26 CFR 1.410(a)-4 - Maximum age conditions and time of participation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 5 2012-04-01 2011-04-01 true Maximum age conditions and time of participation.... § 1.410(a)-4 Maximum age conditions and time of participation. (a) Maximum age conditions—(1) General...) if the plan excludes from participation (on the basis of age) an employee who has attained an age...

26 CFR 1.410(a)-4 - Maximum age conditions and time of participation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 5 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Maximum age conditions and time of participation.... § 1.410(a)-4 Maximum age conditions and time of participation. (a) Maximum age conditions—(1) General...) if the plan excludes from participation (on the basis of age) an employee who has attained an age...

26 CFR 1.410(a)-4 - Maximum age conditions and time of participation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 5 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Maximum age conditions and time of participation... Maximum age conditions and time of participation. (a) Maximum age conditions—(1) General rule. A plan is... excludes from participation (on the basis of age) an employee who has attained an age specified by the plan...

Examination of Buckling Behavior of Thin-Walled Al-Mg-Si Alloy Extrusions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vazdirvanidis, Athanasios; Koumarioti, Ioanna; Pantazopoulos, George; Rikos, Andreas; Toulfatzis, Anagnostis; Kostazos, Protesilaos; Manolakos, Dimitrios

To achieve the combination of improved crash tolerance and maximum strength in aluminium automotive extrusions, a research program was carried out. The main objective was to study AA6063 alloy thin-walled square tubes' buckling behavior under axial quasi-static load after various artificial aging treatments. Variables included cooling rate after solid solution treatment, duration of the 1st stage of artificial aging and time and temperature of the 2nd stage of artificial aging. Metallography and tensile testing were employed for developing deeper knowledge on the effect of the aging process parameters. FEM analysis with the computer code LS-DYNA was supplementary applied for deformation mode investigation and crashworthiness prediction. Results showed that data from actual compression tests and numerical modeling were in considerable agreement.

Characterization of Activity and Cardiovascular Responses During Surfing in Recreational Male Surfers Between the Ages of 18 and 75 Years Old.

PubMed

LaLanne, Christine L; Cannady, Michael S; Moon, Joseph F; Taylor, Danica L; Nessler, Jeff A; Crocker, George H; Newcomer, Sean C

2017-04-01

Participation in surfing has evolved to include all age groups. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether activity levels and cardiovascular responses to surfing change with age. Surfing time and heart rate (HR) were measured for the total surfing session and within each activity of surfing (paddling, sitting, wave riding, and miscellaneous). Peak oxygen consumption (VO 2peak ) was also measured during laboratory-based simulated surfboard paddling on a modified swim bench ergometer. VO 2peak decreased with age during simulated paddling (r = -.455, p < .001, n = 68). Total time surfing (p = .837) and time spent within each activity of surfing did not differ with age (n = 160). Mean HR during surfing significantly decreased with age (r = -.231, p = .004). However, surfing HR expressed as a percent of age-predicted maximum increased significantly with age. Therefore, recreational surfers across the age spectrum are achieving intensities and durations that are consistent with guidelines for cardiovascular health.

Cycling Power Outputs Predict Functional Threshold Power And Maximum Oxygen Uptake.

PubMed

Denham, Joshua; Scott-Hamilton, John; Hagstrom, Amanda D; Gray, Adrian J

2017-09-11

Functional threshold power (FTP) has emerged as a correlate of lactate threshold and is commonly assessed by recreational and professional cyclists for tailored exercise programing. To identify whether results from traditional aerobic and anaerobic cycling tests could predict FTP and V˙ O2max, we analysed the association between estimated FTP, maximum oxygen uptake (V˙ O2max [mlkgmin]) and power outputs obtained from a maximal cycle ergometry cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and a 30-s Wingate test in a heterogeneous cohort of cycle-trained and untrained individuals (N=40, mean±SD; age: 32.6±10.6 y; relative V˙ O2max: 46.8±9.1 mlkgmin). The accuracy and sensitivity of the prediction equations was also assessed in young men (N=11) before and after a 6-wk sprint interval training intervention.Moderate to strong positive correlations were observed between FTP, relative V˙ O2max and power outputs achieved during incremental and 30-s Wingate cycling tests (r=.39-.965, all P<.05). While maximum power achieved during incremental cycle testing (Pmax) and relative V˙ O2max were predictors of FTP (r =.93), age and FTP (Wkg) estimated relative V˙ O2max (r=.80). Our findings confirm that FTP predominantly relies on aerobic metabolism and indicate both prediction models are sensitive enough to detect meaningful exercise-induced changes in FTP and V˙ O2max. Thus, coaches should consider limiting the time and load demands placed on athletes by conducting a maximal cycle ergometry CPET to estimate FTP. Additionally, a 20-min FTP test is a convenient method to assess V˙ O2max and is particularly relevant for exercise professionals without access to expensive CPET equipment.

Dynamic Effects of Performance-Avoidance Goal Orientation on Student Achievement in Language and Mathematics.

PubMed

Stamovlasis, Dimitrios; Gonida, Sofia-Eleftheria N

2018-07-01

The present study used achievement goal theory (AGT) as a theoretical framework and examined the role of mastery and performance goals, both performance-approach and performance-avoidance, on school achieve-ment within the nonlinear dynamical systems (NDS) perspective. A series of cusp catastrophe models were applied on students' achievement in a number of school subjects, such as mathematics and language for elementary school and algebra, geometry, ancient and modern Greek language for high school, using achievement goal orientations as control variables. The participants (N=224) were students attending fifth and eighth grade (aged 11 and 14, respectively) in public schools located in northern Greece. Cusp analysis based on the probability density function was carried out by two procedures, the maximum likelihood and the least squares. The results showed that performance-approach goals had no linear effect on achievement, while the cusp models implementing mastery goals as the asymmetry factor and performance-avoidance as the bifurcation, proved superior to their linear alternatives. The results of the study based on NDS support the multiple goal perspective within AGT. Theoretical issues, educational implications and future directions are discussed.

Minimizing the effects of multicollinearity in the polynomial regression of age relationships and sex differences in serum levels of pregnenolone sulfate in healthy subjects.

PubMed

Meloun, Milan; Hill, Martin; Vceláková-Havlíková, Helena

2009-01-01

Pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) is known as a steroid conjugate positively modulating N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors on neuronal membranes. These receptors are responsible for permeability of calcium channels and activation of neuronal function. Neuroactivating effect of PregS is also exerted via non-competitive negative modulation of GABA(A) receptors regulating the chloride influx. Recently, a penetrability of blood-brain barrier for PregS was found in rat, but some experiments in agreement with this finding were reported even earlier. It is known that circulating levels of PregS in human are relatively high depending primarily on age and adrenal activity. Concerning the neuromodulating effect of PregS, we recently evaluated age relationships of PregS in both sexes using polynomial regression models known to bring about the problems of multicollinearity, i.e., strong correlations among independent variables. Several criteria for the selection of suitable bias are demonstrated. Biased estimators based on the generalized principal component regression (GPCR) method avoiding multicollinearity problems are described. Significant differences were found between men and women in the course of the age dependence of PregS. In women, a significant maximum was found around the 30th year followed by a rapid decline, while the maximum in men was achieved almost 10 years earlier and changes were minor up to the 60th year. The investigation of gender differences and age dependencies in PregS could be of interest given its well-known neurostimulating effect, relatively high serum concentration, and the probable partial permeability of the blood-brain barrier for the steroid conjugate. GPCR in combination with the MEP (mean quadric error of prediction) criterion is extremely useful and appealing for constructing biased models. It can also be used for achieving such estimates with regard to keeping the model course corresponding to the data trend, especially in polynomial type regression models.

Surgical Management of Large Periorbital Cutaneous Defects: Aesthetic Considerations and Technique Refinements.

PubMed

Zou, Yun; Hu, Li; Tremp, Mathias; Jin, Yunbo; Chen, Hui; Ma, Gang; Lin, Xiaoxi

2018-02-23

The aim of this study was to repair large periorbital cutaneous defects by an innovative technique called PEPSI (periorbital elevation and positioning with secret incisions) technique with functional and aesthetic outcomes. In this retrospective study, unilateral periorbital cutaneous defects in 15 patients were repaired by the PEPSI technique. The ages of patients ranged from 3 to 46 years (average, 19 years). The outcome evaluations included scars (Vancouver Scar Scale and visual analog scale score), function and aesthetic appearance of eyelids, and patient satisfaction. The repair size was measured by the maximum advancement distance of skin flap during operation. All patients achieved an effective repair with a mean follow-up of 18.3 months. Except one with a small (approximately 0.3 cm) necrosis, all patients healed with no complication. The mean Vancouver Scar Scale and visual analog scale scores were 2.1 ± 1.7 and 8.5 ± 1.2, respectively. Ideal cosmetic and functional outcomes were achieved in 14 patients (93.3%). All patients achieved complete satisfaction except 1 patient with partial satisfaction. The mean maximum advancement distance of skin flap was 20.2 mm (range, 8-50 mm). This study demonstrated that the PEPSI technique is an effective method to repair large periorbital cutaneous defects with acceptable functional and aesthetic outcomes.

The 2014 FDA assessment of commercial fish: practical considerations for improved dietary guidance.

PubMed

McGuire, Jennifer; Kaplan, Jason; Lapolla, John; Kleiner, Rima

2016-07-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently released its report: A Quantitative Assessment of the Net Effects on Fetal Neurodevelopment from Eating Commercial Fish (As Measured by IQ and also by Early Age Verbal Development in Children). By evaluating the benefits and potential concerns of eating fish during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the analysis suggests that pregnant women consuming two seafood meals (8-12 oz) per week could provide their child with an additional 3.3 IQ points by age 9. Recent insights from behavioral economics research indicate that other factors, such as concerns about price and methylmercury (MeHg) exposure, appear to reduce fish consumption in many individuals.To assess the net effects of eating commercial fish during pregnancy, we compared the consumption of select fish species necessary to achieve IQ benefits with the amount necessary to have adverse developmental effects due to MeHg exposure. For the species or market types evaluated, the number of servings necessary to reach MeHg exposure to observe an adverse effect was at least twice that the amount estimated to achieve peak developmental benefit. We then reported average costs of fresh and canned or pouched fish, and calculated the cost per week for pregnant women to achieve maximum IQ benefits for their gestating child. Canned light tuna was the least expensive option at $1.83 per week to achieve maximum IQ benefit.Due to their relatively low cost, canned and pouched fish products eaten with enough regularity are likely to provide peak cognitive benefits. Because of its popularity, canned and pouched tuna could provide some of the largest cognitive benefits from fish consumption in the U.S. Future FDA consumer advice and related educational initiatives could benefit from a broader perspective that highlights the importance of affordable and accessible fish choices. These observations underscore the importance of clear public health messaging that address both health benefits and such real-world considerations as cost and convenience.

Growth and Maximum Size of Tiger Sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) in Hawaii

PubMed Central

Meyer, Carl G.; O'Malley, Joseph M.; Papastamatiou, Yannis P.; Dale, Jonathan J.; Hutchinson, Melanie R.; Anderson, James M.; Royer, Mark A.; Holland, Kim N.

2014-01-01

Tiger sharks (Galecerdo cuvier) are apex predators characterized by their broad diet, large size and rapid growth. Tiger shark maximum size is typically between 380 & 450 cm Total Length (TL), with a few individuals reaching 550 cm TL, but the maximum size of tiger sharks in Hawaii waters remains uncertain. A previous study suggested tiger sharks grow rather slowly in Hawaii compared to other regions, but this may have been an artifact of the method used to estimate growth (unvalidated vertebral ring counts) compounded by small sample size and narrow size range. Since 1993, the University of Hawaii has conducted a research program aimed at elucidating tiger shark biology, and to date 420 tiger sharks have been tagged and 50 recaptured. All recaptures were from Hawaii except a single shark recaptured off Isla Jacques Cousteau (24°13′17″N 109°52′14″W), in the southern Gulf of California (minimum distance between tag and recapture sites  =  approximately 5,000 km), after 366 days at liberty (DAL). We used these empirical mark-recapture data to estimate growth rates and maximum size for tiger sharks in Hawaii. We found that tiger sharks in Hawaii grow twice as fast as previously thought, on average reaching 340 cm TL by age 5, and attaining a maximum size of 403 cm TL. Our model indicates the fastest growing individuals attain 400 cm TL by age 5, and the largest reach a maximum size of 444 cm TL. The largest shark captured during our study was 464 cm TL but individuals >450 cm TL were extremely rare (0.005% of sharks captured). We conclude that tiger shark growth rates and maximum sizes in Hawaii are generally consistent with those in other regions, and hypothesize that a broad diet may help them to achieve this rapid growth by maximizing prey consumption rates. PMID:24416287

Growth and maximum size of tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) in Hawaii.

PubMed

Meyer, Carl G; O'Malley, Joseph M; Papastamatiou, Yannis P; Dale, Jonathan J; Hutchinson, Melanie R; Anderson, James M; Royer, Mark A; Holland, Kim N

2014-01-01

Tiger sharks (Galecerdo cuvier) are apex predators characterized by their broad diet, large size and rapid growth. Tiger shark maximum size is typically between 380 & 450 cm Total Length (TL), with a few individuals reaching 550 cm TL, but the maximum size of tiger sharks in Hawaii waters remains uncertain. A previous study suggested tiger sharks grow rather slowly in Hawaii compared to other regions, but this may have been an artifact of the method used to estimate growth (unvalidated vertebral ring counts) compounded by small sample size and narrow size range. Since 1993, the University of Hawaii has conducted a research program aimed at elucidating tiger shark biology, and to date 420 tiger sharks have been tagged and 50 recaptured. All recaptures were from Hawaii except a single shark recaptured off Isla Jacques Cousteau (24°13'17″N 109°52'14″W), in the southern Gulf of California (minimum distance between tag and recapture sites  =  approximately 5,000 km), after 366 days at liberty (DAL). We used these empirical mark-recapture data to estimate growth rates and maximum size for tiger sharks in Hawaii. We found that tiger sharks in Hawaii grow twice as fast as previously thought, on average reaching 340 cm TL by age 5, and attaining a maximum size of 403 cm TL. Our model indicates the fastest growing individuals attain 400 cm TL by age 5, and the largest reach a maximum size of 444 cm TL. The largest shark captured during our study was 464 cm TL but individuals >450 cm TL were extremely rare (0.005% of sharks captured). We conclude that tiger shark growth rates and maximum sizes in Hawaii are generally consistent with those in other regions, and hypothesize that a broad diet may help them to achieve this rapid growth by maximizing prey consumption rates.

Maximum Achievable Control Technology Standards in Region 7

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Maximum Achievable Control Technology Standards (MACTs) are applicable requirements under the Title V operating permit program. This is a resource for permit writers and reviewers to learn about the rules and explore other helpful tools.

Are trait-growth models transferable? Predicting multi-species growth trajectories between ecosystems using plant functional traits

PubMed Central

Vesk, Peter A.

2017-01-01

Plant functional traits are increasingly used to generalize across species, however few examples exist of predictions from trait-based models being evaluated in new species or new places. Can we use functional traits to predict growth of unknown species in different areas? We used three independently collected datasets, each containing data on heights of individuals from non-resprouting species over a chronosquence of time-since-fire sites from three ecosystems in south-eastern Australia. We examined the influence of specific leaf area, woody density, seed size and leaf nitrogen content on three aspects of plant growth; maximum relative growth rate, age at maximum growth and asymptotic height. We tested our capacity to perform out-of-sample prediction of growth trajectories between ecosystems using species functional traits. We found strong trait-growth relationships in one of the datasets; whereby species with low SLA achieved the greatest asymptotic heights, species with high leaf-nitrogen content achieved relatively fast growth rates, and species with low seed mass reached their time of maximum growth early. However these same growth-trait relationships did not hold across the two other datasets, making accurate prediction from one dataset to another unachievable. We believe there is evidence to suggest that growth trajectories themselves may be fundamentally different between ecosystems and that trait-height-growth relationships may change over environmental gradients. PMID:28486535

Clinical Preventive Services for Older Adults: The Interface Between Personal Health Care and Public Health Services

PubMed Central

Richards, Chesley L.; Shenson, Douglas

2012-01-01

Healthy aging must become a priority objective for both population and personal health services, and will require innovative prevention programming to span those systems. Uptake of essential clinical preventive services is currently suboptimal among adults, owing to a number of system- and office-based care barriers. To achieve maximum health results, prevention must be integrated across community and clinical settings. Many preventive services are portable, deliverable in either clinical or community settings. Capitalizing on that flexibility can improve uptake and health outcomes. Significant reductions in health disparities, mortality, and morbidity, along with decreases in health spending, are achievable through improved collaboration and synergy between population health and personal health systems. PMID:22390505

Global divergence in critical income for adult and childhood survival: analyses of mortality using Michaelis–Menten

PubMed Central

Hum, Ryan J; Jha, Prabhat; McGahan, Anita M; Cheng, Yu-Ling

2012-01-01

Life expectancy has risen sharply in the last 50 years. We applied the classic Michaelis–Menten enzyme kinetics to demonstrate a novel mathematical relationship of income to childhood (aged 0–5 years) and adult (aged 15–60 years) survival. We treat income as a substrate that is catalyzed to increase survival (from technologies that income buys) for 180 countries from 1970 and 2007. Michaelis–Menten kinetics permit estimates of maximal survival and, uniquely, the critical income needed to achieve half of the period-specific maximum. Maximum child and adult survival rose by about 1% per year. Critical incomes fell by half for children, but doubled for men. HIV infection and smoking account for some, but not all, of the rising critical incomes for adult survival. Altering the future cost curve for adult survival will require more widespread use of current interventions, most notably tobacco control, but also research to identify practicable low-cost drugs, diagnostics, and strategies. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00051.001 PMID:23240081

Ethylene Production Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) Compliance Manual

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This July 2006 document is intended to help owners and operators of ethylene processes understand and comply with EPA's maximum achievable control technology standards promulgated on July 12, 2002, as amended on April 13, 2005 and April 20, 2006.

Ontogeny of energy allocation reveals selective pressure promoting risk-taking behaviour in young fish cohorts

PubMed Central

Biro, Peter A; Post, John R; Abrahams, Mark V

2005-01-01

Given limited food, prey fishes in a temperate climate must take risks to acquire sufficient reserves for winter and/or to outgrow vulnerability to predation. However, how can we distinguish which selective pressure promotes risk-taking when larger body size is always beneficial? To address this question, we examined patterns of energy allocation in populations of age-0 trout to determine if greater risk-taking corresponds with energy allocation to lipids or to somatic growth. Trout achieved maximum growth rates in all lakes and allocated nearly all of their acquired energy to somatic growth when small in early summer. However, trout in low-food lakes took greater risks to achieve this maximal growth, and therefore incurred high mortality. By late summer, age-0 trout allocated considerable energy to lipids and used previously risky habitats in all lakes. These results indicate that: (i) the size-dependent risk of predation (which is independent of behaviour) promotes risk-taking behaviour of age-0 trout to increase growth and minimize time spent in vulnerable sizes; and (ii) the physiology of energy allocation and behaviour interact to mediate growth/mortality trade-offs for young animals at risk of predation and starvation. PMID:16011918

Maximum step length: relationships to age and knee and hip extensor capacities.

PubMed

Schulz, Brian W; Ashton-Miller, James A; Alexander, Neil B

2007-07-01

Maximum Step Length may be used to identify older adults at increased risk for falls. Since leg muscle weakness is a risk factor for falls, we tested the hypotheses that maximum knee and hip extension speed, strength, and power capacities would significantly correlate with Maximum Step Length and also that the "step out and back" Maximum Step Length [Medell, J.L., Alexander, N.B., 2000. A clinical measure of maximal and rapid stepping in older women. J. Gerontol. A Biol. Sci. Med. Sci. 55, M429-M433.] would also correlate with the Maximum Step Length of its two sub-tasks: stepping "out only" and stepping "back only". These sub-tasks will be referred to as versions of Maximum Step Length. Unimpaired younger (N=11, age=24[3]years) and older (N=10, age=73[5]years) women performed the above three versions of Maximum Step Length. Knee and hip extension speed, strength, and power capacities were determined on a separate day and regressed on Maximum Step Length and age group. Version and practice effects were quantified and subjective impressions of test difficulty recorded. Hypotheses were tested using linear regressions, analysis of variance, and Fisher's exact test. Maximum Step Length explained 6-22% additional variance in knee and hip extension speed, strength, and power capacities after controlling for age group. Within- and between-block and test-retest correlation values were high (>0.9) for all test versions. Shorter Maximum Step Lengths are associated with reduced knee and hip extension speed, strength, and power capacities after controlling for age. A single out-and-back step of maximal length is a feasible, rapid screening measure that may provide insight into underlying functional impairment, regardless of age.

40 CFR 63.43 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for constructed and reconstructed...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Maximum achievable control technology... Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS FOR SOURCE CATEGORIES Requirements for Control Technology Determinations...

Development of the Mini-Assisting Hand Assessment: evidence for content and internal scale validity.

PubMed

Greaves, Susan; Imms, Christine; Dodd, Karen; Krumlinde-Sundholm, Lena

2013-11-01

To describe the development of the Mini-Assisting Hand Assessment (Mini-AHA) for children with signs of unilateral cerebral palsy (CP) aged 8 to 18 months, and evaluate aspects of content and internal scale validity. The ability of the video-recorded Mini-AHA play session to provoke bimanual performance in children with unilateral CP and typical development was evaluated. Original AHA test items were examined for their suitability for younger children and possible new items were generated. Data from 108 assessments of children with unilateral CP (86 children, 53 males, 33 females; mean age 13 mo, SD 3 mo, range 8-18 mo) were entered into a Rasch measurement model analysis to evaluate internal scale validity. A Spearman's correlation analysis explored the relationship between age and ability measures for children with unilateral CP. The frequency of maximum scores in 40 children with typical development (22 males, 18 females; mean age 12 mo, SD 3 mo) was examined. The Mini-AHA play session provoked bimanual responses in typically developing children 99% of the time. Person and item fit criteria established 20 items for the scale. The resultant unidimensional scale also demonstrated excellent discriminative features through high separation reliability. The item calibration values covered the range of person ability measures well. Age was not related to the ability measures for children with unilateral CP (rs =0.178). All children with typical development achieved maximum scores. Accumulated evidence shows that the Mini-AHA validly measures use of the affected hand during bimanual performance for children with unilateral CP aged 8 to 18 months. The Mini-AHA has the potential to be a useful assessment to evaluate functional hand use and the effects of intervention in an age group when potential for change is high. © 2013 Mac Keith Press.

5 CFR 338.601 - Prohibition of maximum-age requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... requirements. A maximum-age requirement may not be applied in either competitive or noncompetitive examinations for positions in the competitive service except as provided by: (a) Section 3307 of title 5, United States Code; or (b) Public Law 93-259 which authorizes OPM to establish a maximum-age requirement after...

5 CFR 338.601 - Prohibition of maximum-age requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... requirements. A maximum-age requirement may not be applied in either competitive or noncompetitive examinations for positions in the competitive service except as provided by: (a) Section 3307 of title 5, United States Code; or (b) Public Law 93-259 which authorizes OPM to establish a maximum-age requirement after...

The National Shipbuilding Research Program. Shipyard MACT Implementation Plan and Compliance Tools

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-06-01

display a currently valid OMB control number. 1. REPORT DATE JUN 1996 2. REPORT TYPE N/A 3. DATES COVERED - 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE The National...ACHIEVABLE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY SECTION TWO: MODEL SHIPYARD IMPLEMENTATION PLAN SECTION THREE: THINNING RATION CALCULATION SHEETS FOR OPTIONS 2 & 3 AND...INTERPRETATION OF THE SHIPYARD MAXIMUM ACHIEVABLE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY EPA’s Maximum Achievable Control Technology Rule for Shipyards: A Plain English

Maximum current density and beam brightness achievable by laser-driven electron sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Filippetto, D.; Musumeci, P.; Zolotorev, M.; Stupakov, G.

2014-02-01

This paper discusses the extension to different electron beam aspect ratio of the Child-Langmuir law for the maximum achievable current density in electron guns. Using a simple model, we derive quantitative formulas in good agreement with simulation codes. The new scaling laws for the peak current density of temporally long and transversely narrow initial beam distributions can be used to estimate the maximum beam brightness and suggest new paths for injector optimization.

40 CFR 432.113 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best available technology economically...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). 432.113 Section 432.113 Protection... by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided... representing the application of BAT: Effluent Limitations [BAT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum...

40 CFR 432.13 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best available technology economically...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). 432.13 Section 432.13 Protection... the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in... representing the application of BAT: Effluent Limitations [BAT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum...

40 CFR 432.13 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best available technology economically...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). 432.13 Section 432.13 Protection... the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in... representing the application of BAT: Effluent Limitations [BAT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum...

40 CFR 432.113 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best available technology economically...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). 432.113 Section 432.113 Protection... by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided... representing the application of BAT: Effluent Limitations [BAT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum...

Measurement of functional capacity requirements of police officers to aid in development of an occupation-specific cardiac rehabilitation training program.

PubMed

Adams, Jenny; Schneider, Jonna; Hubbard, Matthew; McCullough-Shock, Tiffany; Cheng, Dunlei; Simms, Kay; Hartman, Julie; Hinton, Paul; Strauss, Danielle

2010-01-01

This study was designed to measure the functional capacity of healthy subjects during strenuous simulated police tasks, with the goal of developing occupation-specific training for cardiac rehabilitation of police officers. A calibrated metabolic instrument and an oxygen consumption data collection mask were used to measure the oxygen consumption and heart rates of 30 Dallas Police Academy officers and cadets as they completed an 8-event obstacle course that simulated chasing, subduing, and handcuffing a suspect. Standard target heart rates (85% of age-predicted maximum heart rate, or 0.85 x [220 - age]) and metabolic equivalents (METs) were calculated; a matched-sample t test based on differences between target and achieved heart rate and MET level was used for statistical analysis. Peak heart rates during the obstacle course simulation were significantly higher than the standard target heart rates (those at which treadmill stress tests in physicians' offices are typically stopped) (t(29) = 12.81, P < 0.001) and significantly higher than the suggested maximum of 150 beats/min during cardiac rehabilitation training (t(29) = 17.84, P < 0.001). Peak MET levels during the obstacle course simulation were also significantly higher than the goal level (8 METs) that patients typically achieve in a cardiac rehabilitation program (t(29) = 14.73, P < 0.001). We conclude that police work requires a functional capacity greater than that typically attained in traditional cardiac rehabilitation programs. Rehabilitation professionals should consider performing maximal stress tests and increasing the intensity of cardiac rehabilitation workouts to effectively train police officers who have had a cardiac event.

A Fast and Scalable Algorithm for Calculating the Achievable Capacity of a Wireless Mesh Network

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-04-10

to interference from a given transmission . We then use our algorithm to perform a network capacity analysis comparing different wireless technologies...A Fast and Scalable Algorithm for Calculating the Achievable Capacity of a Wireless Mesh Network Greg Kuperman, Jun Sun, and Aradhana Narula-Tam MIT...the maximum achievable capacity of a multi-hop wireless mesh network subject to interference constraints. Being able to quickly determine the maximum

Timing of maximum glacial extent and deglaciation from HualcaHualca volcano (southern Peru), obtained with cosmogenic 36Cl.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alcalá, Jesus; Palacios, David; Vazquez, Lorenzo; Juan Zamorano, Jose

2015-04-01

Andean glacial deposits are key records of climate fluctuations in the southern hemisphere. During the last decades, in situ cosmogenic nuclides have provided fresh and significant dates to determine past glacier behavior in this region. But still there are many important discrepancies such as the impact of Last Glacial Maximum or the influence of Late Glacial climatic events on glacial mass balances. Furthermore, glacial chronologies from many sites are still missing, such as HualcaHualca (15° 43' S; 71° 52' W; 6,025 masl), a high volcano of the Peruvian Andes located 70 km northwest of Arequipa. The goal of this study is to establish the age of the Maximum Glacier Extent (MGE) and deglaciation at HualcaHualca volcano. To achieve this objetive, we focused in four valleys (Huayuray, Pujro Huayjo, Mollebaya and Mucurca) characterized by a well-preserved sequence of moraines and roches moutonnées. The method is based on geomorphological analysis supported by cosmogenic 36Cl surface exposure dating. 36Cl ages have been estimated with the CHLOE calculator and were compared with other central Andean glacial chronologies as well as paleoclimatological proxies. In Huayuray valley, exposure ages indicates that MGE occurred ~ 18 - 16 ka. Later, the ice mass gradually retreated but this process was interrupted by at least two readvances; the last one has been dated at ~ 12 ka. In the other hand, 36Cl result reflects a MGE age of ~ 13 ka in Mollebaya valley. Also, two samples obtained in Pujro-Huayjo and Mucurca valleys associated with MGE have an exposure age of 10-9 ka, but likely are moraine boulders affected by exhumation or erosion processes. Deglaciation in HualcaHualca volcano began abruptly ~ 11.5 ka ago according to a 36Cl age from a polished and striated bedrock in Pujro Huayjo valley, presumably as a result of reduced precipitation as well as a global increase of temperatures. The glacier evolution at HualcaHualca volcano presents a high correlation with precipitation cycles of the Altiplano (Tauca / Coipasa phases) and Heinrich 1 / Younger Dryas cold climatic events. Research funded by Cryocrisis project (CGL2012-35858), Government of Spain

40 CFR 63.55 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 10 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case-by-case determination of equivalent emission... Requirements for Control Technology Determinations for Major Sources in Accordance With Clean Air Act Sections...

40 CFR 63.55 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 10 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case-by-case determination of equivalent emission... Requirements for Control Technology Determinations for Major Sources in Accordance With Clean Air Act Sections...

40 CFR 63.55 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 9 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case-by-case determination of equivalent emission... Requirements for Control Technology Determinations for Major Sources in Accordance With Clean Air Act Sections...

40 CFR 63.55 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 10 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for affected sources subject to case-by-case determination of equivalent emission... Requirements for Control Technology Determinations for Major Sources in Accordance With Clean Air Act Sections...

Optimizing the Dopant and Carrier Concentration of Ca5Al2Sb6 for High Thermoelectric Efficiency

PubMed Central

Yan, Yuli; Zhang, Guangbiao; Wang, Chao; Peng, Chengxiao; Zhang, Peihong; Wang, Yuanxu; Ren, Wei

2016-01-01

The effects of doping on the transport properties of Ca5Al2Sb6 are investigated using first-principles electronic structure methods and Boltzmann transport theory. The calculated results show that a maximum ZT value of 1.45 is achieved with an optimum carrier concentration at 1000 K. However, experimental studies have shown that the maximum ZT value is no more than 1 at 1000 K. By comparing the calculated Seebeck coefficient with experimental values, we find that the low dopant solubility in this material is not conductive to achieve the optimum carrier concentration, leading a smaller experimental value of the maximum ZT. Interestingly, the calculated dopant formation energies suggest that optimum carrier concentrations can be achieved when the dopants and Sb atoms have similar electronic configurations. Therefore, it might be possible to achieve a maximum ZT value of 1.45 at 1000 K with suitable dopants. These results provide a valuable theoretical guidance for the synthesis of high-performance bulk thermoelectric materials through dopants optimization. PMID:27406178

How long do centenarians survive? Life expectancy and maximum lifespan.

PubMed

Modig, K; Andersson, T; Vaupel, J; Rau, R; Ahlbom, A

2017-08-01

The purpose of this study was to explore the pattern of mortality above the age of 100 years. In particular, we aimed to examine whether Scandinavian data support the theory that mortality reaches a plateau at particularly old ages. Whether the maximum length of life increases with time was also investigated. The analyses were based on individual level data on all Swedish and Danish centenarians born from 1870 to 1901; in total 3006 men and 10 963 women were included. Birth cohort-specific probabilities of dying were calculated. Exact ages were used for calculations of maximum length of life. Whether maximum age changed over time was analysed taking into account increases in cohort size. The results confirm that there has not been any improvement in mortality amongst centenarians in the past 30 years and that the current rise in life expectancy is driven by reductions in mortality below the age of 100 years. The death risks seem to reach a plateau of around 50% at the age 103 years for men and 107 years for women. Despite the rising life expectancy, the maximum age does not appear to increase, in particular after accounting for the increasing number of individuals of advanced age. Mortality amongst centenarians is not changing despite improvements at younger ages. An extension of the maximum lifespan and a sizeable extension of life expectancy both require reductions in mortality above the age of 100 years. © 2017 The Association for the Publication of the Journal of Internal Medicine.

[The maximum heart rate in the exercise test: the 220-age formula or Sheffield's table?].

PubMed

Mesquita, A; Trabulo, M; Mendes, M; Viana, J F; Seabra-Gomes, R

1996-02-01

To determine in the maximum cardiac rate in exercise test of apparently healthy individuals may be more properly estimated through 220-age formula (Astrand) or the Sheffield table. Retrospective analysis of clinical history and exercises test of apparently healthy individuals submitted to cardiac check-up. Sequential sampling of 170 healthy individuals submitted to cardiac check-up between April 1988 and September 1992. Comparison of maximum cardiac rate of individuals studied by the protocols of Bruce and modified Bruce, in interrupted exercise test by fatigue, and with the estimated values by the formulae: 220-age versus Sheffield table. The maximum cardiac heart rate is similar with both protocols. This parameter in normal individuals is better predicted by the 220-age formula. The theoretic maximum cardiac heart rate determined by 220-age formula should be recommended for a healthy, and for this reason the Sheffield table has been excluded from our clinical practice.

Thermal aging effect of vanadyl acetylacetonate precursor for deposition of VO{sub 2} thin films with thermochromic properties

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

Yu, Jung-Hoon; Nam, Sang-Hun; Kim, Donguk

Highlights: • 7 day aged VO(acac){sub 2} sol shows enhanced adhesivity on the SiO{sub 2} compared with non-aged sol. • The aging process has significantly affected the morphologies of VO{sub 2} films. • From the FT-IR spectra, thermal aging process provides the deformation of precursor. • The metal insulator transition (MIT) efficiency (ΔT{sub at2000} {sub nm}) reached a maximum value of 51% at 7 day aging. • Thermal aging process could shorten the aging time of sol solution. - Abstract: Thermochromic properties of vanadium dioxide (VO{sub 2}) have been studied extensively due to their IR reflection applications in energy smartmore » windows. In this paper, we studied the optical switching property of VO{sub 2} thin film, depending on the thermal aging time of the vanadyl acetylacetonate (VO(acac){sub 2}) precursor. We found the alteration of the IR spectra of the precursor by tuning the aging time as well as heat treatments of the precursor. An aging effect of vanadium precursor directly affects the morphologies, optical switching property and crystallinity of VO{sub 2} films. The optimum condition was achieved at the 7 day aging time with metal insulator transition (MIT) efficiency of 50%.« less

A 500 megabyte/second disk array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruwart, Thomas M.; Okeefe, Matthew T.

1994-01-01

Applications at the Army High Performance Computing Research Center's (AHPCRC) Graphic and Visualization Laboratory (GVL) at the University of Minnesota require a tremendous amount of I/O bandwidth and this appetite for data is growing. Silicon Graphics workstations are used to perform the post-processing, visualization, and animation of multi-terabyte size datasets produced by scientific simulations performed of AHPCRC supercomputers. The M.A.X. (Maximum Achievable Xfer) was designed to find the maximum achievable I/O performance of the Silicon Graphics CHALLENGE/Onyx-class machines that run these applications. Running a fully configured Onyx machine with 12-150MHz R4400 processors, 512MB of 8-way interleaved memory, 31 fast/wide SCSI-2 channel each with a Ciprico disk array controller we were able to achieve a maximum sustained transfer rate of 509.8 megabytes per second. However, after analyzing the results it became clear that the true maximum transfer rate is somewhat beyond this figure and we will need to do further testing with more disk array controllers in order to find the true maximum.

Standard values of maximum tongue pressure taken using newly developed disposable tongue pressure measurement device.

PubMed

Utanohara, Yuri; Hayashi, Ryo; Yoshikawa, Mineka; Yoshida, Mitsuyoshi; Tsuga, Kazuhiro; Akagawa, Yasumasa

2008-09-01

It is clinically important to evaluate tongue function in terms of rehabilitation of swallowing and eating ability. We have developed a disposable tongue pressure measurement device designed for clinical use. In this study we used this device to determine standard values of maximum tongue pressure in adult Japanese. Eight hundred fifty-three subjects (408 male, 445 female; 20-79 years) were selected for this study. All participants had no history of dysphagia and maintained occlusal contact in the premolar and molar regions with their own teeth. A balloon-type disposable oral probe was used to measure tongue pressure by asking subjects to compress it onto the palate for 7 s with maximum voluntary effort. Values were recorded three times for each subject, and the mean values were defined as maximum tongue pressure. Although maximum tongue pressure was higher for males than for females in the 20-49-year age groups, there was no significant difference between males and females in the 50-79-year age groups. The maximum tongue pressure of the seventies age group was significantly lower than that of the twenties to fifties age groups. It may be concluded that maximum tongue pressures were reduced with primary aging. Males may become weaker with age at a faster rate than females; however, further decreases in strength were in parallel for male and female subjects.

29 CFR 4022.23 - Computation of maximum guaranteeable benefits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Converting Temporary Additional Benefit Under Step-Down Life Annuity Age of participant 1 at the later of the... benefit payable for life commencing at age 65, the maximum guaranteeable monthly amount of such benefit... age 65 that corresponds to the later of the participant's age at the termination date or his age at...

Anatomic characteristics of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm on conventional CT scans: Implications for rupture risk.

PubMed

Fillinger, Mark F; Racusin, Jessica; Baker, Robert K; Cronenwett, Jack L; Teutelink, Arno; Schermerhorn, Marc L; Zwolak, Robert M; Powell, Richard J; Walsh, Daniel B; Rzucidlo, Eva M

2004-06-01

The purpose of this study was to analyze anatomic characteristics of patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), with conventional two-dimensional computed tomography (CT), including comparison with control subjects matched for age, gender, and size. Records were reviewed to identify all CT scans obtained at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center or referring hospitals before emergency AAA repair performed because of rupture or acute severe pain (RUP group). CT scans obtained before elective AAA repair (ELEC group) were reviewed for age and gender match with patients in the RUP group. More than 40 variables were measured on each CT scan. Aneurysm diameter matching was achieved by consecutively deleting the largest RUP scan and the smallest ELEC scan to prevent bias. CT scans were analyzed for 259 patients with AAAs: 122 RUP and 137 ELEC. Patients were well matched for age, gender, and other demographic variables or risk factors. Maximum AAA diameter was significantly different in comparisons of all patients (RUP, 6.5 +/- 2 cm vs ELEC, 5.6 +/- 1 cm; P <.0001), and mean diameter of ruptured AAAs was 5 mm smaller in female patients (6.1 +/- 2 cm vs 6.6 +/- 2 cm; P =.007). Two hundred patients were matched for diameter, gender, and age (100 from each group; maximum AAA diameter, 6.0 +/- 1 cm vs 6.0 +/- 1 cm). Analysis of diameter-matched AAAs indicated that most variables were statistically similar in the two groups, including infrarenal neck length (17 +/- 1 mm vs 19 +/- 1 mm; P =.3), maximum thrombus thickness (25 +/- 1 mm vs 23 +/- 1 mm, P =.4), and indices of body habitus, such as [(maximum AAA diameter)/(normal suprarenal aorta diameter)] or [(maximum AAA diameter)/(L3 transverse diameter)]. Multivariate analysis controlling for gender indicated that the most significant variables for rupture were aortic tortuosity (odds ratio [OR] 3.3, indicating greater risk with no or mild tortuosity), diameter asymmetry (OR, 3.2 for a 1-cm difference in major-minor axis), and current smoking (OR, 2.7, with the greater risk in current smokers). When matched for age, gender, and diameter, ruptured AAAs tend to be less tortuous, yet have greater cross-sectional diameter asymmetry. On conventional two-dimensional CT axial sections, it appears that when diameter asymmetry is associated with low aortic tortuosity, the larger diameter on axial sections more accurately reflects rupture risk, and when diameter asymmetry is associated with moderate or severe aortic tortuosity, the smaller diameter on axial sections more accurately reflects rupture risk. Current smoking is significantly associated with rupture, even when controlling for gender and AAA anatomy.

Meta-analysis for deriving age- and gender-specific dose-response relationships between urinary cadmium concentration and {beta} {sub 2}-microglobulinuria under environmental exposure

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

Gamo, Masashi; Ono, Kyoko; Nakanishi, Junko

2006-05-15

A meta-analysis was conducted to derive age- and gender-specific dose-response relationships between urinary cadmium (Cd) concentration and {beta} {sub 2}-microglobulinuria ({beta}2MG-uria) under environmental exposure. {beta}2MG-uria was defined by a cutoff point of 1000 {mu}g {beta} {sub 2}-microglobulin/g creatinine. We proposed a model for describing the relationships among the interindividual variabilities in urinary Cd concentration, the ratio of Cd concentrations in the target organ and in urine, and the threshold Cd concentration in the target organ. The parameters in the model were determined so that good agreement might be achieved between the prevalence rates of {beta}2MG-uria reported in the literature andmore » those estimated by the model. In this analysis, only the data from the literature on populations environmentally exposed to Cd were used. Using the model and estimated parameters, the prevalence rate of {beta}2MG-uria can be estimated for an age- and gender-specific subpopulation for which the distribution of urinary Cd concentrations is known. The maximum permissible level of urinary Cd concentration was defined as the maximum geometric mean of the urinary Cd concentration in an age- and gender-specific subpopulation that would not result in a statistically significant increase in the prevalence rate of {beta}2MG-uria. This was estimated to be approximately 3 {mu}g/g creatinine for a population in a small geographical area and approximately 2 {mu}g/g creatinine for a nationwide population.« less

Postpubertal urodynamic and upper urinary tract changes in children with conservatively treated myelomeningocele.

PubMed

Almodhen, Fayez; Capolicchio, Jean Paul; Jednak, Roman; El Sherbiny, Mohamed

2007-10-01

We examined the urodynamic and upper urinary tract changes in children with myelomeningocele treated conservatively through puberty at our institution between 1980 and 2006. A total of 40 patients were exclusively treated conservatively with or without anticholinergics and/or clean intermittent catheterization through puberty at our institution. The records of 37 patients (17 males and 20 females) were available for review and constituted the subject matter for our study. The neurological lesion was sacral in 4 patients, lumbosacral in 5, thoracic in 12 and lumbar in 16. Clinical evaluations, radiological imaging studies of the upper urinary tract and urodynamic studies were repeated every 6 to 12 months. Data were collected and comparisons were made with respect to prepubertal (age 10 years) and postpubertal (15) continence status, urodynamic parameters and upper urinary tract changes. Children spontaneously achieving urinary continence postpubertally were examined in a similar fashion as a separate subgroup. Continence was defined as a dry interval of 4 hours or more. Of the 26 patients with urinary incontinence before puberty 12 (2 males and 10 females, 45%, p <0.003) achieved continence following puberty. Hydronephrosis remained stable in 4 patients, improved in 3 and was new onset in 3 (p >0.05). Vesicoureteral reflux persisted in 1 patient, resolved in 4 and was new onset in 1 (p >0.05). Total cystometric bladder capacity, maximum detrusor pressure and detrusor leak point pressure all increased significantly after puberty, from 277 +/- 82 to 487 +/- 140 ml, 45 +/- 17 to 54 +/- 20 cm H(2)O and 49 +/- 16 to 59 +/- 21 cm H2O, respectively. In patients achieving urinary continence following puberty total cystometric bladder capacity increased significantly from 284 +/- 58 to 473 +/- 93 ml (p <0.005). Maximum detrusor pressure and detrusor leak point pressure showed insignificant changes after puberty, increasing from 45 +/- 11 to 47 +/- 16 cm H2O and from 46 +/- 11 to 55 +/- 21 cm H2O, respectively. This study demonstrates that total cystometric bladder capacity, maximum detrusor pressure and detrusor leak point pressure increase significantly in patients with myelomeningocele following puberty. The increase in bladder capacity could be attributed to increasing bladder outlet resistance resulting from prostate gland enlargement in males and estrogenization in females. A significant number of patients spontaneously achieve continence at puberty, and continence becomes more likely when increased total cystometric bladder capacity is not associated with an increase in maximum detrusor pressure. Finally, no significant postpubertal upper urinary tract deterioration was observed in our series.

Bone mineralization in childhood and adolescence.

PubMed

Bachrach, L K

1993-08-01

Prevention of osteoporosis depends on establishing adequate peak bone mass in the first two decades of life. Achievement of this goal requires an understanding of factors that promote skeletal health. Genetic factors are important determinants of adult bone mass, but nonheritable variables, including body mass, calcium nutriture, sex steroids, and activity can strongly influence whether maximal bone mineral is achieved. Acquisition of bone mineral continues throughout childhood and adolescence, reaching a lifetime maximum in early adulthood. Adolescence is a particularly critical time for bone mineral accretion as more than half of the bone calcium is normally laid down during the teen years. Chronic illness, malnutrition, or endocrine deficiencies at this age may result in profound deficits in bone mass, which may not be fully reversible. These risk factors contribute to the osteopenia associated with anorexia nervosa, exercise-induced amenorrhea, delayed puberty, Turner's syndrome, and growth hormone deficiency.

Evaluation of serum theophylline concentrations following administration of sustained-release beads in applesauce to asthmatic preschool children.

PubMed

Leeder, J S; Robertson, C; Correia, J; Isles, A F; Levison, H; Macleod, S M

1986-02-01

A sustained-release theophylline preparation (Theo-Dur Sprinkle) was evaluated in young asthmatic patients aged 1 to 6 years and receiving a daily dose of 23.4 +/- 2.0 mg/kg (mean +/- SD) to determine, on the basis of serial serum concentrations obtained over a 12-hour dosing interval at steady state, the suitability of such a product in patients likely to metabolize the drug very rapidly. Peak theophylline concentrations of 15.1 +/- 4.1 mg/L were achieved 5.5 +/- 1.5 hours after dosing. The mean maximum to minimum concentration difference was 6.9 +/- 2.2 mg/L for the dosing interval studied. Fluctuations in theophylline concentration less than 100% were achieved in nine of the 12 study patients. Use of the "sprinkle-technique" with Theo-Dur Sprinkle appears to be a simple and effective method of maintaining acceptable fluctuations in serum theophylline concentrations in preschool asthmatic children.

Resonantly pumped high efficiency Ho:YAG laser.

PubMed

Shen, Ying-Jie; Yao, Bao-Quan; Duan, Xiao-Ming; Dai, Tong-Yu; Ju, You-Lun; Wang, Yue-Zhu

2012-11-20

High-efficient CW and Q-switched Ho:YAG lasers resonantly dual-end-pumped by two diode-pumped Tm:YLF lasers at 1908 nm were investigated. A maximum slope efficiency of 74.8% in CW operation as well as a maximum output power of 58.7 W at 83.2 W incident pump power was achieved, which corresponded to an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 70.6%. The maximum pulse energy of 2.94 mJ was achieved, with a 31 ns FWHM pulse width and a peak power of approximately 94.7 kW.

29 CFR 4022.23 - Computation of maximum guaranteeable benefits.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Under Step-Down Life Annuity Age of participant 1 at the later of the date the temporary additional... in any manner other than as a monthly benefit payable for life commencing at age 65, the maximum... of a step-down life annuity, the maximum guaranteeable monthly amount of such benefit shall be...

Strengthening of Aluminum Alloy 2219 by Thermo-mechanical Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xifeng; Lei, Kun; Song, Peng; Liu, Xinqin; Zhang, Fei; Li, Jianfei; Chen, Jun

2015-10-01

Strengthening of aluminum alloy 2219 by thermo-mechanical treatment has been compared with artificial aging. Three simple deformation modes including pre-stretching, compression, and rolling have been used in thermo-mechanical treatment. The tensile strength, elongation, fracture feature, and precipitated phase have been investigated. The results show that the strengthening effect of thermo-mechanical treatment is better than the one of artificial aging. Especially, the yield strength significantly increases with a small decrease of elongation. When the specimen is pre-stretched to 8.0%, the yield strength reaches 385.0 MPa and increases by 22.2% in comparison to the one obtained in aging condition. The maximum tensile strength of 472.4 MPa is achieved with 4.0% thickness reduction by compression. The fracture morphology reveals locally ductile and brittle failure mechanism, while the coarse second-phase particles distribute on the fracture surface. The intermediate phases θ″ or θ' orthogonally precipitate in the matrix after thermo-mechanical treatment. As compared to artificial aging, the cold plastic deformation increases distribution homogeneity and the volume fraction of θ'' or θ' precipitates. These result in a better strengthening effect.

Beryllium-10 dating of the duration and retreat of the last pinedale glacial sequence

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

Gosse, J.C.; Klein, J.; Evenson, E.B.

Accurate terrestrial glacial chronologies are needed for comparison with the marine record to establish the dynamics of global climate change during transitions from glacial to interglacial regimes. Cosmogenic beryllium-10 measurements in the Wind River Range indicate that the last glacial maximum (marine oxygen isotope stage 2) was achieved there by 21,700 {+-} 700 beryllium-10 years and lasted 5900 years. Ages of a sequence of recessional moraines and striated bedrock surfaces show that the initial deglaciation was rapid and that the entire glacial system retreated 33 kilometers to the cirque basin by 12,100 {+-} 500 beryllium-10 years.

Optimizing any-aged management of mixed-species stands: II. effects of decision criteria

Treesearch

Robert G. Haight; Robert A. Monserud

1990-01-01

The effects of maximum present value and maximum volume objectives on the efficiencies of alternative silvicultural systems are determined by solving any-aged management problems for mixed-conifer stands in the Northern Rocky Mountains. Any-aged management problems are formulated with periodic planting and harvesting controls and without constraints on the stand age or...

Incorporating temporal and clinical reasoning in a new measure of continuity of care.

PubMed Central

Spooner, S. A.

1994-01-01

Previously described quantitative methods for measuring continuity of care have assumed that perfect continuity exists when a patient sees only one provider, regardless of the temporal pattern and clinical context of the visits. This paper describes an implementation of a new operational model of continuity--the Temporal Continuity Index--that takes into account time intervals between well visits in a pediatric residency continuity clinic. Ideal continuity in this model is achieved when intervals between visits are appropriate based on the age of the patient and clinical context of the encounters. The fundamental concept in this model is the expectation interval, which contains the length of the maximum ideal follow-up interval for a visit and the maximum follow-up interval. This paper describes an initial implementation of the TCI model and compares TCI calculations to previous quantitative methods and proposes its use as part of the assessment of resident education in outpatient settings. PMID:7950019

The maximum efficiency of nano heat engines depends on more than temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woods, Mischa; Ng, Nelly; Wehner, Stephanie

Sadi Carnot's theorem regarding the maximum efficiency of heat engines is considered to be of fundamental importance in the theory of heat engines and thermodynamics. Here, we show that at the nano and quantum scale, this law needs to be revised in the sense that more information about the bath other than its temperature is required to decide whether maximum efficiency can be achieved. In particular, we derive new fundamental limitations of the efficiency of heat engines at the nano and quantum scale that show that the Carnot efficiency can only be achieved under special circumstances, and we derive a new maximum efficiency for others. A preprint can be found here arXiv:1506.02322 [quant-ph] Singapore's MOE Tier 3A Grant & STW, Netherlands.

Trial of early aggressive therapy in polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

PubMed

Wallace, Carol A; Giannini, Edward H; Spalding, Steven J; Hashkes, Philip J; O'Neil, Kathleen M; Zeft, Andrew S; Szer, Ilona S; Ringold, Sarah; Brunner, Hermine I; Schanberg, Laura E; Sundel, Robert P; Milojevic, Diana; Punaro, Marilynn G; Chira, Peter; Gottlieb, Beth S; Higgins, Gloria C; Ilowite, Norman T; Kimura, Yukiko; Hamilton, Stephanie; Johnson, Anne; Huang, Bin; Lovell, Daniel J

2012-06-01

To determine whether aggressive treatment initiated early in the course of rheumatoid factor (RF)-positive or RF-negative polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) can induce clinical inactive disease within 6 months. Between May 2007 and October 2010, a multicenter, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 2 aggressive treatments was conducted in 85 children ages 2-16 years with polyarticular JIA of <12 months' duration. Patients received either methotrexate (MTX) 0.5 mg/kg/week (maximum 40 mg) subcutaneously, etanercept 0.8 mg/kg/week (maximum 50 mg), and prednisolone 0.5 mg/kg/day (maximum 60 mg) tapered to 0 by 17 weeks (arm 1), or MTX (same dosage as arm 1), etanercept placebo, and prednisolone placebo (arm 2). The primary outcome measure was clinical inactive disease at 6 months. An exploratory phase determined the rate of clinical remission on medication (6 months of continuous clinical inactive disease) at 12 months. By 6 months, clinical inactive disease had been achieved in 17 (40%) of 42 patients in arm 1 and 10 (23%) of 43 patients in arm 2 (χ(2) = 2.91, P = 0.088). After 12 months, clinical remission on medication was achieved in 9 patients in arm 1 and 3 patients in arm 2 (P = 0.053). There were no significant interarm differences in adverse events. Although this study did not meet its primary end point, early aggressive therapy in this cohort of children with recent-onset polyarticular JIA resulted in clinical inactive disease by 6 months and clinical remission on medication within 12 months of treatment in substantial proportions of patients in both arms. Copyright © 2012 by the American College of Rheumatology.

40 CFR 142.61 - Variances from the maximum contaminant level for fluoride.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... level for fluoride. 142.61 Section 142.61 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... from the maximum contaminant level for fluoride. (a) The Administrator, pursuant to section 1415(a)(1... means generally available for achieving compliance with the Maximum Contaminant Level for fluoride. (1...

40 CFR 142.61 - Variances from the maximum contaminant level for fluoride.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... level for fluoride. 142.61 Section 142.61 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... from the maximum contaminant level for fluoride. (a) The Administrator, pursuant to section 1415(a)(1... means generally available for achieving compliance with the Maximum Contaminant Level for fluoride. (1...

Sexual activity and aging.

PubMed

Ni Lochlainn, Mary; Kenny, Rose Anne

2013-08-01

Sexuality is an important component of emotional and physical intimacy that men and women experience throughout their lives. Research suggesting that a high proportion of men and women remain sexually active well into later life refutes the prevailing myth that aging and sexual dysfunction are inexorably linked. Age-related physiological changes do not render a meaningful sexual relationship impossible or even necessarily difficult. Many of these physiological changes are modifiable. There are various therapeutic options available to patients to achieve maximum sexual capacity in old age. This article reviews the prevalence of sexual activity among older adults, the problems these adults encounter with sexual activity, and the role of the health care professional in addressing these problems. The physiological sex-related changes that occur as part of the normal aging process in men and women are reviewed, as well as the effect of age-related physical and psychological illness on sexual function. The attitudes and perceptions of the media and general public toward sexual activity and aging are summarized. An understanding of the sexual changes that accompany the aging process may help general practitioners and other doctors to give practical and useful advice on sexuality as well as refute the misconception that aging equates to celibacy. A thorough awareness of this aspect of older people's quality of life can raise meaningful expectations for aging patients. Copyright © 2013 American Medical Directors Association, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

On the Achievable Throughput Over TVWS Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Caleffi, Marcello; Cacciapuoti, Angela Sara

2016-01-01

In this letter, we study the throughput achievable by an unlicensed sensor network operating over TV white space spectrum in presence of coexistence interference. Through the letter, we first analytically derive the achievable throughput as a function of the channel ordering. Then, we show that the problem of deriving the maximum expected throughput through exhaustive search is computationally unfeasible. Finally, we derive a computational-efficient algorithm characterized by polynomial-time complexity to compute the channel set maximizing the expected throughput and, stemming from this, we derive a closed-form expression of the maximum expected throughput. Numerical simulations validate the theoretical analysis. PMID:27043565

Maximum predictive power and the superposition principle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Summhammer, Johann

1994-01-01

In quantum physics the direct observables are probabilities of events. We ask how observed probabilities must be combined to achieve what we call maximum predictive power. According to this concept the accuracy of a prediction must only depend on the number of runs whose data serve as input for the prediction. We transform each probability to an associated variable whose uncertainty interval depends only on the amount of data and strictly decreases with it. We find that for a probability which is a function of two other probabilities maximum predictive power is achieved when linearly summing their associated variables and transforming back to a probability. This recovers the quantum mechanical superposition principle.

