Introduction to the Theory of Atmospheric Radiative Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buglia, J. J.

1986-01-01

The fundamental physical and mathematical principles governing the transmission of radiation through the atmosphere are presented, with emphasis on the scattering of visible and near-IR radiation. The classical two-stream, thin-atmosphere, and Eddington approximations, along with some of their offspring, are developed in detail, along with the discrete ordinates method of Chandrasekhar. The adding and doubling methods are discussed from basic principles, and references for further reading are suggested.

Mapping forest inventory and analysis data attributes within the framework of double sampling for stratification design

Treesearch

David C. Chojnacky; Randolph H. Wynne; Christine E. Blinn

2009-01-01

Methodology is lacking to easily map Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) inventory statistics for all attribute variables without having to develop separate models and methods for each variable. We developed a mapping method that can directly transfer tabular data to a map on which pixels can be added any way desired to estimate carbon (or any other variable) for a...

AdS5×S(5) mirror model as a string sigma model.

PubMed

Arutyunov, Gleb; van Tongeren, Stijn J

2014-12-31

Doing a double Wick rotation in the world sheet theory of the light cone AdS5×S(5) superstring results in an inequivalent, so-called mirror theory that plays a central role in the field of integrability in the AdS-CFT correspondence. We show that this mirror theory can be interpreted as the light cone theory of a free string on a different background. This background is related to dS5×H(5) by a double T-duality, and has hidden supersymmetry. The geometry can also be extracted from an integrable deformation of the AdS5×S(5) sigma model, and we prove the observed mirror duality of these deformed models at the bosonic level as a byproduct. While we focus on AdS5×S(5), our results apply more generally.

Abundant immunoglobulin E-positive cells in skin lesions support an allergic etiology of atopic dermatitis in the elderly

PubMed Central

Tanei, R; Hasegawa, Y; Sawabe, M

2013-01-01

Background/Objectives Atopic dermatitis (AD) in the elderly is gradually increasing in industrialized countries in association with the aging of society. We report herein four cases of elderly AD {three extrinsic [immunoglobulin (Ig)E-mediated allergy]; one intrinsic (non-IgE-allergy)} in which we investigated the presence of IgE+ cells in lesional skin. Methods/Results Single immunohistochemical and double immunofluorescence stainings were performed for skin biopsy specimens from AD patients and non-atopic control subjects with chronic eczema. In the lesional lichenified skin of patients with extrinsic elderly AD, numerous IgE+ cells were found among inflammatory cells infiltrates in the upper dermis. Comparative analysis of single immunohistochemistry results using serial paraffin and/or frozen sections found that many IgE+ cells showed identical distributions to tryptase+ mast cells. IgE+ cells coincident with CD1a+ Langerhans cells in the epidermis were found in small numbers only in frozen sections. Double immunofluorescence staining for IgE and CD11c revealed cells coexpressing IgE and CD11c with a dendritic morphology in the papillary and upper dermis. These IgE+ mast cells and IgE+ CD11c+ cells were also found in cured normal-looking skin from a patient with extrinsic elderly AD after successful treatment. Although only a few weakly positive IgE+ cells were detected, no IgE+CD11c+ cells were found in specimens from patients with intrinsic elderly AD or non-atopic chronic eczema. Conclusion IgE-mediated allergic inflammation may play an important role in the pathobiology of elderly AD, similar to other age groups of AD. PMID:22702954

A randomized controlled double blind investigation of the effects of Vitamin D dietary supplementation in subjects with atopic dermatitis

PubMed Central

Hata, Tissa R.; Audish, David; Kotol, Paul; Coda, Alvin; Kabigting, Filamer; Miller, Jeremiah; Alexandrescu, Doru; Boguniewicz, Mark; Taylor, Patricia; Aertker, Leela; Kesler, Karen; Hanifin, Jon M.; Leung, Donald Y.M.; Gallo, Richard L.

2013-01-01

Background Subjects with atopic dermatitis (AD) have defects in antimicrobial peptide (AMP) production possibly contributing to an increased risk of infections. In laboratory models, vitamin D can alter innate immunity by increasing AMP production. Objective To determine if AD severity correlates with baseline vitamin D levels, and to test whether supplementation with oral vitamin D alters AMP production in AD skin. Methods This was a multi-center, placebo controlled, double-blind study in 30 subjects with AD, 30 non-atopic subjects, and 16 subjects with psoriasis. Subjects were randomized to receive either 4000 IU of cholecalciferol or placebo for 21 days. At baseline and day 21, levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), cathelicidin, HBD-3, IL-13, and Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) and Rajka-Langeland scores were obtained. Results At baseline, 20% of AD subjects had serum 25OHD below 20 ng/ml. Low serum 25OHD correlated with increased Fitzpatrick Skin Type and elevated BMI, but not AD severity. After 21 days of oral cholecalciferol, mean serum 25OHD increased, but there was no significant change in skin cathelicidin, HBD-3, IL-13, or EASI scores. Conclusions This study illustrated that darker skin types and elevated BMI are important risk factors for vitamin D deficiency in subjects with AD, and highlighted the possibility that seasonality and locale may be potent contributors to cathelicidin induction through their effect on steady state 25OHD levels. Given the molecular links between vitamin D and immune function, further study of vitamin D supplementation in subjects with AD is warranted. PMID:23638978

Mortality among patients due to adverse drug reactions that lead to hospitalization: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Patel, Tejas K; Patel, Parvati B

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of mortality among patients due to adverse drug reactions that lead to hospitalisation (fatal ADR Ad ), to explore the heterogeneity in its estimation through subgroup analysis of study characteristics, and to identify system-organ classes involved and causative drugs for fatal ADR Ad . We identified prospective ADR Ad -related studies via screening of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases with appropriate key terms. We estimated the prevalence of fatal ADR Ad using a double arcsine method and explored heterogeneity using the following study characteristics: age groups, wards, study region, ADR definitions, ADR identification methods, study duration and sample size. We examined patterns of fatal ADR Ad and causative drugs. Among 312 full-text articles assessed, 49 studies satisfied the selection criteria and were included in the analysis. The mean prevalence of fatal ADR Ad was 0.20% (95% CI: 0.13-0.27%; I 2  = 93%). The age groups and study wards were the important heterogeneity modifiers. The mean fatal ADR Ad prevalence varied from 0.01% in paediatric patients to 0.44% in the elderly. Subgroup analysis showed a higher prevalence of fatal ADR Ad in intensive care units, emergency departments, multispecialty wards and whole hospitals. Computer-based monitoring systems in combination with other methods detected higher mortality. Intracranial haemorrhage, renal failure and gastrointestinal bleeding accounted for more than 50% of fatal ADR Ad cases. Warfarin, aspirin, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors and digoxin accounted for 60% of fatal ADR Ad . ADR Ad is an important cause of mortality. Strategies targeting the safer use of warfarin, aspirin, RAS inhibitors and digoxin could reduce the large number of fatal ADR Ad cases.

Effect of solution combusted TiO2 nanopowder within commercial BaTiO3 dielectric layer on the photoelectric properties for AC powder electroluminescence devices.

PubMed

Park, Sung; Choi, Gil Rak; Kim, Youn Cheol; Lee, Jae Chun; Lee, Ju Hyeon

2013-05-01

A unique synthesis method was developed, which is called solution combustion method (SCM). TiO2 nanopowder was synthesized by this method. This SCM TiO2 nanopowder (-35 nm) was added to the dielectric layer of AC powder electroluminescence (EL) device. The dielectric layer was made of commercial BaTiO3 powder (-1.2 microm) and binding polymer. 0, 5, 10 and 15 wt% of SCM TiO2 nanopowder was added to the dielectric layer during fabrication of AC powder EL device respectively. Dielectric constant of these four kinds of dielectric layers was measured. The brightness and current density of AC powder EL device were also measured. When 10 wt% of SCM TiO2 nanopowder was added, dielectric constant and brightness were increased by 30% and 101% respectively. Furthermore, the current density was decreased by 71%. This means that the brightness was double and the power consumption was one third.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of simvastatin to treat Alzheimer disease

PubMed Central

Bell, K.L.; Galasko, D.; Galvin, J.E.; Thomas, R.G.; van Dyck, C.H.; Aisen, P.S.

2011-01-01

Background: Lowering cholesterol is associated with reduced CNS amyloid deposition and increased dietary cholesterol increases amyloid accumulation in animal studies. Epidemiologic data suggest that use of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) may decrease the risk of Alzheimer disease (AD) and a single-site trial suggested possible benefit in cognition with statin treatment in AD, supporting the hypothesis that statin therapy is useful in the treatment of AD. Objective: To determine if the lipid-lowering agent simvastatin slows the progression of symptoms in AD. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of simvastatin was conducted in individuals with mild to moderate AD and normal lipid levels. Participants were randomly assigned to receive simvastatin, 20 mg/day, for 6 weeks then 40 mg per day for the remainder of 18 months or identical placebo. The primary outcome was the rate of change in the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–cognitive portion (ADAS-Cog). Secondary outcomes measured clinical global change, cognition, function, and behavior. Results: A total of 406 individuals were randomized: 204 to simvastatin and 202 to placebo. Simvastatin lowered lipid levels but had no effect on change in ADAS-Cog score or the secondary outcome measures. There was no evidence of increased adverse events with simvastatin treatment. Conclusion: Simvastatin had no benefit on the progression of symptoms in individuals with mild to moderate AD despite significant lowering of cholesterol. Classification of evidence: This study provides Class I evidence that simvastatin 40 mg/day does not slow decline on the ADAS-Cog. PMID:21795660

Focal length hysteresis of a double-liquid lens based on electrowetting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Runling; Wang, Dazhen; Hu, Zhiwei; Chen, Jiabi; Zhuang, Songlin

2013-02-01

In this paper, an extended Young equation especially suited for an ideal cylindrical double-liquid variable-focus lens is derived by means of an energy minimization method. Based on the extended Young equation, a kind of focal length hysteresis effect is introduced into the double-liquid variable-focus lens. Such an effect can be explained theoretically by adding a force of friction to the tri-phase contact line. Theoretical analysis shows that the focal length at a particular voltage can be different depending on whether the applied voltage is increasing or decreasing, that is, there is a focal length hysteresis effect. Moreover, the focal length at a particular voltage must be larger when the voltage is rising than when it is dropping. These conclusions are also verified by experiments.

A Fast Vector Radiative Transfer Model for Atmospheric and Oceanic Remote Sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, J.; Yang, P.; King, M. D.; Platnick, S. E.; Meyer, K.

2017-12-01

A fast vector radiative transfer model is developed in support of atmospheric and oceanic remote sensing. This model is capable of simulating the Stokes vector observed at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) and the terrestrial surface by considering absorption, scattering, and emission. The gas absorption is parameterized in terms of atmospheric gas concentrations, temperature, and pressure. The parameterization scheme combines a regression method and the correlated-K distribution method, and can easily integrate with multiple scattering computations. The approach is more than four orders of magnitude faster than a line-by-line radiative transfer model with errors less than 0.5% in terms of transmissivity. A two-component approach is utilized to solve the vector radiative transfer equation (VRTE). The VRTE solver separates the phase matrices of aerosol and cloud into forward and diffuse parts and thus the solution is also separated. The forward solution can be expressed by a semi-analytical equation based on the small-angle approximation, and serves as the source of the diffuse part. The diffuse part is solved by the adding-doubling method. The adding-doubling implementation is computationally efficient because the diffuse component needs much fewer spherical function expansion terms. The simulated Stokes vector at both the TOA and the surface have comparable accuracy compared with the counterparts based on numerically rigorous methods.

Metal-ion retention properties of water-soluble amphiphilic block copolymer in double emulsion systems (w/o/w) stabilized by non-ionic surfactants.

PubMed

Palencia, Manuel; Rivas, Bernabé L

2011-11-15

Metal-ion retention properties of water-soluble amphiphilic polymers in presence of double emulsion were studied by diafiltration. Double emulsion systems, water-in-oil-in-water, with a pH gradient between external and internal aqueous phases were prepared. A poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) (PSAM) solution at pH 6.0 was added to the external aqueous phase of double emulsion and by application of pressure a divalent metal-ion stream was continuously added. Metal-ions used were Cu(2+) and Cd(2+) at the same pH of polymer solution. According to our results, metal-ion retention is mainly the result of polymer-metal interaction. Interaction between PSMA and reverse emulsion globules is strongly controlled by amount of metal-ions added in the external aqueous phase. In addition, as metal-ion concentration was increased, a negative effect on polymer retention capacity and promotion of flocculation phenomena were produced. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transmission loss of double panels filled with porogranular materials.

PubMed

Chazot, Jean-Daniel; Guyader, Jean-Louis

2009-12-01

Sound transmission through hollow structures found its interest in several industrial domains such as building acoustics, automotive industry, and aeronautics. However, in practice, hollow structures are often filled with porous materials to improve acoustic properties without adding an excessive mass. Recently a lot of interest arises for granular materials of low density that can be an alternative to standard absorbing materials. This paper aims to predict vibro-acoustic behavior of double panels filled with porogranular materials by using the patch-mobility method recently published. Biot's theory is a basic tool for the description of porous material but is quite difficult to use in practice, mostly because of the solid phase characterization. The original simplified Biot's model (fluid-fluid model) for porogranular material permitting a considerable reduction in data necessary for calculation has been recently published. The aim of the present paper is to propose a model to predict sound transmission through a double panel filled with a porogranular material. The method is an extension of a previous paper to take into account the porogranular material through fluid-fluid Biot's model. After a global overview of the method, the case of a double panel filled with expanded polystyrene beads is studied and a comparison with measurements is realized.

Peroxisome proliferators reduce spatial memory impairment, synaptic failure, and neurodegeneration in brains of a double transgenic mice model of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Inestrosa, Nibaldo C; Carvajal, Francisco J; Zolezzi, Juan M; Tapia-Rojas, Cheril; Serrano, Felipe; Karmelic, Daniel; Toledo, Enrique M; Toro, Andrés; Toro, Jessica; Santos, Manuel J

2013-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive deterioration of cognitive abilities, accumulation of the amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), increase of oxidative stress, and synaptic alterations. The scavenging of reactive oxygen species through their matrix enzyme catalase is one of the most recognized functions of peroxisomes. The induction of peroxisome proliferation is attained through different mechanisms by a set of structurally diverse molecules called peroxisome proliferators. In the present work, a double transgenic mouse model of AD that co-expresses a mutant human amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPPswe) and presenilin 1 without exon 9 (PS1dE9) was utilized in order to assess the effect of peroxisomal proliferation on Aβ neurotoxicity in vivo. Mice were tested for spatial memory and their brains analyzed by cytochemical, electrophysiological, and biochemical methods. We report here that peroxisomal proliferation significantly reduces (i) memory impairment, found in this model of AD; (ii) Aβ burden and plaque-associated acetylcholinesterase activity; (iii) neuroinflammation, measured by the extent of astrogliosis and microgliosis; and (iv) the decrease in postsynaptic proteins, while promoting synaptic plasticity in the form of long-term potentiation. We concluded that peroxisomal proliferation reduces various AD neuropathological markers and peroxisome proliferators may be considered as potential therapeutic agents against the disease.

Noniterative Multireference Coupled Cluster Methods on Heterogeneous CPU-GPU Systems

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

Bhaskaran-Nair, Kiran; Ma, Wenjing; Krishnamoorthy, Sriram

2013-04-09

A novel parallel algorithm for non-iterative multireference coupled cluster (MRCC) theories, which merges recently introduced reference-level parallelism (RLP) [K. Bhaskaran-Nair, J.Brabec, E. Aprà, H.J.J. van Dam, J. Pittner, K. Kowalski, J. Chem. Phys. 137, 094112 (2012)] with the possibility of accelerating numerical calculations using graphics processing unit (GPU) is presented. We discuss the performance of this algorithm on the example of the MRCCSD(T) method (iterative singles and doubles and perturbative triples), where the corrections due to triples are added to the diagonal elements of the MRCCSD (iterative singles and doubles) effective Hamiltonian matrix. The performance of the combined RLP/GPU algorithmmore » is illustrated on the example of the Brillouin-Wigner (BW) and Mukherjee (Mk) state-specific MRCCSD(T) formulations.« less

Risk profiles of Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Bilbul, Melanie; Schipper, Hyman M

2011-07-01

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a dementing, neurodegenerative disorder that affects approximately 500,000 Canadians and its prevalence is expected to double over the next 30 years. Although several medications may temporarily augment cognitive abilities in AD, there presently exists no proven method to avoid the inevitable clinical deterioration in this devastating condition. The delineation of risk factors for the development of AD offers hope for the advent of effective prevention or interventions that might retard the onset of symptoms. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of midlife risk factors implicated in the etiopathogenesis of sporadic AD. Although some risk factors are heritable and largely beyond our control, others are determined by lifestyle or environment and are potentially modifiable. In a companion paper, we introduce the concept of an Alzheimer Risk Assessment Clinic for ascertainment and mitigation of these and other putative dementia risk factors in middle-aged adults.

Contractions of AdS brane algebra and superGalileon Lagrangians

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

Kamimura, Kiyoshi; Onda, Seiji

2013-06-15

We examine AdS Galileon Lagrangians using the method of nonlinear realization. By contractions (1) flat curvature limit, (2) non-relativistic brane algebra limit, and (3) (1) + (2) limits we obtain DBI, Newton-Hoock, and Galilean Galileons, respectively. We make clear how these Lagrangians appear as invariant 4-forms and/or pseudo-invariant Wess-Zumino (WZ) terms using Maurer-Cartan (MC) equations on the coset G/SO(3, 1). We show the equations of motion are written in terms of the MC forms only and explain why the inverse Higgs condition is obtained as the equation of motion for all cases. The supersymmetric extension is also examined using amore » supercoset SU(2, 2 Double-Vertical-Line 1)/(SO(3, 1) Multiplication-Sign U(1)) and five WZ forms are constructed. They are reduced to the corresponding five Galileon WZ forms in the bosonic limit and are candidates for supersymmetric Galileon action.« less

BrAD-seq: Breath Adapter Directional sequencing: a streamlined, ultra-simple and fast library preparation protocol for strand specific mRNA library construction.

PubMed

Townsley, Brad T; Covington, Michael F; Ichihashi, Yasunori; Zumstein, Kristina; Sinha, Neelima R

2015-01-01

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is driving rapid advancement in biological understanding and RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) has become an indispensable tool for biology and medicine. There is a growing need for access to these technologies although preparation of NGS libraries remains a bottleneck to wider adoption. Here we report a novel method for the production of strand specific RNA-seq libraries utilizing the terminal breathing of double-stranded cDNA to capture and incorporate a sequencing adapter. Breath Adapter Directional sequencing (BrAD-seq) reduces sample handling and requires far fewer enzymatic steps than most available methods to produce high quality strand-specific RNA-seq libraries. The method we present is optimized for 3-prime Digital Gene Expression (DGE) libraries and can easily extend to full transcript coverage shotgun (SHO) type strand-specific libraries and is modularized to accommodate a diversity of RNA and DNA input materials. BrAD-seq offers a highly streamlined and inexpensive option for RNA-seq libraries.

A Versatile Platform for Nanotechnology Based on Circular Permutation of a Chaperonin Protein

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Paavola, Chad; McMillan, Andrew; Trent, Jonathan; Chan, Suzanne; Mazzarella, Kellen; Li, Yi-Fen

2004-01-01

A number of protein complexes have been developed as nanoscale templates. These templates can be functionalized using the peptide sequences that bind inorganic materials. However, it is difficult to integrate peptides into a specific position within a protein template. Integrating intact proteins with desirable binding or catalytic activities is an even greater challenge. We present a general method for modifying protein templates using circular permutation so that additional peptide sequence can be added in a wide variety of specific locations. Circular permutation is a reordering of the polypeptide chain such that the original termini are joined and new termini are created elsewhere in the protein. New sequence can be joined to the protein termini without perturbing the protein structure and with minimal limitation on the size and conformation of the added sequence. We have used this approach to modify a chaperonin protein template, placing termini at five different locations distributed across the surface of the protein complex. These permutants are competent to form the double-ring structures typical of chaperonin proteins. The permuted double-rings also form the same assemblies as the unmodified protein. We fused a fluorescent protein to two representative permutants and demonstrated that it assumes its active structure and does not interfere with assembly of chaperonin double-rings.

The adsorption-desorption transition of double-stranded DNA interacting with an oppositely charged dendrimer induced by multivalent anions.

PubMed

Jiang, Yangwei; Zhang, Dong; Zhang, Yaoyang; Deng, Zhenyu; Zhang, Linxi

2014-05-28

The adsorption-desorption transition of DNA in DNA-dendrimer solutions is observed when high-valence anions, such as hexavalent anions, are added to the DNA-dendrimer solutions. In the DNA-dendrimer solutions with low-valence anions, dendrimers bind tightly with the V-shaped double-stranded DNA. When high-valence anions, such as pentavalent or hexavalent anions, are added to the DNA-dendrimer solutions, the double-stranded DNA chains can be stretched straightly and the dendrimers are released from the double-stranded DNA chains. In fact, adding high-valence anions to the solutions can change the charge spatial distribution in the DNA-dendrimer solutions, and weaken the electrostatic interactions between the positively charged dendrimers and the oppositely charged DNA chains. Adsorption-desorption transition of DNA is induced by the overcharging of dendrimers. This investigation is capable of helping us understand how to control effectively the release of DNA in gene/drug delivery because an effective gene delivery for dendrimers includes non-covalent DNA-dendrimer binding and the effective release of DNA in gene therapy.

Pharmacogenetic analysis of the effects of polymorphisms in APOE, IDE and IL1B on a ketone body based therapeutic on cognition in mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease; a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background To examine the effect of genetic variation in APOE, IDE and IL1B on the response to induced ketosis in the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale (ADAS-Cog) in subjects with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Genotype effects on ADAS-Cog scores from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in mild to moderate AD were examined by an overall two way analysis of variance. In addition, interactions with the carriage status of the epsilon 4 allele of the APOE gene (APOE4) were examined. Results Significant differences in response to induced ketosis were found among non-carriers of putative gain-of-function polymorphisms in rs1143627 and rs16944 in the IL1B gene and among variants of the polymorphism rs2251101 in the IDE gene. Significant differences were found among non-carriers of the APOE4 gene, with notable improvement among the E3/E3 genotype group. Conclusions Variants in APOE, IL1B and IDE may influence the cognitive response to induced ketosis in patients with mild to moderate AD. Trial registration This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, registry number NCT00142805. PMID:21992747

A Numerical Study of the Thermal Characteristics of an Air Cavity Formed by Window Sashes in a Double Window

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Jae-sik; Oh, Eun-Joo; Bae, Min-Jung; Song, Doo-Sam

2017-12-01

Given that the Korean government is implementing what has been termed the energy standards and labelling program for windows, window companies will be required to assign window ratings based on the experimental results of their product. Because this has added to the cost and time required for laboratory tests by window companies, the simulation system for the thermal performance of windows has been prepared to compensate for time and cost burdens. In Korea, a simulator is usually used to calculate the thermal performance of a window through WINDOW/THERM, complying with ISO 15099. For a single window, the simulation results are similar to experimental results. A double window is also calculated using the same method, but the calculation results for this type of window are unreliable. ISO 15099 should not recommend the calculation of the thermal properties of an air cavity between window sashes in a double window. This causes a difference between simulation and experimental results pertaining to the thermal performance of a double window. In this paper, the thermal properties of air cavities between window sashes in a double window are analyzed through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations with the results compared to calculation results certified by ISO 15099. The surface temperature of the air cavity analyzed by CFD is compared to the experimental temperatures. These results show that an appropriate calculation method for an air cavity between window sashes in a double window should be established for reliable thermal performance results for a double window.

Genetic Interaction Mapping in Schizosaccharomyces pombe Using the Pombe Epistasis Mapper (PEM) System and a ROTOR HDA Colony Replicating Robot in a 1536 Array Format.

PubMed

Roguev, Assen; Xu, Jiewei; Krogan, Nevan

2018-02-01

This protocol describes an optimized high-throughput procedure for generating double deletion mutants in Schizosaccharomyces pombe using the colony replicating robot ROTOR HDA and the PEM (pombe epistasis mapper) system. The method is based on generating high-density colony arrays (1536 colonies per agar plate) and passaging them through a series of antidiploid and mating-type selection (ADS-MTS) and double-mutant selection (DMS) steps. Detailed program parameters for each individual replication step are provided. Using this procedure, batches of 25 or more screens can be routinely performed. © 2018 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.

DFMSPH14: A C-code for the double folding interaction potential of two spherical nuclei

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gontchar, I. I.; Chushnyakova, M. V.

2016-09-01

This is a new version of the DFMSPH code designed to obtain the nucleus-nucleus potential by using the double folding model (DFM) and in particular to find the Coulomb barrier. The new version uses the charge, proton, and neutron density distributions provided by the user. Also we added an option for fitting the DFM potential by the Gross-Kalinowski profile. The main functionalities of the original code (e.g. the nucleus-nucleus potential as a function of the distance between the centers of mass of colliding nuclei, the Coulomb barrier characteristics, etc.) have not been modified. Catalog identifier: AEFH_v2_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AEFH_v2_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen's University, Belfast, N. Ireland. Licensing provisions: GNU General Public License, version 3 No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 7211 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 114404 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: C Computer: PC and Mac Operation system: Windows XP and higher, MacOS, Unix/Linux Memory required to execute with typical data: below 10 Mbyte Classification: 17.9 Catalog identifier of previous version: AEFH_v1_0 Journal reference of previous version: Comp. Phys. Comm. 181 (2010) 168 Does the new version supersede the previous version?: Yes Nature of physical problem: The code calculates in a semimicroscopic way the bare interaction potential between two colliding spherical nuclei as a function of the center of mass distance. The height and the position of the Coulomb barrier are found. The calculated potential is approximated by an analytical profile (Woods-Saxon or Gross-Kalinowski) near the barrier. Dependence of the barrier parameters upon the characteristics of the effective NN forces (like, e.g. the range of the exchange part of the nuclear term) can be investigated. Method of solution: The nucleus-nucleus potential is calculated using the double folding model with the Coulomb and the effective M3Y NN interactions. For the direct parts of the Coulomb and the nuclear terms, the Fourier transform method is used. In order to calculate the exchange parts, the density matrix expansion method is applied. Typical running time: less than 1 minute. Reason for new version: Many users asked us how to implement their own density distributions in the DFMSPH. Now this option has been added. Also we found that the calculated Double-Folding Potential (DFP) is approximated more accurately by the Gross-Kalinowski (GK) profile. This option has been also added.

Abstracts of papers presented at the 8th workshop of the Virology Section of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hygiene und Mikro-biologie, Würzburg, March 17-19, 1983.

PubMed

1983-09-01

17 adenovirus strains were found to be antigenically related to prototype Ad 15 by neutralization. No relationship to Ad 15, but to Ad 9 could be detected by hemagglutination-inhibition; we therefore named them Ad 15/H9 intermediate strains. After analysis of the genome by five different restriction enzymes, the fragment patterns obtained deviated widely from the prototype Ad 15, but only slightly from Ad 9. Differences could also be observed among the variants. After digestion by five restriction enzymes, altogether six genome types could be established among the 17 intermediate strains. To map the variations on the genome of the 15/H9 strains, two methods were employed: the double digestion of the DNA and DNA fragments together with the determination of the terminal fragments made it possible to construct a physical map. The second method depends on a particularity of adenoviruses: the DNA is covalently linked with a 55 kD protein at the 5' terminus. After digestion of the DNA, which does contain this protein, the terminal DNA fragments do not migrate into the agarose gel; after an additional digestion with pronase B, they do migrate into the gel. Thus the terminal fragments were determined by comparing the fragment patterns with and without previous pronase B treatment.

Application of the Galerkin/least-squares formulation to the analysis of hypersonic flows. II - Flow past a double ellipse

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chalot, F.; Hughes, T. J. R.; Johan, Z.; Shakib, F.

1991-01-01

A finite element method for the compressible Navier-Stokes equations is introduced. The discretization is based on entropy variables. The methodology is developed within the framework of a Galerkin/least-squares formulation to which a discontinuity-capturing operator is added. Results for four test cases selected among those of the Workshop on Hypersonic Flows for Reentry Problems are presented.

A Phase I Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Study of the Safety and Immunogenicity of an Adjuvanted HIV-1 Gag-Pol-Nef Fusion Protein and Adenovirus 35 Gag-RT-Int-Nef Vaccine in Healthy HIV-Uninfected African Adults

PubMed Central

Omosa-Manyonyi, Gloria; Mpendo, Juliet; Ruzagira, Eugene; Kilembe, William; Chomba, Elwyn; Roman, François; Bourguignon, Patricia; Koutsoukos, Marguerite; Collard, Alix; Voss, Gerald; Laufer, Dagna; Stevens, Gwynn; Hayes, Peter; Clark, Lorna; Cormier, Emmanuel; Dally, Len; Barin, Burc; Ackland, Jim; Syvertsen, Kristen; Zachariah, Devika; Anas, Kamaal; Sayeed, Eddy; Lombardo, Angela; Gilmour, Jill; Cox, Josephine; Fast, Patricia; Priddy, Frances

2015-01-01

Background Sequential prime-boost or co-administration of HIV vaccine candidates based on an adjuvanted clade B p24, RT, Nef, p17 fusion protein (F4/AS01) plus a non-replicating adenovirus 35 expressing clade A Gag, RT, Int and Nef (Ad35-GRIN) may lead to a unique immune profile, inducing both strong T-cell and antibody responses. Methods In a phase 1, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 146 healthy adult volunteers were randomized to one of four regimens: heterologous prime-boost with two doses of F4/AS01E or F4/AS01B followed by Ad35-GRIN; Ad35-GRIN followed by two doses of F4/AS01B; or three co-administrations of Ad35-GRIN and F4/AS01B. T cell and antibody responses were measured. Results The vaccines were generally well-tolerated, and did not cause serious adverse events. The response rate, by IFN-γ ELISPOT, was greater when Ad35-GRIN was the priming vaccine and in the co-administration groups. F4/AS01 induced CD4+ T-cells expressing primarily CD40L and IL2 +/- TNF-α, while Ad35-GRIN induced predominantly CD8+ T-cells expressing IFN-γ +/- IL2 or TNF-α. Viral inhibition was induced after Ad35-GRIN vaccination, regardless of the regimen. Strong F4-specific antibody responses were induced. Immune responses persisted at least a year after the last vaccination. The complementary response profiles, characteristic of each vaccine, were both expressed after co-administration. Conclusion Co-administration of an adjuvanted protein and an adenovirus vector showed an acceptable safety and reactogenicity profile and resulted in strong, multifunctional and complementary HIV-specific immune responses. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01264445 PMID:25961283

Increase in transmission loss of a double panel system by addition of mass inclusions to a poro-elastic layer: A comparison between theory and experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Idrisi, Kamal; Johnson, Marty E.; Toso, Alessandro; Carneal, James P.

2009-06-01

This paper is concerned with the modeling and optimization of heterogeneous (HG) blankets, which are used in this investigation to reduce the sound transmission through double panel systems. HG blankets consist of poro-elastic media with small embedded masses, which act similarly to a distributed mass-spring-damper-system. HG blankets have shown significant potential to reduce low frequency radiated sound from structures, where traditional poro-elastic materials have little effect. A mathematical model of a double panel system with an acoustic cavity and HG blanket was developed using impedance and mobility methods. The predicted responses of the source and the receiving panel due to a point force are validated with experimental measurements. The presented results indicate that proper tuning of the HG blankets can result in broadband noise reduction below 500 Hz with less than 10% added mass.

Symbiotic relationship between hydrothermal carbonization technology and anaerobic digestion for food waste in China.

PubMed

Zhou, Ying; Engler, Nils; Nelles, Michael

2018-07-01

Food waste (FW) is traditionally disposed through landfills and incineration in China. Nowadays, there are some promising methods, such as anaerobic digestion (AD) or feeding and composting, which are being applied in pilot cities. However, the inherent characteristics of Chinese FW may be regarded as a double-edged sword in the practical applications of these disposal methods. To overcome these challenges, two modes of the hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) process were reviewed as innovative strategies in this article. Meanwhile, the "symbiotic relationship" between Chinese FW and HTC technologies was highlighted. To improve treatment efficiency of FW, we should not only try different methods and develop existing technologies, but also pay more attention to the utilization and "1 + 1 > 2" synergistic effect of their combinations, such as the combination of HTC and AD as a co-treatment method for saving on the construction cost and avoiding redistribution of social resources. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Fast Multiple Sampling Method for Low-Noise CMOS Image Sensors With Column-Parallel 12-bit SAR ADCs.

PubMed

Kim, Min-Kyu; Hong, Seong-Kwan; Kwon, Oh-Kyong

2015-12-26

This paper presents a fast multiple sampling method for low-noise CMOS image sensor (CIS) applications with column-parallel successive approximation register analog-to-digital converters (SAR ADCs). The 12-bit SAR ADC using the proposed multiple sampling method decreases the A/D conversion time by repeatedly converting a pixel output to 4-bit after the first 12-bit A/D conversion, reducing noise of the CIS by one over the square root of the number of samplings. The area of the 12-bit SAR ADC is reduced by using a 10-bit capacitor digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with four scaled reference voltages. In addition, a simple up/down counter-based digital processing logic is proposed to perform complex calculations for multiple sampling and digital correlated double sampling. To verify the proposed multiple sampling method, a 256 × 128 pixel array CIS with 12-bit SAR ADCs was fabricated using 0.18 μm CMOS process. The measurement results shows that the proposed multiple sampling method reduces each A/D conversion time from 1.2 μs to 0.45 μs and random noise from 848.3 μV to 270.4 μV, achieving a dynamic range of 68.1 dB and an SNR of 39.2 dB.

Added value of double reading in diagnostic radiology,a systematic review.

PubMed

Geijer, Håkan; Geijer, Mats

2018-06-01

Double reading in diagnostic radiology can find discrepancies in the original report, but a systematic program of double reading is resource consuming. There are conflicting opinions on the value of double reading. The purpose of the current study was to perform a systematic review on the value of double reading. A systematic review was performed to find studies calculating the rate of misses and overcalls with the aim of establishing the added value of double reading by human observers. The literature search resulted in 1610 hits. After abstract and full-text reading, 46 articles were selected for analysis. The rate of discrepancy varied from 0.4 to 22% depending on study setting. Double reading by a sub-specialist, in general, led to high rates of changed reports. The systematic review found rather low discrepancy rates. The benefit of double reading must be balanced by the considerable number of working hours a systematic double-reading scheme requires. A more profitable scheme might be to use systematic double reading for selected, high-risk examination types. A second conclusion is that there seems to be a value of sub-specialisation for increased report quality. A consequent implementation of this would have far-reaching organisational effects. • In double reading, two or more radiologists read the same images. • A systematic literature review was performed. • The discrepancy rates varied from 0.4 to 22% in various studies. • Double reading by sub-specialists found high discrepancy rates.

Effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Preparation on the Behavior,Biochemistry,and Autoimmune Parameters of Mouse Models of APP/PS1 Double Transgenic Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Qin, Chuan; Wu, Shanqiu; Chen, Baosheng; Wu, Xiaoxian; Qu, Kunyao; Liu, Junmin; Zhang, Guifang; Xu, Yanfeng; Shu, Shunli; Sun, Lihua; Li, Yanhong; Zhu, Hua; Huang, Lan; Ma, Chunmei; Xu, Yuhuan; Han, Yunlin; Lu, Yaozeng

2017-06-20

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of Ganoderma lucidum preparation on the behaviors,biochemistry,and autoimmunity parameters of mouse models of APP/PS-1 double transgenic Alzheimer's disease(AD).Methods A total of 44 4-month-old APP/PS-1 double transgenic AD mice were randomly divided into AD model group,Aricept group,Ganoderma lucidum middle-dose(LZ-M)group,and Ganoderma lucidum high-dose(LZ-H)group,with 11 mice in each group.In addition,10 4-month-old C57BL/6 mice were used as the control group.Water maze test was conducted to observe the behavior changes,and the protein expressions in brain tissues were detected by Western blot analysis.The autoimmune indicators were detected by indirect immunofluorescence method.Results In the navigation experiment,the time of finding the platform was gradually shortened since the 2 nd day in the control,LZ-H,and LZ-M groups,and the time of searching the platform in the AD model group gradually increased.On the 5 th day,the time of finding platform was significantly shorter in control group (t=5.607,P=0.000) and LZ-H group(t=2.750,P=0.010)than AD model group.In the space exploration experiment,the number of crossing the target platform(t=2.452,P=0.025)and the residence time in the target quadrant(t=2.530,P=0.020)in AD model group mice was significantly smaller/shorter than those in control group;in addition,the number of crossing the target platform in the AD model group was significantly smaller than that in LZ-H group(t=2.317,P=0.030)and LZ-M group(t=2.443,P=0.030),while the residence time in target quadrant decreased significantly(t=2.770,P=0.020)compared with LZ-H group;the number of crossing through the target platform quadrant(t=2.493,P=0.022)and residence time in the target quadrant(t=2.683,P=0.015)in LZ-H group were significantly higher than in Aricept group.Western blot analysis showed that the expression of ApoA1 in the brain tissues of mice in LZ-H and LZ-M groups were significantly higher than those in AD model group(P<0.01,P<0.05);Aβ-40 expression in LZ-H group was significantly lower than that in AD model group(P<0.05);the expressions of Syt1,ApoE,and ABCA1 in brain tissues of mice in LZ-H group were significantly higher than those in model group(P<0.01,P<0.05).The plasma IgG level in Aricept group(t=30.945,P=0.000),LZ-M group(t=25.639,P=0.000)and LZ-H group(t=4.689,P=0.001)were significantly higher than that in the control group.Conclusion Ganoderma lucidum preparation can improve behavior disorders of AD model mice,promote the expressions of ApoA1,ApoE and Syt1,inhibit the expression of Aβ-40 protein,and improve the autoimmune function.

PROCESS OF PREPARING A FLUORIDE OF TETRAVLENT URANIUM

DOEpatents

Wheelwright, E.J.

1959-02-17

A method is described for producing a fluoride salt pf tetravalent uranium suitable for bomb reduction to metallic uranium. An aqueous solution of uranyl nitrate is treated with acetic acid and a nitrite-suppressor and then contacted with metallic lead whereby uranium is reduced from the hexavalent to the tetravalent state and soluble lead acetate is formed. Sulfate ions are then added to the solution to precipitate and remove the lead values. Hydrofluoric acid and alkali metal ions are then added causing the formation of an alkali metal uranium double-fluoride in which the uranium is in the tetravalent state. After recovery, this precipitate is suitable for using in the limited production of metallic uranium.

Double biprism arrays design using for stereo-photography of mobile phone camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Wen-Shing; Chu, Pu-Yi; Chao, Yu-Hao; Pan, Jui-Wen; Tien, Chuen-Lin

2016-11-01

Generally, mobile phone use one camera to catch the image, and it is hard to get stereo image pair. Adding a biprism array can help that get the image pair easily. So users can use their mobile phone to catch the stereo image anywhere by adding a biprism array, and if they want to get a normal image just remove it. Using biprism arrays will induce chromatic aberration. Therefore, we design a double biprism arrays to reduce chromatic aberration.

Mechanochemical synthesis and intercalation of Ca(II)Fe(III)-layered double hydroxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferencz, Zs.; Szabados, M.; Varga, G.; Csendes, Z.; Kukovecz, Á.; Kónya, Z.; Carlson, S.; Sipos, P.; Pálinkó, I.

2016-01-01

A mechanochemical method (grinding the components without added water - dry grinding, followed by further grinding in the presence of minute amount of water or NaOH solution - wet grinding) was used in this work for the preparation and intercalation of CaFe-layered double hydroxides (LDHs). Both the pristine LDHs and the amino acid anion (cystinate and tyrosinate) intercalated varieties were prepared by the two-step grinding procedure in a mixer mill. By systematically changing the conditions of the preparation method, a set of parameters could be determined, which led to the formation of close to phase-pure LDH. The optimisation procedure was also applied for the intercalation processes of the amino acid anions. The resulting materials were structurally characterised by a range of methods (X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive analysis, thermogravimetry, X-ray absorption and infra-red spectroscopies). It was proven that this simple mechanochemical procedure was able to produce complex organic-inorganic nanocomposites: LDHs intercalated with amino acid anions.

