Identifying Acquisition Framing Assumptions Through Structured Deliberation

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

and tracking them, the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), and the Services may be able to better manage major risks to and expectations of...programs. An FA is any explicit or implicit assumption that is central in shaping cost, sched- ule, or performance expectations . FAs may change over the... expectations . This criterion means that FAs, when they fail or are incorrect, will have significant cost, schedule and/or per- formance effects on the

A ’Single Audit’ Model for Federal Credit Unions.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

role of internal auditing in appraising the performance of management and the basic knowledge an internal auditor must possess. The last section of...the separate phases of a per- formance audit are explained as well as the role of the auditor in each phase. 1. Defining the Audit Objective Auditors ...Additionally, the auditor must review each investment to determine if security and liquidity requirements are maintained. (2) Planning Role . The

Handbook for Development of Skill Qualification Tests

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-11-01

PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATION COMPONENT SQT 2, MOSC 16J10 SCORING INSTRUCTIONS TO SUPERVISORS A-l B. SQT NOTICE B-l...P-77-5 1 APPENDIX A HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WASHINGTON, DC, 20310 PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATION COMPONENT SQT 2, MOSC 16JI0 SCORING...soldier will not be penalized for a score of "N." 3. a. SQT 2, MOSC 16J10 consist of a written component and a per- formance certification component

A Catalog of NASA Special Publications

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-01

Properties and Mollier Perfect Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen Chart for Hydrogen From 300 K to Mixtures 20 000 K Wt’. P. Peterson R. F. Kubin, L. L. Presley...human per- Avail NTIS 1964 formance. NASA SP-3006 Equilibrium Thermodynamic Properties N73-15091 938 pp of Carbon Dioxide Avail GPO 1973 H. E. Bailey...N64-25017 4 27 pp Avail GPO 1964 39 Charts for Equilibrium Flow Properties Equilibrium Thermodynamic Properties of Carbon Dioxide in Hypervelocity of

Speaker Recognition Using Real vs. Synthetic Parallel Data for DNN Channel Compensation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-18

Speaker Recognition Using Real vs Synthetic Parallel Data for DNN Channel Compensation Fred Richardson, Michael Brandstein, Jennifer Melot and...de- noising DNNs has been demonstrated for several speech tech- nologies such as ASR and speaker recognition. This paper com- pares the use of real ...AVG and POOL min DCFs). In all cases, the telephone channel per- formance on SRE10 is improved by the denoising DNNs with the real Mixer 1 and 2

Speaker Recognition Using Real vs Synthetic Parallel Data for DNN Channel Compensation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-08

Speaker Recognition Using Real vs Synthetic Parallel Data for DNN Channel Compensation Fred Richardson, Michael Brandstein, Jennifer Melot and...de- noising DNNs has been demonstrated for several speech tech- nologies such as ASR and speaker recognition. This paper com- pares the use of real ...AVG and POOL min DCFs). In all cases, the telephone channel per- formance on SRE10 is improved by the denoising DNNs with the real Mixer 1 and 2

Aviation System Analysis Capability Quick Response System Report Server User’s Guide.

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-10-01

primary data sources for the QRS Report Server are the following: ♦ United States Department of Transportation airline service quality per- formance...and to cross-reference sections of this document. is used to indicate quoted text messages from WWW pages. is used for WWW page and section titles...would link the user to another document or another section of the same document. ALL CAPS is used to indicate Report Server variables for which the

An Airborne Radar Model For Non-Uniformly Spaced Antenna Arrays

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-03-01

Department of Defense, or the United States Government . AFIT-GE-ENG-06-58 An Airborne Radar Model For Non-Uniformly Spaced Antenna Arrays THESIS Presented...different circular arrays, one containing 24 elements and one containing 15 elements. The circular array per- formance is compared to that of a 6 × 6...model and compared to the radar model of [5, 6, 13]. The two models are mathematically equivalent when the uniformly spaced array is linear. The two

Exploiting Hidden Layer Responses of Deep Neural Networks for Language Recognition

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-08

trained DNNs. We evaluated this ap- proach in NIST 2015 language recognition evaluation. The per- formances achieved by the proposed approach are very...activations, used in direct DNN-LID. Results from the LID experiments support our hypothesis. The LID experiments are performed on NIST Language Recognition...of-the-art I- vector system [3, 10, 11] in evaluation (eval) set of NIST LRE 2015. Combination of proposed technique and state-of-the-art I-vector

Iranian Expert Opinion about Necessary Criteria for Hospitals Management Performance Assessments

PubMed Central

Dadgar, Elham; Janati, Ali; Tabrizi, Jafar Sadegh; Asghari-Jafarabadi, Mohammad; Barati, Omid

2012-01-01

Background: Managers in the hospital should have enough managerial skill to be coordinated with the complex environment. Defining a competency framework assessment for hospital man-agement will help to establish core competencies for hospital managers. The aim of this study was to develop concrete and suitable performance assessment criteria using expert's view. Methods: In this qualitative study in total, 20 professionals participated in the interview and Fo¬cus Group Discussions (FGD). Two of informants were interviewed and 18 professionals par¬ticipants in three focus group discussions. Discussions and interviews were well planned, the FGD environments were suitable and after interviews completion the notes were checked with participant for completeness. Thematic analysis method was used for the analysis of qualitative data. Results: Findings from 3 FGDs and 2 semi structured interviews done with 20 professionals were categorized accordance to themes. The findings were classified in 7 major and 41 sub themes. The major themes include competency related to planning, organization and staff per-formance management, leadership, information management, and clinical governance and per-formance indicators. Conclusion: All participants had hospital administration experience; so their explanation impor¬tant in identifying the criteria and developing hospital managers’ performance assessment tool. In addition to professional perspectives and studies done in other countries, in order to design this kind of tools, it is necessary to adopt the obtained findings to the local hospital conditions. PMID:24688938

Principles of Work Sample Testing. 3. Construction and Evaluation of Work Sample Tests

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-04-01

with an enphasis on examining alternative explanations for scores), and in some cases evidence of predictive or other criterion-related corre- lations...34 Generalizability in this case is a function of the number of behavioral elements (task elements) in one component task that are also included in one or...evaluation of the results of task per- formance. In either case measurement depends on some form of observa- tion or an observational aid. It is Lnlikely

Observations on Polar Coding with CRC-Aided List Decoding

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

9 v 1. INTRODUCTION Polar codes are a new type of forward error correction (FEC) codes, introduced by Arikan in [1], in which he...error correction (FEC) currently used and planned for use in Navy wireless communication systems. The project’s results from FY14 and FY15 are...good error- correction per- formance. We used the Tal/Vardy method of [5]. The polar encoder uses a row vector u of length N . Let uA be the subvector

Operational Experience with the MICE Spectrometer Solenoid System

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

Feher, Sandor; Bross, Alan; Hanlet, Pierrick

The Muon Ionization Cooling Experiment located at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in England utilizes a supercon-ducting solenoid system for the muon cooling channel that also holds particle tracking detectors and muon absorbers inside their bores. The solenoid system installation was completed in summer of 2015 and after commissioning the system it has been running successfully. As a result, this paper summarizes the commissioning results and operational experience with the magnets focusing on the per-formance of the two Spectrometer Solenoids built by the US.

Baseline Tests of the Electra Van Model 1000 Electric Vehicle.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-07-01

3RR ATALGNUMBER(. 21 0 IIACNTLING TFESSO NAME ND TR ADDRESS~eot MOrELe rDp o00 EERIy AEHICtan Srtr f, or Hybrd Veicle S. NC4"IXICtION NGRA DINGUMER...state-of-the-art with respect to electric and hybrid vehicles. The data so developed are to serve as a baseline to compare im- provements in electric and... hybrid vehicle technologies, to assist in establishing per- formance standards for electric and hybrid vehicles, and to guide future research and

Operational Experience with the MICE Spectrometer Solenoid System

DOE PAGES

Feher, Sandor; Bross, Alan; Hanlet, Pierrick

2018-01-11

The Muon Ionization Cooling Experiment located at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in England utilizes a supercon-ducting solenoid system for the muon cooling channel that also holds particle tracking detectors and muon absorbers inside their bores. The solenoid system installation was completed in summer of 2015 and after commissioning the system it has been running successfully. As a result, this paper summarizes the commissioning results and operational experience with the magnets focusing on the per-formance of the two Spectrometer Solenoids built by the US.

Enhancing Entity Level Knowledge Representation and Environmental Sensing in COMBATXXI Using Unmanned Aircraft Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

sensor to the IED (r) is 110 meters and probability 0 if r is 220 meters or greater. Time to clear an IED is 60 minutes. 51 The factors affecting ... Factors such as False Positive and False Negative allows us to see how an operator’s skill level can affect the outcome of a tactical convoy...operator. The performance of a UAS in the field can vary greatly, and this per- formance can have an enormous affect on the outcome of a military operation

Demonstration of Thermal Stripping of JP-4 and Other VOCs from Soils at Tinker Air Force Base Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-03-01

Township, New Jersey, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers , DACW 41-88-R-0162. b - Source: California List, 40 CFR Part 268, Subpart D. c - Source: Substances...Design Bog Creek Farm Site, Superfund Project, Howell Township, New Jersey, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers , DACW 41-88-R-0162. b - Source: California List...stack testing was done to numerically specify the per- formance of this unit. I Dust collected by the fabric filter was minimal. Since condensation

[Habits and problems of sleep in adolescent students].

PubMed

Lazaratou, E; Dikeos, D; Anagnostopoulos, D; Soldatos, C

2008-07-01

The evaluation of sleep habits and sleep related problems in high school adolescent students in the Athens area and the assessment of these problems' relation to demographic and other variables was investigated by the Athens Insomnia Scale - 5 item version (AIS-5), which was administered to 713 adolescent Senior High School students in the Greater Athens Area. Data such as age, sex, school records, and time spent per week in school-related and extracurricular activities were collected. The sample's mean sleep duration was 7,5 hours, mean bedtime 12:20 am and wake-up time 7:15 am. Total sleep time was not affected by gender, but was influenced by time spent in various activities. Sleep complaints were related to delayed sleep, onset latency and insufficient total duration of sleep. Girls complained more than boys, while correlations showed that students with lower academic per formance and those in second grade were more likely to have higher AIS-5 scores. The results show that sleep time of high school students is dependent on practical matters such as school schedule and other activities, while sleep complaints are related to female gender, bad school performance as well as to the second grade. The difference between actual sleep time and sleep complaints should be considered when studying the sleep of adolescents.

Building a Better Canine Warrior

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-12

without adversely affecting pe r formance and to develop technical methodology that would dissipate metabolic heat without the expense o f body water...technical methodology that would dissipate metabolic heat without the expense of body water. Neither an increase in dietary salt nor decrease in...from a methodological aspect as well as emerging regulatory issues related to research in working dogs. Data suggested that the effect of high

Mining Specific and General Features in Both Positive and Negative Relevance Feedback. QUT E-Discovery Lab at the TREC󈧍 Relevance Feedback Track

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-11-01

relevance feedback algo- rithm. Four methods, εMap [1], MapA , P10A, and StatAP [2], were used in the track to measure the performance of Phase 2 runs...εMap and StatAP were applied to the runs us- ing the testing set of only ClueWeb09 Category-B, whereas MapA and P10A were applied to those using the...whole ClueWeb09 English set. Because our experiments were based on only ClueWeb09 Category-B, measuring our per- formance by MapA and P10A might not

Using Performance Tools to Support Experiments in HPC Resilience

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

Naughton, III, Thomas J; Boehm, Swen; Engelmann, Christian

2014-01-01

The high performance computing (HPC) community is working to address fault tolerance and resilience concerns for current and future large scale computing platforms. This is driving enhancements in the programming environ- ments, specifically research on enhancing message passing libraries to support fault tolerant computing capabilities. The community has also recognized that tools for resilience experimentation are greatly lacking. However, we argue that there are several parallels between performance tools and resilience tools . As such, we believe the rich set of HPC performance-focused tools can be extended (repurposed) to benefit the resilience community. In this paper, we describe the initialmore » motivation to leverage standard HPC per- formance analysis techniques to aid in developing diagnostic tools to assist fault tolerance experiments for HPC applications. These diagnosis procedures help to provide context for the system when the errors (failures) occurred. We describe our initial work in leveraging an MPI performance trace tool to assist in provid- ing global context during fault injection experiments. Such tools will assist the HPC resilience community as they extend existing and new application codes to support fault tolerances.« less

PVD TBC experience on GE aircraft engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maricocchi, A.; Bartz, A.; Wortman, D.

1997-06-01

The higher performance levels of modern gas turbine engines present significant challenges in the reli-ability of materials in the turbine. The increased engine temperatures required to achieve the higher per-formance levels reduce the strength of the materials used in the turbine sections of the engine. Various forms of thermal barrier coatings have been used for many years to increase the reliability of gas turbine engine components. Recent experience with the physical vapor deposition process using ceramic material has demonstrated success in extending the service life of turbine blades and nozzles. Engine test results of turbine components with a 125 μm (0.005 in.) PVD TBC have demonstrated component operating tem-peratures of 56 to 83 °C (100 to 150 °F) lower than non-PVD TBC components. Engine testing has also revealed that TBCs are susceptible to high angle particle impact damage. Sand particles and other engine debris impact the TBC surface at the leading edge of airfoils and fracture the PVD columns. As the impacting continues, the TBC erodes in local areas. Analysis of the eroded areas has shown a slight increase in temperature over a fully coated area ; however, a significant temperature reduc-tion was realized over an airfoil without TBC.

Performance Engineering Research Institute SciDAC-2 Enabling Technologies Institute Final Report

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

Hall, Mary

2014-09-19

Enhancing the performance of SciDAC applications on petascale systems has high priority within DOE SC. As we look to the future, achieving expected levels of performance on high-end com-puting (HEC) systems is growing ever more challenging due to enormous scale, increasing archi-tectural complexity, and increasing application complexity. To address these challenges, PERI has implemented a unified, tripartite research plan encompassing: (1) performance modeling and prediction; (2) automatic performance tuning; and (3) performance engineering of high profile applications. The PERI performance modeling and prediction activity is developing and refining performance models, significantly reducing the cost of collecting the data upon whichmore » the models are based, and increasing model fidelity, speed and generality. Our primary research activity is automatic tuning (autotuning) of scientific software. This activity is spurred by the strong user preference for automatic tools and is based on previous successful activities such as ATLAS, which has automatically tuned components of the LAPACK linear algebra library, and other re-cent work on autotuning domain-specific libraries. Our third major component is application en-gagement, to which we are devoting approximately 30% of our effort to work directly with Sci-DAC-2 applications. This last activity not only helps DOE scientists meet their near-term per-formance goals, but also helps keep PERI research focused on the real challenges facing DOE computational scientists as they enter the Petascale Era.« less

A Systems Approach to Scalable Transportation Network Modeling

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

Perumalla, Kalyan S

2006-01-01

Emerging needs in transportation network modeling and simulation are raising new challenges with respect to scal-ability of network size and vehicular traffic intensity, speed of simulation for simulation-based optimization, and fidel-ity of vehicular behavior for accurate capture of event phe-nomena. Parallel execution is warranted to sustain the re-quired detail, size and speed. However, few parallel simulators exist for such applications, partly due to the challenges underlying their development. Moreover, many simulators are based on time-stepped models, which can be computationally inefficient for the purposes of modeling evacuation traffic. Here an approach is presented to de-signing a simulator with memory andmore » speed efficiency as the goals from the outset, and, specifically, scalability via parallel execution. The design makes use of discrete event modeling techniques as well as parallel simulation meth-ods. Our simulator, called SCATTER, is being developed, incorporating such design considerations. Preliminary per-formance results are presented on benchmark road net-works, showing scalability to one million vehicles simu-lated on one processor.« less

Source Code Analysis Laboratory (SCALe) for Energy Delivery Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-12-01

the software for reevaluation. Once the ree- valuation process is completed, CERT provides the client a report detailing the software’s con - formance...Flagged Nonconformities (FNC) Software System TP/FNC Ratio Mozilla Firefox version 2.0 6/12 50% Linux kernel version 2.6.15 10/126 8% Wine...inappropriately tuned for analysis of the Linux kernel, which has anomalous results. Customizing SCALe to work with energy system software will help

Correlations between Transition Metal Chemistry, Local Structure and Global Structure in Li 2Ru 0.5Mn 0.5O 3 Investigated in a Wide Voltage Window

DOE PAGES

Lyu, Yingchun; Hu, Enyuan; Xiao, Dongdong; ...

2017-10-20

Li 2Ru 0.5Mn 0.5O 3, a high capacity lithium rich layered cathode material for lithium-ion batteries, was subject to comprehen-sive diagnostic studies including in situ/ex situ X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), pair distribu-tion function (PDF) and high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) analysis, to understand the cor-relations between transition metal chemistry, structure and lithium storage electrochemical behavior. Ru-Ru dimers have been identified in the as-prepared sample and found to be preserved upon prolonged cycling. Presence of these dimers, which are likely caused by the delocalized nature of 4d electrons, is found to favor the stabilization of themore » structure in a lay-ered phase. The in situ XAS results confirm the participation of oxygen redox into the charge compensation at high charge voltage, and the great flexibility of the covalent bond between Ru and O may provide great reversibility of the global struc-ture despite of the significant local distortion around Ru. In contrast, the local distortion around Mn occurs at low discharge voltage and is accompanied by a “layered to 1T” phase transformation, which is found to be detrimental to the cycle per-formances. It is clear that the changes of local structure around individual transition metal cations respond separately and differently to lithium intercalation/deintercalation. Here, cations with the capability to tolerate the lattice distortion will benefit for maintaining the integrality of the crystal structure and therefore is able to enhance the long-term cycling performance of the electrode materials.« less

Correlations between Transition Metal Chemistry, Local Structure and Global Structure in Li 2Ru 0.5Mn 0.5O 3 Investigated in a Wide Voltage Window

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

Lyu, Yingchun; Hu, Enyuan; Xiao, Dongdong

Li 2Ru 0.5Mn 0.5O 3, a high capacity lithium rich layered cathode material for lithium-ion batteries, was subject to comprehen-sive diagnostic studies including in situ/ex situ X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), pair distribu-tion function (PDF) and high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) analysis, to understand the cor-relations between transition metal chemistry, structure and lithium storage electrochemical behavior. Ru-Ru dimers have been identified in the as-prepared sample and found to be preserved upon prolonged cycling. Presence of these dimers, which are likely caused by the delocalized nature of 4d electrons, is found to favor the stabilization of themore » structure in a lay-ered phase. The in situ XAS results confirm the participation of oxygen redox into the charge compensation at high charge voltage, and the great flexibility of the covalent bond between Ru and O may provide great reversibility of the global struc-ture despite of the significant local distortion around Ru. In contrast, the local distortion around Mn occurs at low discharge voltage and is accompanied by a “layered to 1T” phase transformation, which is found to be detrimental to the cycle per-formances. It is clear that the changes of local structure around individual transition metal cations respond separately and differently to lithium intercalation/deintercalation. Here, cations with the capability to tolerate the lattice distortion will benefit for maintaining the integrality of the crystal structure and therefore is able to enhance the long-term cycling performance of the electrode materials.« less

The Construction of a Vague Fuzzy Measure Through L1 Parameter Optimization

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-26

Programming v. 1.21, http://cvxr.com/cvx, (2011) 11 [3] E.J. Candes, J. Romberg and T. Tao. Robust Uncertainty Principles: Exact Signal Reconstruction From...Annales de I’institut Fourer, 5 (1954), pp. 131-295 [9] D. Diakoulaki, C. Antunes and A. Martins. MCDA in Energy Planning, Int. Series in Operations...formance and Tests , Fuzzy Sets and Systems, Vol. 65, Issues 2-3 (1994), pp.255-271 [15] M. Grabisch. Fuzzy Integral in Multicriteria Decision Making, Fuzzy

Bayesian logistic regression approaches to predict incorrect DRG assignment.

PubMed

Suleiman, Mani; Demirhan, Haydar; Boyd, Leanne; Girosi, Federico; Aksakalli, Vural

2018-05-07

Episodes of care involving similar diagnoses and treatments and requiring similar levels of resource utilisation are grouped to the same Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG). In jurisdictions which implement DRG based payment systems, DRGs are a major determinant of funding for inpatient care. Hence, service providers often dedicate auditing staff to the task of checking that episodes have been coded to the correct DRG. The use of statistical models to estimate an episode's probability of DRG error can significantly improve the efficiency of clinical coding audits. This study implements Bayesian logistic regression models with weakly informative prior distributions to estimate the likelihood that episodes require a DRG revision, comparing these models with each other and to classical maximum likelihood estimates. All Bayesian approaches had more stable model parameters than maximum likelihood. The best performing Bayesian model improved overall classification per- formance by 6% compared to maximum likelihood, with a 34% gain compared to random classification, respectively. We found that the original DRG, coder and the day of coding all have a significant effect on the likelihood of DRG error. Use of Bayesian approaches has improved model parameter stability and classification accuracy. This method has already lead to improved audit efficiency in an operational capacity.

High Per formance and Flexible Supercapacitors based on Carbonized Bamboo Fibers for Wide Temperature Applications

PubMed Central

Zequine, Camila; Ranaweera, C. K.; Wang, Z.; Singh, Sweta; Tripathi, Prashant; Srivastava, O. N.; Gupta, Bipin Kumar; Ramasamy, K.; Kahol, P. K.; Dvornic, P. R.; Gupta, Ram K.

2016-01-01

High performance carbonized bamboo fibers were synthesized for a wide range of temperature dependent energy storage applications. The structural and electrochemical properties of the carbonized bamboo fibers were studied for flexible supercapacitor applications. The galvanostatic charge-discharge studies on carbonized fibers exhibited specific capacity of ~510F/g at 0.4 A/g with energy density of 54 Wh/kg. Interestingly, the carbonized bamboo fibers displayed excellent charge storage stability without any appreciable degradation in charge storage capacity over 5,000 charge-discharge cycles. The symmetrical supercapacitor device fabricated using these carbonized bamboo fibers exhibited an areal capacitance of ~1.55 F/cm2 at room temperature. In addition to high charge storage capacity and cyclic stability, the device showed excellent flexibility without any degradation to charge storage capacity on bending the electrode. The performance of the supercapacitor device exhibited ~65% improvement at 70 °C compare to that at 10 °C. Our studies suggest that carbonized bamboo fibers are promising candidates for stable, high performance and flexible supercapacitor devices. PMID:27546225

High Per formance and Flexible Supercapacitors based on Carbonized Bamboo Fibers for Wide Temperature Applications.

PubMed

Zequine, Camila; Ranaweera, C K; Wang, Z; Singh, Sweta; Tripathi, Prashant; Srivastava, O N; Gupta, Bipin Kumar; Ramasamy, K; Kahol, P K; Dvornic, P R; Gupta, Ram K

2016-08-22

High performance carbonized bamboo fibers were synthesized for a wide range of temperature dependent energy storage applications. The structural and electrochemical properties of the carbonized bamboo fibers were studied for flexible supercapacitor applications. The galvanostatic charge-discharge studies on carbonized fibers exhibited specific capacity of ~510F/g at 0.4 A/g with energy density of 54 Wh/kg. Interestingly, the carbonized bamboo fibers displayed excellent charge storage stability without any appreciable degradation in charge storage capacity over 5,000 charge-discharge cycles. The symmetrical supercapacitor device fabricated using these carbonized bamboo fibers exhibited an areal capacitance of ~1.55 F/cm(2) at room temperature. In addition to high charge storage capacity and cyclic stability, the device showed excellent flexibility without any degradation to charge storage capacity on bending the electrode. The performance of the supercapacitor device exhibited ~65% improvement at 70 °C compare to that at 10 °C. Our studies suggest that carbonized bamboo fibers are promising candidates for stable, high performance and flexible supercapacitor devices.

High Per formance and Flexible Supercapacitors based on Carbonized Bamboo Fibers for Wide Temperature Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zequine, Camila; Ranaweera, C. K.; Wang, Z.; Singh, Sweta; Tripathi, Prashant; Srivastava, O. N.; Gupta, Bipin Kumar; Ramasamy, K.; Kahol, P. K.; Dvornic, P. R.; Gupta, Ram K.

2016-08-01

High performance carbonized bamboo fibers were synthesized for a wide range of temperature dependent energy storage applications. The structural and electrochemical properties of the carbonized bamboo fibers were studied for flexible supercapacitor applications. The galvanostatic charge-discharge studies on carbonized fibers exhibited specific capacity of ~510F/g at 0.4 A/g with energy density of 54 Wh/kg. Interestingly, the carbonized bamboo fibers displayed excellent charge storage stability without any appreciable degradation in charge storage capacity over 5,000 charge-discharge cycles. The symmetrical supercapacitor device fabricated using these carbonized bamboo fibers exhibited an areal capacitance of ~1.55 F/cm2 at room temperature. In addition to high charge storage capacity and cyclic stability, the device showed excellent flexibility without any degradation to charge storage capacity on bending the electrode. The performance of the supercapacitor device exhibited ~65% improvement at 70 °C compare to that at 10 °C. Our studies suggest that carbonized bamboo fibers are promising candidates for stable, high performance and flexible supercapacitor devices.

Nearest Neighbor Classification of Stationary Time Series: An Application to Anesthesia Level Classification by EEG Analysis.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-12-05

classification procedures that are common in speech processing. The anesthesia level classification by EEG time series population screening problem example is in...formance. The use of the KL number type metric in NN rule classification, in a delete-one subj ect ’s EE-at-a-time KL-NN and KL- kNN classification of the...17 individual labeled EEG sample population using KL-NN and KL- kNN rules. The results obtained are shown in Table 1. The entries in the table indicate

Data-dependence Profiling to Enable Safe Thread Level Speculation

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

Bhattacharyya, Arnamoy; Amaral, José Nelson; Finkel, Hal

Data-dependence profling is a technique that enables a com- piler to judiciously decide when the execution of a loop | which the compiler could not prove to be dependence free | should be speculated through the use of Thread Level Spec- ulation (TLS). The data collected by a data-dependence pro- fler can be used to predict if may dependencies reported by a compiler static analysis are likely to materialize at runtime. A cost analysis can then be used to decide that some loops with a lower probability of dependence should be specula- tively parallelized. This paper addresses the question asmore » to whether a loops' dependence behaviour changes when the in- put to the program changes | a study of 57 different bench- marks indicates that it usually does not change. Then the paper describes SpecEval, an automatic speculative paral- lelization framework that uses single-input data-dependence profles to find speculation candidates in the SPEC2006 and PolyBench/C benchmarks. This paper also presents a per- formance evaluation of TLS implementation in IBM's Blue- Gene/Q supercomputer and shows that the performance of TLS is affected by several factors, including the number of speculated loops, the execution-time coverage of speculated loops, the miss-speculation overhead, the L1 cache miss rate and the effect on dynamic instruction path length.« less

Efficient Aho-Corasick String Matching on Emerging Multicore Architectures

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

Tumeo, Antonino; Villa, Oreste; Secchi, Simone

String matching algorithms are critical to several scientific fields. Beside text processing and databases, emerging applications such as DNA protein sequence analysis, data mining, information security software, antivirus, ma- chine learning, all exploit string matching algorithms [3]. All these applica- tions usually process large quantity of textual data, require high performance and/or predictable execution times. Among all the string matching algorithms, one of the most studied, especially for text processing and security applica- tions, is the Aho-Corasick algorithm. 1 2 Book title goes here Aho-Corasick is an exact, multi-pattern string matching algorithm which performs the search in a time linearlymore » proportional to the length of the input text independently from pattern set size. However, depending on the imple- mentation, when the number of patterns increase, the memory occupation may raise drastically. In turn, this can lead to significant variability in the performance, due to the memory access times and the caching effects. This is a significant concern for many mission critical applications and modern high performance architectures. For example, security applications such as Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS), must be able to scan network traffic against very large dictionaries in real time. Modern Ethernet links reach up to 10 Gbps, and malicious threats are already well over 1 million, and expo- nentially growing [28]. When performing the search, a NIDS should not slow down the network, or let network packets pass unchecked. Nevertheless, on the current state-of-the-art cache based processors, there may be a large per- formance variability when dealing with big dictionaries and inputs that have different frequencies of matching patterns. In particular, when few patterns are matched and they are all in the cache, the procedure is fast. Instead, when they are not in the cache, often because many patterns are matched and the caches are continuously thrashed, they should be retrieved from the system memory and the procedure is slowed down by the increased latency. Efficient implementations of string matching algorithms have been the fo- cus of several works, targeting Field Programmable Gate Arrays [4, 25, 15, 5], highly multi-threaded solutions like the Cray XMT [34], multicore proces- sors [19] or heterogeneous processors like the Cell Broadband Engine [35, 22]. Recently, several researchers have also started to investigate the use Graphic Processing Units (GPUs) for string matching algorithms in security applica- tions [20, 10, 32, 33]. Most of these approaches mainly focus on reaching high peak performance, or try to optimize the memory occupation, rather than looking at performance stability. However, hardware solutions supports only small dictionary sizes due to lack of memory and are difficult to customize, while platforms such as the Cell/B.E. are very complex to program.« less

Microgrid Design Analysis Using Technology Management Optimization and the Performance Reliability Model

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

Stamp, Jason E.; Eddy, John P.; Jensen, Richard P.

Microgrids are a focus of localized energy production that support resiliency, security, local con- trol, and increased access to renewable resources (among other potential benefits). The Smart Power Infrastructure Demonstration for Energy Reliability and Security (SPIDERS) Joint Capa- bility Technology Demonstration (JCTD) program between the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Energy (DOE), and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) resulted in the pre- liminary design and deployment of three microgrids at military installations. This paper is focused on the analysis process and supporting software used to determine optimal designs for energy surety microgrids (ESMs) in the SPIDERS project. There aremore » two key pieces of software, an ex- isting software application developed by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) called Technology Management Optimization (TMO) and a new simulation developed for SPIDERS called the per- formance reliability model (PRM). TMO is a decision support tool that performs multi-objective optimization over a mixed discrete/continuous search space for which the performance measures are unrestricted in form. The PRM is able to statistically quantify the performance and reliability of a microgrid operating in islanded mode (disconnected from any utility power source). Together, these two software applications were used as part of the ESM process to generate the preliminary designs presented by SNL-led DOE team to the DOD. Acknowledgements Sandia National Laboratories and the SPIDERS technical team would like to acknowledge the following for help in the project: * Mike Hightower, who has been the key driving force for Energy Surety Microgrids * Juan Torres and Abbas Akhil, who developed the concept of microgrids for military instal- lations * Merrill Smith, U.S. Department of Energy SPIDERS Program Manager * Ross Roley and Rich Trundy from U.S. Pacific Command * Bill Waugaman and Bill Beary from U.S. Northern Command * Tarek Abdallah, Melanie Johnson, and Harold Sanborn of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Engineering Research Laboratory * Colleagues from Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) for their reviews, suggestions, and participation in the work.« less

Rationale and design of the CONFIRM-HF study: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study to assess the effects of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose on functional capacity in patients with chronic heart failure and iron deficiency.

PubMed

Ponikowski, Piotr; van Veldhuisen, Dirk J; Comin-Colet, Josep; Ertl, Georg; Komajda, Michel; Mareev, Viacheslav; McDonagh, Theresa A; Parkhomenko, Alexander; Tavazzi, Luigi; Levesque, Victoria; Mori, Claudio; Roubert, Bernard; Filippatos, Gerasimos; Ruschitzka, Frank; Anker, Stefan D

2014-09-01

Iron deficiency (ID) is a common co-morbidity associated with chronic heart failure (CHF), which has unfavourable clinical and prognostic consequences. In Ferinject Assessment in Patients with IRon Deficiency and Chronic Heart Failure (FAIR-HF), the treatment with i.v. ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) improved symptoms and quality of life over a 24 week period. Ferric CarboxymaltOse evaluatioN on perFormance in patients with IRon deficiency in coMbination with chronic Heart Failure (CONFIRM-HF) was designed to test a simplifieddosage scheme of FCM during a longer follow-up period. CONFIRM-HF, a double-blind, multi-centre, prospective, randomized, two-arm study, enrolled ambulatory patients with symptomatic CHF [New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II/III] with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45%, BNP >100 pg/mL, or NT-proBNP >400 pg/mL, presence of ID [defined as ferritin <100 ng/mL, or ferritin 100-300 ng/mL if transferrin saturation (TSAT) <20%], and haemoglobin (Hb) <15 g/dL. Patients were randomized 1:1 to treatment with FCM or placebo for 52 weeks. Primary endpoint is change in 6-minute walk test (6MWT) distance from baseline to Week 24. Secondary endpoints are: change in 6MWT from baseline to Weeks 6, 12, 36, and 52; Patient Global Assessment score at Weeks 6, 12, 24, 36, and 52; and change from baseline to Weeks 6, 12, 24, 36, and 52 in NYHA class, fatigue score, and quality of life. Safety endpoints include overall safety over the treatment period of 52 weeks. Study medication was administered in single doses as undiluted bolus injection of up to 1000 mg of iron or normal saline at Day 0 and Week 6 up to iron repletion. Further doses of study medication could be administered at Weeks 12, 24, and 36 if a patient still had ID. Overall, 304 patients were recruited in 41 centres in nine countries. This study will provide further information on the efficacy and safety of iron therapy with i.v. FCM in CHF patients with ID over a 1 year period using a simplified dosing scheme. © 2014 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.

Nucleic Acid Amplification Based Diagnostic of Lyme (Neuro-)borreliosis – Lost in the Jungle of Methods, Targets, and Assays?

PubMed Central

Nolte, Oliver

2012-01-01

Laboratory based diagnosis of infectious diseases usually relies on culture of the disease causing micro-organism, followed by identification and susceptibility testing. Since Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, the etiologic agent of Lyme disease or Lyme borreliosis, requires very specific culture conditions (e.g. specific liquid media, long term cul-ture) traditional bacteriology is often not done on a routine basis. Instead, confirmation of the clinical diagnosis needs ei-ther indirect techniques (like serology or measurement of cellular activity in the presence of antigens) or direct but culture independent techniques, like microscopy or nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAT), with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) being the most frequently applied NAT method in routine laboratories. NAT uses nucleic acids of the disease causing micro-organism as template for amplification, isolated from various sources of clinical specimens. Although the underlying principle, adoption of the enzymatic process running during DNA duplication prior to prokaryotic cell division, is comparatively easy, a couple of ‘pitfalls’ is associated with the technique itself as well as with interpretation of the results. At present, no commercial, CE-marked and sufficiently validated PCR assay is available. A number of homebrew assays have been published, which are different in terms of target (i.e. the gene targeted by the amplification primers), method (nested PCR, PCR followed by hybridization, real-time PCR) and validation criteria. Inhibitory compounds may lead to false negative results, if no appropriate internal control is included. Carry-over of amplicons, insufficient handling and workflow and/or insufficiently validated targets/primers may result in false positive results. Different targets may yield different analytical sensitivity, depending, among other factors, of the redundancy of a target gene in the genome. Per-formance characteristics (e.g. analytical sensitivity and specificity, clinical sensitivity and specificity, reproducibility, etc.) are, if available, only applicable to a specific assay, running in a specific laboratory. Finally, not only the NAT/PCR method itself, but also the process of DNA isolation from the specimen, is highly diverse and may have fundamental im-pact on the (expected) PCR result. Of concern are distribution effects of DNA, in particular, if only low numbers of bacte-ria/genomes are present in a sample, as it is the case for instance in cerebrospinal fluids. For the ordering physician and for the patient requesting PCR analysis, these ‘pitfalls’ are usually invisible. As a conse-quence, the reported result (i.e. PCR negative or positive for B. burgdorferi) is hard to interpret, especially, if the reported PCR result is contradictory to the clinical diagnosis or other laboratory findings. Moreover, due to the high number of dif-ferent assays in use, two laboratories, testing the same specimen, might come to different PCR results. The current paper wants to summarize the available PCR/NAT assays for the detection of B. burgdorferi DNA in clinical specimens, with special attention to neurologic disorders, and to discuss the difficulties in PCR analysis and result inter-pretation, associated thereof. In view of growing numbers of patients who are diagnosed of having Lyme disease, and ac-knowledging a substantial growth in knowledge regarding other tick- or vector-borne pathogens, which might be able to induce symptoms comparable to Lyme (neuro-)borreliosis, efforts are urgently needed to standardize and harmonize methods for B. burgdorferi nucleic acid amplification. PMID:23230454

A multi-scale model for geared transmission aero-thermodynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McIntyre, Sean M.

A multi-scale, multi-physics computational tool for the simulation of high-per- formance gearbox aero-thermodynamics was developed and applied to equilibrium and pathological loss-of-lubrication performance simulation. The physical processes at play in these systems include multiphase compressible ow of the air and lubricant within the gearbox, meshing kinematics and tribology, as well as heat transfer by conduction, and free and forced convection. These physics are coupled across their representative space and time scales in the computational framework developed in this dissertation. These scales span eight orders of magnitude, from the thermal response of the full gearbox O(100 m; 10 2 s), through effects at the tooth passage time scale O(10-2 m; 10-4 s), down to tribological effects on the meshing gear teeth O(10-6 m; 10-6 s). Direct numerical simulation of these coupled physics and scales is intractable. Accordingly, a scale-segregated simulation strategy was developed by partitioning and treating the contributing physical mechanisms as sub-problems, each with associated space and time scales, and appropriate coupling mechanisms. These are: (1) the long time scale thermal response of the system, (2) the multiphase (air, droplets, and film) aerodynamic flow and convective heat transfer within the gearbox, (3) the high-frequency, time-periodic thermal effects of gear tooth heating while in mesh and its subsequent cooling through the rest of rotation, (4) meshing effects including tribology and contact mechanics. The overarching goal of this dissertation was to develop software and analysis procedures for gearbox loss-of-lubrication performance. To accommodate these four physical effects and their coupling, each is treated in the CFD code as a sub problem. These physics modules are coupled algorithmically. Specifically, the high- frequency conduction analysis derives its local heat transfer coefficient and near-wall air temperature boundary conditions from a quasi-steady cyclic-symmetric simulation of the internal flow. This high-frequency conduction solution is coupled directly with a model for the meshing friction, developed by a collaborator, which was adapted for use in a finite-volume CFD code. The local surface heat flux on solid surfaces is calculated by time-averaging the heat flux in the high-frequency analysis. This serves as a fixed-flux boundary condition in the long time scale conduction module. The temperature distribution from this long time scale heat transfer calculation serves as a boundary condition for the internal convection simulation, and as the initial condition for the high-frequency heat transfer module. Using this multi-scale model, simulations were performed for equilibrium and loss-of-lubrication operation of the NASA Glenn Research Center test stand. Results were compared with experimental measurements. In addition to the multi-scale model itself, several other specific contributions were made. Eulerian models for droplets and wall-films were developed and im- plemented in the CFD code. A novel approach to retaining liquid film on the solid surfaces, and strategies for its mass exchange with droplets, were developed and verified. Models for interfacial transfer between droplets and wall-film were implemented, and include the effects of droplet deposition, splashing, bouncing, as well as film breakup. These models were validated against airfoil data. To mitigate the observed slow convergence of CFD simulations of the enclosed aerodynamic flows within gearboxes, Fourier stability analysis was applied to the SIMPLE-C fractional-step algorithm. From this, recommendations to accelerate the convergence rate through enhanced pressure-velocity coupling were made. These were shown to be effective. A fast-running finite-volume reduced-order-model of the gearbox aero-thermo- dynamics was developed, and coupled with the tribology model to investigate the sensitivity of loss-of-lubrication predictions to various model and physical param- eters. This sensitivity study was instrumental in guiding efforts toward improving the accuracy of the multi-scale model without undue increase in computational cost. In addition, the reduced-order model is now used extensively by a collaborator in tribology model development and testing. Experimental measurements of high-speed gear windage in partially and fully- shrouded configurations were performed to supplement the paucity of available validation data. This measurement program provided measurements of windage loss for a gear of design-relevant size and operating speed, as well as guidance for increasing the accuracy of future measurements.

Multiple-use Management of Irrigation Systems: Technical Constraints and Challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gowing, J.; Li, Q.; Mayilswami, C.; Gunawardhana, K.

It is now widely recognised that many irrigation systems, originally planned only for irrigation supply, are de facto multiple-use systems. However, the importance of non- irrigation uses (such as bathing, laundry, livestock watering and fishing), to the liveli- hoods of the rural poor has generally been ignored. This has significant implications for irrigation engineers, water resources managers and other decision-makers. An im- proved understanding of competition and complementarity between these uses and irrigation demands is essential for effective multiple-use management of irrigation systems.This paper presents a study of multiple-use management, where the focus is on integrating aquaculture within irrigation systems with and without secondary storage. The Lower Bhavani scheme in South India and Mahaweli System H in Sri- Lanka were selected as representative smallholder irrigation schemes: - The Lower Bhavani scheme comprises a 200km contour canal serving a command area of 78,500ha. Apart from the main dam, there are no storage structures within the irriga- tion system. - Mahaweli System H comprises a command area of 43,000ha served by three main canals. The feature of particular interest in this scheme is the large number of secondary storage structures (known locally as tanks), which are in- tegrated within the canal network. It is apparent from these two sites and from studies elsewhere that non-irrigation uses are important to the livelihoods of the local peo- ple, but these uses are largely opportunistic. The failure to give explicit recognition to non-irrigation uses has important implications for assessments of economic per- formance and water productivity of irrigation systems. However, any attempt to give proper recognition to these alternative uses also has implication for irrigation project management. This paper describes a detailed study of water management in the two irrigation systems. The method of investigation involves in-depth studies in selected distributary commands combined with longitudinal studies based on available long- term data from the full command. The reliability and duration of flows and/or storages represent a constraint to effective integration of aquaculture within the case-study sys- tems. Although fish production is non-consumptive and can be seen as a complemen- tary use of irrigation water, the challenge is to devise operating procedures that will 1 guarantee reliability and duration of flows and/or storages for fish production without increasing total water-use within the system. This is a particular problem during the rainy season when irrigation demand fluctuates widely and rapidly. The problem is ex- acerbated by deficient information systems, which constrain the scope for responsive management in these extensive canal systems. 2

Combined diagnostic performance of coronary computed tomography angiography and computed tomography derived fractional flow reserve for the evaluation of myocardial ischemia: A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Tan, Xiao Wei; Zheng, Qishi; Shi, Luming; Gao, Fei; Allen, John Carson; Coenen, Adriaan; Baumann, Stefan; Schoepf, U Joseph; Kassab, Ghassan S; Lim, Soo Teik; Wong, Aaron Sung Lung; Tan, Jack Wei Chieh; Yeo, Khung Keong; Chin, Chee Tang; Ho, Kay Woon; Tan, Swee Yaw; Chua, Terrance Siang Jin; Chan, Edwin Shih Yen; Tan, Ru San; Zhong, Liang

2017-06-01

To evaluate the combined diagnostic accuracy of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and computed tomography derived fractional flow reserve (FFRct) in patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD). PubMed, The Cochrane library, Embase and OpenGray were searched to identify studies comparing diagnostic accuracy of CCTA and FFRct. Diagnostic test measurements of FFRct were either extracted directly from the published papers or calculated from provided information. Bivariate models were conducted to synthesize the diagnostic performance of combined CCTA and FFRct at both "per-vessel" and "per-patient" levels. 7 articles were included for analysis. The combined diagnostic outcomes from "both positive" strategy, i.e. a subject was considered as "positive" only when both CCTA and FFRct were "positive", demonstrated relative high specificity (per-vessel: 0.91; per-patient: 0.81), high positive likelihood ratio (LR+, per-vessel: 7.93; per-patient: 4.26), high negative likelihood ratio (LR-, per-vessel: 0.30; per patient: 0.24) and high accuracy (per-vessel: 0.91; per-patient: 0.81) while "either positive" strategy, i.e. a subject was considered as "positive" when either CCTA or FFRct was "positive", demonstrated relative high sensitivity (per-vessel: 0.97; per-patient: 0.98), low LR+ (per-vessel: 1.50; per-patient: 1.17), low LR- (per-vessel: 0.07; per-patient: 0.09) and low accuracy (per-vessel: 0.57; per-patient: 0.54). "Both positive" strategy showed better diagnostic performance to rule in patients with non-significant stenosis compared to "either positive" strategy, as it efficiently reduces the proportion of testing false positive subjects. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Platelet density per monocyte predicts adverse events in patients after percutaneous coronary intervention.

PubMed

Rutten, Bert; Roest, Mark; McClellan, Elizabeth A; Sels, Jan W; Stubbs, Andrew; Jukema, J Wouter; Doevendans, Pieter A; Waltenberger, Johannes; van Zonneveld, Anton-Jan; Pasterkamp, Gerard; De Groot, Philip G; Hoefer, Imo E

2016-01-01

Monocyte recruitment to damaged endothelium is enhanced by platelet binding to monocytes and contributes to vascular repair. Therefore, we studied whether the number of platelets per monocyte affects the recurrence of adverse events in patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Platelet-monocytes complexes with high and low median fluorescence intensities (MFI) of the platelet marker CD42b were isolated using cell sorting. Microscopic analysis revealed that a high platelet marker MFI on monocytes corresponded with a high platelet density per monocyte while a low platelet marker MFI corresponded with a low platelet density per monocyte (3.4 ± 0.7 vs 1.4 ± 0.1 platelets per monocyte, P=0.01). Using real-time video microscopy, we observed increased recruitment of high platelet density monocytes to endothelial cells as compared with low platelet density monocytes (P=0.01). Next, we classified PCI scheduled patients (N=263) into groups with high, medium and low platelet densities per monocyte and assessed the recurrence of adverse events. After multivariate adjustment for potential confounders, we observed a 2.5-fold reduction in the recurrence of adverse events in patients with a high platelet density per monocyte as compared with a low platelet density per monocyte [hazard ratio=0.4 (95% confidence interval, 0.2-0.8), P=0.01]. We show that a high platelet density per monocyte increases monocyte recruitment to endothelial cells and predicts a reduction in the recurrence of adverse events in patients after PCI. These findings may imply that a high platelet density per monocyte protects against recurrence of adverse events.

Mortality of emergency abdominal surgery in high-, middle- and low-income countries.

PubMed

2016-07-01

Surgical mortality data are collected routinely in high-income countries, yet virtually no low- or middle-income countries have outcome surveillance in place. The aim was prospectively to collect worldwide mortality data following emergency abdominal surgery, comparing findings across countries with a low, middle or high Human Development Index (HDI). This was a prospective, multicentre, cohort study. Self-selected hospitals performing emergency surgery submitted prespecified data for consecutive patients from at least one 2-week interval during July to December 2014. Postoperative mortality was analysed by hierarchical multivariable logistic regression. Data were obtained for 10 745 patients from 357 centres in 58 countries; 6538 were from high-, 2889 from middle- and 1318 from low-HDI settings. The overall mortality rate was 1·6 per cent at 24 h (high 1·1 per cent, middle 1·9 per cent, low 3·4 per cent; P < 0·001), increasing to 5·4 per cent by 30 days (high 4·5 per cent, middle 6·0 per cent, low 8·6 per cent; P < 0·001). Of the 578 patients who died, 404 (69·9 per cent) did so between 24 h and 30 days following surgery (high 74·2 per cent, middle 68·8 per cent, low 60·5 per cent). After adjustment, 30-day mortality remained higher in middle-income (odds ratio (OR) 2·78, 95 per cent c.i. 1·84 to 4·20) and low-income (OR 2·97, 1·84 to 4·81) countries. Surgical safety checklist use was less frequent in low- and middle-income countries, but when used was associated with reduced mortality at 30 days. Mortality is three times higher in low- compared with high-HDI countries even when adjusted for prognostic factors. Patient safety factors may have an important role. NCT02179112 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov). © 2016 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Alcohol-Attributable Fraction in Liver Disease: Does GDP Per Capita Matter?

PubMed

Kröner, Paul T; Mankal, Pavan Kumar; Dalapathi, Vijay; Shroff, Kavin; Abed, Jean; Kotler, Donald P

2015-01-01

The alcohol-attributable fraction (AAF) quantifies alcohol's disease burden. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is influenced by alcohol consumption per capita, duration, gender, ethnicity, and other comorbidities. In this study, we investigated the association between AAF/alcohol-related liver mortality and alcohol consumption per capita, while stratifying to per-capita gross domestic product (GDP). Data obtained from the World Health Organization and World Bank for both genders on AAF on liver disease, per-capita alcohol consumption (L/y), and per-capita GDP (USD/y) were used to conduct a cross-sectional study. Countries were classified as "high-income" and "very low income" if their respective per-capita GDP was greater than $30,000 or less than $1,000. Differences in total alcohol consumption per capita and AAF were calculated using a 2-sample t test. Scatterplots were generated to supplement the Pearson correlation coefficients, and F test was conducted to assess for differences in variance of ALD between high-income and very low income countries. Twenty-six and 27 countries met the criteria for high-income and very low income countries, respectively. Alcohol consumption per capita was higher in high-income countries. AAF and alcohol consumption per capita for both genders in high-income and very low income countries had a positive correlation. The F test yielded an F value of 1.44 with P = .357. No statistically significant correlation was found among alcohol types and AAF. Significantly higher mortality from ALD was found in very low income countries relative to high-income countries. Previous studies had noted a decreased AAF in low-income countries as compared to higher-income countries. However, the non-statistically significant difference between AAF variances of low-income and high-income countries was found by this study. A possible explanation is that both high-income and low-income populations will consume sufficient amount of alcohol, irrespective of its type, enough to weigh into equivalent AAF. No significant difference of AAF variance was found between high-income and very low income countries relating to sex-specific alcohol consumption per capita. Alcohol consumption per capita was greater in high-income countries. Type of preferred alcohol did not correlate with AAF. ALD related mortality was less in high-income countries as a result of better developed healthcare systems. ALD remains a significant burden globally, requiring prevention from socioeconomic, medical, and political realms. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Growth Kinetics, Carbohydrate, and Leaf Phosphate Content of Clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.) after Transfer to a High CO2 Atmosphere or to High Light and Ambient Air 1

PubMed Central

Morin, Francoise; André, Marcel; Betsche, Thomas

1992-01-01

Intact air-grown (photosynthetic photon flux density, 400 microeinsteins per square meter per second) clover plants (Trifolium subterraneum L.) were transfered to high CO2 (4000 microliters CO2 per liter; photosynthetic photon flux density, 400 microeinsteins per square meter per second) or to high light (340 microliters CO2 per liter; photosynthetic photon flux density, 800 microeinsteins per square meter per second) to similarly stimulate photosynthetic net CO2 uptake. The daily increment of net CO2 uptake declined transiently in high CO2, but not in high light, below the values in air/standard light. After about 3 days in high CO2, the daily increment of net CO2 uptake increased but did not reach the high light values. Nightly CO2 release increased immediately in high light, whereas there was a 3-day lag phase in high CO2. During this time, starch accumulated to a high level, and leaf deterioration was observed only in high CO2. After 12 days, starch was two- to threefold higher in high CO2 than in high light, whereas sucrose was similar. Leaf carbohydrates were determined during the first and fourth day in high CO2. Starch increased rapidly throughout the day. Early in the day, sucrose was low and similar in high CO2 and ambient air (same light). Later, sucrose increased considerably in high CO2. The findings that (a) much more photosynthetic carbon was partitioned into the leaf starch pool in high CO2 than in high light, although net CO2 uptake was similar, and that (b) rapid starch formation occurred in high CO2 even when leaf sucrose was only slightly elevated suggest that low sink capacity was not the main constraint in high CO2. It is proposed that carbon partitioning between starch (chloroplast) and sucrose (cytosol) was perturbed by high CO2 because of the lack of photorespiration. Total phosphate pools were determined in leaves. Concentrations based on fresh weight of orthophosphate, soluble esterified phosphate, and total phosphate markedly declined during 13 days of exposure of the plants to high CO2 but changed little in high light/ambient air. During this time, the ratio of orthophosphate to soluble esterified phosphate decreased considerably in high CO2 and increased slightly in high light/ambient air. It appears that phosphate uptake and growth were similarly stimulated by high light, whereas the coordination was weak in high CO2. PMID:16668889

One year study of bacterial and fungal nosocomial infections among patients in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in Alexandria.

PubMed

El-Nawawy, Ahmed Ahmed; Abd El-Fattah, Mohamed Mohamed; Metwally, Hala Abd El-Raouf; Barakat, Shahira Salah El Din; Hassan, Ihab Abdel Rehim

2006-06-01

A 1-year prospective and observational study included all admissions (n=216) until 48 h after discharge to Alexandria PICU between first of May 2003 and end of April 2004. Cultures for bacteria and fungi and antibiotic sensitivity tests (19 antibiotic using Bauer-Kirby disc diffusion method) were obtained (blood, stool, urine and cerebrospinal fluid, if needed) and repeated on suspicion of NIs. All cannulae, endotracheal tube (ET) aspirates and tips, nasogastric tubes and different catheters were cultured. All PICU health care workers (HCWs) were subjected to throat and under-finger nails cultures as well as inanimate objects, both on bimonthly basis. The referral place (ward or emergency), PRISM III score, length of stay (LOS) and fate were recorded. Amongst those patients whose age ranged from 1 to 23 months, 23 per cent had NIs with infection rates of 40/1000 days. Significantly high rates of mortality, LOS and PRISM III score were encountered among patients with NIs (52 per cent vs 30 per cent; 9.4+/-4.8 vs 5.4+/-2.2 days; 14.4+/-7 vs 11.8+/-6 respectively). The descending order of frequency of NIs was blood stream infection (BSI) (47 per cent), urinary tract infection (UTI) (28 per cent), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) (16 per cent) and meningitis (9 per cent). Gr-ve bacilli accounted for 76.7 per cent; Gr+ve cocci 13.3 per cent (with satisfactory sensitivity to cefepime, imipenem and meropenem) and Candida albicans 10 per cent of all NIs. The rate of NIs/1000 device days were: 18.7 per cent for BSI, 10.9 per cent for VAP and 25.5 per cent for UTI. Vulnerable age groups were >6 m for VAP and <6 m for meningitis. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified LOS, PRISM III score and referral from wards a predictors of NI acquisition (odd ratio and 95 per cent confidence interval: 1.537, 1.423-1.659; 1.073, 1.041-1.105 and 0.269, 0.178-0.406 respectively). Bimonthly cultures for HCWs isolated coagulase-ve Staphylococci, while inanimate objects isolated diphtheroids and Candida albicans. NIs rate was high (23 per cent) mainly due to severity of condition on admission as shown by high PRISM III score value, the high PRISM III score, LOS and referral from wards were predictors of acquisition of NIs and there is a high incidence of Candida albicans infection (10 per cent of NIs).

Patterns of radiotherapy infrastructure in Japan and in other countries with well-developed radiotherapy infrastructures.

PubMed

Nakamura, Katsumasa; Konishi, Kenta; Komatsu, Tetsuya; Sasaki, Tomonari; Shikama, Naoto

2018-05-01

In high-income countries, the number of radiotherapy machine per population reaches a sufficient level. However, the patterns of infrastructure of radiotherapy in high-income countries are not well known. Among 29 high-income countries with gross national income of $25,000 or more per capita, we selected 23 countries whose total number of newly diagnosed cancer patients in 2012 was reported in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Health Statistics 2017. The numbers of radiotherapy centers and teletherapy machines in each of these 23 countries were collected using the Dictionary of Radiotherapy Centers database. The number of cancer patients per teletherapy machine was 452.35-1398.22 (median 711.66) with a three-fold variation, whereas the number of cancer patients per radiotherapy center varied even more widely, from 826.16 to 5159.86 (median 2259.83) with a six-fold variation. The average number of teletherapy machines per radiotherapy center also ranged widely, from 1.24 to 8.29 (median 3.11) with a seven-fold variation. The number of teletherapy machines in each country was almost proportional to that of cancer patients, and the number of teletherapy machines per radiotherapy center was inversely related to the number of radiotherapy centers per cancer patients. The number of teletherapy machines per radiotherapy center in Japan was 1.24, the most fragmented among the high-income countries. The percentage of large radiotherapy centers having three or more teletherapy machines in Japan was the smallest among 23 high-income countries. Optimization of the radiotherapy infrastructure in Japan should be carefully considered.

Desoxycorticosterone pivalate-salt treatment leads to non-dipping hypertension in Per1 knockout mice.

PubMed

Solocinski, K; Holzworth, M; Wen, X; Cheng, K-Y; Lynch, I J; Cain, B D; Wingo, C S; Gumz, M L

2017-05-01

Increasing evidence demonstrates that circadian clock proteins are important regulators of physiological functions including blood pressure. An established risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease is the absence of a blood pressure dip during the inactive period. The goal of the present study was to determine the effects of a high salt diet plus mineralocorticoid on PER1-mediated blood pressure regulation in a salt-resistant, normotensive mouse model, C57BL/6J. Blood pressure was measured using radiotelemetry. After control diet, wild-type (WT) and Per1 (KO) knockout mice were given a high salt diet (4% NaCl) and the long-acting mineralocorticoid deoxycorticosterone pivalate. Blood pressure and activity rhythms were analysed to evaluate changes over time. Blood pressure in WT mice was not affected by a high salt diet plus mineralocorticoid. In contrast, Per1 KO mice exhibited significantly increased mean arterial pressure (MAP) in response to a high salt diet plus mineralocorticoid. The inactive/active phase ratio of MAP in WT mice was unchanged by high salt plus mineralocorticoid treatment. Importantly, this treatment caused Per1 KO mice to lose the expected decrease or 'dip' in blood pressure during the inactive compared to the active phase. Loss of PER1 increased sensitivity to the high salt plus mineralocorticoid treatment. It also resulted in a non-dipper phenotype in this model of salt-sensitive hypertension and provides a unique model of non-dipping. Together, these data support an important role for the circadian clock protein PER1 in the modulation of blood pressure in a high salt/mineralocorticoid model of hypertension. © 2016 Scandinavian Physiological Society. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Radioactivity and geochemistry of selected mineral-spring waters in the Western United States; basic data and multivariate statistical analysis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Felmlee, J.K.; Cadigan, R.A.

1982-01-01

Multivariate statistical analyses were performed on data from 156 mineral-spring sites in nine Western States to analyze relationships among the various parameters measured in the spring waters. Correlation analysis and R-mode factor analysis indicate that three major factors affect water composition in the spring systems studied: (1) duration of water circulation, (2) depth of water circulation, and (3) partial pressure of carbon dioxide. An examination of factor scores indicates that several types of hydrogeologic systems were sampled. Most of the samples are (1) older water from deeper circulating systems having relatively high salinity, high temperature, and low Eh or (2) younger water from shallower circulating systems having relatively low salinity, low temperature, and high Eh. The rest of the samples are from more complex systems. Any of the systems can have a relatively high or low content of dissolved carbonate species, resulting in a low or high pH, respectively. Uranium concentrations are commonly higher in waters of relatively low temperature and high Eh, and radium concentrations are commonly higher in waters having a relatively high carbonate content (low pH) and, secondarily, relatively high salinity. Water samples were collected and (or) measurements were taken at 156 of the 171 mineral-spring sites visited. Various samples were analyzed for radium, uranium, radon, helium, and radium-228 as well as major ions and numerous trace elements. On-site measurements for physical properties including temperature, specific conductance, pH, Eh, and dissolved oxygen were made. All constituents and properties show a wide range of values. Radium concentrations range from less than 0.01 to 300 picocuries per liter; they average 1.48 picocuries per liter and have an anomaly threshold value of 171 picocuries per liter for the samples studied. Uranium concentrations range from less than 0.01 to 120 micrograms per liter and average 0.26 micrograms per liter; they have an anomaly threshold value of 48.1 micrograms per liter. Radon content ranges from less than 10 to 110,000 picocuries per liter, averages 549 picocuries per liter and has an anomaly threshold of 20,400 picocuries per liter. Helium content ranges from -1,300 to +13,000 parts per billion relative to atmospheric helium; it averages +725 parts per billion and has an anomaly threshold of 10,000 parts per billion. Radium-228 concentrations range from less than 2.0 to 33 picocuries per liter; no anomaly threshold was determined owing to the small number of samples. All of the anomaly thresholds may be somewhat high because the sampling was biased toward springs likely to be radioactive. The statistical variance in radium and uranium concentrations unaccounted for by the identified factors testifies to the complexity of some hydrogeologic systems. Unidentified factors related to geologic setting and the presence of uranium-rich rocks in the systems also affect the observed concentrations of the radioactive elements in the water. The association of anomalous radioactivity in several springs with nearby known uranium occurrences indicates that other springs having anomalous radioactivity may also be associated with uranium occurrences as yet undiscovered.

Intrinsically stretchable and healable semiconducting polymer for organic transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Jin Young; Rondeau-Gagné, Simon; Chiu, Yu-Cheng; Chortos, Alex; Lissel, Franziska; Wang, Ging-Ji Nathan; Schroeder, Bob C.; Kurosawa, Tadanori; Lopez, Jeffrey; Katsumata, Toru; Xu, Jie; Zhu, Chenxin; Gu, Xiaodan; Bae, Won-Gyu; Kim, Yeongin; Jin, Lihua; Chung, Jong Won; Tok, Jeffrey B.-H.; Bao, Zhenan

2016-11-01

Thin-film field-effect transistors are essential elements of stretchable electronic devices for wearable electronics. All of the materials and components of such transistors need to be stretchable and mechanically robust. Although there has been recent progress towards stretchable conductors, the realization of stretchable semiconductors has focused mainly on strain-accommodating engineering of materials, or blending of nanofibres or nanowires into elastomers. An alternative approach relies on using semiconductors that are intrinsically stretchable, so that they can be fabricated using standard processing methods. Molecular stretchability can be enhanced when conjugated polymers, containing modified side-chains and segmented backbones, are infused with more flexible molecular building blocks. Here we present a design concept for stretchable semiconducting polymers, which involves introducing chemical moieties to promote dynamic non-covalent crosslinking of the conjugated polymers. These non-covalent crosslinking moieties are able to undergo an energy dissipation mechanism through breakage of bonds when strain is applied, while retaining high charge transport abilities. As a result, our polymer is able to recover its high field-effect mobility performance (more than 1 square centimetre per volt per second) even after a hundred cycles at 100 per cent applied strain. Organic thin-film field-effect transistors fabricated from these materials exhibited mobility as high as 1.3 square centimetres per volt per second and a high on/off current ratio exceeding a million. The field-effect mobility remained as high as 1.12 square centimetres per volt per second at 100 per cent strain along the direction perpendicular to the strain. The field-effect mobility of damaged devices can be almost fully recovered after a solvent and thermal healing treatment. Finally, we successfully fabricated a skin-inspired stretchable organic transistor operating under deformations that might be expected in a wearable device.

Intrinsically stretchable and healable semiconducting polymer for organic transistors.

PubMed

Oh, Jin Young; Rondeau-Gagné, Simon; Chiu, Yu-Cheng; Chortos, Alex; Lissel, Franziska; Wang, Ging-Ji Nathan; Schroeder, Bob C; Kurosawa, Tadanori; Lopez, Jeffrey; Katsumata, Toru; Xu, Jie; Zhu, Chenxin; Gu, Xiaodan; Bae, Won-Gyu; Kim, Yeongin; Jin, Lihua; Chung, Jong Won; Tok, Jeffrey B-H; Bao, Zhenan

2016-11-17

Thin-film field-effect transistors are essential elements of stretchable electronic devices for wearable electronics. All of the materials and components of such transistors need to be stretchable and mechanically robust. Although there has been recent progress towards stretchable conductors, the realization of stretchable semiconductors has focused mainly on strain-accommodating engineering of materials, or blending of nanofibres or nanowires into elastomers. An alternative approach relies on using semiconductors that are intrinsically stretchable, so that they can be fabricated using standard processing methods. Molecular stretchability can be enhanced when conjugated polymers, containing modified side-chains and segmented backbones, are infused with more flexible molecular building blocks. Here we present a design concept for stretchable semiconducting polymers, which involves introducing chemical moieties to promote dynamic non-covalent crosslinking of the conjugated polymers. These non-covalent crosslinking moieties are able to undergo an energy dissipation mechanism through breakage of bonds when strain is applied, while retaining high charge transport abilities. As a result, our polymer is able to recover its high field-effect mobility performance (more than 1 square centimetre per volt per second) even after a hundred cycles at 100 per cent applied strain. Organic thin-film field-effect transistors fabricated from these materials exhibited mobility as high as 1.3 square centimetres per volt per second and a high on/off current ratio exceeding a million. The field-effect mobility remained as high as 1.12 square centimetres per volt per second at 100 per cent strain along the direction perpendicular to the strain. The field-effect mobility of damaged devices can be almost fully recovered after a solvent and thermal healing treatment. Finally, we successfully fabricated a skin-inspired stretchable organic transistor operating under deformations that might be expected in a wearable device.

Per Diems in Polio Eradication: Perspectives From Community Health Workers and Officials.

PubMed

Closser, Svea; Rosenthal, Anat; Justice, Judith; Maes, Kenneth; Sultan, Marium; Banerji, Sarah; Amaha, Hailom Banteyerga; Gopinath, Ranjani; Omidian, Patricia; Nyirazinyoye, Laetitia

2017-09-01

Nearly all global health initiatives give per diems to community health workers (CHWs) in poor countries for short-term work on disease-specific programs. We interviewed CHWs, supervisors, and high-level officials (n = 95) in 6 study sites across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia in early 2012 about the per diems given to them by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. These per diems for CHWs ranged from $1.50 to $2.40 per day. International officials defended per diems for CHWs with an array of arguments, primarily that they were necessary to defray the expenses that workers incurred during campaigns. But high-level ministry of health officials in many countries were concerned that even small per diems were unsustainable. By contrast, CHWs saw per diems as a wage; the very small size of this wage led many to describe per diems as unjust. Per diem polio work existed in the larger context of limited and mostly exploitative options for female labor. Taking the perspectives of CHWs seriously would shift the international conversation about per diems toward questions of labor rights and justice in global health pay structures.

Motile Salmonella serotypes causing high mortality in poultry farms in three South-Western States of Nigeria

PubMed Central

Ibrahim, Najume Doguwar-Giginya; Saidu, Shehu NaAllah; Azeez, Aminullah Ajiyobiojo; Akinduti, Paul Akinniyi; Kwanashie, Clara Nna; Fakilahyel Kadiri, Amina Kinta; Muhammed, Maryam; Fagbamila, Idowu Oluwabunmi; Luka, Pam Dachung

2017-01-01

This study was carried out to identify the Salmonella serotypes causing high mortality in chickens in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo states, Nigeria. Chickens presented for postmortem examination during disease outbreaks that were characterised by high mortality (40 per cent to 80 per cent) in poultry farms in the study area were examined from January to December, 2013. Samples of the lungs, heart, liver, spleen, kidneys, proventriculus, intestine and caecum were collected from suspected cases of salmonellosis, for bacterial culture and identification. Salmonella isolates were confirmed using PCR and serotyped using the Kauffman-White scheme. Twenty-six day-old pullets were raised to two weeks and inoculated orally with 0.2 mL of 1×108 colony forming units of Salmonella Zega identified in the present study to determine their pathogenicity, while another 26 served as control. The Salmonella serotypes were S Zega (n=13; 35.14 per cent), Salmonella Kentucky (n=9; 24.32 per cent), Salmonella Herston (n=6; 16.22 per cent), Salmonella Nima (n=4; 10.81 per cent), Salmonella Telelkebir (n=3; 8.11 per cent), Salmonella Colindale (n=1; 2.70 per cent) and Salmonella Tshiongwe (n=1; 2.70 per cent). Clinical signs in both natural and experimental infections were acute (70 per cent) and chronic (30 per cent), and included weakness, anorexia, yellowish diarrhoea, pasted vents, somnolescence and mortality, while gross lesions showed marked pulmonary congestion and oedema, necrotic foci in the myocardium; the liver, spleen and kidneys were markedly enlarged and had subcapsular multifocal necrosis. There were catarrhal proventriculitis and enteritis, and haemorrhagic typhlitis. While most of the serotypes identified in the present study have been isolated from poultry sources from commercial farms in Nigeria, to the best of the authors' knowledge, they have not been previously reported to cause high mortality in chickens in the study area. PMID:29344363

Beverage patterns and trends among school-aged children in the US, 1989-2008

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background High intake of sugar-sweetened beverages in childhood is linked to increased risk of obesity and type II diabetes later in life. Using three nationally representative surveys of dietary intake, we investigated beverage patterns and trends among US school-aged children from 1989/91 to 2007/08. Methods 3, 583 participants ages 6-11 y old were included. We reported per capita trends in beverage consumption, percent consuming, and amount per consumer for the following categories of beverages: sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), caloric nutritional beverages (CNB) and low calorie beverages (LCB). Statistically significant differences were tested using the Student's t test in Stata 11. Results While per capita kcal contribution from total beverages remained constant over the study period, per capita consumption of SSBs increased and CNBs decreased in similar magnitude. The substantial increase in consumption of certain SSBs, such as fruit drinks and soda, high fat high sugar milk, and sports drinks, coupled with the decrease in consumption of high fat low sugar milk was responsible for this shift. The percent consuming SSBs as well as the amount per consumer increased significantly over time. Per capita intake of total milk declined, but the caloric contribution from high fat high sugar milk increased substantially. Among ethnicities, important differences in consumption trends of certain SSBs and 100% juice indicate the complexity in determining strategies for children's beverage calorie reduction. Conclusions As upward trends of SSB consumption parallel increases in childhood obesity, educational and policy interventions should be considered. PMID:21962086

Adaptive Guidance and Control Algorithms applied to the X-38 Reentry Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graesslin, M.; Wallner, E.; Burkhardt, J.; Schoettle, U.; Well, K. H.

International Space Station's Crew Return/Rescue Vehicle (CRV) is planned to autonomously return the complete crew of 7 astronauts back to earth in case of an emergency. As prototype of such a vehicle, the X-38, is being developed and built by NASA with European participation. The X-38 is a lifting body with a hyper- sonic lift to drag ratio of about 0.9. In comparison to the Space Shuttle Orbiter, the X-38 has less aerodynamic manoeuvring capability and less actuators. Within the German technology programme TETRA (TEchnologies for future space TRAnsportation systems) contributing to the X-38 program, guidance and control algorithms have been developed and applied to the X-38 reentry mission. The adaptive guidance concept conceived combines an on-board closed-loop predictive guidance algorithm with flight load control that temporarily overrides the attitude commands of the predictive component if the corre- sponding load constraints are violated. The predictive guidance scheme combines an optimization step and a sequence of constraint restoration cycles. In order to satisfy on-board computation limitations the complete scheme is performed only during the exo-atmospheric flight coast phase. During the controlled atmospheric flight segment the task is reduced to a repeatedly solved targeting problem based on the initial optimal solution, thus omitting in-flight constraints. To keep the flight loads - especially the heat flux, which is in fact a major concern of the X-38 reentry flight - below their maximum admissible values, a flight path controller based on quadratic minimization techniques may override the predictive guidance command for a flight along the con- straint boundary. The attitude control algorithms developed are based on dynamic inversion. This methodology enables the designer to straightforwardly devise a controller structure from the system dynamics. The main ad- vantage of this approach with regard to reentry control design lies in the fact that inversion renders a scheduled controller. Throughout the reentry, varying sets of actuators are available for control. Depending on which set is available, different inversion schemes are applied. With at least three controls effectors, decoupled control of the attitude angles can be achieved via a successive inversion which exploits the time-scale separation inherent in the attitude dynamics. However, during a flight phase where control needs to be achieved with only two body flaps, internal dynamics must be taken into account. To this end, a redefinition of the controlled variables is carried out so that the internal dynamics are stabilized while satisfactory tracking performance is achieved. The objectives of the present paper are to discuss the guidance and control approach taken, and asses the per- formance of the concepts by numerical flight simulations. For this purpose results obtained by means of a nu- merical flight simulator (CREDITS), that accurately models the characteristics of the X-38 vehicle, are presented to demonstrate the performance and effectiveness of the guidance and control design. Sensitivities to non- nominal flight conditions have been evaluated by Monte-Carlo analyses comprising motion simulations in both three and six degree of freedom. The results show that the mission requirements are met.

Influence of national centralization of oesophagogastric cancer on management and clinical outcome from emergency upper gastrointestinal conditions.

PubMed

Markar, S R; Mackenzie, H; Wiggins, T; Askari, A; Karthikesalingam, A; Faiz, O; Griffin, S M; Birkmeyer, J D; Hanna, G B

2018-01-01

In England in 2001 oesophagogastric cancer surgery was centralized. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether centralization of oesophagogastric cancer to high-volume centres has had an effect on mortality from different emergency upper gastrointestinal conditions. The Hospital Episode Statistics database was used to identify patients admitted to hospitals in England (1997-2012). The influence of oesophagogastric high-volume cancer centre status (20 or more resections per year) on 30- and 90-day mortality from oesophageal perforation, paraoesophageal hernia and perforated peptic ulcer was analysed. Over the study interval, 3707, 12 441 and 56 822 patients with oesophageal perforation, paraoesophageal hernia and perforated peptic ulcer respectively were included. There was a passive centralization to high-volume cancer centres for oesophageal perforation (26·9 per cent increase), paraoesophageal hernia (19·5 per cent increase) and perforated peptic ulcer (23·0 per cent increase). Management of oesophageal perforation in high-volume centres was associated with a reduction in 30-day (HR 0·58, 95 per cent c.i. 0·45 to 0·74) and 90-day (HR 0·62, 0·49 to 0·77) mortality. High-volume cancer centre status did not affect mortality from paraoesophageal hernia or perforated peptic ulcer. Annual emergency admission volume thresholds at which mortality improved were observed for oesophageal perforation (5 patients) and paraoesophageal hernia (11). Following centralization, the proportion of patients managed in high-volume cancer centres that reached this volume threshold was 88·0 per cent for oesophageal perforation, but only 30·3 per cent for paraoesophageal hernia. Centralization of low incidence conditions such as oesophageal perforation to high-volume cancer centres provides a greater level of expertise and ultimately reduces mortality. © 2017 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Reduced vision in highly myopic eyes without ocular pathology: the ZOC-BHVI high myopia study.

PubMed

Jong, Monica; Sankaridurg, Padmaja; Li, Wayne; Resnikoff, Serge; Naidoo, Kovin; He, Mingguang

2018-01-01

The aim was to investigate the relationship of the magnitude of myopia with visual acuity in highly myopic eyes without ocular pathology. Twelve hundred and ninety-two highly myopic eyes (up to -6.00 DS both eyes, no astigmatic cut-off) with no ocular pathology from the ZOC-BHVI high myopia study in China, had cycloplegic refraction, followed by subjective refraction and visual acuities and axial length measurement. Two logistic regression models were undertaken to test the association of age, gender, refractive error, axial length and parental myopia with reduced vision. Mean group age was 19.0 ± 8.6 years; subjective spherical equivalent refractive error was -9.03 ± 2.73 D; objective spherical equivalent refractive error was -8.90 ± 2.60 D and axial length was 27.0 ± 1.3 mm. Using visual acuity, 82.4 per cent had normal vision, 16.0 per cent had mildly reduced vision, 1.2 per cent had moderately reduced vision, 0.3 per cent had severely reduced vision and no subjects were blind. The percentage with reduced vision increased with spherical equivalent to 74.5 per cent from -15.00 to -39.99 D, axial length to 67.7 per cent of eyes from 30.01 to 32.00 mm and age to 22.9 per cent of those 41 years and over. Spherical equivalent and axial length were significantly associated with reduced vision (p < 0.0001). Age and parental myopia were not significantly associated with reduced vision. Gender was significant for one model (p = 0.04). Mildly reduced vision is common in high myopia without ocular pathology and is strongly correlated with greater magnitudes of refractive error and axial length. Better understanding is required to minimise reduced vision in high myopes. © 2017 Optometry Australia.

An underwater view: The potential utility of video sampling in ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

No abstract --per Kelly-because we are not overall authors, but contributors to highly edited/joint pieces. No impact statement--per Kelly-because we are not overall authors, but contributors to highly edited/joint pieces.

Splash albedo protons between 4 and 315 MeV at high and low geomagnetic latitudes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wenzel, K.-P.; Stone, E. C.; Vogt, R. E.

1975-01-01

Results are reported for measurements of the differential energy spectrum of splash-albedo protons at high geomagnetic latitude during three periods of the last solar cycle as well as at low latitude during one of those periods. The measurements were made with a balloon-borne solid-state detector telescope. Splash-albedo protons with energies between 4 and 315 MeV were observed in fluxes of approximately 81, 70, and 48 protons/sq m per sec per sr at high latitude and in fluxes of approximately 37 protons/sq m per sec per sr at low latitude. It is shown that the difference between the first and third high-latitude measurements was due to solar modulation of the cosmic-ray parent nuclei. The albedo spectrum is found to have a similar shape for both latitudes, and it is suggested that the difference in intensity can be explained by different local geomagnetic cutoffs.

Effect of Energy Alignment, Electron Mobility, and Film Morphology of Perylene Diimide Based Polymers as Electron Transport Layer on the Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Guo, Qiang; Xu, Yingxue; Xiao, Bo; Zhang, Bing; Zhou, Erjun; Wang, Fuzhi; Bai, Yiming; Hayat, Tasawar; Alsaedi, Ahmed; Tan, Zhan'ao

2017-03-29

For organic-inorganic perovskite solar cells (PerSCs), the electron transport layer (ETL) plays a crucial role in efficient electron extraction and transport for high performance PerSCs. Fullerene and its derivatives are commonly used as ETL for p-i-n structured PerSCs. However, these spherical small molecules are easy to aggregate with high annealing temperature and thus induce morphology stability problems. N-type conjugated polymers are promising candidates to overcome these problems due to the tunable energy levels, controllable aggregation behaviors, and good film formation abilities. Herein, a series of perylene diimide (PDI) based polymers (PX-PDIs), which contain different copolymeried units (X), including vinylene (V), thiophene (T), selenophene (Se), dibenzosilole (DBS), and cyclopentadithiophene (CPDT), are introduced as ETL for p-i-n structured PerSCs. The effect of energy alignment, electron mobility, and film morphology of these ETLs on the photovoltaic performance of the PerSCs are fully investigated. Among the PX-PDIs, PV-PDI demonstrates the deeper LUMO energy level, the highly delocalized LUMO electron density, and a better planar structure, making it the best electron transport material for PerSCs. The planar heterojunction PerSC with PV-PDI as ETL achieves a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.14%, among the best values for non-fullerene based PerSCs.

Federal funding for reporting cases of HIV infection in the United States, 2006.