Effect of season and age on Indian red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus murghi) semen characteristics: A 4-year retrospective study.

PubMed

Rakha, B A; Ansari, M S; Akhter, S; Blesbois, E

2017-09-01

The reproductive potential of the adult males is expected to vary with age/season and largely differ not only in closely related avian species but even in subspecies, breeds and/or strains of the same species. Thus, it is pre-requisite to have knowledge of seminal parameters to achieve maximum production potential of at-risk species for ex situ in vitro conservation programs. A 4-year study was designed to evaluate the effect of age and season (spring, summer, autumn and winter) on semen characteristics of Indian red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus murghi) in a retrospective manner. Semen ejaculates (n = 1148) were regularly collected from eight adult cocks 6 to 54 months of age. Quantitative and qualitative semen parameters viz; volume (μL), concentration (1 × 10 9  mL -1 ), total sperm number per ejaculate (1 × 10 9  mL -1 ), motility (%), viability (%), plasma membrane integrity (%), acrosome integrity (%) and semen quality factor were recorded. A chronological increasing trend with age of most sperm quantitative and qualitative traits (semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm number per ejaculate, plasma membrane integrity, viability, acrosomal integrity and semen quality factor) was observed. The highest values were observed at four years of age (P < 0.05) with the exception of sperm motility that was not affected by the age. Spring was the best season for sperm parameters viz; volume, motility, plasma membrane integrity, viability and acrosomal integrity (P < 0.05), however a remarkable sperm production was noticed all over the year. It is concluded that Indian red jungle fowl exhibits an evolution of sperm production that greatly differs in many points from other fowl sub-species. It is suggested that semen ejaculates of highest quality achieved for semen banking at the age of four year in the spring season. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Growth dynamics of Saffron cod (Eleginus gracilis) and Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) in the Northern Bering and Chukchi Seas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helser, T.; Anderl, D.

2016-02-01

Saffron cod (Eleginus gracilis) and Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) are two circumpolar gadids that serve as critically important species responsible for energy transfer in Arctic food webs of the northern Bering and Chukchi Seas. To understand the potential effects of sea ice loss and warming temperatures on these species' basic life history, information such as growth is needed. Yet to date, limited effort has been dedicated to the study of their growth dynamics. Based on a large sample of otoliths collected in the first comprehensive ecosystem integrated survey in the northern Bering and Chukchi Seas, procedures were developed to reliably estimate age from otolith microstructure and were used to study the growth dynamics of saffron and Arctic cod. Saffron cod attained larger asymptotic sizes (L∞ = 363 mm) and achieved their maximum size at a faster rate (K = 0.378) than Arctic cod (L∞ = 209 mm; K = 0.312). For both species, regional differences in growth were found (p<0.01). Saffron cod grew to a significantly larger size at age in the northern Bering Sea when compared to the Chukchi Sea, particularly at younger ages. Arctic cod grew to smaller a asymptotic size but at faster rates in the more northerly central (L∞ = 197 mm; K = 0.324) and southern Chukchi Sea (L∞ = 221 mm; K = 0.297) when compared to the northern Bering Sea (L∞ = 266 mm; K = 0.171), suggesting a possible cline in growth rates with more northerly latitudes. A 30 year retrospective comparison of age data indicate that both species exhibited a decline is maximum size accompanied by higher instantaneous rates growth in more recent years.

Effects of smoking on heart rate at rest and during exercise, and on heart rate recovery, in young adults.

PubMed

Papathanasiou, George; Georgakopoulos, Dimitris; Papageorgiou, Effie; Zerva, Efthimia; Michalis, Lampros; Kalfakakou, Vasiliki; Evangelou, Angelos

2013-01-01

There is an established link between smoking, abnormal heart rate (HR) values, and impaired cardiovascular health in middle-aged or older populations. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of smoking on resting HR and on HR responses during and after exercise in young adults. A sample of 298 young adults (159 men), aged 20-29 years old, were selected from a large population of health-science students based on health status, body mass index, physical activity, and smoking habit. All subjects underwent a maximal Bruce treadmill test and their HR was recorded during, at peak, and after termination of exercise. Smokers had significantly higher resting HR values than non-smokers. Both female and male smokers showed a significantly slower HR increase during exercise. Female smokers failed to reach their age-predicted maximum HR by 6.0 bpm and males by 3.6 bpm. The actual maximum HR achieved (HRmax) was significantly lower for both female smokers (191.0 bpm vs.198.0 bpm) and male smokers (193.2 bpm vs.199.3 bpm), compared to non-smokers. Heart rate reserve was also significantly lower in female (114.6 bpm vs. 128.1 bpm) and male smokers (120.4 bpm vs. 133.0 bpm). During recovery, the HR decline was significantly attenuated, but only in female smokers. Females had a higher resting HR and showed a higher HR response during sub-maximal exercise compared to males. Smoking was found to affect young smokers' HR, increasing HR at rest, slowing HR increase during exercise and impairing their ability to reach the age-predicted HRmax. In addition, smoking was associated with an attenuated HR decline during recovery, but only in females.

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

Heintz, Amy M.; Risser, Steven; Elhard, Joel D.

In this invention, processes which can be used to achieve stable doped carbon nanotubes are disclosed. Preferred CNT structures and morphologies for achieving maximum doping effects are also described. Dopant formulations and methods for achieving doping of a broad distribution of tube types are also described.

The effects of age and type of carrying task on lower extremity kinematics

PubMed Central

Gillette, Jason C.; Stevermer, Catherine A.; Miller, Ross H.; Meardon, Stacey A.; Schwab, Charles V.

2009-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of age, load amount, and load symmetry on lower extremity kinematics during carrying tasks. Forty-two participants in four age groups (8-10 years, 12-14 years, 15-17 years, and adults) carried loads of 0%, 10%, and 20% body weight (BW) in large or small buckets unilaterally and bilaterally. Reflective markers were tracked to determine total joint ROM and maximum joint angles during the stance phase of walking. Maximum hip extension, hip adduction, and hip internal rotation angles were significantly greater for each of the child/adolescent age groups as compared to adults. In addition, maximum hip internal rotation angles significantly increased when carrying a 20% BW load. The observation that the 8-10 year old age group carried the lightest absolute loads and still displayed the highest maximum hip internal rotation angles suggests a particular necessity in setting carrying guidelines for the youngest children. PMID:20191410

Utilizing Maximum Power Point Trackers in Parallel to Maximize the Power Output of a Solar (Photovoltaic) Array

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

photovoltaic (PV) system to use a maximum power point tracker ( MPPT ) to increase... photovoltaic (PV) system to use a maximum power point tracker ( MPPT ) to increase the power output of the solar array. Currently, most military... MPPT ) is an optimizing circuit that is used in conjunction with photovoltaic (PV) arrays to achieve the maximum delivery of power from the array

Age and distribution of an evergreen clonal shrub in the Coweeta basin: Rhododendron maximum L

Treesearch

Katherine J. Elliott; James M. Vose

2012-01-01

Rhododendron maximum L. is an evergreen, clonal shrub that forms a dominant sub-canopy layer and is a key species in southern Appalachian forests. We investigated the age and distribution of R. maximum across the Coweeta Basin, a 1626 ha watershed in western North Carolina. We selected 16 perennial, second-order streams and used a Global Positioning System to establish...

The effects of the number of rubber bands placed at each endoscopic session upon variceal outcomes: a prospective, randomized study.

PubMed

Ramirez, Francisco C; Colon, Victor J; Landan, Derek; Grade, Andrew J; Evanich, Elizabeth

2007-07-01

To determine the role of the number of bands placed per session upon patient-related and procedural-related outcomes. Patients were assigned to receive as many bands as could be possibly placed (group 1) or up to a maximum of six bands (group 2) per session. The primary outcome measured was the number of sessions to achieve obliteration. Other outcomes measured included: rebleeding, variceal recurrence, mortality (within 6 wk and within 1 yr), complications, banding and total procedure times, and number of bands misfired. A total of 86 patients were enrolled: 45 in group 1 and 41 in group 2. The two groups had similar age, Child-Pugh scores, grade of varices at entry. The overall proportion of patients achieving obliteration was 56% (53% and 59% for groups 1 and 2, respectively). Despite receiving significantly more mean bands per session, patients in group 1 required similar (mean +/- SEM) number of sessions to obliteration (2.9 +/- 0.3 vs 3.3 +/- 0.3) and total number of bands (20.0 +/- 2.4 vs 16.6 +/- 1.8) to achieve this goal compared with group 2. The overall proportion of patients with variceal rebleeding was 25%, the 1-yr variceal recurrence 31.3%, and the overall early- and 1-yr mortality were 18.6% and 33.7%, respectively. These proportions were similar in the two groups. Banding and total procedure times were significantly longer and associated with significantly more misfired bands per session in group 1. Compared with a maximum of six bands per session, the placement of >6 bands per session was not associated with better patient outcomes but with significantly more prolonged banding and total procedure times and significantly more misfired bands.

Predicting Power Output of Upper Body using the OMNI-RES Scale.

PubMed

Bautista, Iker J; Chirosa, Ignacio J; Tamayo, Ignacio Martín; González, Andrés; Robinson, Joseph E; Chirosa, Luis J; Robertson, Robert J

2014-12-09

The main aim of this study was to determine the optimal training zone for maximum power output. This was to be achieved through estimating mean bar velocity of the concentric phase of a bench press using a prediction equation. The values for the prediction equation would be obtained using OMNI-RES scale values of different loads of the bench press exercise. Sixty males (age 23.61 2.81 year; body height 176.29 6.73 cm; body mass 73.28 4.75 kg) voluntarily participated in the study and were tested using an incremental protocol on a Smith machine to determine one repetition maximum (1RM) in the bench press exercise. A linear regression analysis produced a strong correlation (r = -0.94) between rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and mean bar velocity (Velmean). The Pearson correlation analysis between real power output (PotReal) and estimated power (PotEst) showed a strong correlation coefficient of r = 0.77, significant at a level of p = 0.01. Therefore, the OMNI-RES scale can be used to predict Velmean in the bench press exercise to control the intensity of the exercise. The positive relationship between PotReal and PotEst allowed for the identification of a maximum power-training zone.

Predicting Power Output of Upper Body using the OMNI-RES Scale

PubMed Central

Bautista, Iker J.; Chirosa, Ignacio J.; Tamayo, Ignacio Martín; González, Andrés; Robinson, Joseph E.; Chirosa, Luis J.; Robertson, Robert J.

2014-01-01

The main aim of this study was to determine the optimal training zone for maximum power output. This was to be achieved through estimating mean bar velocity of the concentric phase of a bench press using a prediction equation. The values for the prediction equation would be obtained using OMNI–RES scale values of different loads of the bench press exercise. Sixty males (age 23.61 2.81 year; body height 176.29 6.73 cm; body mass 73.28 4.75 kg) voluntarily participated in the study and were tested using an incremental protocol on a Smith machine to determine one repetition maximum (1RM) in the bench press exercise. A linear regression analysis produced a strong correlation (r = −0.94) between rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and mean bar velocity (Velmean). The Pearson correlation analysis between real power output (PotReal) and estimated power (PotEst) showed a strong correlation coefficient of r = 0.77, significant at a level of p = 0.01. Therefore, the OMNI–RES scale can be used to predict Velmean in the bench press exercise to control the intensity of the exercise. The positive relationship between PotReal and PotEst allowed for the identification of a maximum power-training zone. PMID:25713677

Topical and intravenous pilocarpine stimulated accommodation in anesthetized rhesus monkeys.

PubMed

Wendt, Mark; Glasser, Adrian

2010-05-01

Many studies have used pilocarpine to stimulate accommodation in both humans and monkeys. However, the concentrations of pilocarpine used and the methods of administration vary. In this study, three different methods of pilocarpine administration are evaluated for their effectiveness in stimulating accommodation in rhesus monkeys. Experiments were performed in 17 iridectomized, anesthetized rhesus monkeys aged 4-16 years. Maximum accommodation was stimulated in all these monkeys with a 2% pilocarpine solution maintained on the cornea for at least 30 min in a specially designed perfusion lens. In subsequent topical pilocarpine experiments, baseline refraction was measured with a Hartinger coincidence refractometer and then while the monkeys were upright and facing forward, commercially available pilocarpine (2, 4, or 6%) was applied topically to the cornea as 2 or 4 drops in two applications or 6 drops in three applications over a five minute period with the eyelids closed between applications. Alternatively, while supine, 10-12 drops of pilocarpine were maintained on the cornea in a scleral cup for 5 min. Refraction measurements were begun 5 min after the second application of pilocarpine and continued for at least 30 min after initial administration until no further change in refraction occurred. In intravenous experiments, pilocarpine was given either as boluses ranging from 0.1mg/kg to 2mg/kg or boluses followed by a constant infusion at rates between 3.06 mg/kg/h and 11.6 mg/kg/h. Constant 2% pilocarpine solution on the eye in the perfusion lens produced 10.88+/-2.73 D (mean+/-SD) of accommodation. Topically applied pilocarpine produced 3.81 D+/-2.41, 5.49 D+/-4.08, and 5.55 D+/-3.27 using 2%, 4%, and 6% solutions respectively. When expressed as a percentage of the accommodative response amplitude obtained in the same monkey with constant 2% pilocarpine solution on the eye, the responses were 34.7% for 2% pilocarpine, 48.4% for 4% pilocarpine, and 44.6% for 6% pilocarpine. Topical 4% and 6% pilocarpine achieved similar, variable accommodative responses, but neither achieved maximum accommodation. IV boluses of pilocarpine achieved near maximal levels of accommodation at least ten times faster than topical methods. Doses effective for producing maximum accommodation ranged from 0.25mg/kg to 1.0mg/kg. IV pilocarpine boluses caused an anterior movement of the anterior lens surface, a posterior movement of the posterior lens surface, and a slight net anterior movement of the entire lens. Considerable variability in response amplitude occurred and maximum accommodative amplitude was rarely achieved with topical application of a variety of concentrations of commercially available pilocarpine. Intravenous infusion of pilocarpine was a rapid and reliable method of producing a nearly maximal accommodative response and maintaining accommodation when desired. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Refractive errors and refractive development in premature infants.

PubMed

Ozdemir, O; Tunay, Z Ozen; Acar, D Erginturk; Acar, U

2015-12-01

To examine refractive errors and refractive development in premature infants. Premature infants in the retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening program were recruited and examined longitudinally between 28 and 58 weeks postmenstrual age. For performing cycloplegic retinoscopy, 1% tropicamide was administered, two drops with a 10-minute interval, in order to paralyze accommodation and to achieve cycloplegia. Birth weight, gestational age, gender and acute ROP disease were recorded. The relationship between spherical equivalent, astigmatism and postmenstrual age was evaluated. A total of 798 readings were obtained from 258 infants (131 females, 127 males) between 28 and 58 weeks postmenstrual age. The median number of examinations was 3 (minimum 1, maximum 7). In the comparisons of birth weight, gestational age, spherical equivalent and astigmatism between genders, there were no statistically significant differences (P>0.05). Gestational age (regression analysis, r(2)=0.30, P<0.01) and birth weight (regression analysis, r(2)=0.22, P<0.01) had a significant effect on refractive error development. Preterm babies with lower birth weight and those born more prematurely had lower spherical equivalent. The spherical equivalent of the eyes correlated significantly with the postmenstrual age of the infants (r=0.512, P<0.01). Infants with low gestational age and low birth weight also had low spherical equivalent. Moreover, spherical equivalent correlated with increasing postmenstrual age. However, astigmatism did not correlate with postmenstrual age and did not associate with gestational age or birth weight. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Temporal properties of the myopic response to defocus in the guinea pig.

PubMed

Leotta, Amelia J; Bowrey, Hannah E; Zeng, Guang; McFadden, Sally A

2013-05-01

Hyperopic defocus induces myopia in all species tested and is believed to underlie the progression of human myopia. We determined the temporal properties of the effects of hyperopic defocus in a mammalian eye. In Experiment 1, the rise and decay time of the responses elicited by hyperopic defocus were calculated in 111 guinea pigs by giving repeated episodes of monocular -4 D lens wear (from 5 to 6 days of age for 12 days) interspersed with various dark intervals. In Experiment 2, the decay time constant was calculated in 152 guinea pigs when repeated periods of monocular -5 D lens-wear (from 4 days of age for 7 days) were interrupted with free viewing periods of different lengths. At the end of the lens-wear period, ocular parameters were measured and time constants were calculated relative to the maximum response induced by continuous lens wear. When hyperopic defocus was experienced with dark intervals between episodes, the time required to induce 50% of the maximum achievable myopia and ocular elongation was at most 30 min. Saturated 1 h episodes took at least 22 h for refractive error and 31 h for ocular length, to decay to 50% of the maximum response. However, the decay was an order of magnitude faster when hyperopic defocus episodes were interrupted with a daily free viewing period, with only 36 min required to reduce relative myopia and ocular elongation by 50%. Hyperopic defocus causes myopia with brief exposures and is very long lasting in the absence of competing signals. However, this myopic response rapidly decays if interrupted by periods of 'normal viewing' at least 30 min in length, wherein ocular growth appears to be guided preferentially by the least amount of hyperopic defocus experienced. Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics © 2013 The College of Optometrists.

Comparison of Bruce treadmill exercise test protocols: is ramped Bruce equal or superior to standard bruce in producing clinically valid studies for patients presenting for evaluation of cardiac ischemia or arrhythmia with body mass index equal to or greater than 30?

PubMed

Bires, Angela Macci; Lawson, Dori; Wasser, Thomas E; Raber-Baer, Donna

2013-12-01

Clinically valid cardiac evaluation via treadmill stress testing requires patients to achieve specific target heart rates and to successfully complete the cardiac examination. A comparison of the standard Bruce protocol and the ramped Bruce protocol was performed using data collected over a 1-y period from a targeted patient population with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 30 to determine which treadmill protocol provided more successful examination results. The functional capacity, metabolic equivalent units achieved, pressure rate product, and total time on the treadmill as measured for the obese patients were clinically valid and comparable to normal-weight and overweight patients (P < 0.001). Data gathered from each protocol demonstrated that the usage of the ramped Bruce protocol achieved more consistent results in comparison across all BMI groups in achieving 80%-85% of their age-predicted maximum heart rate. This study did not adequately establish that the ramped Bruce protocol was superior to the standard Bruce protocol for the examination of patients with a BMI equal to or greater than 30.

Failure of nasogastric omeprazole suspension in pediatric intensive care patients.

PubMed

Haizlip, Julie A; Lugo, Ralph A; Cash, Jared J; Vernon, Donald D

2005-03-01

To determine the efficacy of nasogastric administration of omeprazole suspension in raising the gastric pH >4 in critically ill pediatric patients and to determine the most appropriate dosing regimen for this indication. Open-label pharmacodynamic study. Twenty-six bed tertiary-care pediatric intensive care unit. Mechanically ventilated children aged 1-18 yrs with an additional risk factor for stress ulcer formation. Continuous gastric pH monitoring was performed during administration and dose titration of omeprazole suspension to achieve the goal of gastric pH >4 for greater than 75% of the dosing interval. Data were collected from 18 patients. Subjects were categorized based on the pharmacologic response to nasogastric administration of 1 mg/kg omeprazole suspension (maximum 20 mg) as rapid (n = 9), late (n = 5), and nonresponders (n = 4). Rapid responders required 0.72 mg/kg per day omeprazole suspension to achieve adequate gastric pH elevation for stress ulcer prophylaxis. Late responders required 1.58 mg/kg per day. Nonresponders did not achieve adequate elevation of gastric pH for stress ulcer prophylaxis. Nasogastric administration of omeprazole suspension has variable efficacy in critically ill pediatric patients. Half of the studied subjects either required significant dose titrations to achieve gastric acid suppression or did not respond to nasogastric administration of omeprazole suspension.

Effectiveness of Resistance Circuit-Based Training for Maximum Oxygen Uptake and Upper-Body One-Repetition Maximum Improvements: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Muñoz-Martínez, Francisco Antonio; Rubio-Arias, Jacobo Á; Ramos-Campo, Domingo Jesús; Alcaraz, Pedro E

2017-12-01

It is well known that concurrent increases in both maximal strength and aerobic capacity are associated with improvements in sports performance as well as overall health. One of the most popular training methods used for achieving these objectives is resistance circuit-based training. The objective of the present systematic review with a meta-analysis was to evaluate published studies that have investigated the effects of resistance circuit-based training on maximum oxygen uptake and one-repetition maximum of the upper-body strength (bench press exercise) in healthy adults. The following electronic databases were searched from January to June 2016: PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: (1) examined healthy adults aged between 18 and 65 years; (2) met the characteristics of resistance circuit-based training; and (3) analysed the outcome variables of maximum oxygen uptake using a gas analyser and/or one-repetition maximum bench press. Of the 100 articles found from the database search and after all duplicates were removed, eight articles were analysed for maximum oxygen uptake. Of 118 healthy adults who performed resistance circuit-based training, maximum oxygen uptake was evaluated before and after the training programme. Additionally, from the 308 articles found for one-repetition maximum, eight articles were analysed. The bench press one-repetition maximum load, of 237 healthy adults who performed resistance circuit-based training, was evaluated before and after the training programme. Significant increases in maximum oxygen uptake and one-repetition maximum bench press were observed following resistance circuit-based training. Additionally, significant differences in maximum oxygen uptake and one-repetition maximum bench press were found between the resistance circuit-based training and control groups. The meta-analysis showed that resistance circuit-based training, independent of the protocol used in the studies, is effective in increasing maximum oxygen uptake and one-repetition maximum bench press in healthy adults. However, its effect appears to be larger depending on the population and training characteristics. For large effects in maximum oxygen uptake, the programme should include ~14-30 sessions for ~6-12 weeks, with each session lasting at least ~20-30 min, at intensities between ~60 and 90% one-repetition maximum. For large effects in one-repetition maximum bench press, the data indicate that intensity should be ~30-60% one-repetition maximum, with sessions lasting at least ~22.5-60 min. However, the lower participant's baseline fitness level may explain the lighter optimal loads used in the circuit training studies where greater strength gains were reported.

Netest: A Tool to Measure the Maximum Burst Size, Available Bandwidth and Achievable Throughput

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

Jin, Guojun; Tierney, Brian

2003-01-31

Distinguishing available bandwidth and achievable throughput is essential for improving network applications' performance. Achievable throughput is the throughput considering a number of factors such as network protocol, host speed, network path, and TCP buffer space, where as available bandwidth only considers the network path. Without understanding this difference, trying to improve network applications' performance is like ''blind men feeling the elephant'' [4]. In this paper, we define and distinguish bandwidth and throughput, and debate which part of each is achievable and which is available. Also, we introduce and discuss a new concept - Maximum Burst Size that is crucial tomore » the network performance and bandwidth sharing. A tool, netest, is introduced to help users to determine the available bandwidth, and provides information to achieve better throughput with fairness of sharing the available bandwidth, thus reducing misuse of the network.« less

Exercise at 65 and beyond.

PubMed

Batt, Mark E; Tanji, Jeffrey; Börjesson, Mats

2013-07-01

Aging is characterized by increasing muscle loss, physical inactivity and frailty. Physical inactivity is known to be associated with increased incidence of obesity and many life-threatening chronic conditions. We know that exercise, through many factors including antiinflammatory effects and enhanced fitness, can help prevent and treat many chronic diseases as well as help maintain independent living. We set out to demonstrate the utility of regular exercise in this potentially vulnerable age group in both the treatment and prevention of chronic diseases. The benefits, risks and recommendations for physical activity are discussed with an emphasis on practical advice for safe exercise in the context of established international guidelines. These guidelines typically state that 150 min per week of moderate aerobic intensity exercise should be achieved with some additional whole-body strength training and balance work. Individual risk assessment should be undertaken in a way to enable safe exercise participation to achieve maximum benefit with minimum risk. The risk assessment, subsequent advice and prescription for exercise should be personalized to reflect individual fitness and functional levels as well as patient safety. Newer and potentially exciting benefits of exercise are discussed in the areas of neuroscience and inflammation where data are suggesting positive effects of exercise in maintaining memory and cognition as well as having beneficial antiinflammatory effects.

Body Growth and Rapid Hematological Development Support Breath Hold of Baby Belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) during Subice Transit.

PubMed

Noren, Shawn R; Poll, Caryn P; Edwards, Matthew S

Body size and oxygen stores in the blood and muscle set breath-hold limits in marine mammals, yet these characteristics are understudied in immature cetaceans. We examined body mass and hematology from birth through adulthood in beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). At birth, body mass was 8% and 6% of the maximum mass recorded for adult females and males, respectively. Body mass then increased rapidly, approaching an asymptote around 12 yr for females and 18 yr for males. Interestingly, red blood cell counts, hemoglobin content, and hematocrit levels decreased after birth; this neonatal anemia was reversed as levels increased after 2 mo postpartum. Mature levels were obtained at approximately 8, 9, and 11 mo postpartum, respectively. Neonatal mean corpuscular hemoglobin also increased with ontogeny; mature levels were achieved by approximately 13 mo after birth. In contrast, mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration demonstrated a significant but subtle increase throughout ontogeny. Our results indicate that postnatal maturation was required and that maturation occurred far earlier than the age at weaning (i.e., 2-3 yr postpartum). This is atypical of marine mammals, which generally achieve mature hemoglobin levels at weaning. Hematological maturation before maternal independence undoubtedly supports the prolonged breath holds of young belugas transiting under sea ice. This assessment enhances our knowledge of cetacean physiology and provides important inputs for determining age-specific dive capacity, yielding insights into age-specific flexibility to alter underwater behaviors, as will be required for future regime shifts and disturbances.

Adaptive nonlinear Volterra equalizer for mitigation of chirp-induced distortions in cost effective IMDD OFDM systems.

PubMed

André, Nuno Sequeira; Habel, Kai; Louchet, Hadrien; Richter, André

2013-11-04

We report experimental validations of an adaptive 2nd order Volterra equalization scheme for cost effective IMDD OFDM systems. This equalization scheme was applied to both uplink and downlink transmission. Downlink settings were optimized for maximum bitrate where we achieved 34 Gb/s over 10 km of SSMF using an EML with 10 GHz bandwidth. For the uplink, maximum reach was optimized achieving 14 Gb/s using a low-cost DML with 2.5 GHz bandwidth.

Wear-Time Compliance with a Dual-Accelerometer System for Capturing 24-h Behavioural Profiles in Children and Adults.

PubMed

Duncan, Scott; Stewart, Tom; Mackay, Lisa; Neville, Jono; Narayanan, Anantha; Walker, Caroline; Berry, Sarah; Morton, Susan

2018-06-21

To advance the field of time-use epidemiology, a tool capable of monitoring 24 h movement behaviours including sleep, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour is needed. This study explores compliance with a novel dual-accelerometer system for capturing 24 h movement patterns in two free-living samples of children and adults. A total of 103 children aged 8 years and 83 adults aged 20-60 years were recruited. Using a combination of medical dressing and purpose-built foam pouches, participants were fitted with two Axivity AX3 accelerometers—one to the thigh and the other to the lower back—for seven 24 h periods. AX3 accelerometers contain an inbuilt skin temperature sensor that facilitates wear time estimation. The median (IQR) wear time in children was 160 (67) h and 165 (79) h (out of a maximum of 168 h) for back and thigh placement, respectively. Wear time was significantly higher and less variable in adults, with a median (IQR) for back and thigh placement of 168 (1) and 168 (0) h. A greater proportion of adults (71.6%) achieved the maximum number of complete days when compared to children (41.7%). We conclude that a dual-accelerometer protocol using skin attachment methods holds considerable promise for monitoring 24-h movement behaviours in both children and adults.

Effects of Oil Palm Shell Coarse Aggregate Species on High Strength Lightweight Concrete

PubMed Central

Yew, Ming Kun; Bin Mahmud, Hilmi; Ang, Bee Chin; Yew, Ming Chian

2014-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different species of oil palm shell (OPS) coarse aggregates on the properties of high strength lightweight concrete (HSLWC). Original and crushed OPS coarse aggregates of different species and age categories were investigated in this study. The research focused on two OPS species (dura and tenera), in which the coarse aggregates were taken from oil palm trees of the following age categories (3–5, 6–9, and 10–15 years old). The results showed that the workability and dry density of the oil palm shell concrete (OPSC) increase with an increase in age category of OPS species. The compressive strength of specimen CD3 increases significantly compared to specimen CT3 by 21.8%. The maximum achievable 28-day and 90-day compressive strength is 54 and 56 MPa, respectively, which is within the range for 10–15-year-old crushed dura OPS. The water absorption was determined to be within the range for good concrete for the different species of OPSC. In addition, the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) results showed that the OPS HSLWC attain good condition at the age of 3 days. PMID:24982946

Using State Child Labor Laws to Identify the Causal Effect of Youth Employment on Deviant Behavior and Academic Achievement

PubMed Central

Bushway, Shawn D.; Paternoster, Raymond; Brame, Robert; Sweeten, Gary

2013-01-01

On the basis of prior research findings that employed youth, and especially intensively employed youth, have higher rates of delinquent behavior and lower academic achievement, scholars have called for limits on the maximum number of hours per week that teenagers are allowed to work. We use the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 to assess the claim that employment and work hours are causally related to adolescent problem behavior. We utilize a change model with age-graded child labor laws governing the number of hours per week allowed during the school year as instrumental variables. We find that these work laws lead to additional number of hours worked by youth, which then lead to increased high school dropout but decreased delinquency. Although counterintuitive, this result is consistent with existing evidence about the effect of employment on crime for adults and the impact of dropout on youth crime. PMID:23825897

Of Mice and Men: The Benefits of Caloric Restriction, Exercise, and Mimetics

PubMed Central

Mercken, Evi M.; Carboneau, Bethany A.; Krzysik-Walker, Susan M.; de Cabo, Rafael

2012-01-01

During aging there is an increasing imbalance of energy intake and expenditure resulting in obesity, frailty, and metabolic disorders. For decades, research has shown that caloric restriction (CR) and exercise can postpone detrimental aspects of aging. These two interventions invoke a similar physiological signature involving pathways associated with stress responses and mitochondrial homeostasis. Nonetheless, CR is able to delay aging processes that result in an increase of both mean and maximum lifespan, whereas exercise primarily increases healthspan. Due to the strict dietary regime necessary to achieve the beneficial effects of CR, most studies to date have focused on rodents and non-human primates. As a consequence, there is vast interest in the development of compounds such as resveratrol, metformin and rapamycin that would activate the same metabolic- and stress-response pathways induced by these interventions without actually restricting caloric intake. Therefore the scope of this review is to (i) describe the benefits of CR and exercise in healthy individuals, (ii) discuss the role of these interventions in the diseased state, and (iii) examine some of the promising pharmacological alternatives such as CR- and exercise-mimetics. PMID:22210414

40 CFR 432.32 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... maximum monthly average limitation. 4 May be measured as hexane extractable material (HEM). (2) In... facilities must achieve the following effluent limitation for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L (ppm). (2) In the case of...

40 CFR 432.42 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... at any time. 4 No maximum monthly average limitation. 5 May be measured as hexane extractable... limitations: (1) All facilities must achieve the following effluent limitations for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulated parameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L...

40 CFR 432.32 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... maximum monthly average limitation. 4 May be measured as hexane extractable material (HEM). (2) In... facilities must achieve the following effluent limitation for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L (ppm). (2) In the case of...

40 CFR 432.42 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... at any time. 4 No maximum monthly average limitation. 5 May be measured as hexane extractable... limitations: (1) All facilities must achieve the following effluent limitations for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulated parameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L...

40 CFR 432.42 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... at any time. 4 No maximum monthly average limitation. 5 May be measured as hexane extractable... limitations: (1) All facilities must achieve the following effluent limitations for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulated parameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L...

40 CFR 432.42 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... at any time. 4 No maximum monthly average limitation. 5 May be measured as hexane extractable... limitations: (1) All facilities must achieve the following effluent limitations for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulated parameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L...

40 CFR 432.32 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... maximum monthly average limitation. 4 May be measured as hexane extractable material (HEM). (2) In... facilities must achieve the following effluent limitation for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L (ppm). (2) In the case of...

40 CFR 432.32 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... maximum monthly average limitation. 4 May be measured as hexane extractable material (HEM). (2) In... facilities must achieve the following effluent limitation for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L (ppm). (2) In the case of...

40 CFR 432.32 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... maximum monthly average limitation. 4 May be measured as hexane extractable material (HEM). (2) In... facilities must achieve the following effluent limitation for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulatedparameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L (ppm). (2) In the case of...

40 CFR 432.42 - Effluent limitations attainable by the application of the best practicable control technology...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... at any time. 4 No maximum monthly average limitation. 5 May be measured as hexane extractable... limitations: (1) All facilities must achieve the following effluent limitations for ammonia (as N): Effluent Limitations [BPT] Regulated parameter Maximum daily 1 Maximum monthly avg. 1 Ammonia (as N) 8.0 4.0 1 mg/L...

Nano-Magnets and Additive Manufacturing for Electric Motors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Misra, Ajay K.

2014-01-01

High power density is required for application of electric motors in hybrid electric propulsion. Potential path to achieve high power density in electric motors include advanced materials, lightweight thermal management, lightweight structural concepts, high power density power electronics, and advanced manufacturing. This presentation will focus on two key technologies for achieving high power density, advanced magnets and additive manufacturing. The maximum energy product in current magnets is reaching their theoretical limits as a result of material and process improvements. Future improvements in the maximum energy product for magnets can be achieved through development of nanocomposite magnets combining the hard magnetic phase and soft magnetic phase at the nanoscale level. The presentation will provide an overview of the current state of development for nanocomposite magnets and the future path for doubling the maximum energy product. The other part of the presentation will focus on the role of additive manufacturing in fabrication of high power density electric motors. The presentation will highlight the potential opportunities for applying additive manufacturing to fabricate electric motors.

About an Extreme Achievable Current in Plasma Focus Installation of Mather Type

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

Nikulin, V. Ya.; Polukhin, S. N.; Vikhrev, V. V.

A computer simulation and analytical analysis of the discharge process in Plasma Focus has shown that there is an upper limit to the current which can be achieved in Plasma Focus installation of Mather type by only increasing the capacity of the condenser bank. The maximum current achieved for various plasma focus installations of 1 MJ level is discussed. For example, for the PF-1000 (IFPiLM) and 1 MJ Frascati PF, the maximum current is near 2 MA. Thus, the commonly used method of increasing the energy of the PF installation by increasing of the capacity has no merit. Alternative optionsmore » in order to increase the current are discussed.« less

40 CFR 430.94 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.94 Section 430.94 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... reduction attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT... economically achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass...

40 CFR 410.63 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.63 Section 410.63 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 410.13 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.13 Section 410.13 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 410.13 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.13 Section 410.13 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 410.13 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.13 Section 410.13 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 410.13 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.13 Section 410.13 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 410.63 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.63 Section 410.63 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 410.63 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.63 Section 410.63 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 430.94 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.94 Section 430.94 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... reduction attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT... economically achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass...

40 CFR 410.63 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.63 Section 410.63 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... technology economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitations Maximum for any 1...

Predictive equations for respiratory muscle strength according to international and Brazilian guidelines.

PubMed

Pessoa, Isabela M B S; Houri Neto, Miguel; Montemezzo, Dayane; Silva, Luisa A M; Andrade, Armèle Dornelas De; Parreira, Verônica F

2014-01-01

The maximum static respiratory pressures, namely the maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), reflect the strength of the respiratory muscles. These measures are simple, non-invasive, and have established diagnostic and prognostic value. This study is the first to examine the maximum respiratory pressures within the Brazilian population according to the recommendations proposed by the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) and the Brazilian Thoracic Association (SBPT). To establish reference equations, mean values, and lower limits of normality for MIP and MEP for each age group and sex, as recommended by the ATS/ERS and SBPT. We recruited 134 Brazilians living in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil, aged 20-89 years, with a normal pulmonary function test and a body mass index within the normal range. We used a digital manometer that operationalized the variable maximum average pressure (MIP/MEP). At least five tests were performed for both MIP and MEP to take into account a possible learning effect. We evaluated 74 women and 60 men. The equations were as follows: MIP=63.27-0.55 (age)+17.96 (gender)+0.58 (weight), r(2) of 34% and MEP= - 61.41+2.29 (age) - 0.03(age(2))+33.72 (gender)+1.40 (waist), r(2) of 49%. In clinical practice, these equations could be used to calculate the predicted values of MIP and MEP for the Brazilian population.

Expected benefits of federally-funded thermal energy storage research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spanner, G. E.; Daellenbach, K. K.; Hughes, K. R.; Brown, D. R.; Drost, M. K.

1992-09-01

Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) conducted this study for the Office of Advanced Utility Concepts of the US Department of Energy (DOE). The objective of this study was to develop a series of graphs that depict the long-term benefits of continuing DOE's thermal energy storage (TES) research program in four sectors: building heating, building cooling, utility power production, and transportation. The study was conducted in three steps. The first step was to assess the maximum possible benefits technically achievable in each sector. In some sectors, the maximum benefit was determined by a 'supply side' limitation, and in other sectors, the maximum benefit is determined by a 'demand side' limitation. The second step was to apply economic cost and diffusion models to estimate the benefits that are likely to be achieved by TES under two scenarios: (1) with continuing DOE funding of TES research; and (2) without continued funding. The models all cover the 20-year period from 1990 to 2010. The third step was to prepare graphs that show the maximum technical benefits achievable, the estimated benefits with TES research funding, and the estimated benefits in the absence of TES research funding. The benefits of federally-funded TES research are largely in four areas: displacement of primary energy, displacement of oil and natural gas, reduction in peak electric loads, and emissions reductions.

Extreme maternal education and preterm birth: time-to-event analysis of age and nativity-dependent risks.

PubMed

Auger, Nathalie; Abrahamowicz, Michal; Park, Alison L; Wynant, Willy

2013-01-01

Increasing numbers of women achieve extremely high education, but the association with preterm birth (PTB) is poorly understood, especially over the life course. We sought to determine how very high educational attainment is associated with PTB, and to assess differences by maternal age and nativity. Data included singleton live births to mothers aged ≥ 20 years in metropolitan areas of Québec, Canada, from 1995 to 2005 (n = 537,525). Hazard ratios of PTB (<37 gestational weeks) were estimated over the continuous range of education (0-30 years) according to maternal age (20-24, 25-29, 30-34, ≥ 35 years) and nativity in a flexible survival model. The relationship between education and PTB was not linear, but suggested that extremely high education was not as protective against PTB as slightly lower education. Education thresholds that offered maximum protection increased with maternal age, and were lower for Canadian-born (17-21 years of education) than foreign-born (22-25 years of education) mothers. Extremely high education did not confer more protection against PTB than slightly lower education, and associations varied over the life course. The threshold number of years of education most protective against PTB: (1) increased with maternal age, especially for Canadian-born mothers, and (2) was higher for foreign-born mothers. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A general methodology for maximum likelihood inference from band-recovery data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Conroy, M.J.; Williams, B.K.

1984-01-01

A numerical procedure is described for obtaining maximum likelihood estimates and associated maximum likelihood inference from band- recovery data. The method is used to illustrate previously developed one-age-class band-recovery models, and is extended to new models, including the analysis with a covariate for survival rates and variable-time-period recovery models. Extensions to R-age-class band- recovery, mark-recapture models, and twice-yearly marking are discussed. A FORTRAN program provides computations for these models.

Optical ages indicate the southwestern margin of the Green Bay Lobe in Wisconsin, USA, was at its maximum extent until about 18,500 years ago

USGS Publications Warehouse

Attig, J.W.; Hanson, P.R.; Rawling, J.E.; Young, A.R.; Carson, E.C.

2011-01-01

Samples for optical dating were collected to estimate the time of sediment deposition in small ice-marginal lakes in the Baraboo Hills of Wisconsin. These lakes formed high in the Baraboo Hills when drainage was blocked by the Green Bay Lobe when it was at or very near its maximum extent. Therefore, these optical ages provide control for the timing of the thinning and recession of the Green Bay Lobe from its maximum position. Sediment that accumulated in four small ice-marginal lakes was sampled and dated. Difficulties with field sampling and estimating dose rates made the interpretation of optical ages derived from samples from two of the lake basins problematic. Samples from the other two lake basins-South Bluff and Feltz basins-responded well during laboratory analysis and showed reasonably good agreement between the multiple ages produced at each site. These ages averaged 18.2. ka (n= 6) and 18.6. ka (n= 6), respectively. The optical ages from these two lake basins where we could carefully select sediment samples provide firm evidence that the Green Bay Lobe stood at or very near its maximum extent until about 18.5. ka.The persistence of ice-marginal lakes in these basins high in the Baraboo Hills indicates that the ice of the Green Bay Lobe had not experienced significant thinning near its margin prior to about 18.5. ka. These ages are the first to directly constrain the timing of the maximum extent of the Green Bay Lobe and the onset of deglaciation in the area for which the Wisconsin Glaciation was named. ?? 2011 Elsevier B.V.

Botanical Evidence of the Modern History of Nisqually Glacier, Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sigafoos, Robert S.; Hendricks, E.L.

1961-01-01

A knowledge of the areas once occupied by mountain glaciers reveals at least part of the past behavior of these glaciers. From this behavior, inferences of past climate can be drawn. The maximum advance of Nisqually Glacier in the last thousand years was located, and retreat from this point is believed to have started about 1840. The maximum downvalley position of the glacier is marked by either a prominent moraine or by a line of difference between stands of trees of strikingly different size and significantly different age. The thousand-year age of the forest beyond the moraine or line between abutting stands represents the minimum time since the surface was glaciated. This age is based on the age of the oldest trees, plus an estimated interval required for the formation of humus, plus evidence of an ancient fire, plus an interval of deposition of pyroclastics. The estimate of the date when Nisqually Glacier began to retreat from its maximum advance is based upon the ages of the oldest trees plus an interval of 5 years estimated as the time required for the establishment of trees on stable moraines. This interval was derived from a study of the ages of trees growing at locations of known past positions of the glacier. Reconnaissance studies were made on moraines formed by Emmons and Tahoma Glaciers. Preliminary analyses of these data suggest that Emmons Glacier started to recede from its maximum advance in about 1745. Two other upvalley moraines mark positions from which recession started about 1849 and 1896. Ages of trees near Tahoma Glacier indicate that it started to recede from its position of maximum advance in about 1635. About 1835 Tahoma Glacier started to recede again from another moraine formed by a readvance that ter minated near the 1635 position.

Even one star at A level could be "too little, too late" for medical student selection

PubMed Central

McManus, Chris; Woolf, Katherine; Dacre, Jane E

2008-01-01

Background More and more medical school applicants in England and Wales are gaining the maximum grade at A level of AAA, and the UK Government has now agreed to pilot the introduction of a new A* grade. This study assessed the likely utility of additional grades of A* or of A**. Methods Statistical analysis of university selection data collected by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), consisting of data from 1,484,650 applicants to UCAS for the years 2003, 2004 and 2005, of whom 23,628 were medical school applicants, and of these 14,510 were medical school entrants from the UK, aged under 21, and with three or four A level results. The main outcome measure was the number of points scored by applicants in their best three A level subjects. Results Censored normal distributions showed a good fit to the data using maximum likelihood modelling. If it were the case that A* grades had already been introduced, then at present about 11% of medical school applicants and 18% of entrants would achieve the maximum score of 3 A*s. Projections for the years 2010, 2015 and 2020 suggest that about 26%, 35% and 46% of medical school entrants would have 3 A* grades. Conclusion Although A* grades at A level will help in medical student selection, within a decade, a third of medical students will gain maximum grades. While revising the A level system there is a strong argument, as proposed in the Tomlinson Report, for introducing an A** grade. PMID:18394196

40 CFR 410.23 - Effluent limitation representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.23 Section 410.23 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30 through 125.32... economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitation Maximum for any 1 day Average of...

40 CFR 410.23 - Effluent limitation representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.23 Section 410.23 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30 through 125.32... economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitation Maximum for any 1 day Average of...

40 CFR 430.34 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.34 Section 430.34 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 430.64 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.64 Section 430.64 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 430.14 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.14 Section 430.14 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 430.34 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.34 Section 430.34 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 410.23 - Effluent limitation representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.23 Section 410.23 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30 through 125.32... economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitation Maximum for any 1 day Average of...

40 CFR 410.23 - Effluent limitation representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 410.23 Section 410.23 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30 through 125.32... economically achievable (BAT): Pollutant or pollutant property BAT limitation Maximum for any 1 day Average of...

40 CFR 430.44 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.44 Section 430.44 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 430.64 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.64 Section 430.64 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 430.14 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.14 Section 430.14 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

40 CFR 430.44 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.44 Section 430.44 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... attainable by the application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as... achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass limitations in kg...

Evaluating paper degradation progress. Cross-linking between chromatographic, spectroscopic and chemical results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Łojewski, Tomasz; Zięba, Katarzyna; Knapik, Arkadiusz; Bagniuk, Jacek; Lubańska, Anna; Łojewska, Joanna

2010-09-01

The study presents an overview of the chromatographic (SEC), spectroscopic (FTIR, UV/VIS), viscometric (DP) and chemical methods (titration, pH) used for the evaluation of the degradation progress of various kinds of paper under various conditions. The methods were chosen to follow different routes of paper degradation. Model paper samples represented boundary paper types from pure cellulose cotton paper, through softwood to low quality acidic, sized groundwood paper The accelerated ageing conditions were adjusted to achieve maximum effect (climatic chamber RH 59%, 90oC) and also to mimic the environment inside books (closed vials). The results were settled on the literature data on the degradation mechanisms and compared in terms of the paper types and ageing conditions. The estimators of coupled de-polymerisation and oxidation have been proposed based on the correlation between SEC, UV/VIS and titrative coppper number determination. The overall oxidation index derived from FTIR results was shown to correlate with the summary -CHO and -COOH concentration determined by titrative methods.

Improved Drain Current Saturation and Voltage Gain in Graphene-on-Silicon Field Effect Transistors.

PubMed

Song, Seung Min; Bong, Jae Hoon; Hwang, Wan Sik; Cho, Byung Jin

2016-05-04

Graphene devices for radio frequency (RF) applications are of great interest due to their excellent carrier mobility and saturation velocity. However, the insufficient current saturation in graphene field effect transistors (FETs) is a barrier preventing enhancements of the maximum oscillation frequency and voltage gain, both of which should be improved for RF transistors. Achieving a high output resistance is therefore a crucial step for graphene to be utilized in RF applications. In the present study, we report high output resistances and voltage gains in graphene-on-silicon (GoS) FETs. This is achieved by utilizing bare silicon as a supporting substrate without an insulating layer under the graphene. The GoSFETs exhibit a maximum output resistance of 2.5 MΩ∙μm, maximum intrinsic voltage gain of 28 dB, and maximum voltage gain of 9 dB. This method opens a new route to overcome the limitations of conventional graphene-on-insulator (GoI) FETs and subsequently brings graphene electronics closer to practical usage.

An electronic portfolio for quantitative assessment of surgical skills in undergraduate medical education.

PubMed

Sánchez Gómez, Serafín; Ostos, Elisa María Cabot; Solano, Juan Manuel Maza; Salado, Tomás Francisco Herrero

2013-05-06

We evaluated a newly designed electronic portfolio (e-Portfolio) that provided quantitative evaluation of surgical skills. Medical students at the University of Seville used the e-Portfolio on a voluntary basis for evaluation of their performance in undergraduate surgical subjects. Our new web-based e-Portfolio was designed to evaluate surgical practical knowledge and skills targets. Students recorded each activity on a form, attached evidence, and added their reflections. Students self-assessed their practical knowledge using qualitative criteria (yes/no), and graded their skills according to complexity (basic/advanced) and participation (observer/assistant/independent). A numerical value was assigned to each activity, and the values of all activities were summated to obtain the total score. The application automatically displayed quantitative feedback. We performed qualitative evaluation of the perceived usefulness of the e-Portfolio and quantitative evaluation of the targets achieved. Thirty-seven of 112 students (33%) used the e-Portfolio, of which 87% reported that they understood the methodology of the portfolio. All students reported an improved understanding of their learning objectives resulting from the numerical visualization of progress, all students reported that the quantitative feedback encouraged their learning, and 79% of students felt that their teachers were more available because they were using the e-Portfolio. Only 51.3% of students reported that the reflective aspects of learning were useful. Individual students achieved a maximum of 65% of the total targets and 87% of the skills targets. The mean total score was 345 ± 38 points. For basic skills, 92% of students achieved the maximum score for participation as an independent operator, and all achieved the maximum scores for participation as an observer and assistant. For complex skills, 62% of students achieved the maximum score for participation as an independent operator, and 98% achieved the maximum scores for participation as an observer or assistant. Medical students reported that use of an electronic portfolio that provided quantitative feedback on their progress was useful when the number and complexity of targets were appropriate, but not when the portfolio offered only formative evaluations based on reflection. Students felt that use of the e-Portfolio guided their learning process by indicating knowledge gaps to themselves and teachers.

The Benefits of Leisure Stress.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mitchell, Jr., Richard G.

1982-01-01

Leisure bereft of all stress is action without purpose. Maximum motivation and gratification are achieved when a balance is achieved between abilities and responsibilities. Stress is an essential leisure ingredient that provides meaning and clarity to social experience. (CJ)

Component Prioritization Schema for Achieving Maximum Time and Cost Benefits from Software Testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, Praveen Ranjan; Pareek, Deepak

Software testing is any activity aimed at evaluating an attribute or capability of a program or system and determining that it meets its required results. Defining the end of software testing represents crucial features of any software development project. A premature release will involve risks like undetected bugs, cost of fixing faults later, and discontented customers. Any software organization would want to achieve maximum possible benefits from software testing with minimum resources. Testing time and cost need to be optimized for achieving a competitive edge in the market. In this paper, we propose a schema, called the Component Prioritization Schema (CPS), to achieve an effective and uniform prioritization of the software components. This schema serves as an extension to the Non Homogenous Poisson Process based Cumulative Priority Model. We also introduce an approach for handling time-intensive versus cost-intensive projects.

Impact of sunlight on the age of onset of bipolar disorder

PubMed Central

Bauer, Michael; Glenn, Tasha; Alda, Martin; Andreassen, Ole A; Ardau, Raffaella; Bellivier, Frank; Berk, Michael; Bjella, Thomas D; Bossini, Letizia; Zompo, Maria Del; Dodd, Seetal; Fagiolini, Andrea; Frye, Mark A; Gonzalez-Pinto, Ana; Henry, Chantal; Kapczinski, Flávio; Kliwicki, Sebastian; König, Barbara; Kunz, Mauricio; Lafer, Beny; Lopez-Jaramillo, Carlos; Manchia, Mirko; Marsh, Wendy; Martinez-Cengotitabengoa, Mónica; Melle, Ingrid; Morken, Gunnar; Munoz, Rodrigo; Nery, Fabiano G; O’Donovan, Claire; Pfennig, Andrea; Quiroz, Danilo; Rasgon, Natalie; Reif, Andreas; Rybakowski, Janusz; Sagduyu, Kemal; Simhandl, Christian; Torrent, Carla; Vieta, Eduard; Zetin, Mark; Whybrow, Peter C

2012-01-01

Objective Although bipolar disorder has high heritability, the onset occurs during several decades of life, suggesting that social and environmental factors may have considerable influence on disease onset. This study examined the association between the age of onset and sunlight at the location of onset. Method Data were obtained from 2414 patients with a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder, according to DSM-IV criteria. Data were collected at 24 sites in 13 countries spanning latitudes 6.3 to 63.4 degrees from the equator, including data from both hemispheres. The age of onset and location of onset were obtained retrospectively, from patient records and/or direct interviews. Solar insolation data, or the amount of electromagnetic energy striking the surface of the earth, were obtained from the NASA Surface Meteorology and Solar Energy (SSE) database for each location of onset. Results The larger the maximum monthly increase in solar insolation at the location of onset, the younger the age of onset (coefficient= −4.724, 95% CI: −8.124 to −1.323, p = 0.006), controlling for each country’s median age. The maximum monthly increase in solar insolation occurred in springtime. No relationships were found between the age of onset and latitude, yearly total solar insolation, and the maximum monthly decrease in solar insolation. The largest maximum monthly increases in solar insolation occurred in diverse environments, including Norway, arid areas in California, and Chile. Conclusion The large maximum monthly increase in sunlight in springtime may have an important influence on the onset of bipolar disorder. PMID:22612720

Effects of load on ground reaction force and lower limb kinematics during concentric squats.

PubMed

Kellis, Eleftherios; Arambatzi, Fotini; Papadopoulos, Christos

2005-10-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of external load on vertical ground reaction force, and linear and angular kinematics, during squats. Eight males aged 22.1 +/- 0.8 years performed maximal concentric squats using loads ranging from 7 to 70% of one-repetition maximum on a force plate while linear barbell velocity and the angular kinematics of the hip, knee and ankle were recorded. Maximum, average and angle-specific values were recorded. The ground reaction force ranged from 1.67 +/- 0.20 to 3.21 +/- 0.29 times body weight and increased significantly as external load increased (P < 0.05). Bar linear velocity ranged from 0.54 +/- 0.11 to 2.50 +/- 0.50 m x s(-1) and decreased significantly with increasing external load (P < 0.05). Hip, knee and ankle angles at maximum ground reaction force were affected by external load (P < 0.05). The force-barbell velocity curves were fitted using linear models with coefficients (r2) ranging from 0.59 to 0.96. The results suggest that maximal force exertion during squat exercises is not achieved at the same position of the lower body as external load is increased. In contrast, joint velocity coordination does not change as load is increased. The force-velocity relationship was linear and independent from the set of data used for its determination.

Growth dynamics of saffron cod (Eleginus gracilis) and Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) in the Northern Bering and Chukchi Seas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helser, Thomas E.; Colman, Jamie R.; Anderl, Delsa M.; Kastelle, Craig R.

