bone. From 16th century on, these two terms prevailed in European anatomical textbooks, but in 18th century some anatomists merged this bone with some kinds of winged creatures and named their wings "Ala major' and 'Ala minor'. In mid-19th century English-Chinese anatomical book, this bone was named (butterfly bone) by a medical missionary Benjamin Hobson. This term was introduced into Japanese textbooks. In Meiji Era both terms were used in Japanese textbooks, and (wedged-like bone). Some anatomists insisted on using because this echoed original Latin term's sense. Eventually, Japanese Associations of Anatomists adopted in 1943.

Hydrogeologic influence on changes in snowmelt runoff with climate warming: Numerical experiments on a mid-elevation catchment in the Sierra Nevada, USA

Treesearch

S.M. Jepsen; T.C. Harmon; M.W. Meadows; C.T. Hunsaker

2016-01-01

The role of hydrogeology in mediating long-term changes in mountain streamflow, resulting from reduced snowfall in a potentially warmer climate, is currently not well understood. We explore this by simulating changes in stream discharge and evapotranspiration from a mid-elevation, 1-km2 catchment in the southern Sierra Nevada of California (USA)...

A novel technique for repair of mid-penile hypospadias using a preputial skin flap: results of 110 patients.

PubMed

Elmoghazy, Hazem; Hussein, Mohamed M; Mohamed, Elnisr; Badawy, Abdelbasset; Alsagheer, Gamal; Abd Elhamed, Ahmed Mamdouh

2016-12-01

Several techniques have been used to repair mid-penile hypospadias; however, high failure rates and major complications have been reported. In this study, we describe a novel technique using a well-vascularized flap of the inner and outer preputial skin. A total of 110 male children with hypospadias underwent repair by our technique between 2008 and 2015. The inclusion criteria were children with mid-penile or slightly more proximal hypospadias, with or without ventral chordae, and an intact prepuce of the cobra eyes variety. Recurrent cases, patients with other preputial types, and circumcised children were excluded from this study. The prepared flap was sutured in its natural longitudinal orientation to the created urethral plate strip to form a neo-urethra over a urethral catheter. Outcome measures included surgical success without the formation of a urethra-cutaneous fistula, no ischaemia of the flaps, glans dehiscence or infection and functional outcome and cosmetic appearance. The median follow-up duration was 3.3 years. There were 63 cases of mid-penile hypospadias (57.3 %), and in 47 cases (42.7 %), the meatus was slightly more proximal. The age of the patients ranged from 1.1 to 8.0 years, with a mean age of 4.6 ± 1.2 years. Surgery was successful in 106 (96.4 %) cases. Minor complications occurred in 11 patients (10 %) and included oedema of glans in ten patients and bluish discoloration on the ventral aspect of the glans close to the suture line in three patients. All patients improved within 2 weeks after surgery. Long-term follow-up revealed a properly functioning urethra with a forward, projectile, single, compact, and rifled urinary stream of adequate calibre and cosmetically acceptable repair. No cases of meatal retraction, meatal stenosis, urethral stricture, or acquired urethral diverticulum occurred. Our technique is different from the split prepuce in situ technique. We create a narrow strip of the urethral plate that facilitates

Implication of Paris Agreement in the context of long-term climate mitigation goals.

PubMed

Fujimori, Shinichiro; Su, Xuanming; Liu, Jing-Yu; Hasegawa, Tomoko; Takahashi, Kiyoshi; Masui, Toshihiko; Takimi, Maho

2016-01-01

The Paris Agreement confirmed the global aim to achieve a long-term climate goal, in which the global increase in mean temperature is kept below 2 °C compared to the preindustrial level. We investigated the implications of the near-term emissions targets (for around the year 2030) in the context of the long-term climate mitigation goal using the Asia-Pacific Integrated Model framework. To achieve the 2 °C goal, a large greenhouse gas emissions reduction is required, either in the early or latter half of this century. In the mid-term (from 2030 to 2050), it may be necessary to consider rapid changes to the existing energy or socioeconomic systems, while long-term measures (after 2050) will rely on the substantial use of biomass combined with carbon capture and storage technology or afforestation, which will eventually realize so-called negative CO2 emissions. With respect to the policy context, two suggestions are provided here. The first is the review and revision of the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) in 2020, with an additional reduction target to the current NDCs being one workable alternative. The second suggestion is a concrete and numerical mid-term emissions reduction target, for example to be met by 2040 or 2050, which could also help to achieve the long-term climate goal.

Heuristic modelling of laser written mid-infrared LiNbO₃ stressed-cladding waveguides.

PubMed

Nguyen, Huu-Dat; Ródenas, Airán; Vázquez de Aldana, Javier R; Martínez, Javier; Chen, Feng; Aguiló, Magdalena; Pujol, Maria Cinta; Díaz, Francesc

2016-04-04

Mid-infrared lithium niobate cladding waveguides have great potential in low-loss on-chip non-linear optical instruments such as mid-infrared spectrometers and frequency converters, but their three-dimensional femtosecond-laser fabrication is currently not well understood due to the complex interplay between achievable depressed index values and the stress-optic refractive index changes arising as a function of both laser fabrication parameters, and cladding arrangement. Moreover, both the stress-field anisotropy and the asymmetric shape of low-index tracks yield highly birefringent waveguides not useful for most applications where controlling and manipulating the polarization state of a light beam is crucial. To achieve true high performance devices a fundamental understanding on how these waveguides behave and how they can be ultimately optimized is required. In this work we employ a heuristic modelling approach based on the use of standard optical characterization data along with standard computational numerical methods to obtain a satisfactory approximate solution to the problem of designing realistic laser-written circuit building-blocks, such as straight waveguides, bends and evanescent splitters. We infer basic waveguide design parameters such as the complex index of refraction of laser-written tracks at 3.68 µm mid-infrared wavelengths, as well as the cross-sectional stress-optic index maps, obtaining an overall waveguide simulation that closely matches the measured mid-infrared waveguide properties in terms of anisotropy, mode field distributions and propagation losses. We then explore experimentally feasible waveguide designs in the search of a single-mode low-loss behaviour for both ordinary and extraordinary polarizations. We evaluate the overall losses of s-bend components unveiling the expected radiation bend losses of this type of waveguides, and finally showcase a prototype design of a low-loss evanescent splitter. Developing a realistic waveguide

Service delivery in Kenyan district hospitals – what can we learn from literature on mid-level managers?

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background There is a growing emphasis on the need to tackle inadequate human resources for health (HRH) as an essential part of strengthening health systems; but the focus is mostly on macro-level issues, such as training, recruitment, skill mix and distribution. Few attempts have been made to understand the capability of health workers, their motivation and other structural and organizational aspects of systems that influence workforce performance. We have examined literature on the roles of mid-level managers to help us understand how they might influence service delivery quality in Kenyan hospitals. In the Kenyan hospital settings, these are roles that head of departments who are also clinical or nursing service providers might play. Methods A computerized search strategy was run in Pub Med, Cochrane Library, Directory of Open Access Journals Social Science Research Network, Eldis, Google Scholar and Human Resources for Health web site databases using both free-text and MeSH terms from 1980 to 2011. In addition, citation searching from excluded and included articles was used and relevant unpublished literature systematically identified. Results and discussion A total of 23 articles were finally included in the review from over 7000 titles and abstracts initially identified. The most widely documented roles of mid-level managers were decision-making or problem-solving, strategist or negotiator and communicator. Others included being a therapist or motivator, goal setting or articulation and mentoring or coaching. In addition to these roles, we identified important personal attributes of a good manager, which included interpersonal skills, delegation and accountability, and honesty. The majority of studies included in the review concerned the roles that mid-level managers are expected to play in times of organizational change. Conclusion This review highlights the possible significance of mid-level managers in achieving delivery of high-quality services in Kenyan

Modelling the mid-infrared drying of sweet potato: kinetics, mass and heat transfer parameters, and energy consumption

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onwude, Daniel I.; Hashim, Norhashila; Abdan, Khalina; Janius, Rimfiel; Chen, Guangnan

2018-04-01

This study investigated the drying kinetics, mass and heat transfer characteristics of sweet potato slices (0.4-0.6 cm thickness) during drying based on mid-infrared experimental set-up (intensity of 1100-1400 W/m2). Thin layer drying models were used to evaluate the drying kinetics of sweet potato slices. Two analytical models (Fick's diffusion model, and Dincer and Dost model) were used to study the mass transfer behaviour of sweet potato slices with and without shrinkage during mid-infrared drying. The heat transfer flux between the emitter and sweet potato slices was also investigated. Results demonstrated that an increase in infrared intensity from 1100 W/m2 to 1400 W/m2 resulted in increased in average radiation heat flux by 3.4 times and a 15% reduction in the overall drying time. The two-term exponential model was found to be the best in predicting the drying kinetics of sweet potato slices during mid-infrared drying. The specific heat consumption varied from 0.91-4.82 kWh/kg. The effective moisture diffusivity with and without shrinkage using the Fick's diffusion model varied from 2.632 × 10-9 to 1.596 × 10-8 m2/s, and 1.24 × 10-8 to 2.4 × 10-8 m2/s using Dincer and Dost model, respectively. The obtained values of mass transfer coefficient, Biot number and activation energy varied from 5.99 × 10-6 to 1.17 × 10-5 m/s, 0.53 to 2.62, and 12.83 kJ/mol to 34.64 kJ/mol, respectively. The values obtained for Biot number implied the existence of simultaneous internal and external resistances. The findings further explained that mid-infrared intensity of 1100 W/m2 did not significantly affect the quality of sweet potato during drying, demonstrating a great potential of applying low intensity mid-infrared radiation in the drying of agricultural crops.

[Prospective study on dynamics of depression in mid-adolescence].

PubMed

Bomba, Jacek; Modrzejewska, Renata

2006-01-01

The aim of the study is an evaluation of the occurrence and dynamics of depression during mid-adolescence. It was conducted in prospective studies on a representative group of gymnasium school adolescents in large towns. In a two-stage draw, a representative group of 1737, 13 year-old adolescents was chosen. They were surveyed by the Krakow Depression Inventory (KID) subsequently in the years 2001, 2002, 2003. The point-prevalence of depression was respectively 24.6%, 24.5% and 26.6% for 13, 14 and 15 year-olds. The spread-out rate of depressive disorder in the studied group turned out to be relatively stable. Depression is more common amongst mid-adolescent girls than boys. Dynamics of the disorder, when studied throughout the three years show that amongst the mid-adolescent population, depression is a disorder of an unequivocal nature.

Feeding Ecology of Coryphaenoides rupestris from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

PubMed Central

Bergstad, Odd Aksel; Gjelsvik, Guro; Schander, Christoffer; Høines, Åge S.

2010-01-01

The Macrourid fish roundnose grenadier, Coryphaenoides rupestris, is one of the most common benthopelagic fishes on the northern mid-Atlantic Ridge. The ecology of the species is comparatively well studied in continental slope waters of the North Atlantic, but not on the mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is a central mid-ocean area of its distribution. In total, 166 specimens from the RV G.O. Sars cruise in July 2004 were examined. The diet mainly comprised cephalopods, pelagic shrimps and fish. Pelagic and benthopelagic copepods were the most numerous prey, but did not contribute much on a weight basis. Cephalopods were by far the most important prey of the small grenadiers, while shrimps and fish became increasingly significant with increasing size. Previous studies from other areas have also found pelagic prey to be important, but in contrast to this study, cephalopods were generally of less importance. The study was an element of more wide-ranging food-web studies of the mid-Atlantic Ridge macro- and megafauna communities within the international MAR-ECO project. PMID:20454674

Feeding ecology of Coryphaenoides rupestris from the mid-Atlantic Ridge.