PubMed

Page, Matthew J; Harrison, Kathleen McDavid; Wei, Xiangming; Hall, H Irene

2010-01-01

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides funding for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) surveillance in 65 areas (states, cities, and U.S. dependent areas). We determined the amount of CDC funding per reported case of HIV infection and examined factors associated with differences in funding per reported case across areas. We derived HIV data from the HIV/AIDS Reporting System (HARS) database. Budget numbers were based on award letters to health departments. We performed multivariate linear regression for all areas and for areas of low, moderate, and moderate-to-high morbidity. Mean funding per case reported was $1,520, $441, and $411 in areas of low, moderate, and moderate-to-high morbidity, respectively. In low morbidity areas, funding per case decreased as log total cases increased (p < 0.001). For moderate and moderate-to-high morbidity areas, funding per case fell as log total cases increased (p < 0.001), but increased in accordance with an area's population (p < 0.05) and the proportion of that population residing in an urban setting (p < 0.05). The models for low, moderate, and moderate-to-high morbidity predicted funding per case as $1490, $423, and $390, respectively. Economies of scale were evident. The amount of CDC core surveillance funding per case reported was significantly associated with the total number of cases in an area and, depending on morbidity, with total population and percentage of that population residing in an urban setting.

Volatiles in High-K Lunar Basalts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barnes, Jessica J.; McCubbin, Francis M.; Messenger, Scott R.; Nguyen, Ann; Boyce, Jeremy

2017-01-01

Chlorine is an unusual isotopic system, being essentially unfractionated ((delta)Cl-37 approximately 0 per mille ) between bulk terrestrial samples and chondritic meteorites and yet showing large variations in lunar (approximately -4 to +81 per mille), martian, and vestan (HED) samples. Among lunar samples, the volatile-bearing mineral apatite (Ca5(PO4)3[F,Cl,OH]) has been studied for volatiles in K-, REE-, and P (KREEP), very high potassium (VHK), low-Ti and high-Ti basalts, as well as samples from the lunar highlands. These studies revealed a positive correlation between in-situ (delta)Cl-37 measurements and bulk incompatible trace elements (ITEs) and ratios. Such trends were interpreted to originate from Cl isotopic fractionation during the degassing of metal chlorides during or shortly after the differentiation of the Moon via a magma ocean. In this study, we investigate the volatile inventories of a group of samples for which new-era volatile data have yet to be reported - the high-K (greater than 2000 ppm bulk K2O), high-Ti, trace element-rich mare basalts. We used isotope imaging on the Cameca NanoSIMS 50L at JSC to obtain the Cl isotopic composition [((Cl-37/(35)Clsample/C-37l/(35)Clstandard)-1)×1000, to get a value in per thousand (per mille)] which ranges from approximately -2.7 +/- 2 per mille to +16.1 +/- 2 per mille (2sigma), as well as volatile abundances (F & Cl) of apatite in samples 10017, 10024 & 10049. Simply following prior models, as lunar rocks with high bulk-rock abundances of ITEs we might expect the high-K, high-Ti basalts to contain apatite characterized by heavily fractionated (delta)Cl-37 values, i.e., Cl obtained from mixing between unfractionated mantle Cl (approximately 0 per mille) and the urKREEP reservoir (possibly fractionated to greater than +25 per mille.). However, the data obtained for the studied samples do not conform to either the early degassing or mixing models. Existing petrogentic models for the origin of the high-K, high-Ti basalts do not include urKREEP assimilation into their LMO cumulate sources. Therefore, Cl in these basalts either originated from source region heterogeneity or through assimilation or metasomatism by volatile and incompatible trace element rich materials. The new data presented here could provide evidence for the existence of region(s) in the lunar interior that are ITE-enriched and contain Cl that does not share isotopic affinities with lunar urKREEP, possibly representing the composition of the purported 'neuKREEP'.

Per-capita consumption of analgesics: a nine-country survey over 20 years.

PubMed

Diener, H-C; Schneider, R; Aicher, B

2008-08-01

There are no reliable data at present on use of analgesics in various countries. We compared per-capita consumption in nine different countries during the period 1986-2005. The per-capita consumption was calculated on the basis of the sales figures of distributors to pharmacies and direct purchases by pharmaceutical companies in a sample of 1,000 pharmacies. The countries studied were: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, and the USA. In international comparison Austria, Switzerland, and Germany showed the lowest per-capita consumption of analgesics (approx. 40-50 Standard Units (SU) per capita per year), while in Sweden and France consumption was three times as high. The correlation analysis over the various countries and time points confirmed a significant correlation between use of single analgesics and overall use of analgesics. In Germany, where an allegedly particularly high and constantly rising analgesic use has been discussed controversially (Meiner, Pharm Ind 49:1247-1251, 1987), per-capita consumption of analgesics from 1980 to 2005 remained practically unchanged at approx. 50 SU per capita per year. The prevalence of conditions inducing analgesic use shows appropriate analgesics use on an overall population level.

Cyanobacteria in nearshore waters across the Great Lakes ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

No abstract nor impact statement - per Kelly-because we are not overall authors, but contributors to highly edited/joint pieces. No abstract nor impact statement - per Kelly-because we are not overall authors, but contributors to highly edited/joint pieces.

17. NORTHWEST VIEW OF LINDE 1000 TONS PER DAY HIGH ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

17. NORTHWEST VIEW OF LINDE 1000 TONS PER DAY HIGH PURITY OXYGEN MAKING PLANT SHOWING FRACTIONATING TOWER, NITROGEN REGENERATORS, AND REVERSING HEAT EXCHANGERS. - U.S. Steel Duquesne Works, Fuel & Utilities Plant, Along Monongahela River, Duquesne, Allegheny County, PA

Exploring the limits of crop productivity. I. Photosynthetic efficiency of wheat in high irradiance environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bugbee, B. G.; Salisbury, F. B.

1988-01-01

The long-term vegetative and reproductive growth rates of a wheat crop (Triticum aestivum L.) were determined in three separate studies (24, 45, and 79 days) in response to a wide range of photosynthetic photon fluxes (PPF, 400-2080 micromoles per square meter per second; 22-150 moles per square meter per day; 16-20 hour photoperiod) in a near-optimum, controlled-environment. The CO2 concentration was elevated to 1200 micromoles per mole, and water and nutrients were supplied by liquid hydroponic culture. An unusually high plant density (2000 plants per square meter) was used to obtain high yields. Crop growth rate and grain yield reached 138 and 60 grams per square meter per day, respectively; both continued to increase up to the highest integrated daily PPF level, which was three times greater than a typical daily flux in the field. The conversion efficiency of photosynthesis (energy in biomass/energy in photosynthetic photons) was over 10% at low PPF but decreased to 7% as PPF increased. Harvest index increased from 41 to 44% as PPF increased. Yield components for primary, secondary, and tertiary culms were analyzed separately. Tillering produced up to 7000 heads per square meter at the highest PPF level. Primary and secondary culms were 10% more efficient (higher harvest index) than tertiary culms; hence cultural, environmental, or genetic changes that increase the percentage of primary and secondary culms might increase harvest index and thus grain yield. Wheat is physiologically and genetically capable of much higher productivity and photosynthetic efficiency than has been recorded in a field environment.

Sport Specialization Characteristics Between Rural and Suburban High School Athletes.

PubMed

Bell, David R; Post, Eric G; Trigsted, Stephanie M; Schaefer, Daniel A; McGuine, Timothy A; Watson, Andrew M; Brooks, M Alison

2018-01-01

Sport specialization has been associated with overuse injuries and is more common in larger high schools, which are often located in more urban/suburban settings. However, sport participation characteristics have not been compared between suburban and rural high schools. The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in sport participation characteristics between athletes at suburban and rural high schools. It was hypothesized that suburban high school students would be more likely to be highly specialized, participate in more athletic competitions per year, and play in a league outside of school. We also hypothesized that suburban high school students would start playing their primary sport at a younger age, would have participated in their primary sport for longer, and would play more months per year and hours per week. Cross-sectional study. High school athletes from 4 high schools (2 suburban and 2 rural) participated in this study (N = 354 [222 females]; mean age, 15.7 ± 1.2 years). Athletes were on a school-sponsored athletic team in 1 of 4 sports (volleyball, tennis, basketball, soccer). The suburban schools (study enrollment, n = 226) had total school enrollments of 2271 and 622 students, while the rural schools (study enrollment, n = 128) had total school enrollments of 443 and 297. Participants completed a questionnaire prior to the start of their high school sport season. The questionnaire consisted of demographic information, a sport specialization scale, and sport participation information. Primary sport competition volume in the previous 12 months was classified as high (>60 primary sport competitions), moderate (30-60), or low (<30). Sport specialization status was classified via a 3-point scale as low, moderate, or high. As compared with athletes at rural schools, athletes at suburban schools started playing their primary sport at a younger age (suburban, 7.8 ± 2.9 years; rural, 9.7 ± 3.2 years; P < .001) and participated for more years (suburban, 7.9 ± 3.1 years; rural, 6.1 ± 3.3 years; P < .001), more months per year (suburban, 7.6 ± 3.6 months; rural, 5.6 ± 2.8 months; P < .001), and more hours per week (suburban, 15.2 ± 5.1 hours; rural, 12.9 ± 3.3 hours; P < .001). Athletes at suburban schools were more likely than rural athletes to be classified as highly specialized (χ 2 = 52.5, P < .001), participate in more competitions (χ 2 = 16.5, P < .001), play in a league outside of school (χ 2 = 18.4, P < .001), and train in their primary sport for >8 months per year (χ 2 = 27.8, P < .001) and >16 hours per week (χ 2 = 15.0, P < .001). High school athletes at suburban schools are more likely to exhibit sport participation patterns that are associated with increased risk of overuse injury. These include being classified as highly specialized, playing their primary sport >8 months per year and >16 hours per week, engaging in a high competition volume, and participating in a sport league (eg, club) outside of school. Efforts aimed at safe sport participation should target these groups, as they seem more likely to violate safe sport recommendations.

Aeromechanical Evaluation of Smart-Twisting Active Rotor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lim, Joon W.; Boyd, D. Douglas, Jr.; Hoffman, Frauke; van der Wall, Berend G.; Kim, Do-Hyung; Jung, Sung N.; You, Young H.; Tanabe, Yasutada; Bailly, Joelle; Lienard, Caroline;

PBF Control Building (PER619) floor plan and elevations. Room numbers ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF Control Building (PER-619) floor plan and elevations. Room numbers and functions. Roof plans for "high" roof and rest of roof. Ebasco Services 1205-PER/PER 619-A-1. Date: July 1965. INEEL index no. 760-0619-00-205-123022 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Preliminary investigation of the performance of a single tubular combustor at pressure up to 12 atmospheres

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wear, Jerrold D; Butze, Helmut F

1954-01-01

The effects of combustor operation at conditions representative of those encountered in high pressure-ratio turbojet engines or at high flight speeds on carbon deposition, exhaust smoke, and combustion efficiency were studied in a single tubular combustor. Carbon deposition and smoke formation tests were conducted over a range of combustor-inlet pressures from 33 to 173 pounds per square inch absolute and combustor reference velocities from 78 to 143 feet per second. Combustion efficiency tests were conducted over a range of pressures from 58 to 117 pounds per square inch absolute and velocities from 89 to 172 feet per second.

Maximizing and stabilizing luminescence from halide perovskites with potassium passivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdi-Jalebi, Mojtaba; Andaji-Garmaroudi, Zahra; Cacovich, Stefania; Stavrakas, Camille; Philippe, Bertrand; Richter, Johannes M.; Alsari, Mejd; Booker, Edward P.; Hutter, Eline M.; Pearson, Andrew J.; Lilliu, Samuele; Savenije, Tom J.; Rensmo, Håkan; Divitini, Giorgio; Ducati, Caterina; Friend, Richard H.; Stranks, Samuel D.

2018-03-01

Metal halide perovskites are of great interest for various high-performance optoelectronic applications. The ability to tune the perovskite bandgap continuously by modifying the chemical composition opens up applications for perovskites as coloured emitters, in building-integrated photovoltaics, and as components of tandem photovoltaics to increase the power conversion efficiency. Nevertheless, performance is limited by non-radiative losses, with luminescence yields in state-of-the-art perovskite solar cells still far from 100 per cent under standard solar illumination conditions. Furthermore, in mixed halide perovskite systems designed for continuous bandgap tunability (bandgaps of approximately 1.7 to 1.9 electronvolts), photoinduced ion segregation leads to bandgap instabilities. Here we demonstrate substantial mitigation of both non-radiative losses and photoinduced ion migration in perovskite films and interfaces by decorating the surfaces and grain boundaries with passivating potassium halide layers. We demonstrate external photoluminescence quantum yields of 66 per cent, which translate to internal yields that exceed 95 per cent. The high luminescence yields are achieved while maintaining high mobilities of more than 40 square centimetres per volt per second, providing the elusive combination of both high luminescence and excellent charge transport. When interfaced with electrodes in a solar cell device stack, the external luminescence yield—a quantity that must be maximized to obtain high efficiency—remains as high as 15 per cent, indicating very clean interfaces. We also demonstrate the inhibition of transient photoinduced ion-migration processes across a wide range of mixed halide perovskite bandgaps in materials that exhibit bandgap instabilities when unpassivated. We validate these results in fully operating solar cells. Our work represents an important advance in the construction of tunable metal halide perovskite films and interfaces that can approach the efficiency limits in tandem solar cells, coloured-light-emitting diodes and other optoelectronic applications.

Human milk consumption and full enteral feeding among infants who weigh

PubMed

Sisk, Paula M; Lovelady, Cheryl A; Gruber, Kenneth J; Dillard, Robert G; O'Shea, T Michael

2008-06-01

Establishing enteral feeding is an important goal in the care of very low birth weight infants. In such infants, receipt of >/=50 mL/kg per day human milk during hospitalization has been associated with shorter time to full enteral feeding. The objective of this study was to determine whether high proportions (>/=50%) of human milk during feeding advancement are associated with shorter time to full enteral feeding and improved feeding tolerance. This was a prospective cohort study of very low birth weight infants (n = 127) who were grouped into low (<50%; n = 34) and high (>/=50%; n = 93) human milk consumption groups according to their human milk proportion of enteral feeding during the time of feeding advancement. The primary outcomes of interest were ages at which 100 and 150 mL/kg per day enteral feedings were achieved. The high human milk group reached 100 mL/kg per day enteral feeding 4.5 days faster than the low human milk group. The high human milk group reached 150 mL/kg per day enteral feeding 5 days faster than the low human milk group. After adjustment for gestational age, gender, and respiratory distress syndrome, times to reach 100 and 150 mL/kg per day were significantly shorter for those in the high human milk group. Infants in the high human milk group had a greater number of stools per day; other indicators of feeding tolerance were not statistically different. In infants who weighed

Maximizing and stabilizing luminescence from halide perovskites with potassium passivation.

PubMed

Abdi-Jalebi, Mojtaba; Andaji-Garmaroudi, Zahra; Cacovich, Stefania; Stavrakas, Camille; Philippe, Bertrand; Richter, Johannes M; Alsari, Mejd; Booker, Edward P; Hutter, Eline M; Pearson, Andrew J; Lilliu, Samuele; Savenije, Tom J; Rensmo, Håkan; Divitini, Giorgio; Ducati, Caterina; Friend, Richard H; Stranks, Samuel D

2018-03-21

Metal halide perovskites are of great interest for various high-performance optoelectronic applications. The ability to tune the perovskite bandgap continuously by modifying the chemical composition opens up applications for perovskites as coloured emitters, in building-integrated photovoltaics, and as components of tandem photovoltaics to increase the power conversion efficiency. Nevertheless, performance is limited by non-radiative losses, with luminescence yields in state-of-the-art perovskite solar cells still far from 100 per cent under standard solar illumination conditions. Furthermore, in mixed halide perovskite systems designed for continuous bandgap tunability (bandgaps of approximately 1.7 to 1.9 electronvolts), photoinduced ion segregation leads to bandgap instabilities. Here we demonstrate substantial mitigation of both non-radiative losses and photoinduced ion migration in perovskite films and interfaces by decorating the surfaces and grain boundaries with passivating potassium halide layers. We demonstrate external photoluminescence quantum yields of 66 per cent, which translate to internal yields that exceed 95 per cent. The high luminescence yields are achieved while maintaining high mobilities of more than 40 square centimetres per volt per second, providing the elusive combination of both high luminescence and excellent charge transport. When interfaced with electrodes in a solar cell device stack, the external luminescence yield-a quantity that must be maximized to obtain high efficiency-remains as high as 15 per cent, indicating very clean interfaces. We also demonstrate the inhibition of transient photoinduced ion-migration processes across a wide range of mixed halide perovskite bandgaps in materials that exhibit bandgap instabilities when unpassivated. We validate these results in fully operating solar cells. Our work represents an important advance in the construction of tunable metal halide perovskite films and interfaces that can approach the efficiency limits in tandem solar cells, coloured-light-emitting diodes and other optoelectronic applications.

Race, APOL1 Risk, and eGFR Decline in the General Population

PubMed Central

Rebholz, Casey M.; Chen, Yuan; Rawlings, Andreea M.; Estrella, Michelle M.; Selvin, Elizabeth; Appel, Lawrence J.; Tin, Adrienne; Coresh, Josef

2016-01-01

The APOL1 high-risk genotype, present in approximately 13% of blacks in the United States, is a risk factor for kidney function decline in populations with CKD. It is unknown whether genetic screening is indicated in the general population. We evaluated the prognosis of APOL1 high-risk status in participants in the population-based Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, including associations with eGFR decline, variability in eGFR decline, and related adverse health events (AKI, ESRD, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, pre-ESRD and total hospitalization rate, and mortality). Among 15,140 ARIC participants followed from 1987–1989 (baseline) to 2011–2013, 75.3% were white, 21.5% were black/APOL1 low-risk, and 3.2% were black/APOL1 high-risk. In a demographic-adjusted analysis, blacks had a higher risk for all assessed adverse health events; however, in analyses adjusted for comorbid conditions and socioeconomic status, blacks had a higher risk for hypertension, diabetes, and ESRD only. Among blacks, the APOL1 high-risk genotype associated only with higher risk of ESRD in a fully adjusted analysis. Black race and APOL1 high-risk status were associated with faster eGFR decline (P<0.001 for each). However, we detected substantial overlap among the groups: median (10th–90th percentile) unadjusted eGFR decline was 1.5 (1.0–2.2) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year for whites, 2.1 (1.4–3.1) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year for blacks with APOL1 low-risk status, and 2.3 (1.5–3.5) ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year for blacks with APOL1 high-risk status. The high variability in eGFR decline among blacks with and without the APOL1 high-risk genotype suggests that population-based screening is not yet justified. PMID:26966015

Race, APOL1 Risk, and eGFR Decline in the General Population.

PubMed

Grams, Morgan E; Rebholz, Casey M; Chen, Yuan; Rawlings, Andreea M; Estrella, Michelle M; Selvin, Elizabeth; Appel, Lawrence J; Tin, Adrienne; Coresh, Josef

2016-09-01

The APOL1 high-risk genotype, present in approximately 13% of blacks in the United States, is a risk factor for kidney function decline in populations with CKD. It is unknown whether genetic screening is indicated in the general population. We evaluated the prognosis of APOL1 high-risk status in participants in the population-based Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, including associations with eGFR decline, variability in eGFR decline, and related adverse health events (AKI, ESRD, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, pre-ESRD and total hospitalization rate, and mortality). Among 15,140 ARIC participants followed from 1987-1989 (baseline) to 2011-2013, 75.3% were white, 21.5% were black/APOL1 low-risk, and 3.2% were black/APOL1 high-risk. In a demographic-adjusted analysis, blacks had a higher risk for all assessed adverse health events; however, in analyses adjusted for comorbid conditions and socioeconomic status, blacks had a higher risk for hypertension, diabetes, and ESRD only. Among blacks, the APOL1 high-risk genotype associated only with higher risk of ESRD in a fully adjusted analysis. Black race and APOL1 high-risk status were associated with faster eGFR decline (P<0.001 for each). However, we detected substantial overlap among the groups: median (10th-90th percentile) unadjusted eGFR decline was 1.5 (1.0-2.2) ml/min per 1.73 m(2) per year for whites, 2.1 (1.4-3.1) ml/min per 1.73 m(2) per year for blacks with APOL1 low-risk status, and 2.3 (1.5-3.5) ml/min per 1.73 m(2) per year for blacks with APOL1 high-risk status. The high variability in eGFR decline among blacks with and without the APOL1 high-risk genotype suggests that population-based screening is not yet justified. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Impact of Schmallenberg virus on British sheep farms during the 2011/2012 lambing season.

PubMed

Harris, K A; Eglin, R D; Hayward, S; Milnes, A; Davies, I; Cook, A J C; Downs, S H

2014-08-16

British sheep farmers were invited to complete a questionnaire about the impact of Schmallenberg virus (SBV) on animal health, welfare and their own emotional wellbeing during the 2011-2012 lambing season, through Defra and Farming Industry websites, letters to farmers who had requested SBV laboratory tests and advertisement at Sheep 2012. The 494 responders included SBV confirmed (positive by RT-PCR) (n=76), SBV suspected by farmer (n=140) or SBV not suspected (n=278). Percentage of barren ewes was similar across SBV groups, however, lamb and ewe losses were higher on responder farms where SBV was confirmed or suspected. The median percentages of all lambs born (and lambs born deformed ) that died within one week of birth was 10.4 per cent (5.5 per cent), 7.0 per cent (2.9 per cent) and 5.3 per cent (0 per cent), respectively, on SBV confirmed, suspected and not suspected farms (P<0.001). Eight to 16 per cent of SBV confirmed or suspected farms reported lamb mortality of ≥40 per cent. Farmer perceived impact was greater where SBV was confirmed or suspected (P<0.001): 25 per cent reported a high impact on emotional wellbeing (4 per cent of SBV not suspected), 13 per cent reported a high impact on flock welfare and financial performance and 6 per cent were less likely to farm sheep next year because of SBV (<2 per cent in SBV not suspected). Overall, SBV impact has been large relative to reported sheep loss. British Veterinary Association.

Impact of Schmallenberg virus on British sheep farms during the 2011/2012 lambing season

PubMed Central

Harris, K. A.; Eglin, R. D.; Hayward, S.; Milnes, A.; Davies, I.; Cook, A. J. C.; Downs, S. H.

2014-01-01

British sheep farmers were invited to complete a questionnaire about the impact of Schmallenberg virus (SBV) on animal health, welfare and their own emotional wellbeing during the 2011–2012 lambing season, through Defra and Farming Industry websites, letters to farmers who had requested SBV laboratory tests and advertisement at Sheep 2012. The 494 responders included SBV confirmed (positive by RT-PCR) (n=76), SBV suspected by farmer (n=140) or SBV not suspected (n=278). Percentage of barren ewes was similar across SBV groups, however, lamb and ewe losses were higher on responder farms where SBV was confirmed or suspected. The median percentages of all lambs born (and lambs born deformed ) that died within one week of birth was 10.4 per cent (5.5 per cent), 7.0 per cent (2.9 per cent) and 5.3 per cent (0 per cent), respectively, on SBV confirmed, suspected and not suspected farms (P<0.001). Eight to 16 per cent of SBV confirmed or suspected farms reported lamb mortality of ≥40 per cent. Farmer perceived impact was greater where SBV was confirmed or suspected (P<0.001): 25 per cent reported a high impact on emotional wellbeing (4 per cent of SBV not suspected), 13 per cent reported a high impact on flock welfare and financial performance and 6 per cent were less likely to farm sheep next year because of SBV (<2 per cent in SBV not suspected). Overall, SBV impact has been large relative to reported sheep loss. PMID:24795165

GLUTAMATE METABOLISM IN BRUCELLA ABORTUS STRAINS OF LOW AND HIGH VIRULENCE

PubMed Central

Dasinger, B. L.; Wilson, J. B.

1962-01-01

Dasinger, B. L. (University of Wisconsin, Madison) and J. B. Wilson. Glutamate metabolism in Brucella abortus strains of low and high virulence. J. Bacteriol. 84:911–915. 1962.—Brucella abortus strains of low virulence oxidize glutamate at a high rate, whereas strains of high virulence oxidize glutamate at a relatively low rate. Results indicated that this observation was not related to differences in pathway of glutamate oxidation or to differences in total enzyme activity. Permeability studies showed that the maximal rates of glutamate accumulation were 2.8 μmoles per 2 min per g (wet wt) for a strain of high virulence and 6.2 μmoles per 2 min per g for a strain of low virulence, but equal intracellular steady-state concentrations were attained by both types of strains. Evidence is presented which suggests that the site of glutamate oxidation is separate from the pool of glutamate being measured. Unequal rates of permeability at these sites could be the reason for the differences in rate of glutamate oxidation. PMID:14028057

Dietary Approach to Recurrent or Chronic Hyperkalaemia in Patients with Decreased Kidney Function

PubMed Central

Cupisti, Adamasco; Kovesdy, Csaba P.; D’Alessandro, Claudia

2018-01-01

Whereas the adequate intake of potassium is relatively high in healthy adults, i.e., 4.7 g per day, a dietary potassium restriction of usually less than 3 g per day is recommended in the management of patients with reduced kidney function, especially those who tend to develop hyperkalaemia including patients who are treated with angiotensin pathway modulators. Most potassium-rich foods are considered heart-healthy nutrients with high fibre, high anti-oxidant vitamins and high alkali content such as fresh fruits and vegetables; hence, the main challenge of dietary potassium management is to maintain high fibre intake and a low net fixed-acid load, because constipation and metabolic acidosis are per se major risk factors for hyperkalaemia. To achieve a careful reduction of dietary potassium load without a decrease in alkali or fibre intake, we recommend the implementation of certain pragmatic dietary interventions as follows: Improving knowledge and education about the type of foods with excess potassium (per serving or per unit of weight); identifying foods that are needed for healthy nutrition in renal patients; classification of foods based on their potassium content normalized per unit of dietary fibre; education about the use of cooking procedures (such as boiling) in order to achieve effective potassium reduction before eating; and attention to hidden sources of potassium, in particular additives in preserved foods and low-sodium salt substitutes. The present paper aims to review dietary potassium handling and gives information about practical approaches to limit potassium load in chronic kidney disease patients at risk of hyperkalaemia. PMID:29495340

Mutagen Sensitivity, Apoptosis, and Polymorphism in DNA Repair as Measures of Prostate Cancer Risk

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-02-01

replacement, energy, or high-protein beverages such as Instant Breakfast, Ensure, Slimfast, Sustacal or others? NEVER (GO TO QUESTION 7) 1 time per...other noodles ? NEVER (GO TO QUESTION 61) 1–6 times per year 2 times per week 7–11 times per year 3–4 times per week 1 time per month 5...other noodles , how much did you usually eat? Less than 1 cup 1 to 3 cups More than 3 cups 60b. How often did you eat your pasta, spaghetti

78 FR 72584 - Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-03

... medium or giant BFT per vessel per day/trip to five large medium or giant BFT per vessel per day/trip for... through December 31, 2013. The General category daily retention limit is currently three large medium or... category limit from the default level of one large medium or giant BFT for the 2013 January subquota period...

Active mirror amplifiers for HiPER kiloJoule beamlines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chanteloup, J.-C.; Lucianetti, A.

2013-11-01

A major challenge the HiPER [1] project is facing is to derive laser architectures satisfying simultaneously all HiPER requirements; among them, high wall-plug efficiency (15 to 20%) and repetition rate (around 10 Hz) are the most challenging constraints. Several groups over the world are actively pursuing research in the field of High average power Diode Pumped Solid State Lasers (DPSSL) [2]. We propose a comprehensive solution for a 1 kJ DPSSL beamline as the unit brick of a 12 beams bundle.

Variations in sub-national road traffic fatality trends in a low-income country.

PubMed

Bhatti, Junaid A; Khoso, Ajmal Khan; Waseem, Hunniya; Khan, Uzma Rahim; Razzak, Junaid A

2013-01-01

In most low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), road traffic fatality (RTF) trends are presented in aggregated form at the national level. This practice omits important information regarding RTF risk at sub-national levels. This ecological study assesses the extent of RTF variations at different sub-national levels in Pakistan, a low-income country. Based on official statistics, significant variations in three RTF indicators i.e. per population, per registered vehicles, and per crash were compared by regression analyses at two sub-national levels i.e. provincially (2000-2009) and district-wise (2004). The national RTF counts are based on data from four provinces. From 2000 to 2009, RTF per population and per registered vehicles decreased in all provinces except Balochistan. RTF per crash in Punjab decreased from 0.61 to 0.56 (beta coefficient (β) year = -0.0082, P = <0.001), whereas in Balochistan it increased from 0.40 to 0.58 (β year = 0.0708, P = <0.001) over the same period. District-level comparisons were possible only in Punjab where RTF per crash varied from 0.25 to 2.15 and correlated (β = 0.50, P = 0.003) with RTF per population. Sub-national RTF surveillance is necessary in LMICs like Pakistan in order to prioritize available resources on high-risk jurisdictions such as the Balochistan province and districts of Punjab where high RTF per population and per crash exist.

The potential role of salt abuse on the risk for kidney stone formation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sakhaee, K.; Harvey, J. A.; Padalino, P. K.; Whitson, P.; Pak, C. Y.

1993-01-01

The kidney stone-forming risk of a high sodium diet was evaluated by assessing the effect of such a diet on the crystallization of stone-forming salts in urine. Fourteen normal subjects participated in 2 phases of study of 10 days duration each, comprising a low sodium phase (basal metabolic diet containing 50 mmol. sodium per day) and a high sodium phase (basal diet plus 250 mmol. sodium chloride per day). The high sodium intake significantly increased urinary sodium (34 +/- 12 to 267 +/- 56 mmol. per day), calcium (2.73 +/- 1.03 to 3.93 +/- 1.51 mmol. per day) and pH (5.79 +/- 0.44 to 6.15 +/- 0.25), and significantly decreased urinary citrate (3.14 +/- 1.19 to 2.52 +/- 0.83 mmol. per day). Arterialized venous blood bicarbonate and total serum carbon dioxide concentrations decreased significantly during the high sodium diet, whereas serum chloride concentration increased. However, no change in arterialized venous pH was detected. Thus, a high sodium intake not only increased calcium excretion, but also increased urinary pH and decreased citrate excretion. The latter effects are probably due to sodium-induced bicarbonaturia and a significant decrease in serum bicarbonate concentration, respectively. Commensurate with these changes, the urinary saturation of calcium phosphate (brushite) and monosodium urate increased, and the inhibitor activity against calcium oxalate crystallization (formation product) decreased. The net effect of a high sodium diet was an increased propensity for the crystallization of calcium salts in urine.

Targeted screening and treatment for latent tuberculosis infection using QuantiFERON-TB Gold is cost-effective in Mexico.

PubMed

Burgos, J L; Kahn, J G; Strathdee, S A; Valencia-Mendoza, A; Bautista-Arredondo, S; Laniado-Laborin, R; Castañeda, R; Deiss, R; Garfein, R S

2009-08-01

To assess the cost-effectiveness of screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) using a commercially available detection test and treating individuals at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in a middle-income country. We developed a Markov model to evaluate the cost per LTBI case detected, TB case averted and quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained for a cohort of 1000 individuals at high risk for HIV infection over 20 years. Baseline model inputs for LTBI prevalence were obtained from published literature and cross-sectional data from tuberculosis (TB) screening using QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) testing among sex workers and illicit drug users at high risk for HIV recruited through street outreach in Tijuana, Mexico. Costs are reported in 2007 US dollars. Future costs and QALYs were discounted at 3% per year. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate model robustness. Over 20 years, we estimate the program would prevent 78 cases of active TB and 55 TB-related deaths. The incremental cost per case of LTBI detected was US$730, cost per active TB averted was US$529 and cost per QALY gained was US$108. In settings of endemic TB and escalating HIV incidence, targeting LTBI screening and treatment among high-risk groups may be highly cost-effective.

Targeted screening and treatment for latent tuberculosis infection using QuantiFERON®-TB Gold is cost-effective in Mexico

PubMed Central

Burgos, J. L.; Kahn, J. G.; Strathdee, S. A.; Valencia-Mendoza, A.; Bautista-Arredondo, S.; Laniado-Laborin, R.; Castañeda, R.; Deiss, R.; Garfein, R. S.

2009-01-01

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE To assess the cost-effectiveness of screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) using a commercially available detection test and treating individuals at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in a middle-income country. DESIGN We developed a Markov model to evaluate the cost per LTBI case detected, TB case averted and quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained for a cohort of 1000 individuals at high risk for HIV infection over 20 years. Baseline model inputs for LTBI prevalence were obtained from published literature and cross-sectional data from tuberculosis (TB) screening using QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) testing among sex workers and illicit drug users at high risk for HIV recruited through street outreach in Tijuana, Mexico. Costs are reported in 2007 US dollars. Future costs and QALYs were discounted at 3% per year. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate model robustness. RESULTS Over 20 years, we estimate the program would prevent 78 cases of active TB and 55 TB-related deaths. The incremental cost per case of LTBI detected was US$730, cost per active TB averted was US$529 and cost per QALY gained was US$108. CONCLUSIONS In settings of endemic TB and escalating HIV incidence, targeting LTBI screening and treatment among high-risk groups may be highly cost-effective. PMID:19723375

Bevacizumab in Treatment of High-Risk Ovarian Cancer—A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

PubMed Central

Herzog, Thomas J.; Hu, Lilian; Monk, Bradley J.; Kiet, Tuyen; Blansit, Kevin; Kapp, Daniel S.; Yu, Xinhua

2014-01-01

Objective. The objective of this study was to evaluate a cost-effectiveness strategy of bevacizumab in a subset of high-risk advanced ovarian cancer patients with survival benefit. Methods. A subset analysis of the International Collaboration on Ovarian Neoplasms 7 trial showed that additions of bevacizumab (B) and maintenance bevacizumab (mB) to paclitaxel (P) and carboplatin (C) improved the overall survival (OS) of high-risk advanced cancer patients. Actual and estimated costs of treatment were determined from Medicare payment. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio per life-year saved was established. Results. The estimated cost of PC is $535 per cycle; PCB + mB (7.5 mg/kg) is $3,760 per cycle for the first 6 cycles and then $3,225 per cycle for 12 mB cycles. Of 465 high-risk stage IIIC (>1 cm residual) or stage IV patients, the previously reported OS after PC was 28.8 months versus 36.6 months in those who underwent PCB + mB. With an estimated 8-month improvement in OS, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of B was $167,771 per life-year saved. Conclusion. In this clinically relevant subset of women with high-risk advanced ovarian cancer with overall survival benefit after bevacizumab, our economic model suggests that the incremental cost of bevacizumab was approximately $170,000. PMID:24721817

Association between long working hours and serum gamma-glutamyltransferase levels in female workers: data from the fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010-2011).

PubMed

Park, Seung-Gwon; Lee, Yong-Jin; Ham, Jung-Oh; Jang, Eun-Chul; Kim, Seong-Woo; Park, Hyun

2014-01-01

The present study investigated the association between long working hours and serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels, a factor influencing the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Data from the fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010-2011) were used to analyze 1,809 women. Subjects were divided into three groups based on the number of weekly working hours: ≤29, 30-51, and ≥52 hours per week. Complex samples logistic regression was performed after adjusting for general and occupational factors to determine the association between long working hours and high serum GGT levels. The prevalence of high serum GGT levels in groups with ≤29, 30-51, and ≥52 working hours per week was 22.0%, 16.9%, and 26.6%, respectively. Even after adjusting for general and occupational factors, those working 30-51 hours per week had the lowest prevalence of high serum GGT levels. Compared to those working 30-51 hours per week, the odds ratios (OR) of having high serum GGT levels in the groups with ≥52 and ≤29 working hours per week were 1.56 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-2.23) and 1.53 (95% CI, 1.05-2.24), respectively. Long working hours were significantly associated with high serum GGT levels in Korean women.

Highly reusable space transportation: Approaches for reducing ETO launch costs to $100 - $200 per pound of payload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olds, John R.

1995-01-01

The Commercial Space Transportation Study (CSTS) suggests that considerable market expansion in earth-to-orbit transportation would take place if current launch prices could be reduced to around $400 per pound of payload. If these low prices can be achieved, annual payload delivered to low earth orbit (LEO) is predicted to reach 6.7 million pounds. The primary market growth will occur in communications, government missions, and civil transportation. By establishing a cost target of $100-$200 per pound of payload for a new launch system, the Highly Reusable Space Transportation (HRST) program has clearly set its sights on removing the current restriction on market growth imposed by today's high launch costs. In particular, achieving the goal of $100-$200 per pound of payload will require significant coordinated efforts in (1) marketing strategy development, (2) business planning, (3) system operational strategy, (4) vehicle technical design, and (5) vehicle maintenance strategy.

r-process nucleosynthesis in the high-entropy supernova bubble

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyer, B. S.; Mathews, G. J.; Howard, W. M.; Woosley, S. E.; Hoffman, R. D.

1992-01-01

We show that the high-temperature, high-entropy evacuated region outside the recent neutron star in a core-collapse supernova may be an ideal r-process site. In this high-entropy environment it is possible that most nucleons are in the form of free neutrons or bound into alpha particles. Thus, there can be many neutrons per seed nucleus even though the material is not particularly neutron rich. The predicted amount of r-process material ejected per event from this environment agrees well with that required by simple galactic evolution arguments. When averaged over regions of different neutron excess in the supernova ejecta, the calculated r-process abundance curve can give a good representation of the solar-system r-process abundances as long as the entropy per baryon is sufficiently high. Neutrino irradiation may aid in smoothing the final abundance distribution.

Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Capacity and Quality of Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Products.

PubMed

Tolić, Mandica-Tamara; Jurčević, Irena Landeka; Krbavčić, Ines Panjkota; Marković, Ksenija; Vahčić, Nada

2015-06-01

Chokeberries ( Aronia melanocarpa ) are rarely used in diet in Croatia but they have high content of polyphenolic compounds and one of the highest in vitro antioxidant activities among fruits. The aim of this study is to compare the quality, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of different chokeberry products (juices, powders, fruit tea, capsules and dried berries). It can be expected that processing influences antioxidant activity and phenolic content of final products reaching consumers. Characterisation of phenolic compounds was carried out by using spectroscopic methods (Folin-Ciocalteu and pH differential methods). Antioxidant activity of chokeberry products was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. The results show that the investigated products contain high amount of phenols (3002 to 6639 mg per L and 1494 to 5292 mg per 100 g of dry matter) and lower amount of total anthocyanins (150 to 1228 mg per L and 141 to 2468 mg per 100 g of dry matter). The examined juices and other chokeberry products possess high antioxidant capacity (12.09 to 40.19 mmol per L or 58.49 to 191.31 mmol per 100 g of dry matter, respectively) and reducing power (38.71 to 79.86 mmol per L or 13.50 to 68.60 mmol per 100 g of dry matter, respectively). On the basis of phenolic content and antioxidant activity, capsules and powders stand out among other products. The study indicates that there are significant differences (p<0.05) in the quality, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity among examined products.

Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Capacity and Quality of Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Products

PubMed Central

Jurčević, Irena Landeka; Krbavčić, Ines Panjkota; Marković, Ksenija; Vahčić, Nada

2015-01-01

Summary Chokeberries (Aronia melanocarpa) are rarely used in diet in Croatia but they have high content of polyphenolic compounds and one of the highest in vitro antioxidant activities among fruits. The aim of this study is to compare the quality, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of different chokeberry products (juices, powders, fruit tea, capsules and dried berries). It can be expected that processing influences antioxidant activity and phenolic content of final products reaching consumers. Characterisation of phenolic compounds was carried out by using spectroscopic methods (Folin–Ciocalteu and pH differential methods). Antioxidant activity of chokeberry products was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. The results show that the investigated products contain high amount of phenols (3002 to 6639 mg per L and 1494 to 5292 mg per 100 g of dry matter) and lower amount of total anthocyanins (150 to 1228 mg per L and 141 to 2468 mg per 100 g of dry matter). The examined juices and other chokeberry products possess high antioxidant capacity (12.09 to 40.19 mmol per L or 58.49 to 191.31 mmol per 100 g of dry matter, respectively) and reducing power (38.71 to 79.86 mmol per L or 13.50 to 68.60 mmol per 100 g of dry matter, respectively). On the basis of phenolic content and antioxidant activity, capsules and powders stand out among other products. The study indicates that there are significant differences (p<0.05) in the quality, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity among examined products. PMID:27904346

Impact of payment system change from per-case to per-diem on high severity patient's length of stay.

PubMed

Jang, Sung-In; Nam, Chung Mo; Lee, Sang Gyu; Kim, Tae Hyun; Park, Sohee; Park, Eun-Cheol

2016-09-01

A new payment system, the diagnosis-related group (DRG) system, and Korean diagnosis procedure combination (KDPC, per-diem) payment system were officially introduced in 2002 and in 2012, respectively. We evaluated the impact of payment system change from per-case to per-diem on high severity patient's length of stay (LOS).Claim data was used. A total of 36,240 case admissions and 72,480 control admissions were included in the analysis. Segmented regression analysis of interrupted time series between cases and controls was conducted. Hospitals that consistently participated in the DRG payment system and changed to the KDPC payment system were defined as case hospitals. Hospitals that consistently participated in the DRG payment system were defined as control hospitals.LOS increased by 0.025 days per month (P = 0.0055) for 3 surgical diagnosis-related admissions due to the bundled payment system change. LOS among emergency admissions also increased and showed an increasing tendency under the KDPC. The LOS increase was observed specifically for complex procedure admissions and high severity cases (CCI 0, 1: 0.022, P = 0.0142; CCI 2, 3: 0.026, P = 0.0288; CCI ≥ 4: 0.055, P = 0.0003).Although both payment systems are optimized to decrease LOS, incentives to reduce LOS are stronger under the DRG system than under the KDPC system. It is worth noting that too strong incentive for reducing LOS is suitable to high severity cases.

Lumped transmission line avalanche pulser

DOEpatents

Booth, R.

1995-07-18

A lumped linear avalanche transistor pulse generator utilizes stacked transistors in parallel within a stage and couples a plurality of said stages, in series with increasing zener diode limited voltages per stage and decreasing balanced capacitance load per stage to yield a high voltage, high and constant current, very short pulse. 8 figs.

40 CFR 125.60 - Primary or equivalent treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... relatively high (although nonexcessive) inflow and infiltration; relatively high soluble to insoluble BOD... applicant's control shall not include less concentrated wastewater due to excessive inflow and infiltration... infiltration) is less than 275 gallons per capita per day. (2) In no event shall averaging on a less frequent...

40 CFR 125.60 - Primary or equivalent treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... relatively high (although nonexcessive) inflow and infiltration; relatively high soluble to insoluble BOD... applicant's control shall not include less concentrated wastewater due to excessive inflow and infiltration... infiltration) is less than 275 gallons per capita per day. (2) In no event shall averaging on a less frequent...

40 CFR 125.60 - Primary or equivalent treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... relatively high (although nonexcessive) inflow and infiltration; relatively high soluble to insoluble BOD... applicant's control shall not include less concentrated wastewater due to excessive inflow and infiltration... infiltration) is less than 275 gallons per capita per day. (2) In no event shall averaging on a less frequent...

40 CFR 125.60 - Primary or equivalent treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... relatively high (although nonexcessive) inflow and infiltration; relatively high soluble to insoluble BOD... applicant's control shall not include less concentrated wastewater due to excessive inflow and infiltration... infiltration) is less than 275 gallons per capita per day. (2) In no event shall averaging on a less frequent...

40 CFR 125.60 - Primary or equivalent treatment requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... relatively high (although nonexcessive) inflow and infiltration; relatively high soluble to insoluble BOD... applicant's control shall not include less concentrated wastewater due to excessive inflow and infiltration... infiltration) is less than 275 gallons per capita per day. (2) In no event shall averaging on a less frequent...

Lumped transmission line avalanche pulser

DOEpatents

Booth, Rex

1995-01-01

A lumped linear avalanche transistor pulse generator utilizes stacked transistors in parallel within a stage and couples a plurality of said stages, in series with increasing zener diode limited voltages per stage and decreasing balanced capacitance load per stage to yield a high voltage, high and constant current, very short pulse.

77 FR 45719 - Proposed Information Collection (Per Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes; Per...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-01

... Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes; Per Diem for Adult Day Care of Veterans in State... information needed to ensure that nursing home and adult day health care facilities are providing high quality... per diem to State homes providing nursing home and adult day health services care to Veterans. VA...

1990-2016 surface solar radiation variability and trend over the Piedmont region (northwest Italy)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manara, Veronica; Bassi, Manuela; Brunetti, Michele; Cagnazzi, Barbara; Maugeri, Maurizio

2018-05-01

A new surface solar radiation database of 74 daily series is set up for the Piedmont region (northwest Italy) for the 1990-2016 period. All the series are subjected to a detailed quality control, homogenization and gap-filling procedure and are transformed into relative annual/seasonal anomaly series. Finally, a gridded version (0.5°×0.5°) of the database is generated. The resulting series show an increasing tendency of about + 2.5% per decade at annual scale, with strongest trend in autumn (+ 4% per decade). The only exception is winter, showing a negative but not significant trend. Considering the plain and mountain mean series, the trends are more intense for low than for high elevations with a negative vertical gradient of about - 0.03% per decade per 100 m at annual scale and values up to - 0.07% per decade per 100 m in spring. Focusing on clear days only (selected by CM SAF ClOud fractional cover dataset from METeosat first and second generation—Edition 1 satellite data over the 1991-2015 period), trend significance strongly increases and both low and high elevation records exhibit a positive trend in all seasons. However, the trends result slightly lower than for all-sky days (with the only exception of winter). The differences observed under clear-sky conditions between low and high elevations are more pronounced in winter, where the trend shows a negative vertical gradient of about - 0.1% per decade every 100 m. Overall, this paper shows how a high station density allows performing a more detailed quality control thanks to the higher performances in detecting the inhomogeneities with higher data availability and capturing regional peculiarities otherwise impossible to observe.

The cost of implementation of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988--the example of pediatric office-based cholesterol screening.

PubMed

Tershakovec, A M; Brannon, S D; Bennett, M J; Shannon, B M

1995-08-01

To measure the additional costs of office-based laboratory testing due to the implementation of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA '88), using cholesterol screening for children as an example. Four- to ten-year-old children who received their well child care at one of seven participating pediatric practices were screened for hypercholesterolemia. The average number of analyses per day and days per month were derived from the volume of testing completed by the practices. Nurses and technicians time in the screening process were measured and personnel costs were calculated based on salary and fringe benefit rates. Costs of supplies, analyzing control samples, instrument calibration, and instrument depreciation were included. Costs estimates of screening were then completed. CLIA '88 implementation costs were derived from appropriate proficiency testing and laboratory inspection programs. In six practices completing a low volume of testing, 2807 children (5 to 6 children per week) were screened during the observation period, while 414 (about 25 children per week) were screened in one high-volume practice implementing universal screening over a 4-month period. For the six low-volume practices, the cost of screening was $10.60 per child. This decreased to $5.47 for the high-volume practice. Estimated costs of CLIA '88 implementation, including additional proficiency testing and laboratory inspection, added $3.20 per test for the low-volume practices, and $0.71 per test for the high-volume testing. Implementation of CLIA adds significantly to the cost of office-based chemistry laboratory screening. Despite these additional expenses, the cost of testing is still within a reasonable charge for laboratory testing, and is highly sensitive to the volume of tests completed.

Estimating the Per-Contact Probability of Infection by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H7N7) Virus during the 2003 Epidemic in The Netherlands

PubMed Central

Ssematimba, Amos; Elbers, Armin R. W.; Hagenaars, Thomas J.; de Jong, Mart C. M.

2012-01-01

Estimates of the per-contact probability of transmission between farms of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus of H7N7 subtype during the 2003 epidemic in the Netherlands are important for the design of better control and biosecurity strategies. We used standardized data collected during the epidemic and a model to extract data for untraced contacts based on the daily number of infectious farms within a given distance of a susceptible farm. With these data, we used a maximum likelihood estimation approach to estimate the transmission probabilities by the individual contact types, both traced and untraced. The estimated conditional probabilities, conditional on the contact originating from an infectious farm, of virus transmission were: 0.000057 per infectious farm within 1 km per day, 0.000413 per infectious farm between 1 and 3 km per day, 0.0000895 per infectious farm between 3 and 10 km per day, 0.0011 per crisis organisation contact, 0.0414 per feed delivery contact, 0.308 per egg transport contact, 0.133 per other-professional contact and, 0.246 per rendering contact. We validate these outcomes against literature data on virus genetic sequences for outbreak farms. These estimates can be used to inform further studies on the role that improved biosecurity between contacts and/or contact frequency reduction can play in eliminating between-farm spread of the virus during future epidemics. The findings also highlight the need to; 1) understand the routes underlying the infections without traced contacts and, 2) to review whether the contact-tracing protocol is exhaustive in relation to all the farm’s day-to-day activities and practices. PMID:22808285

[Morbidity and mortality rates in relation to the "surgeon factor" after duodenopancreatectomy].

PubMed

Targarona, Javier; Pando, Elizabeth; Garatea, Rafael; Vavoulis, Alexandra; Montoya, Eduardo

2007-10-01

The present study was designed to determine whether the surgeon factor has an independent effect on morbidity and mortality rates after duodenopancreatectomy. Between October 2002 and December 2006, we performed a study of 119 patients who underwent duodenopancreatectomy. The surgeons were divided into 3 groups according to the number of interventions they performed each year: a low volume group (three Whipple procedures per year), a medium volume group (four to 10 Whipple procedures per year) and a high volume group (> 10 Whipple procedures per year). The morbidity rate was higher in the low volume group (82%) than in the high volume group (35%). Length of hospital stay was clearly longer in the low and medium volume groups (27 days, and 21 days) than in the high volume group (17 days). Comparison of the results of the 3 groups revealed that the group performing three or less interventions per year (low volume) had the highest mortality rate (47%), while the group performing more than 10 interventions per year (high volume) had a very low mortality rate (4%). We found that the volume-to-surgeon ratio was inversely proportional to morbidity, length of hospital stay, return to oral intake, and mortality rates. Therefore, increasing surgical volume could improve morbidity and mortality rates.

Cost-effectiveness of Simvastatin plus Ezetimibe for Cardiovascular Prevention in CKD: Results of the Study of Heart and Renal Protection (SHARP)

PubMed Central

Mihaylova, Borislava; Schlackow, Iryna; Herrington, William; Lozano-Kühne, Jingky; Kent, Seamus; Emberson, Jonathan; Reith, Christina; Haynes, Richard; Cass, Alan; Craig, Jonathan; Gray, Alastair; Collins, Rory; Landray, Martin J.; Baigent, Colin; Collins, R.; Baigent, C.; Landray, M.J.; Bray, C.; Chen, Y.; Baxter, A.; Young, A.; Hill, M.; Knott, C.; Cass, A.; Feldt-Rasmussen, B.; Fellström, B.; Grobbee, D.E.; Grönhagen-Riska, C.; Haas, M.; Holdaas, H.; Hooi, L.S.; Jiang, L.; Kasiske, B.; Krairittichai, U.; Levin, A.; Massy, Z.A.; Tesar, V.; Walker, R.; Wanner, C.; Wheeler, D.C.; Wiecek, A.; Dasgupta, T.; Herrington, W.; Lewis, D.; Mafham, M.; Majoni, W.; Reith, C.; Emberson, J.; Parish, S.; Simpson, D.; Strony, J.; Musliner, T.; Agodoa, L.; Armitage, J.; Chen, Z.; Craig, J.; de Zeeuw, D.; Gaziano, J.M.; Grimm, R.; Krane, V.; Neal, B.; Ophascharoensuk, V.; Pedersen, T.; Sleight, P.; Tobert, J.; Tomson, C.

2016-01-01

Background Simvastatin, 20 mg, plus ezetimibe, 10 mg, daily (simvastatin plus ezetimibe) reduced major atherosclerotic events in patients with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Study of Heart and Renal Protection (SHARP), but its cost-effectiveness is unknown. Study Design Cost-effectiveness of simvastatin plus ezetimibe in SHARP, a randomized controlled trial. Setting & Population 9,270 patients with CKD randomly assigned to simvastatin plus ezetimibe versus placebo; participants in categories by 5-year cardiovascular risk (low, <10%; medium, 10%-<20%; or high, ≥20%) and CKD stage (3, 4, 5 not on dialysis, or on dialysis therapy). Model, Perspective, & Timeline Assessment during SHARP follow-up from the UK perspective; long-term projections. Intervention Simvastatin plus ezetimibe (2015 UK £1.19 per day) during 4.9 years’ median follow-up in SHARP; scenario analyses with high-intensity statin regimens (2015 UK £0.05-£1.06 per day). Outcomes Additional health care costs per major atherosclerotic event avoided and per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. Results In SHARP, the proportional reductions per 1 mmol/L of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol reduction with simvastatin plus ezetimibe in all major atherosclerotic events of 20% (95% CI, 6%-32%) and in the costs of vascular hospital episodes of 17% (95% CI, 4%-28%) were similar across participant categories by cardiovascular risk and CKD stage. The 5-year reduction in major atherosclerotic events per 1,000 participants ranged from 10 in low-risk to 58 in high-risk patients and from 28 in CKD stage 3 to 36 in patients on dialysis therapy. The net cost per major atherosclerotic event avoided with simvastatin plus ezetimibe compared to no LDL-lowering regimen ranged from £157,060 in patients at low risk to £15,230 in those at high risk (£30,500-£39,600 per QALY); and from £47,280 in CKD stage 3 to £28,180 in patients on dialysis therapy (£13,000-£43,300 per QALY). In scenario analyses, generic high-intensity statin regimens were estimated to yield similar benefits at substantially lower cost. Limitations High-intensity statin-alone regimens were not studied in SHARP. Conclusions Simvastatin plus ezetimibe prevented atherosclerotic events in SHARP, but other less costly statin regimens are likely to be more cost-effective for reducing cardiovascular risk in CKD. PMID:26597925

Cost-effectiveness of Simvastatin plus Ezetimibe for Cardiovascular Prevention in CKD: Results of the Study of Heart and Renal Protection (SHARP).

PubMed

Mihaylova, Borislava; Schlackow, Iryna; Herrington, William; Lozano-Kühne, Jingky; Kent, Seamus; Emberson, Jonathan; Reith, Christina; Haynes, Richard; Cass, Alan; Craig, Jonathan; Gray, Alastair; Collins, Rory; Landray, Martin J; Baigent, Colin

2016-04-01

Simvastatin, 20mg, plus ezetimibe, 10mg, daily (simvastatin plus ezetimibe) reduced major atherosclerotic events in patients with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Study of Heart and Renal Protection (SHARP), but its cost-effectiveness is unknown. Cost-effectiveness of simvastatin plus ezetimibe in SHARP, a randomized controlled trial. 9,270 patients with CKD randomly assigned to simvastatin plus ezetimibe versus placebo; participants in categories by 5-year cardiovascular risk (low, <10%; medium, 10%-<20%; or high, ≥20%) and CKD stage (3, 4, 5 not on dialysis, or on dialysis therapy). Assessment during SHARP follow-up from the UK perspective; long-term projections. Simvastatin plus ezetimibe (2015 UK £1.19 per day) during 4.9 years' median follow-up in SHARP; scenario analyses with high-intensity statin regimens (2015 UK £0.05-£1.06 per day). Additional health care costs per major atherosclerotic event avoided and per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. In SHARP, the proportional reductions per 1mmol/L of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol reduction with simvastatin plus ezetimibe in all major atherosclerotic events of 20% (95% CI, 6%-32%) and in the costs of vascular hospital episodes of 17% (95% CI, 4%-28%) were similar across participant categories by cardiovascular risk and CKD stage. The 5-year reduction in major atherosclerotic events per 1,000 participants ranged from 10 in low-risk to 58 in high-risk patients and from 28 in CKD stage 3 to 36 in patients on dialysis therapy. The net cost per major atherosclerotic event avoided with simvastatin plus ezetimibe compared to no LDL-lowering regimen ranged from £157,060 in patients at low risk to £15,230 in those at high risk (£30,500-£39,600 per QALY); and from £47,280 in CKD stage 3 to £28,180 in patients on dialysis therapy (£13,000-£43,300 per QALY). In scenario analyses, generic high-intensity statin regimens were estimated to yield similar benefits at substantially lower cost. High-intensity statin-alone regimens were not studied in SHARP. Simvastatin plus ezetimibe prevented atherosclerotic events in SHARP, but other less costly statin regimens are likely to be more cost-effective for reducing cardiovascular risk in CKD. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Children with suspected craniosynostosis: a cost-effectiveness analysis of diagnostic strategies.

PubMed

Medina, L Santiago; Richardson, Randy R; Crone, Kerry

2002-07-01

Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical and economic impact of three evaluation strategies in children at different risks of craniosynostosis. A decision-analytic and cost-effectiveness model was constructed to compare three evaluation in strategies in children with suspected synostosis: no imaging, radiography (if abnormal, followed by three-dimensional CT [3D CT]), and 3D CT. Three risk groups were analyzed on the basis of the prevalence (pretest probability) of disease: low (completly healthy children; prevalence, 34/100,000), intermediate (healthy children with head deformity; prevalence, 1/115), and high risk (children with syndromic craniofacial disorders [i.e., Crouzon's syndrome or Apert's syndrome]; prevalence, 9-10/10). Test performance (sensitivity and specificity) of the evaluation strategies was obtained from the literature. Costs (not charge) estimates were obtained from the hospital cost-accounting database and from the Medicaid fee schedule. In the low-risk group, the radiographic and 3D CT strategies resulted in a cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained of more than $560,000. In the intermediate-risk group, the radiographic strategy resulted in a cost per QALY gained of $54,600. Three-dimensional CT was more effective than the two other strategies but at a higher cost-hence, with a cost per QALY gained of $374,200. In the high-risk group, 3D CT was the most effective strategy with a cost per QALY gained of $33,800. Less experienced radiologists and poor-quality studies increased the evaluation cost per QALY gained for all of the risk groups because of decreased effectiveness. Radiologic screening of completely healthy children (low risk) for synostosis is not warranted because of the high cost per QALY gained of the radiographic and 3D CT strategies. In healthy children with head deformity (intermediate risk), the radiographic strategy had a reasonable cost per QALY gained. Three-dimensional CT was more effective but had a high cost per QALY gained. In children with syndromic craniofacial disorders (high risk), 3D CT was the most effective strategy and had a reasonable cost per QALY gained. Selection of children with suspected craniosynostosis based on their risk group and use of the most appropriate evaluation strategy could maximize clinical and economic outcomes for these patients.

Coagulation Profile Changes Due to Thromboprophylaxis and Platelets in Trauma Patients at High-Risk for Venous Thromboembolism.

PubMed

Allen, Casey J; Murray, Clark R; Meizoso, Jonathan P; Ray, Juliet J; Teisch, Laura F; Ruiz, Xiomara D; Hanna, Mena M; Guarch, Gerardo A; Manning, Ronald J; Livingstone, Alan S; Ginzburg, Enrique; Schulman, Carl I; Namias, Nicholas; Proctor, Kenneth G

2015-07-01

We hypothesize there are coagulation profile changes associated both with initiation of thromboporphylaxis (TPX) and with change in platelet levels in trauma patients at high-risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). A total of 1203 trauma intensive care unit patients were screened with a VTE risk assessment profile. In all, 302 high-risk patients (risk assessment profile score ≥ 10) were consented for weekly thromboelastography. TPX was initiated between initial and follow-up thromboelastography. Seventy-four patients were analyzed. Upon admission, 87 per cent were hypercoagulable, and 81 per cent remained hypercoagulable by Day 7 (P = 0.504). TPX was initiated 3.4 ± 1.4 days after admission; 68 per cent received unfractionated heparin and 32 per cent received low-molecular-weight heparin. The VTE rate was 18 per cent, length of stay 38 (25-37) days, and mortality of 17.6 per cent. In all, 76 per cent had a rapid clotting time at admission versus 39 per cent at Day 7 (P < 0.001); correcting from 7.75 (6.45-8.90) minutes to 10.45 (7.90-15.25) minutes (P < 0.001). At admission, 41 per cent had an elevated maximum clot formation (MCF) and 85 per cent had at Day 7 (P < 0.001); increasing from 61(55-65) mm to 75(69-80) mm (P < 0.001). Platelets positively correlated with MCF at admission (r = 0.308, R(2) = 0.095, P = 0.008) and at Day 7 (r = 0.516, R(2) = 0.266, P < 0.001). Change in platelet levels correlated with change in MCF (r = 0.332, R(2) = 0.110, P = 0.005). In conclusion, hypercoagulability persists despite the use of TPX. Although clotting time normalizes, MCF increases in correlation with platelet levels. As platelet function is a dominant contributor to sustained trauma-evoked hypercoagulability, antiplatelet therapy may be indicated in the management of severely injured trauma patients.

The Disks of 48 Per and ψ Per

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grzenia, B. J.; Jones, C. E.; Tycner, C.; Sigut, T. A. A.

2016-11-01

The B-emission stars 48 Per (HD 25940, HR 1273) and ψ Per (HD 22192, HR 1087) share similar stellar parameters with their disks viewed near pole-on in the case of 48 Per, and near edge-on for ψ Per. An extensive set of high-quality interferometric observations were obtained for both stars between 2006 and 2011 with the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) in the Hα emitting region. Using a three-step modelling process, model visibilities are compared to observations with a view toward achieving better constraints on the disk models than were possible with previous studies.

Application of polarization in high speed, high contrast inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novak, Matthew J.

2017-08-01

Industrial optical inspection often requires high speed and high throughput of materials. Engineers use a variety of techniques to handle these inspection needs. Some examples include line scan cameras, high speed multi-spectral and laser-based systems. High-volume manufacturing presents different challenges for inspection engineers. For example, manufacturers produce some components in quantities of millions per month, per week or even per day. Quality control of so many parts requires creativity to achieve the measurement needs. At times, traditional vision systems lack the contrast to provide the data required. In this paper, we show how dynamic polarization imaging captures high contrast images. These images are useful for engineers to perform inspection tasks in some cases where optical contrast is low. We will cover basic theory of polarization. We show how to exploit polarization as a contrast enhancement technique. We also show results of modeling for a polarization inspection application. Specifically, we explore polarization techniques for inspection of adhesives on glass.

Salt content in canteen and fast food meals in Denmark.

PubMed

Rasmussen, Lone Banke; Lassen, Anne Dahl; Hansen, Kirsten; Knuthsen, Pia; Saxholt, Erling; Fagt, Sisse

2010-03-16

A high salt (=NaCl) intake is associated with high blood pressure, and knowledge of salt content in food and meals is important, if the salt intake has to be decreased in the general population. To determine the salt content in worksite canteen meals and fast food. For the first part of this study, 180 canteen meals were collected from a total of 15 worksites with in-house catering facilities. Duplicate portions of a lunch meal were collected from 12 randomly selected employees at each canteen on two non-consecutive days. For the second part of the study, a total of 250 fast food samples were collected from 52 retail places representing both city (Aarhus) and provincial towns. The canteen meals and fast food samples were analyzed for chloride by potentiometric titration with silver nitrate solution, and the salt content was estimated. The salt content in lunch meals in worksite canteens were 3.8+/-1.8 g per meal and 14.7+/-5.1 g per 10 MJ for men (n=109), and 2.8+/-1.2 g per meal and 14.4+/-6.2 g per 10 MJ for women (n=71). Salt content in fast food ranged from 11.8+/-2.5 g per 10 MJ (burgers) to 16.3+/-4.4 g per 10 MJ (sausages) with a mean content of 13.8+/-3.8 g per 10 MJ. Salt content in both fast food and in worksite canteen meals is high and should be decreased.

Environmental Assessment for the Proposed Expeditionary Training at Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field and the Barry M. Goldwater Range East

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-12-01

Arizona) and the ANG 162 FW (in Tucson, Arizona). Approximately 34,000 operations per year are conducted at Gila Bend AFAF ( Mendez 2005). Aircraft...high year of approximately 45,000 operations ( Mendez 2005). More than 50,000 sorties are conducted annually at BMGR East. While the sorties associated...have varied from a low of 22,000 per year and a high of 45,000 operations per year, with an average of about 34,000 operations ( Mendez 2005). The

Systematic review of high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation in the treatment of breast cancer.

PubMed

Peek, M C L; Ahmed, M; Napoli, A; ten Haken, B; McWilliams, S; Usiskin, S I; Pinder, S E; van Hemelrijck, M; Douek, M

2015-07-01

A systematic review was undertaken to assess the clinical efficacy of non-invasive high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation in the treatment of breast cancer. MEDLINE/PubMed library databases were used to identify all studies published up to December 2013 that evaluated the role of HIFU ablation in the treatment of breast cancer. Studies were eligible if they were performed on patients with breast cancer and objectively recorded at least one clinical outcome measure of response (imaging, histopathological or cosmetic) to HIFU treatment. Nine studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The absence of tumour or residual tumour after treatment was reported for 95·8 per cent of patients (160 of 167). No residual tumour was found in 46·2 per cent (55 of 119; range 17-100 per cent), less than 10 per cent residual tumour in 29·4 per cent (35 of 119; range 0-53 per cent), and between 10 and 90 per cent residual tumour in 22·7 per cent (27 of 119; range 0-60 per cent). The most common complication associated with HIFU ablation was pain (40·1 per cent) and less frequently oedema (16·8 per cent), skin burn (4·2 per cent) and pectoralis major injury (3·6 per cent). MRI showed an absence of contrast enhancement after treatment in 82 per cent of patients (31 of 38; range 50-100 per cent), indicative of coagulative necrosis. Correlation of contrast enhancement on pretreatment and post-treatment MRI successfully predicted the presence of residual disease. HIFU treatment can induce coagulative necrosis in breast cancers. Complete ablation has not been reported consistently on histopathology and no imaging modality has been able confidently to predict the percentage of complete ablation. Consistent tumour and margin necrosis with reliable follow-up imaging are required before HIFU ablation can be evaluated within large, prospective clinical trials. © 2015 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Nitrogen emissions, deposition, and monitoring in the western United States

Treesearch

Mark E. Fenn; Richard Haeuber; Gail S. Tonnesen; Jill S. Baron; Susanne Grossman-Clarke; Diane Hope; Daniel A. Jaffe; Scott Copeland; Linda Geiser; Heather M. Rueth; James O. Sickman

2003-01-01

Nitrogen (N) deposition in the western United States ranges from 1 to 4 kilograms (kg) per hectare (ha) per year over much of the region to as high as 30 to 90 kg per ha per year downwind of major urban and agricultural areas. Primary N emissions sources are transportation, agriculture, and industry. Emissions of N as ammonia are about 50% as great as emissions of N as...

HIPAA costs and patient perceptions privacy safeguards Mayo Clinic.

PubMed

Williams, Arthur R; Herman, David C; Moriarty, James P; Beebe, Timothy J; Bruggeman, Sandra K; Klavetter, Eric W; Steger, Paul H; Bartz, Janet K

2008-01-01

A study was conducted to assess the costs of implementation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and to report patient awareness of Notices of Privacy Practices (NPP) content and HIPAA privacy protections. All HIPAA start-up and implementation costs were collected prospectively. A random sample of 2,000 patients receiving services at the Mayo Clinic after HIPAA implementation (April 14, 2003) was surveyed about HIPAA knowledge, HIPAA content, and privacy concerns. Comprehensive measures of total HIPAA costs and costs related only to privacy practices were amortized over 7, 15, and 20 years. Patient knowledge of privacy protections and attitudes toward HIPAA were obtained from 1,309 (65.5%) respondents. The total HIPAA startup costs were $4,663,672. Fully amortized costs (annual plus start-up costs) were $1 per patient visit or $5 per patient per year. Costs for the privacy portion were $2,734,855. These costs were about $.90 per patient visit or about $4 per patient per year. Patients indicated high levels of awareness of HIPAA (71%), reading the NPP (79%), knowledge about HIPAA (80% with 6+ correct answers on a 10-item quiz), and improved feelings of privacy (44% versus 55% the same). Patients reported high levels of knowledge about HIPAA and confidence in privacy protections. HIPAA costs were modest per patient or per visit.

Health benefits, risks, and cost-effectiveness of influenza vaccination of children.

PubMed

Prosser, Lisa A; Bridges, Carolyn Buxton; Uyeki, Timothy M; Hinrichsen, Virginia L; Meltzer, Martin I; Molinari, Noelle-Angelique M; Schwartz, Benjamin; Thompson, William W; Fukuda, Keiji; Lieu, Tracy A

2006-10-01

We estimated cost-effectiveness of annually vaccinating children not at high risk with inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) to range from US $12,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) saved for children ages 6-23 months to $119,000 per QALY saved for children ages 12-17 years. For children at high risk (preexisting medical conditions) ages 6-35 months, vaccination with IIV was cost saving. For children at high risk ages 3-17 years, vaccination cost $1,000-$10,000 per QALY. Among children notat high risk ages 5-17 years, live, attenuated influenza vaccine had a similar cost-effectiveness as IIV. Risk status was more important than age in determining the economic effects of annual vaccination, and vaccination was less cost-effective as the child's age increased. Thus, routine vaccination of all children is likely less cost-effective than vaccination of all children ages 6-23 months plus all other children at high risk.

PBF Reactor Building (PER620). Camera facing south end of high ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF Reactor Building (PER-620). Camera facing south end of high bay. Vertical-lift door is being installed. Later, pneumatic seals will be installed around door. Photographer: Kirsh. Date: September 31, 1968. INEEL negative no. 68-3176 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Patient-Centered Medical Home Implementation in the Veterans Health Administration and Primary Care Use: Differences by Patient Comorbidity Burden.

PubMed

Wong, Edwin S; Rosland, Ann-Marie; Fihn, Stephan D; Nelson, Karin M

2016-12-01

The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model has several components to improve care for patients with high comorbidity, including greater access to face-to-face primary care. We examined whether high-comorbidity patients had larger increases in primary care provider (PCP) visits attributable to PCMH implementation in a large integrated health system relative to other patients enrolled in primary care. This longitudinal study examined a 1 % random sample of 9.3 million patients enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) at any time between 2003 and 2013. Face-to-face visits with PCPs per quarter were identified through VHA administrative data. Comorbidity was measured using the Gagne index and patients with a weighted score of ≥ 2 were defined as high comorbidity. We applied interrupted time-series models to estimate marginal changes in PCP visits attributable to PCMH implementation. Differences in marginal changes were calculated across comorbidity groups (high vs. low). Analyses were stratified by age group to account for Medicare eligibility. Among age 65+ patients, PCMH was associated with greater PCP visits starting four and ten quarters following implementation for high- and low-comorbidity patients, respectively. Changes were larger for high-comorbidity patients (eight to 11 greater visits per 1000 patients per quarter). Among patients age < 65, PCMH was associated with greater visits for high-comorbidity patients starting eight quarters following implementation, but fewer visits for low-comorbidity patients in all quarters. The difference in visit changes across groups ranged from 18 to 67 visits per 1000 patients per quarter. Increases in PCP visits attributable to PCMH were greater among patients with higher comorbidity. Health systems implementing PCMH should account for population-level comorbidity burden when planning for PCMH-related changes in PCP utilization.

Multi-band polarimetry of post-asymptotic giant branch stars - I. Optical measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akras, S.; Ramírez Vélez, J. C.; Nanouris, N.; Ramos-Larios, G.; López, J. M.; Hiriart, D.; Panoglou, D.

2017-04-01

We present new optical broad-band (UBVRI) aperture polarimetric observations of 53 post-asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars selected to exhibit a large near-infrared excess. 24 out of the 53 stars (45 per cent of our sample) are presented for the first time. A statistical analysis shows four distinctive groups of polarized post-AGB stars: unpolarized or very lowly polarized (degree of polarization or DoP < 1 per cent), lowly polarized (1 per cent < DoP < 4 per cent), moderately polarized (4 per cent < DoP < 8 per cent) and highly polarized (DoP > 8 per cent). 23 out of the 53 (66 per cent) belong to the first group, 10 (19 per cent) to the second, five (9 per cent) to the third and only three (6 per cent) to the last group. Approximately 34 per cent of our sample was found to be unpolarized objects, which is close to the percentage of round planetary nebulae. On average, the low and moderate groups show a wavelength-dependent polarization that increases towards shorter wavelengths, implying an intrinsic origin of the polarization, which signifies a Rayleigh-like scattering spectrum typical for non-symmetrical envelopes composed principally of small dust grains. The moderately polarized stars exhibit higher K - W3 and W1 - W3 colour indices compared with the group of lowly polarized stars, suggesting a possible relation between DoP and mass-loss rate. Moreover, they are found to be systematically colder (redder in B - V), which may be associated with the condensation process close to these stars that results in a higher degree of polarization. We also provide evidence that multiple scattering in optically thin polar outflows is the mechanism that gives high DoP in post-AGB stars with bipolar or multi-polar envelopes.

Benchmarking welfare indicators in 73 free-stall dairy farms in north-western Spain

PubMed Central

Trillo, Yolanda; Quintela, Luis Angel; Barrio, Mónica; Becerra, Juan José; Peña, Ana Isabel; Vigo, Marcos; Garcia Herradon, Pedro

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to describe the status of body condition score (BCS), hock injuries prevalence, locomotion and body hygiene score as animal welfare measures in 73 free-stall dairy cattle farms in Lugo (Spain). A benchmarking process was established across farms: (1) the animal-based indicators were ordered from low to high values; (2) The farms were classified into three categories based on the number of indicators within less than the 25th percentile, 25th to 75th percentile and above the 75th percentile. The median prevalence of unsuitable BCS, hock injuries and clinical lameness was (median (range)) 51.7 per cent (13.3 to 89.5 per cent), 40.0 per cent (7.0per cent to 100 per cent) and 9.0 per cent (0per cent to 60.0 per cent) respectively. The dirtiness of the cow’s coat had a high prevalence (73.0 per cent (37.5per cent to 100 per cent)). Most farms did not display consistently good or poor animal-based indicators and each farm had its own set of strong and weak points. Moreover, facilities design and management practices were described to understand source of the observations made of the cows. The incidence of overstocking was 31.5 per cent for stalls and 26.0 per cent for headlocks. The front lunge space was reduced (<90 cm) on most dairies (90.4 per cent). Signs of poor natural ventilation (cobwebs or humidity on the roof) and ammonia odour were observed on 32.8 per cent and 85.0 per cent of the barns totally closed or with a side openingless than 50 per cent of the wall height. The milking parlour was designed with two or more turns more than 90° (9.3 per cent), and failed to allow cows to see the parlour before entering (45.2 per cent). On 52.0 per cent of dairies, more than 15 per cent of the cows had to be forcefully moved into the milking parlour. In conclusion, there was a big variation in the animal welfare levels within and across farms and they could benefit from others by changing management practices related to facilities and herds. PMID:29018530

High Variation of Intravitreal Injection Rates and Medicare Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Payments per Injection in the United States.

PubMed

Erie, Jay C; Barkmeier, Andrew J; Hodge, David O; Mahr, Michael A

2016-06-01

To estimate geographic variation of intravitreal injection rates and Medicare anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drug costs per injection in aging Americans. Observational cohort study using 2013 Medicare claims database. United States fee-for-service (FFS) Part B Medicare beneficiaries and their providers. Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Data furnished by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services was used to identify all intravitreal injection claims and anti-VEGF drug claims among FFS Medicare beneficiaries in all 50 states and the District of Columbia in 2013. The rate of FFS Medicare beneficiaries receiving intravitreal injections and the mean Medicare-allowed drug payment per anti-VEGF injection was calculated nationally and for each state. Geographic variations were evaluated by using extremal quotient, coefficient of variation, and systematic component of variance (SCV). Rate of FFS Medicare Part B beneficiaries receiving intravitreal injections (Current Procedural Terminology [CPT] code, 67028), nationally and by state; mean Medicare-allowed drug payment per anti-VEGF injection (CPT code, 67028; and treatment-specific J-codes, J0178, J2778, J9035, J3490, and J3590) nationally and by state. In 2013, the rate of FFS Medicare beneficiaries receiving intravitreal injections varied widely by 7-fold across states (range by state, 4 per 1000 [Wyoming]-28 per 1000 [Utah]), averaging 19 per 1000 beneficiaries. The mean SCV was 8.5, confirming high nonrandom geographic variation. There were more than 2.1 million anti-VEGF drug claims, totaling more than $2.3 billion in Medicare payments for anti-VEGF agents in 2013. The mean national Medicare drug payment per anti-VEGF injection varied widely by 6.2-fold across states (range by state, $242 [South Carolina]-$1509 [Maine]), averaging $1078 per injection. Nationally, 94% of injections were office based and 6% were facility based. High variation was observed in intravitreal injection rates and in Medicare drug payments per anti-VEGF injection across the United States in 2013. Identifying factors that contribute to high variation may help the ophthalmology community to optimize further the delivery and use of anti-VEGF agents. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inpatient Volume and Quality of Mental Health Care Among Patients With Unipolar Depression.

PubMed

Rasmussen, Line Ryberg; Mainz, Jan; Jørgensen, Mette; Videbech, Poul; Johnsen, Søren Paaske

2018-04-26

The relationship between inpatient volume and the quality of mental health care remains unclear. This study examined the association between inpatient volume in psychiatric hospital wards and quality of mental health care among patients with depression admitted to wards in Denmark. In a nationwide, population-based cohort study, 17,971 patients (N=21,120 admissions) admitted to psychiatric hospital wards between 2011 and 2016 were identified from the Danish Depression Database. Inpatient volume was categorized into quartiles according to the individual ward's average caseload volume per year during the study period: low volume (quartile 1, <102 inpatients per year), medium volume (quartile 2, 102-172 inpatients per year), high volume (quartile 3, 173-227 inpatients per year) and very high volume (quartile 4, >227 inpatients per year). Quality of mental health care was assessed by receipt of process performance measures reflecting national clinical guidelines for care of depression. Compared with patients admitted to low-volume psychiatric hospital wards, patients admitted to very-high-volume wards were more likely to receive a high overall quality of mental health care (≥80% of the recommended process performance measures) (adjusted relative risk [ARR]=1.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.02-3.09) as well as individual processes of care, including a somatic examination (ARR=1.35, CI=1.03-1.78). Admission to very-high-volume psychiatric hospital wards was associated with a greater chance of receiving guideline-recommended process performance measures for care of depression.

A Free-Choice High-Fat High-Sugar Diet Alters Day-Night Per2 Gene Expression in Reward-Related Brain Areas in Rats.

PubMed

Blancas-Velazquez, Aurea Susana; Unmehopa, Unga A; Eggels, Leslie; Koekkoek, Laura; Kalsbeek, Andries; Mendoza, Jorge; la Fleur, Susanne E

2018-01-01

Under normal light-dark conditions, nocturnal rodents consume most of their food during the dark period. Diets high in fat and sugar, however, may affect the day-night feeding rhythm resulting in a higher light phase intake. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that nutrients affect clock-gene expression. We therefore hypothesized that overconsuming fat and sugar alters clock-gene expression in brain structures important for feeding behavior. We determined the effects of a free-choice high-fat high-sugar (fcHFHS) diet on clock-gene expression in rat brain areas related to feeding and reward and compared them with chow-fed rats. Consuming a fcHFHS diet for 6 weeks disrupted day-night differences in Per2 mRNA expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and lateral hypothalamus but not in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, habenula, and ventral tegmental area. Furthermore, short-term sugar drinking, but not fat feeding, upregulates Per2 mRNA expression in the NAc. The disruptions in day-night differences in NAc Per2 gene expression were not accompanied by altered day-night differences in the mRNA expression of peptides related to food intake. We conclude that the fcHFHS diet and acute sugar drinking affect Per2 gene expression in areas involved in food reward; however, this is not sufficient to alter the day-night pattern of food intake.