2017-01-01

Saffron cod (Eleginus gracilis) and Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) are two circumpolar gadids that serve as critically important species responsible for energy transfer in Arctic food webs of the northern Bering and Chukchi Seas. To understand the potential effects of sea ice loss and warming temperatures on these species' basic life history, information such as growth is needed. Yet to date, limited effort has been dedicated to the study of their growth dynamics. Based on a large sample of otoliths collected in the first comprehensive ecosystem integrated survey in the northern Bering and Chukchi Seas, procedures were developed to reliably estimate age from otolith growth zones and were used to study the growth dynamics of saffron and Arctic cod. Annual growth zone assignment was validated using oxygen isotope signatures in otoliths and otolith morphology analyzed and compared between species. Saffron cod attained larger asymptotic sizes (L∞=363 mm) and achieved their maximum size at a faster rate (K=0.378) than Arctic cod (L∞=209 mm; K=0.312). For both species, regional differences in growth were found (p<0.01). Saffron cod grew to a significantly larger size at age in the northern Bering Sea when compared to the Chukchi Sea, particularly at younger ages. Arctic cod grew to smaller asymptotic size but at faster rates in the more northerly central (L∞=197 mm;K=0.324) and southern Chukchi Sea (L∞=221 mm;K=0.297) when compared to the northern Bering Sea (L∞=266 mm;K=0.171), suggesting a possible cline in growth rates with more northerly latitudes. Comparison of growth to two periods separated by 30 years indicate that both species exhibited a decline in maximum size accompanied by higher instantaneous growth rates in more recent years.

Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPV) Stress Rupture Test: Part 2. Part 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, Richard; Flynn, Howard; Forth, Scott; Greene, Nathanael; Kezirian, Michael; Varanauski, Don; Leifeste, Mark; Yoder, Tommy; Woodworth, Warren

2010-01-01

One of the major concerns for the aging Space Shuttle fleet is the stress rupture life of composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs). Stress rupture life of a COPY has been defined as the minimum time during which the composite maintains structural integrity considering the combined effects of stress levels and time. To assist in the evaluation of the aging COPVs in the Orbiter fleet an analytical reliability model was developed. The actual data used to construct this model was from testing of COPVs constructed of similar, but not exactly same materials and pressure cycles as used on Orbiter vessels. Since no actual Orbiter COPV stress rupture data exists the Space Shuttle Program decided to run a stress rupture test to compare to model predictions. Due to availability of spares, the testing was unfortunately limited to one 40" vessel. The stress rupture test was performed at maximum operating pressure at an elevated temperature to accelerate aging. The test was performed in two phases. The first phase, 130 F, a moderately accelerated test designed to achieve the midpoint of the model predicted point reliability. A more aggressive second phase, performed at 160 F, was designed to determine if the test article will exceed the 95% confidence interval ofthe model. In phase 3, the vessel pressure was increased to above maximum operating pressure while maintaining the phase 2 temperature. After reaching enough effectives hours to reach the 99.99% confidence level of the model phase 4 testing began when the temperature was increased to greater than 170 F. The vessel was maintained at phase 4 conditions until it failed after over 3 million effect hours. This paper will discuss the results of this test, it's implications and possible follow-on testing.

Efficient estimation of the maximum metabolic productivity of batch systems.

PubMed

St John, Peter C; Crowley, Michael F; Bomble, Yannick J

2017-01-01

Production of chemicals from engineered organisms in a batch culture involves an inherent trade-off between productivity, yield, and titer. Existing strategies for strain design typically focus on designing mutations that achieve the highest yield possible while maintaining growth viability. While these methods are computationally tractable, an optimum productivity could be achieved by a dynamic strategy in which the intracellular division of resources is permitted to change with time. New methods for the design and implementation of dynamic microbial processes, both computational and experimental, have therefore been explored to maximize productivity. However, solving for the optimal metabolic behavior under the assumption that all fluxes in the cell are free to vary is a challenging numerical task. Previous studies have therefore typically focused on simpler strategies that are more feasible to implement in practice, such as the time-dependent control of a single flux or control variable. This work presents an efficient method for the calculation of a maximum theoretical productivity of a batch culture system using a dynamic optimization framework. The proposed method follows traditional assumptions of dynamic flux balance analysis: first, that internal metabolite fluxes are governed by a pseudo-steady state, and secondly that external metabolite fluxes are dynamically bounded. The optimization is achieved via collocation on finite elements, and accounts explicitly for an arbitrary number of flux changes. The method can be further extended to calculate the complete Pareto surface of productivity as a function of yield. We apply this method to succinate production in two engineered microbial hosts, Escherichia coli and Actinobacillus succinogenes , and demonstrate that maximum productivities can be more than doubled under dynamic control regimes. The maximum theoretical yield is a measure that is well established in the metabolic engineering literature and whose use helps guide strain and pathway selection. We present a robust, efficient method to calculate the maximum theoretical productivity: a metric that will similarly help guide and evaluate the development of dynamic microbial bioconversions. Our results demonstrate that nearly optimal yields and productivities can be achieved with only two discrete flux stages, indicating that near-theoretical productivities might be achievable in practice.

A Maximum Muscle Strength Prediction Formula Using Theoretical Grade 3 Muscle Strength Value in Daniels et al.'s Manual Muscle Test, in Consideration of Age: An Investigation of Hip and Knee Joint Flexion and Extension.

PubMed

Usa, Hideyuki; Matsumura, Masashi; Ichikawa, Kazuna; Takei, Hitoshi

2017-01-01

This study attempted to develop a formula for predicting maximum muscle strength value for young, middle-aged, and elderly adults using theoretical Grade 3 muscle strength value (moment fair: M f )-the static muscular moment to support a limb segment against gravity-from the manual muscle test by Daniels et al. A total of 130 healthy Japanese individuals divided by age group performed isometric muscle contractions at maximum effort for various movements of hip joint flexion and extension and knee joint flexion and extension, and the accompanying resisting force was measured and maximum muscle strength value (moment max, M m ) was calculated. Body weight and limb segment length (thigh and lower leg length) were measured, and M f was calculated using anthropometric measures and theoretical calculation. There was a linear correlation between M f and M m in each of the four movement types in all groups, excepting knee flexion in elderly. However, the formula for predicting maximum muscle strength was not sufficiently compatible in middle-aged and elderly adults, suggesting that the formula obtained in this study is applicable in young adults only.

A Maximum Muscle Strength Prediction Formula Using Theoretical Grade 3 Muscle Strength Value in Daniels et al.'s Manual Muscle Test, in Consideration of Age: An Investigation of Hip and Knee Joint Flexion and Extension

PubMed Central

Matsumura, Masashi; Ichikawa, Kazuna; Takei, Hitoshi

2017-01-01

This study attempted to develop a formula for predicting maximum muscle strength value for young, middle-aged, and elderly adults using theoretical Grade 3 muscle strength value (moment fair: Mf)—the static muscular moment to support a limb segment against gravity—from the manual muscle test by Daniels et al. A total of 130 healthy Japanese individuals divided by age group performed isometric muscle contractions at maximum effort for various movements of hip joint flexion and extension and knee joint flexion and extension, and the accompanying resisting force was measured and maximum muscle strength value (moment max, Mm) was calculated. Body weight and limb segment length (thigh and lower leg length) were measured, and Mf was calculated using anthropometric measures and theoretical calculation. There was a linear correlation between Mf and Mm in each of the four movement types in all groups, excepting knee flexion in elderly. However, the formula for predicting maximum muscle strength was not sufficiently compatible in middle-aged and elderly adults, suggesting that the formula obtained in this study is applicable in young adults only. PMID:28133549

Associations between reading achievement and independent reading in early elementary school: A genetically-informative cross-lagged study

PubMed Central

Harlaar, Nicole; Deater-Deckard, Kirby; Thompson, Lee A.; DeThorne, Laura S.; Petrill, Stephen A.

2013-01-01

This study used a cross-lagged twin design to examine reading achievement and independent reading from 10 to 11 years (n = 436 twin pairs). Reading achievement at age 10 significantly predicted independent reading at age 11. The alternative path, from independent reading at age 10 to reading achievement at age 11, was not significant. Individual differences in reading achievement and independent reading at both ages were primarily due to genetic influences. Furthermore, individual differences in independent reading at age 11 partly reflected genetic influences on reading achievement at age 10. These findings suggest that genetic influences that contribute to individual differences in children’s reading abilities also influence the extent to which children actively seek out and create opportunities to read. PMID:22026450

STS propellant densification feasibility study data book

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fazah, M. M.

1994-01-01

The feasibility of using densification or subcooling with respect to standard temperature propellants on the Space Transportation System (STS) in order to achieve a payload gain is discussed in this report. The objective is to determine the magnitude of the payload gain and to identify any system impacts to the space shuttle on either flight systems or ground systems. Results show that a payload benefit can be obtained by subcooling the liquid hydrogen (LH2) from a nominal temperature of 36.4 R to 28.5 R and by subcooling the liquid oxygen (LO2) from a nominal temperature of 164 R to either 132.1 R or 141.4 R. When the propellants are subcooled to 28.5 R and 132.1 R for the LH2 and LO2, respectively, a maximum payload gain of 7,324 lb can be achieved, and when the propellants are subcooled to 28.5 R and 141.5 R for the LH2 and LO2, respectively, a maximum payload gain of 6,841 lb can be achieved. If the LH2 is subcooled to 28.5 R while the LH2 and LO2 remains at the nominal conditions, a maximum payload gain of 1,303 lb can be achieved.

40 CFR 421.294 - Standards of performance for new sources.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...) EFFLUENT GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS NONFERROUS METALS MANUFACTURING POINT SOURCE CATEGORY Secondary Tin... achieve the following new source performance standards: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. NSPS for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum for monthly average...

40 CFR 421.294 - Standards of performance for new sources.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

...) EFFLUENT GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS NONFERROUS METALS MANUFACTURING POINT SOURCE CATEGORY Secondary Tin... achieve the following new source performance standards: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. NSPS for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum for monthly average...

40 CFR 421.294 - Standards of performance for new sources.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...) EFFLUENT GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS NONFERROUS METALS MANUFACTURING POINT SOURCE CATEGORY Secondary Tin... achieve the following new source performance standards: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. NSPS for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum for monthly average...

40 CFR 421.294 - Standards of performance for new sources.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) EFFLUENT GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS NONFERROUS METALS MANUFACTURING POINT SOURCE CATEGORY Secondary Tin... achieve the following new source performance standards: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. NSPS for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum for monthly average...

40 CFR 421.294 - Standards of performance for new sources.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

...) EFFLUENT GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS NONFERROUS METALS MANUFACTURING POINT SOURCE CATEGORY Secondary Tin... achieve the following new source performance standards: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. NSPS for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum for monthly average...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

48 CFR 252.217-7001 - Surge option.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... sustainable rate of delivery for items in this contract. This delivery schedule shall provide acceleration by month up to the maximum sustainable rate of delivery achievable within the Contractor's existing... than the maximum sustainable delivery rate under paragraph (b)(2) of this clause, nor will the exercise...

A phase III, open-label, single-arm study of tenecteplase for restoration of function in dysfunctional central venous catheters.

PubMed

Tebbi, Cameron; Costanzi, John; Shulman, Robert; Dreisbach, Luke; Jacobs, Brian R; Blaney, Martha; Ashby, Mark; Gillespie, Barbara S; Begelman, Susan M

2011-08-01

To evaluate, in a phase III, single-arm study, the safety and efficacy of the thrombolytic agent tenecteplase in restoring function to dysfunctional central venous catheters (CVCs). Pediatric and adult patients with dysfunctional CVCs were eligible to receive as much as 2 mL (2 mg) of intraluminal tenecteplase, which was left to dwell in the CVC lumen for a maximum of 120 minutes. If CVC function was not restored at 120 minutes, a second dose was instilled for an additional 120 minutes. Tenecteplase was administered to 246 patients. Mean patient age was 44 years (range, 0-92 y); 72 patients (29%) were younger than 17 years of age. Chemotherapy was the most common reason for catheter insertion. Restoration of CVC function was achieved in 177 patients (72%) within 120 minutes after the first dose. After instillation of a maximum of two doses of tenecteplase, CVC function was restored in 200 patients (81%), with similar frequencies in pediatric (83%) and adult (80%) patients. Adverse events (AEs) were reported in 31 patients (13%); fever (2%), neutropenia (1%), and nausea (0.8%) were most common. One serious AE, an allergic hypersensitivity reaction, was judged to be related to tenecteplase and/or a chemotherapeutic agent that the patient was receiving concurrently. Consecutive administration of one or two doses of tenecteplase into CVCs showed efficacy in the restoration of catheter function in patients with dysfunctional CVCs. Copyright © 2011 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Longitudinal follow-up of academic achievement in children with autism from age 2 to 18.

PubMed

Kim, So Hyun; Bal, Vanessa H; Lord, Catherine

2018-03-01

This study examined early predictors of and changes in school-age academic achievement and class placement in children referred for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at age 2. Of 111 ASD referrals, 74 were diagnosed with ASD at age 18. Regression analyses were performed to identify age 3 predictors of achievement in arithmetic, passage comprehension, word reading, and spelling at ages 9 and 18. Linear Mixed Models were used to examine predictors of academic growth between ages 9 and 18. Academic skills varied widely at 9 and 18, but were mostly commensurate with or higher than expected given cognitive levels. However, 22% (age 9) and 32% (age 18) of children with average/above average IQ showed below/low average achievement in at least one academic domain. Children who remained in general education/inclusion classrooms had higher achievement than those who moved to special education classrooms. Stronger cognitive skills at age 3 and 9 predicted better academic achievement and faster academic growth from age 9 to 18. Parent participation in intervention by age 3 predicted better achievement at age 9 and 18. Many children with ASD achieve basic academic skills commensurate with or higher than their cognitive ability. However, more rigorous screening for learning difficulties may be important for those with average cognitive skills because a significant minority show relative academic delays. Interventions targeting cognitive skills and parent participation in early treatment may have cascading effects on long-term academic development. © 2017 Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Factors associated with higher oxytocin requirements in labor.

PubMed

Frey, Heather A; Tuuli, Methodius G; England, Sarah K; Roehl, Kimberly A; Odibo, Anthony O; Macones, George A; Cahill, Alison G

2015-09-01

To identify clinical characteristics associated with high maximum oxytocin doses in women who achieve complete cervical dilation. A retrospective nested case-control study was performed within a cohort of all term women at a single center between 2004 and 2008 who reached the second stage of labor. Cases were defined as women who had a maximum oxytocin dose during labor >20 mu/min, while women in the control group had a maximum oxytocin dose during labor of ≤20 mu/min. Exclusion criteria included no oxytocin administration during labor, multiple gestations, major fetal anomalies, nonvertex presentation, and prior cesarean delivery. Multiple maternal, fetal, and labor factors were evaluated with univariable analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Maximum oxytocin doses >20 mu/min were administered to 108 women (3.6%), while 2864 women received doses ≤20 mu/min. Factors associated with higher maximum oxytocin dose after adjusting for relevant confounders included maternal diabetes, birthweight >4000 g, intrapartum fever, administration of magnesium, and induction of labor. Few women who achieve complete cervical dilation require high doses of oxytocin. We identified maternal, fetal and labor factors that characterize this group of parturients.

Stature and body weight growth during adolescence based on longitudinal data of Japanese children born during World War II.

PubMed

Ashizawa, K; Takahashi, C; Yanagisawa, S

1978-09-01

Longitudinal survey data of stature and body weight from age 7 to 17 were obtained for 100 boys and 100 girls during World War II. The growth rates and the average annual increments were compared with those of children born after the war. Growth attained at age 7 as a percentage of that at age 17 is larger in children of the control group, presumably as a result of an improved environment affecting the growth increment. The age at maximum velocity is six months to one year earlier for the current group of children. Although the maximum velocities for both items and sexes are nearly the same in the groups compared, the total increments are larger in the current group of children. Age, distance, and maximum velocity at adolescent growth spurt were obtained for each child. The mean values were compared according to growth patterns and growth attained at age 7. The "increasing type" growth group has the highest velocity at the greatest distance and the oldest age for stature. Children who were taller or heavier at age 7 have velocity peaks with greater distances.

Maximal exercise testing variables and 10-year survival: fitness risk score derivation from the FIT Project.

PubMed

Ahmed, Haitham M; Al-Mallah, Mouaz H; McEvoy, John W; Nasir, Khurram; Blumenthal, Roger S; Jones, Steven R; Brawner, Clinton A; Keteyian, Steven J; Blaha, Michael J

2015-03-01

To determine which routinely collected exercise test variables most strongly correlate with survival and to derive a fitness risk score that can be used to predict 10-year survival. This was a retrospective cohort study of 58,020 adults aged 18 to 96 years who were free of established heart disease and were referred for an exercise stress test from January 1, 1991, through May 31, 2009. Demographic, clinical, exercise, and mortality data were collected on all patients as part of the Henry Ford ExercIse Testing (FIT) Project. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify exercise test variables most predictive of survival. A "FIT Treadmill Score" was then derived from the β coefficients of the model with the highest survival discrimination. The median age of the 58,020 participants was 53 years (interquartile range, 45-62 years), and 28,201 (49%) were female. Over a median of 10 years (interquartile range, 8-14 years), 6456 patients (11%) died. After age and sex, peak metabolic equivalents of task and percentage of maximum predicted heart rate achieved were most highly predictive of survival (P<.001). Subsequent addition of baseline blood pressure and heart rate, change in vital signs, double product, and risk factor data did not further improve survival discrimination. The FIT Treadmill Score, calculated as [percentage of maximum predicted heart rate + 12(metabolic equivalents of task) - 4(age) + 43 if female], ranged from -200 to 200 across the cohort, was near normally distributed, and was found to be highly predictive of 10-year survival (Harrell C statistic, 0.811). The FIT Treadmill Score is easily attainable from any standard exercise test and translates basic treadmill performance measures into a fitness-related mortality risk score. The FIT Treadmill Score should be validated in external populations. Copyright © 2015 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Design of a Slowed-Rotor Compound Helicopter for Future Joint Service Missions

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

achieves a 208kt top speed at engine MCP and 11,000ft/ISA while having 216hp/ton installed power, based on engine MRP and MTOW. Figure 33...Intermediate rated power ISA International Standard Atmosphere MCP Maximum continuous power MRP Maximum rated power MTOW Maximum Takeoff Weight NDARC...NASA Design and Analysis of Rotorcraft SFC Specific fuel consumption SRC Slowed-Rotor Compound Symbols σ Rotor solidity (geometric) CD Drag

Relations between Preschool Attention Span-Persistence and Age 25 Educational Outcomes

PubMed Central

McClelland, Megan M.; Acock, Alan C.; Piccinin, Andrea; Rhea, Sally Ann; Stallings, Michael C.

2012-01-01

This study examined relations between children’s attention span-persistence in preschool and later school achievement and college completion. Children were drawn from the Colorado Adoption Project using adopted and non-adopted children (N = 430). Results of structural equation modeling indicated that children’s age 4 attention span-persistence significantly predicted math and reading achievement at age 21 after controlling for achievement levels at age 7, adopted status, child vocabulary skills, gender, and maternal education level. Relations between attention span-persistence and later achievement were not fully mediated by age 7 achievement levels. Logistic regressions also revealed that age 4 attention span-persistence skills significantly predicted the odds of completing college by age 25. The majority of this relationship was direct and was not significantly mediated by math or reading skills at age 7 or age 21. Specifically, children who were rated one standard deviation higher on attention span-persistence at age 4 had 48.7% greater odds of completing college by age 25. Discussion focuses on the importance of children’s early attention span-persistence for later school achievement and educational attainment. PMID:23543916

Relations between Preschool Attention Span-Persistence and Age 25 Educational Outcomes.

PubMed

McClelland, Megan M; Acock, Alan C; Piccinin, Andrea; Rhea, Sally Ann; Stallings, Michael C

2013-04-01

This study examined relations between children's attention span-persistence in preschool and later school achievement and college completion. Children were drawn from the Colorado Adoption Project using adopted and non-adopted children ( N = 430). Results of structural equation modeling indicated that children's age 4 attention span-persistence significantly predicted math and reading achievement at age 21 after controlling for achievement levels at age 7, adopted status, child vocabulary skills, gender, and maternal education level. Relations between attention span-persistence and later achievement were not fully mediated by age 7 achievement levels. Logistic regressions also revealed that age 4 attention span-persistence skills significantly predicted the odds of completing college by age 25. The majority of this relationship was direct and was not significantly mediated by math or reading skills at age 7 or age 21. Specifically, children who were rated one standard deviation higher on attention span-persistence at age 4 had 48.7% greater odds of completing college by age 25. Discussion focuses on the importance of children's early attention span-persistence for later school achievement and educational attainment.

Heart Rate Dynamics During A Treadmill Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test in Optimized Beta-Blocked Heart Failure Patients

PubMed Central

Carvalho, Vitor Oliveira; Guimarães, Guilherme Veiga; Ciolac, Emmanuel Gomes; Bocchi, Edimar Alcides

2008-01-01

BACKGROUND Calculating the maximum heart rate for age is one method to characterize the maximum effort of an individual. Although this method is commonly used, little is known about heart rate dynamics in optimized beta-blocked heart failure patients. AIM The aim of this study was to evaluate heart rate dynamics (basal, peak and % heart rate increase) in optimized beta-blocked heart failure patients compared to sedentary, normal individuals (controls) during a treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise test. METHODS Twenty-five heart failure patients (49±11 years, 76% male), with an average LVEF of 30±7%, and fourteen controls were included in the study. Patients with atrial fibrillation, a pacemaker or noncardiovascular functional limitations or whose drug therapy was not optimized were excluded. Optimization was considered to be 50 mg/day or more of carvedilol, with a basal heart rate between 50 to 60 bpm that was maintained for 3 months. RESULTS Basal heart rate was lower in heart failure patients (57±3 bpm) compared to controls (89±14 bpm; p<0.0001). Similarly, the peak heart rate (% maximum predicted for age) was lower in HF patients (65.4±11.1%) compared to controls (98.6±2.2; p<0.0001). Maximum respiratory exchange ratio did not differ between the groups (1.2±0.5 for controls and 1.15±1 for heart failure patients; p=0.42). All controls reached the maximum heart rate for their age, while no patients in the heart failure group reached the maximum. Moreover, the % increase of heart rate from rest to peak exercise between heart failure (48±9%) and control (53±8%) was not different (p=0.157). CONCLUSION No patient in the heart failure group reached the maximum heart rate for their age during a treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise test, despite the fact that the percentage increase of heart rate was similar to sedentary normal subjects. A heart rate increase in optimized beta-blocked heart failure patients during cardiopulmonary exercise test over 65% of the maximum age-adjusted value should be considered an effort near the maximum. This information may be useful in rehabilitation programs and ischemic tests, although further studies are required. PMID:18719758

Longitudinal predictors of school-age academic achievement: unique contributions of toddler-age aggression, oppositionality, inattention, and hyperactivity.

PubMed

Brennan, Lauretta M; Shaw, Daniel S; Dishion, Thomas J; Wilson, Melvin

2012-11-01

This project examined the unique predictive validity of parent ratings of toddler-age aggression, oppositionality, inattention, and hyperactivity-impulsivity to academic achievement at school-age in a sample of 566 high-risk children and families. The study also investigated potential indirect effects of the Family Check-Up on school-age academic achievement through changes in child behavior problems. The results demonstrated that toddler-age aggression was most consistently associated with school-age academic achievement, albeit modestly. Moreover, findings showed that the intervention predicted greater decreases in aggression from ages 2-3 to 4-5 compared to controls. The results suggest that in high-risk toddler-aged children, aggression may be a more consistent predictor of school-age academic achievement than other externalizing dimensions, which has implications for early identification and efforts to promote children's adaptation.

Effect of Cold Rolling on Age Hardening in Excess Mg-Type Al-Mg-Si Alloys Including Some Minor Elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogawa, Yurie; Matsuda, Kenji; Kawabata, Tokimasa; Uetani, Yasuhiro; Ikeno, Susumu

It has been known that transition metals improve the mechanical property of Al-Mg-Si alloy. The thermo-mechanical treatment is also effective to improve the strength of Al-Mg-Si alloy. In this work, the aging behavior of deformed excess Mg-type Al-Mg-Si alloy including Ag,Cu,Pt was investigated by hardness test and TEM observation. The value of the maximum hardness increased and the aging time to the maximum hardness became shorter by increasing the amount of the deformation. The age-hardening ability (ΔHV) was decreased with increasing amount of the deformation. The effect of additional element on AHV was also similar to the result of the deformation described above. Comparing the value of the maximum hardness for the alloys aged at 423-523 K, the ex. Mg-Cu alloy was the highest, the ex. Mg-Ag alloy was middle, and the ex. Mg and ex. Mg-Pt alloys were the lowest because of total amounts of added elements.

Hierarchical Star Formation in Turbulent Media: Evidence from Young Star Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grasha, K.; Elmegreen, B. G.; Calzetti, D.; Adamo, A.; Aloisi, A.; Bright, S. N.; Cook, D. O.; Dale, D. A.; Fumagalli, M.; Gallagher, J. S., III; Gouliermis, D. A.; Grebel, E. K.; Kahre, L.; Kim, H.; Krumholz, M. R.; Lee, J. C.; Messa, M.; Ryon, J. E.; Ubeda, L.

2017-06-01

We present an analysis of the positions and ages of young star clusters in eight local galaxies to investigate the connection between the age difference and separation of cluster pairs. We find that star clusters do not form uniformly but instead are distributed so that the age difference increases with the cluster pair separation to the 0.25-0.6 power, and that the maximum size over which star formation is physically correlated ranges from ˜200 pc to ˜1 kpc. The observed trends between age difference and separation suggest that cluster formation is hierarchical both in space and time: clusters that are close to each other are more similar in age than clusters born further apart. The temporal correlations between stellar aggregates have slopes that are consistent with predictions of turbulence acting as the primary driver of star formation. The velocity associated with the maximum size is proportional to the galaxy’s shear, suggesting that the galactic environment influences the maximum size of the star-forming structures.

Preschool Predictors of School-Age Academic Achievement in Autism Spectrum Disorder

PubMed Central

Miller, Lauren E.; Burke, Jeffrey D.; Troyb, Eva; Knoch, Kelley; Herlihy, Lauren E.; Fein, Deborah A.

2017-01-01

Objective Characterization of academic functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly predictors of achievement, may have important implications for intervention. The current study aimed to characterize achievement profiles, confirm associations between academic ability and concurrent intellectual and social skills, and explore preschool predictors of school-age academic achievement in a sample of children with ASD. Method Children with ASD (N = 26) were evaluated at the approximate ages of two, four, and ten years. Multiple regression was used to predict school-age academic achievement in reading and mathematics from both concurrent (i.e., school-age) and preschool variables. Results Children with ASD demonstrated a weakness in reading comprehension relative to word reading. There was a smaller difference between mathematics skills; math reasoning was lower than numerical operations, but this did not quite reach trend level significance. Concurrent IQ and social skills were associated with school-age academic achievement across domains. Preschool verbal abilities significantly predicted school-age reading comprehension, above and beyond concurrent IQ, and early motor functioning predicted later math skills. Conclusions Specific developmental features of early ASD predict specific aspects of school-age achievement. Early intervention targeting language and motor skills may improve later achievement in this population. PMID:27705180

Preschool predictors of school-age academic achievement in autism spectrum disorder.

PubMed

Miller, Lauren E; Burke, Jeffrey D; Troyb, Eva; Knoch, Kelley; Herlihy, Lauren E; Fein, Deborah A

2017-02-01

Characterization of academic functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly predictors of achievement, may have important implications for intervention. The current study aimed to characterize achievement profiles, confirm associations between academic ability and concurrent intellectual and social skills, and explore preschool predictors of school-age academic achievement in a sample of children with ASD. Children with ASD (n = 26) were evaluated at the approximate ages of two, four, and ten. Multiple regression was used to predict school-age academic achievement in reading and mathematics from both concurrent (i.e. school-age) and preschool variables. Children with ASD demonstrated a weakness in reading comprehension relative to word reading. There was a smaller difference between mathematics skills; math reasoning was lower than numerical operations, but this did not quite reach trend level significance. Concurrent IQ and social skills were associated with school-age academic achievement across domains. Preschool verbal abilities significantly predicted school-age reading comprehension, above and beyond concurrent IQ, and early motor functioning predicted later math skills. Specific developmental features of early ASD predict specific aspects of school-age achievement. Early intervention targeting language and motor skills may improve later achievement in this population.

Dynamic impedance compensation for wireless power transfer using conjugate power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Suqi; Tan, Jianping; Wen, Xue

2018-02-01

Wireless power transfer (WPT) via coupled magnetic resonances has been in development for over a decade. However, the frequency splitting phenomenon occurs in the over-coupled region. Thus, the output power of the two-coil system achieves the maximum output power at the two splitting angular frequencies, and not at the natural resonant angular frequency. According to the maximum power transfer theorem, the impedance compensation method was adopted in many WPT projects. However, it remains a challenge to achieve the maximum output power and transmission efficiency in a fixed-frequency mode. In this study, dynamic impedance compensation for WPT was presented by utilizing the compensator within a virtual three-coil WPT system. First, the circuit model was established and transfer characteristics of a system were studied by utilizing circuit theories. Second, the power superposition of the WPT system was carefully researched. When a pair of compensating coils was inserted into the transmitter loop, the conjugate power of the compensator loop was created via magnetic coupling of the two compensating coils that insert into the transmitter loop. The mechanism for dynamic impedance compensation for wireless power transfer was then provided by investigating a virtual three-coil WPT system. Finally, the experimental circuit of a virtual three-coil WPT system was designed, and experimental results are consistent with the theoretical analysis, which achieves the maximum output power and transmission efficiency.

Study on C-S and P-R EOS in pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann model for two-phase flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Yong; Mao, Yun Fei; Wang, Bo; Xie, Bo

Equations of State (EOS) is crucial in simulating multiphase flows by the pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann method (LBM). In the present study, the Peng and Robinson (P-R) and Carnahan and Starling (C-S) EOS in the pseudo-potential LBM with Exact Difference Method (EDM) scheme for two-phase flows have been compared. Both of P-R and C-S EOS have been used to study the two-phase separation, surface tension, the maximum two-phase density ratio and spurious currents. The study shows that both of P-R and C-S EOS agree with the analytical solutions although P-R EOS may perform better. The prediction of liquid phase by P-R EOS is more accurate than that of air phase and the contrary is true for C-S EOS. Predictions by both of EOS conform with the Laplace’s law. Besides, adjustment of surface tension is achieved by adjusting T. The P-R EOS can achieve larger maximum density ratio than C-S EOS under the same τ. Besides, no matter the C-S EOS or the P-R EOS, if τ tends to 0.5, the computation is prone to numerical instability. The maximum spurious current for P-R is larger than that of C-S. The multiple-relaxation-time LBM still can improve obviously the numerical stability and can achieve larger maximum density ratio.

Maximum Bite Force Analysis in Different Age Groups

PubMed Central

Takaki, Patricia; Vieira, Marilena; Bommarito, Silvana

2014-01-01

Introduction Maximum bite force (MBF) is the maximum force performed by the subject on the fragmentation of food, directly related with the mastication and determined by many factors. Objective Analyze the MBF of subjects according to age groups. Methods One hundred individuals from the city of São Paulo were equally divided according to age groups and gender. Each individual submitted to a myotherapy evaluation composed of anthropometric measurements of height and weight to obtain body mass index (BMI), using a tape and a digital scale (Magna, G-life, São Paulo), and a dental condition and maximum bite force evaluation, using a digital dynamometer model DDK/M (Kratos, São Paulo, Brazil), on Newton scale. The dental and bite force evaluations were monitored by a professional from the area. Analysis of variance was used with MBF as a dependent variable, age group and gender as random factors, and BMI as a control variable. Results Till the end of adolescence, it was possible to observe a decrease in MBF in both sexes, with the male force greater than the female force. In young adults, the female force became greater the males, then decreased in adulthood. There was no correlation between MBF and BMI. Conclusion There are MBF variations that characterizes the human development stages, according to age groups. PMID:25992105

The cell biology of aging.

PubMed

Hayflick, L

1979-07-01

Cultured normal human and animal cells are predestinued to undergo irreversible functional decrements that mimick age changes in the whole organism. When normal human embryonic fibroblasts are cultured in vitro, 50 +/- 10 population doublings occur. This maximum potential is diminished in cells derived from older donors and appears to be inversely proportional to their age. The 50 population doubling limit can account for all cells produced during a lifetime. The limitation on doubling potential of cultured normal cells is also expressed in vivo when serial transplants are made. There may be a direct correlation between the mean maximum life spans of several species and the population doubling potential of their cultured cells. A plethora of functional decrements occur in cultured normal cells as they approach their maximum division capability. Many of these decrements are similar to those occurring in intact animals as they age. We have concluded that these functional decrements expressed in vitro, rather than cessation of cell division, are the essential contributors to age changes in intact animals. Thus, the study of events leading to functional losses in cultured normal cells may provide useful insights into the biology of aging.

Statistical physics approach to quantifying differences in myelinated nerve fibers

PubMed Central

Comin, César H.; Santos, João R.; Corradini, Dario; Morrison, Will; Curme, Chester; Rosene, Douglas L.; Gabrielli, Andrea; da F. Costa, Luciano; Stanley, H. Eugene

2014-01-01

We present a new method to quantify differences in myelinated nerve fibers. These differences range from morphologic characteristics of individual fibers to differences in macroscopic properties of collections of fibers. Our method uses statistical physics tools to improve on traditional measures, such as fiber size and packing density. As a case study, we analyze cross–sectional electron micrographs from the fornix of young and old rhesus monkeys using a semi-automatic detection algorithm to identify and characterize myelinated axons. We then apply a feature selection approach to identify the features that best distinguish between the young and old age groups, achieving a maximum accuracy of 94% when assigning samples to their age groups. This analysis shows that the best discrimination is obtained using the combination of two features: the fraction of occupied axon area and the effective local density. The latter is a modified calculation of axon density, which reflects how closely axons are packed. Our feature analysis approach can be applied to characterize differences that result from biological processes such as aging, damage from trauma or disease or developmental differences, as well as differences between anatomical regions such as the fornix and the cingulum bundle or corpus callosum. PMID:24676146

Statistical physics approach to quantifying differences in myelinated nerve fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Comin, César H.; Santos, João R.; Corradini, Dario; Morrison, Will; Curme, Chester; Rosene, Douglas L.; Gabrielli, Andrea; da F. Costa, Luciano; Stanley, H. Eugene

2014-03-01

We present a new method to quantify differences in myelinated nerve fibers. These differences range from morphologic characteristics of individual fibers to differences in macroscopic properties of collections of fibers. Our method uses statistical physics tools to improve on traditional measures, such as fiber size and packing density. As a case study, we analyze cross-sectional electron micrographs from the fornix of young and old rhesus monkeys using a semi-automatic detection algorithm to identify and characterize myelinated axons. We then apply a feature selection approach to identify the features that best distinguish between the young and old age groups, achieving a maximum accuracy of 94% when assigning samples to their age groups. This analysis shows that the best discrimination is obtained using the combination of two features: the fraction of occupied axon area and the effective local density. The latter is a modified calculation of axon density, which reflects how closely axons are packed. Our feature analysis approach can be applied to characterize differences that result from biological processes such as aging, damage from trauma or disease or developmental differences, as well as differences between anatomical regions such as the fornix and the cingulum bundle or corpus callosum.

Specific oral desensitization in children with IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy. Evolution in one year.

PubMed

Alvaro, Montserrat; Giner, Ma Teresa; Vázquez, Marta; Lozano, Jaime; Domínguez, Olga; Piquer, Mónica; Días, Marcia; Jiménez, Rosa; Martín, Ma Anunciación; Alsina, Laia; Plaza, Ana Ma

2012-09-01

Cow's milk allergy is the most frequent childhood food allergy. Children older than 5 who have not become tolerant have less probabilities of natural tolerance. Specific oral desensitization methods are being investigated in reference centres. The aims of our study were to assess the efficacy of our guideline of specific oral desensitization to cow's milk in children and to know its suitability for anaphylactic children. Both clinical and specific IgE outcomes were evaluated. Eighty-seven children aged 5 to 16 years with a history of cow's milk allergy were included. Prior to desensitization, skin prick test, specific IgE to cow's milk proteins and a double-blind placebo control food challenge were performed in all. Of the 87 patients, 21 had a negative challenge; they were considered tolerant, and they were told to follow a free diet. Of the positive, 44 were anaphylactic and 22 non-anaphylactic. All of them were included. In non-anaphylactic patients, 6 achieved partial and 16 maximum desensitization after 23.1 weeks. In the anaphylactic group, 7 achieved partial and 35 maximum desensitization after 26.4 weeks. Cow's milk-specific IgE levels and casein-specific IgE levels were significantly lower in the tolerant patients at baseline. One year after desensitization, the medium specific cow's milk levels and casein IgE levels had dropped significantly. Our guideline for specific oral desensitization to cow's milk is efficacious even in patients with anaphylactic reactions to cow's milk and represents a significant life change. Immunological changes in 1 year show a drop in cow's milk protein-specific IgE.

Physical activity modulates corticospinal excitability of the lower limb in young and old adults.

PubMed

Hassanlouei, Hamidollah; Sundberg, Christopher W; Smith, Ashleigh E; Kuplic, Andrew; Hunter, Sandra K

2017-08-01

Aging is associated with reduced neuromuscular function, which may be due in part to altered corticospinal excitability. Regular physical activity (PA) may ameliorate these age-related declines, but the influence of PA on corticospinal excitability is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of age, sex, and PA on corticospinal excitability by comparing the stimulus-response curves of motor evoked potentials (MEP) in 28 young (22.4 ± 2.2 yr; 14 women and 14 men) and 50 old adults (70.2 ± 6.1 yr; 22 women and 28 men) who varied in activity levels. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to elicit MEPs in the active vastus lateralis muscle (10% maximal voluntary contraction) with 5% increments in stimulator intensity until the maximum MEP amplitude. Stimulus-response curves of MEP amplitudes were fit with a four-parameter sigmoidal curve and the maximal slope calculated (slope max ). Habitual PA was assessed with tri-axial accelerometry and participants categorized into either those meeting the recommended PA guidelines for optimal health benefits (>10,000 steps/day, high-PA; n = 21) or those not meeting the guidelines (<10,000 steps/day, low-PA; n = 41). The MEP amplitudes and slope max were greater in the low-PA compared with the high-PA group ( P < 0.05). Neither age nor sex influenced the stimulus-response curve parameters ( P > 0.05), suggesting that habitual PA influenced the excitability of the corticospinal tract projecting to the lower limb similarly in both young and old adults. These findings provide evidence that achieving the recommended PA guidelines for optimal health may mediate its effects on the nervous system by decreasing corticospinal excitability. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to determine whether achieving the recommended 10,000 steps/day for optimal health influenced the excitability of the corticospinal tract projecting to the knee extensor muscles. Irrespective of age and sex, individuals who achieved >10,000 steps/day had lower corticospinal excitability than those who performed <10,000 steps/day, possibly representing greater control of inhibitory and excitatory networks. Physical activity involving >10,000 steps/day may mediate its effects on the nervous system by decreasing corticospinal excitability. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Mechanical properties experimental investigation of HTPB propellant after thermal accelerated aging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiaohong; Sun, Chaoxiang; Zhang, Junfa; Xu, Jinsheng; Tan, Bingdong

2017-04-01

To get accurate aging mechanical properties of aged HTPB propellant, the thermal accelerated aging experiment method is utilized and the uniaxial tensile experiments were conducted to obtain the mechanical data of aged HTPB propellants, and the maximum tensile strength, σm, maximum tensile strain, ɛm, and the fracture tensile strain, ɛb, of HTPB propellant with different aging time and various aging temperatures,were obtained, using universal material testing machine. The experimental results show that the σm of HTPB propellant initially increases, subsequently decreases and finally increases with aging time. The ɛm and ɛb generally decrease with increasing aging time, what's more, the decrease rate of both ɛm and ɛb reduce with the aging time. What's more, the postcure effect and oxidation reaction occurred inside HTPB matrix, including the chain degradation reaction and oxidation-induced crosslinking, were discussed to explain the mechanical aging rule of HTPB propellant.

Tissue tightening technologies: fact or fiction.

PubMed

Sadick, Neil

2008-01-01

Skin laxity is associated with chronological aging and exposure to solar radiation. The authors summarize the advantages and limitations of current laser, light-, and radiofrequency (RF)-based technologies purported to treat skin laxity by effecting heat-induced collagen contraction and subsequent remodeling during the months after treatment. Although penetration of laser or broadband light to the deep dermal layers is limited because of scattering of the light by epidermal melanin, a new device in which broadband infrared light is minimally scattered may overcome these limitations. RF energy offers a treatment alternative that has not only been proven to promote collagen contraction and remodeling but also is not scattered by epidermal constituents. Recently launched devices that use combinations of optical and RF energy achieve clinical benefits at lower and therefore safer levels of energy, with only mild pain and few adverse effects. A combined infrared-RF device takes maximum advantage of both optical and RF technologies to achieve the desired clinical effect. The electrooptical synergy systems have proven to be safe, effective, reliable, and user-friendly. Other more advanced powerful technologies may also be effective in this setting.

40 CFR 63.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Protection Agency. Equivalent emission limitation means any maximum achievable control technology emission... common control that is included in a section 112(c) source category or subcategory for which a section... pollutant at least equivalent to the reduction in emissions of such pollutant achieved under a relevant...

40 CFR 63.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Protection Agency. Equivalent emission limitation means any maximum achievable control technology emission... common control that is included in a section 112(c) source category or subcategory for which a section... pollutant at least equivalent to the reduction in emissions of such pollutant achieved under a relevant...

40 CFR 63.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Protection Agency. Equivalent emission limitation means any maximum achievable control technology emission... common control that is included in a section 112(c) source category or subcategory for which a section... pollutant at least equivalent to the reduction in emissions of such pollutant achieved under a relevant...

40 CFR 63.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Protection Agency. Equivalent emission limitation means any maximum achievable control technology emission... common control that is included in a section 112(c) source category or subcategory for which a section... pollutant at least equivalent to the reduction in emissions of such pollutant achieved under a relevant...

40 CFR 63.2 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Protection Agency. Equivalent emission limitation means any maximum achievable control technology emission... common control that is included in a section 112(c) source category or subcategory for which a section... pollutant at least equivalent to the reduction in emissions of such pollutant achieved under a relevant...

Testing portable luminescence reader signals against late Pleistocene to modern OSL ages of coastal and desert dunefield sand in Israel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roskin, Joel; Sivan, Dorit; Bookman, Revital; Porat, Naomi; López, Gloria I.

2017-04-01

Rapid assessment of luminescence signals of poly-mineral samples by a pulsed-photon portable OSL reader (PPSL) is useful for interpreting sedimentary sections during fieldwork, and can assist with targeted field sampling for later full OSL dating and prioritize laboratory work. This study investigates PPSL signal intensities in order to assess its usefulness in obtaining relative OSL ages from linear regressions created by interpolating newly generated PPSL values of samples with existing OSL ages from two extensive Nilotic-sourced dunefields. Eighteen OSL-dated sand samples from two quartz-dominated sand systems in Israel were studied:(1) the Mediterranean littoral-sourced coastal dunefields that formed since the middle Holocene; and (2) the inland north-western Negev desert dunefield that rapidly formed between the Last Glacial Maximum and the Holocene. Samples from three coastal dune profiles were also measured. Results show that the PPSL signals differ by several orders of magnitude between modern and late Pleistocene sediments. The coastal and desert sand have different OSL age - PPSL signal ratios. Coastal sand show better correlations between PPSL values and OSL ages. However, using regression curves for each dunefield to interpolate ages is less useful than expected as samples with different ages exhibit similar PPSL signals. The coastal dune profiles yielded low luminescence signal values depicting a modern profile chronology. This study demonstrates that a rapid assessment of the relative OSL ages across different and extensive dunefields is useful and may be achieved. However, the OSL ages obtained by linear regression are only a very rough age estimate. The reasons for not obtaining more reliable ages need to be better understood, as several variables can affect the PPSL signal such as mineral provenance, intrinsic grain properties, micro-dosimetry and moisture content.

SHRIMP U-Pb detrital zircon dating to check subdivisions in metamorphic complexes: a case of study in the Nevado-Filábride complex (Betic Cordillera, Spain)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santamaría-López, Ángel; Sanz de Galdeano, Carlos

2018-04-01

U-Pb dating on inherited detrital zircons has been applied to obtain the probable maximum age of deposition of the detrital protolith of the Nevado-Filábride complex (Betic Cordillera, Spain). Five of eight samples correspond to the lower part of the lithologic sequence of this complex, where radiometric dating of metasediments has not been presented till the present. The youngest age populations in the majority of samples are Carboniferous. The estimation of the maximum age of deposition in the lower and upper units is 349.1 ± 1.6 and 334.6 ± 2.9 Ma, respectively. In addition, samples show common age populations at ca. 490-630 and ca. 910-1010 Ma. Observations agree with the Carboniferous to early Permian U-Pb ages previously obtained in orthogneisses levels which are situated in the upper part of the complex. Combination of the minimum age of deposition deducible from the orthogneisses studies and the maximum ages of deposition obtained from the detrital zircons of this work, allow establishing the deposition of de studied lithological succession comprised between ca. 282 and 349 Ma or a shorter period.

Preparation of ultra-thin and high-quality WO{sub 3} compact layers and comparision of WO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} compact layer thickness in planar perovskite solar cells

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

Zhang, Jincheng; Shi, Chengwu, E-mail: shicw506@foxmail.com; Chen, Junjun

2016-06-15

In this paper, the ultra-thin and high-quality WO{sub 3} compact layers were successfully prepared by spin-coating-pyrolysis method using the tungsten isopropoxide solution in isopropanol. The influence of WO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} compact layer thickness on the photovoltaic performance of planar perovskite solar cells was systematically compared, and the interface charge transfer and recombination in planar perovskite solar cells with TiO{sub 2} compact layer was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results revealed that the optimum thickness of WO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2} compact layer was 15 nm and 60 nm. The planar perovskite solar cell with 15 nm WO{submore » 3} compact layer gave a 9.69% average and 10.14% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency, whereas the planar perovskite solar cell with 60 nm TiO{sub 2} compact layer achieved a 11.79% average and 12.64% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency. - Graphical abstract: The planar perovskite solar cell with 15 nm WO{sub 3} compact layer gave a 9.69% average and 10.14% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency, whereas the planar perovskite solar cell with 60 nm TiO{sub 2} compact layer achieved a 11.79% average and 12.64% maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency. Display Omitted - Highlights: • Preparation of ultra-thin and high-quality WO{sub 3} compact layers. • Perovskite solar cell with 15 nm-thick WO{sub 3} compact layer achieved PCE of 10.14%. • Perovskite solar cell with 60 nm-thick TiO{sub 2} compact layer achieved PCE of 12.64%.« less

40 CFR 421.293 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Tin Subcategory § 421.293 Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent... application of the best available technology economically achievable: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum...

40 CFR 421.293 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Tin Subcategory § 421.293 Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent... application of the best available technology economically achievable: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum...

40 CFR 421.293 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Tin Subcategory § 421.293 Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent... application of the best available technology economically achievable: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum...

40 CFR 421.293 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Tin Subcategory § 421.293 Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent... application of the best available technology economically achievable: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum...

40 CFR 421.293 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Tin Subcategory § 421.293 Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent... application of the best available technology economically achievable: (a) Tin smelter SO2 scrubber. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Tin Subcategory Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day Maximum...

Perennial Roots to Immortality1,2[C

PubMed Central

Munné-Bosch, Sergi

2014-01-01

Maximum lifespan greatly varies among species, and it is not strictly determined; it can change with species evolution. Clonal growth is a major factor governing maximum lifespan. In the plant kingdom, the maximum lifespans described for clonal and nonclonal plants vary by an order of magnitude, with 43,600 and 5,062 years for Lomatia tasmanica and Pinus longaeva, respectively. Nonclonal perennial plants (those plants exclusively using sexual reproduction) also present a huge diversity in maximum lifespans (from a few to thousands of years) and even more interestingly, contrasting differences in aging patterns. Some plants show a clear physiological deterioration with aging, whereas others do not. Indeed, some plants can even improve their physiological performance as they age (a phenomenon called negative senescence). This diversity in aging patterns responds to species-specific life history traits and mechanisms evolved by each species to adapt to its habitat. Particularities of roots in perennial plants, such as meristem indeterminacy, modular growth, stress resistance, and patterns of senescence, are crucial in establishing perenniality and understanding adaptation of perennial plants to their habitats. Here, the key role of roots for perennial plant longevity will be discussed, taking into account current knowledge and highlighting additional aspects that still require investigation. PMID:24563283

A white organic light emitting diode based on anthracene-triphenylamine derivatives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Quan; Qu, Jianjun; Yu, Junsheng; Tao, Silu; Gan, Yuanyuan; Jiang, Yadong

2010-10-01

White organic lighting-diode (WOLED) can be used as flat light sources, backlights for liquid crystal displays and full color displays. Recently, a research mainstream of white OLED is to develop the novel materials and optimize the structure of devices. In this work a WOLED with a structure of ITO/NPB/PAA/Alq3: x% rubrene/Alq3/Mg: Ag, was fabricated. The device has two light-emitting layers. NPB is used as a hole transport layer, PAA as a blue emitting layer, Alq3: rubrene host-guest system as a yellow emitting layer, and Alq3 close to the cathode as an electron transport layer. In the experiment, the doping concentration of rubrene was optimized. WOLED 1 with 4% rubrene achieved a maximum luminous efficiency of 1.80 lm/W, a maximum luminance of 3926 cd/m2 and CIE coordinates of (0.374, 0.341) .WOLED 2 with 2% rubrene achieved a maximum luminous efficiency of 0.65 lm/W, a maximum luminance of 7495cd/m2 and CIE coordinates of (0.365,0.365).

Improved Drain Current Saturation and Voltage Gain in Graphene–on–Silicon Field Effect Transistors

PubMed Central

Song, Seung Min; Bong, Jae Hoon; Hwang, Wan Sik; Cho, Byung Jin

2016-01-01

Graphene devices for radio frequency (RF) applications are of great interest due to their excellent carrier mobility and saturation velocity. However, the insufficient current saturation in graphene field effect transistors (FETs) is a barrier preventing enhancements of the maximum oscillation frequency and voltage gain, both of which should be improved for RF transistors. Achieving a high output resistance is therefore a crucial step for graphene to be utilized in RF applications. In the present study, we report high output resistances and voltage gains in graphene-on-silicon (GoS) FETs. This is achieved by utilizing bare silicon as a supporting substrate without an insulating layer under the graphene. The GoSFETs exhibit a maximum output resistance of 2.5 MΩ∙μm, maximum intrinsic voltage gain of 28 dB, and maximum voltage gain of 9 dB. This method opens a new route to overcome the limitations of conventional graphene-on-insulator (GoI) FETs and subsequently brings graphene electronics closer to practical usage. PMID:27142861

A medium-term, stochastic forecast model to support sustainable, mixed fisheries management in the Mediterranean Sea.

PubMed

Rätz, H-J; Charef, A; Abella, A J; Colloca, F; Ligas, A; Mannini, A; Lloret, J

2013-10-01

A medium-term (10 year) stochastic forecast model is developed and presented for mixed fisheries that can provide estimations of age-specific parameters for a maximum of 10 stocks and 10 fisheries. Designed to support fishery managers dealing with complex, multi-annual management plans, the model can be used to quantitatively test the consequences of various stock-specific and fishery-specific decisions, using non-equilibrium stock dynamics. Such decisions include fishing restrictions and other strategies aimed at achieving sustainable mixed fisheries consistent with the concept of maximum sustainable yield (MSY). In order to test the model, recently gathered data on seven stocks and four fisheries operating in the Ligurian and North Tyrrhenian Seas are used to generate quantitative, 10 year predictions of biomass and catch trends under four different management scenarios. The results show that using the fishing mortality at MSY as the biological reference point for the management of all stocks would be a strong incentive to reduce the technical interactions among concurrent fishing strategies. This would optimize the stock-specific exploitation and be consistent with sustainability criteria. © 2013 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

STS-1 operational flight profile. Volume 3: Ascent, cycle 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

The ascent opeational flight profile for the space transportation system 1 flight is designed (1) to limit the maximum undispersed dynamic pressure to 580 lb/sq ft, (2) to follow the design load indicator profiles where q alpha is a specified profile and q beta is desired to be as close to zero as passible, and (3) to maximize nominal and abort performance. Significant trajectory parameters achieved are presented. A maximum dynamic pressure of 575 lb/sq ft was achieved, a minimum q alpha of -2187 lb-deg/sq ft was achieved, and q beta was limited to approximately + or - 100 lb-deg/sq ft in the high q region of the trajectory. The trajectory performance allows a press to main engine cutoff capability with one space shuttle main engine out at 262 seconds ground elapsed time. The orbital maneuvering system burns achieve a final orbit of 150.9 x 149.9 x 149.8 n. mi. and the desired inclination of 40.3 degrees.

Age-Related Differences of Maximum Phonation Time in Patients after Cardiac Surgery

PubMed Central

Kasahara, Yusuke; Hiraki, Koji; Hirano, Yasuyuki; Watanabe, Satoshi

2017-01-01

Background and aims: Maximum phonation time (MPT), which is related to respiratory function, is widely used to evaluate maximum vocal capabilities, because its use is non-invasive, quick, and inexpensive. We aimed to examine differences in MPT by age, following recovery phase II cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Methods: This longitudinal observational study assessed 50 consecutive cardiac patients who were divided into the middle-aged group (<65 years, n = 29) and older-aged group (≥65 years, n = 21). MPTs were measured at 1 and 3 months after cardiac surgery, and were compared. Results: The duration of MPT increased more significantly from month 1 to month 3 in the middle-aged group (19.2 ± 7.8 to 27.1 ± 11.6 s, p < 0.001) than in the older-aged group (12.6 ± 3.5 to 17.9 ± 6.0 s, p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant difference occurred in the % change of MPT from 1 month to 3 months after cardiac surgery between the middle-aged group and older-aged group, respectively (41.1% vs. 42.1%). In addition, there were no significant interactions of MPT in the two groups for 1 versus 3 months (F = 1.65, p = 0.20). Conclusion: Following phase II, CR improved MPT for all cardiac surgery patients. PMID:29267218

Age-Related Differences of Maximum Phonation Time in Patients after Cardiac Surgery.

PubMed

Izawa, Kazuhiro P; Kasahara, Yusuke; Hiraki, Koji; Hirano, Yasuyuki; Watanabe, Satoshi

2017-12-21

Background and aims: Maximum phonation time (MPT), which is related to respiratory function, is widely used to evaluate maximum vocal capabilities, because its use is non-invasive, quick, and inexpensive. We aimed to examine differences in MPT by age, following recovery phase II cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Methods: This longitudinal observational study assessed 50 consecutive cardiac patients who were divided into the middle-aged group (<65 years, n = 29) and older-aged group (≥65 years, n = 21). MPTs were measured at 1 and 3 months after cardiac surgery, and were compared. Results: The duration of MPT increased more significantly from month 1 to month 3 in the middle-aged group (19.2 ± 7.8 to 27.1 ± 11.6 s, p < 0.001) than in the older-aged group (12.6 ± 3.5 to 17.9 ± 6.0 s, p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant difference occurred in the % change of MPT from 1 month to 3 months after cardiac surgery between the middle-aged group and older-aged group, respectively (41.1% vs. 42.1%). In addition, there were no significant interactions of MPT in the two groups for 1 versus 3 months (F = 1.65, p = 0.20). Conclusion: Following phase II, CR improved MPT for all cardiac surgery patients.