High Energy Scattering in the AdS/CFT Correspondence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penedones, Joao

2007-12-01

This work explores the celebrated AdS/CFT correspondence in the regime of high energy scattering in Anti--de Sitter (AdS) spacetime. In particular, we develop the eikonal approximation to high energy scattering in AdS and explore its consequences for the dual Conformal Field Theory (CFT). Using position space Feynman rules, we rederive the eikonal approximation for high energy scattering in flat space. Following this intuitive position space perspective, we then generalize the eikonal approximation for high energy scattering in AdS and other spacetimes. Remarkably, we are able to resum, in terms of a generalized phase shift, ladder and cross ladder Witten diagrams associated to the exchange of an AdS spin j field, to all orders in the coupling constant. By the AdS/CFT correspondence, the eikonal amplitude in AdS is related to the four point function of CFT primary operators in the regime of large 't Hooft coupling, including all terms of the 1/N expansion. We then show that the eikonal amplitude determines the behavior of the CFT four point function for small values of the cross ratios in a Lorentzian regime and that this controls its high spin and dimension conformal partial wave decomposition. These results allow us to determine the anomalous dimension of high spin and dimension double trace primary operators, by relating it to the AdS eikonal phase shift. Finally we find that, at large energies and large impact parameters in AdS, the gravitational interaction dominates all other interactions, as in flat space. Therefore, the anomalous dimension of double trace operators, associated to graviton exchange in AdS, yields a universal prediction for CFT's with AdS gravitational duals.

Determination of coal ash content by the combined x-ray fluorescence and scattering spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikhailov, I. F.; Baturin, A. A.; Mikhailov, A. I.; Borisova, S. S.; Fomina, L. P.

2018-02-01

An alternative method is proposed for the determination of the inorganic constituent mass fraction (ash) in solid fuel by the ratio of Compton and Rayleigh X-ray scattering peaks IC/IR subject to the iron fluorescence intensity. An original X-ray optical scheme with a Ti/Mo (or Sc/Cu) double-layer secondary radiator allows registration of the combined fluorescence-and-scattering spectrum at the specified scattering angle. An algorithm for linear calibration of the Compton-to-Rayleigh IC/IR ratio is proposed which uses standard samples with two certified characteristics: mass fractions of ash (Ad) and iron oxide (WFe2O3). Ash mass fractions have been determined for coals of different deposits in the wide range of Ad from 9.4% to 52.7% mass and WFe2O3 from 0.3% to 4.95% mass. Due to the high penetrability of the probing radiation with energy E > 17 keV, the sample preparation procedure is rather simplified in comparison with the traditional method of Ad determination by the sum of fluorescence intensities of all constituent elements.

Methods and Costs to Achieve Ultra Reliable Life Support

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Harry W.

2012-01-01

A published Mars mission is used to explore the methods and costs to achieve ultra reliable life support. The Mars mission and its recycling life support design are described. The life support systems were made triply redundant, implying that each individual system will have fairly good reliability. Ultra reliable life support is needed for Mars and other long, distant missions. Current systems apparently have insufficient reliability. The life cycle cost of the Mars life support system is estimated. Reliability can be increased by improving the intrinsic system reliability, adding spare parts, or by providing technically diverse redundant systems. The costs of these approaches are estimated. Adding spares is least costly but may be defeated by common cause failures. Using two technically diverse systems is effective but doubles the life cycle cost. Achieving ultra reliability is worth its high cost because the penalty for failure is very high.

Investigating the effect of adding an on-axis jet to Ar gas puff Z pinches on Z.

DOE PAGES

Harvey-Thompson, Adam James; Jennings, Christopher Ashley; Jones, Brent M.; ...

2016-10-20

Double-shell Ar gas puff implosions driven by 16.5±0.5 MA on the Z generator at Sandia National Laboratories are very effective emitters of Ar K-shell radiation (photon energy >3 keV), producing yields of 330 ± 9% kJ (B. Jones et al., Phys. Plasmas, 22, 020706, 2015). In addition, previous simulations and experiments have reported dramatic increases in K-shell yields when adding an on-axis jet to double shell gas puffs for some configurations.

A Fast Multiple Sampling Method for Low-Noise CMOS Image Sensors With Column-Parallel 12-bit SAR ADCs

PubMed Central

Kim, Min-Kyu; Hong, Seong-Kwan; Kwon, Oh-Kyong

2015-01-01

This paper presents a fast multiple sampling method for low-noise CMOS image sensor (CIS) applications with column-parallel successive approximation register analog-to-digital converters (SAR ADCs). The 12-bit SAR ADC using the proposed multiple sampling method decreases the A/D conversion time by repeatedly converting a pixel output to 4-bit after the first 12-bit A/D conversion, reducing noise of the CIS by one over the square root of the number of samplings. The area of the 12-bit SAR ADC is reduced by using a 10-bit capacitor digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with four scaled reference voltages. In addition, a simple up/down counter-based digital processing logic is proposed to perform complex calculations for multiple sampling and digital correlated double sampling. To verify the proposed multiple sampling method, a 256 × 128 pixel array CIS with 12-bit SAR ADCs was fabricated using 0.18 μm CMOS process. The measurement results shows that the proposed multiple sampling method reduces each A/D conversion time from 1.2 μs to 0.45 μs and random noise from 848.3 μV to 270.4 μV, achieving a dynamic range of 68.1 dB and an SNR of 39.2 dB. PMID:26712765

A novel automatic quantification method for high-content screening analysis of DNA double strand-break response.

PubMed

Feng, Jingwen; Lin, Jie; Zhang, Pengquan; Yang, Songnan; Sa, Yu; Feng, Yuanming

2017-08-29

High-content screening is commonly used in studies of the DNA damage response. The double-strand break (DSB) is one of the most harmful types of DNA damage lesions. The conventional method used to quantify DSBs is γH2AX foci counting, which requires manual adjustment and preset parameters and is usually regarded as imprecise, time-consuming, poorly reproducible, and inaccurate. Therefore, a robust automatic alternative method is highly desired. In this manuscript, we present a new method for quantifying DSBs which involves automatic image cropping, automatic foci-segmentation and fluorescent intensity measurement. Furthermore, an additional function was added for standardizing the measurement of DSB response inhibition based on co-localization analysis. We tested the method with a well-known inhibitor of DSB response. The new method requires only one preset parameter, which effectively minimizes operator-dependent variations. Compared with conventional methods, the new method detected a higher percentage difference of foci formation between different cells, which can improve measurement accuracy. The effects of the inhibitor on DSB response were successfully quantified with the new method (p = 0.000). The advantages of this method in terms of reliability, automation and simplicity show its potential in quantitative fluorescence imaging studies and high-content screening for compounds and factors involved in DSB response.

Comparison of agar dilution and antibiotic gradient strip test with broth microdilution for susceptibility testing of swine Brachyspira species.

PubMed

Mirajkar, Nandita S; Gebhart, Connie J

2016-03-01

Production-limiting diseases in swine caused by Brachyspira are characterized by mucohemorrhagic diarrhea (B. hyodysenteriae and "B. hampsonii") or mild colitis (B. pilosicoli), while B. murdochii is often isolated from healthy pigs. Emergence of novel pathogenic Brachyspira species and strains with reduced susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobials has reinforced the need for standardized susceptibility testing. Two methods are currently used for Brachyspira susceptibility testing: agar dilution (AD) and broth microdilution (BMD). However, these tests have primarily been used for B. hyodysenteriae and rarely for B. pilosicoli. Information on the use of commercial susceptibility testing products such as antibiotic gradient strips is lacking. Our main objective was to validate and compare the susceptibility results, measured as the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), of 6 antimicrobials for 4 Brachyspira species (B. hyodysenteriae, "B. hampsonii", B. pilosicoli, and B. murdochii) by BMD and AD (tiamulin, valnemulin, lincomycin, tylosin, and carbadox) or antibiotic gradient strip (doxycycline) methods. In general, the results of a high percentage of all 4 Brachyspira species differed by ±1 log2 dilution or less by BMD and AD for tiamulin, valnemulin, lincomycin, and tylosin, and by BMD and antibiotic gradient strip for doxycycline. The carbadox MICs obtained by BMD were 1-5 doubling dilutions different than those obtained by AD. BMD for Brachyspira was quicker to perform with less ambiguous interpretation of results when compared with AD and antibiotic gradient strip methods, and the results confirm the utility of BMD in routine diagnostics. © 2016 The Author(s).

Stochastic quantization of conformally coupled scalar in AdS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jatkar, Dileep P.; Oh, Jae-Hyuk

2013-10-01

We explore the relation between stochastic quantization and holographic Wilsonian renormalization group flow further by studying conformally coupled scalar in AdS d+1. We establish one to one mapping between the radial flow of its double trace deformation and stochastic 2-point correlation function. This map is shown to be identical, up to a suitable field re-definition of the bulk scalar, to the original proposal in arXiv:1209.2242.

CCD Astrometric Measurements of WDS 05247+3723

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chasin, Mike; Adas, Matthew; Tanon, Naylynn; Boyce, Grady; Boyce, Pat

2017-07-01

Theta and rho astrometric measurements were made of the double star system WDS 05247+3723 pairs AB, AC, and CD. These measurements compared favorably with the historic data from the Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS). We also measured the AD, BC, & BD pair relative astrometry.

Efficacy and safety of adding alirocumab to rosuvastatin versus adding ezetimibe or doubling the rosuvastatin dose in high cardiovascular-risk patients: The ODYSSEY OPTIONS II randomized trial.

PubMed

Farnier, Michel; Jones, Peter; Severance, Randall; Averna, Maurizio; Steinhagen-Thiessen, Elisabeth; Colhoun, Helen M; Du, Yunling; Hanotin, Corinne; Donahue, Stephen

2016-01-01

To compare lipid-lowering efficacy of adding alirocumab to rosuvastatin versus other treatment strategies (NCT01730053). Patients receiving baseline rosuvastatin regimens (10 or 20 mg) were randomized to: add-on alirocumab 75 mg every-2-weeks (Q2W) (1-mL subcutaneous injection via pre-filled pen); add-on ezetimibe 10 mg/day; or double-dose rosuvastatin. Patients had cardiovascular disease (CVD) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) ≥70 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L) or CVD risk factors and LDL-C ≥100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L). In the alirocumab group, dose was blindly increased at Week 12 to 150 mg Q2W (also 1-mL volume) in patients not achieving their LDL-C target. Primary endpoint was percent change in calculated LDL-C from baseline to 24 weeks (intent-to-treat). 305 patients were randomized. In the baseline rosuvastatin 10 mg group, significantly greater LDL-C reductions were observed with add-on alirocumab (-50.6%) versus ezetimibe (-14.4%; p < 0.0001) and double-dose rosuvastatin (-16.3%; p < 0.0001). In the baseline rosuvastatin 20 mg group, LDL-C reduction with add-on alirocumab was -36.3% compared with -11.0% with ezetimibe and -15.9% with double-dose rosuvastatin (p = 0.0136 and 0.0453, respectively; pre-specified threshold for significance p < 0.0125). Overall, ∼80% alirocumab patients were maintained on 75 mg Q2W. Of alirocumab-treated patients, 84.9% and 66.7% in the baseline rosuvastatin 10 and 20 mg groups, respectively, achieved risk-based LDL-C targets. Treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in 56.3% of alirocumab patients versus 53.5% ezetimibe and 67.3% double-dose rosuvastatin (pooled data). The addition of alirocumab to rosuvastatin provided incremental LDL-C lowering versus adding ezetimibe or doubling the rosuvastatin dose. Copyright © 2015 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Benzoate, a D-amino acid oxidase inhibitor, for the treatment of early-phase Alzheimer disease: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Lin, Chieh-Hsin; Chen, Ping-Kun; Chang, Yue-Cune; Chuo, Liang-Jen; Chen, Yan-Syun; Tsai, Guochuan E; Lane, Hsien-Yuan

2014-05-01

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated neurotransmission is vital for learning and memory. Hypofunction of NMDAR has been reported to play a role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer disease (AD), particularly in the early phase. Enhancing NMDAR activation might be a novel treatment approach. One of the methods to enhance NMDAR activity is to raise the levels of NMDA coagonists by blocking their metabolism. This study examined the efficacy and safety of sodium benzoate, a D-amino acid oxidase inhibitor, for the treatment of amnestic mild cognitive impairment and mild AD. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in four major medical centers in Taiwan. Sixty patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or mild AD were treated with 250-750 mg/day of sodium benzoate or placebo for 24 weeks. Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (the primary outcome) and global function (assessed by Clinician Interview Based Impression of Change plus Caregiver Input) were measured every 8 weeks. Additional cognition composite was measured at baseline and endpoint. Sodium benzoate produced a better improvement than placebo in Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (p = .0021, .0116, and .0031 at week 16, week 24, and endpoint, respectively), additional cognition composite (p = .007 at endpoint) and Clinician Interview Based Impression of Change plus Caregiver Input (p = .015, .016, and .012 at week 16, week 24, and endpoint, respectively). Sodium benzoate was well-tolerated without evident side-effects. Sodium benzoate substantially improved cognitive and overall functions in patients with early-phase AD. The preliminary results show promise for D-amino acid oxidase inhibition as a novel approach for early dementing processes. Copyright © 2014 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Jefferson Lab 12 GEV Cebaf Upgrade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rode, C. H.

2010-04-01

The existing continuous electron beam accelerator facility (CEBAF) at Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (TJNAF) is a 5-pass, recirculating cw electron Linac operating at ˜6 GeV and is devoted to basic research in nuclear physics. The 12 GeV CEBAF Upgrade is a 310 M project, sponsored by the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Nuclear Physics, that will expand its research capabilities substantially by doubling the maximum energy and adding major new experimental apparatus. The project received construction approval in September 2008 and has started the major procurement process. The cryogenic aspects of the 12 GeV CEBAF Upgrade includes: doubling the accelerating voltages of the Linacs by adding ten new high-performance, superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cryomodules (CMs) to the existing 42 1/4 cryomodules; doubling of the 2 K cryogenics plant; and the addition of eight superconducting magnets.

A fast invariant imbedding method for multiple scattering calculations and an application to equivalent widths of CO2 lines on Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sato, M.; Kawabata, K.; Hansen, J. E.

1977-01-01

The invariant imbedding method considered is based on an equation which describes the change in the reflected radiation when an optically thin layer is added to the top of the atmosphere. The equation is used to treat the problem of reflection from a planetary atmosphere as an initial value problem. A fast method is discussed for the solution of the invariant imbedding equation. The speed and accuracy of the new method are illustrated by comparing it with the doubling program published by Hansen and Travis (1974). Computations are performed of the equivalent widths of carbon dioxide absorption lines in solar radiation reflected by Venus for several models of the planetary atmosphere.

Autoimmune Manifestations in the 3xTg-AD Model of Alzheimer's Disease

PubMed Central

Marchese, Monica; Cowan, David; Head, Elizabeth; Ma, Donglai; Karimi, Khalil; Ashthorpe, Vanessa; Kapadia, Minesh; Zhao, Hui; Davis, Paulina; Sakic, Boris

2015-01-01

Background Immune system activation is frequently reported in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, it remains unknown whether this is a cause, a consequence, or an epiphenomenon of brain degeneration. Objective The present study examines whether immunological abnormalities occur in a well-established murine AD model and if so, how they relate temporally to behavioral deficits and neuropathology. Methods A broad battery of tests was employed to assess behavioral performance and autoimmune/inflammatory markers in 3xTg-AD (AD) mice and wild type controls from 1.5 to 12 months of age. Results Aged AD mice displayed severe manifestations of systemic autoimmune/inflammatory disease, as evidenced by splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, elevated serum levels of anti-nuclear/anti-dsDNA antibodies, low hematocrit, and increased number of double-negative T splenocytes. However, anxiety-related behavior and altered spleen function were evident as early as 2 months of age, thus preceding typical AD-like brain pathology. Moreover, AD mice showed altered olfaction and impaired “cognitive” flexibility in the first 6 months of life, suggesting mild cognitive impairment-like manifestations before general learning/memory impairments emerged at an older age. Interestingly, all of these features were present in 3xTg-AD mice prior to significant amyloid-β or tau pathology. Conclusion The results indicate that behavioral deficits in AD mice develop in parallel with systemic autoimmune/inflammatory disease. These changes antedate AD-like neuropathology, thus supporting a causal link between autoimmunity and aberrant behavior. Consequently, 3xTg-AD mice may be a useful model in elucidating the role of immune system in the etiology of AD. PMID:24150111

Theoretical modeling of the dynamics of a semiconductor laser subject to double-reflector optical feedback

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

Bakry, A.; Abdulrhmann, S.; Ahmed, M., E-mail: mostafa.farghal@mu.edu.eg

2016-06-15

We theoretically model the dynamics of semiconductor lasers subject to the double-reflector feedback. The proposed model is a new modification of the time-delay rate equations of semiconductor lasers under the optical feedback to account for this type of the double-reflector feedback. We examine the influence of adding the second reflector to dynamical states induced by the single-reflector feedback: periodic oscillations, period doubling, and chaos. Regimes of both short and long external cavities are considered. The present analyses are done using the bifurcation diagram, temporal trajectory, phase portrait, and fast Fourier transform of the laser intensity. We show that adding themore » second reflector attracts the periodic and perioddoubling oscillations, and chaos induced by the first reflector to a route-to-continuous-wave operation. During this operation, the periodic-oscillation frequency increases with strengthening the optical feedback. We show that the chaos induced by the double-reflector feedback is more irregular than that induced by the single-reflector feedback. The power spectrum of this chaos state does not reflect information on the geometry of the optical system, which then has potential for use in chaotic (secure) optical data encryption.« less

Double Star Measurements Using a Webcam and CCD Camera, Annual Report of 2016

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlimmer, Jeorg

2018-01-01

This report shows the results on 223 double star measurements from 2016; mini-mum separation is 1.23 a.s. (STF1024AB), maximum separation is 371 a.s. (STF1424AD). The mean value of all measurements is 18.7 a.s.

The effect of latent adenovirus 5 infection on cigarette smoke-induced lung inflammation.

PubMed

Vitalis, T Z; Kern, I; Croome, A; Behzad, H; Hayashi, S; Hogg, J C

1998-03-01

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that latent adenovirus (Ad) 5 infection increases the lung inflammation that follows a single acute exposure to cigarette smoke. A recently developed model of latent adenoviral infection in guinea-pigs was used. Twelve animals were infected with Ad5 (10(8) plaque-forming units) and 12 animals were sham-infected. Thirty five days later six Ad5-infected and six sham-infected animals were exposed to the smoke from five cigarettes. The remaining animals were used as controls for both infection and smoking. As markers of inflammation, the volume fraction of macrophages, T-lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils were measured by quantitative histology. We found that latent Ad5-infection alone, doubled the number of macrophages in the lung parenchyma and that smoking alone, doubled the volume fraction of neutrophils in the airway wall and the volume fraction of macrophages in the lung parenchyma. Neither viral infection nor smoking, alone, had an effect on T-lymphocytes or eosinophils. However, the combination of viral infection and smoking doubled the T-lymphocyte helper cells and quadrupled the volume fraction of macrophages in the lung parenchyma. We conclude that in guinea-pigs, latent adenovirus 5 infection increases the inflammation that follows a single acute exposure to cigarette smoke, by increasing the volume fraction of macrophages and T-lymphocyte helper cells.

Polarized Light Reflected and Transmitted by Thick Rayleigh Scattering Atmospheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Natraj, Vijay; Hovenier, J. W.

2012-03-01

Accurate values for the intensity and polarization of light reflected and transmitted by optically thick Rayleigh scattering atmospheres with a Lambert surface underneath are presented. A recently reported new method for solving integral equations describing Chandrasekhar's X- and Y-functions is used. The results have been validated using various tests and techniques, including the doubling-adding method, and are accurate to within one unit in the eighth decimal place. Tables are stored electronically and expected to be useful as benchmark results for the (exo)planetary science and astrophysics communities. Asymptotic expressions to obtain Stokes parameters for a thick layer from those of a semi-infinite atmosphere are also provided.

An image morphing technique based on optimal mass preserving mapping.

PubMed

Zhu, Lei; Yang, Yan; Haker, Steven; Tannenbaum, Allen

2007-06-01

Image morphing, or image interpolation in the time domain, deals with the metamorphosis of one image into another. In this paper, a new class of image morphing algorithms is proposed based on the theory of optimal mass transport. The L(2) mass moving energy functional is modified by adding an intensity penalizing term, in order to reduce the undesired double exposure effect. It is an intensity-based approach and, thus, is parameter free. The optimal warping function is computed using an iterative gradient descent approach. This proposed morphing method is also extended to doubly connected domains using a harmonic parameterization technique, along with finite-element methods.

An Image Morphing Technique Based on Optimal Mass Preserving Mapping

PubMed Central

Zhu, Lei; Yang, Yan; Haker, Steven; Tannenbaum, Allen

2013-01-01

Image morphing, or image interpolation in the time domain, deals with the metamorphosis of one image into another. In this paper, a new class of image morphing algorithms is proposed based on the theory of optimal mass transport. The L2 mass moving energy functional is modified by adding an intensity penalizing term, in order to reduce the undesired double exposure effect. It is an intensity-based approach and, thus, is parameter free. The optimal warping function is computed using an iterative gradient descent approach. This proposed morphing method is also extended to doubly connected domains using a harmonic parameterization technique, along with finite-element methods. PMID:17547128

Role of the α1 Blocker Doxazosin in Alcoholism: a Proof-of-Concept Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Kenna, George A.; Haass-Koffler, Carolina L.; Zywiak, William H.; Edwards, Steven M.; Brickley, Michael B.; Swift, Robert M.; Leggio, Lorenzo

2015-01-01

Background Evidence suggests the norepinephrine system represents an important treatment target for alcohol dependence (AD) and the α1-blocker prazosin may reduce alcohol drinking in rodents and alcoholic patients. The α1-blocker doxazosin demonstrates a more favorable pharmacokinetic profile than prazosin but has never been studied for AD. Methods A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted in AD individuals seeking outpatient treatment. Doxazosin or matched placebo was titrated to 16-mg/day (or maximum tolerable dose). Drinks per week (DPW) and heavy drinking days (HDD) per week were primary outcomes. Family history density of alcoholism (FHDA), severity of AD, and gender were a priori moderators. Results Forty-one AD individuals were randomized, 30 (doxazosin = 15) completed the treatment phase, and 28 (doxazosin = 14) also completed the follow-up. There were no significant differences between groups on DPW and HDD per week. With FHDA as a moderator, there were significant FHDA x medication interactions for both DPW [pcorrected = .001, d = 1.18] and HDD [pcorrected = .00009, d = 1.30]. Post-hoc analyses revealed that doxazosin significantly reduced alcohol drinking in AD patients with high FHDA and by contrast increased drinking in those with low FHDA. Conclusions Doxazosin may be effective selectively in AD patients with high FHDA. This study provides preliminary evidence for personalized medicine using α1-blockade to treat AD. However, confirmatory studies are required. PMID:26037245

Polymer formulations for gettering hydrogen

DOEpatents

Shepodd, Timothy J.; Even, Jr., William R.

2000-01-01

A novel method for preparing a hydrogenation composition comprising organic polymer molecules having carbon--carbon double bonds, for removing hydrogen from the atmosphere within enclosed spaces and particularly from atmospheres within enclosed spaces that contain air, water vapor, oxygen, carbon dioxide or ammonia. The organic polymers molecules containing carbon--carbon double bonds throughout their structures, preferably polybutadiene, polyisoprene and derivatives thereof, intimately mixed with an insoluble noble metal catalyst composition. High molecular weight polymers may be added to the organic polymer/catalyst mixture in order to improve their high temperature performance. The hydrogenation composition is prepared by dispersing the polymers in a suitable solvent, forming thereby a solution suspension, flash-freezing droplets of the solution in a liquid cryogen, freeze-drying the frozen droplets to remove frozen solvent incorporated in the droplets, and recovering the dried powder thus formed.

Development of traceable measurement of the diffuse optical properties of solid reference standards for biomedical optics at National Institute of Standards and Technology.

PubMed

Lemaillet, Paul; Bouchard, Jean-Pierre; Allen, David W

2015-07-01

The development of a national reference instrument dedicated to the measurement of the scattering and absorption properties of solid tissue-mimicking phantoms used as reference standards is presented. The optical properties of the phantoms are measured with a double-integrating sphere setup in the steady-state domain, coupled with an inversion routine of the adding-doubling procedure that allows for the computation of the uncertainty budget for the measurements. The results are compared to the phantom manufacturer's values obtained by a time-resolved approach. The results suggest that the agreement between these two independent methods is within the estimated uncertainties. This new reference instrument will provide optical biomedical research laboratories with reference values for absolute diffuse optical properties of phantom materials.

Spelling Endings Added to e: Level III, Unit 5, Lesson 1; Capitalization: Lesson 2; Question Marks and Exclamation Points: Lesson 3; Quotation Marks: Lesson 4; Spelling Double Letter Demons: Lesson 5; Colons and Dashes: Lesson 6; Punctuating Series with Commas and Semicolons: Lesson 7; More Confusing Word Pairs: Lesson 8; Separating Sentence Parts with Punctuation: Lesson 9; Other Uses for Commas and Semicolons.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manpower Administration (DOL), Washington, DC. Job Corps.

This self-study program for the high-school level contains lessons in the following subjects: Spelling Endings Added to e; Capitalization; Question Marks and Exclamation Points; Quotation Marks; Spelling Double Letter Demons; Colons and Dashes; Punctuating Series with Commas and Semicolons; More Confusing Word Pairs; Separating Sentence Parts with…

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy in AD of liquid soap containing 12% ammonium lactate + 20% urea.

PubMed

Amichai, B; Grunwald, M H

2009-12-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disease, which mainly affects children. Xerosis is one of the most troublesome signs of the disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of liquid soap containing 12% ammonium lactate + 20% urea in patients with AD. In a randomized, double-blind study, 36 patients (both male and female patients; age range 3-40 years) with mild to moderate AD were enrolled. Patients were divided randomly into two groups, in a ratio of 2:1 (active:placebo). The prescribed soap was used on a daily basis during a shower for 3 weeks. All patients continued all other systemic or topical medication but avoided any other soap or emollients. After 3 weeks of treatment, efficacy was assessed both by clinician and patient. There were significant improvements in scaling (P < 0.0001), skin dryness (P < 0.0001) and redness (P = 0.03) as rated by the investigator, and subjective patient assessment of itch also improved (P < 0.001) in the study group compared with the control group. The liquid soap was found to be effective in patients with AD, as use of this soap in patients with stable mild to moderate AD improved the parameters studied.

Support-Staff Jobs Double in 20 Years, Outpacing Enrollment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brainard, Jeffrey; Fain, Paul; Masterson, Kathryn

2009-01-01

Colleges have added managers and support personnel at a steady, vigorous clip over the past 20 years, new research shows, far outpacing the growth in student enrollment and instructors. Support staff--like budget analysts, computer specialists, and loan counselors--nearly doubled from 1987 to 2007. Meanwhile, jobs for instructors increased by only…

Do Double Minority Students Face Double Jeopardy? Testing Minority Stress Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hayes, Jeffrey A.; Chun-Kennedy, Caitlin; Edens, Astrid; Locke, Benjamin D.

2011-01-01

Data from 2 studies revealed that ethnic and sexual minority clients experienced greater psychological distress on multiple dimensions than did European American or heterosexual clients, respectively, as did ethnic and sexual minority students who were not clients. Among sexual minority students, ethnicity was not an added source of distress.…

Double-trace flows and the swampland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giombi, Simone; Perlmutter, Eric

2018-03-01

We explore the idea that large N, non-supersymmetric conformal field theories with a parametrically large gap to higher spin single-trace operators may be obtained as infrared fixed points of relevant double-trace deformations of superconformal field theories. After recalling the AdS interpretation and some potential pathologies of such flows, we introduce a concrete example that appears to avoid them: the ABJM theory at finite k, deformed by \\int O^2, where O is the superconformal primary in the stress-tensor multiplet. We address its relation to recent conjectures based on weak gravity bounds, and discuss the prospects for a wider class of similarly viable flows. Next, we proceed to analyze the spectrum and correlation functions of the putative IR CFT, to leading non-trivial order in 1 /N. This includes analytic computations of the change under double-trace flow of connected four-point functions of ABJM superconformal primaries; and of the IR anomalous dimensions of infinite classes of double-trace composite operators. These would be the first analytic results for anomalous dimensions of finite-spin composite operators in any large N CFT3 with an Einstein gravity dual.

Undergraduate Observations of Separation and Position Angle of Double Stars WDS J05460+2119AB (ARY 6AD and ARY 6 AE) at Manzanita Observatory (Abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

HOffert, M. J.; Weise, E.; Clow, J.; Hirzel, J.; Leeder, B.; Molyneux, S.; Scutti, N.; Spartalis, S.; Takuhara, C.

2014-12-01

(Abstract only) Six beginning astronomy students, part of an undergraduate stellar astronomy course, one advanced undergraduate student assistant, and a professor measured the position angles and separations of Washington Double Stars (WDS) J05460+2119 (= WDS J05460+2119AB; also known as ARY 6 AD and ARY 6 AE). The measurements were made at the Manzanita Observatory (116º 20' 42" W, 32º 44' 5" N) of the Tierra Astronomical Institute on 10 Blackwood Road in Boulevard, California (www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHVdeMGBGDU), at an elevation of 4,500 ft. A Celestron 11-inch HD Edge telescope was used to measure the position angles and separations of ARY 6 AD and ARY 6 AE. The averages of our measurements are as follows: separation AD: trial 1 124.1 arcseconds and trial 2 124.5 arcseconds; separation AE: trial 1 73.3 arcseconds and trial 2 73.8 arcseconds. The averages of positon angle for AD: trial 1 159.9 degrees and trial 2 161.3 degrees, for AE: trial 1 232.6 degrees and trial 2 233.7 degrees.

Undergraduate Observations of Separation and Position Angle of Double Stars ARY 6 AD and ARY 6 AE at Manzanita Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoffert, Michael J.; Weise, Eric; Clow, Jenna; Hirzel, Jacquelyn; Leeder, Brett; Molyneux, Scott; Scutti, Nicholas; Spartalis, Sarah; Tokuhara, Corey

2014-05-01

Six beginning astronomy students, part of an undergraduate stellar astronomy course, one advanced undergraduate student assistant, and a professor measured the position angles and separations of Washington Double Stars (WDS) 05460 + 2119 (also known as ARY 6 AD and ARY 6 AE). The measurements were made at the Manzanita Observatory (116° 20'42" W, 32° 44' 5" N) of the Tierra Astronomical Institute on 10 Blackwood Rd. in Boulevard, California (www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHVdcMGBGDU), at an elevation of 4,500 ft. A Celestron 11" HD Edge telescope was used to measure the position angles and separations of ARY 6 AD and ARY 6 AE. The averages of our measurements are as follows: separation AD: trial 1 124.1 arcseconds and trial 2 124.5 arcseconds. The average of separation for AE: trial 1 73.3 arcseconds and trial 2 73.8 arcseconds. The averages of position angle for AD: trial 1 159.9 degrees and trial 2 161.3 degrees. The averages of position angle for AE: trial 1 232.6 degrees and trial 2 233.7 degrees.

A Double Selection Approach to Achieve Specific Expression of Toxin Genes for Ovarian Cancer Gene Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-11-01

cells ( gray fill), cells preincubated with PBS and infected with virus (solid line), and cells preincubated with recombinant knob protein and incubated...U118-hCAR-tailless cells (b). Gray line¼ cells alone, solid line¼ cells+Ad5Luc1-CK1, dashed line¼ cells+Ad5Luc1. Figure 5 Ad5Luc1-CK1CAR-independent...line, whereas U118MG-hCAR-tailless stably expresses the extracellular domain of human CAR. Cells were infected with Ad5Luc1 ( gray bar) and Ad5-r1 (black

Effects of upper-body sprint-interval training on strength and endurance capacities in female cross-country skiers

PubMed Central

Vandbakk, Kristine; Welde, Boye; Kruken, Andrea Hovstein; Baumgart, Julia; Ettema, Gertjan; Karlsen, Trine; Sandbakk, Øyvind

2017-01-01

This study compared the effects of adding upper-body sprint-intervals or continuous double poling endurance training to the normal training on maximal upper-body strength and endurance capacity in female cross-country skiers. In total, 17 female skiers (age: 18.1±0.8yr, body mass: 60±7 kg, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max): 3.30±0.37 L.min-1) performed an 8-week training intervention. Here, either two weekly sessions of six to eight 30-s maximal upper-body double poling sprint-intervals (SIG, n = 8) or 45–75 min of continuous low-to-moderate intensity double poling on roller skis (CG, n = 9) were added to their training. Before and after the intervention, the participants were tested for physiological and kinematical responses during submaximal and maximal diagonal and double poling treadmill roller skiing. Additionally, we measured maximal upper-body strength (1RM) and average power at 40% 1RM in a poling-specific strength exercise. SIG improved absolute VO2max in diagonal skiing more than CG (8% vs 2%, p<0.05), and showed a tendency towards higher body-mass normalized VO2max (7% vs 2%, p = 0.07). Both groups had an overall improvement in double poling peak oxygen uptake (10% vs 6% for SIG and CG) (both p<0.01), but no group-difference was observed. SIG improved 1RM strength more than CG (18% vs 10%, p<0.05), while there was a tendency for difference in average power at 40% 1RM (20% vs 14%, p = 0.06). Oxygen cost and kinematics (cycle length and rate) in double poling and diagonal remained unchanged in both groups. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that adding upper-body sprint-interval training is more effective than continuous endurance training in improving upper-body maximal strength and VO2max. PMID:28241030

Precipitation hardenable iron-nickel-chromium alloy having good swelling resistance and low neutron absorbence

DOEpatents

Korenko, Michael K.; Merrick, Howard F.; Gibson, Robert C.

1980-01-01

An iron-nickel-chromium age-hardenable alloy suitable for use in fast breeder reactor ducts and cladding which utilizes the gamma-double prime strengthening phase and characterized in having a morphology of the gamma-double prime phase enveloping the gamma-prime phase and delta phase distributed at or near the grain boundaries. The alloy consists essentially of about 40-50% nickel, 7.5-14% chromium, 1.5-4% niobium, 0.25-0.75% silicon, 1-3% titanium, 0.1-0.5% aluminum, 0.02-0.1% carbon, 0.002-0.015% boron, and the balance iron. Up to 2% manganese and up to 0.01% magnesium may be added to inhibit trace element effects; up to 0.1% zirconium may be added to increase radiation swelling resistance; and up to 3% molybdenum may be added to increase strength.

Preparation and enhanced properties of polyaniline/grafted intercalated ZnAl-LDH nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Jinlong; Gan, Mengyu; Ma, Li; Zhang, Jun; Xie, Shuang; Xu, Fenfang; Shen, JiYue Zheng Xiaoyu; Yin, Hui

2015-02-01

The polymeric nanocomposites (PANI/AD-LDH) were prepared by in situ polymerization based on polyaniline (PANI) and decavanadate-intercalated and γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS)-grafted ZnAl-layered double hydroxide (AD-LDH). FTIR and XRD studies confirm the grafting of APTS with decavanadate-intercalated LDH (D-LDH). The extent of grafting (wt%) has also been estimated on the basis of the residue left in nitrogen atmosphere at 800 °C in TGA. SEM and XPS studies show the partial exfoliation of grafted LDH in the PANI matrix and the interfacial interaction between PANI and grafted LDH, respectively. The grafted intercalated layered double hydroxide in reinforcing the properties of the PANI nanocomposites has also been investigated by open circuit potential (OCP), tafel polarization curves (TAF), electrochemical impendence spectroscopy (EIS), salt spray test and TGA-DTA. The experimental results indicate that the PANI/AD-LDH has a higher thermal stability and anticorrosion properties relative to the PANI.

Magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy for detection of early Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Westman, Eric; Wahlund, Lars-Olof; Foy, Catherine; Poppe, Michaela; Cooper, Allison; Murphy, Declan; Spenger, Christian; Lovestone, Simon; Simmons, Andrew

2011-01-01

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of neurodegenerative disorder and early detection is of great importance if new therapies are to be effectively administered. We have investigated whether the discrimination between early Alzheimer's disease (AD) and elderly healthy control subjects can be improved by adding magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) measures to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures. In this study 30 AD patients and 36 control subjects were included. High resolution T1-weighted axial magnetic resonance images were obtained from each subject. Automated regional volume segmentation and cortical thickness measures were determined for the images. 1H MRS was acquired from the hippocampus and LCModel was used for metabolic quantification. Altogether, this yielded 58 different volumetric, cortical thickness and metabolite ratio variables which were used for multivariate analysis to distinguish between subjects with AD and Healthy controls. Combining MRI and MRS measures resulted in a sensitivity of 97% and a specificity of 94% compared to using MRI or MRS measures alone (sensitivity: 87%, 76%, specificity: 86%, 83% respectively). Adding the MRS measures to the MRI measures more than doubled the positive likelihood ratio from 6 to 17. Adding MRS measures to a multivariate analysis of MRI measures resulted in significantly better classification than using MRI measures alone. The method shows strong potential for discriminating between Alzheimer's disease and controls.

Preparation of porous carbon sphere from waste sugar solution for electric double-layer capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Zhi-Qiang; Cao, Jing-Pei; Wu, Yan; Zhao, Xiao-Yan; Zhuang, Qi-Qi; Wang, Xing-Yong; Wei, Xian-Yong

2017-09-01

Waste sugar solution (WSS), which contains abundant 2-keto-L-gulonic acid, is harmful to the environment if discharged directly. For value-added utilization of the waste resource, a novel process is developed for preparation of porous carbon spheres by hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of WSS followed by KOH activation. Additionally, the possible preparation mechanism of carbon spheres is proposed. The effects of hydrothermal and activation parameters on the properties of the carbon sphere are also investigated. The carbon sphere is applied to electric double-layer capacitor and its electrochemical performance is studied. These results show that the carbon sphere obtained by HTC at 180 °C for 12 h with the WSS/deionized water volume ratio of 2/3 possess the highest specific capacitance under identical activation conditions. The specific capacitance of the carbon spheres can reach 296.1 F g-1 at a current density of 40 mA g-1. Besides, excellent cycle life and good capacitance retention (89.6%) are observed at 1.5 A g-1 after 5000 cycles. This study not only provides a facile and potential method for the WSS treatment, but also achieves the high value-added recycling of WSS for the preparation of porous carbon spheres with superior electrochemical properties.

Sensitive detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7 based on cascade signal amplification in ELISA.

PubMed

Shan, Shan; Liu, Daofeng; Guo, Qi; Wu, Songsong; Chen, Rui; Luo, Kai; Hu, Liming; Xiong, Yonghua; Lai, Weihua

2016-09-01

In this study, cascade signal amplification in ELISA involving double-antibody sandwich ELISA and indirectly competitive ELISA was established to sensitively detect Escherichia coli O157:H7. In the double-antibody sandwich ELISA, a complex was formed comprising anti-E. coli O157:H7 polyclonal antibody, E. coli O157:H7, biotinylated anti-E. coli O157:H7 monoclonal antibody, streptavidin, and biotinylated β-lactamase. Penicillin solution was then added into the ELISA well and hydrolyzed by β-lactamase. Afterward, the penicillin solution was transferred to indirectly competitive ELISA. The concentration of penicillin can be sensitively detected in indirectly competitive ELISA. In the cascade signal amplification system, increasing the amount of added E. coli O157:H7 resulted in more β-lactamase and less penicillin. The detection sensitivity of E. coli O157:H7, which was 20cfu/mL with the cascade signal amplification in ELISA, was 1,000-fold higher than that of traditional ELISA. Furthermore, the novel method can be used to detect E. coli O157:H7 in milk (2cfu/g). Therefore, this new signaling strategy will facilitate analyses of highly sensitive foodborne pathogens. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantitative reflection spectroscopy at the human ocular fundus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hammer, Martin; Schweitzer, Dietrich

2002-01-01

A new model of the reflection of the human ocular fundus on the basis of the adding-doubling method, an approximate solution of the radiative transport equation, is described. This model enables the calculation of the concentrations of xanthophyll in the retina, of melanin in the retinal pigment epithelium and the choroid, and of haemoglobin in the choroid from fundus reflection spectra. The concentration values found in 12 healthy subjects are in excellent agreement with published data. In individual cases of pathologic fundus alterations, possible benefits to the ophthalmologic diagnostics are demonstrated.