A Free-Choice High-Fat High-Sugar Diet Alters Day–Night Per2 Gene Expression in Reward-Related Brain Areas in Rats

PubMed Central

Blancas-Velazquez, Aurea Susana; Unmehopa, Unga A.; Eggels, Leslie; Koekkoek, Laura; Kalsbeek, Andries; Mendoza, Jorge; la Fleur, Susanne E.

2018-01-01

Under normal light–dark conditions, nocturnal rodents consume most of their food during the dark period. Diets high in fat and sugar, however, may affect the day–night feeding rhythm resulting in a higher light phase intake. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that nutrients affect clock-gene expression. We therefore hypothesized that overconsuming fat and sugar alters clock-gene expression in brain structures important for feeding behavior. We determined the effects of a free-choice high-fat high-sugar (fcHFHS) diet on clock-gene expression in rat brain areas related to feeding and reward and compared them with chow-fed rats. Consuming a fcHFHS diet for 6 weeks disrupted day–night differences in Per2 mRNA expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and lateral hypothalamus but not in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, habenula, and ventral tegmental area. Furthermore, short-term sugar drinking, but not fat feeding, upregulates Per2 mRNA expression in the NAc. The disruptions in day–night differences in NAc Per2 gene expression were not accompanied by altered day–night differences in the mRNA expression of peptides related to food intake. We conclude that the fcHFHS diet and acute sugar drinking affect Per2 gene expression in areas involved in food reward; however, this is not sufficient to alter the day–night pattern of food intake. PMID:29686649

Lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery for grid-level energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Kangli; Jiang, Kai; Chung, Brice; Ouchi, Takanari; Burke, Paul J.; Boysen, Dane A.; Bradwell, David J.; Kim, Hojong; Muecke, Ulrich; Sadoway, Donald R.

2014-10-01

The ability to store energy on the electric grid would greatly improve its efficiency and reliability while enabling the integration of intermittent renewable energy technologies (such as wind and solar) into baseload supply. Batteries have long been considered strong candidate solutions owing to their small spatial footprint, mechanical simplicity and flexibility in siting. However, the barrier to widespread adoption of batteries is their high cost. Here we describe a lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery that potentially meets the performance specifications for stationary energy storage applications. This Li||Sb-Pb battery comprises a liquid lithium negative electrode, a molten salt electrolyte, and a liquid antimony-lead alloy positive electrode, which self-segregate by density into three distinct layers owing to the immiscibility of the contiguous salt and metal phases. The all-liquid construction confers the advantages of higher current density, longer cycle life and simpler manufacturing of large-scale storage systems (because no membranes or separators are involved) relative to those of conventional batteries. At charge-discharge current densities of 275 milliamperes per square centimetre, the cells cycled at 450 degrees Celsius with 98 per cent Coulombic efficiency and 73 per cent round-trip energy efficiency. To provide evidence of their high power capability, the cells were discharged and charged at current densities as high as 1,000 milliamperes per square centimetre. Measured capacity loss after operation for 1,800 hours (more than 450 charge-discharge cycles at 100 per cent depth of discharge) projects retention of over 85 per cent of initial capacity after ten years of daily cycling. Our results demonstrate that alloying a high-melting-point, high-voltage metal (antimony) with a low-melting-point, low-cost metal (lead) advantageously decreases the operating temperature while maintaining a high cell voltage. Apart from the fact that this finding puts us on a desirable cost trajectory, this approach may well be more broadly applicable to other battery chemistries.

Lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery for grid-level energy storage.

PubMed

Wang, Kangli; Jiang, Kai; Chung, Brice; Ouchi, Takanari; Burke, Paul J; Boysen, Dane A; Bradwell, David J; Kim, Hojong; Muecke, Ulrich; Sadoway, Donald R

2014-10-16

The ability to store energy on the electric grid would greatly improve its efficiency and reliability while enabling the integration of intermittent renewable energy technologies (such as wind and solar) into baseload supply. Batteries have long been considered strong candidate solutions owing to their small spatial footprint, mechanical simplicity and flexibility in siting. However, the barrier to widespread adoption of batteries is their high cost. Here we describe a lithium-antimony-lead liquid metal battery that potentially meets the performance specifications for stationary energy storage applications. This Li||Sb-Pb battery comprises a liquid lithium negative electrode, a molten salt electrolyte, and a liquid antimony-lead alloy positive electrode, which self-segregate by density into three distinct layers owing to the immiscibility of the contiguous salt and metal phases. The all-liquid construction confers the advantages of higher current density, longer cycle life and simpler manufacturing of large-scale storage systems (because no membranes or separators are involved) relative to those of conventional batteries. At charge-discharge current densities of 275 milliamperes per square centimetre, the cells cycled at 450 degrees Celsius with 98 per cent Coulombic efficiency and 73 per cent round-trip energy efficiency. To provide evidence of their high power capability, the cells were discharged and charged at current densities as high as 1,000 milliamperes per square centimetre. Measured capacity loss after operation for 1,800 hours (more than 450 charge-discharge cycles at 100 per cent depth of discharge) projects retention of over 85 per cent of initial capacity after ten years of daily cycling. Our results demonstrate that alloying a high-melting-point, high-voltage metal (antimony) with a low-melting-point, low-cost metal (lead) advantageously decreases the operating temperature while maintaining a high cell voltage. Apart from the fact that this finding puts us on a desirable cost trajectory, this approach may well be more broadly applicable to other battery chemistries.

Methods and Descriptive Epidemiology of Services Provided by Athletic Trainers in High Schools: The National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network Study.

PubMed

Kerr, Zachary Y; Dompier, Thomas P; Dalton, Sara L; Miller, Sayers John; Hayden, Ross; Marshall, Stephen W

2015-12-01

Research is limited on the extent and nature of the care provided by athletic trainers (ATs) to student-athletes in the high school setting. To describe the methods of the National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network (NATION) project and provide the descriptive epidemiology of AT services for injury care in 27 high school sports. Descriptive epidemiology study. Athletic training room (ATR) visits and AT services data collected in 147 high schools from 26 states. High school student-athletes participating in 13 boys' sports and 14 girls' sports during the 2011-2012 through 2013-2014 academic years. The number of ATR visits and individual AT services, as well as the mean number of ATR visits (per injury) and AT services (per injury and ATR visit) were calculated by sport and for time-loss (TL) and non-time-loss (NTL) injuries. Over the 3-year period, 210 773 ATR visits and 557 381 AT services were reported for 50 604 injuries. Most ATR visits (70%) were for NTL injuries. Common AT services were therapeutic activities or exercise (45.4%), modalities (18.6%), and AT evaluation and reevaluation (15.9%), with an average of 4.17 ± 6.52 ATR visits and 11.01 ± 22.86 AT services per injury. Compared with NTL injuries, patients with TL injuries accrued more ATR visits (7.76 versus 3.47; P < .001) and AT services (18.60 versus 9.56; P < .001) per injury. An average of 2.24 ± 1.33 AT services were reported per ATR visit. Compared with TL injuries, NTL injuries had a larger average number of AT services per ATR visit (2.28 versus 2.05; P < .001). These findings highlight the broad spectrum of care provided by ATs to high school student-athletes and demonstrate that patients with NTL injuries require substantial amounts of AT services.

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

Ukwatta, T. N.; Wozniak, P. R.; Gehrels, N.

Studies of high-redshift gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) provide important information about the early Universe such as the rates of stellar collapsars and mergers, the metallicity content, constraints on the re-ionization period, and probes of the Hubble expansion. Rapid selection of high-z candidates from GRB samples reported in real time by dedicated space missions such as Swift is the key to identifying the most distant bursts before the optical afterglow becomes too dim to warrant a good spectrum. Here, we introduce ‘machine-z’, a redshift prediction algorithm and a ‘high-z’ classifier for Swift GRBs based on machine learning. Our method relies exclusively onmore » canonical data commonly available within the first few hours after the GRB trigger. Using a sample of 284 bursts with measured redshifts, we trained a randomized ensemble of decision trees (random forest) to perform both regression and classification. Cross-validated performance studies show that the correlation coefficient between machine-z predictions and the true redshift is nearly 0.6. At the same time, our high-z classifier can achieve 80 per cent recall of true high-redshift bursts, while incurring a false positive rate of 20 per cent. With 40 per cent false positive rate the classifier can achieve ~100 per cent recall. As a result, the most reliable selection of high-redshift GRBs is obtained by combining predictions from both the high-z classifier and the machine-z regressor.« less

Machine-z: Rapid Machine-Learned Redshift Indicator for Swift Gamma-Ray Bursts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ukwatta, T. N.; Wozniak, P. R.; Gehrels, N.

2016-01-01

Studies of high-redshift gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) provide important information about the early Universe such as the rates of stellar collapsars and mergers, the metallicity content, constraints on the re-ionization period, and probes of the Hubble expansion. Rapid selection of high-z candidates from GRB samples reported in real time by dedicated space missions such as Swift is the key to identifying the most distant bursts before the optical afterglow becomes too dim to warrant a good spectrum. Here, we introduce 'machine-z', a redshift prediction algorithm and a 'high-z' classifier for Swift GRBs based on machine learning. Our method relies exclusively on canonical data commonly available within the first few hours after the GRB trigger. Using a sample of 284 bursts with measured redshifts, we trained a randomized ensemble of decision trees (random forest) to perform both regression and classification. Cross-validated performance studies show that the correlation coefficient between machine-z predictions and the true redshift is nearly 0.6. At the same time, our high-z classifier can achieve 80 per cent recall of true high-redshift bursts, while incurring a false positive rate of 20 per cent. With 40 per cent false positive rate the classifier can achieve approximately 100 per cent recall. The most reliable selection of high-redshift GRBs is obtained by combining predictions from both the high-z classifier and the machine-z regressor.

A weighted exact test for mutually exclusive mutations in cancer

PubMed Central

Leiserson, Mark D.M.; Reyna, Matthew A.; Raphael, Benjamin J.

2016-01-01

Motivation: The somatic mutations in the pathways that drive cancer development tend to be mutually exclusive across tumors, providing a signal for distinguishing driver mutations from a larger number of random passenger mutations. This mutual exclusivity signal can be confounded by high and highly variable mutation rates across a cohort of samples. Current statistical tests for exclusivity that incorporate both per-gene and per-sample mutational frequencies are computationally expensive and have limited precision. Results: We formulate a weighted exact test for assessing the significance of mutual exclusivity in an arbitrary number of mutational events. Our test conditions on the number of samples with a mutation as well as per-event, per-sample mutation probabilities. We provide a recursive formula to compute P-values for the weighted test exactly as well as a highly accurate and efficient saddlepoint approximation of the test. We use our test to approximate a commonly used permutation test for exclusivity that conditions on per-event, per-sample mutation frequencies. However, our test is more efficient and it recovers more significant results than the permutation test. We use our Weighted Exclusivity Test (WExT) software to analyze hundreds of colorectal and endometrial samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas, which are two cancer types that often have extremely high mutation rates. On both cancer types, the weighted test identifies sets of mutually exclusive mutations in cancer genes with fewer false positives than earlier approaches. Availability and Implementation: See http://compbio.cs.brown.edu/projects/wext for software. Contact: braphael@cs.brown.edu Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. PMID:27587696

Backside illuminated CMOS-TDI line scan sensor for space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cohen, Omer; Ofer, Oren; Abramovich, Gil; Ben-Ari, Nimrod; Gershon, Gal; Brumer, Maya; Shay, Adi; Shamay, Yaron

2018-05-01

A multi-spectral backside illuminated Time Delayed Integration Radiation Hardened line scan sensor utilizing CMOS technology was designed for continuous scanning Low Earth Orbit small satellite applications. The sensor comprises a single silicon chip with 4 independent arrays of pixels where each array is arranged in 2600 columns with 64 TDI levels. A multispectral optical filter whose spectral responses per array are adjustable per system requirement is assembled at the package level. A custom 4T Pixel design provides the required readout speed, low-noise, very low dark current, and high conversion gains. A 2-phase internally controlled exposure mechanism improves the sensor's dynamic MTF. The sensor high level of integration includes on-chip 12 bit per pixel analog to digital converters, on-chip controller, and CMOS compatible voltage levels. Thus, the power consumption and the weight of the supporting electronics are reduced, and a simple electrical interface is provided. An adjustable gain provides a Full Well Capacity ranging from 150,000 electrons up to 500,000 electrons per column and an overall readout noise per column of less than 120 electrons. The imager supports line rates ranging from 50 to 10,000 lines/sec, with power consumption of less than 0.5W per array. Thus, the sensor is characterized by a high pixel rate, a high dynamic range and a very low power. To meet a Latch-up free requirement RadHard architecture and design rules were utilized. In this paper recent electrical and electro-optical measurements of the sensor's Flight Models will be presented for the first time.

Comparison of animal and plant proteins for young pen-reared bobwhite quail

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nestler, R.B.; Llewellyn, L.M.; Rensberger, M.J.

1945-01-01

Bobwhite quail chicks, when given a choice of balanced diets in which the essential difference was the protein supplement, showed preferences for one diet containing 49 per cent peanut oil meal, another containing a mixture of 9 per cent meat and bone scraps (50% protein) with 38 per cent soybean oil meal, and a third (control) diet containing a mixture of 16 per cent dried buttermilk with 42 per cent soybean oil meal, in contrast to diets containing sardine meal or menhaden fish meal. ....Feeding tests during the first five weeks of life showed that diets containing 14 per cent sardine fish meal consistently gave high live weights, low mortality, and high efficiency of feed utilization. Diets with 9 to 10 per cent menhaden meal produced nearly as good results....Live weights, survival, and efficiency of feed utilization were markedly better on a diet containing 9 per cent meat and bone scrap (50% protein) than on one with 9 per cent meat scrap (55% protein), but not as good as with diets containing fish meal without meat....The chicks grew and survived more successfully on diets containing either soybean oil meal or peanut oil meal as the sole protein supplement, than on diets containing either linseed oil meal, cottonseed oil meal, or dried buttermilk as the sole protein concentrate. None of these was as satisfactory as the diets containing fish meal.....All chicks died on diets containing either linseed oil meal, cottonseed oil meal, or dried buttermilk as the sole source of protein. All three of these concentrates, however, gave satisfactory results, when used as 10 per cent of the diet. In fact, survival and efficiency of feed utilization were nearly as good on a diet containing 10 per cent dried buttermilk, 10 per cent linseed oil meal, 10 per cent peanut oil meal, and 27 per cent soybean oil meal, as on diets containing fish meal.

Migratory fish, a problem of interstate cooperation?

USGS Publications Warehouse

Van Oosten, John; Adams, William C.; Finley, William L.; Westerman, Fred A.

1939-01-01

Bobwhite quail chicks, when given a choice of balanced diets in which the essential difference was the protein supplement, showed preferences for one diet containing 49 per cent peanut oil meal, another containing a mixture of 9 per cent meat and bone scraps (50% protein) with 38 per cent soybean oil meal, and a third (control) diet containing a mixture of 16 per cent dried buttermilk with 42 per cent soybean oil meal, in contrast to diets containing sardine meal or menhaden fish meal. ....Feeding tests during the first five weeks of life showed that diets containing 14 per cent sardine fish meal consistently gave high live weights, low mortality, and high efficiency of feed utilization. Diets with 9 to 10 per cent menhaden meal produced nearly as good results....Live weights, survival, and efficiency of feed utilization were markedly better on a diet containing 9 per cent meat and bone scrap (50% protein) than on one with 9 per cent meat scrap (55% protein), but not as good as with diets containing fish meal without meat....The chicks grew and survived more successfully on diets containing either soybean oil meal or peanut oil meal as the sole protein supplement, than on diets containing either linseed oil meal, cottonseed oil meal, or dried buttermilk as the sole protein concentrate. None of these was as satisfactory as the diets containing fish meal.....All chicks died on diets containing either linseed oil meal, cottonseed oil meal, or dried buttermilk as the sole source of protein. All three of these concentrates, however, gave satisfactory results, when used as 10 per cent of the diet. In fact, survival and efficiency of feed utilization were nearly as good on a diet containing 10 per cent dried buttermilk, 10 per cent linseed oil meal, 10 per cent peanut oil meal, and 27 per cent soybean oil meal, as on diets containing fish meal.

40 CFR 51.363 - Quality assurance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... performing all tests and other required functions. Performance audits shall be of two types: overt and covert... least twice per year for each lane or test bay and shall include: (i) A check for the observance of... the use of aids such as binoculars or video cameras, at least once per year per inspector in high...

40 CFR 51.363 - Quality assurance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... performing all tests and other required functions. Performance audits shall be of two types: overt and covert... least twice per year for each lane or test bay and shall include: (i) A check for the observance of... the use of aids such as binoculars or video cameras, at least once per year per inspector in high...

Poor Returns from Ozark Woodland Grazing

Treesearch

Ardell J. Bjugstad; Dean A. Murphy; Hewlette S. Crawford

1968-01-01

Sixty-tree percent of the area in Missouri's National Forests produces forage at the rate of about 50 pounds per acre per year. Forage production on the other 37 percent ranges from a low near 75 pounds per acre in the pine stands to a high of about 200 pounds in the redcedar stands.

PBF Reactor Building (PER620). Detail of arrangement of highdensity blocks ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF Reactor Building (PER-620). Detail of arrangement of high-density blocks and other basement shielding. Date: February 1966. Ebasco Services 1205 PER/PBF 620-A-7. INEEL index no. 761-0620-00-205-123070 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Crew Survivable Helicopter Undercarriage.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-01-01

used to refine the high -rate test specimens and were compared to other literature data on a specific load per length and energy per inch of perimeter...marked improvement in energy efficiency was observed with no joint failures. Seven of the eight segments shipped to NASA for high - rate testing were...provides the weight and performance criteria used to evaluate the energy absorbing efficiency of the rotated sine wave concept. Next, the low-rate and high

Low income Russian families adopt effective behavioral strategies to maintain dietary stability in times of economic crisis.

PubMed

Dore, Anna R; Adair, Linda S; Popkin, Barry M

2003-11-01

The social, political and economic reforms of 1992 in Russia led to a decade of rising income inequality, unemployment and economic crises, the most severe of which occurred in 1998. This study assesses dietary trends for children in low and high income households during this politically and economically unstable period from 1994 to 2000. Several possible food-related behaviors were also assessed to evaluate coping strategies adopted in the face of decreasing economic stability. Low income children maintained a steady energy intake per kilogram weight throughout the study period (251.0-259.4 kJ/kg), whereas intake for high income children increased significantly to a per capital average of 297.1 kJ/kg by 2000. At the food group level, the trend in per capita intake for all food groups was maintained for low income children except for a 22% decrease in meat and poultry consumption (P < 0.01). Per capita intake increased over time for dairy products and eggs in the high income group (P < 0.01). A decrease in cost per kJ (rubles/kJ) was observed for both low and high income families (P < 0.01). These data suggest that Russian households were able to conserve the diet structure for children by using what appear to be food-related behavioral mechanisms during periods of economic crisis.

Outpatient RSV lower respiratory infections among high-risk infants and other pediatric populations.

PubMed

Paramore, L Clark; Mahadevia, Parthiv J; Piedra, Pedro A

2010-06-01

To identify the frequency of outpatient, non-hospitalized visits for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infection (LRI) among children and high-risk infants. Published studies that reported population-based rates of outpatient RSV illness were reviewed. In addition, we conducted a retrospective cohort study from a national claims database including preterm and full term infants born between April 2004 and April 2006 <6 months of age and continuously enrolled through their first RSV season. In the selected published studies, rates of outpatient RSV LRI were highest among infants and young children (ranging from 6.9 to 11 per 1,000 children age 1-4 years to 157.5 to 252.0 per 1,000 children age <1 year). In the cohort study, rates of outpatient RSV LRI among preterm infants

Fallout Radioactivity and Epiphytes.

Treesearch

H. T. Odum; George Ann Briscoe; C. B. Briscoe

1970-01-01

After relatively high levels of fallout retention were dicovered in the epiphytic mossy forest of the Luquillo Mountains durin 1962, a survey of the distribution of radioactivity in the rain forest system was made with beta counting of 1500 samples supplemented with gamma spectra. High levels, up to 4138 counts per minute per gram, were found mainly in or on green...

Suicidality in Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Prospective Study

PubMed Central

Phillips, Katharine A.; Menard, William

2006-01-01

Objective Cross-sectional/retrospective data have indicated that individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) have high rates of suicidal ideation and attempts. However, no study, to the authors' knowledge, has prospectively examined suicidality in BDD. Method In the first prospective study of BDD's course, the authors examined suicidality in 185 subjects for up to 4 years. Results Suicidal ideation was reported by a mean of 57.8% of the subjects per year, and a mean of 2.6% attempted suicide per year. Two subjects (0.3% per year) completed suicide. Conclusions Individuals with BDD have high rates of suicidal ideation and attempts. The completed suicide rate is preliminary but suggests that the rate of completed suicide in BDD is markedly high. PMID:16816236

A high incidence of parthenogenesis in agricultural pests.

PubMed

Hoffmann, Ary A; Reynolds, K Tracy; Nash, Michael A; Weeks, Andrew R

2008-11-07

Parthenogenetic species are assumed to represent evolutionary dead ends, yet parthenogenesis is common in some groups of invertebrates particularly in those found in relatively constant environments. This suggests that parthenogenetic reproduction might be common in pest invertebrates from uniform agricultural environments. Based on the evaluations of two databases from North America and Italy, we found that parthenogenetic species comprised 45 per cent (North America) or 48 per cent (Italy) of pest species derived from genera where parthenogenesis occurred, compared with an overall incidence of 10 per cent or 16 per cent in these genera. In establishing these patterns, we included only genera containing at least some member species that reproduced by parthenogenesis. The high incidence of parthenogenesis in pest species is spread across different families and several insect orders. Parthenogenetic reproduction may be favoured in agricultural environments when particular clones have a high fitness across multiple generations. Increasing the complexity and variability of agricultural environments represents one way of potentially controlling parthenogenetic pest species.

A high incidence of parthenogenesis in agricultural pests

PubMed Central

Hoffmann, Ary A; Tracy Reynolds, K; Nash, Michael A; Weeks, Andrew R

2008-01-01

Parthenogenetic species are assumed to represent evolutionary dead ends, yet parthenogenesis is common in some groups of invertebrates particularly in those found in relatively constant environments. This suggests that parthenogenetic reproduction might be common in pest invertebrates from uniform agricultural environments. Based on the evaluations of two databases from North America and Italy, we found that parthenogenetic species comprised 45 per cent (North America) or 48 per cent (Italy) of pest species derived from genera where parthenogenesis occurred, compared with an overall incidence of 10 per cent or 16 per cent in these genera. In establishing these patterns, we included only genera containing at least some member species that reproduced by parthenogenesis. The high incidence of parthenogenesis in pest species is spread across different families and several insect orders. Parthenogenetic reproduction may be favoured in agricultural environments when particular clones have a high fitness across multiple generations. Increasing the complexity and variability of agricultural environments represents one way of potentially controlling parthenogenetic pest species. PMID:18647717

What makes a great radiology review course lecture: the Ottawa radiology resident review course experience.

PubMed

Cao, Lilly; McInnes, Matthew D F; Ryan, John O

2014-02-01

Little objective evidence exists regarding what makes a good lecture. Our purpose was to determine qualities of radiology review course lectures that are associated with positive audience evaluation. 57 presentations from the Ottawa Resident Review Course (2012) were analyzed by a PGY4 radiology resident blinded to the result of audience evaluation. Objective data extracted were: slides per minute, lines of text per text slide, words per text slide, cases per minute, images per minute, images per case, number of audience laughs, number of questions posed to the audience, number of summaries, inclusion of learning objectives, ending on time, use of pre/post-test and use of special effects. Mean audience evaluation scores for each talk from daily audience evaluations (up to 60 per talk) were standardized out of 100. Correlation coefficient was calculated between continuous variables and audience evaluation scores. Student T test was performed on categorical variables and audience evaluation scores. Strongest positive association with audience evaluation scores was for image quality (r = 0.57) and number of times the audience laughed (r = 0.3). Strongest negative association was between images per case and audience scores (r = -0.25). Talks with special effects were rated better (mean score 94.3 vs. 87.1, p < 0.001). Talks with the highest image quality were rated better (mean score 94.1 vs. 87.5, p < 0.001). Talks which contained a pre/post-test were rated better (mean score 92 vs. 87.8, p = 0.004). Many factors go into making a great review course lecture. At the University of Ottawa Resident Review Course, high quality images, use of special effects, use of pre/post-test and humor were most strongly associated with high audience evaluation scores. High image volume per case may be negatively associated with audience evaluation scores.

A clinical survey on the prevalence and types of cheek teeth disorders present in 400 Zamorano-Leonés and 400 Mirandês donkeys (Equus asinus).

PubMed

Rodrigues, J B; Dixon, P M; Bastos, E; San Roman, F; Viegas, C

2013-12-14

Dental disease is now recognised as a major but often unrecognised disorder of equids, including horses and donkeys. However, very few large clinical studies have documented the prevalence and type of dental disease present in different equid populations and no dental studies have been reported in Zamorano-Leonés or Mirandês donkeys, two endangered donkey breeds. Clinical and detailed oral examinations were performed in 400 Mirandês and 400 Zamorano-Leonés donkeys in Portugal and Spain. It was found that just 4.5 per cent had ever received any previous dental care. Cheek teeth (CT) disorders were present in 82.8 per cent of these donkeys, ranging from a prevalence of 29.6 per cent in the <2.5-year-old group to 100 per cent in the >25-year-old group. These CT disorders included enamel overgrowths (73.1 per cent prevalence but with just 6.3 per cent having associated soft tissue injuries), focal overgrowths (37.3 per cent), periodontal disease (23.5 per cent) and diastemata (19.9 per cent). Peripheral caries was present in 5.9 per cent of cases, but inexplicably, infundibular caries was very rare (1.3 per cent prevalence); this may have been due to their almost fully foraged diet. The high prevalence of enamel overgrowths in these donkeys, most which never received concentrates, also raises questions about the aetiology of this disorder. This very high prevalence of CT disorders, especially in older donkeys, was of great welfare concern in some cases and emphasises the need for routine dental care in these cases on welfare grounds and in order to help preserve these unique breeds.

A cross-sectional study on the relationships among the polymorphism of period2 gene, work stress, and insomnia.

PubMed

Li, Ju; Huang, Chan; Lan, Yajia; Wang, Yongwei

2015-12-01

Work-related stress factors are commonly considered to be increasing the risk of insomnia. But the association between circadian-rhythm gene period2 (per2) and insomnia remains unknown. The paper aimed to examine the relationships among the polymorphism in rs7602358 of Per2 gene, work stress, and insomnia. In the cross-sectional study of a total of 364 Chinese workers recruited, 218 had insomnia tested by the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS-5). Work stress was assessed using the General Job Stress Questionnaire (GJSQ). Per2 genotypes were determined by SNaPshot technology. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to examine the interaction between polymorphism of Per2 and work stress in insomnia. The genotype AC or allele C of Per2 significantly increased the risk of insomnia (OR, 5.41; 95 % CI, 2.23-13.1) (OR, 3.29; 95 % CI, 1.55-6.98). Compared to low work stress, high work stress had a higher risk of insomnia (OR, 2.73; 95 % CI, 1.77-4.22). A significant interaction between Per2 and work stress in the risk of insomnia was found. Compared to workers with low work stress and genotype AA, those with high work stress and genotype AC had a higher risk of insomnia (OR, 15.12; 95 % CI, 3.46-66.09). The effect of genotype AC or allele C of Per2 on insomnia was relatively stronger than that of high work stress, suggesting that individual's susceptibility should be taken into consideration when intervening and controlling insomnia of workers.

Salt content in canteen and fast food meals in Denmark

PubMed Central

Rasmussen, Lone Banke; Lassen, Anne Dahl; Hansen, Kirsten; Knuthsen, Pia; Saxholt, Erling; Fagt, Sisse

2010-01-01

Background A high salt (=NaCl) intake is associated with high blood pressure, and knowledge of salt content in food and meals is important, if the salt intake has to be decreased in the general population. Objective To determine the salt content in worksite canteen meals and fast food. Design For the first part of this study, 180 canteen meals were collected from a total of 15 worksites with in-house catering facilities. Duplicate portions of a lunch meal were collected from 12 randomly selected employees at each canteen on two non-consecutive days. For the second part of the study, a total of 250 fast food samples were collected from 52 retail places representing both city (Aarhus) and provincial towns. The canteen meals and fast food samples were analyzed for chloride by potentiometric titration with silver nitrate solution, and the salt content was estimated. Results The salt content in lunch meals in worksite canteens were 3.8±1.8 g per meal and 14.7±5.1 g per 10 MJ for men (n=109), and 2.8±1.2 g per meal and 14.4±6.2 g per 10 MJ for women (n=71). Salt content in fast food ranged from 11.8±2.5 g per 10 MJ (burgers) to 16.3±4.4 g per 10 MJ (sausages) with a mean content of 13.8±3.8 g per 10 MJ. Conclusion Salt content in both fast food and in worksite canteen meals is high and should be decreased. PMID:20305749

Measuring the Dust Grains and Distance to X Persei Via Its X-ray Halo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Randall

2006-09-01

We propose to observe the X-ray halo of the high mass X-ray binary pulsar X Per to measure interstellar dust grains along the line of sight (LOS) and to determine the distance to X Per. The X-ray halo is formed by scattering from grains along the LOS, which for X Per appear to be concentrated in one molecular cloud. Unlike many other X-ray halo observations, this low-absorption high-latitude sightline is well-characterized from absorption spectroscopy done with HST, Copernicus, and FUSE. This halo observation will measure the distance to the cloud and the dust size distribution in it. We will also be able to determine the distance to X Per by measuring the time delayed pulses in the X-ray halo.

Penetration of Liquid Jets into a High-velocity Air Stream

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chelko, Louis J

1950-01-01

Data are presented showing the penetration characteristics of liquid jets directed approximately perpendicular to a high-velocity air stream for jet-nozzle-throat diameters from 0.0135 to 0.0625 inch, air stream densities from 0.0805 to 0.1365 pound per cubic foot, liquid jet velocities from 168.1 to 229.0 feet per second and a liquid jet density of approximately 62 pounds per cubic foot. The data were analyzed and a correlation was developed that permitted the determination of the penetration length of the liquid jet for any operation condition within the range of variables investigated.

Increasing milk solids production across lactation through genetic selection and intensive pasture-based feed system.

PubMed

Coleman, J; Pierce, K M; Berry, D P; Brennan, A; Horan, B

2010-09-01

The objective of the study was to quantify the effect of genetic improvement using the Irish total merit index, the Economic Breeding Index (EBI), on overall performance and lactation profiles for milk, milk solids, body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS) within 2 pasture-based systems of milk production likely to be used in the future, following abolition of the European Union's milk quota system. Three genotypes of Holstein-Friesian dairy cattle were established from within the Moorepark dairy research herd: LowNA, indicative of animals with North American origin and average or lower genetic merit at the time of the study; HighNA, North American Holstein-Friesians of high genetic merit; and HighNZ, New Zealand Holstein-Friesians of high genetic merit. Animals from within each genotype were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 possible pasture-based feeding systems (FS): 1) The Moorepark pasture (MP) system (2.64 cows/ha and 344 kg of concentrate supplement per cow per lactation) and 2) a high output per hectare (HC) system (2.85 cows/ha and 1,056 kg of concentrate supplement per cow per lactation). Pasture was allocated to achieve similar postgrazing residual sward heights for both treatments. A total of 126, 128, and 140 spring-calving dairy cows were used during the years 2006, 2007, and 2008, respectively. Each group had an individual farmlet of 17 paddocks and all groups were managed similarly throughout the study. The effects of genotype, FS, and the interaction between genotype and FS on milk production, BW, and BCS across lactation were studied using mixed models with factorial arrangements of genotype and FS accounting for the repeated cow records across years. No significant genotype by FS interaction was observed for any of the variables measured. Results show that milk solids production of the national average dairy cow can be increased across lactation through increased EBI. High EBI genotypes (HighNA and HighNZ) produced more milk solids per cow and per hectare than the LowNA genotype (2.7 and 4.1%, respectively). The results also suggest that when concentrate supplementation is used to facilitate increased stocking rates, increased herbage utilization and decreased substitution of concentrate for herbage can be achieved. When implemented, the HC FS could increase the overall productivity of pasture-fed dairy farming systems where land availability is the primary limiting factor of production. Copyright (c) 2010 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Flow cytometric HyPer-based assay for hydrogen peroxide.

PubMed

Lyublinskaya, O G; Antonov, S A; Gorokhovtsev, S G; Pugovkina, N A; Kornienko, Ju S; Ivanova, Ju S; Shatrova, A N; Aksenov, N D; Zenin, V V; Nikolsky, N N

2018-05-30

HyPer is a genetically encoded fluorogenic sensor for hydrogen peroxide which is generally used for the ratiometric imaging of H 2 O 2 fluxes in living cells. Here, we demonstrate the advantages of HyPer-based ratiometric flow cytometry assay for H 2 O 2 , by using K562 and human mesenchymal stem cell lines expressing HyPer. We show that flow cytometry analysis is suitable to detect HyPer response to submicromolar concentrations of extracellularly added H 2 O 2 that is much lower than concentrations addressed previously in the other HyPer-based assays (such as cell imaging or fluorimetry). Suggested technique is also much more sensitive to hydrogen peroxide than the widespread flow cytometry assay exploiting H 2 O 2 -reactive dye H 2 DCFDA and, contrary to the H 2 DCFDA-based assay, can be employed for the kinetic studies of H 2 O 2 utilization by cells, including measurements of the rate constants of H 2 O 2 removal. In addition, flow cytometry multi-parameter ratiometric measurements enable rapid and high-throughput detection of endogenously generated H 2 O 2 in different subpopulations of HyPer-expressing cells. To sum up, HyPer can be used in multi-parameter flow cytometry studies as a highly sensitive indicator of intracellular H 2 O 2 . Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Bycatch, bait, anglers, and roads: quantifying vector activity and propagule introduction risk across lake ecosystems.

PubMed

Drake, D Andrew R; Mandrak, Nicholas E

2014-06-01

Long implicated in the invasion process, live-bait anglers are highly mobile species vectors with frequent overland transport of fishes. To test hypotheses about the role of anglers in propagule transport, we developed a social-ecological model quantifying the opportunity for species transport beyond the invaded range resulting from bycatch during commercial bait operations, incidental transport, and release to lake ecosystems by anglers. We combined a gravity model with a stochastic, agent-based simulation, representing a 1-yr iteration of live-bait angling and the dynamics of propagule transport at fine spatiotemporal scales (i.e., probability of introducing n propagules per lake per year). A baseline scenario involving round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) indicated that most angling trips were benign; irrespective of lake visitation, anglers failed to purchase and transport propagules (benign trips, median probability P = 0.99912). However, given the large number of probability trials (4.2 million live-bait angling events per year), even the rarest sequence of events (uptake, movement, and deposition of propagules) is anticipated to occur. Risky trips (modal P = 0.00088 trips per year; approximately 1 in 1136) were sufficient to introduce a substantial number of propagules (modal values, Poisson model = 3715 propagules among 1288 lakes per year; zero-inflated negative binomial model = 6722 propagules among 1292 lakes per year). Two patterns of lake-specific introduction risk emerged. Large lakes supporting substantial angling activity experienced propagule pressure likely to surpass demographic barriers to establishment (top 2.5% of lakes with modal outcomes of five to 76 propagules per year; 303 high-risk lakes with three or more propagules, per year). Small or remote lakes were less likely to receive propagules; however, most risk distributions were leptokurtic with a long right tail, indicating the rare occurrence of high propagule loads to most waterbodies. Infestation simulations indicated that the number of high-risk waterbodies could be as great as 1318 (zero-inflated negative binomial), whereas a 90% reduction in bycatch from baseline would reduce the modal number of high risk lakes to zero. Results indicate that the combination of invasive bycatch and live-bait anglers warrants management concern as a species vector, but that risk is confined to a subset of individuals and recipient sites that may be effectively managed with targeted strategies.

Bone marrow vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count might be a significant predictor for the treatment outcomes of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphomas.

PubMed

Kim, Jung Sun; Gang, Ga Won; Lee, Se Ryun; Sung, Hwa Jung; Park, Young; Kim, Dae Sik; Choi, Chul Won; Kim, Byung Soo

2015-10-01

Developing a parameter to predict bone marrow invasion by non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is an important unmet medical need for treatment decisions. This study aimed to confirm the validity of the hypothesis that bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level might be correlated with the risk of bone marrow involvement and the prognosis of patients with diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Forty-nine diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients treated with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, daunorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone regimen were enrolled. Vascular endothelial growth factor level was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The validity of bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level and bone marrow vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count for predicting treatment response and survival after initial rituximab, cyclophosphamide, daunorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone combined chemotherapy was assessed. Bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count was significantly associated with old age (≥ 65 years), poor performance score (≥ 2), high International prognosis index (≥ 3) and bone marrow invasion. The patients with high bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count (≥ 3.01) showed a significantly lower complete response rate than the others. On Kaplan-Meier survival curves, the patients with high bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor levels (≥ 655 pg/ml) or high bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count (≥ 3.01) demonstrated a significantly shorter overall survival and progression-free survival than the others. In the patients without bone marrow involvement, bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count had a significant relationship with overall survival and progression-free survival. Multivariate analysis revealed that the patients without BM invasion showing high level of bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor per platelet count had significantly shorter progression-free survival and overall survival. Bone marrow plasma vascular endothelial growth factor level per platelet count might be associated with bone marrow invasion by diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and is correlated with clinical outcomes after treatment. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

77 FR 71179 - TRICARE, Formerly Known as the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-29

... notice provides the updated regional per-diem rates for low-volume mental health providers; the update... beneficiary per-diem cost-share amount for low-volume providers; and, the updated per-diem rates for both full... with high TRICARE volume) and regional-specific rates for psychiatric hospitals and units with low...

Effects of recharge and discharge on delta2H and delta18O composition and chloride concentration of high arsenic/fluoride groundwater from the Datong Basin, northern China.

PubMed

Xie, Xianjun; Wang, Yanxin; Su, Chunli; Duan, Mengyu

2013-02-01

To better understand the effects of recharge and discharge on the hydrogeochemistry of high levels of arsenic (As) and fluoride (F) in groundwater, environmental isotopic composition (delta2H and delta18O) and chloride (Cl) concentrations were analyzed in 29 groundwater samples collected from the Datong Basin. High arsenic groundwater samples (As > 50 micog/L) were found to be enriched in lighter isotopic composition that ranged from -92 to -78 per thousand for deuterium (delta2H) and from -12.5 to -9.9 per thousand for oxygen-18 (delta18O). High F-containing groundwater (F > 1 mg/L) was relatively enriched in heavier isotopic composition and varied from -90 to -57 per thousand and from -12.2 to -6.7 per thousand for delta2H and delta18O, respectively. High chloride concentrations and delta18O values were primarily measured in groundwater samples from the northern and southwestern portions of the study area, indicating the effect of evaporation on groundwater. The observation of relatively homogenized and low delta18O values and chloride concentrations in groundwater samples from central part of the Datong Basin might be a result of fast recharge by irrigation returns, which suggests that irrigation using arsenic-contaminated groundwater affected the occurrence of high arsenic-containing groundwater in the basin.

A new model for volume recombination in plane-parallel chambers in pulsed fields of high dose-per-pulse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gotz, M.; Karsch, L.; Pawelke, J.

2017-11-01

In order to describe the volume recombination in a pulsed radiation field of high dose-per-pulse this study presents a numerical solution of a 1D transport model of the liberated charges in a plane-parallel ionization chamber. In addition, measurements were performed on an Advanced Markus ionization chamber in a pulsed electron beam to obtain suitable data to test the calculation. The experiment used radiation pulses of 4 μs duration and variable dose-per-pulse values up to about 1 Gy, as well as pulses of variable duration up to 308 μs at constant dose-per-pulse values between 85 mGy and 400 mGy. Those experimental data were compared to the developed numerical model and existing descriptions of volume recombination. At low collection voltages the observed dose-per-pulse dependence of volume recombination can be approximated by the existing theory using effective parameters. However, at high collection voltages large discrepancies are observed. The developed numerical model shows much better agreement with the observations and is able to replicate the observed behavior over the entire range of dose-per-pulse values and collection voltages. Using the developed numerical model, the differences between observation and existing theory are shown to be the result of a large fraction of the charge being collected as free electrons and the resultant distortion of the electric field inside the chamber. Furthermore, the numerical solution is able to calculate recombination losses for arbitrary pulse durations in good agreement with the experimental data, an aspect not covered by current theory. Overall, the presented numerical solution of the charge transport model should provide a more flexible tool to describe volume recombination for high dose-per-pulse values as well as for arbitrary pulse durations and repetition rates.

A new model for volume recombination in plane-parallel chambers in pulsed fields of high dose-per-pulse.

PubMed

Gotz, M; Karsch, L; Pawelke, J

2017-11-01

In order to describe the volume recombination in a pulsed radiation field of high dose-per-pulse this study presents a numerical solution of a 1D transport model of the liberated charges in a plane-parallel ionization chamber. In addition, measurements were performed on an Advanced Markus ionization chamber in a pulsed electron beam to obtain suitable data to test the calculation. The experiment used radiation pulses of 4 μs duration and variable dose-per-pulse values up to about 1 Gy, as well as pulses of variable duration up to 308 [Formula: see text] at constant dose-per-pulse values between 85 mGy and 400 mGy. Those experimental data were compared to the developed numerical model and existing descriptions of volume recombination. At low collection voltages the observed dose-per-pulse dependence of volume recombination can be approximated by the existing theory using effective parameters. However, at high collection voltages large discrepancies are observed. The developed numerical model shows much better agreement with the observations and is able to replicate the observed behavior over the entire range of dose-per-pulse values and collection voltages. Using the developed numerical model, the differences between observation and existing theory are shown to be the result of a large fraction of the charge being collected as free electrons and the resultant distortion of the electric field inside the chamber. Furthermore, the numerical solution is able to calculate recombination losses for arbitrary pulse durations in good agreement with the experimental data, an aspect not covered by current theory. Overall, the presented numerical solution of the charge transport model should provide a more flexible tool to describe volume recombination for high dose-per-pulse values as well as for arbitrary pulse durations and repetition rates.

Follow-up after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair can be stratified based on first postoperative imaging.

PubMed

Baderkhan, H; Haller, O; Wanhainen, A; Björck, M; Mani, K

2018-05-01

Lifelong postoperative surveillance is recommended following endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Although the purpose is to prevent and/or identify complications early, it also results in increased cost and workload. This study was designed to examine whether it may be possible to identify patients at low risk of complications based on their first postoperative CT angiogram (CTA). All patients undergoing EVAR in two Swedish centres between 2001 and 2012 were identified retrospectively and categorized based on the first postoperative CTA as at low risk (proximal and distal sealing zone at least 10 mm and no endoleak) or high risk (sealing zone less than 10 mm and/or presence of any endoleak) of complications. Some 326 patients (273 men) with a CTA performed less than 1 year after EVAR were included (low risk 212, 65·0 per cent; high risk 114, 35·0 per cent). There was no difference between the groups in terms of sex, age, co-morbidities, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) diameter, preoperative AAA neck anatomy, stent-graft type or duration of follow-up (mean(s.d.) 4·8(3·2) years). Five-year freedom from AAA-related adverse events was 97·1 and 47·7 per cent in the low- and high-risk groups respectively (P < 0·001). The corresponding freedom from AAA-related reintervention was 96·2 and 54·1 per cent (P < 0·001). The method had a sensitivity of 88·3 per cent, specificity of 77·0 per cent and negative predictive value of 96·6 per cent to detect AAA-related adverse events. The number of surveillance imaging per AAA-related adverse event was 168 versus 11 for the low-risk versus high-risk group. Two-thirds of patients undergoing EVAR have an adequate seal and no endoleak on the first postoperative CTA, and a very low risk of AAA-related events up to 5 years. Less vigilant follow-up after EVAR may be considered for these patients. © 2018 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Risk stratification by the Appendicitis Inflammatory Response score to guide decision-making in patients with suspected appendicitis.

PubMed

Scott, A J; Mason, S E; Arunakirinathan, M; Reissis, Y; Kinross, J M; Smith, J J

2015-04-01

Current management of suspected appendicitis is hampered by the overadmission of patients with non-specific abdominal pain and a significant negative exploration rate. The potential benefits of risk stratification by the Appendicitis Inflammatory Response (AIR) score to guide clinical decision-making were assessed. During this 50-week prospective observational study at one institution, the AIR score was calculated for all patients admitted with suspected appendicitis. Appendicitis was diagnosed by histological examination, and patients were classified as having non-appendicitis pain if histological findings were negative or surgery was not performed. The diagnostic performance of the AIR score and the potential for risk stratification to reduce admissions, optimize imaging and prevent unnecessary explorations were quantified. A total of 464 patients were included, of whom 210 (63·3 per cent) with non-appendicitis pain were correctly classified as low risk. However, 13 low-risk patients had appendicitis. Low-risk patients accounted for 48·1 per cent of admissions (223 of 464), 57 per cent of negative explorations (48 of 84) and 50·7 per cent of imaging requests (149 of 294). An AIR score of 5 or more (intermediate and high risk) had high sensitivity for all severities of appendicitis (90 per cent) and also for advanced appendicitis (98 per cent). An AIR score of 9 or more (high risk) was very specific (97 per cent) for appendicitis, and the majority of patients with appendicitis in the high-risk group (21 of 30, 70 per cent) had perforation or gangrene. Ultrasound imaging could not exclude appendicitis in low-risk patients (negative likelihood ratio (LR) 1·0) but could rule-in the diagnosis in intermediate-risk patients (positive LR 10·2). CT could exclude appendicitis in low-risk patients (negative LR 0·0) and rule-in appendicitis in the intermediate group (positive LR 10·9). Risk stratification of patients with suspected appendicitis by the AIR score could guide decision-making to reduce admissions, optimize utility of diagnostic imaging and prevent negative explorations. © 2015 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Water cycle changes over the Mediterranean: a comparison study of a super-high-resolution global model with CMIP3.

PubMed

Jin, Fengjun; Kitoh, Akio; Alpert, Pinhas

2010-11-28

Water cycle components over the Mediterranean for both a current run (1979-2007) and a future run (2075-2099) are studied with the Japan Meteorological Agency's 20 km grid global climate model. Results are compared with another study using the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 3 ensemble model (hereafter, the Mariotti model). Our results are surprisingly close to Mariotti's. The projected mean annual change rates of precipitation (P) between the future and the current run for sea and land are -11 per cent and -10 per cent, respectively, which are not as high as Mariotti's. Projected changes for evaporation (E) are +9.3 per cent and -3.6 per cent, compared with +7.2 per cent and -8.1 per cent in Mariotti's study, respectively. However, no significant difference in the change in P-E over the sea body was found between these two studies. The increased E over the eastern Mediterranean was found to be higher than that in the western Mediterranean, but the P decrease was lower. The net moisture budget, P-E, shows that the eastern Mediterranean will become even drier than the western Mediterranean. The river model suggests decreasing water inflow to the Mediterranean of approximately 36 per cent (excluding the Nile).

Machine- z: Rapid machine-learned redshift indicator for Swift gamma-ray bursts

DOE PAGES

Ukwatta, T. N.; Wozniak, P. R.; Gehrels, N.

2016-03-08

Studies of high-redshift gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) provide important information about the early Universe such as the rates of stellar collapsars and mergers, the metallicity content, constraints on the re-ionization period, and probes of the Hubble expansion. Rapid selection of high-z candidates from GRB samples reported in real time by dedicated space missions such as Swift is the key to identifying the most distant bursts before the optical afterglow becomes too dim to warrant a good spectrum. Here, we introduce ‘machine-z’, a redshift prediction algorithm and a ‘high-z’ classifier for Swift GRBs based on machine learning. Our method relies exclusively onmore » canonical data commonly available within the first few hours after the GRB trigger. Using a sample of 284 bursts with measured redshifts, we trained a randomized ensemble of decision trees (random forest) to perform both regression and classification. Cross-validated performance studies show that the correlation coefficient between machine-z predictions and the true redshift is nearly 0.6. At the same time, our high-z classifier can achieve 80 per cent recall of true high-redshift bursts, while incurring a false positive rate of 20 per cent. With 40 per cent false positive rate the classifier can achieve ~100 per cent recall. As a result, the most reliable selection of high-redshift GRBs is obtained by combining predictions from both the high-z classifier and the machine-z regressor.« less

Self-adaptive demodulation for polarization extinction ratio in distributed polarization coupling.

PubMed

Zhang, Hongxia; Ren, Yaguang; Liu, Tiegen; Jia, Dagong; Zhang, Yimo

2013-06-20

A self-adaptive method for distributed polarization extinction ratio (PER) demodulation is demonstrated. It is characterized by dynamic PER threshold coupling intensity (TCI) and nonuniform PER iteration step length (ISL). Based on the preset PER calculation accuracy and original distribution coupling intensity, TCI and ISL can be made self-adaptive to determine contributing coupling points inside the polarizing devices. Distributed PER is calculated by accumulating those coupling points automatically and selectively. Two different kinds of polarization-maintaining fibers are tested, and PERs are obtained after merely 3-5 iterations using the proposed method. Comparison experiments with Thorlabs commercial instrument are also conducted, and results show high consistency. In addition, the optimum preset PER calculation accuracy of 0.05 dB is obtained through many repeated experiments.

Per-Pixel Coded Exposure for High-Speed and High-Resolution Imaging Using a Digital Micromirror Device Camera

PubMed Central

Feng, Wei; Zhang, Fumin; Qu, Xinghua; Zheng, Shiwei

2016-01-01

High-speed photography is an important tool for studying rapid physical phenomena. However, low-frame-rate CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera cannot effectively capture the rapid phenomena with high-speed and high-resolution. In this paper, we incorporate the hardware restrictions of existing image sensors, design the sampling functions, and implement a hardware prototype with a digital micromirror device (DMD) camera in which spatial and temporal information can be flexibly modulated. Combined with the optical model of DMD camera, we theoretically analyze the per-pixel coded exposure and propose a three-element median quicksort method to increase the temporal resolution of the imaging system. Theoretically, this approach can rapidly increase the temporal resolution several, or even hundreds, of times without increasing bandwidth requirements of the camera. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method via extensive examples and achieve 100 fps (frames per second) gain in temporal resolution by using a 25 fps camera. PMID:26959023

Per-Pixel Coded Exposure for High-Speed and High-Resolution Imaging Using a Digital Micromirror Device Camera.

PubMed

Feng, Wei; Zhang, Fumin; Qu, Xinghua; Zheng, Shiwei

2016-03-04

High-speed photography is an important tool for studying rapid physical phenomena. However, low-frame-rate CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera cannot effectively capture the rapid phenomena with high-speed and high-resolution. In this paper, we incorporate the hardware restrictions of existing image sensors, design the sampling functions, and implement a hardware prototype with a digital micromirror device (DMD) camera in which spatial and temporal information can be flexibly modulated. Combined with the optical model of DMD camera, we theoretically analyze the per-pixel coded exposure and propose a three-element median quicksort method to increase the temporal resolution of the imaging system. Theoretically, this approach can rapidly increase the temporal resolution several, or even hundreds, of times without increasing bandwidth requirements of the camera. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method via extensive examples and achieve 100 fps (frames per second) gain in temporal resolution by using a 25 fps camera.

Cost convergence between public and for-profit hospitals under prospective payment and high competition in Taiwan.

PubMed

Xirasagar, Sudha; Lin, Herng-Ching

2004-12-01

To test the hypotheses that: (1) average adjusted costs per discharge are higher in high-competition relative to low-competition markets, and (2) increased competition is associated with cost convergence between public and for-profit (FP) hospitals for case payment diagnoses, but not for cost-plus reimbursed diagnoses. Taiwan's National Health Insurance database; 325,851 inpatient claims for cesarean section, vaginal delivery, prostatectomy, and thyroidectomy (all case payment), and bronchial asthma and cholelithiasis (both cost-based payment). Retrospective population-based, cross-sectional study. Diagnosis-wise regression analyses were done to explore associations between cost per discharge and hospital ownership under high and low competition, adjusted for clinical severity and institutional characteristics. Adjusted costs per discharge are higher for all diagnoses in high-competition markets. For case payment diagnoses, the magnitudes of adjusted cost differences between public and FP hospitals are lower under high competition relative to low competition. This is not so for the cost-based diagnoses. We find that the empirical evidence supports both our hypotheses.

DNA Repair and Ethnic Differences in Prostate Cancer Risk

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-01

did you drink meal replacement, energy, or high-protein beverages such as Instant Breakfast, Ensure, Slimfast, Sustacal or others? NEVER (GO TO...you eat pasta, spaghetti, or other noodles ? NEVER (GO TO QUESTION 61) 1–6 times per year 2 times per week 7–11 times per year 3–4 times per...ate pasta, spaghetti, or other noodles , how much did you usually eat? Less than 1 cup 1 to 3 cups More than 3 cups 60b. How often did you

Performance of transonic fan stage with weight flow per unit annulus area of 208 kilograms per second per square meter (42.6 (lb/sec)/sq ft)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Urasek, D. C.; Kovich, G.; Moore, R. D.

1973-01-01

Performance was obtained for a 50-cm-diameter compressor designed for a high weight flow per unit annulus area of 208 (kg/sec)/sq m. Peak efficiency values of 0.83 and 0.79 were obtained for the rotor and stage, respectively. The stall margin for the stage was 23 percent, based on equivalent weight flow and total-pressure ratio at peak efficiency and stall.

Adolescent girls' most common source of junk food away from home.

PubMed

Cohen, Deborah A; Ghosh-Dastidar, Bonnie; Beckman, Robin; Lytle, Leslie; Elder, John; Pereira, Mark A; Veblen Mortenson, Sara; Pickrel, Julie; Conway, Terry L

2012-09-01

Contextual factors associated with adolescent girls' dietary behaviors could inform future interventions to improve diet. High school girls completed a 7-day diary, recording all trips made. In places other than home or school they recorded the food eaten. Girls made an average of 11.4 trips per week other than to home or school. Snacks high in solid oils, fats and added sugars (SOFAS) were frequently consumed. Girls reported eating an average of 3.5 servings per week of snacks high in SOFAS at someone else's house compared to 3.0 servings per week at retail food outlets. Findings demonstrate that low nutrient foods are ubiquitous and efforts should be made to reduce their availability in multiple settings. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Long-term impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy on HIV-related health care costs.

PubMed

Keiser, P; Nassar, N; Kvanli, M B; Turner, D; Smith, J W; Skiest, D

2001-05-01

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is associated with decreased opportunistic infections, hospitalization, and HIV-related health care costs over relatively short periods of time. We have previously demonstrated that decreases in total HIV cost are proportional to penetration of protease inhibitor therapy in our clinic. To determine the effects of HAART on HIV health care use and costs over 44 months. A comprehensive HIV service within a Veterans Affairs Medical Center. A cost-effectiveness analysis of HAART. The mean monthly number of hospital days, infectious diseases clinic visits, emergency room visits, non-HIV-related outpatient visits, inpatient costs, and antiretroviral treatment costs per patient were determined by dividing these during the period from January 1995 through June 1998 into four intervals. Viral load tests were available from October 1996. Cost-effectiveness of HAART was evaluated by determining the costs of achieving an undetectable viral load over time. Mean monthly hospitalization and associated inpatient costs decreased and remained low 2 years after the introduction of protease inhibitors (37 hospital days per 100 patients). Total cost decreased from $1905 per patient per month during the first quarter to $1090 per patient per month in the third quarter but increased to $1391 per patient per month in the fourth quarter. Antiretroviral treatment costs increased throughout the entire observation period from $79 per patient per month to $518 per patient per month. Hospitalization costs decreased from $1275 per patient per month in the first quarter to less than $500 per patient per month in each of the third and fourth quarters. The percentage of patients with a viral load <500 copies/mL increased from 21% in October 1996 to 47% in June of 1997 (p =.014). The cost of achieving an undetectable viral load decreased from $4438 per patient per month to $2669 per patient per month, but this trend did not reach statistical significance (p =.18). After an initial decrease, there was an increase in the total monthly cost of caring for HIV patients. Cost increases were primarily due to antiretroviral treatment costs, but these costs were offset by a marked decrease in inpatient-related costs. Increases in costs were not related to antiretroviral treatment failures as measured by the proportion of patients with low or undetectable viral loads. The cost of achieving an undetectable viral load remained stable despite increases in the cost of procuring antiretroviral agents.

Single high-dose irradiation aggravates eosinophil-mediated fibrosis through IL-33 secreted from impaired vessels in the skin compared to fractionated irradiation

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

Lee, Eun-Jung, E-mail: forejs2@yuhs.ac; Kim, Jun Won, E-mail: JUNWON@yuhs.ac; Yoo, Hyun, E-mail: gochunghee@yuhs.ac

We have revealed in a porcine skin injury model that eosinophil recruitment was dose-dependently enhanced by a single high-dose irradiation. In this study, we investigated the underlying mechanism of eosinophil-associated skin fibrosis and the effect of high-dose-per-fraction radiation. The dorsal skin of a mini-pig was divided into two sections containing 4-cm{sup 2} fields that were irradiated with 30 Gy in a single fraction or 5 fractions and biopsied regularly over 14 weeks. Eosinophil-related Th2 cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and C–C motif chemokine-11 (CCL11/eotaxin) were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. RNA-sequencing using 30 Gy-irradiated mouse skin and functional assays in amore » co-culture system of THP-1 and irradiated-human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were performed to investigate the mechanism of eosinophil-mediated radiation fibrosis. Single high-dose-per-fraction irradiation caused pronounced eosinophil accumulation, increased profibrotic factors collagen and transforming growth factor-β, enhanced production of eosinophil-related cytokines including IL-4, IL-5, CCL11, IL-13, and IL-33, and reduced vessels compared with 5-fraction irradiation. IL-33 notably increased in pig and mouse skin vessels after single high-dose irradiation of 30 Gy, as well as in irradiated HUVECs following 12 Gy. Blocking IL-33 suppressed the migration ability of THP-1 cells and cytokine secretion in a co-culture system of THP-1 cells and irradiated HUVECs. Hence, high-dose-per-fraction irradiation appears to enhance eosinophil-mediated fibrotic responses, and IL-33 may be a key molecule operating in eosinophil-mediated fibrosis in high-dose-per fraction irradiated skin. - Highlights: • Single high-dose irradiation aggravates eosinophil-mediated fibrosis through IL-33. • Vascular endothelial cells damaged by high-dose radiation secrete IL-33. • Blocking IL-33 suppressed migration of inflammatory cells and cytokine secretion. • IL-33 is a key in eosinophil-mediated fibrosis in high-dose-per-fraction radiation.« less

Copy Counts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beaumont, Lee R.

1970-01-01

The level of difficulty of straight copy, which is used to measure typewriting speed, is influenced by syllable intensity (the average number of syllables per word), stroke intensity (average number of strokes per word), and high-frequency words. (CH)

Effects of acute changes in salinity and temperature on routine metabolism and nitrogen excretion in gambusia (Gambusia affinis) and zebrafish (Danio rerio).

PubMed

Uliano, E; Cataldi, M; Carella, F; Migliaccio, O; Iaccarino, D; Agnisola, C

2010-11-01

Acute stress may affect metabolism and nitrogen excretion as part of the adaptive response that allows animals to face adverse environmental changes. In the present paper the acute effects of different salinities and temperatures on routine metabolism, spontaneous activity and excretion of ammonia and urea were studied in two freshwater fish: gambusia, Gambusia affinis and zebrafish, Danio rerio, acclimated to 27 degrees C. The effects on gill morphology were also evaluated. Five salinities (0 per thousand, 10 per thousand, 20 per thousand, 30 per thousand and 35 per thousand) were tested in gambusia, while four salinities were used in zebrafish (0 per thousand, 10 per thousand, 20 per thousand and 25 per thousand). Each salinity acute stress was tested alone or in combination with an acute temperature reduction to 20 degrees C. In gambusia, both salinity and temperature acute stress strongly stimulated urea excretion. Routine oxygen consumption was barely affected by acute salinity or temperature stress, and was reduced by the combined effects of temperature and high salinity. Gills maintained their structural integrity in all stressing conditions; hyperplasia and hypertrophy of mitochondria-rich cells were observed. In zebrafish, temperature and salinity acute changes, both alone and in combination, scarcely affected any parameter tested. The major effect observed was a reduction of nitrogen excretion at 20 degrees C-25 per thousand; under these extreme conditions a significant structural disruption of gills was observed. These results confirm the high tolerance to acute salinity and temperature stress in gambusia, and demonstrate the involvement of urea excretion modulation in the stress response in this species. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The association between high-risk behavior and central nervous system injuries: analysis of traffic-related fatalities in a large coroner's series.

PubMed

Pakula, Andrea; Shaker, Adel; Martin, Maureen; Skinner, Ruby

2013-10-01

High-risk behaviors leading to traffic fatalities are often a result of severe traumatic brain and spine injuries. The objective of the study was to analyze patterns of behavior in drivers and motorcyclists that are associated with central nervous system (CNS)-related prehospital deaths that may serve as a basis for future prevention initiatives. Our study group comprised 514 fatalities with severe CNS injuries documented at autopsy. The majority (n = 491) was the result of motor vehicle collisions (MVCs). In this group, male drivers predominated and the majority, 80 per cent, wore seatbelts. Toxicology analysis revealed 53 per cent of drivers with a mean concentration of ethanol above the legal limit. Texting while driving comprised 45 per cent of the study group. Less than 5 per cent of the fatalities were the result of road or weather conditions. In the motorcycle group (n = 23), 100 per cent of the victims were unhelmeted. We report a large autopsy series of CNS-related deaths with analysis of behavioral factors associated with the fatalities. Substance abuse and distracted driving are dominant patterns of high-risk behavior in MVCs and not wearing a motorcycle helmet is deadly for victims of motorcycle crashes.

Control over self-assembly of diblock copolymers on hexagonal and square templates for high area density circuit boards.

PubMed

Feng, Jie; Cavicchi, Kevin A; Heinz, Hendrik

2011-12-27

Self-assembled diblock copolymer melts on patterned substrates can induce a smaller characteristic domain spacing compared to predefined lithographic patterns and enable the manufacture of circuit boards with a high area density of computing and storage units. Monte Carlo simulation using coarse-grain models of polystyrene-b-polydimethylsiloxane shows that the generation of high-density hexagonal and square patterns is controlled by the ratio N(D) of the surface area per post and the surface area per spherical domain of neat block copolymer. N(D) represents the preferred number of block copolymer domains per post. Selected integer numbers support the formation of ordered structures on hexagonal (1, 3, 4, 7, 9) and square (1, 2, 5, 7) templates. On square templates, only smaller numbers of block copolymer domains per post support the formation of ordered arrays with significant stabilization energies relative to hexagonal morphology. Deviation from suitable integer numbers N(D) increases the likelihood of transitional morphologies between square and hexagonal. Upon increasing the spacing of posts on the substrate, square arrays, nested square arrays, and disordered hexagonal morphologies with multiple coordination numbers were identified, accompanied by a decrease in stabilization energy. Control over the main design parameter N(D) may allow an up to 7-fold increase in density of spherical block copolymer domains per surface area in comparison to the density of square posts and provide access to a wide range of high-density nanostructures to pattern electronic devices.

Finite Element Analysis of Elastomeric Seals for LIDS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oswald, Jay J.; Daniels, Christopher C.

2007-01-01

Objective: Create a means of evaluating seals w/o prototypes. Motivation: Cost Prototype 54" seal approx.$100k per seal pair FEA license + high end workstation approx. $30k per year. Development time: 6 months lead time for a new seal design Many designs per day (solution time <1 minute) Understanding: Difficult to experimentally measure strains, contact pressure profile, stresses, displacements

78 FR 46421 - Proposed Information Collection (Per Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes; Per...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-31

... Diem for Nursing Home Care of Veterans in State Homes; Per Diem for Adult Day Care of Veterans in State... information needed to ensure that nursing home and adult day health care facilities are providing high quality... State homes providing nursing home and adult day health services care to Veterans. VA requires...

Low osmolar (non-ionic) contrast media versus high osmolar (ionic) contrast media in intravenous urography and enhanced computerized tomography: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

PubMed

Wangsuphachart, S

1991-12-01

The cost-effectiveness of three alternative policies for the use of intravenous contrast media for urography and enhanced computerized tomography (CT) are analyzed. Alternative #1 is to use high osmolar contrast media (HOCM) in all patients, the historical policy. Alternative #2 is to replace it with low osmolar contrast media (LOCM) in all patients. Alternative #3 is to use LOCM only in the high risk patients. Data on the 6,242 patients who underwent intravenous urography and enhanced CT at the Department of Radiology, Chulalongkorn Hospital in 1989 were used. Both societal and hospital viewpoints were analyzed. The incremental cost-effectiveness (ICE) between #2 and #1 was 26,739 Baht (US$1,070) per healthy day saved (HDS), while the ICE between #3 and #1 was 12,057 Baht (US$482) per HDS. For fatal cases only, ICE between #2 and #1 was 35,111 Baht (US$1,404) per HDS, while the ICE between #3 and #1 was 18,266 Baht (US$731) per HDS. The incremental cost (IC) per patient was 2,341 Baht (US$94) and 681 Baht (US$27) respectively. For the hospital viewpoint the ICE between #2 and #1 was 13,744 (US$550) and between #3 and #1 was 6,127 Baht (US$245) per HDS. The IC per patient was 1,203 Baht (US$48) and 346 Baht (US$14), respectively. From the sensitivity analysis, #3 should be used if the LOCM price is reduced more than 75% (equal to 626 Baht or less) and more than 80% of the patients are able to pay for the contrast media.

Costs and consequences of large-scale vector control for malaria

PubMed Central

Yukich, Joshua O; Lengeler, Christian; Tediosi, Fabrizio; Brown, Nick; Mulligan, Jo-Ann; Chavasse, Des; Stevens, Warren; Justino, John; Conteh, Lesong; Maharaj, Rajendra; Erskine, Marcy; Mueller, Dirk H; Wiseman, Virginia; Ghebremeskel, Tewolde; Zerom, Mehari; Goodman, Catherine; McGuire, David; Urrutia, Juan Manuel; Sakho, Fana; Hanson, Kara; Sharp, Brian

2008-01-01

Background Five large insecticide-treated net (ITN) programmes and two indoor residual spraying (IRS) programmes were compared using a standardized costing methodology. Methods Costs were measured locally or derived from existing studies and focused on the provider perspective, but included the direct costs of net purchases by users, and are reported in 2005 USD. Effectiveness was estimated by combining programme outputs with standard impact indicators. Findings Conventional ITNs: The cost per treated net-year of protection ranged from USD 1.21 in Eritrea to USD 6.05 in Senegal. The cost per child death averted ranged from USD 438 to USD 2,199 when targeting to children was successful. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) of five years duration: The cost per treated-net year of protection ranged from USD 1.38 in Eritrea to USD 1.90 in Togo. The cost per child death averted ranged from USD 502 to USD 692. IRS: The costs per person-year of protection for all ages were USD 3.27 in KwaZulu Natal and USD 3.90 in Mozambique. If only children under five years of age were included in the denominator the cost per person-year of protection was higher: USD 23.96 and USD 21.63. As a result, the cost per child death averted was higher than for ITNs: USD 3,933–4,357. Conclusion Both ITNs and IRS are highly cost-effective vector control strategies. Integrated ITN free distribution campaigns appeared to be the most efficient way to rapidly increase ITN coverage. Other approaches were as or more cost-effective, and appeared better suited to "keep-up" coverage levels. ITNs are more cost-effective than IRS for highly endemic settings, especially if high ITN coverage can be achieved with some demographic targeting. PMID:19091114

[Cost analysis of rapid methods for diagnosis of multidrug resistant tuberculosis in different epidemiologic groups in Perú].

PubMed

Solari, Lely; Gutiérrez, Alfonso; Suárez, Carmen; Jave, Oswaldo; Castillo, Edith; Yale, Gloria; Ascencios, Luis; Quispe, Neyda; Valencia, Eddy; Suárez, Víctor

2011-01-01

To evaluate the costs of three methods for the diagnosis of drug susceptibility in tuberculosis, and to compare the cost per case of Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) diagnosed with these (MODS, GRIESS and Genotype MTBDR plus®) in 4 epidemiologic groups in Peru. In the basis of programmatic figures, we divided the population in 4 groups: new cases from Lima/Callao, new cases from other provinces, previously treated patients from Lima/Callao and previously treated from other provinces. We calculated the costs of each test with the standard methodology of the Ministry of Health, from the perspective of the health system. Finally, we calculated the cost per patient diagnosed with MDR TB for each epidemiologic group. The estimated costs per test for MODS, GRIESS, and Genotype MTBDR plus® were 14.83. 15.51 and 176.41 nuevos soles respectively (the local currency, 1 nuevos sol=0.36 US dollars for August, 2011). The cost per patient diagnosed with GRIESS and MODS was lower than 200 nuevos soles in 3 out of the 4 groups. The costs per diagnosed MDR TB were higher than 2,000 nuevos soles with Genotype MTBDR plus® in the two groups of new patients, and lower than 1,000 nuevos soles in the group of previously treated patients. In high-prevalence groups, like the previously treated patients, the costs per diagnosis of MDR TB with the 3 evaluated tests were low, nevertheless, the costs with the molecular test in the low- prevalence groups were high. The use of the molecular tests must be optimized in high prevalence areas.

Utilization and expenditures under Medicaid for Supplemental Security Income disabled

PubMed Central

Adams, E. Kathleen; Ellwood, Marilyn Rymer; Pine, Penelope L.

1989-01-01

Recently available data on major disabling conditions of the Supplemental Security Income disabled are used to examine 1984 patterns of Medicaid expenditures in California, Georgia, Michigan, and Tennessee. Results indicate that 37-58 percent of these expenditures are for enrollees whose major disabling condition involves mental retardation or other mental disorders. This pattern occurs because a high proportion of disabled enrollees have these conditions, rather than high expenses per enrollee. Annual Medicaid expenditures per enrollee were highest for the disabled with neoplasms, blood disorders, and genitourinary conditions. Expenditures per enrollee were higher for younger enrollees and lower for those dually enrolled in Medicare. PMID:10318336

Gamma Ray Bursts - Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gehrels, N.; Cannizzo, J. K.

2010-01-01

We are in an exciting period of discovery for gamma-ray bursts. The Swift observatory is detecting 100 bursts per year, providing arcsecond localizations and sensitive observations of the prompt and afterglow emission. The Fermi observatory is observing 250 bursts per year with its medium-energy GRB instrument and about 10 bursts per year with its high-energy LAT instrument. In addition, rapid-response telescopes on the ground are providing new capabilities to study optical emission during the prompt phase and spectral signatures of the host galaxies. The combined data set is enabling great advances in our understanding of GRBs including afterglow physics, short burst origin, and high energy emission.

Impact of R&D expenditures on research publications, patents and high-tech exports among European countries.

PubMed

Meo, S A; Usmani, A M

2014-01-01

This study aimed to compare the impact of Research&Development (R&D) expenditures on research publications, patents and high-tech exports among European countries. In this study, 47 European countries were included. The information regarding European countries, their per capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP), R&D spending, number of universities, indexed scientific journals, high technology exports and number of patents were collected. We recorded the total number of research documents in various science and social sciences subjects during the period 1996-2011. The main source for information was World Bank, Web of Science, Thomson Reuters and SCImago/Scopus. The mean GDP per capita for all the European countries is 23372.64 ± 3588.42 US$, yearly per capita spending on R&D 1.14 ± 0.13 US$, number of universities 48.17 ± 10.26, mean number of Institute of Scientific Information (ISI) indexed journal per country 90.72 ± 38.47, high technology exports 12.86 ± 1.59 and number of patent applications 61504.23 ± 22961.85. The mean of research documents published in various science and social science subjects among all the European countries during the period 1996-2011 is 213405.70 ± 56493.04. Spending on R&D, number of universities, indexed journals, high technology exports and number of patents have a positive correlation with number of published documents in various science and social science subjects. We found a positive correlation between patent application and high-tech exports. However, there was no association between GDP per capita and research outcomes. It is concluded that, the most important contributing factors towards a knowledge based economy are spending on R&D, number of universities, scientific indexed journals and research publications, which in turn give a boast to patents, high technology exports and ultimately GDP.

Methods and Descriptive Epidemiology of Services Provided by Athletic Trainers in High Schools: The National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network Study

PubMed Central

Kerr, Zachary Y.; Dompier, Thomas P.; Dalton, Sara L.; Miller, Sayers John; Hayden, Ross; Marshall, Stephen W.

2015-01-01

Context Research is limited on the extent and nature of the care provided by athletic trainers (ATs) to student-athletes in the high school setting. Objective To describe the methods of the National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network (NATION) project and provide the descriptive epidemiology of AT services for injury care in 27 high school sports. Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Setting Athletic training room (ATR) visits and AT services data collected in 147 high schools from 26 states. Patients or Other Participants High school student-athletes participating in 13 boys' sports and 14 girls' sports during the 2011−2012 through 2013−2014 academic years. Main Outcome Measure(s) The number of ATR visits and individual AT services, as well as the mean number of ATR visits (per injury) and AT services (per injury and ATR visit) were calculated by sport and for time-loss (TL) and non–time-loss (NTL) injuries. Results Over the 3-year period, 210 773 ATR visits and 557 381 AT services were reported for 50 604 injuries. Most ATR visits (70%) were for NTL injuries. Common AT services were therapeutic activities or exercise (45.4%), modalities (18.6%), and AT evaluation and reevaluation (15.9%), with an average of 4.17 ± 6.52 ATR visits and 11.01 ± 22.86 AT services per injury. Compared with NTL injuries, patients with TL injuries accrued more ATR visits (7.76 versus 3.47; P < .001) and AT services (18.60 versus 9.56; P < .001) per injury. An average of 2.24 ± 1.33 AT services were reported per ATR visit. Compared with TL injuries, NTL injuries had a larger average number of AT services per ATR visit (2.28 versus 2.05; P < .001). Conclusions These findings highlight the broad spectrum of care provided by ATs to high school student-athletes and demonstrate that patients with NTL injuries require substantial amounts of AT services. PMID:26678290

Association between socioeconomic status, surgical treatment and mortality in patients with colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Dik, V K; Aarts, M J; Van Grevenstein, W M U; Koopman, M; Van Oijen, M G H; Lemmens, V E; Siersema, P D

2014-08-01

High socioeconomic status is associated with better survival in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study investigated whether socioeconomic status is associated with differences in surgical treatment and mortality in patients with CRC. Patients diagnosed with stage I-III CRC between 2005 and 2010 in the Eindhoven Cancer Registry area in the Netherlands were included. Socioeconomic status was determined at a neighbourhood level by combining the mean household income and the mean value of the housing. Some 4422 patients with colonic cancer and 2314 with rectal cancer were included. Patients with colonic cancer and high socioeconomic status were operated on with laparotomy (70·7 versus 77·6 per cent; P = 0·017), had laparoscopy converted to laparotomy (15·7 versus 29·5 per cent; P = 0·008) and developed anastomotic leakage or abscess (9·6 versus 12·6 per cent; P = 0·049) less frequently than patients with low socioeconomic status. These differences remained significant after adjustment for patient and tumour characteristics. In rectal cancer, patients with high socioeconomic status were more likely to undergo resection (96·3 versus 93·7 per cent; P = 0·083), but this was not significant in multivariable analysis (odds ratio (OR) 1·44, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·84 to 2·46). The difference in 30-day postoperative mortality in patients with colonic cancer and high and low socioeconomic status (3·6 versus 6·8 per cent; P < 0·001) was not significant after adjusting for age, co-morbidities, emergency surgery, and anastomotic leakage or abscess formation (OR 0·90, 0·51 to 1·57). Patients with CRC and high socioeconomic status have more favourable surgical treatment characteristics than patients with low socioeconomic status. The lower 30-day postoperative mortality found in patients with colonic cancer and high socioeconomic status is largely explained by patient and surgical factors. © 2014 BJS Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Platyamoeba pseudovannellida n. sp., a naked amoeba with wide salt tolerance isolated from the Salton Sea, California.

PubMed

Hauer, G; Rogerson, A; Anderson, O R

2001-01-01

A new species of naked amoeba, Platyamoeba pseudovannellida n.sp., is described on the basis of light microscopic and fine structural features. The amoeba was isolated from the Salton Sea, California, from water at a salinity of ca. 44%. Locomotive amoebae occasionally had a spatulate outline and floating cells had radiating pseudopodia, sometimes with pointed tips. Both these features are reminiscent of the genus Vannella. However, the surface coat (glycocalyx) as revealed by TEM indicates that this is a species of Platyamoeba. Although salinity was not used as a diagnostic feature, this species was found to have remarkable tolerance to fluctuating salinity levels, even when changes were rapid. Amoebae survived over the range 0 per thousand to 150 per thousand salt and grew within the range 0 per thousand to 138 per thousand salt. The generation time of cells averaged 29 h and was not markedly affected by salt concentration. This is longer than expected for an amoeba of this size and suggests a high energetic cost of coping with salinity changes. The morphology of cells changed with increasing salinity: at 0 per thousand cells were flattened and active and at the other extreme (138 per thousand) amoebae were wrinkled and domed and cell movement was very slow. At the ultrastructural level, the cytoplasm of cells grown at high salinity (98 per thousand was considerably denser than that of cells reared at 0 per thousand.

National Use of Asbestos in Relation to Economic Development

PubMed Central

Le, Giang Vinh; Takahashi, Ken; Karjalainen, Antti; Delgermaa, Vanya; Hoshuyama, Tsutomu; Miyamura, Yoshitaka; Furuya, Sugio; Higashi, Toshiaki; Pan, Guowei; Wagner, Gregory

2010-01-01

Background National disparities in asbestos use will likely lead to an unequal burden of asbestos diseases. Objectives As economic status may be linked to asbestos use, we assessed, globally, the relationship between indicators of national economic development and asbestos use. Methods For the 135 countries that have ever used asbestos, per capita asbestos use (kilograms per capita per year) was compared with per capita gross domestic product (GDP) in 1990 Geary–Khamis dollars (GKD) for the period 1920–2003. Countries were grouped into three income levels (high, middle, and low) that were adapted from the 2003 World Bank categories. Results The historical pattern of asbestos use followed the environmental Kuznets curve in which use by high-income countries peaked when incomes attained 10,000–15,000 GKD and essentially ceased at income levels over 20,000 GKD. Currently, middle- and low-income countries are increasing their use of asbestos, closely following the paths once traced by higher income countries. Conclusions Developing countries have the opportunity to eliminate asbestos use sooner than high-income countries and thus reduce the future burden of asbestos diseases. PMID:20056590

National use of asbestos in relation to economic development.