Causes of failure to achieve the low density lipoprotein cholesterol therapeutic target in patients with high and very high vascular risk controlled in Lipid and Vascular Risk Units. EROMOT study.

PubMed

Morales, Clotilde; Plana, Núria; Arnau, Anna; Matas, Laia; Mauri, Marta; Vila, Àlex; Vila, Lluís; Soler, Cristina; Montesinos, Jesús; Masana, Lluís; Pedro-Botet, Juan

Determination of the level of achievement of the low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) therapeutic target in patients with high and very high vascular risk treated in Lipid Units, as well as the causes of non-achievement. Multicentre retrospective observational study that included patients over 18 years with high and very high vascular risk, according to the criteria of the 2012 European Guidelines on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, referred consecutively to Lipid Units between January and June 2012 and with follow-up two years after the first visit. The study included a total of 243 patients from 16 lipid units. The mean age was 52.2 years (SD 13.7), of whom 62.6% were males, and 40.3% of them were very high risk. At the first visit, 86.8% (25.1% in combination) and 95.0% (47.3% in combination) in the second visit (P<.001) were treated with lipid-lowering treatment. The therapeutic target was achieved by 28% (95 CI: 22.4-34.1). As regards the causes of non-achievement, 24.6% were related to the medication (10.3% maximum tolerated dose and 10.9% due to the appearance of adverse effects), 43.4% due to the physician (19.4% by inertia, 13.7% considering that target already reached), and 46.9% due to the patient, highlighting the therapeutic non-compliance (31,4%). LDL-C targets were achieved in about one-third of patients. The low adherence of the patient, followed by medical inertia are the most frequent causes that can explain these results. Copyright © 2017 Sociedad Española de Arteriosclerosis. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of natural porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) subclinical infection and seroconversion dynamics in piglets vaccinated at different ages.

PubMed

Oliver-Ferrando, Salvador; Segalés, Joaquim; López-Soria, Sergio; Callén, Antonio; Merdy, Olivier; Joisel, François; Sibila, Marina

2016-12-03

This study aimed to determine the porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) serological and virological dynamics in piglets vaccinated at different ages in a PCV2 subclinical infection (PCV2-SI) scenario. Six hundred and forty-four 2 week-old healthy piglets were selected and distributed into four treatment groups: vaccination at 3, 6 or 10 weeks of age (3W-VAC, 6W-VAC and 10W-VAC groups, respectively) and unvaccinated pigs (NON-VAC group). Blood (n = 112 pigs) and oral fluid (OF) (n = 40 pens) samples were taken throughout the study to assess PCV2 load, humoral immunity and viral genotyping. Percentage of PCV2-DNA positive sera mainly raised by 10 weeks of age, being maximum at 14 weeks of age, and then started to decrease at 18 and 25 weeks of age. Specifically, PCV2 vaccination at 3 or 6 weeks of age yielded similar results, since they produced an earlier seroconversion and reduced, at different sampling points, the proportion of viremic animals in comparison to the unvaccinated group. In contrast, PCV2 vaccination at 10 weeks of age only achieved such reduction at 25 weeks of age; in this case, vaccination coincided with the increase of the percentage of viremic pigs in the population. Both serological techniques used in sera and OF offered similar results with a high and statistically significant correlation. In contrast, a higher percentage of PCV2 DNA positivity was detected in OF in comparison with sera. In conclusion, under the present study conditions, the optimal time for PCV2 piglet vaccination was at either 3 or 6 weeks of age.

Design and Experimental Results for a Natural-Laminar-Flow Airfoil for General Aviation Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Somers, D. M.

1981-01-01

A natural-laminar-flow airfoil for general aviation applications, the NLF(1)-0416, was designed and analyzed theoretically and verified experimentally in the Langley Low-Turbulence Pressure Tunnel. The basic objective of combining the high maximum lift of the NASA low-speed airfoils with the low cruise drag of the NACA 6-series airfoils was achieved. The safety requirement that the maximum lift coefficient not be significantly affected with transition fixed near the leading edge was also met. Comparisons of the theoretical and experimental results show excellent agreement. Comparisons with other airfoils, both laminar flow and turbulent flow, confirm the achievement of the basic objective.

Collateral Damage to Satellites from an EMP Attack

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-01

peak dose is computed in an infinite half plane of silicon. The resulting in- plane stresses in silicon are shown in Figure VI.23. In- plane refers to...achieved by the SLAR coating 81 Figure VIII.6. Ratio of the peak in- plane compressive stress to the maximum compressive stress for the SLAR coating...82 Figure VIII.7. Maximum in- plane compressive stress in a SLAR coating on DMSP/NOAA subjected to the threat events 83 Figure VIII.8. Maximum in

Optimum harvest maturity for Leymus chinensis seed.

PubMed

Lin, Jixiang; Wang, Yingnan; Qi, Mingming; Li, Xiaoyu; Yang, Chunxue; Wang, Yongcui; Mu, Chunsheng

2016-06-15

Timely harvest is critical to achieve maximum seed viability and vigour in agricultural production. However, little information exists concerning how to reap the best quality seeds of Leymus chinensis, which is the dominant and most promising grass species in the Songnen Grassland of Northern China. The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate possible quality indices of the seeds at different days after peak anthesis. Seed quality at different development stages was assessed by the colours of the seed and lemmas, seed weight, moisture content, electrical conductivity of seed leachate and germination indices. Two consecutive years of experimental results showed that the maximum seed quality was recorded at 39 days after peak anthesis. At this date, the colours of the seed and lemmas reached heavy brown and yellow, respectively. The seed weight was highest and the moisture content and the electrical conductivity of seed leachate were lowest. In addition, the seed also reached its maximum germination percentage and energy at this stage, determined using a standard germination test (SGT) and accelerated ageing test (AAT). Thus, Leymus chinensis can be harvested at 39 days after peak anthesis based on the changes in parameters. Colour identification can be used as an additional indicator to provide a more rapid and reliable measure of optimum seed maturity; approximately 10 days after the colour of the lemmas reached yellow and the colour of the seed reached heavy brown, the seed of this species was suitable for harvest. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Sport-specific functional movement can simulate aspects of neuromuscular fatigue occurring in team sports.

PubMed

Wilke, Jan; Fleckenstein, Johannes; Krause, Frieder; Vogt, Lutz; Banzer, Winfried

2016-06-01

Fatigue protocols have been used over the years to examine muscular exhaustion. As an alternative to approaches in laboratory settings, functional agility protocols claiming to mimic the multifaceted loads of athletic activity have been proposed. This study aimed to examine the effects of a functional agility short-term fatigue protocol (FAST-FP) on neuromuscular function. Twenty-eight healthy sports students (15 males, aged 24.3 ± 2.4 years) completed the FAST-FP, which consists of four components: three counter-movement jumps (90% of individual maximum), a 20-s bout of step-ups, three bodyweight squats and an agility run. Tasks were repeated until the participants no longer achieved the required jump height in two consecutive sets. Outcomes (pre-post) encompassed subjective exhaustion (visual analogue scale [VAS]), maximum isometric voluntary force of the knee extensors (MIVF), reactive strength index (RSI), mean power frequency (MPF, measured using surface electromyography) and maximum knee range of motion (ROM). Post-intervention, VAS (+54 mm) increased significantly, while MIVF (-6.1%), RSI (-10.7%) and MPF (-4.1%) were reduced (p < 0.05). No changes were observed for ROM (p > 0.05). The FAST-FP induces small-to-moderate impairments in neuromuscular function and considerable self-perceived fatigue. Current evidence on exhaustion developing in team sports suggests that this magnitude of fatigue is similar. The protocol might thus be valuable in the evaluation of treatments counteracting post-match fatigue in team sports.

Optimum harvest maturity for Leymus chinensis seed

PubMed Central

Lin, Jixiang; Wang, Yingnan; Qi, Mingming; Li, Xiaoyu; Yang, Chunxue; Wang, Yongcui

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Timely harvest is critical to achieve maximum seed viability and vigour in agricultural production. However, little information exists concerning how to reap the best quality seeds of Leymus chinensis, which is the dominant and most promising grass species in the Songnen Grassland of Northern China. The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate possible quality indices of the seeds at different days after peak anthesis. Seed quality at different development stages was assessed by the colours of the seed and lemmas, seed weight, moisture content, electrical conductivity of seed leachate and germination indices. Two consecutive years of experimental results showed that the maximum seed quality was recorded at 39 days after peak anthesis. At this date, the colours of the seed and lemmas reached heavy brown and yellow, respectively. The seed weight was highest and the moisture content and the electrical conductivity of seed leachate were lowest. In addition, the seed also reached its maximum germination percentage and energy at this stage, determined using a standard germination test (SGT) and accelerated ageing test (AAT). Thus, Leymus chinensis can be harvested at 39 days after peak anthesis based on the changes in parameters. Colour identification can be used as an additional indicator to provide a more rapid and reliable measure of optimum seed maturity; approximately 10 days after the colour of the lemmas reached yellow and the colour of the seed reached heavy brown, the seed of this species was suitable for harvest. PMID:27170257

Hierarchical Star Formation in Turbulent Media: Evidence from Young Star Clusters

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

Grasha, K.; Calzetti, D.; Elmegreen, B. G.

We present an analysis of the positions and ages of young star clusters in eight local galaxies to investigate the connection between the age difference and separation of cluster pairs. We find that star clusters do not form uniformly but instead are distributed so that the age difference increases with the cluster pair separation to the 0.25–0.6 power, and that the maximum size over which star formation is physically correlated ranges from ∼200 pc to ∼1 kpc. The observed trends between age difference and separation suggest that cluster formation is hierarchical both in space and time: clusters that are closemore » to each other are more similar in age than clusters born further apart. The temporal correlations between stellar aggregates have slopes that are consistent with predictions of turbulence acting as the primary driver of star formation. The velocity associated with the maximum size is proportional to the galaxy’s shear, suggesting that the galactic environment influences the maximum size of the star-forming structures.« less

Recent advances in the cell biology of aging.

PubMed

Hayflick, L

1980-01-01

Cultured normal human and animal cells are predestined to undergo irreversible functional decrements that mimic age changes in the whole organism. When normal human embryonic fibroblasts are cultured in vitro, 50 +/- 10 population doublings occur. This maximum potential is diminished in cells derived from older donors and appears to be inversely proportional to their age. The 50 population doubling limit can account for all cells produced during a lifetime. The limitation on doubling potential of cultured normal cells is also expressed in vivo when serial transplants are made. There may be a direct correlation between the mean maximum life spans of several species and the population doubling potential of their cultured cells. A plethora of functional decrements occurs in cultured normal cells as they approach their maximum division capability. Many of these decrements are similar to those occurring in intact animals as they age. We have concluded that these functional decrements expressed in vitro, rather than cessation of cell division, are the essential contributors to age changes in intact animals. Thus, the study of events leading to functional losses in cultured normal cells may provide useful insights into the biology of aging.

Muscular Oxygen Uptake Kinetics in Aged Adults.

PubMed

Koschate, J; Drescher, U; Baum, K; Eichberg, S; Schiffer, T; Latsch, J; Brixius, K; Hoffmann, U

2016-06-01

Pulmonary oxygen uptake (V˙O2) kinetics and heart rate kinetics are influenced by age and fitness. Muscular V˙O2 kinetics can be estimated from heart rate and pulmonary V˙O2. In this study the applicability of a test using pseudo-random binary sequences in combination with a model to estimate muscular V˙O2 kinetics was tested. Muscular V˙O2 kinetics were expected to be faster than pulmonary V˙O2 kinetics, slowed in aged subjects and correlated with maximum V˙O2 and heart rate kinetics. 27 elderly subjects (73±3 years; 81.1±8.2 kg; 175±4.7 cm) participated. Cardiorespiratory kinetics were assessed using the maximum of cross-correlation functions, higher maxima implying faster kinetics. Muscular V˙O2 kinetics were faster than pulmonary V˙O2 kinetics (0.31±0.1 vs. 0.29±0.1 s; p=0.004). Heart rate kinetics were not correlated with muscular or pulmonary V˙O2 kinetics or maximum V˙O2. Muscular V˙O2 kinetics correlated with maximum V˙O2 (r=0.35; p=0.033). This suggests, that muscular V˙O2 kinetics are faster than estimates from pulmonary V˙O2 and related to maximum V˙O2 in aged subjects. In the future this experimental approach may help to characterize alterations in muscular V˙O2 under various conditions independent of motivation and maximal effort. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Concentration-response of short-term ozone exposure and hospital admissions for asthma in Texas.

PubMed

Zu, Ke; Liu, Xiaobin; Shi, Liuhua; Tao, Ge; Loftus, Christine T; Lange, Sabine; Goodman, Julie E

2017-07-01

Short-term exposure to ozone has been associated with asthma hospital admissions (HA) and emergency department (ED) visits, but the shape of the concentration-response (C-R) curve is unclear. We conducted a time series analysis of asthma HAs and ambient ozone concentrations in six metropolitan areas in Texas from 2001 to 2013. Using generalized linear regression models, we estimated the effect of daily 8-hour maximum ozone concentrations on asthma HAs for all ages combined, and for those aged 5-14, 15-64, and 65+years. We fit penalized regression splines to evaluate the shape of the C-R curves. Using a log-linear model, estimated risk per 10ppb increase in average daily 8-hour maximum ozone concentrations was highest for children (relative risk [RR]=1.047, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.025-1.069), lower for younger adults (RR=1.018, 95% CI: 1.005-1.032), and null for older adults (RR=1.002, 95% CI: 0.981-1.023). However, penalized spline models demonstrated significant nonlinear C-R relationships for all ages combined, children, and younger adults, indicating the existence of thresholds. We did not observe an increased risk of asthma HAs until average daily 8-hour maximum ozone concentrations exceeded approximately 40ppb. Ozone and asthma HAs are significantly associated with each other; susceptibility to ozone is age-dependent, with children at highest risk. C-R relationships between average daily 8-hour maximum ozone concentrations and asthma HAs are significantly curvilinear for all ages combined, children, and younger adults. These nonlinear relationships, as well as the lack of relationship between average daily 8-hour maximum and peak ozone concentrations, have important implications for assessing risks to human health in regulatory settings. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Vocal Parameters of Elderly Female Choir Singers

PubMed Central

Aquino, Fernanda Salvatico de; Ferreira, Léslie Piccolotto

2015-01-01

Introduction Due to increased life expectancy among the population, studying the vocal parameters of the elderly is key to promoting vocal health in old age. Objective This study aims to analyze the profile of the extension of speech of elderly female choristers, according to age group. Method The study counted on the participation of 25 elderly female choristers from the Choir of Messianic Church of São Paulo, with ages varying between 63 and 82 years, and an average of 71 years (standard deviation of 5.22). The elders were divided into two groups: G1 aged 63 to 71 years and G2 aged 72 to 82. We asked that each participant count from 20 to 30 in weak, medium, strong, and very strong intensities. Their speech was registered by the software Vocalgrama that allows the evaluation of the profile of speech range. We then submitted the parameters of frequency and intensity to descriptive analysis, both in minimum and maximum levels, and range of spoken voice. Results The average of minimum and maximum frequencies were respectively 134.82–349.96 Hz for G1 and 137.28–348.59 Hz for G2; the average for minimum and maximum intensities were respectively 40.28–95.50 dB for G1 and 40.63–94.35 dB for G2; the vocal range used in speech was 215.14 Hz for G1 and 211.30 Hz for G2. Conclusion The minimum and maximum frequencies, maximum intensity, and vocal range presented differences in favor of the younger elder group. PMID:26722341

The age of Homo naledi and associated sediments in the Rising Star Cave, South Africa

PubMed Central

Dirks, Paul HGM; Roberts, Eric M; Hilbert-Wolf, Hannah; Kramers, Jan D; Hawks, John; Dosseto, Anthony; Duval, Mathieu; Elliott, Marina; Evans, Mary; Grün, Rainer; Hellstrom, John; Herries, Andy IR; Joannes-Boyau, Renaud; Makhubela, Tebogo V; Placzek, Christa J; Robbins, Jessie; Spandler, Carl; Wiersma, Jelle; Woodhead, Jon; Berger, Lee R

2017-01-01

New ages for flowstone, sediments and fossil bones from the Dinaledi Chamber are presented. We combined optically stimulated luminescence dating of sediments with U-Th and palaeomagnetic analyses of flowstones to establish that all sediments containing Homo naledi fossils can be allocated to a single stratigraphic entity (sub-unit 3b), interpreted to be deposited between 236 ka and 414 ka. This result has been confirmed independently by dating three H. naledi teeth with combined U-series and electron spin resonance (US-ESR) dating. Two dating scenarios for the fossils were tested by varying the assumed levels of 222Rn loss in the encasing sediments: a maximum age scenario provides an average age for the two least altered fossil teeth of 253 +82/–70 ka, whilst a minimum age scenario yields an average age of 200 +70/–61 ka. We consider the maximum age scenario to more closely reflect conditions in the cave, and therefore, the true age of the fossils. By combining the US-ESR maximum age estimate obtained from the teeth, with the U-Th age for the oldest flowstone overlying Homo naledi fossils, we have constrained the depositional age of Homo naledi to a period between 236 ka and 335 ka. These age results demonstrate that a morphologically primitive hominin, Homo naledi, survived into the later parts of the Pleistocene in Africa, and indicate a much younger age for the Homo naledi fossils than have previously been hypothesized based on their morphology. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.24231.001 PMID:28483040

Self-Regulation Mediates the Relationship between Learner Typology and Achievement in At - Risk Children

PubMed Central

Weed, Keri; Keogh, Deborah; Borkowski, John G.; Whitman, Thomas; Noria, Christine W.

2010-01-01

A person-centered approach was used to explore the mediating role of self-regulation between learner typology at age 8 and academic achievement at age 14while controlling for domain-specific achievement in a longitudinal sample of 113 children born to adolescent mothers. Children were classified into one of 5 learner typologies at age 8based on interactive patterns of intellectual, achievement, and adaptive abilities. Typology classification explained significant variance in both reading and mathematics achievement at age 14. A bootstrapping approach confirmed that self-regulation mediated the relationship between typology and reading and mathematical achievement for children from all typologies except those classified as Cognitively and Adaptively Challenged. Implications of person-centered approaches for understanding processes involved with achievement are discussed. PMID:21278904

Design, Development and Testing of Inconel Alloy IN718 Spherical Gas Bottle for Oxygen Storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chenna Krishna, S.; Agilan, M.; Sudarshan Rao, G.; Singh, Satish Kumar; Narayana Murty, S. V. S.; Venkata Narayana, Ganji; Beena, A. P.; Rajesh, L.; Jha, Abhay K.; Pant, Bhanu

2017-11-01

This paper describes the details of design, manufacture and testing of 200 mm diameter spherical gas bottle of Inconel 718 (IN718) with nominal wall thickness of 2.3 mm. Gas bottle was designed for the specified internal pressure loading with a thickness of 2.9 mm at the circumferential weld which was brought down to 2.3 mm at the membrane locations. Hemispherical forgings produced through closed-die hammer forging were machined and electron beam welded to produce a spherical gas bottle. Duly welded gas bottle was subjected to standard aging treatment to achieve the required tensile strength. Aged gas bottle was inspected for dimensions and other stringent quality requirements using various nondestructive testing techniques. After inspection, gas bottle was subjected to pressure test for maximum expected operating pressure and proof pressure of 25 and 37.5 MPa, respectively. Strain gauges were bonded at different locations on the gas bottle to monitor the strains during the pressure test and correlated with the predicted values. The predicted strain matched well with the experimental strain confirming the design and structural integrity.

Physical activity levels and participation in sport in Irish people with haemophilia.

PubMed

Sherlock, E; O'Donnell, J S; White, B; Blake, C

2010-01-01

Physical activity and sport are associated with a range of health and social benefits. The aim of this study was to assess the level of sports participation and physical activity of Irish people with haemophilia (PWH). A questionnaire was administered to Irish PWH attending the National Centre for Hereditary Coagulation Disorders over a 3-month period. This included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the Haemophilia Activities List (HAL). Comparisons with EU average data from European Physical Activity Surveillance System for physical activity scores (IPAQ) were made using independent t-tests and percentage variance. Relationships between age, functional limitation (based on HAL) and IPAQ scores were tested with Pearson's correlation. Sixty-one questionnaires were completed, representing 12% of the Irish haemophilia population. Age ranged from 16 to 63; all levels of severity were included. Forty-six percent of Irish PWH achieved a high level of physical activity, but overall physical activity [total metabolic equivalents of task (MET) min] in the group was only 66% of the EU average. Elderly patients and those with more functional limitations (with lower HAL scores) were significantly less active. Sports participation levels were in line with other PWH at 66%. Although 55% reported bleeds resulting from sport and 31% reported having had a significant injury attributable to sport, overall sport was viewed in a positive light. Irish PWH are physically active and play a wide range of sports. Further efforts are needed to achieve optimal safety and to ensure that maximum benefit is gained.

A quantitative study on accumulation of age mass around stagnation points in nested flow systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Xiao-Wei; Wan, Li; Ge, Shemin; Cao, Guo-Liang; Hou, Guang-Cai; Hu, Fu-Sheng; Wang, Xu-Sheng; Li, Hailong; Liang, Si-Hai

2012-12-01

The stagnant zones in nested flow systems have been assumed to be critical to accumulation of transported matter, such as metallic ions and hydrocarbons in drainage basins. However, little quantitative research has been devoted to prove this assumption. In this paper, the transport of age mass is used as an example to demonstrate that transported matter could accumulate around stagnation points. The spatial distribution of model age is analyzed in a series of drainage basins of different depths. We found that groundwater age has a local or regional maximum value around each stagnation point, which proves the accumulation of age mass. In basins where local, intermediate and regional flow systems are all well developed, the regional maximum groundwater age occurs at the regional stagnation point below the basin valley. This can be attributed to the long travel distances of regional flow systems as well as stagnancy of the water. However, when local flow systems dominate, the maximum groundwater age in the basin can be located around the local stagnation points due to stagnancy, which are far away from the basin valley. A case study is presented to illustrate groundwater flow and age in the Ordos Plateau, northwestern China. The accumulation of age mass around stagnation points is confirmed by tracer age determined by 14C dating in two boreholes and simulated age near local stagnation points under different dispersivities. The results will help shed light on the relationship between groundwater flow and distributions of groundwater age, hydrochemistry, mineral resources, and hydrocarbons in drainage basins.

Self-concept of academic ability as a function of sex, age, and academic achievement among African adolescents.

PubMed

Mboya, M M

1998-08-01

This study examined (a) sex and age variations for scores on Self-concept of Academic Ability and academic achievement among 244 African adolescents attending a coeducational high school and (b) correlations between scores on Self-concept of Academic Ability and academic achievement by sex and age. No significant sex differences were found, but there were significant age differences on the Self-concept scores and measures of English, science, and history but not in mathematics. A significant positive correlation was found between Self-concept scores and academic achievement for boys and girls and in all age groups, but the magnitude of the correlations with achievement in mathematics was stronger among boys than among girls.

Population PK Modeling and Target Attainment Simulations to Support Dosing of Ceftaroline Fosamil in Pediatric Patients With Acute Bacterial Skin and Skin Structure Infections and Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia.

PubMed

Riccobene, Todd A; Khariton, Tatiana; Knebel, William; Das, Shampa; Li, James; Jandourek, Alena; Carrothers, Timothy J; Bradley, John S

2017-03-01

Ceftaroline, the active form of the prodrug ceftaroline fosamil, is approved for use in adults with community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP) or acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) in the United States and for similar indications in Europe. Pharmacokinetic (PK) data from 5 pediatric (birth to <18 years) studies of ceftaroline fosamil were combined with PK data from adults to update a population PK model for ceftaroline and ceftaroline fosamil. This model, based on a data set including 305 children, was used to conduct simulations to estimate ceftaroline exposures and percentage of time that free drug concentrations were above the minimum inhibitory concentration (%fT>MIC) for pediatric dose regimens. With dose regimens of 8 mg/kg every 8 hours (q8h) in children aged 2 months to <2 years and 12 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 400 mg) q8h in children aged 2 years to <18 years or 600 mg q12h in children aged 12 to <18 years, >90% of children were predicted to achieve a target of 36% fT>MIC at an MIC of 2 mg/L, and >97% were predicted to achieve 44% fT>MIC at an MIC of 1 mg/L. Thus, high PK/pharmacodynamic target attainment would be maintained in children for targets associated with 1-log kill of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The predicted ceftaroline exposures for these dose regimens were similar to those in adults given 600 mg q12h ceftaroline fosamil. This work contributed to the approval of dose regimens for children aged 2 months to <18 years by the FDA and EMA, which are presented. © 2016, The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

Externalizing problems in childhood and adolescence predict subsequent educational achievement but for different genetic and environmental reasons.

PubMed

Lewis, Gary J; Asbury, Kathryn; Plomin, Robert

2017-03-01

Childhood behavior problems predict subsequent educational achievement; however, little research has examined the etiology of these links using a longitudinal twin design. Moreover, it is unknown whether genetic and environmental innovations provide incremental prediction for educational achievement from childhood to adolescence. We examined genetic and environmental influences on parental ratings of behavior problems across childhood (age 4) and adolescence (ages 12 and 16) as predictors of educational achievement at age 16 using a longitudinal classical twin design. Shared-environmental influences on anxiety, conduct problems, and peer problems at age 4 predicted educational achievement at age 16. Genetic influences on the externalizing behaviors of conduct problems and hyperactivity at age 4 predicted educational achievement at age 16. Moreover, novel genetic and (to a lesser extent) nonshared-environmental influences acting on conduct problems and hyperactivity emerged at ages 12 and 16, adding to the genetic prediction from age 4. These findings demonstrate that genetic and shared-environmental factors underpinning behavior problems in early childhood predict educational achievement in midadolescence. These findings are consistent with the notion that early-childhood behavior problems reflect the initiation of a life-course persistent trajectory with concomitant implications for social attainment. However, we also find evidence that genetic and nonshared-environment innovations acting on behavior problems have implications for subsequent educational achievement, consistent with recent work arguing that adolescence represents a sensitive period for socioaffective development. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Trunk extensor and flexor strength capacity in healthy young elite athletes aged 11-15 years.

PubMed

Mueller, Juliane; Mueller, Steffen; Stoll, Josefine; Baur, Heiner; Mayer, Frank

2014-05-01

Differences in trunk strength capacity because of gender and sports are well documented in adults. In contrast, data concerning young athletes are sparse. The purpose of this study was to assess the maximum trunk strength of adolescent athletes and to investigate differences between genders and age groups. A total of 520 young athletes were recruited. Finally, 377 (n = 233/144 M/F; 13 ± 1 years; 1.62 ± 0.11 m height; 51 ± 12 kg mass; training: 4.5 ± 2.6 years; training sessions/week: 4.3 ± 3.0; various sports) young athletes were included in the final data analysis. Furthermore, 5 age groups were differentiated (age groups: 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 years; n = 90, 150, 42, 43, and 52, respectively). Maximum strength of trunk flexors (Flex) and extensors (Ext) was assessed in all subjects during isokinetic concentric measurements (60°·s(-1); 5 repetitions; range of motion: 55°). Maximum strength was characterized by absolute peak torque (Flexabs, Extabs; N·m), peak torque normalized to body weight (Flexnorm, Extnorm; N·m·kg(-1) BW), and Flexabs/Extabs ratio (RKquot). Descriptive data analysis (mean ± SD) was completed, followed by analysis of variance (α = 0.05; post hoc test [Tukey-Kramer]). Mean maximum strength for all athletes was 97 ± 34 N·m in Flexabs and 140 ± 50 N·m in Extabs (Flexnorm = 1.9 ± 0.3 N·m·kg(-1) BW, Extnorm = 2.8 ± 0.6 N·m·kg(-1) BW). Males showed statistically significant higher absolute and normalized values compared with females (p < 0.001). Flexabs and Extabs rose with increasing age almost 2-fold for males and females (Flexabs, Extabs: p < 0.001). Flexnorm and Extnorm increased with age for males (p < 0.001), however, not for females (Flexnorm: p = 0.26; Extnorm: p = 0.20). RKquot (mean ± SD: 0.71 ± 0.16) did not reveal any differences regarding age (p = 0.87) or gender (p = 0.43). In adolescent athletes, maximum trunk strength must be discussed in a gender- and age-specific context. The Flexabs/Extabs ratio revealed extensor dominance, which seems to be independent of age and gender. The values assessed may serve as a basis to evaluate and discuss trunk strength in athletes.

Interlabial contact pressures exhibited in dysarthria following traumatic brain injury during speech and nonspeech tasks.

PubMed

Goozée, Justine V; Murdoch, Bruce E; Theodoros, Deborah G

2002-01-01

A miniature pressure transducer was used to assess the interlabial contact pressures produced by a group of 19 adults (mean age 30.6 years) with dysarthria following severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) during a set of speech and nonspeech tasks. Ten parameters relating to lip strength, endurance, rate of movement and lip pressure accuracy and stability were measured from the nonspeech tasks. The results attained by the TBI group were compared against a group of 19 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Significant differences between the groups were found for maximum interlabial contact pressure, maximum rate of repetition of maximum pressure, and lip pressure accuracy at 50 and 10% levels of maximum pressure. In regards to speech, the interlabial contact pressures generated by the TBI group and control group did not differ significantly. When expressed as percentages of maximum pressure, however, the TBI group's interlabial pressures appeared to have been generated with greater physiological effort. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

Brief Report: Executive Function as a Predictor of Academic Achievement in School-Aged Children with ASD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

St. John, Tanya; Dawson, Geraldine; Estes, Annette

2018-01-01

The contributions of Executive Function (EF) to academic achievement in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are not well understood. Academic achievement and its association with EF is described in 32, 9-year-old children with ASD. EF at age 6 and 9, and academic achievement at age 9 were assessed as part of a larger longitudinal study.…

Climatic implications of glacial evolution in the Tröllaskagi peninsula (northern Iceland) since the Little Ice Age maximum. The cases of the Gljúfurárjökull and Tungnahryggsjökull glaciers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernández-Fernández, José M.; Andrés, Nuria; Brynjólfsson, Skafti; Sæmundsson, Þorsteinn; Palacios, David

2017-04-01

The Tröllaskagi peninsula is located in northern Iceland, between meridians 19°30'W and 18°10'W, jutting out into the North Atlantic to latitude 66°12'N and joining the central highlands to the south. About 150 glaciers located on the Tröllaskagi peninsula reached their Holocene maximum extent during the Little Ice Age (LIA) maximum at the end of the 19th century. The sudden warming at the turn of the 20th century triggered a continuous retreat from the LIA maximum positions, interrupted by a reversal trend during the mid-seventies and eighties in response to a brief period of climate cooling. The aim of this paper is to analyze the relationships between glacial and climatic evolution since the LIA maximum. For this reason, we selected three small debris-free glaciers: Gljúfurárjökull, and western and eastern Tungnahryggsjökull, at the headwalls of Skíðadalur and Kolbeinsdalur, as their absence of debris cover makes them sensitive to climatic fluctuations. To achieve this purpose, we used ArcGIS to map the glacier extent during the LIA maximum and several dates over four georeferenced aerial photos (1946, 1985, 1994 and 2000), as well as a 2005 SPOT satellite image. Then, the Equilibrium-Line Altitude (ELA) was calculated by applying the Accumulation Area Ratio (AAR) and Area Altitude Balance Ratio (AABR) approaches. Climatological data series from the nearby weather stations were used in order to analyze climate development and to estimate precipitation at the ELA with different numerical models. Our results show considerable changes of the three debris-free glaciers and demonstrates their sensitivity to climatic fluctuations. As a result of the abrupt climatic transition of the 20th century, the following warm 25-year period and the warming started in the late eighties, the three glaciers retreated by ca. 990-1330 m from the LIA maximum to 2005, supported by a 40-metre ELA rise and a reduction of their area and volume of 25% and 33% on average, respectively. The 1.5 °C warming recorded at the city of Akureyri from late 19th century to 2005 does not agree with the 0.3 °C value obtained from the ELA rise and lapse rate. On the contrary it demonstrates that other factors - for example, precipitation and wind - have been decisive in the evolution of the glaciers. All the models applied suggest a precipitation increase of 700 mm water equivalent at the mean ELA since the LIA maximum, and higher and lower values depending on warm and cold periods respectively. The overall increase in precipitation is compatible with the increase in the surface temperature of the North Atlantic and a possible negative-to-positive shift in North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) mode. However, the link between winter accumulation and prevailing wind directions recorded at nearby weather stations remains unclear. Research funded by Deglaciation project (CGL2015-65813-R), Government of Spain.

Application of trajectory optimization techniques to upper atmosphere sampling flights using the F4-C Phantom aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hague, D. S.; Merz, A. W.

1975-01-01

Altitude potential of an off-the-shelf F4-C aircraft is examined. It is shown that the standard F4-C has a maximum altitude capability in the region from 85000 to 95000 ft, depending on the minimum dynamic pressures deemed acceptable for adequate flight control. By using engine overspeed capability and by making use of prevailing winds in the stratosphere, it is suggested that the maximum altitude achievable by an F4-C should be in the vicinity of 95000 ft for routine flight operation. This altitude is well in excess of the minimum altitudes which must be achieved for monitoring the possible growth of suspected aerosol contaminants.

Windows of achievement for development milestones of Sri Lankan infants and toddlers: estimation through statistical modelling.

PubMed

Thalagala, N

2015-11-01

The normative age ranges during which cohorts of children achieve milestones are called windows of achievement. The patterns of these windows of achievement are known to be both genetically and environmentally dependent. This study aimed to determine the windows of achievement for motor, social emotional, language and cognitive development milestones for infants and toddlers in Sri Lanka. A set of 293 milestones identified through a literature review were subjected to content validation using parent and expert reviews, which resulted in the selection of a revised set of 277 milestones. Thereafter, a sample of 1036 children from 2 months to 30 months was examined to see whether or not they had attained the selected milestones. Percentile ages of attaining milestone were determined using a rearranged closed form equation related to the logistic regression. The parameters required for calculations were derived through the logistic regression of milestone achievement statuses against ages of children. These percentile ages were used to define the respective windows of achievement. A set of 178 robust indicators that represent motor, socio emotional, language and cognitive development skills and their windows of achievement relevant to 2 to 24 months of age were determined. Windows of achievement for six gross motor milestones determined in the study were shown to closely overlap a similar set of windows of achievement published by the World Health Organization indicating the validity of some findings. A methodology combining the content validation based on qualitative techniques and age validation based on regression modelling found to be effective for determining age percentiles for realizing milestones and determining respective windows of achievement. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effects of Pressure Support Ventilation May Be Lost at High Exercise Intensities in People with COPD.

PubMed

Anekwe, David; de Marchie, Michel; Spahija, Jadranka

2017-06-01

Pressure support ventilation (PSV) may be used for exercise training in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but its acute effect on maximum exercise capacity is not fully known. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of 10 cm H 2 O PSV and a fixed PSV level titrated to patient comfort at rest on maximum exercise workload (WLmax), breathing pattern and metabolic parameters during a symptom-limited incremental bicycle test in individuals with COPD. Eleven individuals with COPD (forced expiratory volume in one second: 49 ± 16%; age: 64 ± 7 years) performed three exercise tests: without a ventilator, with 10 cm H 2 O of PSV and with a fixed level titrated to comfort at rest, using a SERVO-i ventilator. Tests were performed in randomized order and at least 48 hours apart. The WLmax, breathing pattern, metabolic parameters, and mouth pressure (Pmo) were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance. Mean PSV during titration was 8.2 ± 4.5 cm H 2 O. There was no difference in the WLmax achieved during the three tests. At rest, PSV increased the tidal volume, minute ventilation, and mean inspiratory flow with a lower end-tidal CO 2 ; this was not sustained at peak exercise. Pmo decreased progressively (decreased unloading) with PSV at workloads close to peak, suggesting the ventilator was unable to keep up with the increased ventilatory demand at high workloads. In conclusion, with a Servo-i ventilator, 10 cm H 2 O of PSV and a fixed level of PSV established by titration to comfort at rest, is ineffective for the purpose of achieving higher exercise workloads as the acute physiological effects may not be sustained at peak exercise.

Contrast enema as a guide for senna-based laxatives in managing overflow retentive stool incontinence in pediatrics.

PubMed

Radwan, Ahmed Bassiuony; El-Debeiky, Mohammed Soliman; Abdel-Hay, Sameh

2015-08-01

Overflow retentive stool incontinence (ORSI) is secondary to constipation and fecal loading. In our study, the dose and duration of senna-based laxatives (SBL) treatment to achieve full defecatory control will be examined for possible correlation with new parameters measured from the initial contrast enema. Initially, an observational study was conducted prospectively on a group of patient with ORSI to define the optimum dose of SBL to achieve full defecatory control with measurement of six parameters in the initial contrast enema (level of colonic dilatation, recto-anal angle, ratio of maximal diameter of dilated colon to last lumbar spine, ratio of maximum diameter of dilated colon to normal descending colon, immediate and after 24-h post-evacuation residual contrast). The result was analyzed statistically to reach a correlation between the radiological data and prescribed dose. Over 2 and half years, 72 patients were included in the study; their mean age was 6.3 ± 3.33 years. The mean effective starting dose of SBL was 57 ± 18.13 mg/day and the mean effective ending dose was 75 ± 31.68 mg/day. Time lapsed till full defecatory control ranged from 1 to 16 weeks. Statistical correlation revealed that mean effective ending dose of SBL treatment significantly increased with higher levels of colonic dilatation. A weak positive correlation was found for both the mean effective starting and ending doses with the ratio of maximum colonic diameter to last lumbar spine and descending colonic diameters ratio. Senna-based laxatives are effective treatment for overflow retentive stool incontinence and their doses can be adjusted initially depending on the analysis of the radiological data.

Comparison of the Effect of Sensory-Level and Conventional Motor-Level Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulations on Quadriceps Strength After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Single-Blind Trial.

PubMed

Yoshida, Yosuke; Ikuno, Koki; Shomoto, Koji

2017-12-01

To compare sensory-level neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and conventional motor-level NMES in patients after total knee arthroplasty. Prospective randomized single-blind trial. Hospital total arthroplasty center: inpatients. Patients with osteoarthritis (N=66; mean age, 73.5±6.3y; 85% women) were randomized to receive either sensory-level NMES applied to the quadriceps (the sensory-level NMES group), motor-level NMES (the motor-level NMES group), or no stimulation (the control group) in addition to a standard rehabilitation program. Each type of NMES was applied in 45-minute sessions, 5d/wk, for 2 weeks. Data for the quadriceps maximum voluntary isometric contraction, the leg skeletal muscle mass determined using multiple-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis, the timed Up and Go test, the 2-minute walk test, the visual analog scale, and the range of motion of the knee were measured preoperatively and at 2 and 4 weeks after total knee arthroplasty. The motor-level NMES (P=.001) and sensory-level NMES (P=.028) groups achieved better maximum voluntary isometric contraction results than did the control group. The motor-level NMES (P=.003) and sensory-level NMES (P=.046) groups achieved better 2-minute walk test results than did the control group. Some patients in the motor-level NMES group dropped out of the experiment because of discomfort. Motor-level NMES significantly improved muscle strength and functional performance more than did the standard program alone. Motor-level NMES was uncomfortable for some patients. Sensory-level NMES was comfortable and improved muscle strength and functional performance more than did the standard program alone. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Comparison of Electromagnetic Induction Mapping to Measurements of Maximum Effluent Flow Depth for Assessing Flow Paths in Vegetative Treatment Areas

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Vegetative treatment systems (VTSs) are one type of control structure that has shown potential to control runoff from open feedlots. To achieve maximum performance, sheet-flow over the width of the vegetative treatment area (VTA) is required. Tools, such as maps of flow paths through the VTA, are ne...

A pulser-sustainer carbon monoxide electric-discharge supersonic laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Monson, D. J.; Srinivasan, G.

1977-01-01

Operation of a CW CO electric-discharge supersonic laser with a pulser-sustainer discharge is described. High-power operation as well as independent control over electron energy and density are demonstrated. Maximum input power achieved to date is 100 kW. The maximum output power is 6 kW or 10% of the sustainer positive-column power. Much improved performance appears possible.

Circuit-level optimisation of a:Si TFT-based AMOLED pixel circuits for maximum hold current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foroughi, Aidin; Mehrpoo, Mohammadreza; Ashtiani, Shahin J.

2013-11-01

Design of AMOLED pixel circuits has manifold constraints and trade-offs which provides incentive for circuit designers to seek optimal solutions for different objectives. In this article, we present a discussion on the viability of an optimal solution to achieve the maximum hold current. A compact formula for component sizing in a conventional 2T1C pixel is, therefore, derived. Compared to SPICE simulation results, for several pixel sizes, our predicted optimum sizing yields maximum currents with errors less than 0.4%.

Age-Related Differences in Achievement Goal Differentiation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bong, Mimi

2009-01-01

Validity of the 2 x 2 achievement goal framework for school-aged children and adolescents was examined, using self-report responses from 1,196 Korean elementary and middle school students. Confirmatory factor analysis models hypothesizing 4 distinct achievement goal factors demonstrated the best fit in all age groups. Nevertheless, achievement…

40 CFR 420.83 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.83 Section 420.83 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... and plate. Subpart H Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day...

40 CFR 420.83 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.83 Section 420.83 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... and plate. Subpart H Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day...

40 CFR 420.103 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.103 Section 420.103 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... stand. Subpart J Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average...

40 CFR 420.103 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.103 Section 420.103 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... stand. Subpart J Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average...

40 CFR 420.43 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.43 Section 420.43 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125...-suppressed combustion. Subpart D Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 420.43 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.43 Section 420.43 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125...-suppressed combustion. Subpart D Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 433.14 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by applying the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (BAT). 433.14 Section 433.14 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... economically achievable (BAT): BAT Effluent Limitations Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day...

40 CFR 420.43 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.43 Section 420.43 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125...-suppressed combustion. Subpart D Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1...

40 CFR 420.83 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.83 Section 420.83 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... and plate. Subpart H Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day...

40 CFR 420.103 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.103 Section 420.103 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... stand. Subpart J Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average...

40 CFR 420.33 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.33 Section 420.33 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average of daily values for 30 consecutive...

40 CFR 420.103 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.103 Section 420.103 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... stand. Subpart J Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average...

40 CFR 420.33 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.33 Section 420.33 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average of daily values for 30 consecutive...

40 CFR 430.104 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.104 Section 430.104 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30 through 125.32, any existing point source subject to this... economically achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass...

40 CFR 430.104 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 430.104 Section 430.104 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30 through 125.32, any existing point source subject to this... economically achievable (BAT). Non-continuous dischargers shall not be subject to the maximum day mass...

40 CFR 420.33 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.33 Section 420.33 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average of daily values for 30 consecutive...

40 CFR 420.33 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.33 Section 420.33 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day Average of daily values for 30 consecutive...

40 CFR 420.83 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the application...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... achievable (BAT). 420.83 Section 420.83 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... application of the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). Except as provided in 40 CFR 125... and plate. Subpart H Pollutant or pollutant property BAT effluent limitations Maximum for any 1 day...

40 CFR 433.14 - Effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by applying the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... (BAT). 433.14 Section 433.14 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... the best available technology economically achievable (BAT). (a) Except as provided in 40 CFR 125.30... economically achievable (BAT): BAT Effluent Limitations Pollutant or pollutant property Maximum for any 1 day...

40 CFR 415.282 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... point source subject to this subpart and using borax produced by the Trona process must achieve the... remined borax must achieve the following effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent...): Subpart AB—Boric Acid Mined Borax Process Pollutant or pollutant property BPT limitations Maximum for any...

40 CFR 415.282 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... point source subject to this subpart and using borax produced by the Trona process must achieve the... remined borax must achieve the following effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent...): Subpart AB—Boric Acid Mined Borax Process Pollutant or pollutant property BPT limitations Maximum for any...

40 CFR 415.282 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... point source subject to this subpart and using borax produced by the Trona process must achieve the... remined borax must achieve the following effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent...): Subpart AB—Boric Acid Mined Borax Process Pollutant or pollutant property BPT limitations Maximum for any...

40 CFR 415.282 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... point source subject to this subpart and using borax produced by the Trona process must achieve the... remined borax must achieve the following effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent...): Subpart AB—Boric Acid Mined Borax Process Pollutant or pollutant property BPT limitations Maximum for any...

40 CFR 415.282 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... point source subject to this subpart and using borax produced by the Trona process must achieve the... remined borax must achieve the following effluent limitations representing the degree of effluent...): Subpart AB—Boric Acid Mined Borax Process Pollutant or pollutant property BPT limitations Maximum for any...

40 CFR 63.43 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for constructed and reconstructed...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... achieving such emission reduction and any non-air quality health and environmental impacts and energy..., and analysis of cost and non-air quality health environmental impacts or energy requirements for the...-day period for submittal of public comment; and (iii) A notice by prominent advertisement in the area...

40 CFR 63.43 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for constructed and reconstructed...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... achieving such emission reduction and any non-air quality health and environmental impacts and energy..., and analysis of cost and non-air quality health environmental impacts or energy requirements for the...-day period for submittal of public comment; and (iii) A notice by prominent advertisement in the area...

40 CFR 63.43 - Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) determinations for constructed and reconstructed...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... achieving such emission reduction and any non-air quality health and environmental impacts and energy..., and analysis of cost and non-air quality health environmental impacts or energy requirements for the...-day period for submittal of public comment; and (iii) A notice by prominent advertisement in the area...

40 CFR 63.1112 - Extension of compliance, and performance test, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting waivers...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Source Categories: Generic Maximum Achievable Control Technology... operator of an existing source has installed best available control technology (BACT) (as defined in section 169(3) of the Act) or technology required to meet a lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) (as...

40 CFR 63.1112 - Extension of compliance, and performance test, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting waivers...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Source Categories: Generic Maximum Achievable Control Technology... operator of an existing source has installed best available control technology (BACT) (as defined in section 169(3) of the Act) or technology required to meet a lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) (as...

40 CFR 63.1112 - Extension of compliance, and performance test, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting waivers...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Source Categories: Generic Maximum Achievable Control Technology... operator of an existing source has installed best available control technology (BACT) (as defined in section 169(3) of the Act) or technology required to meet a lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) (as...

40 CFR 63.1112 - Extension of compliance, and performance test, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting waivers...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Source Categories: Generic Maximum Achievable Control Technology... operator of an existing source has installed best available control technology (BACT) (as defined in section 169(3) of the Act) or technology required to meet a lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) (as...

40 CFR 63.1112 - Extension of compliance, and performance test, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting waivers...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Source Categories: Generic Maximum Achievable Control Technology... operator of an existing source has installed best available control technology (BACT) (as defined in section 169(3) of the Act) or technology required to meet a lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) (as...

Do the maximum sizes, ages and patterns of growth of three reef-dwelling labrid species at two latitudes differ in a manner conforming to the metabolic theory of ecology?

PubMed

Lek, E; Fairclough, D V; Hall, N G; Hesp, S A; Potter, I C

2012-11-01

The size and age data and patterns of growth of three abundant, reef-dwelling and protogynous labrid species (Coris auricularis, Notolabrus parilus and Ophthalmolepis lineolata) in waters off Perth at c. 32° S and in the warmer waters of the Jurien Bay Marine Park (JBMP) at c. 30° S on the lower west coast of Australia are compared. Using data for the top 10% of values and a randomization procedure, the maximum total length (L(T) ) and mass of each species and the maximum age of the first two species were estimated to be significantly greater off Perth than in the JBMP (all P < 0.001) and the maximum ages of O. lineolata in the two localities did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). These latitudinal trends, thus, typically conform to those frequently exhibited by fish species and the predictions of the metabolic theory of ecology (MTE). While, in terms of mass, the instantaneous growth rates of each species were similar at both latitudes during early life, they were greater at the higher latitude throughout the remainder and thus much of life, which is broadly consistent with the MTE. When expressed in terms of L(T), however, instantaneous growth rates did not exhibit consistent latitudinal trends across all three species. The above trends with mass, together with those for reproductive variables, demonstrate that a greater amount of energy is directed into somatic growth and gonadal development by each of these species at the higher latitude. The consistency of the direction of the latitudinal trends for maximum body size and age and pattern of growth across all three species implies that each species is responding in a similar manner to differences between the environmental characteristics, such as temperature, at those two latitudes. The individual maximum L(T), mass and age and pattern of growth of O. lineolata at a higher and thus cooler latitude on the eastern Australian coast are consistent with the latitudinal trends exhibited by those characteristics for this species in the two western Australian localities. The implications of using mass rather than length as the indicator variable when comparing the maximum sizes of the three species and the trends exhibited by the instantaneous growth rates of those species at different latitudes are explored. Although growth curves fitted to both the L(T) and masses at age for the males of each species lay above those for their females, this would not have influenced the conclusions drawn from common curves for both sexes. © 2012 Murdoch University. Journal of Fish Biology © 2012 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

Reasons for raising the maximum acceptable daily intake of EDTA and the benefits for iron fortification of foods for children 6–24 months of age

PubMed Central

Wreesmann, Carel Theo Jozef

2014-01-01

The current maximum acceptable daily intake (ADI) of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) of 1.9 mg day−1 per kilogram bodyweight (mg day−1 kgbw−1) limits the daily intake of iron as iron EDTA [ferric sodium EDTA; sodium iron(III) EDTA] to approximately 2–2.5 mg day−1 for children 6–24 months of age. This limit was defined by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) in 1973 based on data from an animal-feed study published in 1963. Other animal studies indicate that this limit can be raised to 4.4 or possibly up to 21.7 mg day−1 kgbw−1, which is 2.3–11.4 times higher than the current value. For nearly 50 years, iron EDTA has been used in France in medicinal syrup for infants 1–6 months of age. The maximum recommended dosage of this drug is 37 times higher than the maximum ADI of EDTA. No adverse health effects have been reported as a result of this medicinal consumption of iron EDTA. Raising the maximum ADI of EDTA to only 4.4 mg day−1 kgbw−1 would enable iron EDTA, an iron fortificant with proven bioavailability in phytate-rich meals, to be added in adequate amounts to cereal-based meals for children 6–24 months of age, who are at risk of iron deficiency. PMID:24521261

Reasons for raising the maximum acceptable daily intake of EDTA and the benefits for iron fortification of foods for children 6-24 months of age.

PubMed

Wreesmann, Carel Theo Jozef

2014-10-01

The current maximum acceptable daily intake (ADI) of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) of 1.9 mg day(-1) per kilogram bodyweight (mg day(-1)  kgbw(-1) ) limits the daily intake of iron as iron EDTA [ferric sodium EDTA; sodium iron(III) EDTA] to approximately 2-2.5 mg day(-1) for children 6-24 months of age. This limit was defined by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) in 1973 based on data from an animal-feed study published in 1963. Other animal studies indicate that this limit can be raised to 4.4 or possibly up to 21.7 mg day(-1)  kgbw(-1) , which is 2.3-11.4 times higher than the current value. For nearly 50 years, iron EDTA has been used in France in medicinal syrup for infants 1-6 months of age. The maximum recommended dosage of this drug is 37 times higher than the maximum ADI of EDTA. No adverse health effects have been reported as a result of this medicinal consumption of iron EDTA. Raising the maximum ADI of EDTA to only 4.4 mg day(-1)  kgbw(-1) would enable iron EDTA, an iron fortificant with proven bioavailability in phytate-rich meals, to be added in adequate amounts to cereal-based meals for children 6-24 months of age, who are at risk of iron deficiency. © 2014 The Authors. Maternal & Child Nutrition published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

δ18O and salinity variability from the Last Glacial Maximum to Recent in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sijinkumar, A. V.; Clemens, Steven; Nath, B. Nagender; Prell, Warren; Benshila, Rachid; Lengaigne, Matthieu

2016-03-01

Oxygen isotopes of surface, thermocline and bottom dwelling foraminifera were analysed from two well-dated Andaman Sea cores and combined with nine previously published records from the Bay of Bengal (BoB) and Andaman Sea to create a transect spanning 20°N to 5°N. Combined with temperature estimates and the observed seawater δ18O-salinity relationship, these data are used to estimate past changes in BoB salinity structure. Compared to modern, mid-Holocene (9-6 cal ka BP) surface waters in the northern BoB were 2.5 psμ (8%) fresher, Andaman Sea were 3.8 psμ (12%) fresher, and southern BoB were 1.2 psμ (3.5%) fresher. Conversely, during the last glacial maximum (LGM), surface waters in the northern BoB were 2.9 psμ (9%) more saline while Andaman Sea were essentially unchanged and southern BoB were 1.7 psμ (4.9%) more saline compared to modern. The relative freshness of the Andaman during the last glacial maximum is likely the result of basin morphology during sea level low stand, resulting in reduced surface water mixing with the open BoB as well as shelf emergence, causing increased proximity of the core locations to river outflow. Sensitivity experiments using a regional ocean model indicate that the increased mid-Holocene north to south (20°N to 5°N) salinity gradient can be achieved with a ∼50% increase in precipitation/runoff while the decreased glacial age gradient can be achieved with a ∼50% reduction in precipitation/runoff. During the deglaciation, both surface and thermocline-dwelling species in the Andaman and northern BoB exhibit depleted δ18O within the Younger Dryas (YD), indicating colder and/or more saline conditions. None of the records from the southern BoB site have clear YD structure, possibly due to the combined effects of bioturbation and low sedimentation rates.

Improved fed-batch production of high-purity PHB (poly-3 hydroxy butyrate) by Cupriavidus necator (MTCC 1472) from sucrose-based cheap substrates under response surface-optimized conditions.

PubMed

Dey, Pinaki; Rangarajan, Vivek

2017-10-01

Experimental investigations were carried out for Cupriavidus necator (MTCC 1472)-based improved production of poly-3 hydroxy butyrate (PHB) through induced nitrogen limiting fed-batch cultivation strategies. Initially Plackett-Burman design and response surface methodology were implemented to optimize most influencing process parameters. With optimized process parameter values, continuous feeding strategies ware applied in a 5-l fermenter with table sugar concentration of 100 g/l, nitrogen concentration of 0.12 g/l for fed-batch fermentation with varying dilution rates of 0.02 and 0.046 1/h. To get enriched production of PHB, concentration of the sugar was further increased to 150 and 200 g/l in feeding. Maximum concentrations of PHB achieved were 22.35 and 23.07 g/l at those dilution rates when sugar concentration maintains at 200 g/l in feeding. At maximum concentration of PHB (23.07 g/l), productivity of 0.58 g/l h was achieved with maximum PHB accumulation efficiency up to 64% of the dry weight of biomass. High purity of PHB, close to medical grade was achieved after surfactant hypochlorite extraction method, and it was further confirmed by SEM, EDX, and XRD studies.

Amplifying Dynamic Nuclear Polarization of Frozen Solutions by Incorporating Dielectric Particles

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

There is currently great interest in understanding the limits on NMR signal enhancements provided by dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), and in particular if the theoretical maximum enhancements can be achieved. We show that over a 2-fold improvement in cross-effect DNP enhancements can be achieved in MAS experiments on frozen solutions by simply incorporating solid particles into the sample. At 9.4 T and ∼105 K, enhancements up to εH = 515 are obtained in this way, corresponding to 78% of the theoretical maximum. We also underline that degassing of the sample is important to achieve highest enhancements. We link the amplification effect to the dielectric properties of the solid material, which probably gives rise to scattering, diffraction, and amplification of the microwave field in the sample. This is substantiated by simulations of microwave propagation. A reduction in sample heating at a given microwave power also likely occurs due to reduced dielectric loss. Simulations indicate that the microwave field (and thus the DNP enhancement) is inhomogeneous in the sample, and we deduce that in these experiments between 5 and 10% of the solution actually yields the theoretical maximum signal enhancement of 658. The effect is demonstrated for a variety of particles added to both aqueous and organic biradical solutions. PMID:25285480

20 CFR 229.48 - Family maximum.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... maximum. The spouse's and child(ren)'s share of the Overall Minimum PIA are reduced if the total benefits... adjustment is before adjustment for age or other benefits. The spouse and child(ren)'s benefits are computed...