Optical properties of an anterior lamellar human cornea model based on fibrin-agarose

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ionescu, Ana M.; Cardona, Juan de la Cruz; Ghinea, Razvan; Garzón, Ingrid; González-Andrades, Miguel; Alaminos, Miguel; Pérez, Maria del Mar

2017-08-01

The optical evaluation carried out using the Inverse Adding-Doubling (IAD) method to determine the scattering and the absorption coefficients of the bioengineered human corneal stromas showed that this type of artificial biomaterials shared many similarities with native control cornea after four weeks of development in culture. Their absorption and reduced scattering coefficients values were higher than the ones of the control cornea, but their spectral behaviors of both coefficients were similar. Time of development in culture was an influencing factor on the results.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine and Relevant Treatment for the Efficacy and Safety of Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

PubMed Central

Shi, Zhao-feng; Song, Tie-bing; Xie, Juan; Yan, Yi-quan

2017-01-01

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) has become a common skin disease that requires systematic and comprehensive treatment to achieve adequate clinical control. Traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments have shown clinical effects for AD in many studies. But the systematic reviews and meta-analyses for them are lacking. Objective The systematic review and meta-analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement were conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments for AD treatment. Methods Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched based on standardized searching rules in eight medical databases from the inception up to December 2016 and a total of 24 articles with 1,618 patients were enrolled in this meta-analysis. Results The results revealed that traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments did not show statistical differences in clinical effectiveness, SCORAD amelioration, and SSRI amelioration for AD treatment compared with control group. However, EASI amelioration of traditional Chinese medicines and related treatments for AD was superior to control group. Conclusion We need to make conclusion cautiously for the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese medicine and related treatment on AD therapy. More standard, multicenter, double-blind randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of traditional Chinese medicine and related treatment for AD were required to be conducted for more clinical evidences providing in the future. PMID:28713436

A double-labeling immunohistochemical study of tau exon 10 in Alzheimer's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy and Pick's disease.

PubMed

Ishizawa, K; Ksiezak-Reding, H; Davies, P; Delacourte, A; Tiseo, P; Yen, S H; Dickson, D W

2000-09-01

Neurofibrillary tangles (NFT), one of the histopathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and Pick bodies in Pick's disease (PiD) are composed of microtubule-associated protein tau, which is the product of alternative splicing of a gene on chromosome 17. Alternative expression of exon 10 leads to formation of three- or four-repeat tau isoforms. To study the differential expression of exon 10, we performed double-labeling immunohistochemistry of the hippocampal formation in nine AD, four PSP and three PiD cases. Cryostat sections were processed with and without formic acid (FA) treatment, and double-stained with anti-tau (Alz-50 or PHF-1) or anti-amyloid P component antibodies and one of two specific anti-exon 10 antibodies (E-10). The effect of proteinase-K treatment was also evaluated. The results suggest the following. First, in AD, E-10 immunoreactivity is present in most intracellular NFT, but not in most dystrophic neurites and neuropil threads, suggesting differential expression of tau isoforms in specific cellular domains. Second, in AD, E-10 immunoreactivity is lost or blocked in most extracellular NFT, possibly due to proteolysis. Third, in PSP, E-10 immunoreactivity is hidden or blocked in NFT and tau-positive glial inclusions, but FA treatment exposes the epitope consistent with the hypothesis that PSP inclusions contain four-repeat tau. Fourth, E-10 immunoreactivity is present in dentate fascia NFT in AD and PSP, but not in Pick bodies in the dentate fascia or other areas. The results suggest that expression of exon 10 in tau is specific for cellular domains in a disease-specific manner.

Assessing the distinguishable cluster approximation based on the triple bond-breaking in the nitrogen molecule

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

Rishi, Varun; Perera, Ajith; Bartlett, Rodney J., E-mail: bartlett@qtp.ufl.edu

2016-03-28

Obtaining the correct potential energy curves for the dissociation of multiple bonds is a challenging problem for ab initio methods which are affected by the choice of a spin-restricted reference function. Coupled cluster (CC) methods such as CCSD (coupled cluster singles and doubles model) and CCSD(T) (CCSD + perturbative triples) correctly predict the geometry and properties at equilibrium but the process of bond dissociation, particularly when more than one bond is simultaneously broken, is much more complicated. New modifications of CC theory suggest that the deleterious role of the reference function can be diminished, provided a particular subset of termsmore » is retained in the CC equations. The Distinguishable Cluster (DC) approach of Kats and Manby [J. Chem. Phys. 139, 021102 (2013)], seemingly overcomes the deficiencies for some bond-dissociation problems and might be of use in quasi-degenerate situations in general. DC along with other approximate coupled cluster methods such as ACCD (approximate coupled cluster doubles), ACP-D45, ACP-D14, 2CC, and pCCSD(α, β) (all defined in text) falls under a category of methods that are basically obtained by the deletion of some quadratic terms in the double excitation amplitude equation for CCD/CCSD (coupled cluster doubles model/coupled cluster singles and doubles model). Here these approximate methods, particularly those based on the DC approach, are studied in detail for the nitrogen molecule bond-breaking. The N{sub 2} problem is further addressed with conventional single reference methods but based on spatial symmetry-broken restricted Hartree–Fock (HF) solutions to assess the use of these references for correlated calculations in the situation where CC methods using fully symmetry adapted SCF solutions fail. The distinguishable cluster method is generalized: 1) to different orbitals for different spins (unrestricted HF based DCD and DCSD), 2) by adding triples correction perturbatively (DCSD(T)) and iteratively (DCSDT-n), and 3) via an excited state approximation through the equation of motion (EOM) approach (EOM-DCD, EOM-DCSD). The EOM-CC method is used to identify lower-energy CC solutions to overcome singularities in the CC potential energy curves. It is also shown that UHF based CC and DC methods behave very similarly in bond-breaking of N{sub 2}, and that using spatially broken but spin preserving SCF references makes the CCSD solutions better than those for DCSD.« less

Modular error embedding

DOEpatents

Sandford, II, Maxwell T.; Handel, Theodore G.; Ettinger, J. Mark

1999-01-01

A method of embedding auxiliary information into the digital representation of host data containing noise in the low-order bits. The method applies to digital data representing analog signals, for example digital images. The method reduces the error introduced by other methods that replace the low-order bits with auxiliary information. By a substantially reverse process, the embedded auxiliary data can be retrieved easily by an authorized user through use of a digital key. The modular error embedding method includes a process to permute the order in which the host data values are processed. The method doubles the amount of auxiliary information that can be added to host data values, in comparison with bit-replacement methods for high bit-rate coding. The invention preserves human perception of the meaning and content of the host data, permitting the addition of auxiliary data in the amount of 50% or greater of the original host data.

Transcutaneous yellow fever vaccination of subjects with or without atopic dermatitis

PubMed Central

Slifka, Mark K.; Leung, Donald Y. M.; Hammarlund, Erika; Raué, Hans-Peter; Simpson, Eric L.; Tofte, Susan; Baig-Lewis, Shahana; David, Gloria; Lynn, Henry; Woolson, Rob; Hata, Tissa; Milgrom, Henry; Hanifin, Jon

2013-01-01

Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease with global prevalence ranging from 3% to 20%. AD patients have an increased risk for complications following viral infection (e.g., herpes simplex virus), and vaccination of AD patients with live vaccinia virus is contraindicated due to a heightened risk of eczema vaccinatum, a rare but potentially lethal complication associated with smallpox vaccination. Objective To develop a better understanding of immunity to cutaneous viral infection in AD patients. Methods In a double-blind, randomized study, we investigated the safety and immunogenicity of live attenuated yellow fever virus (YFV) vaccination of non-atopic (NA) subjects and AD patients following standard subcutaneous (SC) inoculation or transcutaneous (TC) vaccination administered with a bifurcated needle. Viremia, neutralizing antibody, and antiviral T cell responses were analyzed for up to 30 days post-vaccination. Results YFV vaccination by either route was well tolerated. SC vaccination resulted in higher seroconversion rates than TC vaccination but elicited similar antiviral antibody levels and T cell responses in both NA and AD groups. Following TC vaccination, both groups mounted similar neutralizing antibody responses, but AD patients demonstrated lower antiviral T cell responses by 30 days after vaccination. Among TC-vaccinated subjects, a significant inverse correlation between baseline IgE levels and the magnitude of antiviral antibody and CD4+ T cell responses was observed. Conclusions YFV vaccination of AD patients by the TC route revealed that high baseline IgE levels provides a potential biomarker for predicting reduced virus-specific immune memory following TC infection with a live virus. PMID:24331381

Dual targeting of gene delivery by genetic modification of adenovirus serotype 5 fibers and cell-selective transcriptional control.

PubMed

Work, L M; Ritchie, N; Nicklin, S A; Reynolds, P N; Baker, A H

2004-08-01

Adenovirus (Ad)-mediated gene delivery is a promising approach for genetic manipulation of the vasculature and is being used in both preclinical models and clinical trials. However, safety concerns relating to infection of nontarget tissue and the poor infectivity of vascular cells compared to other cell types necessitates Ad vector refinement. Here, we combine a transductional targeting approach to improve vascular cell infectivity through RGD peptide insertion into adenovirus fibers, combined with transcriptional targeting to endothelial cells using a approximately 1 kb fragment of the fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor-1 (FLT-1) promoter. Single- and double-modified vectors were characterized in human cell lines that either support or have silenced FLT-1 expression. In rat hepatocytes and endothelial cells, the double modification substantially shifted transduction profiles toward vascular endothelial cells. Furthermore, in intact aortae derived from spontaneously hypertensive rats that display enhanced alphav integrin expression on dysfunctional endothelium, enhanced levels of transduction were observed using the double-modified vector but not in aortae derived from normotensive control rats. Our data indicate that Ad-mediated transduction can be beneficially modified in vitro and in vivo by combining fiber modification and a cell-selective promoter within a single-component vector system.

PLUTONIUM RECOVERY FROM NEUTRON-BOMBARDED URANIUM FUEL

DOEpatents

Moore, R.H.

1964-03-24

A process of recovering plutonium from fuel by dissolution in molten KAlCl/sub 4/ double salt is described. Molten lithium chloride plus stannous chloride is added to reduce plutonium tetrachloride to the trichloride, which is dissolved in a lithium chloride phase while the uranium, as the tetrachloride, is dissolved in a double-salt phase. Separation of the two phases is discussed. (AEC)

Tetrahydrohyperforin prevents cognitive deficit, Aβ deposition, tau phosphorylation and synaptotoxicity in the APPswe/PSEN1ΔE9 model of Alzheimer's disease: a possible effect on APP processing

PubMed Central

Inestrosa, N C; Tapia-Rojas, C; Griffith, T N; Carvajal, F J; Benito, M J; Rivera-Dictter, A; Alvarez, A R; Serrano, F G; Hancke, J L; Burgos, P V; Parodi, J; Varela-Nallar, L

2011-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive deterioration of cognitive abilities, amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) accumulation and synaptic alterations. Previous studies indicated that hyperforin, a component of the St John's Wort, prevents Aβ neurotoxicity and some behavioral impairments in a rat model of AD. In this study we examined the ability of tetrahydrohyperforin (IDN5607), a stable hyperforin derivative, to prevent the cognitive deficit and synaptic impairment in an in vivo model of AD. In double transgenic APPswe/PSEN1ΔE9 mice, IDN5706 improves memory and prevents the impairment of synaptic plasticity in a dose-dependent manner, inducing a recovery of long-term potentiation. In agreement with these findings, IDN5706 prevented the decrease in synaptic proteins in hippocampus and cortex. In addition, decreased levels of tau hyperphosphorylation, astrogliosis, and total fibrillar and oligomeric forms of Aβ were determined in double transgenic mice treated with IDN5706. In cultured cells, IDN5706 decreased the proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein that leads to Aβ peptide generation. These findings indicate that IDN5706 ameliorates AD neuropathology and could be considered of therapeutic relevance in AD treatment. PMID:22832522

Optical characterization of tissue mimicking phantoms by a vertical double integrating sphere system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Yilin; Jia, Qiumin; Shen, Shuwei; Liu, Guangli; Guo, Yuwei; Zhou, Ximing; Chu, Jiaru; Zhao, Gang; Dong, Erbao; Allen, David W.; Lemaillet, Paul; Xu, Ronald

2016-03-01

Accurate characterization of absorption and scattering properties for biologic tissue and tissue-simulating materials enables 3D printing of traceable tissue-simulating phantoms for medical spectral device calibration and standardized medical optical imaging. Conventional double integrating sphere systems have several limitations and are suboptimal for optical characterization of liquid and soft materials used in 3D printing. We propose a vertical double integrating sphere system and the associated reconstruction algorithms for optical characterization of phantom materials that simulate different human tissue components. The system characterizes absorption and scattering properties of liquid and solid phantom materials in an operating wavelength range from 400 nm to 1100 nm. Absorption and scattering properties of the phantoms are adjusted by adding titanium dioxide powder and India ink, respectively. Different material compositions are added in the phantoms and characterized by the vertical double integrating sphere system in order to simulate the human tissue properties. Our test results suggest that the vertical integrating sphere system is able to characterize optical properties of tissue-simulating phantoms without precipitation effect of the liquid samples or wrinkling effect of the soft phantoms during the optical measurement.

Nitrate turnover in a peat soil under drained and rewetted conditions: results from a [(15)N]nitrate-bromide double-tracer study.

PubMed

Russow, Rolf; Tauchnitz, Nadine; Spott, Oliver; Mothes, Sibylle; Bernsdorf, Sabine; Meissner, Ralph

2013-01-01

Under natural conditions, peatlands are generally nitrate-limited. However, recent concerns about an additional N input into peatlands by atmospheric N deposition have highlighted the risk of an increased denitrification activity and hence the likelihood of a rise of emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the turnover of added nitrate in a drained and a rewetted peatland using a [(15)N]nitrate-bromide double-tracer method. The double-tracer method allows a separation between physical effects (dilution, dispersion and dislocation) and microbial and chemical nitrate transformation by comparing with the conservative Br(-) tracer. In the drained peat site, low NO3(-) consumption rates have been observed. In contrast, NO3(-) consumption at the rewetted peat site rises rapidly to about 100% within 4 days after tracer application. Concomitantly, the (15)N abundances of nitrite and ammonium in soil water increased and lead to the conclusion that, besides commonly known NO3(-) reduction to nitrite (i.e. denitrification), a dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium has simultaneously taken place. The present study reveals that increasing NO3(-) inputs into rewetted peatlands via atmospheric deposition results in a rapid NO3(-) consumption, which could lead to an increase in N2O emissions into the atmosphere.

Observations of Omicron 1 Cygni (STFA 50AD)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bidler, Jeff; Hagee, Joshua; McGuire, Paul; McGuire, Rosa; Montes, Leslie; Richardson, Nicole; Rodriguez, Arturo; Brewer, Mark

2016-10-01

In over 215 years, the star STFA 50AD located in the Cygnus constellation has only been analyzed about 35 times. A group of eight individuals from five affiliations participated in the third annual Apple Valley Double Star Workshop to measure the separations and position angles of a double star. During this workshop, data from several astronomical identifiers was used to compare the data collected. The main apparatus used was an 8-inch telescope. An astrometric eyepiece and a stopwatch were used. The scale constant 9.9 arc seconds per division mark, separations 340.9 arc seconds, and position angles 324.1 degrees were determined by the telescope-eyepiece combination. The plate scale 1.01 arc seconds per pixel, separation 337.1 arc seconds, and position angle 321.3 degrees were determined by using the Digitized Sky Survey and Astrometrica. The results obtained were compared to previous observations listed in the Washington Double Star Catalog. After rigorous calculations and teamwork, it was concluded that the 2008 results were determined to be an outlier.

Augmenting Transport versus Increasing Cold Storage to Improve Vaccine Supply Chains

PubMed Central

Haidari, Leila A.; Connor, Diana L.; Wateska, Angela R.; Brown, Shawn T.; Mueller, Leslie E.; Norman, Bryan A.; Schmitz, Michelle M.; Paul, Proma; Rajgopal, Jayant; Welling, Joel S.; Leonard, Jim; Chen, Sheng-I; Lee, Bruce Y.

2013-01-01

Background When addressing the urgent task of improving vaccine supply chains, especially to accommodate the introduction of new vaccines, there is often a heavy emphasis on stationary storage. Currently, donations to vaccine supply chains occur largely in the form of storage equipment. Methods This study utilized a HERMES-generated detailed, dynamic, discrete event simulation model of the Niger vaccine supply chain to compare the impacts on vaccine availability of adding stationary cold storage versus transport capacity at different levels and to determine whether adding stationary storage capacity alone would be enough to relieve potential bottlenecks when pneumococcal and rotavirus vaccines are introduced by 2015. Results Relieving regional level storage bottlenecks increased vaccine availability (by 4%) more than relieving storage bottlenecks at the district (1% increase), central (no change), and clinic (no change) levels alone. Increasing transport frequency (or capacity) yielded far greater gains (e.g., 15% increase in vaccine availability when doubling transport frequency to the district level and 18% when tripling). In fact, relieving all stationary storage constraints could only increase vaccine availability by 11%, whereas doubling the transport frequency throughout the system led to a 26% increase and tripling the frequency led to a 30% increase. Increasing transport frequency also reduced the amount of stationary storage space needed in the supply chain. The supply chain required an additional 61,269L of storage to relieve constraints with the current transport frequency, 55,255L with transport frequency doubled, and 51,791L with transport frequency tripled. Conclusions When evaluating vaccine supply chains, it is important to understand the interplay between stationary storage and transport. The HERMES-generated dynamic simulation model showed how augmenting transport can result in greater gains than only augmenting stationary storage and can reduce stationary storage needs. PMID:23717590

Interaction of human adenoviruses and coliphages with kaolinite and bentonite.

PubMed

Bellou, Maria I; Syngouna, Vasiliki I; Tselepi, Maria A; Kokkinos, Petros A; Paparrodopoulos, Spyros C; Vantarakis, Apostolos; Chrysikopoulos, Constantinos V

2015-06-01

Human adenoviruses (hAdVs) are pathogenic viruses responsible for public health problems worldwide. They have also been used as viral indicators in environmental systems. Coliphages (e.g., MS2, ΦX174) have also been studied as indicators of viral pollution in fecally contaminated water. Our objective was to evaluate the distribution of three viral fecal indicators (hAdVs, MS2, and ΦΧ174), between two different phyllosilicate clays (kaolinite and bentonite) and the aqueous phase. A series of static and dynamic experiments were conducted under two different temperatures (4, 25°C) for a time period of seven days. HAdV adsorption was examined in DNase I reaction buffer (pH=7.6, and ionic strength (IS)=1.4mM), whereas coliphage adsorption in phosphate buffered saline solution (pH=7, IS=2mM). Moreover, the effect of IS on hAdV adsorption under static conditions was evaluated. The adsorption of hAdV was assessed by real-time PCR and its infectivity was tested by cultivation methods. The coliphages MS2 and ΦΧ174 were assayed by the double-layer overlay method. The experimental results have shown that coliphage adsorption onto both kaolinite and bentonite was higher for the dynamic than the static experiments; whereas hAdV adsorption was lower under dynamic conditions. The adsorption of hAdV increased with decreasing temperature, contrary to the results obtained for the coliphages. This study examines the combined effect of temperature, agitation, clay type, and IS on hAdV adsorption onto clays. The results provide useful new information on the effective removal of viral fecal indicators (MS2, ΦX174 and hAdV) from dilute aqueous solutions by adsorption onto kaolinite and bentonite. Factors enabling enteric viruses to penetrate soils, groundwater and travel long distances within aquifers are important public health issues. Because the observed adsorption behavior of surrogate coliphages MS2 and ΦΧ174 is substantially different to that of hAdV, neither MS2 nor ΦΧ174 is recommended as a suitable model for adenovirus. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Method for fabricating composite carbon foam

DOEpatents

Mayer, Steven T.; Pekala, Richard W.; Kaschmitter, James L.

2001-01-01

Carbon aerogels used as a binder for granularized materials, including other forms of carbon and metal additives, are cast onto carbon or metal fiber substrates to form composite carbon thin film sheets. The thin film sheets are utilized in electrochemical energy storage applications, such as electrochemical double layer capacitors (aerocapacitors), lithium based battery insertion electrodes, fuel cell electrodes, and electrocapacitive deionization electrodes. The composite carbon foam may be formed by prior known processes, but with the solid particles being added during the liquid phase of the process, i.e. prior to gelation. The other forms of carbon may include carbon microspheres, carbon powder, carbon aerogel powder or particles, graphite carbons. Metal and/or carbon fibers may be added for increased conductivity. The choice of materials and fibers will depend on the electrolyte used and the relative trade off of system resistivity and power to system energy.

A Double Selection Approach to Achieve Specific Expression of Toxin Genes for Ovarian Cancer Gene Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-11-01

biological properties. CAV-1 is known to cause allergic two knobs may in fact be distinct based on our uveitis, called the ’blue eye syndrome ’ and rarely...system - first steps towards gene therapy of Alport syndrome . Gene Ther 3(1), 2 1-7. Hemminki, A., and Alvarez, R. D. 2002. Adenoviruses in oncology: a...Ad-IX- Ad-IX-imRFPI or Ad-IX-tdimer2(12) (10000 viral particles/ tdimer2(12) with plX modifications, and wild-type El/E3 cell) were added to the

Amplification in Double Heterostructure GaAs Lasers.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-15

done, for example, in the book by Siegman . When the laser signal which is to be amplified is a single mode, it is important to include the possibility...k A’AD-A097 862 AEROSPACE CORP EL SEGUNDO CA ELECTRONICS RESEARCH LAP) P 5 20/5 I AMPLIFICATION IN DOUBLE HETEROSTRUCTURE GAAS LASERS .(U IMAR al E...GARMIRE, M CHANG F04701-80-C-0081I UNCLASSIFIED TR GO81(6930 03)-2 SD-TA8-30 NL Amplification in Double Heterostructure GaAs Lasers E. GARMIRE nd M

Double dissociation of social functioning in frontotemporal dementia

PubMed Central

Rankin, Katherine P.; Kramer, Joel H.; Mychack, Paula; Miller, Bruce L.

2009-01-01

Background Efforts to characterize changes in social functioning in frontotemporal dementia (FTD) have failed to elicit clear dissociation between frontal and temporal variants of the disease based on behavioral measures. Methods This study obtained premorbid and current first-degree relative ratings using an established measure of interpersonal functioning, the Interpersonal Adjectives Scales, to measure personality change in 16 patients with frontal variant (FLV) and 13 with temporal variant (TLV) FTD, and in a control group of 16 patients with AD. Results All three groups showed significant change over time in multiple domains, including increased introversion (FG) and submissiveness (HI). However, patients with both FTD subtypes evidenced significantly greater increases in overall interpersonal pathology vector length [VL] than did patients with AD, who remained within the normal range on all scores. Patients with FLV showed a 2 SD increase in submissiveness (HI), but their cold-heartedness (DE) change scores were not significantly different from those of patients with AD. Conversely, the TLV cold-heartedness (DE) score increased 2 SD compared to minimal change for the AD and FLV groups, yet change in submissiveness (HI) did not differentiate between AD and TLV groups. Conclusions The Interpersonal Adjectives Scales differentiated both FTD groups from patients with AD on the basis of both degree and direction of personality change. Also, the two subtypes of FTD showed distinctly different patterns of change in social functioning: patients with temporal variant shifted toward severe interpersonal coldness with mild loss of dominance, whereas patients with frontal variant showed the opposite pattern. PMID:12552042

Effect of β2-adrenergic receptor polymorphism on response to longacting β2 agonist in asthma (LARGE trial): a genotype-stratified, randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover trial

PubMed Central

Wechsler, Michael E.; Kunselman, Susan J.; Chinchilli, Vernon M; Bleecker, Eugene; Boushey, Homer A.; Calhoun, William J.; Ameredes, Bill T.; Castro, Mario; Craig, Timothy J; Denlinger, Loren; Fahy, John V.; Jarjour, Nizar; Kazani, Shamsah; Kim, Sophia; Kraft, Monica; Lazarus, Stephen C.; Lemanske, Robert F; Markezich, Amy; Martin, Richard J.; Permaul, Perdita; Peters, Stephen P; Ramsdell, Joe; Sorkness, Christine A.; Sutherland, E Rand; Szefler, Stanley J; Walter, Michael J; Wasserman, Stephen; Israel, Elliot

2010-01-01

Summary Background Combined long-acting β2-agonist and inhaled corticosteroid (LABA/ICS) therapy improves outcomes in many asthmatics. Some studies suggest that patients homozygous for arginine at the 16th amino-acid position of the β2 adrenergic receptor (B16 Arg/Arg) benefit less than those with B16 Gly/Gly. Methods In an NIH-funded, B16 genotype-stratified, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial (www.ClinicalTrials.gov registration ID NCT00200967), we compared adding salmeterol or placebo to ICS in patients with moderate asthma, using AM PEF as the primary outcome. Findings After 18 weeks, Arg/Arg (n=42) and Gly/Gly (n=45) subjects had greater AM PEF with salmeterol than placebo, with no difference in improvement by genotype (Arg/Arg 21.4 (p<0.0001) vs. Gly/Gly 21.5 L/min (p<0.0001); 0.1 L/min difference between genotypes, 95% CI (−14.2, 14.4), p=0.99). In Gly/Gly subjects, methacholine PC20 (a secondary outcome) doubled when salmeterol was added to ICS (p<0.0001), but remained unchanged in Arg/Arg subjects (p=0.87) (1.32 doubling dose difference between genotypes (95%CI 0.43,2.21), p=0.0038). An exploratory posthoc subset analysis of African Americans showed that salmeterol improved the AM and PM PEF for the 8 Gly/Gly subjects (29 L/min, p=0.013 and 45 L/min, p= 0.0005, respectively) but not for the 9 Arg/Arg subjects (−12 L/min, p=0.57 and−2.2 L/min, p=0.92, respectively). Interpretation B16 Arg/Arg and Gly/Gly patients experience improved airway function with salmeterol added to moderate-dose ICS. While these data provide reassurance that in the general population these polymorphisms should not alter the use of LABA with moderate-dose ICS, the significance of the genotype-differentiated response in airway reactivity favoring Gly/Gly subjects and the post-hoc analysis in African Americans require further investigation. PMID:19932356

The application of Co-Al-hydrotalcite as a novel additive of positive material for nickel-metal hydride secondary cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Zhaobin; Yang, Zhanhong; Yang, Bin; Zhang, Zheng; Xie, Xiaoe

2014-11-01

Co-Al-CO3 layered double hydroxide (LDH) with the different Co/Al molar ration is synthesized by hydrothermal method and investigated as an additive for positive material of the Ni-MH cells. The Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) show the Co-Al-LDH with Co/Al = 4:1 (molar ration) is well-crystallized and hexagon structure. The electrochemical performances of the nickel electrode added with different Co/Al molar ration Co-Al-LDH, the pure nickel electrode and the nickel electrode added with CoO are investigated by the cyclic voltammograms (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge measurements, and AC electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Compared with the pure nickel electrode and the nickel electrode added with CoO, the nickel electrode added with Co/Al = 4:1 (molar ration) Co-Al-LDH has higher discharge capacity and more stable cycling performances. This cell can undergo at least 400 charge-discharge cycles at constant current of 1 C. The discharge capacity of this cell remains about 287 mAh g-1 after the 400th cycle. Meanwhile, compared with the pure electrode, the nickel electrode added with Co/Al = 4:1 (molar ration) Co-Al-LDH possess a higher rate capability to meet the needs of high-storage applications.

Catalytic Graphitization for Preparation of Porous Carbon Material Derived from Bamboo Precursor and Performance as Electrode of Electrical Double-Layer Capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsubota, Toshiki; Maguchi, Yuta; Kamimura, Sunao; Ohno, Teruhisa; Yasuoka, Takehiro; Nishida, Haruo

2015-12-01

The combination of addition of Fe (as a catalyst for graphitization) and CO2 activation (a kind of gaseous activation) was applied to prepare a porous carbon material from bamboo powder (a waste product of superheated steam treatment). Regardless of the heat treatment temperature, many macropores were successfully formed after the heating process by removal of Fe compounds. A turbostratic carbon structure was generated in the Fe-added sample heated at 850°C. It was confirmed that the added Fe acted as a template for pore formation. Moreover, it was confirmed that the added Fe acted as a catalyst for graphitization. The resulting electrochemical performance as the electrode of an electrical double-layer capacitor, as demonstrated by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and charge-discharge testing, could be explained based on the graphitization and activation effects. Addition of Fe could affect the electrical properties of carbon material derived from bamboo.

Gas diffusion liquid storage bag and method of use for storing blood

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bank, H.; Cleland, E. L. (Inventor)

1979-01-01

The shelf life of stored whole blood may be doubled by adding a buffer which maintains a desired pH level. However, this buffer causes the generation of CO2 which, if not removed at a controlled rate, causes the pH value of the blood to decrease, which shortens the useful life of the blood. A blood storage bag is described which permits the CO2 to be diffused out at a controlled rate into the atmosphere, thereby maintaining the desired pH value and providing a bag strong enough to permit handling.

Efficient production of α-ketoglutarate in the gdh deleted Corynebacterium glutamicum by novel double-phase pH and biotin control strategy.

PubMed

Li, Yanjun; Sun, Lanchao; Feng, Jia; Wu, Ruifang; Xu, Qingyang; Zhang, Chenglin; Chen, Ning; Xie, Xixian

2016-06-01

Production of L-glutamate using a biotin-deficient strain of Corynebacterium glutamicum has a long history. The process is achieved by controlling biotin at suboptimal dose in the initial fermentation medium, meanwhile feeding NH4OH to adjust pH so that α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) can be converted to L-glutamate. In this study, we deleted glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh1 and gdh2) of C. glutamicum GKG-047, an L-glutamate overproducing strain, to produce α-KG that is the direct precursor of L-glutamate. Based on the method of L-glutamate fermentation, we developed a novel double-phase pH and biotin control strategy for α-KG production. Specifically, NH4OH was added to adjust the pH at the bacterial growth stage and NaOH was used when the cells began to produce acid; besides adding an appropriate amount of biotin in the initial medium, certain amount of additional biotin was supplemented at the middle stage of fermentation to maintain a high cell viability and promote the carbon fixation to the flux of α-KG production. Under this control strategy, 45.6 g/L α-KG accumulated after 30-h fermentation in a 7.5-L fermentor and the productivity and yield achieved were 1.52 g/L/h and 0.42 g/g, respectively.

Chromospherically active stars. 12: ADS 11060 C: A double lined K dwarf binary in a quintuple system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fekel, Francis C.; Henry, Gregory W.; Hampton, Melissa L.; Fried, Robert; Morton, Mary D.

1994-01-01

ADS 11060 C is a double lined spectroscopic binary with a period of 25.7631 days and an eccentricity of 0.565. Spectral types of the two stars are estimated as K7 V and MO V with a magnitude difference of about 0.55 mag in V. The stars appear to be somewhat metal rich with respect to the Sun. Despite the relatively large masses of 0.53 and 0.51 solar mass, our photometric observations find no evidence for eclipses and we estimate an inclination of 77 deg plus or minus 11 deg. ADS 11060 C is, however, photometrically variable with a period of 9 plus or minus 1 day and an amplitude of 0.05 mag in V. Thus, it is a newly identified BY Draconis variable. The center-of-mass velocity of ADS 11060 C and an estimated parallax of 0.030 sec support its physical association with ADS 11060 AB, making this a quintuple system. The projected separation of the AB-C system is nearly 1200 AU. Although the log lithium abundances of the two components of ADS 11060 C are only upper limits, less than or equal to -0.14, lithium abundances of the AB-C components appear to be consistent with those of similar stars in the alpha Persei and Pleiades clusters, suggesting an age of about 70 Myr for ADS 11060 AB-C. The system is a possible member of the Pleiades moving group. Listed as an optical counterpart to a source in the ROSAT Wide Field Camera extreme-ultraviolet bright source catalog, both ADS 11060 AB and C may contribute to the observed flux.

Mathematical modeling of atopic dermatitis reveals "double-switch" mechanisms underlying 4 common disease phenotypes.

PubMed

Domínguez-Hüttinger, Elisa; Christodoulides, Panayiotis; Miyauchi, Kosuke; Irvine, Alan D; Okada-Hatakeyama, Mariko; Kubo, Masato; Tanaka, Reiko J

2017-06-01

The skin barrier acts as the first line of defense against constant exposure to biological, microbial, physical, and chemical environmental stressors. Dynamic interplay between defects in the skin barrier, dysfunctional immune responses, and environmental stressors are major factors in the development of atopic dermatitis (AD). A systems biology modeling approach can yield significant insights into these complex and dynamic processes through integration of prior biological data. We sought to develop a multiscale mathematical model of AD pathogenesis that describes the dynamic interplay between the skin barrier, environmental stress, and immune dysregulation and use it to achieve a coherent mechanistic understanding of the onset, progression, and prevention of AD. We mathematically investigated synergistic effects of known genetic and environmental risk factors on the dynamic onset and progression of the AD phenotype, from a mostly asymptomatic mild phenotype to a severe treatment-resistant form. Our model analysis identified a "double switch," with 2 concatenated bistable switches, as a key network motif that dictates AD pathogenesis: the first switch is responsible for the reversible onset of inflammation, and the second switch is triggered by long-lasting or frequent activation of the first switch, causing irreversible onset of systemic T H 2 sensitization and worsening of AD symptoms. Our mathematical analysis of the bistable switch predicts that genetic risk factors decrease the threshold of environmental stressors to trigger systemic T H 2 sensitization. This analysis predicts and explains 4 common clinical AD phenotypes from a mild and reversible phenotype through to severe and recalcitrant disease and provides a mechanistic explanation for clinically demonstrated preventive effects of emollient treatments against development of AD. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantifying electrical impacts on redundant wire insertion in 7nm unidirectional designs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohyeldin, Ahmed; Schroeder, Uwe Paul; Srinivasan, Ramya; Narisetty, Haritez; Malik, Shobhit; Madhavan, Sriram

2017-04-01

In nano-meter scale Integrated Circuits, via fails due to random defects is a well-known yield detractor, and via redundancy insertion is a common method to help enhance semiconductors yield. For the case of Self Aligned Double Patterning (SADP), which might require unidirectional design layers as in the case of some advanced technology nodes, the conventional methods of inserting redundant vias don't work any longer. This is because adding redundant vias conventionally requires adding metal shapes in the non-preferred direction, which will violate the SADP design constraints in that case. Therefore, such metal layers fabricated using unidirectional SADP require an alternative method for providing the needed redundancy. This paper proposes a post-layout Design for Manufacturability (DFM) redundancy insertion method tailored for the design requirements introduced by unidirectional metal layers. The proposed method adds redundant wires in the preferred direction - after searching for nearby vacant routing tracks - in order to provide redundant paths for electrical signals. This method opportunistically adds robustness against failures due to silicon defects without impacting area or incurring new design rule violations. Implementation details of this redundancy insertion method will be explained in this paper. One known challenge with similar DFM layout fixing methods is the possible introduction of undesired electrical impact, causing other unintentional failures in design functionality. In this paper, a study is presented to quantify the electrical impacts of such redundancy insertion scheme and to examine if that electrical impact can be tolerated. The paper will show results to evaluate DFM insertion rates and corresponding electrical impact for a given design utilization and maximum inserted wire length. Parasitic extraction and static timing analysis results will be presented. A typical digital design implemented using GLOBALFOUNDRIES 7nm technology is used for demonstration. The provided results can help evaluate such extensive DFM insertion method from an electrical standpoint. Furthermore, the results could provide guidance on how to implement the proposed method of adding electrical redundancy such that intolerable electrical impacts could be avoided.

On the numerical investigation of sound transmission through double-walled structures with membrane-type acoustic metamaterials.

PubMed

Marinova, Polina; Lippert, Stephan; von Estorff, Otto

2017-10-01

Acoustic metamaterials appear to be of great help in the design of reliable and effective noise reduction measures in the low frequency range. The current contribution is concerned with the modeling of a low-frequency noise shield, based on a double wall arrangement, which includes membrane-type acoustic metamaterials (MAMs), considered as the most promising approach when it comes especially to the tonal noise at frequencies below 300 Hz. MAMs consist of small-sized membranes loaded with a mass. Due to their robustness and relatively simple production, MAMs have been proven to decrease the sound transmission in frequency ranges, for which poro-elastic materials have a rather negligible effect. A simulation model of a double wall panel, whose acoustic cavity is furnished with layers of metamaterials, has been developed and the sound transmission loss (STL) through the structure was calculated, using the finite element method. In order to validate the modelling approach, the STL estimation from the finite element analysis was compared to experimental measurements. The achieved results indicate a noise-decreasing possibility in tunable narrow bands as well as a broadband noise reduction for frequencies less than 300 Hz without significantly adding to the panel mass.

A Comparative Biomechanical Analysis of 2 Double-Row, Distal Triceps Tendon Repairs

PubMed Central

Dorweiler, Matthew A.; Van Dyke, Rufus O.; Siska, Robert C.; Boin, Michael A.; DiPaola, Mathew J.

2017-01-01

Background: Triceps tendon ruptures are rare orthopaedic injuries that almost always require surgical repair. This study tests the biomechanical properties of an original anchorless double-row triceps repair against a previously reported knotless double-row repair. Hypothesis: The anchorless double-row triceps repair technique will yield similar biomechanical properties when compared with the knotless double-row repair technique. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Eighteen cadaver arms were randomized into 2 groups. One group received the anchorless repair and the other received the knotless anchor repair. A materials testing system (MTS) machine was used to cycle the repaired arms from 0° to 90° with a 2.5-pound weight for 1500 cycles at 0.25 Hz. Real-time displacement of the tendon was measured during cycling using a probe. Load to failure was performed after completion of cyclic loading. Results: The mean displacement with the anchorless technique was 0.77 mm (SD, 0.25 mm) at 0° (full elbow extension) and 0.76 mm (SD, 0.38 mm) at 90° (elbow flexion). The mean displacement with the anchored technique was 0.83 mm (SD, 0.57 mm) at 0° and 1.01 mm (SD, 0.62 mm) at 90°. There was no statistically significant difference for tendon displacement at 0º (P = .75) or 90º (P = .31). The mean load to failure with the anchorless technique was 618.9 N (SD, 185.6 N), while it was 560.5 N (SD, 154.1 N) with the anchored technique, again with no statistically significant difference (P = .28). Conclusion: Our anchorless double-row triceps repair technique yields comparable biomechanical properties to previously described double-row triceps tendon repair techniques, with the added benefit of avoiding the cost of suture anchors. Clinical Relevance: This anchorless double-row triceps tendon repair can be considered as an acceptable alternative to a knotless anchor repair for triceps tendon ruptures. PMID:28607942

Bioavailability of zinc oxide added to corn tortilla is similar to that of zinc sulfate and is not affected by simultaneous addition of iron

PubMed Central

Rosado, Jorge L.; Díaz, Margarita; Muñoz, Elsa; Westcott, Jamie L.; González, Karla E.; Krebs, Nancy F.; Caamaño, María C.; Hambidge, Michael

2013-01-01

Background Corn tortilla is the staple food of Mexico and its fortification with zinc, iron, and other micronutrients is intended to reduce micronutrient deficiencies. However, no studies have been performed to determine the relative amount of zinc absorbed from the fortified product and whether zinc absorption is affected by the simultaneous addition of iron. Objective To compare zinc absorption from corn tortilla fortified with zinc oxide versus zinc sulfate and to determine the effect of simultaneous addition of two doses of iron on zinc bioavailability. Methods A randomized, double-blind, crossover design was carried out in two phases. In the first phase, 10 adult women received corn tortillas with either 20 mg/kg of zinc oxide added, 20 mg/kg of zinc sulfate added, or no zinc added. In the second phase, 10 adult women received corn tortilla with 20 mg/kg of zinc oxide added and either with no iron added or with iron added at one of two different levels. Zinc absorption was measured by the stable isotope method. Results The mean (± SEM) fractional zinc absorption from unfortified tortilla, tortilla fortified with zinc oxide, and tortilla fortified with zinc sulfate did not differ among treatments: 0.35 ± 0.07, 0.36 ± 0.05, and 0.37 ± 0.07, respectively. The three treatment groups with 0, 30, and 60 mg/kg of added iron had similar fractional zinc absorption (0.32 ± 0.04, 0.33 ± 0.02, and 0.32 ± 0.05, respectively) and similar amounts of zinc absorbed (4.8 ± 0.7, 4.5 ± 0.3, and 4.8 ± 0.7 mg/day, respectively). Conclusions Since zinc oxide is more stable and less expensive and was absorbed equally as well as zinc sulfate, we suggest its use for corn tortilla fortification. Simultaneous addition of zinc and iron to corn tortilla does not modify zinc bioavailability at iron doses of 30 and 60 mg/kg of corn flour. PMID:23424892

Curing and Characterization of Siloxanecarbonate Polymers

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-01-01

to 93 percent yields of p-bromophenol-Z-tetrahydropyranyl ether. The Grignard reagent made from the protected phenol in tetrahydrofuran was added to...iodomethane and heating. When all of the magnesium appeared to have been consumed, the resulting Grignard reagent was added via a double-tipped needle...7-dichlorooctamethyltetrasiloxane via the Grignard reaction. Workup of the reaction product with aqueous ammonium chloride solution kept the molecule

A study of methods of prediction and measurement of the transmission sound through the walls of light aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forssen, B.; Wang, Y. S.; Crocker, M. J.