PubMed

Bergstad, Odd Aksel; Gjelsvik, Guro; Schander, Christoffer; Høines, Age S

2010-05-03

The Macrourid fish roundnose grenadier, Coryphaenoides rupestris, is one of the most common benthopelagic fishes on the northern mid-Atlantic Ridge. The ecology of the species is comparatively well studied in continental slope waters of the North Atlantic, but not on the mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is a central mid-ocean area of its distribution. In total, 166 specimens from the RV G.O. Sars cruise in July 2004 were examined. The diet mainly comprised cephalopods, pelagic shrimps and fish. Pelagic and benthopelagic copepods were the most numerous prey, but did not contribute much on a weight basis. Cephalopods were by far the most important prey of the small grenadiers, while shrimps and fish became increasingly significant with increasing size. Previous studies from other areas have also found pelagic prey to be important, but in contrast to this study, cephalopods were generally of less importance. The study was an element of more wide-ranging food-web studies of the mid-Atlantic Ridge macro- and megafauna communities within the international MAR-ECO project.

76 FR 66041 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-25

... Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS.... SUMMARY: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council's (Council) Ecosystem and Ocean Planning Committee..., Baltimore, MD 21240 and telephone: (410) 859- 3300. Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council...

77 FR 70149 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-23

... Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and its Visioning and Strategic Planning [[Page... Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meetings AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National...) 539-2000. Council Address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State St., Suite 201, Dover...

77 FR 59593 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-28

.... SUMMARY: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council), its Visioning and Strategic Planning... Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meetings AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS..., NJ 07740; telephone: (732) 571-4000. Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N...

Mid-infrared supercontinuum generation in multimode step index chalcogenide fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ben Khalifa, Ameni; Ben Salem, Amine; Cherif, Rim; Zghal, Mourad

2016-09-01

In this paper, we propose a design of a high numerical aperture multimode hybrid step-index fiber for mid-infrared (mid- IR) supercontinuum generation (SCG) where two chalcogenide glass compositions As40Se60 and Ge10As23.4Se66.6 for the core and the cladding are selected, respectively. Aiming to get accurate modeling of the SCG by the fundamental mode, we solve the multimode generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equations and demonstrate nonlinear coupling and energy transfer between high order modes. The proposed study points out the impact of nonlinear mode coupling that should be taken into account in order to successfully predict the mid-infrared supercontinuum generation in highly nonlinear multimode fibers.

[The design and application of domestic mid-IR fiber optics].

PubMed

Weng, Shi-fu; Gao, Jian-ping; Xu, Yi-zhuang; Yang, Li-min; Bian, Bei-ya; Xiang, Hai-bo; Wu, Jin-guang

2004-05-01

The combination of mid-IR fiber optics and FTIR has made the non-invasive determination of samples in situ, with long distances, and in vivo possible. In this paper domestic mid-IR fiber optics was improved to investigate the transmission ability of fiber optics and its application to the sample determination. New design was applied to obtaining one bare fiber optics, which has a minor energy loss and higher signal-to-noise ratio. The spectra of H2O/EtOH and tissue samples were measured using the new designed fiber optics and the results show that home-made mid-IR fiber optics can be applied to the field of determination of general and biological samples.

Factors associated with educational mobility in mid-age Australian women.

PubMed

Tooth, Leigh R; Mishra, Gita D

2017-02-01

The educational mobility of mid-age women is rarely studied. We analysed the baseline socio-economic position (SEP) and health factors associated with obtaining further education in 4117 mid-age Australian women between 1996 and 2010 (aged 45-50 at baseline, 62-67 at follow-up) from a population-based study. Women either unemployed or working part-time at baseline had higher odds of a stable low and middle education over time (ORs ranging from 1.61 to 3.86) versus educational mobility. Apart from obesity, characteristics that may signal an unhealthy lifestyle in early mid-life were not useful indicators of women's future educational mobility. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantifying Transport Between the Tropical and Mid-Latitude Lower Stratosphere

PubMed

Volk; Elkins; Fahey; Salawitch; Dutton; Gilligan; Proffitt; Loewenstein; Podolske; Minschwaner; Margitan; Chan

1996-06-21

Airborne in situ observations of molecules with a wide range of lifetimes (methane, nitrous oxide, reactive nitrogen, ozone, chlorinated halocarbons, and halon-1211), used in a tropical tracer model, show that mid-latitude air is entrained into the tropical lower stratosphere within about 13.5 months; transport is faster in the reverse direction. Because exchange with the tropics is slower than global photochemical models generally assume, ozone at mid-latitudes appears to be more sensitive to elevated levels of industrial chlorine than is currently predicted. Nevertheless, about 45 percent of air in the tropical ascent region at 21 kilometers is of mid-latitude origin, implying that emissions from supersonic aircraft could reach the middle stratosphere.

USGS research on three mid-latitude glaciers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Green, J.R.; DeWayne, Cecil L.; Naftz, D.L.; Schuster, P.F.

2000-01-01

Low- and mid-latitude regions of the earth are home to 80 to 90 percent of the world's population. Because of this, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting a research program to study the geochemistry of precipitation, snow, ice, and runoff samples from mid-latitude glaciers in Kyrghyzstan, Nepal, and the United States, Areas of research, such as ground-water studies, reconstructing paleoclimate records, describing anthropogenic input of chemicals to the environment, and modeling global climate, are important to the well being of the worlds' population and can be supplemented by the collection and chemical analysis of snow and ice cores. Nearly all the constituents that compose snow and ice-core samples contribute vital information, whether it be the microbial communities that flourish in snow, radionuclides present in various amounts in all the samples, or location-specific deposits of mercury and nitrate. This work is hastened by the fact that mid-latitude glaciers, and the information preserved in them, are rapidly disappearing as a result of global warming. Research collaboration for this project includes 12 national and 7 international universities, and 4 government agencies. Funding is provided by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the USGS.

Effects of Mid-Level Ethanol Blends on Conventional Vehicle Emissions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Knoll, K.; West, B.; Huff, S.

2010-06-01

Tests were conducted in 2008 on 16 late-model conventional vehicles (1999-2007) to determine short-term effects of mid-level ethanol blends on performance and emissions. Vehicle odometer readings ranged from 10,000 to 100,000 miles, and all vehicles conformed to federal emissions requirements for their federal certification level. The LA92 drive cycle, also known as the Unified Cycle, was used for testing because it more accurately represents real-world acceleration rates and speeds than the Federal Test Procedure. Test fuels were splash-blends of up to 20 volume percent ethanol with federal certification gasoline. Both regulated and unregulated air-toxic emissions were measured. For the 16-vehiclemore » fleet, increasing ethanol content resulted in reductions in average composite emissions of both nonmethane hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide and increases in average emissions of ethanol and aldehydes.« less

A Short Term Real Time Study in Syntactic Change.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duarte, Maria Eugenia Lamoglia

Recent research has shown that Brazilian Portuguese is undergoing a change regarding the null subject parameter, evolving from a null subject to a non-null subject language. This paper presents the results of a short term, real time study of speakers of Brazilian Portuguese with low and mid levels of formal education. The study was based on…

Real-time mid-infrared imaging of living microorganisms.

PubMed

Haase, Katharina; Kröger-Lui, Niels; Pucci, Annemarie; Schönhals, Arthur; Petrich, Wolfgang

2016-01-01

The speed and efficiency of quantum cascade laser-based mid-infrared microspectroscopy are demonstrated using two different model organisms as examples. For the slowly moving Amoeba proteus, a quantum cascade laser is tuned over the wavelength range of 7.6 µm to 8.6 µm (wavenumbers 1320 cm(-1) and 1160 cm(-1) , respectively). The recording of a hyperspectral image takes 11.3 s whereby an average signal-to-noise ratio of 29 is achieved. The limits of time resolution are tested by imaging the fast moving Caenorhabditis elegans at a discrete wavenumber of 1265 cm(-1) . Mid-infrared imaging is performed with the 640 × 480 pixel video graphics array (VGA) standard and at a full-frame time resolution of 0.02 s (i.e. well above the most common frame rate standards). An average signal-to-noise ratio of 16 is obtained. To the best of our knowledge, these findings constitute the first mid-infrared imaging of living organisms at VGA standard and video frame rate. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mugshot Identification Database (MID)

National Institute of Standards and Technology Data Gateway

NIST Mugshot Identification Database (MID) (Web, free access)   NIST Special Database 18 is being distributed for use in development and testing of automated mugshot identification systems. The database consists of three CD-ROMs, containing a total of 3248 images of variable size using lossless compression. A newer version of the compression/decompression software on the CDROM can be found at the website http://www.nist.gov/itl/iad/ig/nigos.cfm as part of the NBIS package.

THE MID-ATLANTIC INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT MAIA - ESTUARIES 1997-1998 SUMMARY REPORT

EPA Science Inventory

During the summers of 1997-98, a consortium of federal and state environmental agencies conducted the Mid-Atlantic Integrated Assessment (MAIA) program to characterize the environmental condition of the four major estuaries in the the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The...

Joint trajectories of cigarette smoking and depressive symptoms from the mid-20s to the mid-30s predicting generalized anxiety disorder.

PubMed

Lee, Jung Yeon; Brook, Judith S; Finch, Stephen J; De La Rosa, Mario; Brook, David W

2017-01-01

The current study examines longitudinal patterns of cigarette smoking and depressive symptoms as predictors of generalized anxiety disorder using data from the Harlem Longitudinal Development Study. There were 674 African American (53%) and Puerto Rican (47%) participants. Among the 674 participants, 60% were females. In the logistic regression analyses, the indicators of membership in each of the joint trajectories of cigarette smoking and depressive symptoms from the mid-20s to the mid-30s were used as the independent variables, and the diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder in the mid-30s was used as the dependent variable. The high cigarette smoking with high depressive symptoms group and the low cigarette smoking with high depressive symptoms group were associated with an increased likelihood of having generalized anxiety disorder as compared to the no cigarette smoking with low depressive symptoms group. The findings shed light on the prevention and treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.

Difference frequency generation of Mid-IR radiation in PPLN crystals using a dual-wavelength all-fiber amplifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krzempek, Karol; Soboń, Grzegorz; Dudzik, Grzegorz; Sotor, Jaroslaw; Abramski, Krzysztof M.

2014-02-01

We present a method of generating mid-IR radiation by means of nonlinear difference frequency generation (DFG) effects occurring in periodically polled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystals using an all-fiber dual-wavelength amplifier. The presented mid-IR laser source incorporates an unique double-clad (DC) Erbium and Ytterbium (Er-Yb) doped amplifier stage capable of simultaneous amplification of both wavelengths required in the DFG process - 1064 nm and 1550 nm. The amplifier delivered more than 23.7 dB and 14.4 dB of amplification for 1550 nm and 1064 nm wavelength, low power, off-the-shelf, fiber pigtailed, distributed feedback (DFB) laser diodes, respectively. The dual-wavelength amplifier parameters crucial for the DFG process were investigated, including long-term power and polarization instabilities and optical spectrum characteristics of both amplified wavelengths. The DFG setup used a single collimator radiation delivery scheme and an 40 mm long MgO doped PPLN crystal. In effect the DFG source was capable of generating 1.14 mW of radiation centered around 3.4 μm. The overall performance of the mid-IR source was elaborated by performing sensitive Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) detection of methane (CH4) in ambient air on an free-space optical path-length of 8 m. The measured detection limit of the sensor was 26 ppbv with a 1σ SNR of 69.

The Role of the Linked Learning Approach in Student Self-Efficacy (Personal Agency) and Motivation in Low, Mid-Low, Mid-High, and High Poverty School Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Solian, Cherie A.