20 CFR 229.48 - Family maximum.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... maximum. The spouse's and child(ren)'s share of the Overall Minimum PIA are reduced if the total benefits... adjustment is before adjustment for age or other benefits. The spouse and child(ren)'s benefits are computed...

20 CFR 229.48 - Family maximum.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... maximum. The spouse's and child(ren)'s share of the Overall Minimum PIA are reduced if the total benefits... adjustment is before adjustment for age or other benefits. The spouse and child(ren)'s benefits are computed...

Prediction of near-term breast cancer risk using local region-based bilateral asymmetry features in mammography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yane; Fan, Ming; Li, Lihua; Zheng, Bin

2017-03-01

This study proposed a near-term breast cancer risk assessment model based on local region bilateral asymmetry features in Mammography. The database includes 566 cases who underwent at least two sequential FFDM examinations. The `prior' examination in the two series all interpreted as negative (not recalled). In the "current" examination, 283 women were diagnosed cancers and 283 remained negative. Age of cancers and negative cases completely matched. These cases were divided into three subgroups according to age: 152 cases among the 37-49 age-bracket, 220 cases in the age-bracket 50- 60, and 194 cases with the 61-86 age-bracket. For each image, two local regions including strip-based regions and difference-of-Gaussian basic element regions were segmented. After that, structural variation features among pixel values and structural similarity features were computed for strip regions. Meanwhile, positional features were extracted for basic element regions. The absolute subtraction value was computed between each feature of the left and right local-regions. Next, a multi-layer perception classifier was implemented to assess performance of features for prediction. Features were then selected according stepwise regression analysis. The AUC achieved 0.72, 0.75 and 0.71 for these 3 age-based subgroups, respectively. The maximum adjustable odds ratios were 12.4, 20.56 and 4.91 for these three groups, respectively. This study demonstrate that the local region-based bilateral asymmetry features extracted from CC-view mammography could provide useful information to predict near-term breast cancer risk.

Disordered Nd:LuYSiO5 crystal lasers operating on the 4F3/2 → 4I11/2 and 4F3/2 → 4I13/2 transitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guan, Xiaofeng; Zhou, Zhiyong; Huang, Xiaoxu; Xu, Bin; Xu, Huiying; Cai, Zhiping; Xu, Xiaodong; Xu, Jun

2017-11-01

We report on diode-pumped disordered Nd:LuYSiO5 (Nd:LYSO) crystal lasers operating on the 4F3/2 → 4I11/2 and 4F3/2 → 4I 13/2 transitions. Simultaneous laser operation at 1074 and 1078 nm is achieved with maximum output power of 4.46 W and slope efficiency of 39.6%. Single wavelength laser at 1358 nm with maximum output power of 1.15 W and slope efficiency of 11.8% is also obtained. Moreover, four single-wavelength lasers at 1058, 1107, 1330 and 1386 nm with relatively low gains are achieved with maximum output powers of 2.72, 1.22, 0.52 and 0.42 W, respectively, for the first time to our knowledge. Lasing at non-traditional emission lines was obtained by using output couplers with dielectric coatings for specific wavelength ranges.

A static investigation of the thrust vectoring system of the F/A-18 high-alpha research vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mason, Mary L.; Capone, Francis J.; Asbury, Scott C.

1992-01-01

A static (wind-off) test was conducted in the static test facility of the Langley 16-foot Transonic Tunnel to evaluate the vectoring capability and isolated nozzle performance of the proposed thrust vectoring system of the F/A-18 high alpha research vehicle (HARV). The thrust vectoring system consisted of three asymmetrically spaced vanes installed externally on a single test nozzle. Two nozzle configurations were tested: A maximum afterburner-power nozzle and a military-power nozzle. Vane size and vane actuation geometry were investigated, and an extensive matrix of vane deflection angles was tested. The nozzle pressure ratios ranged from two to six. The results indicate that the three vane system can successfully generate multiaxis (pitch and yaw) thrust vectoring. However, large resultant vector angles incurred large thrust losses. Resultant vector angles were always lower than the vane deflection angles. The maximum thrust vectoring angles achieved for the military-power nozzle were larger than the angles achieved for the maximum afterburner-power nozzle.

Aging properties of Kodak type 101 emulsions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dohne, B.; Feldman, U.; Neupert, W.

1984-01-01

Aging tests for several batches of Kodak type 101 emulsion show that storage conditions significantly influence how well the film will maintain its sensitometric properties, with sensitivity and density increasing to a maximum during this period. Any further aging may result in higher fog levels and sensitivity loss. It is noted that storage in an environment free of photographically active compounds allows film property optimization, and that film batches with different sensitivities age differently. Emulsions with maximum 1700-A sensitivity are 2.5 times faster than those at the low end of the sensitivity scale. These sensitive emulsions exhibit significantly accelerated changes in aging properties. Their use in space applications requires careful consideration of time and temperature profiles, encouraging the use of less sensitive emulsions when the controllability of these factors is limited.

Voice characteristics of children aged between 6 and 13 years: impact of age, gender, and vocal training.

PubMed

Pribuisiene, Ruta; Uloza, Virgilijus; Kardisiene, Vilija

2011-12-01

To determine impact of age, gender, and vocal training on voice characteristics of children aged 6-13 years. Voice acoustic and phonetogram parameters were determined for the group of 44 singing and 31 non-singing children. No impact of gender and/or age on phonetogram, acoustic voice parameters, and maximum phonation time was detected. Voice ranges of all children represented a pre-pubertal soprano type with a voice range of 22 semitones for non-singing and of 26 semitones for singing individuals. The mean maximum voice intensity was 81 dB. Vocal training had a positive impact on voice intensity parameters in girls. The presented data on average voice characteristics may be applicable in the clinical practice and provide relevant support for voice assessment.

Role of step size and max dwell time in anatomy based inverse optimization for prostate implants

PubMed Central

Manikandan, Arjunan; Sarkar, Biplab; Rajendran, Vivek Thirupathur; King, Paul R.; Sresty, N.V. Madhusudhana; Holla, Ragavendra; Kotur, Sachin; Nadendla, Sujatha

2013-01-01

In high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy, the source dwell times and dwell positions are vital parameters in achieving a desirable implant dose distribution. Inverse treatment planning requires an optimal choice of these parameters to achieve the desired target coverage with the lowest achievable dose to the organs at risk (OAR). This study was designed to evaluate the optimum source step size and maximum source dwell time for prostate brachytherapy implants using an Ir-192 source. In total, one hundred inverse treatment plans were generated for the four patients included in this study. Twenty-five treatment plans were created for each patient by varying the step size and maximum source dwell time during anatomy-based, inverse-planned optimization. Other relevant treatment planning parameters were kept constant, including the dose constraints and source dwell positions. Each plan was evaluated for target coverage, urethral and rectal dose sparing, treatment time, relative target dose homogeneity, and nonuniformity ratio. The plans with 0.5 cm step size were seen to have clinically acceptable tumor coverage, minimal normal structure doses, and minimum treatment time as compared with the other step sizes. The target coverage for this step size is 87% of the prescription dose, while the urethral and maximum rectal doses were 107.3 and 68.7%, respectively. No appreciable difference in plan quality was observed with variation in maximum source dwell time. The step size plays a significant role in plan optimization for prostate implants. Our study supports use of a 0.5 cm step size for prostate implants. PMID:24049323

Investigation of a high speed data handling system for use with multispectral aircraft scanners

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelly, W. L.; Meredith, B. D.

1978-01-01

A buffer memory data handling technique for use with multispectral aircraft scanners is presented which allows digital data generated at high data rates to be recorded on magnetic tape. A digital memory is used to temporarily store the data for subsequent recording at slower rates during the passive time of the scan line, thereby increasing the maximum data rate recording capability over real-time recording. Three possible implementations are described and the maximum data rate capability is defined in terms of the speed capability of the key hardware components. The maximum data rates can be used to define the maximum ground resolution achievable by a multispectral aircraft scanner using conventional data handling techniques.

Thresholding Based on Maximum Weighted Object Correlation for Rail Defect Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Qingyong; Huang, Yaping; Liang, Zhengping; Luo, Siwei

Automatic thresholding is an important technique for rail defect detection, but traditional methods are not competent enough to fit the characteristics of this application. This paper proposes the Maximum Weighted Object Correlation (MWOC) thresholding method, fitting the features that rail images are unimodal and defect proportion is small. MWOC selects a threshold by optimizing the product of object correlation and the weight term that expresses the proportion of thresholded defects. Our experimental results demonstrate that MWOC achieves misclassification error of 0.85%, and outperforms the other well-established thresholding methods, including Otsu, maximum correlation thresholding, maximum entropy thresholding and valley-emphasis method, for the application of rail defect detection.

Age, growth, and size of Lake Superior Pygmy Whitefish (Prosopium coulterii)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stewart, Taylor; Derek Ogle,; Gorman, Owen T.; Vinson, Mark

2016-01-01

Pygmy Whitefish (Prosopium coulterii) are a small, glacial relict species with a disjunct distribution in North America and Siberia. In 2013 we collected Pygmy Whitefish at 28 stations from throughout Lake Superior. Total length was recorded for all fish and weight and sex were recorded and scales and otoliths were collected from a subsample. We compared the precision of estimated ages between readers and between scales and otoliths, estimated von Bertalanffy growth parameters for male and female Pygmy Whitefish, and reported the first weight-length relationship for Pygmy Whitefish. Age estimates between scales and otoliths differed significantly with otolith ages significantly greater for most ages after age-3. Maximum otolith age was nine for females and seven for males, which is older than previously reported for Pygmy Whitefish from Lake Superior. Growth was initially fast but slowed considerably after age-3 for males and age-4 for females, falling to 3–4 mm per year at maximum estimated ages. Females were longer than males after age-3. Our results suggest the size, age, and growth of Pygmy Whitefish in Lake Superior have not changed appreciably since 1953.

White organic light-emitting diodes based on doped and ultrathin Rubrene layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yi; Jiang, Yadong; Wen, Wen; Yu, Junsheng

2010-10-01

Based on a yellow fluorescent dye of 5, 6, 11, 12-tetraphenylnaphthacene (Rubrene), WOLEDs were fabricated, with doping structure and ultrathin layer structure utilized in the devices. By doping Rubrene into blue-emitting N,N'-bis-(1- naphthyl)-N,N'-biphenyl-1,1'-biphenyl-4,4'-diamine (NPB), the device with a structure of indium-tin-oxide (ITO)/NPB (40 nm)/NPB:Rubrene (0.25 wt%, 7 nm)/2,9-dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (BCP) (30 nm)/Mg:Ag exhibited a warm white light with Commissions Internationale De L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.38, 0.41) at 12 V. The electroluminescent spectrum of the OLED consisted of blue and yellow fluorescent emissions, the intensity of blue emission increased gradually relative to the orange emission with increasing voltage. This is mainly due to the recombination zone shifted towards the anode side as the transmission rate of electrons grows faster than that of holes under higher bias voltage. A maximum luminance of 7300 cd/m2 and a maximum power efficiency of 0.57 lm/W were achieved. Comparatively, by utilizing ultrathin dopant layer, the device with a structure of ITO/NPB (40 nm)/Rubrene (0.3 nm)/NPB (7 nm)/BCP (30 nm)/Mg:Ag achieved a low turn-on voltage of 3 V and a more stable white light. The peaks of EL spectra located at 430 and 560 nm corresponding to the CIE coordinates of (0.32, 0.32) under bias voltage ranging from 5 to 15 V. A maximum luminance of 5630 cd/m2 and a maximum power efficiency of 0.6 lm/W were achieved. The balanced spectra were attributed to the stable confining of charge carriers and exciton by the thin emitting layers. Hence, with simple device structure and fabricating process, the device with ultrathin layer achieved low turn-on voltage, stable white light emitting and higher power efficiency.

Pretreatment Evaluation of Microcirculation by Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Predicts Survival in Primary Rectal Cancer Patients

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

DeVries, Alexander Friedrich; Piringer, Gudrun, E-mail: gudrun.piringer@hotmail.com; Kremser, Christian

2014-12-01

Purpose: To investigate the prognostic value of the perfusion index (PI), a microcirculatory parameter estimated from dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI), which integrates information on both flow and permeability, to predict overall survival and disease-free survival in patients with primary rectal cancer. Methods and Materials: A total of 83 patients with stage cT3 rectal cancer requiring neoadjuvant chemoradiation were investigated with DCE-MRI before start of therapy. Contrast-enhanced dynamic T{sub 1} mapping was obtained, and a simple data analysis strategy based on the calculation of the maximum slope of the tissue concentration–time curve divided by the maximum of the arterial inputmore » function was used as a measure of tumor microcirculation (PI), which integrates information on both flow and permeability. Results: In 39 patients (47.0%), T downstaging (ypT0-2) was observed. During a mean (±SD) follow-up period of 71 ± 29 months, 58 patients (69.9%) survived, and disease-free survival was achieved in 45 patients (54.2%). The mean PI (PImean) averaged over the group of nonresponders was significantly higher than for responders. Additionally, higher PImean in age- and gender-adjusted analyses was strongly predictive of therapy nonresponse. Most importantly, PImean strongly and significantly predicted disease-free survival (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.85 [ 95% confidence interval, 1.35-2.54; P<.001)]; HR adjusted for age and sex, 1.81 [1.30-2.51]; P<.001) as well as overall survival (unadjusted HR 1.42 [1.02-1.99], P=.040; HR adjusted for age and sex, 1.43 [1.03-1.98]; P=.034). Conclusions: This analysis identifies PImean as a novel biomarker that is predictive for therapy response, disease-free survival, and overall survival in patients with primary locally advanced rectal cancer.« less

Effects of age and lean direction on the threshold of single-step balance recovery in younger, middle-aged and older adults.

PubMed

Carbonneau, Evelyne; Smeesters, Cécile

2014-01-01

Several studies have quantified and compared balance recovery between healthy younger and older adults, using a variety of large postural perturbations and loss of balance directions. However, to the best of our knowledge, no studies at the threshold of balance recovery, where avoiding a fall is not always possible, have included middle-aged adults. We thus determined the maximum lean angle from which 20 younger, 16 middle-aged and 16 older healthy adults could be suddenly released and still recover balance using a single step for forward, sideways and backward leans. Results showed that the maximum lean angles of younger adults were 23% greater than middle-aged adults and 48% greater than older adults. The maximum lean angles for forward leans were 23% greater than sideways leans and 22% greater than backward leans. These declines with age and lean direction were associated with declines in response initiation, execution and geometry. Finally exponential regressions showed that the critical ages at which the ability to recover balance and avoid a fall significantly decreases were 51.0, 60.6 and 69.9 yrs for forward, sideways and backward leans, respectively. Therefore, we have demonstrated that age affects the ability to recover balance nearly a decade earlier than the rate of falls. Future studies should thus not only include older adults over 65 yrs, but also middle-aged adults under 65 yrs, or recruit all ages from 18 to 85 yrs. Finally, the critical ages identified in this study may justify an earlier screening of aging adults to prevent future falls, especially the first fall. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Controlling measles using supplemental immunization activities: A mathematical model to inform optimal policy

PubMed Central

Verguet, Stéphane; Johri, Mira; Morris, Shaun K.; Gauvreau, Cindy L.; Jha, Prabhat; Jit, Mark

2015-01-01

Background The Measles & Rubella Initiative, a broad consortium of global health agencies, has provided support to measles-burdened countries, focusing on sustaining high coverage of routine immunization of children and supplementing it with a second dose opportunity for measles vaccine through supplemental immunization activities (SIAs). We estimate optimal scheduling of SIAs in countries with the highest measles burden. Methods We develop an age-stratified dynamic compartmental model of measles transmission. We explore the frequency of SIAs in order to achieve measles control in selected countries and two Indian states with high measles burden. Specifically, we compute the maximum allowable time period between two consecutive SIAs to achieve measles control. Results Our analysis indicates that a single SIA will not control measles transmission in any of the countries with high measles burden. However, regular SIAs at high coverage levels are a viable strategy to prevent measles outbreaks. The periodicity of SIAs differs between countries and even within a single country, and is determined by population demographics and existing routine immunization coverage. Conclusions Our analysis can guide country policymakers deciding on the optimal scheduling of SIA campaigns and the best combination of routine and SIA vaccination to control measles. PMID:25541214

A Community-based Study on Growth and Development of Under-Five Children in an Urbanized Village of South Delhi.

PubMed

Dabar, Deepti; Das, Ranjan; Nagesh, Seetharamaiya; Yadav, Vikas; Mangal, Abha

2016-12-01

Optimal development of children in their early months and years has a bearing on their achievement levels later in life. To assess the socio-emotional and cognitive development in children 0-5 years and to find out the proportion of children having developmental delay and its associated factors. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in 520 children in Delhi. Development was assessed using the Indian Council for Medical Research Development Screening Test. In all, 10.6% of children <5 years old were found to be developmentally delayed. Maximum number of children (10.1%) were found to have a delay in the do main of 'hearing language, concept development'. Of all the factors, the strongest association was found with stunting, paternal education, alcohol abuse, attendance in anganwadi/playschool. The study concludes that developmental delay is present in a sizable proportion of children <5 years of age and may be a significant factor in the overall achievement of life's potential in them. © The Author [2016]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Adsorption characteristics of sulfur solution by acticarbon against drinking-water toxicosis.

PubMed

Ge, Shengbo; Liu, Zhenling; Furuta, Yuzo; Peng, Wanxi

2017-09-01

Sulfur and ammonia nitrogen are rich nutrient pollutants, after entering water can cause algal blooms, cause eutrophication of water body, the spread of them will not only pollute the environment, destroy the ecological balance, but also harm human health through food chain channels, especially drinking-water toxicosis. Acticarbon can adsorb harmful substances, it was beneficial for people's health. In order to figure out the optimal adsorption condition and the intrinsic change of acticarbon, five chemicals were adsorbed by acticarbon and analyzed by FT-IR. The optimal adsorption condition of Fe 2 (SO 4 ) 3 , Na 2 SO 4 , Na 2 S 2 O 8 , S and Na 2 SO 3 was 9 g/1000 g at 80 min, 21 g/1000 g at 20 min, 15g/1000 g at 20 min, 21 g/1000 g at 60 min and 21 g/1000 g at 100 min, respectively. FT-IR spectra showed that acticarbon had eight characteristic peaks, such as S-S stretch, H 2 O stretch, O-H stretch, -C-H stretch, C 000000000000 000000000000 000000000000 111111111111 000000000000 111111111111 000000000000 000000000000 000000000000 O or CC stretch, CH 2 bend, C-H were at 3850 cm -1 , 3740 cm -1 , 3435 cm -1 , 2925 cm -1 , 1630 cm -1 , 1390 cm -1 , 1115 cm -1 , 600 cm -1 , respectively. For FT-IR spectra of Fe 2 (SO 4 ) 3 , the peaks at 3850 cm -1 , 3740 cm -1 , 2925 cm -1 achieved the maximum with 9 g/1000 g at 20 min. For Na 2 SO 4 , the peaks at 2925 cm -1 , 1630 cm -1 , 1390 cm -1 , 1115 cm -1 , 600 cm -1 achieved the maximum with 21 g/1000 g at 120 min. For ones of Na 2 S 2 O 8 , the peaks at 3850 cm -1 , 3740 cm -1 , 1390 cm -1 , 1115 cm -1 , 600 cm -1 , achieved the maximum with 2 g/1000 g at 80 min. For ones of S, the peaks at 3850 cm -1 , 3740 cm -1 , 2925 cm -1 achieved the maximum with 19 g/1000 g at 100 min, the peaks at 1390 cm -1 , 1115 cm -1 , 600 cm -1 achieved the maximum with 19 g/1000 g at 20 min. For FT-IR spectra of Na 2 SO 3 , the peaks at 1630 cm -1 , 1390 cm -1 , 1115 cm -1 , 600 cm -1 achieved the maximum with 2 g/1000 g at 100 min. It provided that acticarbon could adsorb and desulphurize from sulfur solution against drinking-water toxicosis.

Stocking and structure for maximum growth in sugar maple selection stands.

Treesearch

Thomas R. Crow; Carl H. Tubbs; Rodney D. Jacobs; Robert R. Oberg

1981-01-01

The impacts of stocking, structure, and cutting cycle on basal area, cubic foot volume, board foot volume, and diameter growth are considered. Recommendations are provided for maximum growth in uneven-aged sugar maple stands.

Age at Childbearing over Two Generations and Grandchildren’s Cognitive Achievement

PubMed Central

Krueger, Patrick M.; Wagner, Nicole M.

2014-01-01

We examine whether grandparents’ and parents’ ages at birth are associated with grandchildren’s early cognitive achievement, and whether grandparents’ or parents’ socioeconomic status, health, and marital status mediate those associations. Our analysis is based on data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics and its Child Development Supplement. A grandparent’s age at the birth of their own children is robustly and positively associated with grandchildren’s verbal achievement, but not with grandchildren’s applied mathematics achievement, after controlling for parents’ age at the grandchild’s birth. The associations are similar in magnitude for grandmothers and grandfathers. A variety of indicators of social class in the grandparent and parent generations did not mediate this age effect. However, many of those indicators of grandparents’ social class were directly or indirectly related to grandchildren’s achievement. PMID:25767330

Longevity and age-related lesions in a laboratory colony of grasshopper mice, Onychomys leucogaster

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

O'Farrell, T.P.; Cosgrove, G.E.

1975-07-01

Mated pairs of northern grasshopper mice, Onychomys leucogaster fuscogriseus, were maintained in a laboratory colony to determine their median longevity, maximum life span, and age-related pathologies. Median life span for both sexes and four cohorts was 1411 days and the maximum life span was 1915 days. There were no significant differences between sexes, but cohorts 5-7 generations removed from wild-caught parents had shorter median life spans. (auth)

Comparative evaluation of anchorage reinforcement between orthodontic implants and conventional anchorage in orthodontic management of bimaxillary dentoalveolar protrusion.

PubMed

Chopra, S S; Mukherjee, Manish; Mitra, Rajat; Kochar, Gagan Deep; Kadu, Abhijeet

2017-04-01

Increased upper lip procumbency is commonly associated with maxillary dentoalveolar protrusion with the major goal of reducing maxillary dentoalveolar protrusion. The treatment plan usually includes extraction of the maxillary first premolars, followed by retraction of anterior teeth with maximum anchorage. Dental implants have been widely accepted as successful adjuncts for obtaining maximum anchorage in orthodontic treatment. 50 subjects between the ages of 13 and 17 years having bimaxillary dentoalveolar protrusion were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups. Both groups received treatment with 0.022″ MBT prescription preadjusted edgewise appliance system. In addition, subjects of Group 'I' received the Nance button and lingual arch as anchorage reinforcement in the upper and lower arches, respectively. Subjects of Group 'II' received self-drilling titanium OI for anchorage reinforcement. Significant retraction was achieved in all cases with good vertical control. Anchor loss was observed in both groups. Anchor loss was much higher in Group I compared to Group II, and an intergroup comparison for anchor loss was highly significant. Implants as anchorage, for en masse retraction, can be incorporated into orthodontic practice. The use of orthodontic implants for anchorage is a viable alternative to conventional molar anchorage.

Action Observation Therapy in the Subacute Phase Promotes Dexterity Recovery in Right-Hemisphere Stroke Patients

PubMed Central

Sale, Patrizio; Franceschini, Marco

2014-01-01

The clinical impact of action observation (AO) on upper limb functional recovery in subacute stroke patients is recent evidence. We sought to test the hypothesis that training everyday life activities through AO coupled with task execution might activate the left hemisphere different from the right one. Sixty-seven first-ever ischemic stroke subjects were randomly assigned to receive upper limb training coupled with AO tasks or standard rehabilitation. The groups were matched by age and gender, Bamford category, and interval from stroke and lesion side. Fugl-Meyer (FM) and Box and Block Test (BBT) were used to measure hand function recovery at the end (T1) and 4-5 months after the treatment (T2). At T1, FM was increased by 31% (±26%), of maximum achievable recovery, whereas BBT was increased by 17% (±18%); at T2, FM had reached 43% (±45%) of maximum recovery, while BBT had reached 25% (±22%). Combining the effects of treatment to those of lesion side revealed significantly higher gains, in both FM and BBT scores, in left hemiparetic subjects when exposed to AO as compared to standard rehabilitation alone (P < .01). The findings lead to recommend the use of AO in addition to motor training in left hemiparetic patients. PMID:24967372

Aircraft noise: effects on macro- and microstructure of sleep.

PubMed

Basner, Mathias; Glatz, Christian; Griefahn, Barbara; Penzel, Thomas; Samel, Alexander

2008-05-01

The effects of aircraft noise on sleep macrostructure (Rechtschaffen and Kales) and microstructure (American Sleep Disorders Association [ASDA] arousal criteria) were investigated. For each of 10 subjects (mean age 35.3 years, 5 males), a baseline night without aircraft noise (control), and two nights with exposure to 64 noise events with a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of either 45 or 65 dBA were chosen. Spontaneous and noise-induced alterations during sleep classified as arousals (ARS), changes to lighter sleep stages (CSS), awakenings including changes to sleep stage 1 (AS1), and awakenings (AWR) were analyzed. The number of events per night increased in the order AWR, AS1, CSS, and ARS under control conditions as well as under the two noise conditions. Furthermore, probabilities for sleep disruptions increased with increasing noise level. ARS were observed about fourfold compared to AWR, irrespective of control or noise condition. Under the conditions investigated, different sleep parameters show different sensitivities, but also different specificities for noise-induced sleep disturbances. We conclude that most information on sleep disturbances can be achieved by investigating robust classic parameters like AWR or AS1, although ASDA electroencephalographic (EEG) arousals might add relevant information in situations with low maximum SPLs, chronic sleep deprivation or chronic exposure.

Learning Technology Adoption: Navy Barriers And Resistance

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-03-01

ABSTRACT (maximum 200 words) Technological developments offer opportunities to enhance training effectiveness, in support of achieving high-velocity...developments offer opportunities to enhance training effectiveness, in support of achieving high-velocity learning. However, resistance to change...considering what opportunities for enhanced training might be offered by learning-centered technologies. This is evident in the CNO’s statement, “We must

Interplanetary monitoring platform engineering history and achievements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Butler, P. M.

1980-01-01

In the fall of 1979, last of ten Interplanetary Monitoring Platform Satellite (IMP) missions ended a ten year series of flights dedicated to obtaining new knowledge of the radiation effects in outer space and of solar phenomena during a period of maximum solar flare activity. The technological achievements and scientific accomplishments from the IMP program are described.

On numbers of clones needed for managing risks in clonal forestry

Treesearch

J. Bishir; J.H. Roberds

1999-01-01

An important question in clonal forestry concerns the number of clones needed in plantations to protect against catastrophic failure while at the same time achieving the uniform stands, high yields, and ease of management associated with this management system. This paper looks at how the required number of clones needed to achieve a predetermined maximum acceptable...

Optimization of Wireless Transceivers under Processing Energy Constraints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Gaojian; Ascheid, Gerd; Wang, Yanlu; Hanay, Oner; Negra, Renato; Herrmann, Matthias; Wehn, Norbert

2017-09-01

Focus of the article is on achieving maximum data rates under a processing energy constraint. For a given amount of processing energy per information bit, the overall power consumption increases with the data rate. When targeting data rates beyond 100 Gb/s, the system's overall power consumption soon exceeds the power which can be dissipated without forced cooling. To achieve a maximum data rate under this power constraint, the processing energy per information bit must be minimized. Therefore, in this article, suitable processing efficient transmission schemes together with energy efficient architectures and their implementations are investigated in a true cross-layer approach. Target use cases are short range wireless transmitters working at carrier frequencies around 60 GHz and bandwidths between 1 GHz and 10 GHz.

Solar Panel System for Street Light Using Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiedjaja, A.; Harta, S.; Josses, L.; Winardi; Rinda, H.

2014-03-01

Solar energy is one form of the renewable energy which is very abundant in regions close to the equator. One application of solar energy is for street light. This research focuses on using the maximum power point tracking technique (MPPT), particularly the perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm, to charge battery for street light system. The proposed charger circuit can achieve 20.73% higher power efficiency compared to that of non-MPPT charger. We also develop the LED driver circuit for the system which can achieve power efficiency up to 91.9% at a current of 1.06 A. The proposed street lightning system can be implemented with a relatively low cost for public areas.

Efficiency optimization of a photovoltaic water pumping system for irrigation in Ouargla, Algeria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Louazene, M. L.; Garcia, M. C. Alonso; Korichi, D.

2017-02-01

This work is technical study to contribute to the optimization of pumping systems powered by solar energy (clean) and used in the field of agriculture. To achieve our goals, we studied the techniques that must be entered on a photovoltaic system for maximum energy from solar panels. Our scientific contribution in this research is the realization of an efficient photovoltaic pumping system for irrigation needs. To achieve this and extract maximum power from the PV generator, two axes have been optimized: 1. Increase in the uptake of solar radiation by choice an optimum tilt angle of the solar panels, and 2. it is necessary to add an adaptation device, MPPT controller with a DC-DC converter, between the source and the load.

The effect of uncontrolled moment and short-term, repeated passive stretching on maximum ankle joint dorsiflexion angle.

PubMed

Gatt, Alfred; Chockalingam, Nachiappan

2012-06-01

Trials investigating ankle joint measurement normally apply a known moment. Maximum ankle angle is affected by foot posture and stretching characteristics of the calf muscles. To investigate whether consistent maximum ankle angles could be achieved without applying a constant moment to all subjects, and whether short, repetitive stretching of the calf muscle tendon unit would produce a difference in the maximum ankle angle. Passive dorsiflexion in 14 healthy participants was captured using an optoelectronic motion analysis system, with the foot placed in 3 postures. The maximum ankle angles for both the neutral and supinated positions did not differ significantly. In general, the majority of subjects (92.8%) showed no increase in the maximum ankle dorsiflexion angle following repetitive brief passive stretching. Only one subject exhibited a significant increase in maximum ankle angle at the neutral position. Since the range of motion of the ankle joint is clearly determined by other physical factors, the maximum ankle dorsiflexion angle can be assessed at both neutral and supinated positions without moment being controlled. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

29 CFR 1614.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 29 Labor 4 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 1614.201 Section 1614... SECTOR EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Provisions Applicable to Particular Complaints § 1614.201 Age... establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is a bona fide...

29 CFR 1614.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 29 Labor 4 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 1614.201 Section 1614... SECTOR EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Provisions Applicable to Particular Complaints § 1614.201 Age... establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is a bona fide...

12 CFR 268.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 268.201... Age Discrimination in Employment Act. (a) As an alternative to filing a complaint under this part, an... Commission establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is...

29 CFR 1614.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 29 Labor 4 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 1614.201 Section 1614... SECTOR EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Provisions Applicable to Particular Complaints § 1614.201 Age... establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is a bona fide...

12 CFR 268.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 268.201... Age Discrimination in Employment Act. (a) As an alternative to filing a complaint under this part, an... Commission establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is...

29 CFR 1614.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 29 Labor 4 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 1614.201 Section 1614... SECTOR EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Provisions Applicable to Particular Complaints § 1614.201 Age... establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is a bona fide...

29 CFR 1614.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 29 Labor 4 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 1614.201 Section 1614... SECTOR EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Provisions Applicable to Particular Complaints § 1614.201 Age... establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a determination that age is a bona fide...

Long-Term Planning for Open Pits for Mining Sulphide-Oxide Ores in Order to Achieve Maximum Profit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kržanović, Daniel; Conić, Vesna; Stevanović, Dejan; Kolonja, Božo; Vaduvesković, Jovan

2017-12-01

Profitable exploitation of mineralised material from the earth's crust is a complex and difficult task that depends on a comprehensive planning process. Answering the question of how to plan production depends on the geometry of the deposit, as well as the concentration, distribution, and type of minerals in it. The complex nature of mineral deposits largely determines the method of exploitation and profitability of mining operations. In addition to unit operating costs and metal prices, the optimal recovery of and achievement of maximum profit from deposits of sulphide-oxide ores also depend, to a significant extent, on the level of technological recovery achieved in the ore processing procedure. Therefore, in defining a long-term development strategy for open pits, special attention must be paid to the selection of an optimal procedure for ore processing in order to achieve the main objective: maximising the Net Present Value (NPV). The effect of using two different processes, flotation processing and hydrometallurgical methods (bioleaching acid leaching), on determining the ultimate pit is shown in the case of the Kraku Bugaresku-Cementacija sulphide-oxide ore deposit in eastern Serbia. Analysis shows that the application of hydrometallurgical methods of processing sulphide-oxide ore achieved an increase in NPV of 20.42%.

WAMA: a method of optimizing reticle/die placement to increase litho cell productivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dor, Amos; Schwarz, Yoram

2005-05-01

This paper focuses on reticle/field placement methodology issues, the disadvantages of typical methods used in the industry, and the innovative way that the WAMA software solution achieves optimized placement. Typical wafer placement methodologies used in the semiconductor industry considers a very limited number of parameters, like placing the maximum amount of die on the wafer circle and manually modifying die placement to minimize edge yield degradation. This paper describes how WAMA software takes into account process characteristics, manufacturing constraints and business objectives to optimize placement for maximum stepper productivity and maximum good die (yield) on the wafer.

Why Don't Smart Teens Have Sex? A Behavioral Genetic Approach

PubMed Central

Harden, K. Paige; Mendle, Jane

2011-01-01

Academic achievement and cognitive ability have been shown to predict later age at first sexual intercourse. Using a sample of 536 same-sex twin pairs who were followed longitudinally from adolescence to early adulthood, this study tested whether relations between intelligence, academic achievement and age at first sex were due to unmeasured genetic and environmental differences between families. Twins who differed in their intelligence or their academic achievement did not differ in their age at first sex. Rather, the association between intelligence and age at first sex could be attributed entirely to unmeasured environmental differences between families, whereas the association between academic achievement and age at first sex could be attributed entirely to genetic factors. PMID:21679172

Independent exercise for glottal incompetence to improve vocal problems and prevent aspiration pneumonia in the elderly: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Fujimaki, Yoko; Tsunoda, Koichi; Kobayashi, Rika; Tonghyo, Chong; Tanaka, Fujinobu; Kuroda, Hiroyuki; Numata, Tsutomu; Ishii, Toyota; Kuroda, Reiko; Masuda, Sawako; Hashimoto, Sho; Misawa, Hayato; Shindo, Naoko; Mori, Takahiro; Mori, Hiroko; Uchiyama, Naoki; Kamei, Yuichirou; Tanaka, Masashi; Hamaya, Hironobu; Funatsuki, Shingo; Usui, Satoko; Ito, Ikuno; Hamada, Kohei; Shindo, Akihito; Tokumaru, Yutaka; Morita, Yoko; Ueha, Rumi; Nito, Takaharu; Kikuta, Shu; Sekimoto, Sotaro; Kondo, Kenji; Sakamoto, Takashi; Itoh, Kenji; Yamasoba, Tatsuya; Matsumoto, Sumio

2017-08-01

To evaluate the effect of a self-controlled vocal exercise in elderly people with glottal closure insufficiency. Parallel-arm, individual randomized controlled trial. Patients who visited one of 10 medical centers under the National Hospital Organization group in Japan for the first time, aged 60 years or older, complaining of aspiration or hoarseness, and endoscopically confirmed to have glottal closure insufficiency owing to vocal cord atrophy, were enrolled in this study. They were randomly assigned to an intervention or a control group. The patients of the intervention group were given guidance and a DVD about a self-controlled vocal exercise. The maximum phonation time which is a measure of glottal closure was evaluated, and the number of patients who developed pneumonia during the six months was compared between the two groups. Of the 543 patients enrolled in this trial, 259 were allocated into the intervention group and 284 into the control; 60 of the intervention group and 75 of the control were not able to continue the trial. A total of 199 patients (age 73.9 ±7.25 years) in the intervention group and 209 (73.3 ±6.68 years) in the control completed the six-month trial. Intervention of the self-controlled vocal exercise extended the maximum phonation time significantly ( p < 0.001). There were two hospitalizations for pneumonia in the intervention group and 18 in the control group, representing a significant difference ( p < 0.001). The self-controlled vocal exercise allowed patients to achieve vocal cord adduction and improve glottal closure insufficiency, which reduced the rate of hospitalization for pneumonia significantly. gov Identifier-UMIN000015567.

Missed opportunities for immunization.

PubMed

Verma, J; Sachar, R K; Prakash, V; Jain, G D; Sehgal, R

1990-01-01

A survey conducted in the outpatient departments of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital in Ludhiana, India, found that 13.4% of children aged 0-23 months and 33.0% of pregnant women were not being given due immunization. Maximum advantage, however, should be taken of every contact between health workers and clients to provide all available and required health interventions. 80% immunization coverage could be achieved if all children who are brought to clinics for whatever purpose were screened and immunized if necessary. Missed opportunities occur because immunization is not available on all days; there is no uniform contraindication policy; doctors schedule as they please, with only one or two vaccines given to children who are eligible for more; there is an unwillingness to combine vaccines; weak excuses prevent the administration of vaccines; due antigens are not given on discharge from hospitals following recovery; pregnancy of less than 16 weeks is supposed to be a contraindication to tetanus toxoid; there is vaccinator reluctance to open multi-dose BCG/measles vaccine vials for a small number of children for fear of wasting the vaccine; and vaccines may be out of stock. The following suggestions may help minimize missed opportunities for immunization: review of the immunization schedule to provide optimal protection at the earliest age, review of the policy on contraindications to avoid false contraindications, ensuring that all women and children receive all vaccines for which they are eligible, issuing immunization cards to all women and children and checking them on all subsequent visits, making vaccines available in all clinics, educating health care personnel on these issues, packing vaccines in smaller quantities to avoid wastage, and exploiting all contacts with the people to provide maximum health care interventions.

MoS2-based passively Q-switched diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser at 946 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Haifeng; Zhu, Wenzhang.; Xiong, Feibing; Cai, Lie

2017-06-01

We demonstrate a passively Q-switched Nd: YAG quasi-three-level laser operating at 946 nm using MoS2 as saturable absorber. A maximum average output power of 210 mW is achieved at an absorbed pump power of 6.67 W with a slope efficiency of about 5.8%. The shortest pulse width and maximum pulse repetition frequency are measured to be 280 ns and 609 kHz, respectively. The maximum pulse energy and maximum pulse peak power are therefore estimated to be about 0.35 μJ and 1.23 W, respectively. This work represents the first MoS2-based Q-switched laser operating at 0.9 μm spectral region.

High titer oncolytic measles virus production process by integration of dielectric spectroscopy as online monitoring system.

PubMed

Grein, Tanja A; Loewe, Daniel; Dieken, Hauke; Salzig, Denise; Weidner, Tobias; Czermak, Peter

2018-05-01

Oncolytic viruses offer new hope to millions of patients with incurable cancer. One promising class of oncolytic viruses is Measles virus, but its broad administration to cancer patients is currently hampered by the inability to produce the large amounts of virus needed for treatment (10 10 -10 12 virus particles per dose). Measles virus is unstable, leading to very low virus titers during production. The time of infection and time of harvest are therefore critical parameters in a Measles virus production process, and their optimization requires an accurate online monitoring system. We integrated a probe based on dielectric spectroscopy (DS) into a stirred tank reactor to characterize the Measles virus production process in adherent growing Vero cells. We found that DS could be used to monitor cell adhesion on the microcarrier and that the optimal virus harvest time correlated with the global maximum permittivity signal. In 16 independent bioreactor runs, the maximum Measles virus titer was achieved approximately 40 hr after the permittivity maximum. Compared to an uncontrolled Measles virus production process, the integration of DS increased the maximum virus concentration by more than three orders of magnitude. This was sufficient to achieve an active Measles virus concentration of > 10 10 TCID 50 ml -1 . © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Telomeres shorten more slowly in slow-aging wild animals than in fast-aging ones.

PubMed

Dantzer, Ben; Fletcher, Quinn E

2015-11-01

Research on the physiological causes of senescence aim to identify common physiological mechanisms that explain age-related declines in fitness across taxonomic groups. Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences found on the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. Past research indicates that telomere attrition is strongly correlated with inter-specific rates of aging, though these studies cannot distinguish whether telomere attrition is a cause or consequence of the aging process. We extend previous research on this topic by incorporating recent studies to test the hypothesis that telomeres shorten more slowly with age in slow-aging animals than in fast-aging ones. We assembled all studies that have quantified cross-sectional (i.e. between-individual) telomere rates of change (TROC) over the lifespans of wild animals. This included 22 estimates reflecting absolute TROC (TROCabs, bp/yr, primarily measured using the terminal restriction fragment length method), and 10 estimates reflecting relative TROC (TROCrel, relative telomere length/yr, measured using qPCR), from five classes (Aves, Mammalia, Bivalvia, Reptilia, and Actinopterygii). In 14 bird species, we correlated between-individual (i.e. cross-sectional) TROCabs estimates with both maximum lifespan and a phylogenetically-corrected principle component axis (pcPC1) that reflected the slow-fast axis of life-history variation. Bird species characterized by faster life-histories and shorter maximum lifespans had faster TROCabs. In nine studies, both between-individual and within-individual TROC estimates were available (n=8 for TROCabs, n=1 for TROCrel). Within-individual TROC estimates were generally greater than between-individual TROC estimates, which is indicative of selective disappearance of individuals with shorter telomeres. However, the difference between within- and between-individual TROC estimates was only significant in two out of nine studies. The relationship between within-individual TROCabs and maximum lifespan did not differ from the relationship of between-individual TROCabs and maximum lifespan. Overall, our results provide additional support for the hypothesis that TROC is correlated with inter-specific rates of aging and complement the intra-specific research that also find relationships between telomere attrition and components of fitness. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Under the Radar: The Impact of Relatively Young Age for Grade Level on Academic Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ryken, Klazina

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether age differences affect students' academic achievement, and whether age differences affect students in low-income areas differently than those in mixed or higher-income areas. Student achievement data for grades 3, 7, and 11 in language arts and math were obtained from a variety of schools located…

The impact of early behavior disturbances on academic achievement in high school.

PubMed

Breslau, Joshua; Miller, Elizabeth; Breslau, Naomi; Bohnert, Kipling; Lucia, Victoria; Schweitzer, Julie

2009-06-01

Previous research has indicated that childhood behavioral disturbances predict lower scores on academic tests and curtail educational attainment. It is unknown which types of childhood behavioral problems are most likely to predict these outcomes. An ethnically diverse cohort was assessed at 6 years of age for behavioral problems and IQ and at 17 years of age for academic achievement in math and reading. Of the original cohort of 823 children, 693 (84%) had complete data. Multiple regressions were used to estimate associations of attention and internalizing and externalizing problems at age 6 and with math and reading achievement at age 17, adjusting for IQ and indicators of family socioeconomic status. Adjusting for IQ, inner-city community, and maternal education and marital status, teacher ratings of attention, internalizing behavior, and externalizing problems at age 6 significantly predict math and reading achievement at age 17. When types of problems are examined simultaneously, attention problems predict math and reading achievement with little attenuation, whereas the influence of externalizing and internalizing problems is materially reduced and not significant. Interventions that target attention problems at school entry should be tested as a potential avenue for improving educational achievement.

Dry Cleaning Facilities: National Perchloroethylene Air Emission Standards

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Learn about the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards for dry cleaning facilities. Find the rule history information, federal register citations, legal authority, and additional resources.

A Possible Astronomically Aligned Monolith at Gardom's Edge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Daniel; Alder, Andy; Bemand, Elizabeth

2015-05-01

A unique triangular shaped monolith located within the Peak District National Park at Gardom's Edge could be intentionally astronomically aligned. It is set within a landscape rich in late Neolithic and Bronze Age remains. We show that the stone is most likely in its original orientation owing to its clear signs of erosion and associated to the time period of the late Neolithic. It is tilted towards south and its north side slopes at an angle equal to the maximum altitude of the Sun at mid-summer. This alignment emphasizes the changing declinations of the Sun during the seasons as well as giving an indication of mid-summers day. This functionality is achieved by an impressive display of light and shadow on the north facing side of the monolith. Together with other monuments in the close vicinity the monolith would have represented an ideal marker or social arena for seasonal gatherings for the otherwise dispersed small communities.

More Effective Distributed ML via a Stale Synchronous Parallel Parameter Server

PubMed Central

Ho, Qirong; Cipar, James; Cui, Henggang; Kim, Jin Kyu; Lee, Seunghak; Gibbons, Phillip B.; Gibson, Garth A.; Ganger, Gregory R.; Xing, Eric P.

2014-01-01

We propose a parameter server system for distributed ML, which follows a Stale Synchronous Parallel (SSP) model of computation that maximizes the time computational workers spend doing useful work on ML algorithms, while still providing correctness guarantees. The parameter server provides an easy-to-use shared interface for read/write access to an ML model’s values (parameters and variables), and the SSP model allows distributed workers to read older, stale versions of these values from a local cache, instead of waiting to get them from a central storage. This significantly increases the proportion of time workers spend computing, as opposed to waiting. Furthermore, the SSP model ensures ML algorithm correctness by limiting the maximum age of the stale values. We provide a proof of correctness under SSP, as well as empirical results demonstrating that the SSP model achieves faster algorithm convergence on several different ML problems, compared to fully-synchronous and asynchronous schemes. PMID:25400488

Solar radiation control using nematic curvilinear aligned phase (NCAP) liquid crystal technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

vanKonynenburg, Peter; Marsland, Stephen; McCoy, James

1987-11-01

A new, advanced liquid crystal technology has made economical, large area, electrically-controlled windows a commercial reality. The new technology, Nematic Curvilinear Aligned Phase (NCAP), is based on a polymeric material containing small droplets of nematic liquid crystal which is coated and laminated between transparent electrodes and fabricated into large area field effect devices. NCAP windows feature variable solar transmission and reflection through a voltage-controlled scattering mechanism. Laminated window constructions provide the excellent transmission and visibility of glass in the powered condition. In the unpowered condition, the windows are highly translucent, and provide 1) blocked vision for privacy, security, and obscuration of information, and 2) glare control and solar shading. The stability is excellent during accelerated aging tests. Degradation mechanisms which can limit performance and lifetime are discussed. Maximum long term stability is achieved by product designs that incorporate the appropriate window materials to provide environmental protection.

Middle Ear Effusion in Children: A Report of Treatment in 500 Cases

PubMed Central

Forquer, Brian D.; Linthicum, Fred H.

1982-01-01

Records were studied of 500 children younger than 9 years of age with middle ear effusion who had received one of three treatment strategies: (1) administration of medication, including decongestants, antihistamines or antibiotics (or a combination), (2) administration of medication for a limited time and then surgical therapy if effusion did not resolve or (3) myringotomy done immediately with insertion of ventilation tubes and, in some cases, removal of adenoids. Early surgical intervention resulted in significantly shorter delay in hearing restoration. It did not result in a lower recurrence rate and it did not reduce the number of occasions when thick fluid, as compared with thin fluid, was found at operation. Four children for whom medical and surgical treatment failed were considered candidates for mild gain, low maximum-power-output hearing aids. All other children had normal hearing after treatment. Medication was successful in achieving this goal in 48 percent of the cases. PMID:6184891

Mineral to matrix ratio determines biomaterial and biomechanical properties of rat femur--application of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

PubMed

Takata, Shinjiro; Yonezu, Hiroshi; Shibata, Akira; Enishi, Tetsuya; Sato, Nori; Takahashi, Mitsuhiko; Nakao, Shigetaka; Komatsu, Koji; Yasui, Natsuo

2011-08-01

We studied the changes of biomaterial and biomechanical properties of the rat femur during development. Thirty male Wistar rats were allocated to 6 groups: aged 6 weeks (n=5), 9 weeks (n=5), 12 weeks (n=5), 15 weeks (n=5), 24 weeks (n=5), and 36 weeks (n=5). The mineral to matrix ratio (M/M ratio) of rat femur by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was 0.97 ± 0.10 at the age of 6 weeks, and reached the maximum of 1.52 ± 0.17 at the age of 36 weeks. Total bone mineral density (BMD) by peripheral quantitative computed tomography of the femoral shaft aged 6 weeks was 479.1 ± 58.7 mg/cm(3), and reached the maximum of 1022.2 ± 42.3 mg/cm(3) at the age of 36 weeks. The ultimate load to failure of the femur of the rat aged 6 weeks by the three-point bending test was 29.6 ± 6.1 N. At the age of 36 weeks, the ultimate load to failure of the rat femur increased to the maximum of 283.5 ± 14.7 N. The results showed that the M/M ratio increased with development as total BMD and bone strength increased. The results suggest that the M/M ratio is one of the determinants of the biomaterial and biomechanical properties of bone.

HIGH-DOSE HIGH-FREQUENCY AFLIBERCEPT FOR RECALCITRANT NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION.

PubMed

You, Qi Sheng; Gaber, Raouf; Meshi, Amit; Ramkumar, Hema L; Alam, Mostafa; Muftuoglu, Ilkay Kilic; Freeman, William R

2018-06-01

To determine the efficacy of monthly (0.1 mL/4 mg) aflibercept for refractory neovascular age-related macular degeneration (wet age-related macular degeneration). This was a retrospective interventional case series in which patients with wet age-related macular degeneration were treated with stepwise dose escalation. Nonvitrectomized patients resistant to monthly (Q4W) ranibizumab/bevacizumab were switched to 2 mg aflibercept every 8 weeks. With resistance, they were escalated to Q4W 2 mg aflibercept, then Q4W 4 mg (high dose high frequency, 4Q4W) aflibercept. Resistance was defined as ≥2 recurrences after being dry following ≥3 injections or persistent exudation on treatment of ≥5 injections. Thirty-three eyes of 28 patients were treated with 4Q4W aflibercept and followed for a mean of 16 months. A dry retina (no intraretinal or subretinal fluid) was achieved after initiating 4Q4W aflibercept treatment at a mean of 3.8 months. Central foveal thickness, maximum foveal thickness, intraretinal fluid, subretinal fluid, and retinal pigment detachment height decreased significantly at 1 month after initiating the 4Q4W aflibercept, and the morphologic therapeutic effect was sustained until the last visit. Forty-five percent of eyes had one or more lines of vision improvement. New geographic atrophy developed in 9% of eyes during follow-up. No ocular or systemic adverse events occurred after initiating 4Q4W aflibercept. Intravitreal high-dose high-frequency aflibercept is an effective treatment for patients with refractory wet age-related macular degeneration.

Relationships of pediatric anthropometrics for CT protocol selection.

PubMed

Phillips, Grace S; Stanescu, Arta-Luana; Alessio, Adam M

2014-07-01

Determining the optimal CT technique to minimize patient radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic utility requires patient-specific protocols that are based on patient characteristics. This work develops relationships between different anthropometrics and CT image noise to determine appropriate protocol classification schemes. We measured the image noise in 387 CT examinations of pediatric patients (222 boys, 165 girls) of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis and generated mathematic relationships between image noise and patient lateral and anteroposterior dimensions, age, and weight. At the chest level, lateral distance (ld) across the body is strongly correlated with weight (ld = 0.23 × weight + 16.77; R(2) = 0.93) and is less well correlated with age (ld = 1.10 × age + 17.13; R(2) = 0.84). Similar trends were found for anteroposterior dimensions and at the abdomen level. Across all studies, when acquisition-specific parameters are factored out of the noise, the log of image noise was highly correlated with lateral distance (R(2) = 0.72) and weight (R(2) = 0.72) and was less correlated with age (R(2) = 0.62). Following first-order relationships of image noise and scanner technique, plots were formed to show techniques that could achieve matched noise across the pediatric population. Patient lateral distance and weight are essentially equally effective metrics to base maximum technique settings for pediatric patient-specific protocols. These metrics can also be used to help categorize appropriate reference levels for CT technique and size-specific dose estimates across the pediatric population.

Versatile benzimidazole/triphenylamine hybrids: efficient nondoped deep-blue electroluminescence and good host materials for phosphorescent emitters.

PubMed

Gong, Shaolong; Zhao, Yongbiao; Wang, Meng; Yang, Chuluo; Zhong, Cheng; Qin, Jingui; Ma, Dongge

2010-09-03

Two new bipolar compounds, N,N,N',N'-tetraphenyl-5'-(1-phenyl-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)-1,1':3',1''-terphenyl-4,4''-diamine (1) and N,N,N',N'-tetraphenyl-5'-(1-phenyl-1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)-1,1':3',1''-terphenyl-3,3''-diamine (2), were synthesized and characterized, and their thermal, photophysical, and electrochemical properties were investigated. Compounds 1 and 2 possess good thermal stability with high glass-transition temperatures of 109-129 degrees C and thermal decomposition temperatures of 501-531 degrees C. The fluorescence quantum yield of 1 (0.52) is higher than that of 2 (0.16), which could be attributed to greater pi conjugation between the donor and acceptor moieties. A nondoped deep-blue fluorescent organic light-emitting diode (OLED) using 1 as the blue emitter displays high performance, with a maximum current efficiency of 2.2 cd A(-1) and a maximum external efficiency of 2.9 % at the CIE coordinates of (0.17, 0.07) that are very close to the National Television System Committee's blue standard (0.15, 0.07). Electrophosphorescent devices using the two compounds as host materials for green and red phosphor emitters show high efficiencies. The best performance of a green phosphorescent device was achieved using 2 as the host, with a maximum current efficiency of 64.3 cd A(-1) and a maximum power efficiency of 68.3 lm W(-1); whereas the best performance of a red phosphorescent device was achieved using 1 as the host, with a maximum current efficiency of 11.5 cd A(-1), and a maximum power efficiency of 9.8 lm W(-1). The relationship between the molecular structures and optoelectronic properties are discussed.

Age and growth of the mutton hamlet Alphestes afer, with a review of the size and age of sex change among epinephelids.