PubMed

Le, Giang Vinh; Takahashi, Ken; Karjalainen, Antti; Delgermaa, Vanya; Hoshuyama, Tsutomu; Miyamura, Yoshitaka; Furuya, Sugio; Higashi, Toshiaki; Pan, Guowei; Wagner, Gregory

2010-01-01

National disparities in asbestos use will likely lead to an unequal burden of asbestos diseases. As economic status may be linked to asbestos use, we assessed, globally, the relationship between indicators of national economic development and asbestos use. For the 135 countries that have ever used asbestos, per capita asbestos use (kilograms per capita per year) was compared with per capita gross domestic product (GDP) in 1990 Geary-Khamis dollars (GKD) for the period 1920-2003. Countries were grouped into three income levels (high, middle, and low) that were adapted from the 2003 World Bank categories. The historical pattern of asbestos use followed the environmental Kuznets curve in which use by high-income countries peaked when incomes attained 10,000-15,000 GKD and essentially ceased at income levels over 20,000 GKD. Currently, middle- and low-income countries are increasing their use of asbestos, closely following the paths once traced by higher income countries. Developing countries have the opportunity to eliminate asbestos use sooner than high-income countries and thus reduce the future burden of asbestos diseases.

Morphological responses of wheat to changes in phytochrome photoequilibrium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barnes, C.; Bugbee, B.

1991-01-01

Wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L.) were grown at the same photosynthetic photon flux (PPF), 200 micromoles per square meter per second, but with phytochrome photoequilibrium (phi) values of 0.81, 0.55, and 0.33. Plants grown at phi values of 0.55 and 0.33 tillered 43 and 56%, less compared with plants grown at phi of 0.81. Main culm development (Haun stage) was slightly more advanced at lower values of phi, and leaf sheaths, but not leaf lamina, were longer at lower phi. Dry-mass accumulation was not affected by different levels of phi. Three levels of PPF (100, 200, and 400 micromoles per square meter per second) and two lamp types, metal halide and high pressure sodium, were also tested. Higher levels of PPF resulted in more dry mass, more tillering, and a more advanced Haun stage. There was no difference in plant dry mass or development under metal halide versus high pressure sodium lamps, except for total leaf length, which was greater under high pressure sodium lamps (49.5 versus 44.9 centimeters, P < 0.01).

16,000-rpm Interior Permanent Magnet Reluctance Machine with Brushless Field Excitation

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

Hsu, John S; Burress, Timothy A; Lee, Seong T

2008-01-01

This paper introduces a high speed brushless field excitation (BFE) machine that offers high torque per ampere (A) per core length at low speed and weakened flux at high speed. Lower core losses at high speeds, are attained by reducing the field excitation. Safety and reliability are increased by weakening the field when a winding short-circuit fault occurs. For a high-speed motor the bridges that link the rotor punching segments together must be thickened for mechanical integrity; BFE can ensure sufficient rotor flux when needed. Projected efficiency map including losses of the excitation coils confirms the advantage of this technology.

Impact of Increased Football Field Width on Player High-Speed Collision Rate.

PubMed

Joseph, Jacob R; Khalsa, Siri S; Smith, Brandon W; Park, Paul

2017-07-01

High-acceleration head impact is a known risk for mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) based on studies using helmet accelerometry. In football, offensive and defensive players are at higher risk of mTBI due to increased speed of play. Other collision sport studies suggest that increased playing surface size may contribute to reductions in high-speed collisions. We hypothesized that wider football fields lead to a decreased rate of high-speed collisions. Computer football game simulation was developed using MATLAB. Four wide receivers were matched against 7 defensive players. Each offensive player was randomized to one of 5 typical routes on each play. The ball was thrown 3 seconds into play; ball flight time was 2 seconds. Defensive players were delayed 0.5 second before reacting to ball release. A high-speed collision was defined as the receiver converging with a defensive player within 0.5 second of catching the ball. The simulation counted high-speed collisions for 1 team/season (65 plays/game for 16 games/season = 1040 plays/season) averaged during 10 seasons, and was validated against existing data using standard field width (53.3 yards). Field width was increased in 1-yard intervals up to 58.3 yards. Using standard field width, 188 ± 4 high-speed collisions were seen per team per season (18% of plays). When field width increased by 3 yards, high-speed collision rate decreased to 135 ± 3 per team per season (28% decrease; P < 0.0001). Even small increases in football field width can lead to substantial decline in high-speed collisions, with potential for reducing instances of mTBI in football players. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sustained sympathetic activity in altitude acclimatizing lowlanders and high-altitude natives.

PubMed

Lundby, C; Calbet, J; van Hall, G; Saltin, B; Sander, M

2018-03-01

Combined results from different independent studies suggest that acclimatization to high altitude induces a slowly developing sympathetic activation, even at levels of hypoxia that cause no acute chemoreflex-mediated sympathoexcitation. We here provide direct neurophysiological evidence for this phenomenon. In eight Danish lowlanders, we quantified mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), twice at sea level (normoxia and with acute hypoxic exposure to 12.6% O 2 ) and twice at high altitude (after 10 and 50 days of exposure to 4100 m). Measurements were also obtained in eight Bolivian highlanders on one occasion at high altitude. Acute hypoxic exposure caused no increase in MSNA (15 ± 2 vs 16 ± 2 bursts per min, respectively, and also MAP and HR remained stable). In contrast, from sea level to 10 and 50 days in high-altitude increases were observed in MAP: 72 ± 2 vs 78 ± 2 and 75 ± 2 mm Hg; HR: 54 ± 3 vs 67 ± 3 and 65 ± 3 beats per min; MSNA: 15 ± 2 vs 42 ± 5 and 42 ± 5 bursts per min, all P < .05. Bolivian subjects had high levels of MSNA: 34 ± 4 bursts per min. The simultaneous increase in MAP, HR, and MSNA suggests high altitude-induced sympathetic activity, which is sustained in well-acclimatized lowlanders. The high MSNA levels in the Bolivian highlanders suggest lifelong sympathetic activation at high altitude. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Quantitative coronary plaque analysis predicts high-risk plaque morphology on coronary computed tomography angiography: results from the ROMICAT II trial.

PubMed

Liu, Ting; Maurovich-Horvat, Pál; Mayrhofer, Thomas; Puchner, Stefan B; Lu, Michael T; Ghemigian, Khristine; Kitslaar, Pieter H; Broersen, Alexander; Pursnani, Amit; Hoffmann, Udo; Ferencik, Maros

2018-02-01

Semi-automated software can provide quantitative assessment of atherosclerotic plaques on coronary CT angiography (CTA). The relationship between established qualitative high-risk plaque features and quantitative plaque measurements has not been studied. We analyzed the association between quantitative plaque measurements and qualitative high-risk plaque features on coronary CTA. We included 260 patients with plaque who underwent coronary CTA in the Rule Out Myocardial Infarction/Ischemia Using Computer Assisted Tomography (ROMICAT) II trial. Quantitative plaque assessment and qualitative plaque characterization were performed on a per coronary segment basis. Quantitative coronary plaque measurements included plaque volume, plaque burden, remodeling index, and diameter stenosis. In qualitative analysis, high-risk plaque was present if positive remodeling, low CT attenuation plaque, napkin-ring sign or spotty calcium were detected. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between quantitative and qualitative high-risk plaque assessment. Among 888 segments with coronary plaque, high-risk plaque was present in 391 (44.0%) segments by qualitative analysis. In quantitative analysis, segments with high-risk plaque had higher total plaque volume, low CT attenuation plaque volume, plaque burden and remodeling index. Quantitatively assessed low CT attenuation plaque volume (odds ratio 1.12 per 1 mm 3 , 95% CI 1.04-1.21), positive remodeling (odds ratio 1.25 per 0.1, 95% CI 1.10-1.41) and plaque burden (odds ratio 1.53 per 0.1, 95% CI 1.08-2.16) were associated with high-risk plaque. Quantitative coronary plaque characteristics (low CT attenuation plaque volume, positive remodeling and plaque burden) measured by semi-automated software correlated with qualitative assessment of high-risk plaque features.

Use of an air-assisted fuel nozzle to reduce idle emissions of a jt8d engine combustor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Papathakos, L. C.; Jones, R. E.

1973-01-01

Tests were performed at typical engine idle conditions on a single-can JT8D combustor installed in a 24 centimeter (9.45 in.) housing to evaluate the effect of an air-assist nozzle on reducing exhaust emissions. By injecting high-pressure air through the secondary-flow passage of a standard duplex fuel nozzle, it was possible to reduce hydrocarbon emissions from 840 parts per million to 95 parts per million and carbon monoxide emissions from 873 parts per million to 258 parts per million. NOX emissions increased slightly from 18 parts per million to 22 parts per million. An air-assist differential pressure of only 20.1 newtons per square centimeter (29.1 psi) and an airflow rate of only 0.22 percent of the total combustor airflow was required.

Modelling the Costs and Effects of Selective and Universal Hospital Admission Screening for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

PubMed Central

Hubben, Gijs; Bootsma, Martin; Luteijn, Michiel; Glynn, Diarmuid; Bishai, David

2011-01-01

Background Screening at hospital admission for carriage of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been proposed as a strategy to reduce nosocomial infections. The objective of this study was to determine the long-term costs and health benefits of selective and universal screening for MRSA at hospital admission, using both PCR-based and chromogenic media-based tests in various settings. Methodology/Principal Findings A simulation model of MRSA transmission was used to determine costs and effects over 15 years from a US healthcare perspective. We compared admission screening together with isolation of identified carriers against a baseline policy without screening or isolation. Strategies included selective screening of high risk patients or universal admission screening, with PCR-based or chromogenic media-based tests, in medium (5%) or high nosocomial prevalence (15%) settings. The costs of screening and isolation per averted MRSA infection were lowest using selective chromogenic-based screening in high and medium prevalence settings, at $4,100 and $10,300, respectively. Replacing the chromogenic-based test with a PCR-based test costs $13,000 and $36,200 per additional infection averted, and subsequent extension to universal screening with PCR would cost $131,000 and $232,700 per additional infection averted, in high and medium prevalence settings respectively. Assuming $17,645 benefit per infection averted, the most cost-saving strategies in high and medium prevalence settings were selective screening with PCR and selective screening with chromogenic, respectively. Conclusions/Significance Admission screening costs $4,100–$21,200 per infection averted, depending on strategy and setting. Including financial benefits from averted infections, screening could well be cost saving. PMID:21483492

Oxytocin efficacy is modulated by dosage and oxytocin receptor genotype in young adults with high-functioning autism: a 24-week randomized clinical trial

PubMed Central

Kosaka, H; Okamoto, Y; Munesue, T; Yamasue, H; Inohara, K; Fujioka, T; Anme, T; Orisaka, M; Ishitobi, M; Jung, M; Fujisawa, T X; Tanaka, S; Arai, S; Asano, M; Saito, D N; Sadato, N; Tomoda, A; Omori, M; Sato, M; Okazawa, H; Higashida, H; Wada, Y

2016-01-01

Recent studies have suggested that long-term oxytocin administration can alleviate the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, factors influencing its efficacy are still unclear. We conducted a single-center phase 2, pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, clinical trial in young adults with high-functioning ASD, to determine whether oxytocin dosage and genetic background of the oxytocin receptor affects oxytocin efficacy. This trial consisted of double-blind (12 weeks), open-label (12 weeks) and follow-up phases (8 weeks). To examine dose dependency, 60 participants were randomly assigned to high-dose (32 IU per day) or low-dose intranasal oxytocin (16 IU per day), or placebo groups during the double-blind phase. Next, we measured single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR). In the intention-to-treat population, no outcomes were improved after oxytocin administration. However, in male participants, Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) scores in the high-dose group, but not the low-dose group, were significantly higher than in the placebo group. Furthermore, we examined whether oxytocin efficacy, reflected in the CGI-I scores, is influenced by estimated daily dosage and OXTR polymorphisms in male participants. We found that >21 IU per day oxytocin was more effective than ⩽21 IU per day, and that a SNP in OXTR (rs6791619) predicted CGI-I scores for ⩽21 IU per day oxytocin treatment. No severe adverse events occurred. These results suggest that efficacy of long-term oxytocin administration in young men with high-functioning ASD depends on the oxytocin dosage and genetic background of the oxytocin receptor, which contributes to the effectiveness of oxytocin treatment of ASD. PMID:27552585

Oxytocin efficacy is modulated by dosage and oxytocin receptor genotype in young adults with high-functioning autism: a 24-week randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Kosaka, H; Okamoto, Y; Munesue, T; Yamasue, H; Inohara, K; Fujioka, T; Anme, T; Orisaka, M; Ishitobi, M; Jung, M; Fujisawa, T X; Tanaka, S; Arai, S; Asano, M; Saito, D N; Sadato, N; Tomoda, A; Omori, M; Sato, M; Okazawa, H; Higashida, H; Wada, Y

2016-08-23

Recent studies have suggested that long-term oxytocin administration can alleviate the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, factors influencing its efficacy are still unclear. We conducted a single-center phase 2, pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, clinical trial in young adults with high-functioning ASD, to determine whether oxytocin dosage and genetic background of the oxytocin receptor affects oxytocin efficacy. This trial consisted of double-blind (12 weeks), open-label (12 weeks) and follow-up phases (8 weeks). To examine dose dependency, 60 participants were randomly assigned to high-dose (32 IU per day) or low-dose intranasal oxytocin (16 IU per day), or placebo groups during the double-blind phase. Next, we measured single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR). In the intention-to-treat population, no outcomes were improved after oxytocin administration. However, in male participants, Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) scores in the high-dose group, but not the low-dose group, were significantly higher than in the placebo group. Furthermore, we examined whether oxytocin efficacy, reflected in the CGI-I scores, is influenced by estimated daily dosage and OXTR polymorphisms in male participants. We found that >21 IU per day oxytocin was more effective than ⩽21 IU per day, and that a SNP in OXTR (rs6791619) predicted CGI-I scores for ⩽21 IU per day oxytocin treatment. No severe adverse events occurred. These results suggest that efficacy of long-term oxytocin administration in young men with high-functioning ASD depends on the oxytocin dosage and genetic background of the oxytocin receptor, which contributes to the effectiveness of oxytocin treatment of ASD.

Modeling of digital information optical encryption system with spatially incoherent illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bondareva, Alyona P.; Cheremkhin, Pavel A.; Krasnov, Vitaly V.; Rodin, Vladislav G.; Starikov, Rostislav S.; Starikov, Sergey N.

2015-10-01

State of the art micromirror DMD spatial light modulators (SLM) offer unprecedented framerate up to 30000 frames per second. This, in conjunction with high speed digital camera, should allow to build high speed optical encryption system. Results of modeling of digital information optical encryption system with spatially incoherent illumination are presented. Input information is displayed with first SLM, encryption element - with second SLM. Factors taken into account are: resolution of SLMs and camera, holograms reconstruction noise, camera noise and signal sampling. Results of numerical simulation demonstrate high speed (several gigabytes per second), low bit error rate and high crypto-strength.

Supercapacitors incorporating hollow cobalt sulfide hexagonal nanosheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Zusing; Chen, Chia-Ying; Chang, Huan-Tsung

We have prepared hollow cobalt sulfide (CoS) hexagonal nanosheets (HNSs) from Co(NO 3) 2 and thioacetamide in the presence of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) at 100 °C under alkaline condition. The as-prepared hollow CoS HNSs have an average edge length ca. 110 ± 27 nm and an outer shell of 16 ± 4 nm in thickness from 500 counts. The CoS HNSs are deposited onto transparent fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates through a drop-dry process to prepare two types of supercapacitors (SCs); high rate and large per-area capacitance. The electrolyte used in this study is KOH (aq). The CoS HNSs (8 μg cm -2) electrodes exhibit excellent capacity properties, including high energy density (13.2 h kg -1), power density (17.5 kW kg -1), energy deliverable efficiency (81.3-85.3%), and stable cycle life (over 10,000 cycles) at a high discharge current density of 64.6 A g -1. With their fast charging and discharging rates (<3 s), the CoS HNSs show characteristics of high-rate SCs. The CoS HNS SCs having high mass loading (9.7 mg cm -2) provide high per-area capacitance of 1.35 F cm -2 and per-mass capacitance of 138 F g -1, respectively, showing characteristics of SCs with large per-area capacitance. Our results have demonstrated the potential of the CoS HNS electrodes hold great practical potential in many fields such as automobile and computer industries.

High-fiber rye diet increases ileal excretion of energy and macronutrients compared with low-fiber wheat diet independent of meal frequency in ileostomy subjects.

PubMed

Isaksson, Hanna; Landberg, Rikard; Sundberg, Birgitta; Lundin, Eva; Hallmans, Göran; Zhang, Jie-Xian; Tidehag, Per; Erik Bach Knudsen, Knud; Moazzami, Ali A; Aman, Per

2013-01-01

Whole-grain foods and cereal dietary fiber intake is associated with lower body weight. This may partly result from lower energy utilization of high-fiber diets. In the present study, the impact on ileal excretion of energy and macronutrients in response to a rye bread high-fiber diet compared to a refined wheat low-fiber diet was investigated. Furthermore, the effect of meal frequency on apparent absorption of nutrients was studied for the first time. Ten participants that had undergone ileostomy consumed standardized iso-caloric diets, including low-fiber wheat bread (20 g dietary fiber per day) for 2 weeks followed by high-fiber rye bread (52 g dietary fiber per day) for 2 weeks. The diets were consumed in an ordinary (three meals per day) and a nibbling (seven meals per day) meal frequency in a cross-over design. Ileal effluents were collected during 24 h at the third day of each of the four dietary periods and analyzed for gross energy and nutrient contents. The results showed that intake of rye bread high-fiber diet compared to the refined wheat low-fiber diet caused an increase in ileal excretion of energy and macronutrients. The effect was independent of meal frequency. This suggests that a high intake of rye may result in lower availability of macronutrients for small intestinal digestion and absorption. A regular intake of rye may therefore have implications for weight management.

Concomitant injuries are an important determinant of outcome of high-grade blunt hepatic trauma.

PubMed

Schnüriger, B; Inderbitzin, D; Schafer, M; Kickuth, R; Exadaktylos, A; Candinas, D

2009-01-01

Little is known about the clinical importance of concomitant injuries in polytraumatized patients with high-grade blunt liver injury. A retrospective single-centre study was performed to investigate the safety of non-operative management of liver injury and the impact of concomitant intra- and extra-abdominal injuries on clinical outcome. Some 183 patients with blunt liver injury were admitted to Berne University Hospital, Switzerland, between January 2000 and December 2006. Grade 3-5 injuries were considered to be high grade. Immediate laparotomy was required by 35 patients (19.1 per cent), owing to extrahepatic intra-abdominal injury (splenic and vascular injuries, perforations) in 21 cases. The mortality rate was 16.9 per cent; 22 of the 31 deaths were due to concomitant lesions. Of 81 patients with high-grade liver injury, 63 (78 per cent) were managed without surgery; liver-related and extra-abdominal complication rates in these patients were 11 and 17 per cent respectively. Grades 4 and 5 liver injury were associated with hepatic-related and extra-abdominal complications. Concomitant injuries are a major determinant of outcome in patients with blunt hepatic injury and should be given high priority by trauma surgeons. An algorithm for the management of blunt liver injury is proposed. Copyright (c) 2008 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Subnuclear foci quantification using high-throughput 3D image cytometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wadduwage, Dushan N.; Parrish, Marcus; Choi, Heejin; Engelward, Bevin P.; Matsudaira, Paul; So, Peter T. C.

2015-07-01

Ionising radiation causes various types of DNA damages including double strand breaks (DSBs). DSBs are often recognized by DNA repair protein ATM which forms gamma-H2AX foci at the site of the DSBs that can be visualized using immunohistochemistry. However most of such experiments are of low throughput in terms of imaging and image analysis techniques. Most of the studies still use manual counting or classification. Hence they are limited to counting a low number of foci per cell (5 foci per nucleus) as the quantification process is extremely labour intensive. Therefore we have developed a high throughput instrumentation and computational pipeline specialized for gamma-H2AX foci quantification. A population of cells with highly clustered foci inside nuclei were imaged, in 3D with submicron resolution, using an in-house developed high throughput image cytometer. Imaging speeds as high as 800 cells/second in 3D were achieved by using HiLo wide-field depth resolved imaging and a remote z-scanning technique. Then the number of foci per cell nucleus were quantified using a 3D extended maxima transform based algorithm. Our results suggests that while most of the other 2D imaging and manual quantification studies can count only up to about 5 foci per nucleus our method is capable of counting more than 100. Moreover we show that 3D analysis is significantly superior compared to the 2D techniques.

77 FR 4807 - Revised Fee Policy for Acceptance of Foreign Research Reactor Spent Nuclear Fuel From High-Income...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-31

...This notice announces a change in the fee policy by the Department of Energy (DOE) for receipt and management of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) from foreign research reactors (FRR) containing uranium enriched in the U.S. in countries with high-income economies, as identified in the World Bank Development Report. The fee will increase in three phases (See Table 1) for all future SNF shipments (including Training, Research, Isotopes, General Atomics (TRIGA) from high-income economy countries. The first phase will take effect immediately and the fee will increase from no higher than $3,750 per kg total mass (not heavy metal mass) to $5,625 per kg total mass for SNF containing low enriched uranium (LEU). The second phase will be implemented automatically on January 1, 2014, and the fees will increase from $5,625 per kg total mass to $7,500 per kg total mass for shipments of SNF containing LEU and from no higher than $4,500 per kg total mass to $6,750 per kg total mass for SNF containing highly enriched uranium (HEU). The third phase will be implemented automatically on January 1, 2016, and the fee will increase from $6,750 per kg total mass to $9,000 per kg total mass for shipments of SNF containing HEU. DOE is also implementing a new minimum fee of $200,000 per shipment of any type and amount of eligible SNF to reflect a minimum cost of providing acceptance services. This minimum fee will take effect immediately. In the case where a reactor operator already has a signed and executed contract with DOE, DOE intends to negotiate an equitable adjustment to the fee in accordance with this revised fee policy. Under this revised fee policy, the fee for return of TRIGA fuel will be the same as that of aluminum based fuel. All other aspects of the fee policy are unaffected by this Notice. This is the first fee increase since the fee policy was established in 1996, and will help DOE offset a portion of the increase in operation costs of managing SNF. DOE will continue to pay the costs for shipping, receipt and management of SNF from other than high-income economy countries. All other conditions and policies as previously established for acceptance of FRR SNF will continue to apply. DOE reserves the right to revise the fee policy at any time to respond to changed circumstances. DOE also reserves the right to adjust the fee set in an acceptance contract if there are unique and compelling circumstances that make it in DOE's best interest to do so.

Antibacterial Resistance, Wayampis Amerindians, French Guyana

PubMed Central

Grenet, Karine; Guillemot, Didier; Jarlier, Vincent; Moreau, Brigitte; Dubourdieu, Stéphane; Ruimy, Raymond; Armand-Lefevre, Laurence; Bau, Pierre

2004-01-01

Drug resistance in fecal bacteria was high in Wayampis Amerindians who did not take antibacterial agents and were not hospitalized for 1 year. In the Wayampis Amerindians, an isolated traditional community in French Guyana, antibacterial use was 0.64 treatments per person per year. Hospitalization rate was 6.1% per year. Antibacterial drug–resistant bacteria can spread in persons who are not taking antibacterial agents. PMID:15207074

EFFECTS OF ULTRAVIOLET-B IRRADIANCE ON SOYBEAN. V. THE DEPENDENCE OF PLANT SENSITIVITY ON THE PHOTOSYNTHETIC PHOTON FLUX DENSITY DURING AND AFTER LEAF EXPANSION

EPA Science Inventory

Soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr. cv Essex) were grown in a green house, and the first trifoliate leaf was either allowed to expand under a high photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) (1.4 millimoled per square meter per second) or a low PPFD (0.8 Millimoles per square meter pe...

Systematic review of the incidence and prevalence of genital warts

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Anogenital warts (AGWs) are a common, highly infectious disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), whose high recurrence rates contribute to direct medical costs, productivity loss and increased psychosocial impact. Because of the lack of a systematic review of the epidemiology of AGWs in the literature, this study reviewed the published medical literature on the incidence and prevalence of AGWs. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed on the worldwide incidence and prevalence of AGWs between 2001 and 2012 using the PubMed and EMBASE databases. An additional screening of abstracts from relevant sexual health and infectious disease conferences from 2009 to 2011 was also conducted. Only original studies with general adult populations (i.e., at least including ages 20 through 40 years) were included. Results The overall (females and males combined) reported annual incidence of any AGWs (including new and recurrent) ranged from 160 to 289 per 100,000, with a median of 194.5 per 100,000. New AGW incidence rates among males ranged from 103 to 168 per 100,000, with a median of 137 per 100,000 and among females from 76 to 191 per 100,000, with a median of 120.5 per 100,000 per annum. The reported incidence of recurrent AGWs was as high as 110 per 100,000 among females and 163 per 100,000 among males. Incidence peaked before 24 years of age in females and between 25 and 29 years of age among males. The overall prevalence of AGWs based on retrospective administrative databases or medical chart reviews or prospectively collected physician reports ranged from 0.13% to 0.56%, whereas it ranged from 0.2% to 5.1% based on genital examinations. Conclusions The literature suggests that AGWs are widespread and the prevalence depends on study methodology as suggested by higher rates reported from routine genital examinations versus those from treatment records. However, there remains a need for more population-based studies from certain regions including Africa, Latin America and Southern Asia to further elucidate the global epidemiology of this disease. PMID:23347441

Endectocide activity of a pour-on formulation containing 1.5 per cent ivermectin +0.5 per cent abamectin in cattle.

PubMed

Silva, Heloisa Cristina; Prette, Nancy; Lopes, Welber Daniel Zanetti; Sakamoto, Cláudio Alessandro M; Buzzulini, Carolina; Dos Santos, Thais Rabelo; Cruz, Breno Cayeiro; Teixeira, Weslen F Pires; Felippelli, Gustavo; Carvalho, Rafael Silveira; Maciel, Willian Giquelin; Soares, Vando Edésio; da Costa, Alvimar José

2015-01-01

The present work aimed to evaluate, through ten different studies, the therapeutic efficacy of a new pour-on formulation, containing 1.5 per cent ivermectin +0.5 per cent abamectin, against parasites of cattle. Results obtained on trials against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus showed that the pour-on combination of 1.5 per cent ivermectin +0.5 per cent abamectin obtained superior efficacy indexes against this ectoparasite, when compared with formulations containing 0.5 per cent ivermectin, 1 per cent ivermectin and the combination of 1 per cent abamectin +20 per cent levamisole. The results of efficacy of the ivermectin+abamectin and the 0.5 per cent ivermectin against Haematobia irritans were similar. Against Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae, all pour-on formulations tested (1.5 per cent ivermectin +0.5 per cent abamectin, 0.5 per cent ivermectin and 0.5 per cent abamectin), as well as 1 per cent doramectin administered subcutaneously, were considered ineffective. Cattle medicated with 1.5 per cent ivermectin +0.5 per cent abamectin, pour-on, remained free from parasitism by Dermatobia hominis larvae during 42 days (96 per cent efficacy), while values superior to 90 per cent were obtained by 0.5 per cent ivermectin (92 per cent) and 0.5 per cent abamectin (93 per cent) until the 42nd and 35th days post treatment, respectively. Against Haemonchus placei and Oesophagostomum radiatum, the pour-on of ivermectin+abamectin showed better efficacy than the 0.5 per cent ivermectin and 0.5 per cent abamectin. As to Cooperia punctata, there was no difference regarding efficacy results obtained by the avermectins combination and abamectin. The pour-on combination of 1.5 per cent ivermectin +0.5 per cent abamectin obtained high efficacy against R. (B.) microplus, D. hominis and some species of cattle gastrointestinal helminths when compared with formulations of 0.5 per cent ivermectin and 0.5 per cent abamectin administered through the same route.

Pre- and post-operative dizziness, tinnitus, and taste disturbances among cochlear implant recipients.

PubMed

Mikkelsen, K S; Ovesen, T; Swan, C Z

2017-04-01

To determine the pre- and post-operative prevalence of dizziness, tinnitus and taste disturbances in adult cochlear implant recipients. A questionnaire regarding pre- and post-operative dizziness, tinnitus and taste disturbances was sent to 170 cochlear implant recipients implanted between January 2003 and March 2009. Seventy-seven patients (41 per cent) responded. Pre-operatively, 20 per cent of the participants experienced dizziness, 52 per cent experienced tinnitus and 3 per cent experienced taste disturbances. Post-operative dizziness developed in 46 per cent of patients and resolved in the majority of these; however, 15 per cent reported dizziness more than six months after implantation. Tinnitus worsened in 25 per cent of patients, whereas 73 per cent reported attenuation or termination of tinnitus. Post-operatively, tinnitus developed in 12 per cent and taste disturbances developed in 17 per cent of the patients. The high prevalence of dizziness, tinnitus and taste disturbances reported by cochlear implant recipients necessitates that assessment of symptoms related to inner ear and chorda tympani damage are included when evaluating operative results.

The effect of high concentrations of glufosinate ammonium on the yield components of transgenic spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) constitutively expressing the bar gene.

PubMed

Áy, Zoltán; Mihály, Róbert; Cserháti, Mátyás; Kótai, Éva; Pauk, János

2012-01-01

We present an experiment done on a bar(+) wheat line treated with 14 different concentrations of glufosinate ammonium-an effective component of nonselective herbicides-during seed germination in a closed experimental system. Yield components as number of spikes per plant, number of grains per spike, thousand kernel weight, and yield per plant were thoroughly analysed and statistically evaluated after harvesting. We found that a concentration of glufosinate ammonium 5000 times the lethal dose was not enough to inhibit the germination of transgenic plants expressing the bar gene. Extremely high concentrations of glufosinate ammonium caused a bushy phenotype, significantly lower numbers of grains per spike, and thousand kernel weights. Concerning the productivity, we observed that concentrations of glufosinate ammonium 64 times the lethal dose did not lead to yield depression. Our results draw attention to the possibilities implied in the transgenic approaches.

High-speed ultraviolet photometry of HD 60435

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, M.; Nelson, M. J.; Bless, R. C.; Dolan, J. F.; Elliot, J. L.; Percival, J. W.; Robinson, E. L.; Van Citters, G. W.

1993-01-01

We present the first high-speed ultraviolet photometry of an oscillating Ap star, HD 60435. After removing known orbital effects related to the Hubble Space Telescope, we confirm the presence of a strong pulsation period at a frequency of 123.70 cycles per day. In addition, we find significant amplitude modulation of this frequency that we suggest could be the result of beating of multiple periodicities. In this context, we suggest evidence for the presence of four additional frequencies at nu = 120.56, 126.55, 149.49, and 221.03 cycles per day. Three of these frequencies correspond well to frequencies detected in optical observations of HD 60435. The fourth, at 149.49 cycles per day, if real, is a potentially new pulsation mode that has not been detected in ground-based observations of this star. The amplitude of the 123 cycles per day pulsation is significantly larger in the ultraviolet than it is in the blue.

Prevalence of dental fluorosis & dental caries in association with high levels of drinking water fluoride content in a district of Gujarat, India.

PubMed

Kotecha, P V; Patel, S V; Bhalani, K D; Shah, D; Shah, V S; Mehta, K G

2012-06-01

Endemic fluorosis resulting from high fluoride concentration in groundwater is a major public health problem in India. This study was carried out to measure and compare the prevalence of dental fluorosis and dental caries in the population residing in high and normal level of fluoride in their drinking water in Vadodara district, Gujarat, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Vadodara district, six of the 261 villages with high fluoride level and five of 1490 with normal fluoride level in drinking water were selected. The data collection was made by house-to-house visits twice during the study period. The dental fluorosis prevalence in high fluoride area was 59.31 per cent while in normal fluoride area it was 39.21 per cent. The prevalence of dental caries in high fluoride area was 39.53 per cent and in normal fluoride area was 48.21 per cent with CI 6.16 to 11.18. Dental fluorosis prevalence was more among males as compared to females. Highest prevalence of dental fluorosis was seen in 12-24 yr age group. The risk of dental fluorosis was higher in the areas showing more fluoride content in drinking water and to a lesser degree of dental caries in the same area. High fluoride content is a risk factor for dental fluorosis and problem of dental fluorosis increased with passage of time suggesting that the fluoride content in the water has perhaps increased over time. Longitudinal studies should be conducted to confirm the findings.

CD4 cell responses to combination antiretroviral therapy in patients starting therapy at high CD4 cell counts.

PubMed

Wright, Stephen T; Carr, Andrew; Woolley, Ian; Giles, Michelle; Hoy, Jennifer; Cooper, David A; Law, Matthew G

2011-09-01

To examine CD4 cell responses to combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in patients enrolled in the Australian HIV Observational Database who commenced cART at CD4 cell counts >350 cells per microliter. CD4 cell counts were modelled using random effects, repeated measurement models in 432 HIV-infected adults from Australian HIV Observational Database who commenced their first cART regimen and had a baseline CD4 count >350 cells per microliter. Using published AIDS and/or death incidence rates combined with the data summarized by time and predicted CD4 cell count, we calculated the expected reduction in risk of an event for different starting baseline CD4 strata. Mean CD4 counts increased above 500 cells per microliter in all baseline CD4 strata by 12 months (means of 596, 717, and 881 cells/μL in baseline CD4 strata 351-500, 501-650, and >650 cells/μL, respectively) and after 72 months since initiating cART, mean CD4 cell counts (by increasing baseline CD4 strata) were 689, 746, 742 cells per microliter. The expected reduction in risk of mortality for baseline CD4 counts >650 cells per microliter relative to 351-500 cells per microliter was approximately 8%, an absolute risk reduction 0.33 per 1000 treated patient-years. Patients starting cART at high CD4 cell counts (>650 cells/μL) tend to maintain this immunological level over 6 years of follow-up. Patients starting from 351 to 500 CD4 cells per microliter achieve levels of >650 cells per microliter after approximately 3 years of cART. Initiating cART with a baseline CD4 count 501-650 or >650 cells per microliter relative to 351-500 cells per microliter indicated a minimal reduction in risk of AIDS incidence and/or death.

Whole-body protein turnover of a carnivore, Felis silvestris catus.

PubMed

Russell, K; Lobley, G E; Millward, D J

2003-01-01

The cat (Felis silvestris catus) has a higher dietary protein requirement than omnivores and herbivores, thought to be due to metabolic inflexibility. An aspect of metabolic flexibility was examined with studies of whole-body protein turnover at two levels of dietary protein energy, moderate protein (MP; 20 %) and high protein (HP; 70 %), in five adult cats in a crossover design. Following a 14 d pre-feed period, a single intravenous dose of [15N]glycine was administered and cumulative excretion of the isotope in urine and faeces determined over 48 h. N flux increased (P<0.005) with dietary protein, being 56 (se 5) mmol N/kg body weight (BW) per d for cats fed the MP diet and 146 (se 8) mmol N/kg BW per d for cats fed the HP diet. Protein synthesis was higher (P<0.05) on the HP diet (75 (se 10) mmol N/kg BW per d; 6.6 (se 1) g protein/kg BW per d) than the MP diet (38 (se 5) mmol N/kg BW per d; 3.4 (se 0.4) g protein/kg BW per d). Protein breakdown was higher (P<0.05) on the HP diet (72 (se 8) mmol N/kg BW per d; 6.3 (se 0.7) g protein/kg BW per d) than the MP diet (44 (se 3) mmol N/kg BW per d; 3.9 (se 0.3) g protein/kg BW per d). Compared with other species the rate of whole-body protein synthesis in the well-nourished cat (9.7 (se 1.3) g protein/kg BW0.75 per d) is at the lower end of the range. These results show that feline protein turnover adapts to dietary protein as has been shown in other species and demonstrates metabolic flexibility. Further work is required to determine exactly why cats have such a high protein requirement.

Dose of Prophylactic Platelet Transfusions and Prevention of Hemorrhage

PubMed Central

Slichter, Sherrill J.; Kaufman, Richard M.; Assmann, Susan F.; McCullough, Jeffrey; Triulzi, Darrell J.; Strauss, Ronald G.; Gernsheimer, Terry B.; Ness, Paul M.; Brecher, Mark E.; Josephson, Cassandra D.; Konkle, Barbara A.; Woodson, Robert D.; Ortel, Thomas L.; Hillyer, Christopher D.; Skerrett, Donna L.; McCrae, Keith R.; Sloan, Steven R.; Uhl, Lynne; George, James N.; Aquino, Victor M.; Manno, Catherine S.; McFarland, Janice G.; Hess, John R.; Leissinger, Cindy; Granger, Suzanne

2010-01-01

BACKGROUND We conducted a trial of prophylactic platelet transfusions to evaluate the effect of platelet dose on bleeding in patients with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia. METHODS We randomly assigned hospitalized patients undergoing hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation or chemotherapy for hematologic cancers or solid tumors to receive prophylactic platelet transfusions at a low dose, a medium dose, or a high dose (1.1×1011, 2.2×1011, or 4.4×1011 platelets per square meter of body-surface area, respectively), when morning platelet counts were 10,000 per cubic millimeter or lower. Clinical signs of bleeding were assessed daily. The primary end point was bleeding of grade 2 or higher (as defined on the basis of World Health Organization criteria). RESULTS In the 1272 patients who received at least one platelet transfusion, the primary end point was observed in 71%, 69%, and 70% of the patients in the low-dose group, the medium-dose group, and the high-dose group, respectively (differences were not significant). The incidences of higher grades of bleeding, and other adverse events, were similar among the three groups. The median number of platelets transfused was significantly lower in the low-dose group (9.25×1011) than in the medium-dose group (11.25×1011) or the high-dose group (19.63×1011) (P = 0.002 for low vs. medium, P<0.001 for high vs. low and high vs. medium), but the median number of platelet transfusions given was significantly higher in the low-dose group (five, vs. three in the medium-dose and three in the high-dose group; P<0.001 for low vs. medium and low vs. high). Bleeding occurred on 25% of the study days on which morning platelet counts were 5000 per cubic millimeter or lower, as compared with 17% of study days on which platelet counts were 6000 to 80,000 per cubic millimeter (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Low doses of platelets administered as a prophylactic transfusion led to a decreased number of platelets transfused per patient but an increased number of transfusions given. At doses between 1.1×1011 and 4.4×1011 platelets per square meter, the number of platelets in the prophylactic transfusion had no effect on the incidence of bleeding. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00128713.) PMID:20164484

Determination of pentachlorophenol in water and aquifer sediments by high-performance liquid chromatography

USGS Publications Warehouse

Goerlitz, D.F.

1981-01-01

Methods for the determination of pentachlorophenol (PCP) in water and aquifer sediments are presented. Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromotography employing ion suppression and gradient elution is used. PCP can be determined directly in water at a lower limit of detection Of 0.2 micrograms per liter. For extracts of sediment, PCP can be determined to a lower limit of 1.0 micrograms per kilogram.

Ecological analysis of teen birth rates: association with community income and income inequality.

PubMed

Gold, R; Kawachi, I; Kennedy, B P; Lynch, J W; Connell, F A

2001-09-01

To examine whether per capita income and income inequality are independently associated with teen birth rate in populous U.S. counties. This study used 1990 U.S. Census data and National Center for Health Statistics birth data. Income inequality was measured with the 90:10 ratio, a ratio of percent of cumulative income held by the richest and poorest population deciles. Linear regression and analysis of variance were used to assess associations between county-level average income, income inequality, and teen birth rates among counties with population greater than 100,000. Among teens aged 15-17, income inequality and per capita income were independently associated with birth rate; the mean birth rate was 54 per 1,000 in counties with low income and high income inequality, and 19 per 1,000 in counties with high income and low inequality. Among older teens (aged 18-19) only per capita income was significantly associated with birth rate. Although teen childbearing is the result of individual behaviors, these findings suggest that community-level factors such as income and income inequality may contribute significantly to differences in teen birth rates.

The Obligate Human Pathogen, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Is Polyploid

PubMed Central

Tobiason, Deborah M; Seifert, H. Steven

2006-01-01

We show using several methodologies that the Gram-negative, diplococcal-bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae has more than one complete genome copy per cell. Gene dosage measurements demonstrated that only a single replication initiation event per chromosome occurs per round of cell division, and that there is a single origin of replication. The region containing the origin does not encode any genes previously associated with bacterial origins of replication. Quantitative PCR results showed that there are on average three genome copies per coccal cell unit. These findings allow a model for gonococcal DNA replication and cell division to be proposed, in which a minimum of two chromosomal copies exist per coccal unit within a monococcal or diplococcal cell, and these chromosomes replicate in unison to produce four chromosomal copies during cell division. Immune evasion via antigenic variation is an important mechanism that allows these organisms to continually infect a high risk population of people. We propose that polyploidy may be necessary for the high frequency gene conversion system that mediates pilin antigenic variation and the propagation of N. gonorrhoeae within its human hosts. PMID:16719561

Association of Antihypertensive Medication Adherence With Healthcare Use and Medicaid Expenditures for Acute Cardiovascular Events.

PubMed

Yang, Zhuo; Howard, David H; Will, Julie; Loustalot, Fleetwood; Ritchey, Matthew; Roy, Kakoli

2016-05-01

We assessed the impact of antihypertensive medication (AHM) adherence on the incidence and associated Medicaid costs of acute cardiovascular disease (CVD) events among Medicaid beneficiaries. The study cohort (n=59,037) consists of nonelderly adults continuously enrolled (36 mo and above) in a Medicaid fee-for-service program. AHM adherence was calculated using the medication possession ratio (MPR) and stratified to low (MPR<60%), moderate (60%≤MPR<80%), and high (MPR≥80%) levels. We used a proportional hazard model to estimate risk for acute CVD events and generalized linear models to estimate Medicaid per-patient-per-year costs. Low and moderate adherence subgroups had about 1.8 and 1.4 times higher risk of acute CVD events, compared with high adherence subgroup. By adherence level, Medicaid per-patient per-year costs for (1) CVD-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations were $661 (low), $479 (moderate), and $343 (high) and (2) AHMs were $430 (low), $604 (moderate), and $664 (high). Costs for CVD events and AHMs combined were similar across adherence subgroups. Lower adherence to AHM was associated with progressively higher CVD risk. The increase in medication cost from higher AHM adherence was offset solely by reduced Medicaid spending on acute CVD events.

Sister Earth, Our Common Home: Toward a Sustainable, Planet Friendly Approach to Dialysis, a Paradigm of High Technology Medicine.

PubMed

Piccoli, Giorgina Barbara; Mery, David

2017-11-01

In our high-technology, highly polluted world, medicine plays an important role balancing saving lives with the expenses of growing amounts of waste products, not only biologically dangerous (the potentially "contaminated" or "hazardous" waste) but also potentially harmful for the planet (nonrecyclable, plastic waste). Dialysis, the prototype of high-technology medicine, is central to these problems, as the present treatment of about 2 million patients produces an enormous quantity of waste (considering hazardous waste only about 2 kg per session, with 160 sessions per year, that is 320 kg per patient, or about 640,000 tons of hazardous waste per year for 2 million patients, roughly corresponding to 6 nuclear aircraft carriers). Furthermore, obsolete dialysis machines, and water treatments are discharged, adding to the "technological waste." Water produced by the reverse osmosis is also discharged; this is the only nonhazardous, nonpolluting waste, but in particular in dry areas, wasting water is a great ecologic concern. The present review is aimed at discussing strategies already in place and to be further implemented for reducing this particular "uremic toxin" for the earth: dialysis waste, including dialysis disposables, water, and dialysis machines. Copyright © 2017 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Acclimation of isoprene emission and photosynthesis to growth temperature in hybrid aspen: resolving structural and physiological controls

PubMed Central

Rasulov, Bahtijor; Bichele, Irina; Hüve, Katja; Vislap, Vivian; Niinemets, Ülo

2018-01-01

Acclimation of foliage to growth temperature involves both structural and physiological modifications, but the relative importance of these two mechanisms of acclimation is poorly known, especially for isoprene emission responses. We grew hybrid aspen (Populus tremula x P. tremuloides) under control (day/night temperature of 25/20 °C) and high temperature conditions (35/27 °C) to gain insight into the structural and physiological acclimation controls. Growth at high temperature resulted in larger and thinner leaves with smaller and more densely packed chloroplasts and with lower leaf dry mass per area (MA). High growth temperature also led to lower photosynthetic and respiration rates, isoprene emission rate and leaf pigment content and isoprene substrate dimethylallyl diphosphate pool size per unit area, but to greater stomatal conductance. However, the declining characteristics were similar when expressed per unit dry mass, indicating that the area-based differences were primarily driven by MA. Acclimation to high temperature further increased heat stability of photosynthesis, and increased activation energies for isoprene emission and isoprene synthase rate constant. This study demonstrates that temperature acclimation of photosynthetic and isoprene emission characteristics per unit leaf area was primarily driven by structural modifications, and we argue that future studies investigating acclimation to growth temperature must consider structural modifications. PMID:25158785

DC type 2 polarization depends on both the allergic status of the individual and protease activity of Per a 10.

PubMed

Goel, Chhavi; Gaur, S N; Bhati, Gaurav; Arora, Naveen

2015-10-01

Cockroach proteases are important risk factors for asthma development in predisposed individuals. In the present study, effect of allergic status of patients on DCs polarization in response to protease allergen Per a 10 was investigated. Cockroach-allergic, other-allergic patients and healthy individuals were selected following the guidelines of ATS/ARIA. Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) were generated from the selected individuals and stimulated with Per a 10. Flow cytometric analysis showed a significantly high expression of CD80 and CD86 on DCs from cockroach-allergic patients after Per a 10 stimulation as compared to healthy individuals or other-allergic patients (P<0.05). Per a 10 induced comparable level of CD83 expression on DCs from all the 3 groups, showing it was irrespective of the allergic status. CD40 expression was significantly low (P<0.05) on the DCs from cockroach-allergic patients as compared to healthy individuals or other-allergic patients. Further, proteolytically active Per a 10 induced lower CD40 expression on DCs than the heat-inactivated Per a 10 (P<0.05) indicating role of protease activity in the generation of an immune response. The sCD40 level in active Per a 10 stimulated DC cultures was significantly higher than in heat-inactivated Per a 10 (P<0.05). There was two-fold decrease (P<0.05) in IL-12 production by active Per a 10-stimulated DCs than heat-inactivated Per a 10-stimulated DCs. Per a 10-stimulated DCs from cockroach-allergic patients secreted high levels of IL-5, IL-6, TNF-α than that from healthy individuals or other-allergic patients (P<0.05). Furthermore, Per a 10-stimulated DCs from cockroach-allergic patients induced increased secretions of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, TNF-α and low IL-12 by T cells as compared to those from other groups (P<0.05). Thus, in presence of Per a 10 allergen, polarization of DCs shifts toward type 2 in cockroach-allergic patients but not in the healthy individuals or other-allergic patients. In conclusion, both allergic status of the individual and protease activity of Per a 10 are important parameters that participate in DCs polarization. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Personal Health Care Expenditures by State, Selected Years 1966-1978

PubMed Central

Levit, Katharine R.

1982-01-01

In 1966, spending for personal health care in the U.S. was $39 billion. By 1978, these expenditures had grown to $166 billion. Among regions and states, different patterns and levels of spending emerged, along with different rates of growth. Some of the highlights from the accompanying report which pinpoint personal health care spending differences among regions and states are listed below. In 1978, $745 per person was spent for personal health care services within the U.S. Massachusetts led the nation in spending with $935 per person. The lowest spending for personal health—$521 per capita—occurred in South Carolina.Expenditures for hospital care ranged from a high of $490 per capita in Massachusetts to a low of $197 per capita in Idaho, with the U.S. expenditure level at $337 per person.Spending for physician services in 1978 was $161 per person nationwide. The highest level of spending—$238—was in California, and the lowest—$90—was in Vermont. Florida, with the largest proportion of aged residents in the U.S., registered expenditure levels of $208 per person for physician services. Despite a 29.5 percent increase nationwide in the number of physicians from 1969 to 1978, little change has occurred in the rank of states and regions in their physician-to-population concentrations.Minnesota led the nation in nursing home care expenditures, spending $126 per person for this service in 1978. Minnesota's high per capita spending for nursing home care correlates with its large number of nursing home beds per 65 years of age and over population. In 1978, the 96 beds per 1000 elderly residents which were maintained in Minnesota contrasted sharply with the 56 beds maintained per 1000 elderly residents nationwide.Personal health care expenditures per capita grew an average of 11.6 percent per year between 1966 and 1978. Growth was most dramatic in the Southeast, where expenditures per capita more than quadrupled, growing 12.6 percent per year. Mississippi registered an average annual growth rate of 14.0 percent to lead the region and the nation in rate of increase in per capita personal health care spending growth. The region with the smallest rate of increase in personal health expenditures per capita was the Rocky Mountain Region with an average annual growth of 10.4 percent between 1966 and 1978. Wyoming registered the slowest growth in personal health care expenditures per capita in that region and the nation, with 8.9 percent average annual growth.Expenditures for personal health care in states and regions have grown at different rates. However, when the effects of population and the changing age structure of a geographic area are removed, much of the variation disappears. PMID:10309908

Isotopic composition of sulphates from meteoric precipitation as an indicator of pollutant origin in Wrocław (SW Poland).

PubMed

Gorka, Maciej; Jedrysek, Mariusz-Orion; Strapoc, Dariusz

2008-06-01

This paper describes the results of isotopic analyses of (i) hydrogen and oxygen in water (delta DH2O and delta18OH2O ) and (ii) sulphur and oxygen in sulphates (delta34Ssulphate and delta18Osulphate) from atmospheric precipitation collected within a one-year period between 25 May 2004 and 25 May 2005 in Wrocław (SW Poland). The resulting equation of Local Meteoric Water Line for Wrocław is delta D=6.373xdelta18O-0.047, (r2=0.97, n=32). The delta34Ssulphate varies from 1.1 to 4.2 per thousand (with an average of 2.5 per thousand), delta18Osulphate varies from 9.0 to 16.7 per thousand (with an average of 13.8 per thousand) and delta18OH2O varies from-0.8 to-16.3 per thousand (with an average of-8.2 per thousand). The above results indicate two main sources of sulphates in Wrocław precipitation: (i) low-temperature secondary sulphates forming in situ in Wrocław from the atmospheric SO2 as well as precipitation water (heterogeneous and homogeneous pathways oxidation) and (ii) high-temperature primary sulphates forming in rapid high-temperature hydratation of SO3- in an immediate proximity of industrial chimneys. We hypothesise that the secondary low-temperature type of sulphates is probably formed from the local sulphur and oxygen reservoirs, whereas the primary high-temperature type is allochthonous and it is probably transported from industrial areas located outside of Wrocław.

Critical swimming speed of brown trout (Salmo trutta) infested with freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) glochidia and implications for artificial breeding of an endangered mussel species.

PubMed

Taeubert, Jens-Eike; Geist, Juergen

2013-04-01

Unionid freshwater mussels need to attach to a host fish for completion of their life cycle. It remains unclear whether the relationship between these mussels and their host fishes can be considered parasitic, mutualistic, or commensal. Herein, we studied the effects of Margaritifera margaritifera infestation on Salmo trutta, the most important host of this endangered mussel species in Central Europe. Glochidial load of host fish increased with increasing glochidial concentration, but the highest ratios of encysted glochidia to exposed glochidia were found at low concentration (15,000 glochidia L(-1)) during infestation. Host fish mortality occurred at infestation rates of ~350 glochidia per g fish weight and was highest (60%) at the highest infestation rates (~900 glochidia per g fish weight). On a sublethal level, swimming performance of hosts was inversely related to infestation rates, with infestation of ~900 glochidia per g fish weight reducing critical swimming speed of S. trutta significantly by ~20% compared to infestation with 6 glochidia per g fish weight. The high mortality and the impaired swimming capability of highly infested hosts indicate a parasitic interaction between M. margaritifera and its host. For conservation and reintroduction of M. margaritifera via glochidia-infested S. trutta, we recommend glochidial loads of 5-100 glochidia per g fish weight, while for artificial breeding of juvenile M. margaritifera under laboratory conditions, higher infestation rates of up to 300 glochidia per g fish weight are ideal to balance high yields of mussels and welfare of host fishes.

Cost-effectiveness of skin-barrier-enhancing emollients among preterm infants in Bangladesh

PubMed Central

LeFevre, Amnesty; Shillcutt, Samuel D; Saha, Samir K; Ahmed, ASM Nawshad Uddin; Ahmed, Saifuddin; Chowdhury, MAK Azad; Law, Paul A; Black, Robert; Santosham, Mathuram

2010-01-01

Abstract Objective To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of topical emollients, sunflower seed oil (SSO) and synthetic Aquaphor, versus no treatment, in preventing mortality among hospitalized preterm infants (< 33 weeks gestation) at a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh. Methods Evidence from a randomized controlled efficacy trial was evaluated using standard Monte Carlo simulation. Programme costs were obtained from a retrospective review of activities. Patient costs were collected from patient records. Health outcomes were calculated as deaths averted and discounted years of life lost (YLLs) averted. Results were deemed cost-effective if they fell below a ceiling ratio based on the per capita gross national income of Bangladesh (United States dollars, US$ 470). Findings Aquaphor and SSO were both highly cost-effective relative to control, reducing neonatal mortality by 26% and 32%, respectively. SSO cost US$ 61 per death averted and US$ 2.15 per YLL averted (I$ 6.39, international dollars, per YLL averted). Aquaphor cost US$ 162 per death averted and US$ 5.74 per YLL averted (I$ 17.09 per YLL averted). Results were robust to sensitivity analysis. Aquaphor was cost-effective relative to SSO with 77% certainty: it cost an incremental US$ 26 more per patient treated, but averted 1.25 YLLs (US$ 20.74 per YLL averted). Conclusion Topical therapy with SSO or Aquaphor was highly cost-effective in reducing deaths from infection among the preterm neonates studied. The choice of emollient should be made taking into account budgetary limitations and ease of supply. Further research is warranted on additional locally available emollients, use of emollients in community-based settings and generalizability to other geographic regions. PMID:20428367

Titanium biomaterials with complex surfaces induced aberrant peripheral circadian rhythms in bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells.

PubMed

Hassan, Nathaniel; McCarville, Kirstin; Morinaga, Kenzo; Mengatto, Cristiane M; Langfelder, Peter; Hokugo, Akishige; Tahara, Yu; Colwell, Christopher S; Nishimura, Ichiro

2017-01-01

Circadian rhythms maintain a high level of homeostasis through internal feed-forward and -backward regulation by core molecules. In this study, we report the highly unusual peripheral circadian rhythm of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) induced by titanium-based biomaterials with complex surface modifications (Ti biomaterial) commonly used for dental and orthopedic implants. When cultured on Ti biomaterials, human BMSCs suppressed circadian PER1 expression patterns, while NPAS2 was uniquely upregulated. The Ti biomaterials, which reduced Per1 expression and upregulated Npas2, were further examined with BMSCs harvested from Per1::luc transgenic rats. Next, we addressed the regulatory relationship between Per1 and Npas2 using BMSCs from Npas2 knockout mice. The Npas2 knockout mutation did not rescue the Ti biomaterial-induced Per1 suppression and did not affect Per2, Per3, Bmal1 and Clock expression, suggesting that the Ti biomaterial-induced Npas2 overexpression was likely an independent phenomenon. Previously, vitamin D deficiency was reported to interfere with Ti biomaterial osseointegration. The present study demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation significantly increased Per1::luc expression in BMSCs, though the presence of Ti biomaterials only moderately affected the suppressed Per1::luc expression. Available in vivo microarray data from femurs exposed to Ti biomaterials in vitamin D-deficient rats were evaluated by weighted gene co-expression network analysis. A large co-expression network containing Npas2, Bmal1, and Vdr was observed to form with the Ti biomaterials, which was disintegrated by vitamin D deficiency. Thus, the aberrant BMSC peripheral circadian rhythm may be essential for the integration of Ti biomaterials into bone.

Dogs attending primary-care practice in England with clinical signs suggestive of Chiari-like malformation/syringomyelia.

PubMed

Sanchis-Mora, S; Pelligand, L; Thomas, C L; Volk, H A; Abeyesinghe, S M; Brodbelt, D C; Church, D B; Thomson, P C; McGreevy, P D; O'Neill, D G

2016-10-29

Chiari-like malformation/syringomyelia (CM/SM) in dogs describes a developmental disorder that can cause pain and reduced quality of life. This retrospective study aimed to report the period prevalence, clinical signs and risk factors for diagnosis of symptomatic CM/SM in the veterinary primary-care setting using a cross-sectional design. The study population included all dogs within the VetCompass Programme (September 1, 2009-June 13, 2014). Overall, the period prevalence of symptomatic CM/SM was 0.05 per cent (95 per cent CI 0.04 per cent to 0.06 per cent) for all breeds. The period prevalence in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) was 1.6 per cent (95 per cent CI 1.2 to 2.06). Other breeds at increased odds included the King Charles Spaniel (KCS), Affenpinscher, Chihuahua and Pomeranian. Insured dogs had 4.6 times the odds (95 per cent CI 2.95 to 7.17) of having a diagnosis of CM/SM compared with uninsured dogs. Pain was the most commonly associated clinical sign (67 dogs, 72 per cent). Analgesics were prescribed to 72 (77.4 per cent) of the symptomatic dogs. Despite its low overall period prevalence, the high proportion of affected dogs identified with chronic pain suggests a significant welfare issue. Financial implications could impede the diagnostic process and lead to underestimation of the true prevalence. This study may help to inform clinicians about the clinical relevance and the need for improved awareness of clinical signs, particularly in high-risk breeds, to optimise the management of CM/SM in primary-care practice. British Veterinary Association.

Genetic architecture, inter-relationship and selection criteria for yield improvement in rice (Oryza sativa L.).

PubMed

Yadav, S K; Pandey, P; Kumar, B; Suresh, B G

2011-05-01

This study has been conducted to determine the extent of genetic association between yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and its components. The present experiment was carried out with 40 Rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes which were evaluated in a randomized block design with 3 replications during wet season of 2007 and 2008. Results showed that sufficient amount of variability was found in the entire gene pool for all traits studied. Higher magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation was recorded for seed yield, harvest index, biological yield, number of spikelets per panicle, flag leaf length, plant height and number of tillers indicates that these characters are least influence by environment. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was registered for seed yield, harvest index, number of spikelets per panicle, biological yield and flag leaf length, suggesting preponderance of additive gene action in the expression of these characters. Grain yield was significantly and positively associated with harvest index, number of tillers per hill, number of panicle per plant, panicle length, number of spikelet's per panicle and test weight at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Path coefficient analysis revealed that harvest index, biological yield, number of tillers per hill, panicle length, number of spikelets per panicle, plant height and test weight had direct positive effect on seed yield, indicating these are the main contributors to yield. From this study it may be concluded that harvest index, number of tillers per hill, panicle length and number of spikelet per panicle and test weight are the most important characters that contributed directly to yield. Thus, these characters may serve selection criteria for improving genetic potential of rice.

High apoptotic index in urine cytology is associated with high-grade urothelial carcinoma.

PubMed

Yang, Chi-Shun; Chen, Shaoxiong; Cramer, Harvey M; Wu, Howard H

2016-08-01

The significance of apoptosis and its association with high-grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC) in urine cytology has yet to be determined. A computerized search of the study laboratory information system was performed over a 3-year period for all urine cytology specimens processed using the SurePath liquid-based preparation technique. Only those cases with correlating surgical pathology obtained within 6 months after the urine cytologic samples were included in the current study. Cases from ileal conduit samples were excluded. A semiquantitative numerical scoring system (apoptotic index) was used to assess the amount of pyknosis or karyorrhexis, with 0 indicating none, 1 indicating < 10 per 10 high-power fields, 2 indicating 10 to 30 per 10 high-power fields, and 3 indicating > 30 per 10 high-power fields. Statistical analysis using the Pearson chi-square test was performed. A total of 228 cases including 105 benign cases, 79 cases of HGUC, and 44 cases of low-grade urothelial carcinoma (LGUC) diagnosed on follow-up surgical pathology were selected. A score of 0 was observed in 70 benign, 11 HGUC, and 8 LGUC cases; a score of 1 was observed in 31 benign, 21 HGUC, and 23 LGUC cases; a score of 2 was observed in 3 benign, 27 HGUC, and 9 LGUC cases; and a score of 3 was observed in 1 benign, 20 HGUC, and 4 LGUC cases. Excluding ileal conduit urine specimens, the finding of a high apoptotic index (score ≥ 2) with the presence of pyknosis or karyorrhexis in ≥10 per 10 high-power fields in the urine cytology appears to be significantly associated with HGUC (P<.05). Cancer Cytopathol 2016;124:546-51. © 2016 American Cancer Society. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

Description of 2005-10 domestic water use for selected U.S. cities and guidance for estimating domestic water use

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kenny, Joan F.; Juracek, Kyle E.

2012-01-01

Domestic water-use and related socioeconomic and climatic data for 2005-10 were used in an analysis of 21 selected U.S. cities to describe recent domestic per capita water use, investigate variables that potentially affect domestic water use, and provide guidance for estimating domestic water use. Domestic water use may be affected by a combination of several factors. Domestic per capita water use for the selected cities ranged from a median annual average of 43 to 177 gallons per capita per day (gpcd). In terms of year-to-year variability in domestic per capita water use for the selected cities, the difference from the median ranged from ± 7 to ± 26 percent with an overall median variability of ± 14 percent. As a percentage of total annual water use, median annual domestic water use for the selected cities ranged from 33 to 71 percent with an overall median of 57 percent. Monthly production and water sales data were used to calculate daily per capita water use rates for the lowest 3 consecutive months (low-3) and the highest 3 consecutive months (high-3) of usage. Median low-3 domestic per capita water use for 16 selected cities ranged from 40 to 100 gpcd. Median high-3 domestic per capita water use for 16 selected cities ranged from 53 to 316 gpcd. In general, the median domestic water use as a percentage of the median total water use for 16 selected cities was similar for the low-3 and high-3 periods. Statistical analyses of combined data for the selected cities indicated that none of the socioeconomic variables, including cost of water, were potentially useful as determinants of domestic water use at the national level. However, specific socioeconomic variables may be useful for the estimation of domestic water use at the State or local level. Different socioeconomic variables may be useful in different States. Statistical analyses indicated that specific climatic variables may be useful for the estimation of domestic water use for some, but not all, of the selected cities. National average public supply per capita water use declined from 185 gpcd in 1990 to 171 gpcd in 2005. National average domestic delivery per capita water use declined from 105 gpcd in 1990 to 99 gpcd in 2005. Average State domestic delivery per capita water use ranged from 51 to 189 gpcd in 2005. The average annual total per capita water use in 19 selected cities that provided data for each year declined from 167 gpcd in 2006 to 145 gpcd in 2010. During this time period, average per capita water use measured during the low-3 period each year declined from 115 to 102 gpcd, and average per capita use measured during the high-3 period declined from 250 to 211 gpcd. Continued collection of data on water deliveries to domestic populations, as well as updated estimates of the population served by these deliveries, is recommended for determination of regional and temporal trends in domestic per capita water use. Declines in various measures of per capita water use have been observed in recent years for several States with municipal water use data-collection programs. Domestic self-supplied water use historically has not been metered. Estimates of self-supplied domestic water use are made using estimates of the population that is not served by public water suppliers and per capita coefficients. For 2005, the average State domestic self-supplied per capita use in the United States ranged from 50 to 206 gpcd. The median domestic self-supplied per capita use was 76 gpcd for States in which standard coefficients were used, and 98 gpcd for States in which coefficients were based on domestic deliveries from public supply. In specific areas with scarce resources or increasing numbers of households with private wells, an assessment of domestic water use may require metering of households or development of more specific per capita coefficients to estimate water demand.

[High-dosed gestagen therapy of the metastatic mammary carcinoma (author's transl)].

PubMed

Firusian, N; Becher, R

1981-12-01

Thirty patients with histologically proven metastatic mammary carcinoma were treated, after exhaustion of hormonal and cytostatic therapeutic means, with high-dosed medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) during a ten-day induction phase with 1000 mg MPAi.m. per day and then with 600 mg oral MPA per day. In eleven patients a complete or partial remission was achieved. The median period of remission comprised ten months. A positive relationship was found between the response to high-dosed MPA therapy and the length of free intervals. Side effects were tolerable.

16. LOOKING SOUTHEAST AT THE LINDE 1000 TONS PER DAY ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

16. LOOKING SOUTHEAST AT THE LINDE 1000 TONS PER DAY HIGH PURITY OXYGEN MAKING PLANT SHOWING THE TWIN OXYGEN FRACTIONATING TOWERS. - U.S. Steel Duquesne Works, Fuel & Utilities Plant, Along Monongahela River, Duquesne, Allegheny County, PA

Deep Packet/Flow Analysis using GPUs

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

Gong, Qian; Wu, Wenji; DeMar, Phil

Deep packet inspection (DPI) faces severe performance challenges in high-speed networks (40/100 GE) as it requires a large amount of raw computing power and high I/O throughputs. Recently, researchers have tentatively used GPUs to address the above issues and boost the performance of DPI. Typically, DPI applications involve highly complex operations in both per-packet and per-flow data level, often in real-time. The parallel architecture of GPUs fits exceptionally well for per-packet network traffic processing. However, for stateful network protocols such as TCP, their data stream need to be reconstructed in a per-flow level to deliver a consistent content analysis. Sincemore » the flow-centric operations are naturally antiparallel and often require large memory space for buffering out-of-sequence packets, they can be problematic for GPUs, whose memory is normally limited to several gigabytes. In this work, we present a highly efficient GPU-based deep packet/flow analysis framework. The proposed design includes a purely GPU-implemented flow tracking and TCP stream reassembly. Instead of buffering and waiting for TCP packets to become in sequence, our framework process the packets in batch and uses a deterministic finite automaton (DFA) with prefix-/suffix- tree method to detect patterns across out-of-sequence packets that happen to be located in different batches. In conclusion, evaluation shows that our code can reassemble and forward tens of millions of packets per second and conduct a stateful signature-based deep packet inspection at 55 Gbit/s using an NVIDIA K40 GPU.« less

Cost effectiveness of ramipril treatment for cardiovascular risk reduction.

PubMed

Malik, I S; Bhatia, V K; Kooner, J S

2001-05-01

To assess the cost effectiveness of ramipril treatment in patients at low, medium, and high risk of cardiovascular death. Population based cost effectiveness analysis from the perspective of the health care provider in the UK. Effectiveness was modelled using data from the HOPE (heart outcome prevention evaluation) trial. The life table method was used to predict mortality in a medium risk cohort, as in the HOPE trial (2.44% annual mortality), and in low and high risk groups (1% and 4.5% annual mortality, respectively). UK population using 1998 government actuary department data. Cost per life year gained at five years and lifetime treatment with ramipril. Cost effectiveness was pound36 600, pound13 600, and pound4000 per life year gained at five years and pound5300, pound1900, and pound100 per life year gained at 20 years (lifetime treatment) in low, medium, and high risk groups, respectively. Cost effectiveness at 20 years remained well below that of haemodialysis ( pound25 000 per life year gained) over a range of potential drug costs and savings. Treatment of the HOPE population would cost the UK National Health Service (NHS) an additional pound360 million but would prevent 12 000 deaths per annum. Ramipril is cost effective treatment for cardiovascular risk reduction in patients at medium, high, and low pretreatment risk, with a cost effectiveness comparable with the use of statins. Implementation of ramipril treatment in a medium risk population would result in a major reduction in cardiovascular deaths but would increase annual NHS spending by pound360 million.

Impact of national income and inequality on sugar and caries relationship.

PubMed

Masood, M; Masood, Y; Newton, T

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine the impact that national income and income inequality in high and low income countries have on the relationship between dental caries and sugar consumption. An ecological study design was used in this study of 73 countries. The mean decayed, missing, or filled permanent teeth (DMFT) for 12-year-old children were obtained from the WHO Oral Health Country/Area Profile Programme. United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization data were used for per capita sugar consumption. Gross national incomes per capita based on purchasing power parity and the Gini coefficient were obtained from World Bank data. Bivariate and multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to estimate the associations between mean DMFT and per capita sugar consumption in different income and income inequality countries. Bivariate and multivariate regression analysis showed that countries with a high national income and low income inequality have a strong negative association between sugar consumption and caries (B = -2.80, R2 = 0.17), whereas countries with a low income and high income inequality have a strong positive relationship between DMFT and per capita sugar consumption (B = -0.89, R2 = 0.20). The relationship between per capita consumption of sugar and dental caries is modified by the absolute level of income of the country, but not by the level of income inequality within a country. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Baseball and softball sliding injuries: incidence and correlates during one high school league varsity season.

PubMed

Stovak, Mark; Parikh, Amit; Harvey, Anne T

2012-11-01

To estimate injury rates associated with sliding in high school baseball and softball. Prospective cohort study. Community high school athletic events. Ten high school varsity baseball and softball teams over 1 season. All sliding attempts were recorded during each game and recorded as headfirst, feetfirst, or diveback. Base type, playing surface, and field conditions were also noted. Injury exposure rates by game exposures and sliding/diveback exposures. Data were collected from 153 baseball games and 166 softball games. A greater proportion of slides were associated with injury in softball than in baseball (42.0 and 4.9 per 1000 slides; P < 0.05). Headfirst slides led to more injuries than feetfirst slides in baseball (16.8 vs 0 per 1000 slides; P < 0.05) but not in softball (55 vs 35 per 1000 slides; P = 0.74). More powerful studies are required to determine whether efforts to prevent baseball sliding injuries at the high school level should focus on better education in sliding technique or changes in equipment. Softball players are vulnerable to injury when wearing inadequate protective sliding apparel.

Cost Convergence between Public and For-Profit Hospitals under Prospective Payment and High Competition in Taiwan

PubMed Central

Xirasagar, Sudha; Lin, Herng-Ching

2004-01-01

Objective To test the hypotheses that: (1) average adjusted costs per discharge are higher in high-competition relative to low-competition markets, and (2) increased competition is associated with cost convergence between public and for-profit (FP) hospitals for case payment diagnoses, but not for cost-plus reimbursed diagnoses. Data Sources Taiwan's National Health Insurance database; 325,851 inpatient claims for cesarean section, vaginal delivery, prostatectomy, and thyroidectomy (all case payment), and bronchial asthma and cholelithiasis (both cost-based payment). Study Design Retrospective population-based, cross-sectional study. Data Analysis Diagnosis-wise regression analyses were done to explore associations between cost per discharge and hospital ownership under high and low competition, adjusted for clinical severity and institutional characteristics. Principal Findings Adjusted costs per discharge are higher for all diagnoses in high-competition markets. For case payment diagnoses, the magnitudes of adjusted cost differences between public and FP hospitals are lower under high competition relative to low competition. This is not so for the cost-based diagnoses. Conclusions We find that the empirical evidence supports both our hypotheses. PMID:15544646

An ultralow power athermal silicon modulator.

PubMed

Timurdogan, Erman; Sorace-Agaskar, Cheryl M; Sun, Jie; Shah Hosseini, Ehsan; Biberman, Aleksandr; Watts, Michael R

2014-06-11

Silicon photonics has emerged as the leading candidate for implementing ultralow power wavelength-division-multiplexed communication networks in high-performance computers, yet current components (lasers, modulators, filters and detectors) consume too much power for the high-speed femtojoule-class links that ultimately will be required. Here we demonstrate and characterize the first modulator to achieve simultaneous high-speed (25 Gb s(-1)), low-voltage (0.5 VPP) and efficient 0.9 fJ per bit error-free operation. This low-energy high-speed operation is enabled by a record electro-optic response, obtained in a vertical p-n junction device that at 250 pm V(-1) (30 GHz V(-1)) is up to 10 times larger than prior demonstrations. In addition, this record electro-optic response is used to compensate for thermal drift over a 7.5 °C temperature range with little additional energy consumption (0.24 fJ per bit for a total energy consumption below 1.03 J per bit). The combined results of highly efficient modulation and electro-optic thermal compensation represent a new paradigm in modulator development and a major step towards single-digit femtojoule-class communications.

Estimating high-risk cannabis and opiate use in Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir.

PubMed

Kraus, Ludwig; Hay, Gordon; Richardson, Clive; Yargic, Ilhan; Ilhan, Mustafa Necmi; Ay, Pinar; Karasahin, Füsun; Pinarci, Mustafa; Tuncoglu, Tolga; Piontek, Daniela; Schulte, Bernd

2017-09-01

Information on high-risk drug use in Turkey, particularly at the regional level, is lacking. The present analysis aims at estimating high-risk cannabis use (HRCU) and high-risk opiate use (HROU) in the cities of Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir. Capture-recapture and multiplier methods were applied based on treatment and police data stratified by age and gender in the years 2009 and 2010. Case definitions refer to ICD-10 cannabis (F.12) and opiate (F.11) disorder diagnoses from outpatient and inpatient treatment records and illegal possession of these drugs as recorded by the police. High-risk cannabis use was estimated at 28 500 (8.5 per 1000; 95% confidence interval 7.3-10.3) and 33 400 (11.9 per 1000; 95% confidence interval 10.7-13.5) in Ankara and Izmir, respectively. Using multipliers based on capture-recapture estimates for Izmir, HRCU in Istanbul was estimated up to 166 000 (18.0 per 1000; range: 2.8-18.0). Capture-recapture estimates of HROU resulted in 4800 (1.4 per 1000; 95% confidence interval 0.9-1.9) in Ankara and multipliers based on these gave estimates up to 20 000 (2.2 per 1000; range: 0.9-2.2) in Istanbul. HROU in Izmir was not estimated due to the low absolute numbers of opiate users. While HRCU prevalence in both Ankara and Izmir was considerably lower in comparison to an estimate for Berlin, the rate for Istanbul was only slightly lower. Compared with the majority of European cities, HROU in these three Turkish cities may be considered rather low. [Kraus L, Hay G, Richardson C, Yargic I, Ilhan N M, Ay P, Karasahin F, Pinarci M, Tuncoglu T, Piontek D, Schulte B Estimating high-risk cannabis and opiate use in Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;00:000-000]. © 2016 Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.

Sewage plume in a sand and gravel aquifer, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

USGS Publications Warehouse

LeBlanc, Denis R.

1984-01-01

Secondarily treated domestic sewage has been disposed of on surface sand beds at the sewage treatment facility at Otis Air Force Base, Massachusetts, since 1936. Infiltration of the sewage through the sand beds into the underlying unconfined sand and gravel aquifer has resulted in a plume of sewage-contaminated ground water that is 2,500 to 3,500 feet wide, 75 feet thick, and more than 11,000 feet long. The plume extends south and southwest of the sand beds in the same direction as the regional flow of ground water, and is overlain by 20 to 50 feet of ground water derived from precipitation that recharges the aquifer. The bottom of the plume generally coincides with the contact between the permeable sand and gravel and underlying finer grained sediments. The distributions in the aquifer of specific conductance, temperature, boron, chloride, sodium, phosphorus, nitrogen (total of all species), ammonia, nitrate, dissolved oxygen, and detergents are used to delineate the plume. In ground water outside the plume, the detergent concentration is less than 0.1 milligrams per liter as MBAS (methylene blue active substances), the ammonia-nitrogen concentration is less than 0.1 milligrams per liter, the boron concentration is less than 50 micrograms per liter, and specific conductance is less than 80 mircromhos per centimeter. In the center of the plume, detergent concentrations as high as 2.6 milligrams per liter as MBAS, ammonia-nitrogen concentrations as high as 20 milligrams per liter, boron concentrations as high as 400 micrograms per liter, and specific conductance as high as 405 micromhos per centimeter were measured. Chloride, sodium, and boron are transported by the southward-flowing ground water without significant retardation, and seem to be diluted only by hydrodynamic dispersion. The movement of phosphorus is greatly restricted by sorption. Phosphorus concentrations do not exceed 0.05 milligrams per liter farther than 2,500 feet from the sand beds. Detergent concentrations in the plume are highest between 3,000 and 10,000 feet from the sand beds and reflect the introduction of nonbiodegradable detergents in 1946 and the conversion to biodegradable detergents in 1964. The center of the plume as far as 5,000 feet from the sand beds contains nitrogen as ammonia, but no nitrate and no dissolved oxygen. Ammonia is gradually oxidized to nitrate between 5,000 and 8,000 feet from the sand beds, and at distances greater than 8,000 feet oxidation of ammonia is essentially complete. Ammonia also is oxidized to nitrate along the top and sides of the plume within 5,000 of the beds where the contaminated ground water mixes with uncontaminated ground water that contains up to 11 milligrams per liter dissolved oxygen.

SPERTI contextual view of instrument cell building, PER606. South facade. ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

SPERT-I contextual view of instrument cell building, PER-606. South facade. Camera facing northwest. PBF Cooling Tower in view at right. High bay of PBF Reactor Building, PER-602, is further to right. PBF-625 at left edge of view. Date: August 2003. INEEL negative no. HD-35-3-4 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Quantification of HCl from high-resolution, ground-based, infrared solar spectra in the 3000 per cm region

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, A.; Murcray, F. J.; Blatherwick, R. D.; Murcray, D. G.

1986-01-01

Recent ground-based infrared solar spectra at 0.02 per cm resolution in the 3000 per cm region have been analyzed for the atmospheric content of HCl. Nonlinear spectral least-squares fitting applied to spectra obtained at several zenith angles shows little sensitivity of the results to tropospheric HCl but provides an accurate measurement of the total column amount.

Soluble CD163, adiponectin, C-reactive protein and progression of dysglycaemia in individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: the ADDITION-PRO cohort.