2017-01-01

This study explored personal agency and motivation of students enrolled in Linked Learning Pathways across low, mid-low, mid-high, and high poverty school settings. Specifically, the study examined student personal agency beliefs, goal setting practices, and student emotional connectedness. The researcher aimed to examine student perceptions of…

Shaping of Looped Miniaturized Chalcogenide Fiber Sensing Heads for Mid-Infrared Sensing

PubMed Central

Houizot, Patrick; Anne, Marie-Laure; Boussard-Plédel, Catherine; Loréal, Olivier; Tariel, Hugues; Lucas, Jacques; Bureau, Bruno

2014-01-01

Chalcogenide glass fibers are promising photonic tools to develop Fiber Evanescent Wave Spectroscopy (FEWS) optical sensors working in the mid-infrared region. Numerous pioneering works have already been carried out showing their efficiency, especially for bio-medical applications. Nevertheless, this technology remains confined to academic studies at the laboratory scale because chalcogenide glass fibers are difficult to shape to produce reliable, sensitive and compact sensors. In this paper, a new method for designing and fabricating a compact and robust sensing head with a selenide glass fiber is described. Compact looped sensing heads with diameter equal to 2 mm were thus shaped. This represents an outstanding achievement considering the brittleness of such uncoated fibers. FEWS experiments were implemented using alcoholic solutions as target samples showing that the sensitivity is higher than with the routinely used classical fiber. It is also shown that the best compromise in term of sensitivity is to fabricate a sensing head including two full loops. From a mechanical point of view, the breaking loads of the loop shaped head are also much higher than with classical fiber. Finally, this achievement paves the way for the use of mid-infrared technology during in situ and even in vivo medical operations. Indeed, is is now possible to slide a chalcogenide glass fiber in the operating channel of a standard 2.8 mm diameter catheter. PMID:25264953

Remote discovery of an asymptomatic bowel perforation by a mid-urethral sling.

PubMed

Elliott, Jason E; Maslow, Ken D

2012-02-01

Bowel perforation is a rare complication of mid-urethral sling procedures and is usually reported shortly after the surgery. We report a remotely discovered asymptomatic bowel injury found at the time of subsequent surgery. The patient with a history of several prior pelvic surgeries underwent an uneventful retropubic mid-urethral sling placement. Five years later, during an abdominal sacrocolpopexy procedure, mesh from the mid-urethral sling was found perforating the wall of the cecum and fixating it to the right pelvic sidewall. Cecal wedge resection was performed to excise the sling mesh. Asymptomatic bowel perforation by mid-urethral sling mesh has not been previously reported. Pelvic and abdominal surgeons should be aware of the possibility of finding this injury in patients with prior sling surgeries.

ANALYSIS FOR HOUSE DAMAGE PROPERTY OF 2007 MID-NIIGATA PREFECTURE OFFSHORE EARTHQUAKE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ochiai, Hirokazu; Yamada, Kento; Ohtsuka, Satoru; Isobe, Koichi

This paper reports the result of correlation analysis for house damage in 2007 Mid-piigata prefecture offshore earthquake by focusing geomorphological land classification and other factors as landform and ground properties with organizing the house damage data of disaster victim certificate conducted by public administrations. In former part of the paper, the features of house damage at 2007 Mid-Niigata prefecture offshore earthquake were analyzed for various influencing factors. The authors discussed the affrecting factors to houses at earthquake. In latter part, the features of house damage at 2007 Mid-Niigata prefecture offshore earthquake was discussed with that at 2004 Mid-Niigata prefecture earthquake. The house damage function of distance from the epicenter was proposed based on the analysis on house damage ratio recorded in two earthquakes.

Hafnium isotope results from mid-ocean ridges and Kerguelen

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jonathan, Patchett P.

1983-01-01

176Hf/177Hf ratios are presented for oceanic volcanics representing both extremes of the range of mantle HfNdSr isotopic variation. Hf from critical mid-ocean ridgebasalts shows that 176Hf/177Hf does indeed have a greater variability than 143Nd/144Nd and 87Sr/86Sr in the depleted mantle. This extra variation is essentially of a random nature, and can perhaps be understood in terms of known Rb/SrSm/NdLu/Hf fractionation relationships. At the other extreme of mantle isotopic composition, 176Hf/177Hf ratios for igneous rocks from the Indian Ocean island of Kerguelen show a closely similar variation to published 143Nd/144Nd ratios for the same samples. Comparison of HfNdSr c relationships for Tristan da Cunha, Kerguelen and Samoa reveals divergences in the mantle array for ocean island magma sources, and perhaps suggests that these irregularities are largely the result of an extra component of 87Sr/86Sr variation. ?? 1983.

77 FR 12814 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-02

.... Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone... meeting date. Dated: February 28, 2012. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable...

78 FR 21915 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-12

...://www.mafmc.org . Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street.... Moore Ph.D., Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201... Deputy Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2013-08625...

78 FR 13867 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-01

... address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 North State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone..., Acting Deputy Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2013...

76 FR 27019 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-10

... address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone..., Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2011-11324...

78 FR 23223 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-18

... recommendation for Atlantic butterfish (2014-15); make multi-year ABC recommendations (2014-16) for surfclams and... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration RIN 0648-XC617 Mid-Atlantic.... SUMMARY: The Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) of the Mid- Atlantic Fishery Management Council...

Audio visual summary: Implementing PURPA in Mid-America

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

The audio-visual presentation, Implementing PURPA in Mid-America, is a slide presentation designed to complement deliverable W-101-2, a booklet entitled Implementing PURPA in Mid-America: A Guide to the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act. The presentation lasts 10 to 12 min and explains the major sections of PURPA, the rules promulgated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to implement PURPA, and the implications of PURPA and its rules. It delineates the rights and responsibilities of citizens who want to sell electricity to utilities, explains the certification process, and discusses the rights and responsibilities of the utilities.

The NAO Influence on the Early to Mid-Holocene North Atlantic Coastal Upwelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hernandez, A.; Cachão, M.; Sousa, P.; Trigo, R. M.; Freitas, M. C.

2017-12-01

Coastal upwelling regions yield some of the oceanic most productive ecosystems, being crucial for the worldwide social and economic development. Most upwelling systems, emerging cold nutrient-rich deep waters, are located in the eastern boundaries of the Atlantic and Pacific basins, and are driven by meridional wind fields parallel to the coastal shore. These winds are associated with the subsiding branch of the large-scale Anticyclonic high pressure systems that dominate the subtropical ocean basins, and therefore can be displaced or intensified within the context of past and future climate changes. However, the role of the current global warming influencing the coastal upwelling is, as yet, unclear. Therefore it is essential to derive a long-term perspective, beyond the era of instrumental measurements, to detect similar warm periods in the past that have triggered changes in the upwelling patterns. In this work, the upwelling dynamics in the Iberian North Atlantic margin during the early and mid-Holocene is reconstructed, using calcareous nannofossils from a decadally resolved estuarine sediment core located in southwestern Portugal. Results suggest that the coastal dynamics reflects changes in winds direction likely related to shifts in the NAO-like conditions. Furthermore, the reconstructed centennial-scale variations in the upwelling are synchronous with changes in solar irradiance, a major external forcing factor of the climate system that is known to exert influence in atmospheric circulation patterns. In addition, these proxy-based data interpretations are in agreement with wind field and solar irradiance simulation modelling for the mid-Holocene. Therefore, the conclusion that the solar activity via the NAO modulation controlled the North Atlantic upwelling of western Iberia during the early and mid-Holocene at decadal to centennial timescales can be derived. The financial support for attending this meeting was possible through FCT project UID/GEO/50019

Long-term US energy outlook

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Friesen, G.

Chase Econometrics summarizes the assumptions underlying long-term US energy forecasts. To illustrate the uncertainty involved in forecasting for the period to the year 2000, they compare Chase Econometrics forecasts with some recent projections prepared by the DOE Office of Policy, Planning and Analysis for the annual National Energy Policy Plan supplement. Scenario B, the mid-range reference case, is emphasized. The purpose of providing Scenario B as well as Scenarios A and C as alternate cases is to show the sensitivity of oil price projections to small swings in energy demand. 4 tables.

Generation and application of ultrashort coherent mid-infrared electromagnetic radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wandel, Scott

Particle accelerators are useful instruments that help address critical issues for the future development of nuclear energy. Current state-of-the-art accelerators based on conventional radio-frequency (rf) cavities are too large and expensive for widespread commercial use, and alternative designs must be considered for supplying relativistic beams to small-scale applications, including medical imaging, secu- rity screening, and scientific research in a university-scale laboratory. Laser-driven acceleration using micro-fabricated dielectric photonic structures is an attractive approach because such photonic microstructures can support accelerating fields that are 10 to 100 times higher than that of rf cavity-based accelerators. Dielectric laser accelerators (DLAs) use commercial lasers as a driving source, which are smaller and less expensive than the klystrons used to drive current rf-based accelerators. Despite the apparent need for compact and economical laser sources for laser-driven acceleration, the availability of suitable high-peak-power lasers that cover a broad spectral range is currently limited. To address the needs of several innovative acceleration mechanisms like DLA, it is proposed to develop a coherent source of mid-infrared (IR) electromagnetic radiation that can be implemented as a driving source of laser accelerators. The use of ultrashort mid-IR high peak power laser systems in various laser-driven acceleration schemes has shown the potential to greatly reduce the optical pump intensities needed to realize high acceleration gradients. The optical intensity needed to achieve a given ponderomotive potential is 25 times less when using a 5-mum mid-IR laser as compared to using a 1-mum near-IR solid-state laser. In addition, dielectric structure breakdown caused by multiphoton ionization can be avoided by using longer-wavelength driving lasers. Current mid-IR laser sources do not produce sufficiently short pulse durations, broad spectral bandwidths

Generation and multi-octave shaping of mid-infrared intense single-cycle pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krogen, Peter; Suchowski, Haim; Liang, Houkun; Flemens, Noah; Hong, Kyung-Han; Kärtner, Franz X.; Moses, Jeffrey

2017-03-01

The generation of intense mid-infrared (mid-IR) optical pulses with customizable shape and spectra spanning a multiple-octave range of vibrational frequencies is an elusive technological capability. While some recent approaches to mid-IR supercontinuum generation—such as filamentation, multicolour four-wave-mixing and optical rectification—have successfully generated broad spectra, no process has been identified for achieving complex pulse shaping at the generation step. The adiabatic frequency converter allows for a one-to-one transfer of spectral phase through nonlinear frequency conversion over a larger-than-octave-spanning range and with an overall linear phase transfer function. Here, we show that we can convert shaped near-infrared (near-IR) pulses to shaped, energetic, multi-octave-spanning mid-IR pulses lasting only 1.2 optical cycles, and extendable to the sub-cycle regime. We expect this capability to enable a new class of precisely controlled nonlinear interactions in the mid-IR spectral range, from nonlinear vibrational spectroscopy to strong light-matter interactions and single-shot remote sensing.

Late Cenozoic fire enhancement response to aridification in mid-latitude Asia: Evidence from microcharcoal records

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miao, Yunfa; Fang, Xiaomin; Song, Chunhui; Yan, Xiaoli; Zhang, Ping; Meng, Qingquan; Li, Fang; Wu, Fuli; Yang, Shengli; Kang, Shuyuan; Wang, Yuanping

2016-05-01

Fire provides an important indicator of paleoclimatic change. However, little information relating to late Cenozoic fire history has been gathered in mid-latitude Asia (including Inner Asia and East Asia), a key region for understanding the development of the arid-monsoon climate system as well as the driving forces behind it. Here we first report the records of microcharcoal concentrations (MC) covering the Holocene (10-0 ka) and late Pleistocene (0.8-0 Ma), which we use to analyze the fire activity patterns at an orbital time scale; then we compile the late Cenozoic MC record to investigate the long-term fire history by analyzing four cores from the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) area, East Asia (representing 8-0 Ma) and three sites in Inner Asia (representing 18-2 Ma). The results show that the (i) MC remained higher during the relatively dry late Holocene/glacial stages than that during the humid middle Holocene/interglacial stages at individual sites; (ii) MC increased with time in both Inner Asia and East Asia after 18 and 8 Ma, respectively; and (iii) MC always remained higher in the dry Inner Asia than in the contemporaneous wet East Asia. All these characteristics imply that late Cenozoic fire occurrence in mid-latitude Asia experienced a gradual increasing trend along with the global temperature/ice volume change, and indicates a continuous aridification trend across mid-latitude Asia. The global cooling, rather than the Tibetan Plateau uplift, might have played a key role in this observed trend.

Mid-Holocene hydrologic model of the Shingobee watershed, Minnesota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Filby, S.K.; Locke, Sharon M.; Person, M.A.; Winter, T.C.; Rosenberry, D.O.; Nieber, J.L.; Gutowski, W.J.; Ito, E.