1981-01-01

Several aspects were studied. The SEA theory was used to develop a theoretical model to predict the transmission loss through an aircraft window. This work mainly consisted of the writing of two computer programs. One program predicts the sound transmission through a plexiglass window (the case of a single partition). The other program applies to the case of a plexiglass window window with a window shade added (the case of a double partition with an air gap). The sound transmission through a structure was measured in experimental studies using several different methods in order that the accuracy and complexity of all the methods could be compared. Also, the measurements were conducted on the simple model of a fuselage (a cylindrical shell), on a real aircraft fuselage, and on stiffened panels.

A study of methods of prediction and measurement of the transmission sound through the walls of light aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forssen, B.; Wang, Y. S.; Crocker, M. J.

1981-12-01

Several aspects were studied. The SEA theory was used to develop a theoretical model to predict the transmission loss through an aircraft window. This work mainly consisted of the writing of two computer programs. One program predicts the sound transmission through a plexiglass window (the case of a single partition). The other program applies to the case of a plexiglass window window with a window shade added (the case of a double partition with an air gap). The sound transmission through a structure was measured in experimental studies using several different methods in order that the accuracy and complexity of all the methods could be compared. Also, the measurements were conducted on the simple model of a fuselage (a cylindrical shell), on a real aircraft fuselage, and on stiffened panels.

Data Mining for Double Stars in Astrometric Catalogs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wycoff, Gary L.; Mason, Brian D.; Urban, Sean E.

2006-07-01

The US Naval Observatory has mined over 140 astrometric catalogs, including the Astrographic Catalogue and the Two Micron All Sky Survey, for measures of double stars. This resulted in 114,218 new measures of 47,007 different systems spanning 110 years; these are now included in the Washington Double Star catalog (WDS). This is the single largest data set ever added to the WDS. The measures are typically of wider pairs, most between 4" and 30" thus, their value in aiding orbit determination is limited. However, they have proven invaluable in the verification of systems and the determination of rectilinear motions of systems.

Mechanochemical synthesis and intercalation of Ca(II)Fe(III)-layered double hydroxides

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

Ferencz, Zs.; Szabados, M.; Varga, G.

2016-01-15

A mechanochemical method (grinding the components without added water – dry grinding, followed by further grinding in the presence of minute amount of water or NaOH solution – wet grinding) was used in this work for the preparation and intercalation of CaFe-layered double hydroxides (LDHs). Both the pristine LDHs and the amino acid anion (cystinate and tyrosinate) intercalated varieties were prepared by the two-step grinding procedure in a mixer mill. By systematically changing the conditions of the preparation method, a set of parameters could be determined, which led to the formation of close to phase-pure LDH. The optimisation procedure wasmore » also applied for the intercalation processes of the amino acid anions. The resulting materials were structurally characterised by a range of methods (X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive analysis, thermogravimetry, X-ray absorption and infra-red spectroscopies). It was proven that this simple mechanochemical procedure was able to produce complex organic–inorganic nanocomposites: LDHs intercalated with amino acid anions. - Graphical abstract: Amino acid anion-Ca(II)Fe(III)-LDHs were successfully prepared by a two-step milling procedure. - Highlights: • Synthesis of pristine and amino acid intercalated CaFe-LDHs by two-step milling. • Identifying the optimum synthesis and intercalation parameters. • Characterisation of the samples with a range of instrumental methods.« less

Washington Double Star Catalog Cross Index (1950 position sort)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

A machine-readable version of the Washington Catalog of Visual Double Stars (WDS) was prepared in 1984 on the basis of a data file that was collected and maintained for more than a century by a succession of double-star observers. Although this catalog is being continually updated, a new copy for distribution is not expected to be available for a few years. The WDS contains DM numbers, but many of these are listed only in the notes, which makes it difficult to search for double-star information, except by position. Hence, a cross index that provides complete DM identifications is desirable, and it appears useful to add HD numbers for systems in that catalog. Aitken Double Star (ADS) numbers were retained from the WDS, but no attempt was made to correct these except for obvious errors.

Fiber-enriched double-setting calcium phosphate bone cement.

PubMed

dos Santos, Luís Alberto; Carrodéguas, Raúl Garcia; Boschi, Anselmo Ortega; Fonseca de Arruda, Antônio Celso

2003-05-01

Calcium phosphate bone cements are useful in orthopedics and traumatology, their main advantages being their biocompatibility and bioactivity, which render bone tissue osteoconductive, providing in situ hardening and easy handling. However, their low mechanical strength, which, in the best of cases, is equal to the trabecular bone, and their very low toughness are disadvantages. Calcium phosphate cement compositions with mechanical properties more closely resembling those of human bone would broaden the range of applications, which is currently limited to sites subjected to low loads. This study investigated the influence of added polypropylene, nylon, and carbon fibers on the mechanical properties of double setting alpha-tricalcium phosphate-based cement, using calcium phosphate cement added to an in situ polymerizable acrylamide-based system recently developed by the authors. Although the addition of fibers was found to reduce the compression strength of the double-setting calcium phosphate cement because of increased porosity, it strongly increased the cement's toughness (J(IC)) and tensile strength. The composites developed in this work, therefore, have a potential application in shapes subjected to flexure. Copyright 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Label-free and high-sensitive detection for genetic point mutation based on hyperspectral interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Rongxin; Li, Qi; Zhang, Junqi; Wang, Ruliang; Lin, Xue; Xue, Ning; Su, Ya; Jiang, Kai; Huang, Guoliang

2016-10-01

Label free point mutation detection is particularly momentous in the area of biomedical research and clinical diagnosis since gene mutations naturally occur and bring about highly fatal diseases. In this paper, a label free and high sensitive approach is proposed for point mutation detection based on hyperspectral interferometry. A hybridization strategy is designed to discriminate a single-base substitution with sequence-specific DNA ligase. Double-strand structures will take place only if added oligonucleotides are perfectly paired to the probe sequence. The proposed approach takes full use of the inherent conformation of double-strand DNA molecules on the substrate and a spectrum analysis method is established to point out the sub-nanoscale thickness variation, which benefits to high sensitive mutation detection. The limit of detection reach 4pg/mm2 according to the experimental result. A lung cancer gene point mutation was demonstrated, proving the high selectivity and multiplex analysis capability of the proposed biosensor.

Stability of Hydrocarbons of the Polyhedrane Family: Convergence of ab Initio Calculations and Corresponding Assessment of DFT Main Approximations.

PubMed

Sancho-García, J C

2011-09-13

Highly accurate coupled-cluster (CC) calculations with large basis sets have been performed to study the binding energy of the (CH)12, (CH)16, (CH)20, and (CH)24 polyhedral hydrocarbons in two, cage-like and planar, forms. We also considered the effect of other minor contributions: core-correlation, relativistic corrections, and extrapolations to the limit of the full CC expansion. Thus, chemically accurate values could be obtained for these complicated systems. These nearly exact results are used to evaluate next the performance of main approximations (i.e., pure, hybrid, and double-hybrid methods) within density functional theory (DFT) in a systematic fashion. Some commonly used functionals, including the B3LYP model, are affected by large errors, and only those having reduced self-interaction error (SIE), which includes the last family of conjectured expressions (double hybrids), are able to achieve reasonable low deviations of 1-2 kcal/mol especially when an estimate for dispersion interactions is also added.

The origin of the cooperativity in the streptavidin-biotin system: A computational investigation through molecular dynamics simulations.

PubMed

Liu, Fengjiao; Zhang, John Z H; Mei, Ye

2016-06-01

Previous experimental study measuring the binding affinities of biotin to the wild type streptavidin (WT) and three mutants (S45A, D128A and S45A/D128A double mutant) has shown that the loss of binding affinity from the double mutation is larger than the direct sum of those from two single mutations. The origin of this cooperativity has been investigated in this work through molecular dynamics simulations and the end-state free energy method using the polarized protein-specific charge. The results show that this cooperativity comes from both the enthalpy and entropy contributions. The former contribution mainly comes from the alternations of solvation free energy. Decomposition analysis shows that the mutated residues nearly have no contributions to the cooperativity. Instead, N49 and S88, which are located at the entry of the binding pocket and interact with the carboxyl group of biotin, make the dominant contribution among all the residues in the first binding shell around biotin.

The origin of the cooperativity in the streptavidin-biotin system: A computational investigation through molecular dynamics simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Fengjiao; Zhang, John Z. H.; Mei, Ye

2016-06-01

Previous experimental study measuring the binding affinities of biotin to the wild type streptavidin (WT) and three mutants (S45A, D128A and S45A/D128A double mutant) has shown that the loss of binding affinity from the double mutation is larger than the direct sum of those from two single mutations. The origin of this cooperativity has been investigated in this work through molecular dynamics simulations and the end-state free energy method using the polarized protein-specific charge. The results show that this cooperativity comes from both the enthalpy and entropy contributions. The former contribution mainly comes from the alternations of solvation free energy. Decomposition analysis shows that the mutated residues nearly have no contributions to the cooperativity. Instead, N49 and S88, which are located at the entry of the binding pocket and interact with the carboxyl group of biotin, make the dominant contribution among all the residues in the first binding shell around biotin.

The effect of stimulation therapy and donepezil on cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease. A community based RCT with a two-by-two factorial design.

PubMed

Andersen, Fred; Viitanen, Matti; Halvorsen, Dag S; Straume, Bjørn; Wilsgaard, Tom; Engstad, Torgeir A

2012-07-19

Progressive neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) induces cognitive deterioration, and there is controversy regarding the optimal treatment strategy in early AD. Stimulation therapy, including physical exercise and cholinesterase inhibitors are both reported to postpone cognitive deterioration in separate studies. We aimed to study the effect of stimulation therapy and the additional effect of donepezil on cognitive function in early AD. A two-by-two factorial trial comprising stimulation therapy for one year compared to standard care to which a randomized double-blinded placebo controlled trial with donepezil was added. Nine rural municipalities in Northern Norway. 187 participants 65 years and older with a recent diagnosis of mild or moderate AD were included in the study of which 146 completed a one-year follow-up. In five municipalities the participants received stimulation therapy whereas participants in four received standard care. All participants were randomised double-blindly to donepezil or placebo and tested with three different cognitive tests four times during the one-year study period. Changes in MMSE sum score.Secondary outcome: Changes in ADAS-Cog and Clock Drawing Test. MMSE scores remained unchanged amongst AD participants receiving stimulation therapy and those receiving standard care. The results were consistent for ADAS-Cog and Clock Drawing Test. No time trend differences were found during one-year follow-up between groups receiving stimulation therapy versus standard care or between donepezil versus placebo. In rural AD patients non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapy did not improve outcome compared with standard care but all groups retained cognitive function during one year follow-up. Other studies are needed to confirm these results. ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT00443014). EudraCT database (no 2004-002613-37).

Analysis of word number and content in discourse of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease

PubMed Central

de Lira, Juliana Onofre; Minett, Thaís Soares Cianciarullo; Bertolucci, Paulo Henrique Ferreira; Ortiz, Karin Zazo

2014-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by impairments in memory and other cognitive functions such as language, which can be affected in all aspects including discourse. A picture description task is considered an effective way of obtaining a discourse sample whose key feature is the ability to retrieve appropriate lexical items. There is no consensus on findings showing that performance in content processing of spoken discourse deteriorates from the mildest phase of AD. Objective To compare the quantity and quality of discourse among patients with mild to moderate AD and controls. Methods A cross-sectional study was designed. Subjects aged 50 years and older of both sexes, with one year or more of education, were divided into three groups: control (CG), mild AD (ADG1) and moderate AD (ADG2). Participants were asked to describe the "cookie theft" picture. The total number of complete words spoken and information units (IU) were included in the analysis. Results There was no significant difference among groups in terms of age, schooling and sex. For number of words spoken, the CG performed significantly better than both the ADG 1 and ADG2, but no difference between the two latter groups was found. CG produced almost twice as many information units as the ADG1 and more than double that of the ADG2. Moreover, ADG2 patients had worse performance on IUs compared to the ADG1. Conclusion Decreased performance in quantity and content of discourse was evident in patients with AD from the mildest phase, but only content (IU) continued to worsen with disease progression. PMID:29213912

New Low-mass Eclipsing Binary Systems in Praesepe Discovered by K2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gillen, Edward; Hillenbrand, Lynne A.; David, Trevor J.; Aigrain, Suzanne; Rebull, Luisa; Stauffer, John; Cody, Ann Marie; Queloz, Didier

2017-11-01

We present the discovery and characterization of four low-mass (M< 0.6 {M}⊙ ) eclipsing binary (EB) systems in the sub-Gyr old Praesepe open cluster using Kepler/K2 time series photometry and Keck/HIRES spectroscopy. We present a new Gaussian process EB model, GP-EBOP, as well as a method of simultaneously determining effective temperatures and distances for EBs. Three of the reported systems (AD 3814, AD 2615 and AD 1508) are detached and double-lined, and precise solutions are presented for the first two. We determine masses and radii to 1%-3% precision for AD 3814 and to 5%-6% for AD 2615. Together with effective temperatures determined to ˜50 K precision, we test the PARSEC v1.2 and BHAC15 stellar evolution models. Our EB parameters are more consistent with the PARSEC models, primarily because the BHAC15 temperature scale is hotter than our data over the mid-M-dwarf mass range probed. Both ADs 3814 and 2615, which have orbital periods of 6.0 and 11.6 days, are circularized but not synchronized. This suggests that either synchronization proceeds more slowly in fully convective stars than the theory of equilibrium tides predicts, or magnetic braking is currently playing a more important role than tidal forces in the spin evolution of these binaries. The fourth system (AD 3116) comprises a brown dwarf transiting a mid-M-dwarf, which is the first such system discovered in a sub-Gyr open cluster. Finally, these new discoveries increase the number of characterized EBs in sub-Gyr open clusters by 20% (40%) below M< 1.5 M ⊙ (M< 0.6 M ⊙).

Preparation of nano fluids by mechanical method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boopathy, J.; Pari, R.; Kavitha, M.; Angelo, P. C.

2012-07-01

Nanofluids are conventional heat transfer fluids that contain nano particles of metals, oxides, carbides, nitrides, or nanotubes. Nanofluids exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity and heat transfer coefficients compared to the base fluids. This paper presents the procedure for preparing nanofluids consisting of Copper and Aluminium nano powders in base fluids. Copper and Aluminium nano powders were produced by planetary ball wet milling at 300rpm for 50hrs. Toluene was added to ensure wet milling. These powders were characterized in XRD and SEM for their purity, particle size and shape. The XRD results confirmed the final particle sizes of Copper and Aluminium in the nano range. Then the 0.01 gm of nano metal powders was added in 150 ml of double distilled water and magnetic stirring was done at 1500 rpm for 15 minutes. Sodium lauryl sulphate (0.05%) was added in water as surfactant to ensure the stability of the dispersion. Ultrasonication in the 3000 watts bath was done for 10 minutes to enhance the uniform dispersion of metal powders in water. The pH, dynamic viscosity, ionic conductivity and the stability of the fluids were determined for further usage of synthesized nanofluids as coolant during grinding operation.

[Treatment of wastewater containing Cr(VI) by LDH synthesizing in situ].

PubMed

Chen, Tian-hu; Feng, You-liang; Xu, Hui-fang; Peng, Shu-chuan; Huang, Chuan-hui; Tang, Shu-pei

2004-03-01

The objective of this work was to investigate the efficiency and factors impacting of removal Cr(VI) from wastewater by layer double hydroxide synthesizing in situ. Principle of the method may be described as follow: Mg2+ and Al3+ hydrolysis and forms Mg/Al-LDH by adding Mg2+, Al3+ and NaOH into wastewater containing Cr(VI), Cr(VI) anions are selectively intercalated into interlayer of LDH to balance positive structural charge. While Mg2+ and Al3+ co-precipitates and forms LDH, the Cr(VI) in wastewater is removal by settle of LDH synthesizing in situ, which are confirmed by analysis of X-ray diffraction on settle and chemical analysis on aqueous. The results indicate that factors of impacting on efficiency of removal Cr(VI) include in amount of adding Mg2+ and Al3+, Mg/Al ratio, pH and concentration of Cr(VI) in wastewater. The maximal removal efficiency of Cr(VI) can be reached when pH values are between 8.5 and 9, and Mg/Al ratios are between 1:1 and 2:1, meanwhile, Mg and Al added can be taken good use of. This technology has present extraordinary efficiency of wastewater treatment.

Attenuation of neurodegenerative phenotypes in Alzheimer-like presenilin 1/presenilin 2 conditional double knockout mice by EUK1001, a promising derivative of xanomeline.

PubMed

Wang, Dong; Yang, Liguo; Su, Jingjing; Niu, Yan; Lei, Xiaoping; Xiong, Juan; Cao, Xiaohua; Hu, Yinghe; Mei, Bing; Hu, Jin-Feng

2011-07-01

The M1/M4-preferring muscarinic agonist xanomeline was found to have some benefit in the treatment of the memory impairment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but side effects precluded further development. EUK1001, a fluorinated derivative of xanomeline, because of greater affinity for M1 muscarinic receptors, is likely to have a significantly better side effect profile than xanomeline. We have now studied the effects of 3-month chronic administration of EUK1001 and xanomeline (0.5mg/kg/day) in AD-like presenilin 1/presenilin 2 conditional double knockout (PS cDKO) mice. Only EUK1001 was found to significantly ameliorate the deficit in recognition memory. Histological analysis demonstrated partial attenuation of the brain atrophy in EUK1001-treated PS cDKO mice and minimal effect in the xanomeline-treated mice. Both compounds effectively suppressed the elevation of brain tau phosphorylation in the PS cDKO mice, but neither inhibited the increased inflammatory responses. These results indicate that EUK1001 showed superiority to xanomeline with regard to attenuation of several AD-like neurodegenerative phenotypes in PS cDKO mice. These results suggest further investigation of the development of EUK1001 for the treatment of AD is indicated. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Estrogen for Alzheimer's disease in women: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Henderson, V W; Paganini-Hill, A; Miller, B L; Elble, R J; Reyes, P F; Shoupe, D; McCleary, C A; Klein, R A; Hake, A M; Farlow, M R

2000-01-25

AD, the most prevalent cause of dementia, affects twice as many women as men. Therapeutic options are limited, but results of prior studies support the hypothesis that estrogen treatment may improve symptoms of women with this disorder. Forty-two women with mild-to-moderate dementia due to AD were enrolled into a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial of unopposed conjugated equine estrogens (1.25 mg/day) for 16 weeks. Outcome data were available for 40 women at 4 weeks and 36 women at 16 weeks. At both 4 and 16 weeks, there were no significant differences or statistical trends between treatment groups on the primary outcome measure (the cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale), clinician-rated global impression of change, or caregiver-rated functional status. Exploratory analyses of mood and specific aspects of cognitive performance also failed to demonstrate substantial group differences. Although conclusions are limited by small sample size and the possibility of a type II error, results suggest that short-term estrogen therapy does not improve symptoms of most women with AD. These findings do not address possible long-term effects of estrogen in AD, possible interactions between estrogen and other treatment modalities, or putative effects of estrogen in preventing or delaying onset of this disorder.

Effects of Astaxanthin and Docosahexaenoic-Acid-Acylated Astaxanthin on Alzheimer's Disease in APP/PS1 Double-Transgenic Mice.

PubMed

Che, Hongxia; Li, Qian; Zhang, Tiantian; Wang, Dandan; Yang, Lu; Xu, Jie; Yanagita, Teruyoshi; Xue, Changhu; Chang, Yaoguang; Wang, Yuming

2018-05-16

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with the characteristics of senile plaques, neuroinflammation, neurofibrillary tangles, and destruction of synapse structure stability. Previous studies have verified the protective effects of astaxanthin (AST). However, whether synthesized docosahexaenoic-acid-acylated AST diesters (AST-DHA) could delay AD pathogenesis remains unclear. In the present study, APP/PSEN1 (APP/PS1) double-transgenic mice were administrated with AST and AST-DHA for 2 months. The results of radial 8-arm maze and Morris water maze tests showed that AST-DHA exerted more significant effects than AST in enhancing learning and memory levels of APP/PS1 mice. Further mechanical studies suggested that AST-DHA was superior to AST in regulating the parameters of oxidative stress, reducing tau hyperphosphorylation, suppressing neuroinflammation, and regulating inflammasome expression and activation in APP/PS1 mice. The findings suggested that AST-DHA attenuated cognitive disorders by reducing pathological features in APP/PS1 mice, suggesting that AST-DHA might be a potential therapeutic agent for AD.

Stand-alone Emollient Treatment Reduces Flares After Discontinuation of Topical Steroid Treatment in Atopic Dermatitis: A Double-blind, Randomized, Vehicle-controlled, Left-right Comparison Study.

PubMed

Angelova-Fischer, Irena; Rippke, Frank; Richter, Daniel; Filbry, Alexander; Arrowitz, Craig; Weber, Teresa; Fischer, Tobias W; Zillikens, Detlef

2018-04-27

Prevention of the flares is a main goal in the long-term treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). Therefore we investigated the efficacy of a water-in-oil emollient, containing licochalcone A, omega-6-fatty acids, ceramide 3 and glycerol, for prevention of the flares in adults with mild to moderately severe AD, treated with topical steroids, that led to clearing of the inflammatory lesions and had been discontinued prior to inclusion. The study was a 12-week, double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled, left-right comparison test with the number of relapses, defined as re-occurrence of erythema for at least 3 consecutive days, considered the primary outcome. Compared with the vehicle, the active formulation significantly reduced the number of relapses and maintained the barrier homeostasis of the respective arm. To the best of knowledge, this is the first study to show prevention of the AD flares by the use of stand-alone emollient treatment, based on comparison with the corresponding vehicle while excluding concomitant/rescue medications.

The hyperforin derivative IDN5706 occludes spatial memory impairments and neuropathological changes in a double transgenic Alzheimer's mouse model.

PubMed

Cerpa, W; Hancke, J L; Morazzoni, P; Bombardelli, E; Riva, Antonella; Marin, P P; Inestrosa, Nibaldo C

2010-03-01

The use of natural compounds is an interesting stratagem in the search of drugs with therapeutic potential for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We report here the effect of the hyperforin derivative (IDN5706, tetrahydrohyperforin), a semi-synthetic derivative of the St. John's Wort, on the brain neuropathology, learning and memory in a double transgenic (APPswe, PS-1dE9) mouse model of AD. Results indicate that, IDN5706 alleviates memory decline induced by amyloid-beta (Abeta) deposits as indicated by the Morris water maze paradigm. Moreover, the analysis of Abeta deposits by immunodetection and thioflavin-S staining of brain sections, only reveals a decrease in the frequency of the larger-size Abeta deposits, suggesting that IDN5706 affected the turnover of amyloid plaques. Immunohistochemical analysis, using GFAP and n-Tyrosine indicated that the hyperforin derivative prevents the inflammatory astrocytic reaction and the oxidative damage triggered by high Abeta deposit levels. We conclude that the hyperforin derivative, IDN5706, has therapeutic potential for prevention and treatment of AD.

Stabilized antiferroelectricity in xBiScO3-(1-x)NaNbO3 lead-free ceramics with established double hysteresis loops

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Lisheng; Guo, Hanzheng; Zhang, Shujun; Randall, Clive A.

2018-02-01

We previously reported various solid solution systems that demonstrated the stabilized antiferroelectric (P) phases in NaNbO3 through lowering the tolerance factor. However, all those reported modifications were achieved by adding A2+B4+O3 type solid solutions. A lead-free antiferroelectric (AFE) solid solution xBiScO3-(1-x)NaNbO3 was rationalized by adopting the tolerance factor design rule. Specifically, adding BiScO3 was found to effectively stabilize the AFE phase without changing the crystal symmetry of NaNbO3. Microstructure and electron zone axis diffraction patterns from transmission electron microscopy revealed the stabilized AFE (P) phase in this solid solution. Besides, the electric-field-induced polarization with a double-hysteresis loop was observed. The present results pointed out that the strategy could also be applied while adding A3+B3+O3 type solid solutions. In addition, it expanded the compositional design that can be applied to antiferroelectric materials.

Resistively Loaded Microstrip-Patch Antenna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, Marion C.

1993-01-01

Strips of thin resistive material added near two edges of conventional micro-strip-patch antenna. Bandwidth doubled by simple modification. Optimum bandwidth performance obtained by adjustment of shapes, resistances, and locations of resistive strips.

Bifurcation and Firing Patterns of the Pancreatic β-Cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jing; Liu, Shenquan; Liu, Xuanliang; Zeng, Yanjun

Using a model of individual isolated pancreatic β-cells, we investigated bifurcation diagrams of interspike intervals (ISIs) and largest Lyapunov exponents (LLE), which clearly demonstrated a wide range of transitions between different firing patterns. The numerical simulation results revealed the effect of different time constants and ion channels on the neuronal discharge rhythm. Furthermore, an individual cell exhibited tonic spiking, square-wave bursting, and tapered bursting. Additionally, several bifurcation phenomena can be observed in this paper, such as period-doubling, period-adding, inverse period-doubling and inverse period-adding scenarios. In addition, we researched the mechanisms underlying two kinds of bursting (tapered and square-wave bursting) by use of fast-slow dynamics analysis. Finally, we analyzed the codimension-two bifurcation of the fast subsystem and studied cusp bifurcation, generalized Hopf (or Bautin) bifurcation and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation.

Submolecular Structure and Orientation of Oligonucleotide Duplexes Tethered to Gold Electrodes Probed by Infrared Reflection Absorption Spectroscopy: Effect of the Electrode Potentials.

PubMed

Kékedy-Nagy, László; Ferapontova, Elena E; Brand, Izabella

2017-02-23

Unique electronic and ligand recognition properties of the DNA double helix provide basis for DNA applications in biomolecular electronic and biosensor devices. However, the relation between the structure of DNA at electrified interfaces and its electronic properties is still not well understood. Here, potential-driven changes in the submolecular structure of DNA double helices composed of either adenine-thymine (dAdT) 25 or cytosine-guanine (dGdC) 20 base pairs tethered to the gold electrodes are for the first time analyzed by in situ polarization modulation infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (PM IRRAS) performed under the electrochemical control. It is shown that the conformation of the DNA duplexes tethered to gold electrodes via the C 6 alkanethiol linker strongly depends on the nucleic acid sequence composition. The tilt of purine and pyrimidine rings of the complementary base pairs (dAdT and dGdC) depends on the potential applied to the electrode. By contrast, neither the conformation nor orientation of the ionic in character phosphate-sugar backbone is affected by the electrode potentials. At potentials more positive than the potential of zero charge (pzc), a gradual tilting of the double helix is observed. In this tilted orientation, the planes of the complementary purine and pyrimidine rings lie ideally parallel to each other. These potentials do not affect the integral stability of the DNA double helix at the charged interface. At potentials more negative than the pzc, DNA helices adopt a vertical to the gold surface orientation. Tilt of the purine and pyrimidine rings depends on the composition of the double helix. In monolayers composed of (dAdT) 25 molecules the rings of the complementary base pairs lie parallel to each other. By contrast, the tilt of purine and pyrimidine rings in (dGdC) 20 helices depends on the potential applied to the electrode. Such potential-induced mobility of the complementary base pairs can destabilize the helix structure at a submolecular level. These pioneer results on the potential-driven changes in the submolecular structure of double stranded DNA adsorbed on conductive supports contribute to further understanding of the potential-driven sequence-specific electronic properties of surface-tethered oligonucleotides.

Overcoming organic and nitrogen overload in thermophilic anaerobic digestion of pig slurry by coupling a microbial electrolysis cell.

PubMed

Cerrillo, Míriam; Viñas, Marc; Bonmatí, August

2016-09-01

The combination of the anaerobic digestion (AD) process with a microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) coupled to an ammonia stripping unit as a post-treatment was assessed both in series operation, to improve the quality of the effluent, and in loop configuration recirculating the effluent, to increase the AD robustness. The MEC allowed maintaining the chemical oxygen demand removal of the whole system of 46±5% despite the AD destabilization after doubling the organic and nitrogen loads, while recovering 40±3% of ammonia. The AD-MEC system, in loop configuration, helped to recover the AD (55% increase in methane productivity) and attained a more stable and robust operation. The microbial population assessment revealed an enhancement of AD methanogenic archaea numbers and a shift in eubacterial population. The AD-MEC combined system is a promising strategy for stabilizing AD against organic and nitrogen overloads, while improving the quality of the effluent and recovering nutrients for their reutilization. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Structure-Based Insight into the Asymmetric Bioreduction of the C=C Double Bond of α,β-Unsaturated Nitroalkenes by Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate Reductase

PubMed Central

Toogood, Helen S.; Fryszkowska, Anna; Hare, Victoria; Fisher, Karl; Roujeinikova, Anna; Leys, David; Gardiner, John M.; Stephens, Gill M.; Scrutton, Nigel S.

2009-01-01

Biocatalytic reduction of α- or β-alkyl-β-arylnitroalkenes provides a convenient and efficient method to prepare chiral substituted nitroalkanes. Pentaerythritol tetranitrate reductase (PETN reductase) from Enterobacter cloacae st. PB2 catalyses the reduction of nitroolefins such as 1-nitrocyclohexene (1) with steady state and rapid reaction kinetics comparable to other old yellow enzyme homologues. Furthermore, it reduces 2-aryl-1-nitropropenes (4a-d) to their equivalent (S)-nitropropanes 9a-d. The enzyme shows a preference for the (Z)-isomer of substrates 4a-d, providing almost pure enantiomeric products 9a-d (ees up to > 99%) in quantitative yield, whereas the respective (E)-isomers are reduced with lower enantioselectivity (63-89% ee) and lower product yields. 1-Aryl-2-nitropropenes (5a, b) are also reduced efficiently, but the products (R)-10 have lower optical purities. The structure of the enzyme complex with 1-nitrocyclohexene (1) was determined by X-ray crystallography, revealing two substrate-binding modes, with only one compatible with hydride transfer. Models of nitropropenes 4 and 5 in the active site of PETN reductase predicted that the enantioselectivity of the reaction was dependent on the orientation of binding of the (E)- and (Z)-substrates. This work provides a structural basis for understanding the mechanism of asymmetric bioreduction of nitroalkenes by PETN reductase. PMID:20396603

A very efficient approach to compute the first-passage probability density function in a time-changed Brownian model: Applications in finance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ballestra, Luca Vincenzo; Pacelli, Graziella; Radi, Davide

2016-12-01

We propose a numerical method to compute the first-passage probability density function in a time-changed Brownian model. In particular, we derive an integral representation of such a density function in which the integrand functions must be obtained solving a system of Volterra equations of the first kind. In addition, we develop an ad-hoc numerical procedure to regularize and solve this system of integral equations. The proposed method is tested on three application problems of interest in mathematical finance, namely the calculation of the survival probability of an indebted firm, the pricing of a single-knock-out put option and the pricing of a double-knock-out put option. The results obtained reveal that the novel approach is extremely accurate and fast, and performs significantly better than the finite difference method.

Spatially sculpted laser scissors for study of DNA damage and repair

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephens, Jared; Mohanty, Samarendra K.; Genc, Suzanne; Kong, Xiangduo; Yokomori, Kyoko; Berns, Michael W.

2009-09-01

We present a simple and efficient method for controlled linear induction of DNA damage in live cells. By passing a pulsed laser beam through a cylindrical lens prior to expansion, an elongated elliptical beam profile is created with the ability to expose controlled linear patterns while keeping the beam and the sample stationary. The length and orientation of the beam at the sample plane were reliably controlled by an adjustable aperture and rotation of the cylindrical lens, respectively. Localized immunostaining by the DNA double strand break (DSB) markers phosphorylated H2AX (γH2AX) and Nbs1 in the nuclei of HeLa cells exposed to the ``line scissors'' was shown via confocal imaging. The line scissors method proved more efficient than the scanning mirror and scanning stage methods at induction of DNA DSB damage with the added benefit of having a greater potential for high throughput applications.

Efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin added to insulin therapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: a multicenter, 52-week, clinical study with a 16-week, double-blind period and a 36-week, open-label period.

PubMed

Seino, Yutaka; Sasaki, Takashi; Fukatsu, Atsushi; Imazeki, Hisae; Ochiai, Hidekazu; Sakai, Soichi

2018-06-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) inadequately controlled with insulin monotherapy. This 52-week multicenter study entailed a 16-week, double-blind period followed by a 36-week, open-label period. Patients were randomized to receive either luseogliflozin 2.5 mg (n = 159) or placebo (n = 74) during the double-blind period. All patients who entered the open-label period received luseogliflozin. Major efficacy endpoints included the changes from baseline in HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) and bodyweight. Safety assessments included adverse events, laboratory tests and vital signs. In the double-blind period, luseogliflozin significantly decreased HbA1c (-1.18%), FPG (-42.4 mg/dL), 2 hour PPG (-68.7 mg/dL) and bodyweight (-1.27 kg) compared with placebo (all p < .001); these reductions were maintained over 52 weeks. The changes from baseline at Week 52 were -1.00%, -35.1 mg/dL, -68.8 mg/dL and -1.81 kg, respectively (all p < .001). In the placebo group, favorable glycemic control and bodyweight reduction were also observed after switching to luseogliflozin. Most adverse events were mild in severity. During the double-blind period, the incidences of hypoglycemia were 20.8% and 13.5% in the luseogliflozin and placebo groups, respectively. During the 52 weeks of luseogliflozin treatment, the frequency of hypoglycemia was 33.3%, but no serious hypoglycemia occurred. The safety profile other than hypoglycemia was also acceptable. There were no new safety concerns about luseogliflozin added to insulin. Luseogliflozin added to insulin therapy significantly improved glycemic control with bodyweight reduction and was well tolerated in Japanese patients with T2D. Japan Pharmaceutical Information Center (JapicCTI-142582).

A retrospective study to reveal factors associated with postoperative shoulder imbalance in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with double thoracic curve.

PubMed

Lee, Choon Sung; Hwang, Chang Ju; Lim, Eic Ju; Lee, Dong-Ho; Cho, Jae Hwan

2016-12-01

OBJECTIVE Postoperative shoulder imbalance (PSI) is a critical consideration after corrective surgery for a double thoracic curve (Lenke Type 2); however, the radiographic factors related to PSI remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify the radiographic factors related to PSI after corrective surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in patients with a double thoracic curve. METHODS This study included 80 patients with Lenke Type 2 AIS who underwent corrective surgery. Patients were grouped according to the presence [PSI(+)] or absence [PSI(-)] of shoulder imbalance at the final follow-up examination (differences of 20, 15, and 10 mm were used). Various radiographic parameters, including the Cobb angle of the proximal and middle thoracic curves (PTC and MTC), radiographic shoulder height (RSH), clavicle angle, T-1 tilt, trunk shift, and proximal and distal wedge angles (PWA and DWA), were assessed before and after surgery and compared between groups. RESULTS Overall, postoperative RSH decreased with time in the PSI(-) group but not in the PSI(+) group. Statistical analyses revealed that the preoperative Risser grade (p = 0.048), postoperative PWA (p = 0.028), and postoperative PTC/MTC ratio (p = 0.011) correlated with PSI. Presence of the adding-on phenomenon was also correlated with PSI, although this result was not statistically significant (p = 0.089). CONCLUSIONS Postoperative shoulder imbalance is common after corrective surgery for Lenke Type 2 AIS and correlates with a higher Risser grade, a larger postoperative PWA, and a higher postoperative PTC/MTC ratio. Presence of the distal adding-on phenomenon is associated with an increased PSI trend, although this result was not statistically significant. However, preoperative factors other than the Risser grade that affect the development of PSI were not identified by the study. Additional studies are required to reveal the risk factors for the development of PSI.

Modified method for external attachment of transmitters to birds using two subcutaneous anchors

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewis, T.L.; Flint, Paul L.

2008-01-01

Of the transmitter attachment techniques for birds, the subcutaneous anchor provides a secure attachment that yields relatively few secondary effects. However, the use of subcutaneous anchors has been limited by transmitter size and retention time. Using a modified method of attachment that utilized two subcutaneous anchors, we deployed 69 GPS transmitters, plus 13 VHF transmitters that were similar in size and weight to GPS models, on Pacific Black Brant (Branta bernicla nigricans). Prior to our study, only harnesses were used for attaching GPS transmitters on birds, mainly because GPS transmitters are too large for other external attachment techniques and implantation in the body cavity attenuates the GPS signal. Thus, to increase the size capacity of anchor attachment and to avoid the well-documented negative effects of harnesses on behavior and survival, we added a second anchor at the transmitter's posterior end. The double-anchor attachment technique was quickly and easily accomplished in the field, requiring bird handling times of <10 min. Incidental recoveries of tagged Brant indicate a high degree of transmitter retention. Five recaptured birds (4-6 weeks after deployment) and eight killed by hunters (3-6 mo after deployment) retained their GPS transmitters. For studies involving the use of relatively large transmitters, the double-anchor method appears to provide a viable alternative for external attachment. ?? 2008 Association of Field Ornithologists.

Maternal Opioid Treatment: Human Experimental Research (MOTHER) – Approach, Issues, and Lessons Learned

PubMed Central

Jones, Hendrée E.; Fischer, Gabriele; Heil, Sarah H.; Kaltenbach, Karol; Martin, Peter R.; Coyle, Mara G.; Selby, Peter; Stine, Susan M.; O’Grady, Kevin E.; Arria, Amelia M.

2015-01-01

Aims The Maternal Opioid Treatment: Human Experimental Research (MOTHER) project, an eight-site randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, flexible-dosing, parallel-group clinical trial is described. This study is the most current – and single most comprehensive – research effort to investigate the safety and efficacy of maternal and prenatal exposure to methadone and buprenorphine. Methods The MOTHER study design is outlined, and its basic features are presented. Conclusions At least seven important lessons have been learned from the MOTHER study: (1) an interdisciplinary focus improves the design and methods of a randomized clinical trial; (2) multiple sites in a clinical trial present continuing challenges to the investigative team due to variations in recruitment goals, patient populations, and hospital practices that in turn differentially impact recruitment rates, treatment compliance, and attrition; (3) study design and protocols must be flexible in order to meet the unforeseen demands of both research and clinical management; (4) staff turnover needs to be addressed with a proactive focus on both hiring and training; (5) the implementation of a protocol for the treatment of a particular disorder may identify important ancillary clinical issues worthy of investigation; (6) timely tracking of data in a multi-site trial is both demanding and unforgiving; and, (7) complex multi-site trials pose unanticipated challenges that complicate the choice of statistical methods, thereby placing added demands on investigators to effectively communicate their results. PMID:23106924

New validated recipes for double-blind placebo-controlled low-dose food challenges.