PubMed

Deichgræber, Pia; Witte, Daniel R; Møller, Holger J; Skriver, Mette V; Richelsen, Bjørn; Jørgensen, Marit E; Johansen, Nanna B; Sandbæk, Annelli

2016-11-01

Our aim was to investigate the association between the macrophage-activation marker soluble CD163 (sCD163), adiponectin, C-reactive protein (CRP) and changes in glycaemia, insulin resistance and insulin secretion in individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This prospective study included 1014 individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus participating in the Danish arm of the Anglo-Danish-Dutch study of Intensive Treatment In PeOple with ScreeN-detected Diabetes in Primary Care (ADDITION-Europe trial) baseline examination in 2001-2006 and follow-up examination (ADDITION-Progression [ADDITION-PRO]) in 2009-2011. Baseline serum samples were analysed for sCD163, adiponectin and CRP. The associations between sCD163, adiponectin and CRP per doubling of concentration, and changes per year in HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, 2 h glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR and HOMA-β were assessed using a mixed-effects model. A doubling of sCD163 concentration was positively associated with changes in HOMA-β (β = 1.160 per year, 95% CI 0.345, 1.975) as well as a doubling of CRP concentration (β = 0.410 per year, 95% CI 0.051, 0.769) after adjustment for age and sex. A doubling of adiponectin was inversely associated with changes in 2 h glucose (β =-0.063 per year, 95% CI -0.111, -0.014), HOMA-IR (β =-0.038 per year, 95% CI -0.060, -0.015) and HOMA-β (β =-1.028 per year, 95% CI -1.635, -0.421) after adjustment for age and sex. The associations were robust to adjustment for baseline waist circumference and smoking. Adjustment for CRP did not change the associations for sCD163 or adiponectin. Our findings indicate that mechanisms related to inflammation, including macrophage activation and adipocyte metabolism, may play a role in changes in glucose homeostasis in individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Apparent dietary intake in remote aboriginal communities.

PubMed

Lee, A J; O'Dea, K; Mathews, J D

1994-06-01

Apparent per capita food and nutrient intake in six remote Australian Aboriginal communities using the 'store-turnover' method is described. The method is based on the analysis of community-store food invoices. The face validity of the method supports the notion that, under the unique circumstances of remote Aboriginal communities, the turnover of foodstuffs from the community store is a useful measure of apparent dietary intake for the community as a whole. In all Aboriginal communities studied, the apparent intake of energy, sugars and fat was excessive, while the apparent intake of dietary fibre and several nutrients, including folic acid, was low. White sugar, flour, bread and meat provided in excess of 50 per cent of the apparent total energy intake. Of the apparent high fat intake, fatty meats contributed nearly 40 per cent in northern coastal communities and over 60 per cent in central desert communities. Sixty per cent of the apparent high intake of sugars was derived from sugar per se in both regions. Compared with national Australian apparent consumption data, intakes of sugar, white flour and sweetened carbonated beverages were much higher in Aboriginal communities, and intakes of wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables were much lower. Results of the store-turnover method have important implications for community-based nutrition intervention programs.

Highly permeable artificial water channels that can self-assemble into two-dimensional arrays

PubMed Central

Shen, Yue-xiao; Si, Wen; Erbakan, Mustafa; Decker, Karl; De Zorzi, Rita; Saboe, Patrick O.; Kang, You Jung; Majd, Sheereen; Butler, Peter J.; Walz, Thomas; Aksimentiev, Aleksei; Hou, Jun-li; Kumar, Manish

2015-01-01

Bioinspired artificial water channels aim to combine the high permeability and selectivity of biological aquaporin (AQP) water channels with chemical stability. Here, we carefully characterized a class of artificial water channels, peptide-appended pillar[5]arenes (PAPs). The average single-channel osmotic water permeability for PAPs is 1.0(±0.3) × 10−14 cm3/s or 3.5(±1.0) × 108 water molecules per s, which is in the range of AQPs (3.4∼40.3 × 108 water molecules per s) and their current synthetic analogs, carbon nanotubes (CNTs, 9.0 × 108 water molecules per s). This permeability is an order of magnitude higher than first-generation artificial water channels (20 to ∼107 water molecules per s). Furthermore, within lipid bilayers, PAP channels can self-assemble into 2D arrays. Relevant to permeable membrane design, the pore density of PAP channel arrays (∼2.6 × 105 pores per μm2) is two orders of magnitude higher than that of CNT membranes (0.1∼2.5 × 103 pores per μm2). PAP channels thus combine the advantages of biological channels and CNTs and improve upon them through their relatively simple synthesis, chemical stability, and propensity to form arrays. PMID:26216964

Preliminary study on alterations of altitude road traffic in China from 2006 to 2013

PubMed Central

Zhao, Hui; Yin, Zhiyong; Xiang, Hongyi; Liao, Zhikang; Wang, Zhengguo

2017-01-01

Introduction Road traffic can play an important role in strengthening regional economic activities, especially at high altitude, and it is necessary to know important traffic-related information. Although previous studies reported on road traffic in China, there has been little research on high-altitude road traffic to date. Method The annual official census of road traffic safety from 2006 to 2013 was used to obtain data on the general population, registered drivers, registered vehicles, newly built roads, road traffic accidents (RTAs), mortality rate per 100 000 populations and per 10 000 vehicles in high-altitude provinces, including Tibet, Qinghai, Xinjiang, Gansu, Yunnan, Sichuan, and Chongqing. These provincial data were reviewed retrospectively, with the national data as the reference. Statistical analysis (i.e., t test) was used to compare the estimated average annual change rate of population, number of registered drivers, registered vehicles, and newly built roads in high-altitude provinces with the national rates. Results Compared with the national data, there are significantly higher annual rates of population growth in Tibet and Xinjiang, registered drivers in Gansu, registered vehicles in Gansu, Sichuan, and Chongqing, and newly built roads in Tibet and Qinghai. Among the investigated provinces, Tibet, Qinghai, and Yunnan had a higher proportion of the roads with the high class. RTAs and RTA-induced casualties in the high-altitude provinces indicated a decreasing trend. The mortality rate per 10 000 vehicles and per 100 000 populations showed a decreasing trend, while the RTA-related mortality rate in Tibet, Qinghai, Xinjiang and Gansu remained high. Conclusions Major changes for road traffic in high-altitude provinces have occurred over the past decade; however, the RTA-related mortality rate in high-altitude provinces has remained high. This study furthers understanding about road traffic safety in China; further studies on road traffic safety at high altitude should be performed. PMID:28187203

Liquid-Phase Deposition of Single-Phase Alpha-Copper-Indium-Diselenide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cowen, J.; Lucas, L.; Ernst, F.; Pirouz, P.; Hepp, A.; Bailey, S.

2005-01-01

The success of exploratory missions in outer space often depends on a highly efficient renewable energy supply, as provided by solar cells. Figure 1 shows a well-known example: The robotic vehicle "Rover," constructed for NASA s "Mars Pathfinder" mission. The solar cells for such applications not only need to have high conversion efficiency, but must possess a high specific power, thus a high power output per unit mass. Since future missions will demand for large aggregates of solar cells and space flights are expensive, the solar cells must furthermore be available at low costs (per unit power output) and - very important in outer space - have a long lifetime and a high resistance against structural damage introduced by irradiation with high-energy electrons and protons.

[The impact of migratory processes on the epidemiology of tuberculosis in the Stavropol' territory].

PubMed

Odinets, V S; Ioffe, L A; Kikot', O K

1997-01-01

Tuberculosis morbidity in the Stavropol territory has recently increased from 31.5 to 43.0 per 100,000. It is particularly high among migrants: 499.0 per 100,000 migrants in 1995. There are high incidence rates of tuberculosis and the migrants from Chechnya were shown to adversely affect the epidemiology of tuberculosis in the Stavropol territory, on the contamination processes in the native children in particular.

DETERMINATION OF 2,3,7,8 CHLORINE-SUBSTITUTED DIBENZO-P-DIOXINS AND FURANS AT THE PART PER TRILLION LEVEL IN UNITED STATES BEEF FAT USING HIGH-RESOLUTION GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY/HIGH-RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

As part of the U.S. EPA Dioxin Reassessment Program, the 2,3,7,8-chlorine-substituted dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans were measured at part per trillion (ppt) levels in beef fat collected from slaughter facilities in the United States. This is the first statistically designed natio...

Development of Low Cost, High Energy-Per-Unit-Area Solar Cell Modules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, G. T.; Chitre, S.

1977-01-01

Work on the development of low cost, high energy per unit area solar cell modules was conducted. Hexagonal solar cell and module efficiencies, module packing ratio, and solar cell design calculations were made. The cell grid structure and interconnection pattern was designed and the module substrates were fabricated for the three modules to be used. It was demonstrated that surface macrostructures significantly improve cell power output and photovoltaic energy conversion efficiency.

UT/LS chemistry and transport

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-01-24

The global commercial aircraft fleet currently numbers about 10,000 and flies several billion kilometres per year while burning more than 100 MT of fuel per year at high temperatures producing mostly water and CO2. However, NOx (=NO+NO2), other minor...

Prediabetes

MedlinePlus

... high enough to say they have diabetes. Normal “fasting blood sugar” is between 70 and 99 mg per dL. Fasting blood sugar is your blood sugar level you ... you have something to eat in the morning. Fasting blood sugar between 100 and 125 mg per ...

Quality of reporting and risk of bias in therapeutic otolaryngology publications.

PubMed

Kaper, N M; Swart, K M A; Grolman, W; Van Der Heijden, G J M G

2018-01-01

High-quality trials have the potential to influence clinical practice. Ten otolaryngology journals with the highest 2011 impact factors were selected and publications from 2010 were extracted. From all medical journals, the 20 highest impact factor journals were selected, and publications related to otolaryngology for 2010 and 2011 were extracted. For all publications, the reporting quality and risk of bias were assessed. The impact factor was 1.8-2.8 for otolaryngology journals and 6.0-101.8 for medical journals. Of 1500 otolaryngology journal articles, 262 were therapeutic studies; 94 had a high reporting quality and 5 a low risk of bias. Of 10 967 medical journal articles, 76 were therapeutic studies; 57 had a high reporting quality and 8 a low risk of bias. Reporting quality was high for 45 per cent of otolaryngology-related publications and 9 per cent met quality standards. General journals had higher impact factors than otolaryngology journals. Reporting quality was higher and risk of bias lower in general journals than in otolaryngology journals. Nevertheless, 76 per cent of articles in high impact factor journals carried a high risk of bias. Better reported and designed studies are the goal, with less risk of bias, especially in otolaryngology journals.

The costs of scaling up HIV prevention for high risk groups: lessons learned from the Avahan Programme in India.

PubMed

Chandrashekar, Sudhashree; Guinness, Lorna; Pickles, Michael; Shetty, Govindraj Y; Alary, Michel; Vickerman, Peter; Vassall, Anna

2014-01-01

The study objective is to measure, analyse costs of scaling up HIV prevention for high-risk groups in India, in order to assist the design of future HIV prevention programmes in South Asia and beyond. Prospective costing study. This study is one of the most comprehensive studies of the costs of HIV prevention for high-risk groups to date in both its scope and size. HIV prevention included outreach, sexually transmitted infections (STI) services, condom provision, expertise enhancement, community mobilisation and enabling environment activities. Economic costs were collected from 138 non-government organisations (NGOs) in 64 districts, four state level lead implementing partners (SLPs), and the national programme level (Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)) office over four years using a top down costing approach, presented in US$ 2011. Mean total unit costs (2004-08) per person reached at least once a year and per monthly contact were US$ 235(56-1864) and US$ 82(12-969) respectively. 35% of the cost was incurred by NGOs, 30% at the state level SLP and 35% at the national programme level. The proportion of total costs by activity were 34% for expertise enhancement, 37% for programme management (including support and supervision), 22% for core HIV prevention activities (outreach and STI services) and 7% for community mobilisation and enabling environment activities. Total unit cost per person reached fell sharply as the programme expanded due to declining unit costs above the service level (from US$ 477 per person reached in 2004 to US$ 145 per person reached in 2008). At the service level also unit costs decreased slightly over time from US$ 68 to US$ 64 per person reached. Scaling up HIV prevention for high risk groups requires significant investment in expertise enhancement and programme administration. However, unit costs decreased with programme expansion in spite of an increase in the scope of activities.

Factors affecting high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in HIV-infected patients on nevirapine-based antiretroviral therapy

PubMed Central

Padmapriyadarsini, C.; Ramesh, K.; Sekar, L.; Ramachandran, Geetha; Reddy, Devaraj; Narendran, G.; Sekar, S.; Chandrasekar, C.; Anbarasu, D.; Wanke, Christine; Swaminathan, Soumya

2017-01-01

Background & objectives: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk with low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and high triglycerides is common in the general population in India. As nevirapine (NVP)-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) tends to increase HDL-C, gene polymorphisms associated with HDL-C metabolism in HIV-infected adults on stable NVP-based ART were studied. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2013 and July 2014 among adults receiving NVP-based ART for 12-15 months. Blood lipids were estimated and gene polymorphisms in apolipoprotein C3 (APOC3), cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) genes were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Framingham's 10-yr CVD risk score was estimated. Logistic regression was done to show factors related to low HDL-C levels. Results: Of the 300 patients included (mean age: 38.6±8.7 yr; mean CD4 count 449±210 cell/μl), total cholesterol (TC) >200 mg/dl was observed in 116 (39%) patients. Thirty nine per cent males and 47 per cent females had HDL-C levels below normal while 32 per cent males and 37 per cent females had TC/HDL ratio of 4.5 and 4.0, respectively. Body mass index [adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-2.84, P=0.04] and viral load (aOR=3.39, 95% CI: 1.52-7.52, P=0.003) were negatively associated with serum HDL-C levels. The 10-yr risk score of developing CVD was 11-20 per cent in 3 per cent patients. Allelic variants of APOC3 showed a trend towards low HDL-C. Interpretation & conclusions: High-risk lipid profiles for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease were common among HIV-infected individuals, even after 12 months of NVP-based ART. Targeted interventions to address these factors should be recommended in the national ART programmes. PMID:28948955

Genetic variants in adiponectin and blood pressure responses to dietary sodium or potassium interventions: a family-based association study

PubMed Central

Chu, C; Wang, Y; Ren, K-y; Yan, D-y; Guo, T-s; Zheng, W-l; Yuan, Z-y; Mu, J-j

2016-01-01

Previous studies have shown that genetic factors might have an important role in blood pressure (BP) responses to dietary salt or potassium intake. The aim of this study was to assess the association of common genetic variants of the adiponectin gene with BP responses to controlled dietary sodium or potassium interventions. Subjects (n=334) from 124 families in rural areas of Northern China were recruited. After a 3-day baseline observation, participants sequentially maintained a 7-day low-sodium diet (NaCl, 3 g per day; or sodium, 51.3 mmol per day), followed by a 7-day high-sodium diet (NaCl, 18 g per day; or sodium, 307.8 mmol per day) and a 7-day high-sodium plus potassium supplementation intervention (KCl, 4.5 g per day; or potassium, 60 mmol per day). A total of seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the adiponectin gene were selected as the study sites. After adjustment for multiple testing, the adiponectin SNP rs16861205 was significantly associated with the diastolic BP (DBP) response to low-salt intervention, and the DBP and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses to high-salt intervention (P=0.028, 0.023 and 0.027, respectively). SNP rs822394 was associated with the DBP and MAP responses to low-salt intervention and the DBP response to high-salt intervention (P=0.023, 0.030 and 0.033 respectively). Meanwhile, significant association also existed between SNP rs16861194 and the systolic BP response to potassium supplementation intervention (P=0.026). In addition, SNP rs822394 was significantly associated with basal DBP after adjustment for multiple testing (P=0.033). Our study indicated that the genetic polymorphisms in the adiponectin gene are significantly associated with BP responses to dietary sodium and potassium intake. PMID:27011258

The Costs of Scaling Up HIV Prevention for High Risk Groups: Lessons Learned from the Avahan Programme in India

PubMed Central

Chandrashekar, Sudhashree; Guinness, Lorna; Pickles, Michael; Shetty, Govindraj Y.; Alary, Michel; Vickerman, Peter; Vassall, Anna

2014-01-01

Objective The study objective is to measure, analyse costs of scaling up HIV prevention for high-risk groups in India, in order to assist the design of future HIV prevention programmes in South Asia and beyond. Design Prospective costing study. Methods This study is one of the most comprehensive studies of the costs of HIV prevention for high-risk groups to date in both its scope and size. HIV prevention included outreach, sexually transmitted infections (STI) services, condom provision, expertise enhancement, community mobilisation and enabling environment activities. Economic costs were collected from 138 non-government organisations (NGOs) in 64 districts, four state level lead implementing partners (SLPs), and the national programme level (Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)) office over four years using a top down costing approach, presented in US$ 2011. Results Mean total unit costs (2004–08) per person reached at least once a year and per monthly contact were US$ 235(56–1864) and US$ 82(12–969) respectively. 35% of the cost was incurred by NGOs, 30% at the state level SLP and 35% at the national programme level. The proportion of total costs by activity were 34% for expertise enhancement, 37% for programme management (including support and supervision), 22% for core HIV prevention activities (outreach and STI services) and 7% for community mobilisation and enabling environment activities. Total unit cost per person reached fell sharply as the programme expanded due to declining unit costs above the service level (from US$ 477 per person reached in 2004 to US$ 145 per person reached in 2008). At the service level also unit costs decreased slightly over time from US$ 68 to US$ 64 per person reached. Conclusions Scaling up HIV prevention for high risk groups requires significant investment in expertise enhancement and programme administration. However, unit costs decreased with programme expansion in spite of an increase in the scope of activities. PMID:25203052

Genetic variants in adiponectin and blood pressure responses to dietary sodium or potassium interventions: a family-based association study.

PubMed

Chu, C; Wang, Y; Ren, K-Y; Yan, D-Y; Guo, T-S; Zheng, W-L; Yuan, Z-Y; Mu, J-J

2016-09-01

Previous studies have shown that genetic factors might have an important role in blood pressure (BP) responses to dietary salt or potassium intake. The aim of this study was to assess the association of common genetic variants of the adiponectin gene with BP responses to controlled dietary sodium or potassium interventions. Subjects (n=334) from 124 families in rural areas of Northern China were recruited. After a 3-day baseline observation, participants sequentially maintained a 7-day low-sodium diet (NaCl, 3 g per day; or sodium, 51.3 mmol per day), followed by a 7-day high-sodium diet (NaCl, 18 g per day; or sodium, 307.8 mmol per day) and a 7-day high-sodium plus potassium supplementation intervention (KCl, 4.5 g per day; or potassium, 60 mmol per day). A total of seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the adiponectin gene were selected as the study sites. After adjustment for multiple testing, the adiponectin SNP rs16861205 was significantly associated with the diastolic BP (DBP) response to low-salt intervention, and the DBP and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses to high-salt intervention (P=0.028, 0.023 and 0.027, respectively). SNP rs822394 was associated with the DBP and MAP responses to low-salt intervention and the DBP response to high-salt intervention (P=0.023, 0.030 and 0.033 respectively). Meanwhile, significant association also existed between SNP rs16861194 and the systolic BP response to potassium supplementation intervention (P=0.026). In addition, SNP rs822394 was significantly associated with basal DBP after adjustment for multiple testing (P=0.033). Our study indicated that the genetic polymorphisms in the adiponectin gene are significantly associated with BP responses to dietary sodium and potassium intake.

A randomised controlled trial evaluating IGF1 titration in contrast to current GH dosing strategies in children born small for gestational age: the North European Small-for-Gestational-Age Study.

PubMed

Jensen, Rikke Beck; Thankamony, Ajay; O'Connell, Susan M; Kirk, Jeremy; Donaldson, Malcolm; Ivarsson, Sten-A; Söder, Olle; Roche, Edna; Hoey, Hilary; Dunger, David B; Juul, Anders

2014-10-01

Short children born small for gestational age (SGA) are treated with a GH dose based on body size, but treatment may lead to high levels of IGF1. The objective was to evaluate IGF1 titration of GH dose in contrast to current dosing strategies. In the North European Small-for-Gestational-Age Study (NESGAS), 92 short pre-pubertal children born SGA were randomised after 1 year of high-dose GH treatment (67 μg/kg per day) to three different regimens: high dose (67 μg/kg per day), low dose (35 μg/kg per day) or IGF1 titration. The average dose during the second year of the randomised trial did not differ between the IGF1 titration group (38 μg/kg per day, s.d. 0.019) and the low-dose group (35 μg/kg per day, s.d. 0.002; P=0.46), but there was a wide variation in the IGF1 titration group (range 10-80 μg/kg per day). The IGF1 titration group had significantly lower height gain (0.17 SDS, s.d. 0.18) during the second year of the randomised trial compared with the high-dose group (0.46 SDS, s.d. 0.25), but not significantly lower than the low-dose group (0.23 SDS, s.d. 0.15; P=0.17). The IGF1 titration group had lower IGF1 levels after 2 years of the trial (mean 1.16, s.d. 1.24) compared with both the low-dose (mean 1.76, s.d. 1.48) and the high-dose (mean 2.97, s.d. 1.63) groups. IGF1 titration of GH dose in SGA children proved less effective than current dosing strategies. IGF1 titration resulted in physiological IGF1 levels with a wide range of GH dose and a poorer growth response, which indicates the role of IGF1 resistance and highlights the heterogeneity of short SGA children. © 2014 European Society of Endocrinology.

An Elevated Reservoir of Air Pollutants over the Mid-Atlantic States During the 2011 DISCOVER-AQ Campaign: Airborne Measurements and Numerical Simulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

He, Hao; Loughner, Christopher P.; Stehr, Jeffrey W.; Arkinson, Heather L.; Brent, Lacey C.; Follette-Cook, Melanie B.; Tzortziou, Maria A.; Pickering, Kenneth E.; Thompson, Anne M.; Martins, Douglas K.;

[Value of early application of different doses of amino acids in parenteral nutrition among preterm infants].

PubMed

Liu, Zhi-Juan; Liu, Guo-Sheng; Chen, Yong-Ge; Zhang, Hui-Li; Wu, Xue-Fen

2015-01-01

To study the short-term response and tolerance of different doses of amino acids in parenteral nutrition among preterm infants. This study included 86 preterm infants who had a birth weight between 1 000 to 2 000 g and were admitted to the hospital within 24 hours of birth between March 2013 and June 2014. According to the early application of different doses of amino acids, they were randomized into low-dose group (n=29, 1.0 g/kg per day with an increase of 1.0 g/kg daily and a maximum of 3.5 g/kg per day), medium-dose group (n=28, 2.0 g/kg per day with an increase of 1.0 g/kg daily and a maximum of 3.7 g/kg per day), and high-dose group (n=29, 3.0 g/kg per day with an increase of 0.5-1.0 g/kg daily and a maximum of 4.0 g/kg per day). Other routine parenteral nutrition and enteral nutrition support were also applied. The maximum weight loss was lower and the growth rate of head circumference was greater in the high-dose group than in the low-dose group (P<0.05). The infants in the medium- and high-dose groups had faster recovery of birth weight, earlier attainment of 100 kcal/(kg·d) of enteral nutrition, shorter duration of hospital stay, and less hospital cost than those in the low-dose group (P<0.05). Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in the high-dose group increased compared with the other two groups 7 days after birth (P<0.05). The levels of creatinine, pH, bicarbonate, bilirubin, and transaminase and the incidence of complications showed no significant differences between groups (P>0.05). Parenteral administration of high-dose amino acids in preterm infants within 24 hours after birth can improve the short-term nutritional status of preterm infants, but there is a transient increase in BUN level.

A Comparison of Photosynthetic Characteristics of Encelia Species Possessing Glabrous and Pubescent Leaves 1

PubMed Central

Ehleringer, James R.; Björkman, Olle

1978-01-01

Measurements of the dependence of photosynthesis on light, CO2, and temperature are reported for two species of Encelia (Compositae) which differ in leaf pubescence and in geographical distribution. Encelia californica is glabrous and occurs in relatively mild, but arid habitats and Encelia farinosa is heavily pubescent and occurs in hot, arid habitats. Both species possess the C3 photosynthetic pathway. Under high irradiances and normal atmospheric conditions the two species have high photosynthetic rates, exceeding 3 nanomoles of CO2 per square centimeter per second (48 milligrams of CO2 per square decimeter per hour) and complete light saturation does not occur by full noon sunlight. The high photosynthetic capacity is related to a high efficiency of utilization of intercellular CO2 combined with high stomatal conductance. Leaf estimates of total soluble protein and fraction I protein are higher in these species than in most plants, although the proportion of fraction I protein is not higher. Both E. californica and E. farinosa attain a maximum rate of photosynthesis between 25 and 30 C, despite the fact that the two species grow in very different thermal habitats. Neither E. californica nor E. farinosa shows significant acclimation in the temperature dependence of photosynthesis when grown under different temperature regimes. The presence of leaf hairs which reduce leaf absorptance and consequently leaf temperature plays an important part in the ability of E. farinosa to survive in its native high temperature environment. When the effects of pubescence are taken into account, there are few if any significant differences in the photosynthetic characteristics of the two species. PMID:16660483

Experimental high gradient testing of a 17.1 GHz photonic band-gap accelerator structure

DOE PAGES

Munroe, Brian J.; Zhang, JieXi; Xu, Haoran; ...

2016-03-29

In this paper, we report the design, fabrication, and high gradient testing of a 17.1 GHz photonic band-gap (PBG) accelerator structure. Photonic band-gap (PBG) structures are promising candidates for electron accelerators capable of high-gradient operation because they have the inherent damping of high order modes required to avoid beam breakup instabilities. The 17.1 GHz PBG structure tested was a single cell structure composed of a triangular array of round copper rods of radius 1.45 mm spaced by 8.05 mm. The test assembly consisted of the test PBG cell located between conventional (pillbox) input and output cells, with input power ofmore » up to 4 MW from a klystron supplied via a TM 01 mode launcher. Breakdown at high gradient was observed by diagnostics including reflected power, downstream and upstream current monitors and visible light emission. The testing procedure was first benchmarked with a conventional disc-loaded waveguide structure, which reached a gradient of 87 MV=m at a breakdown probability of 1.19 × 10 –1 per pulse per meter. The PBG structure was tested with 100 ns pulses at gradient levels of less than 90 MV=m in order to limit the surface temperature rise to 120 K. The PBG structure reached up to 89 MV=m at a breakdown probability of 1.09 × 10 –1 per pulse per meter. These test results show that a PBG structure can simultaneously operate at high gradients and low breakdown probability, while also providing wakefield damping.« less

High-fiber rye diet increases ileal excretion of energy and macronutrients compared with low-fiber wheat diet independent of meal frequency in ileostomy subjects

PubMed Central

Isaksson, Hanna; Landberg, Rikard; Sundberg, Birgitta; Lundin, Eva; Hallmans, Göran; Zhang, Jie-Xian; Tidehag, Per; Erik Bach Knudsen, Knud; Moazzami, Ali A.; Åman, Per

2013-01-01

Background Whole-grain foods and cereal dietary fiber intake is associated with lower body weight. This may partly result from lower energy utilization of high-fiber diets. Objective In the present study, the impact on ileal excretion of energy and macronutrients in response to a rye bread high-fiber diet compared to a refined wheat low-fiber diet was investigated. Furthermore, the effect of meal frequency on apparent absorption of nutrients was studied for the first time. Design Ten participants that had undergone ileostomy consumed standardized iso-caloric diets, including low-fiber wheat bread (20 g dietary fiber per day) for 2 weeks followed by high-fiber rye bread (52 g dietary fiber per day) for 2 weeks. The diets were consumed in an ordinary (three meals per day) and a nibbling (seven meals per day) meal frequency in a cross-over design. Ileal effluents were collected during 24 h at the third day of each of the four dietary periods and analyzed for gross energy and nutrient contents. Results The results showed that intake of rye bread high-fiber diet compared to the refined wheat low-fiber diet caused an increase in ileal excretion of energy and macronutrients. The effect was independent of meal frequency. This suggests that a high intake of rye may result in lower availability of macronutrients for small intestinal digestion and absorption. A regular intake of rye may therefore have implications for weight management. PMID:24358035

Risk factor profile for non-communicable diseases among Mishing tribes in Assam, India: results from a WHO STEPs survey.

PubMed

Misra, Palash Jyoti; Mini, G K; Thankappan, K R

2014-09-01

A comprehensive risk factor profile of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO) has not been reported from tribal population in India. This survey was carried out to assess the prevalence of NCD risk factors among Mishing tribes in Assam using the WHO STEPs approach. A total of 332 individuals of the Mishing tribe (men 54%) aged 25-64 yr were selected from Tinsukia district by multistage cluster sampling. Using the WHO STEPs approach information was collected on demographics, STEP 1 variables (tobacco, alcohol, physical activity, diet) and measured STEP 2 variables (weight, height, waist circumference and blood pressure). Multivariate analysis was used to find the relation between STEP 1 and STEP 2 variables. Overall, tobacco use was 84 per cent (men 94%; women 73%, p0 <0.001) and alcohol use was 67 per cent (men 82%; women 50%, p0 <0.05); 86 per cent reported vigorous physical activity, (men 91%, women 82%; p0 < 0.05). Sixty eight per cent reported to consume unhealthy diet (less than five servings of fruits and vegetables/day), 11 per cent had abdominal obesity, 16 per cent were overweight and 26 per cent had hypertension. Non users of tobacco and those who consumed more fruits and vegetables had higher prevalence of overweight ( p0 <0.05). Among the hypertensives, 24 per cent were aware, 17 per cent treated and 2.4 per cent controlled their hypertension. Older individuals had higher hypertension prevalence ( p0 <0.05) compared to younger individuals. Tobacco use, alcohol use and unhealthy diet habits were high among men and women in this population and were major NCD risk factors. An integrated approach of culturally appropriate population level and high risk strategies are warranted to reduce these risk factors and to enhance adequate control of hypertension.

Risk factor profile for non-communicable diseases among Mishing tribes in Assam, India: Results from a WHO STEPs survey

PubMed Central

Misra, Palash Jyoti; Mini, G.K.; Thankappan, K.R.

2014-01-01

Background & objectives: A comprehensive risk factor profile of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) as suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO) has not been reported from tribal population in India. This survey was carried out to assess the prevalence of NCD risk factors among Mishing tribes in Assam using the WHO STEPs approach. Methods: A total of 332 individuals of the Mishing tribe (men 54%) aged 25-64 yr were selected from Tinsukia district by multistage cluster sampling. Using the WHO STEPs approach information was collected on demographics, STEP 1 variables (tobacco, alcohol, physical activity, diet) and measured STEP 2 variables (weight, height, waist circumference and blood pressure). Multivariate analysis was used to find the relation between STEP 1 and STEP 2 variables. Results: Overall, tobacco use was 84 per cent (men 94%; women 73%, P<0.001) and alcohol use was 67 per cent (men 82%; women 50%, P<0.05); 86 per cent reported vigorous physical activity, (men 91%, women 82%; P < 0.05). Sixty eight per cent reported to consume unhealthy diet (less than five servings of fruits and vegetables/day), 11 per cent had abdominal obesity, 16 per cent were overweight and 26 per cent had hypertension. Non users of tobacco and those who consumed more fruits and vegetables had higher prevalence of overweight (P<0.05). Among the hypertensives, 24 per cent were aware, 17 per cent treated and 2.4 per cent controlled their hypertension. Older individuals had higher hypertension prevalence (P<0.05) compared to younger individuals. Interpretation & conclusions: Tobacco use, alcohol use and unhealthy diet habits were high among men and women in this population and were major NCD risk factors. An integrated approach of culturally appropriate population level and high risk strategies are warranted to reduce these risk factors and to enhance adequate control of hypertension. PMID:25366204

Meta-analysis of antibiotics versus appendicectomy for non-perforated acute appendicitis.

PubMed

Sallinen, V; Akl, E A; You, J J; Agarwal, A; Shoucair, S; Vandvik, P O; Agoritsas, T; Heels-Ansdell, D; Guyatt, G H; Tikkinen, K A O

2016-05-01

For more than a century, appendicectomy has been the treatment of choice for appendicitis. Recent trials have challenged this view. This study assessed the benefits and harms of antibiotic therapy compared with appendicectomy in patients with non-perforated appendicitis. A comprehensive search was conducted for randomized trials comparing antibiotic therapy with appendicectomy in patients with non-perforated appendicitis. Key outcomes were analysed using random-effects meta-analysis, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Five studies including 1116 patients reported major complications in 25 (4·9 per cent) of 510 patients in the antibiotic and 41 (8·4 per cent) of 489 in the appendicectomy group: risk difference -2·6 (95 per cent c.i. -6·3 to 1·1) per cent (low-quality evidence). Minor complications occurred in 11 (2·2 per cent) of 510 and 61 (12·5 per cent) of 489 patients respectively: risk difference -7·2 (-18·1 to 3·8) per cent (very low-quality evidence). Of 550 patients in the antibiotic group, 47 underwent appendicectomy within 1 month: pooled estimate 8·2 (95 per cent c.i. 5·2 to 11·8) per cent (high-quality evidence). Within 1 year, appendicitis recurred in 114 of 510 patients in the antibiotic group: pooled estimate 22·6 (15·6 to 30·4) per cent (high-quality evidence). For every 100 patients with non-perforated appendicitis, initial antibiotic therapy compared with prompt appendicectomy may result in 92 fewer patients receiving surgery within the first month, and 23 more experiencing recurrent appendicitis within the first year. The choice of medical versus surgical management in patients with clearly uncomplicated appendicitis is value- and preference-dependent, suggesting a change in practice towards shared decision-making is necessary. © 2016 The Authors. BJS published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of BJS Society Ltd.

A systematic review of the impact of volume of surgery and specialization on patient outcome.

PubMed

Chowdhury, M M; Dagash, H; Pierro, A

2007-02-01

Volume of surgery and specialization may affect patient outcome. Articles examining the effects of one or more of three variables (hospital volume of surgery, surgeon volume and specialization) on outcome (measured by length of hospital stay, mortality and complication rate) were analysed. Reviews, opinion articles and observational studies were excluded. The methodological quality of each study was assessed, a correlation between the variables analysed and the outcome accepted if it was significant. The search identified 55,391 articles published between 1957 and 2002; 1075 were relevant to the study, of which 163 (9,904,850 patients) fulfilled the entry criteria. These 163 examined 42 different surgical procedures, spanning 13 surgical specialities. None were randomized and 40 investigated more than one variable. Hospital volume was reported in 127 studies; high-volume hospitals had significantly better outcomes in 74.2 per cent of studies, but this effect was limited in prospective studies (40 per cent). Surgeon volume was reported in 58 studies; high-volume surgeons had significantly better outcomes in 74 per cent of studies. Specialization was reported in 22 studies; specialist surgeons had significantly better outcomes than general surgeons in 91 per cent of studies. The benefit of high surgeon volume and specialization varied in magnitude between specialities. High surgeon volume and specialization are associated with improved patient outcome, while high hospital volume is of limited benefit. Copyright (c) 2007 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd.

Concept Demonstration of Dopant Selective Reactive Etching (DSRIE) in Silicon Carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Okojie, Robert S.

2015-01-01

Accurate quantification of combustor pressure dynamics for the primary purpose of experimental validation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) codes requires the use of robust, reliable and sensitive pressure sensors that can resolve sub--pound-per-square-inch pressure levels in high temperature environments (i.e., combustor). The state of the art microfabricated piezoresistive silicon carbide (SiC) pressure sensors that we have developed are capable of operating reliably at 600 degrees Centigrade. This technology was used in support of the ARMD ISRP-ERA (NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate, Integrated System Research Project - Environmentally Responsible Aviation) program to quantify combustor thermoacoustic instabilities. The results showed that while the SiC pressure sensors survived the high temperature and measured instabilities, the diaphragm (force collector) was not thin enough to be sensitive in resolving sub-pound-per-square-inch pressures; 30 meters is the thinnest diaphragm achievable with conventional reactive ion etching (RIE) processes. Therefore, this precludes its use for sub-pound-per-square-inch pressure measurement with high fidelity. In order to effectively resolve sub-pound-per-square-inch pressures, a thinner more sensitive diaphragm (10 meters) is needed. To achieve this would require a new and innovative fabrication process technique.

Tree stands, not guns, are the midwestern hunter's most dangerous weapon.

PubMed

Crockett, Andrew; Stawicki, Stanislaw P; Thomas, Yalaunda M; Jarvis, Amy M; Wang, Cecily F; Beery, Paul R; Whitmill, Melissa L; Lindsey, David E; Steinberg, Steven M; Cook, Charles H

2010-09-01

Although the prevailing stereotype is that most hunting injuries are gunshot wounds inflicted by intoxicated hunting buddies, our experience led us to hypothesize that falls comprise a significant proportion of hunting related injuries. Trauma databases of two Level I trauma centers in central Ohio were queried for all hunting related injuries during a 10-year period. One hundred and thirty patients were identified (90% male, mean age 41.0 years, range 17-76). Fifty per cent of injuries resulted from falls, whereas gunshot wounds accounted for 29 per cent. Most hunters were hunting deer and 92 per cent of falls were from tree stands. Alcohol was involved in only 2.3 per cent, and drugs of abuse in 4.6 per cent. Of gunshots, 58 per cent were self-inflicted, and 42 per cent were shot by another hunter. Tree stand falls were highly morbid, with 59 per cent of fall victims suffering spinal fractures, 47 per cent lower extremity fractures, 18 per cent upper extremity fractures, and 18 per cent closed head injuries. Surgery was required for 81 per cent of fall-related injuries, and 8.2 per cent of fall victims had permanent neurological deficits. In contrast to prevailing beliefs, in our geographic area tree-stand falls are the most common mechanism of hunting related injury requiring admission to a Level 1 trauma center.

Post-operative radiation therapy for advanced-stage oropharyngeal cancer.

PubMed

Hansen, Eric; Panwala, Kathryn; Holland, John

2002-11-01

Between 1985 and 1999, 43 patients with locally-advanced, resectable oropharyngeal cancer were treated with combined surgery and post-operative radiation therapy (RT) at Oregon Health and Science University. Five patients (12 per cent) had Stage III disease and 38 patients (88 per cent) had Stage IV disease. All patients had gross total resections of the primary tumour. Thirty-seven patients had neck dissections for regional disease. RT consisted of a mean tumour-bed dose of 63.0 Gy delivered in 1.8-2.0 Gy fractions over a mean of 49 days. At three- and five-years, the actuarial local control was 96 per cent and the actuarial local/regional control was 80 per cent. The three- and five-year actuarial rates of distant metastases were 41 per cent and 46 per cent, respectively. The actuarial overall survival at three- and five-years was 41 per cent and 34 per cent, respectively. The actuarial rates of progression-free survival were 49 per cent at three-years and 45 per cent at five years. Combined surgery and post-operative RT for advanced-stage oropharyngeal cancer results in excellent local/regional control. This particular group of patients experienced a high-rate of developing distant metastases.

Combined low temperature-high light effects on gas exchange properties of jojoba leaves.

PubMed

Loreto, F; Bongi, G

1989-12-01

Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis [Link] Schneider) is an important crop in desert climates. A relatively high frequency of periods of chilling and high photon flux density (PFD) in this environment makes photoinhibition likely, resulting in a reduction of assimilation capacity in overwintering leaves. This could explain the low net photosynthesis found in shoots from the field (4-6 micromoles per square meter per second) when compared to greenhouse grown plants (12-15 micromoles per square meter per second). The responses of photosynthesis and stomatal conductance to changes in absorbed PFD and in substomatal partial pressure of CO(2) were measured on jojoba leaves recovering from chilling temperature (4 degrees C) in high or low PFD. No measurable gas exchange was found immediately after chilling in either high or low PFD. For leaves chilled in low PFD, the original quantum yield was restored after 24 hours. The time course of recovery from chilling in high PFD was much longer. Quantum yield recovered to 60% of its original value in 72 hours but failed to recover fully after 1 week. Measurements of PSII chlorophyll fluorescence at 77 K showed that the reduced quantum yield was caused by photoinhibition. The ratio of variable to maximal fluorescence fell from a control level of 0.82 to 0.41 after the photoinhibitory treatment and recovery was slow. We also found a large increase in net assimilation rate and little closure of stomata as CO(2) was increased from ambient partial pressure of 35 to 85 pascals. For plants grown in full light, the increase in net assimilation rate was 100%. The photosynthetic response at high CO(2) concentration may constitute an ecological advantage of jojoba as a crop in the future.

Combined Low Temperature-High Light Effects on Gas Exchange Properties of Jojoba Leaves 1

PubMed Central

Loreto, Francesco; Bongi, Guido

1989-01-01

Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis [Link] Schneider) is an important crop in desert climates. A relatively high frequency of periods of chilling and high photon flux density (PFD) in this environment makes photoinhibition likely, resulting in a reduction of assimilation capacity in overwintering leaves. This could explain the low net photosynthesis found in shoots from the field (4-6 micromoles per square meter per second) when compared to greenhouse grown plants (12-15 micromoles per square meter per second). The responses of photosynthesis and stomatal conductance to changes in absorbed PFD and in substomatal partial pressure of CO2 were measured on jojoba leaves recovering from chilling temperature (4°C) in high or low PFD. No measurable gas exchange was found immediately after chilling in either high or low PFD. For leaves chilled in low PFD, the original quantum yield was restored after 24 hours. The time course of recovery from chilling in high PFD was much longer. Quantum yield recovered to 60% of its original value in 72 hours but failed to recover fully after 1 week. Measurements of PSII chlorophyll fluorescence at 77 K showed that the reduced quantum yield was caused by photoinhibition. The ratio of variable to maximal fluorescence fell from a control level of 0.82 to 0.41 after the photoinhibitory treatment and recovery was slow. We also found a large increase in net assimilation rate and little closure of stomata as CO2 was increased from ambient partial pressure of 35 to 85 pascals. For plants grown in full light, the increase in net assimilation rate was 100%. The photosynthetic response at high CO2 concentration may constitute an ecological advantage of jojoba as a crop in the future. PMID:16667220

Prevalence of dental fluorosis & dental caries in association with high levels of drinking water fluoride content in a district of Gujarat, India

PubMed Central

Kotecha, P.V.; Patel, S.V.; Bhalani, K.D.; Shah, D.; Shah, V.S.; Mehta, K.G.

2012-01-01

Background & objectives: Endemic fluorosis resulting from high fluoride concentration in groundwater is a major public health problem in India. This study was carried out to measure and compare the prevalence of dental fluorosis and dental caries in the population residing in high and normal level of fluoride in their drinking water in Vadodara district, Gujarat, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Vadodara district, six of the 261 villages with high fluoride level and five of 1490 with normal fluoride level in drinking water were selected. The data collection was made by house-to-house visits twice during the study period. Results: The dental fluorosis prevalence in high fluoride area was 59.31 per cent while in normal fluoride area it was 39.21 per cent. The prevalence of dental caries in high fluoride area was 39.53 per cent and in normal fluoride area was 48.21 per cent with CI 6.16 to 11.18. Dental fluorosis prevalence was more among males as compared to females. Highest prevalence of dental fluorosis was seen in 12-24 yr age group. Interpretation & conclusions: The risk of dental fluorosis was higher in the areas showing more fluoride content in drinking water and to a lesser degree of dental caries in the same area. High fluoride content is a risk factor for dental fluorosis and problem of dental fluorosis increased with passage of time suggesting that the fluoride content in the water has perhaps increased over time. Longitudinal studies should be conducted to confirm the findings. PMID:22825606

The Influence of Socio-Economic Status on Mothers' Volubility and Responsiveness in a Monolingual Dutch-Speaking Sample

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vanormelingen, Liesbeth; Gillis, Steven

2016-01-01

This article investigates the amount of input and the quality of mother-child interactions in mothers who differ in socio-economic status (SES): mid-to-high SES (mhSES) and low SES. The amount of input was measured as the number of utterances per hour, the total duration of speech per hour and the number of turns per hour. The quality of the…

Electrical burns in Kuwait: a review and analysis of 64 cases.

PubMed

Gang, R K; Bajec, J

1992-12-01

Sixty-four patients with electrical burns were admitted to the Department of Plastic Surgery, Ibn Sina Hospital, Kuwait during the past 6 years. There were 1202 admissions during this period, the incidence of electrical burns being 5.3 per cent. Sixty-nine per cent of the patients sustained injury from direct contact with live electrical wire, the remaining 31 per cent sustained flash burns. The incidence of low voltage injury was much higher as compared to high voltage. Forty-four per cent of these injuries were not work related. Less than 10 per cent of the body surface area was involved in about 80 per cent of the patients. A total of 65 operations was carried out in 39 patients. Twenty of these patients had repeated debridements until the wound was ready for coverage. All 64 patients survived.

Leaf Photosynthesis and Respiration of High CO2-Grown Tobacco Plants Selected for Survival under CO2 Compensation Point Conditions 1

PubMed Central

Delgado, Esteban; Azcón-Bieto, Joaquim; Aranda, Xavier; Palazón, Javier; Medrano, Hipólito

1992-01-01

Four self-pollinated, doubled-haploid tobacco, (Nicotiana tabacum L.) lines (SP422, SP432, SP435, and SP451), selected as haploids by survival in a low CO2 atmosphere, and the parental cv Wisconsin-38 were grown from seed in a growth room kept at high CO2 levels (600-700 parts per million). The selected plants were much larger (especially SP422, SP432, and SP451) than Wisconsin-38 nine weeks after planting. The specific leaf dry weight and the carbon (but not nitrogen and sulfur) content per unit area were also higher in the selected plants. However, the chlorophyll, carotenoid, and alkaloid contents and the chlorophyll a/b ratio varied little. The net CO2 assimilation rate per unit area measured in the growth room at high CO2 was not higher in the selected plants. The CO2 assimilation rate versus intercellular CO2 curve and the CO2 compensation point showed no substantial differences among the different lines, even though these plants were selected for survival under CO2 compensation point conditions. Adult leaf respiration rates were similar when expressed per unit area but were lower in the selected lines when expressed per unit dry weight. Leaf respiration rates were negatively correlated with specific leaf dry weight and with the carbon content per unit area and were positively correlated with nitrogen and sulfur content of the dry matter. The alternative pathway was not involved in respiration in the dark in these leaves. The better carbon economy of tobacco lines selected for low CO2 survival was not apparently related to an improvement of photosynthesis rate but could be related, at least partially, to a significantly reduced respiration (mainly cytochrome pathway) rate per unit carbon. ImagesFigure 1 PMID:16668769

Carbon and hydrogen isotope fractionation under continuous light: implications for paleoenvironmental interpretations of the High Arctic during Paleogene warming.

PubMed

Yang, Hong; Pagani, Mark; Briggs, Derek E G; Equiza, M A; Jagels, Richard; Leng, Qin; Lepage, Ben A

2009-06-01

The effect of low intensity continuous light, e.g., in the High Arctic summer, on plant carbon and hydrogen isotope fractionations is unknown. We conducted greenhouse experiments to test the impact of light quantity and duration on both carbon and hydrogen isotope compositions of three deciduous conifers whose fossil counterparts were components of Paleogene Arctic floras: Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Taxodium distichum, and Larix laricina. We found that plant leaf bulk carbon isotopic values of the examined species were 1.75-4.63 per thousand more negative under continuous light (CL) than under diurnal light (DL). Hydrogen isotope values of leaf n-alkanes under continuous light conditions revealed a D-enriched hydrogen isotope composition of up to 40 per thousand higher than in diurnal light conditions. The isotope offsets between the two light regimes is explained by a higher ratio of intercellular to atmospheric CO(2) concentration (C (i)/C (a)) and more water loss for plants under continuous light conditions during a 24-h transpiration cycle. Apparent hydrogen isotope fractionations between source water and individual lipids (epsilon(lipid-water)) range from -62 per thousand (Metasequoia C(27) and C(29)) to -87 per thousand (Larix C(29)) in leaves under continuous light. We applied these hydrogen fractionation factors to hydrogen isotope compositions of in situ n-alkanes from well-preserved Paleogene deciduous conifer fossils from the Arctic region to estimate the deltaD value in ancient precipitation. Precipitation in the summer growing season yielded a deltaD of -186 per thousand for late Paleocene, -157 per thousand for early middle Eocene, and -182 per thousand for late middle Eocene. We propose that high-latitude summer precipitation in this region was supplemented by moisture derived from regionally recycled transpiration of the polar forests that grew during the Paleogene warming.

Economic status and temperature-related mortality in Asia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Youn-Hee; Bell, Michelle L.; Kan, Haidong; Honda, Yasushi; Guo, Yue-Liang Leon; Kim, Ho

2015-10-01

In developed countries, low latitude and high temperature are positively associated with the population's ability to adapt to heat. However, few studies have examined the effect of economic status on the relationship between long-term exposure to high temperature and health. We compared heterogeneous temperature-related mortality effects relative to the average summer temperature in high-socioeconomic-status (SES) cities to temperature-related effects in low-SES cities. In the first stage of the research, we conducted a linear regression analysis to quantify the mortality effects of high temperature (at or above the 95th percentile) in 32 cities in Taiwan, China, Japan, and Korea. In the second stage, we used a meta-regression to examine the association between mortality risk with average summer temperature and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. In cities with a low GDP per capita (less than 20,000 USD), the effects of temperature were detrimental to the population if the long-term average summer temperature was high. In contrast, in cities with a high GDP per capita, temperature-related mortality risk was not significantly related to average summer temperature. The relationship between long-term average summer temperature and the short-term effects of high temperatures differed based on the city-level economic status.

The global burden of congenital heart disease.

PubMed

Hoffman, Julien Ie

2013-05-01

Although the incidence of congenital heart disease (CHD) is similar worldwide, the burden of supporting these patients falls more heavily on countries with high fertility rates. In a country with a fertility rate of about eight per woman, the population has to support four times as many children with CHD as in a country with a fertility rate of two. Countries with the highest fertility rates tend to have the lowest incomes per capita, thus accentuating the disparity. Countries with high fertility rates have more children with congenital heart disease per wage earner. Improving local health services and controlling infectious diseases (diarrhoeal illness, rheumatic fever, measles, rotoviral infection) are important but are mere 'band-aids' compared to improving education, empowering women and reducing birth rates.

Growth and tuberization of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under continuous light

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wheeler, R. M.; Tibbitts, T. W.

1986-01-01

The growth and tuberization of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) maintained for 6 weeks under four different regimes of continuous irradiance were compared to plants given 12 hours light and 12 hours dark. Treatments included: (a) continuous photosynthetic photon flux of 200 micromoles per square meter per second cool-white fluorescent (CWF); (b) continuous 400 micromoles per square meter per second CWF; (c) 12 hours 400 micromoles per square meter per second CWF plus 12 hours dim CWF at 5 micromoles per square meter per second; (d) 12 hours [400] micromoles per square meter per second CWF plus 12 hours dim incandescent (INC) at 5 micromoles per square meter per second and a control treatment of 12 hours light at 400 micromoles per square meter per second CWF and 12 hours dark. The study included five cultivars ranging from early- to late-season types: 'Norland,' 'Superior,''Norchip,' 'Russet Burbank,' and 'Kennebec,' Tuber development progressed well under continuous irradiation at 400 micromoles per square meter per second and under 12 hours irradiance and 12 hours dark, while tuber development was suppressed in all other light treatments. Continuous irradiation at 200 or 400 micromoles per square meter per second resulted in severe stunting and leaf malformation on 'Superior' and 'Kennebec' plants, but little or no injury and vigorous shoot growth in the other cultivars. No injury or stunting were apparent under 12-dim light or 12-dark treatments. Plants given 12 hours dim INC showed significantly greater stem elongation but less total biomass than plants in other treatments. The continuous light encouraged shoot growth over tuber growth but this trend was overridden by providing a high irradiance level. The variation among cultivars for tolerance to continuous lighting indicates that potato may be a useful species for photoinhibition studies.

Growth and Tuberization of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under Continuous Light 1

PubMed Central

Wheeler, Raymond M.; Tibbitts, Theodore W.

1986-01-01

The growth and tuberization of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) maintained for 6 weeks under four different regimes of continuous irradiance were compared to plants given 12 hours light and 12 hours dark. Treatments included: (a) continuous photosynthetic photon flux of 200 micromoles per square meter per second cool-white fluorescent (CWF); (b) continuous 400 micromoles per square meter per second CWF; (c) 12 hours 400 micromoles per square meter per second CWF plus 12 hours dim CWF at 5 micromoles per square meter per second; (d) 12 hours micromoles per square meter per second CWF plus 12 hours dim incandescent (INC) at 5 micromoles per square meter per second and a control treatment of 12 hours light at 400 micromoles per square meter per second CWF and 12 hours dark. The study included five cultivars ranging from early- to late-season types: `Norland,' `Superior,' `Norchip,' `Russet Burbank,' and `Kennebec.' Tuber development progressed well under continuous irradiation at 400 micromoles per square meter per second and under 12 hours irradiance and 12 hours dark, while tuber development was suppressed in all other light treatments. Continuous irradiation at 200 or 400 micromoles per square meter per second resulted in severe stunting and leaf malformation on `Superior' and `Kennebec' plants, but little or no injury and vigorous shoot growth in the other cultivars. No injury or stunting were apparent under 12-dim light or 12-dark treatments. Plants given 12 hours dim INC showed significantly greater stem elongation but less total biomass than plants in other treatments. The continuous light encouraged shoot growth over tuber growth but this trend was overridden by providing a high irradiance level. The variation among cultivars for tolerance to continuous lighting indicates that potato may be a useful species for photoinhibition studies. PMID:11539039

Effects of Seasonal Weather on Breeding Phenology and Reproductive Success of Alpine Ptarmigan in Colorado

PubMed Central

Wann, Gregory T.; Aldridge, Cameron L.; Braun, Clait E.

2016-01-01

Animal populations occurring at high elevations are often assumed to be in peril of extinctions or local extirpations due to elevational-dispersal limitations and thermoregulatory constraints as habitats change and warm. However, long-term monitoring of high-elevation populations is uncommon relative to those occurring at lower elevations, and evidence supporting this assumption is limited. We analyzed 45 years of reproductive data for two Colorado populations of white-tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucura), an alpine-endemic species with restricted distribution in western North America. Seasonal temperatures measured by the number of growing degree days warmed significantly at our study sites for pre-nesting, nesting, and brood-rearing seasonal periods (mean advance of 8 growing degree days per decade), and both populations advanced their reproductive phenology over the study period based on median hatch dates (median advance of 3.7 and 1.9 days per decade for the northern and southern sites, respectively). Reproductive performance measured by the number of chicks per hen declined significantly at one study site but not the other, and differences between sites may have been due to habitat degradation at one study area. Annual variability in chicks per hen was large at both sites but only weakly related to seasonal weather. An index of precipitation and temperature during the brood-rearing period was the best predictor for reproductive success with warm and dry conditions relating positively to number of chicks per hen. Our results provide evidence for two alpine ptarmigan populations that are remarkably invariant to fluctuations in seasonal weather with respect to reproductive success as measured by number of chicks per hen in the breeding population. These results are surprising given the general perception of alpine animal populations as being highly sensitive to warming temperatures. PMID:27420478

Effects of Seasonal Weather on Breeding Phenology and Reproductive Success of Alpine Ptarmigan in Colorado.

PubMed

Wann, Gregory T; Aldridge, Cameron L; Braun, Clait E

2016-01-01

Animal populations occurring at high elevations are often assumed to be in peril of extinctions or local extirpations due to elevational-dispersal limitations and thermoregulatory constraints as habitats change and warm. However, long-term monitoring of high-elevation populations is uncommon relative to those occurring at lower elevations, and evidence supporting this assumption is limited. We analyzed 45 years of reproductive data for two Colorado populations of white-tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucura), an alpine-endemic species with restricted distribution in western North America. Seasonal temperatures measured by the number of growing degree days warmed significantly at our study sites for pre-nesting, nesting, and brood-rearing seasonal periods (mean advance of 8 growing degree days per decade), and both populations advanced their reproductive phenology over the study period based on median hatch dates (median advance of 3.7 and 1.9 days per decade for the northern and southern sites, respectively). Reproductive performance measured by the number of chicks per hen declined significantly at one study site but not the other, and differences between sites may have been due to habitat degradation at one study area. Annual variability in chicks per hen was large at both sites but only weakly related to seasonal weather. An index of precipitation and temperature during the brood-rearing period was the best predictor for reproductive success with warm and dry conditions relating positively to number of chicks per hen. Our results provide evidence for two alpine ptarmigan populations that are remarkably invariant to fluctuations in seasonal weather with respect to reproductive success as measured by number of chicks per hen in the breeding population. These results are surprising given the general perception of alpine animal populations as being highly sensitive to warming temperatures.

Comprehensive economic evaluation of thermotherapy for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Colombia.

PubMed

Cardona-Arias, Jaiberth Antonio; López-Carvajal, Liliana; Tamayo-Plata, Mery Patricia; Vélez, Iván Darío

2018-01-29

Cutaneous leishmaniasis causes a high disease burden in Colombia, and available treatments present systemic toxicity, low patient compliance, contraindications, and high costs. The purpose of this study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of thermotherapy versus Glucantime in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis in Colombia. Cost-effectiveness study from an institutional perspective in 8133 incident cases. Data on therapeutic efficacy and safety were included, calculating standard costs; the outcomes were disability adjusted life years (DALYs) and the number of patients cured. The information sources were the Colombian Public Health Surveillance System, disease burden studies, and one meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials. Incremental cost-effectiveness was determined, and uncertainty was evaluated with tornado diagrams and Monte Carlo simulations. Thermotherapy would generate costs of US$ 501,621; the handling of adverse effects, US$ 29,224; and therapeutic failures, US$ 300,053. For Glucantime, these costs would be US$ 2,731,276, US$ 58,254, and US$ 406,298, respectively. With thermotherapy, the cost would be US$ 2062 per DALY averted and US$ 69 per patient cured; with Glucantime, the cost would be US$ 4241 per DALY averted and US$ 85 per patient cured. In Monte Carlo simulations, thermotherapy was the dominant strategy for DALYs averted in 67.9% of cases and highly cost-effective for patients cured in 72%. In Colombia, thermotherapy can be included as a cost-effective strategy for the management of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Its incorporation into clinical practice guidelines could represent savings of approximately US$ 10,488 per DALY averted and costs of US$ 116 per additional patient cured, compared to the use of Glucantime. These findings show the relevance of the incorporation of this treatment in our country and others with similar parasitological, clinical, and epidemiological patterns.

Role of brown bears (Ursus arctos) in the flow of marine nitrogen into a terrestrial ecosystem.

PubMed

Hilderbrand, G V; Hanley, Thomas A; Robbins, Charles T; Schwartz, C C

1999-12-01

We quantified the amount, spatial distribution, and importance of salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.)-derived nitrogen (N) by brown bears (Ursus arctos) on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska. We tested and confirmed the hypothesis that the stable isotope signature (δ 15 N) of N in foliage of white spruce (Picea glauca) was inversely proportional to the distance from salmon-spawning streams (r=-0.99 and P<0.05 in two separate watersheds). Locations of radio-collared brown bears, relative to their distance from a stream, were highly correlated with δ 15 N depletion of foliage across the same gradient (r=-0.98 and -0.96 and P<0.05 in the same two separate watersheds). Mean rates of redistribution of salmon-derived N by adult female brown bears were 37.2±2.9 kg/year per bear (range 23.1-56.3), of which 96% (35.7±2.7 kg/year per bear) was excreted in urine, 3% (1.1±0.1 kg/year per bear) was excreted in feces, and <1% (0.3± 0.1 kg/year per bear) was retained in the body. On an area basis, salmon-N redistribution rates were as high as 5.1±0.7 mg/m 2 per year per bear within 500 m of the stream but dropped off greatly with increasing distance. We estimated that 15.5-17.8% of the total N in spruce foliage within 500 m of the stream was derived from salmon. Of that, bears had distributed 83-84%. Thus, brown bears can be an important vector of salmon-derived N into riparian ecosystems, but their effects are highly variable spatially and a function of bear density.

Role of brown bears (Ursus arctos) in the flow of marine nitrogen into a terrestrial ecosystem

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hilderbrand, Grant V.; Hanley, Thomas A.; Robbins, Charles T.; Schwartz, C.C.

1999-01-01

We quantified the amount, spatial distribution, and importance of salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.)-derived nitrogen (N) by brown bears (Ursus arctos) on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska. We tested and confirmed the hypothesis that the stable isotope signature (δ15N) of N in foliage of white spruce (Picea glauca) was inversely proportional to the distance from salmon-spawning streams (r=–0.99 and P<0.05 in two separate watersheds). Locations of radio-collared brown bears, relative to their distance from a stream, were highly correlated with δ15N depletion of foliage across the same gradient (r=–0.98 and –0.96 and P<0.05 in the same two separate watersheds). Mean rates of redistribution of salmon-derived N by adult female brown bears were 37.2±2.9 kg/year per bear (range 23.1–56.3), of which 96% (35.7±2.7 kg/year per bear) was excreted in urine, 3% (1.1±0.1 kg/year per bear) was excreted in feces, and <1% (0.3± 0.1 kg/year per bear) was retained in the body. On an area basis, salmon-N redistribution rates were as high as 5.1±0.7 mg/m2 per year per bear within 500 m of the stream but dropped off greatly with increasing distance. We estimated that 15.5–17.8% of the total N in spruce foliage within 500 m of the stream was derived from salmon. Of that, bears had distributed 83–84%. Thus, brown bears can be an important vector of salmon-derived N into riparian ecosystems, but their effects are highly variable spatially and a function of bear density.

Effects of seasonal weather on breeding phenology and reproductive success of alpine ptarmigan in Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wann, Greg; Aldridge, Cameron L.; Braun, Clait E.

2016-01-01

Animal populations occurring at high elevations are often assumed to be in peril of extinctions or local extirpations due to elevational-dispersal limitations and thermoregulatory constraints as habitats change and warm. However, long-term monitoring of high-elevation populations is uncommon relative to those occurring at lower elevations, and evidence supporting this assumption is limited. We analyzed 45 years of reproductive data for two Colorado populations of white-tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucura), an alpine-endemic species with restricted distribution in western North America. Seasonal temperatures measured by the number of growing degree days warmed significantly at our study sites for pre-nesting, nesting, and brood-rearing seasonal periods (mean advance of 8 growing degree days per decade), and both populations advanced their reproductive phenology over the study period based on median hatch dates (median advance of 3.7 and 1.9 days per decade for the northern and southern sites, respectively). Reproductive performance measured by the number of chicks per hen declined significantly at one study site but not the other, and differences between sites may have been due to habitat degradation at one study area. Annual variability in chicks per hen was large at both sites but only weakly related to seasonal weather. An index of precipitation and temperature during the brood-rearing period was the best predictor for reproductive success with warm and dry conditions relating positively to number of chicks per hen. Our results provide evidence for two alpine ptarmigan populations that are remarkably invariant to fluctuations in seasonal weather with respect to reproductive success as measured by number of chicks per hen in the breeding population. These results are surprising given the general perception of alpine animal populations as being highly sensitive to warming temperatures.

Curing Chronic Hepatitis C: A Cost Comparison of the Combination Simeprevir Plus Sofosbuvir vs. Protease-Inhibitor-Based Triple Therapy.

PubMed

Langness, Jacob A; Tabano, David; Wieland, Amanda; Tise, Sarah; Pratt, Lindsay; Harrington, Lauren Ayres; Lin, Sonia; Ghuschcyan, Vahram; Nair, Kavita V; Everson, Gregory T

Interferon-free, multi-direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly effective and well tolerated, but costly. To gain perspective on the evolving economics of HCV therapy, we compared the cost per cure of a multi-DAA regimen with the prior standard of triple therapy. Patients infected with HCV genotype 1 who were treated through the University of Colorado Hepatology Clinic between May 2011 and December 2014 comprised the study population. The multi-DAA regimen of simeprevir plus sofosbuvir (SMV/SOF) was compared to the triple therapy regimen consisting of peginterferon and ribavirin, with either boceprevir or telaprevir (TT). Sustained-virologic response (SVR) rates, total costs per treatment and adverse events were recorded. Total cost per SVR were compared for the two treatments, controlling for patient demographics and clinical characteristics. One hundred eighty-three patients received SMV/SOF (n = 70) or TT (n = 113). Patients receiving SMV/SOF were older, more treatment experienced, and had a higher stage of fibrosis. SVRs were 86% and 59%, average total costs per patient were $152,775 and $95,943, and average total costs per SVR were $178,237 vs. $161,813.49 for SMV/SOF and TT groups, respectively. Medication costs accounted for 98% of SMV/SOF and 85% of TT treatment costs. The high cure rate of multi-DAA treatment of HCV is offset by the high costs of the DAAs, such that the cost per cure from TT to multi-DAA therapy has been relatively constant. In order to cure more patients, either additional financial resources will need to be allocated to the treatment of HCV or drug costs will need to be reduced.

The burden of antenatal heart disease in South Africa: a systematic review

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Maternal mortality in South Africa is rising, and heart conditions currently account for 41 per cent of indirect causes of deaths. Little is known about the burden of heart disease in pregnant South Africans. Methods We systematically reviewed the contemporary epidemiology and peripartum outcomes of heart disease in South African women attending antenatal care. Searches were performed in PubMed, ISI Web of Science, the EBSCO Africa-Wide database, the South African Union Catalogue, and the Current and Completed Research database (South Africa). References of included articles were also hand-searched. Studies reporting epidemiologic data on antenatal heart disease in South Africa were included. Data on morbidity and mortality were also collected. Results Seven studies were included in the systematic review. The prevalence of heart disease ranged from 123 to 943 per 100,000 deliveries, with a median prevalence of 616 per 100,000. Rheumatic valvular lesions were the commonest abnormalities, although cardiomyopathies were disproportionately high in comparison with other developing countries. Peripartum case-fatality rates were as high as 9.5 per cent in areas with limited access to care. The most frequent complications were pulmonary oedema, thromboembolism, and major bleeding with warfarin use. Perinatal mortality ranged from 8.9 to 23.8 per cent, whilst mitral lesions were associated with low birth weight. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to clinical and statistical heterogeneity of the included studies. Conclusion Approximately 0.6 per cent of pregnant South Africans have pre-existing cardiac abnormalities, with rheumatic lesions being the commonest. Maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality continue to be very high. We conclude this review by summarising limitations of the current literature and recommending standard reporting criteria for future reports. PMID:22463484

Economic Burden of Atopic Dermatitis in High-Risk Infants Receiving Cow's Milk or Partially Hydrolyzed 100% Whey-Based Formula.

PubMed

Bhanegaonkar, Abhijeet; Horodniceanu, Erica G; Ji, Xiang; Detzel, Patrick; Boguniewicz, Mark; Chamlin, Sarah; Lake, Alan; Czerkies, Laura A; Botteman, Marc F; Saavedra, José M

2015-05-01

To estimate the health and economic impact of feeding partially hydrolyzed formula-whey (PHF-W) instead of standard cow's milk formula (CMF) for the first 4 months of life among US infants at high risk for developing atopic dermatitis (AD). A Markov model was developed integrating published data, a survey of US pediatricians, costing sources and market data, and expert opinion. Key modeled outcomes included reduction in AD risk, time spent post AD diagnosis, days without AD flare, and AD-related costs. Costs and clinical consequences were discounted at 3% annually. An estimated absolute 14-percentage point reduction in AD risk was calculated with the use of PHF-W compared with CMF (95% CI for difference, 3%-22%). Relative to CMF, PHF-W decreased the time spent post-AD diagnosis by 8.3 months (95% CI, 2.78-13.31) per child and increased days without AD flare by 39 days (95% CI, 13-63) per child. The AD-related, 6-year total cost estimate was $495 less (95% CI, -$813 to -$157) per child with PHF-W ($724 per child; 95% CI, $385-$1269) compared with CMF ($1219 per child; 95% CI, $741-$1824). Utilization of PHF-W in place of CMF as the initial infant formula administered to high-risk US infants not exclusively breastfed during the first 4 months of life may reduce the incidence and economic burden of AD. Broad implementation of this strategy could result in a minimum savings of $355 million per year to society. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Targeting high-risk employees may reduce cardiovascular racial disparities.

PubMed

Burke, James F; Vijan, Sandeep; Chekan, Lynette A; Makowiec, Ted M; Thomas, Laurita; Morgenstern, Lewis B

2014-09-01

A possible remedy for health disparities is for employers to promote cardiovascular health among minority employees. We sought to quantify the financial return to employers of interventions to improve minority health, and to determine whether a race- or risk-targeted strategy was better. Retrospective claims-based cohort analysis. Unconditional per-person costs attributable to stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) were estimated for University of Michigan employees from 2006 to 2009 using a 2-part model. The model was then used to predict the costs of cardiovascular disease to the University for 2 subgroups of employees-minorities and high-risk patients-and to calculate cost-savings thresholds: the point at which the costs of hypothetical interventions (eg, workplace fitness programs) would equal the cost savings from stroke/ MI prevention. Of the 38,314 enrollees, 10% were African American. Estimated unconditional payments for stroke/MI were almost the same in African Americans ($128 per employee per year; 95% CI, $79-$177) and whites ($128 per employee per year; 95% CI, $101- $156), including higher event rates and lower payments per event in African Americans. Targeting the highest risk decile with interventions to reduce stroke/MI would result in a substantially higher cost-savings threshold ($81) compared with targeting African Americans ($13). An unanticipated consequence of risk-based targeting is that African Americans would substantially benefit: an intervention targeted at the top risk decile would prevent 75% of the events in African Americans, just as would an intervention that exclusively targeted African Americans. Targeting all high-risk employees for cardiovascular risk reduction may be a win-win-win situation for employers: improving health, decreasing costs, and reducing disparities.

Initial Effects of Differently Treated Biogas Residues from Municipal and Industrial Wastes on Spring Barley Yield Formation

PubMed Central

Prays, Nadia; Kaupenjohann, Martin

2016-01-01

Soil application of biogas residues (BGRs) is important for closing nutrient cycles. This study examined the efficiency and impact on yields and yield formation of solid-liquid separated residues from biodegradable municipal and industrial wastes (bio-waste) in comparison to complete BGRs, nitrification inhibitor, agricultural BGRs, mineral fertilizer and unfertilized plots as control. The experiment was set up as a randomized block design on silt loam Cambisol. Biogas residues from four biogas plants were evaluated. Plants per m², ears per plant, grains per ear and thousand grain weight (TGW) were measured at harvest. Fertilization with BGRs resulted in similar biomass yields compared with mineral fertilizer. Mineral fertilizer (71 dt/ha) and plots fertilized with liquid fraction (59–62 dt/ha) indicated a trend to higher yields than solid fraction or complete BGR due to its high ammonia content. Liquid fractions and fraction with nitrification inhibitor induced fewer plants per m² than corresponding solid and complete variants due to a potential phytotoxicity of high NH4-N concentration during germination. However, barley on plots fertilized with liquid fraction compensated the disadvantages at the beginning during the vegetation period and induced higher grain yields than solid fraction. This was attributable to a higher number of ears per plant and grains per ear. In conclusion, BGRs from biodegradable municipal and industrial wastes can be used for soil fertilization and replace considerable amounts of mineral fertilizer. Our study showed that direct application of the liquid fraction of BGR is the most suitable strategy to achieve highest grain yields. Nevertheless potential phytotoxicity of the high NH4-N concentration in the liquid fraction should be considered. PMID:27116355

Combining ability analysis for within-boll yield components in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.).

PubMed

Imran, M; Shakeel, A; Azhar, F M; Farooq, J; Saleem, M F; Saeed, A; Nazeer, W; Riaz, M; Naeem, M; Javaid, A

2012-08-24

Cotton is an important cash crop worldwide, accounting for a large percentage of world agricultural exports; however, yield per acre is still poor in many countries, including Pakistan. Diallel mating system was used to identify parents for improving within-boll yield and fiber quality parameters. Combining ability analysis was employed to obtain suitable parents for this purpose. The parental genotypes CP-15/2, NIAB Krishma, CIM-482, MS-39, and S-12 were crossed in complete diallel mating under green house conditions during 2009. The F₀ seed of 20 hybrids and five parents were planted in the field in randomized complete block design with three replications during 2010. There were highly significant differences among all F₁ hybrids and their parents. Specific combining ability (SCA) variance was greater than general combining ability (GCA) variance for bolls per plant (9.987), seeds per boll (0.635), seed density (5.672), lint per seed (4.174), boll size (3.69), seed cotton yield (0.315), and lint percentage (0.470), showing predominance of non-additive genes; while seed volume (3.84) was controlled by additive gene action based on maximum GCA variance. Cultivar MS-39 was found to be the best general combiner for seed volume (0.102), seeds per boll (0.448), and lint per seed (0.038) and its utilization produced valuable hybrids, including MS-39 x NIAB Krishma and MS-39 x S-12. The parental line CIM-482 had high GCA effects for boll size (0.33) and seeds per boll (0.90). It also showed good SCA with S-12 and NIAB Krishma for bolls per plant, with CP- 15/2 for boll size, and with MS-39 for seeds per boll. The hybrids, namely, CP-15/2 x NIAB Krishma, NIAB Krishma x S-12, NIAB Krishma x CIM-482, MS-39 x NIAB Krishma, MS-39 x CP-15/2, and S-12 x MS-39 showed promising results. Correlation analysis revealed that seed cotton yield showed significant positive correlation with bolls per plant, boll size and seeds per boll while it showed negative correlation with lint percentage and lint per seed. Seed volume showed significant negative correlation with seed density. Seeds per boll were positively correlated with boll size and negatively correlated with bolls per plant lint percentage and lint per seed. Similarly, lint per seed exhibited positive correlation with lint percentage and boll size showed significantly negative correlation with bolls per plant. Presence of non-additive genetic effects in traits like bolls per plant, seeds per boll, lint per seed, seed cotton yield, and lint percentage is indicative of later generation selection or heterosis breeding may be adopted. For boll size, seed volume and seed density early generation selection may be followed because of the presence of additive gene action. The parental material used in this study and cross combinations obtained from these parents may be exploited in future breeding endeavors.

Investigation of Ground-Water Availability and Quality in Orange County, North Carolina

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cunningham, William L.; Daniel, Charles C.

2001-01-01

A countywide inventory was conducted of 649 wells in nine hydrogeologic units in Orange County, North Carolina. As a result of this inventory, estimates of ground-water availability and use were calculated, and water-quality results were obtained from 51 wells sampled throughout the County from December 1998 through January 1999. The typical well in Orange County has an average depth of 208 feet, an average casing length of 53.6 feet, a static water level of 26.6 feet, a yield of 17.6 gallons per minute, and a well casing diameter of 6.25 inches. The saturated thickness of the regolith averages 27.0 feet and the yield per foot of total well depth averages 0.119 gallon per minute per foot. Two areas of the County are more favorable for high-yield wells—a west-southwest to east-northeast trending area in the northwestern part of the County, and a southwest to northeast trending area in the southwestern part of the County. Well yields in Orange County show little correlation with topographic or hydrogeologic setting.Fifty-one sampling locations were selected based on (a) countywide areal distribution, (b) weighted distribution among hydrogeologic units, and (c) permission from homeowners. The list of analytes for the sampling program consisted of common anions and cations, metals and trace elements, nutrients, organic compounds, and radon. Samples were screened for the presence of fuel compounds and pesticides by using immuno-assay techniques. Dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, specific conductance, and alkalinity were measured in the field. The median pH was 6.9, which is nearly neutral, and the median hardness was 75 milligrams per liter calcium carbonate. The median dissolved solids concentration was 125 milligrams per liter, and the median specific conductance was 175 microsiemens per centimeter at 25 degrees Celsius. Orange County ground water is classified as a calcium-bicarbonate type.High nutrient concentrations were not found in samples collected for this study. Nitrate was detected in 82 percent of the samples at concentrations ranging up to 7.2 milligrams per liter, although the median concentration was 0.49 milligram per liter; all other samples had a concentration of 2.9 milligrams per liter or less. In general, trace elements were detected infrequently or at concentrations less than State drinking-water standards. However, exceedances of North Carolina drinking-water standards were observed for iron (3 exceedances of 51 analyses, detection up to 1,100 micrograms per liter), manganese (12 exceedances of 51 analyses, detection up to 890 micrograms per liter), and zinc (4 exceedances of 31 analyses, detection up to 4,900 micrograms per liter). Lead was detected in 8 of 31 samples with a concentration up to 3.5 micrograms per liter. Zinc, manganese, iron, and copper were the most frequently detected trace metals at 100, 94, 80, and 61 percent, respectively. Lead, arsenic, bromide, alum inum, and selenium were detected in 13 to 26 percent of the analyses. No benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) or atrazine compounds were detected in any of the samples.Radon activities in ground water can be high because of the rock units present in Orange County. Radon activity ranged from 38 to 4,462 picocuries per liter countywide, with a median activity of 405 picocuries per liter. Median radon activities in Orange County were highest in felsic rocks (487 picocuries per liter) and lowest in mafic rocks (357 picocuries per liter). When evaluated by individual hydrogeologic units, the median radon activity was highest in the phyllite unit (1,080 picocuries per liter in 2 samples) and the felsic metaigneous unit (571 picocuries per liter in 13 samples).Overall, water-quality data in Orange County indicate few drinking-water concerns. No organic contaminants analyzed (total BTEX and atrazine) or excessive nutrient concentrations were detected, and few exceedances of North Carolina drinking- water standards were detected.

Radiation measurements and doses at SST altitudes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foelsche, T.

1972-01-01

Radiation components and dose equivalents due to galactic and solar cosmic rays in the high atmosphere, especially at SST altitudes, are presented. The dose equivalent rate for the flight personnel flying 500 hours per year in cruise altitudes of 60,000-65,000 feet (18-19.5 km) in high magnetic latitudes is about 0.75-1.0 rem per year averaged over the solar cycle, or about 15-20 percent of the maximum permissible dose rate.

Implicit methods for the Navier-Stokes equations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yoon, S.; Kwak, D.

1990-01-01

Numerical solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations using explicit schemes can be obtained at the expense of efficiency. Conventional implicit methods which often achieve fast convergence rates suffer high cost per iteration. A new implicit scheme based on lower-upper factorization and symmetric Gauss-Seidel relaxation offers very low cost per iteration as well as fast convergence. High efficiency is achieved by accomplishing the complete vectorizability of the algorithm on oblique planes of sweep in three dimensions.

Cost per case or total cost? The potential of prevention of hand injuries in young children – Retrospective and prospective studies

PubMed Central

Ljungberg, Elinor M; Carlsson, Katarina Steen; Dahlin, Lars B

2008-01-01

Background Health-care costs for hand and forearm injuries in young children are poorly documented. We examined costs in 533 children injured years 1996–2003. Methods Health-care costs and costs for lost productivity were retrospectively calculated in children from three catchment areas in Sweden. Seven case categories corresponding to alternative prevention strategies were constructed. Results Over time, diminishing number of ward days reduced the health-care cost per case. Among children, the cost of lost productivity due to parental leave was 14 percent of total cost. Fingertip injuries had low median costs but high total costs due to their frequency. Complex injuries by machine or rifle had high costs per case, and despite a low number of cases, total cost was high. Type of injury, surgery and physiotherapy sessions were associated with variations in health-care cost. Low age and ethnic background had a significant effect on number of ward days. Conclusion The costs per hand injury for children were lower compared to adults due to both lower health-care costs and to the fact that parents had comparatively short periods of absence from work. Frequent simple fingertip injuries and rare complex injuries induce high costs for society. Such costs should be related to costs for prevention of these injuries. PMID:18606018

A High-Speed Spectroscopy System for Observing Lightning and Transient Luminous Events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boggs, L.; Liu, N.; Austin, M.; Aguirre, F.; Tilles, J.; Nag, A.; Lazarus, S. M.; Rassoul, H.