2002-01-01

A hydrologifc model of the Shingobee Watershed in north-central Minnesota was developed to reconstruct mid-Holocene paleo-lake levels for Williams Lake, a surface-water body located in the southern portion of the watershed. Hydrologic parameters for the model were first estimated in a calibration exercise using a 9-yr historical record (1990-1998) of climatic and hydrologic stresses. The model reproduced observed temporal and spatial trends in surface/groundwater levels across the watershed. Mid-Holocene aquifer and lake levels were then reconstructed using two paleoclimatic data sets: CCM1 atmospheric general circulation model output and pollen-transfer functions using sediment core data from Williams Lake. Calculated paleo-lake levels based on pollen-derived paleoclimatic reconstructions indicated a 3.5-m drop in simulated lake levels and were in good agreement with the position of mid-Holocene beach sands observed in a Williams Lake sediment core transect. However, calculated paleolake levels based on CCM1 climate forcing produced only a 0.05-m drop in lake levels. We found that decreases in winter precipitation rather than temperature increases had the largest effect on simulated mid-Holocene lake levels. The study illustrates how watershed models can be used to critically evaluate paleoclimatic reconstructions by integrating geologic, climatic, limnologic, and hydrogeologic data sets. ?? 2002 University of Washington.

Glacial reduction of AMOC strength and long-term transition in weathering inputs into the Southern Ocean since the mid-Miocene: Evidence from radiogenic Nd and Hf isotopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dausmann, Veit; Frank, Martin; Gutjahr, Marcus; Rickli, Jörg

2017-03-01

Combined seawater radiogenic hafnium (Hf) and neodymium (Nd) isotope compositions were extracted from bulk sediment leachates and foraminifera of Site 1088, Ocean Drilling Program Leg 177, 2082 m water depth on the Agulhas Ridge. The new data provide a continuous reconstruction of long- and short-term changes in ocean circulation and continental weathering inputs since the mid-Miocene. Due to its intermediate water depth, the sediments of this core sensitively recorded changes in admixture of North Atlantic Deep Water to the Antarctic Circumpolar Current as a function of the strength of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). Nd isotope compositions (ɛNd) range from -7 to -11 with glacial values generally 1 to 3 units more radiogenic than during the interglacials of the Quaternary. The data reveal episodes of significantly increased AMOC strength during late Miocene and Pliocene warm periods, whereas peak radiogenic ɛNd values mark a strongly diminished AMOC during the major intensification of Northern Hemisphere Glaciation near 2.8 Ma and in the Pleistocene after 1.5 Ma. In contrast, the Hf isotope compositions (ɛHf) show an essentially continuous evolution from highly radiogenic values of up to +11 during the Miocene to less radiogenic present-day values (+2 to +4) during the late Quaternary. The data document a long-term transition in dominant weathering inputs, where inputs from South America are replaced by those from Southern Africa. Moreover, radiogenic peaks provide evidence for the supply of radiogenic Hf originating from Patagonian rocks to the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean via dust inputs.

77 FR 55192 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-09-07

.... Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone... meeting date. Dated: September 4, 2012. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Deputy Director, Office of Sustainable...

78 FR 26616 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-07

... Superior Trawl, 55 State Street, Narragansett, RI 02882, telephone: (401) 263-3671. The Cape May, NJ...-1816. Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover...., Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901...

Heterogeneously integrated silicon photonics for the mid-infrared and spectroscopic sensing.

PubMed

Chen, Yu; Lin, Hongtao; Hu, Juejun; Li, Mo

2014-07-22

Besides being the foundational material for microelectronics, crystalline silicon has long been used for the production of infrared lenses and mirrors. More recently, silicon has become the key material to achieve large-scale integration of photonic devices for on-chip optical interconnect and signal processing. For optics, silicon has significant advantages: it offers a very high refractive index and is highly transparent in the spectral range from 1.2 to 8 μm. To fully exploit silicon’s superior performance in a remarkably broad range and to enable new optoelectronic functionalities, here we describe a general method to integrate silicon photonic devices on arbitrary foreign substrates. In particular, we apply the technique to integrate silicon microring resonators on mid-infrared compatible substrates for operation in the mid-infrared. These high-performance mid-infrared optical resonators are utilized to demonstrate, for the first time, on-chip cavity-enhanced mid-infrared spectroscopic analysis of organic chemicals with a limit of detection of less than 0.1 ng.

DETERMINING BACKGROUND EXPOSURE TO PETROLEUM AND COMBUSTION BY-PRODUCTS: COMPARISON OF MID-WESTERN AND MID-ATLANTIC REGIONS

EPA Science Inventory

Regional background levels of exposure to fish from petroleum and combustion by-products were determined for the state of Ohio and the mid-Atlantic region. Exposures were measured using bile metabolites that fluoresce at 290/335 nm for naphthalene(NAPH)-type compounds and at 380...

78 FR 55063 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-09

.../ Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone... Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2013-21873 Filed 9-6-13; 8:45 am] BILLING...

Identification and Prediction of Drinking Trajectories in Early and Mid-Adolescence

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Der Vorst, Haske; Vermulst, Ad A.; Meeus, Wim H. J.; Dekovic, Maja; Engels, Rutger C. M. E.

2009-01-01

The aim of this study was to identify subgroups of early and mid-adolescents with different drinking trajectories. In addition, we examined whether gender, parental, and peer factors predicted adolescents' membership of these drinking trajectories. We used longitudinal data of 428 families (fathers, mothers, mid-adolescents, and their younger…

The Optical Green Valley Versus Mid-infrared Canyon in Compact Groups

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, Lisa May; Butterfield, Natalie; Johnson, Kelsey; Zucker, Catherine; Gallagher, Sarah; Konstantopoulos, Iraklis; Zabludoff, Ann; Hornschemeier, Ann E.; Tzanavaris, Panayiotis; Charlton, Jane C.

2013-01-01

Compact groups of galaxies provide conditions similar to those experienced by galaxies in the earlier universe. Recent work on compact groups has led to the discovery of a dearth of mid-infrared transition galaxies (MIRTGs) in Infrared Array Camera (3.6-8.0 micrometers) color space as well as at intermediate specific star formation rates. However, we find that in compact groups these MIRTGs have already transitioned to the optical ([g-r]) red sequence. We investigate the optical color-magnitude diagram (CMD) of 99 compact groups containing 348 galaxies and compare the optical CMD with mid-infrared (mid-IR) color space for compact group galaxies. Utilizing redshifts available from Sloan Digital Sky Survey, we identified new galaxy members for four groups. By combining optical and mid-IR data, we obtain information on both the dust and the stellar populations in compact group galaxies. We also compare with more isolated galaxies and galaxies in the Coma Cluster, which reveals that, similar to clusters, compact groups are dominated by optically red galaxies. While we find that compact group transition galaxies lie on the optical red sequence, LVL (Local Volume Legacy) + (plus) SINGS (Spitzer Infrared Nearby Galaxies Survey) mid-IR (infrared) transition galaxies span the range of optical colors. The dearth of mid-IR transition galaxies in compact groups may be due to a lack of moderately star-forming low mass galaxies; the relative lack of these galaxies could be due to their relatively small gravitational potential wells. This makes them more susceptible to this dynamic environment, thus causing them to more easily lose gas or be accreted by larger members.

Reevaluation of mid-Pliocene North Atlantic sea surface temperatures

USGS Publications Warehouse

Robinson, Marci M.; Dowsett, Harry J.; Dwyer, Gary S.; Lawrence, Kira T.

2008-01-01

Multiproxy temperature estimation requires careful attention to biological, chemical, physical, temporal, and calibration differences of each proxy and paleothermometry method. We evaluated mid-Pliocene sea surface temperature (SST) estimates from multiple proxies at Deep Sea Drilling Project Holes 552A, 609B, 607, and 606, transecting the North Atlantic Drift. SST estimates derived from faunal assemblages, foraminifer Mg/Ca, and alkenone unsaturation indices showed strong agreement at Holes 552A, 607, and 606 once differences in calibration, depth, and seasonality were addressed. Abundant extinct species and/or an unrecognized productivity signal in the faunal assemblage at Hole 609B resulted in exaggerated faunal-based SST estimates but did not affect alkenone-derived or Mg/Ca–derived estimates. Multiproxy mid-Pliocene North Atlantic SST estimates corroborate previous studies documenting high-latitude mid-Pliocene warmth and refine previous faunal-based estimates affected by environmental factors other than temperature. Multiproxy investigations will aid SST estimation in high-latitude areas sensitive to climate change and currently underrepresented in SST reconstructions.

Versatile silicon-waveguide supercontinuum for coherent mid-infrared spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nader, Nima; Maser, Daniel L.; Cruz, Flavio C.; Kowligy, Abijith; Timmers, Henry; Chiles, Jeff; Fredrick, Connor; Westly, Daron A.; Nam, Sae Woo; Mirin, Richard P.; Shainline, Jeffrey M.; Diddams, Scott

2018-03-01

Laser frequency combs, with their unique combination of precisely defined spectral lines and broad bandwidth, are a powerful tool for basic and applied spectroscopy. Here, we report offset-free, mid-infrared frequency combs and dual-comb spectroscopy through supercontinuum generation in silicon-on-sapphire waveguides. We leverage robust fabrication and geometrical dispersion engineering of nanophotonic waveguides for multi-band, coherent frequency combs spanning 70 THz in the mid-infrared (2.5 μm-6.2 μm). Precise waveguide fabrication provides significant spectral broadening with engineered spectra targeted at specific mid-infrared bands. We characterize the relative-intensity-noise of different bands and show that the measured levels do not pose any limitation for spectroscopy applications. Additionally, we use the fabricated photonic devices to demonstrate dual-comb spectroscopy of a carbonyl sulfide gas sample at 5 μm. This work forms the technological basis for applications such as point sensors for fundamental spectroscopy, atmospheric chemistry, trace and hazardous gas detection, and biological microscopy.

Core-Mantle Boundary Complexities beneath the Mid-Pacific

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, D.; Helmberger, D. V.; Jackson, J. M.

2016-12-01

The detailed core-mantle boundary (CMB) structures beneath the Mid-Pacific are important to map the boundary of Large Low Shear Velocity Province (LLSVP) and the location of ultra-low velocity zone (ULVZ) related to the LLSVP and the D" layer, which are crucial for answering the key questions regarding to the mantle dynamics. Seismic data from deep earthquakes in the Fiji-Tonga region recorded by stations of USArray provide great sampling of the CMB beneath the Mid-Pacific. Here we explore the USArray data with different seismic phases to study the CMB complexities beneath the Mid-Pacific. First, we examined the differential travel time and amplitude between ScS and S for data at western US and confirm the northeastern boundary of the mid-Pacific LLSVP. The delayed ScS-S travel times and smaller amplitude of ScS require the existence of ULVZ locally. Secondly, the Sdiff data recorded by stations at central US shows variation in multi-pathing, that is, the presence of secondary arrivals following the S phase at diffracted distances (Sdiff) which suggests that the waveform complexity is due to structures at the eastern edge of the mid-Pacific LLSVP. This study reinforces previous studies that indicate late arrivals occurring after the primary Sdiff arrivals. A tapered wedge structure with low shear velocity allows for wave energy trapping, producing the observed waveform complexity and delayed arrivals at large distances. The location of the low velocity anomaly agrees with that inferred from the ScS-S measurements. We also observed advanced SV arrivals, which can be explained by the emerging of the D" discontinuity to the east of the boundary of the LLSVP to produce a "pseudo anisotropy". Thirdly, the arrivals of the SPdKS phase support the presence of an ULVZ within a two-humped LLSVP. A sharp 10 secs jump of the differential travel time between S and SKS (TS-SKS) across distance range of 5° is observed. The associated SKS waveform distortions suggest that the

Total ozone patterns over the southern mid-latitudes: spatial correlations, extreme events and dynamical contributions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rieder, Harald E.; di Rocco, Stefania; Staehelin, Johannes; Maeder, Jörg A.; Ribatet, Mathieu; Peter, Thomas; Davison, Anthony C.