PubMed

Winberg, Anna; Nordström, Lisbeth; Strinnholm, Åsa; Nylander, Annica; Jonsäll, Anette; Rönmark, Eva; West, Christina E

2013-05-01

Double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges are considered the most reliable method to diagnose or rule out food allergy. Despite this, there are few validated challenge recipes available. The present study aimed to validate new recipes for low-dose double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges in school children, by investigating whether there were any sensory differences between the active materials containing cow's milk, hen's egg, soy, wheat or cod, and the placebo materials. The challenge materials contained the same hypoallergenic amino acid-based product, with or without added food allergens. The test panels consisted of 275 school children, aged 8-10 and 14-15 yr, respectively, from five Swedish schools. Each participant tested at least one recipe. Standardized blinded triangle tests were performed to investigate whether any sensory differences could be detected between the active and placebo materials. In our final recipes, no significant differences could be detected between the active and placebo materials for any challenge food (p > 0.05). These results remained after stratification for age and gender. The taste of challenge materials was acceptable, and no unfavourable side effects related to test materials were observed. In summary, these new validated recipes for low-dose double-blinded food challenges contain common allergenic foods in childhood; cow's milk, hen's egg, soy, wheat and cod. All test materials contain the same liquid vehicle, which facilitates preparation and dosing. Our validated recipes increase the range of available recipes, and as they are easily prepared and dosed, they may facilitate the use of double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges in daily clinical practice. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Medical ideology as a double-edged sword: the politics of cure and care in the making of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Chaufan, Claudia; Hollister, Brooke; Nazareno, Jennifer; Fox, Patrick

2012-03-01

This paper builds on our prior work concerning the emergence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) as a major social and health concern. Our study was conducted in two phases (1985-1987 and 2009-2011). We examined the historical evolution of the concept of AD and the emergence of the AD social movement in the U. S. Sources include interviews with movement leaders and scientists, historical documents of the Alzheimer's Association, Congressional records, and published literature. We identified recurrent themes and salient issues motivating those in the movement, its barriers and facilitators, and the roles of government and NGOs in the creation of an organizational structure to maintain it. The characterization of AD as a leading cause of death among the elderly was crucial to sustaining the movement, but also operated as a "double edged sword". By construing "senility" as a treatable, even curable biomedical entity, the movement substantively contributed to the notion of an impending "crisis" of the aging population to be avoided at all costs, compounding the effect of conservative federal policies that emphasized the treatment or cure of AD, and less so the long-term care service needs of sufferers and caregivers that had given rise to the movement. We also discuss how the continuing hegemony of the medical model establishes a race against the demographic clock, pitting advances in biomedical research against the needs of an aging population. We propose that alternative framings and sources of legitimization are critical to address the needs and preserve the humanity of people living with AD and their caregivers. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Theoretical Study of Monolayer and Double-Layer Waveguide Love Wave Sensors for Achieving High Sensitivity.

PubMed

Li, Shuangming; Wan, Ying; Fan, Chunhai; Su, Yan

2017-03-22

Love wave sensors have been widely used for sensing applications. In this work, we introduce the theoretical analysis of the monolayer and double-layer waveguide Love wave sensors. The velocity, particle displacement and energy distribution of Love waves were analyzed. Using the variations of the energy repartition, the sensitivity coefficients of Love wave sensors were calculated. To achieve a higher sensitivity coefficient, a thin gold layer was added as the second waveguide on top of the silicon dioxide (SiO₂) waveguide-based, 36 degree-rotated, Y-cut, X-propagating lithium tantalate (36° YX LiTaO₃) Love wave sensor. The Love wave velocity was significantly reduced by the added gold layer, and the flow of wave energy into the waveguide layer from the substrate was enhanced. By using the double-layer structure, almost a 72-fold enhancement in the sensitivity coefficient was achieved compared to the monolayer structure. Additionally, the thickness of the SiO₂ layer was also reduced with the application of the gold layer, resulting in easier device fabrication. This study allows for the possibility of designing and realizing robust Love wave sensors with high sensitivity and a low limit of detection.

LD-Aminopterin in the Canine Homologue of Human Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized, Controlled Trial Reveals Dosing Factors Affecting Optimal Therapy

PubMed Central

Zebala, John A.; Mundell, Alan; Messinger, Linda; Griffin, Craig E.; Schuler, Aaron D.; Kahn, Stuart J.

2014-01-01

Background Options are limited for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) who do not respond to topical treatments. Antifolate therapy with systemic methotrexate improves the disease, but is associated with adverse effects. The investigational antifolate LD-aminopterin may offer improved safety. It is not known how antifolate dose and dosing frequency affect efficacy in AD, but a primary mechanism is thought to involve the antifolate-mediated accumulation of 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR). However, recent in vitro studies indicate that AICAR increases then decreases as a function of antifolate concentration. To address this issue and understand how dosing affects antifolate efficacy in AD, we examined the efficacy and safety of different oral doses and schedules of LD-aminopterin in the canine model of AD. Methods and Findings This was a multi-center, double-blind trial involving 75 subjects with canine AD randomized to receive up to 12 weeks of placebo, once-weekly (0.007, 0.014, 0.021 mg/kg) or twice-weekly (0.007 mg/kg) LD-aminopterin. The primary efficacy outcome was the Global Score (GS), a composite of validated measures of disease severity and itch. GS improved in all once-weekly cohorts, with 0.014 mg/kg being optimal and significant (43%, P<0.01). The majority of improvement was seen by 8 weeks. In contrast, GS in the twice-weekly cohort was similar to placebo and worse than all once-weekly cohorts. Adverse events were similar across all treated cohorts and placebo. Conclusions Once-weekly LD-aminopterin was safe and efficacious in canine AD. Twice-weekly dosing negated efficacy despite having the same daily and weekly dose as effective once-weekly regimens. Optimal dosing in this homologue of human AD correlated with the concentration-selective accumulation of AICAR in vitro, consistent with AICAR mediating LD-aminopterin efficacy in AD. PMID:25255447

Preferential accumulation of amyloid-beta in presynaptic glutamatergic terminals (VGluT1 and VGluT2) in Alzheimer's disease cortex.

PubMed

Sokolow, Sophie; Luu, Sanh H; Nandy, Karabi; Miller, Carol A; Vinters, Harry V; Poon, Wayne W; Gylys, Karen H

2012-01-01

Amyloid-beta (Aβ) is thought to play a central role in synaptic dysfunction (e.g. neurotransmitter release) and synapse loss. Glutamatergic dysfunction is involved in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and perhaps plays a central role in age-related cognitive impairment. Yet, it is largely unknown whether Aβ accumulates in excitatory boutons. To assess the possibility that glutamatergic terminals are lost in AD patients, control and AD synaptosomes were immunolabeled for the most abundant vesicular glutamate transporters (VGluT1 and VGluT2) and quantified by flow cytometry and immunoblot methods. In post-mortem parietal cortex from aged control subjects, glutamatergic boutons are fairly abundant as approximately 40% were immunoreactive for VGluT1 (37%) and VGluT2 (39%). However, the levels of these specific markers of glutamatergic synapses were not significantly different among control and AD cases. To test the hypothesis that Aβ is associated with excitatory terminals, AD synaptosomes were double-labeled for Aβ and for VGluT1 and VGluT2, and analyzed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Our study demonstrated that Aβ immunoreactivity (IR) was present in glutamatergic terminals of AD patients. Quantification of Aβ and VGluT1 in a large population of glutamatergic nerve terminals was performed by flow cytometry, showing that 42% of VGluT1 synaptosomes were immunoreactive for Aβ compared to 9% of VGluT1 synaptosomes lacking Aβ-IR. Percentage of VGluT2 synaptosomes immunoreactive for Aβ (21%) was significantly higher than VGluT2 synaptosomes lacking Aβ-IR (9%). Moreover, Aβ preferentially affects VGluT1 (42% positive) compared to VGluT2 terminals (21%). These data represent the first evidence of high levels of Aβ in excitatory boutons in AD cortex and support the hypothesis that Aβ may play a role in modulating glutamate transmission in AD terminals. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preferential accumulation of amyloid-beta in presynaptic glutamatergic terminals (VGluT1 and VGluT2) in Alzheimer’s disease cortex

PubMed Central

Sokolow, Sophie; Luu, Sanh H.; Nandy, Karabi; Miller, Carol A.; Vinters, Harry V.; Poon, Wayne W.; Gylys, Karen H.

2011-01-01

Amyloid-beta (Aβ) is thought to play a central role in synaptic dysfunction (e.g. neurotransmitter release) and synapse loss. Glutamatergic dysfunction is involved in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and perhaps plays a central role in age-related cognitive impairment. Yet, it is largely unknown whether Aβ accumulates in excitatory boutons. To assess the possibility that glutamatergic terminals are lost in AD patients, control and AD synaptosomes were immunolabeled for the most abundant vesicular glutamate transporters (VGluT1 and VGluT2) and quantified by flow cytometry and immunoblot methods. In post-mortem parietal cortex from aged control subjects, glutamatergic boutons are fairly abundant as approximately 40% were immunoreactive for VGluT1 (37%) and VGluT2 (39%). However, the levels of these specific markers of glutamatergic synapses were not significantly different among control and AD cases. To test the hypothesis that Aβ is associated with excitatory terminals, AD synaptosomes were double-labeled for Aβ and for VGluT1 and VGluT2, and analyzed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Our study demonstrated that Aβ immunoreactivity (IR) was present in glutamatergic terminals of AD patients. Quantification of Aβ and VGluT1 in a large population of glutamatergic nerve terminals was performed by flow cytometry, showing that 42% of VGluT1 synaptosomes were immunoreactive for Aβ compared to 9% of VGluT1 synaptosomes lacking Aβ-IR. Percentage of VGluT2 synaptosomes immunoreactive for Aβ (21%) was significantly higher than VGluT2 synaptosomes lacking Aβ-IR (9%). Moreover, Aβ preferentially affects VGluT1 (42% positive) compared to VGluT2 terminals (21%). These data represent the first evidence of high levels of Aβ in excitatory boutons in AD cortex and support the hypothesis that Aβ may play a role in modulating glutamate transmission in AD terminals. PMID:21914482

A generalization of the double-corner-frequency source spectral model and its use in the SCEC BBP validation exercise

USGS Publications Warehouse

Boore, David M.; Di Alessandro, Carola; Abrahamson, Norman A.

2014-01-01

The stochastic method of simulating ground motions requires the specification of the shape and scaling with magnitude of the source spectrum. The spectral models commonly used are either single-corner-frequency or double-corner-frequency models, but the latter have no flexibility to vary the high-frequency spectral levels for a specified seismic moment. Two generalized double-corner-frequency ω2 source spectral models are introduced, one in which two spectra are multiplied together, and another where they are added. Both models have a low-frequency dependence controlled by the seismic moment, and a high-frequency spectral level controlled by the seismic moment and a stress parameter. A wide range of spectral shapes can be obtained from these generalized spectral models, which makes them suitable for inversions of data to obtain spectral models that can be used in ground-motion simulations in situations where adequate data are not available for purely empirical determinations of ground motions, as in stable continental regions. As an example of the use of the generalized source spectral models, data from up to 40 stations from seven events, plus response spectra at two distances and two magnitudes from recent ground-motion prediction equations, were inverted to obtain the parameters controlling the spectral shapes, as well as a finite-fault factor that is used in point-source, stochastic-method simulations of ground motion. The fits to the data are comparable to or even better than those from finite-fault simulations, even for sites close to large earthquakes.

Single-photon interference experiment for high schools

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bondani, Maria

2014-07-01

We follow the reductio ad absurdum reasoning described in the book "Sneaking a Look at God's Cards" by Giancarlo Ghirardi to demonstrate the wave-particle duality of light in a Mach-Zehnder interferometric setup analog to the conventional Young double-slit experiment. We aim at showing the double nature of light by measuring the existence of interference fringes down to the single-photon level. The setup includes a strongly attenuated laser, polarizing beam splitters, half-waveplates, polarizers and single-photon detectors.

Research of performance prediction to energy on hydraulic turbine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quan, H.; Li, R. N.; Li, Q. F.; Han, W.; Su, Q. M.

2012-11-01

Refer to the low specific speed Francis turbine blade design principle and double-suction pump structure. Then, design a horizontal double-channel hydraulic turbine Francis. Through adding different guide vane airfoil and and no guide vane airfoil on the hydraulic conductivity components to predict hydraulic turbine energy and using Fluent software to numerical simulation that the operating conditions and point. The results show that the blade pressure surface and suction surface pressure is low when the hydraulic turbine installation is added standard positive curvature of the guide vane and modified positive curvature of guide vane. Therefore, the efficiency of energy recovery is low. However, the pressure of negative curvature guide vane and symmetric guide vane added on hydraulic turbine installations is larger than that of the former ones, and it is conducive to working of runner. With the decreasing of guide vane opening, increasing of inlet angle, flow state gets significantly worse. Then, others obvious phenomena are that the reflux and horizontal flow appeared in blade pressure surface. At the same time, the vortex was formed in Leaf Road, leading to the loss of energy. Through analyzing the distribution of pressure, velocity, flow lines of over-current flow in the the back hydraulic conductivity components in above programs we can known that the hydraulic turbine installation added guide vane is more reasonable than without guide vanes, it is conducive to improve efficiency of energy conversion.

Geomagnetic paleointensity between 1300 and 1750 A.D. derived from a bread oven floor sequence in Lübeck, Germany

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnepp, Elisabeth; Lanos, Philippe; Chauvin, Annick

2009-08-01

Geomagnetic paleointensities have been determined from a single archaeological site in Lübeck, Germany, where a sequence of 25 bread oven floors has been preserved in a bakery from medieval times until today. Age dating confines the time interval from about 1300 A.D. to about 1750 A.D. Paleomagnetic directions have been published from each oven floor and are updated here. The specimens have very stable directions and no or only weak secondary components. The oven floor material was characterized rock magnetically using Thellier viscosity indices, median destructive field values, Curie point determinations, and hysteresis measurements. Magnetic carriers are mixtures of SD, PSD, and minor MD magnetite and/or maghemite together with small amounts of hematite. Paleointensity was measured from selected specimens with the double-heating Thellier method including pTRM checks and determination of TRM anisotropy tensors. Corrections for anisotropy as well as for cooling rate turned out to be unnecessary. Ninety-two percent of the Thellier experiments passed the assigned acceptance criteria and provided four to six reliable paleointensity estimates per oven floor. Mean paleointensity values derived from 22 oven floors show maxima in the 15th and early 17th centuries A.D., followed by a decrease of paleointensity of about 20% until 1750 A.D. Together with the directions the record represents about 450 years of full vector secular variation. The results compare well with historical models of the Earth's magnetic field as well as with a selected high-quality paleointensity data set for western and central Europe.

Methodological study of computational approaches to address the problem of strong correlations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Juho

The main focus of this thesis is the detailed investigation of computational methods to tackle strongly correlated materials in which a rich variety of exotic phenomena are found. A many-body problem with sizable electronic correlations can no longer be explained by independent-particle approximations such as density functional theory (DFT) or tight-binding approaches. The influence of an electron to the others is too strong for each electron to be treated as an independent quasiparticle and consequently those standard band-structure methods fail even at a qualitative level. One of the most powerful approaches for strong correlations is the dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT), which has enlightened the understanding of the Mott transition based on the Hubbard model. For realistic applications, the dynamical mean-field theory is combined with various independent-particles approaches. The most widely used one is the DMFT combined with the DFT in the local density approximation (LDA), so-called LDA+DMFT. In this approach, the electrons in the weakly correlated orbitals are calculated by LDA while others in the strongly correlated orbitals are treated by DMFT. Recently, the method combining DMFT with Hedin's GW approximation was also developed, in which the momentum-dependent self-energy is also added. In this thesis, we discuss the application of those methodologies based on DMFT. First, we apply the dynamical mean-field theory to solve the 3-dimensional Hubbard model in Chap. 3. In this application, we model the interface between the thermodynamically coexisting metal and Mott insulator. We show how to model the required slab geometry and extract the electronic spectra. We construct an effective Landau free energy and compute the variation of its parameters across the phase diagram. Finally, using a linear mixture of the density and double-occupancy, we identify a natural Ising order parameter which unifies the treatment of the bandwidth and filling controlled Mott transitions. Secondly, we study the double-counting problem, a subtle issue that arises in LDA+DMFT. We propose a highly precise double-counting functional, in which the intersection of LDA and DMFT is calculated exactly, and implement a parameter-free version of the LDA+DMFT that is tested on one of the simplest strongly correlated systems, the H2 molecule. We show that the exact double-counting treatment along with a good DMFT projector leads to very accurate and total energy and excitation spectrum of H2 molecule. Finally, we implement various versions of GW+DMFT, in its fully self-consistent way, one shot GW approximation, and quasiparticle self-consistent scheme, and studied how well these combined methods perform on H2 molecule as compared to more established methods such as LDA+DMFT. We found that most flavors of GW+DMFT break down in strongly correlated regime due to causality violation. Among GW+DMFT methods, only the self-consistent quasiparticle GW+DMFT with static double-counting, and a new method with causal double-counting, correctly recover the atomic limit at large H-atom separation. While some flavors of GW+DMFT improve the single-electron spectra of LDA+DMFT, the total energy is best predicted by LDA+DMFT, for which the exact double-counting is known, and is static.

Overview of the Dietary Intakes of the Mexican Population: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2012.

PubMed

Rivera, Juan A; Pedraza, Lilia S; Aburto, Tania C; Batis, Carolina; Sánchez-Pimienta, Tania G; González de Cosío, Teresita; López-Olmedo, Nancy; Pedroza-Tobías, Andrea

2016-09-01

Mexico is facing the double burden of malnutrition: stunting and micronutrient deficiencies in young children, iron deficiency in pregnant women, and widespread obesity across age groups. The aim was to summarize and discuss findings published in this supplement on dietary intakes and the eating habits of the Mexican population. A 24-h recall questionnaire that used the multiple-pass method with a repeated measure in a fraction of the sample was applied in a nationally representative sample. We estimated mean intakes and percentages of inadequacy for macronutrients and micronutrients; mean intakes and percentages of the population who adhere to dietary recommendations for food groups; sources of added sugars; intakes of discretionary foods by mealtime, place, and activity; and mean dietary intakes in children <2 y old. Infant formula was consumed by almost half of infants aged <6 mo and sugar-sweetened beverages were consumed by two-thirds of children aged 12-23 mo. In the different age groups, a high proportion of the population had excessive intakes of added sugars (58-85%) and saturated fats (54-92%), whereas a high prevalence of insufficient intakes was found for fiber (65-87%), vitamin A (8-70%), folates (13-69%), calcium (26-88%), and iron (46-89%). Discretionary foods (nonbasic foods high in saturated fats and/or added sugars) contributed 26% of the population's total energy intake, whereas only 1-23% met recommendations for legumes, seafood, fruit, vegetables, and dairy foods. High proportions of Mexicans consume diets that do not meet recommendations. Breastfeeding and complementary feeding diverged from recommendations, intakes of discretionary foods were high, and the prevalence of nutrient inadequacies and age groups not meeting intake recommendations of basic food groups were also high. The results are consistent with the high prevalence of the double burden of malnutrition and are useful to design food and nutrition policies. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

NILVAD protocol: a European multicentre double-blind placebo-controlled trial of nilvadipine in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease

PubMed Central

Lawlor, Brian; Kennelly, Sean; O'Dwyer, Sarah; Cregg, Fiona; Walsh, Cathal; Coen, Robert; Kenny, Rose Anne; Howard, Robert; Murphy, Caroline; Adams, Jessica; Daly, Leslie; Segurado, Ricardo; Gaynor, Siobhan; Crawford, Fiona; Mullan, Michael; Lucca, Ugo; Banzi, Rita; Pasquier, Florence; Breuilh, Laetitia; Riepe, Matthias; Kalman, Janos; Wallin, Anders; Borjesson, Anne; Molloy, William; Tsolaki, Magda; Olde Rikkert, Marcel

2014-01-01

Introduction This study is a European multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the efficacy and safety of nilvadipine as a disease course modifying treatment for mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD) in a phase III study that will run for a period of 82 weeks with a treatment period of 78 weeks. Methods and analysis Adult patients, males and females over 50 years with mild-to-moderate AD as defined by the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke/Alzheimer's disease and Related Disorders Association (NINCDS-ADRDA) criteria, will be included in the study. It aims to recruit a total of 500 patients with AD; 250 in the nilvadipine group and 250 in the placebo group. Participants will be randomised to receive nilvadipine, an 8 mg overencapsulated, sustained release capsule, or a matching overencapsulated placebo (sugar pill) for a period of 78 weeks of treatment. The primary efficacy outcome measure in this study is the change in cognitive function as assessed by the Alzheimer's disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-Cog 12) from baseline to the end of treatment duration (78 weeks). There are two key secondary outcome measures, the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale Sum of Boxes (CDR-sb) and the Disability Assessment for Dementia (DAD). If a statistically significant effect is seen in the primary outcome, CDR-sb will be considered to be a coprimary end point and only the DAD will contribute to the secondary outcome analysis. Ethics and dissemination The study and all subsequent amendments have received ethical approval within each participating country according to national regulations. Each participant will provide written consent to participate in the study. All participants will remain anonymised throughout and the results of the study will be published in an international peer-reviewed journal. Trial registration number EUDRACT Reference Number: 2012-002764-27. PMID:25300460

Double-helix micro-channels on microfluidic chips for enhanced continuous on-chip derivatization followed by electrophoretic separation.

PubMed

Peng, Xianglu; Zhao, Lei; Guo, Jinxiu; Yang, Shenghong; Ding, Hui; Wang, Xiayan; Pu, Qiaosheng

2015-10-15

Micro-channels that contain a special inner structure are critical for efficient mixing and chemical reactions. In this paper, we described the facile fabrication of an integrated microchip with double-helix type micro-channels to improve mixing efficiency and to facilitate multi-step derivatization reactions prior to electrophoretic separation. With a prepared microchip, reagents, samples and reaction products could be driven through micro-channels by siphon, and no other pumping device was necessary. To test its performance, reductive amination of aldehydes with 8-aminonaphthalene-1,3,6-trisulfonate acid disodium (ANTS) was attempted via microchip electrophoresis with laser induced fluorescence (LIF). The effect of the geometry of the reaction micro-channel on the reaction's efficiency was evaluated. Under the selected conditions, successful derivatization of five aldehydes was realized for highly reproducible analysis. The relative standard deviations of the peak areas for 30 consecutive injections were in the range of 0.28-1.61%. The method was applied for the determination of aldehydes in real samples with standard addition recoveries of 87.8-102.8%. Good tolerance of organic solvents was achieved, and the proposed method can potentially be employed for rapid screening of excessively added aldehyde food flavoring. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Novel double-confined polymeric ionic liquids as sorbents for solid-phase microextraction with enhanced stability and durability in high-ionic-strength solution.

PubMed

Feng, Juanjuan; Sun, Min; Xu, Lili; Wang, Shuai; Liu, Xia; Jiang, Shengxiang

2012-12-14

Because of the occurrence of ion exchange between high-ionic-strength solution and anions of polymeric ionic liquids (PILs), PILs based solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fibers were rarely used in direct immersion mode to high-salt-added samples. In this work, a novel double-confined PIL sorbent was prepared by co-polymerization of cation and anion of 1-vinyl-3-octylimidzaolium p-styrenesulfonate (VOIm(+)SS(-)). The poly(VOIm(+)-SS(-)) was chemically bonded onto functionalized stainless steel wire via surface radical chain-transfer reaction. Stability of poly(VOIm(+)-SS(-)) in high-ionic-strength solution was investigated and compared with that of poly(1-vinyl-3-octylimidzaolium benzenesulfonate) (poly(VOIm(+)BS(-))) by elemental analysis of sulfur element, and results turned out that the poly(VOIm(+)-SS(-)) was more stable. Coupled to gas chromatography (GC), the poly(VOIm(+)-SS(-)) fiber was used to extract three sorts of compounds including anilines, phenols and phthalate esters in aqueous solution. The as-established method showed good linearity, low detection limits, and acceptable repeatability. The direct immersion SPME-GC method was applied to determine the model phthalate esters in bottled mineral water. The determination results were satisfactory. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Neutron production in deuteron-induced reactions on Li, Be, and C at an incident energy of 102 MeV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Araki, Shouhei; Watanabe, Yukinobu; Kitajima, Mizuki; Sadamatsu, Hiroki; Nakano, Keita; Kin, Tadahiro; Iwamoto, Yosuke; Satoh, Daiki; Hagiwara, Masayuki; Yashima, Hiroshi; Shima, Tatsushi

2017-09-01

Double-differential cross sections (DDXs) of deuteron-induced neutron production reactions on Li, Be, and C at 102 MeV were measured at forward angles (≤ 25∘) by means of a time of flight method with NE213 liquid organic scintillators at the Research Center of Nuclear Physics, Osaka University. The experimental results were compared with model calculations with PHITS and DEURACS. The DEURACS calculation reproduces the experimental DDXs for C at very forward angles than the PHITS one. Moreover, the incident energy dependence of the Li(d,xn) reaction was investigated by adding the DDX data measured previously at 25 and 40 MeV.

Method for forming a cell separator for use in bipolar-stack energy storage devices

DOEpatents

Mayer, Steven T.; Feikert, John H.; Kaschmitter, James L.; Pekala, Richard W.

1994-01-01

An improved multi-cell electrochemical energy storage device, such as a battery, fuel cell, or double layer capacitor using a cell separator which allows cells to be stacked and interconnected with low electrical resistance and high reliability while maximizing packaging efficiency. By adding repeating cells, higher voltages can be obtained. The cell separator is formed by applying an organic adhesive on opposing surfaces of adjacent carbon electrodes or surfaces of aerogel electrodes of a pair of adjacent cells prior to or after pyrolysis thereof to form carbon aerogel electrodes. The cell separator is electronically conductive, but ionically isolating, preventing an electrolytic conduction path between adjacent cells in the stack.

Method for forming a cell separator for use in bipolar-stack energy storage devices

DOEpatents

Mayer, S.T.; Feikert, J.H.; Kaschmitter, J.L.; Pekala, R.W.

1994-08-09

An improved multi-cell electrochemical energy storage device, such as a battery, fuel cell, or double layer capacitor using a cell separator which allows cells to be stacked and interconnected with low electrical resistance and high reliability while maximizing packaging efficiency. By adding repeating cells, higher voltages can be obtained. The cell separator is formed by applying an organic adhesive on opposing surfaces of adjacent carbon electrodes or surfaces of aerogel electrodes of a pair of adjacent cells prior to or after pyrolysis thereof to form carbon aerogel electrodes. The cell separator is electronically conductive, but ionically isolating, preventing an electrolytic conduction path between adjacent cells in the stack. 2 figs.

Experimental Evidence for Hydrogen Tunneling when the Isotopic Arrhenius Prefactor (AH/AD) is Unity

PubMed Central

Sharma, Sudhir C.; Klinman, Judith P.

2009-01-01

The temperature dependence of the kinetic isotope effect (KIE) is one of the major tools used for the investigation of hydrogen tunneling in condensed phase. Hydrogen transfer reactions displaying isotopic Arrhenius prefactor ratios (AH/AD) of unity are generally ascribed to a semi-classical mechanism. Here, we have identified a double mutant of soybean lipoxygenase (SLO-1, an enzyme previously shown to follow quantum mechanical hydrogen tunneling), that displays an AH/AD of unity and highly elevated (non-classical) KIEs. This observation highlights the shortcoming of assigning a hydrogen transfer reaction to a semi-classical model based solely on an Arrhenius prefactor ratio. PMID:19061319

Adding Paracetamol to Ibuprofen for the Treatment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.

PubMed

Hochwald, Ori; Mainzer, Gur; Borenstein-Levin, Liron; Jubran, Huda; Dinur, Gil; Zucker, Meirav; Mor, Malka; Khoury, Asaad; Kugelman, Amir

2018-05-21

 The objective of this study was to compare the closure rate of hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) of intravenous ibuprofen + paracetamol (acetaminophen) versus ibuprofen + placebo, in preterm infants of 24 to 31 6/7 weeks postmenstrual age.  This is a single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled pilot study. Infants were assigned for treatment with either intravenous ibuprofen + paracetamol ( n  = 12) or ibuprofen + placebo ( n  = 12).  There was no statistical difference in baseline characteristics of the two groups. Echocardiography parameters were comparable before treatment in both groups. There was a trend toward higher hsPDA closure rate in the paracetamol group in comparison to the placebo group (83 vs. 42%, p  = 0.08). No adverse effects, clinical or laboratory, were associated with adding paracetamol.  Our pilot study was unable to detect a beneficial effect by adding intravenous paracetamol to ibuprofen for the treatment of hsPDA. Larger prospective studies are needed to explore the positive tendency suggested by our results and to assure safety. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Rational Design of Novel 1,3-Oxazine Based β-Secretase (BACE1) Inhibitors: Incorporation of a Double Bond To Reduce P-gp Efflux Leading to Robust Aβ Reduction in the Brain.

PubMed

Fuchino, Kouki; Mitsuoka, Yasunori; Masui, Moriyasu; Kurose, Noriyuki; Yoshida, Shuhei; Komano, Kazuo; Yamamoto, Takahiko; Ogawa, Masayoshi; Unemura, Chie; Hosono, Motoko; Ito, Hisanori; Sakaguchi, Gaku; Ando, Shigeru; Ohnishi, Shuichi; Kido, Yasuto; Fukushima, Tamio; Miyajima, Hirofumi; Hiroyama, Shuichi; Koyabu, Kiyotaka; Dhuyvetter, Deborah; Borghys, Herman; Gijsen, Harrie J M; Yamano, Yoshinori; Iso, Yasuyoshi; Kusakabe, Ken-Ichi

2018-05-23

Accumulation of Aβ peptides is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is considered a causal factor in the pathogenesis of AD. β-Secretase (BACE1) is a key enzyme responsible for producing Aβ peptides, and thus agents that inhibit BACE1 should be beneficial for disease-modifying treatment of AD. Here we describe the discovery and optimization of novel oxazine-based BACE1 inhibitors by lowering amidine basicity with the incorporation of a double bond to improve brain penetration. Starting from a 1,3-dihydrooxazine lead 6 identified by a hit-to-lead SAR following HTS, we adopted a p K a lowering strategy to reduce the P-gp efflux and the high hERG potential leading to the discovery of 15 that produced significant Aβ reduction with long duration in pharmacodynamic models and exhibited wide safety margins in cardiovascular safety models. This compound improved the brain-to-plasma ratio relative to 6 by reducing P-gp recognition, which was demonstrated by a P-gp knockout mouse model.

Structural analysis of viral replicative intermediates isolated from adenovirus type 2-infected HeLa cell nuclei.

PubMed Central

Kedinger, C; Brison, O; Perrin, F; Wilhelm, J

1978-01-01

Deoxyribonucleoprotein complexes released 17 h postinfection from adenovirus type 1 (Ad2)-infected HeLa cell nuclei were shown by electron microscopy to contain filaments much thicker (about 200 A [20 nm]) than double-stranded DNA (about 20 A [2 nm]). The complexes were partially purified through a linear sucrose gradient, concentrated, and further purified in a metrizamide gradient. The major protein present in the complexes was identified as the 72,000-dalton (72K), adenovirus-coded single-stranded DNA-binding protein (72K DBP). Three types of complexes have been visualized by electron microscopy. Some linear complexes were uniformly thick, and their length corresponded roughly to that of the adenovirus genome. Other linear genome-length complexes appeared to consist of a thick filament connected to a thinner filament with the diameter of double-stranded DNA. Forked complexes consisting of one thick filament connected to a genome-length, thinner double-stranded DNA filament were also visualized. Both thick and thin filaments were sensitive to DNase and not to RNase, but only the thick filaments were digested by the single-strand-specific Neurospora crassa nuclease, indicating that they correspond to a complex of 72K DBP and Ad2 single-stranded DNA. Experiments with anti-72K DBP immunoglobulins indicated that these nucleoprotein complexes, containing the 72K DBP, correspond to replicative intermediates. Both strands of the Ad2 genome were found associated to the 72K DBP. Altogether, our results establish the in vivo association of the 72K DBP with adenovirus single-stranded DNA, as previously suggested from in vitro studies, and support a strand displacement mechanism for Ad2 DNA replication, in which both strands can be displaced. In addition, our results indicate that, late in infection, histones are not bound to adenovirus DNA in the form of a nucleosomal chromatine-like structure. Images PMID:207893

Structural analysis of viral replicative intermediates isolated from adenovirus type 2-infected HeLa cell nuclei.

PubMed

Kedinger, C; Brison, O; Perrin, F; Wilhelm, J

1978-05-01

Deoxyribonucleoprotein complexes released 17 h postinfection from adenovirus type 1 (Ad2)-infected HeLa cell nuclei were shown by electron microscopy to contain filaments much thicker (about 200 A [20 nm]) than double-stranded DNA (about 20 A [2 nm]). The complexes were partially purified through a linear sucrose gradient, concentrated, and further purified in a metrizamide gradient. The major protein present in the complexes was identified as the 72,000-dalton (72K), adenovirus-coded single-stranded DNA-binding protein (72K DBP). Three types of complexes have been visualized by electron microscopy. Some linear complexes were uniformly thick, and their length corresponded roughly to that of the adenovirus genome. Other linear genome-length complexes appeared to consist of a thick filament connected to a thinner filament with the diameter of double-stranded DNA. Forked complexes consisting of one thick filament connected to a genome-length, thinner double-stranded DNA filament were also visualized. Both thick and thin filaments were sensitive to DNase and not to RNase, but only the thick filaments were digested by the single-strand-specific Neurospora crassa nuclease, indicating that they correspond to a complex of 72K DBP and Ad2 single-stranded DNA. Experiments with anti-72K DBP immunoglobulins indicated that these nucleoprotein complexes, containing the 72K DBP, correspond to replicative intermediates. Both strands of the Ad2 genome were found associated to the 72K DBP. Altogether, our results establish the in vivo association of the 72K DBP with adenovirus single-stranded DNA, as previously suggested from in vitro studies, and support a strand displacement mechanism for Ad2 DNA replication, in which both strands can be displaced. In addition, our results indicate that, late in infection, histones are not bound to adenovirus DNA in the form of a nucleosomal chromatine-like structure.

A subset of thalamocortical projections to the retrosplenial cortex possesses two vesicular glutamate transporter isoforms, VGluT1 and VGluT2, in axon terminals and somata.

PubMed

Oda, Satoko; Funato, Hiromasa; Sato, Fumi; Adachi-Akahane, Satomi; Ito, Masanori; Takase, Kenkichi; Kuroda, Masaru

2014-06-15

Vesicular glutamate transporter isoforms, VGluT1-VGluT3, accumulate glutamate into synaptic vesicles and are considered to be important molecules in glutamatergic transmission. Among them, VGluT2 mRNA is expressed predominantly throughout the dorsal thalamus, whereas VGluT1 mRNA is expressed in a few thalamic nuclei. In the thalamic nuclei that project to the retrosplenial cortex (RSC), VGluT1 mRNA is expressed strongly in the anterodorsal thalamic nucleus (AD), is expressed moderately in the anteroventral and laterodorsal thalamic nuclei, and is not expressed in the anteromedial thalamic nucleus. Thus, it has been strongly suggested that a subset of thalamocortical projections to RSC possesses both VGluT1 and VGluT2. In this study, double-labeled neuronal somata showing both VGluT1 and VGluT2 immunolabelings were found exclusively in the ventral region of AD (vAD). Many double-labeled axon terminals were also found in two major targets of vAD, the rostral part of the reticular thalamic nucleus and layers Ia and III-IV of the retrosplenial granular b cortex (RSGb). Some were also found in layer Ia of the retrosplenial granular a cortex (RSGa). These axon terminals contain significant amounts of both VGluTs. Because the subset of thalamocortical projections to RSC has a unique molecular basis in the glutamatergic transmission system, it might play an important role in the higher cognitive functions processed in the RSC. Furthermore, double-labeled axon terminals of a different type were distributed in RSGb and RSGa. Because they are small and the immunoreactivity of VGluT2 is significantly weaker than that of VGluT1, they seemed to be a subset of corticocortical terminals. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Improving Weight Loss Outcomes of Community Interventions by Incorporating Behavioral Strategies

PubMed Central

Crane, Melissa M.; Thomas, J. Graham; Kumar, Rajiv; Weinberg, Brad

2010-01-01

Objectives. We examined whether adding behavioral weight loss strategies could improve the outcomes of a community weight loss campaign. Methods. Shape Up RI is a 12-week, online, team-based program for health improvement in Rhode Island. In study 1, we randomly assigned participants to the standard Shape Up RI program or to the program plus video lessons on weight loss. In study 2, we randomly assigned participants to the standard program or to the program plus video lessons; daily self-monitoring of weight, eating, and exercise; and computer-generated feedback. Results. Adding video lessons alone (study 1) did not result in significantly improved weight loss (2.0 ±2.8 kg vs 1.4 ±2.9 kg; P = .15). However, when the video lessons were supplemented with self-monitoring and feedback (study 2), the average weight loss more than doubled (3.5 ±3.8 kg vs 1.4 ±2.7 kg; P < .01), and the proportion of individuals achieving a weight loss of 5% or more tripled (40.5% vs 13.2%; P < .01). Participants in study 2 submitted self-monitoring records on 78% of days, and adherence was significantly related to outcome. Conclusions. Adding behavioral strategies to community campaigns may improve weight loss outcomes with minimal additional cost. PMID:20966375

A 24-Week, Randomized, Controlled Study to Evaluate the Tolerability, Safety and Efficacy of 2 Different Titration Schemes of the Rivastigmine Patch in Japanese Patients with Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease

PubMed Central

Nakamura, Yu; Strohmaier, Christine; Tamura, Kaoru; Kataoka, Naoko; Nakano, Masayuki; Oda, Shoichiro; Nishimura, Kazuma; Homma, Akira

2015-01-01

Aim To investigate whether 1-step titration of the rivastigmine patch (initiated at 5 cm2 and titrated to 10 cm2 after 4 weeks) is well tolerated in Japanese patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) as compared to 3-step titration (initiated at 2.5 cm2 and titrated by 2.5 cm2 every 4 weeks to 10 cm2). Methods A 24-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind study was conducted in Japan between July 2012 and May 2014. Patients with mild to moderate AD aged 50-85 years were randomized 1:1 to 1-step or 3-step titration of the rivastigmine once-daily patch. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with adverse events leading to discontinuation. Results Of 216 patients randomized, 215 (1-step, n = 107; 3-step, n = 108) were included in the safety analysis. The primary endpoint outcome was 15.0% in the 1-step group and 18.5% in the 3-step group. The observed treatment difference was −3.6% (95% confidence interval: −17.0, 9.6), falling within the prespecified acceptance range. Conclusion The tolerability of two different titration schemes was similar in Japanese patients with AD. PMID:26557135

Effect of Treated Coconut Shell and Fiber on the Resilient Modulus of Double-layer Porous Asphalt at Different Aging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ting, T. L.; Ramadhansyah, P. J.; Norhidayah, A. H.; Yaacob, H.; Hainin, M. R.; Ibrahim, M. H. Wan; Jayanti, D. S.; Abdullahi, A. M.

2018-04-01

Coconut shell (CS) and coconut fiber (CF) are new waste products that have been of growing interest recently in the highway asphalt pavement industry. This study investigated the effect of CS and CF on the resilient modulus of double-layer porous asphalt (DLPA). CS aggregate 5 mm in size was substituted for the DLPA at 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight, while CF was added to the asphalt at 0.3% and 0.5% by weight. Before mixing with other aggregates, the CS and CF were treated with 5%wt Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to reduce their water absorption ability. The samples were prepared via the Marshall method. The result shows that DLPA with 10% CS aggregate has better resilient modulus under 25 °C for unaged and aged samples compared with the other substitution percentages. However, the sample with CF has a lower resilient modulus because the amount of CF has increased. In general, the substitution of 10% CS provided better resilient modulus among the other percentages.