2017-12-01

Here we present a high-speed spectroscopy system that can be used to record atmospheric electrical discharges, including lightning and transient luminous events. The system consists of a Phantom V1210 high-speed camera, a Volume Phase Holographic (VPH) grism, an optional optical slit, and lenses. The spectrograph has the capability to record videos at speeds of 200,000 frames per second and has an effective wavelength band of 550-775 nm for the first order spectra. When the slit is used, the system has a spectral resolution of about 0.25 nm per pixel. We have constructed a durable enclosure made of heavy duty aluminum to house the high-speed spectrograph. It has two fans for continuous air flow and a removable tray to mount the spectrograph components. In addition, a Watec video camera (30 frames per second) is attached to the top of the enclosure to provide a scene view. A heavy duty Pelco pan/tilt motor is used to position the enclosure and can be controlled remotely through a Rasperry Pi computer. An observation campaign has been conducted during the summer and fall of 2017 at the Florida Institute of Technology. Several close cloud-to-ground discharges were recorded at 57,000 frames per second. The spectrum of a downward stepped negative leader and a positive cloud-to-ground return stroke will be reported on.

Shared air: a renewed focus on ventilation for the prevention of tuberculosis transmission.

PubMed

Richardson, Eugene T; Morrow, Carl D; Kalil, Darryl B; Ginsberg, Samuel; Bekker, Linda-Gail; Wood, Robin

2014-01-01

Despite an improvement in the overall TB cure rate from 40-74% between 1995 and 2011, TB incidence in South Africa continues to increase. The epidemic is notably disquieting in schools because the vulnerable population is compelled to be present. Older learners (age 15-19) are at particular risk given a smear-positive rate of 427 per 100,000 per year and the significant amount of time they spend indoors. High schools are therefore important locations for potential TB infection and thus prevention efforts. Using portable carbon dioxide monitors, we measured CO2 in classrooms under non-steady state conditions. The threshold for tuberculosis transmission was estimated using a carbon dioxide-based risk equation. We determined a critical rebreathed fraction of carbon dioxide (ƒ(c)) of 1 · 6%, which correlates with an indoor CO2 concentration of 1000 ppm. These values correspond with a ventilation rate of 8 · 6 l/s per person or 12 air exchanges per hour (ACH) for standard classrooms of 180 m(3). Given the high smear positive rate of high-school adolescents in South Africa, the proposal to achieve CO2 levels of 1000 ppm through natural ventilation (in the amount 12 ACH) will not only help achieve WHO guidelines for providing children with healthy indoor environments, it will also provide a low-cost intervention for helping control the TB epidemic in areas of high prevalence.

Pressure and Thrust Measurements of a High-Frequency Pulsed Detonation Tube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, N.; Cutler, A. D.

2008-01-01

This paper describes measurements of a small-scale, high-frequency pulsed detonation tube. The device utilized a mixture of H2 fuel and air, which was injected into the device at frequencies of up to 1200 Hz. Pulsed detonations were demonstrated in an 8-inch long combustion volume, at about 600 Hz, for the quarter wave mode of resonance. The primary objective of this experiment was to measure the generated thrust. A mean value of thrust was measured up to 6.0 lb, corresponding to H2 flow based specific impulse of 2970 s. This value is comparable to measurements in H2-fueled pulsed detonation engines (PDEs). The injection and detonation frequency for this new experimental case was much higher than typical PDEs, where frequencies are usually less than 100 Hz. The compact size of the device and high frequency of detonation yields a thrust-per-unit-volume of approximately 2.0 pounds per cubic inch, and compares favorably with other experiments, which typically have thrust-per-unit-volume of order 0.01 pound per cubic inch. This much higher volumetric efficiency results in a potentially much more practical device than the typical PDE, for a wide range of potential applications, including high-speed boundary layer separation control, for example in hypersonic engine inlets, and propulsion for small aircraft and missiles.

Acclimation of isoprene emission and photosynthesis to growth temperature in hybrid aspen: resolving structural and physiological controls.

PubMed

Rasulov, Bahtijor; Bichele, Irina; Hüve, Katja; Vislap, Vivian; Niinemets, Ülo

2015-04-01

Acclimation of foliage to growth temperature involves both structural and physiological modifications, but the relative importance of these two mechanisms of acclimation is poorly known, especially for isoprene emission responses. We grew hybrid aspen (Populus tremula x P. tremuloides) under control (day/night temperature of 25/20 °C) and high temperature conditions (35/27 °C) to gain insight into the structural and physiological acclimation controls. Growth at high temperature resulted in larger and thinner leaves with smaller and more densely packed chloroplasts and with lower leaf dry mass per area (MA). High growth temperature also led to lower photosynthetic and respiration rates, isoprene emission rate and leaf pigment content and isoprene substrate dimethylallyl diphosphate pool size per unit area, but to greater stomatal conductance. However, all physiological characteristics were similar when expressed per unit dry mass, indicating that the area-based differences were primarily driven by MA. Acclimation to high temperature further increased heat stability of photosynthesis and increased activation energies for isoprene emission and isoprene synthase rate constant. This study demonstrates that temperature acclimation of photosynthetic and isoprene emission characteristics per unit leaf area were primarily driven by structural modifications, and we argue that future studies investigating acclimation to growth temperature must consider structural modifications. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The influence of genetic selection and feed system on the reproductive performance of spring-calving dairy cows within future pasture-based production systems.

PubMed

Coleman, J; Pierce, K M; Berry, D P; Brennan, A; Horan, B

2009-10-01

Three genetic groups of Holstein-Friesian dairy cows were established from within the Moorepark (Teagasc, Ireland) dairy research herd: LowNA, indicative of the Irish national average-genetic-merit North American Holstein-Friesian; HighNA, high-genetic-merit North American Holstein-Friesian; HighNZ, high-genetic-merit New Zealand Holstein-Friesian. Genetic merit in this study was based on the Irish total merit index, the Economic Breeding Index. Animals from within each genetic group were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 possible post-European Union-milk-quota pasture-based feeding systems (FS): 1) The Moorepark (MP) pasture system (2.64 cows/ha and 500 kg of concentrate supplement per cow per lactation) and 2) a high output per hectare (HC) pasture system (2.85 cows/ha and 1,200 kg of concentrate supplement per cow per lactation). A total of 126, 128, and 140 spring-calving dairy cows were used during the years 2006, 2007, and 2008, respectively. Each group had an individual farmlet of 17 paddocks, and all groups were managed similarly throughout the study. The effects of genetic group, FS, and the interaction between genetic group and FS on reproductive performance, body weight, body condition score, and blood metabolite concentrations were studied using mixed models with factorial arrangements of genetic groups and FS. Odds ratios were used in the analysis of binary fertility traits, and survival analysis was used in the analysis of survival after first calving. When treatment means were compared, the HighNA and HighNZ genotypes (with greater genetic merit for fertility performance) had greater first-service pregnancy rates and had a greater proportion of cows pregnant after 42 d of the breeding season than the LowNA group. Both HighNA and HighNZ genotypes were submitted for artificial insemination earlier in the breeding season and had greater survival than the LowNA genotype. There was no significant FS or genotype by FS interactions for any of the reproductive, blood metabolite, body weight, or body condition score measures. The results demonstrate that increased genetic merit for fertility traits resulted in improved reproductive performance and that the poor reproductive capacity of inferior-genetic-merit animals for fertility was not improved through concentrate supplementation at pasture.

Testing genotyping strategies for ultra-deep sequencing of a co-amplifying gene family: MHC class I in a passerine bird.

PubMed

Biedrzycka, Aleksandra; Sebastian, Alvaro; Migalska, Magdalena; Westerdahl, Helena; Radwan, Jacek

2017-07-01

Characterization of highly duplicated genes, such as genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), where multiple loci often co-amplify, has until recently been hindered by insufficient read depths per amplicon. Here, we used ultra-deep Illumina sequencing to resolve genotypes at exon 3 of MHC class I genes in the sedge warbler (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus). We sequenced 24 individuals in two replicates and used this data, as well as a simulated data set, to test the effect of amplicon coverage (range: 500-20 000 reads per amplicon) on the repeatability of genotyping using four different genotyping approaches. A third replicate employed unique barcoding to assess the extent of tag jumping, that is swapping of individual tag identifiers, which may confound genotyping. The reliability of MHC genotyping increased with coverage and approached or exceeded 90% within-method repeatability of allele calling at coverages of >5000 reads per amplicon. We found generally high agreement between genotyping methods, especially at high coverages. High reliability of the tested genotyping approaches was further supported by our analysis of the simulated data set, although the genotyping approach relying primarily on replication of variants in independent amplicons proved sensitive to repeatable errors. According to the most repeatable genotyping method, the number of co-amplifying variants per individual ranged from 19 to 42. Tag jumping was detectable, but at such low frequencies that it did not affect the reliability of genotyping. We thus demonstrate that gene families with many co-amplifying genes can be reliably genotyped using HTS, provided that there is sufficient per amplicon coverage. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Characterization of a microDiamond detector in high-dose-per-pulse electron beams for intra operative radiation therapy.

PubMed

Di Venanzio, C; Marinelli, Marco; Tonnetti, A; Verona-Rinati, G; Falco, M D; Pimpinella, M; Ciccotelli, A; De Stefano, S; Felici, G; Marangoni, F

2015-12-01

To characterize a synthetic diamond dosimeter (PTW Freiburg microDiamond 60019) in high dose-per-pulse electron beams produced by an Intra Operative Radiation Therapy (IORT) dedicated accelerator. The dosimetric properties of the microDiamond were assessed under 6, 8 and 9 MeV electron beams by a NOVAC11 mobile accelerator (Sordina IORT Technologies S.p.A.). The characterization was carried out with dose-per-pulse ranging from 26 to 105 mGy per pulse. The microDiamond performance was compared with an Advanced Markus ionization chamber and a PTW silicon diode E in terms of dose linearity, percentage depth dose (PDD) curves, beam profiles and output factors. A good linearity of the microDiamond response was verified in the dose range from 0.2 Gy to 28 Gy. A sensitivity of 1.29 nC/Gy was measured under IORT electron beams, resulting within 1% with respect to the one obtained in reference condition under (60)Co gamma irradiation. PDD measurements were found in agreement with the ones by the reference dosimeters, with differences in R50 values below 0.3 mm. Profile measurements evidenced a high spatial resolution of the microDiamond, slightly worse than the one of the silicon diode. The penumbra widths measured by the microDiamond resulted approximately 0.5 mm larger than the ones by the Silicon diode. Output factors measured by the microDiamond were found within 2% with those obtained by the Advanced Markus down to 3 cm diameter field sizes. The microDiamond dosimeter was demonstrated to be suitable for precise dosimetry in IORT applications under high dose-per-pulse conditions. Copyright © 2015 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cost-effectiveness of national mandatory screening of all admissions to English National Health Service hospitals for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: a mathematical modelling study.

PubMed

Robotham, Julie V; Deeny, Sarah R; Fuller, Chris; Hopkins, Susan; Cookson, Barry; Stone, Sheldon

2016-03-01

In December, 2010, National Health Service (NHS) England introduced national mandatory screening of all admissions for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). We aimed to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of this policy, from a regional or national health-care decision makers' perspective, compared with alternative screening strategies. We used an individual-based dynamic transmission model parameterised with national MRSA audit data to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of admission screening of patients in English NHS hospitals compared with five alternative strategies (including no screening, checklist-activated screening, and high-risk specialty-based screening), accompanied by patient isolation and decolonisation, over a 5 year time horizon. We evaluated strategies for different NHS hospital types (acute, teaching, and specialist), MRSA prevalence, and transmission potentials using probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Compared with no screening, mean cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) of screening all admissions was £89,000-148,000 (range £68,000-222,000), and this strategy was consistently more costly and less effective than alternatives for all hospital types. At a £30,000/QALY willingness-to-pay threshold and current prevalence, only the no-screening strategy was cost effective. The next best strategies were, in acute and teaching hospitals, targeting of high-risk specialty admissions (30-40% chance of cost-effectiveness; mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratios [ICERs] £45,200 [range £35,300-61,400] and £48,000/QALY [£34,600-74,800], respectively) and, in specialist hospitals, screening these patients plus risk-factor-based screening of low-risk specialties (a roughly 20% chance of cost-effectiveness; mean ICER £62,600/QALY [£48,000-89,400]). As prevalence and transmission increased, targeting of high-risk specialties became the optimum strategy at the NHS willingness-to-pay threshold (£30,000/QALY). Switching from screening all admissions to only high-risk specialty admissions resulted in a mean reduction in total costs per year (not considering uncertainty) of £2·7 million per acute hospital, £2·9 million per teaching, and £474,000 per specialist hospital for a minimum rise in infections (about one infection per year per hospital). Our results show that screening all admissions for MRSA is unlikely to be cost effective in England at the current NHS willingness-to-pay threshold, and our findings informed modified guidance to NHS England in 2014. Screening admissions to high-risk specialties is likely to represent better resource use in terms of cost per QALY gained. UK Department of Health. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of test methods, material properties, and processes for solar cell encapsulants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

Photovoltaic (PV) modules consist of a string of electrically interconnected silicon solar cells capable of producing practical quantities of electrical power when exposed to sunlight. To insure high reliability and long term performance, the functional components of the solar cell module must be adequately protected from the environment by some encapsulation technique. The encapsulation system must provide mechanical support for the cells and corrosion protection for the electrical components. The goal of the program is to identify and develop encapsulation systems consistent with the PV module operating requirements of 30 year life and a target cost of $0.70 per peak watt ($70 per square meter) (1980 dollars). Assuming a module efficiency of ten percent, which is equivalent to a power output of 100 watts per square meter in midday sunlight, the capital cost of the modules may be calculated to be $70.00 per square meter. Out of this cost goal, only 20 percent is available for encapsulation due to the high cost of the cells, interconnects, and other related components. The encapsulation cost allocation may then be stated as $14.00 per square meter, included all coatings, pottant and mechanical supports for the cells.

Groundwater quality and the relation between pH values and occurrence of trace elements and radionuclides in water samples collected from private wells in part of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma Jurisdictional Area, central Oklahoma, 2011

USGS Publications Warehouse

Becker, Carol J.

2013-01-01

From 1999 to 2007, the Indian Health Service reported that gross alpha-particle activities and concentrations of uranium exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Levels for public drinking-water supplies in water samples from six private wells and two test wells in a rural residential neighborhood in the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma Jurisdictional Area, in central Oklahoma. Residents in this rural area use groundwater from Quaternary-aged terrace deposits and the Permian-aged Garber-Wellington aquifer for domestic purposes. Uranium and other trace elements, specifically arsenic, chromium, and selenium, occur naturally in rocks composing the Garber-Wellington aquifer and in low concentrations in groundwater throughout its extent. Previous studies have shown that pH values above 8.0 from cation-exchange processes in the aquifer cause selected metals such as arsenic, chromium, selenium, and uranium to desorb (if present) from mineral surfaces and become mobile in water. On the basis of this information, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma, conducted a study in 2011 to describe the occurrence of selected trace elements and radionuclides in groundwater and to determine if pH could be used as a surrogate for laboratory analysis to quickly and inexpensively identify wells that might contain high concentrations of uranium and other trace elements. The pH and specific conductance of groundwater from 59 private wells were measured in the field in an area of about 18 square miles in Lincoln and Pottawatomie Counties. Twenty of the 59 wells also were sampled for dissolved concentrations of major ions, trace elements, gross alpha-particle and gross beta-particle activities, uranium, radium-226, radium-228, and radon-222 gas. Arsenic concentrations exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level of 10 micrograms per liter in one sample having a concentration of 24.7 micrograms per liter. Selenium concentrations exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level of 50 micrograms per liter in one sample having a concentration of 147 micrograms per liter. Both samples had alkaline pH values, 8.0 and 8.4, respectively. Uranium concentrations ranged from 0.02 to 383 micrograms per liter with 5 of 20 samples exceeding the Maximum Contaminant Level of 30 micrograms per liter; the five wells with uranium concentrations exceeding 30 micrograms per liter had pH values ranging from 8.0 to 8.5. Concentrations of uranium and radon-222 and gross alpha-particle activity showed a positive relation to pH, with the highest concentrations and activity in samples having pH values of 8.0 or above. The groundwater samples contained dissolved oxygen and high concentrations of bicarbonate; these characteristics are also factors in increasing uranium solubility. Concentrations of radium-226 and radium-228 (combined) ranged from 0.03 to 1.7 picocuries per liter, with a median concentration of 0.45 picocuries per liter for all samples. Radon-222 concentrations ranged from 95 to 3,600 picocuries per liter with a median concentration of 261 picocuries per liter. Eight samples having pH values ranging from 8.0 to 8.7 exceeded the proposed Maximum Contaminant Level of 300 picocuries per liter for radon-222. Eight samples exceeded the 15 picocuries per liter Maximum Contaminant Level for gross alpha-particle activity at 72 hours (after sample collection) and at 30 days (after the initial count); those samples had pH values ranging from 8.0 to 8.5. Gross beta-particle activity increased in 15 of 21 samples during the interval from 72 hours to 30 days. The increase in gross beta-particle activity over time probably was caused by the ingrowth and decay of uranium daughter products that emit beta particles. Water-quality data collected for this study indicate that pH values above 8.0 are associated with potentially high concentrations of uranium and radon-222 and high gross alpha-particle activity in the study area. High pH values also are associated with potentially high concentrations of arsenic, chromium, and selenium in groundwater when these elements occur in the aquifer matrix along groundwater-flow paths.

Ground-Water Occurrence and Contribution to Streamflow, Northeast Maui, Hawaii

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gingerich, Stephen B.

1999-01-01

The study area lies on the northern flank of the East Maui Volcano (Haleakala) and covers about 129 square miles between the drainage basins of Maliko Gulch to the west and Makapipi Stream to the east. About 989 million gallons per day of rainfall and 176 million gallons per day of fog drip reaches the study area and about 529 million gallons per day enters the ground-water system as recharge. Average annual ground-water withdrawal from wells totals only about 3 million gallons per day; proposed (as of 1998) additional withdrawals total about 18 million gallons per day. Additionally, tunnels and ditches of an extensive irrigation network directly intercept at least 10 million gallons per day of ground water. The total amount of average annual streamflow in gaged stream subbasins upstream of 1,300 feet altitude is about 255 million gallons per day and the total amount of average annual base flow is about 62 million gallons per day. Six major surface-water diversion systems in the study area have diverted an average of 163 million gallons per day of streamflow (including nearly all base flow of diverted streams) for irrigation and domestic supply in central Maui during 1925-97. Fresh ground water is found in two main forms. West of Keanae Valley, ground-water flow appears to be dominated by a variably saturated system. A saturated zone in the uppermost rock unit, the Kula Volcanics, is separated from a freshwater lens near sea level by an unsaturated zone in the underlying Honomanu Basalt. East of Keanae Valley, the ground-water system appears to be fully saturated above sea level to altitudes greater than 2,000 feet. The total average annual streamflow of gaged streams west of Keanae Valley is about 140 million gallons per day at 1,200 feet to 1,300 feet altitude. It is not possible to estimate the total average annual streamflow at the coast. All of the base flow measured in the study area west of Keanae Valley represents ground-water discharge from the high-elevation saturated zone. Total average daily ground-water discharge from the high-elevation saturated zone upstream of 1,200 feet altitude is greater than 38 million gallons per day, all of which is eventually removed from the streams by surface-water diversion systems. Perennial streamflow has been measured at altitudes greater than 3,000 feet in several of the streams. Discharge from the high-elevation saturated zone is persistent even during periods of little rainfall. The total average annual streamflow of the gaged streams east of Keanae Valley is about 109 million gallons per day at about 1,300 feet altitude. It is not possible to estimate the total average annual streamflow at the coast nor at higher altitudes. All of the base flow measured east of Keanae Valley represents ground-water discharge from the vertically extensive freshwater-lens system. Total average daily ground-water discharge to gaged streams upstream of 1,200 feet altitude is about 27 million gallons per day. About 19 million gallons per day of ground water discharges through the Kula and Hana Volcanics between about 500 feet and 1,300 feet altitude in the gaged stream sub-basins. About 13 million gallons per day of this discharge is in Hanawi Stream. The total ground-water discharge above 500 feet altitude in this part of the study area is greater than 56 million gallons per day.

High rates of sexually transmissible infections in HIV-positive patients in the Australian HIV Observational Database: a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Mulhall, Brian P; Wright, Stephen; Allen, Debbie; Brown, Katherine; Dickson, Bridget; Grotowski, Miriam; Jackson, Eva; Petoumenos, Kathy; Read, Phillip; Read, Timothy; Russell, Darren; Smith, David J; Templeton, David J; Fairley, Christopher K; Law, Matthew G

2014-09-01

Background In HIV-positive people, sexually transmissible infections (STIs) probably increase the infectiousness of HIV. In 2010, we established a cohort of individuals (n=554) from clinics in the Australian HIV Observational Database (AHOD). We calculated retrospective rates for four STIs for 2005-10 and prospective incidence rates for 2010-11. At baseline (2010), patient characteristics were similar to the rest of AHOD. Overall incidence was 12.5 per 100 person-years. Chlamydial infections increased from 3.4 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9-5.7) in 2005 to 6.7 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 4.5-9.5) in 2011, peaking in 2010 (8.1 per 100 person-years; 95% CI: 5.6-11.2). Cases were distributed among rectal (61.9%), urethral (34%) and pharyngeal (6.3%) sites. Gonococcal infections increased, peaking in 2010 (4.7 per 100 person-years; 95% CI: 5.6-11.2; Ptrend=0.0099), distributed among rectal (63.9%), urethral (27.9%) and pharyngeal (14.8%) sites. Syphilis showed several peaks, the largest in 2008 (5.3 per 100 person-years; 95% CI: 3.3-8.0); the overall trend was not significant (P=0.113). Genital warts declined from 7.5 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 4.8-11.3) in 2005 to 2.4 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 1.1-4.5) in 2011 (Ptrend=0.0016). For chlamydial and gonococcal infections, incidence was higher than previous Australian estimates among HIV-infected men who have sex with men, increasing during 2005-2011. Rectal infections outnumbered infections at other sites. Syphilis incidence remained high but did not increase; that of genital warts was lower and decreased.

A risk/cost analysis of alternative screening intervals for occupational tuberculosis infection.

PubMed

Nicas, M

1998-02-01

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that new health care employees receive a baseline skin test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) infection and that testing be repeated periodically. However, CDC does not explain the quantitative basis for its suggested screening intervals. This article examines the efficacy of alternative screening intervals for workers subject to different annual rates of M. tb infection and estimates the costs. An equation is developed for the cumulative risk of tuberculosis (TB) at 12 years given a specified annual rate of infection (ARI), screening interval, and a combined proportion (p) of successful skin testing and antibiotic prophylaxis. Equations for total cost of screening and cost per disease case prevented are provided. Results assume: (a) costs of $10 per skin test and $10,000 per TB disease case; (b) p = 0.88; and (c) and acceptable cumulative TB risk of 1 per 1000. For ARIs that might be deemed low (0.2% to 0.5%) and medium (1%), CDC screening intervals of 12 months and 6-12 months, respectively, minimize the cost per disease case prevented but permit residual disease risks greater than 1 per 1000. Recommended screening intervals are (i) 6 months for low-risk employee groups and (ii) 3 months for medium- and high-risk (e.g., ARIs of > or = 5%) groups. Interval (i) limits risk to 1 per 1000 and is approximately 50% shorter than the CDC interval for a low-risk group. Interval (ii), which is 67% shorter than the CDC interval for medium-risk groups but equal to that recommended for high-risk groups, permits a risk above 1 per 1000, but is likely the shortest feasible interval.

A Prototype Overview for Allocating USAID Foreign Aid

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-22

treatment (WB) 9. Malaria - Percentage of children with fever receiving antimalarial drugs (WB) 10. Tuberculosis - Percentage tuberculosis...to maintain body weight and undertake light activity . The depth of hunger is low when it is less than 200 kilocalories per person per day, and high

The composition of cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) milk.

PubMed

Osthoff, G; Hugo, A; de Wit, M

2006-01-01

Milk was obtained from two captive bred cheetahs. The nutrient content was 99.6 g protein; 64.8 g fat; and 40.21 g lactose per kg milk. Small amounts of oligosaccharides, glucose, galactose and fucose were noted. The protein fraction respectively consisted of 34.2 g caseins per kg milk and of 65.3 g whey proteins per kg milk. Very little variation in milk composition among the individual cheetahs was noted. Electrophoresis and identification of protein bands showed a similar migrating sequence of proteins as seen in lion's and cat's milk, with small differences in the beta-caseins. The lipid fraction contains 290.4 g saturated and 337.3 g mono-unsaturated fatty acids per kg milk fat respectively. The high content of 279.5 g kg(-1) milk fat of polyunsaturated fatty acids is due to a high content in alpha-linolenic acid. No short chain fatty acids, but substantial levels of uneven carbon chain fatty acids were observed.

Hypertriton and light nuclei production at Λ-production subthreshold energy in heavy-ion collisions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Song; Chen, Jin-Hui; Ma, Yu-Gang; Xu, Zhang-Bu; Cai, Xiang-Zhou; Ma, Guo-Liang; Zhong, Chen

2011-08-01

High-energy heavy-ion collisions produce abundant hyperons and nucleons. A dynamical coalescence model coupled with the ART model is employed to study the production probabilities of light clusters, deuteron (d), triton (t), helion (3He), and hypertriton (3ΛH) at subthreshold energy of Aproduction (≈ 1 GeV per nucleon). We study the dependence on the reaction system size of the coalescence penalty factor per additional nucleon and entropy per nucleon. The Strangeness Population Factor shows an extra suppression of hypertriton comparing to light clusters of the same mass number. This model predicts a hypertriton production cross-section of a few μb in 36Ar+36Ar, 40Ca+40Ca and 56Ni+56Ni in 1 A GeV reactions. The production rate is as high as a few hypertritons per million collisions, which shows that the fixed-target heavy-ion collisions at CSR (Lanzhou/China) at Λ subthreshold energy are suitable for breaking new ground in hypernuclear physics.

The comparative effectiveness of fine-needle aspiration cytology sampling policies: a simulation study.

PubMed

Schmidt, Robert L; Howard, Kirsten; Hall, Brian J; Layfield, Lester J

2012-12-01

Sample adequacy is an important aspect of overall fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) performance. FNAC effectiveness is augmented by an increasing number of needle passes, but increased needle passes are associated with higher costs and greater risk of adverse events. The objective of this study was to compare the impact of several different sampling policies on FNAC effectiveness and adverse event rates using discrete event simulation. We compared 8 different sampling policies in 12 different sampling environments. All sampling policies were effective when the per-pass accuracy is high (>80%). Rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) improves FNAC effectiveness when the per-pass adequacy rate is low. ROSE is unlikely to be cost-effective in sampling environments in which the per-pass adequacy is high. Alternative ROSE assessors (eg, cytotechnologists) may be a cost-effective alternative to pathologists when the per-pass adequacy rate is moderate (60%-80%) or when the number of needle passes is limited.

Prediction of soil water erosion risk within GIS-case study of Beni Amrane Dam catchment (North of Algeria)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Touahir, S.; Khenter, K.; Remini, B.; Saad, H.

2017-08-01

Isser River is one of North Algeria’s major resources. It is vulnerable to water soil erosion because of favourable conjunctions of different geomorphological, hydro-climatic and lithologic factors. This case study has been carried out on the Beni Amrane dam Catchment, which is located in the bottom of Isser River, in North Algeria. The study involves a mapping of main factors of water erosion: rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, slope and land use. Essentially a data mapping specification analysis shows, on each factor, how to identify the areas that are prone to water erosion. 04 classes of multifactorial vulnerability to water erosion have been identified: areas with low vulnerability (10 per cent); area with middle vulnerability (49 per cent); areas with high and very high vulnerability (38 per cent and 3 per cent). This could be a first guidance document for a rational use of land in the region and better secure the Beni Amrane dam against reservoir siltation.

Surface-water, ground-water, and sediment geochemistry of epizonal and shear-hosted mineral deposits in the Tintina Gold Province--arsenic and antimony distribution and mobility: Chapter G in Recent U.S. Geological Survey studies in the Tintina Gold Province, Alaska, United States, and Yukon, Canada--results of a 5-year project

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mueller, Seth H.; Goldfarb, Richard J.; Verplanck, Philip L.; Trainor, Thomas P.; Sanzolone, Richard F.; Adams, Monique; Gough, Larry P.; Day, Warren C.

2007-01-01

Epigenetic mineral deposits in the Tintina Gold Province are generally characterized by high concentrations of arsenic and antimony in their mineral assemblage. A total of 347 samples (ground water, surface water, and stream sediment) were collected to investigate the distribution and mobility of arsenic and antimony in the environment near known mineral deposits. Samples were collected from east to west at Keno Hill and Brewery Creek, Yukon, Canada; and Cleary Hill, True North, Scrafford Mine, Fairbanks, Ryan Lode, Stampede Creek, Slate Creek, and Donlin Creek, all in Alaska. Surface- and ground-water samples are all slightly acidic to near-neutral in pH (5-8), have a wide range in specific conductance (surface water 17-2,980 microsiemens per centimeter and ground water 170-2,940 microsiemens per centimeter), and show elevated dissolved arsenic and antimony concentrations (arsenic in surface water is less than 1 to 380 micrograms per liter and in ground water is less than 1 micrograms per liter to 1.5 milligrams per liter; antimony in surface water is less than 2 to 660 micrograms per liter and in ground water is less than 2 to 60 micrograms per liter). Stream sediments downstream from these deposits have high concentrations of arsenic and antimony (arsenic median is 1,670 parts per million, maximum is 10,000 parts per million; antimony median is 192 parts per million, maximum is 7,200 parts per million). The mobility of arsenic and antimony is controlled by the local redox environment, with arsenic being less mobile in oxidized surface waters relative to antimony, and arsenic more mobile in reduced ground water. These factors suggest that both antimony and arsenic may be useful pathfinder elements in water and sediment for targeting similar style deposits elsewhere in the Tintina Gold Province.

Investigation on the pitting of potato starch granules during high frequency ultrasound treatment.

PubMed

Bai, Wenzhe; Hébraud, Pascal; Ashokkumar, Muthupandian; Hemar, Yacine

2017-03-01

In this paper, the pitting of potato starch granules in aqueous suspensions (1%) by high-frequency high-power ultrasound (850kHz at a power of 0.2W, 2W or 3.7W; and also 500kHz and 1MHz at a power of 2W) is reported. The number of pits per starch granules was found to be independent of the amylose content of starches, and the surface properties of starch granules as modified through SDS and ethanol washing. At 850kHz, the maximum number of pits per starch granule, for both normal and waxy starches, did not exceed 11. However, a close inspection of fractionated starch granules based on their sizes showed that there is an optimum granule size for which a maximum pit number is obtained. For example, starch granules with diameter size range of ∼15 to ∼30μm had a maximum pit number (between 10 and 20 pits per granule) when sonicated (2W, 850kHz and 30min); while sonication of small (<10μm) and very large (>45μm) granules resulted in a smaller number of pits per granule (∼5). Further, the maximum number of pits per granules is also found to be proportional to the ultrasound frequency, with values of approximately 7, 10 and 11 at 0.50, 0.85, and 1MHz, respectively. FTIR measurements did not show any breakup of starch molecules. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characteristics of sediment transport at selected sites along the Missouri River during the high-flow conditions of 2011

USGS Publications Warehouse

Galloway, Joel M.; Rus, Dave L.; Alexander, Jason S.

2013-01-01

During 2011, many tributaries in the Missouri River Basin experienced near record peak streamflow and caused flood damage to many communities along much of the Missouri River from Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi River. The large runoff event in 2011 provided an opportunity to examine characteristics of sediment transport in the Missouri River at high-magnitude streamflow and for a long duration. The purpose of this report is to describe sediment characteristics during the 2011 high-flow conditions at six selected sites on the Missouri River, two in the middle region of the basin between Lake Sakakawea and Lake Oahe in North Dakota, and four downstream from Gavins Point Dam along the Nebraska-South Dakota and Nebraska-Iowa borders. A wider range in suspended-sediment concentration was observed in the middle segment of the Missouri River compared to sites in the lower segment. In the middle segment of the Missouri River, suspended-sediment concentrations increased and peaked as flows increased and started to plateau; however, while flows were still high and steady, suspended-sediment concentrations decreased and suspended-sediment grain sizes coarsened, indicating the decrease possibly was related to fine-sediment supply limitations. Measured bedload transport rates in the lower segment of the Missouri River (sites 3 to 6) were consistently higher than those in the middle segment (sites 1 and 2) during the high-flow conditions in 2011. The median bedload transport rate measured at site 1 was 517 tons per day and at site 2 was 1,500 tons per day. Measured bedload transport rates were highest at site 3 then decreased downstream to site 5, then increased at site 6. The median bedload transport rates were 22,100 tons per day at site 3; 5,640 tons per day at site 4; 3,930 tons per day at site 5; and 8,450 tons per day at site 6. At the two sites in the middle segment of the Missouri River, the greatest bedload was measured during the recession of the streamflow hydrograph. A similar pattern was observed at sites 3–5 in the lower segment of the Missouri River, where the greatest bedload was measured later in the event on the recession of the streamflow hydrograph, although the change in bedload was not as dramatic as observed at the sites in the middle segment of the Missouri River. With the exception of site 3, the total-sediment load on the Missouri River was highest at the beginning of the high-flow event and decreased as streamflow decreased. In the middle segment of the Missouri River, measured total-sediment load ranged from 2,320 to 182,000 tons per day at site 1 and from 3,190 to 279,000 tons per day at site 2. In the lower segment of the Missouri River, measured total-sediment load ranged from 50,600 to 223,000 tons per day at site 4; from 23,500 to 403,000 tons per day at site 5; and from 52,700 to 273,000 tons per day at site 6. The total-sediment load was dominated by suspended sediment at all of the sites measured on the Missouri River in 2011. In general, the percentage of total-sediment load that was bedload increased as the streamflow decreased, although this pattern was more prevalent at sites in the middle segment than those in the lower segment. The suspended-sediment load comprised an average of 93 percent of the total load, with the exception of site 3, where the suspended-sediment load comprised only 72 percent of the total-sediment load.

An Integrated Field and Laboratory Study of the Bioavailability of Metal Contaminants in Sediments

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

investigation using high-performance liquid chromatography with detection by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. J Anal Atom Spectrom 8:1075...exposure experiments consisted of two parts - uptake and efflux. Uptake rate constants (ku) equaled the metal concentration accumulated per body mass ...of dry mass of defecated sediment per dry mass of worm per time (g g-1 d-1), were calculated based on the dry mass of feces that were periodically

Mechanical Properties and Seawater Behavior of Nitronic 50 (22Cr-13Ni- 5Mn) Plate

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-01-01

Bal - balance misc - miscellaneous cfh - cubic feet per hour mpy - mils per year c/m - cycles per minute my - millivolts CVN - Charpy V-notch No...High-Cycle Fatigue Specimens F_gure 6 - Drawings; Low-Cycle Fatigue Specimens Figure 7 - Curve; Charpy V-Notch Impact Toughness Versus Temperature...for Nitronic 50 Base Plate FiGure 8 - Curve; Charpy V-Notch Toughness Versus Tempera- ture for Nitrcnic 50 Weldments Figure 9 - Photographs; Fracture

Survey of UK-based veterinary surgeons' opinions on the use of surgery and chemotherapy in the treatment of canine high-grade mast cell tumour, splenic haemangiosarcoma and appendicular osteosarcoma.

PubMed

Barker, D A; Foale, R D; Holmes, M A; Demetriou, J L

2016-12-03

The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of recommendation of adjuvant chemotherapy by UK-based general veterinary practitioners (GVPs) for canine patients with high-grade mast cell tumours (HGMCTs), splenic haemangiosarcomas (SHSs) and appendicular osteosarcomas (AOSs); to determine which chemotherapeutic protocols are used by GVPs; and to evaluate reasons why chemotherapy may or may not be recommended postoperatively. An internet survey was created in 2013 using an online programme and was distributed to GVPs. Questions relating to the use of adjuvant chemotherapy for three tumours were selected. In total, 300 responses were generated. Surgery was seen as primary therapy by most GVPs for HGMCT (91 per cent) and SHS (88 per cent), but less frequently for AOS (59 per cent). Also, 90, 40 and 57 per cent of respondents recommended adjuvant chemotherapy for HGMCT, SHS and AOS, respectively. Of these, an appropriate chemotherapy protocol was not known by 25, 51 and 36 per cent of GVPs for HGMCT, SHS and AOS, respectively. From the GVPs not recommending chemotherapy, 29, 64 and 66 per cent did not believe chemotherapy to be efficacious for these tumours. The frequency of recommendation regarding postoperative chemotherapy is variable by tumour type. Reasons given why postoperative chemotherapy is not recommended also vary by tumour type. British Veterinary Association.

Extreme mortality after first introduction of measles virus to the polynesian island of Rotuma, 1911.

PubMed

Shanks, G Dennis; Lee, Seung-Eun; Howard, Alan; Brundage, John F

2011-05-15

Rotuma is an isolated Polynesian island. In January 1911, most residents of Rotuma (population approximately 2,600) were exposed to measles virus for the first time. The official mortality register documented 491 deaths due to all causes among Rotumans during 1911 (cumulative measles-related mortality: 12.8%); most deaths occurred in April-May and were attributed to measles and its sequelae. Measles-related mortality rates were higher among young children (23.4 per 100 person-years) and young adults (17.1 per 100 person-years) than among adolescents (11.0 per 100 person-years) and older adults (5.6 per 100 person-years); females (16.2 per 100 person-years) died at a higher rate than males (13.2 per 100 person-years). Gastrointestinal complications (75%), not respiratory complications, were the predominant clinical manifestations of fatal measles cases; tuberculosis mortality was unusually high during the year of the epidemic. In 1911, measles-related mortality varied by nearly 3-fold across geographic districts (range, 7.4%-21.6%). The extreme mortality due to measles on Rotuma typifies the experiences of isolated populations after first encounters with measles; it suggests that prior exposures to a narrow range of microbes and genetic homogeneity predispose isolated populations to lethal outcomes when they are first exposed to highly contagious and pathogenic viruses (e.g., measles, influenza).

Physician organization care management capabilities associated with effective inpatient utilization management: a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis.

PubMed

Sheehy, Thomas J; Thygeson, N Marcus

2014-12-03

We studied the relationship between physician organization (PO) care management capabilities and inpatient utilization in order to identify PO characteristics or capabilities associated with low inpatient bed-days per thousand. We used fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to conduct an exploratory comparative case series study. Data about PO capabilities were collected using structured interviews with medical directors at fourteen California POs that are delegated to provide inpatient utilization management (UM) for HMO members of a California health plan. Health plan acute hospital claims from 2011 were extracted from a reporting data warehouse and used to calculate inpatient utilization statistics. Supplementary analyses were conducted using Fisher's Exact Test and Student's T-test. POs with low inpatient bed-days per thousand minimized length of stay and surgical admissions by actively engaging in concurrent review, discharge planning, and surgical prior authorization, and by contracting directly with hospitalists to provide UM-related services. Disease and case management were associated with lower medical admissions and readmissions, respectively, but not lower bed-days per thousand. Care management methods focused on managing length of stay and elective surgical admissions are associated with low bed-days per thousand in high-risk California POs delegated for inpatient UM. Reducing medical admissions alone is insufficient to achieve low bed-days per thousand. California POs with high bed-days per thousand are not applying care management best practices.

Effectiveness of breeding guidelines for reducing the prevalence of syringomyelia.

PubMed

Knowler, S P; McFadyen, A K; Rusbridge, C

Several toy breed dogs are predisposed to syringomyelia (SM), a spinal cord disorder, characterised by fluid-filled cavitation. SM is a complex trait with a moderately high heritability. Selective breeding against SM is confounded by its complex inheritance, its late onset nature and high prevalence in some breeds. This study investigated the early outcome of existing SM breeding guidelines. Six hundred and forty-three dogs, 550 Cavalier King Charles spaniels (CKCS) and 93 Griffon Bruxellois (GB), were identified as having either one (454 dogs) or both parents (189 dogs) with MRI-determined SM status. Offspring without SM were more common when the parents were both clear of SM (SM-free; CKCS 70 per cent, GB 73 per cent). Conversely, offspring with SM were more likely when both parents had SM (SM-affected; CKCS 92 per cent, GB 100 per cent). A mating of one SM-free parent with an SM-affected parent was risky for SM affectedness with 77 per cent of CKCS and 46 per cent of GB offspring being SM-affected. It is recommended that all breeding dogs from breeds susceptible to SM be MRI screened; that the SM status at five years old is established; and all results submitted to a central database that can be used by dog breeders to better enable mate selection based on estimated breeding values.

Geographic and socioeconomic factors affecting delivery of bariatric surgery across high- and low-utilization healthcare systems.

PubMed

Doumouras, A G; Saleh, F; Sharma, A M; Anvari, S; Gmora, S; Anvari, M; Hong, D

2017-06-01

In countries with universal health coverage, the delivery of care should be driven by need. However, other factors, such as proximity to local facilities or neighbourhood socioeconomic status, may be more important. The objective of this study was to evaluate which geographic and socioeconomic factors affect the delivery of bariatric care in Canada. This was a national retrospective cohort study of all adult patients undergoing bariatric surgery between April 2008 and March 2015 in Canada (excluding Quebec). The main outcome was neighbourhood rate of bariatric surgery per 1000 obese individuals (BMI over 30 kg/m 2 ). Geographic cluster analysis and multilevel ordinal logistic regression were used to identify high-use clusters, and to evaluate the effect of geographic and socioeconomic factors on care delivery. Having a bariatric facility within the same public health unit as the neighbourhood was associated with a 6·6 times higher odds of being in a bariatric high-use cluster (odds ratio (OR) 6·60, 95 per cent c.i. 1·90 to 22·88; P = 0·003). This finding was consistent across provinces after adjusting for utilization rates. Neighbourhoods with higher obesity rates were also more likely to be within high-use clusters (OR per 5 per cent increase: 2·95, 1·54 to 5·66; P = 0·001), whereas neighbourhoods closer to bariatric centres were less likely to be (OR per 50 km: 0·91, 0·82 to 1·00; P = 0·048). In this study, across provincial healthcare systems with high and low utilization, the delivery of care was driven by the presence of local facilities and neighbourhood obesity rates. Increasing distance to bariatric centres substantially influenced care delivery. © 2017 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

High dose-per-pulse electron beam dosimetry - A model to correct for the ion recombination in the Advanced Markus ionization chamber.

PubMed

Petersson, Kristoffer; Jaccard, Maud; Germond, Jean-François; Buchillier, Thierry; Bochud, François; Bourhis, Jean; Vozenin, Marie-Catherine; Bailat, Claude

2017-03-01

The purpose of this work was to establish an empirical model of the ion recombination in the Advanced Markus ionization chamber for measurements in high dose rate/dose-per-pulse electron beams. In addition, we compared the observed ion recombination to calculations using the standard Boag two-voltage-analysis method, the more general theoretical Boag models, and the semiempirical general equation presented by Burns and McEwen. Two independent methods were used to investigate the ion recombination: (a) Varying the grid tension of the linear accelerator (linac) gun (controls the linac output) and measuring the relative effect the grid tension has on the chamber response at different source-to-surface distances (SSD). (b) Performing simultaneous dose measurements and comparing the dose-response, in beams with varying dose rate/dose-per-pulse, with the chamber together with dose rate/dose-per-pulse independent Gafchromic™ EBT3 film. Three individual Advanced Markus chambers were used for the measurements with both methods. All measurements were performed in electron beams with varying mean dose rate, dose rate within pulse, and dose-per-pulse (10 -2  ≤ mean dose rate ≤ 10 3 Gy/s, 10 2  ≤ mean dose rate within pulse ≤ 10 7  Gy/s, 10 -4  ≤ dose-per-pulse ≤ 10 1  Gy), which was achieved by independently varying the linac gun grid tension, and the SSD. The results demonstrate how the ion collection efficiency of the chamber decreased as the dose-per-pulse increased, and that the ion recombination was dependent on the dose-per-pulse rather than the dose rate, a behavior predicted by Boag theory. The general theoretical Boag models agreed well with the data over the entire investigated dose-per-pulse range, but only for a low polarizing chamber voltage (50 V). However, the two-voltage-analysis method and the Burns & McEwen equation only agreed with the data at low dose-per-pulse values (≤ 10 -2 and ≤ 10 -1  Gy, respectively). An empirical model of the ion recombination in the chamber was found by fitting a logistic function to the data. The ion collection efficiency of the Advanced Markus ionization chamber decreases for measurements in electron beams with increasingly higher dose-per-pulse. However, this chamber is still functional for dose measurements in beams with dose-per-pulse values up toward and above 10 Gy, if the ion recombination is taken into account. Our results show that existing models give a less-than-accurate description of the observed ion recombination. This motivates the use of the presented empirical model for measurements with the Advanced Markus chamber in high dose-per-pulse electron beams, as it enables accurate absorbed dose measurements (uncertainty estimation: 2.8-4.0%, k = 1). The model depends on the dose-per-pulse in the beam, and it is also influenced by the polarizing chamber voltage, with increasing ion recombination with a lowering of the voltage. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Hydrologic conditions: Dade County, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kohout, Francis Anthony; Klein, Howard; Sherwood, C.B.; Leach, Stanley D.

1964-01-01

Thin layers of dense limestone of low permeability that occur near the top of the Biscayne aquifer in the vicinity of the north end of Levee 30 in Dade County, Florida are of hydrologic importance because they retard the downward infiltration of ponded water in Conservation Area No. 3. This retarding effect frequently results in high head differentials across the levee. Tests made in a small area adjacent to Levee 30 indicate that the coefficient of transmissibility of the aquifer is 3,600,000 gpd (gallons per day) per foot, and the coefficient of vertical permeability of the dense limestones is 13 gpd per square foot. If ground-water flow beneath the levee is laminar, the total inflow to the Levee 30 Canal from Conservation Area No. 3 will be about 350 mgd (million gallons per day), or 540 cfs (cubic feet per second), per mile length of levee when the head difference across the levee is 10 feet.

Smoking in hotels: prevalence, and opinions about restrictions.

PubMed

Semmonds, A; Bailey, K; Bentley, S; Chase, V; Fernando, S; Guruge, A; King, M; Tan, O M; Walsh, R

1995-02-01

Exposure to high levels of environmental tobacco smoke can occur in hotels. Controversy exists about smoking regulation on licensed premises. This survey of 138 people attending one of three Newcastle hotels during 1993 found that 57 per cent of respondents were nonsmokers. Fifty-eight per cent (95 per cent confidence interval (CI) 50 to 66 per cent) of respondents in these hotels believed their health was being adversely affected by other people's smoke in the hotel. Seventy per cent (CI 62 to 78 per cent), including half the smokers, were in favour of restriction of smoking in the hotels. Most preferred the establishment of smoke-free areas to the introduction of total smoking bans in hotels. The failure of hotels to regulate smoking suggests that a legislative approach is required. The case for legislation would be strengthened by a larger study elsewhere in Australia.

An ultralow power athermal silicon modulator

PubMed Central

Timurdogan, Erman; Sorace-Agaskar, Cheryl M.; Sun, Jie; Shah Hosseini, Ehsan; Biberman, Aleksandr; Watts, Michael R.

2014-01-01

Silicon photonics has emerged as the leading candidate for implementing ultralow power wavelength–division–multiplexed communication networks in high-performance computers, yet current components (lasers, modulators, filters and detectors) consume too much power for the high-speed femtojoule-class links that ultimately will be required. Here we demonstrate and characterize the first modulator to achieve simultaneous high-speed (25 Gb s−1), low-voltage (0.5 VPP) and efficient 0.9 fJ per bit error-free operation. This low-energy high-speed operation is enabled by a record electro-optic response, obtained in a vertical p–n junction device that at 250 pm V−1 (30 GHz V−1) is up to 10 times larger than prior demonstrations. In addition, this record electro-optic response is used to compensate for thermal drift over a 7.5 °C temperature range with little additional energy consumption (0.24 fJ per bit for a total energy consumption below 1.03 J per bit). The combined results of highly efficient modulation and electro-optic thermal compensation represent a new paradigm in modulator development and a major step towards single-digit femtojoule-class communications. PMID:24915772

Low-cost, high-speed back-end processing system for high-frequency ultrasound B-mode imaging.

PubMed

Chang, Jin Ho; Sun, Lei; Yen, Jesse T; Shung, K Kirk

2009-07-01

For real-time visualization of the mouse heart (6 to 13 beats per second), a back-end processing system involving high-speed signal processing functions to form and display images has been developed. This back-end system was designed with new signal processing algorithms to achieve a frame rate of more than 400 images per second. These algorithms were implemented in a simple and cost-effective manner with a single field-programmable gate array (FPGA) and software programs written in C++. The operating speed of the back-end system was investigated by recording the time required for transferring an image to a personal computer. Experimental results showed that the back-end system is capable of producing 433 images per second. To evaluate the imaging performance of the back-end system, a complete imaging system was built. This imaging system, which consisted of a recently reported high-speed mechanical sector scanner assembled with the back-end system, was tested by imaging a wire phantom, a pig eye (in vitro), and a mouse heart (in vivo). It was shown that this system is capable of providing high spatial resolution images with fast temporal resolution.

Low-Cost, High-Speed Back-End Processing System for High-Frequency Ultrasound B-Mode Imaging

PubMed Central

Chang, Jin Ho; Sun, Lei; Yen, Jesse T.; Shung, K. Kirk

2009-01-01

For real-time visualization of the mouse heart (6 to 13 beats per second), a back-end processing system involving high-speed signal processing functions to form and display images has been developed. This back-end system was designed with new signal processing algorithms to achieve a frame rate of more than 400 images per second. These algorithms were implemented in a simple and cost-effective manner with a single field-programmable gate array (FPGA) and software programs written in C++. The operating speed of the back-end system was investigated by recording the time required for transferring an image to a personal computer. Experimental results showed that the back-end system is capable of producing 433 images per second. To evaluate the imaging performance of the back-end system, a complete imaging system was built. This imaging system, which consisted of a recently reported high-speed mechanical sector scanner assembled with the back-end system, was tested by imaging a wire phantom, a pig eye (in vitro), and a mouse heart (in vivo). It was shown that this system is capable of providing high spatial resolution images with fast temporal resolution. PMID:19574160

Performance characteristics of high-conductivity channel electron multipliers. [as UV and x ray detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Timothy, J. G.; Bybee, R. L.

1978-01-01

The paper describes a new type of continuous channel multiplier (CEM) fabricated from a low-resistance glass to produce a high-conductivity channel section and thereby obtain a high count-rate capability. The flat-cone cathode configuration of the CEM is specifically designed for the detection of astigmatic exit images from grazing-incidence spectrometers at the optimum angle of illumination for high detection efficiencies at XUV wavelengths. Typical operating voltages are in the range of 2500-2900 V with stable counting plateau slopes in the range 3-6% per 100-V increment. The modal gain at 2800 V was typically in the range (50-80) million. The modal gain falls off at count rates in excess of about 20,000 per sec. The detection efficiency remains essentially constant to count rates in excess of 2 million per sec. Higher detection efficiencies (better than 20%) are obtained by coating the CEM with MgF2. In life tests of coated CEMs, no measurable change in detection efficiency was measured to a total accumulated signal of 2 times 10 to the 11th power counts.

Energy efficient fluorescent ballasts. Phase I, final report

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

Stevens Luminoptics Corporation

1978-06-21

The development of a high-frequency electronic (Stevens) ballast for fluorescent lamps is described. It is claimed that use of this ballast could reduce use energy consumption by 1.2 to 2.5 percent. The Stevens ballast has a basic efficiency of 29 percent when used with conventional lamps. With the more efficient lamps, the efficiency increases drastically. The conventional ballast and lamp has an efficiacy of approximately 60 to 63 lumens per watt (LPW). With the Stevens ballast the efficiacy raises to between 75 and 80 lumens per watt. When the Stevens ballast is utilized with the newer high efficiency lamps themore » efficiacy increases to 90 to 95 lumens per watt or a full 51 percent improvement over conventional coil and core ballasts and 25 percent over the best high efficiency premium coil and core ballasts. In addition to its energy savings capabilities, this high frequency fluorescent lamp ballast has the advantages that it is a true retrofit device that is directly interchangeable with the conventional coil core ballast, and it is dimmable over a wide and continuous range. (LCLC)« less

THE DISTRIBUTION OF COCCIDIOIDOMYCOSIS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

PubMed Central

Kessel, John F.; Biddle, Marjorie; Tucker, Harold A.; Yeaman, Antoinette

1950-01-01

In coccidioidin skin test surveys among persons of high school age in Saugus, Canoga Park, Banning and Palm Springs areas the average incidence of positive reaction was 15 per cent. Although considerably less than the 68 per cent incidence reported among high school students of Kern County, it is high enough to indicate pockets of relatively high endemicity in Southern California below the San Joaquin Valley. Histoplasmin tests were performed on most of the persons tested with coccidioidin in this survey. The over-all incidence of positive reaction in the group was 7.6 per cent. Most of the subjects with positive reaction to histoplasmin gave a history of having previously lived in some area in the central United States where histoplasmosis is known to be endemic. A few subjects who had positive reaction to coccidioidin tests and who had lived in areas known to be endemic for coccidioidomycosis but not for histoplasmosis, also had positive reaction to histoplasmin. However, the induration produced was always smaller than that caused by the coccidioidin reaction, and there was minimal confusion in interpreting the tests. PMID:14772654

Mortality in hyperglycemic crisis: a high association with infections and cerebrovascular disease.

PubMed

Ekpebegh, C; Longo-Mbenza, B

2013-06-01

Aim of the present study was to determine syndrome specific mortality rates and the precipitating factors associated with deaths following admission for hyperglycemic crisis to a high care unit. Retrospective review of medical records for hyperglycemic crisis at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa from February 1 2010 to January 31 2011. All admissions were initially into the high care unit. The overall mortality rates (per admissions) was 13.9% (N.=15/108) with syndrome specific mortality rates (per admissions) of 11.9% (N.=8/67), 0% (N.=0/8) and 21.2% (N.=7/33) respectively for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) and hyperglycemia with dehydration (HD). The precipitating factors that were mainly associated with mortality were infections and cerebrovascular disease (CVD). The patients with CVD who died were all unconscious. There were no deaths where non-compliance with hypoglycaemic agents (14.8%, N.=16/108) was the precipitating factor. The overall mortality rates (per admissions) following high care unit admissions for hyperglycemic crisis was 13.9% with infections and CVD as the precipitating factors most associated with deaths.

Poverty nutrition linkages.

PubMed

Ramachandran, Prema

2007-10-01

At the time of independence majority of Indians were poor. In spite of spending over 80 per cent of their income on food, they could not get adequate food. Living in areas of poor environmental sanitation they had high morbidity due to infections; nutrition toll due to infections was high because of poor access to health care. As a result, majority of Indians especially children were undernourished. The country initiated programmes to improve economic growth, reduce poverty, improve household food security and nutritional status of its citizens, especially women and children. India defined poverty on the basis of calorie requirement and focused its attention on providing subsidized food and essential services to people below poverty line. After a period of slow but steady economic growth, the last decade witnessed acceleration of economic growth. India is now one of the fastest growing economies in the world with gross domestic product (GDP) growth over 8 per cent. There has been a steady but slow decline in poverty; but last decade's rapid economic growth did not translate in to rapid decline in poverty. In 1970s, country became self sufficient in food production; adequate buffer stocks have been built up. Poor had access to subsidized food through the public distribution system. As a result, famines have been eliminated, though pockets of food scarcity still existed. Over the years there has been a decline in household expenditure on food due to availability of food grains at low cost but energy intake has declined except among for the poor. In spite of unaltered/declining energy intake there has been some reduction in undernutrition and increase in overnutrition in adults. This is most probably due to reduction in physical activity. Under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme food supplements are being provided to children, pregnant and lactating women in the entire country. In spite of these, low birth weight rates are still over 30 per cent and about half the children are undernourished. While poverty and mortality rates came down by 50 per cent, fertility rate by 40 per cent, the reduction in undernutrition in children is only 20 per cent. National surveys indicate that a third of the children from high income group who have not experienced any deprivations are undernourished. The high undernutrition rates among children appears to be mainly due to high low birthweight rates, poor infant and young child feeding and caring practices. At the other end of the spectrum, surveys in school children from high income groups indicate that between 10-20 per cent are overnourished; the major factor responsible appears to be reduction in physical activity. Some aspects of the rapidly changing, complex relationship between economic status, poverty, dietary intake, nutritional and health status are explored in this review.

Automated, per pixel Cloud Detection from High-Resolution VNIR Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Varlyguin, Dmitry L.

2007-01-01

CASA is a fully automated software program for the per-pixel detection of clouds and cloud shadows from medium- (e.g., Landsat, SPOT, AWiFS) and high- (e.g., IKONOS, QuickBird, OrbView) resolution imagery without the use of thermal data. CASA is an object-based feature extraction program which utilizes a complex combination of spectral, spatial, and contextual information available in the imagery and the hierarchical self-learning logic for accurate detection of clouds and their shadows.

PerSEUS: Ultra-Low-Power High Performance Computing for Plasma Simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doxas, I.; Andreou, A.; Lyon, J.; Angelopoulos, V.; Lu, S.; Pritchett, P. L.

2017-12-01

Peta-op SupErcomputing Unconventional System (PerSEUS) aims to explore the use for High Performance Scientific Computing (HPC) of ultra-low-power mixed signal unconventional computational elements developed by Johns Hopkins University (JHU), and demonstrate that capability on both fluid and particle Plasma codes. We will describe the JHU Mixed-signal Unconventional Supercomputing Elements (MUSE), and report initial results for the Lyon-Fedder-Mobarry (LFM) global magnetospheric MHD code, and a UCLA general purpose relativistic Particle-In-Cell (PIC) code.

High repetition rate Petawatt lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roso, Luis

2018-01-01

Petawatt lasers are now available in a number of facilities around the world and are becoming a very useful tool in physics and engineering. Some of such lasers are able -or will be able soon- to fire at high repetition rates (one shot per second or more). Experiments at such repetition rates have certain peculiarities that are to be briefly exposed here, based on the author's experience with the Salamanca VEGA-3 laser. VEGA-3 is a 30 fs PW laser, firing one shot per second.

Endogenous Auxin and Ethylene in Pellia (Bryophyta) 1

PubMed Central

Thomas, Robert J.; Harrison, Marcia A.; Taylor, Jane; Kaufman, Peter B.

1983-01-01

The occurrence of endogenous indole-3-acetic acid and ethylene in bryophyte tissue was tentatively demonstrated using gas chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography, and double-standard isotope dilution techniques. Rapidly elongating stalks (or setae) of Pellia epiphylla (L.) Corda sporophytes contain approximately 2.5 to 2.9 micrograms per gram fresh weight of putative free IAA. Ethylene released by setae increases during growth from 0.027 to 0.035 nanoliter per seta per hour. Application of 5 microliters per liter ethylene inhibits auxin-stimulated elongation growth of this tissue, a result which suggests that both endogenously produced compounds act in tandem as natural growth modulators. Images Fig. 1 PMID:16663227

Genetic Diversity Analysis of Selected Capsicum annuum Genotypes based on Morpho-Physiological, Yield Characteristics and their Biochemical Properties.

PubMed

Ridzuan, Raihana; Yusop, Mohd Rafii; Mohammad Yusof, Martini; Ismail, Siti Izera; Miah, Gous; Magaji, Usman

2018-05-31

The assessment of the different desirable characters among the chili genotypes expanded the effective selection for crop improvement. Identification of genetically superior parents is important in assortment of the best parents to develop new chili hybrid. This study was done to assess the hereditary assorted variety of selected genotypes of Capsicum annuum based on their morpho-physiological and yield traits in two planting seasons. Further, their biochemical properties; capsaicinoids content (capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin), add up to the content of phenolic and antioxidant action determination of unripe and ripe chili pepper fruits were carried out at dry fruits. AVPP9813 and Kulai 907 were observed to have high fruit yield with 541.39 g/plant and 502.64 g/plant, respectively. The most increased genotypic coefficient variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were shown by the fruit number per plant (49.71% and 66.04%, respectively). High heritability was observed in yield characters viz-a-viz fruit weight, length and girth and indicated high genetic advance. Eight groups were obtained from the cluster analysis. For the biochemical analysis, the capsaicinoids content and total phenolic content were high in Chili Bangi 3 at unripe and ripe fruit stage while for antioxidant activity SDP203 was the highest in ripe dry fruit. Higher GCV and PCV combined with moderate to high heritability and high hereditary progress were seen in number of fruit per plant, fruit yield per plant and fruit weight per fruit. These findings are beneficial for chili pepper breeders to select desirable quantitative characters in C. annuum in their breeding program. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

High incidence of oral corticosteroids prescriptions in children with asthma in early childhood.

PubMed

Arabkhazaeli, Ali; Vijverberg, Susanne J H; van der Ent, Cornelis K; Raaijmakers, Jan A M; Maitland-van der Zee, Anke H

2016-12-01

Severe asthma exacerbations are often treated with short courses of oral corticosteroids (OCS). This study assessed the incidence of OCS being prescribed in asthmatic children of various age groups and calculated their chances of receiving subsequent OCS prescriptions. Longitudinal Dutch community pharmacy data of 2272 children who were regular users of asthma medication was analyzed retrospectively. Incidence rates for first, second and third prescriptions of OCS were calculated, stratified by age and sex. Probabilities of receiving first, second or third OCS prescriptions were assessed with Kaplan-Meier analysis. Incidence rates for first OCS prescriptions were 4.5 for the 1(st) year of life per 100 person-years (100PY); 3.9 for the 2(nd); 4.6 for the 3(rd); 4.2 for the 4(th), and 4.7 for the 5(th) year of life per 100PY. This was relatively high compared to incidence rates for children between the ages of 6 and 11 (ranging between 2.2 per 100PY (age 9) and 3.7(age 11)). Incidence rates for second and third OCS prescriptions were very high: 78.2(95%CI: 45.0-123.7) and 241.2(95%CI: 81.2-583.4) per 100PY for infants, respectively. The chances of receiving a first OCS prescription was higher in males (P value < 0.01). In the Netherlands, the incidence of OCS being prescribed to children being treated with asthma medication in early childhood is relatively high for first OCS prescriptions and extremely high for second and third OCS prescriptions compared to other ages. Furthermore, there is a high probability of receiving a further OCS prescription shortly after an OCS prescription.

Use of the Combined First-Trimester Screen in High- and Low-Risk Patient Populations After Introduction of Noninvasive Prenatal Testing.

PubMed

Larion, Sebastian; Warsof, Steven L; Romary, Letty; Mlynarczyk, Margaret; Peleg, David; Abuhamad, Alfred Z

2015-08-01

To report changes in the use of the combined first-trimester screen (FTS) in patients classified as high and low risk for fetal aneuploidy, including after introduction of noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT). A prospectively collected database was reviewed to investigate changes in FTS use before and after American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Practice Bulletin No. 77 (Obstet Gynecol 2007; 109:217-227), which recommended that all patients be offered aneuploidy screening, and after NIPT introduction. High-risk patients were classified as 35 years or older at the estimated time of delivery or those with an abnormal prior screen, abnormal ultrasound findings, or family history of aneuploidy. Data were normalized per 100 morphologic ultrasound examinations to account for changes in patient number over time. Statistical significance was defined as P < .05. A total of 10,125 FTSs were recorded during the 88-month study period, including 2962 in high-risk patients and 7163 in low-risk patients. The total number of FTSs performed per 100 morphologic ultrasound examinations significantly increased after ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 77 and significantly decreased after NIPT introduction. In high-risk patients, the total number of FTSs performed per 100 morphologic ultrasound examinations significantly increased after ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 77 but significantly decreased after NIPT introduction. In contrast, in low-risk patients, the total number of FTSs performed per 100 morphologic ultrasound examinations significantly increased after ACOG Practice Bulletin No.77 but was not statistically different after NIPT introduction. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Practice Bulletin No. 77 significantly increased patient use of FTS. The introduction of NIPT significantly decreased FTS use in the high-risk population but not in the low-risk population. © 2015 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Recharge to the surficial aquifer system in Lee and Hendry counties, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Krulikas, R.K.; Giese, G.L.

1995-01-01

Protection of ground-water recharge areas against contamination is of great interest in Florida, a State whose population depends heavily on ground water and that is experiencing rapid growth. The Florida Legislature is considering implementation of a tax incentive program to owners of high-rate recharge lands that remain undeveloped. High-rate recharge was arbitrarily set at 10 or more inches per year. The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the South Florida Water Management District, conducted a study to investigate the efficacy of several methods for estimating recharge to the surficial aquifer system in southwestern Florida and to map recharge at a scale of 1:100,000. Four maps were constructed at a scale of 1:100,000 for Lee and Hendry Counties, depicting the configuration of the water table of the surficial aquifer system, direction of ground-water flow, general soil characteristics, and recharge rates. Point recharge rates calculated for 25 sites in Lee County from comparisons of chloride concentrations in precipitation and in water from the surficial aquifer system ranged from 0.6 to 9.0 inches per year. Local recharge rates estimated by increases in flow along theoretical flow tubes in the surficial aquifer system were 8.0 inches per year in a part of Lee County and 8.2 inches per year in a part of Hendry County. Information on oxygen isotopes in precipitation and water from the surficial aquifer system was used to verify that the source of chlorides in the aquifer system was from precipitation rather than upward leakage of saline water. Soil maps and general topographic and hydrologic considerations were used with calculated point and local recharge rates to regionalize rates throughout Lee and Hendry Counties. The areas of greatest recharge were found in soils of flatwoods and sloughs, which were assigned estimated recharge rates of 0 to 10 inches per year. Soils of swamps and sloughs were assigned values of 0 to 3.0 inches per year; soils of tidal areas and barrier islands, soils of the Everglades, and soils of sloughs and freshwater marshes were assigned values of 0 to 2.0 inches per year; lastly, soils of manmade areas were assigned values of 0.5 to 1.5 inches per year. Small isolated areas of high-rate recharge (greater than 10 inches per year) might exist in Lee and Hendry Counties, but the maximum rate calculated in this study was 9.0 inches per year. Despite low natural recharge rates, lowering of the water table through pumping or canalization could create a potential for induced recharge in excess of 10 inches per year in parts of Lee and Hendry Counties.

Rising Prices of Targeted Oral Anticancer Medications and Associated Financial Burden on Medicare Beneficiaries.

PubMed

Shih, Ya-Chen Tina; Xu, Ying; Liu, Lei; Smieliauskas, Fabrice

2017-08-01

Purpose The high cost of oncology drugs threatens the affordability of cancer care. Previous research identified drivers of price growth of targeted oral anticancer medications (TOAMs) in private insurance plans and projected the impact of closing the coverage gap in Medicare Part D in 2020. This study examined trends in TOAM prices and patient out-of-pocket (OOP) payments in Medicare Part D and estimated the actual effects on patient OOP payments of partial filling of the coverage gap by 2012. Methods Using SEER linked to Medicare Part D, 2007 to 2012, we identified patients who take TOAMs via National Drug Codes in Part D claims. We calculated total drug costs (prices) and OOP payments per patient per month and compared their rates of inflation with general health care prices. Results The study cohort included 42,111 patients who received TOAMs between 2007 and 2012. Although the general prescription drug consumer price index grew at 3% per year over 2007 to 2012, mean TOAM prices increased by nearly 12% per year, reaching $7,719 per patient per month in 2012. Prices increased over time for newly and previously launched TOAMs. Mean patient OOP payments dropped by 4% per year over the study period, with a 40% drop among patients with a high financial burden in 2011, when the coverage gap began to close. Conclusion Rising TOAM prices threaten the financial relief patients have begun to experience under closure of the coverage gap in Medicare Part D. Policymakers should explore methods of harnessing the surge of novel TOAMs to increase price competition for Medicare beneficiaries.

Sodium, saturated fat, and trans fat content per 1,000 kilocalories: temporal trends in fast-food restaurants, United States, 2000-2013.

PubMed

Urban, Lorien E; Roberts, Susan B; Fierstein, Jamie L; Gary, Christine E; Lichtenstein, Alice H

2014-12-31

Intakes of sodium, saturated fat, and trans fat remain high despite recommendations to limit these nutrients for cardiometabolic risk reduction. A major contributor to intake of these nutrients is foods prepared outside the home, particularly from fast-food restaurants. We analyzed the nutrient content of frequently ordered items from 3 US national fast-food chains: fried potatoes (large French fries), cheeseburgers (2-oz and 4-oz), and a grilled chicken sandwich. We used an archival website to obtain data on sodium, saturated fat, and trans fat content for these items from 2000 through 2013. The amount of each nutrient per 1,000 kcal was calculated to determine whether there were trends in product reformulation. Sodium content per 1,000 kcal differed widely among the 3 chains by food item, precluding generalizations across chains. During the 14-year period, sodium content per 1,000 kcal for large French fries remained high for all 3 chains, although the range narrowed from 316-2,000 mg per 1,000 kcal in 2000 to 700-1,420 mg per 1,000 kcal in 2013. Among the items assessed, cheeseburgers were the main contributor of saturated fat, and there was little change in content per 1,000 kcal for this item during the 14-year period. In contrast, there was a sharp decline in saturated and trans fat content of large French fries per 1,000 kcal. Post-2009, the major contributor of trans fat per 1,000 kcal was cheeseburgers; trans fat content of this item remained stable during the 14-year period. With the exception of French fries, little evidence was found during the 14-year period of product reformulation by restaurants to become more consistent with dietary guidance to reduce intakes of sodium and saturated fat.

The roles of two O-donor ligands in the Fe2+-binding and H2O2-sensing by the Fe2+-dependent H2O2 sensor PerR.

PubMed

Ji, Chang-Jun; Yang, Yoon-Mo; Kim, Jung-Hoon; Ryu, Su-Hyun; Youn, Hwan; Lee, Jin-Won

2018-05-10

PerR is a metal-dependent peroxide sensing transcription factor which controls the expression of genes involved in peroxide resistance. The function of Bacillus subtilis PerR is mainly dictated by the regulatory metal ion (Fe 2+ or Mn 2+ ) coordinated by three N-donor ligands (His37, His91, and His93) and two O-donor ligands (Asp85 and Asp104). While H 2 O 2 sensing by PerR is mediated by Fe 2+ -dependent oxidation of N-donor ligand (either His37 or His91), one of the O-donor ligands (Asp104), but not Asp85, has been proposed as the key residue that regulates the sensitivity of PerR to H 2 O 2 . Here we systematically investigated the relative roles of two O-donor ligands of PerR in metal-binding affinity and H 2 O 2 sensitivity in vivo and in vitro. Consistent with the previous report, in vitro the D104E-PerR could not sense low levels of H 2 O 2 in the presence of excess Fe 2+ sufficient for the formation of the Fe 2+ -bound D104E-PerR. However, the expression of PerR-regulated reporter fusion was not repressed by D104E-PerR in the presence of Fe 2+ , suggesting that Fe 2+ is not an effective corepressor for this mutant protein in vivo. Furthermore, in vitro metal titration assays indicate that D104E-PerR has a significantly reduced affinity for Fe 2+ , but not for Mn 2+ , when compared to wild type PerR. These data indicate that the type of O-donor ligand (Asp vs. Glu) at position 104 is an important determinant in providing high Fe 2+ -binding affinity required for the sensing of the physiologically relevant Fe 2+ -levels, in addition to its role in rendering PerR highly sensitive to physiological levels of H 2 O 2 . In comparison, the D85E-PerR did not show a perturbed change in Fe 2+ -binding affinity, however, it displayed a slightly decreased sensitivity to H 2 O 2 both in vivo and in vitro, suggesting that the type of O-donor ligand (Asp vs. Glu) at position 85 may be important for the fine-tuning of H 2 O 2 sensitivity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of self-reported depressive symptoms in young adolescents.

PubMed Central

Schoenbach, V J; Kaplan, B H; Wagner, E H; Grimson, R C; Miller, F T

1983-01-01

To investigate the significance and measurement of depressive symptoms in young adolescents, 624 junior high school students were asked to complete the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) during home interviews. In 384 usable symptom scales, item-scale correlations (most were above .50), inter-item correlations, coefficient alpha (.85), and patterns of reported symptoms were reasonable. Persistent symptoms were reported more often by Blacks, especially Black males. Prevalence of persistent symptoms in Whites was quite close to reported figures for adults, ranging from 1 per cent to 15 per cent in adolescent males and 2 per cent to 13 per cent in adolescent females. Adolescents reported persistent vegetative symptoms less often and psychosocial symptoms more often. Reports of symptoms without regard to duration were much more frequent in the adolescents, ranging from 18 per cent to 76 per cent in White males, 34 per cent to 76 per cent in White and Black females, and 41 per cent to 85 per cent in Black males. The results support the feasibility of using a self-report symptom scale to measure depressive symptoms in young adolescents. Transient symptoms reported by adolescents probably reflect their stage of development, but persistent symptoms are likely to have social psychiatric importance. PMID:6625033

[Sexually-transmitted infection in a high-risk group from Montería, Colombia].

PubMed

Alvis, Nelson; Mattar, Salim; Garcia, Jair; Conde, Edwin; Diaz, Alberto

2007-01-01

Identifying the main aetiological agents of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in a high-risk population from the city of Montería, Colombia. The population consisted of 69 sex-workers (high-risk group) and 16 housewives (low-risk group) living in the city of Montería. Specimens were cultured by standard microbiological methods and by the AMPLICOR CT/NG molecular technique. Patients were aged 18-44 (26.1 average age). It was determined that 17,4% of the high-risk population were positive for G. vaginalis, 15,9 % for C. trachomatis, 4,3 % for N. gonorrhoeae and 2,9 % for T. vaginalis and Candida albicans and, in the low-risk population, 56,3 % for G. vaginalis, 12,5 % for C. trachomatis, 6,3 % for N. gonorrhoeae and 12,5 % for C. albicans. It was found that 70 % of the sex-workers had 5-10 sexual relationships per week, 10 % 11-15 per week and 20 % 16-20 per week (average above 1 000 annual partners). 15,4 % of the sex-workers did not use protection during their sexual relationships. The high rates of infection found in the populations studied presume a high risk of transmission, making it a priority to intervene in these groups to prevent the spread of HIV and STI.

Clinical factors associated with high-risk carotid plaque features as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging in patients with established vascular disease (from the AIM-HIGH Study).

PubMed

Zhao, Xue-Qiao; Hatsukami, Thomas S; Hippe, Daniel S; Sun, Jie; Balu, Niranjan; Isquith, Daniel A; Crouse, John R; Anderson, Todd; Huston, John; Polissar, Nayak; O'Brien, Kevin; Yuan, Chun

2014-11-01

Association between clinical factors and high-risk plaque features, such as, thin or ruptured cap, intraplaque hemorrhage, presence of lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), and increased LRNC volume as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), was examined in patients with established vascular disease in the Atherothrombosis Intervention in Metabolic Syndrome With Low HDL/High Triglycerides (AIM-HIGH) trial. A total of 214 subjects underwent carotid MRI and had acceptable image quality for assessment of plaque burden, tissue contents, and MRI-modified American Heart Association lesion type by a core laboratory. We found that 77% of subjects had carotid plaques, 52% had lipid-containing plaques, and 11% had advanced American Heart Association type-VI lesions with possible surface defect, intraplaque hemorrhage, or mural thrombus. Type-VI lesions were associated with older age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.6 per 5 years increase, p <0.001). After adjusting for age, these lesions were associated with history of cerebrovascular disease (OR = 4.1, p = 0.01), higher levels of lipoprotein(a) (OR = 2.0 per 1 SD increase, p = 0.02), and larger percent wall volume (PWV [OR = 4.6 per 1 SD increase, p <0.001]) but, were negatively associated with metabolic syndrome (OR = 0.2, p = 0.02). Presence of LRNC was associated with the male gender (OR = 3.2, p = 0.02) and PWV (OR = 3.8 per 1 SD, p <0.001); however, it was negatively associated with diabetes (OR = 0.4, p = 0.02) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (OR = 0.7 per 1 SD, p = 0.02). Increased percent LRNC was associated with PWV (regression coefficient = 0.36, p <0.001) and negatively associated with ApoA1 levels (regression coefficient = -0.20, p = 0.03). In conclusion, older age, male gender, history of cerebrovascular disease, larger plaque burden, higher lipoprotein(a), and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol or ApoA1 level have statistically significant associations with high-risk plaque features. Metabolic syndrome and diabetes showed negative associations in this population. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of High-Intensity Treadmill Exercise on Motor Symptoms in Patients With De Novo Parkinson Disease: A Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Schenkman, Margaret; Moore, Charity G; Kohrt, Wendy M; Hall, Deborah A; Delitto, Anthony; Comella, Cynthia L; Josbeno, Deborah A; Christiansen, Cory L; Berman, Brian D; Kluger, Benzi M; Melanson, Edward L; Jain, Samay; Robichaud, Julie A; Poon, Cynthia; Corcos, Daniel M

2018-02-01

Parkinson disease is a progressive neurologic disorder. Limited evidence suggests endurance exercise modifies disease severity, particularly high-intensity exercise. To examine the feasibility and safety of high-intensity treadmill exercise in patients with de novo Parkinson disease who are not taking medication and whether the effect on motor symptoms warrants a phase 3 trial. The Study in Parkinson Disease of Exercise (SPARX) was a phase 2, multicenter randomized clinical trial with 3 groups and masked assessors. Individuals from outpatient and community-based clinics were enrolled from May 1, 2012, through November 30, 2015, with the primary end point at 6 months. Individuals with idiopathic Parkinson disease (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1 or 2) aged 40 to 80 years within 5 years of diagnosis who were not exercising at moderate intensity greater than 3 times per week and not expected to need dopaminergic medication within 6 months participated in this study. A total of 384 volunteers were screened by telephone; 128 were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (high-intensity exercise, moderate-intensity exercise, or control). High-intensity treadmill exercise (4 days per week, 80%-85% maximum heart rate [n = 43]), moderate-intensity treadmill exercise (4 days per week, 60%-65% maximum heart rate [n = 45]), or wait-list control (n = 40) for 6 months. Feasibility measures were adherence to prescribed heart rate and exercise frequency of 3 days per week and safety. The clinical outcome was 6-month change in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score. A total of 128 patients were included in the study (mean [SD] age, 64 [9] years; age range, 40-80 years; 73 [57.0%] male; and 108 [84.4%] non-Hispanic white). Exercise rates were 2.8 (95% CI, 2.4-3.2) days per week at 80.2% (95% CI, 78.8%-81.7%) maximum heart rate in the high-intensity group and 3.2 (95% CI, 2.8-3.6; P = .13) days per week at 65.9% (95% CI, 64.2%-67.7%) maximum heart rate in the moderate-intensity group (P < .001). The mean change in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score in the high-intensity group was 0.3 (95% CI, -1.7 to 2.3) compared with 3.2 (95% CI, 1.4 to 5.1) in the usual care group (P = .03). The high-intensity group, but not the moderate-intensity group, reached the predefined nonfutility threshold compared with the control group. Anticipated adverse musculoskeletal events were not severe. High-intensity treadmill exercise may be feasible and prescribed safely for patients with Parkinson disease. An efficacy trial is warranted to determine whether high-intensity treadmill exercise produces meaningful clinical benefits in de novo Parkinson disease. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01506479.