2010-05-01

Tools from geostatistics and extreme value theory are applied to analyze spatial correlations in total ozone for the southern mid-latitudes. The dataset used in this study is the NIWA-assimilated total ozone dataset (Bodeker et al., 2001; Müller et al., 2008). Recently new tools from extreme value theory (Coles, 2001; Ribatet, 2007) have been applied to the world's longest total ozone record from Arosa, Switzerland (e.g. Staehelin 1998a,b) and 5 other long-term ground based stations to describe extreme events in low and high total ozone (Rieder et al., 2010a,b,c). Excursions in the frequency of extreme events reveal "fingerprints" of dynamical factors such as ENSO or NAO, and chemical factors, such as cold Arctic vortex ozone losses, as well as major volcanic eruptions of the 20th century (e.g. Gunung Agung, El Chichón, Mt. Pinatubo). Furthermore, atmospheric loading in ozone depleting substances lead to a continuous modification of column ozone in the northern hemisphere also with respect to extreme values (partly again in connection with polar vortex contributions). It is shown that application of extreme value theory allows the identification of many more of such fingerprints than conventional time series analysis on basis of annual and seasonal mean values. Especially, the analysis shows the strong influence of dynamics, revealing that even moderate ENSO and NAO events have a discernible effect on total ozone (Rieder et al., 2010b,c). Within the current study patterns in spatial correlation and frequency distributions of extreme events (e.g. ELOs and EHOs) are studied for the southern mid-latitudes. It is analyzed if "fingerprints"found for features in the northern hemisphere occur also in the southern mid-latitudes. New insights in spatial patterns of total ozone for the southern mid-latitudes are presented. Within this study the influence of changes in atmospheric dynamics (e.g. tropospheric and lower stratospheric pressure systems, ENSO) as well as

Short-term clinical experience with hip resurfacing arthroplasty.

PubMed

Cieliński, Łukasz; Kusz, Damian; Wojciechowski, Piotr; Dziuba, Anna

2007-01-01

This paper discusses the authors' experience with hip resurfacing arthroplasty. Although introduced many years ago, the method did not gain wide popularity because of poor long-term outcomes. At present, owing to the introduction of metal-on-metal bearings and hybrid fixation techniques, short- and mid-term results are very good and encourage wider use of this technique, especially in the younger and more active patients whose results with standard total hip replacements would be unsatisfactory. We performed 13 hip resurfacing arthroplasties at our institution between August 1, 2005, and May 1, 2006. Twelve patients reported for the scheduled follow-up and were included in the study. Treatment outcomes were assessed according to the Harris Hip Score. The short-term outcomes of hip resurfacing arthroplasties are encouraging. In the study group there were no intraoperative complications, infections, peripheral nerve palsy, hip dislocations or clinically overt vein thrombosis. All of the patients reported complete or major pain relief. Clinical assessment according to the Harris Hip Score revealed improvement from an average of 57.7 (20.1) points preoperatively to an average of 87.7 (12) points after the surgery. Crutches were used for a maximum of 6 weeks postoperatively. All of the patients are currently able to walk without crutches with full weight-bearing. 1) Hip resurfacing arthroplasty seems to be an advisable method of operative management of younger, active patients, in whom standard THR would be associated with a high risk of failure; it allows THR to be postponed and carried out as a revision surgery with the acetabular component already in place. 2) Despite the good short- and mid-term results, the utility of this method should be evaluated with caution due to the lack of adequate long-term follow-up data.

4D CT amplitude binning for the generation of a time-averaged 3D mid-position CT scan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kruis, Matthijs F.; van de Kamer, Jeroen B.; Belderbos, José S. A.; Sonke, Jan-Jakob; van Herk, Marcel

2014-09-01

The purpose of this study was to develop a method to use amplitude binned 4D-CT (A-4D-CT) data for the construction of mid-position CT data and to compare the results with data created from phase-binned 4D-CT (P-4D-CT) data. For the latter purpose we have developed two measures which describe the regularity of the 4D data and we have tried to correlate these measures with the regularity of the external respiration signal. 4D-CT data was acquired for 27 patients on a combined PET-CT scanner. The 4D data were reconstructed twice, using phase and amplitude binning. The 4D frames of each dataset were registered using a quadrature-based optical flow method. After registration the deformation vector field was repositioned to the mid-position. Since amplitude-binned 4D data does not provide temporal information, we corrected the mid-position for the occupancy of the bins. We quantified the differences between the two mid-position datasets in terms of tumour offset and amplitude differences. Furthermore, we measured the standard deviation of the image intensity over the respiration after registration (σregistration) and the regularity of the deformation vector field (\\overline{\\Delta |J|} ) to quantify the quality of the 4D-CT data. These measures were correlated to the regularity of the external respiration signal (σsignal). The two irregularity measures, \\overline{\\Delta |J|} and σregistration, were dependent on each other (p < 0.0001, R2 = 0.80 for P-4D-CT, R2 = 0.74 for A-4D-CT). For all datasets amplitude binning resulted in lower \\overline{\\Delta |J|} and σregistration and large decreases led to visible quality improvements in the mid-position data. The quantity of artefact decrease was correlated to the irregularity of the external respiratory signal. The average tumour offset between the phase and amplitude binned mid-position without occupancy correction was 0.42 mm in the caudal direction (10.6% of the amplitude). After correction this was reduced to

Instability of seawater pH in the South China Sea during the mid-late Holocene: Evidence from boron isotopic composition of corals

USGS Publications Warehouse

Liu, Yajing; Liu, W.; Peng, Z.; Xiao, Y.; Wei, G.; Sun, W.; He, J.; Liu, Gaisheng; Chou, C.-L.

2009-01-01

We used positive thermal ionization mass spectrometry (PTIMS) to generate high precision ??11B records in Porites corals of the mid-late Holocene from the South China Sea (SCS). The ??11B values of the Holocene corals vary significantly, ranging from 22.2??? to 25.5???. The paleo-pH records of the SCS, reconstructed from the ??11B data, were not stable as previously thought but show a gradual increase from the Holocene thermal optimal and a sharp decrease to modern values. The latter is likely caused by the large amount of anthropogenic CO2 emissions since the Industrial Revolution but variations of atmospheric pCO2 cannot explain the pH change of the SCS before the Industrial Revolution. We suggest that variations of monsoon intensity during the mid-late Holocene may have driven the sea surface pH increase from the mid to late Holocene. Results of this study indicate that the impact of anthropogenic atmospheric CO2 emissions may have reversed the natural pH trend in the SCS since the mid-Holocene. Such ocean pH records in the current interglacial period can help us better understand the physical and biological controls on ocean pH and possibly predict the long-term impact of climate change on future ocean acidification. ?? 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Instability of seawater pH in the South China Sea during the mid-late Holocene: Evidence from boron isotopic composition of corals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yi; Liu, Weiguo; Peng, Zicheng; Xiao, Yingkai; Wei, Gangjian; Sun, Weidong; He, Jianfeng; Liu, Guijian; Chou, Chen-Lin

2009-03-01

We used positive thermal ionization mass spectrometry (PTIMS) to generate high precision δ 11B records in Porites corals of the mid-late Holocene from the South China Sea (SCS). The δ 11B values of the Holocene corals vary significantly, ranging from 22.2‰ to 25.5‰. The paleo-pH records of the SCS, reconstructed from the δ 11B data, were not stable as previously thought but show a gradual increase from the Holocene thermal optimal and a sharp decrease to modern values. The latter is likely caused by the large amount of anthropogenic CO 2 emissions since the Industrial Revolution but variations of atmospheric pCO 2 cannot explain the pH change of the SCS before the Industrial Revolution. We suggest that variations of monsoon intensity during the mid-late Holocene may have driven the sea surface pH increase from the mid to late Holocene. Results of this study indicate that the impact of anthropogenic atmospheric CO 2 emissions may have reversed the natural pH trend in the SCS since the mid-Holocene. Such ocean pH records in the current interglacial period can help us better understand the physical and biological controls on ocean pH and possibly predict the long-term impact of climate change on future ocean acidification.

Aspirations and Career Growth of Mid-Level Administrators in Higher Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bogenschutz, Margaret M.; Sagaria, Mary Ann D.

A study examining the perceptions of career growth and aspirations of mid-level administrators in higher education was undertaken because, though there has been a large recent increase in the number and importance of mid-level administrators in higher education, the structure and nature of higher education organizations seem to constrain…

Advancing the understanding of plasma transport in mid-size stellarators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hidalgo, Carlos; Talmadge, Joseph; Ramisch, Mirko; TJ-II, the; HXS; TJ-K Teams

2017-01-01

The tokamak and the stellarator are the two main candidate concepts for magnetically confining fusion plasmas. The flexibility of the mid-size stellarator devices together with their unique diagnostic capabilities make them ideally suited to study the relation between magnetic topology, electric fields and transport. This paper addresses advances in the understanding of plasma transport in mid-size stellarators with an emphasis on the physics of flows, transport control, impurity and particle transport and fast particles. The results described here emphasize an improved physics understanding of phenomena in stellarators that complements the empirical approach. Experiments in mid-size stellarators support the development of advanced plasma scenarios in Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) and, in concert with better physics understanding in tokamaks, may ultimately lead to an advance in the prediction of burning plasma behaviour.

Mid-Pliocene planktic foraminifer assemblage of the North Atlantic Ocean

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dowsett, H.J.; Robinson, M.M.

2007-01-01

The US Geological Survey Pliocene Research, Interpretation and Synoptic Mapping (PRISM) North Atlantic faunal data set provides a unique, temporally constrained perspective to document and evaluate the quantitative geographic distribution of key mid-Pliocene taxa. Planktic foraminifer census data from within the PRISM time slab (3.29 to 2.97 Ma) at thirteen sites in the North Atlantic Ocean have been analyzed. We have compiled Scanning Electron Micrographs for an atlas of mid-Pliocene assemblages from the North Atlantic with descriptions of each taxon to document the taxonomic concepts that accompany the PRISM data. In mid-Pliocene assemblages, the geographic distributions of extant taxa are similar to their present day distributions, although some are extended to the north. We use the distribution of extinct taxa to assess previous assumptions regarding environmental preferences.

Low- to Mid-Latitude X-Ray Emission from Jupiter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhardwaj, Anil; Elsner, Ronald F.; Gladstone, G. Randall; Waite, J. Hunter, Jr.; Branduardi-Raymont, Graziella; Cravens, Thomas E.; Ford, Peter

2006-01-01

The Chandra X-ray Observatory (CXO) observed Jupiter during the period 2003 February 24-26 for approx.40 hours (4 Jupiter rotations), using both the spectroscopy array of the Advanced CCD Imaging Spectrometer (ACIS-S) and the imaging array of the High-Resolution Camera (HRC-I). Two ACIS-S exposures, each approx.8.5 hr long, were separated by an HRC-I exposure of approx.20 hr. The low- to mid-latitude non-auroral disk X-ray emission is much more spatially uniform than the auroral emission. However, the low- to mid-latitude X-ray count rate shows a small but statistically significant hour angle dependence, and is higher in regions of relatively low surface magnetic field strength, confirming ROSAT results. In addition, the spectrum from the low surface field region shows an enhancement in the energy band 1.14- 1.38 keV, perhaps partly due to line emission from that region. Correlation of surface magnetic field strength with count rate is not found for the 2000 December HRC-I data, at a time when solar activity was high. The low- to mid-latitude disk X-ray count rate observed by the HRC-I in the 2003 February observation is about 50% of that observed in 2000 December, roughly consistent with a decrease in the solar activity index (F10.7 cm flux) by a similar amount over the same time period. The low- to mid-latitude X-ray emission does not show any oscillations similar to the -45 minute oscillations sometimes seen from the northern auroral zone. The temporal variation in Jupiter's non-auroral X-ray emission exhibits similarities to variations in solar X-ray flux observed by GOES and TIMED/SEE. The two ACIS-S 0.3-2 keV low- to mid-latitude X-ray spectra are harder than the auroral spectrum, and are different from each other at energies above 0.7 keV, showing variability in Jupiter s non-auroral X-ray emission on a time scale of a day. The 0.3-2.0 keV X-ray power emitted at low- to mid-latitudes is 0.21 GW and 0.39 GW for the first and second ACIS-S exposures

Scope of physician procedures independently billed by mid-level providers in the office setting.