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 2 Study of Oral ELND005 (scyllo-Inositol) in Young Adults with Down Syndrome without Dementia

PubMed Central

Rafii, Michael S.; Skotko, Brian G.; McDonough, Mary Ellen; Pulsifer, Margaret; Evans, Casey; Doran, Eric; Muranevici, Gabriela; Kesslak, Patrick; Abushakra, Susan; Lott, Ira T.

2018-01-01

Background ELND005 (scyllo-Inositol; cyclohexane-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexol) has been evaluated as a potential disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have an increased risk for developing AD dementia. Objective To evaluate the safety and tolerability of ELND005 and to determine its pharmacokinetics (PK) and relationship between PK parameters, safety outcome measures, and exploratory efficacy outcome measures in young adults with DS without dementia. Methods This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, three-arm, multicenter Phase 2 study of the safety and pharmacokinetics of ELND005 administered orally for 4 weeks (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01791725). Participants who met study eligibility criteria were randomly assigned in a 2:1:1 ratio to receive ELND005 at either 250 mg twice daily (BID) or 250 mg once daily (QD) or matching placebo for 4 weeks. Results There were no apparent treatment group-related trends on cognitive or behavioral measures and there were no SAEs and no deaths in the study. Overall, mean changes from baseline in clinical laboratory parameters, vital sign measurements, electrocardiogram (ECG) results, and other physical findings were unremarkable. ELND005 accumulation averaged approximately 2-fold with QD dosing, and 3- to 4-fold with BID dosing. Conclusion Overall, treatment of adults with DS with ELND005 at both doses was well tolerated, achieved measurable blood levels and demonstrated no safety findings. Further studies will be needed to test efficacy. PMID:28453471

SU-E-QI-08: Fourier Properties of Cone Beam CT Projection

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

Bai, T; UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX; Yan, H

Purpose: To explore the Fourier properties of cone beam CT (CBCT) projections and apply the property to directly estimate noise level of CBCT projections without any prior information. Methods: By utilizing the property of Bessel function, we derivate the Fourier properties of the CBCT projections for an arbitrary point object. It is found that there exists a double-wedge shaped region in the Fourier space where the intensity is approximately zero. We further derivate the Fourier properties of independent noise added to CBCT projections. The expectation of the square of the module in any point of the Fourier space is constantmore » and the value approximately equals to noise energy. We further validate the theory in numerical simulations for both a delta function object and a NCAT phantom with different levels of noise added. Results: Our simulation confirmed the existence of the double-wedge shaped region in Fourier domain for the x-ray projection image. The boundary locations of this region agree well with theoretical predictions. In the experiments of estimating noise level, the mean relative error between the theory estimation and the ground truth values is 2.697%. Conclusion: A novel theory on the Fourier properties of CBCT projections has been discovered. Accurate noise level estimation can be achieved by applying this theory directly to the measured CBCT projections. This work was supported in part by NIH(1R01CA154747-01), NSFC((No. 61172163), Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China (No. 20110201110011) and China Scholarship Council.« less

Study protocol of Prednisone in episodic Cluster Headache (PredCH): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel group trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral prednisone as an add-on therapy in the prophylactic treatment of episodic cluster headache with verapamil

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Episodic cluster headache (ECH) is a primary headache disorder that severely impairs patient’s quality of life. First-line therapy in the initiation of a prophylactic treatment is verapamil. Due to its delayed onset of efficacy and the necessary slow titration of dosage for tolerability reasons prednisone is frequently added by clinicians to the initial prophylactic treatment of a cluster episode. This treatment strategy is thought to effectively reduce the number and intensity of cluster attacks in the beginning of a cluster episode (before verapamil is effective). This study will assess the efficacy and safety of oral prednisone as an add-on therapy to verapamil and compare it to a monotherapy with verapamil in the initial prophylactic treatment of a cluster episode. Methods and design PredCH is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with parallel study arms. Eligible patients with episodic cluster headache will be randomized to a treatment intervention with prednisone or a placebo arm. The multi-center trial will be conducted in eight German headache clinics that specialize in the treatment of ECH. Discussion PredCH is designed to assess whether oral prednisone added to first-line agent verapamil helps reduce the number and intensity of cluster attacks in the beginning of a cluster episode as compared to monotherapy with verapamil. Trial registration German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00004716 PMID:23889923

Availability of added sugars in Brazil: distribution, food sources and time trends.

PubMed

Levy, Renata Bertazzi; Claro, Rafael Moreira; Bandoni, Daniel Henrique; Mondini, Lenise; Monteiro, Carlos Augusto

2012-03-01

To describe the regional and socio-economic distribution of consumption of added sugar in Brazil in 2002/03, particularly products, sources of sugar and trends in the past 15 years. The study used data from Household Budget Surveys since the 1980s about the type and quantity of food and beverages bought by Brazilian families. Different indicators were analyzed: % of sugar calories over the total diet energy and caloric % of table sugar fractions and sugar added to processed food/ sugar calories of diet. In 2002/03, of the total energy available for consumption, 16.7% came from added sugar in all regional and socio-economic strata. The table sugar/ sugar added to processed food ratio was inversely proportional to increase in income. Although this proportion fell in the past 15 years, sugar added to processed food doubled, especially in terms of consumption of soft drinks and cookies. Brazilians consume more sugar than the recommended levels determined by the WHO and the sources of consumption of sugar have changed significantly.

A comparative clinical evaluation of arthroscopic single-row versus double-row supraspinatus tendon repair.

PubMed

Buess, Eduard; Waibl, Bernhard; Vogel, Roger; Seidner, Robert

2009-10-01

Cadaveric studies and commercial pressure have initiated a strong trend towards double-row repair in arthroscopic cuff surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate if the biomechanical advantages of a double-row supraspinatus tendon repair would result in superior clinical outcome and higher abduction strength. A retrospective study of two groups of 32 single-row and 33 double-row repairs of small to medium cuff tears was performed. The Simple Shoulder Test (SST) and a visual analog scale for pain were used to evaluate the outcome. The participation rate was 100%. A subset of patients was further investigated with the Constant Score (CS) including electronic strength measurement. The double-row repair patients had significantly more (p = 0.01) yes answers in the SST than the single-row group, and pain reduction was slightly better (p = 0.03). No difference was found for the relative CS (p = 0.86) and abduction strength (p = 0.74). Patient satisfaction was 100% for double-row and 97% for single-row repair. Single- and double-row repairs both achieved excellent clinical results. Evidence of superiority of double-row repair is still scarce and has to be balanced against the added complexity of the procedure and higher costs.

Defects in Mitochondrial Dynamics and Metabolomic Signatures of Evolving Energetic Stress in Mouse Models of Familial Alzheimer's Disease

PubMed Central

Trushina, Eugenia; Nemutlu, Emirhan; Zhang, Song; Christensen, Trace; Camp, Jon; Mesa, Janny; Siddiqui, Ammar; Tamura, Yasushi; Sesaki, Hiromi; Wengenack, Thomas M.; Dzeja, Petras P.; Poduslo, Joseph F.

2012-01-01

Background The identification of early mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and associated biomarkers could advance development of new therapies and improve monitoring and predicting of AD progression. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been suggested to underlie AD pathophysiology, however, no comprehensive study exists that evaluates the effect of different familial AD (FAD) mutations on mitochondrial function, dynamics, and brain energetics. Methods and Findings We characterized early mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolomic signatures of energetic stress in three commonly used transgenic mouse models of FAD. Assessment of mitochondrial motility, distribution, dynamics, morphology, and metabolomic profiling revealed the specific effect of each FAD mutation on the development of mitochondrial stress and dysfunction. Inhibition of mitochondrial trafficking was characteristic for embryonic neurons from mice expressing mutant human presenilin 1, PS1(M146L) and the double mutation of human amyloid precursor protein APP(Tg2576) and PS1(M146L) contributing to the increased susceptibility of neurons to excitotoxic cell death. Significant changes in mitochondrial morphology were detected in APP and APP/PS1 mice. All three FAD models demonstrated a loss of the integrity of synaptic mitochondria and energy production. Metabolomic profiling revealed mutation-specific changes in the levels of metabolites reflecting altered energy metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction in brains of FAD mice. Metabolic biomarkers adequately reflected gender differences similar to that reported for AD patients and correlated well with the biomarkers currently used for diagnosis in humans. Conclusions Mutation-specific alterations in mitochondrial dynamics, morphology and function in FAD mice occurred prior to the onset of memory and neurological phenotype and before the formation of amyloid deposits. Metabolomic signatures of mitochondrial stress and altered energy metabolism indicated alterations in nucleotide, Krebs cycle, energy transfer, carbohydrate, neurotransmitter, and amino acid metabolic pathways. Mitochondrial dysfunction, therefore, is an underlying event in AD progression, and FAD mouse models provide valuable tools to study early molecular mechanisms implicated in AD. PMID:22393443

Double-walled structure of anodic TiO2 nanotubes in H3PO4/NH4F mixed electrolyte

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Siyu; Chen, Ying; Li, Chengyuan; Ouyang, Huijun; Qin, Shuai; Song, Ye

2018-04-01

Normally, the well-ordered anodic TiO2 nanotubes (ATNTs) are obtained in NH4F electrolyte, after annealing, the double-walled structure of nanotubes will appear. Here, after adding H3PO4 into NHF4 electrolyte, we got the double-walled structure of nanotubes by anodizing without annealing, which means the direct existence of anion-contaminated layer in ATNTs. Influence of H3PO4 content on anodizing voltage and morphology of ATNTs were compared in detail. The XRD pattern illustrated that the crystallinity decreases with increasing H3PO4 concentration, and the anion-contaminated layer thickens with the increase of H3PO4 concentration. Meanwhile, the existence of the anion-contaminated layer also proved the limitations of the filed-assisted dissolution theory, while the double-walled structure can be explained by oxygen bubble model and plastic flow model.

In vitro double-integrating-sphere optical properties of tissues between 630 and 1064 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beek, J. F.; Blokland, P.; Posthumus, P.; Aalders, M.; Pickering, J. W.; Sterenborg, H. J. C. M.; van Gemert, M. J. C.

1997-11-01

The optical properties (absorption and scattering coefficients and the scattering anisotropy factor) were measured in vitro for cartilage, liver, lung, muscle, myocardium, skin, and tumour (colon adenocarcinoma CC 531) at 630, 632.8, 790, 850 and 1064 nm. Rabbits, rats, piglets, goats, and dogs were used to obtain the tissues. A double-integrating-sphere setup with an intervening sample was used to determine the reflectance, and the diffuse and collimated transmittances of the sample. The inverse adding - doubling algorithm was used to determine the optical properties from the measurements. The overall results were comparable to those available in the literature, although only limited data are available at 790 - 850 nm. The results were reproducible for a specific sample at a specific wavelength. However, when comparing the results of different samples of the same tissue or different lasers with approximately the same wavelength (e.g. argon dye laser at 630 nm and HeNe laser at 632.8 nm) variations are large. We believe these variations in optical properties should be explained by biological variations of the tissues. In conclusion, we report on an extensive set of in vitro absorption and scattering properties of tissues measured with the same equipment and software, and by the same group. Although the accuracy of the method requires further improvement, it is highly likely that the other existing data in the literature have a similar level of accuracy.

Manipulating the Ordered Nanostructure of Self-Assembled Monoolein and Phytantriol Nanoparticles with Unsaturated Fatty Acids.

PubMed

Tran, Nhiem; Mulet, Xavier; Hawley, Adrian M; Fong, Celesta; Zhai, Jiali; Le, Tu C; Ratcliffe, Julian; Drummond, Calum J

2018-02-27

Mesophase structures of self-assembled lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles are important factors that directly influence their ability to encapsulate and release drugs and their biological activities. However, it is difficult to predict and precisely control the mesophase behavior of these materials, especially in complex systems with several components. In this study, we report the controlled manipulation of mesophase structures of monoolein (MO) and phytantriol (PHYT) nanoparticles by adding unsaturated fatty acids (FAs). By using high throughput formulation and small-angle X-ray scattering characterization methods, the effects of FAs chain length, cis-trans isomerism, double bond location, and level of chain unsaturation on self-assembled systems are determined. Additionally, the influence of temperature on the phase behavior of these nanoparticles is analyzed. We found that in general, the addition of unsaturated FAs to MO and PHYT induces the formation of mesophases with higher Gaussian surface curvatures. As a result, a rich variety of lipid polymorphs are found to correspond with the increasing amounts of FAs. These phases include inverse bicontinuous cubic, inverse hexagonal, and discrete micellar cubic phases and microemulsion. However, there are substantial differences between the phase behavior of nanoparticles with trans FA, cis FAs with one double bond, and cis FAs with multiple double bonds. Therefore, the material library produced in this study will assist the selection and development of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems with desired mesophase.

Fabricating solid carbon porous electrodes from powders

DOEpatents

Kaschmitter, James L.; Tran, Tri D.; Feikert, John H.; Mayer, Steven T.

1997-01-01

Fabrication of conductive solid porous carbon electrodes for use in batteries, double layer capacitors, fuel cells, capacitive dionization, and waste treatment. Electrodes fabricated from low surface area (<50 m.sup.2 /gm) graphite and cokes exhibit excellent reversible lithium intercalation characteristics, making them ideal for use as anodes in high voltage lithium insertion (lithium-ion) batteries. Electrodes having a higher surface area, fabricated from powdered carbon blacks, such as carbon aerogel powder, carbon aerogel microspheres, activated carbons, etc. yield high conductivity carbon compositives with excellent double layer capacity, and can be used in double layer capacitors, or for capacitive deionization and/or waste treatment of liquid streams. By adding metallic catalysts to be high surface area carbons, fuel cell electrodes can be produced.

Fabricating solid carbon porous electrodes from powders

DOEpatents

Kaschmitter, J.L.; Tran, T.D.; Feikert, J.H.; Mayer, S.T.

1997-06-10

Fabrication is described for conductive solid porous carbon electrodes for use in batteries, double layer capacitors, fuel cells, capacitive deionization, and waste treatment. Electrodes fabricated from low surface area (<50 m{sup 2}/gm) graphite and cokes exhibit excellent reversible lithium intercalation characteristics, making them ideal for use as anodes in high voltage lithium insertion (lithium-ion) batteries. Electrodes having a higher surface area, fabricated from powdered carbon blacks, such as carbon aerogel powder, carbon aerogel microspheres, activated carbons, etc. yield high conductivity carbon composites with excellent double layer capacity, and can be used in double layer capacitors, or for capacitive deionization and/or waste treatment of liquid streams. By adding metallic catalysts to high surface area carbons, fuel cell electrodes can be produced. 1 fig.

Study report on a double isotope method of calcium absorption

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

Some of the pros and cons of three methods to study gastrointestinal calcium absorption are briefly discussed. The methods are: (1) a balance study; (2) a single isotope method; and (3) a double isotope method. A procedure for the double isotope method is also included.

Chaotic Behaviour of a Driven P-N Junction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perez, Jose Maria

The chaotic behavior of a driven p-n junction is experimentally examined. Bifurcation diagrams for the system are measured, showing period doubling bifurcations up to f/32, onset of chaos, reverse bifurcations of chaotic bands, and periodic windows. Some of the measured bifurcation diagrams are similar to the bifurcation diagram of the logistic map x(,n+1) = (lamda)x(,n)(1 - x(,n)). A return map is also measured showing approximately a one-dimensional map with a single extremum at low driving voltages. The intermittency route to chaos is experimentally observed to occur near a tangent bifurcation as the system approaches a period 5 window at (lamda) = (lamda)(,5). Data are presented for the dependence of the average laminar length on (epsilon) = (lamda)(,5) - (lamda), and for the probability distribution P(l) vs. l. The effects of additive stochastic noise on period doubling, chaos, windows, and intermittency are examined and are found to agree with the logistic model and universal predictions. Three examples of crisis of the attractor are observed. The crises occur when an unstable orbit intersects the chaotic attractor. A period adding sequence is reported in which wide periodic windows of period 2, 3, 4, ... are observed for increasing driving voltage. The initial period doubling cascade and the period adding sequence are compared to two theoretical models, with reasonable success.

Efficacy and safety of pioglitazone added to alogliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a multicentre, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, comparative study.

PubMed

Kaku, K; Katou, M; Igeta, M; Ohira, T; Sano, H

2015-12-01

A phase IV, multicentre, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, comparative study was conducted in Japanese subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who had inadequate glycaemic control, despite treatment with alogliptin in addition to diet and/or exercise therapy. Subjects with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentrations of 6.9-10.5% were randomized to receive 16 weeks' double-blind treatment with pioglitazone 15 mg, 30 mg once daily or placebo added to alogliptin 25 mg once daily. The primary endpoint was the change in HbA1c from baseline at the end of treatment period (week 16). Both pioglitazone 15 and 30 mg combination therapy resulted in a significantly greater reduction in HbA1c than alogliptin monotherapy [-0.80 and -0.90% vs 0.00% (the least squares mean using analysis of covariance model); p < 0.0001, respectively]. The overall incidence rates of treatment-emergent adverse events were similar among the treatment groups. Pioglitazone/alogliptin combination therapy was effective and generally well tolerated in Japanese subjects with T2DM and is considered to be useful in clinical settings. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Baricitinib in adult patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: a phase 2 parallel, double-blinded, randomized placebo-controlled multiple-dose study.

PubMed

Guttman-Yassky, Emma; Silverberg, Jonathan I; Nemoto, Osamu; Forman, Seth B; Wilke, August; Prescilla, Randy; de la Peña, Amparo; Nunes, Fabio P; Janes, Jonathan; Gamalo, Margaret; Donley, David; Paik, Jim; DeLozier, Amy M; Nickoloff, Brian J; Simpson, Eric L

2018-02-01

Baricitinib, an oral selective inhibitor of Janus kinase (JAK)1 and JAK2, modulates pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling. The efficacy and safety of baricitinib were evaluated in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD). In this phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 124 patients with moderate-to-severe AD applied topical corticosteroids (TCS) for 4 weeks before randomization to once daily placebo, baricitinib 2 mg, or baricitinib 4 mg for 16 weeks. Use of TCS was permitted during the study. Primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving ≥50% reduction in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-50) compared to placebo. Significantly more baricitinib 4-mg patients achieved EASI-50 compared to placebo (61% vs 37%; P=0.027) at 16 weeks. The proportion of baricitinib 2- and 4-mg patients achieving EASI-50 compared to placebo was significant as early as week 4. Baricitinib also improved pruritus and sleep loss. Treatment-emergent adverse events were reported in 24 (49%) placebo, 17 (46%) baricitinib 2-mg, and 27 (71%) baricitinib 4-mg patients. A TCS standardization period prior to randomization reduced disease severity, limiting the ability to compare results to baricitinib monotherapy. Longer studies are required to confirm baricitinib efficacy and safety in AD patients. Baricitinib used with TCS reduced inflammation and pruritus in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD). Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Components of Adenovirus Genome Packaging

PubMed Central

Ahi, Yadvinder S.; Mittal, Suresh K.

2016-01-01

Adenoviruses (AdVs) are icosahedral viruses with double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genomes. Genome packaging in AdV is thought to be similar to that seen in dsDNA containing icosahedral bacteriophages and herpesviruses. Specific recognition of the AdV genome is mediated by a packaging domain located close to the left end of the viral genome and is mediated by the viral packaging machinery. Our understanding of the role of various components of the viral packaging machinery in AdV genome packaging has greatly advanced in recent years. Characterization of empty capsids assembled in the absence of one or more components involved in packaging, identification of the unique vertex, and demonstration of the role of IVa2, the putative packaging ATPase, in genome packaging have provided compelling evidence that AdVs follow a sequential assembly pathway. This review provides a detailed discussion on the functions of the various viral and cellular factors involved in AdV genome packaging. We conclude by briefly discussing the roles of the empty capsids, assembly intermediates, scaffolding proteins, portal vertex and DNA encapsidating enzymes in AdV assembly and packaging. PMID:27721809

Large-scale chromosome folding versus genomic DNA sequences: A discrete double Fourier transform technique.

PubMed

Chechetkin, V R; Lobzin, V V

2017-08-07

Using state-of-the-art techniques combining imaging methods and high-throughput genomic mapping tools leaded to the significant progress in detailing chromosome architecture of various organisms. However, a gap still remains between the rapidly growing structural data on the chromosome folding and the large-scale genome organization. Could a part of information on the chromosome folding be obtained directly from underlying genomic DNA sequences abundantly stored in the databanks? To answer this question, we developed an original discrete double Fourier transform (DDFT). DDFT serves for the detection of large-scale genome regularities associated with domains/units at the different levels of hierarchical chromosome folding. The method is versatile and can be applied to both genomic DNA sequences and corresponding physico-chemical parameters such as base-pairing free energy. The latter characteristic is closely related to the replication and transcription and can also be used for the assessment of temperature or supercoiling effects on the chromosome folding. We tested the method on the genome of E. coli K-12 and found good correspondence with the annotated domains/units established experimentally. As a brief illustration of further abilities of DDFT, the study of large-scale genome organization for bacteriophage PHIX174 and bacterium Caulobacter crescentus was also added. The combined experimental, modeling, and bioinformatic DDFT analysis should yield more complete knowledge on the chromosome architecture and genome organization. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Engineered Virus Library as a Resource for the Spectrum-wide Exploration of Virus and Vector Diversity.

PubMed

Zhang, Wenli; Fu, Jun; Liu, Jing; Wang, Hailong; Schiwon, Maren; Janz, Sebastian; Schaffarczyk, Lukas; von der Goltz, Lukas; Ehrke-Schulz, Eric; Dörner, Johannes; Solanki, Manish; Boehme, Philip; Bergmann, Thorsten; Lieber, Andre; Lauber, Chris; Dahl, Andreas; Petzold, Andreas; Zhang, Youming; Stewart, A Francis; Ehrhardt, Anja

2017-05-23

Adenoviruses (Ads) are large human-pathogenic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) viruses presenting an enormous natural diversity associated with a broad variety of diseases. However, only a small fraction of adenoviruses has been explored in basic virology and biomedical research, highlighting the need to develop robust and adaptable methodologies and resources. We developed a method for high-throughput direct cloning and engineering of adenoviral genomes from different sources utilizing advanced linear-linear homologous recombination (LLHR) and linear-circular homologous recombination (LCHR). We describe 34 cloned adenoviral genomes originating from clinical samples, which were characterized by next-generation sequencing (NGS). We anticipate that this recombineering strategy and the engineered adenovirus library will provide an approach to study basic and clinical virology. High-throughput screening (HTS) of the reporter-tagged Ad library in a panel of cell lines including osteosarcoma disease-specific cell lines revealed alternative virus types with enhanced transduction and oncolysis efficiencies. This highlights the usefulness of this resource. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bryostatin Effects on Cognitive Function and PKCɛ in Alzheimer's Disease Phase IIa and Expanded Access Trials.

PubMed

Nelson, Thomas J; Sun, Miao-Kun; Lim, Chol; Sen, Abhik; Khan, Tapan; Chirila, Florin V; Alkon, Daniel L

2017-01-01

Bryostatin 1, a potent activator of protein kinase C epsilon (PKCɛ), has been shown to reverse synaptic loss and facilitate synaptic maturation in animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Fragile X, stroke, and other neurological disorders. In a single-dose (25 μg/m2) randomized double-blind Phase IIa clinical trial, bryostatin levels reached a maximum at 1-2 h after the start of infusion. In close parallel with peak blood levels of bryostatin, an increase of PBMC PKCɛ was measured (p = 0.0185) within 1 h from the onset of infusion. Of 9 patients with a clinical diagnosis of AD, of which 6 received drug and 3 received vehicle within a double-blind protocol, bryostatin increased the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score by +1.83±0.70 unit at 3 h versus -1.00±1.53 unit for placebo. Bryostatin was well tolerated in these AD patients and no drug-related adverse events were reported. The 25 μg/m2 administered dose was based on prior clinical experience with three Expanded Access advanced AD patients treated with bryostatin, in which return of major functions such as swallowing, vocalization, and word recognition were noted. In one Expanded Access patient trial, elevated PKCɛ levels closely tracked cognitive benefits in the first 24 weeks as measured by MMSE and ADCS-ADL psychometrics. Pre-clinical mouse studies showed effective activation of PKCɛ and increased levels of BDNF and PSD-95. Together, these Phase IIa, Expanded Access, and pre-clinical results provide initial encouragement for bryostatin 1 as a potential treatment for AD.

Tolerability and safety of Souvenaid in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease: results of multi-center, 24-week, open-label extension study.

PubMed

Olde Rikkert, Marcel G M; Verhey, Frans R; Blesa, Rafael; von Arnim, Christine A F; Bongers, Anke; Harrison, John; Sijben, John; Scarpini, Elio; Vandewoude, Maurits F J; Vellas, Bruno; Witkamp, Renger; Kamphuis, Patrick J G H; Scheltens, Philip

2015-01-01

The medical food Souvenaid, containing the specific nutrient combination Fortasyn Connect, is designed to improve synapse formation and function in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Two double-blind randomized controlled trials (RCT) with Souvenaid of 12 and 24 week duration (Souvenir I and Souvenir II) showed that memory performance was improved in drug-naïve mild AD patients, whereas no effects on cognition were observed in a 24-week RCT (S-Connect) in mild to moderate AD patients using AD medication. Souvenaid was well-tolerated in all RCTs. In this 24-week open-label extension (OLE) study to the 24-week Souvenir II RCT, long-term safety and intake adherence of the medical food Souvenaid was evaluated. Patients with mild AD (n = 201) received Souvenaid once-daily during the OLE. Main outcome parameters were safety and product intake adherence. The memory domain z-score from a revised neuropsychological test battery was continued as exploratory parameter. Compared to the RCT, a similar (low) incidence and type of adverse events was observed, being mainly (68.3%) of mild intensity. Pooled data (RCT and OLE) showed that 48-week use of Souvenaid was well tolerated with high intake adherence (96.1%). Furthermore, a significant increase in the exploratory memory outcome was observed in both the active-active and control-active groups during Souvenaid intervention. Souvenaid use for up to 48-weeks was well tolerated with a favorable safety profile and high intake adherence. The findings in this OLE study warrant further investigation toward the long-term safety and efficacy of Souvenaid in a well-controlled, double-blind RCT.

Non-enzymolytic adenosine barcode-mediated dual signal amplification strategy for ultrasensitive protein detection using LC-MS/MS.

PubMed

Yang, Wen; Li, Tengfei; Shu, Chang; Ji, Shunli; Wang, Lei; Wang, Yan; Li, Duo; Mtalimanja, Michael; Sun, Luning; Ding, Li

2018-05-10

A method is described for the determination of proteins with LC-MS/MS enabled by a small molecule (adenosine) barcode and based on a double-recognition sandwich structure. The coagulation protein thrombin was chosen as the model analyte. Magnetic nanoparticles were functionalized with aptamer29 (MNP/apt29) and used to capture thrombin from the samples. MNP/apt29 forms a sandwich with functionalized gold nanoparticles modified with (a) aptamer15 acting as thrombin-recognizing element and (b) a large number of adenosine as mass barcodes. The sandwich formed (MNP/apt29-thrombin-apt15/AuNP/adenosine) can ben magnetically separated from the sample. Mass barcodes are subsequently released from the sandwiched structure for further analysis by adding 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid. Adenosine is then detected by LC-MS/MS as it reflects the level of thrombin with impressively amplified signal. Numerous adenosines introduced into the sandwich proportional to the target concentration further amplify the signal. Under optimized conditions, the response is linearly proportional to the thrombin concentration in the range of 0.02 nM to 10 nM, with a detection limit of 9 fM. The application of this method to the determination of thrombin in spiked plasma samples gave recoveries that ranged from 92.3% to 104.7%. Graphical abstract Schematic representation of a method for the determination of thrombin with LC-MS/MS. The method is based on a double-recognition sandwiched structure. With LC-MS/MS, mass barcodes (adenosine) are detected to quantify thrombin, which amplifies the detection signal impressively.

In situ and online monitoring of hydrodynamic flow profiles in microfluidic channels based upon microelectrochemistry: concept, theory, and validation.

PubMed

Amatore, Christian; Oleinick, Alexander; Klymenko, Oleksiy V; Svir, Irina

2005-08-12

Herein, we propose a method for reconstructing any plausible macroscopic hydrodynamic flow profile occurring locally within a rectangular microfluidic channel. The method is based on experimental currents measured at single or double microband electrodes embedded in one channel wall. A perfectly adequate quasiconformal mapping of spatial coordinates introduced in our previous work [Electrochem. Commun. 2004, 6, 1123] and an exponentially expanding time grid, initially proposed [J. Electroanal. Chem. 2003, 557, 75] in conjunction with the solution of the corresponding variational problem approached by the Ritz method are used for the numerical reconstruction of flow profiles. Herein, the concept of the method is presented and developed theoretically and its validity is tested on the basis of the use of pseudoexperimental currents emulated by simulation of the diffusion-convection problem in a channel flow cell, to which a random Gaussian current noise is added. The flow profiles reconstructed by our method compare successfully with those introduced a priori into the simulations, even when these include significant distortions compared with either classical Poiseuille or electro-osmotic flows.

Dynamic analysis of beam-cable coupled systems using Chebyshev spectral element method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yi-Xin; Tian, Hao; Zhao, Yang

2017-10-01

The dynamic characteristics of a beam-cable coupled system are investigated using an improved Chebyshev spectral element method in order to observe the effects of adding cables on the beam. The system is modeled as a double Timoshenko beam system interconnected by discrete springs. Utilizing Chebyshev series expansion and meshing the system according to the locations of its connections, numerical results of the natural frequencies and mode shapes are obtained using only a few elements, and the results are validated by comparing them with the results of a finite-element method. Then the effects of the cable parameters and layout of connections on the natural frequencies and mode shapes of a fixed-pinned beam are studied. The results show that the modes of a beam-cable coupled system can be classified into two types, beam mode and cable mode, according to the dominant deformation. To avoid undesirable vibrations of the cable, its parameters should be controlled in a reasonable range, or the layout of the connections should be optimized.

Calorie restriction ameliorates neurodegenerative phenotypes in forebrain-specific presenilin-1 and presenilin-2 double knockout mice.

PubMed

Wu, Pu; Shen, Qian; Dong, Suzhen; Xu, Zhiliang; Tsien, Joe Z; Hu, Yinghe

2008-10-01

Conditional double knockout of presenilin-1 and presenilin-2 (cDKO) in forebrain of mice led to brain atrophy, tau hyperphosphorylation, synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficit. These brain changes recapitulated most of the neurodegenerative phenotypes of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this report, we have investigated the effects of 4-month calorie restriction (CR) regimen on different phenotypes in cDKO mice. We found that CR improved novel object recognition and contextual fear conditioning memory in the cDKO mice. Histological and biochemical analysis showed that CR attenuated ventricle enlargement, caspase-3 activation and astrogliosis. In addition, the induction of tau hyperphosphorylation in the cDKO mice was reduced by CR, possibly through reduction of p25 accumulation and aberrant CDK5 activation. Finally, DNA microarray analysis demonstrated that CR could increase the expression of neurogenesis related genes and decrease the expression of inflammation related genes in the hippocampus of cDKO mice. The possible molecular mechanisms of the CR effects on alleviating AD pathogenesis have been discussed.

Structures of a bi-functional Kunitz-type STI family inhibitor of serine and aspartic proteases: Could the aspartic protease inhibition have evolved from a canonical serine protease-binding loop?

PubMed

Guerra, Yasel; Valiente, Pedro A; Pons, Tirso; Berry, Colin; Rudiño-Piñera, Enrique

2016-08-01

Bi-functional inhibitors from the Kunitz-type soybean trypsin inhibitor (STI) family are glycosylated proteins able to inhibit serine and aspartic proteases. Here we report six crystal structures of the wild-type and a non-glycosylated mutant of the bifunctional inhibitor E3Ad obtained at different pH values and space groups. The crystal structures show that E3Ad adopts the typical β-trefoil fold of the STI family exhibiting some conformational changes due to pH variations and crystal packing. Despite the high sequence identity with a recently reported potato cathepsin D inhibitor (PDI), three-dimensional structures obtained in this work show a significant conformational change in the protease-binding loop proposed for aspartic protease inhibition. The E3Ad binding loop for serine protease inhibition is also proposed, based on structural similarity with a novel non-canonical conformation described for the double-headed inhibitor API-A from the Kunitz-type STI family. In addition, structural and sequence analyses suggest that bifunctional inhibitors of serine and aspartic proteases from the Kunitz-type STI family are more similar to double-headed inhibitor API-A than other inhibitors with a canonical protease-binding loop. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Blood pressure control with amlodipine add-on therapy in patients with hypertension and diabetes: results of the Amlodipine Diabetic Hypertension Efficacy Response Evaluation Trial.

PubMed

Kloner, Robert A; Neutel, Joel; Roth, Eli M; Weiss, Robert; Weinberger, Myron H; Thakker, Kamlesh M; Schwartz, Brian; Shi, Harry; Gregg, Anne-Marie

2008-11-01

Attainment of blood pressure (BP) goals in patients with diabetes is critical both to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and to delay the progression of renal disease. While therapeutic guidelines advise initial therapy with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker, monotherapy with these agents may not be sufficient to attain target BP. The ADHT (Amlodipine Diabetic Hypertension Efficacy Response Evaluation Trial) evaluated the efficacy and safety of adding amlodipine to the treatment regimen of patients with hypertension and diabetes who were already receiving either quinapril or losartan as monotherapy. ADHT was a double-blind, double-dummy, 22-week trial conducted in the US. After a washout period of 7-13 days, patients (aged 30-75 y) with hypertension and diabetes were randomized to receive quinapril 20 mg/day plus placebo or losartan 50 mg/day plus placebo for 4 weeks, titrated to 40 mg or 100 mg (if required), respectively, for an additional 4 weeks to achieve their BP goals (<130/80 mm Hg). At week 8, either amlodipine 5 mg/day or placebo was added for an additional 12 weeks, with titration to 10 mg at week 14 if the BP goal was not achieved. Efficacy of add-on therapy was evaluated in 411 patients (amlodipine 211, placebo 200). BP goal was reached by 27.5% of patients when amlodipine was added to quinapril or losartan monotherapy, compared with 12.5% when placebo was added (OR 2.73; 95% CI 1.61 to 4.64; p < 0.001). When added to quinapril or losartan monotherapy, amlodipine reduced BP by 8.1/5.4 mm Hg, compared with a 1.6/0.7 mm Hg decrease with add-on placebo (p < 0.001). Amlodipine, quinapril, and losartan were well tolerated. Amlodipine is safe and effective when added to quinapril or losartan monotherapy to help lower BP toward therapeutic targets in patients with hypertension and diabetes.

Study on dynamic deformation synchronized measurement technology of double-layer liquid surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Huiying; Dong, Huimin; Liu, Zhanwei

2017-11-01

Accurate measurement of the dynamic deformation of double-layer liquid surfaces plays an important role in many fields, such as fluid mechanics, biomechanics, petrochemical industry and aerospace engineering. It is difficult to measure dynamic deformation of double-layer liquid surfaces synchronously for traditional methods. In this paper, a novel and effective method for full-field static and dynamic deformation measurement of double-layer liquid surfaces has been developed, that is wavefront distortion of double-wavelength transmission light with geometric phase analysis (GPA) method. Double wavelength lattice patterns used here are produced by two techniques, one is by double wavelength laser, and the other is by liquid crystal display (LCD). The techniques combine the characteristics such as high transparency, low reflectivity and fluidity of liquid. Two color lattice patterns produced by laser and LCD were adjusted at a certain angle through the tested double-layer liquid surfaces simultaneously. On the basis of the refractive indexes difference of two transmitted lights, the double-layer liquid surfaces were decoupled with GPA method. Combined with the derived relationship between phase variation of transmission-lattice patterns and out-of plane heights of two surfaces, as well as considering the height curves of the liquid level, the double-layer liquid surfaces can be reconstructed successfully. Compared with the traditional measurement method, the developed method not only has the common advantages of the optical measurement methods, such as high-precision, full-field and non-contact, but also simple, low cost and easy to set up.

Use of ChAd3-EBO-Z Ebola virus vaccine in Malian and US adults, and boosting of Malian adults with MVA-BN-Filo: a phase 1, single-blind, randomised trial, a phase 1b, open-label and double-blind, dose-escalation trial, and a nested, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Tapia, Milagritos D; Sow, Samba O; Lyke, Kirsten E; Haidara, Fadima Cheick; Diallo, Fatoumata; Doumbia, Moussa; Traore, Awa; Coulibaly, Flanon; Kodio, Mamoudou; Onwuchekwa, Uma; Sztein, Marcelo B; Wahid, Rezwanul; Campbell, James D; Kieny, Marie-Paule; Moorthy, Vasee; Imoukhuede, Egeruan B; Rampling, Tommy; Roman, Francois; De Ryck, Iris; Bellamy, Abbie R; Dally, Len; Mbaya, Olivier Tshiani; Ploquin, Aurélie; Zhou, Yan; Stanley, Daphne A; Bailer, Robert; Koup, Richard A; Roederer, Mario; Ledgerwood, Julie; Hill, Adrian V S; Ballou, W Ripley; Sullivan, Nancy; Graham, Barney; Levine, Myron M

2016-01-01

The 2014 west African Zaire Ebola virus epidemic prompted worldwide partners to accelerate clinical development of replication-defective chimpanzee adenovirus 3 vector vaccine expressing Zaire Ebola virus glycoprotein (ChAd3-EBO-Z). We aimed to investigate the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of ChAd3-EBO-Z in Malian and US adults, and assess the effect of boosting of Malians with modified vaccinia Ankara expressing Zaire Ebola virus glycoprotein and other filovirus antigens (MVA-BN-Filo). In the phase 1, single-blind, randomised trial of ChAd3-EBO-Z in the USA, we recruited adults aged 18-65 years from the University of Maryland medical community and the Baltimore community. In the phase 1b, open-label and double-blind, dose-escalation trial of ChAd3-EBO-Z in Mali, we recruited adults 18-50 years of age from six hospitals and health centres in Bamako (Mali), some of whom were also eligible for a nested, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of MVA-BN-Filo. For randomised segments of the Malian trial and for the US trial, we randomly allocated participants (1:1; block size of six [Malian] or four [US]; ARB produced computer-generated randomisation lists; clinical staff did randomisation) to different single doses of intramuscular immunisation with ChAd3-EBO-Z: Malians received 1 × 10(10) viral particle units (pu), 2·5 × 10(10) pu, 5 × 10(10) pu, or 1 × 10(11) pu; US participants received 1 × 10(10) pu or 1 × 10(11) pu. We randomly allocated Malians in the nested trial (1:1) to receive a single dose of 2 × 10(8) plaque-forming units of MVA-BN-Filo or saline placebo. In the double-blind segments of the Malian trial, investigators, clinical staff, participants, and immunology laboratory staff were masked, but the study pharmacist (MK), vaccine administrator, and study statistician (ARB) were unmasked. In the US trial, investigators were not masked, but participants were. Analyses were per protocol. The primary outcome was safety, measured with occurrence of adverse events for 7 days after vaccination. Both trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, numbers NCT02231866 (US) and NCT02267109 (Malian). Between Oct 8, 2014, and Feb 16, 2015, we randomly allocated 91 participants in Mali (ten [11%] to 1 × 10(10) pu, 35 [38%] to 2·5 × 10(10) pu, 35 [38%] to 5 × 10(10) pu, and 11 [12%] to 1 × 10(11) pu) and 20 in the USA (ten [50%] to 1 × 10(10) pu and ten [50%] to 1 × 10(11) pu), and boosted 52 Malians with MVA-BN-Filo (27 [52%]) or saline (25 [48%]). We identified no safety concerns with either vaccine: seven (8%) of 91 participants in Mali (five [5%] received 5 × 10(10) and two [2%] received 1 × 10(11) pu) and four (20%) of 20 in the USA (all received 1 × 10(11) pu) given ChAd3-EBO-Z had fever lasting for less than 24 h, and 15 (56%) of 27 Malians boosted with MVA-BN-Filo had injection-site pain or tenderness. 1 × 10(11) pu single-dose ChAd3-EBO-Z could suffice for phase 3 efficacy trials of ring-vaccination containment needing short-term, high-level protection to interrupt transmission. MVA-BN-Filo boosting, although a complex regimen, could confer long-lived protection if needed (eg, for health-care workers). Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council UK, Department for International Development UK, National Cancer Institute, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Federal Funds from National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Copyright © 2016 Tapia et al. Open Access article distributed under the terms of CC BY. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

GACD: Integrated Software for Genetic Analysis in Clonal F1 and Double Cross Populations.