Solar energy in the context of energy use, energy transportation and energy storage.

PubMed

MacKay, David J C

2013-08-13

Taking the UK as a case study, this paper describes current energy use and a range of sustainable energy options for the future, including solar power and other renewables. I focus on the area involved in collecting, converting and delivering sustainable energy, looking in particular detail at the potential role of solar power. Britain consumes energy at a rate of about 5000 watts per person, and its population density is about 250 people per square kilometre. If we multiply the per capita energy consumption by the population density, then we obtain the average primary energy consumption per unit area, which for the UK is 1.25 watts per square metre. This areal power density is uncomfortably similar to the average power density that could be supplied by many renewables: the gravitational potential energy of rainfall in the Scottish highlands has a raw power per unit area of roughly 0.24 watts per square metre; energy crops in Europe deliver about 0.5 watts per square metre; wind farms deliver roughly 2.5 watts per square metre; solar photovoltaic farms in Bavaria, Germany, and Vermont, USA, deliver 4 watts per square metre; in sunnier locations, solar photovoltaic farms can deliver 10 watts per square metre; concentrating solar power stations in deserts might deliver 20 watts per square metre. In a decarbonized world that is renewable-powered, the land area required to maintain today's British energy consumption would have to be similar to the area of Britain. Several other high-density, high-consuming countries are in the same boat as Britain, and many other countries are rushing to join us. Decarbonizing such countries will only be possible through some combination of the following options: the embracing of country-sized renewable power-generation facilities; large-scale energy imports from country-sized renewable facilities in other countries; population reduction; radical efficiency improvements and lifestyle changes; and the growth of non-renewable low-carbon sources, namely 'clean' coal, 'clean' gas and nuclear power. If solar is to play a large role in the future energy system, then we need new methods for energy storage; very-large-scale solar either would need to be combined with electricity stores or it would need to serve a large flexible demand for energy that effectively stores useful energy in the form of chemicals, heat, or cold.

Occupational dermatitis. An epidemiological study in the rubber and cement industries.

PubMed

Varigos, G A; Dunt, D R

1981-03-01

An epidemiological study of occupational dermatitis in a tyre company and a cement company is reported. Ninety-seven percent of 999 tyre workers and 78% of 151 cement workers were screened by an occupational nurse and subsequently assessed by a specialist dermatologist. Prevalence rates of occupational contact dermatitis were 37 per 1000 and 68 per 1000 in the tyre and cement companies, respectively. Maintenance workers and tyre builders - particularly if they were Yugoslav and female - had high prevalence rates amongst tyre workers. Worker's compensation claim rates for the tyre company are similar to U.K. and U.S. rates for this industry. Prevalence rates of 37 per 1000 can be considered as a lower limit for this industry. The high prevalence rates in the cement company are noteworthy and require further study.

Missile injuries of the abdomen in Zimbabwe-Rhodesia.

PubMed

Dent, R I; Jena, G P

1980-05-01

One hundred and thirteen patients with missile injuries of the abdomen were seen over a 3-year period at one hospital in Zimbabwe-Rhodesia. The details of these injuries and the results of their treatment are presented. Twenty-four patients died (21 per cent). Twenty of these patients had sustained high velocity missile injuries, 18 had damaged colons and 3 died from major vascular injuries before surgery. Excluding these last 3 patients, the mortality rate for high velocity wounds of the colon was 52 per cent and that for all other patients was 6 per cent (P less than 0.01). More than half the postoperative deaths were due to septicaemia. The importance is stressed is stressed of early and effective resuscitation, including appropriate antibiotic therapy and rapid evacuation to facilities for major surgery.

Unaccounted Workload Factor: Game-Day Pitch Counts in High School Baseball Pitchers—An Observational Study

PubMed Central

Zaremski, Jason L.; Zeppieri, Giorgio; Jones, Deborah L.; Tripp, Brady L.; Bruner, Michelle; Vincent, Heather K.; Horodyski, MaryBeth

2018-01-01

Background: Throwing injuries are common in high school baseball. Known risk factors include excessive pitch counts, year-round pitching, and pitching with arm pain and fatigue. Despite the evidence, the prevalence of pitching injuries among high school players has not decreased. One possibility to explain this pattern is that players accumulate unaccounted pitch volume during warm-up and bullpen activity, but this has not yet been examined. Hypotheses: Our primary hypothesis was that approximately 30% to 40% of pitches thrown off a mound by high school pitchers during a game-day outing are unaccounted for in current data but will be revealed when bullpen sessions and warm-up pitches are included. Our secondary hypothesis was that there is wide variability among players in the number of bullpen pitches thrown per outing. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Researchers counted all pitches thrown off a mound during varsity high school baseball games played by 34 high schools in North Central Florida during the 2017 season. Results: We recorded 13,769 total pitches during 115 varsity high school baseball starting pitcher outings. The mean ± SD pitch numbers per game were calculated for bullpen activity (27.2 ± 9.4), warm-up (23.6 ±8.0), live games (68.9 ±19.7), and total pitches per game (119.7 ± 27.8). Thus, 42.4% of the pitches performed were not accounted for in the pitch count monitoring of these players. The number of bullpen pitches thrown varied widely among players, with 25% of participants in our data set throwing fewer than 22 pitches and 25% throwing more than 33 pitches per outing. Conclusion: In high school baseball players, pitch count monitoring does not account for the substantial volume of pitching that occurs during warm-up and bullpen activity during the playing season. These extra pitches should be closely monitored to help mitigate the risk of overuse injury. PMID:29662911

DNA Repair and Ethnic Differences in Prostate Cancer Risk

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-01

next page 3 Over the past 12 months… 6. How often did you drink meal replacement, energy, or high-protein beverages such as Instant Breakfast...pastas listed in Questions 57, 58, and 59, how often did you eat pasta, spaghetti, or other noodles ? NEVER (GO TO QUESTION 61) 1–6 times per year...per week 2 or more times per day 60a. Each time you ate pasta, spaghetti, or other noodles , how much did you usually eat? Less than 1 cup 1

Cost analysis of Healthcare in a Private sector Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in India.

PubMed

Karambelkar, Geeta; Malwade, Sudhir; Karambelkar, Rajendra

2016-09-08

To study the actual cost of care per patient in private-sector level IIIa Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Prospective cost-analysis study. Cost incurred by the family on the treatment of baby, separately for every newborn for entire length of hospitalization, was calculated. 126 newborns were enrolled; High level of intervention was needed for 25.4% babies. The mean cost of care was US $ 90.7 per patient per day. Bulk of the cost of care was the hospital bill.

One GigaSample Per Second Data Acquisition using Available Gate Array Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wagner, K.W.

1999-01-01

A new National Aeronautics and Space Administration instrument forced demanding requirements upon its altimeter digitizer system. Eight-bit data would be generated at a rate of one billion samples per second. NASA had never before attempted to capture such high-speed data in the radiation, low-power, no-convective-cooling, limited-board-area environment of space. This presentation describes how the gate array technology available at the time of the design was used to implement this one gigasample per second data acquisition system

USSR Report, Problems of the Far East, No. 3, July-September 1986.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-03-06

34crack" items: in 1984 as much as 92 per cent of the total output of clocks and watches, 87 per cent of photography and cinema equipment, 81 per cent...a high-ranking officia of Malaysia that the PRC preferred to do business with Malaysians oi Chinese extraction.08 Delegations of Chinese...Chinese in Malaysia "transfer capital to China because they are worried by and have doubts about the Malaysian government’s national policy ; that

Forced-convection Heat Transfer to Water at High Pressures and Temperatures in the Nonboiling Region

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaufman, S J; Henderson, R W

1951-01-01

Forced-convection heat-transfer data have been obtained for water flowing in an electrically heated tube of circular cross section at water pressures of 200 and 2000 pounds per square inch, and temperatures in the nonboiling region, for water velocities ranging between 5 and 25 feet per second. The results indicate that conventional correlations can be used to predict heat-transfer coefficients for water at pressures up to 2000 pounds per square inch and temperatures in the nonboiling region.

PBF (PER620) interior, second basement level. Coolant and tank piping. ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF (PER-620) interior, second basement level. Coolant and tank piping. Mark on vertical pipe says, "H.P. Demin. Water." (High pressure demineralized water.) Date: March 2004. INEEL negative no. HD-41-4-3 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

PBF (PER620) south facade. Camera facing north. Note pedestrian bridge ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF (PER-620) south facade. Camera facing north. Note pedestrian bridge crossing over conduit. Central high bay contains reactor room and canal. Date: March 2004. INEEL negative no. HD-41-2-1 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Programmable random interval generator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindsey, R. S., Jr.

1973-01-01

Random pulse generator can supply constant-amplitude randomly distributed pulses with average rate ranging from a few counts per second to more than one million counts per second. Generator requires no high-voltage power supply or any special thermal cooling apparatus. Device is uniquely versatile and provides wide dynamic range of operation.

PBF (PER620) interior, first basement. Detail of valves and other ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF (PER-620) interior, first basement. Detail of valves and other penetrations along wall. Bricks are made of high density shielding materials. Date: March 2004. INEEL negative no. HD-41-4-2 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Outcomes of PCI in Relation to Procedural Characteristics and Operator Volumes in the United States.

PubMed

Fanaroff, Alexander C; Zakroysky, Pearl; Dai, David; Wojdyla, Daniel; Sherwood, Matthew W; Roe, Matthew T; Wang, Tracy Y; Peterson, Eric D; Gurm, Hitinder S; Cohen, Mauricio G; Messenger, John C; Rao, Sunil V

2017-06-20

Professional guidelines have reduced the recommended minimum number to an average of 50 percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures performed annually by each operator. Operator volume patterns and associated outcomes since this change are unknown. The authors describe herein PCI operator procedure volumes; characteristics of low-, intermediate-, and high-volume operators; and the relationship between operator volume and clinical outcomes in a large, contemporary, nationwide sample. Using data from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry collected between July 1, 2009, and March 31, 2015, we examined operator annual PCI volume. We divided operators into low- (<50 PCIs per year), intermediate- (50 to 100 PCIs per year), and high- (>100 PCIs per year) volume groups, and determined the adjusted association between annual PCI volume and in-hospital outcomes, including mortality. The median annual number of procedures performed per operator was 59; 44% of operators performed <50 PCI procedures per year. Low-volume operators more frequently performed emergency and primary PCI procedures and practiced at hospitals with lower annual PCI volumes. Unadjusted in-hospital mortality was 1.86% for low-volume operators, 1.73% for intermediate-volume operators, and 1.48% for high-volume operators. The adjusted risk of in-hospital mortality was higher for PCI procedures performed by low- and intermediate-volume operators compared with those performed by high-volume operators (adjusted odds ratio: 1.16 for low versus high; adjusted odds ratio: 1.05 for intermediate vs. high volume) as was the risk for new dialysis post PCI. No volume relationship was observed for post-PCI bleeding. Many PCI operators in the United States are performing fewer than the recommended number of PCI procedures annually. Although absolute risk differences are small and may be partially explained by unmeasured differences in case mix between operators, there remains an inverse relationship between PCI operator volume and in-hospital mortality that persisted in risk-adjusted analyses. Copyright © 2017 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cost of illness and determinants of costs among patients with gout.

PubMed

Spaetgens, Bart; Wijnands, José M A; van Durme, Caroline; van der Linden, Sjef; Boonen, Annelies

2015-02-01

To estimate costs of illness in a cross-sectional cohort of patients with gout attending an outpatient rheumatology clinic, and to evaluate which factors contribute to higher costs. Altogether, 126 patients with gout were clinically assessed. They completed a series of questionnaires. Health resource use was collected using a self-report questionnaire that was cross-checked with the electronic patient file. Productivity loss was assessed by the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire, addressing absenteeism and presenteeism. Resource use and productivity loss were valued by real costs, and annual costs per patient were calculated. Factors contributing to incurring costs above the median were explored using logistic univariable and multivariable regression analysis. Mean (median) annual direct costs of gout were €5647 (€1148) per patient. Total costs increased to €6914 (€1279) or €10,894 (€1840) per patient per year when adding cost for absenteeism or both absenteeism and presenteeism, respectively. Factors independently associated with high direct and high indirect costs were a positive history of cardiovascular disease, functional limitations, and female sex. In addition, pain, gout concerns, and unmet gout treatment needs were associated with high direct costs. The direct and indirect costs-of-illness of gout are primarily associated with cardiovascular disease, functional limitations, and female sex.

Health care expenditure in the Islamic Republic of Iran versus other high spending countries

PubMed Central

Khosravi, Bahman; Soltani, Shahin; Javan-Noughabi, Javad; Faramarzi, Ahmad

2017-01-01

Background: In all countries, health expenditures are a main part of government expenditure, and governments try to find policies and strategies to reduce this expenditure. Overall expenditure index has been raised 30 times during the past 20 years in Iran, while in the health sector, the growth in health expenditures index has been 71 times. The present study aimed at examining health care expenditure in the Islamic Republic of Iran versus other high spending countries. Methods: A comparative panel study was conducted in selected countries with the high mean of health expenditure per capita. Data were collected from the WORLD BANK. Out- of- pocket (OOP), health expenditure per capita, public and private health expenditure, and total health expenditure were compared among the selected counties. Results: Iran has the lowest health expenditure per capita compared to other countries and the USA has the highest health expenditures per capita. In Iran, out- of- pocket expenditure, with more than 50%, was the most cost, while in Luxembourg it was the least cost during 2004 to 2014, with less than 12%. Conclusion: Our findings revealed that politicians and health care executives should find a stable source to finance the health system. Stable sources of financing lead to having a steady trend in health expenditure. PMID:29445700

Protons and Electrons in Jupiter's Magnetic Field: Results from the University of Chicago Experiment on Pioneer 10.

PubMed

Simpson, J A; Hamilton, D; Lentz, G; McKibben, R B; Mogro-Campero, A; Perkins, M; Pyle, K R; Tuzzolino, A J; O'gallagher, J J

1974-01-25

Fluxes of high energy electrons and protons are found to be highly concentrated near the magnetic equatorial plane from distances of ~ 30 to ~ 100 Jovian radii (R(J)). The 10-hour period of planetary rotation is observed as an intensity variation, which indicates that the equatorial zone of high particle fluxes is inclined with respect to the rotation axis of the planet. At radial distances [unknown] 20 R(J) the synchrotron-radiation-producing electrons with energies greater, similar 3 million electron volts rise steeply to a maximum intensity of ~ 5 x 10(8) electrons per square centimeter per second near the periapsis at 2.8 R(J). The flux of protons with energies greater, similar 30 million electron volts reaches a maximum intensity of ~ 4 x 10(6) protons per square centimeter per second at ~ 3.5 R(J) with the intensity decreasing inside this radial distance. Only for radial distances [unknown] 20 R(J) does the radiation behave in a manner which is similar to that at the earth. Burst of electrons with energies up to 30 million electron volts, each lasting about 2 days, were observed in interplanetary space beginning approximately 1 month before encounter. This radiation appears to have escaped from the Jovian bow shock or magnetosphere.

Age-related differences in women's foot shape.

PubMed

Ansuategui Echeita, Jone; Hijmans, Juha M; Smits, Sharon; Van der Woude, Lucas H V; Postema, Klaas

2016-12-01

Describe age-related differences in women's foot shape using a wide range of measurements and ages. Cross-sectional, observational study. Six foot-shape measurements of each foot: foot lengths, ball widths, ball circumferences, low instep circumferences, high instep circumferences, and heel instep circumference. 168 women from 20 to over 80 years of age, divided into seven age categories, were included. Older women had significantly greater foot-shape measurements, even after adjusting for Body Mass Index. Ball widths increased 3.1-4.0mm per decade, ball circumferences 5.6-7.4mm per decade, high instep circumferences 0.4-4.8mm per decade, and heel instep circumferences 1.8-1.9mm per decade. Ball widths, ball circumferences, and left high instep circumference plateaued in the 70-75 years-of-age category, and decreased in the oldest age category. For low instep circumference, age did not prevail significantly over Body Mass Index. Foot length was not associated with age. This study described women's progressive foot-shape changes with age. The findings provide a better understanding of foot-shape changes, mainly found in the forefoot. It demonstrates that for a good fit, shoe design for older adults and for younger adults should differ. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Seasonal variation of Opisthorchis viverrini infection in cyprinoid fish in north-east Thailand: implications for parasite control and food safety.

PubMed

Sithithaworn, P; Pipitgool, V; Srisawangwong, T; Elkins, D B; Haswell-Elkins, M R

1997-01-01

Reported is the seasonal pattern of Opisthorchis viverrini metacercariae in cyprinoid fish in north-east Thailand. Samples of fish were collected in 1991-92 at monthly intervals from two areas-Khon Kaen Province, where the opisthorchiasis transmission rate was high, and Mahasarakham Province, where the rate was low. Metacercarial loads in both study areas had similar seasonal patterns. High burdens occurred in the late rainy season and winter (July to January) with low burdens during the summer (March to June). The average burden for Puntius leiacanthus in Khon Kaen was 1.68 metacercariae per fish (127.43 per kg), higher than for all species of cyprinoid fish from the low transmission area. The intensities of infection among P. leiacanthus and Cyclocheilichthys armatus collected in Mahasarakham were comparable, but lower than the intensity of Hampala dispar (0.75 metacercariae per fish) concurrently sampled from the same area (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in metacercarial load per kg between fish species from Mahasarakham. The results indicate that seasonal variation in metacercariae was a common phenomenon in areas with both high and low endemicity of infection. Also, the metacerarial load in fish was positively associated with infection levels among humans.

The "polyenviromic risk score": Aggregating environmental risk factors predicts conversion to psychosis in familial high-risk subjects.

PubMed

Padmanabhan, Jaya L; Shah, Jai L; Tandon, Neeraj; Keshavan, Matcheri S

2017-03-01

Young relatives of individuals with schizophrenia (i.e. youth at familial high-risk, FHR) are at increased risk of developing psychotic disorders, and show higher rates of psychiatric symptoms, cognitive and neurobiological abnormalities than non-relatives. It is not known whether overall exposure to environmental risk factors increases risk of conversion to psychosis in FHR subjects. Subjects consisted of a pilot longitudinal sample of 83 young FHR subjects. As a proof of principle, we examined whether an aggregate score of exposure to environmental risk factors, which we term a 'polyenviromic risk score' (PERS), could predict conversion to psychosis. The PERS combines known environmental risk factors including cannabis use, urbanicity, season of birth, paternal age, obstetric and perinatal complications, and various types of childhood adversity, each weighted by its odds ratio for association with psychosis in the literature. A higher PERS was significantly associated with conversion to psychosis in young, familial high-risk subjects (OR=1.97, p=0.009). A model combining the PERS and clinical predictors had a sensitivity of 27% and specificity of 96%. An aggregate index of environmental risk may help predict conversion to psychosis in FHR subjects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Health care expenditure in the Islamic Republic of Iran versus other high spending countries.

PubMed

Khosravi, Bahman; Soltani, Shahin; Javan-Noughabi, Javad; Faramarzi, Ahmad

2017-01-01

Background: In all countries, health expenditures are a main part of government expenditure, and governments try to find policies and strategies to reduce this expenditure. Overall expenditure index has been raised 30 times during the past 20 years in Iran, while in the health sector, the growth in health expenditures index has been 71 times. The present study aimed at examining health care expenditure in the Islamic Republic of Iran versus other high spending countries. Methods: A comparative panel study was conducted in selected countries with the high mean of health expenditure per capita. Data were collected from the WORLD BANK. Out- of- pocket (OOP), health expenditure per capita, public and private health expenditure, and total health expenditure were compared among the selected counties. Results: Iran has the lowest health expenditure per capita compared to other countries and the USA has the highest health expenditures per capita. In Iran, out- of- pocket expenditure, with more than 50%, was the most cost, while in Luxembourg it was the least cost during 2004 to 2014, with less than 12%. Conclusion: Our findings revealed that politicians and health care executives should find a stable source to finance the health system. Stable sources of financing lead to having a steady trend in health expenditure.

Availability of Automated External Defibrillators in Public High Schools.

PubMed

White, Michelle J; Loccoh, Emefah C; Goble, Monica M; Yu, Sunkyung; Duquette, Deb; Davis, Matthew M; Odetola, Folafoluwa O; Russell, Mark W

2016-05-01

To assess automated external defibrillator (AED) distribution and cardiac emergency preparedness in Michigan secondary schools and investigate for association with school sociodemographic characteristics. Surveys were sent via electronic mail to representatives from all public high schools in 30 randomly selected Michigan counties, stratified by population. Association of AED-related factors with school sociodemographic characteristics were evaluated using Wilcoxon rank sum test and χ(2) test, as appropriate. Of 188 schools, 133 (71%) responded to the survey and all had AEDs. Larger student population was associated with fewer AEDs per 100 students (P < .0001) and fewer staff with AED training per AED (P = .02), compared with smaller schools. Schools with >20% students from racial minority groups had significantly fewer AEDs available per 100 students than schools with less racial diversity (P = .03). Schools with more students eligible for free and reduced lunch were less likely to have a cardiac emergency response plan (P = .02) and demonstrated less frequent AED maintenance (P = .03). Although AEDs are available at public high schools across Michigan, the number of AEDs per student varies inversely with minority student population and school size. Unequal distribution of AEDs and lack of cardiac emergency preparedness may contribute to outcomes of sudden cardiac arrest among youth. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Genetic parameters of eventing horse competition in France

PubMed Central

Ricard, Anne; Chanu, Isabelle

2001-01-01

Genetic parameters of eventing horse competitions were estimated. About 13 000 horses, 30 000 annual results during 17 years and 110 000 starts in eventing competitions during 8 years were recorded. The measures of performance were logarithmic transformations of annual earnings, annual earnings per start, and annual earnings per place, and underlying variables responsible for ranks in each competition. Heritabilities were low (0.11/0.17 for annual results, 0.07 for ranks). Genetic correlations between criteria were high (greater than 0.90) except between ranks and earnings per place (0.58) or per start (0.67). Genetic correlations between ages (from 5 to 10 years old) were also high (more than 0.85) and allow selection on early performances. The genetic correlation between the results in different levels of competition (high/international and low/amateur) was near 1. Genetic correlations of eventing with other disciplines, which included partial aptitude needed for eventing, were very low for steeplechase races (0.18) and moderate with sport: jumping (0.45), dressage (0.58). The results suggest that selection on jumping performance will lead to some positive correlated response for eventing performance, but much more response could be obtained if a specific breeding objective and selection criteria were developed for eventing. PMID:11333833

Genetic Correlation with the DNA Repair Assay in Mice Exposed to High-LET

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Penninckx, Sebastien; Ray, Shayoni; Degorre, Charlotte; Guiet, Elodie; Viger, Louise; Pluth, Janice; Snijders, Antoine; Mao, Jian-Hua; Costes, Sylvain V.

2017-01-01

We hypothesize that DNA damage induced by high local energy deposition, occurring when cells are traversed by high-LET (Linear Energy Transfer) particles, can be experimentally modeled by exposing cells to high doses of low-LET. In this work, we validate such hypothesis by characterizing and correlating the time dependence of 53BP1 radiation-induced foci (RIF) for various doses and LET across 72 primary skin fibroblast from mice. This genetically diverse population allows us to understand how genetic may modulate the dose and LET relationship. The cohort was made on average from 3 males and 3 females belonging to 15 different strains of mice with various genetic backgrounds, including the collaborative cross (CC) genetic model (10 strains) and 5 reference mice strains. Cells were exposed to two fluences of three HZE (High Atomic Energy) particles (Si 350 megaelectronvolts per nucleon, Ar 350 megaelectronvolts per nucleon and Fe 600 megaelectronvolts per nucleon) and to 0.1, 1 and 4 grays from a 160 kilovolt X-ray. Individual radiation sensitivity was investigated by high throughput measurements of DNA repair kinetics for different doses of each radiation type. The 53BP1 RIF dose response to high-LET particles showed a linear dependency that matched the expected number of tracks per cell, clearly illustrating the fact that close-by DNA double strand breaks along tracks cluster within one single RIF. By comparing the slope of the high-LET dose curve to the expected number of tracks per cell we computed the number of remaining unrepaired tracks as a function of time post-irradiation. Results show that the percentage of unrepaired track over a 48 hours follow-up is higher as the LET increases across all strains. We also observe a strong correlation between the high dose repair kinetics following exposure to 160 kilovolts X-ray and the repair kinetics of high-LET tracks, with higher correlation with higher LET. At the in-vivo level for the 10-CC strains, we observe that drops in the number of T-cells and B-cells found in the blood of mice 24 hours after exposure to 0.1 gray of 320 kilovolts X-ray correlate well with slower DNA repair kinetics in skin cells exposed to X-ray. Overall, our results suggest that repair kinetics found in skin is a surrogate marker for in-vivo radiation sensitivity in other tissue, such as blood cells, and that such response is modulated by genetic variability.

High-power operation of highly reliable narrow stripe pseudomorphic single quantum well lasers emitting at 980 nm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larsson, A.; Forouhar, S.; Cody, J.; Lang, R. J.

1990-01-01

Ridge waveguide pseudomorphic InGaAs/GaAs/AlGaAs single-quantum-well lasers exhibiting record high quantum efficiencies and high output power densities (105 mW per facet from a 6 micron wide stripe) at a lasing wavelength of 980 nm are discussed that were fabricated from a graded index separate confinement heterostructure grown by molecular beam epitaxy. Life testing at an output power of 30 mW per uncoated facet reveals a slow gradual degradation during the initial 500 h of operation after which the operating characteristics of the lasers become stable. The emission wavelength, the high output power, and the fundamental lateral mode operation render these lasers suitable for pumping Er3+-doped fiber amplifiers.

Teenage smoking behaviour following a high-school smoking ban in Chile: interrupted time-series analysis.

PubMed

Feigl, Andrea B; Salomon, Joshua A; Danaei, Goodarz; Ding, Eric L; Calvo, Esteban

2015-07-01

To evaluate the effect of a smoking ban in high schools on smoking behaviour among Chilean students. We conducted an interrupted time-series analysis, using repeated cross-sectional data from Chile's school population survey (2000-2011) for high-school students aged 12-18 years and a control group of persons aged 19-24 years. Poisson regression models were used to assess trends in smoking behaviour before and after the policy changes. The outcome measures were self-reported smoking prevalence (any smoking in the past month) and high frequency of smoking (smoking 15 days or more per month). From 2005 to 2011, the prevalence of smoking declined among high-school students by 6.8% per year compared with 3.6% decline per year in the control group. The decline in the target group was 2.9% (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.18 to 5.00) greater. We estimated that 5-6 years after enforcing the law, smoking prevalence among high-school students was 13.7% lower as a result of the ban. The impact of the smoking ban was primarily driven by declines in smoking prevalence among students in grades 8 to 10. The smoking ban did not significantly alter the frequency of smoking. The 2005 school smoking ban reduced smoking prevalence among younger high-school students in Chile. Further interventions targeting older individuals and frequent smokers may be needed.

High-speed and high-fidelity system and method for collecting network traffic

DOEpatents

Weigle, Eric H [Los Alamos, NM

2010-08-24

A system is provided for the high-speed and high-fidelity collection of network traffic. The system can collect traffic at gigabit-per-second (Gbps) speeds, scale to terabit-per-second (Tbps) speeds, and support additional functions such as real-time network intrusion detection. The present system uses a dedicated operating system for traffic collection to maximize efficiency, scalability, and performance. A scalable infrastructure and apparatus for the present system is provided by splitting the work performed on one host onto multiple hosts. The present system simultaneously addresses the issues of scalability, performance, cost, and adaptability with respect to network monitoring, collection, and other network tasks. In addition to high-speed and high-fidelity network collection, the present system provides a flexible infrastructure to perform virtually any function at high speeds such as real-time network intrusion detection and wide-area network emulation for research purposes.

Delineation of discharge areas of two contaminant plumes by use of diffusion samplers, Johns Pond, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, 1998

USGS Publications Warehouse

Savoie, Jennifer G.; LeBlanc, D.R.; Blackwood, D.S.; McCobb, T.D.; Rendigs, R. R.; Clifford, Scott

2000-01-01

Diffusion samplers were installed in the bottom of Johns Pond, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to confirm that volatile organic compounds from the Storm Drain-5 (SD-5) plume emanating from the Massachusetts Military Reservation (MMR) were discharging into the pond. An array of 134 vapor-diffusion samplers was buried by divers about 0.5 feet below the pond bottom in the presumed discharge area of the SD-5 plume and left in place for about 2 weeks to equilibrate. Two areas of high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified. Samples from the first area contained trichloroethene (TCE) and tetrachloroethene with concentrations in vapor as high as 890 and 667 parts per billion by volume, respectively. This discharge area is about 1,000 feet wide, extends from 100 to 350 feet offshore, and is interpreted to be the discharge area of the SD-5 plume. Samples from the second area were located closer to shore than the discharge area of the SD-5 plume and contained unexpectedly high vapor concentrations of TCE (more than 40,000 parts per billion by volume). Ground-water samples collected with a drive-point sampler near the second area had aqueous TCE concentrations as high as 1,100 micrograms per liter. Subsequently, a more closely spaced array of 110 vapor-diffusion samplers was installed to map the area of elevated TCE concentrations . The discharge area detected with the samplers is about 75 feet wide and extends from about 25 to 200 feet offshore . TCE vapor concentrations in this area were as high as 42,800 parts per billion by volume. TCE concentrations in micrograms per liter in water-diffusion samples from 15 selected sites in the two discharge areas were about 35 times lower than the TCE concentrations in parts per billion by volume in corresponding vapor-diffusion samples. The difference in values is due to the volatile nature of TCE and the different units of measure. TCE was detected in diffusion samplers set in the pond water column above the plume discharge areas, but the TCE concentrations were 20 to 30 times lower than the corresponding levels in diffusion samplers buried in the pond bottom.

Simulated Altitude Investigation of Stewart-Warner Model 906-B Combustion Heater

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ebersbach, Frederick R.; Cervenka, Adolph J.

1947-01-01

An investigation has been conducted to determine thermal and pressure-drop performance and the operational characteristics of a Stewart-Warner model 906-B combustion heater. The performance tests covered a range of ventilating-air flows from 500 to 3185 pounds per hour, combustion-air pressure drops from 5 to 35 inches of water, and pressure altitudes from sea level to 41,000 feet. The operational characteristics investigated were the combustion-air flows for sustained combustion and for consistent ignition covering fuel-air ratios ranging from 0.033 to 0.10 and pressure altitudes from sea level to 45,000 feet. Rated heat output of 50,000 Btu per hour was obtained at pressure altitudes up to 27,000 feet for ventilating-air flows greater than 800 pounds per hour; rated output was not obtained at ventilating-air flow below 800 pounds per hour at any altitude. The maximum heater efficiency was found to be 60.7 percent at a fuel-air ratio of 0.050, a sea-level pressure altitude, a ventilating-air temperature of 0 F, combustion-air temperature of 14 F, a ventilating-air flow of 690 pounds per hour, and a combustion-air flow of 72.7 pounds per hour. The minimum combustion-air flow for sustained combustion at a pressure altitude of 25,000 feet was about 9 pounds per hour for fuel-air ratios between 0.037 and 0.099 and at a pressure altitude of 45,000 feet increased to 18 pounds per hour at a fuel-air ratio of 0.099 and 55 pounds per hour at a fuel-air ratio of 0.036. Combustion could be sustained at combustion-air flows above values of practical interest. The maximum flow was limited, however, by excessively high exhaust-gas temperature or high pressure drop. Both maximum and minimum combustion-air flows for consistent ignition decrease with increasing pressure altitude and the two curves intersect at a pressure altitude of approximately 25,000 feet and a combustion-air flow of approximately 28 pounds per hour.

Podiatry impact on high-low amputation ratio characteristics: A 16-year retrospective study.

PubMed

Schmidt, Brian M; Wrobel, James S; Munson, Michael; Rothenberg, Gary; Holmes, Crystal M

2017-04-01

Complications from diabetes mellitus including major lower extremity amputation may have significant impact on a patient's mortality. This study determined what impact the addition of a limb salvage and diabetic foot program involving podiatry had at an academic institution over 16years by analyzing high-low amputation ratio data. The high-low amputation ratio in the diabetic population who underwent non-traumatic amputation of the lower extremity was retrospectively evaluated at an academic institution via cohort discovery of the electronic medical record and analysis of billing over 16years. We directly compared two eras, one without podiatry and one with a podiatry presence. It was found that with the addition of a podiatry program, limb salvage rates significantly increased (R 2 (without podiatry)=0.45, R 2 (with podiatry)=0.26), with a significant change in both the rate of limb salvage per year (-0.11% per year versus -0.36% per year; p<0.01) and an overall decrease in high-low amputation ratio (0.89 without podiatry to 0.60 with podiatry). Of note, approximately 40 major lower extremity amputations were avoided per year with the addition of a podiatry program (p<0.05). Our findings signify the importance of podiatric care in the diabetic population. With an established podiatry program present at an academic institution, major lower extremity amputations can be avoided and more limbs can be salvaged, thus preventing some of the moribund complications from this condition. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Light Moderates the Induction of Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxylase by NaCl and Abscisic Acid in Mesembryanthemum crystallinum 1

PubMed Central

McElwain, Elizabeth F.; Bohnert, Hans J.; Thomas, John C.

1992-01-01

In Mesembryanthemum crystallinum, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase is synthesized de novo in response to osmotic stress, as part of the switch from C3-photosynthesis to Crassulacean acid metabolism. To better understand the environmental signals involved in this pathway, we have investigated the effects of light on the induced expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase mRNA and protein in response to stress by 400 millimolar NaCl or 10 micromolar abscisic acid in hydroponically grown plants. When plants were grown in high-intensity fluorescent or incandescent light (850 microeinsteins per square meter per second), NaCl and abscisic acid induced approximately an eightfold accumulation of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase mRNA when compared to untreated controls. Levels of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase protein were high in these abscisic acid- and NaCl-treated plants, and detectable in the unstressed control. Growth in high-intensity incandescent (red) light resulted in approximately twofold higher levels of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase mRNA in the untreated plants when compared to control plants grown in high-intensity fluorescent light. In low light (300 microeinsteins per square meter per second fluorescent), only NaCl induced mRNA levels significantly above the untreated controls. Low light grown abscisic acid- and NaCl-treated plants contained a small amount of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase protein, whereas the (untreated) control plants did not contain detectable amounts of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase. Environmental stimuli, such as light and osmotic stress, exert a combined effect on gene expression in this facultative halophyte. ImagesFigure 1Figure 2 PMID:16668999

Comparative Analysis of Head Impact in Contact and Collision Sports

PubMed Central

Reynolds, Bryson B.; Patrie, James; Henry, Erich J.; Goodkin, Howard P.; Broshek, Donna K.; Wintermark, Max

2017-01-01

Abstract As concerns about head impact in American football have grown, similar concerns have started to extend to other sports thought to experience less head impact, such as soccer and lacrosse. However, the amount of head impact experienced in soccer and lacrosse is relatively unknown, particularly compared with the substantial amount of data from football. This pilot study quantifies and compares head impact from four different types of sports teams: college football, high school football, college soccer, and college lacrosse. During the 2013 and 2014 seasons, 61 players wore mastoid patch accelerometers to quantify head impact during official athletic events (i.e., practices and games). In both practices and games, college football players experienced the most or second-most impacts per athletic event, highest average peak resultant linear and rotational acceleration per impact, and highest cumulative linear and rotational acceleration per athletic event. For average peak resultant linear and rotational acceleration per individual impact, college football was followed by high school football, then college lacrosse, and then college soccer, with similar trends in both practices and games. In the four teams under study, college football players experienced a categorically higher burden of head impact. However, for cumulative impact burden, the high school football cohort was not significantly different from the college soccer cohort. The results suggest that head impact in sport substantially varies by both the type of sport (football vs. soccer vs. lacrosse) and level of play (college vs. high school). PMID:27541183

Key Spatial Factors Influencing the Perceived Privacy in Nursing Units: An Exploration Study With Eight Nursing Units in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Lu, Yi; Cai, Hui; Bosch, Sheila J

2017-07-01

This study examined how the spatial characteristics of patient beds, which are influenced by patient room design and nursing unit configuration, affect patients' perceptions about privacy. In the hospital setting, most patients expect a certain degree of privacy but also understand that their caregivers need appropriate access to them in order to provide high-quality care. Even veteran healthcare designers may struggle to create just the right balance between privacy and accessibility. A paper-based survey was conducted with 159 participants in Hong Kong-72 (45.3%) participants had been hospitalized and 87 (54.7%) participants had not-to document their selection of high-privacy beds, given simplified plans of eight nursing units. Two types of information, comprised of six variables, were examined for each bed. These include (1) room-level variables, specifically the number of beds per room and area per bed and (2) relational variables, including walking distance, directional change, integration, and control. The results demonstrate that when asked to identify high-privacy beds, participants selected beds in patient rooms with fewer beds per room, a larger area per bed, and a longer walking distance to the care team workstation. Interestingly, the participants having been hospitalized also chose beds with a visual connection to the care team workstation as being high in privacy. The participants with hospitalization experience may be willing to accept a bed with reduced visual privacy, perhaps out of a concern for safety.

Continuing education: the 1998 Survey of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons.

PubMed

Sambrook, P; Thomson, D; Bastiaan, R; Goss, A

2001-06-01

Continuing education (CE) is an essential professional activity. In the last decade, CE has been actively pursued by the medical profession in Australia and abroad. However, the uptake of CE in dentistry has been much slower and there is minimal Australian data on dental CE. To determine the level of CE activity, in 1998, postal questionnaires were sent to all fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. The responses were analysed. There was a high response rate (90 per cent) but a moderate usable rate (54 per cent). The results show a biphasic distribution between high and low CE activity. The average amount of activity of those involved in CE was 116 hours per year, above the usually accepted minimum of 100 hours/year. Some groups, particularly members of the specialist divisions of oral and maxillofacial surgeons (215 hours) and periodontists (205 hours), have high levels of CE. However, approximately 25 per cent of college fellows reported little or no CE activity. The survey revealed that inactive fellows are more likely to be older and in general practice. Inactive fellows were also tardy in replying to the questionnaire. The high activity CE group needs to be recognised and encouraged to continue. Specific plans to help the low CE activity group should be developed. Although these findings relate directly to the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, they are presented as they have implications for the dental profession at large.

Shared Air: A Renewed Focus on Ventilation for the Prevention of Tuberculosis Transmission

PubMed Central

Richardson, Eugene T.; Morrow, Carl D.; Kalil, Darryl B.; Bekker, Linda-Gail; Wood, Robin

2014-01-01

Background Despite an improvement in the overall TB cure rate from 40–74% between 1995 and 2011, TB incidence in South Africa continues to increase. The epidemic is notably disquieting in schools because the vulnerable population is compelled to be present. Older learners (age 15–19) are at particular risk given a smear-positive rate of 427 per 100,000 per year and the significant amount of time they spend indoors. High schools are therefore important locations for potential TB infection and thus prevention efforts. Methods and Findings Using portable carbon dioxide monitors, we measured CO2 in classrooms under non-steady state conditions. The threshold for tuberculosis transmission was estimated using a carbon dioxide-based risk equation. We determined a critical rebreathed fraction of carbon dioxide () of 1·6%, which correlates with an indoor CO2 concentration of 1000 ppm. These values correspond with a ventilation rate of 8·6 l/s per person or 12 air exchanges per hour (ACH) for standard classrooms of 180 m3. Conclusions Given the high smear positive rate of high-school adolescents in South Africa, the proposal to achieve CO2 levels of 1000ppm through natural ventilation (in the amount 12 ACH) will not only help achieve WHO guidelines for providing children with healthy indoor environments, it will also provide a low-cost intervention for helping control the TB epidemic in areas of high prevalence. PMID:24804707

Investigation of dioxin concentrations in the lower Roanoke River basin, North Carolina, February 26-March 7, 2001

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, K.F.; Walters, D.A.

2001-01-01

Dioxin is a toxic chemical that, when present in the environment, can cause cancer and birth defects in humans. Dioxin is of particular concern because concentrations of dioxin that were released into the environment many years ago remain a contributing factor to current exposure. Dioxin exposure often occurs in surface-water systems downstream from contaminated sites and is detrimental to aquatic life. For these reasons and because the U.S. Geological Survey has expertise in conducting high-volume dioxin sampling, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the State of North Carolina asked the U.S. Geological Survey to collect water samples in the lower Roanoke River to be analyzed for the presence of dioxin. Water quality of the lower Roanoke River Basin in North Carolina was assessed at eight sites during February 26-March 7, 2001. Water- quality samples were collected for analysis of suspended-sediment and dioxin concentrations; high-volume (750-liter) water samples were collected for dioxin analysis. Discharge measurements were made at or near the high-volume sampling sites. Suspended-sediment sampling and water-quality measurements of specific conductance, pH, water temperature, and dissolved-oxygen concentrations made at each sampling site included multidepth measurements at two cross-section transects and hourly measurements at the point of high-volume sampling. Multidepth measurements were made near the surface, mid-depth, and near the bottom of the water column. These values were averaged for each cross section. During the sampling period, all sites sampled had dioxin concentrations above detection limits (1 part per quintillion) for both suspended and dissolved dioxin. Suspended dioxin ranged from 5.1 to 900 femtograms per liter, and dissolved dioxin values ranged from 0.31 to 41 femtograms per liter. Suspended-sediment concentrations ranged from 1.1 to 14 milligrams per liter. Specific conductance values ranges from 111 to 340 microsiemens per centimeter at 25 degrees Celsius. The range of pH values at the sampling sites was from 6.6 to 7.7. Water temperatures ranged from 8.9 to 13 degrees Celsius. Dissolved-oxygen concentrations ranged from 7.3 to 10.9 milligrams per liter.

Ground-water quality of the southern High Plains aquifer, Texas and New Mexico, 2001

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fahlquist, Lynne

2003-01-01

In 2001, the U.S. Geological Survey National Water-Quality Assessment Program collected water samples from 48 wells in the southern High Plains as part of a larger scientific effort to broadly characterize and understand factors affecting water quality of the High Plains aquifer across the entire High Plains. Water samples were collected primarily from domestic wells in Texas and eastern New Mexico. Depths of wells sampled ranged from 100 to 500 feet, with a median depth of 201 feet. Depths to water ranged from 34 to 445 feet below land surface, with a median depth of 134 feet. Of 240 properties or constituents measured or analyzed, 10 exceeded U.S. Environmental Protection Agency public drinking-water standards or guidelines in one or more samples - arsenic, boron, chloride, dissolved solids, fluoride, manganese, nitrate, radon, strontium, and sulfate. Measured dissolved solids concentrations in 29 samples were larger than the public drinking-water guideline of 500 milligrams per liter. Fluoride concentrations in 16 samples, mostly in the southern part of the study area, were larger than the public drinking-water standard of 4 milligrams per liter. Nitrate was detected in all samples, and concentrations in six samples were larger than the public drinking-water standard of 10 milligrams per liter. Arsenic concentrations in 14 samples in the southern part of the study area were larger than the new (2002) public drinking-water standard of 10 micrograms per liter. Radon concentrations in 36 samples were larger than a proposed public drinking-water standard of 300 picocuries per liter. Pesticides were detected at very small concentrations, less than 1 microgram per liter, in less than 20 percent of the samples. The most frequently detected compounds were atrazine and breakdown products of atrazine, a finding similar to those of National Water-Quality Assessment aquifer studies across the Nation. Four volatile organic compounds were detected at small concentrations in six water samples. About 70 percent of the 48 primarily domestic wells sampled contained some fraction of recently (less than about 50 years ago) recharged ground water, as indicated by the presence of one or more pesticides, or tritium or nitrate concentrations greater than threshold levels.

Prices of Healthy and Unhealthy Beverages in High and Low Per Capita Income Areas

PubMed Central

Corrado, Rachel S; Chaloupka, Frank J

2013-01-01

To better understand availability and price of beverages in Hawai‘i, the prices of healthy (milk, orange juice, unsweetened tea, unsweetened coffee, diet soda) and unhealthy beverages (regular soda, fruit drink, sports drink, sweetened tea, flavored water) were collected and the beverage prices in lower per capita income areas and higher per capita income areas were compared. Cross-sectional data on prices of healthy and unhealthy beverages were collected from supermarkets, convenience stores, and quick serve restaurants from two lower per capita income areas (Waimanalo and Wai‘anae) and two higher per capita income areas (Hawai‘i Kai and Manoa) on O‘ahu, Hawai‘i from May 15 to June 10, 2012. Using composite data from across all areas, there was a significant difference of $0.58 (95% CI 0.46, 0.70) between the healthy beverages' mean price per 20 ounces ($1.76 ± $0.86) and the unhealthy beverages' mean price per 20 ounces ($1.18 ± $0.38) (P <.001). Although there was no statistically significant difference between per capita income areas, the lower per capita income areas' mean price per 20 ounces of healthy beverages was slightly higher and mean price per 20 ounces of unhealthy beverages was slightly lower than the higher per capita income areas. Pricing strategies that enable healthy beverages to be less expensive than unhealthy beverages is one method to increase consumption of healthy beverages and decrease consumption of unhealthy beverages. Reduction in unhealthy beverage consumption is needed to help reduce obesity, especially in the lower per capita income areas that have higher obesity prevalence. PMID:23520564

Worldwide impact of economic cycles on suicide trends over 3 decades: differences according to level of development. A mixed effect model study

PubMed Central

Perez-Rodriguez, M Mercedes; Garcia-Nieto, Rebeca; Fernandez-Navarro, Pablo; Galfalvy, Hanga; de Leon, Jose; Baca-Garcia, Enrique

2012-01-01

Objectives To investigate the trends and correlations of gross domestic product (GDP) adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP) per capita on suicide rates in 10 WHO regions during the past 30 years. Design Analyses of databases of PPP-adjusted GDP per capita and suicide rates. Countries were grouped according to the Global Burden of Disease regional classification system. Data sources World Bank's official website and WHO's mortality database. Statistical analyses After graphically displaying PPP-adjusted GDP per capita and suicide rates, mixed effect models were used for representing and analysing clustered data. Results Three different groups of countries, based on the correlation between the PPP-adjusted GDP per capita and suicide rates, are reported: (1) positive correlation: developing (lower middle and upper middle income) Latin-American and Caribbean countries, developing countries in the South East Asian Region including India, some countries in the Western Pacific Region (such as China and South Korea) and high-income Asian countries, including Japan; (2) negative correlation: high-income and developing European countries, Canada, Australia and New Zealand and (3) no correlation was found in an African country. Conclusions PPP-adjusted GDP per capita may offer a simple measure for designing the type of preventive interventions aimed at lowering suicide rates that can be used across countries. Public health interventions might be more suitable for developing countries. In high-income countries, however, preventive measures based on the medical model might prove more useful. PMID:22586285

Wide- and contact-binary formation in substructured young stellar clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorval, J.; Boily, C. M.; Moraux, E.; Roos, O.

2017-02-01

We explore with collisional gravitational N-body models the evolution of binary stars in initially fragmented and globally subvirial clusters of stars. Binaries are inserted in the (initially) clumpy configurations so as to match the observed distributions of the field-binary-stars' semimajor axes a and binary fraction versus primary mass. The dissolution rate of wide binaries is very high at the start of the simulations, and is much reduced once the clumps are eroded by the global infall. The transition between the two regimes is sharper as the number of stars N is increased, from N = 1.5 k up to 80 k. The fraction of dissolved binary stars increases only mildly with N, from ≈15 per cent to ≈25 per cent for the same range in N. We repeated the calculation for two initial system mean number densities of 6 per pc3 (low) and 400 per pc3 (high). We found that the longer free-fall time of the low-density runs allows for prolonged binary-binary interactions inside clumps and the formation of very tight (a ≈ 0.01 au) binaries by exchange collisions. This is an indication that the statistics of such compact binaries bear a direct link to their environment at birth. We also explore the formation of wide (a ≳ 5 × 104 au) binaries and find a low (≈0.01 per cent) fraction mildly bound to the central star cluster. The high-precision astrometric mission Gaia could identify them as outflowing shells or streams.

C4 plant isotopic composition (delta13C) evidence for urban CO2 pollution in the city of Cotonou, Benin (West Africa).

PubMed

Kèlomé, Nelly C; Lévêque, Jean; Andreux, Francis; Milloux, Marie-Jeanne; Oyédé, Lucien-Marc

2006-08-01

The carbon isotopic composition (delta13C) of plants can reveal the isotopic carbon content of the atmosphere in which they develop. The delta13C values of air and plants depend on the amount of atmospheric fossil fuel CO2, which is chiefly emitted in urban areas. A new indicator of CO2 pollution is tested using the delta13C variation in a C4 grass: Eleusine indica. A range of about 4 per thousand delta units was observed at different sites in Cotonou, the largest city in the Republic of Benin. The highest delta13C values, from -12 per thousand to -14 per thousand, were found in low traffic zones; low delta13C values, from -14 per thousand to -16 per thousand, were found in high traffic zones. The amount of fossil fuel carbon assimilated by plants represented about 20% of the total plant carbon content. An overall decrease in plant delta13C values was observed over a four-year monitoring period. This decrease was correlated with increasing vehicle traffic. The delta13C dataset and the corresponding geographical database were used to map and define zones of high and low 13C-depleted CO2 emissions in urban and sub-urban areas. The spatial distribution follows dominant wind directions, with the lowest emission zones found in the southwest of Cotonou. High CO2 emissions occurred in the north, the east and the center, providing evidence of intense anthropogenic activity related to industry and transportation.

The impact of technology diffusion on treatment for prostate cancer.

PubMed

Schroeck, Florian R; Kaufman, Samuel R; Jacobs, Bruce L; Zhang, Yun; Weizer, Alon Z; Montgomery, Jeffrey S; Gilbert, Scott M; Strope, Seth A; Hollenbeck, Brent K

2013-12-01

The use of local therapy for prostate cancer may increase because of the perceived advantages of new technologies such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and robotic prostatectomy. To examine the association of market-level technological capacity with receipt of local therapy. Retrospective cohort. Patients with localized prostate cancer who were diagnosed between 2003 and 2007 (n=59,043) from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results-Medicare database. We measured the capacity for delivering treatment with new technology as the number of providers offering robotic prostatectomy or IMRT per population in a market (hospital referral region). The association of this measure with receipt of prostatectomy, radiotherapy, or observation was examined with multinomial logistic regression. For each 1000 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer, 174 underwent prostatectomy, 490 radiotherapy, and 336 were observed. Markets with high robotic prostatectomy capacity had higher use of prostatectomy (146 vs. 118 per 1000 men, P=0.008) but a trend toward decreased use of radiotherapy (574 vs. 601 per 1000 men, P=0.068), resulting in a stable rate of local therapy. High versus low IMRT capacity did not significantly impact the use of prostatectomy (129 vs. 129 per 1000 men, P=0.947) and radiotherapy (594 vs. 585 per 1000 men, P=0.579). Although there was a small shift from radiotherapy to prostatectomy in markets with high robotic prostatectomy capacity, increased capacity for both robotic prostatectomy and IMRT did not change the overall rate of local therapy. Our findings temper concerns that the new technology spurs additional therapy of prostate cancer.

Age-standardized Incidence Rates for Leukemia Associated with Consanguineous Marriages in 68 Countries, an Ecological Study

PubMed Central

Saadat, Mostafa

2015-01-01

Consanguineous marriage that defines as a union between biologically related persons has a variety of known deleterious correlations with factors that affect public health within human populations. To investigate the association between the mean of inbreeding coefficient (α) and incidence of leukemia, the present ecological study on 68 countries was carried out. Statistical analysis showed that the age-standardized incidence rate of leukemia positively correlated with log10GNI per capita (r=0.699, df=66, P<0.001) and negatively correlated with log10α (r=−0.609, df=66, P<0.001). Controlling log10GNI per capita, a significant negative correlation between log10α and the age-standardized incidence rate of leukemia was observed (r=−0.392, df=65, P=0.001). The countries were stratified according to their annual GNI per capita, low and high-income countries with GNI per capita less than and more than 10,000$, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that in high-income countries, after controlling for log10GNI per capita, the correlation between the age-standardized incidence rate of leukemia and log10α was still significant (r=−0.600, df=36, P<0.001). It should be noted that there was no significant association between the age-standardized mortality rate due to leukemia and log10α (P>0.05). The present finding indicates that the rate of leukemia, age-standardized for incidence, is lower in countries with a high prevalence of consanguineous marriages. PMID:25960855

[Epidemiology of ophidism in Venezuela (1996-2004)].

PubMed

De Sousa, Leonardo; Bastouri-Carrasco, Jessica; Matos, Mercedes; Borges, Adolfo; Bónoli, Stefano; Vásquez-Suárez, Aleikar; Guerrero, Belsy; Rodríguez-Acosta, Alexis

2013-06-01

The data of accidents caused by snakebites in Venezuela, registered at the morbidity statistics of the Direction of Epidemiology and Strategic Analysis of the Ministry of Health and Social Development were analyzed. During the years of 1996-2004, 53,792 snakebites were registered in Venezuela (5,976 cases average per year), with a higher incidence during the year 2004 (7,486 incidents). Zulia reported the highest frequency of all the states (5,975 cases); meanwhile the Midwestern region, constituted by Lara, Portuguesa, Falc6n and Yaracuy states, had a higher morbidity for snake bites. The highest incidence, distributed per states was registered in Cojedes, during the year 2001, with 228.72 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. When it was determined by regions, the highest incidence occurred during the year 2004 at los Llanos with 63.81 per 100,000 inhabitants. The median of the incidence rate for Venezuela during the period was of 21.46 accidents per 100,000 inhabitants. The classification of the endemic areas for ophidism, according to the percentiles 23, 50, 75 and 90, organized the country in: (a) states and regions of very high endemicity, (b) high endemicity, (c) middle, (d) low and (e) very low endemicity. These epidemiological data indicated that the accidents caused by snakes constitute a collective health problem in Venezuela.

Analysis of speed, stroke rate, and stroke distance for world-class breaststroke swimming.

PubMed

Garland Fritzdorf, Stephen; Hibbs, Angela; Kleshnev, Valery

2009-02-15

Speed in aquatic locomotion is determined by stroke distance and stroke rate, but it does not always follow that an increase in stroke rate will lead to an increase in speed. Kleshnev (2006) developed a method to evaluate the relationship between speed and stroke rate during rowing - the effective work per stroke. In this case study, the effective work per stroke was determined for a male world-class 100-m breaststroke swimmer for seven races in major championships and compared between: each of the seven races; each quarter within each race; and the best swims of this case study and seven other world-class swimmers. The effective work per stroke was related to race performance, with the fastest race having the highest effective work per stroke and lowest stroke rate, with slower races having low effectiveness and high stroke rate (R(2) = 0.85). The effective work per stroke was reduced in a race as the swimmer fatigued. The within-race standard deviation of effectiveness was lower in fast swims (R(2) = 0.84). This analysis has identified some characteristics of fast swimming: high effectiveness, optimal stroke rate, and a flat effectiveness profile. Training and racing strategies can now be devised to improve performance by increasing the sensitivity of assessment of strengths and weaknesses in individuals.

Ethnic and geographic variations in the incidence of pancreatitis and post-pancreatitis diabetes mellitus in New Zealand: a nationwide population-based study.

PubMed

Pendharkar, Sayali A; Mathew, Juby; Zhao, Jinfeng; Windsor, John A; Exeter, Daniel J; Petrov, Maxim S

2017-02-17

To determine the incidence of acute pancreatitis (AP), chronic pancreatitis (CP), and post-pancreatitis diabetes mellitus (DP) in New Zealand, and the effect of ethnic and geographic variations. Data were collected from all district health boards in New Zealand by the Ministry of Health (Manatū Hauora). Diagnosis of AP, CP and DP was determined by the International Classification of Diseases-10 codes. Incidence rates per 100,000 population per year were calculated using incident AP, CP and DP cases as the numerator, and the adult resident population of New Zealand as the denominator. Poisson distribution was used to estimate 95% confidence intervals. The district health board domicile codes and corresponding incidence rates were used to map geographical variations for AP, CP and DP. On average, 2,072 new cases of AP, CP and DP were diagnosed in New Zealand every year. The crude incidence of AP was 58.42 [57.55, 59.30], CP - 3.97 [3.74, 4.20], and DP - 7.95 [7.62, 8.27] per 100,000 population per year. Māori had the highest incidence of AP (95.21 [91.74, 98.68] per 100,000 population per year), CP (6.27 [5.37, 7.16] per 100,000 population per year), and DP (18.23 [16.71, 19.76] per 100,000 population per year). Incidence of AP and DP was at least 1.8 and 2.6 times higher in Māori than New Zealand Europeans in every age group, and incidence of DP was at least 1.9 times higher in Pacific people than New Zealand Europeans in every age group. Auckland/Northland had the highest incidence of AP (135.25 [134.82, 135.68] per 100,000 population), and CP (9.03 [8.60, 9.46] per 100,000 population), while Lakes/Waikato had the highest incidence of DP (20.64 [20.21, 21.07] per 100,000 population) in New Zealand. New Zealanders have a very high incidence rate of AP, with Māori having the highest reported incidence of AP worldwide. There is a significant geographic variation in incidence of pancreatic diseases, with the Upper North Island having the highest incidence rates of AP, CP and DP in the country. Future high-quality studies are required to understand the mechanisms of pancreatitis and DP in order to develop preventive and therapeutic strategies that would benefit New Zealanders in general and Māori in particular.

Cost-effectiveness of a day hospital falls prevention programme for screened community-dwelling older people at high risk of falls.

PubMed

Irvine, Lisa; Conroy, Simon P; Sach, Tracey; Gladman, John R F; Harwood, Rowan H; Kendrick, Denise; Coupland, Carol; Drummond, Avril; Barton, Garry; Masud, Tahir

2010-11-01

multifactorial falls prevention programmes for older people have been proved to reduce falls. However, evidence of their cost-effectiveness is mixed. economic evaluation alongside pragmatic randomised controlled trial. randomised trial of 364 people aged ≥70, living in the community, recruited via GP and identified as high risk of falling. Both arms received a falls prevention information leaflet. The intervention arm were also offered a (day hospital) multidisciplinary falls prevention programme, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nurse, medical review and referral to other specialists. self-reported falls, as collected in 12 monthly diaries. Levels of health resource use associated with the falls prevention programme, screening (both attributed to intervention arm only) and other health-care contacts were monitored. Mean NHS costs and falls per person per year were estimated for both arms, along with the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and cost effectiveness acceptability curve. in the base-case analysis, the mean falls programme cost was £349 per person. This, coupled with higher screening and other health-care costs, resulted in a mean incremental cost of £578 for the intervention arm. The mean falls rate was lower in the intervention arm (2.07 per person/year), compared with the control arm (2.24). The estimated ICER was £3,320 per fall averted. the estimated ICER was £3,320 per fall averted. Future research should focus on adherence to the intervention and an assessment of impact on quality of life.

Effects of malathion, diazinon, and parathion on mallard embryo development and cholinesterase activity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hoffman, D.J.; Eastin, W.C.

1981-01-01

The effects of external exposure of mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) eggs to malathion, diazinon, and parathion were examined using formulations and concentrations similar to field applications. Treatment with aqueous emulsion simulated exposure at the rate of 100 gal per acre (153 liters/hectare) with three to six different doses per compound with treatment at 3 and 8 days of embryonic development. Treatment with a nontoxic oil vehicle simulated exposure at the rate of 11 gal per acre (16.8 liters/hectare) with three to six different doses per compound. The order of embryotoxicity on a pounds-per-acre basis was parathion > diazinon > malathion with either vehicle. However, the potential hazard under conditions of up to five times the maximum field level of application was greater for malathion because of the high permissible level of application for malathion on certain crops. Parathion, the most embryotoxic of the three, had the most pronounced effects when an oil vehicle was used, as reflected by an LC50 of about 2 lb of active ingredient per acre, stunted growth, and a high frequency of malformations involving distortion of the axial skeleton, particularly in the cervical region. All three compounds resulted in significant depression of plasma and brain cholinesterase activity, but parathion caused the most depression throughout development, which was still apparent in hatchlings. Treatment with either distilled water or oil vehicle alone did not result in any of these effects seen with organophosphorous insecticides.

Comparison of hecter fuel with export aviation gasoline

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dickinson, H C; Gage, V R; Sparrow, S W

1921-01-01

Among the fuels which will operate at compression ratios up to at least 8.0 without preignition or "pinking" is hecter fuel, whence a careful determination of its performance is of importance. For the test data presented in this report the hecter fuel used was a mixture of 30 per cent benzol and 70 per cent cyclohexane, having a low freezing point, and distilling from first drop to 90 per cent at nearly a constant temperature, about 20 degrees c. below the average distillation temperature ("mean volatility") of the x gasoline (export grade). The results of these experiments show that the power developed by hecter fuel is the same as that developed by export aviation gasoline at about 1,800 r.p.m. at all altitudes. At lower speeds differences in the power developed by the fuels become evident. Comparisons at ground level were omitted to avoid any possibility of damaging the engine by operating with open throttle on gasoline at so high a compression. The fuel consumption per unit power based on weight, not volume, averaged more than 10 per cent greater with hecter than with x gasoline. The thermal efficiency of the engine when using hecter is less than when using gasoline, particularly at higher speeds. A generalization of the difference for all altitudes and speeds being 8 per cent. A general deduction from these facts is that more hecter is exhausted unburnt. Hecter can withstand high compression pressures and temperature without preignition. (author)

Assessing spatial inequalities in accessing community pharmacies: a mixed geographically weighted approach.

PubMed

Domnich, Alexander; Arata, Lucia; Amicizia, Daniela; Signori, Alessio; Gasparini, Roberto; Panatto, Donatella

2016-11-16

Geographical accessibility is an important determinant for the utilisation of community pharmacies. The present study explored patterns of spatial accessibility with respect to pharmacies in Liguria, Italy, a region with particular geographical and demographic features. Municipal density of pharmacies was proxied as the number of pharmacies per capita and per km2, and spatial autocorrelation analysis was performed to identify spatial clusters. Both non-spatial and spatial models were constructed to predict the study outcome. Spatial autocorrelation analysis showed a highly significant clustered pattern in the density of pharmacies per capita (I=0.082) and per km2 (I=0.295). Potentially under-supplied areas were mostly located in the mountainous hinterland. Ordinary least-squares (OLS) regressions established a significant positive relationship between the density of pharmacies and income among municipalities located at high altitudes, while no such association was observed in lower-lying areas. However, residuals of the OLS models were spatially auto-correlated. The best-fitting mixed geographically weighted regression (GWR) models outperformed the corresponding OLS models. Pharmacies per capita were best predicted by two local predictors (altitude and proportion of immigrants) and two global ones (proportion of elderly residents and income), while the local terms population, mean altitude and rural status and the global term income functioned as independent variables predicting pharmacies per km2. The density of pharmacies in Liguria was found to be associated with both socio-economic and landscape factors. Mapping of mixed GWR results would be helpful to policy-makers.

Cost-saving treatment strategies in in vitro fertilization: a combined economic evaluation of two large randomized clinical trials comparing highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone alpha.

PubMed

Wechowski, Jaroslaw; Connolly, Mark; Schneider, Dirk; McEwan, Philip; Kennedy, Richard

2009-04-01

To assess the cost-effectiveness of two gonadotropin treatments that are available in the United Kingdom in light of limited public funding and the fundamental role of costs in IVF treatment decisions. An economic evaluation based on two large randomized clinical trials in IVF patients using a simulation model. Fifty-three fertility clinics in 13 European countries and Israel. Women indicated for treatment with IVF (N = 986), aged 18-38, participating in double-blind, randomized controlled trials. Highly purified menotropin (HP-hMG, Menopur) or recombinant follitropin alpha (rFSH, Gonal-F). Cost per IVF cycle and cost per live birth for HP-hMG and rFSH alpha. HP-hMG was more effective and less costly versus rFSH for both IVF cost per live birth and for IVF cost per baby (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was negative). The mean costs per IVF treatment for HP-hMG and rFSH were 2408 pounds (95% confidence interval [CI], 2392 pounds, 2421 pounds) and 2660 pounds (95% CI 2644 pounds, 2678 pounds), respectively. The mean cost saving of 253 pounds per cycle using HP-hMG allows one additional cycle to be delivered for every 9.5 cycles. Treatment with HP-hMG was dominant compared with rFSH in the United Kingdom. Gonadotropin costs should be considered alongside live-birth rates to optimize outcomes using scarce health-care resources.

Recognition memory for social and non-social odors: differential effects of neurotoxic lesions to the hippocampus and perirhinal cortex.

PubMed

Feinberg, Leila M; Allen, Timothy A; Ly, Denise; Fortin, Norbert J

2012-01-01

The contributions of the hippocampus (HC) and perirhinal cortex (PER) to recognition memory are currently topics of debate in neuroscience. Here we used a rapidly-learned (seconds) spontaneous novel odor recognition paradigm to assess the effects of pre-training N-methyl-D-aspartate lesions to the HC or PER on odor recognition memory. We tested memory for both social and non-social odor stimuli. Social odors were acquired from conspecifics, while non-social odors were household spices. Conspecific odor stimuli are ethologically-relevant and have a high degree of overlapping features compared to non-social household spices. Various retention intervals (5 min, 20 min, 1h, 24h, or 48 h) were used between study and test phases, each with a unique odor pair, to assess changes in novelty preference over time. Consistent with findings in other paradigms, modalities, and species, we found that HC lesions yielded no significant recognition memory deficits. In contrast, PER lesions caused significant deficits for social odor recognition memory at long retention intervals, demonstrating a critical role for PER in long-term memory for social odors. PER lesions had no effect on memory for non-social odors. The results are consistent with a general role for PER in long-term recognition memory for stimuli that have a high degree of overlapping features, which must be distinguished by conjunctive representations. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mass Balance of the Greenland Ice Sheet at High Elevations.

PubMed

Thomas; Akins; Csatho; Fahnestock; Gogineni; Kim; Sonntag

2000-07-21

Comparison of ice discharge from higher elevation areas of the entire Greenland Ice Sheet with total snow accumulation gives estimates of ice thickening rates over the past few decades. On average, the region has been in balance, but with thickening of 21 centimeters per year in the southwest and thinning of 30 centimeters per year in the southeast. The north of the ice sheet shows less variability, with average thickening of 2 centimeters per year in the northeast and thinning of about 5 centimeters per year in the northwest. These results agree well with those from repeated altimeter surveys, except in the extreme south, where we find substantially higher rates of both thickening and thinning.

Effect of reduction of area on microstructure and mechanical properties of twinning-induced plasticity steel during wire drawing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, Joong-Ki; Son, Il-Heon; Yoo, Jang-Yong; Zargaran, A.; Kim, Nack J.

2015-09-01

The effect of reduction of area (RA), 10%, 20%, and 30%, during wire drawing on the inhomogeneities in microstructure and mechanical properties along the radial direction of Fe-Mn-Al-C twinning-induced plasticity steel has been investigated. After wire drawing, the deformation texture developed into the major <111> and minor <100> duplex fiber texture. However, the <111> texture became more pronounced in both center and surface areas as the RA per pass increased. It also shows that a larger RA per pass resulted in a higher yield strength and smaller elongation than a smaller RA per pass at all strain levels. Although inhomogeneities in microstructure and mechanical properties along the radial direction decreased with increasing RA per pass, there existed an optimum RA per pass for maximum drawing limit. Insufficient penetration of strain from surface to center at small RA per pass (e.g., 10%) and high friction and unsound metal flow at large RA per pass (e.g., 30%) all resulted in heterogeneous microstructure and mechanical properties along the radial direction of drawn wire. On the other hand, 20% RA per pass improved the drawing limit by about 30% as compared to the 10% and 30% RAs per pass.

Catastrophic head injuries in high school and college football players.

PubMed

Boden, Barry P; Tacchetti, Robin L; Cantu, Robert C; Knowles, Sarah B; Mueller, Frederick O

2007-07-01

Catastrophic head injuries in football are rare but tragic events. To update the profile of catastrophic head injuries in high school and college football players and to describe relevant risk factors. Case series; Level of evidence, 4. We reviewed 94 incidents of severe football head injuries reported to the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research during 13 academic years (September 1989 through June 2002). In the study period there were an average of 7.23 (standard deviation = 2.05) direct high school and college catastrophic head injuries in scholastic football participants per year. There were 0.67 injuries per 100 000 (95% confidence interval: 0.54, 0.81 per 100 000) high school and 0.21 injuries per 100 000 (95% confidence interval: 0.0, 0.49 per 100 000) college participants for a risk ratio of 3.28 (95% confidence interval: 0.81, 13.3). The injuries resulted in subdural hematoma in 75 athletes, subdural hematoma with diffuse brain edema in 10 athletes, diffuse brain edema in 5 athletes, and arteriovenous malformation or aneurysm in 4 athletes. Fifty-nine percent of the contacts reported that the athlete had a history of a previous head injury, of which 71% occurred within the same season as the catastrophic event. Thirty-nine percent of the athletes (21 of 54) were playing with residual neurologic symptoms from the prior head injury. There were 8 (9%) deaths as a result of the injury, 46 (51%) permanent neurologic injuries, and 36 (40%) serious injuries with full recovery. Most players sustained a major impact to the head either from tackling or being tackled. The incidence of catastrophic head injuries in football has remained low since the advent of the modern day football helmet in the early 1970s. The incidence of catastrophic head injuries in football is dramatically higher at the high school level than at the college level. Although the reason for this discrepancy is unclear, an unacceptably high percentage of high school players were playing with residual symptoms from a prior head injury. Coaches, athletes, athletic trainers, and medical personnel need to adhere to the guideline that an athlete with any neurologic symptoms from a head injury should be strongly discouraged from returning to play.

Risk Factors for High Myopia in Koreans: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

PubMed

Hwang, Ho Sik; Chun, Min Young; Kim, Jin Sun; Oh, Bumjo; Yoo, Sang Ho; Cho, Bum-Joo

2018-05-02

To investigate risk factors for high myopia in the general Korean population. In this nationwide population study, the dataset of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008-2012 was analyzed. The study cohort included 11 703 participants, aged 25-49 years, who underwent neither refractive nor cataract surgery. The association between demographic, socioeconomic, behavioral, and systemic variables and high myopia was investigated. The mean participant age was 37.9 ± 6.8 years, and the prevalence of high myopia ≤-6.0D was 7.0 ± 0.3% in the study population. The right eyes (-1.76 ± 0.03 D) were more myopic than the left eyes (-1.70 ± 0.03 D; P < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, high myopia was associated with age (odds ratio [OR], 0.97 per 1 year-increase) and female sex (OR, 1.24). Other identified risk factors included education level ≥ university graduation (OR, 1.91), the presence of hypertension (OR, 1.69), and serum glucose level (OR, 1.01 per 1 mg/dL). Sunlight exposure of ≥5 h/day (OR, 0.67) and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level (OR, 0.97 per 1 ng/mL) showed protective effect against high myopia. High myopia is associated with younger age, female sex, high education level, longer sunlight exposure, and some other systemic conditions.

Results of laboratory testing for diphacinone in seawater, fish, invertebrates, and soil following aerial application of rodenticide on Lehua Island, Kauai County, Hawaii, January 2009

USGS Publications Warehouse

Orazio, Carl E.; Tanner, Michael J.; Swenson, Chris; Herod, Jeffrey J.; Dunlevy, Peter; Gale, Robert W.

2009-01-01

In January 2009, rodenticide bait (Ramik Green pellets) containing the active ingredient diphacinone was aerially applied to Lehua Island. Reported herein are the results of laboratory analyses to determine diphacinone concentrations in samples of seawater, fillet of fish, soft tissue of limpets (opihi), whole-body crabs, and soil collected from Lehua Island, Kauai County, Hawaii, after aerial application of the rodenticide bait. Diphacinone was specifically chosen because of its low toxicity to nontarget organisms. Its use on Lehua Island is the second time it has ever been used for an aerial application to eradicate rodents. Testing of the Lehua Island samples for diphacinone utilized high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection. No detectable concentrations of diphacinone were found in any of the samples from Lehua Island. The limits of detection for diphacinone were 0.4 nanograms per milliliter (parts per billion) seawater, 15 nanograms per gram (dry weight) soil, 20 nanograms per gram (parts per billion) fish fillet, 13 nanograms per gram whole crab, and 34 nanograms per gram soft tissue limpet.

Cost-effectiveness of treating multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

PubMed

Resch, Stephen C; Salomon, Joshua A; Murray, Megan; Weinstein, Milton C

2006-07-01

Despite the existence of effective drug treatments, tuberculosis (TB) causes 2 million deaths annually worldwide. Effective treatment is complicated by multidrug-resistant TB (MDR TB) strains that respond only to second-line drugs. We projected the health benefits and cost-effectiveness of using drug susceptibility testing and second-line drugs in a lower-middle-income setting with high levels of MDR TB. We developed a dynamic state-transition model of TB. In a base case analysis, the model was calibrated to approximate the TB epidemic in Peru, a setting with a smear-positive TB incidence of 120 per 100,000 and 4.5% MDR TB among prevalent cases. Secondary analyses considered other settings. The following strategies were evaluated: first-line drugs administered under directly observed therapy (DOTS), locally standardized second-line drugs for previously treated cases (STR1), locally standardized second-line drugs for previously treated cases with test-confirmed MDR TB (STR2), comprehensive drug susceptibility testing and individualized treatment for previously treated cases (ITR1), and comprehensive drug susceptibility testing and individualized treatment for all cases (ITR2). Outcomes were costs per TB death averted and costs per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. We found that strategies incorporating the use of second-line drug regimens following first-line treatment failure were highly cost-effective compared to strategies using first-line drugs only. In our base case, standardized second-line treatment for confirmed MDR TB cases (STR2) had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 720 dollars per QALY (8,700 dollars per averted death) compared to DOTS. Individualized second-line drug treatment for MDR TB following first-line failure (ITR1) provided more benefit at an incremental cost of 990 dollars per QALY (12,000 dollars per averted death) compared to STR2. A more aggressive version of the individualized treatment strategy (ITR2), in which both new and previously treated cases are tested for MDR TB, had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 11,000 dollars per QALY (160,000 dollars per averted death) compared to ITR1. The STR2 and ITR1 strategies remained cost-effective under a wide range of alternative assumptions about treatment costs, effectiveness, MDR TB prevalence, and transmission. Treatment of MDR TB using second-line drugs is highly cost-effective in Peru. In other settings, the attractiveness of strategies using second-line drugs will depend on TB incidence, MDR burden, and the available budget, but simulation results suggest that individualized regimens would be cost-effective in a wide range of situations.

7 CFR 28.956 - Prescribed fees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

..., TESTING, AND STANDARDS Cotton Fiber and Processing Tests Fiber and Processing Tests § 28.956 Prescribed fees. Fees for fiber and processing tests shall be assessed as listed below: Item number and kind of test Fee per test 1.0Calibration cotton for use with High Volume Instruments, per 5 pound package: a. f...

7 CFR 28.956 - Prescribed fees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

..., TESTING, AND STANDARDS Cotton Fiber and Processing Tests Fiber and Processing Tests § 28.956 Prescribed fees. Fees for fiber and processing tests shall be assessed as listed below: Item number and kind of test Fee per test 1.0Calibration cotton for use with High Volume Instruments, per 5 pound package: a. f...

Design Difficulties in Stand Density Studies

Treesearch

Frank A. Bennett

1969-01-01

Designing unbiased stand density studies is difficult. An acceptable sample requires stratification of the plots of age, site, and density. When basal area, percent stocking, or Reineke's stand density index is used as the density measure, this stratification forces a high negative correlation between site and number of trees per acre. Mortality in trees per acre...

A Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer Survey of High-Declination Dwarf Novae

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-20

and the occurrence of standstills. It was clas- sified as a Z Camelopardalis system by Notni & Richter (1984). Optical spectra were later obtained by...reddening in the direction of the constellation of Perseus is quite large. To estimate the reddening of FO Per, we note (Table 3) that TZ Per has a

Associations Between Haemonchus contortus Infection in Lambs and Blood Traits

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Haemonchus contortus is one of the principal stomach worms of sheep, and infection is characterized by anemia. Estimates of the average blood loss per worm per day range from .003 to .05 ml. Studies have shown that high eosinophilia was correlated with low fecal egg count (FEC) and, therefore, res...

PBF Reactor Building (PER620). Reactor vessel arrives from gate city ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF Reactor Building (PER-620). Reactor vessel arrives from gate city steel at door of PBF. On flatbed, it is too high to fit under door. Photographer: Larry Page. Date: February 13, 1970. INEEL negative no. 70-737 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

PBF Reactor Building (PER620). Camera faces north into highbay/reactor pit ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

PBF Reactor Building (PER-620). Camera faces north into high-bay/reactor pit area. Inside from for reactor enclosure is in place. Photographer: John Capek. Date: March 15, 1967. INEEL negative no. 67-1769 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, SPERT-I & Power Burst Facility Area, Scoville, Butte County, ID

Per Pupil Expenditure, Graduation Rates, and ACT Scores in Tennessee School Districts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Irvin, Jay Andrew

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate and identify possible relationships between academic achievement, as measured by high school graduation rate and ACT composite scores of individual school districts within the state of Tennessee, and the per-pupil expenditure of each district. Research was conducted to determine whether a significant…

15. GENERAL EASTERN VIEW OF LINDE 1000 TONS PER DAY ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

15. GENERAL EASTERN VIEW OF LINDE 1000 TONS PER DAY HIGH PURITY OXYGEN MAKING PLANT SHOWING TWIN OXYGEN FRACTIONATING TOWER (ON RIGHT), VERMICULITE STORAGE TOWERS (ON LEFT FOREGROUND), AND AN ARGON FRACTIONATING TOWER (BEHIND VERMICULITE STORAGE TOWER). - U.S. Steel Duquesne Works, Fuel & Utilities Plant, Along Monongahela River, Duquesne, Allegheny County, PA

78 FR 26709 - Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Fisheries

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-08

... the Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) General category daily retention limit to three large medium or giant... medium or giant BFT (measuring 73 inches (185 cm) curved fork length (CFL) or greater) per vessel per day... 2012 fishing year, NMFS adjusted the General category limit from the default level of one large medium...