PubMed

Coldiron, Brett; Ratnarathorn, Mondhipa

2014-11-01

Mid-level providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) were originally envisioned to provide primary care services in underserved areas. This study details the current scope of independent procedural billing to Medicare of difficult, invasive, and surgical procedures by medical mid-level providers. To understand the scope of independent billing to Medicare for procedures performed by mid-level providers in an outpatient office setting for a calendar year. Analyses of the 2012 Medicare Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary Master File, which reflects fee-for-service claims that were paid by Medicare, for Current Procedural Terminology procedures independently billed by mid-level providers. Outpatient office setting among health care providers. The scope of independent billing to Medicare for procedures performed by mid-level providers. In 2012, nurse practitioners and physician assistants billed independently for more than 4 million procedures at our cutoff of 5000 paid claims per procedure. Most (54.8%) of these procedures were performed in the specialty area of dermatology. The findings of this study are relevant to safety and quality of care. Recently, the shortage of primary care clinicians has prompted discussion of widening the scope of practice for mid-level providers. It would be prudent to temper widening the scope of practice of mid-level providers by recognizing that mid-level providers are not solely limited to primary care, and may involve procedures for which they may not have formal training.

Mid-to-late Holocene climate change record in palaeo-notch sediment from London Island, Svalbard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zhongkang; Sun, Liguang; Zhou, Xin; Wang, Yuhong

2018-06-01

The Arctic region is very sensitive to climate change and important in the Earth's climate system. However, proxy datasets for Arctic climate are unevenly distributed and especially scarce for Svalbard because glaciers during the Little Ice Age, the most extensive in the Holocene, destroyed large quantities of sediment records in Svalbard. Fortunately, palaeo-notch sediments could withstand glaciers and be well-preserved after deposition. In this study, we reconstructed a mid-to-late Holocene record of climate changes in a palaeo-notch sediment sequence from London Island. Multiple weathering indices were determined, they all showed consistent weathering conditions in the study area, and they were closely linked to climate changes. Total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) were also determined, and their variation profiles were similar to those of weathering indices. The climate change record in our sediment sequence is consistent with ice rafting record from North Atlantic and glacier activity from Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard, and four cold periods are clearly present. Our study provides a relatively long-term climate change record for climate conditions from mid-to-late Holocene in Svalbard.

Prediction of the mid-tracheal level using surface anatomical landmarks in adults

PubMed Central

Jang, Young-Eun; Kim, Eun-Hee; Song, In-Kyung; Lee, Ji-Hyun; Ryu, Ho-Geoul; Kim, Hee-Soo; Kim, Jin-Tae

2017-01-01

Abstract Endotracheal tube (ETT) should be placed at the optimal level to avoid single lung ventilation or accidental extubation. This study was performed to estimate the mid-tracheal level by using surface anatomical landmarks in adult patients. Neck computed tomography images of 329 adult patients between the ages of 16 and 79 years were reviewed. In the midline sagittal plane, the levels corresponding to the vocal cords, cricoid cartilage, suprasternal notch, manubriosternal junction, and carina were identified. The surface distances from the cricoid cartilage to the suprasternal notch (extCC-SSN) and that from the suprasternal notch to the manubriosternal junction (extSSN-MSJ) were measured. The relationship between mid-tracheal level and the surface distances was analyzed using Bland–Altman plot. The difference between the extCC-SSN and the mid-tracheal level was −6.6 (12.5) mm, and the difference between the extSSN-MSJ and the mid-tracheal level was −19.2 (6.1) mm. The difference between the extCC-SSN and the mid-tracheal level was smaller in females compared with males [−1.7 (11.7) mm vs −12.8 (10.7) mm; P < 0.001]. The mid-tracheal level, which is helpful in planning the insertion depth of an ETT, can be predicted by the surface distance between the cricoid cartilage and suprasternal notch in adults, especially in females. PMID:28328810

Opportunities for Wind Power In Low- and Mid-Quality Resource Regions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lantz, Eric; Mai, Trieu; Heimiller, Donna

2016-05-25

In this presentation for American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) WINDPOWER 2016 conference, the authors discuss wind power today in low and mid-quality resource regions, the anticipated role of wind power in the future electric sector, market potential in low and mid-quality resource regions, and anticipated innovations to capture that market potential.

Generation of Mid-Infrared Frequency Combs for Spectroscopic Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maser, Daniel L.

Mid-infrared laser sources prove to be a valuable tool in exploring a vast array of phenomena, finding their way into applications ranging from trace gas detection to X-ray generation and carbon dating. Mid-infrared frequency combs, in particular, are well-suited for many of these applications, owing to their inherent low-noise and broadband nature. Frequency comb technology is well-developed in the near-infrared as a result of immense technological development by the telecommunication industry in silica fiber and the existence of readily-available glass dopants such as ytterbium and erbium that enable oscillators at 1 and 1.5 ?m. However, options become substantially more limited at longer wavelengths, as silica is no longer transparent and the components required in a mid-infrared frequency comb system (oscillators, fibers, and both fiber and free-space components) are far less technologically mature. This thesis explores several different approaches to generating frequency comb sources in the mid-infrared region, and the development of sources used in the nonlinear processes implemented to reach these wavelengths. An optical parametric oscillator, two approaches to difference frequency generation, and nonlinear spectral broadening in chip-scale waveguides are developed, characterized, and spectroscopic potential for these techniques is demonstrated. The source used for these nonlinear processes, the erbium-doped fiber amplifier, is also studied and discussed throughout the design and optimization process. The nonlinear optical processes critical to this work are numerically modeled and used to confirm and predict experimental behavior.

Mid-Infrared Ethane Emission on Neptune: 2005-2009

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hammel, Heidi B.; Sitko, M. L.; Russell, R. W.; Lynch, D. K.; Bernstein, L. S.; Perry, R. B.

2009-09-01

Hammel et al. (2006, ApJ 644, 1326) reported 8- to 13-micron spectral observations of Neptune spanning more than a decade. Those data indicated a steady increase in Neptune's 12-micron atmospheric ethane emission from 1985 to 2003, followed by a slight decrease in 2004. The simplest explanation for the intensity variation was an increase in stratospheric effective temperature from 155 K in 1985 to 176 K in 2003 (an average rate of 1.2 K/year), and subsequent decrease to 165 K in 2004 (uncertainties +/- 3 K). Later disk-resolved 12-micron images (Hammel et al. 2007, AJ 134, 637; Orton et al. 2007, AA 473, L5) showed Neptune's ethane emission arose mainly from two regions: emission distributed nearly uniformly around the planet's limb and emission near the south pole. Because much of the non-limb emission was confined to the near-polar region, seasonal variation may play some role in the long-term mid-infrared brightness variations: i.e., more of that region was revealed as Neptune neared solstice in 2005. We will report the results of an additional half decade of mid-infrared spectroscopic observations, from 2005 through 2009, using the Broadband Array Spectrograph System on the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility (IRTF). These post-solstice data should elucidate whether the variations are intrinsic, or due to changes in viewing angle. HBH acknowledges support from NASA grants NNX06AD12G and NNA07CN65A. This work was supported at The Aerospace Corporation by the Independent Research and Development Program. LSB acknowledges the support of Spectral Sciences, Inc. IR and D funding. We also gratefully acknowledge D. Kim (The Aerospace Corporation) for BASS technical support, as well as the support of IRTF staff and telescope operators. We recognize the significant cultural role of Mauna Kea within the indigenous Hawaiian community, and we appreciate the opportunity to conduct observations from this revered site.

Mid-infrared integrated optics: versatile hot embossing of mid-infrared glasses for on-chip planar waveguides for molecular sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seddon, Angela B.; Abdel-Moneim, Nabil S.; Zhang, Lian; Pan, Wei J.; Furniss, David; Mellor, Christopher J.; Kohoutek, Tomas; Orava, Jiri; Wagner, Tomas; Benson, Trevor M.

2014-07-01

The versatility of hot embossing for shaping photonic components on-chip for mid-infrared (IR) integrated optics, using a hard mold, is demonstrated. Hot embossing via fiber-on-glass (FOG), thermally evaporated films, and radio frequency (RF)-sputtered films on glass are described. Mixed approaches of combined plasma etching and hot embossing increase the versatility still further for engineering optical circuits on a single platform. Application of these methodologies for fabricating molecular-sensing devices on-chip is discussed with a view to biomedical sensing. Future prospects for using photonic integration for the new field of mid-IR molecular sensing are appraised. Also, common methods of measuring waveguide optical loss are critically compared, regarding their susceptibility to artifacts which tend artificially to depress, or enhance, the waveguide optical loss.

Mid-infrared Plasmonic Circular Dichroism Generated by Graphene Nanodisk Assemblies.

PubMed

Kong, Xiang-Tian; Zhao, Runbo; Wang, Zhiming; Govorov, Alexander O

2017-08-09

It is very interesting to bring plasmonic circular dichroism spectroscopy to the mid-infrared spectral interval, and there are two reasons for this. This spectral interval is very important for thermal bioimaging, and simultaneously, this spectral range includes vibrational lines of many chiral biomolecules. Here we demonstrate that graphene plasmons indeed offer such opportunity. In particular, we show that chiral graphene assemblies consisting of a few graphene nanodisks can generate strong circular dichroism (CD) in the mid-infrared interval. The CD signal is generated due to the plasmon-plasmon coupling between adjacent nanodisks in the specially designed chiral graphene assemblies. Because of the large dimension mismatch between the thickness of a graphene layer and the incoming light's wavelength, three-dimensional configurations with a total height of a few hundred nanometers are necessary to obtain a strong CD signal in the mid-infrared range. The mid-infrared CD strength is mainly governed by the total dimensions (total height and helix scaffold radius) of the graphene nanodisk assembly and by the plasmon-plasmon interaction strength between its constitutive nanodisks. Both positive and negative CD bands can be observed in the graphene assembly array. The frequency interval of the plasmonic CD spectra overlaps with the vibrational modes of some important biomolecules, such as DNA and many different peptides, giving rise to the possibility of enhancing the vibrational optical activity of these molecular species by attaching them to the graphene assemblies. Simultaneously the spectral range of chiral mid-infrared plasmons in our structures appears near the typical wavelength of the human-body thermal radiation, and therefore, our chiral metastructures can be potentially utilized as optical components in thermal imaging devices.

Mid-callosal plane determination using preferred directions from diffusion tensor images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costa, André L.; Rittner, Letícia; Lotufo, Roberto A.; Appenzeller, Simone

2015-03-01

The corpus callosum is the major brain structure responsible for inter{hemispheric communication between neurons. Many studies seek to relate corpus callosum attributes to patient characteristics, cerebral diseases and psychological disorders. Most of those studies rely on 2D analysis of the corpus callosum in the mid-sagittal plane. However, it is common to find conflicting results among studies, once many ignore methodological issues and define the mid-sagittal plane based on precary or invalid criteria with respect to the corpus callosum. In this work we propose a novel method to determine the mid-callosal plane using the corpus callosum internal preferred diffusion directions obtained from diffusion tensor images. This plane is analogous to the mid-sagittal plane, but intended to serve exclusively as the corpus callosum reference. Our method elucidates the great potential the directional information of the corpus callosum fibers have to indicate its own referential. Results from experiments with five image pairs from distinct subjects, obtained under the same conditions, demonstrate the method effectiveness to find the corpus callosum symmetric axis relative to the axial plane.

Mid-infrared ultra-high-Q resonators based on fluoride crystalline materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lecaplain, C.; Javerzac-Galy, C.; Gorodetsky, M. L.; Kippenberg, T. J.