PubMed

Marques, S; Ferreira, B P

2016-07-01

This paper presents results on the age, growth and population structure of a small grouper, the mutton hamlet Alphestes afer, and discusses the observed size and age structure patterns in relation to reproductive strategies among the epinephelids. Ages were determined by examination of sectioned otoliths, which showed a distinct pattern of alternating translucent and opaque zones that formed annually, as validated with tetracycline labelling. The von Bertalanffy growth function was adjusted to the length-at-age data of the males and females, but no significant differences were observed between the resulting parameters. The females, however, were older at given sizes and attained larger sizes and ages, with a maximum observed longevity of 13 years and a total length (LT ) of 26 cm, while the males attained maximum longevities of only 10 years and a 22 cm maximum LT . The LT and age range for the sex change was 16-25 cm and 3-11 years. The total mortality rate (Z) was estimated to be 0·55 for females and 0·82 for males. With the males younger and smaller than the females, this species differed from the pattern commonly observed for protogynous epinephelids. Males had slower growth after maturation, probably due to energy allocation to sperm production during sexual development. This study shows that demography is an important tool to understand the pathways for reproductive strategies in grouper populations. © 2016 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

Drinking, smoking, and educational achievement: Cross-lagged associations from adolescence to adulthood

PubMed Central

Latvala, Antti; Rose, Richard J.; Pulkkinen, Lea; Dick, Danielle M.; Korhonen, Tellervo; Kaprio, Jaakko

2014-01-01

Background Adolescent substance use is associated with lower educational achievement but the directionality of the association remains uncertain. We analyzed data on drinking, smoking and educational achievement to study the associations between substance use and education from early adolescence to young adulthood. Methods Longitudinal data from four time points (ages 12, 14, 17, and 19-27 years) from a population-based cohort study of Finnish twin individuals were used to estimate bivariate cross-lagged path models for substance use and educational achievement, adjusting for sex, parental covariates, and adolescent externalizing behavior. A total of 4,761 individuals (49.4% females) were included in the analyses. Educational achievement was assessed with teacher-reported grade point average at ages 12 and 14, and with self-reported student status and completed education at age 17 and in young adulthood. From self-reported questionnaire items, frequency of any drinking, frequency of drinking to intoxication, any smoking and daily smoking were analyzed. Results Alcohol use and smoking behaviors at ages 12 and 14 predicted lower educational achievement at later time points even after previous achievement and confounding factors were taken into account. Lower school achievement in adolescence predicted a higher likelihood of engaging in smoking behaviors but did not predict later alcohol use. Higher educational attainment at age 17 predicted more frequent drinking in young adulthood. Conclusions Adolescent drinking behaviors are associated with lower future educational achievement independently of prior achievement, whereas smoking both predicts and is predicted by lower achievement. Early substance use indexes elevated risk for poor educational outcomes. PMID:24548801

Comparison of observed and predicted abutment scour at selected bridges in Maine.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-01-01

Maximum abutment-scour depths predicted with five different methods were compared to : maximum abutment-scour depths observed at 100 abutments at 50 bridge sites in Maine with a : median bridge age of 66 years. Prediction methods included the Froehli...

Extensive Corrective Fixation Surgeries for Adult Spinal Deformity Improve Posture and Lower Extremity Kinematics During Gait.

PubMed

Arima, Hideyuki; Yamato, Yu; Hasegawa, Tomohiko; Kobayashi, Sho; Yoshida, Go; Yasuda, Tatsuya; Banno, Tomohiro; Oe, Shin; Mihara, Yuki; Togawa, Daisuke; Matsuyama, Yukihiro

2017-10-01

Longitudinal cohort. The present study aimed to document changes in posture and lower extremity kinematics during gait in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) after extensive corrective surgery. Standing radiographic parameters are typically used to evaluate patients with ASD. Previously, preoperative walking and standing posture discrepancy were reported in patients with ASD. We did not include comparison between before and after surgery. Therefore, we thought that pre- and postoperative evaluations for patients with ASD should include gait analysis. Thirty-nine patients with ASD (5 men, 34 women; mean age, 71.0 ± 6.1) who underwent posterior corrective fixation surgeries from the thoracic spine to the pelvis were included. A 4-m walk was recorded and analyzed. Sagittal balance while walking was calculated as the angle between the plumb line on the side and the line connecting the greater trochanter and pinna while walking (i.e., the gait-trunk tilt angle [GTA]). We measured maximum knee extension angle during one gait cycle, step length (cm), and walking speed (m/min). Radiographic parameters were also measured. The mean GTA and the mean maximum knee extension angle significantly improved from 13.4° to 6.4°, and -13.3° to -9.4°(P < 0.001 and P = 0.006), respectively. The mean step length improved from 40.4 to 43.1 cm (P = 0.049), but there was no significant change in walking speed (38.4 to 41.5 m/min, P = 0.105). Postoperative GTA, maximum knee extension angle and step length correlated with postoperative pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (r = 0.324, P = 0.044; r = -0.317, P = 0.049; r = -0.416, P = 0.008, respectively). Our results suggest that postoperative posture, maximum knee extension angle, and step length during gait in patients with ASD improved corresponding to how much correction of the sagittal spinal deformity was achieved. 3.

Finger tapping ability in healthy elderly and young adults.

PubMed

Aoki, Tomoko; Fukuoka, Yoshiyuki

2010-03-01

The maximum isometric force production capacity of the fingers decreases with age. However, little information is available on age-related changes in dynamic motor capacity of individual fingers. The purpose of this study was to compare the dynamic motor function of individual fingers between elderly and young adults using rapid single-finger and double-finger tapping. Fourteen elderly and 14 young adults performed maximum frequency tapping by the index, middle, ring, or little finger (single-finger tapping) and with alternate movements of the index-middle, middle-ring, or ring-little finger-pair (double-finger tapping). The maximum pinch force between the thumb and each finger, tactile sensitivity of each fingertip, and time taken to complete a pegboard test were also measured. Compared with young subjects, the older subjects had significantly slower tapping rates in all fingers and finger-pairs in the tapping tasks. The age-related decline was also observed in the tactile sensitivities of all fingers and in the pegboard test. However, there was no group difference in the pinch force of any finger. The tapping rate of each finger did not correlate with the pinch force or tactile sensitivity for the corresponding finger in the elderly subjects. Maximum rate of finger tapping was lower in the elderly adults compared with the young adults. The decline of finger tapping ability in elderly adults seems to be less affected by their maximum force production capacities of the fingers as well as tactile sensitivities at the tips of the fingers.

Comparing photon and proton-based hypofractioned SBRT for prostate cancer accounting for robustness and realistic treatment deliverability.

PubMed

Goddard, Lee C; Brodin, N Patrik; Bodner, William R; Garg, Madhur K; Tomé, Wolfgang A

2018-05-01

To investigate whether photon or proton-based stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT is the preferred modality for high dose hypofractionation prostate cancer treatment. Achievable dose distributions were compared when uncertainties in target positioning and range uncertainties were appropriately accounted for. 10 patients with prostate cancer previously treated at our institution (Montefiore Medical Center) with photon SBRT using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) were identified. MRI images fused to the treatment planning CT allowed for accurate target and organ at risk (OAR) delineation. The clinical target volume was defined as the prostate gland plus the proximal seminal vesicles. Critical OARs include the bladder wall, bowel, femoral heads, neurovascular bundle, penile bulb, rectal wall, urethra and urogenital diaphragm. Photon plan robustness was evaluated by simulating 2 mm isotropic setup variations. Comparative proton SBRT plans employing intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) were generated using robust optimization. Plan robustness was evaluated by simulating 2 mm setup variations and 3% or 1% Hounsfield unit (HU) calibration uncertainties. Comparable maximum OAR doses are achievable between photon and proton SBRT, however, robust optimization results in higher maximum doses for proton SBRT. Rectal maximum doses are significantly higher for Robust proton SBRT with 1% HU uncertainty compared to photon SBRT (p = 0.03), whereas maximum doses were comparable for bladder wall (p = 0.43), urethra (p = 0.82) and urogenital diaphragm (p = 0.50). Mean doses to bladder and rectal wall are lower for proton SBRT, but higher for neurovascular bundle, urethra and urogenital diaphragm due to increased lateral scatter. Similar target conformality is achieved, albeit with slightly larger treated volume ratios for proton SBRT, >1.4 compared to 1.2 for photon SBRT. Similar treatment plans can be generated with IMPT compared to VMAT in terms of target coverage, target conformality, and OAR sparing when range and HU uncertainties are neglected. However, when accounting for these uncertainties during robust optimization, VMAT outperforms IMPT in terms of achievable target conformity and OAR sparing. Advances in knowledge: Comparison between achievable dose distributions using modern, robust optimization of IMPT for high dose per fraction SBRT regimens for the prostate has not been previously investigated.

Efficient robust doubly adaptive regularized regression with applications.

PubMed

Karunamuni, Rohana J; Kong, Linglong; Tu, Wei

2018-01-01

We consider the problem of estimation and variable selection for general linear regression models. Regularized regression procedures have been widely used for variable selection, but most existing methods perform poorly in the presence of outliers. We construct a new penalized procedure that simultaneously attains full efficiency and maximum robustness. Furthermore, the proposed procedure satisfies the oracle properties. The new procedure is designed to achieve sparse and robust solutions by imposing adaptive weights on both the decision loss and the penalty function. The proposed method of estimation and variable selection attains full efficiency when the model is correct and, at the same time, achieves maximum robustness when outliers are present. We examine the robustness properties using the finite-sample breakdown point and an influence function. We show that the proposed estimator attains the maximum breakdown point. Furthermore, there is no loss in efficiency when there are no outliers or the error distribution is normal. For practical implementation of the proposed method, we present a computational algorithm. We examine the finite-sample and robustness properties using Monte Carlo studies. Two datasets are also analyzed.

The modeling of gold recovery from tetrachloroaurate wastewater using a microbial fuel cell.

PubMed

Choi, Chansoo; Hu, Naixu

2013-04-01

In this study, tetrachloroaurate as an electron acceptor of a microbial fuel cell (MFC) has been studied to discover the parameters that affect the cost-effective recovery of gold. The modeling and equations for calculating the maximum actual efficiency and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic internal resistance of the MFC were also developed. The maximum power density (Pmax) of 6.58 W/m(2) with a fill factor of 0.717 was achieved for 60 mL volumes of 2000 ppm Au(III) catholyte and 12.2 mM acetate anolyte, respectively. The Pmax can also be predicted simply by measuring Rint by EIS. Additionally, the maximum actual MFC efficiency of about 57% was achieved, and the recovery efficiency of Au and the remaining concentration reached 99.89±0.00% and 0.22±0.00 ppm, respectively, for an Au(III) concentration of 200 ppm. The anodic concentration polarization quenching of the MFC strongly supports a mediator mechanism for the electron transfer from the microorganism to the anode. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microprocessor control of multiple peak power tracking DC/DC converters for use with solar cell arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederick, Martin E. (Inventor); Jermakian, Joel (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A method and an apparatus is provided for efficiently controlling the power output of a solar cell array string or a plurality of solar cell array strings to achieve a maximum amount of output power from the strings under varying conditions of use. Maximum power output from a solar array string is achieved through control of a pulse width modulated DC/DC buck converter which transfers power from a solar array to a load or battery bus. The input voltage from the solar array to the converter is controlled by a pulse width modulation duty cycle, which in turn is controlled by a differential signal controller. By periodically adjusting the control voltage up or down by a small amount and comparing the power on the load or bus with that generated at different voltage values a maximum power output voltage may be obtained. The system is totally modular and additional solar array strings may be added to the system simply by adding converter boards to the system and changing some constants in the controller's control routines.

High-power, highly stable KrF laser with a 4-kHz pulse repetition rate

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

Borisov, V M; El'tsov, A V; Khristoforov, O B

2015-08-31

An electric-discharge KrF laser (248 nm) with an average output power of 300 W is developed and studied. A number of new design features are related to the use of a laser chamber based on an Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} ceramic tube. A high power and pulse repetition rate are achieved by using a volume discharge with lateral preionisation by the UV radiation of a creeping discharge in the form of a homogeneous plasma sheet on the surface of a plane sapphire plate. Various generators for pumping the laser are studied. The maximum laser efficiency is 3.1%, the maximum laser energymore » is 160 mJ pulse{sup -1}, and the pulse duration at half maximum is 7.5 ns. In the case of long-term operation at a pulse repetition rate of 4 kHz and an output power of 300 W, high stability of laser output energy (σ ≤ 0.7%) is achieved using an all-solid-state pump system. (lasers)« less

Effects of Movement Instruction on Children's Singing Achievement Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Newell, Mary Kathleen

2013-01-01

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of movement instruction on children's singing achievement scores. When controlling for age, four overarching questions and nine sub-questions were asked. First, when controlling for age, how do pitch achievement scores at the outset compare to pitch achievement scores after movement…

A Comparative Study of Students' Achievement in Botany and Zoology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tamir, P.

1974-01-01

A comparative study of student achievement in botany and zoology based on data of 10 studies conducted in 20 countries. Up to age 14, students achieve better in zoology; after age 14, students achieve better in botany. Based on the findings, recommendations are suggested regarding curriculum planning, laboratory work and the need for specific…

48 CFR 37.203 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... achieve maximum effectiveness or economy in their operations. (b) Subject to 37.205, agencies may contract... skills of noted experts; (4) Enhance the understanding of, and develop alternative solutions to, complex...

38 CFR 200.2 - Background.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... renewable resources and approach the maximum attainable recycling of depletable resources. (b) As an.... Consideration must be given to reasonable alternative means of achieving the purpose and need for the proposed...

38 CFR 200.2 - Background.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... renewable resources and approach the maximum attainable recycling of depletable resources. (b) As an.... Consideration must be given to reasonable alternative means of achieving the purpose and need for the proposed...

38 CFR 200.2 - Background.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... renewable resources and approach the maximum attainable recycling of depletable resources. (b) As an.... Consideration must be given to reasonable alternative means of achieving the purpose and need for the proposed...

38 CFR 200.2 - Background.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... renewable resources and approach the maximum attainable recycling of depletable resources. (b) As an.... Consideration must be given to reasonable alternative means of achieving the purpose and need for the proposed...

38 CFR 200.2 - Background.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... renewable resources and approach the maximum attainable recycling of depletable resources. (b) As an.... Consideration must be given to reasonable alternative means of achieving the purpose and need for the proposed...

Greener Cleanups

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

OSWER’s goal is to reduce the environmental footprint of cleanup activities at contaminated sites to the maximum extent possible. This website shares policies, tools and practices to achieve that goal across cleanup programs.

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

Junginger, Tobias; Abidi, S. H.; Maffett, R. D.

Here, the performance of superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities used for particle accelerators depends on two characteristic material parameters: field of first flux entry H entry and pinning strength. The former sets the limit for the maximum achievable accelerating gradient, while the latter determines how efficiently flux can be expelled related to the maximum achievable quality factor. In this paper, a method based on muon spin rotation (μSR) is developed to probe these parameters on samples. It combines measurements from two different spectrometers, one being specifically built for these studies and samples of different geometries. It is found that annealing atmore » 1400°C virtually eliminates all pinning. Such an annealed substrate is ideally suited to measure H entry of layered superconductors, which might enable accelerating gradients beyond bulk niobium technology.« less

Magnetic and hydrogel composite materials for hyperthermia applications.

PubMed

Lao, L L; Ramanujan, R V

2004-10-01

Micron-sized magnetic particles (Fe3O4) were dispersed in a polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel to study their potential for hyperthermia applications. Heating characteristics of this ferrogel in an alternating magnetic field (375 kHz) were investigated. The results indicate that the amount of heat generated depends on the Fe3O4 content and magnetic field amplitude. A stable maximum temperature ranging from 43 to 47 degrees C was successfully achieved within 5-6 min. The maximum temperature was a function of Fe3O4 concentration. A specific absorption rate of up to 8.7 W/g Fe3O4 was achieved; this value was found to depend on the magnetic field strength. Hysteresis loss is the main contribution to the heating effect experienced by the sample.

Transparent cellulose/polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane nanocomposites with enhanced UV-shielding properties.

PubMed

Feng, Ye; Zhang, Jinming; He, Jiasong; Zhang, Jun

2016-08-20

The solubility of eight types of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) derivatives in an ionic liquid 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (AmimCl) and the dispersion of POSS in cellulose matrix were examined. Only a special POSS containing both aminophenyl and nitrophenyl groups (POSS-AN, NH2:NO2=2:6) was selected to prepare nanocomposites, because of its good solubility in AmimCl and high stability during the preparation process. POSS-AN nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed in a cellulose matrix with a size of 30-40nm, and so the resultant cellulose/POSS-AN nanocomposite films were transparent. The mechanical properties of the films achieved a maximum tensile strength of 190MPa after addition of 2wt% POSS-AN. Interestingly, all of the cellulose/POSS-AN films exhibited high UV-absorbing capability. For the 15wt% cellulose/POSS-AN film, the transmittance of UVA (315-400nm) and UVB (280-315nm) was only 9.1% and nearly 0, respectively. The UV aging and shielding experiments showed that the transparent cellulose/POSS-AN nanocomposite films possessed anti-UV aging and UV shielding properties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fetal lung apparent diffusion coefficient measurement using diffusion-weighted MRI at 3 Tesla: Correlation with gestational age.

PubMed

Afacan, Onur; Gholipour, Ali; Mulkern, Robert V; Barnewolt, Carol E; Estroff, Judy A; Connolly, Susan A; Parad, Richard B; Bairdain, Sigrid; Warfield, Simon K

2016-12-01

To evaluate the feasibility of using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) to assess the fetal lung apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) at 3 Tesla (T). Seventy-one pregnant women (32 second trimester, 39 third trimester) were scanned with a twice-refocused Echo-planar diffusion-weighted imaging sequence with 6 different b-values in 3 orthogonal diffusion orientations at 3T. After each scan, a region-of-interest (ROI) mask was drawn to select a region in the fetal lung and an automated robust maximum likelihood estimation algorithm was used to compute the ADC parameter. The amount of motion in each scan was visually rated. When scans with unacceptable levels of motion were eliminated, the lung ADC values showed a strong association with gestational age (P < 0.01), increasing dramatically between 16 and 27 weeks and then achieving a plateau around 27 weeks. We show that to get reliable estimates of ADC values of fetal lungs, a multiple b-value acquisition, where motion is either corrected or considered, can be performed. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1650-1655. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Selection of the Maximum Spatial Cluster Size of the Spatial Scan Statistic by Using the Maximum Clustering Set-Proportion Statistic.

PubMed

Ma, Yue; Yin, Fei; Zhang, Tao; Zhou, Xiaohua Andrew; Li, Xiaosong

2016-01-01

Spatial scan statistics are widely used in various fields. The performance of these statistics is influenced by parameters, such as maximum spatial cluster size, and can be improved by parameter selection using performance measures. Current performance measures are based on the presence of clusters and are thus inapplicable to data sets without known clusters. In this work, we propose a novel overall performance measure called maximum clustering set-proportion (MCS-P), which is based on the likelihood of the union of detected clusters and the applied dataset. MCS-P was compared with existing performance measures in a simulation study to select the maximum spatial cluster size. Results of other performance measures, such as sensitivity and misclassification, suggest that the spatial scan statistic achieves accurate results in most scenarios with the maximum spatial cluster sizes selected using MCS-P. Given that previously known clusters are not required in the proposed strategy, selection of the optimal maximum cluster size with MCS-P can improve the performance of the scan statistic in applications without identified clusters.

Selection of the Maximum Spatial Cluster Size of the Spatial Scan Statistic by Using the Maximum Clustering Set-Proportion Statistic

PubMed Central

Ma, Yue; Yin, Fei; Zhang, Tao; Zhou, Xiaohua Andrew; Li, Xiaosong

2016-01-01

Spatial scan statistics are widely used in various fields. The performance of these statistics is influenced by parameters, such as maximum spatial cluster size, and can be improved by parameter selection using performance measures. Current performance measures are based on the presence of clusters and are thus inapplicable to data sets without known clusters. In this work, we propose a novel overall performance measure called maximum clustering set–proportion (MCS-P), which is based on the likelihood of the union of detected clusters and the applied dataset. MCS-P was compared with existing performance measures in a simulation study to select the maximum spatial cluster size. Results of other performance measures, such as sensitivity and misclassification, suggest that the spatial scan statistic achieves accurate results in most scenarios with the maximum spatial cluster sizes selected using MCS-P. Given that previously known clusters are not required in the proposed strategy, selection of the optimal maximum cluster size with MCS-P can improve the performance of the scan statistic in applications without identified clusters. PMID:26820646

Ontogenesis of uptake and deamination of 5-hydroxytryptamine, dopamine and beta-phenylethylamine in isolated perfused lung and lung homogenates from rats.

PubMed Central

Ben-Harari, R. R.; Youdim, M. B.

1981-01-01

1. Uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and beta-phenylethylamine (PEA) was studied in perfused lung from male rats between 10 and 70 days old. 2. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity towards 5-HT, PEA and dopamine was studied in homogenate preparations of lung from rats aged between 5 and 80 days. 3. Uptake of 5-HT (10 microM) decreased throughout the age range studied but uptake of PEA (50 microM) increased for the first 30 days and beyond this age it decreased. Metabolites formed for both amines reflected the changes in uptake. 4. MAO activity deaminating 5-HT is well developed by day 10 and reaches its maximum by day 40. For dopamine and PEA, MAO activity remained low until day 20, and the developed rapidly, reaching a maximum by day 40 for dopamine; activity towards PEA did not reach a maximum by day 80. 5. These results show that uptake and MAO activity changes with age and thus the lung responds like other tissues. 6. These results also demonstrate the independent development of uptake and MAO activity towards 5-HT, PEA and dopamine. PMID:7284689

Relationship of stand age to streamwater nitrate in New Hampshire

Treesearch

William B. Leak; C. Wayne Martin

1975-01-01

Streamwater nitrate content of six watersheds during spring and summer was apparently related to stand age or age since disturbance. Nitrate concentration averaged 10.3 ppm right after cutting, dropped to a trace in medium-aged stands, and then rose again to a maximum of 4.8 ppm as stands became overmature.

12 CFR 268.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 268.201... Complaints § 268.201 Age Discrimination in Employment Act. (a) As an alternative to filing a complaint under... ADEA if the Commission establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a...

12 CFR 268.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 268.201... Complaints § 268.201 Age Discrimination in Employment Act. (a) As an alternative to filing a complaint under... ADEA if the Commission establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a...

12 CFR 268.201 - Age Discrimination in Employment Act.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Age Discrimination in Employment Act. 268.201... Complaints § 268.201 Age Discrimination in Employment Act. (a) As an alternative to filing a complaint under... ADEA if the Commission establishes a maximum age requirement for the position on the basis of a...

Nutrition and educational achievement of urban primary schoolchildren in Malaysia.

PubMed

Shariff, Z M; Bond, J T; Johnson, N E

2000-12-01

The relationship between nutrition, health and educational achievement of school-age population in less developed countries has been of interest to many researchers due to the frequent observation that many children did not complete primary school and those who completed, did not do as well as children in the developed countries. Nevertheless, nutritional and health status by itself is not the only variable affecting educational achievement, since biological, psychological, socioeconomic and cultural factors could directly or indirectly affect both nutrition, health status and educational achievement. The mechanism by which health and nutrition influence educational achievement is not well established, but poor health and malnutrition in early childhood may affect cognitive abilities, necessary for learning process and consequently educational achievement. A study was conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to investigate the relationship between nutritional status and educational achievement among primary schoolchildren from low income households (n = 399). A high percentage of them were mild-significantly underweight (52%), stunted (47%) and wasted (36%) and increasingly overweight (6%). In general, more boys than girls were found to experience some form of malnutrition. While weight-for-height did not differ significantly according to family, child and school factors, weight-for-age and height-for-age differed significantly by gender. Also, height-for-age was significantly related to household income. This indicates that stunting may be a consequence of prolonged socioeconomic deprivation. Educational achievement was measured based on test scores for Malay language (ML), English language (EL) and mathematics (MT). While a majority of the schoolchildren obtained optimum scores (>75) for ML and MT, the majority of them had insufficient scores (<50) for EL. Children's total score (TS) for the three subjects was significantly associated with household socioeconomic status, gender, birth order and heightfor- age. Even after controlling for household socioeconomic status, significant association between TS and height-for-age persisted. In this sample of schoolchildren, household income, gender, birth order and height-forage were significant predictors of TS. The finding that height-for-age is related to educational achievement agrees with other studies, which have reported that height-for-age, compared to weight-for-height or weight-forage is linked to educational achievement. Height-for-age reflects the accumulation of nutritional deprivation throughout the years, which may consequently affect the cognitive development of the children.

Psychosocial factors for influencing healthy aging in adults in Korea.

PubMed

Han, KyungHun; Lee, YunJung; Gu, JaSung; Oh, Hee; Han, JongHee; Kim, KwuyBun

2015-03-07

Healthy aging includes physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being in later years. The purpose of this study is to identify the psychosocial factors influencing healthy aging and examining their socio-demographic characteristics. Perceived health status, depression, self-esteem, self-achievement, ego-integrity, participation in leisure activities, and loneliness were identified as influential factors in healthy aging. 171 Korean adults aged between 45 and 77 years-old participated in the study. Self-reporting questionnaires were used, followed by descriptive statistics and multiple regressions as inferential statistical analyses. There were significant differences between participants' general characteristics: age, education, religion, housing, hobby, and economic status. The factors related to healthy aging had positive correlation with perceived health status, self-esteem, self-achievements, and leisure activities, and negative correlation with depression and loneliness. The factors influencing healthy aging were depression, leisure activities, perceived health status, ego integrity, and self-achievements. These factors were able to explain 51.9%. According to the results, depression is the factor with the greatest influence on healthy aging. Perceived health status, ego integrity, self-achievement, self-esteem, participation of leisure activities were also influential on healthy aging as beneficial factors.

Halogenated Solvent Cleaning: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Learn about the Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards for halogenated solvent cleaner. Find the rule history information, federal register citations, legal authority, and additional resources.

A Comparison of Load-Velocity and Load-Power Relationships Between Well-Trained Young and Middle-Aged Males During Three Popular Resistance Exercises.

PubMed

Fernandes, John F T; Lamb, Kevin L; Twist, Craig

2018-05-01

Fernandes, JFT, Lamb, KL, and Twist, C. A comparison of load-velocity and load-power relationships between well-trained young and middle-aged males during 3 popular resistance exercises. J Strength Cond Res 32(5): 1440-1447, 2018-This study examined the load-velocity and load-power relationships among 20 young (age 21.0 ± 1.6 years) and 20 middle-aged (age 42.6 ± 6.7 years) resistance-trained males. Participants performed 3 repetitions of bench press, squat, and bent-over-row across a range of loads corresponding to 20-80% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM). Analysis revealed effects (p < 0.05) of group and load × group on barbell velocity for all 3 exercises, and interaction effects on power for squat and bent-over-row (p < 0.05). For bench press and bent-over-row, the young group produced higher barbell velocities, with the magnitude of the differences decreasing as load increased (ES; effect size 0.0-1.7 and 1.0-2.0, respectively). Squat velocity was higher in the young group than the middle-aged group (ES 1.0-1.7) across all loads, as was power for each exercise (ES 1.0-2.3). For all 3 exercises, both velocity and 1RM were correlated with optimal power in the middle-aged group (r = 0.613-0.825, p < 0.05), but only 1RM was correlated with optimal power (r = 0.708-0.867, p < 0.05) in the young group. These findings indicate that despite their resistance training, middle-aged males were unable to achieve velocities at low external loads and power outputs as high as the young males across a range of external resistances. Moreover, the strong correlations between 1RM and velocity with optimal power suggest that middle-aged males would benefit from training methods which maximize these adaptations.

Aging gauge

DOEpatents

Betts, Robert E.; Crawford, John F.

1989-04-04

An aging gauge comprising a container having a fixed or a variable sized t opening with a cap which can be opened to control the sublimation rate of a thermally sublimational material contained within the container. In use, the aging gauge is stored with an item to determine total heat the item is subjected to and also the maximum temperature to which the item has been exposed. The aging gauge container contains a thermally sublimational material such as naphthalene or similar material which has a low sublimation rate over the temperature range from about 70.degree. F. to about 160.degree. F. The aging products determined by analyses of a like item aged along with the aging gauge for which the sublimation amount is determined is employed to establish a calibration curve for future aging evaluation. The aging gauge is provided with a means for determining the maximum temperature exposure (i.e., a thermally indicating material which gives an irreversible color change, Thermocolor pigment). Because of the relationship of doubling reaction rates for increases of 10.degree. C., equivalency of item used in accelerated aging evaluation can be obtained by referring to a calibration curve depicting storage temperature on the abscissa scale and multiplier on the ordinate scale.

Aging gauge

DOEpatents

Betts, Robert E.; Crawford, John F.

1989-01-01

An aging gauge comprising a container having a fixed or a variable sized t opening with a cap which can be opened to control the sublimation rate of a thermally sublimational material contained within the container. In use, the aging gauge is stored with an item to determine total heat the item is subjected to and also the maximum temperature to which the item has been exposed. The aging gauge container contains a thermally sublimational material such as naphthalene or similar material which has a low sublimation rate over the temperature range from about 70.degree. F. to about 160.degree. F. The aging products determined by analyses of a like item aged along with the aging gauge for which the sublimation amount is determined is employed to establish a calibration curve for future aging evaluation. The aging gauge is provided with a means for determining the maximum temperature exposure (i.e., a thermally indicating material which gives an irreversible color change, Thermocolor pigment). Because of the relationship of doubling reaction rates for increases of 10.degree. C., equivalency of item used in accelerated aging evaluation can be obtained by referring to a calibration curve depicting storage temperature on the abscissa scale and multiplier on the ordinate scale.

The study on achievement of motor milestones and associated factors among children in rural North India

PubMed Central

Gupta, Arti; Kalaivani, Mani; Gupta, Sanjeev Kumar; Rai, Sanjay K.; Nongkynrih, Baridalyne

2016-01-01

Background: Nearly 14% of children worldwide do not reach their developmental potential in early childhood. The early identification of delays in achieving milestones is critical. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed normal age ranges for the achievement of motor milestones by healthy children. This study aimed to assess the gross motor developmental achievements and associated factors among children in rural India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with rural children in North India. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect the data. The median age at the time of the highest observed milestone was calculated and compared with the WHO windows of achievement. Results: Overall, 221 children aged 4–18 months were included in the study. The median age of motor development exhibited a 0.1–2.1-month delay compared to the WHO median age of motor milestone achievement. The prevalence of the gross motor milestone achievements for each of the six milestones ranged from 91.6% to 98.4%. Developmental delay was observed in 6.3% of the children. After adjusting for different variables, children with birth order of second or more were found to be significantly associated with the timely achievement of gross motor milestones. Conclusion: The apparently healthy children of the rural area of Haryana achieved gross motor milestones with some delay with respect to the WHO windows of achievement. Although the median value of this delay was low, awareness campaigns should be implemented to promote timely identification of children with development delays. PMID:27843845

Mandibular kinematic changes after unilateral cross-bite with lateral shift correction.

PubMed

Venancio, F; Alarcon, J A; Lenguas, L; Kassem, M; Martin, C

2014-10-01

The aim of this randomised prospective study was to evaluate the effects of slow maxillary expansion with expansion plates and Hyrax expanders on the kinematics of the mandible after cross-bite correction. Thirty children (15 boys and 15 girls), aged 7·1-11·8, with unilateral cross-bite and functional shift were divided into two groups: expansion plate (n = 15) and Hyrax expander (n = 15). Thirty children with normal occlusion (14 boys and 16 girls, aged 7·3-11·6) served as control group. The maximum vertical opening, lateral mandibular shift (from maximum vertical opening to maximum intercuspation, from rest position to maximum intercuspation and from maximum vertical opening to rest position) and lateral excursions were recorded before and 4 months after treatment. After treatment, the expansion plate group showed a greater lateral shift from rest position to maximum intercuspation than did the control group. The expansion plate patients also presented greater left/contralateral excursion than did the control group. Comparisons of changes after treatment in the cross-bite groups showed significant decreases in the lateral shift from the maximum vertical opening to maximum intercuspation and from the maximum vertical opening to rest position, a significant increase in the homolateral excursion and a significant decrease in the contralateral excursion in the Hyrax expander group, whereas no significant differences were found in the expansion plate group. In conclusion, the Hyrax expander showed better results than did the expansion plate. The Hyrax expander with acrylic occlusal covering significantly improved the mandibular lateral shift and normalised the range of lateral excursion. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPV) Stress Rupture Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, Richard; Flynn, Howard; Forth, Scott; Greene, Nathanael; Kezian, Michael; Varanauski, Don; Yoder, Tommy; Woodworth, Warren

2009-01-01

One of the major concerns for the aging Space Shuttle fleet is the stress rupture life of composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs). Stress rupture life of a COPV has been defined as the minimum time during which the composite maintains structural integrity considering the combined effects of stress levels and time. To assist in the evaluation of the aging COPVs in the Orbiter fleet an analytical reliability model was developed. The actual data used to construct this model was from testing of COPVs constructed of similar, but not exactly same materials and pressure cycles as used on Orbiter vessels. Since no actual Orbiter COPV stress rupture data exists the Space Shuttle Program decided to run a stress rupture test to compare to model predictions. Due to availability of spares, the testing was unfortunately limited to one 40" vessel. The stress rupture test was performed at maximum operating pressure at an elevated temperature to accelerate aging. The test was performed in two phases. The first phase, 130 F, a moderately accelerated test designed to achieve the midpoint of the model predicted point reliability. The more aggressive second phase, performed at 160 F was designed to determine if the test article will exceed the 95% confidence interval of the model. This paper will discuss the results of this test, it's implications and possible follow-on testing.

Similarities in the Age-Specific Incidence of Colon and Testicular Cancers.

PubMed

Soto-Ortiz, Luis; Brody, James P

2013-01-01

Colon cancers are thought to be an inevitable result of aging, while testicular cancers are thought to develop in only a small fraction of men, beginning in utero. These models of carcinogenesis are, in part, based upon age-specific incidence data. The specific incidence for colon cancer appears to monotonically increase with age, while that of testicular cancer increases to a maximum value at about 35 years of age, then declines to nearly zero by the age of 80. We hypothesized that the age-specific incidence for these two cancers is similar; the apparent difference is caused by a longer development time for colon cancer and the lack of age-specific incidence data for people over 84 years of age. Here we show that a single distribution can describe the age-specific incidence of both colon carcinoma and testicular cancer. Furthermore, this distribution predicts that the specific incidence of colon cancer should reach a maximum at about age 90 and then decrease. Data on the incidence of colon carcinoma for women aged 85-99, acquired from SEER and the US Census, is consistent with this prediction. We conclude that the age specific data for testicular cancers and colon cancers is similar, suggesting that the underlying process leading to the development of these two forms of cancer may be similar.

Study of optimal training protocols and devices for developing and maintaining physical fitness in females prior to and during space flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olree, H. D.; Corbin, B.; Smith, C.

1977-01-01

Pedalling a bicycle at least ten minutes a day at 85% of maximum pulse rate, three days a week for ten weeks will produce moderate increases in overall strength and physical work capacity in college-age females. The longer the training session, up to thirty minutes per session, the greater are the increases in physical work capacity that result when college-age females are trained three days a week for ten weeks at 85% of their maximum heart rate.

[Dependent individuals classification based on the 1999 Disabilities, Impairments and Health Status Survey].

PubMed

Albarrán Lozano, Irene; Alonso González, Pablo

2006-01-01

In order to move to a system in which formal medical-social care is a priority, in which the institutions play a greater role, it is advisable to analyze the different actual situations of those individuals who are dependent. The objective of this study consists of classifying the dependent Spanish population into different groups, each of their own distinguishing characteristics. The data from the Disabilities, Deficiencies and Health Status Survey (Spanish National Institute of Statistics, 1999) related to the non-institionalized population over 6 years of age. Groups are configured using multivariate analysis techniques in terms of the age, sex, daily living activity-related disabilities, the severity thereof and the number of hours of care per week. Nine statistically heterogeneous profiles were obtained. In the first three, with 341,262 individuals (24.5% of the total dependent population), the individuals in question were under 60 years of age. With the exception of one group, females were predominant (61% males), falling within the 13-36 age range. In the group least affected by lack of self-sufficiency (136,240 individuals), solely 26% of those comprising this group had problems getting around (maximum degree of severity in 7%), regarding care, 25% (maximum degree of severity in 10%) and only 32% need more than 15 hours of care per week. Most thereof (74%) are females within the 82-90 age range. The dependent Spanish population is revealed to be in different situations related to different categories in terms of age, sex, number and severity of the daily living activities affected. The different assessments of the severity related to said categories, employing both the Spanish National Institute of Statistics maximum severity criterion as well as another alternative criterion which implements the degree of severity of all of the daily living activities, not only the maximum, confirm the nine groups found to be different from one another.

Knowledge of appropriate acetaminophen use: A survey of college-age women.

PubMed

Stumpf, Janice L; Liao, Allison C; Nguyen, Stacy; Skyles, Amy J; Alaniz, Cesar

To evaluate college-age women's knowledge of appropriate doses and potential toxicities of acetaminophen, competency in interpreting Drug Facts label dosing information, and ability to recognize products containing acetaminophen. In this cross-sectional prospective study, a 20-item written survey was provided to female college students at a University of Michigan fundraising event in March 2015. A total of 203 female college students, 18-24 years of age, participated in the study. Pain was experienced on a daily or weekly basis by 22% of the subjects over the previous 6 months, and 83% reported taking acetaminophen. The maximum 3-gram daily dose of extra-strength acetaminophen was correctly identified by 64 participants; an additional 51 subjects indicated the generally accepted 4 grams daily as the maximum dose. When provided with the Tylenol Drug Facts label, 68.5% correctly identified the maximum amount of regular-strength acetaminophen recommended for a healthy adult. Hepatotoxicity was associated with high acetaminophen doses by 63.6% of participants, significantly more than those who selected distracter responses (P < 0.001). Knowledge of liver damage as a potential toxicity was correlated with age 20 years and older (P < 0.001) but was independent from race and ethnicity and level of alcohol consumption. Although more than one-half of the subjects (58.6%) recognized that Tylenol contained acetaminophen, fewer than one-fourth correctly identified other acetaminophen-containing products. Despite ongoing educational campaigns, a large proportion of the college-age women who participated in our study did not know and could not interpret the maximum recommended daily dose from Drug Facts labeling, did not know that liver damage was a potential toxicity of acetaminophen, and could not recognize acetaminophen-containing products. These data suggest a continued role for pharmacists in educational efforts targeted to college-age women. Copyright © 2018 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reversion phenomena of Cu-Cr alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nishikawa, S.; Nagata, K.; Kobayashi, S.

1985-01-01

Cu-Cr alloys which were given various aging and reversion treatments were investigated in terms of electrical resistivity and hardness. Transmission electron microscopy was one technique employed. Some results obtained are as follows: the increment of electrical resistivity after the reversion at a constant temperature decreases as the aging temperature rises. In a constant aging condition, the increment of electrical resistivity after the reversion increases, and the time required for a maximum reversion becomes shorter as the reversion temperature rises. The reversion phenomena can be repeated, but its amount decreases rapidly by repetition. At first, the amount of reversion increases with aging time and reaches its maximum, and then tends to decrease again. Hardness changes by the reversion are very small, but the hardness tends to soften slightly. Any changes in transmission electron micrographs by the reversion treatment cannot be detected.

Maximum voltage gradient technique for optimization of ablation for typical atrial flutter with zero-fluoroscopy approach

PubMed Central

Deutsch, Karol; Śledź, Janusz; Mazij, Mariusz; Ludwik, Bartosz; Labus, Michał; Karbarz, Dariusz; Pasicka, Bernadetta; Chrabąszcz, Michał; Śledź, Arkadiusz; Klank-Szafran, Monika; Vitali-Sendoz, Laura; Kameczura, Tomasz; Śpikowski, Jerzy; Stec, Piotr; Ujda, Marek; Stec, Sebastian

2017-01-01

Abstract Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is an established effective method for the treatment of typical cavo-tricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter (AFL). The introduction of 3-dimensional electro-anatomic systems enables RFCA without fluoroscopy (No-X-Ray [NXR]). The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of CTI RFCA during implementation of the NXR approach and the maximum voltage-guided (MVG) technique for ablation of AFL. Data were obtained from prospective standardized multicenter ablation registry. Consecutive patients with the first RFCA for CTI-dependent AFL were recruited. Two navigation approaches (NXR and fluoroscopy based as low as reasonable achievable [ALARA]) and 2 mapping and ablation techniques (MVG and pull-back technique [PBT]) were assessed. NXR + MVG (n  =  164; age: 63.7 ± 9.5; 30% women), NXR + PBT (n  =  55; age: 63.9 ± 10.7; 39% women); ALARA + MVG (n  =  36; age: 64.2 ± 9.6; 39% women); and ALARA + PBT (n  =  205; age: 64.7 ± 9.1; 30% women) were compared, respectively. All groups were simplified with a 2-catheter femoral approach using 8-mm gold tip catheters (Osypka AG, Germany or Biotronik, Germany) with 15 min of observation. The MVG technique was performed using step-by-step application by mapping the largest atrial signals within the CTI. Bidirectional block in CTI was achieved in 99% of all patients (P  =  NS, between groups). In NXR + MVG and NXR + PBT groups, the procedure time decreased (45.4 ± 17.6 and 47.2 ± 15.7 min vs. 52.6 ± 23.7 and 59.8 ± 24.0 min, P < .01) as compared to ALARA + MVG and ALARA + PBT subgroups. In NXR + MVG and NXR + PBT groups, 91% and 98% of the procedures were performed with complete elimination of fluoroscopy. The NXR approach was associated with a significant reduction in fluoroscopy exposure (from 0.2 ± 1.1 [NXR + PBT] and 0.3 ± 1.6 [NXR + MVG] to 7.7 ± 6.0 min [ALARA + MVG] and 9.1 ± 7.2 min [ALARA + PBT], P < .001). The total application time significantly decreased in the MVG technique subgroup both in NXR and ALARA (P < .01). No major complications were observed in either groups. Complete elimination of fluoroscopy is feasible, safe, and effective during RFCA of CTI in almost all AFL patients without cardiac implanted electronic devices. The most optimal method for RFCA of CTI-dependent AFL seems to be MVG; however, it required validation of optimal RFCA's parameters with clinical follow-up. PMID:28640075

Maximum voltage gradient technique for optimization of ablation for typical atrial flutter with zero-fluoroscopy approach.

PubMed

Deutsch, Karol; Śledź, Janusz; Mazij, Mariusz; Ludwik, Bartosz; Labus, Michał; Karbarz, Dariusz; Pasicka, Bernadetta; Chrabąszcz, Michał; Śledź, Arkadiusz; Klank-Szafran, Monika; Vitali-Sendoz, Laura; Kameczura, Tomasz; Śpikowski, Jerzy; Stec, Piotr; Ujda, Marek; Stec, Sebastian

2017-06-01

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is an established effective method for the treatment of typical cavo-tricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter (AFL). The introduction of 3-dimensional electro-anatomic systems enables RFCA without fluoroscopy (No-X-Ray [NXR]). The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of CTI RFCA during implementation of the NXR approach and the maximum voltage-guided (MVG) technique for ablation of AFL.Data were obtained from prospective standardized multicenter ablation registry. Consecutive patients with the first RFCA for CTI-dependent AFL were recruited. Two navigation approaches (NXR and fluoroscopy based as low as reasonable achievable [ALARA]) and 2 mapping and ablation techniques (MVG and pull-back technique [PBT]) were assessed. NXR + MVG (n  =  164; age: 63.7 ± 9.5; 30% women), NXR + PBT (n  =  55; age: 63.9 ± 10.7; 39% women); ALARA + MVG (n  =  36; age: 64.2 ± 9.6; 39% women); and ALARA + PBT (n  =  205; age: 64.7 ± 9.1; 30% women) were compared, respectively. All groups were simplified with a 2-catheter femoral approach using 8-mm gold tip catheters (Osypka AG, Germany or Biotronik, Germany) with 15 min of observation. The MVG technique was performed using step-by-step application by mapping the largest atrial signals within the CTI.Bidirectional block in CTI was achieved in 99% of all patients (P  =  NS, between groups). In NXR + MVG and NXR + PBT groups, the procedure time decreased (45.4 ± 17.6 and 47.2 ± 15.7 min vs. 52.6 ± 23.7 and 59.8 ± 24.0 min, P < .01) as compared to ALARA + MVG and ALARA + PBT subgroups. In NXR + MVG and NXR + PBT groups, 91% and 98% of the procedures were performed with complete elimination of fluoroscopy. The NXR approach was associated with a significant reduction in fluoroscopy exposure (from 0.2 ± 1.1 [NXR + PBT] and 0.3 ± 1.6 [NXR + MVG] to 7.7 ± 6.0 min [ALARA + MVG] and 9.1 ± 7.2 min [ALARA + PBT], P < .001). The total application time significantly decreased in the MVG technique subgroup both in NXR and ALARA (P < .01). No major complications were observed in either groups.Complete elimination of fluoroscopy is feasible, safe, and effective during RFCA of CTI in almost all AFL patients without cardiac implanted electronic devices. The most optimal method for RFCA of CTI-dependent AFL seems to be MVG; however, it required validation of optimal RFCA's parameters with clinical follow-up.

Design and optimization of a modal- independent linear ultrasonic motor.

PubMed

Zhou, Shengli; Yao, Zhiyuan

2014-03-01

To simplify the design of the linear ultrasonic motor (LUSM) and improve its output performance, a method of modal decoupling for LUSMs is proposed in this paper. The specific embodiment of this method is decoupling of the traditional LUSM stator's complex vibration into two simple vibrations, with each vibration implemented by one vibrator. Because the two vibrators are designed independently, their frequencies can be tuned independently and frequency consistency is easy to achieve. Thus, the method can simplify the design of the LUSM. Based on this method, a prototype modal- independent LUSM is designed and fabricated. The motor reaches its maximum thrust force of 47 N, maximum unloaded speed of 0.43 m/s, and maximum power of 7.85 W at applied voltage of 200 Vpp. The motor's structure is then optimized by controlling the difference between the two vibrators' resonance frequencies to reach larger output speed, thrust, and power. The optimized results show that when the frequency difference is 73 Hz, the output force, speed, and power reach their maximum values. At the input voltage of 200 Vpp, the motor reaches its maximum thrust force of 64.2 N, maximum unloaded speed of 0.76 m/s, maximum power of 17.4 W, maximum thrust-weight ratio of 23.7, and maximum efficiency of 39.6%.

Modeling health gains and cost savings for ten dietary salt reduction targets.

PubMed

Wilson, Nick; Nghiem, Nhung; Eyles, Helen; Mhurchu, Cliona Ni; Shields, Emma; Cobiac, Linda J; Cleghorn, Christine L; Blakely, Tony

2016-04-26

Dietary salt reduction is included in the top five priority actions for non-communicable disease control internationally. We therefore aimed to identify health gain and cost impacts of achieving a national target for sodium reduction, along with component targets in different food groups. We used an established dietary sodium intervention model to study 10 interventions to achieve sodium reduction targets. The 2011 New Zealand (NZ) adult population (2.3 million aged 35+ years) was simulated over the remainder of their lifetime in a Markov model with a 3 % discount rate. Achieving an overall 35 % reduction in dietary salt intake via implementation of mandatory maximum levels of sodium in packaged foods along with reduced sodium from fast foods/restaurant food and discretionary intake (the "full target"), was estimated to gain 235,000 QALYs over the lifetime of the cohort (95 % uncertainty interval [UI]: 176,000 to 298,000). For specific target components the range was from 122,000 QALYs gained (for the packaged foods target) down to the snack foods target (6100 QALYs; and representing a 34-48 % sodium reduction in such products). All ten target interventions studied were cost-saving, with the greatest costs saved for the mandatory "full target" at NZ$1260 million (US$820 million). There were relatively greater health gains per adult for men and for Māori (indigenous population). This work provides modeling-level evidence that achieving dietary sodium reduction targets (including specific food category targets) could generate large health gains and cost savings for a national health sector. Demographic groups with the highest cardiovascular disease rates stand to gain most, assisting in reducing health inequalities between sex and ethnic groups.

Skeletal maturation, fundamental motor skills and motor coordination in children 7-10 years.

PubMed

Freitas, Duarte L; Lausen, Berthold; Maia, José António; Lefevre, Johan; Gouveia, Élvio Rúbio; Thomis, Martine; Antunes, António Manuel; Claessens, Albrecht L; Beunen, Gaston; Malina, Robert M

2015-01-01

Relationships between skeletal maturation and fundamental motor skills and gross motor coordination were evaluated in 429 children (213 boys and 216 girls) 7-10 years. Skeletal age was assessed (Tanner-Whitehouse 2 method), and stature, body mass, motor coordination (Körperkoordinations Test für Kinder, KTK) and fundamental motor skills (Test of Gross Motor Development, TGMD-2) were measured. Relationships among chronological age, skeletal age (expressed as the standardised residual of skeletal age on chronological age) and body size and fundamental motor skills and motor coordination were analysed with hierarchical multiple regression. Standardised residual of skeletal age on chronological age interacting with stature and body mass explained a maximum of 7.0% of the variance in fundamental motor skills and motor coordination over that attributed to body size per se. Standardised residual of skeletal age on chronological age alone accounted for a maximum of 9.0% of variance in fundamental motor skills, and motor coordination over that attributed to body size per se and interactions between standardised residual of skeletal age on chronological age and body size. In conclusion, skeletal age alone or interacting with body size has a negligible influence on fundamental motor skills and motor coordination in children 7-10 years.

RAID/C90 Technology Integration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ciotti, Bob; Cooper, D. M. (Technical Monitor)

1994-01-01

In March 1993, NAS was the first to connect a Maximum Strategy RAID disk to the C90 using standard Cray provided software. This paper discusses the problems encountered, lessons learned, and performance achieved.

Cross-Layer Resource Allocation for Wireless Visual Sensor Networks and Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

MMD), minimizes the maximum dis- tortion among all nodes of the network, promoting a rather unbiased treatment of the nodes. We employed the Particle...achieve the ideal tradeoff between the transmitted video quality and energy consumption. Each sensor node has a bit rate that can be used for both...Distortion (MMD), minimizes the maximum distortion among all nodes of the network, promoting a rather unbiased treatment of the nodes. For both criteria

Carpooling: status and potential

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

Kendall, D.C.

1975-06-01

Studies were conducted to analyze the status and potential of work-trip carpooling as a means of achieving more efficient use of the automobile. Current and estimated maximum potential levels of carpooling are presented together with analyses revealing characteristics of carpool trips, incentives, impacts of increased carpooling and issues related to carpool matching services. National survey results indicate the average auto occupancy for urban work-trip is 1.2 passengers per auto. This value, and average carpool occupancy of 2.5, have been relatively stable over the last five years. An increase in work-trip occupancy from 1.2 to 1.8 would require a 100% increasemore » in the number of carpoolers. A model was developed to predict the maximum potential level of carpooling in an urban area. Results from applying the model to the Boston region were extrapolated to estimate a maximum nationwide potential between 47 and 71% of peak period auto commuters. Maximum benefits of increased carpooling include up to 10% savings in auto fuel consumption. A technique was developed for estimating the number of participants required in a carpool matching service to achieve a chosen level of matching among respondents, providing insight into tradeoffs between employer and regional or centralized matching services. Issues recommended for future study include incentive policies and their impacts on other modes, and the evaluation of new and ongoing carpool matching services. (11 references) (GRA)« less

Relative importance of column and adsorption parameters on the productivity in preparative liquid chromatography II: Investigation of separation systems with competitive Langmuir adsorption isotherms.

PubMed

Forssén, Patrik; Samuelsson, Jörgen; Fornstedt, Torgny

2014-06-20

In this study we investigated how the maximum productivity for commonly used, realistic separation system with a competitive Langmuir adsorption isotherm is affected by changes in column length, packing particle size, mobile phase viscosity, maximum allowed column pressure, column efficiency, sample concentration/solubility, selectivity, monolayer saturation capacity and retention factor of the first eluting compound. The study was performed by generating 1000 random separation systems whose optimal injection volume was determined, i.e., the injection volume that gives the largest achievable productivity. The relative changes in largest achievable productivity when one of the parameters above changes was then studied for each system and the productivity changes for all systems were presented as distributions. We found that it is almost always beneficial to use shorter columns with high pressure drops over the column and that the selectivity should be greater than 2. However, the sample concentration and column efficiency have very limited effect on the maximum productivity. The effect of packing particle size depends on the flow rate limiting factor. If the pumps maximum flow rate is the limiting factor use smaller packing, but if the pressure of the system is the limiting factor use larger packing up to about 40μm. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thromboelastography Values in Hispaniolan Amazon Parrots ( Amazona ventralis ): A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Keller, Krista A; Sanchez-Migallon Guzman, David; Acierno, Mark J; Beaufrère, Hugues; Sinclair, Kristin M; Owens, Sean D; Paul-Murphy, Joanne; Tully, Thomas N

2015-09-01

Thromboelastography (TEG) provides a global assessment of coagulation, including the rate of clot initiation, clot kinetics, achievement of maximum clot strength, and fibrinolysis. Thromboelastography (TEG) is used with increasing frequency in the field of veterinary medicine, although its usefulness in avian species has not been adequately explored. The purpose of this preliminary study was to assess the applicability of TEG in psittacine birds. Kaolin-activated TEG was used to analyze citrated whole blood collected routinely from 8 healthy adult Hispaniolan Amazon parrots ( Amazona ventralis ). The minimum and maximum TEG values obtained included time to clot initiation (2.6-15 minutes), clot formation time (4.3-20.8 minutes), α angle (12.7°-47.9°), maximum amplitude of clot strength (26.3-46.2 mm), and percentage of lysis 30 minutes after achievement of maximum amplitude (0%-5.3%). The TEG values demonstrated comparative hypocoagulability relative to published values in canine and feline species. Differences may be explained by either the in vitro temperature at which TEG is standardly performed or the method of activation used in this study. Although TEG may have significant advantages over traditional coagulation tests, including lack of need for species-specific reagents, further evaluation is required in a variety of avian species and while exploring various TEG methodologies before this technology can be recommended for use in clinical cases.

English Language Learners and Kindergarten Entry Age: Achievement and Social-Emotional Effects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gottfried, Michael; Le, Vi-Nhuan; Datar, Ashlesha

2016-01-01

In evaluating the role of kindergarten entry age, previous researchers have not examined the entry-age effects for English language learners (ELL). Additionally, little work has assessed the role of entry age on both achievement and social-emotional outcomes. This study is the first to do both simultaneously. The authors used data from a…

Aspects of Solvent Chemistry for Calcium Hydroxide Medicaments

PubMed Central

Athanassiadis, Basil

2017-01-01

Calcium hydroxide pastes have been used in endodontics since 1947. Most current calcium hydroxide endodontic pastes use water as the vehicle, which limits the dissolution of calcium hydroxide that can be achieved and, thereby, the maximum pH that can be achieved within the root canal system. Using polyethylene glycol as a solvent, rather than water, can achieve an increase in hydroxyl ions release compared to water or saline. By adopting non-aqueous solvents such as the polyethylene glycols (PEG), greater dissolution and faster hydroxyl ion release can be achieved, leading to enhanced antimicrobial actions, and other improvements in performance and biocompatibility. PMID:29065542

High spatial resolution restoration of IRAS images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grasdalen, Gary L.; Inguva, R.; Dyck, H. Melvin; Canterna, R.; Hackwell, John A.

1990-01-01

A general technique to improve the spatial resolution of the IRAS AO data was developed at The Aerospace Corporation using the Maximum Entropy algorithm of Skilling and Gull. The technique has been applied to a variety of fields and several individual AO MACROS. With this general technique, resolutions of 15 arcsec were achieved in 12 and 25 micron images and 30 arcsec in 60 and 100 micron images. Results on galactic plane fields show that both photometric and positional accuracy achieved in the general IRAS survey are also achieved in the reconstructed images.

76 FR 1504 - Pipeline Safety: Establishing Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure or Maximum Operating Pressure...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-10

... profile that is dependent upon the pipelines attributes, its geographical location, design, operating... type of threats posed by the pipeline segment, including consideration of the age, design, pipe... calculation. There are several methods available for establishing MAOP or MOP. A hydrostatic pressure test...