46 CFR 15.855 - Cabin watchmen and fire patrolmen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... of fire detectors, heat detectors, smoke detectors, and high-water alarms with audible- and visual... conditions are met: (1) Fire detectors are located in each space containing machinery or fuel tanks per § 181... extraction hood per § 181.425 of this chapter. (3) Heat and/or smoke detectors are located in each galley...

46 CFR 15.855 - Cabin watchmen and fire patrolmen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... of fire detectors, heat detectors, smoke detectors, and high-water alarms with audible- and visual... conditions are met: (1) Fire detectors are located in each space containing machinery or fuel tanks per § 181... extraction hood per § 181.425 of this chapter. (3) Heat and/or smoke detectors are located in each galley...

46 CFR 15.855 - Cabin watchmen and fire patrolmen.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... of fire detectors, heat detectors, smoke detectors, and high-water alarms with audible- and visual... conditions are met: (1) Fire detectors are located in each space containing machinery or fuel tanks per § 181... extraction hood per § 181.425 of this chapter. (3) Heat and/or smoke detectors are located in each galley...

Canopy Light Interception of a Conventional and an Erect Leaf Mutant Sorghum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Two sorghum lines, an erect leafed mutant sorghum and the wild type from which the mutant was generated, were field grown in rectilinear arrays at low (23 plants per square meter) and high (10 plants per square meter) population densities. Canopy light interception, biomass accretion and yield were ...

Elements of Property Wealth and Educational Expenditures in Illinois.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lows, Raymond L.; Ho, Fanny

This study examines the relationships between various elements of property wealth and operating expenditures per pupil by types of school district--elementary (K-8), high (9-12), and unit (K-12). Elements of property wealth were defined as the equalized assessed valuation per pupil for each of the following property tax classifications:…

Costs of Illness Due to Cholera, Costs of Immunization and Cost-Effectiveness of an Oral Cholera Mass Vaccination Campaign in Zanzibar

PubMed Central

Schaetti, Christian; Weiss, Mitchell G.; Ali, Said M.; Chaignat, Claire-Lise; Khatib, Ahmed M.; Reyburn, Rita; Duintjer Tebbens, Radboud J.; Hutubessy, Raymond

2012-01-01

Background The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends oral cholera vaccines (OCVs) as a supplementary tool to conventional prevention of cholera. Dukoral, a killed whole-cell two-dose OCV, was used in a mass vaccination campaign in 2009 in Zanzibar. Public and private costs of illness (COI) due to endemic cholera and costs of the mass vaccination campaign were estimated to assess the cost-effectiveness of OCV for this particular campaign from both the health care provider and the societal perspective. Methodology/Principal Findings Public and private COI were obtained from interviews with local experts, with patients from three outbreaks and from reports and record review. Cost data for the vaccination campaign were collected based on actual expenditure and planned budget data. A static cohort of 50,000 individuals was examined, including herd protection. Primary outcome measures were incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) per death, per case and per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) averted. One-way sensitivity and threshold analyses were conducted. The ICER was evaluated with regard to WHO criteria for cost-effectiveness. Base-case ICERs were USD 750,000 per death averted, USD 6,000 per case averted and USD 30,000 per DALY averted, without differences between the health care provider and the societal perspective. Threshold analyses using Shanchol and assuming high incidence and case-fatality rate indicated that the purchase price per course would have to be as low as USD 1.2 to render the mass vaccination campaign cost-effective from a health care provider perspective (societal perspective: USD 1.3). Conclusions/Significance Based on empirical and site-specific cost and effectiveness data from Zanzibar, the 2009 mass vaccination campaign was cost-ineffective mainly due to the relatively high OCV purchase price and a relatively low incidence. However, mass vaccination campaigns in Zanzibar to control endemic cholera may meet criteria for cost-effectiveness under certain circumstances, especially in high-incidence areas and at OCV prices below USD 1.3. PMID:23056660

How much is tuberculosis screening worth? Estimating the value of active case finding for tuberculosis in South Africa, China, and India.

PubMed

Azman, Andrew S; Golub, Jonathan E; Dowdy, David W

2014-10-30

Current approaches are unlikely to achieve the aggressive global tuberculosis (TB) control targets set for 2035 and beyond. Active case finding (ACF) may be an important tool for augmenting existing strategies, but the cost-effectiveness of ACF remains uncertain. Program evaluators can often measure the cost of ACF per TB case detected, but how this accessible measure translates into traditional metrics of cost-effectiveness, such as the cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY), remains unclear. We constructed dynamic models of TB in India, China, and South Africa to explore the medium-term impact and cost-effectiveness of generic ACF activities, conceptualized separately as discrete (2-year) campaigns and as continuous activities integrated into ongoing TB control programs. Our primary outcome was the cost per DALY, measured in relationship to the cost per TB case actively detected and started on treatment. Discrete campaigns costing up to $1,200 (95% uncertainty range [UR] 850-2,043) per case actively detected and started on treatment in India, $3,800 (95% UR 2,706-6,392) in China, and $9,400 (95% UR 6,957-13,221) in South Africa were all highly cost-effective (cost per DALY averted less than per capita gross domestic product). Prolonged integration was even more effective and cost-effective. Short-term assessments of ACF dramatically underestimated potential longer term gains; for example, an assessment of an ACF program at 2 years might find a non-significant 11% reduction in prevalence, but a 10-year evaluation of that same intervention would show a 33% reduction. ACF can be a powerful and highly cost-effective tool in the fight against TB. Given that short-term assessments may dramatically underestimate medium-term effectiveness, current willingness to pay may be too low. ACF should receive strong consideration as a basic tool for TB control in most high-burden settings, even when it may cost over $1,000 to detect and initiate treatment for each extra case of active TB.

Developing a higher specialist training programme in renal medicine in the era of competence-based training.

PubMed

Kamesh, Lavanya; Clapham, Mike; Foggensteiner, Lukas

2012-08-01

Renal specialty medical training in the UK was reformed in August 2007, with an emphasis placed on competency-based training and the publication of a new curriculum and assessment blueprint. This model of training places additional time demands on both trainees and trainers, with implications for job planning and service delivery. We evaluated the resource requirements and impact on service delivery of implementing a high-quality training programme in renal medicine. Each trainee maintained a portfolio containing details of workplace-based assessments. The change in educational environment led to improved trainee satisfaction. The mean total consultant time involved in implementing the training programme was 0.7 programmed activities (PAs) per trainee per week in the first year, which decreased to 0.5 PAs per trainee per week in the second year. This pilot study indicates that it is possible to integrate successful and high-quality specialty training in a busy clinical environment. The model outlined could form a template for postgraduate specialist training delivery in a variety of medical specialties.

The mutagenicity of indoor air particles in a residential pilot field study: Application and evaluation of new methodologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewtas, Joellen; Goto, Sumio; Williams, Katherine; Chuang, Jane C.; Petersen, Bruce A.; Wilson, Nancy K.

The mutagenicity of indoor air paniculate matter has been measured in a pilot field study of homes in Columbus, Ohio during the 1984 winter. The study was conducted in eight all natural-gas homes and two all electric homes. Paniculate matter and semi-volatile organic compounds were collected indoors using a medium volume sampler. A micro-forward mutation bioassay employing Salmonella typhimurium strain TM 677 was used to quantify the mutagenicity in solvent extracts of microgram quantities of indoor air particles. The mutagenicity was quantified in terms of both mutation frequency per mg of organic matter extracted and per cubic meter of air sampled. The combustion source variables explored in this study included woodburning in fireplaces and cigarette smoking. Homes in which cigarette smoking occurred had the highest concentrations of mutagenicity per cubic meter of air. The average indoor air mutagenicity per cubic meter was highly correlated with the number of cigarettes smoked. When the separate sampling periods in each room were compared, the mutagenicity in the kitchen samples was the most highly correlated with the number of cigarettes smoked.

The quality of surface water on Sanibel Island, Florida, 1976-77

USGS Publications Warehouse

McPherson, Benjamin F.; O'Donnell, T. H.

1979-01-01

The quality of surface water in parts of the interior of Sanibel Island, Fla., has been periodically degraded by high concentrations of salt or macronutrients and by low concentrations of dissolved oxygen. In 1976 the chloride concentration of surface water ranged from about 500 milligrams per liter to almost that of seawater, 19,000 milligrams per liter. The highest salinities were during the dry season of 1976 in the Sanibel River near the Tarpon Bay control structure and are attributed to leakage of saline water past the structure. The highest concentrations of macronutrients occurred during the dry season in the eastern reach of the Sanibel River, where concentrations generally exceeded 4.0 milligrams per liter total nitrogen and 0.9 milligrams per liter total phosphorus. Concentrations of dissolved oxygen were lowest in the wet season along an eastern reach of the Sanibel River and in several nearby ponds and canals where near-anaerobic conditions prevailed. The high concentration of macronutrients and the low dissolved oxygen are attributed, in part, to urban and sewage effluent that flow directly or seep into surface water. (Kosco-USGS)

Tramadol post-marketing surveillance in health care professionals.

PubMed

Knisely, Janet S; Campbell, Eleanor D; Dawson, Kathryn S; Schnoll, Sidney H

2002-09-01

Tramadol has been marketed in the US since 1995. The US Food and Drug Administration agreed to release tramadol as a non-scheduled drug if proactive post-marketing surveillance studies would be conducted. This study was one of two phase IV protocols that were part of the overall surveillance program. It focused on impaired health professionals who are a high risk/high access population for drug abuse. All active participants in four state monitoring programs between November 1, 1995 and August 15, 1998 (n = 1,601) were recruited for the study. With the exceptions of implementing a standardized intake interview and urine testing for tramadol metabolites, all states operated their programs in the usual fashion. The programs were alerted to persistent non-prescribed tramadol use so that appropriate interventions could be employed. Despite availability of tramadol and the conditions that might lead to its abuse, the incidence rate for tramadol use in the study population was only 69 per thousand persons per year and the incidence rate for tramadol abuse or dependence was 6.9 per thousand persons per year.

Purchasing and Using Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): how decisions are made by community-dwelling seniors in Canada.

PubMed

McKenna, Alexandra C; Kloseck, Marita; Crilly, Richard; Polgar, Jan

2015-07-11

As the demographic of older people continues to grow, health services that support independence among community-dwelling seniors have become increasingly important. Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) are medical alert systems, designed to serve as a safety net for seniors living alone. Health care professionals often recommend that seniors in danger of falls or other medical emergencies obtain a PERS. The purpose of the study was to investigate the experience of seniors living with and using a PERS in their daily lives, using a qualitative grounded theory approach. Five focus groups and 10 semi-structured interviews, with a total of 30 participants, were completed using a grounded theory approach. All participants were PERS subscribers over the age of 80, living alone in a naturally occurring retirement community (NORC) with high health service utilization in a major urban centre in Ontario. Constant comparative analysis was used to develop themes and ultimately a model of why and how seniors obtain and use the PERS. Two core themes, unpredictability and decision-making around PERS activation, emerged as major features of the theoretical model. Being able to get help and the psychological value of PERS informed the context of living with a PERS. A number of theoretical conclusions related to unpredictability and the decision-making process around activating PERS were generated.

Efficacy and tolerability of brivaracetam compared to lacosamide, eslicarbazepine acetate, and perampanel as adjunctive treatments in uncontrolled focal epilepsy: Results of an indirect comparison meta-analysis of RCTs.

PubMed

Brigo, Francesco; Bragazzi, Nicola Luigi; Nardone, Raffaele; Trinka, Eugen

2016-11-01

Brivaracetam (BRV), eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL), lacosamide (LCM), and perampanel (PER) have been recently marketed as adjunctive treatments for focal onset seizures. To date, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) has directly compared BRV with ESL, LCM, or PER. To compare BRV with the other add-on AEDs in patients with uncontrolled focal epilepsy, estimating their efficacy and tolerability through an adjusted, common-reference based indirect comparison meta-analysis. We systematically searched RCTs in which add-on treatment with ESL or LCM in patients with focal onset seizures have been compared with placebo. Efficacy and tolerability outcomes were considered. Random-effects Mantel-Haenszel meta-analyses were performed to obtain odds ratios (ORs) for the efficacy of BRV, LCM, ESL, or PER versus placebo. Adjusted indirect comparisons were then made between BRV and the other three AEDs using the obtained results, comparing the minimum and the highest effective recommended daily dose of each drug. Seventeen RCTs, with a total of 4971 patients were included. After adjusting for dose-effects, indirect comparisons showed no difference between BRV and LCM, ESL, or PER for responder rate and seizure freedom. Lower adverse events were observed with high dose BRV compared to high dose ESL or PER, but no difference was found in withdrawing because of adverse events. Indirect comparisons do not demonstrate a significant difference in efficacy between add-on BRV and LCM, ESL, or PER in focal epilepsy, and might suggest a better tolerability of BRV than ESL, and possibly also PER, at the highest effective recommended dose. Copyright © 2016 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Severe maternal morbidity from direct obstetric causes in West Africa: incidence and case fatality rates.

PubMed Central

Prual, A.; Bouvier-Colle, M. H.; de Bernis, L.; Bréart, G.

2000-01-01

Data on maternal morbidity make it possible to assess how many women are likely to need essential obstetric care, and permit the organization, monitoring and evaluation of safe motherhood programmes. In the present paper we propose operational definitions of severe maternal morbidity and report the frequency of such morbidity as revealed in a population-based survey of a cohort of 20,326 pregnant women in six West African countries. The methodology and questionnaires were the same in all areas. Each pregnant woman had four contacts with the obstetric survey team: at inclusion, between 32 and 36 weeks of amenorrhoea, during delivery and 60 days postpartum. Direct obstetric causes of severe morbidity were observed in 1215 women (6.17 cases per 100 live births). This ratio varied significantly between areas, from 3.01% in Bamako to 9.05% in Saint-Louis. The main direct causes of severe maternal morbidity were: haemorrhage (3.05 per 100 live births); obstructed labour (2.05 per 100), 23 cases of which involved uterine rupture (0.12 per 100); hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (0.64 per 100), 38 cases of which involved eclampsia (0.19 per 100); and sepsis (0.09 per 100). Other direct obstetric causes accounted for 12.2% of cases. Case fatality rates were very high for sepsis (33.3%), uterine rupture (30.4%) and eclampsia (18.4%); those for haemorrhage varied from 1.9% for antepartum or peripartum haemorrhage to 3.7% for abruptio placentae. Thus at least 3-9% of pregnant women required essential obstetric care. The high case fatality rates of several complications reflected a poor quality of obstetric care. PMID:10859853

Cost-effectiveness of pneumococcal conjugate vaccination in the prevention of child mortality: an international economic analysis.

PubMed

Sinha, Anushua; Levine, Orin; Knoll, Maria D; Muhib, Farzana; Lieu, Tracy A

2007-02-03

Routine vaccination of infants against Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) needs substantial investment by governments and charitable organisations. Policymakers need information about the projected health benefits, costs, and cost-effectiveness of vaccination when considering these investments. Our aim was to incorporate these data into an economic analysis of pneumococcal vaccination of infants in countries eligible for financial support from the Global Alliance for Vaccines & Immunization (GAVI). We constructed a decision analysis model to compare pneumococcal vaccination of infants aged 6, 10, and 14 weeks with no vaccination in the 72 countries that were eligible as of 2005. We used published and unpublished data to estimate child mortality, effectiveness of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and immunisation rates. Pneumococcal vaccination at the rate of diptheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine coverage was projected to prevent 262,000 deaths per year (7%) in children aged 3-29 months in the 72 developing countries studied, thus averting 8.34 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) yearly. If every child could be reached, up to 407,000 deaths per year would be prevented. At a vaccine cost of International 5 dollars per dose, vaccination would have a net cost of 838 million dollars, a cost of 100 dollars per DALY averted. Vaccination at this price was projected to be highly cost-effective in 68 of 72 countries when each country's per head gross domestic product per DALY averted was used as a benchmark. At a vaccine cost of between 1 dollar and 5 dollars per dose, purchase and accelerated uptake of pneumococcal vaccine in the world's poorest countries is projected to substantially reduce childhood mortality and to be highly cost-effective.

Hydrologic reconnaissance of the Noatak River basin, Alaska, 1978

USGS Publications Warehouse

Childers, Joseph M.; Kernodle, Donald R.

1981-01-01

Hydrologic data were collected in 1978 described water resources of the Noatak River basin, Alaska. Streamflow varies seasonally. No flow was observed from the upper part of the basin in late winter (April). In the lower part of the basin springs support perennial flow in the Kugururok River and downstream along the Noatak. The discharge of the Noatak was 150 cubic feet per second in April 1978. During the summer, rainstorms are common, and runoff produces high flow. During August 1978, flow was normal in the basin; unit runoff averaged about 1 cubic foot per second per square mile. The Noatak is a gravel-bed stream of moderate slope. It drops about 1,800 feet in elevation from a point near the head waters to the mouth, a distance of 400 miles. Streambed material in most places is gravel, cobbles, and boulders, maximum riffle depths and pool widths increase in a downstream direction. Stream velocity in August 1978 increased from about 1 foot per second in the upper basin to about 4 feet per second in the lower reaches. High-water marks of the maximum evident flood were found at elevations from bankfull to 5 feet above bankfull. Maximum evident flood unit runoff rates were estimated to be less than 50 cubic feet per second per square mile. Scars produced by ice jams were seldom seen above bankfull. Bank erosion appears to be most active in the lowlands. Water in the Noatak River basin is virtually unaffected by man 's activity. Water quality varies with location, weather, season, and source; the water is normally clear, cool, and hard. During late winter sea water intrudes into the Lower Noatak Canyon. Benthic invertebrate community composition and variability suggest the river 's undiminished natural quality. (USGS)

Reduced carbon intensity in highly developed countries: environmental kuznets curves for carbon dioxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kornhuber, Kai; Rybski, Diego; Costa, Luis; Reusser, Dominik E.; Kropp, Jürgen P.

2014-05-01

The Environmental Kuznets Curves (EKC) postulates that pollution increases with the income per capita up to a maximum, above which it decreases with the further increase in income per capita, i.e. following an inverse U-shape in the pollution vs. income per capita. It is commonly believed that EKC occurs for "local" pollutants such as nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide, but does not hold for CO2 emissions. This is attributed to the fact that while "local" pollutants cause a visible environmental damage on the local/regional scale (which authorities/governments seek to avoid), the consequences of CO2 emission have no immediate attributable local/regional consequences. We review EKC for CO2 exploring its relation between CO2 per capita and the Human Development Index (HDI) between 1990 and 2010 obtained from the World Bank database. We find evidence for a reduction in CO2 emissions per capita in highly developed countries. We propose a model according to which the emissions per capita of a country are composed of a component related to the actual state of development and a component related to the change of development. The model leads to four distinct cases of which two have EKC shape and two imply saturation. This outcome is in line with previously suggested qualitative relations. Our analysis indicates that the EKC shaped cases better describes the empirical values. We explore the less extreme version corresponding to the so-called conventional EKC and study the maximum of the fitted curve, providing a threshold-value for the HDI and a typical maximum value for the emissions per capita. We find that approx. 5 countries have crossed the CO2-HDI maximum, corresponding to approx. 1.5% of the world population.

Dynamics of slow-moving landslides from permanent scatterer analysis.

PubMed

Hilley, George E; Bürgmann, Roland; Ferretti, Alessandro; Novali, Fabrizio; Rocca, Fabio

2004-06-25

High-resolution interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) permanent scatterer data allow us to resolve the rates and variations in the rates of slow-moving landslides. Satellite-to-ground distances (range changes) on landslides increase at rates of 5 to 7 millimeters per year, indicating average downslope sliding velocities from 27 to 38 millimeters per year. Time-series analysis shows that displacement occurs mainly during the high-precipitation season; during the 1997-1998 El Niño event, rates of range change increased to as much as 11 millimeters per year. The observed nonlinear relationship of creep and precipitation rates suggests that increased pore fluid pressures within the shallow subsurface may initiate and accelerate these features. Changes in the slope of a hill resulting from increases in the pore pressure and lithostatic stress gradients may then lead to landslides.

A parallel implementation of a multisensor feature-based range-estimation method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Suorsa, Raymond E.; Sridhar, Banavar

1993-01-01

There are many proposed vision based methods to perform obstacle detection and avoidance for autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles. All methods, however, will require very high processing rates to achieve real time performance. A system capable of supporting autonomous helicopter navigation will need to extract obstacle information from imagery at rates varying from ten frames per second to thirty or more frames per second depending on the vehicle speed. Such a system will need to sustain billions of operations per second. To reach such high processing rates using current technology, a parallel implementation of the obstacle detection/ranging method is required. This paper describes an efficient and flexible parallel implementation of a multisensor feature-based range-estimation algorithm, targeted for helicopter flight, realized on both a distributed-memory and shared-memory parallel computer.

Reassessment of Ground-Water Recharge and Simulated Ground-Water Availability for the Hawi Area of North Kohala, Hawaii

USGS Publications Warehouse

Oki, Delwyn S.

2002-01-01

An estimate of ground-water availability in the Hawi area of north Kohala, Hawaii, is needed to determine whether ground-water resources are adequate to meet future demand within the area and other areas to the south. For the Hawi area, estimated average annual recharge from infiltration of rainfall, fog drip, and irrigation is 37.5 million gallons per day from a daily water budget. Low and high annual recharge estimates for the Hawi area that incorporate estimated uncertainty are 19.9 and 55.4 million gallons per day, respectively. The recharge estimates from this study are lower than the recharge of 68.4 million gallons per day previously estimated from a monthly water budget. Three ground-water models, using the low, intermediate, and high recharge estimates (19.9, 37.5, and 55.4 million gallons per day, respectively), were developed for the Hawi area to simulate ground-water levels and discharges for the 1990?s. To assess potential ground-water availability, the numerical ground-water flow models were used to simulate the response of the freshwater-lens system to withdrawals at rates in excess of the average 1990?s withdrawal rates. Because of uncertainty in the recharge estimate, estimates of ground-water availability also are uncertain. Results from numerical simulations indicate that for appropriate well sites, depths, and withdrawal rates (1) for the low recharge estimate (19.9 million gallons per day) it may be possible to develop an additional 10 million gallons per day of fresh ground water from the Hawi area and maintain a freshwater-lens thickness of 160 feet near the withdrawal sites, (2) for the intermediate recharge estimate (37.5 million gallons per day) it may be possible to develop an additional 15 million gallons per day of fresh ground water from the Hawi area and maintain a freshwater-lens thickness of 190 feet near the withdrawal sites, and (3) for the high recharge estimate (55.4 million gallons per day) it may be possible to develop at least an additional 20 million gallons per day of fresh ground water from the Hawi area and maintain a freshwater-lens thickness of 200 feet near the withdrawal sites. Other well-field configurations than the ones considered potentially could be used to develop more fresh ground water than indicated by the scenarios tested in this study. Depth, spacing, and withdrawal rates of individual wells are important considerations in determining ground-water availability. The regional models developed for this study cannot predict whether local saltwater intrusion problems may occur at individual withdrawal sites. Results of this study underscore the importance of collecting new information to better constrain the recharge estimates.

In-place oil shale resources examined by grade in the major basins of the Green River Formation, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming

USGS Publications Warehouse

Birdwell, Justin E.; Mercier, Tracey J.; Johnson, Ronald C.; Brownfield, Michael E.

2013-01-01

Using a geology-based assessment methodology, the U.S. Geological Survey estimated a total of 4.285 trillion barrels of oil in-place in the oil shale of the three principal basins of the Eocene Green River Formation. Using oil shale cutoffs of potentially viable (15 gallons per ton) and high grade (25 gallons per ton), it is estimated that between 353 billion and 1.146 trillion barrels of the in-place resource have a high potential for development.

International family planning fellowship program: advanced training in family planning to reduce unsafe abortion.

PubMed

Dalton, Vanessa K; Xu, Xiao; Mullan, Patricia; Danso, Kwabena A; Kwawukume, Yao; Gyan, Kofi; Johnson, Timothy R B

2013-03-01

Maternal mortality remains a huge problem in the developing world, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.1 According to the World Health Organization, efforts intended to decrease maternal deaths need to recognize and address unsafe abortions as a significant contributor to the high rates of maternal mortality found in developing countries.2,3 In Africa, where abortions are highly restricted, 680 women die per 100,000 abortions, compared with 0.2-1.2 women per 100,000 in developed countries, where most abortions are legal.4.

Survey of quantitative antimicrobial consumption in two different pig finishing systems.

PubMed

Moreno, M A

2012-09-29

The primary objectives of this study were to: (a) collect on-farm antimicrobial use (AMU) data in fattener pigs employing two questionnaire-based surveys; (b) assess different quantitative measures for quantifying AMU in fattener pigs; (c) compare AMU in fattener pigs between two different management systems producing finishers: farrow-to-finish (FtF) farms versus finisher farms. Two questionnaires were designed both containing five groups of questions focused on the responder, the farm and AMU (eg, in-feed, in-drinking water and parenteral); both surveys were carried out by means of personal face-to-face interviews. Both surveys started with a sample size of 108 potentially eligible farms per survey; nevertheless, finally 67 finisher farms and 49 FtF farms were recruited. Overall percentages of animals exposed to antimicrobials (AM) were high (90 per cent in finisher farms and 54 per cent FtF farms); colistin (61 per cent and 33 per cent) and doxycycline (62 per cent and 23 per cent) were the most common AMs, followed by amoxicillin (51 per cent and 19 per cent) and lincomycin (49 per cent), respectively. Questionnaire-based surveys using face-to-face interviews are useful for capturing information regarding AMU at the farm level. Farm-level data per administration route can be used for comparative AMU analysis between farms. Nevertheless, for the analysis of the putative relationships between AMU and AM resistance, measures based on exposed animals or exposure events are needed.

Development Of A Dynamic Radiographic Capability Using High-Speed Video

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bryant, Lawrence E.

1985-02-01

High-speed video equipment can be used to optically image up to 2,000 full frames per second or 12,000 partial frames per second. X-ray image intensifiers have historically been used to image radiographic images at 30 frames per second. By combining these two types of equipment, it is possible to perform dynamic x-ray imaging of up to 2,000 full frames per second. The technique has been demonstrated using conventional, industrial x-ray sources such as 150 Kv and 300 Kv constant potential x-ray generators, 2.5 MeV Van de Graaffs, and linear accelerators. A crude form of this high-speed radiographic imaging has been shown to be possible with a cobalt 60 source. Use of a maximum aperture lens makes best use of the available light output from the image intensifier. The x-ray image intensifier input and output fluors decay rapidly enough to allow the high frame rate imaging. Data are presented on the maximum possible video frame rates versus x-ray penetration of various thicknesses of aluminum and steel. Photographs illustrate typical radiographic setups using the high speed imaging method. Video recordings show several demonstrations of this technique with the played-back x-ray images slowed down up to 100 times as compared to the actual event speed. Typical applications include boiling type action of liquids in metal containers, compressor operation with visualization of crankshaft, connecting rod and piston movement and thermal battery operation. An interesting aspect of this technique combines both the optical and x-ray capabilities to observe an object or event with both external and internal details with one camera in a visual mode and the other camera in an x-ray mode. This allows both kinds of video images to appear side by side in a synchronized presentation.

Cost-Effectiveness and Public Health Effect of Influenza Vaccine Strategies for U.S. Elderly Adults.

PubMed

Raviotta, Jonathan M; Smith, Kenneth J; DePasse, Jay; Brown, Shawn T; Shim, Eunha; Nowalk, Mary Patricia; Zimmerman, Richard K

2016-10-01

To compare the cost-effectiveness of four influenza vaccines available in the United States for persons aged 65 and older: trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV3), quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV4), a more-expensive high-dose IIV3, and a newly approved adjuvanted IIV3. Cost-effectiveness analysis using a Markov model and sensitivity analyses. A hypothetical influenza vaccination season modeled according to possible U.S. influenza vaccination policies. Hypothetical cohort of individuals aged 65 and older in the United States. Cost-effectiveness and public health benefits of available influenza vaccination strategies in U.S. elderly adults. IIV3 cost $3,690 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained, IIV4 cost $20,939 more than IIV3 per QALY gained, and high-dose IIV3 cost $31,214 more per QALY than IIV4. The model projected 83,775 fewer influenza cases and 980 fewer deaths with high-dose IIV3 than with the next most-effective vaccine: IIV4. In a probabilistic sensitivity analysis, high-dose IIV3 was the favored strategy if willingness to pay is $25,000 or more per QALY gained. Adjuvanted IIV3 cost-effectiveness depends on its price and effectiveness (neither yet determined in the United States) but could be favored if its relative effectiveness is 15% greater than that of IIV3. From economic and public health standpoints, high-dose IIV3 for adults aged 65 years and older is likely to be favored over the other vaccines, based on currently available data. The cost-effectiveness of adjuvanted IIV3 should be reviewed after its effectiveness has been compared with that of other vaccines and its U.S. price is established. © 2016, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2016, The American Geriatrics Society.

Nutrient concentrations and loads and Escherichia coli densities in tributaries of the Niantic River estuary, southeastern Connecticut, 2005 and 2008–2011

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mullaney, John R.

2013-01-01

Nutrient concentrations and loads and Escherichia coli (E. coli) densities were studied in 2005 and from 2008 through 2011 in water-quality samples from tributaries of the Niantic River Estuary in southeastern Connecticut. Data from a water-quality survey of the base flow of subbasins in the watershed in June 2005 were used to determine the range of total nitrogen concentrations (0.09 to 2.4 milligrams per liter), instantaneous loads (less than 1 to 62 pounds per day) and the yields of total nitrogen ranging from 0.02 to 11.2 pounds per square mile per day (less than 1 to 7.2 kilograms per hectare per year) from basin segments. Nitrogen yields were positively correlated with the amount of developed land in each subbasin. Stable isotope measurements of nitrate (δ15N) and oxygen (δ18O) ranged from 3.9 to 9.4 per mil and 0.7 to 4.1 per mil, respectively, indicating that likely sources of nitrate in base flow are soil nitrate and ammonium fertilizers, sewage or animal waste, or a mixture of these sources. Continuous streamflow and monthly water-quality sampling, with additional storm event sampling, were conducted at the three major tributaries (Latimer Brook, Oil Mill Brook, and Stony Brook) of the Niantic River from October 2008 through September 2011. Samples were analyzed for nitrogen and phosphorus constituents and E. coli densities. Total freshwater discharge from these tributaries, which is reduced by upstream withdrawals, ranged from 25.9 to 37.8 million gallons per day. Total nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations generally were low, with the mean values below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommended nutrient concentration values of 0.71 milligram per liter and 0.031 milligram per liter, respectively. Total nitrogen was predominantly in the form of total ammonia plus organic nitrogen at the Oil Mill Brook and Stony Brook sites and in the form of nitrate at Latimer Brook. Annual total nitrogen loads that flowed into the Niantic River estuary from the three major tributaries, calculated with the Load Estimator computer program, ranged from 41,400 to 60,700 pounds, with about 52 to 59 percent of the load as total ammonia plus organic nitrogen. Total phosphorus loads ranged from 1,770 to 3,540 pounds per year. Yields of total nitrogen were highest from Latimer Brook, with the range from the three tributaries between 1,100 and 2,720 pounds per square mile per year. Total phosphorus yields ranged from 52 to 185 pounds per square mile per year. The geometric means of E. coli densities in samples from the three Niantic River tributaries were less than the State of Connecticut water-quality standard of 126 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters; however, individual samples from all three tributaries had densities as high as 2,400 to 2,900 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters. High densities of E. coli were more likely to be present in samples collected during wet weather events.

Neural tube defects in Malaysia: data from the Malaysian National Neonatal Registry.

PubMed

Boo, Nem-Yun; Cheah, Irene G S; Thong, Meow-Keong

2013-10-01

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and early outcome of neural tube defects (NTDs) in Malaysia. This prospective study included all neonates with NTDs (spina bifida, anencephaly, encephalocoele) born in 2009 in 32 Malaysian hospitals in the Malaysian National Neonatal Network. The prevalence of NTDs was 0.42 per 1000 live births, being highest among the indigenous people of Sarawak (1.09 per 1000 live births) and lowest among Malaysians of Chinese descent (0.09 per 1000 live births). The most common type of NTDs was anencephaly (0.19 per 1000 live births), followed by spina bifida (0.11 per 1000 live births) and encephalocoele (0.07 per 1000 live births). Majority of the infants with anencephaly (94.5%, n = 51), 45.8% (n = 11) with encephalocoele and 9.5% (n = 4) with spina bifida died. The median duration of hospital stay was 4 (range: 0-161) days. NTDs were common in Malaysia. Mortality was high. Long-term monitoring of NTD prevalence following folic fortification of food is recommended.

Extended family households among children in the United States: Differences by race/ethnicity and socio-economic status.

PubMed

Cross, Christina J

2018-07-01

This study uses nationally representative longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, to examine the prevalence and predictors of extended family households among children in the United States and to explore variation by race/ethnicity and socio-economic status (SES). Findings suggest that extended family households are a common living arrangement for children, with 35 per cent of youth experiencing this family structure before age 18. Racial/ethnic and SES differences are substantial: 57 per cent of Black and 35 per cent of Hispanic children ever live in an extended family, compared with 20 per cent of White children. Further, 47 per cent of children whose parents did not finish high school spend time in an extended family, relative to 17 per cent of children whose parents earned a bachelor's degree or higher. Models of predictors show that transitions into extended families are largely a response to social and economic needs.

Mercury from chlor-alkali plants: measured concentrations in food product sugar.

PubMed

Dufault, Renee; LeBlanc, Blaise; Schnoll, Roseanne; Cornett, Charles; Schweitzer, Laura; Wallinga, David; Hightower, Jane; Patrick, Lyn; Lukiw, Walter J

2009-01-26

Mercury cell chlor-alkali products are used to produce thousands of other products including food ingredients such as citric acid, sodium benzoate, and high fructose corn syrup. High fructose corn syrup is used in food products to enhance shelf life. A pilot study was conducted to determine if high fructose corn syrup contains mercury, a toxic metal historically used as an anti-microbial. High fructose corn syrup samples were collected from three different manufacturers and analyzed for total mercury. The samples were found to contain levels of mercury ranging from below a detection limit of 0.005 to 0.570 micrograms mercury per gram of high fructose corn syrup. Average daily consumption of high fructose corn syrup is about 50 grams per person in the United States. With respect to total mercury exposure, it may be necessary to account for this source of mercury in the diet of children and sensitive populations.

Optimal costs of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for men who have sex with men

PubMed Central

Chen, Anders; Hoover, Karen W.; Kelly, Jane; Dowdy, David; Sharifi, Parastu; Sullivan, Patrick S.; Rosenberg, Eli S.

2017-01-01

Introduction Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV due to their increased risk of infection. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effictive HIV-prevention strategy for MSM. Despite evidence of its effectiveness, PrEP uptake in the United States has been slow, in part due to its cost. As jurisdictions and health organizations begin to think about PrEP scale-up, the high cost to society needs to be understood. Methods We modified a previously-described decision-analysis model to estimate the cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained, over a 1-year duration of PrEP intervention and lifetime time horizon. Using updated parameter estimates, we calculated: 1) the cost per QALY gained, stratified over 4 strata of PrEP cost (a function of both drug cost and provider costs); and 2) PrEP drug cost per year required to fall at or under 4 cost per QALY gained thresholds. Results When PrEP drug costs were reduced by 60% (with no sexual disinhibition) to 80% (assuming 25% sexual disinhibition), PrEP was cost-effective (at <$100,000 per QALY averted) in all scenarios of base-case or better adherence, as long as the background HIV prevalence was greater than 10%. For PrEP to be cost saving at base-case adherence/efficacy levels and at a background prevalence of 20%, drug cost would need to be reduced to $8,021 per year with no disinhibition, and to $2,548 with disinhibition. Conclusion Results from our analysis suggest that PrEP drug costs need to be reduced in order to be cost-effective across a range of background HIV prevalence. Moreover, our results provide guidance on the pricing of generic emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, in order to provide those at high risk for HIV an affordable prevention option without financial burden on individuals or jurisdictions scaling-up coverage. PMID:28570572

Low spatial coherence electrically pumped semiconductor laser for speckle-free full-field imaging

PubMed Central

Redding, Brandon; Cerjan, Alexander; Huang, Xue; Lee, Minjoo Larry; Stone, A. Douglas; Choma, Michael A.; Cao, Hui

2015-01-01

The spatial coherence of laser sources has limited their application to parallel imaging and projection due to coherent artifacts, such as speckle. In contrast, traditional incoherent light sources, such as thermal sources or light emitting diodes (LEDs), provide relatively low power per independent spatial mode. Here, we present a chip-scale, electrically pumped semiconductor laser based on a novel design, demonstrating high power per mode with much lower spatial coherence than conventional laser sources. The laser resonator was fabricated with a chaotic, D-shaped cavity optimized to achieve highly multimode lasing. Lasing occurs simultaneously and independently in ∼1,000 modes, and hence the total emission exhibits very low spatial coherence. Speckle-free full-field imaging is demonstrated using the chaotic cavity laser as the illumination source. The power per mode of the sample illumination is several orders of magnitude higher than that of a LED or thermal light source. Such a compact, low-cost source, which combines the low spatial coherence of a LED with the high spectral radiance of a laser, could enable a wide range of high-speed, full-field imaging and projection applications. PMID:25605946

Compute Server Performance Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stockdale, I. E.; Barton, John; Woodrow, Thomas (Technical Monitor)

1994-01-01

Parallel-vector supercomputers have been the workhorses of high performance computing. As expectations of future computing needs have risen faster than projected vector supercomputer performance, much work has been done investigating the feasibility of using Massively Parallel Processor systems as supercomputers. An even more recent development is the availability of high performance workstations which have the potential, when clustered together, to replace parallel-vector systems. We present a systematic comparison of floating point performance and price-performance for various compute server systems. A suite of highly vectorized programs was run on systems including traditional vector systems such as the Cray C90, and RISC workstations such as the IBM RS/6000 590 and the SGI R8000. The C90 system delivers 460 million floating point operations per second (FLOPS), the highest single processor rate of any vendor. However, if the price-performance ration (PPR) is considered to be most important, then the IBM and SGI processors are superior to the C90 processors. Even without code tuning, the IBM and SGI PPR's of 260 and 220 FLOPS per dollar exceed the C90 PPR of 160 FLOPS per dollar when running our highly vectorized suite,

High-power disk lasers: advances and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Havrilla, David; Ryba, Tracey; Holzer, Marco

2012-03-01

Though the genesis of the disk laser concept dates to the early 90's, the disk laser continues to demonstrate the flexibility and the certain future of a breakthrough technology. On-going increases in power per disk, and improvements in beam quality and efficiency continue to validate the genius of the disk laser concept. As of today, the disk principle has not reached any fundamental limits regarding output power per disk or beam quality, and offers numerous advantages over other high power resonator concepts, especially over monolithic architectures. With about 2,000 high power disk lasers installations, and a demand upwards of 1,000 lasers per year, the disk laser has proven to be a robust and reliable industrial tool. With advancements in running cost, investment cost and footprint, manufacturers continue to implement disk laser technology with more vigor than ever. This paper will explain recent advances in disk laser technology and process relevant features of the laser, like pump diode arrangement, resonator design and integrated beam guidance. In addition, advances in applications in the thick sheet area and very cost efficient high productivity applications like remote welding, remote cutting and cutting of thin sheets will be discussed.

High-throughput simultaneous determination of plasma water deuterium and 18-oxygen enrichment using a high-temperature conversion elemental analyzer with isotope ratio mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Richelle, M; Darimont, C; Piguet-Welsch, C; Fay, L B

2004-01-01

This paper presents a high-throughput method for the simultaneous determination of deuterium and oxygen-18 (18O) enrichment of water samples isolated from blood. This analytical method enables rapid and simple determination of these enrichments of microgram quantities of water. Water is converted into hydrogen and carbon monoxide gases by the use of a high-temperature conversion elemental analyzer (TC-EA), that are then transferred on-line into the isotope ratio mass spectrometer. Accuracy determined with the standard light Antartic precipitation (SLAP) and Greenland ice sheet precipitation (GISP) is reliable for deuterium and 18O enrichments. The range of linearity is from 0 up to 0.09 atom percent excess (APE, i.e. -78 up to 5725 delta per mil (dpm)) for deuterium enrichment and from 0 up to 0.17 APE (-11 up to 890 dpm) for 18O enrichment. Memory effects do exist but can be avoided by analyzing the biological samples in quintuplet. This method allows the determination of 1440 samples per week, i.e. 288 biological samples per week. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Low spatial coherence electrically pumped semiconductor laser for speckle-free full-field imaging.

PubMed

Redding, Brandon; Cerjan, Alexander; Huang, Xue; Lee, Minjoo Larry; Stone, A Douglas; Choma, Michael A; Cao, Hui

2015-02-03

The spatial coherence of laser sources has limited their application to parallel imaging and projection due to coherent artifacts, such as speckle. In contrast, traditional incoherent light sources, such as thermal sources or light emitting diodes (LEDs), provide relatively low power per independent spatial mode. Here, we present a chip-scale, electrically pumped semiconductor laser based on a novel design, demonstrating high power per mode with much lower spatial coherence than conventional laser sources. The laser resonator was fabricated with a chaotic, D-shaped cavity optimized to achieve highly multimode lasing. Lasing occurs simultaneously and independently in ∼1,000 modes, and hence the total emission exhibits very low spatial coherence. Speckle-free full-field imaging is demonstrated using the chaotic cavity laser as the illumination source. The power per mode of the sample illumination is several orders of magnitude higher than that of a LED or thermal light source. Such a compact, low-cost source, which combines the low spatial coherence of a LED with the high spectral radiance of a laser, could enable a wide range of high-speed, full-field imaging and projection applications.

Longitudinal assessment of high blood pressure in children with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

PubMed

Schwimmer, Jeffrey B; Zepeda, Anne; Newton, Kimberly P; Xanthakos, Stavra A; Behling, Cynthia; Hallinan, Erin K; Donithan, Michele; Tonascia, James

2014-01-01

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects 9.6% of children and may put these children at elevated risk of high blood pressure and subsequent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Therefore, we sought to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for high blood pressure in children with NAFLD. Cohort study performed by the NIDDK NASH Clinical Research Network. There were 484 children with NAFLD ages 2 to 17 at enrollment; 382 children were assessed both at enrollment and 48 weeks afterwards. The main outcomes were high blood pressure at baseline and persistent high blood pressure at both baseline and 48 weeks. Prevalence of high blood pressure at baseline was 35.8% and prevalence of persistent high blood pressure was 21.4%. Children with high blood pressure were significantly more likely to have worse steatosis than children without high blood pressure (mild 19.8% vs. 34.2%, moderate 35.0% vs. 30.7%, severe 45.2% vs. 35.1%; P = 0.003). Higher body mass index, low-density lipoprotein, and uric acid were independent risk factors for high blood pressure (Odds Ratios: 1.10 per kg/m2, 1.09 per 10 mg/dL, 1.25 per mg/dL, respectively). Compared to boys, girls with NAFLD were significantly more likely to have persistent high blood pressure (28.4% vs.18.9%; P = 0.05). In conclusion, NAFLD is a common clinical problem that places children at substantial risk for high blood pressure, which may often go undiagnosed. Thus blood pressure evaluation, control, and monitoring should be an integral component of the clinical management of children with NAFLD.

Longitudinal Assessment of High Blood Pressure in Children with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

PubMed Central

Schwimmer, Jeffrey B.; Zepeda, Anne; Newton, Kimberly P.; Xanthakos, Stavra A.; Behling, Cynthia; Hallinan, Erin K.; Donithan, Michele; Tonascia, James

2014-01-01

Objective Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects 9.6% of children and may put these children at elevated risk of high blood pressure and subsequent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Therefore, we sought to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for high blood pressure in children with NAFLD. Methods Cohort study performed by the NIDDK NASH Clinical Research Network. There were 484 children with NAFLD ages 2 to 17 at enrollment; 382 children were assessed both at enrollment and 48 weeks afterwards. The main outcomes were high blood pressure at baseline and persistent high blood pressure at both baseline and 48 weeks. Results Prevalence of high blood pressure at baseline was 35.8% and prevalence of persistent high blood pressure was 21.4%. Children with high blood pressure were significantly more likely to have worse steatosis than children without high blood pressure (mild 19.8% vs. 34.2%, moderate 35.0% vs. 30.7%, severe 45.2% vs. 35.1%; P = 0.003). Higher body mass index, low-density lipoprotein, and uric acid were independent risk factors for high blood pressure (Odds Ratios: 1.10 per kg/m2, 1.09 per 10 mg/dL, 1.25 per mg/dL, respectively). Compared to boys, girls with NAFLD were significantly more likely to have persistent high blood pressure (28.4% vs.18.9%; P = 0.05). Conclusions In conclusion, NAFLD is a common clinical problem that places children at substantial risk for high blood pressure, which may often go undiagnosed. Thus blood pressure evaluation, control, and monitoring should be an integral component of the clinical management of children with NAFLD. PMID:25419656

Comparing the cost-per-QALYs gained and cost-per-DALYs averted literatures.

PubMed

Neumann, Peter J; Anderson, Jordan E; Panzer, Ari D; Pope, Elle F; D'Cruz, Brittany N; Kim, David D; Cohen, Joshua T

2018-01-18

Background : We examined the similarities and differences between studies using two common metrics used in cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs): cost per quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained and cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted. Methods : We used the Tufts Medical Center CEA Registry, which contains English-language cost-per-QALY gained studies, and  Global Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (GHCEA) Registry, which contains cost-per-DALY averted studies. We examined study characteristics including intervention type, sponsor, country, and primary disease, and also analysed the number of CEAs versus disease burden estimates for major diseases and conditions across three geographic regions. Results : We identified 6,438 cost-per-QALY and 543 cost-per-DALY studies published through 2016 and observed rapid growth in publication rates for both literatures. Cost-per-QALY studies were most likely to examine pharmaceuticals and interventions in high-income countries. Cost-per-DALY studies predominantly focused on infectious disease interventions and interventions in low and lower-middle income countries. We found discrepancies in the number of published CEAs for certain diseases and conditions in certain regions, suggesting "under-studied" areas (e.g., cardiovascular disease in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania and "overstudied" areas (e.g., HIV in Sub Saharan Africa) relative to disease burden in those regions. Conclusions : The number of cost-per QALY and cost-per-DALY analyses has grown rapidly with applications to diverse interventions and diseases.  Discrepancies between the number of published studies and disease burden suggest funding opportunities for future cost-effectiveness research.

Predictors of injury in ice hockey players. A multivariate, multidisciplinary approach.

PubMed

Smith, A M; Stuart, M J; Wiese-Bjornstal, D M; Gunnon, C

1997-01-01

Eighty-six male high school ice hockey players participated in this prospective study to determine both the incidence of injury in high school ice hockey and the influence of physical, situational, and psychosocial factors. Physical factors included height, weight, vision, previous injuries, musculoskeletal abnormalities, and injuries present at the time of screening evaluations. Situational factors examined were level of participation, playing time, player position, and games versus practices. Psychosocial factors such as confidence, stress, social support, positive states of mind, and mood states were also examined to determine their influences on injury. Twenty-seven injuries occurred during the 1994 to 1995 season. As hypothesized, the overall incidence of injury in high school hockey games (34.4 per 1000 player-game hours) was less than the incidence of injury in Junior A hockey (96.1 per 1000 player-game hours) and was more than previously reported for Bantam youth hockey (10.9 per 1000 player-game hours). Injuries occurred more often in games than in practices, usually as a result of collisions. Physical factors such as player position and previous injuries did not significantly predict injuries, but players in the high playing time group were more likely to be injured. Psychosocial factors of low vigor and high fatigue as measured by the Incredibly Short Profile of Mood States (ISPOMS) significantly predicted high school ice hockey injuries.

[Dialin: infection surveillance network for haemodialysis patients. First results].

PubMed

Ayzac, Louis; Béruard, Michel; Girard, Raphaële; Hannoun, Jacques; Kuentz, François; Marc, Jean-Michel; Moreau-Gaudry, Xavier; Roche, Catherine; Tressières, Benoît; Uzan, Marc

2009-02-01

To show results of the first year of an infection surveillance network for haemodialysis patients (Dialin). In order to improve the security and quality of care, six haemodialysis centers have organized an infection watching network. The purpose of the network is to compare of the watching results between centers. This comparison includes vascular access infection (VAI), bacteraemia and C viral hepatitis. The heterogeneous pattern has been also taken into account. SURVEY TYPE: Multicenter prospective permanent survey. Six hundred and sixty-four haemodialyzed chronic patients, followed during one year (2005), in six voluntary haemodialysis centers. This survey has based on 71,688 treatment sessions corresponding to 6257.5 months of haemodialysis (HM). As with the heterogeneity among centers, the acquired infection standardized ratios (observed/expected) (AISR) and 95% confidence interval are computed with Cox model which includes confounding factors found in literature or in the preliminary stage of the survey. VAI crude rate was 0.47 per 100HM, 0.10 per 1000 native fistulae utilisation days, 0.45 per 1000 days of prosthetic graft utilisation and 0.44 per 1000 days of catheter utilisation. Bacteraemia crude incidence rate was 0.69 per 100HM, 0.02 per 1000 days of native fistulae utilisation, 0.00 per 1000 days of prosthetic graft utilisation and 0.39 per 1000 days of catheter utilisation. No new case of C viral hepatitis was found. Prevalence rate at the beginning of the survey was 5.3% (35 over 664). Two centers had a significantly high AISR for VAI and two centers had a significantly low AISR for VAI. One center had a significantly high AISR for bacteraemia and one center had a significantly low AISR for bacteraemia. The first year of Dialin running demonstrates the importance of standardised surveillance method in VAI and bacteraemia surveillance but not for viral hepatitis.

Sediment characteristics of small streams in southern Wisconsin, 1954-59

USGS Publications Warehouse

Collier, Charles R.

1963-01-01

The results of investigations of the sediment and water discharge characteristics of Black Earth Creek, Mount Vernon Creek, and Yellowstone River from 1954 to 1959 and Dell Creek for 1958 and 1959 indicate large differences in annual runoff and sediment yields. The suspended-sediment discharge of Black Earth Creek averaged 3,260 tons per year or 71 tons per square mile : the annual yields ranged from 27 to 102 tons per square mile. The annual suspended-sediment yield of Mount Vernon Creek ranged from 48 to 171 tons per square mile and averaged 96 tons per square mile. The maximum daily discharge was 1,120 tons on April 1, 1960, during a storm which produced 67 percent of the suspended load for that water year and exceeded the discharge for the preceding 3 years. The sediment discharge of the Yellowstone River averaged 6,870 tons per year or 236 tons per square riffle. The maximum daily sediment discharge, 3,750 tons on April 1, 1959, occurred during a 14-day period of high flow during which the sediment discharge was 15,480 tons. In 1958 and 1959, Dell Creek had suspended-sediment yields of 4.7 and 26 tons per square mile of drainage area. The suspended sediment transported by Black Earth and Mount Vernon Creeks is about two-thirds clay and one-third silt. For Yellowstone River the particle-size distribution of the suspended sediment ranged from three-fourths clay and one-fourth silt during periods of low sediment discharge to one-third clay and two-thirds silt during high sediment discharges. For Dell Creek nearly all of the suspended sediment is clay, but the bed load is sand. The mean sediment concentration of storm runoff averaged two to three times more in the summer than in the winter. No significant changes with time occurred in the relation between storm runoff and sediment yield.

Laser printed plasmonic color metasurfaces (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kristensen, Anders; Zhu, Xiaolong; Højlund-Nielsen, Emil; Vannahme, Christoph; Mortensen, N. Asger

2016-09-01

This paper describes color printing on nanoimprinted plasmonic metasurfaces by laser post-writing, for flexible decoration of high volume manufactured plastic products. Laser pulses induce transient local heat generation that leads to melting and reshaping of the imprinted nanostructures. Different surface morphologies that support different plasmonic resonances, and thereby different color appearances, are created by control of the laser pulse energy density. All primary colors can be printed, with a speed of 1 ns per pixel, resolution up to 127,000 dots per inch (DPI) and power consumption down to 0.3 nJ per pixel.

Effect of a blood transfusion protocol and low dose steroid regime on renal transplant survival.

PubMed

Notghi, A; Anderton, J L; Chisholm, G D; Hamer-Hodges, D; Wilkinson, S; Smith, G; Galloway, N T; Yap, P L; Winney, R J

1986-04-01

The effects of introduction of a low steroid regime and pre-transplant blood transfusion were evaluated. The kidney and patient survival rates for the period before such a policy was adopted were compared with the period after this policy. There has been a highly significant rise in patient survival rates to the present level of 95 per cent at three years. There was a similar rise in three year graft survival rates from less than 40 per cent to 66 per cent.

Hydrogeologic and water-quality characteristics of the Red River-Winnipeg aquifer northwestern Minnesota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ruhl, J.F.; Adolphson, D.G.

1986-01-01

Ground water generally flows eastward through the aquifer from North Dakota and discharges upward to wells and to overlying deposits. Yields of wells open to the full thickness of the aquifer range from 100 t 250 gallons per minute. The water is unsuitable for most uses because of the high mineral content. Dissolved-solids concentrations range from about 3,000 milligrams per liter in the eastern part of the aquifer to about 60,000 milligrams per liter in the northwestern corner of Minnesota.

A ponderosa pine natural area reveals its secrets

USGS Publications Warehouse

Allen, Craig D.; Mac, Michael J.; Opler, Paul A.; Puckett Haecker, Catherine E.; Doran, Peter D.

1998-01-01

Monument Canyon Research Natural Area preserves an unlogged 259-hectare stand of old-growth ponderosa pine in the Jemez Mountains of New Mexico. This preserve, established in 1932, is the oldest research natural area in the state. This two-tiered forest displays an old-growth density of 100 stems per hectare (Muldavin et al. 1995), with an understory thicket of stagnant saplings and poles that raises the total stand density to an average of 5,954 stems per hectare, with concentrations as high as 21,617 stems per hectare (Fig. 1).

Measurements of argon-, helium-, hydrogen-, and nitrogen-broadened widths of methane lines near 9000 per cm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fox, Kenneth; Jennings, Donald E.; Stern, Elizabeth A.; Hubbard, Rob

1988-01-01

Pressure-broadened widths of rotational-vibrational lines in CH4 have been measured at very high spectral resolution in the R-branch of the 3nu3 overtone. The broadening gases were Ar, He, H2, and N2. Results are presented as averages for J-multiplets at ambient temperature. The overall values (per cm per atm) for these R-branch lines are 0.0651 (CH4-Ar), 0.0508 (CH4-He), 0.0728 (CH4-H2), and 0.0715 (CH4-N2).

Digoxin: placental transfer, effects on the fetus, and therapeutic use in the newborn.

PubMed

Soyka, L F

1975-03-01

Digoxin rapidly crosses the placenta and reaches equilibrium, with maternal and fetal sera having equal concentrations. Virtually nothing is known about the effects of transplacentally administered digoxin on the fetus. Toxicity has been reported in the fetus of a woman ingesting a huge overdose of digitoxin; the same result would be anticipated with digoxin poisoning. Serum levels in pregnant women receiving the standard dose of 0.25 mg tend to be subnormal and certain patients may require a small increase in dose during the last trimester. While the full-term neonate appears to tolerate relatively high doses and the resultant high serum levels, there is no compelling evidence that such doses are necessary or even useful. Since toxicity can and does occur in neonates, especially during administration of loading (digitalizing) doses, it is recommended that maintenance doses of 0.01 mg per kg per day be used routinely. If the full inotropic effect is needed immediately, a loading dose of 0.03 mg per kg may be employed. Maintenance therapy is then begun on the following day. Without a loading dose cumulation occurs for about 3 days; after 5 or so days, serum levels will equal those found after use of a loading dose followed by maintenance therapy. Results of a single study suggest that the daily dose should be divided and given every 12 hours. After about 1 week of therapy, the serum level should be determined and the dose modified to maintain a serum level of 1 to 2 ng per ml. If the therapeutic effect is less than desired, a cautions increase in dose to as high as 0.02 mg per kg per day or to that dose which produces serum levels up to 3 ng per ml can be tried. Certain infants appear to tolerate serum levels of 3.5 to 4 ng per ml but such infants must be closely monitored. There are no data which indicate that a greater inotropic response will occur at these high serum levels, though this point has not been definitively investigated, and is the highest priority question for research. The intramuscular route should be researved for the unusual situation. Vomiting should be considered an early sign of toxicity and may act as a "safety valve." When adminstered in solution (as in the elixir or solution for intravenous use), oral digoxin is rapidly absorbed an an inotropic response is found within minutes, reaching a peak within hours, so that little is gained by parenteral administration. If an inotropic effect is urgently needed, intravenous administration of ouabain will give an immediate response.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Surgical Treatment of Medial Unicompartmental Knee Osteoarthritis in Younger Patients

PubMed Central

Konopka, Joseph F.; Gomoll, Andreas H.; Thornhill, Thomas S.; Katz, Jeffrey N.; Losina, Elena

2015-01-01

Background: Surgical options for the management of medial compartment osteoarthritis of the varus knee include high tibial osteotomy, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, and total knee arthroplasty. We sought to determine the cost-effectiveness of high tibial osteotomy and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty as alternatives to total knee arthroplasty for patients fifty to sixty years of age. Methods: We built a probabilistic state-transition computer model with health states defined by pain, postoperative complications, and subsequent surgical procedures. We estimated transition probabilities from published literature. Costs were determined from Medicare reimbursement schedules. Health outcomes were measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). We conducted analyses over patients’ lifetimes from the societal perspective, with health and cost outcomes discounted by 3% annually. We used probabilistic sensitivity analyses to account for uncertainty in data inputs. Results: The estimated discounted QALYs were 14.62, 14.63, and 14.64 for high tibial osteotomy, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, and total knee arthroplasty, respectively. Discounted total direct medical costs were $20,436 for high tibial osteotomy, $24,637 for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, and $24,761 for total knee arthroplasty (in 2012 U.S. dollars). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was $231,900 per QALY for total knee arthroplasty and $420,100 per QALY for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses showed that, at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of $50,000 per QALY, high tibial osteotomy was cost-effective 57% of the time; total knee arthroplasty, 24%; and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, 19%. At a WTP threshold of $100,000 per QALY, high tibial osteotomy was cost-effective 43% of time; total knee arthroplasty, 31%; and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, 26%. Conclusions: In fifty to sixty-year-old patients with medial unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis, high tibial osteotomy is an attractive option compared with unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty. This finding supports greater utilization of high tibial osteotomy for these patients. The cost-effectiveness of high tibial osteotomy and of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty depend on rates of conversion to total knee arthroplasty and the clinical outcomes of the conversions. Level of Evidence: Economic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID:25995491

TaqMan 5′-Nuclease Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 PCR Assay with Phage-Packaged Competitive Internal Control for High-Throughput Blood Donor Screening

PubMed Central

Drosten, C.; Seifried, E.; Roth, W. K.

2001-01-01

Screening of blood donors for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection by PCR permits the earlier diagnosis of HIV-1 infection compared with that by serologic assays. We have established a high-throughput reverse transcription (RT)-PCR assay based on 5′-nuclease PCR. By in-tube detection of HIV-1 RNA with a fluorogenic probe, the 5′-nuclease PCR technology (TaqMan PCR) eliminates the risk of carryover contamination, a major problem in PCR testing. We outline the development and evaluation of the PCR assay from a technical point of view. A one-step RT-PCR that targets the gag genes of all known HIV-1 group M isolates was developed. An internal control RNA detectable with a heterologous 5′-nuclease probe was derived from the viral target cDNA and was packaged into MS2 coliphages (Armored RNA). Because the RNA was protected against digestion with RNase, it could be spiked into patient plasma to control the complete sample preparation and amplification process. The assay detected 831 HIV-1 type B genome equivalents per ml of native plasma (95% confidence interval [CI], 759 to 936 HIV-1 B genome equivalents per ml) with a ≥95% probability of a positive result, as determined by probit regression analysis. A detection limit of 1,195 genome equivalents per ml of (individual) donor plasma (95% CI, 1,014 to 1,470 genome equivalents per ml of plasma pooled from individuals) was achieved when 96 samples were pooled and enriched by centrifugation. Up to 4,000 plasma samples per PCR run were tested in a 3-month trial period. Although data from the present pilot feasibility study will have to be complemented by a large clinical validation study, the assay is a promising approach to the high-throughput screening of blood donors and is the first noncommercial test for high-throughput screening for HIV-1. PMID:11724836

Economic modeling of sealing primary molars using a "value of information" approach.

PubMed

Ney, J P; van der Goes, D N; Chi, D L

2014-09-01

The objective was to evaluate 2 primary molar sealant strategies for publicly insured children using an "expected value of perfect information" (EVPI) approach. We converted a 10,000-observation tooth-level cost-effectiveness simulation model comparing 2 primary molar sealant strategies - always seal (AS) and standard care (SC) - with a 1,250-observation child-level model. Costs per child per restoration or extraction averted were estimated. Opportunity losses under the AS strategy were determined for children for whom SC was the optimal choice. We determined the EVPI by multiplying mean opportunity losses by the projected incident population of publicly insured 3-year-olds in the US over 10 years with costs discounted at 2%. All analyses were conducted under assumptions of high and low intrachild correlations between at-risk teeth. The AS strategy cost $43.68 over SC (95% CI: -$5.50, $92.86) per child per restoration or extraction averted under the high intrachild correlation assumption and $15.54 (95% CI $7.86, $23.20) under the low intrachild correlation. Under high intrachild correlation, mean opportunity losses were $80.28 (95% CI: $76.39, $84.17) per child, and AS was the optimal strategy in 31% of children. Under low correlation, mean opportunity losses were $14.61 (95% CI: $12.20, $17.68) and AS was the optimal strategy in 87% of children. The EVPI was calculated at $530,813,740 and $96,578,389 (for high and low intrachild correlation, respectively), for a projected total incident population of 8,059,712 children. On average, always sealing primary molars is more effective than standard care, but widespread implementation of this preventive approach among publicly insured children would result in large opportunity losses. Additional research is needed to identify the subgroups of publicly insured children who would benefit the most from this effective and potentially cost-saving public health intervention. © International & American Associations for Dental Research.

Soft γ-ray selected radio galaxies: favouring giant size discovery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bassani, L.; Venturi, T.; Molina, M.; Malizia, A.; Dallacasa, D.; Panessa, F.; Bazzano, A.; Ubertini, P.

2016-09-01

Using the recent INTEGRAL/IBIS and Swift/BAT surveys we have extracted a sample of 64 confirmed plus three candidate radio galaxies selected in the soft gamma-ray band. The sample covers all optical classes and is dominated by objects showing a Fanaroff-Riley type II radio morphology; a large fraction (70 per cent) of the sample is made of `radiative mode' or high-excitation radio galaxies. We measured the source size on images from the NRAO VLA Sky Survey, the Faint Images of the Radio Sky at twenty-cm and the Sydney University Molonglo Sky Survey images and have compared our findings with data in the literature obtaining a good match. We surprisingly found that the soft gamma-ray selection favours the detection of large size radio galaxies: 60 per cent of objects in the sample have size greater than 0.4 Mpc while around 22 per cent reach dimension above 0.7 Mpc at which point they are classified as giant radio galaxies (GRGs), the largest and most energetic single entities in the Universe. Their fraction among soft gamma-ray selected radio galaxies is significantly larger than typically found in radio surveys, where only a few per cent of objects (1-6 per cent) are GRGs. This may partly be due to observational biases affecting radio surveys more than soft gamma-ray surveys, thus disfavouring the detection of GRGs at lower frequencies. The main reasons and/or conditions leading to the formation of these large radio structures are still unclear with many parameters such as high jet power, long activity time and surrounding environment all playing a role; the first two may be linked to the type of active galactic nucleus discussed in this work and partly explain the high fraction of GRGs found in the present sample. Our result suggests that high energy surveys may be a more efficient way than radio surveys to find these peculiar objects.

The long-term spatial-temporal trends and burden of esophageal cancer in one high-risk area: A population-registered study in Feicheng, China

PubMed Central

Sun, Xiubin; Zhao, Deli; Liu, Yi; Liu, Yunxia; Yuan, Zhongshang; Wang, Jialin; Xue, Fuzhong

2017-01-01

Background Feicheng County is a high-risk area for esophageal cancer in Shandong province, China. It is important to determine the long-term spatio-temporal trends in epidemiological characteristics and the burden of esophageal cancer, especially since the implementation of the national esophageal cancer screening program for early detection and treatment in 2005. Methods The data collected in Feicheng County from 2001 to 2012 was extracted from the whole-population cancer registry system. The incidence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALY) and changing trends in esophageal cancer according to age and sex were calculated and described. Results The incidence rate of esophageal cancer in Feicheng was consistently high, and increased significantly for male, but not for female from 2001 to 2012, according to the joinpoint regression analysis. The highest and lowest yearly crude incidence rates were 160.78 and 95.97 per 100000 for males, and 81.36 and 52.17 per 100000 for females. The highest and lowest crude yearly mortality rates were 122.26 and 94.40 per 100000 for males, and 60.75 and 49.35 per 100000for females. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was the main pathology type and the tumor location changed significantly from 2001 to 2012. Overall, the DALY remained roughly stable and was estimated as 11.50 for males and 4.90 for females per 1000 people. The burden was mainly caused by premature death. There is an obvious spatial pattern in the distribution of incidence density and burden. Conclusion Esophageal cancer remains a public health issue in Feicheng County with a high incidence, mortality and disease burden. The incidence and burden have obvious spatial heterogeneity, and further studies should be conducted to identify geographical risk factors for precise local prevention and control measures. PMID:28267769

Optimizing Hill Seeding Density for High-Yielding Hybrid Rice in a Single Rice Cropping System in South China

PubMed Central

Wang, Danying; Chen, Song; Wang, Zaiman; Ji, Chenglin; Xu, Chunmei; Zhang, Xiufu; Chauhan, Bhagirath Singh

2014-01-01

Mechanical hill direct seeding of hybrid rice could be the way to solve the problems of high seeding rates and uneven plant establishment now faced in direct seeded rice; however, it is not clear what the optimum hill seeding density should be for high-yielding hybrid rice in the single-season rice production system. Experiments were conducted in 2010 and 2011 to determine the effects of hill seeding density (25 cm×15 cm, 25 cm×17 cm, 25 cm×19 cm, 25 cm×21 cm, and 25 cm×23 cm; three to five seeds per hill) on plant growth and grain yield of a hybrid variety, Nei2you6, in two fields with different fertility (soil fertility 1 and 2). In addition, in 2012 and 2013, comparisons among mechanical hill seeding, broadcasting, and transplanting were conducted with three hybrid varieties to evaluate the optimum seeding density. With increases in seeding spacing from 25 cm×15 cm to 25 cm×23 cm, productive tillers per hill increased by 34.2% and 50.0% in soil fertility 1 and 2. Panicles per m2 declined with increases in seeding spacing in soil fertility 1. In soil fertility 2, no difference in panicles per m2 was found at spacing ranging from 25 cm×17 cm to 25 cm×23 cm, while decreases in the area of the top three leaves and aboveground dry weight per shoot at flowering were observed. Grain yield was the maximum at 25 cm×17 cm spacing in both soil fertility fields. Our results suggest that a seeding density of 25 cm×17 cm was suitable for high-yielding hybrid rice. These results were verified through on-farm demonstration experiments, in which mechanical hill-seeded rice at this density had equal or higher grain yield than transplanted rice. PMID:25290342

Comparative analytical costs of central laboratory glucose and bedside glucose testing: a College of American Pathologists Q-Probes study.

PubMed

Howanitz, Peter J; Jones, Bruce A

2004-07-01

One of the major attributes of laboratory testing is cost. Although fully automated central laboratory glucose testing and semiautomated bedside glucose testing (BGT) are performed at most institutions, rigorous determinations of interinstitutional comparative costs have not been performed. To compare interinstitutional analytical costs of central laboratory glucose testing and BGT and to provide suggestions for improvement. Participants completed a demographic form about their institutional glucose monitoring practices. They also collected information about the costs of central laboratory glucose testing, BGT at a high-volume testing site, and BGT at a low-volume testing site, including specified cost variables for labor, reagents, and instruments. A total of 445 institutions enrolled in the College of American Pathologists Q-Probes program. Median cost per glucose test at 3 testing sites. The median (10th-90th percentile range) costs per glucose test were 1.18 dollars (5.59 dollars-0.36 dollars), 1.96 dollars (9.51 dollars-0.77 dollars), and 4.66 dollars (27.54 dollars-1.02 dollars) for central laboratory, high-volume BGT sites, and low-volume BGT sites, respectively. The largest percentages of the cost per test were for labor (59.3%, 72.7%, and 85.8%), followed by supplies (27.2%, 27.3%, and 13.4%) and equipment (2.1%, 0.0%, and 0.0%) for the 3 sites, respectively. The median number of patient specimens per month at the high-volume BGT sites was 625 compared to 30 at the low-volume BGT sites. Most participants did not include labor, instrument maintenance, competency assessment, or oversight in their BGT estimated costs until required to do so for the study. Analytical costs per glucose test were lower for central laboratory glucose testing than for BGT, which, in turn, was highly variable and dependent on volume. Data that would be used for financial justification for BGT were widely aberrant and in need of improvement.

Snakebites in Two Rural Districts in Lao PDR: Community-Based Surveys Disclose High Incidence of an Invisible Public Health Problem.

PubMed

Vongphoumy, Inthanomchanh; Phongmany, Panom; Sydala, Sengdao; Prasith, Nouda; Reintjes, Ralf; Blessmann, Joerg

2015-01-01

The Lao PDR (Laos) is one of the least developed countries in Asia with an estimated 25% of the population living in poverty. It is the habitat of some highly venomous snakes and the majority of the population earns their living from agricultural activities. Under these circumstances the incidence of snakebites is expected to be high. Two cross-sectional, community-based surveys were performed in Champone and Phin district, Savannakhet province, Lao PDR to estimate snakebite incidence. Multistage random sampling was used. In the first stage approximately 40% of all villages in each district were randomly selected. In the second stage 33% of all households in each village were randomly chosen. Members of the selected households were interviewed about snakebites during the previous 12 months. Thirty-five of 9856 interviewees reported a snakebite in a 12 month period in Champone district and 79 of 7150 interviewees in Phin district. The estimated incidence is 355 snakebites per 100,000 persons per year and 1105 per 100,000 in Champone and Phin district respectively. All snakebite victims received treatment by traditional healers or self-treatment at home and nobody went to a hospital. Incidence of snakebites, calculated on the basis of hospital records of 14 district hospitals and Savannakhet provincial hospital, ranged from 3 to 14 cases per 100,000 persons per year between 2012 and 2014. Incidence of snakebites is high in rural communities in Laos with significant regional differences. Poverty most likely contributes significantly to the higher number of snakebites in Phin district. Hospital statistics profoundly underestimates snakebite incidence, because the majority of snakebite victims receive only treatment by traditional healers or self-treatment in their village. There is an urgent need to train medical staff and students in management of snakebite patients and make snake antivenom available to cope effectively with this important public health problem in order to prevent fatalities and disabilities.

Cost-effectiveness of the 21-gene assay for guiding adjuvant chemotherapy decisions in early breast cancer.

PubMed

Paulden, Mike; Franek, Jacob; Pham, Ba'; Bedard, Philippe L; Trudeau, Maureen; Krahn, Murray

2013-01-01

Adjuvant chemotherapy decisions in early breast cancer are complex. The 21-gene assay can potentially aid such decisions, but costs US $4175 per patient. Adjuvant! Online is a freely available decision aid. We evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using the 21-gene assay in conjunction with Adjuvant! Online, and of providing adjuvant chemotherapy conditional upon risk classification. A probabilistic Markov decision model simulated risk classification, treatment, and the natural history of breast cancer in a hypothetical cohort of 50-year-old women with lymph node-negative, estrogen receptor- and/or progesterone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2/neu-negative early breast cancer. Cost-effectiveness was considered from an Ontario public-payer perspective by deriving the lifetime incremental cost (2012 Canadian dollars) per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) for each strategy, and the probability each strategy is cost-effective, assuming a willingness-to-pay of $50,000 per QALY. The 21-gene assay has an incremental cost per QALY in patients at low, intermediate, or high Adjuvant Online! risk of $22,440 (probability cost-effective 78.46%), $2,526 (99.40%), or $1,111 (99.82%), respectively. In patients at low (high) 21-gene assay risk, adjuvant chemotherapy increases (reduces) costs and worsens (improves) health outcomes. For patients at intermediate 21-gene assay risk and low, intermediate, or high Adjuvant! Online risk, chemotherapy has an incremental cost per QALY of $44,088 (50.59%), $1,776 (77.65%), or $1,778 (82.31%), respectively. The 21-gene assay appears cost-effective, regardless of Adjuvant! Online risk. Adjuvant chemotherapy appears cost-effective for patients at intermediate or high 21-gene assay risk, although this finding is uncertain in patients at intermediate 21-gene assay and low Adjuvant! Online risk. Copyright © 2013 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Universal optimal hole-doping concentration in single-layer high-temperature cuprate superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Honma, T.; Hor, P. H.

2006-09-01

We argue that in cuprate physics there are two types, hole content per CuO2 plane (Ppl) and the corresponding hole content per unit volume (P3D), of hole-doping concentrations for addressing physical properties that are two dimensional (2D) and three dimensional (3D) in nature, respectively. We find that the superconducting transition temperature (Tc) varies systematically with P3D as a superconducting 'dome' with a universal optimal hole-doping concentration of P3Dopt = 1.6 × 1021 cm-3 for single-layer high-temperature superconductors. We suggest that P3Dopt determines the upper bound of the electronic energy of underdoped single-layer high-Tc cuprates.

Randomized controlled trial of chlorhexidine dressing and highly adhesive dressing for preventing catheter-related infections in critically ill adults.

PubMed

Timsit, Jean-François; Mimoz, Olivier; Mourvillier, Bruno; Souweine, Bertrand; Garrouste-Orgeas, Maïté; Alfandari, Serge; Plantefeve, Gaétan; Bronchard, Régis; Troche, Gilles; Gauzit, Remy; Antona, Marion; Canet, Emmanuel; Bohe, Julien; Lepape, Alain; Vesin, Aurélien; Arrault, Xavier; Schwebel, Carole; Adrie, Christophe; Zahar, Jean-Ralph; Ruckly, Stéphane; Tournegros, Caroline; Lucet, Jean-Christophe

2012-12-15

Most vascular catheter-related infections (CRIs) occur extraluminally in patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Chlorhexidine-impregnated and strongly adherent dressings may decrease catheter colonization and CRI rates. To determine if chlorhexidine-impregnated and strongly adherent dressings decrease catheter colonization and CRI rates. In a 2:1:1 assessor-masked randomized trial in patients with vascular catheters inserted for an expected duration of 48 hours or more in 12 French ICUs, we compared chlorhexidine dressings, highly adhesive dressings, and standard dressings from May 2010 to July 2011. Coprimary endpoints were major CRI with or without catheter-related bloodstream infection (CR-BSI) with chlorhexidine versus nonchlorhexidine dressings and catheter colonization rate with highly adhesive nonchlorhexidine versus standard nonchlorhexidine dressings. Catheter-colonization, CR-BSIs, and skin reactions were secondary endpoints. A total of 1,879 patients (4,163 catheters and 34,339 catheter-days) were evaluated. With chlorhexidine dressings, the major-CRI rate was 67% lower (0.7 per 1,000 vs. 2.1 per 1,000 catheter-days; hazard ratio [HR], 0.328; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.174-0.619; P = 0.0006) and the CR-BSI rate 60% lower (0.5 per 1,000 vs. 1.3 per 1,000 catheter-days; HR, 0.402; 95% CI, 0.186-0.868; P = 0.02) than with nonchlorhexidine dressings; decreases were noted in catheter colonization and skin colonization rates at catheter removal. The contact dermatitis rate was 1.1% with and 0.29% without chlorhexidine. Highly adhesive dressings decreased the detachment rate to 64.3% versus 71.9% (P < 0.0001) and the number of dressings per catheter to two (one to four) versus three (one to five) (P < 0.0001) but increased skin colonization (P < 0.0001) and catheter colonization (HR, 1.650; 95% CI, 1.21-2.26; P = 0.0016) without influencing CRI or CR-BSI rates. A large randomized trial demonstrated that chlorhexidine-gel-impregnated dressings decreased the CRI rate in patients in the ICU with intravascular catheters. Highly adhesive dressings decreased dressing detachment but increased skin and catheter colonization. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 01189682).

Uterine fibroids: semiquantitative perfusion MR imaging parameters associated with the intraprocedural and immediate postprocedural treatment efficiencies of MR imaging-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation.

PubMed

Kim, Young-sun; Kim, Byoung-Gie; Rhim, Hyunchul; Bae, Duk-Soo; Lee, Jeong-Won; Kim, Tae-Joong; Choi, Chel Hun; Lee, Yoo-Young; Lim, Hyo Keun

2014-11-01

To determine whether semiquantitative perfusion magnetic resonance (MR) imaging parameters are associated with therapeutic effectiveness of MR imaging-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound ( HIFU high-intensity focused ultrasound ) ablation of uterine fibroids and which semiquantitative perfusion parameters are significant with regard to treatment efficiency. This study was approved by the institutional review board, and informed consent was obtained from all subjects. Seventy-seven women (mean age, 43.3 years) with 119 fibroids (mean diameter, 7.5 cm) treated with MR imaging-guided HIFU high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation were analyzed. The correlation between semiquantitative perfusion MR parameters (peak enhancement, relative peak enhancement, time to peak, wash-in rate, washout rate) and heating and ablation efficiencies (lethal thermal dose volume based on MR thermometry and nonperfused volume based on immediate contrast-enhanced image divided by intended treatment volume) were evaluated by using a linear mixed model on a per-fibroid basis. The specific value of the significant parameter that had a substantial effect on treatment efficiency was determined. The mean peak enhancement, relative peak enhancement, time to peak, wash-in rate, and washout rate of the fibroids were 1293.1 ± 472.8 (range, 570.2-2477.8), 171.4% ± 57.2 (range, 0.6%-370.2%), 137.2 seconds ± 119.8 (range, 20.0-300.0 seconds), 79.5 per second ± 48.2 (range, 12.5-236.7 per second), and 11.4 per second ± 10.1 (range, 0-39.3 per second), respectively. Relative peak enhancement was found to be independently significant for both heating and ablation efficiencies (B = -0.002, P < .001 and B = -0.003, P = .050, respectively). The washout rate was significantly associated with ablation efficiency (B = -0.018, P = .043). Both efficiencies showed the most abrupt transitions at 220% of relative peak enhancement. Relative peak enhancement at semiquantitative perfusion MR imaging was significantly associated with treatment efficiency of MR imaging-guided HIFU high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation of uterine fibroids, and a value of 220% or less is suggested as a screening guideline for more efficient treatment.