2016-11-01

The unavailability of highly transparent materials in the mid-infrared has been the main limitation in the development of ultra-sensitive molecular sensors or cavity-based spectroscopy applications. Whispering gallery mode microresonators have attained ultra-high-quality (Q) factor resonances in the near-infrared and visible. Here we report ultra-high Q factors in the mid-infrared using polished alkaline earth metal fluoride crystals. Using an uncoated chalcogenide tapered fibre as a high-ideality coupler in the mid-infrared, we study via cavity ringdown technique the losses of BaF2, CaF2, MgF2 and SrF2 microresonators. We show that MgF2 is limited by multiphonon absorption by studying the temperature dependence of the Q factor. In contrast, in SrF2 and BaF2 the lower multiphonon absorption leads to ultra-high Q factors at 4.5 μm. These values correspond to an optical finesse of , the highest value achieved for any type of mid-infrared resonator to date.

Mid-infrared ultra-high-Q resonators based on fluoride crystalline materials

PubMed Central

Lecaplain, C.; Javerzac-Galy, C.; Gorodetsky, M. L.; Kippenberg, T. J.

2016-01-01

The unavailability of highly transparent materials in the mid-infrared has been the main limitation in the development of ultra-sensitive molecular sensors or cavity-based spectroscopy applications. Whispering gallery mode microresonators have attained ultra-high-quality (Q) factor resonances in the near-infrared and visible. Here we report ultra-high Q factors in the mid-infrared using polished alkaline earth metal fluoride crystals. Using an uncoated chalcogenide tapered fibre as a high-ideality coupler in the mid-infrared, we study via cavity ringdown technique the losses of BaF2, CaF2, MgF2 and SrF2 microresonators. We show that MgF2 is limited by multiphonon absorption by studying the temperature dependence of the Q factor. In contrast, in SrF2 and BaF2 the lower multiphonon absorption leads to ultra-high Q factors at 4.5 μm. These values correspond to an optical finesse of , the highest value achieved for any type of mid-infrared resonator to date. PMID:27869119

Mid-infrared ultra-high-Q resonators based on fluoride crystalline materials.

PubMed

Lecaplain, C; Javerzac-Galy, C; Gorodetsky, M L; Kippenberg, T J

2016-11-21

The unavailability of highly transparent materials in the mid-infrared has been the main limitation in the development of ultra-sensitive molecular sensors or cavity-based spectroscopy applications. Whispering gallery mode microresonators have attained ultra-high-quality (Q) factor resonances in the near-infrared and visible. Here we report ultra-high Q factors in the mid-infrared using polished alkaline earth metal fluoride crystals. Using an uncoated chalcogenide tapered fibre as a high-ideality coupler in the mid-infrared, we study via cavity ringdown technique the losses of BaF 2 , CaF 2 , MgF 2 and SrF 2 microresonators. We show that MgF 2 is limited by multiphonon absorption by studying the temperature dependence of the Q factor. In contrast, in SrF 2 and BaF 2 the lower multiphonon absorption leads to ultra-high Q factors at 4.5 μm. These values correspond to an optical finesse of , the highest value achieved for any type of mid-infrared resonator to date.

Mid-Mountain Clouds at Whistler During the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mo, Ruping; Joe, Paul; Isaac, George A.; Gultepe, Ismail; Rasmussen, Roy; Milbrandt, Jason; McTaggart-Cowan, Ron; Mailhot, Jocelyn; Brugman, Melinda; Smith, Trevor; Scott, Bill

2014-01-01

A comprehensive study of mid-mountain clouds and their impacts on the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics is presented. Mid-mountain clouds were frequently present on the Whistler alpine venue, as identified in an extensive archive of webcam images over a 45-day period from February 5 to March 21, 2010. These clouds posed serious forecast challenges and had significant impacts on some Olympic and Paralympic alpine skiing competitions. Under fair weather conditions, a diurnal upslope (anabatic) flow can work in concert with a diurnal temperature inversion aloft to produce a localized phenomenon known as "Harvey's Cloud" at Whistler. Two detailed case studies in this paper suggest that mid-mountain clouds can also develop in the area as a result of a moist valley flow interacting with a downslope flow descending from the mountaintop. A southerly inflow through the Sea-to-Sky corridor can be channeled by the local topography into a westerly upslope flow toward Whistler Mountain, resulting in orographic clouds on the alpine venue. Under favorable circumstances, these clouds are trapped to the mid-mountain zone by the leeward subsidence of an elevated southerly flow. The presence of the downslope subsidence was manifested by a distinguished dry layer observed on the top of the mid-mountain clouds in both cases. It is the subsidence-induced adiabatic warming that imposes a strong buoyant suppression to trap the mid-mountain cloud. On the other hand, the subsidence-induced dry layer has the potential to trigger evaporative instability to periodically breakup the mid-mountain cloud.

Extreme climate, rather than population history, explains mid-facial morphology of Northern Asians.

PubMed

Evteev, Andrej; Cardini, Andrea L; Morozova, Irina; O'Higgins, Paul

2014-03-01

Previous studies have examined mid-facial cold adaptation among either widely dispersed and genetically very diverse groups of humans isolated for tens of thousands of years, or among very closely related groups spread over climatically different regions. Here we present a study of one East Asian and seven North Asian populations in which we examine the evidence for convergent adaptations of the mid-face to a very cold climate. Our findings indicate that mid-facial morphology is strongly associated with climatic variables that contrast the temperate climate of East Asians and the very cold and dry climate of North Asians. This is also the case when either maxillary or nasal cavity measurements are considered alone. The association remains significant when mtDNA distances among populations are taken into account. The morphological contrasts between populations are consistent with physiological predictions and prior studies of mid-facial cold adaptation in more temperate regions, but among North Asians there appear to be some previously undescribed morphological features that might be considered as adaptive to extreme cold. To investigate this further, analyses of the seven North Asian populations alone suggest that mid-facial morphology remains strongly associated with climate, particularly winter precipitation, contrasting coastal Arctic and continental climates. However, the residual covariation among North Asian mid-facial morphology and climate when genetic distances are considered, is not significant. These findings point to modern adaptations to extreme climate that might be relevant to our understanding of the mid-facial morphology of fossil hominins that lived during glaciations. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the p64 flow diverter stent: mid-term results in 35 patients with 41 intracranial aneurysms.

PubMed

Morais, Ricardo; Mine, Benjamin; Bruyère, Pierre Julien; Naeije, Gilles; Lubicz, Boris

2017-03-01

The p64 flow diverter (FD) device is a fully resheathable and detachable stent dedicated for endovascular treatment (EVT) of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). We report our mid-term experience with this device. Between January 2015 and February 2016, we retrospectively identified, in our prospectively maintained database, all patients treated with p64 FDs in two institutions. Independent clinical follow-up was performed by a vascular neurologist. Imaging follow-up included a digitalized subtraction angiography (DSA) at 3, 6, and 12 months and a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) at 12 months. Thirty-nine patients (22 women/17 men; median age 54 years) with 48 IAs (median aneurysm size 6.2 mm; mean neck size 3.4 mm) were identified. All IAs were saccular and unruptured. Failure of safe stent delivery occurred in 15% of cases (7/48 IAs) which were excluded. Transient neurological morbidity occurred in 2/35 patients (5.7%) including one delayed thromboembolic complication. No permanent morbidity or mortality was encountered. Complete aneurysmal occlusion at 3, 6, and 12 months was 20/30 (66.6%), 18/27 (66.6%), and 24/28 (85.7%), respectively. Intra-stent stenosis was observed in 9/29 patients (31%) and classified as moderate in 4/29 (13.7%) and mild in 5/29 patients (17.2%). These stenoses gradually improved over time, with only mild stenoses being identified at 6 months and at 12 months. In our small case series, the p64 FD stent appears safe and effective for EVT of IAs. A high occlusion rate and a low morbidity rate were observed.

Mid-IR laser system for advanced neurosurgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klosner, M.; Wu, C.; Heller, D. F.

2014-03-01

We present work on a laser system operating in the near- and mid-IR spectral regions, having output characteristics designed to be optimal for cutting various tissue types. We provide a brief overview of laser-tissue interactions and the importance of controlling certain properties of the light beam. We describe the principle of operation of the laser system, which is generally based on a wavelength-tunable alexandrite laser oscillator/amplifier, and multiple Raman conversion stages. This configuration provides robust access to the mid-IR spectral region at wavelengths, pulse energies, pulse durations, and repetition rates that are attractive for neurosurgical applications. We summarize results for ultra-precise selective cutting of nerve sheaths and retinas with little collateral damage; this has applications in procedures such as optic-nerve-sheath fenestration and possible spinal repair. We also report results for cutting cornea, and dermal tissues.

How the Mid-Victorians Worked, Ate and Died†

PubMed Central

Clayton, Paul; Rowbotham, Judith

2009-01-01

Analysis of the mid-Victorian period in the U.K. reveals that life expectancy at age 5 was as good or better than exists today, and the incidence of degenerative disease was 10% of ours. Their levels of physical activity and hence calorific intakes were approximately twice ours. They had relatively little access to alcohol and tobacco; and due to their correspondingly high intake of fruits, whole grains, oily fish and vegetables, they consumed levels of micro- and phytonutrients at approximately ten times the levels considered normal today. This paper relates the nutritional status of the mid-Victorians to their freedom from degenerative disease; and extrapolates recommendations for the cost-effective improvement of public health today. PMID:19440443

Longitudinal associations of sleep curtailment with metabolic risk in mid-childhood.

PubMed

Cespedes, Elizabeth M; Rifas-Shiman, Sheryl L; Redline, Susan; Gillman, Matthew W; Peña, Michelle-Marie; Taveras, Elsie M

2014-12-01

To examine associations of chronic insufficient sleep with mid-childhood cardiometabolic health. At 6 months and yearly from 1 to 7 years, mothers participating in the Project Viva cohort reported children's 24-h sleep duration. The main exposure was a sleep curtailment score, ranging from 0 (maximal curtailment) to 13 (never having curtailed sleep). The main outcome was a mid-childhood metabolic risk score, derived as the mean of five sex- and cohort-specific z scores for waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, HDL cholesterol (scaled inversely), and log-transformed triglycerides and HOMA-IR; higher scores indicate higher risk. The mean (SD) sleep score was 10.0 (2.8); 5.1% scored 0-4, 13.9% scored 5-7, 14.1% scored 8-9, 28.7% scored 10-11, and 38.3% scored 12-13. Mean (SD, range) metabolic risk score was -0.03 (0.6, -1.8 to 2.6). In multivariable models, the metabolic risk score difference for children with most versus least curtailed sleep was 0.29 units (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02, 0.57). Further adjustment for mid-childhood BMI z score attenuated this difference to 0.08 units (95% CI: -0.14, 0.30). Chronic insufficient sleep from infancy to school-age was associated with higher mid-childhood metabolic risk. This association was explained by sleep duration's influence on mid-childhood adiposity. © 2014 The Obesity Society.

The mid-developmental transition and the evolution of animal body plans

PubMed Central

Cole, Alison G.; Winter, Eitan; Mostov, Natalia; Khair, Sally; Senderovich, Naftalie; Kovalev, Ekaterina; Silver, David H.; Feder, Martin; Fernandez-Valverde, Selene L.; Nakanishi, Nagayasu; Simmons, David; Simakov, Oleg; Larsson, Tomas; Liu, Shang-Yun; Jerafi-Vider, Ayelet; Yaniv, Karina; Ryan, Joseph F.; Martindale, Mark Q.; Rink, Jochen C.; Arendt, Detlev; Degnan, Sandie M.; Degnan, Bernard M.; Hashimshony, Tamar; Yanai, Itai

2016-01-01

Animals are grouped into ~35 ‘phyla’ based upon the notion of distinct body plans1–4. Morphological and molecular analyses have revealed that a stage in the middle of development—known as the phylotypic period—is conserved among species within some phyla5–9. Although these analyses provide evidence for their existence, phyla have also been criticized as lacking an objective definition, and consequently based on arbitrary groupings of animals10. Here we compare the developmental transcriptomes of ten species, each annotated to a different phylum, with a wide range of life histories and embryonic forms. We find that in all ten species, development comprises the coupling of early and late phases of conserved gene expression. These phases are linked by a divergent ‘mid-developmental transition’ that uses species-specific suites of signalling pathways and transcription factors. This mid-developmental transition overlaps with the phylotypic period that has been defined previously for three of the ten phyla, suggesting that transcriptional circuits and signalling mechanisms active during this transition are crucial for defining the phyletic body plan and that the mid-developmental transition may be used to define phylotypic periods in other phyla. Placing these observations alongside the reported conservation of mid-development within phyla, we propose that a phylum may be defined as a collection of species whose gene expression at the mid-developmental transition is both highly conserved among them, yet divergent relative to other species. PMID:26886793

PCA and vTEC climatology at midnight over mid-latitude regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Natali, M. P.; Meza, A.