Maximum Oxygen Uptake Determination in Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fremion, Amy S.; And Others

1987-01-01

A study of 10 children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus performing a maximum-effort cycling test indicated blood glucose levels did not change appreciably during test, while maximal oxygen uptake was substandard for their age groups. Findings suggest patients in fair to poor metabolic control can tolerate stress testing without…

A Review of Academic Achievement Tests: Recommendations for Age Appropriate Administration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kozloff, Allison Burstein

2009-01-01

Comprehensive academic achievement tests are routinely used by school psychologists in psycho-educational assessment batteries to identify learning disabled students. A variety of assessment measures are used across age groups to determine if a discrepancy exists between academic achievement and intellectual functioning; however, among the most…

Exciplex-Forming Cohost for High Efficiency and High Stability Phosphorescent Organic Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Shih, Chun-Jen; Lee, Chih-Chien; Chen, Ying-Hao; Biring, Sajal; Kumar, Gautham; Yeh, Tzu-Hung; Sen, Somaditya; Liu, Shun-Wei; Wong, Ken-Tsung

2018-01-17

An exciplex forming cohost system is employed to achieve a highly efficient organic light-emitting diode (OLED) with good electroluminescent lifetime. The exciplex is formed at the interfacial contact of a conventional star-shaped carbazole hole-transporting material, 4,4',4″-tris(N-carbazolyl)-triphenylamine (TCTA), and a triazine electron-transporting material, 2,4,6-tris[3-(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)phenyl]-1,3,5-triazine (3P-T2T). The excellent combination of TCTA and 3P-T2T is applied as the cohost of a common green phosphorescent emitter with almost zero energy loss. When Ir(ppy) 2 (acac) is dispersed in such exciplex cohost system, OLED device with maximum external quantum efficiency of 29.6%, the ultrahigh power efficiency of 147.3 lm/W, and current efficiency of 107 cd/A were successfully achieved. More importantly, the OLED device showed a low-efficiency roll-off and an operational lifetime (τ 80 ) of ∼1020 min with the initial brightness of 2000 cd/m 2 , which is 56 times longer than the reference device. The significant difference of device stability was attributed to the degradation of exciplex system for energy transfer process, which was investigated by the photoluminescence aging measurement at room temperature and 100 K, respectively.

Lower extremity work is associated with club head velocity during the golf swing in experienced golfers.

PubMed

McNally, M P; Yontz, N; Chaudhari, A M

2014-08-01

While the golf swing is a complex whole body movement requiring coordination of all joints to achieve maximum ball velocity, the kinetic contribution of the lower extremities to club head velocity has not been quantified, despite the perception that the legs are a primary source of power during the swing. Mechanical power at the hips, knees, and ankles was estimated during the downswing phase of a full swing with a driver using a passive optical motion capture system and 2 force plates for adult males across a range of age and self-reported skill levels. Total work by the lower extremities was calculated by integrating the powers of all 6 joints over the downswing. Regression analyses showed that total lower extremity work was a strong predictor of club head velocity (R=0.63). Secondary analyses showed different relationships to club head velocity in lead and trail leg lower extremity joints, but none of these were as predictive of club head velocity as the total work performed by the lower extremities. These results provide quantitative evidence that the lower body's kinetic contribution may be an important factor in achieving greater club head velocity, contributing to greater driving distance and overall golf performance. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Postinfancy growth, schooling, and cognitive achievement: Young Lives1234

PubMed Central

Schott, Whitney; Cueto, Santiago; Dearden, Kirk A; Engle, Patrice; Georgiadis, Andreas; Lundeen, Elizabeth A; Penny, Mary E; Stein, Aryeh D; Behrman, Jere R

2013-01-01

Background: Early life growth failure and resulting cognitive deficits are often assumed to be very difficult to reverse after infancy. Objective: We used data from Young Lives, which is an observational cohort of 8062 children in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam, to determine whether changes in growth after infancy are associated with schooling and cognitive achievement at age 8 y. Design: We represented the growth by height-for-age z score at 1 y [HAZ(1)] and height-for-age z score at 8 y that was not predicted by the HAZ(1). We also characterized growth as recovered (stunted at age 1 y and not at age 8 y), faltered (not stunted at age 1 y and stunted at age 8 y), persistently stunted (stunted at ages 1 and 8 y), or never stunted (not stunted at ages 1 and 8 y). Outcome measures were assessed at age 8 y. Results: The HAZ(1) was inversely associated with overage for grade and positively associated with mathematics achievement, reading comprehension, and receptive vocabulary. Unpredicted growth from 1 to 8 y of age was also inversely associated with overage for grade (OR range across countries: 0.80–0.84) and positively associated with mathematics achievement (effect-size range: 0.05–0.10), reading comprehension (0.02–0.10), and receptive vocabulary (0.04–0.08). Children who recovered in linear growth had better outcomes than did children who were persistently stunted but were not generally different from children who experienced growth faltering. Conclusions: Improvements in child growth after early faltering might have significant benefits on schooling and cognitive achievement. Hence, although early interventions remain critical, interventions to improve the nutrition of preprimary and early primary school–age children also merit consideration. PMID:24067665

Postinfancy growth, schooling, and cognitive achievement: Young Lives.

PubMed

Crookston, Benjamin T; Schott, Whitney; Cueto, Santiago; Dearden, Kirk A; Engle, Patrice; Georgiadis, Andreas; Lundeen, Elizabeth A; Penny, Mary E; Stein, Aryeh D; Behrman, Jere R

2013-12-01

Early life growth failure and resulting cognitive deficits are often assumed to be very difficult to reverse after infancy. We used data from Young Lives, which is an observational cohort of 8062 children in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam, to determine whether changes in growth after infancy are associated with schooling and cognitive achievement at age 8 y. We represented the growth by height-for-age z score at 1 y [HAZ(1)] and height-for-age z score at 8 y that was not predicted by the HAZ(1). We also characterized growth as recovered (stunted at age 1 y and not at age 8 y), faltered (not stunted at age 1 y and stunted at age 8 y), persistently stunted (stunted at ages 1 and 8 y), or never stunted (not stunted at ages 1 and 8 y). Outcome measures were assessed at age 8 y. The HAZ(1) was inversely associated with overage for grade and positively associated with mathematics achievement, reading comprehension, and receptive vocabulary. Unpredicted growth from 1 to 8 y of age was also inversely associated with overage for grade (OR range across countries: 0.80-0.84) and positively associated with mathematics achievement (effect-size range: 0.05-0.10), reading comprehension (0.02-0.10), and receptive vocabulary (0.04-0.08). Children who recovered in linear growth had better outcomes than did children who were persistently stunted but were not generally different from children who experienced growth faltering. Improvements in child growth after early faltering might have significant benefits on schooling and cognitive achievement. Hence, although early interventions remain critical, interventions to improve the nutrition of preprimary and early primary school-age children also merit consideration.

Removing obstacles for pavement cost reduction by examining early age opening requirements : material properties.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-08-01

The risk of cracking in a concrete pavement that is opened to traffic at early ages is related to the maximum tensile stress, , that : develops in the pavement and its relationship to the measured, age dependent, flexural strength of a beam, fr . T...

Hopelessness, depressive symptoms and carotid atherosclerosis in women: the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) Heart Study

PubMed Central

Whipple, Mary O.; Lewis, Tené T.; Sutton-Tyrrell, Kim; Matthews, Karen A.; Barinas-Mitchell, Emma; Powell, Lynda H.; Everson-Rose, Susan A.

2009-01-01

Background and Purpose Depression and hopelessness are associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality; however, few studies have compared these constructs early in the atherogenic process, particularly in women or minorities. Methods This cross-sectional study examined associations of hopelessness and depressive symptoms with carotid artery intimal-medial thickening (IMT) in 559 women (62% white, 38% African-American; mean age, 50.2±2.8 years) without evidence of clinical CVD from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) Heart Study. Hopelessness was measured by 2 questionnaire items; depressive symptoms were measured with the 20-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale. Mean and maximum IMT were assessed via B-mode ultrasonography of the carotid arteries. Results Increasing hopelessness was significantly related to higher mean (p=.0139) and maximum IMT (p=.0297) in regression models adjusted for age, race, site, income, and CVD risk factors. A weaker pattern of associations was noted for depressive symptoms and mean (p=.1056) and maximum IMT (p=.0691). Modeled simultaneously in a risk factor-adjusted model, hopelessness was related to greater mean IMT (p=.0217) and maximum IMT (p=.0409) but depressive symptoms were unrelated to either outcome (p>.4). No interactions with race or synergistic effects of depressive symptoms and hopelessness were observed. Conclusions Among middle-aged women, higher levels of hopelessness are associated with greater subclinical atherosclerosis independent of age, race, income, CVD risk factors, and depressive symptoms. PMID:19713542

Investigating cold based summit glaciers through direct access to the glacier base: a case study constraining the maximum age of Chli Titlis glacier, Switzerland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bohleber, Pascal; Hoffmann, Helene; Kerch, Johanna; Sold, Leo; Fischer, Andrea

2018-01-01

Cold glaciers at the highest locations of the European Alps have been investigated by drilling ice cores to retrieve their stratigraphic climate records. Findings like the Oetztal ice man have demonstrated that small ice bodies at summit locations of comparatively lower altitudes may also contain old ice if locally frozen to the underlying bedrock. In this case, constraining the maximum age of their lowermost ice part may help to identify past periods with minimum ice extent in the Alps. However, with recent warming and consequent glacier mass loss, these sites may not preserve their unique climate information for much longer. Here we utilized an existing ice cave at Chli Titlis (3030 m), central Switzerland, to perform a case study for investigating the maximum age of cold-based summit glaciers in the Alps. The cave offers direct access to the glacier stratigraphy without the logistical effort required in ice core drilling. In addition, a pioneering exploration had already demonstrated stagnant cold ice conditions at Chli Titlis, albeit more than 25 years ago. Our englacial temperature measurements and the analysis of the isotopic and physical properties of ice blocks sampled at three locations within the ice cave show that cold ice still exists fairly unchanged today. State-of-the-art micro-radiocarbon analysis constrains the maximum age of the ice at Chli Titlis to about 5000 years before present. By this means, the approach presented here will contribute to a future systematic investigation of cold-based summit glaciers, also in the Eastern Alps.

Prediction of work metabolism from heart rate measurements in forest work: some practical methodological issues.

PubMed

Dubé, Philippe-Antoine; Imbeau, Daniel; Dubeau, Denise; Auger, Isabelle; Leone, Mario

2015-01-01

Individual heart rate (HR) to workload relationships were determined using 93 submaximal step-tests administered to 26 healthy participants attending physical activities in a university training centre (laboratory study) and 41 experienced forest workers (field study). Predicted maximum aerobic capacity (MAC) was compared to measured MAC from a maximal treadmill test (laboratory study) to test the effect of two age-predicted maximum HR Equations (220-age and 207-0.7 × age) and two clothing insulation levels (0.4 and 0.91 clo) during the step-test. Work metabolism (WM) estimated from forest work HR was compared against concurrent work V̇O2 measurements while taking into account the HR thermal component. Results show that MAC and WM can be accurately predicted from work HR measurements and simple regression models developed in this study (1% group mean prediction bias and up to 25% expected prediction bias for a single individual). Clothing insulation had no impact on predicted MAC nor age-predicted maximum HR equations. Practitioner summary: This study sheds light on four practical methodological issues faced by practitioners regarding the use of HR methodology to assess WM in actual work environments. More specifically, the effect of wearing work clothes and the use of two different maximum HR prediction equations on the ability of a submaximal step-test to assess MAC are examined, as well as the accuracy of using an individual's step-test HR to workload relationship to predict WM from HR data collected during actual work in the presence of thermal stress.

The effects of age and step length on joint kinematics and kinetics of large out-and-back steps.

PubMed

Schulz, Brian W; Ashton-Miller, James A; Alexander, Neil B

2008-06-01

Maximum step length (MSL) is a clinical test that has been shown to correlate with age, various measures of fall risk, and knee and hip joint extension speed, strength, and power capacities, but little is known about the kinematics and kinetics of the large out-and-back step utilized. Body motions and ground reaction forces were recorded for 11 unimpaired younger and 10 older women while attaining maximum step length. Joint kinematics and kinetics were calculated using inverse dynamics. The effects of age group and step length on the biomechanics of these large out-and-back steps were determined. Maximum step length was 40% greater in the younger than in the older women (P<0.0001). Peak knee and hip, but not ankle, angle, velocity, moment, and power were generally greater for younger women and longer steps. After controlling for age group, step length generally explained significant additional variance in hip and torso kinematics and kinetics (incremental R2=0.09-0.37). The young reached their peak knee extension moment immediately after landing of the step out, while the old reached their peak knee extension moment just before the return step liftoff (P=0.03). Maximum step length is strongly associated with hip kinematics and kinetics. Delays in peak knee extension moment that appear to be unrelated to step length, may indicate a reduced ability of older women to rapidly apply force to the ground with the stepping leg and thus arrest the momentum of a fall.

The effects of age and step length on joint kinematics and kinetics of large out-and-back steps

PubMed Central

Schulz, Brian W.; Ashton-Miller, James A.; Alexander, Neil B.

2008-01-01

Background Maximum Step Length is a clinical test that has been shown to correlate with age, various measures of fall risk, and knee and hip joint extension speed, strength, and power capacities, but little is known about the kinematics and kinetics of the large out-and-back step utilized. Methods Body motions and ground reaction forces were recorded for 11 unimpaired younger and 10 older women while attaining Maximum Step Length. Joint kinematics and kinetics were calculated using inverse dynamics. The effects of age group and step length on the biomechanics of these large out-and-back steps were determined. Findings Maximum Step Length was 40% greater in the younger than in the older women (p<0.0001). Peak knee and hip, but not ankle, angle, velocity, moment, and power were generally greater for younger women and longer steps. After controlling for age group, step length generally explained significant additional variance in hip and torso kinematics and kinetics (incremental R2=0.09–0.37). The young reached their peak knee extension moment immediately after landing of the step out, while the old reached their peak knee extension moment just before the return step lift off (p=0.03). Interpretation Maximum Step Length is strongly associated with hip kinematics and kinetics. Delays in peak knee extension moment that appear to be unrelated to step length, may indicate a reduced ability of older women to rapidly apply force to the ground with the stepping leg and thus arrest the momentum of a fall. PMID:18308435

Multiple joint muscle function with ageing: the force-velocity and power-velocity relationships in young and older men.

PubMed

Allison, Sarah J; Brooke-Wavell, Katherine; Folland, Jonathan P

2013-05-01

Whilst extensive research has detailed the loss of muscle strength with ageing for isolated single joint actions, there has been little attention to power production during more functionally relevant multiple joint movements. The extent to which force or velocity are responsible for the loss in power with ageing is also equivocal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of force and velocity to the differences in power with age by comparing the force-velocity and power-velocity relationships in young and older men during a multiple joint leg press movement. Twenty-one older men (66 ± 3 years) and twenty-three young men (24 ± 2 years) completed a series of isometric (maximum and explosive) and dynamic contractions on a leg press dynamometer instrumented to record force and displacement. The force-velocity relationship was lower for the older men as reflected by their 19 % lower maximum isometric strength (p < 0.001). Explosive isometric strength (peak rate of force development) was 21 % lower for the older men (p < 0.05) but was similar between groups when normalised to maximum strength (p = 0.58). The power-velocity relationship was lower for the older men as shown by reduced maximum power (-28 %, p < 0.001) and lower force (-20 %, p < 0.001) and velocity (-11 %, p < 0.05). Whilst force and velocity were lower in older men, the decrement in force was greater and therefore the major explanation for the attenuation of power during a functionally relevant multiple joint movement.

Body growth and life history in wild mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) from Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.

PubMed

Galbany, Jordi; Abavandimwe, Didier; Vakiener, Meagan; Eckardt, Winnie; Mudakikwa, Antoine; Ndagijimana, Felix; Stoinski, Tara S; McFarlin, Shannon C

2017-07-01

Great apes show considerable diversity in socioecology and life history, but knowledge of their physical growth in natural settings is scarce. We characterized linear body size growth in wild mountain gorillas from Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, a population distinguished by its extreme folivory and accelerated life histories. In 131 individuals (0.09-35.26 years), we used non-invasive parallel laser photogrammetry to measure body length, back width, arm length and two head dimensions. Nonparametric LOESS regression was used to characterize cross-sectional distance and velocity growth curves for males and females, and consider links with key life history milestones. Sex differences became evident between 8.5 and 10.0 years of age. Thereafter, female growth velocities declined, while males showed increased growth velocities until 10.0-14.5 years across dimensions. Body dimensions varied in growth; females and males reached 98% of maximum body length at 11.7 and 13.1 years, respectively. Females attained 95.3% of maximum body length by mean age at first birth. Neonates were 31% of maternal size, and doubled in size by mean weaning age. Males reached maximum body and arm length and back width before emigration, but experienced continued growth in head dimensions. While comparable data are scarce, our findings provide preliminary support for the prediction that mountain gorillas reach maximum body size at earlier ages compared to more frugivorous western gorillas. Data from other wild populations are needed to better understand comparative great ape development, and investigate links between trajectories of physical, behavioral, and reproductive maturation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

EPA Maximum Achievable Contraction of Technocrats Act of 2013

THOMAS, 113th Congress

Rep. Griffith, H. Morgan [R-VA-9

2013-12-03

House - 12/16/2013 Referred to the Subcommittee on Horticulture, Research, Biotechnology, and Foreign Agriculture. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

Field of first magnetic flux entry and pinning strength of superconductors for rf application measured with muon spin rotation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Junginger, T.; Abidi, S. H.; Maffett, R. D.; Buck, T.; Dehn, M. H.; Gheidi, S.; Kiefl, R.; Kolb, P.; Storey, D.; Thoeng, E.; Wasserman, W.; Laxdal, R. E.

2018-03-01

The performance of superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities used for particle accelerators depends on two characteristic material parameters: field of first flux entry Hentry and pinning strength. The former sets the limit for the maximum achievable accelerating gradient, while the latter determines how efficiently flux can be expelled related to the maximum achievable quality factor. In this paper, a method based on muon spin rotation (μ SR ) is developed to probe these parameters on samples. It combines measurements from two different spectrometers, one being specifically built for these studies and samples of different geometries. It is found that annealing at 1400 °C virtually eliminates all pinning. Such an annealed substrate is ideally suited to measure Hentry of layered superconductors, which might enable accelerating gradients beyond bulk niobium technology.

Low-frequency and wideband vibration energy harvester with flexible frame and interdigital structure

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

Li, Pengwei, E-mail: lipengwei@tyut.edu.cn; Wang, Yanfen; Luo, Cuixian

2015-04-15

As an alternative to traditional cantilever beam structures and their evolutions, a flexible beam based, interdigital structure, vibration energy harvester has been presented and investigated. The proposed interdigital-shaped oscillator consists of a rectangular flexible frame and series of cantilever beams interdigitally bonded to it. In order to achieve low frequency and wide-bandwidth harvesting, Young’s modulus of materials, frame size and the amount of the cantilevers have been studied systematically. The measured frequency responses of the designed device (PDMS frame, quintuple piezoelectric cantilever beams) show a 460% increase in bandwidth below 80Hz. When excited at an acceleration of 1.0 g, themore » energy harvester achieves to a maximum open-circuit voltage of 65V, and the maximum output power 4.5 mW.« less

Improvement of ε-poly-L-lysine production through seed stage development based on in situ pH monitoring.

PubMed

Sun, Qi-Xing; Chen, Xu-Sheng; Ren, Xi-Dong; Mao, Zhong-Gui

2015-01-01

Nissin, natamycin, and ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PL) are three safe, microbial-produced food preservatives used today in the food industry. However, current industrial production of ε-PL is only performed in several countries. In order to realize large-scale ε-PL production by fermentation, the effects of seed stage on cell growth and ε-PL production were investigated by monitoring of pH in situ in a 5-L laboratory-scale fermenter. A significant increase in ε-PL production in fed-batch fermentation by Streptomyces sp. M-Z18 was achieved, at 48.9 g/L, through the optimization of several factors associated with seed stage, including spore pretreatment, inoculum age, and inoculum level. Compared with conventional fermentation approaches using 24-h-old shake-flask seed broth as inoculum, the maximum ε-PL concentration and productivity were enhanced by 32.3 and 36.6 %, respectively. The effect of optimized inoculum conditions on ε-PL production on a large scale was evaluated using a 50-L pilot-scale fermenter, attaining a maximum ε-PL production of 36.22 g/L in fed-batch fermentation, constituting the first report of ε-PL production at pilot scale. These results will be helpful for efficient ε-PL production by Streptomyces at pilot and plant scales.

Optimal wireless receiver structure for omnidirectional inductive power transmission to biomedical implants.

PubMed

Gougheri, Hesam Sadeghi; Kiani, Mehdi

2016-08-01

In order to achieve omnidirectional inductive power transmission to biomedical implants, the use of several orthogonal coils in the receiver side (Rx) has been proposed in the past. In this paper, the optimal Rx structure for connecting three orthogonal Rx coils and the power management is found to achieve the maximum power delivered to the load (PDL) in the presence of any Rx coil tilting. Unlike previous works, in which a separate power management has been used for each coil to deliver power to the load, different resonant Rx structures for connecting three Rx coils to a single power management are studied. In simulations, connecting three Rx coils with the diameters of 3 mm, 3.3 mm, and 3.6 mm in series and resonating them with a single capacitor at the operation frequency of 100 MHz led to the maximum PDL for large loads when the implant was tilted for 45o. This optimal Rx structure achieves higher PDL in worst-case scenarios as well as reduces the number of power managements to only one.

Model-based aberration correction in a closed-loop wavefront-sensor-less adaptive optics system.

PubMed

Song, H; Fraanje, R; Schitter, G; Kroese, H; Vdovin, G; Verhaegen, M

2010-11-08

In many scientific and medical applications, such as laser systems and microscopes, wavefront-sensor-less (WFSless) adaptive optics (AO) systems are used to improve the laser beam quality or the image resolution by correcting the wavefront aberration in the optical path. The lack of direct wavefront measurement in WFSless AO systems imposes a challenge to achieve efficient aberration correction. This paper presents an aberration correction approach for WFSlss AO systems based on the model of the WFSless AO system and a small number of intensity measurements, where the model is identified from the input-output data of the WFSless AO system by black-box identification. This approach is validated in an experimental setup with 20 static aberrations having Kolmogorov spatial distributions. By correcting N=9 Zernike modes (N is the number of aberration modes), an intensity improvement from 49% of the maximum value to 89% has been achieved in average based on N+5=14 intensity measurements. With the worst initial intensity, an improvement from 17% of the maximum value to 86% has been achieved based on N+4=13 intensity measurements.

Design and performance of tapered cubic anvil used for achieving higher pressure and larger sample cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Qi-Gang; Yang, Wen-Ke; Zhu, Pin-Wen; Ban, Qing-Chu; Yan, Ni; Zhang, Qiang

2013-07-01

In order to increase the maximum cell pressure of the cubic high pressure apparatus, we have developed a new structure of tungsten carbide cubic anvil (tapered cubic anvil), based on the principle of massive support and lateral support. Our results indicated that the tapered cubic anvil has some advantages. First, tapered cubic anvil can push the transfer rate of pressure well into the range above 36.37% compare to the conventional anvil. Second, the rate of failure crack decreases about 11.20% after the modification of the conventional anvil. Third, the limit of static high-pressure in the sample cell can be extended to 13 GPa, which can increase the maximum cell pressure about 73.3% than that of the conventional anvil. Fourth, the volume of sample cell compressed by tapered cubic anvils can be achieved to 14.13 mm3 (3 mm diameter × 2 mm long), which is three and six orders of magnitude larger than that of double-stage apparatus and diamond anvil cell, respectively. This work represents a relatively simple method for achieving higher pressures and larger sample cell.

Comparative assessment of single-stage and two-stage anaerobic digestion for the treatment of thin stillage.

PubMed

Nasr, Noha; Elbeshbishy, Elsayed; Hafez, Hisham; Nakhla, George; El Naggar, M Hesham

2012-05-01

A comparative evaluation of single-stage and two-stage anaerobic digestion processes for biomethane and biohydrogen production using thin stillage was performed to assess the impact of separating the acidogenic and methanogenic stages on anaerobic digestion. Thin stillage, the main by-product from ethanol production, was characterized by high total chemical oxygen demand (TCOD) of 122 g/L and total volatile fatty acids (TVFAs) of 12 g/L. A maximum methane yield of 0.33 L CH(4)/gCOD(added) (STP) was achieved in the two-stage process while a single-stage process achieved a maximum yield of only 0.26 L CH(4)/gCOD(added) (STP). The separation of acidification stage increased the TVFAs to TCOD ratio from 10% in the raw thin stillage to 54% due to the conversion of carbohydrates into hydrogen and VFAs. Comparison of the two processes based on energy outcome revealed that an increase of 18.5% in the total energy yield was achieved using two-stage anaerobic digestion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Impacts of forest and precipitation on runoff and sediment in Tianshui watershed and GM models].

PubMed

Ouyang, H

2000-12-01

This paper analyzed the impacts of foret stand volume and precipitation on annual erosion modulus, mean sediment, maximum sediment, mean runoff, maximum runoff, minimum runoff, mean water level, maximum water level and minimum water level in Tianshui watershed, and also analyzed the effect of the variation of forest stand volume on monthly mean runoff, minimum runoff and mean water level. The dynamic models of grey system GM(1, N) were constructed to simulate the changes of these hydrological elements. The dynamic GM models on the impact of stand volumes of different forest types(Chinese fir, masson pine and broad-leaved forests) with different age classes(young, middle-aged, mature and over-mature) and that of precipitation on the hydrological elements were also constructed, and their changes with time were analyzed.

Timing of motor milestones achievement and development of overweight in childhood: a study within the Danish National Birth Cohort.

PubMed

Schmidt Morgen, C; Andersen, A M N; Due, P; Neelon, S B; Gamborg, M; Sørensen, T I A

2014-08-01

Overweight may hinder achievement of gross motor milestones and delayed achievement of milestones may increase the risk of later overweight for reasons involving physical activity and the building of lean body mass. To investigate whether increased birth weight and body mass index (BMI) at 5 months is associated with the achievement of the ability to sit up and walk and whether delayed achievement of these milestones is associated with overweight at age 7 years. We used data from the Danish National Birth Cohort on 25,148 children born between 1998 and 2003. Follow-up took place from 2003 to 2010. Mean age at follow-up was 7.04 years. We used logistic and linear regression analyses. Birth weight and BMI at 5 months were marginally associated with earlier achievement of the ability to sit up and walk (regression coefficients between -0.027 months; [CI -0.042; -0.013] and -0.092 months [CI -0.118; -0.066]). Age in months of sitting and walking were not associated with overweight at age 7 years (ORs between 0.97 [CI 0.95-1.00] and 1.00 [CI 0.96-1.04]). Later achievement of sitting and walking predicted lower BMI at age 7 years (ln-BMI -z-scores between -0.023 [CI -0.029; -0.017] and -0.005 [CI -0.015; 0.005)). All observed associations were of negligible magnitude and we conclude that birth weight or BMI at age 5 months and motor milestones appear largely independent of each other and that timing of achievement of motor milestones seems not to be associated with later overweight or increased BMI. © 2013 The Authors. Pediatric Obesity © 2013 International Association for the Study of Obesity.

Solar insolation in springtime influences age of onset of bipolar I disorder.

PubMed

Bauer, M; Glenn, T; Alda, M; Aleksandrovich, M A; Andreassen, O A; Angelopoulos, E; Ardau, R; Ayhan, Y; Baethge, C; Bharathram, S R; Bauer, R; Baune, B T; Becerra-Palars, C; Bellivier, F; Belmaker, R H; Berk, M; Bersudsky, Y; Bicakci, Ş; Birabwa-Oketcho, H; Bjella, T D; Bossini, L; Cabrera, J; Cheung, E Y W; Del Zompo, M; Dodd, S; Donix, M; Etain, B; Fagiolini, A; Fountoulakis, K N; Frye, M A; Gonzalez-Pinto, A; Gottlieb, J F; Grof, P; Harima, H; Henry, C; Isometsä, E T; Janno, S; Kapczinski, F; Kardell, M; Khaldi, S; Kliwicki, S; König, B; Kot, T L; Krogh, R; Kunz, M; Lafer, B; Landén, M; Larsen, E R; Lewitzka, U; Licht, R W; Lopez-Jaramillo, C; MacQueen, G; Manchia, M; Marsh, W; Martinez-Cengotitabengoa, M; Melle, I; Meza-Urzúa, F; Yee Ming, M; Monteith, S; Morken, G; Mosca, E; Munoz, R; Mythri, S V; Nacef, F; Nadella, R K; Nery, F G; Nielsen, R E; O'Donovan, C; Omrani, A; Osher, Y; Østermark Sørensen, H; Ouali, U; Pica Ruiz, Y; Pilhatsch, M; Pinna, M; da Ponte, F D R; Quiroz, D; Ramesar, R; Rasgon, N; Reddy, M S; Reif, A; Ritter, P; Rybakowski, J K; Sagduyu, K; Scippa, Â M; Severus, E; Simhandl, C; Stein, D J; Strejilevich, S; Subramaniam, M; Sulaiman, A H; Suominen, K; Tagata, H; Tatebayashi, Y; Tondo, L; Torrent, C; Vaaler, A E; Veeh, J; Vieta, E; Viswanath, B; Yoldi-Negrete, M; Zetin, M; Zgueb, Y; Whybrow, P C

2017-12-01

To confirm prior findings that the larger the maximum monthly increase in solar insolation in springtime, the younger the age of onset of bipolar disorder. Data were collected from 5536 patients at 50 sites in 32 countries on six continents. Onset occurred at 456 locations in 57 countries. Variables included solar insolation, birth-cohort, family history, polarity of first episode and country physician density. There was a significant, inverse association between the maximum monthly increase in solar insolation at the onset location, and the age of onset. This effect was reduced in those without a family history of mood disorders and with a first episode of mania rather than depression. The maximum monthly increase occurred in springtime. The youngest birth-cohort had the youngest age of onset. All prior relationships were confirmed using both the entire sample, and only the youngest birth-cohort (all estimated coefficients P < 0.001). A large increase in springtime solar insolation may impact the onset of bipolar disorder, especially with a family history of mood disorders. Recent societal changes that affect light exposure (LED lighting, mobile devices backlit with LEDs) may influence adaptability to a springtime circadian challenge. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Reassessing the fundamentals: On the evolution, ages and masses of neutron stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiziltan, Bulent

The evolution, ages and masses of neutron stars are the fundamental threads that make pulsars accessible to other sub-disciplines of astronomy and physics. A realistic and accurate determination of these indirectly probed features play an important role in understanding a very broad range of astrophysical processes that are, in many cases, not empirically accessible otherwise. For the majority of pulsars, the only observables are the rotational period (P), and its derivative (P˙) which gives the rate of change in the spin. I start with calculating the joint P-P˙ distributions of millisecond pulsars for the standard evolutionary model in order to assess whether millisecond pulsars are the unequivocal descendants of low mass X-ray binaries. We show that the P-P˙ density implied by the standard evolutionary model is inconsistent with observations, which suggests that it is unlikely that millisecond pulsars have evolved from a single coherent progenitor population. In the absence of constraints from the binary companion or supernova remnant, the standard method for estimating pulsar ages is to infer an age from the rate of spin-down. I parametrically incorporate constraints that arise from binary evolution and limiting physics to derive a "modified spin-down age" for millisecond pulsars. We show that the standard method can be improved by this approach to achieve age estimates closer to the true age. Then, I critically review radio pulsar mass measurements and present a detailed examination through which we are able to put stringent constraints on the underlying neutron star mass distribution. For the first time, we are able to analyze a sizable population of neutron star-white dwarf systems in addition to double neutron star systems with a technique that accounts for systematically different measurement errors. We find that neutron stars that have evolved through different evolutionary paths reflect distinctive signatures through dissimilar distribution peak and mass cutoff values. Neutron stars in double neutron star and neutron star-white dwarf systems show consistent respective peaks at 1.35 M⊙ and 1.50 M⊙ , which suggest significant mass accretion (Deltam ≈ 0.15 M⊙ ) has occurred during the spin up phase. We find a mass cutoff at 2 M⊙ for neutron stars with white dwarf companions which establishes a firm lower bound for the maximum neutron star mass. This rules out the majority of strange quark and soft equation of state models as viable configurations for neutron star matter. The lack of truncation close to the maximum mass cutoff suggests that the 2 M⊙ limit is set by evolutionary constraints rather than nuclear physics or general relativity, and the existence of rare super-massive neutron stars is possible.

The urethral pressure profiles in continent and stress-incontinent women.

PubMed

Henriksson, L; Andersson, K E; Ulmsten, U

1979-01-01

Simultaneous urethrocystometry, including recording of the urethral pressure profile, was performed in 127 women aged 30 to 69 years; 42 of the women were free from urologic disorders and 85 had stress incontinence of urine. Both groups were subgrouped according to age. The results in the continent and the incontinent women were analyzed separately, in order to disclose any age-related changes. The data within each decade of age were also comparatively analyzed. In the bladder pressure at rest no age-related changes were found, and the readings were similar in the continent and the incontinent women. The maximum urethral pressure fell significantly with rising age in both groups and was significantly reduced in stress incontinence. The urethral closure pressure showed variations similar to those in the maximum urethral pressure. No lower limit of urethral closure pressure that definitely predisposed to stress incontinence could be established. The functional length of the urethra diminished significantly with rising age in the continent, but not in the incontinent women. The absolute length of the urethra did not show such diminution. Both the functional and the absolute urethral length were significantly less in the incontinent than in the continent women in the age groups between 30 and 49 years.

Significance of specificity of Tinetti B-POMA test and fall risk factor in third age of life.

PubMed

Avdić, Dijana; Pecar, Dzemal

2006-02-01

As for the third age, psychophysical abilities of humans gradually decrease, while the ability of adaptation to endogenous and exogenous burdens is going down. In 1987, "Harada" et al. (1) have found out that 9.5 million persons in USA have difficulties running daily activities, while 59% of them (which is 5.6 million) are older than 65 years in age. The study has encompassed 77 questioned persons of both sexes with their average age 71.73 +/- 5.63 (scope of 65-90 years in age), chosen by random sampling. Each patient has been questioned in his/her own home and familiar to great extent with the methodology and aims of the questionnaire. Percentage of questioned women was 64.94% (50 patients) while the percentage for men was 35.06% (27 patients). As for the value of risk factor score achieved conducting the questionnaire and B-POMA test, there are statistically significant differences between men and women, as well as between patients who fell and those who never did. As for the way of life (alone or in the community), there are no significant statistical differences. Average results gained through B-POMA test in this study are statistically significantly higher in men and patients who did not provide data about falling, while there was no statistically significant difference in the way of life. In relation to the percentage of maximum number of positive answers to particular questions, regarding gender, way of life and the data about falling, there were no statistically significant differences between the value of B-POMA test and the risk factor score (the questionnaire).

Population Pharmacokinetics and Exploratory Pharmacodynamics of Lorazepam in Pediatric Status Epilepticus.

PubMed

Gonzalez, Daniel; Chamberlain, James M; Guptill, Jeffrey T; Cohen-Wolkowiez, Michael; Harper, Barrie; Zhao, Jian; Capparelli, Edmund V

2017-08-01

Lorazepam is one of the preferred agents used for intravenous treatment of status epilepticus (SE). We combined data from two pediatric clinical trials to characterize the population pharmacokinetics of intravenous lorazepam in infants and children aged 3 months to 17 years with active SE or a history of SE. We developed a population pharmacokinetic model for lorazepam using the NONMEM software. We then assessed exploratory exposure-response relationships using the overall efficacy and safety study endpoints, and performed dosing simulations. A total of 145 patients contributed 439 pharmacokinetic samples. The median (range) age and dose were 5.4 years (0.3-17.8) and 0.10 mg/kg (0.02-0.18), respectively. A two-compartment pharmacokinetic model with allometric scaling described the data well. In addition to total body weight (WT), younger age was associated with slightly higher weight-normalized clearance (CL). The following relationships characterized the typical values for the central compartment volume (V1), CL, peripheral compartment volume (V2), and intercompartmental CL (Q), using individual subject WT (kg) and age (years): V1 (L) = 0.879*WT; CL (L/h) = 0.115*(Age/4.7) 0.133 *WT 0.75 ; V2 (L) = 0.542*V1; Q (L/h) = 1.45*WT 0.75 . No pharmacokinetic parameters were associated with clinical outcomes. Simulations suggest uniform pediatric dosing (0.1 mg/kg, to a maximum of 4 mg) can be used to achieve concentrations of 50-100 ng/mL in children with SE, which have been previously associated with effective seizure control. The population pharmacokinetics of lorazepam were successfully described using a sparse sampling approach and a two-compartment model in pediatric patients with active SE.

Effects of menarcheal age on the anterior cruciate ligament injury risk factors during single-legged drop landing in female artistic elite gymnasts.

PubMed

Kim, Kew-Wan; Lim, Bee-Oh

2014-11-01

Although numerous studies have demonstrated the relationship between maturation and lower extremity biomechanics during landing in team sport athletes, we are presently uninformed of any research that examined the single-legged drop landing biomechanics of gymnasts. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of the menarcheal age on the lower extremity biomechanics during a single-legged drop landing in female artistic elite gymnasts. Twenty-two female artistic elite gymnasts, between 9 and 36 years of age, participated in this study. The participants were divided into two groups pre- (n = 11) and post- (n = 11) menarche and asked to perform a single-legged drop landing on top of a 30 cm platform and land on a force plate. The statistical analysis consisted of the multivariate analysis with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. The post-menarche group showed a decrease in their maximum knee flexion angle and increase in their maximum knee abduction angle, maximum internal tibial rotation angle, maximum knee abduction moment, and hamstring-quadriceps muscle activity ratio compared with the pre-menarche group during the single-legged drop landing. The post-menarche group showed an increased noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injury risk, due to their greater knee loads, compared with the pre-menarche group.

Variability in memory performance in aged healthy individuals: an fMRI study.

PubMed

Grön, Georg; Bittner, Daniel; Schmitz, Bernd; Wunderlich, Arthur P; Tomczak, Reinhard; Riepe, Matthias W

2003-01-01

Episodic memory performance varies in older subjects but underlying biological correlates remain as yet ambiguous. We investigated episodic memory in healthy older individuals (n=24; mean age: 64.4+/-6.7 years) without subjective memory complaints or objective cognitive impairment. Episodic memory was assessed with repetitive learning and recall of abstract geometric patterns during fMRI. Group analysis of brain activity during initial learning and maximum recall revealed hippocampal activation. Correlation analysis of brain activation and task performance demonstrated significant hippocampal activity during initial learning and maximum recall in a success-dependent manner. Neither age nor gray matter densities correlated with hippocampal activation. Functional imaging of episodic memory thus permits to detect objectively variability in hippocampal recruitment in healthy aged individuals without subjective memory complaints. Correlation analysis of brain activation and performance during an episodic memory task may be used to determine and follow-up hippocampal malfunction in a very sensitive manner.

Biological Gender Differences in Students' Errors on Mathematics Achievement Tests

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stewart, Christie; Root, Melissa M.; Koriakin, Taylor; Choi, Dowon; Luria, Sarah R.; Bray, Melissa A.; Sassu, Kari; Maykel, Cheryl; O'Rourke, Patricia; Courville, Troy

2017-01-01

This study investigated developmental gender differences in mathematics achievement, using the child and adolescent portion (ages 6-19 years) of the Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement-Third Edition (KTEA-3). Participants were divided into two age categories: 6 to 11 and 12 to 19. Error categories within the Math Concepts & Applications…

Sex and Age Differences in Achievement Goal Orientations in Turkish Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sahin, Ertugrul; Topkaya, Nursel; Kürkçü, Recep

2016-01-01

Culture plays an important role in the achievement goal orientations of students, which may vary as they progress through their lifespan. However, research examining achievement goal orientations in the Turkish cultural context is scarce. Based on contextual and developmental theories, the aim of this study was to examine sex and age differences…

Predicting Student Achievement and Attrition in a Proprietary Technical College.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taube, Sylvia R.; Taube, Paul M.

1991-01-01

Analysis of data on 101 entering proprietary college students found that (1) predictors of initial achievement were entrance exam scores, gender, race, age, grade point average, and expectations; (2) dropout predictors were marital status, work hours, prior achievement, absences, and faculty interaction; and (3) age, gender, race, and children did…

Physical Fitness, Academic Achievement, and Socioeconomic Status in School-Aged Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coe, Dawn P.; Peterson, Thomas; Blair, Cheryl; Schutten, Mary C.; Peddie, Heather

2013-01-01

Background: This study examined the association between physical fitness and academic achievement and determined the influence of socioeconomic status (SES) on the association between fitness and academic achievement in school-aged youth. Methods: Overall, 1,701 third-, sixth-, and ninth-grade students from 5 school districts participated in the…

Variation in Age and Size in Fennoscandian Three-Spined Sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus)

PubMed Central

DeFaveri, Jacquelin; Merilä, Juha

2013-01-01

Average age and maximum life span of breeding adult three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) were determined in eight Fennoscandian localities with the aid of skeletochronology. The average age varied from 1.8 to 3.6 years, and maximum life span from three to six years depending on the locality. On average, fish from marine populations were significantly older than those from freshwater populations, but variation within habitat types was large. We also found significant differences in mean body size among different habitat types and populations, but only the population differences remained significant after accounting for variation due to age effects. These results show that generation length and longevity in three-spined sticklebacks can vary significantly from one locality to another, and that population differences in mean body size cannot be explained as a simple consequence of differences in population age structure. We also describe a nanistic population from northern Finland exhibiting long life span and small body size. PMID:24260496

Variation in age and size in Fennoscandian three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus).

PubMed

DeFaveri, Jacquelin; Merilä, Juha

2013-01-01

Average age and maximum life span of breeding adult three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) were determined in eight Fennoscandian localities with the aid of skeletochronology. The average age varied from 1.8 to 3.6 years, and maximum life span from three to six years depending on the locality. On average, fish from marine populations were significantly older than those from freshwater populations, but variation within habitat types was large. We also found significant differences in mean body size among different habitat types and populations, but only the population differences remained significant after accounting for variation due to age effects. These results show that generation length and longevity in three-spined sticklebacks can vary significantly from one locality to another, and that population differences in mean body size cannot be explained as a simple consequence of differences in population age structure. We also describe a nanistic population from northern Finland exhibiting long life span and small body size.

School-Age Test Proficiency and Special Education after Congenital Heart Disease Surgery in Infancy

PubMed Central

Mulkey, Sarah B.; Bai, Shasha; Luo, Chunqiao; Cleavenger, Jordyn E.; Gibson, Neal; Holland, Greg; Mosley, Bridget S.; Kaiser, Jeffrey R.; Bhutta, Adnan T.

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate test proficiency and the receipt of special education services in school-age children who had surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) <1 year of age. Study design Data from Arkansas-born children who had CHD surgery at Arkansas Children's Hospital at <1 year of age from 1996–2004 were linked to state birth certificates and the Arkansas Department of Education longitudinal database containing achievement test scores in literacy and mathematics for grades 3-4 and special education codes. The primary negative outcome was not achieving grade-level proficiency on achievement tests. Logistic regression accounting for repeated measures associated achieving proficiency with demographics, maternal education, and clinical factors. Results 362 of 458 (79%) children who received surgery for CHD matched to the ADE database; 285 had grade 3 and/or 4 achievement tests scores. Fewer students with CHD achieved proficiency in literacy and mathematics (P < .05) compared with grade-matched state students. Higher 5-minute Apgar score, shorter hospitalization, and higher maternal education predicted proficiency in literacy (P < .05). White race, no cardiopulmonary bypass, and shorter hospitalization predicted proficiency in mathematics (P < .05). Sex, gestational age, age at surgery, CHD diagnosis, and type and number of surgeries did not predict test proficiency. Compared with all public school students, more children with CHD received special education services (26.9% vs 11.6%, P < .001). Conclusion Children with CHD had poorer academic achievement and were more likely to receive special education services than all state students. Results from this study support the need for neurodevelopmental evaluations as standard in children with CHD. PMID:27453376

Filamentation instability in a quantum plasma

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

Bret, A.

2007-08-15

The growth rate of the filamentation instability triggered when a diluted cold electron beam passes through a cold plasma is evaluated using the quantum hydrodynamic equations. Compared with a cold fluid model, quantum effects reduce both the unstable wave vector domain and the maximum growth rate. Stabilization of large wave vector modes is always achieved, but significant reduction of the maximum growth rate depends on a dimensionless parameter that is provided. Although calculations are extended to the relativistic regime, they are mostly relevant to the nonrelativistic one.

Clevidipine for severe hypertension in patients with renal dysfunction: A VELOCITY trial analysis

PubMed Central

PEACOCK, W FRANK; VARON, JOSEPH; EBRAHIMI, RAMIN; DUNBAR, LALA; POLLACK, CHARLES V

2011-01-01

Introduction. Acute and severe hypertension is common, especially in patients with renal dysfunction (RD). Clevidipine is a rapidly acting (t½∼1 min) intravenous (IV) dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker metabolized by blood and tissue esterases and may be useful in patients with RD. The purpose of this analysis was to assess the safety and efficacy of clevidipine in patients with RD. Methods. VELOCITY, a multicenter open-label study of severe hypertension, enrolled 126 patients with persistent systolic blood pressure (SBP) >180 mmHg. Investigators pre-specified a SBP initial target range (ITR) for each patient to be achieved within 30 min. Blood pressure monitoring was by cuff. Clevidipine was infused via peripheral IV at 2 mg/h for at least 3 min, then doubled every 3 min as needed to a maximum of 32 mg/h (non-weightbased treat-to-target protocol). Per protocol, clevidipine was continued for at least 18 h (96 h maximum). RD was diagnosed and reported as an end-organ injury by the investigator and was defined as requiring dialysis or an initial creatinine >2.0 mg/dl. Primary endpoints were the percentage of patients within the ITR by 30 min and the percentage below the ITR after 3 min of clevidipine infusion. Results. Of the 24 patients with moderate to severe RD, most (13/24) were dialysis dependent. Forty-six percent were male, with mean age 51 >14 years; 63% were black and 96% had a hypertension history. Median time to achieve the ITR was 8.5 min. Almost 90% of patients reached the ITR in 30 min without evidence of overshoot and were maintained on clevidipine through 18 h. Most patients (88%) transitioned to oral antihypertensive therapy within 6 h of clevidipine termination. Conclusions. This report is the first demonstrating that clevidipine is safe and effective in RD complicated by severe hypertension. Prolonged infusion maintained blood pressure within a target range and allowed successful transition to oral therapy. PMID:21091269

Similarities in the Age-Specific Incidence of Colon and Testicular Cancers

PubMed Central

Soto-Ortiz, Luis; Brody, James P.

2013-01-01

Colon cancers are thought to be an inevitable result of aging, while testicular cancers are thought to develop in only a small fraction of men, beginning in utero. These models of carcinogenesis are, in part, based upon age-specific incidence data. The specific incidence for colon cancer appears to monotonically increase with age, while that of testicular cancer increases to a maximum value at about 35 years of age, then declines to nearly zero by the age of 80. We hypothesized that the age-specific incidence for these two cancers is similar; the apparent difference is caused by a longer development time for colon cancer and the lack of age-specific incidence data for people over 84 years of age. Here we show that a single distribution can describe the age-specific incidence of both colon carcinoma and testicular cancer. Furthermore, this distribution predicts that the specific incidence of colon cancer should reach a maximum at about age 90 and then decrease. Data on the incidence of colon carcinoma for women aged 85–99, acquired from SEER and the US Census, is consistent with this prediction. We conclude that the age specific data for testicular cancers and colon cancers is similar, suggesting that the underlying process leading to the development of these two forms of cancer may be similar. PMID:23840520

Gaining control: changing relations between executive control and processing speed and their relevance for mathematics achievement over course of the preschool period

PubMed Central

Clark, Caron A. C.; Nelson, Jennifer Mize; Garza, John; Sheffield, Tiffany D.; Wiebe, Sandra A.; Espy, Kimberly Andrews

2014-01-01

Early executive control (EC) predicts a range of academic outcomes and shows particularly strong associations with children's mathematics achievement. Nonetheless, a major challenge for EC research lies in distinguishing EC from related cognitive constructs that also are linked to achievement outcomes. Developmental cascade models suggest that children's information processing speed is a driving mechanism in cognitive development that supports gains in working memory, inhibitory control and associated cognitive abilities. Accordingly, individual differences in early executive task performance and their relation to mathematics may reflect, at least in part, underlying variation in children's processing speed. The aims of this study were to: (1) examine the degree of overlap between EC and processing speed at different preschool age points; and (2) determine whether EC uniquely predicts children's mathematics achievement after accounting for individual differences in processing speed. As part of a longitudinal, cohort-sequential study, 388 children (50% boys; 44% from low income households) completed the same battery of EC tasks at ages 3, 3.75, 4.5, and 5.25 years. Several of the tasks incorporated baseline speeded naming conditions with minimal EC demands. Multidimensional latent models were used to isolate the variance in executive task performance that did not overlap with baseline processing speed, covarying for child language proficiency. Models for separate age points showed that, while EC did not form a coherent latent factor independent of processing speed at age 3 years, it did emerge as a distinct factor by age 5.25. Although EC at age 3 showed no distinct relation with mathematics achievement independent of processing speed, EC at ages 3.75, 4.5, and 5.25 showed independent, prospective links with mathematics achievement. Findings suggest that EC and processing speed are tightly intertwined in early childhood. As EC becomes progressively decoupled from processing speed with age, it begins to take on unique, discriminative importance for children's mathematics achievement. PMID:24596563

Uprisings In An Age Of Uncertainty: A Look At The Potential For US Sponsored Social Movements To Achieve Reform

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-26

frequently visited by the organization(s) (such as social media , or campus bulletin boards in universities). Physical contact is not necessary, but...Uprisings in an Age of Uncertainty: A Look at the Potential for US Sponsored Social Movements to Achieve Reform A Monograph by MAJ...2016 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Uprisings in an Age of Uncertainty: A Look at the Potential for US Sponsored Social Movements to Achieve Reform 5a

Carpooling : Status and Potential

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1975-06-01

The report contains the findings of studies conducted to analyze the status and potential of work-trip carpooling as a means of achieving more efficient use of the automobile. Current and estimated maximum potential levels of carpooling are presented...

Report of the Governor's Blue Ribbon Transportation Task Force

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1982-12-01

Governor Ray appointed the Blue Ribbon Transportation Task Force to provide guidance concerning specific steps that can be taken to: achieve maximum efficiency in the utilization of transportation resources; preserve essential transportation services...

Cellulose Products Manufacturing: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Read the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Cellulose Products Manufacturing, see the rule history for this Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT), and find Compliance help for this source.

Control strategy of grid-connected photovoltaic generation system based on GMPPT method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhongfeng; Zhang, Xuyang; Hu, Bo; Liu, Jun; Li, Ligang; Gu, Yongqiang; Zhou, Bowen

2018-02-01

There are multiple local maximum power points when photovoltaic (PV) array runs under partial shading condition (PSC).However, the traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm might be easily trapped in local maximum power points (MPPs) and cannot find the global maximum power point (GMPP). To solve such problem, a global maximum power point tracking method (GMPPT) is improved, combined with traditional MPPT method and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Under different operating conditions of PV cells, different tracking algorithms are used. When the environment changes, the improved PSO algorithm is adopted to realize the global optimal search, and the variable step incremental conductance (INC) method is adopted to achieve MPPT in optimal local location. Based on the simulation model of the PV grid system built in Matlab/Simulink, comparative analysis of the tracking effect of MPPT by the proposed control algorithm and the traditional MPPT method under the uniform solar condition and PSC, validate the correctness, feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.

Methods and application of bone densitometry in clinical diagnosis

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

Wahner, H.W.; Riggs, B.L.

1986-01-01

With the awareness of osteoporosis as a major health problem for an aging population, there is great interest in early recognition and treatment of abnormal bone loss. Effective prevention of bone loss has to occur prior to the occurrence of irreparable damage. Standard radiographic procedures are not sensitive enough for the task. Therefore, a number of alternative procedures to estimate bone loss have been developed over the years, ranging from efforts to quantitate information obtained from radiographic images to sophisticated procedures such as neutron activation analysis or procedures based on the Compton scatter phenomenon. Only two procedures, photon absorptiometry andmore » computed tomography (CT), have emerged as applicable for routine clinical use. In photon absorptiometry the entire bone mineral (cortical and trabecular bone) of a specific skeletal site is measured. CT allows measuring of bone mineral of trabecular or cortical bone alone. Normally, bone mass reaches a maximum in the third decade and then continuously declines. This age-related bone loss is greater in women in whom an accelerated rate of loss occurs at the menopause. When bone density reaches a critical fracture threshold, skeletal fractures occur (spine, hip, and distal long bones). The age at which this critical fracture threshold is reached depends on the maximal bone mass achieved in early adulthood and the rate of loss with increasing age. With the exception of NaF, present-day therapeutic efforts only retard or prevent bone loss but do not significantly add bone mineral to the skeleton. Recognition of high-risk groups and early treatment are therefore required. 79 references.« less

Predictors of splenic function preservation in children with sickle cell anemia treated with hydroxyurea.

PubMed

Nottage, Kerri A; Ware, Russell E; Winter, Bryan; Smeltzer, Matthew; Wang, Winfred C; Hankins, Jane S; Dertinger, Stephen D; Shulkin, Barry; Aygun, Banu

2014-11-01

More than 90% of children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) lose splenic function by the age of 2 yrs. Splenic function may improve with hydroxyurea, but previous studies are conflicting. We prospectively evaluated the effect of hydroxyurea on splenic filtrative function. Children with SCA enrolled in the Hydroxyurea Study of Long-Term Effects (HUSTLE-NCT00305175) underwent clinical evaluations including Tc(99) m liver-spleen (LS) scans before hydroxyurea initiation and after 3 yrs of treatment to maximum tolerated dose (MTD). LS scans were classified as follows: no uptake, <10% uptake, decreased but ≥10% uptake, and normal. Mean age (N = 40) was 9.1 yrs, range 2.3-17.0. After 3 yrs of treatment, 13 (33%) had uptake on LS scan. These 13 children were younger (median age 6.0 vs. 10.6 yrs, P = 0.008), had a higher HbF at baseline (mean 10.2% vs. 5.8%, P = 0.004) and after 3 yrs (22.9% vs. 13.9%, P < 0.001), achieved MTD more rapidly (median 288 vs. 358 d, P = 0.021), and were more likely to have baseline splenic uptake (P < 0.001). Hydroxyurea at MTD is associated with preserved or improved splenic filtrative function, with 33% demonstrating LS scan uptake after 3 yrs. Younger age, higher %HbF, and baseline splenic function are associated with a favorable outcome. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The Association between Motor Skill Competence and Physical Fitness in Young Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stodden, David; Langendorfer, Stephen; Roberton, Mary Ann

2009-01-01

We examined the relationship between competence in three fundamental motor skills (throwing, kicking, and jumping) and six measures of health-related physical fitness in young adults (ages 18-25). We assessed motor skill competence using product scores of maximum kicking and throwing speed and maximum jumping distance. A factor analysis indicated…

Biosorption of cadmium and chromium in duckweed Wolffia globosa.