PubMed

Zhang, Luyan; Meng, Lei; Wu, Wencheng; Wang, Jiankang

2015-01-01

Clonal species are common among plants. Clonal F1 progenies are derived from the hybridization between 2 heterozygous clones. In self- and cross-pollinated species, double crosses can be made from 4 inbred lines. A clonal F1 population can be viewed as a double cross population when the linkage phase is determined. The software package GACD (Genetic Analysis of Clonal F1 and Double cross) is freely available public software, capable of building high-density linkage maps and mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) in clonal F1 and double cross populations. Three functionalities are integrated in GACD version 1.0: binning of redundant markers (BIN); linkage map construction (CDM); and QTL mapping (CDQ). Output of BIN can be directly used as input of CDM. After adding the phenotypic data, the output of CDM can be used as input of CDQ. Thus, GACD acts as a pipeline for genetic analysis. GACD and example datasets are freely available from www.isbreeding.net. © The American Genetic Association. 2015. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

A Model Program in a Remodeled Building.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Muir, Maya

2001-01-01

Renovations contributed to academic improvement at an Issaquah (Washington) elementary school. Enclosing an open-air corridor enabled it to be used for educational activities. Double doors connected classrooms for team teaching, and carpet improved acoustics. A music room, library, and computer lab were also added. Student and community…

Farnesyltransferase haplodeficiency reduces neuropathology and rescues cognitive function in a mouse model of Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Cheng, Shaowu; Cao, Dongfeng; Hottman, David A; Yuan, LiLian; Bergo, Martin O; Li, Ling

2013-12-13

Isoprenoids and prenylated proteins have been implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer disease (AD), including amyloid-β precursor protein metabolism, Tau phosphorylation, synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation. However, little is known about the relative importance of the two protein prenyltransferases, farnesyltransferase (FT) and geranylgeranyltransferase-1 (GGT), in the pathogenesis of AD. In this study, we defined the impact of deleting one copy of FT or GGT on the development of amyloid-β (Aβ)-associated neuropathology and learning/memory impairments in APPPS1 double transgenic mice, a well established model of AD. Heterozygous deletion of FT reduced Aβ deposition and neuroinflammation and rescued spatial learning and memory function in APPPS1 mice. Heterozygous deletion of GGT reduced the levels of Aβ and neuroinflammation but had no impact on learning and memory. These results document that farnesylation and geranylgeranylation play differential roles in AD pathogenesis and suggest that specific inhibition of protein farnesylation could be a potential strategy for effectively treating AD.

Modeling the double charge exchange response function for a tetraneutron system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lazauskas, R.; Carbonell, J.; Hiyama, E.

2017-07-01

This work is an attempt to model the 4 n response function of a recent RIKEN experimental study of the double charge exchange  4 He( 8 He, 8 Be) 4n reaction in order to put in evidence an eventual enhancement mechanism of the zero-energy cross section, including a near-threshold resonance. This resonance can indeed be reproduced only by adding to the standard nuclear Hamiltonian an unphysically large T =3/2 attractive 3 n -force that destroys the neighboring nuclear chart. No other mechanisms, like cusps or related structures, were found.

FUSED SALT PROCESS FOR RECOVERY OF VALUES FROM USED NUCLEAR REACTOR FUELS

DOEpatents

Moore, R.H.

1960-08-01

A process is given for recovering plutonium from a neutron-irradiated uranium mass (oxide or alloy) by dissolving the mass in an about equimolar alkali metalaluminum double chloride, adding aluminum metal to the mixture obtained at a temperature of between 260 and 860 deg C, and separating a uranium-containing metal phase and a plutonium-chloride- and fission-product chloridecontaining salt phase. Dissolution can be expedited by passing carbon tetrachloride vapors through the double salt. Separation without reduction of plutonium from neutron- bombarded uranium and that of cerium from uranium are also discussed.

Effects of pimecrolimus cream 1% in the treatment of patients with atopic dermatitis who demonstrate a clinical insensitivity to topical corticosteroids: a randomized, multicentre vehicle-controlled trial.

PubMed

Leung, D Y M; Hanifin, J M; Pariser, D M; Barber, K A; Langley, R G; Schlievert, P M; Abrams, B; Hultsch, T

2009-08-01

Colonization with Staphylococcus aureus in atopic dermatitis (AD) is often associated with worsening of clinical symptoms. Staphylococcus aureus produces superantigens that contribute to cutaneous inflammation and corticosteroid (CS) resistance. To investigate the relationship between CS insensitivity, S. aureus colonization and superantigen production in AD, and to explore the efficacy of pimecrolimus cream in CS-insensitive AD. This was a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, multicentre, parallel-group study. Seventy-three patients with AD, aged 2-49 years, who had a documented clinical insensitivity to topical CS, were recruited. The primary efficacy parameters combined laboratory (including S. aureus colonization, superantigens) and clinical assessments [including Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), whole body Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), pruritus assessment score, patient's assessment score of disease control]. An increase in S. aureus counts correlated with worsening of clinical score (week 6 vs. baseline) when assessed by IGA, pruritus severity and patient assessment. The presence of superantigens correlated with this worsening. During the 6-week double-blind phase, disease improvement in the pimecrolimus cream group was demonstrated by decreasing EASI scores compared with vehicle. Mean EASI scores for the head and neck showed greater improvement in the pimecrolimus cream group than in the vehicle group at all observed time points. In a cohort of patients with clinical insensitivity to CS there was a significant positive correlation between S. aureus and disease severity. Results suggest that for some of these patients, treatment with pimecrolimus cream 1% is useful, especially in the head/neck area.

Trazodone improves sleep parameters in Alzheimer disease patients: a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled study.

PubMed

Camargos, Einstein F; Louzada, Luciana L; Quintas, Juliana L; Naves, Janeth O S; Louzada, Fernando M; Nóbrega, Otávio T

2014-12-01

There are no randomized clinical trials regarding efficacy of trazodone in the treatment of sleep disturbances (SD) in patients with Alzheimer disease (AD). We tested the efficacy and safety of trazodone to treat SD in patients with AD. We conducted a double-blind, randomized and controlled trial during periods of 7-9 days at baseline and 2 weeks of treatment. Geriatric medical center of the university's general hospital. Individuals with probable AD and SD. The complete analysis comprised 30 patients assigned to either the active treatment group (N = 15) or the placebo group (N = 15). Patients received 50 mg of trazodone once daily at 10:00 P.M. or placebo in a 1:1 ratio for 2 weeks. Patients were evaluated using actigraphy and structured scales before and after intervention. Compared with the placebo group, trazodone users slept 42.5 more minutes per night and had their nighttime percent sleep increased 8.5 percentage points according to actigraphic data post-treatment. Neither trazodone nor placebo induced significant daytime sleepiness or naps. The treatments with trazodone or placebo did not show any effects either on cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination, forward/backward digit span task, letter-number sequencing, arithmetic, digit symbol-coding, and symbol search) or functionality (Katz index). There were no differences in frequency or severity rating of adverse events between the groups. This study shows significant therapeutic effects of trazodone 50 mg in community-dwelling AD patients with SD. Copyright © 2014 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CACTUS: Calculator and Computer Technology User Service.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hyde, Hartley

1998-01-01

Presents an activity in which students use computer-based spreadsheets to find out how much grain should be added to a chess board when a grain of rice is put on the first square, the amount is doubled for the next square, and the chess board is covered. (ASK)

Synergistic oxygen atom transfer by ruthenium complexes with non-redox metal ions.

PubMed

Lv, Zhanao; Zheng, Wenrui; Chen, Zhuqi; Tang, Zhiming; Mo, Wanling; Yin, Guochuan

2016-07-28

Non-redox metal ions can affect the reactivity of active redox metal ions in versatile biological and heterogeneous oxidation processes; however, the intrinsic roles of these non-redox ions still remain elusive. This work demonstrates the first example of the use of non-redox metal ions as Lewis acids to sharply improve the catalytic oxygen atom transfer efficiency of a ruthenium complex bearing the classic 2,2'-bipyridine ligand. In the absence of Lewis acid, the oxidation of ruthenium(ii) complex by PhI(OAc)2 generates the Ru(iv)[double bond, length as m-dash]O species, which is very sluggish for olefin epoxidation. When Ru(bpy)2Cl2 was tested as a catalyst alone, only 21.2% of cyclooctene was converted, and the yield of 1,2-epoxycyclooctane was only 6.7%. As evidenced by electronic absorption spectra and EPR studies, both the oxidation of Ru(ii) by PhI(OAc)2 and the reduction of Ru(iv)[double bond, length as m-dash]O by olefin are kinetically slow. However, adding non-redox metal ions such as Al(iii) can sharply improve the oxygen transfer efficiency of the catalyst to 100% conversion with 89.9% yield of epoxide under identical conditions. Through various spectroscopic characterizations, an adduct of Ru(iv)[double bond, length as m-dash]O with Al(iii), Ru(iv)[double bond, length as m-dash]O/Al(iii), was proposed to serve as the active species for epoxidation, which in turn generated a Ru(iii)-O-Ru(iii) dimer as the reduced form. In particular, both the oxygen transfer from Ru(iv)[double bond, length as m-dash]O/Al(iii) to olefin and the oxidation of Ru(iii)-O-Ru(iii) back to the active Ru(iv)[double bond, length as m-dash]O/Al(iii) species in the catalytic cycle can be remarkably accelerated by adding a non-redox metal, such as Al(iii). These results have important implications for the role played by non-redox metal ions in catalytic oxidation at redox metal centers as well as for the understanding of the redox mechanism of ruthenium catalysts in the oxygen atom transfer reaction.

Peer-to-peer Monte Carlo simulation of photon migration in topical applications of biomedical optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doronin, Alexander; Meglinski, Igor

2012-09-01

In the framework of further development of the unified approach of photon migration in complex turbid media, such as biological tissues we present a peer-to-peer (P2P) Monte Carlo (MC) code. The object-oriented programming is used for generalization of MC model for multipurpose use in various applications of biomedical optics. The online user interface providing multiuser access is developed using modern web technologies, such as Microsoft Silverlight, ASP.NET. The emerging P2P network utilizing computers with different types of compute unified device architecture-capable graphics processing units (GPUs) is applied for acceleration and to overcome the limitations, imposed by multiuser access in the online MC computational tool. The developed P2P MC was validated by comparing the results of simulation of diffuse reflectance and fluence rate distribution for semi-infinite scattering medium with known analytical results, results of adding-doubling method, and with other GPU-based MC techniques developed in the past. The best speedup of processing multiuser requests in a range of 4 to 35 s was achieved using single-precision computing, and the double-precision computing for floating-point arithmetic operations provides higher accuracy.

Peer-to-peer Monte Carlo simulation of photon migration in topical applications of biomedical optics.

PubMed

Doronin, Alexander; Meglinski, Igor

2012-09-01

In the framework of further development of the unified approach of photon migration in complex turbid media, such as biological tissues we present a peer-to-peer (P2P) Monte Carlo (MC) code. The object-oriented programming is used for generalization of MC model for multipurpose use in various applications of biomedical optics. The online user interface providing multiuser access is developed using modern web technologies, such as Microsoft Silverlight, ASP.NET. The emerging P2P network utilizing computers with different types of compute unified device architecture-capable graphics processing units (GPUs) is applied for acceleration and to overcome the limitations, imposed by multiuser access in the online MC computational tool. The developed P2P MC was validated by comparing the results of simulation of diffuse reflectance and fluence rate distribution for semi-infinite scattering medium with known analytical results, results of adding-doubling method, and with other GPU-based MC techniques developed in the past. The best speedup of processing multiuser requests in a range of 4 to 35 s was achieved using single-precision computing, and the double-precision computing for floating-point arithmetic operations provides higher accuracy.

Development of a Double Glass Mounting Method Using Formaldehyde Alcohol Azocarmine Lactophenol (FAAL) and its Evaluation for Permanent Mounting of Small Nematodes

PubMed Central

ZAHABIUN, Farzaneh; SADJJADI, Seyed Mahmoud; ESFANDIARI, Farideh

2015-01-01

Background: Permanent slide preparation of nematodes especially small ones is time consuming, difficult and they become scarious margins. Regarding this problem, a modified double glass mounting method was developed and compared with classic method. Methods: A total of 209 nematode samples from human and animal origin were fixed and stained with Formaldehyde Alcohol Azocarmine Lactophenol (FAAL) followed by double glass mounting and classic dehydration method using Canada balsam as their mounting media. The slides were evaluated in different dates and times, more than four years. Different photos were made with different magnification during the evaluation time. Results: The double glass mounting method was stable during this time and comparable with classic method. There were no changes in morphologic structures of nematodes using double glass mounting method with well-defined and clear differentiation between different organs of nematodes in this method. Conclusion: Using this method is cost effective and fast for mounting of small nematodes comparing to classic method. PMID:26811729

The physiological and biomechanical differences between double poling and G3 skating in world class cross-country skiers.

PubMed

Sandbakk, Øyvind; Leirdal, Stig; Ettema, Gertjan

2015-03-01

The current study compared differences in cycle characteristics, energy expenditure and peak speed between double poling (DP) and G3 skating. Eight world class male sprint skiers performed a 5-min submaximal test at 16 km h(-1) and an incremental test to exhaustion at a 5% incline during treadmill roller skiing with two different techniques: DP where all propulsion comes from poling, and G3 skating where leg skating is added to each double poling movement. Video analyses determined cycle characteristics; respiratory parameters and blood lactate concentration determined the physiological responses. G3 skating resulted in 16% longer cycle lengths at 16% lower cycle rates, whereas oxygen uptake was independent of technique during submaximal roller skiing. The corresponding advantages for G3 skating during maximal roller skiing were reflected in 14% higher speed, 30% longer cycle length at 16% lower cycle rate and 11% higher peak oxygen uptake (all p < 0.05). Compared to DP approximately 14% higher speed was achieved when leg push-offs were added in G3 skating. This was done by major increases in cycle lengths at slightly lower cycle rates and a higher aerobic energy delivery. However, the oxygen uptake for a given submaximal speed was not affected by technique although higher cycle rate was used in DP.

Augmenting Outpatient Alcohol Treatment as Usual With Online Alcohol Avoidance Training: Protocol for a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Bratti-van der Werf, Marleen KJ; Postel, Marloes G; Pieterse, Marcel E; Ben Allouch, Somaya; Wiers, Reinout W; Bohlmeijer, Ernst T; Salemink, Elske

2018-01-01

Background Recent theoretical models emphasize the role of impulsive processes in alcohol addiction, which can be retrained with computerized Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) training. In this study, the focus is on action tendencies that are activated relatively automatically. Objective The aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of online CBM Alcohol Avoidance Training using an adapted Approach-Avoidance Task as a supplement to treatment as usual (TAU) in an outpatient treatment setting. Methods The effectiveness of 8 online sessions of CBM Alcohol Avoidance Training added to TAU is tested in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial with pre- and postassessments, plus follow-up assessments after 3 and 6 months. Participants are adult patients (age 18 years or over) currently following Web-based or face-to-face TAU to reduce or stop drinking. These patients are randomly assigned to a CBM Alcohol Avoidance or a placebo training. The primary outcome measure is a reduction in alcohol consumption. We hypothesize that TAU + CBM will result in up to a 13-percentage point incremental effect in the number of patients reaching the safe drinking guidelines compared to TAU + placebo CBM. Secondary outcome measures include an improvement in health status and a decrease in depression, anxiety, stress, and possible mediation by the change in approach bias. Finally, patients’ adherence, acceptability, and credibility will be examined. Results The trial was funded in 2014 and is currently in the active participant recruitment phase (since May 2015). Enrolment will be completed in 2019. First results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2020. Conclusions The main purpose of this study is to increase our knowledge about the added value of online Alcohol Avoidance Training as a supplement to TAU in an outpatient treatment setting. If the added effectiveness of the training is proven, the next step could be to incorporate the intervention into current treatment. Trial Registration Netherlands Trial Register NTR5087; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=5087 (Archived at WebCite http://www.webcitation.org/6wuS4i1tH) PMID:29496657

Multiple Scattering Principal Component-based Radiative Transfer Model (PCRTM) from Far IR to UV-Vis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, X.; Wu, W.; Yang, Q.

2017-12-01

Modern satellite hyperspectral satellite remote sensors such as AIRS, CrIS, IASI, CLARREO all require accurate and fast radiative transfer models that can deal with multiple scattering of clouds and aerosols to explore the information contents. However, performing full radiative transfer calculations using multiple stream methods such as discrete ordinate (DISORT), doubling and adding (AD), successive order of scattering order of scattering (SOS) are very time consuming. We have developed a principal component-based radiative transfer model (PCRTM) to reduce the computational burden by orders of magnitudes while maintain high accuracy. By exploring spectral correlations, the PCRTM reduce the number of radiative transfer calculations in frequency domain. It further uses a hybrid stream method to decrease the number of calls to the computational expensive multiple scattering calculations with high stream numbers. Other fast parameterizations have been used in the infrared spectral region reduce the computational time to milliseconds for an AIRS forward simulation (2378 spectral channels). The PCRTM has been development to cover spectral range from far IR to UV-Vis. The PCRTM model have been be used for satellite data inversions, proxy data generation, inter-satellite calibrations, spectral fingerprinting, and climate OSSE. We will show examples of applying the PCRTM to single field of view cloudy retrievals of atmospheric temperature, moisture, traces gases, clouds, and surface parameters. We will also show how the PCRTM are used for the NASA CLARREO project.

Characterization of a new candidate isotopic reference material for natural Pb using primary measurement method.

PubMed

Nonose, Naoko; Suzuki, Toshihiro; Shin, Ki-Cheol; Miura, Tsutomu; Hioki, Akiharu

2017-06-29

A lead isotopic standard solution with natural abundance has been developed by applying a mixture of a solution of enriched 208 Pb and a solution of enriched 204 Pb ( 208 Pb- 204 Pb double spike solution) as bracketing method. The amount-of-substance ratio of 208 Pb: 204 Pb in this solution is accurately measured by applying EDTA titrimetry, which is one of the primary measurement methods, to each enriched Pb isotope solution. Also metal impurities affecting EDTA titration and minor lead isotopes contained in each enriched Pb isotope solution are quantified by ICP-SF-MS. The amount-of-substance ratio of 208 Pb: 204 Pb in the 208 Pb- 204 Pb double spike solution is 0.961959 ± 0.000056 (combined standard uncertainty; k = 1). Both the measurement of lead isotope ratios in a candidate isotopic standard solution and the correction of mass discrimination in MC-ICP-MS are carried out by coupling of a bracketing method with the 208 Pb- 204 Pb double spike solution and a thallium internal addition method, where thallium solution is added to the standard and the sample. The measured lead isotope ratios and their expanded uncertainties (k = 2) in the candidate isotopic standard solution are 18.0900 ± 0.0046 for 206 Pb: 204 Pb, 15.6278 ± 0.0036 for 207 Pb: 204 Pb, 38.0626 ± 0.0089 for 208 Pb: 204 Pb, 2.104406 ± 0.00013 for 208 Pb: 206 Pb, and 0.863888 ± 0.000036 for 207 Pb: 206 Pb. The expanded uncertainties are about one half of the stated uncertainty for NIST SRM 981, for 208 Pb: 204 Pb, 207 Pb: 204 Pb and 206 Pb: 204 Pb, or one eighth, for 208 Pb: 206 Pb and 207 Pb: 206 Pb, The combined uncertainty consists of the uncertainties due to lead isotope ratio measurements and the remaining time-drift effect of mass discrimination in MC-ICP-MS, which is not removed by the coupled correction method. In the measurement of 208 Pb: 204 Pb, 207 Pb: 204 Pb and 206 Pb: 204 Pb, the latter contribution is two or three times larger than the former. When the coupling of a bracketing method with the 208 Pb- 204 Pb double spike solution and a thallium internal addition method is applied to the analysis of NIST SRM 981, the measured lead isotope ratios are in good agreement with its certified values. This proves that the developed method is not only consistent with the conventional one by NIST SRM 981 but also enables measurement of the lead isotope ratios with higher precision. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a Double Glass Mounting Method Using Formaldehyde Alcohol Azocarmine Lactophenol (FAAL) and its Evaluation for Permanent Mounting of Small Nematodes.

PubMed

Zahabiun, Farzaneh; Sadjjadi, Seyed Mahmoud; Esfandiari, Farideh

2015-01-01

Permanent slide preparation of nematodes especially small ones is time consuming, difficult and they become scarious margins. Regarding this problem, a modified double glass mounting method was developed and compared with classic method. A total of 209 nematode samples from human and animal origin were fixed and stained with Formaldehyde Alcohol Azocarmine Lactophenol (FAAL) followed by double glass mounting and classic dehydration method using Canada balsam as their mounting media. The slides were evaluated in different dates and times, more than four years. Different photos were made with different magnification during the evaluation time. The double glass mounting method was stable during this time and comparable with classic method. There were no changes in morphologic structures of nematodes using double glass mounting method with well-defined and clear differentiation between different organs of nematodes in this method. Using this method is cost effective and fast for mounting of small nematodes comparing to classic method.

Trends in exposure to television food advertisements in South Korea.

PubMed

Han, Euna; Powell, Lisa M; Kim, Tae Hyun

2013-03-01

Given the increased concern about the impact of TV food advertisements (ads) on individual food choices, we provide important evidence on TV food ad exposure between 2004 and 2009 in South Korea. We used monthly targeted ratings data by age group as the number of ads seen daily from Korean Nielsen Media Research. We generated six food groups: beverages (milk, soda, fruit drinks, sports/energy drinks, water, coffee/tea products, and other); snacks/sweets (cookies/chips, candy, and chewing gum); fast food (Domino's pizza, Lotteria, McDonald's, Mr. Pizza, Pizza Hut, local chicken and pizza franchises, and other); instant noodle; full-service restaurants; and other. From 2004 to 2009, overall exposure to television food ads fell by 19.0% (from 6.8 to 5.5 ads daily), although exposure to full-service restaurant ads increased over that time period by 45.7%. While fast-food ad exposure fell overall, exposure to ads for local fried chicken franchises nearly doubled, making them the most commonly seen fast-food ads by 2009. Fast-food and instant noodle ads made up larger proportions of total ad exposure in 2009 than in 2004 in all age groups, with the largest increase among adolescents. Beverage ads continue to be the most prevalent food ads seen in South Korea. Differential trends found in exposure across and within food product categories and differences by age groups highlight the need for continued monitoring to help inform the regulatory policy debate on food advertising, particularly with regards to ads directed at children and adolescents. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multi-residue method for the determination of 450 pesticide residues in honey, fruit juice and wine by double-cartridge solid-phase extraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Pang, G-F; Fan, C-L; Liu, Y-M; Cao, Y-Z; Zhang, J-J; Fu, B-L; Li, X-M; Li, Z-Y; Wu, Y-P

2006-08-01

A multi-residue method was developed for the determination of 450 pesticide residues in honey, fruit juice and wine using double-cartridge solid-phase extraction (SPE), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS). The method development was based on an appraisal of the characteristics of GC-MS and LC-MS-MS for 654 pesticides as well as the efficiency of extraction and purification from honey, fruit juice and wine. Samples were first diluted with water plus acetone, then extracted with portions of dichloromethane. The extracts were concentrated and cleaned up with graphitized carbon black and aminopropyl cartridges stacked in tandem. Pesticides were eluted with acetonitrile + toluene, and the eluates were concentrated. For 383 pesticides, the eluate was extracted with hexane twice and internal standard solution was added prior to GC-MS determination. For 67 pesticides, extraction was with methanol prior to LC-MS-MS determination. The limit of detection for the method was between 1.0 and 300 ng g(-1) depending on each pesticide analyte. At the three fortification levels of 2.0-3000 ng g(-1), the average recovery rates were between 59 and 123%, among which 413 pesticides (92% of the 450) had recovery rates of 70-120% and 35 pesticides (8% of the 450) had recovery rates of 59-70%. There were 437 pesticides (97% of the 450) with a relative standard deviation below 25%; there were 13 varieties (3% of the 450) between 25.0 and 30.4%.

Method for double-sided processing of thin film transistors

DOEpatents

Yuan, Hao-Chih; Wang, Guogong; Eriksson, Mark A.; Evans, Paul G.; Lagally, Max G.; Ma, Zhenqiang

2008-04-08

This invention provides methods for fabricating thin film electronic devices with both front- and backside processing capabilities. Using these methods, high temperature processing steps may be carried out during both frontside and backside processing. The methods are well-suited for fabricating back-gate and double-gate field effect transistors, double-sided bipolar transistors and 3D integrated circuits.

In Situ Potassium-Argon Geochronology Using Fluxed Fusion and a Double Spike

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hurowitz, Joel A.; Hecht, Michael H.; Zimmerman, Wayne F.; Neidholdt, Evan L.; Sinha, Mahadeva P.; Sturhahn, Wolfgang; Coleman, Max; McCleese, Daniel J.; Farley, Kenneth A.; Eiler, John M.;

Variational principles for dissipative (sub)systems, with applications to the theory of linear dispersion and geometrical optics

DOE PAGES

Dodin, I. Y.; Zhmoginov, A. I.; Ruiz, D. E.

2017-02-24

Applications of variational methods are typically restricted to conservative systems. Some extensions to dissipative systems have been reported too but require ad hoc techniques such as the artificial doubling of the dynamical variables. We propose a different approach. Here, we show that for a broad class of dissipative systems of practical interest, variational principles can be formulated using constant Lagrange multipliers and Lagrangians nonlocal in time, which allow treating reversible and irreversible dynamics on the same footing. A general variational theory of linear dispersion is formulated as an example. Particularly, we present a variational formulation for linear geometrical optics inmore » a general dissipative medium, which is allowed to be nonstationary, inhomogeneous, anisotropic, and exhibit both temporal and spatial dispersion simultaneously.« less

Hamstring Graft Preparation Using a Modified Rolling Hitch Technique

PubMed Central

Hong, Chih-Kai; Chang, Chih-Hsun; Chiang, Chen-Hao; Jou, I-Ming; Su, Wei-Ren

2014-01-01

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using double-looped hamstring autograft is a common procedure in orthopaedic practice. However, during placement of the running, locking stitches at each end of the harvested tendons, the surgeon may face several potential obstacles, including the risk of damaging the tendon, predisposing the surgeon to needle-stick injury, and extended time consumption. We report a modified rolling hitch technique for hamstring graft preparation that is quick, cost-saving, and needleless as an alternative method. The original rolling hitch technique uses a traditional knot that attaches a rope to an object; the modified rolling hitch technique was created by adding 1 more turn before finishing with a half-hitch, which may prevent suture slippage off the tendon, thus providing sufficient fixation of the suture-tendon construct. PMID:25126495

Solid hemoglobin-polymer phantoms for evaluation of biophotonic systems.

PubMed

Jang, Hyounguk; Pfefer, T Joshua; Chen, Yu

2015-09-15

Stable tissue phantoms that incorporate the spectral absorption properties of hemoglobin would benefit a wide range of biophotonic technologies. Toward this end, we have developed and validated a novel polymer material incorporating hemoglobin. Our solid hemoglobin-polymer (SHP) material is fabricated by mixing liquid silicone base with a hemoglobin solution, followed by sonication and low temperature curing. The optical properties of samples were determined over 450-1000 nm using the inverse adding-doubling method and the Beer-Lambert law. Measurements indicated SHP optical stability over four months. Near-infrared spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging measurements of SHP samples were performed to demonstrate the utility of this approach. SHP materials have the potential to improve tissue-simulating phantoms used for development, evaluation, and standardization of optical devices for oximetry and other applications.

Chromosome doubling method

DOEpatents

Kato, Akio

2006-11-14

The invention provides methods for chromosome doubling in plants. The technique overcomes the low yields of doubled progeny associated with the use of prior techniques for doubling chromosomes in plants such as grasses. The technique can be used in large scale applications and has been demonstrated to be highly effective in maize. Following treatment in accordance with the invention, plants remain amenable to self fertilization, thereby allowing the efficient isolation of doubled progeny plants.

A Double Selection Approach to Achieve Specific Expression of Toxin Genes for Ovarian Cancer Gene Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-01

fibers that served as the junction for the replacement of the OAdV7 tail domain, as well as other common sequences, is highlighted. The final Ad5Luc1-OvF...Fold increase in luciferase activity vs. Ad5 b Reference CHO Hamster ovary L/N 22 Soudais et al., 2000 RD Rhabdomyosarcoma L/N 1.5 Dmitriev et al., 1998...of OV-3 cells (human ovarian cancer, 23-fold) and CAR-deficient CHO cells (Chinese hamster ovary, 22-fold), suggesting that RD cells do not express

The growth of the UniTree mass storage system at the NASA Center for Computational Sciences: Some lessons learned

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tarshish, Adina; Salmon, Ellen

1994-01-01

In October 1992, the NASA Center for Computational Sciences made its Convex-based UniTree system generally available to users. The ensuing months saw growth in every area. Within 26 months, data under UniTree control grew from nil to over 12 terabytes, nearly all of it stored on robotically mounted tape. HiPPI/UltraNet was added to enhance connectivity, and later HiPPI/TCP was added as well. Disks and robotic tape silos were added to those already under UniTree's control, and 18-track tapes were upgraded to 36-track. The primary data source for UniTree, the facility's Cray Y-MP/4-128, first doubled its processing power and then was replaced altogether by a C98/6-256 with nearly two-and-a-half times the Y-MP's combined peak gigaflops. The Convex/UniTree software was upgraded from version 1.5 to 1.7.5, and then to 1.7.6. Finally, the server itself, a Convex C3240, was upgraded to a C3830 with a second I/O bay, doubling the C3240's memory and capacity for I/O. This paper describes insights gained and reinforced with the burgeoning demands on the UniTree storage system and the significant increases in performance gained from the many upgrades.

Effect of Different Phospholipids on α-Secretase Activity in the Non-Amyloidogenic Pathway of Alzheimer’s Disease

PubMed Central

Grimm, Marcus O. W.; Haupenthal, Viola J.; Rothhaar, Tatjana L.; Zimmer, Valerie C.; Grösgen, Sven; Hundsdörfer, Benjamin; Lehmann, Johannes; Grimm, Heike S.; Hartmann, Tobias

2013-01-01

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by extracellular accumulation of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), generated by proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by β- and γ-secretase. Aβ generation is inhibited when the initial ectodomain shedding is caused by α-secretase, cleaving APP within the Aβ domain. Therefore, an increase in α-secretase activity is an attractive therapeutic target for AD treatment. APP and the APP-cleaving secretases are all transmembrane proteins, thus local membrane lipid composition is proposed to influence APP processing. Although several studies have focused on γ-secretase, the effect of the membrane lipid microenvironment on α-secretase is poorly understood. In the present study, we systematically investigated the effect of fatty acid (FA) acyl chain length (10:0, 12:0, 14:0, 16:0, 18:0, 20:0, 22:0, 24:0), membrane polar lipid headgroup (phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine), saturation grade and the FA double-bond position on α-secretase activity. We found that α-secretase activity is significantly elevated in the presence of FAs with short chain length and in the presence of polyunsaturated FAs, whereas variations in the phospholipid headgroups, as well as the double-bond position, have little or no effect on α-secretase activity. Overall, our study shows that local lipid membrane composition can influence α-secretase activity and might have beneficial effects for AD. PMID:23485990

Double-Layer Gadolinium Zirconate/Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Thermal Barrier Coatings Deposited by the Solution Precursor Plasma Spray Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Chen; Jordan, Eric H.; Harris, Alan B.; Gell, Maurice; Roth, Jeffrey

2015-08-01

Advanced thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) with lower thermal conductivity, increased resistance to calcium-magnesium-aluminosilicate (CMAS), and improved high-temperature capability, compared to traditional yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) TBCs, are essential to higher efficiency in next generation gas turbine engines. Double-layer rare-earth zirconate/YSZ TBCs are a promising solution. From a processing perspective, solution precursor plasma spray (SPPS) process with its unique and beneficial microstructural features can be an effective approach to obtaining the double-layer microstructure. Previously durable low-thermal-conductivity YSZ TBCs with optimized layered porosity, called the inter-pass boundaries (IPBs) were produced using the SPPS process. In this study, an SPPS gadolinium zirconate (GZO) protective surface layer was successfully added. These SPPS double-layer TBCs not only retained good cyclic durability and low thermal conductivity, but also demonstrated favorable phase stability and increased surface temperature capabilities. The CMAS resistance was evaluated with both accumulative and single applications of simulated CMAS in isothermal furnaces. The double-layer YSZ/GZO exhibited dramatic improvement in the single application, but not in the continuous one. In addition, to explore their potential application in integrated gasification combined cycle environments, double-layer TBCs were tested under high-temperature humidity and encouraging performance was recorded.

Pion single and double charge exchange in the resonance region: Dynamical corrections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Mikkel B.; Siciliano, E. R.

1983-04-01

We consider pion-nucleus elastic scattering and single- and double-charge-exchange scattering to isobaric analog states near the (3,3) resonance within an isospin invariant framework. We extend previous theories by introducing terms into the optical potential U that are quadratic in density and consistent with isospin invariance of the strong interaction. We study the sensitivity of single and double charge exchange angular distributions to parameters of the second-order potential both numerically, by integrating the Klein-Gordon equation, and analytically, by using semiclassical approximations that explicate the dependence of the exact numerical results to the parameters of U. The magnitude and shape of double charge exchange angular distributions are more sensitive to the isotensor term in U than has been hitherto appreciated. An examination of recent experimental data shows that puzzles in the shape of the 18O(π+, π-)18Ne angular distribution at 164 MeV and in the A dependence of the forward double charge exchange scattering on 18O, 26Mg, 42Ca, and 48Ca at the same energy may be resolved by adding an isotensor term in U. NUCLEAR REACTIONS Scattering theory for elastic, single-, and double-charge-exchange scattering to IAS in the region of the P33 resonance. Second-order effects on charge-exchange calculations of σ(A, θ).

Yield tradeoffs and nitrogen between pennycress, camelina, and soybean in relay- and double-crop systems

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

To gain additional value from land during winter fallow periods, growers in the Upper Midwest are considering winter annual oilseed crops such as field pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) and winter camelina (Camelina sativa L.) as value-added additions to the corn-soybean rotation. The objective of thi...

Design and evaluation of bilayered buccal film preparations for local administration of lidocaine hydrochloride.

PubMed

Preis, Maren; Woertz, Christina; Schneider, Katharina; Kukawka, Jennifer; Broscheit, Jens; Roewer, Norbert; Breitkreutz, Jörg

2014-04-01

Bilayered oromucosal film preparations (buccal films) offer a promising way to enable drug administration via the oral cavity. Adding a non-soluble or slowly eroding/dissolving backing layer to a mucoadhesive drug-loaded layer enables unidirectional drug delivery. The aim of this study was to investigate different approaches to the manufacture of bilayered films and to examine their properties by applying different characterization methods including an optimized experimental setup for the study of drug release from bilayered films. A solvent suitability study was performed screening over 15 polymers with respect to their feasibility for viscous film formation for film preparation by solvent casting method. Two methods (double-casting and pasting) were found as suitable methods for bilayered film manufacturing. Results from drug release experiments indicated that slowly eroding hypromellose backing layer films revealed the best shielding of the drug-loaded layer to enable unidirectional drug release. In summary, manufacturing of bilayered films using the described methods was feasible. Furthermore, the use of an optimized experimental setup for drug dissolution studies enabled monitoring of drug release without delays in sampling. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hydrophobic forces in the foam films stabilized by sodium dodecyl sulfate: effect of electrolyte.

PubMed

Wang, Liguang; Yoon, Roe-Hoan

2004-12-21

Further studies of the hydrophobic force in foam films were carried out, including the effect of added inorganic electrolyte. We used a thin film balance of Scheludko-Exerowa type to obtain the disjoining pressure isotherms of the foam films stabilized by 10(-4) M sodium dodecyl sulfate in varying concentrations of sodium chloride. The results were compared with the disjoining pressure isotherms predicted from the extended Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theory, which considers contributions from hydrophobic force in addition to those from double layer and van der Waals dispersion forces. The double layer forces were calculated from the surface potentials (psi s) obtained using the Gibbs adsorption equation and corrected for the counterion binding effect, while the dispersion forces were calculated using the Hamaker constant (A232) of 3.7 x 10(-20) J. The hydrophobic forces were calculated from the equilibrium film thickness as described previously. The predicted disjoining pressure isotherms were in good agreement with the experimental ones. It was found that the hydrophobic force is dampened substantially by the added electrolyte.

New modified multi-level residue harmonic balance method for solving nonlinearly vibrating double-beam problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahman, Md. Saifur; Lee, Yiu-Yin

2017-10-01

In this study, a new modified multi-level residue harmonic balance method is presented and adopted to investigate the forced nonlinear vibrations of axially loaded double beams. Although numerous nonlinear beam or linear double-beam problems have been tackled and solved, there have been few studies of this nonlinear double-beam problem. The geometric nonlinear formulations for a double-beam model are developed. The main advantage of the proposed method is that a set of decoupled nonlinear algebraic equations is generated at each solution level. This heavily reduces the computational effort compared with solving the coupled nonlinear algebraic equations generated in the classical harmonic balance method. The proposed method can generate the higher-level nonlinear solutions that are neglected by the previous modified harmonic balance method. The results from the proposed method agree reasonably well with those from the classical harmonic balance method. The effects of damping, axial force, and excitation magnitude on the nonlinear vibrational behaviour are examined.

Analysis of the heat transfer in double and triple concentric tube heat exchangers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rădulescu, S.; Negoiţă, L. I.; Onuţu, I.

2016-08-01

The tubular heat exchangers (shell and tube heat exchangers and concentric tube heat exchangers) represent an important category of equipment in the petroleum refineries and are used for heating, pre-heating, cooling, condensation and evaporation purposes. The paper presents results of analysis of the heat transfer to cool a petroleum product in two types of concentric tube heat exchangers: double and triple concentric tube heat exchangers. The cooling agent is water. The triple concentric tube heat exchanger is a modified constructive version of double concentric tube heat exchanger by adding an intermediate tube. This intermediate tube improves the heat transfer by increasing the heat area per unit length. The analysis of the heat transfer is made using experimental data obtained during the tests in a double and triple concentric tube heat exchanger. The flow rates of fluids, inlet and outlet temperatures of water and petroleum product are used in determining the performance of both heat exchangers. Principally, for both apparatus are calculated the overall heat transfer coefficients and the heat exchange surfaces. The presented results shows that triple concentric tube heat exchangers provide better heat transfer efficiencies compared to the double concentric tube heat exchangers.

Ultrastructural instability of paired helical filaments from corticobasal degeneration as examined by scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed Central

Ksiezak-Reding, H.; Tracz, E.; Yang, L. S.; Dickson, D. W.; Simon, M.; Wall, J. S.

1996-01-01

Paired helical filaments (PHFs) accumulate in the brains of subjects affected with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and certain other neurodegenerative disorders, including corticobasal degeneration (CBD). Electron microscope studies have shown that PHFs from CBD differ from those of AD by being wider and having a longer periodicity of the helical twist. Moreover, PHFs from CBD have been shown to be primarily composed of two rather than three highly phosphorylated polypeptides of tau (PHF-tau), with these polypeptides expressing no exons 3 and 10. To further explore the relationship between the heterogeneity of PHF-tau and the appearance of abnormal filaments, the ultrastructure and physical parameters such as mass per unit length and dimensions were compared in filaments from CBD and AD using high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Filament-enriched fractions were isolated as Sarcosyl-insoluble pellets and for STEM studies, samples were freeze-dried without prior fixation or staining. Ultrastructurally, PHFs from CBD were shown to be a heterogeneous population as double- and single-stranded filaments could be identified based on their width and physical mass per unit length expressed in kilodaltons (kd) per nanometer (nm). Less abundant, double-stranded filaments had a maximal width of 29 nm and a mass per unit length of 133 kd/nm, whereas three times more abundant single-stranded filaments were 15 nm wide and bad a mass per unit length of 62 kd/nm. Double-stranded filaments also displayed a distinct axial region of less dense mass, which appeared to divide the PHFs into two protofilament-like strands. Furthermore, these filaments were frequently observed to physically separate along the long axis into two single strands or to break longitudinally. In contrast, PHFs from AD were ultrastructurally stable and uniform both in their width (22 nm) and physical mass per unit length (104 kd/nm). The ultrastructural features indicate that filaments of CBD and AD differ both in stability and packing of tau and that CBD filaments, composed of two distinct protofilaments, are more labile under STEM conditions. As fixed and stained filaments from CBD have been shown to be stable and uniform in size by conventional transmission electron microscopy, STEM studies may be particularly suitable for detecting instability of unstained and unfixed filaments. The results also suggest that molecular heterogeneity and/or post-translational modifications of tau may strongly influence the morphology and stability of abnormal filaments. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 PMID:8702002

Genomic selection for the improvement of meat quality in beef.