2017-12-01

The effect of the thermospheric vertical neutral wind on vertical total electron content (vTEC) variations including longitudinal anomaly, remaining winter anomaly, mid-latitude summer night anomaly, and semiannual anomaly is studied at mid-latitude regions around zero magnetic declination at midnight during high solar activity. By using the principal component analysis (PCA) numerical technique, this work studies the spatial and temporal variations of the ionosphere at midnight over mid-latitude regions during 2000-2002. PCA is applied to a time series of global vTEC maps produced by the International Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Service. Four regions were studied in particular, each located at mid-latitude and approximately centered at zero magnetic declination, with two in the northern hemisphere and two in southern hemisphere, and all are located near and far from geomagnetic poles in each case. This technique provides an effective method to analyze the main ionospheric variabilities at mid-latitudes. PCA is also applied to the vTEC computed using the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) 2012 model, to analyze the capability of this model to represent ionospheric variabilities at mid-latitude. Also, the Horizontal Wind Model 2007 (HWM07) is used to improve our climatology interpretation, by analyzing the relationship between vTEC and thermospheric wind, both quantitatively and qualitatively. At midnight, the behavior of mean vTEC values strongly responds to vertical wind variation, experiencing a decrease of about 10-15% with the action of the positive vertical component of the field-aligned neutral wind lasting for 2 h in all regions except for Oceania. Notable results include: a significant increase toward higher latitudes during summer in the South America and Asia regions, associated with the mid-latitude summer night anomaly, and an increase toward higher latitudes in winter in the North America and Oceania regions, highlighting the

Mid-infrared photonics in silicon and germanium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soref, Richard

2010-08-01

Ingenious techniques are needed to extend group IV photonics from near-infrared to mid-infrared wavelengths. If achieved, the reward could be on-chip CMOS optoelectronic systems for use in spectroscopy, chemical and biological sensing, and free-space communications.

78 FR 52135 - Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC); Public Meeting; Correction

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-22

.../ Council address: Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901..., Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, 800 N. State Street, Suite 201, Dover, DE 19901; telephone..., Acting Deputy Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2013...

Mid-frequency Band Dynamics of Large Space Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coppolino, Robert N.; Adams, Douglas S.

2004-01-01

High and low intensity dynamic environments experienced by a spacecraft during launch and on-orbit operations, respectively, induce structural loads and motions, which are difficult to reliably predict. Structural dynamics in low- and mid-frequency bands are sensitive to component interface uncertainty and non-linearity as evidenced in laboratory testing and flight operations. Analytical tools for prediction of linear system response are not necessarily adequate for reliable prediction of mid-frequency band dynamics and analysis of measured laboratory and flight data. A new MATLAB toolbox, designed to address the key challenges of mid-frequency band dynamics, is introduced in this paper. Finite-element models of major subassemblies are defined following rational frequency-wavelength guidelines. For computational efficiency, these subassemblies are described as linear, component mode models. The complete structural system model is composed of component mode subassemblies and linear or non-linear joint descriptions. Computation and display of structural dynamic responses are accomplished employing well-established, stable numerical methods, modern signal processing procedures and descriptive graphical tools. Parametric sensitivity and Monte-Carlo based system identification tools are used to reconcile models with experimental data and investigate the effects of uncertainties. Models and dynamic responses are exported for employment in applications, such as detailed structural integrity and mechanical-optical-control performance analyses.

Mid-dilution hemodiafiltration: a comparison with pre- and postdilution modes using the same polyphenylene membrane.

PubMed

Maduell, Francisco; Arias, Marta; Vera, Manel; Fontseré, Néstor; Blasco, Miquel; Barros, Xoana; Garro, Julia; Elena, Montserrat; Bergadá, Eduardo; Cases, Aleix; Bedini, Jose Luis; Campistol, Josep M

2009-01-01

As a change from Diapes to polyphenylene membrane in the mid-dilution filter has recently been developed, the aim of this study was to compare mid-dilution using this new dialyzer versus pre- and postdilution. The prospective study included 20 patients who underwent 4 hemodiafiltration (HDF) sessions: 1.7 m(2) polyphenylene and predilution infusion flow (Qi) 200 ml/min, 1.7 m(2) and postdilution Qi 100 ml/min, 1.9 and 2.2 m(2) mid-dilution both with Qi 200 ml/ min. The urea and creatinine reduction ratios were slightly higher in postdilution. The beta(2)-microglobulin (85.8%), myoglobin (73.6%), prolactin (67.8%) and retinol-binding protein (29.2%) reduction ratios with 1.9 m(2) mid-dilution, which was similar to 2.2 m(2) mid-dilution, were significantly higher than with the post- and predilution modes. Mid-dilution appears to be a good HDF alternative that allows a better removal of larger molecules than postdilution and, mainly, predilution. Mid-dilution using 1.9 or 2.2 m(2) dialyzers, at the same convective volume, showed a similar removal. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Picosecond passively mode-locked mid-infrared fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, C.; Zhu, X.; Norwood, R. A.; Kieu, K.; Peyghambarian, N.

2013-02-01

Mode-locked mid-infrared (mid-IR) fiber lasers are of increasing interest due to their many potential applications in spectroscopic sensors, infrared countermeasures, laser surgery, and high-efficiency pump sources for nonlinear wavelength convertors. Er3+-doped ZBLAN (ZrF4-BaF2-LaF3-AlF3-NaF) fiber lasers, which can emit mid-IR light at 2.65-2.9 μm through the transition from the upper energy level 4I11/2 to the lower laser level 4I13/2, have attracted much attention because of their broad emission range, high optical efficiency, and the ready availability of diode pump lasers at the two absorption peaks of Er3+ ions (975 nm and 976 nm). In recent years, significant progress on high power Er3+- doped ZBLAN fiber lasers has been achieved and over 20 watt cw output at 2.8 μm has been demonstrated; however, there has been little progress on ultrafast mid-IR ZBLAN fiber lasers to date. We report a passively mode-locked Er3+- doped ZBLAN fiber laser in which a Fe2+:ZnSe crystal was used as the intracavity saturable absorber. Fe2+:ZnSe is an ideal material for mid-IR laser pulse generation because of its large saturable absorption cross-section and small saturation energy along with the excellent opto-mechanical (damage threshold ~2 J/cm2) and physical characteristics of the crystalline ZnSe host. A 1.6 m double-clad 8 mol% Er3+-doped ZBLAN fiber was used in our experiment. The fiber core has a diameter of 15 μm and a numerical aperture (NA) of 0.1. The inner circular cladding has a diameter of 125 μm and an NA of 0.5. Both continuous-wave and Q-switched mode-locking pulses at 2.8 μm were obtained. Continuous-wave mode locking operation with a pulse duration of 19 ps and an average power of 51 mW were achieved when a collimated beam traversed the Fe2+:ZnSe crystal. When the cavity was modified to provide a focused beam at the Fe2+:ZnSe crystal, Q-switched mode-locked operation with a pulse duration of 60 ps and an average power of 4.6 mW was achieved. More powerful

Approaches to quantifying long-term continental shelf sediment transport with an example from the Northern California STRESS mid-shelf site

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, Courtney K.; Wiberg, Patricia L.

1997-09-01

Modeling shelf sediment transport rates and bed reworking depths is problematic when the wave and current forcing conditions are not precisely known, as is usually the case when long-term sedimentation patterns are of interest. Two approaches to modeling sediment transport under such circumstances are considered. The first relies on measured or simulated time series of flow conditions to drive model calculations. The second approach uses as model input probability distribution functions of bottom boundary layer flow conditions developed from wave and current measurements. Sediment transport rates, frequency of bed resuspension by waves and currents, and bed reworking calculated using the two methods are compared at the mid-shelf STRESS (Sediment TRansport on Shelves and Slopes) site on the northern California continental shelf. Current, wave and resuspension measurements at the site are used to generate model inputs and test model results. An 11-year record of bottom wave orbital velocity, calculated from surface wave spectra measured by the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) Buoy 46013 and verified against bottom tripod measurements, is used to characterize the frequency and duration of wave-driven transport events and to estimate the joint probability distribution of wave orbital velocity and period. A 109-day record of hourly current measurements 10 m above bottom is used to estimate the probability distribution of bottom boundary layer current velocity at this site and to develop an auto-regressive model to simulate current velocities for times when direct measurements of currents are not available. Frequency of transport, the maximum volume of suspended sediment, and average flux calculated using measured wave and simulated current time series agree well with values calculated using measured time series. A probabilistic approach is more amenable to calculations over time scales longer than existing wave records, but it tends to underestimate net transport

General view of he forward wall of the mid deck ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

General view of he forward wall of the mid deck of the Orbiter Discovery. In this view a majority of wall panels have been removed to reveal the avionics bays in the interstitial space between the mid deck forward wall and the forward bulkhead of the pressurized crew compartment. This photograph was taken at Kennedy Space Center. - Space Transportation System, Orbiter Discovery (OV-103), Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, 2101 NASA Parkway, Houston, Harris County, TX

Opt Out: Women with Children Leaving Mid-Level Student Affairs Positions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hebreard, Dana

2010-01-01

This phenomenological study is about the decision-making process of women with young children at the mid-level student affairs position who decide to opt out of their career for a minimum of one year, and for some, return to higher education. The study is based on interviews with 17 mid-level college administrators and mothers of young children,…

Concept design and alternate arrangements of orbiter mid-deck habitability features

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Church, R. A.; Ciciora, J. A.; Porter, K. L.; Stevenson, G. E.

1976-01-01

The evaluations and recommendations for habitability features in the space shuttle orbiter mid-deck are summarized. The orbiter mission plans, the mid-deck dimensions and baseline arrangements along with crew compliments and typical activities were defined. Female and male anthropometric data based on zero-g operations were also defined. Evaluations of baseline and alternate feasible concepts provided several recommendations which are discussed.

Dust Cloud, Mid Atlantic Ocean

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

This view of a dust cloud from a Sahara Desert, North Africa dust storm was taken over the Mid Atlantic Ocean, some 1700 miles from the African coast (24.5N, 45.0W). Dust, sand and other particulate matter from arid regions is frequently stirred up by fast blowing desert winds and carried aloft to high altitudes where it may be transported great distances, sometimes as much as half way around the world.

Generation of single-cycle mid-infrared pulses via coherent synthesis.

PubMed

Ma, Fen; Liu, Hongjun; Huang, Nan; Sun, Qibing

2012-12-17

A new approach for the generation of single-cycle mid-infrared pulses without complicated control systems is proposed, which is based on direct coherent synthesis of two idlers generated by difference frequency generation (DFG) processes. It is found that the waveform of synthesized pulses is mainly determined by the spectra superposition, the carrier-envelope phase (CEP) difference, the relative timing and the chirp ratio between the idlers. The influences of these parameters on the synthesized waveform are also numerically calculated and analyzed via second-order autocorrelation, which offers general guidelines for the waveform optimization. The single-cycle synthesized mid-infrared pulses, which are centered at 4233 nm with the spectrum spanning from 3000 nm to 7000 nm, are achieved by carefully optimizing these parameters. The single-cycle mid-infrared laser source presents the possibility of investigating and controlling the strong field light-matter interaction.