PubMed

Upatham, E Suchart; Boonyapookana, Benjaporn; Kruatrachue, Maleeya; Pokethitiyook, Prayad; Parkpoomkamol, Krisna

2002-01-01

The biosorption of cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) by using dried Wolffia globosa biomass were investigated using batch technique. The effects of concentration and pH solution on the adsorption isotherm were measured by determining the adsorption isotherm at initial metal concentrations from 10 to 400 mg/L and pH 4 to 7 for Cd, and pH 1.5 to 6 for Cr. The adsorption equilibria were found to follow Langmuir models. The maximum adsorption capacity (Xm) at pH 7 in W. globosa-Cd system was estimated to be 80.7 mg/g, while the maximum removal achieved at pH 4, pH 5, and pH 6 were 35.1, 48.8, and 65.4 mg/g, respectively. The Xm at pH 1.5 in W. globosa--Cr system was estimated to be 73.5 mg/g, while the maximum removal achieved at pH 3, pH 5, and pH 6 were 47.4, 33.1, and 12.9 mg/g, respectively. The effects of contact times on Cd and Cr sorption indicated that they were absorbed rapidly and more efficiently at lower concentrations.

Performance analysis of InGaAs/GaAsP heterojunction double gate tunnel field effect transistor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahish, S.; Sharma, Dheeraj; Vasantha, M. H.; Kumar, Y. B. N.

2017-03-01

In this paper, analog/RF performance of InGaAs/GaAsP heterojunction double gate tunnel field effect transistor (HJTFET) has been explored. A highly doped n+ layer is placed at the Source-Channel junction in order to improve the horizontal electric field component and thus, improve the realiability of the device. The analog performance of the device is analysed by extracting current-voltage characteristics, transcondutance (gm), gate-to-drain capacitance (Cgd) and gate-to-source capacitance (Cgs). Further, RF performance of the device is evaluated by obtaining cut-off frequency (fT) and Gain Bandwidth (GBW) product. ION /IOFF ratio equal to ≈ 109, subthreshold slope of 27 mV/dec, maximum fT of 2.1 THz and maximum GBW of 484 GHz were achieved. Also, the impact of temperature variation on the linearity performance of the device has been investigated. Furthermore, the circuit level performance of the device is performed by implementing a Common Source (CS) amplifier; maximum gain of 31.11 dB and 3-dB cut-off frequency equal to 91.2 GHz were achieved for load resistance (RL) = 17.5 KΩ.

Optimizing the wireless power transfer over MIMO Channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiedmann, Karsten; Weber, Tobias

2017-09-01

In this paper, the optimization of the power transfer over wireless channels having multiple-inputs and multiple-outputs (MIMO) is studied. Therefore, the transmitter, the receiver and the MIMO channel are modeled as multiports. The power transfer efficiency is described by a Rayleigh quotient, which is a function of the channel's scattering parameters and the incident waves from both transmitter and receiver side. This way, the power transfer efficiency can be maximized analytically by solving a generalized eigenvalue problem, which is deduced from the Rayleigh quotient. As a result, the maximum power transfer efficiency achievable over a given MIMO channel is obtained. This maximum can be used as a performance bound in order to benchmark wireless power transfer systems. Furthermore, the optimal operating point which achieves this maximum will be obtained. The optimal operating point will be described by the complex amplitudes of the optimal incident and reflected waves of the MIMO channel. This supports the design of the optimal transmitter and receiver multiports. The proposed method applies for arbitrary MIMO channels, taking transmitter-side and/or receiver-side cross-couplings in both near- and farfield scenarios into consideration. Special cases are briefly discussed in this paper in order to illustrate the method.

Energy-Saving Tunnel Illumination System Based on LED's Intelligent Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Shanshan; Gu, Hanting; Wu, Lan; Jiang, Shuixiu

2011-02-01

At present there is a lot of electric energy wastage in tunnel illumination, whose design is based on the maximum brightness outside and the maximum vehicle speed all year round. LED's energy consumption is low, and the control of its brightness is simple and effective. It can be quickly adjusted between 0-100% of its maximum brightness, and will not affect the service life. Therefore, using LED as tunnel's illumination source, we can achieve a good energy saving effect. According to real-time data acquisition of vehicle speed, traffic flow and brightness outside the tunnel, the auto real-time control of tunnel illumination can be achieved. And the system regulated the LED luminance by means of combination of LED power module and intelligent control module. The tunnel information was detected by inspection equipments, which included luminometer, vehicle detector, and received by RTU(Remote Terminal Unit), then synchronously transmitted to PC. After data processing, RTU emitted the dimming signal to the LED driver to adjust the brightness of LED. Despite the relatively high cost of high-power LED lights, the enormous energy-saving effect and the well-behaved controllability is beyond compare to other lighting devices.

Concurrent Phosphorus Recovery and Energy Generation in Mediator-Less Dual Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells: Mechanisms and Influencing Factors

PubMed Central

Almatouq, Abdullah; Babatunde, Akintunde O.

2016-01-01

This study investigated the mechanism and key factors influencing concurrent phosphorus (P) recovery and energy generation in microbial fuel cells (MFC) during wastewater treatment. Using a mediator-less dual chamber microbial fuel cell operated for 120 days; P was shown to precipitate as struvite when ammonium and magnesium chloride solutions were added to the cathode chamber. Monitoring data for chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, oxidation reduction potential (ORP) and aeration flow rate showed that a maximum 38% P recovery was achieved; and this corresponds to 1.5 g/L, pH > 8, −550 ± 10 mV and 50 mL/min respectively, for COD, pHcathode, ORP and cathode aeration flow rate. More importantly, COD and aeration flow rate were shown to be the key influencing factors for the P recovery and energy generation. Results further show that the maximum P recovery corresponds to 72 mW/m2 power density. However, the energy generated at maximum P recovery was not the optimum; this shows that whilst P recovery and energy generation can be concurrently achieved in a microbial fuel cell, neither can be at the optimal value. PMID:27043584

Simple Penalties on Maximum-Likelihood Estimates of Genetic Parameters to Reduce Sampling Variation

PubMed Central

Meyer, Karin

2016-01-01

Multivariate estimates of genetic parameters are subject to substantial sampling variation, especially for smaller data sets and more than a few traits. A simple modification of standard, maximum-likelihood procedures for multivariate analyses to estimate genetic covariances is described, which can improve estimates by substantially reducing their sampling variances. This is achieved by maximizing the likelihood subject to a penalty. Borrowing from Bayesian principles, we propose a mild, default penalty—derived assuming a Beta distribution of scale-free functions of the covariance components to be estimated—rather than laboriously attempting to determine the stringency of penalization from the data. An extensive simulation study is presented, demonstrating that such penalties can yield very worthwhile reductions in loss, i.e., the difference from population values, for a wide range of scenarios and without distorting estimates of phenotypic covariances. Moreover, mild default penalties tend not to increase loss in difficult cases and, on average, achieve reductions in loss of similar magnitude to computationally demanding schemes to optimize the degree of penalization. Pertinent details required for the adaptation of standard algorithms to locate the maximum of the likelihood function are outlined. PMID:27317681

Concurrent Phosphorus Recovery and Energy Generation in Mediator-Less Dual Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells: Mechanisms and Influencing Factors.

PubMed

Almatouq, Abdullah; Babatunde, Akintunde O

2016-03-29

This study investigated the mechanism and key factors influencing concurrent phosphorus (P) recovery and energy generation in microbial fuel cells (MFC) during wastewater treatment. Using a mediator-less dual chamber microbial fuel cell operated for 120 days; P was shown to precipitate as struvite when ammonium and magnesium chloride solutions were added to the cathode chamber. Monitoring data for chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, oxidation reduction potential (ORP) and aeration flow rate showed that a maximum 38% P recovery was achieved; and this corresponds to 1.5 g/L, pH > 8, -550 ± 10 mV and 50 mL/min respectively, for COD, pH(cathode), ORP and cathode aeration flow rate. More importantly, COD and aeration flow rate were shown to be the key influencing factors for the P recovery and energy generation. Results further show that the maximum P recovery corresponds to 72 mW/m² power density. However, the energy generated at maximum P recovery was not the optimum; this shows that whilst P recovery and energy generation can be concurrently achieved in a microbial fuel cell, neither can be at the optimal value.

Assessment of a ground water flow model of the Bangkok Basin, Thailand, using carbon-14-based ages and paleohydrology

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sanford, W.E.; Buapeng, S.

1996-01-01

A study was undertaken to understand the groundwater flow conditions in the Bangkok Basin, Thailand, by comparing 14C-based and simulated groundwater ages. 14C measurements were made on about 50 water samples taken from wells throughout the basin. Simulated ages were obtained using 1) backward-pathline tracking based on the well locations, and 2) results from a three-dimensional groundwater flow model. Comparisons of ages at these locations reveal a large difference between 14C-based ages and ages predicted by the steady-state groundwater flow model. Mainly, 14C and 13C analyses indicate that groundwater in the Bangkok area is about 20,000 years old, whereas steady-state flow and transport simulations imply that groundwater in the Bangkok area is 50,000-100,000 years old. One potential reason for the discrepancy between simulated and 14C-based ages is the assumption in the model of steady-state flow. Groundwater velocities were probably greater in the region before about 10,000 years ago, during the last glacial maximum, because of the lower position of sea level and the absence of the surficial Bangkok Clay. Paleoflow conditions were estimated and then incorporated into a second set of simulations. The new assumption was that current steady-state flow conditions existed for the last 8,000 years but were preceded by steady-state conditions representative of flow during the last glacial maximum. This "transient" paleohydrologic simulation yielded a mean simulated age that more closely agrees with the mean 14C-based age, especially if the 14C-based age is corrected for diffusion into clay layers. Although the uncertainties in both the simulated and 14C-based ages are nontrivial, the magnitude of the improved match in the mean age using a paleohydrologic simulation instead of a steady-state simulation suggests that flow conditions in the basin have changed significantly over the last 10,000-20,000 years. Given that the valid age range of 14C-dating methods and the timing of the last glacial maximum are of similar magnitude, adjustments for paleohydrologic conditions may be required for many such studies.

Selecting a mix of prevention strategies against cervical cancer for maximum efficiency with an optimization program.

PubMed

Demarteau, Nadia; Breuer, Thomas; Standaert, Baudouin

2012-04-01

Screening and vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) can protect against cervical cancer. Neither alone can provide 100% protection. Consequently it raises the important question about the most efficient combination of screening at specified time intervals and vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. Our objective was to identify the mix of cervical cancer prevention strategies (screening and/or vaccination against HPV) that achieves maximum reduction in cancer cases within a fixed budget. We assessed the optimal mix of strategies for the prevention of cervical cancer using an optimization program. The evaluation used two models. One was a Markov cohort model used as the evaluation model to estimate the costs and outcomes of 52 different prevention strategies. The other was an optimization model in which the results of each prevention strategy of the previous model were entered as input data. The latter model determined the combination of the different prevention options to minimize cervical cancer under budget, screening coverage and vaccination coverage constraints. We applied the model in two countries with different healthcare organizations, epidemiology, screening practices, resource settings and treatment costs: the UK and Brazil. 100,000 women aged 12 years and above across the whole population over a 1-year period at steady state were included. The intervention was papanicolaou (Pap) smear screening programmes and/or vaccination against HPV with the bivalent HPV 16/18 vaccine (Cervarix® [Cervarix is a registered trademark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies]). The main outcome measures were optimal distribution of the population between different interventions (screening, vaccination, screening plus vaccination and no screening or vaccination) with the resulting number of cervical cancer and associated costs. In the base-case analysis (= same budget as today), the optimal prevention strategy would be, after introducing vaccination with a coverage rate of 80% in girls aged 12 years and retaining screening coverage at pre-vaccination levels (65% in the UK, 50% in Brazil), to increase the screening interval to 6 years (from 3) in the UK and to 5 years (from 3) in Brazil. This would result in a reduction of cervical cancer by 41% in the UK and by 54% in Brazil from pre-vaccination levels with no budget increase. Sensitivity analysis shows that vaccination alone at 80% coverage with no screening would achieve a cervical cancer reduction rate of 20% in the UK and 43% in Brazil compared with the pre-vaccination situation with a budget reduction of 30% and 14%, respectively. In both countries, the sharp reduction in cervical cancer is seen when the vaccine coverage rate exceeds the maximum screening coverage rate, or when screening coverage rate exceeds the maximum vaccine coverage rate, while maintaining the budget. As with any model, there are limitations to the value of predictions depending upon the assumptions made in each model. Spending the same budget that was used for screening and treatment of cervical cancer in the pre-vaccination era, results of the optimization program show that it would be possible to substantially reduce the number of cases by implementing an optimal combination of HPV vaccination (80% coverage) and screening at pre-vaccination coverage (65% UK, 50% Brazil) while extending the screening interval to every 6 years in the UK and 5 years in Brazil.

Effect of Expiratory Resistive Loading in Expiratory Muscle Strength Training on Orbicularis Oris Muscle Activity

PubMed Central

Yanagisawa, Yukio; Matsuo, Yoshimi; Shuntoh, Hisato; Horiuchi, Noriaki

2014-01-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of expiratory resistive loading on orbicularis oris muscle activity. [Subjects] Subjects were 23 healthy individuals (11 males, mean age 25.5±4.3 years; 12 females, mean age 25.0±3.0 years). [Methods] Surface electromyography was performed to measure the activity of the orbicularis oris muscle during maximum lip closure and resistive loading at different expiratory pressures. Measurement was performed at 10%, 30%, 50%, and 100% of maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) for all subjects. The t-test was used to compare muscle activity between maximum lip closure and 100% MEP, and analysis of variance followed by multiple comparisons was used to compare the muscle activities observed at different expiratory pressures. [Results] No significant difference in muscle activity was observed between maximum lip closure and 100% MEP. Analysis of variance with multiple comparisons revealed significant differences among the different expiratory pressures. [Conclusion] Orbicularis oris muscle activity increased with increasing expiratory resistive loading. PMID:24648644

Age-Related Variability in Tongue Pressure Patterns for Maximum Isometric and Saliva Swallowing Tasks

PubMed Central

Peladeau-Pigeon, Melanie

2017-01-01

Purpose The ability to generate tongue pressure plays a major role in bolus transport in swallowing. In studies of motor control, stability or variability of movement is a feature that changes with age, disease, task complexity, and perturbation. In this study, we explored whether age and tongue strength influence the stability of the tongue pressure generation pattern during isometric and swallowing tasks in healthy volunteers. Method Tongue pressure data, collected using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument, were analyzed from 84 participants in sex-balanced and decade age-group strata. Tasks included maximum anterior and posterior isometric pressures and regular-effort saliva swallows. The cyclic spatiotemporal index (cSTI) was used to capture stability (vs. variability) in patterns of pressure generation. Mixed-model repeated measures analyses of covariance were performed separately for each task (anterior and posterior isometric pressures, saliva swallows) with between-participant factors of age group and sex, a within-participant factor of task repetition, and a continuous covariate of tongue strength. Results Neither age group nor sex effects were found. There was no significant relationship between tongue strength and the cSTI on the anterior isometric tongue pressure task (r = −.11). For the posterior isometric tongue pressure task, a significant negative correlation (r = −.395) was found between tongue strength and the cSTI. The opposite pattern of a significant positive correlation (r = .29) between tongue strength and the cSTI was seen for the saliva swallow task. Conclusions Tongue pressure generation patterns appear highly stable across repeated maximum isometric and saliva swallow tasks, despite advancing age. Greater pattern variability is seen with weaker posterior isometric pressures. Overall, saliva swallows had the lowest pressure amplitudes and highest pressure pattern variability as measured by the cSTI. PMID:29114767

Are trajectories of self-regulation abilities from ages 2-3 to 6-7 associated with academic achievement in the early school years?

PubMed

Sawyer, A C P; Chittleborough, C R; Mittinty, M N; Miller-Lewis, L R; Sawyer, M G; Sullivan, T; Lynch, J W

2015-09-01

The aim of this study was to estimate the association between two key aspects of self-regulation, 'task attentiveness' and 'emotional regulation' assessed from ages 2-3 to 6-7 years, and academic achievement when children were aged 6-7 years. Participants (n = 3410) were children in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Parents rated children's task attentiveness and emotional regulation abilities when children were aged 2-3, 4-5 and 6-7. Academic achievement was assessed using the Academic Rating Scale completed by teachers. Linear regression models were used to estimate the association between developmental trajectories (i.e. rate of change per year) of task attentiveness and emotional regulation, and academic achievement at 6-7 years. Improvements in task attentiveness between 2-3 and 6-7 years, adjusted for baseline levels of task attentiveness, child and family confounders, and children's receptive vocabulary and non-verbal reasoning skills at age 6-7 were associated with greater teacher-rated literacy [B = 0.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.04-0.06] and maths achievement (B = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.03-0.06) at 6-7 years. Improvements in emotional regulation, adjusting for baseline levels and covariates, were also associated with better teacher-rated literacy (B = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.01-0.04) but not with maths achievement (B = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.01-0.02) at 6-7 years. For literacy, improvements in task attentiveness had a stronger association with achievement at 6-7 years than improvements in emotional regulation. Our study shows that improved trajectories of task attentiveness from ages 2-3 to 6-7 years are associated with improved literacy and maths achievement during the early school years. Trajectories of improving emotional regulation showed smaller effects on academic outcomes. Results suggest that interventions that improve task attentiveness when children are aged 2-3 to 6-7 years have the potential to improve literacy and maths achievement during the early school years. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Chlorine-36 and 14C chronology support a limited last glacial maximum across central Chukotka, northeastern Siberia, and no Beringian ice sheet

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brigham-Grette, J.; Gualtieri, L.M.; Glushkova, O.Y.; Hamilton, T.D.; Mostoller, D.; Kotov, A.

2003-01-01

The Pekulney Mountains and adjacent Tanyurer River valley are key regions for examining the nature of glaciation across much of northeast Russia. Twelve new cosmogenic isotope ages and 14 new radiocarbon ages in concert with morphometric analyses and terrace stratigraphy constrain the timing of glaciation in this region of central Chukotka. The Sartan Glaciation (Last Glacial Maximum) was limited in extent in the Pekulney Mountains and dates to ???20,000 yr ago. Cosmogenic isotope ages > 30,000 yr as well as non-finite radiocarbon ages imply an estimated age no younger than the Zyryan Glaciation (early Wisconsinan) for large sets of moraines found in the central Tanyurer Valley. Slope angles on these loess-mantled ridges are less than a few degrees and crest widths are an order of magnitude greater than those found on the younger Sartan moraines. The most extensive moraines in the lower Tanyurer Valley are most subdued implying an even older, probable middle Pleistocene age. This research provides direct field evidence against Grosswald's Beringian ice-sheet hypothesis. ?? 2003 Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.

Optimization of abdominal fat quantification on CT imaging through use of standardized anatomic space: A novel approach

PubMed Central

Tong, Yubing; Udupa, Jayaram K.; Torigian, Drew A.

2014-01-01

Purpose: The quantification of body fat plays an important role in the study of numerous diseases. It is common current practice to use the fat area at a single abdominal computed tomography (CT) slice as a marker of the body fat content in studying various disease processes. This paper sets out to answer three questions related to this issue which have not been addressed in the literature. At what single anatomic slice location do the areas of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) estimated from the slice correlate maximally with the corresponding fat volume measures? How does one ensure that the slices used for correlation calculation from different subjects are at the same anatomic location? Are there combinations of multiple slices (not necessarily contiguous) whose area sum correlates better with volume than does single slice area with volume? Methods: The authors propose a novel strategy for mapping slice locations to a standardized anatomic space so that same anatomic slice locations are identified in different subjects. The authors then study the volume-to-area correlations and determine where they become maximal. To address the third issue, the authors carry out similar correlation studies by utilizing two and three slices for calculating area sum. Results: Based on 50 abdominal CT data sets, the proposed mapping achieves significantly improved consistency of anatomic localization compared to current practice. Maximum correlations are achieved at different anatomic locations for SAT and VAT which are both different from the L4-L5 junction commonly utilized currently for single slice area estimation as a marker. Conclusions: The maximum area-to-volume correlation achieved is quite high, suggesting that it may be reasonable to estimate body fat by measuring the area of fat from a single anatomic slice at the site of maximum correlation and use this as a marker. The site of maximum correlation is not at L4-L5 as commonly assumed, but is more superiorly located at T12-L1 for SAT and at L3-L4 for VAT. Furthermore, the optimal anatomic locations for SAT and VAT estimation are not the same, contrary to common assumption. The proposed standardized space mapping achieves high consistency of anatomic localization by accurately managing nonlinearities in the relationships among landmarks. Multiple slices achieve greater improvement in correlation for VAT than for SAT. The optimal locations in the case of multiple slices are not contiguous. PMID:24877839

Optimization of abdominal fat quantification on CT imaging through use of standardized anatomic space: A novel approach

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

Tong, Yubing; Udupa, Jayaram K., E-mail: jay@mail.med.upenn.edu; Torigian, Drew A.

Purpose: The quantification of body fat plays an important role in the study of numerous diseases. It is common current practice to use the fat area at a single abdominal computed tomography (CT) slice as a marker of the body fat content in studying various disease processes. This paper sets out to answer three questions related to this issue which have not been addressed in the literature. At what single anatomic slice location do the areas of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) estimated from the slice correlate maximally with the corresponding fat volume measures? How doesmore » one ensure that the slices used for correlation calculation from different subjects are at the same anatomic location? Are there combinations of multiple slices (not necessarily contiguous) whose area sum correlates better with volume than does single slice area with volume? Methods: The authors propose a novel strategy for mapping slice locations to a standardized anatomic space so that same anatomic slice locations are identified in different subjects. The authors then study the volume-to-area correlations and determine where they become maximal. To address the third issue, the authors carry out similar correlation studies by utilizing two and three slices for calculating area sum. Results: Based on 50 abdominal CT data sets, the proposed mapping achieves significantly improved consistency of anatomic localization compared to current practice. Maximum correlations are achieved at different anatomic locations for SAT and VAT which are both different from the L4-L5 junction commonly utilized currently for single slice area estimation as a marker. Conclusions: The maximum area-to-volume correlation achieved is quite high, suggesting that it may be reasonable to estimate body fat by measuring the area of fat from a single anatomic slice at the site of maximum correlation and use this as a marker. The site of maximum correlation is not at L4-L5 as commonly assumed, but is more superiorly located at T12-L1 for SAT and at L3-L4 for VAT. Furthermore, the optimal anatomic locations for SAT and VAT estimation are not the same, contrary to common assumption. The proposed standardized space mapping achieves high consistency of anatomic localization by accurately managing nonlinearities in the relationships among landmarks. Multiple slices achieve greater improvement in correlation for VAT than for SAT. The optimal locations in the case of multiple slices are not contiguous.« less

Diverging Histories of the Liberty Creek and Iceberg Lake Blueschist Bodies, south central Alaska

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Day, E. M.; Pavlis, T. L.; Amato, J. M.

2011-12-01

New studies of the Liberty Creek and Iceberg Lake blueschist bodies of south central Alaska indicate that despite structural similarities, these blueschist bodies are derived from a different protolith and were metamorphosed to blueschist facies at distinctly different times. Both blueschists are located just south of the Border Ranges Fault (BRF) within outcrop belts of the McHugh Complex, a low-grade mélange assemblage that is now known from detrital zircon studies to consist of two distinct assemblages: a Jurassic to Earliest Cretaceous assemblage and a Late Cretaceous assemblage. The BRF is a megathrust system that represents the Late Triassic-Early Jurassic initiation of southern Alaskan subduction. Large scale (1:24,000) mapping revealed similar fabric overprint histories, epitomized by a previously undescribed youngest vertical N-S trending crenulation cleavage in both blueschist bodies which implies a structural correlation despite their separation of ~100 kilometers along strike. Despite structural similarities detrital zircon studies show that the Liberty Creek and Iceberg Lake blueschists do not have a similar maximum age of deposition. Thirteen samples from the Iceberg Lake blueschist were processed, none of which produced detrital zircons. Samples from the McHugh Complex greenschists that surround the Iceberg Lake blueschist produced numerous zircons indicating a Late Jurassic (~160 Ma) maximum age of deposition. Three out of sixteen samples from the Liberty creek blueschist produced detrital zircons indicating maximum depositional ages ranging from Late Jurassic (~160.1 Ma, n=64 grains; ~152.25 Ma, n=68 grains) to Early Cretaceous (~137.1 Ma, n=95 grains). The Late Jurassic dates are consistent with maximum depositional ages determined by Amato and Pavlis (2010) for McHugh Complex rocks along Turnagain Arm near Anchorage, AK. Sisson and Onstott (1986) reported a metamorphic cooling age of 185 Ma for the Iceberg Lake blueschist, thus, although no depostitional age constraints were obtained for the Iceberg Lake body, its metamorphic cooling age is far older than the younger depositional ages of the Liberty Creek blueschists indicating these areas record two different blueschist facies metamorphic assemblages. Work in progress on cooling ages from the Liberty Creek rocks should clarify the age of this younger metamorphism. Although these assemblages record different metamorphic events, the similar overprint history may indicate that the Liberty Creek and Iceberg Lake blueschists were subjected to the same, younger deformation series, possibly Cenozoic strike-slip related deformation.

Acute Lower Extremity Running Kinematics After a Hamstring Stretch

PubMed Central

Davis Hammonds, Autumn L.; Laudner, Kevin G.; McCaw, Steve; McLoda, Todd A.

2012-01-01

Context: Limited passive hamstring flexibility might affect kinematics, performance, and injury risk during running. Pre-activity static straight-leg raise stretching often is used to gain passive hamstring flexibility. Objective: To investigate the acute effects of a single session of passive hamstring stretching on pelvic, hip, and knee kinematics during the swing phase of running. Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting: Biomechanics research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Thirty-four male (age = 21.2 ± 1.4 years) and female (age = 21.3±2.0 years) recreational athletes. Intervention(s): Participants performed treadmill running pretests and posttests at 70% of their age-predicted maximum heart rate. Pelvis, hip, and knee joint angles during the swing phase of 5 consecutive gait cycles were collected using a motion analysis system. Right and left hamstrings of the intervention group participants were passively stretched 3 times for 30 seconds in random order immediately after the pretest. Control group participants performed no stretching or movement between running sessions. Main Outcome Measure(s): Six 2-way analyses of variance to determine joint angle differences between groups at maximum hip flexion and maximum knee extension with an α level of .008. Results: Flexibility increased between pretest and post-test in all participants (F1,30 = 80.61, P<.001). Anterior pelvic tilt (F1,30 = 0.73, P=.40), hip flexion (F1,30 = 2.44, P=.13), and knee extension (F1,30 = 0.06, P=.80) at maximum hip flexion were similar between groups throughout testing. Anterior pelvic tilt (F1,30 = 0.69, P=.41), hip flexion (F1,30 = 0.23, P=.64), and knee extension (F1,30 = 3.38, P=.62) at maximum knee extension were similar between groups throughout testing. Men demonstrated greater anterior pelvic tilt than women at maximum knee extension (F1,30 = 13.62, P=.001). Conclusions: A single session of 3 straight-leg raise hamstring stretches did not change pelvis, hip, or knee running kinematics. PMID:22488225

Myoelectric activation and kinetics of different plyometric push-up exercises.

PubMed

García-Massó, Xavier; Colado, Juan C; González, Luis M; Salvá, Pau; Alves, Joao; Tella, Víctor; Triplett, N Travis

2011-07-01

The kinetic and myoelectric differences between 3 types of plyometric push-ups were investigated. Twenty-seven healthy, physically active men served as subjects and completed both familiarization and testing sessions. During these sessions, subjects performed 2 series of 3 plyometric push-up variations in a counterbalanced order according to the following techniques: Countermovement push-ups (CPUs) were push-ups performed with the maximum speed of movement; jump push-ups (JPUs) were similar to clapping push-ups; and fall push-ups (FPUs) required kneeling subjects to drop and then attempt to return to their initial position. Vertical ground reaction forces were determined by using a force plate. Myoelectric activity was recorded by means of electromyography. Impact force and impact rate of force development were significantly (p < 0.05) higher for FPUs than for JPUs. The maximum rate of force development was higher for CPUs (p < 0.05) than for JPUs, and the maximum force was higher for the CPUs than for the FPUs (p < 0.05). There were differences among exercises for the mean muscle activation of the pectoralis major (PM; p < 0.001), triceps brachii (p < 0.001), external oblique (p < 0.005) and anterior deltoid (p < 0.001), and in the maximum muscle activation of the PM (p < 0.001). Plyometric push-ups with countermovement achieved a higher maximum force and rate of force and did not cause impact forces. Thus, this type of push-up exercise may be regarded as the best for improving explosive force. The FPU exercise achieved higher levels of muscular activation in the agonist and synergist muscle groups, and greater impact forces and impact force development rates.

Accurate aging of juvenile salmonids using fork lengths

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sethi, Suresh; Gerken, Jonathon; Ashline, Joshua

2017-01-01

Juvenile salmon life history strategies, survival, and habitat interactions may vary by age cohort. However, aging individual juvenile fish using scale reading is time consuming and can be error prone. Fork length data are routinely measured while sampling juvenile salmonids. We explore the performance of aging juvenile fish based solely on fork length data, using finite Gaussian mixture models to describe multimodal size distributions and estimate optimal age-discriminating length thresholds. Fork length-based ages are compared against a validation set of juvenile coho salmon, Oncorynchus kisutch, aged by scales. Results for juvenile coho salmon indicate greater than 95% accuracy can be achieved by aging fish using length thresholds estimated from mixture models. Highest accuracy is achieved when aged fish are compared to length thresholds generated from samples from the same drainage, time of year, and habitat type (lentic versus lotic), although relatively high aging accuracy can still be achieved when thresholds are extrapolated to fish from populations in different years or drainages. Fork length-based aging thresholds are applicable for taxa for which multiple age cohorts coexist sympatrically. Where applicable, the method of aging individual fish is relatively quick to implement and can avoid ager interpretation bias common in scale-based aging.

Intrinsic Motivation and Achievement in Mathematics in Elementary School: A Longitudinal Investigation of Their Association

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garon-Carrier, Gabrielle; Boivin, Michel; Guay, Frédéric; Kovas, Yulia; Dionne, Ginette; Lemelin, Jean-Pascal; Séguin, Jean R.; Vitaro, Frank; Tremblay, Richard E.

2016-01-01

This study examined the associations between intrinsic motivation and achievement in mathematics in a sample of 1,478 Canadian school-age children followed from Grades 1 to 4 (ages 7-10). Children self-reported their intrinsic motivation toward mathematics, whereas achievement was measured through direct assessment of mathematics abilities.…

Learned Helplessness and Psychological Adjustment: Effects of Age, Gender and Academic Achievement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Valas, Harald

2001-01-01

Studied the relationships among academic achievement, learned helplessness, and psychological adjustment (self-esteem and depression), controlled for gender and age, for 1,580 students with data collected in grades 3 and 4, 6 and 7, and 8 and 9. Results show that academic achievement is directly and indirectly related to the pattern of…

Contura Multi-Lumen Balloon breast brachytherapy catheter: comparative dosimetric findings of a phase 4 trial.

PubMed

Arthur, Douglas W; Vicini, Frank A; Todor, Dorin A; Julian, Thomas B; Cuttino, Laurie W; Mukhopadhyay, Nitai D

2013-06-01

Final dosimetric findings of a completed, multi-institutional phase 4 registry trial using the Contura Multi-Lumen Balloon (MLB) breast brachytherapy catheter to deliver accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) in patients with early-stage breast cancer are presented. Three dosimetric plans with identical target coverage were generated for each patient for comparison: multilumen multidwell (MLMD); central-lumen multidwell (CLMD); and central-lumen single-dwell (CLSD) loading of the Contura catheter. For this study, a successful treatment plan achieved ideal dosimetric goals and included the following: ≥ 95% of the prescribed dose (PD) covering ≥ 95% of the target volume (TV); maximum skin dose ≤ 125% of the PD; maximum rib dose ≤ 145% of the PD; and V150 ≤50 cc and V200 ≤ 10 cc. Between January 2008 and February 2011, 23 institutions participated. A total of 318 patients were available for dosimetric review. Using the Contura MLB, all dosimetric criteria were met in 78.93% of cases planned with MLMD versus 55.38% with the CLMD versus 37.66% with the CLSD (P ≤.0001). Evaluating all patients with the full range of skin to balloon distance represented, median maximum skin dose was reduced by 12% and median maximum rib dose by 13.9% when using MLMD-based dosimetric plans compared to CLSD. The dosimetric benefit of MLMD was further demonstrated in the subgroup of patients where skin thickness was <5 mm, where MLMD use allowed a 38% reduction in median maximum skin dose over CLSD. For patients with rib distance <5 mm, the median maximum rib dose reduction was 27%. Use of the Contura MLB catheter produced statistically significant improvements in dosimetric capabilities between CLSD and CLMD treatments. This device approach demonstrates the ability not only to overcome the barriers of limited skin thickness and close rib proximity, but to consistently achieve a higher standard of dosimetric planning goals. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Trade-off between synergy and efficacy in combinations of HIV-1 latency-reversing agents.

PubMed

Gupta, Vipul; Dixit, Narendra M

2018-02-01

Eradicating HIV-1 infection is difficult because of the reservoir of latently infected cells that gets established soon after infection, remains hidden from antiretroviral drugs and host immune responses, and retains the capacity to reignite infection following the cessation of treatment. Drugs called latency-reversing agents (LRAs) are being developed to reactivate latently infected cells and render them susceptible to viral cytopathicity or immune killing. Whereas individual LRAs have failed to induce adequate reactivation, pairs of LRAs have been identified recently that act synergistically and hugely increase reactivation levels compared to individual LRAs. The maximum synergy achievable with LRA pairs is of clinical importance, as it would allow latency-reversal with minimal drug exposure. Here, we employed stochastic simulations of HIV-1 transcription and translation in latently infected cells to estimate this maximum synergy. We incorporated the predominant mechanisms of action of the two most promising classes of LRAs, namely, protein kinase C agonists and histone deacetylase inhibitors, and quantified the activity of individual LRAs in the two classes by mapping our simulations to corresponding in vitro experiments. Without any adjustable parameters, our simulations then quantitatively captured experimental observations of latency-reversal when the LRAs were used in pairs. Performing simulations representing a wide range of drug concentrations, we estimated the maximum synergy achievable with these LRA pairs. Importantly, we found with all the LRA pairs we considered that concentrations yielding the maximum synergy did not yield the maximum latency-reversal. Increasing concentrations to increase latency-reversal compromised synergy, unravelling a trade-off between synergy and efficacy in LRA combinations. The maximum synergy realizable with LRA pairs would thus be restricted by the desired level of latency-reversal, a constrained optimum we elucidated with our simulations. We expect this trade-off to be important in defining optimal LRA combinations that would maximize synergy while ensuring adequate latency-reversal.

Contura Multi-Lumen Balloon Breast Brachytherapy Catheter: Comparative Dosimetric Findings of a Phase 4 Trial

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

Arthur, Douglas W., E-mail: darthur@mcvh-vcu.edu; Vicini, Frank A.; Todor, Dorin A.

2013-06-01

Purpose: Final dosimetric findings of a completed, multi-institutional phase 4 registry trial using the Contura Multi-Lumen Balloon (MLB) breast brachytherapy catheter to deliver accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) in patients with early-stage breast cancer are presented. Methods and Materials: Three dosimetric plans with identical target coverage were generated for each patient for comparison: multilumen multidwell (MLMD); central-lumen multidwell (CLMD); and central-lumen single-dwell (CLSD) loading of the Contura catheter. For this study, a successful treatment plan achieved ideal dosimetric goals and included the following: ≥95% of the prescribed dose (PD) covering ≥95% of the target volume (TV); maximum skin dose ≤125%more » of the PD; maximum rib dose ≤145% of the PD; and V150 ≤50 cc and V200 ≤10 cc. Results: Between January 2008 and February 2011, 23 institutions participated. A total of 318 patients were available for dosimetric review. Using the Contura MLB, all dosimetric criteria were met in 78.93% of cases planned with MLMD versus 55.38% with the CLMD versus 37.66% with the CLSD (P≤.0001). Evaluating all patients with the full range of skin to balloon distance represented, median maximum skin dose was reduced by 12% and median maximum rib dose by 13.9% when using MLMD-based dosimetric plans compared to CLSD. The dosimetric benefit of MLMD was further demonstrated in the subgroup of patients where skin thickness was <5 mm, where MLMD use allowed a 38% reduction in median maximum skin dose over CLSD. For patients with rib distance <5 mm, the median maximum rib dose reduction was 27%. Conclusions: Use of the Contura MLB catheter produced statistically significant improvements in dosimetric capabilities between CLSD and CLMD treatments. This device approach demonstrates the ability not only to overcome the barriers of limited skin thickness and close rib proximity, but to consistently achieve a higher standard of dosimetric planning goals.« less

Structured Light Based 3d Scanning for Specular Surface by the Combination of Gray Code and Phase Shifting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yujia; Yilmaz, Alper

2016-06-01

Surface reconstruction using coded structured light is considered one of the most reliable techniques for high-quality 3D scanning. With a calibrated projector-camera stereo system, a light pattern is projected onto the scene and imaged by the camera. Correspondences between projected and recovered patterns are computed in the decoding process, which is used to generate 3D point cloud of the surface. However, the indirect illumination effects on the surface, such as subsurface scattering and interreflections, will raise the difficulties in reconstruction. In this paper, we apply maximum min-SW gray code to reduce the indirect illumination effects of the specular surface. We also analysis the errors when comparing the maximum min-SW gray code and the conventional gray code, which justifies that the maximum min-SW gray code has significant superiority to reduce the indirect illumination effects. To achieve sub-pixel accuracy, we project high frequency sinusoidal patterns onto the scene simultaneously. But for specular surface, the high frequency patterns are susceptible to decoding errors. Incorrect decoding of high frequency patterns will result in a loss of depth resolution. Our method to resolve this problem is combining the low frequency maximum min-SW gray code and the high frequency phase shifting code, which achieves dense 3D reconstruction for specular surface. Our contributions include: (i) A complete setup of the structured light based 3D scanning system; (ii) A novel combination technique of the maximum min-SW gray code and phase shifting code. First, phase shifting decoding with sub-pixel accuracy. Then, the maximum min-SW gray code is used to resolve the ambiguity resolution. According to the experimental results and data analysis, our structured light based 3D scanning system enables high quality dense reconstruction of scenes with a small number of images. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons are performed to extract the advantages of our new combined coding method.

Age, Sex, and Cultural Differences in the Meaning of Achievement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salili, Farideh

This study explored variations in the meaning and psychological dimensions of achievement among people of different ages, sexes, and cultures. Subjects were 504 male and female British and Chinese students aged 13-55 in Hong Kong. Repertory grid technique was used to elicit success situations and related constructs. A group grid was then…

Franchise Plan. Central Archive for Reusable Defense Software (CARDS)

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-02-28

learned To achieve maximum benefit from a reuse infrastructure and change the way the organization is doing business, management has to make a long...Purpose For an organization to fully comprehend the benefits of reuse, and to gauge the magnitude of change required to achieve the benefits , information...3.4.3 Identify Technology Infrastructure Rationale In order for an organization to fully comprehend the benefits of reuse and to gauge the magnitude of

Real-time value optimization of edging and trimming operations for rough, green hardwood lumber

Treesearch

Daniel L. Schmoldt; Hang Song; Philip A. Araman

2001-01-01

For edging/trimming operations in hardwood sawmills, an operator examines both sides—or just the waney-edged side—of each board, and makes a quick assessment of grade potential. The operator then decides where to edge and/or trim the board to achieve the intended grade and, presumably, maximum value. However, human operators can only achieve lumber values that are 62-...

Fundamental Limits of Delay and Security in Device-to-Device Communication

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-01

systematic MDS (maximum distance separable) codes and random binning strategies that achieve a Pareto optimal delayreconstruction tradeoff. The erasure MD...file, and a coding scheme based on erasure compression and Slepian-Wolf binning is presented. The coding scheme is shown to provide a Pareto optimal...ble) codes and random binning strategies that achieve a Pareto optimal delay- reconstruction tradeoff. The erasure MD setup is then used to propose a

A study on the sternum growth and mineralization kinetic of meat duck from 35 to 63 days of age.

PubMed

Zhang, H Y; Liao, H; Zeng, Q F; Wang, J P; Ding, X M; Bai, S P; Zhang, K Y

2017-09-01

The sternum as an important part of the skeleton and not only provides a crucial attachment site for the pectoral muscles and protects internal organs such as the heart and lungs for meat duck, but may also be considered as the primary ventilator in the avian respiratory system. Therefore, this study focuses on the sternum growth and mineralization kinetics of ducks from 35 d to 63 d of age. A total of 72 one-d-old males and 72 females were chosen and fed with the same diet until the age of 9 weeks. The sternum and serum were harvested at 35 d, 42 d, 49 d, 56d, and 63 d of feeding. Results showed that the sternum width rapidly grew from 35 d to 42 d and the value changed little after 42 d, while the keel length and the sternum depth did not significantly change until 49 d age. The sternum defatted weight and density increased assumed to "S" with ducks' age and their plateau in the 56 d. The sternum ash content, calcium (Ca), and phosphate (P) levels increased with duck age, then all three reached a plateau in 49 days. Similarly, serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was higher in the ducks at both 35 and 42 days, followed by 49 days, and the value was lowered to a minimum on both days 56 and 63. Conversely, serum tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity substantially increased until 49 days irrespective of duck gender. Results indicate that the dimensions of the sternum were already at the maximum in 49-day-old ducks and the sternum of the ducks rapidly mineralized from 42 d to 49 d of age and achieved a plateau phase after 49-days resulting from the high activity of ALP at the sternum early mineralization. © 2017 Poultry Science Association Inc.

On non-invasive 2D and 3D Chromatic White Light image sensors for age determination of latent fingerprints.

PubMed

Merkel, Ronny; Gruhn, Stefan; Dittmann, Jana; Vielhauer, Claus; Bräutigam, Anja

2012-10-10

The feasibility of 2D-intensity and 3D-topography images from a non-invasive Chromatic White Light (CWL) sensor for the age determination of latent fingerprints is investigated. The proposed method might provide the means to solve the so far unresolved issue of determining a fingerprints age in forensics. Conducting numerous experiments for an indoor crime scene using selected surfaces, different influences on the aging of fingerprints are investigated and the resulting aging variability is determined in terms of inter-person, intra-person, inter-finger and intra-finger variation. Main influence factors are shown to be the sweat composition, temperature, humidity, wind, UV-radiation, surface type, contamination of the finger with water-containing substances, resolution and measured area size, whereas contact time, contact pressure and smearing of the print seem to be of minor importance. Such influences lead to a certain experimental variability in inter-person and intra-person variation, which is higher than the inter-finger and intra-finger variation. Comparing the aging behavior of 17 different features using 1490 time series with a total of 41,520 fingerprint images, the great potential of the CWL technique in combination with the binary pixel feature from prior work is shown. Performing three different experiments for the classification of fingerprints into the two time classes [0, 5 h] and [5, 24 h], a maximum classification performance of 79.29% (kappa=0.46) is achieved for a general case, which is further improved for special cases. The statistical significance of the two best-performing features (both binary pixel versions based on 2D-intensity images) is manually shown and a feature fusion is performed, highlighting the strong dependency of the features on each other. It is concluded that such method might be combined with additional capturing devices, such as microscopes or spectroscopes, to a very promising age estimation scheme. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Pitfalls in the prescription of reading glasses].

PubMed

Krause, H-K

2011-04-01

People in the second half of their lives often require reading glasses. A basic requirement for determining suitable reading glasses is measurement of the patient's accommodation, which describes the change in the eye's optical power caused by the attempt to clearly focus on an object at a certain distance. The maximum accommodation performance of a person already begins to decline from the age of 40 onwards. When it becomes increasingly difficult to adjust to the typical reading distance of 40 cm, one speaks of presbyopia: age-related farsightedness. This contribution describes two appropriate methods for determining the strength of reading glasses: determination of the maximum accommodation performance by measuring the near point distance and determination of the maximum accommodation effort by measuring the relative positive and negative accommodation. Optimal reading glasses enable the patient to focus sharply on something from the working distance that is closer but also on something that is further away.

Quantitative and perceived visual changes of the nasolabial fold following orthodontic retraction of lip protrusion.

PubMed

Baek, Eui Seon; Hwang, Soonshin; Choi, Yoon Jeong; Roh, Mi Ryung; Nguyen, Tung; Kim, Kyung-Ho; Chung, Chooryung J

2018-07-01

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the quantitative and perceived visual changes of the nasolabial fold (NLF) after maximum retraction in adults and to determine its contributing factors. A total of 39 adult women's cone-beam computed tomography images were collected retrospectively and divided into the retraction group (age 26.9 ± 8.80) that underwent maximum retraction following 4 premolar extraction and the control group (age 24.6 ± 5.36) with minor changes of the incisors. Three-dimensional morphologic changes of hard and soft tissue including NLF were measured by pre- and posttreatment cone-beam computed tomography. In addition, perceived visual change of the NLF was monitored using the modified Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. The influence of age, initial severity of NLF, and initial soft tissue thickness was evaluated. Anterior retraction induced significant changes of the facial soft tissue including the lips, perioral, and the NLF when compared with the controls ( P < .01). Perceived visual changes of the NLF was noted only in women younger than age 30 ( P < .05), with the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 2.44 (1.3461-4.4226), indicating greater possibility for improvement of NLF esthetics in young women of the retraction group when compared with the controls. Orthodontic retraction induced quantitative and perceived visual changes of the NLF. For adult women younger than age 30, the appearance of the NLF improved after maximum retraction despite the greater posterior change of the NLF.

THE EQUIVALENCE OF AGE IN ANIMALS

PubMed Central

Brody, Samuel; Ragsdale, Arthur C.

1922-01-01

1. A method of plotting growth curves is presented which is considered more useful than the usual method in bringing out a number of important phenomena such as the equivalence of age in different animals, difference in the shape and duration of corresponding growth cycles in different animals, and also in determinating the age of maxima without resorting to complicated mathematical computations. 2. It is suggested that after the third cycle is past the conceptional age of the maximum of the third cycle may be taken as the age of reference for estimating the equivalent physiological ages in different animals. Before the age of the third cycle, the maxima of the second and first cycles are most conveniently used as points of reference. 3. It is shown that the product of the conceptional age of the maximum of the third cycle by 13, gives a value which is, with the possible exception of man, very near to the normal duration of life of animals under the most favorable conditions of life. In other words, the equivalent physiological ages in different animals bear an approximately constant linear relation to the duration of their growth periods. 4. Attention is called to certain differences in the shape and duration of the corresponding growth cycles in different animals and of the effect of sex on these cycles. PMID:19871989

40 CFR 60.610 - Applicability and designation of affected facility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... completed, but not later than 60 days after achieving the maximum production rate at which the affected...), measured as TOC minus methane and ethane. This emission limit reflects the performance of BDT. [55 FR 26922...

40 CFR 60.610 - Applicability and designation of affected facility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... completed, but not later than 60 days after achieving the maximum production rate at which the affected...), measured as TOC minus methane and ethane. This emission limit reflects the performance of BDT. [55 FR 26922...

40 CFR 60.610 - Applicability and designation of affected facility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... completed, but not later than 60 days after achieving the maximum production rate at which the affected...), measured as TOC minus methane and ethane. This emission limit reflects the performance of BDT. [55 FR 26922...

40 CFR 60.610 - Applicability and designation of affected facility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... completed, but not later than 60 days after achieving the maximum production rate at which the affected...), measured as TOC minus methane and ethane. This emission limit reflects the performance of BDT. [55 FR 26922...

MERCURY SPECIATION AND CAPTURE

EPA Science Inventory

In December 2000, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) announced its intent to regulate mercury emissions from coal-fired electric utility steam generating plants. Maximum achievable control technology (MACT) requirements are to be proposed by December 2003 and finali...

Adaptive Quadrature for Item Response Models. Research Report. ETS RR-06-29

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haberman, Shelby J.

2006-01-01

Adaptive quadrature is applied to marginal maximum likelihood estimation for item response models with normal ability distributions. Even in one dimension, significant gains in speed and accuracy of computation may be achieved.

Small Drinking Water System Variances

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Small system variances allow a small system to install and maintain technology that can remove a contaminant to the maximum extent that is affordable and protective of public health in lieu of technology that can achieve compliance with the regulation.

REDUCING STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM SPRAYED FILLED RESINS

EPA Science Inventory

Styrene emissions are coming under increasing study as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) develops maximum achievable control technology standards. During the manufacture of fiber-reinforced plastics/composites products, styrene, a volatile organic compound and a haz...

INVENTORY OF TREATABILITY STUDY VENDORS - VOLUME 1

EPA Science Inventory

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) amendments mandate the use of permanent solutions to the maximum extent practicable when remediating Superfund sites. Fundamental to achieving this goal is the use of treatment technologies that red...

INVENTORY OF TREATABILITY STUDY VENDORS - VOLUME 2

EPA Science Inventory

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) amendments mandate the use of permanent solutions to the maximum extent practicable when remediating Superfund sites. Fundamental to achieving this goal is the use of treatment technologies that r...

Dual-Particle Imaging System with Neutron Spectroscopy for Safeguard Applications

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

Hamel, Michael C.; Weber, Thomas M.

2017-11-01

A dual-particle imager (DPI) has been designed that is capable of detecting gamma-ray and neutron signatures from shielded SNM. The system combines liquid organic and NaI(Tl) scintillators to form a combined Compton and neutron scatter camera. Effective image reconstruction of detected particles is a crucial component for maximizing the performance of the system; however, a key deficiency exists in the widely used iterative list-mode maximum-likelihood estimation-maximization (MLEM) image reconstruction technique. For MLEM a stopping condition is required to achieve a good quality solution but these conditions fail to achieve maximum image quality. Stochastic origin ensembles (SOE) imaging is a goodmore » candidate to address this problem as it uses Markov chain Monte Carlo to reach a stochastic steady-state solution. The application of SOE to the DPI is presented in this work.« less

Entanglement of coherent superposition of photon-subtraction squeezed vacuum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Cun-Jin; Ye, Wei; Zhou, Wei-Dong; Zhang, Hao-Liang; Huang, Jie-Hui; Hu, Li-Yun

2017-10-01

A new kind of non-Gaussian quantum state is introduced by applying nonlocal coherent superposition ( τa + sb) m of photon subtraction to two single-mode squeezed vacuum states, and the properties of entanglement are investigated according to the degree of entanglement and the average fidelity of quantum teleportation. The state can be seen as a single-variable Hermitian polynomial excited squeezed vacuum state, and its normalization factor is related to the Legendre polynomial. It is shown that, for τ = s, the maximum fidelity can be achieved, even over the classical limit (1/2), only for even-order operation m and equivalent squeezing parameters in a certain region. However, the maximum entanglement can be achieved for squeezing parameters with a π phase difference. These indicate that the optimal realizations of fidelity and entanglement could be different from one another. In addition, the parameter τ/ s has an obvious effect on entanglement and fidelity.

Extreme-value statistics of fractional Brownian motion bridges.

PubMed

Delorme, Mathieu; Wiese, Kay Jörg

2016-11-01

Fractional Brownian motion is a self-affine, non-Markovian, and translationally invariant generalization of Brownian motion, depending on the Hurst exponent H. Here we investigate fractional Brownian motion where both the starting and the end point are zero, commonly referred to as bridge processes. Observables are the time t_{+} the process is positive, the maximum m it achieves, and the time t_{max} when this maximum is taken. Using a perturbative expansion around Brownian motion (H=1/2), we give the first-order result for the probability distribution of these three variables and the joint distribution of m and t_{max}. Our analytical results are tested and found to be in excellent agreement, with extensive numerical simulations for both H>1/2 and H<1/2. This precision is achieved by sampling processes with a free end point and then converting each realization to a bridge process, in generalization to what is usually done for Brownian motion.

Field of first magnetic flux entry and pinning strength of superconductors for rf application measured with muon spin rotation

DOE PAGES

Junginger, Tobias; Abidi, S. H.; Maffett, R. D.; ...

2018-03-16

Here, the performance of superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities used for particle accelerators depends on two characteristic material parameters: field of first flux entry H entry and pinning strength. The former sets the limit for the maximum achievable accelerating gradient, while the latter determines how efficiently flux can be expelled related to the maximum achievable quality factor. In this paper, a method based on muon spin rotation (μSR) is developed to probe these parameters on samples. It combines measurements from two different spectrometers, one being specifically built for these studies and samples of different geometries. It is found that annealing atmore » 1400°C virtually eliminates all pinning. Such an annealed substrate is ideally suited to measure H entry of layered superconductors, which might enable accelerating gradients beyond bulk niobium technology.« less

Nurse-led epistaxis management within the emergency department.

PubMed

Hakim, Navid; Mummadi, Sangha Mitra; Jolly, Karan; Dawson, Julian; Darr, Adnan

2018-01-11

the incidence of epistaxis has increased secondary to increased life expectancy and morbidities. This study sought to assess the knowledge, practice and opinion relating to adequacy of training of advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) and staff nurses (SNs) in the emergency department. a national survey was distributed over an 8-week period; this included a 3-point scoring system based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Clinical Knowledge Summaries guidance on epistaxis management to assess overall performance. analysis included 109 ANPs and 101 SNs; 12% of ANPs achieved the maximum score, 40% scored 2, 25% scored 1, and 23% scored 0, while 14% of SNs achieved the maximum score, 24% scored 2, 29% scored 1, and 32% scored 0. Overall 88% of respondents advocated further training. significant deficits in knowledge regarding epistaxis management were highlighted. Further training could help to empower patients in basic first aid measures, subsequently reducing admissions rates.

Endoscopes and robots for tight surgical spaces: use of precurved elastic elements to enhance curvature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Remirez, Andria A.; Webster, Robert J.

2016-03-01

Many applications in medicine require flexible surgical manipulators and endoscopes capable of reaching tight curvatures. The maximum curvature these devices can achieve is often restricted either by a strain limit, or by a maximum actuation force that the device's components can tolerate without risking mechanical failure. In this paper we propose the use of precurvature to "bias" the workspace of the device in one direction. Combined with axial shaft rotation, biasing increases the size of the device's workspace, enabling it to reach tighter curvatures than a comparable device without biasing can achieve, while still being able to fully straighten. To illustrate this effect, we describe several example prototype devices which use flexible nitinol strips that can be pushed and pulled to generate bending. We provide a statics model that relates the manipulator curvature to actuation force, and validate it experimentally.

Energy dependence of CP-violation reach for monochromatic neutrino beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernabéu, José; Espinoza, Catalina

2008-06-01

The ultimate goal of future neutrino facilities is the determination of CP violation in neutrino oscillations. Besides | U (e 3) | ≠ 0, this will require precision experiments with a very intense neutrino source and energy control. With this objective in mind, the creation of monochromatic neutrino beams from the electron capture decay of boosted ions by the SPS of CERN has been proposed. We discuss the capabilities of such a facility as a function of the energy of the boost and the baseline for the detector. We compare the physics potential for two different configurations: (I) γ = 90 and γ = 195 (maximum achievable at present SPS) to Frejus; (II) γ = 195 and γ = 440 (maximum achievable at upgraded SPS) to Canfranc. We conclude that the SPS upgrade to 1000 GeV is important to reach a better sensitivity to CP violation iff it is accompanied by a longer baseline.