PubMed

Pimentel, E C G; König, S

2012-10-01

Selection index theory was used to compare different selection strategies aiming at the improvement of meat quality in beef cattle. Alternative strategies were compared with a reference scenario with three basic traits in the selection index: BW at 200 d (W200) and 400 d (W400) and muscling score (MUSC). These traits resemble the combination currently used in the German national beef genetic evaluation system. Traits in the breeding goal were defined as the 3 basic traits plus marbling score (MARB), to depict a situation where an established breeding program currently selecting for growth and carcass yield intends to incorporate meat quality in its selection program. Economic weights were either the same for all 4 traits, or doubled or tripled for MARB. Two additional selection criteria for improving MARB were considered: Live animal intramuscular fat content measured by ultrasound (UIMF) as an indicator trait and a genomic breeding value (GEBV) for the target trait directly (gMARB). Results were used to estimate the required number of genotyped animals in an own calibration set for implementing genomic selection focusing on meat quality. Adding UIMF to the basic index increased the overall genetic gain per generation by 15% when the economic weight on MARB was doubled and by 44% when it was tripled. When a genomic breeding value for marbling could be estimated with an accuracy of 0.5, adding gMARB to the index provided larger genetic gain than adding UIMF. Greatest genetic gain per generation was obtained with the scenario containing GEBV for 4 traits (gW200, gW400, gMUSC, and gMARB) when the accuracies of these GEBV were ≥0.7. Adding UIMF to the index substantially improved response to selection for MARB, which switched from negative to positive when the economic weight on MARB was doubled or tripled. For all scenarios that contained gMARB in the selection index, the response to selection in MARB was positive for all relative economic weights on MARB, when the accuracy of GEBV was >0.7. Results indicated that setting up a calibration set of ∼500 genotyped animals with carcass phenotypes for MARB could suffice to obtain a larger response to selection than measuring UIMF. If the size of the calibration set is ∼2,500, adding the ultrasound trait to an index containing already the GEBV would bring little benefit, unless the relative economic weight for marbling is much larger than for the other traits.

A unique case of "double-orifice aortic valve"-comprehensive assessment by 2-, 3-dimensional, and color Doppler echocardiography.

PubMed

Stirrup, James E; Cowburn, Peter J; Pousios, Dimitrios; Ohri, Sunil K; Shah, Benoy N

2016-09-01

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a powerful imaging tool for the comprehensive assessment of valvular structure and function. TEE may be of added benefit when anatomy is difficult to delineate accurately by transthoracic echocardiography. In this article, we present 2-, 3-dimensional, and color Doppler TEE images from a male patient with aortic stenosis. A highly unusual and complex pattern of valvular calcification created a functionally "double-orifice" valve. Such an abnormality may have implications for the accuracy of continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography, which assumes a single orifice valve in native aortic valves. © 2016, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Double pendulum model for a tennis stroke including a collision process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Youn, Sun-Hyun

2015-10-01

By means of adding a collision process between the ball and racket in the double pendulum model, we analyzed the tennis stroke. The ball and the racket system may be accelerated during the collision time; thus, the speed of the rebound ball does not simply depend on the angular velocity of the racket. A higher angular velocity sometimes gives a lower rebound ball speed. We numerically showed that the proper time-lagged racket rotation increased the speed of the rebound ball by 20%. We also showed that the elbow should move in the proper direction in order to add the angular velocity of the racket.

Rearrangement of valence neutrons in the neutrinoless double-β decay of 136Xe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szwec, S. V.; Kay, B. P.; Cocolios, T. E.; Entwisle, J. P.; Freeman, S. J.; Gaffney, L. P.; Guimarães, V.; Hammache, F.; McKee, P. P.; Parr, E.; Portail, C.; Schiffer, J. P.; de Séréville, N.; Sharp, D. K.; Smith, J. F.; Stefan, I.

2016-11-01

A quantitative description of the change in ground-state neutron occupancies between 136Xe and 136Ba, the initial and final state in the neutrinoless double-β decay of 136Xe, has been extracted from precision measurements of the cross sections of single-neutron-adding and -removing reactions. Comparisons are made to recent theoretical calculations of the same properties using various nuclear-structure models. These are the same calculations used to determine the magnitude of the nuclear matrix elements for the process, which at present disagree with each other by factors of 2 or 3. The experimental neutron occupancies show some disagreement with the theoretical calculations.

Power SiGe Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors (HBTs) Fabricated by Fully Self-Aligned Double Mesa Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lu, Liang-Hung; Mohammadi, Saeed; Ma, Zhen-Qiang; Ponchak, George E.; Alterovitz, Samuel A.; Strohm, Karl M.; Luy, Johann-Friedrich; Downey, Alan (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Multifinger SiGe HBTs have been fabricated using a novel fully self-aligned double-mesa technology. With the novel process technology, a common-emitter 2x2x30 sq micrometer device exhibits high maximum oscillating frequency (f(sub max)) and cut-off frequency (f(sub T)) of 78 and 37 GHz, respectively. In class-A operation, a multifinger device with l0x2x30 sq micrometer emitter is expected to provide an output power of 25.6 dBm with a gain of 10 dB and a maximum power added efficiency (PAE) of 30.33% at 8 GHz.

Gyromagnetic ratios of excited states and nuclear structure near {sup 132}Sn

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

Stuchbery, Andrew E.

2014-11-11

Several g-factor measurements have been performed recently on nuclei near the neutron-rich, double-magic nucleus {sup 132}Sn. The focus here is on {sup 134}Te, the N = 82 isotone which has two protons added to {sup 132}Sn. The electromagnetic properties of {sup 134}Te are examined. Comparisons are made with other nuclei that have two protons outside a double-magic core. The extent to which {sup 132}Sn is an inert core is discussed based on these comparisons. The electromagnetic properties of the N = 82 isotones from {sup 132}Sn to {sup 146}Gd are also discussed.

Breaking tolerance in transgenic mice expressing the human TSH receptor A-subunit: thyroiditis, epitope spreading and adjuvant as a 'double edged sword'.

PubMed

McLachlan, Sandra M; Aliesky, Holly A; Chen, Chun-Rong; Chong, Gao; Rapoport, Basil

2012-01-01

Transgenic mice with the human thyrotropin-receptor (TSHR) A-subunit targeted to the thyroid are tolerant of the transgene. In transgenics that express low A-subunit levels (Lo-expressors), regulatory T cell (Treg) depletion using anti-CD25 before immunization with adenovirus encoding the A-subunit (A-sub-Ad) breaks tolerance, inducing extensive thyroid lymphocytic infiltration, thyroid damage and antibody spreading to other thyroid proteins. In contrast, no thyroiditis develops in Hi-expressor transgenics or wild-type mice. Our present goal was to determine if thyroiditis could be induced in Hi-expressor transgenics using a more potent immunization protocol: Treg depletion, priming with Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) + A-subunit protein and further Treg depletions before two boosts with A-sub-Ad. As controls, anti-CD25 treated Hi- and Lo-expressors and wild-type mice were primed with CFA+ mouse thyroglobulin (Tg) or CFA alone before A-sub-Ad boosting. Thyroiditis developed after CFA+A-subunit protein or Tg and A-sub-Ad boosting in Lo-expressor transgenics but Hi- expressors (and wild-type mice) were resistant to thyroiditis induction. Importantly, in Lo-expressors, thyroiditis was associated with the development of antibodies to the mouse TSHR downstream of the A-subunit. Unexpectedly, we observed that the effect of bacterial products on the immune system is a "double-edged sword". On the one hand, priming with CFA (mycobacteria emulsified in oil) plus A-subunit protein broke tolerance to the A-subunit in Hi-expressor transgenics leading to high TSHR antibody levels. On the other hand, prior treatment with CFA in the absence of A-subunit protein inhibited responses to subsequent immunization with A-sub-Ad. Consequently, adjuvant activity arising in vivo after bacterial infections combined with a protein autoantigen can break self-tolerance but in the absence of the autoantigen, adjuvant activity can inhibit the induction of immunity to autoantigens (like the TSHR) displaying strong self-tolerance.

Breaking Tolerance in Transgenic Mice Expressing the Human TSH Receptor A-Subunit: Thyroiditis, Epitope Spreading and Adjuvant as a ‘Double Edged Sword’

PubMed Central

McLachlan, Sandra M.; Aliesky, Holly A.; Chen, Chun-Rong; Chong, Gao; Rapoport, Basil

2012-01-01

Transgenic mice with the human thyrotropin-receptor (TSHR) A-subunit targeted to the thyroid are tolerant of the transgene. In transgenics that express low A-subunit levels (Lo-expressors), regulatory T cell (Treg) depletion using anti-CD25 before immunization with adenovirus encoding the A-subunit (A-sub-Ad) breaks tolerance, inducing extensive thyroid lymphocytic infiltration, thyroid damage and antibody spreading to other thyroid proteins. In contrast, no thyroiditis develops in Hi-expressor transgenics or wild-type mice. Our present goal was to determine if thyroiditis could be induced in Hi-expressor transgenics using a more potent immunization protocol: Treg depletion, priming with Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) + A-subunit protein and further Treg depletions before two boosts with A-sub-Ad. As controls, anti-CD25 treated Hi- and Lo-expressors and wild-type mice were primed with CFA+ mouse thyroglobulin (Tg) or CFA alone before A-sub-Ad boosting. Thyroiditis developed after CFA+A-subunit protein or Tg and A-sub-Ad boosting in Lo-expressor transgenics but Hi- expressors (and wild-type mice) were resistant to thyroiditis induction. Importantly, in Lo-expressors, thyroiditis was associated with the development of antibodies to the mouse TSHR downstream of the A-subunit. Unexpectedly, we observed that the effect of bacterial products on the immune system is a “double-edged sword”. On the one hand, priming with CFA (mycobacteria emulsified in oil) plus A-subunit protein broke tolerance to the A-subunit in Hi-expressor transgenics leading to high TSHR antibody levels. On the other hand, prior treatment with CFA in the absence of A-subunit protein inhibited responses to subsequent immunization with A-sub-Ad. Consequently, adjuvant activity arising in vivo after bacterial infections combined with a protein autoantigen can break self-tolerance but in the absence of the autoantigen, adjuvant activity can inhibit the induction of immunity to autoantigens (like the TSHR) displaying strong self-tolerance. PMID:22970131

Effects of gintonin-enriched fraction on hippocampal cell proliferation in wild-type mice and an APPswe/PSEN-1 double Tg mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Kim, Hyeon-Joong; Kim, Dae-Joong; Shin, Eun-Ju; Lee, Byung-Hwan; Choi, Sun-Hye; Hwang, Sung-Hee; Rhim, Hyewhon; Cho, Ik-Hyun; Kim, Hyoung-Chun; Nah, Seung-Yeol

2016-12-01

We previously showed that gintonin, an exogenous lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand, attenuated β-amyloid plaque formation in the cortex and hippocampus, and restored β-amyloid-induced memory dysfunction. Both endogenous LPA and LPA receptors play a key role in embryonic brain development. However, little is known about whether gintonin can induce hippocampal cell proliferation in adult wild-type mice and an APPswe/PSEN-1 double Tg mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, we examined the effects of gintonin on the proliferation of hippocampal neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in vitro and its effects on the hippocampal cell proliferation in wild-type mice and a transgenic AD mouse model. Gintonin treatment increased 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation in hippocampal NPCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Gintonin (0.3 μg/ml) increased the immunostaining of glial fibrillary acidic protein, NeuN, and LPA1 receptor in hippocampal NPCs. However, the gintonin-induced increase in BrdU incorporation and immunostaining of biomarkers was blocked by an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist and Ca 2+ chelator. Oral administration of the gintonin-enriched fraction (50 and 100 mg/kg) increased hippocampal BrdU incorporation and LPA1/3 receptor expression in adult wild-type and transgenic AD mice. The present study showed that gintonin could increase the number of hippocampal neurons in adult wild-type mice and a transgenic AD mouse model. Our results indicate that gintonin-mediated hippocampal cell proliferation contributes to the gintonin-mediated restorative effect against β-amyloid-induced hippocampal dysfunction. These results support the use of gintonin for the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD via promotion of hippocampal neurogenesis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Research on liquid impact forming technology of double-layered tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Changying; Liu, Jianwei; Yao, Xinqi; Huang, Beixing; Li, Yuhan

2018-03-01

A double-layered tube is widely used and developed in various fields because of its perfect comprehensive performance and design. With the advent of the era of a double-layered tube, the requirements for double layered tube forming quality, manufacturing cost and forming efficiency are getting higher, so forming methods of a double-layered tube are emerged in an endless stream, the forming methods of a double-layered tube have a great potential in the future. The liquid impact forming technology is a combination of stamping technology and hydroforming technology. Forming a double-layered tube has huge advantages in production cost, quality and efficiency.

Comparing clinical profiles in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease dementia.

PubMed

Farlow, Martin R; Schmitt, Frederick; Aarsland, Dag; Grossberg, George T; Somogyi, Monique; Meng, Xiangyi

2013-01-01

Greater understanding of differences in baseline impairment and disease progression in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) may improve the interpretation of drug effects and the design of future studies. This was a retrospective analysis of three randomized, double-blind rivastigmine databases (one in PDD, two in AD). Impairment on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog), Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living (ADCS-ADL) scale, 10-item Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI-10) and the ADCS-Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGIC) was compared [standardized difference (Cohen's d), similar if <0.1]. Patients with AD or PDD had similar levels of impairment on the ADAS-cog and NPI-10. Scores on the ADCS-ADL scale (standardized difference = 0.47) and the ADAS-cog memory domain (total, 0.33; items, 0.10-0.58) were higher in AD; PDD patients were more impaired in the language (0.23) and praxis (0.34) domains. AD patients receiving placebo showed greater deterioration on the ADAS-cog (0.14) and improvement on the NPI-10 (0.11) compared with patients with PDD. Differing patterns of impairment occur in AD and PDD.

Seroprevalence of neutralizing antibodies against adenovirus type 14 and 55 in healthy adults in Southern China

PubMed Central

Zheng, Xuehua; Rong, Xia; Feng, Ying; Sun, Xikui; Li, Liang; Wang, Qian; Wang, Min; Liu, Wenkuan; Li, Chufang; Yang, Yiyu; Zhou, Rong; Lu, Jiahai; Feng, Liqiang; Chen, Ling

2017-01-01

Re-emerging human adenovirus types 14 (Ad14) and 55 (Ad55) have caused severe respiratory diseases and even deaths during recent outbreaks. However, the seroprevalence of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) in healthy adults, which may reflect previous circulation and help to predict potential outbreaks, remains unclear. In this study, we established micro-neutralizing (MN) assays on the basis of recombinant Ad14 and Ad55 reporter viruses, and we investigated serum nAbs in healthy blood donors from Southern China. We found that the overall seropositive rates were 24.8% and 22.4% for Ad14 and Ad55 nAbs, respectively. The seropositive rates were low in individuals younger than 20, and they gradually increased with age. Ad55-seropositive individuals tended to have high nAb titers (>1000), while low (72–200) and moderate (201–1000) nAb levels were frequently observed in Ad14-seropositive ones. Surprisingly, the seropositive rates and nAb levels were associated with the blood type but not the gender of the blood donors, with type AB individuals displaying higher seropositive rates and nAb levels. Interestingly, a significant positive correlation was observed between Ad14 and Ad55 seroprevalence, and higher titers of nAbs were detected in double-positive individuals compared to single-positive ones. These results clarified the human humoral immune responses against Ad14 and Ad55 and revealed a low level of herd immunity in some subpopulations, which emphasized the importance of monitoring these two highly virulent adenoviruses and reinforced the development of prophylactic vaccines. PMID:28588291

Smart near-infrared fluorescence probes with donor-acceptor structure for in vivo detection of β-amyloid deposits.

PubMed

Cui, Mengchao; Ono, Masahiro; Watanabe, Hiroyuki; Kimura, Hiroyuki; Liu, Boli; Saji, Hideo

2014-03-05

The deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques in the parenchymal and cortical brain is accepted as the main pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, early detection of AD still presents a challenge. With the assistance of molecular imaging techniques, imaging agents specifically targeting Aβ plaques in the brain may lead to the early diagnosis of AD. Herein, we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of a series of smart near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging probes with donor-acceptor architecture bridged by a conjugated π-electron chain for Aβ plaques. The chemical structure of these NIRF probes is completely different from Congo Red and Thioflavin-T. Probes with a longer conjugated π system (carbon-carbon double bond) displayed maximum emission in PBS (>650 nm), which falls in the best range for NIRF probes. These probes were proved to have affinity to Aβ plaques in fluorescent staining of brain sections from an AD patient and double transgenic mice, as well as in an in vitro binding assay using Aβ(1-42) aggregates. One probe with high affinity (K(i) = 37 nM, K(d) = 27 nM) was selected for in vivo imaging. It can penetrate the blood-brain barrier of nude mice efficiently and is quickly washed out of the normal brain. Moreover, after intravenous injection of this probe, 22-month-old APPswe/PSEN1 mice exhibited a higher relative signal than control mice over the same period of time, and ex vivo fluorescent observations confirmed the existence of Aβ plaques. In summary, this probe meets most of the requirements for a NIRF contrast agent for the detection of Aβ plaques both in vitro and in vivo.

Pretangles and neurofibrillary changes: similarities and differences between AD and CBD based on molecular and morphological evolution.

PubMed

Uchihara, Toshiki

2014-12-01

Pretangles are cytoplasmic tau immunoreactivity in neurons without apparent formation of fibrillary structures. In Alzheimer disease, such tau deposition is considered to represent a premature state prior to fibril formation (AD-pretangles), later to form neurofibrillary tangles and finally ghost tangles. This morphological evolution from pretangles to ghost tangles is in parallel with their profile shift from four repeat (4R) tau-positive pretangles to three repeat (3R) tau-positive ghost tangles with both positive neurofibrillary tangles in between. This complementary shift of tau profile from 4R to 3R suggests that these tau epitopes are represented interchangeably along tangle evolution. Similar tau immunoreactivity without fibril formation is also observed in corticobasal degeneration (CBD-pretangles). CBD-pretangles and AD-pretangles share: (i) selective 4R tau immunoreactivity without involvement of 3R tau; and (ii) argyrophilia with Gallyas silver impregnation. However, CBD-pretangles neither evolve into ghost tangles nor exhibit 3R tau immunoreactivity even at the advanced stage. Because electron microscopic studies on these pretangles are quite limited, it remains to be clarified whether such differences in later evolution are related to their primary ultrastructures, potentially distinct between AD and CBD. As double staining for 3R and 4R tau clarified complementary shift from 4R to 3R tau along evolution from pretangles to ghost tangles, double immunoelectron microscopy, if possible, may clarify similar profile shifts in relation to each tau fibril at the ultrastructural dimension. This will provide a unique viewpoint on how molecular (epitope) representations are related to pathogenesis of fibrillary components. © 2014 Japanese Society of Neuropathology.

Double relaxation via AdS/CFT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amiri-Sharifi, S.; Ali-Akbari, M.; Kishani-Farahani, A.; Shafie, N.

2016-08-01

We exploit the AdS/CFT correspondence to investigate thermalization in an N = 2 strongly coupled gauge theory including massless fundamental matter (quark). More precisely, we consider the response of a zero temperature state of the gauge theory under influence of an external electric field which leads to a time-dependent current. The holographic dual of the above set-up is given by introducing a time-dependent electric field on the probe D7-brane embedded in an AdS5 ×S5 background. In the dual gravity theory an apparent horizon forms on the brane which, according to AdS/CFT dictionary, is the counterpart of the thermalization process in the gauge theory side. We classify different functions for time-dependent electric field and study their effect on the apparent horizon formation. In the case of pulse functions, where the electric field varies from zero to zero, apart from non-equilibrium phase, we observe the formation of two separate apparent horizons on the brane. This means that the state of the gauge theory experiences two different temperature regimes during its time evolution.

Epidemiology of Alzheimer disease

PubMed Central

Reitz, Christiane; Brayne, Carol; Mayeux, Richard

2012-01-01

The global prevalence of dementia is estimated to be as high as 24 million, and is predicted to double every 20 years through to 2040, leading to a costly burden of disease. Alzheimer disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and is characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function, which typically begins with deterioration in memory. Before death, individuals with this disorder have usually become dependent on caregivers. The neuropathological hallmarks of the AD brain are diffuse and neuritic extracellular amyloid plaques—which are frequently surrounded by dystrophic neurites—and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles. These hallmark pathologies are often accompanied by the presence of reactive microgliosis and the loss of neurons, white matter and synapses. The etiological mechanisms underlying the neuropathological changes in AD remain unclear, but are probably affected by both environmental and genetic factors. Here, we provide an overview of the criteria used in the diagnosis of AD, highlighting how this disease is related to, but distinct from, normal aging. We also summarize current information relating to AD prevalence, incidence and risk factors, and review the biomarkers that may be used for risk assessment and in diagnosis. PMID:21304480

Efficacy assessment of a cell-mediated immunity HIV-1 vaccine (the Step Study): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, test-of-concept trial

PubMed Central

Buchbinder, Susan P.; Mehrotra, Devan V.; Duerr, Ann; Fitzgerald, Daniel W.; Mogg, Robin; Li, David; Gilbert, Peter B.; Lama, Javier R.; Marmor, Michael; Rio, Carlos del; McElrath, M. Juliana; Casimiro, Danilo R.; Gottesdiener, Keith M.; Chodakewitz, Jeffrey A.; Corey, Lawrence; Robertson, Michael N.

2009-01-01

Background Observational data and non-human primate challenge studies suggest that cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses may provide control of HIV replication. The Step Study is the first direct assessment of the efficacy of a CMI vaccine to protect against HIV infection or alter early plasma HIV levels in humans. Method HIV-seronegative participants (3000) were randomized (1:1) to receive 3 injections of MRKAd5 HIV-1 gag/pol/nef vaccine or placebo. Randomization was pre-stratified by gender, baseline adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) titer, and study site. Participants were tested ~every 6 months for HIV acquisition; early plasma HIV RNA was measured ~3 months post-HIV diagnosis. Findings The vaccine elicited IFN-γ ELISPOT responses in 75% of vaccinees. In a pre-specified interim analysis among participants with baseline Ad5 ≤200, 24 of 741 vaccinees became HIV infected, versus 21 of 762 placebo recipients. All but one infection occurred in men. The early geometric mean plasma HIV RNA was comparable in infected vaccine and placebo recipients. In exploratory multivariate analyses, HIV incidence was higher in vaccinees versus placebo recipients among Ad5 seropositive men (5.1% versus 2.2% per year, respectively) and uncircumcised men (5.2% versus 1.4% per year, respectively). HIV incidence was similar in vaccinees versus placebo recipients among Ad5 seronegative men and circumcised men. Interpretation This CMI vaccine did not prevent HIV infection or lower early viral level. Mechanisms for failure of the vaccine to protect and for the increased HIV infection rates in subgroups of vaccinees are being explored. Additional follow-up will determine if elevated HIV incidence in vaccinee subgroups persists. PMID:19012954

Spatially Extensive Standardized Surveys Reveal Widespread, Multi-Decadal Increase in East Antarctic Adélie Penguin Populations.

PubMed

Southwell, Colin; Emmerson, Louise; McKinlay, John; Newbery, Kym; Takahashi, Akinori; Kato, Akiko; Barbraud, Christophe; DeLord, Karine; Weimerskirch, Henri

2015-01-01

Seabirds are considered to be useful and practical indicators of the state of marine ecosystems because they integrate across changes in the lower trophic levels and the physical environment. Signals from this key group of species can indicate broad scale impacts or response to environmental change. Recent studies of penguin populations, the most commonly abundant Antarctic seabirds in the west Antarctic Peninsula and western Ross Sea, have demonstrated that physical changes in Antarctic marine environments have profound effects on biota at high trophic levels. Large populations of the circumpolar-breeding Adélie penguin occur in East Antarctica, but direct, standardized population data across much of this vast coastline have been more limited than in other Antarctic regions. We combine extensive new population survey data, new population estimation methods, and re-interpreted historical survey data to assess decadal-scale change in East Antarctic Adélie penguin breeding populations. We show that, in contrast to the west Antarctic Peninsula and western Ross Sea where breeding populations have decreased or shown variable trends over the last 30 years, East Antarctic regional populations have almost doubled in abundance since the 1980's and have been increasing since the earliest counts in the 1960's. The population changes are associated with five-year lagged changes in the physical environment, suggesting that the changing environment impacts primarily on the pre-breeding age classes. East Antarctic marine ecosystems have been subject to a number of changes over the last 50 years which may have influenced Adélie penguin population growth, including decadal-scale climate variation, an inferred mid-20th century sea-ice contraction, and early-to-mid 20th century exploitation of fish and whale populations.

Spatially Extensive Standardized Surveys Reveal Widespread, Multi-Decadal Increase in East Antarctic Adélie Penguin Populations

PubMed Central

Southwell, Colin; Emmerson, Louise; McKinlay, John; Newbery, Kym; Takahashi, Akinori; Kato, Akiko; Barbraud, Christophe; DeLord, Karine; Weimerskirch, Henri

2015-01-01

Seabirds are considered to be useful and practical indicators of the state of marine ecosystems because they integrate across changes in the lower trophic levels and the physical environment. Signals from this key group of species can indicate broad scale impacts or response to environmental change. Recent studies of penguin populations, the most commonly abundant Antarctic seabirds in the west Antarctic Peninsula and western Ross Sea, have demonstrated that physical changes in Antarctic marine environments have profound effects on biota at high trophic levels. Large populations of the circumpolar-breeding Adélie penguin occur in East Antarctica, but direct, standardized population data across much of this vast coastline have been more limited than in other Antarctic regions. We combine extensive new population survey data, new population estimation methods, and re-interpreted historical survey data to assess decadal-scale change in East Antarctic Adélie penguin breeding populations. We show that, in contrast to the west Antarctic Peninsula and western Ross Sea where breeding populations have decreased or shown variable trends over the last 30 years, East Antarctic regional populations have almost doubled in abundance since the 1980’s and have been increasing since the earliest counts in the 1960’s. The population changes are associated with five-year lagged changes in the physical environment, suggesting that the changing environment impacts primarily on the pre-breeding age classes. East Antarctic marine ecosystems have been subject to a number of changes over the last 50 years which may have influenced Adélie penguin population growth, including decadal-scale climate variation, an inferred mid-20th century sea-ice contraction, and early-to-mid 20th century exploitation of fish and whale populations. PMID:26488299

Deep Brain Stimulation Targeting the Fornix for Mild Alzheimer Dementia (the ADvance Trial): A Two Year Follow-up Including Results of Delayed Activation.

PubMed

Leoutsakos, Jeannie-Marie S; Yan, Haijuan; Anderson, William S; Asaad, Wael F; Baltuch, Gordon; Burke, Anna; Chakravarty, M Mallar; Drake, Kristen E; Foote, Kelly D; Fosdick, Lisa; Giacobbe, Peter; Mari, Zoltan; McAndrews, Mary Pat; Munro, Cynthia A; Oh, Esther S; Okun, Michael S; Pendergrass, Jo Cara; Ponce, Francisco A; Rosenberg, Paul B; Sabbagh, Marwan N; Salloway, Stephen; Tang-Wai, David F; Targum, Steven D; Wolk, David; Lozano, Andres M; Smith, Gwenn S; Lyketsos, Constantine G

2018-06-09

Given recent challenges in developing new treatments for Alzheimer dementia (AD), it is vital to explore alternate treatment targets, such as neuromodulation for circuit dysfunction. We previously reported an exploratory Phase IIb double-blind trial of deep brain stimulation targeting the fornix (DBS-f) in mild AD (the ADvance trial). We reported safety but no clinical benefits of DBS-f versus the delayed-on (sham) treatment in 42 participants after one year. However, secondary post hoc analyses of the one-year data suggested a possible DBS-f benefit for participants≥65 years. To examine the long-term safety and clinical effects of sustained and delayed-on DBS-f treatment of mild AD after two years. 42 participants underwent implantation of DBS-f electrodes, with half randomized to active DBS-f stimulation (early on) for two years and half to delayed-on (sham) stimulation after 1 year to provide 1 year of active DBS-f stimulation (delayed on). We evaluated safety and clinical outcomes over the two years of the trial. DBS-f had a favorable safety profile with similar rates of adverse events across both trial phases (years 1 and 2) and between treatment arms. There were no differences between treatment arms on any primary clinical outcomes. However, post-hoc age group analyses suggested a possible benefit among older (>65) participants. DBS-f was safe. Additional study of mechanisms of action and methods for titrating stimulation parameters will be needed to determine if DBS has potential as an AD treatment. Future efficacy studies should focus on patients over age 65.

Magnetic superelevation design of Halbach permanent magnet guideway for high-temperature superconducting maglev

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Wuyang; Qian, Nan; Zheng, Jun; Huang, Huan; Zhang, Ya; Deng, Zigang

2017-07-01

To improve the curve negotiating ability of high-temperature superconducting (HTS) maglev system, a special structure of magnetic superelevation for double-pole Halbach permanent magnet guideway (PMG) was designed. The most significant feature of this design is the asymmetrical PMG that forms a slanting magnetic field without affecting the smoothness of the PMG surface. When HTS maglev vehicle runs through curves with magnetic superelevation, the vehicle will slant due to asymmetry in magnetic field and the flux-pinning effect of onboard HTS bulks. At the same time, one component of the levitation force provides a part of the centripetal force that reduces lateral acceleration of the vehicle and thus enhances its curve negotiating ability. Furthermore, the slant angle of magnetic superelevation can be adjusted by changing the materials and the thickness of the added permanent magnets. This magnetic superelevation method, together with orographic uplift, can be applied to different requirements of PMG designs. Besides, the applicability of this method would benefit future development of high-speed HTS maglev system.

Doxycycline delivery from PLGA microspheres prepared by a modified solvent removal method.

PubMed

Patel, Roshni S; Cho, Daniel Y; Tian, Cheng; Chang, Amy; Estrellas, Kenneth M; Lavin, Danya; Furtado, Stacia; Mathiowitz, Edith

2012-01-01

We report on the development of a modified solvent removal method for the encapsulation of hydrophilic drugs within poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). Using a water/oil/oil double emulsion, hydrophilic doxycycline was encapsulated within PLGA spheres with particle diameters ranging from approximately 600 nm to 19 µm. Encapsulation efficiencies of up to 74% were achieved for theoretical loadings from 1% to 10% (w/w), with biphasic release over 85 days with nearly complete release at the end of this time course. About 1% salt was added to the formulations to examine its effects on doxycycline release; salt modulated release only by increasing the magnitude of initial release without altering kinetics. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated no characteristic differences between doxycycline-loaded and control spheres. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction suggest that there may be a molecular dispersion of the doxycycline within the spheres and the doxycycline may be in an amorphous state, which could explain the slow, prolonged release of the drug.

Double row equivalent for rotator cuff repair: A biomechanical analysis of a new technique.

PubMed

Robinson, Sean; Krigbaum, Henry; Kramer, Jon; Purviance, Connor; Parrish, Robin; Donahue, Joseph

2018-06-01

There are numerous configurations of double row fixation for rotator cuff tears however, there remains to be a consensus on the best method. In this study, we evaluated three different double-row configurations, including a new method. Our primary question is whether the new anchor and technique compares in biomechanical strength to standard double row techniques. Eighteen prepared fresh frozen bovine infraspinatus tendons were randomized to one of three groups including the New Double Row Equivalent, Arthrex Speedbridge and a transosseous equivalent using standard Stabilynx anchors. Biomechanical testing was performed on humeri sawbones and ultimate load, strain, yield strength, contact area, contact pressure, and a survival plots were evaluated. The new double row equivalent method demonstrated increased survival as well as ultimate strength at 415N compared to the remainder testing groups as well as equivalent contact area and pressure to standard double row techniques. This new anchor system and technique demonstrated higher survival rates and loads to failure than standard double row techniques. This data provides us with a new method of rotator cuff fixation which should be further evaluated in the clinical setting. Basic science biomechanical study.

Lubrication of 35-millimeter-bore ball bearings of several designs to 2.5 million DN

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schuller, F. T.

1983-01-01

Parametric tests were conducted with 35mm bore, angular contact ball bearings with either a single or double outer and guided cage. The bearings were either lubricated by oil jets or employed inner ring lubrication. Outer ring cooling was added in selected tests. Lubricant flow to the bearing ranged from 300 to 1900 cc/min. All bearings were successfully run at speeds to 2.5 million DN. Increasing the lubricant flow decreased bearing ring temperatures but increased bearing power lines. The power loss and race temperatures of a jet lubricated with double outer land guided cage were always higher than those of the single land guided design at similar test conditions. The lowest bearing operating temperatures were achieved when inner ring lubrication and outer ring cooling were combined. It is found that cage slip of a double outer land guided cage is approximately twice that of a single outer land guided cage.

Fast valve based on double-layer eddy-current repulsion for disruption mitigation in Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak.

PubMed

Zhuang, H D; Zhang, X D

2015-05-01

A fast valve based on the double-layer eddy-current repulsion mechanism has been developed on Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST). In addition to a double-layer eddy-current coil, a preload system was added to improve the security of the valve, whereby the valve opens more quickly and the open-valve time becomes shorter, making it much safer than before. In this contribution, testing platforms, open-valve characteristics, and throughput of the fast valve are discussed. Tests revealed that by choosing appropriate parameters the valve opened within 0.15 ms, and open-valve times were no longer than 2 ms. By adjusting working parameter values, the maximum number of particles injected during this open-valve time was estimated at 7 × 10(22). The fast valve will become a useful tool to further explore disruption mitigation experiments on EAST in 2015.

Raloxifene for women with Alzheimer disease

PubMed Central

Ala, Tom; Sainani, Kristin L.; Bernstein, Allan L.; Stephenson, B. Sue; Rosen, Allyson C.; Farlow, Martin R.

2015-01-01

Objective: To determine whether raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, improves cognitive function compared with placebo in women with Alzheimer disease (AD) and to provide an estimate of cognitive effect. Methods: This pilot study was conducted as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, with a planned treatment of 12 months. Women with late-onset AD of mild to moderate severity were randomly allocated to high-dose (120 mg) oral raloxifene or identical placebo provided once daily. The primary outcome compared between treatment groups at 12 months was change in the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale, cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog). Results: Forty-two women randomized to raloxifene or placebo were included in intent-to-treat analyses (mean age 76 years, range 68–84), and 39 women contributed 12-month outcomes. ADAS-cog change scores at 12 months did not differ significantly between treatment groups (standardized difference 0.03, 95% confidence interval −0.39 to 0.44, 2-tailed p = 0.89). Raloxifene and placebo groups did not differ significantly on secondary analyses of dementia rating, activities of daily living, behavior, or a global cognition composite score. Caregiver burden and caregiver distress were similar in both groups. Conclusions: Results on the primary outcome showed no cognitive benefits in the raloxifene-treated group. Classification of evidence: This study provides Class I evidence that for women with AD, raloxifene does not have a significant cognitive effect. The study lacked the precision to exclude a small effect. PMID:26537053

Impact of adding a second layer to a single unlocked closure of a Cesarean uterine incision: randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Bennich, G; Rudnicki, M; Wilken-Jensen, C; Lousen, T; Lassen, P D; Wøjdemann, K

2016-04-01

To investigate short- and long-term effects on residual myometrial thickness (RMT) of adding a second layer to a single unlocked closure of a Cesarean uterine incision. This was a randomized double-blind controlled trial. Healthy nulliparous women scheduled for first-time elective Cesarean delivery were operated on using a modified version of the Misgav Ladach surgical technique. The women were examined by transabdominal ultrasound before discharge from the maternity ward and by transvaginal saline contrast sonohysterography at a minimum of 5 months postpartum. Seventy-six nulliparae met the criteria and agreed to participate in the study. Thirty-five women were assigned to the single-layer technique and 38 to the double-layer unlocked closure technique. Groups were comparable regarding gestational age at delivery, duration of surgery and perioperative blood loss. There was no difference in RMT between the two groups, both at time of discharge (mean ± SD, 20.2 ± 8.0 mm vs 21.0 ± 9.7 mm) and after 5 months postpartum (mean, 5.7 ± 2.9 mm vs 5.7 ± 2.2 mm). RMT was approximately half that of the normal myometrium at both examinations. The results of this study suggest that double-layer closure of a Cesarean uterine incision does not increase RMT compared with single-layer closure when an unlocked technique is used. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Sembragiline in Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease: Results of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Trial (MAyflOwer RoAD)

PubMed Central

Nave, Stephane; Doody, Rachelle S.; Boada, Mercè; Grimmer, Timo; Savola, Juha-Matti; Delmar, Paul; Pauly-Evers, Meike; Nikolcheva, Tania; Czech, Christian; Borroni, Edilio; Ricci, Benedicte; Dukart, Juergen; Mannino, Marie; Carey, Tracie; Moran, Emma; Gilaberte, Inma; Muelhardt, Nicoletta Milani; Gerlach, Irene; Santarelli, Luca; Ostrowitzki, Susanne; Fontoura, Paulo

2017-01-01

Background: Sembragiline is a potent, selective, long-acting, and reversible MAO-B inhibitor developed as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: To evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of sembragiline in patients with moderate AD. Methods: In this Phase II study (NCT01677754), 542 patients with moderate dementia (MMSE 13–20) on background acetylcholinesterase inhibitors with/without memantine were randomized (1:1:1) to sembragiline 1 mg, 5 mg, or placebo once daily orally for 52 weeks. Results: No differences between treated groups and placebo in adverse events or in study completion. The primary endpoint, change from baseline in ADAS-Cog11, was not met. At Week 52, the difference between sembragiline and placebo in ADAS-Cog11 change from baseline was – 0.15 (p = 0.865) and 0.90 (p = 0.312) for 1 and 5 mg groups, respectively. Relative to placebo at Week 52 (but not at prior assessment times), the 1 mg and 5 mg sembragiline groups showed differences in ADCS-ADL of 2.64 (p = 0.051) and 1.89 (p = 0.160), respectively. A treatment effect in neuropsychiatric symptoms (as assessed by the difference between sembragiline and placebo on BEHAVE-AD-FW) was also seen at Week 52 only: – 2.80 (p = 0.014; 1 mg) and – 2.64 (p = 0.019; 5 mg), respectively. A post hoc subgroup analysis revealed greater treatment effects on behavior and functioning in patients with more severe baseline behavioral symptoms (above the median). Conclusions: This study showed that sembragiline was well-tolerated in patients with moderate AD. The study missed its primary and secondary endpoints. Post hoc analyses suggested potential effect on neuropsychiatric symptoms and functioning in more behaviorally impaired study population at baseline. PMID:28550255

Adding Once-Daily Lixisenatide for Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled With Newly Initiated and Continuously Titrated Basal Insulin Glargine

PubMed Central

Riddle, Matthew C.; Forst, Thomas; Aronson, Ronnie; Sauque-Reyna, Leobardo; Souhami, Elisabeth; Silvestre, Louise; Ping, Lin; Rosenstock, Julio

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE When oral therapy for type 2 diabetes is ineffective, adding basal insulin improves glycemic control. However, when glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) remains elevated because of postprandial hyperglycemia, the next therapeutic step is controversial. We examined the efficacy and safety of lixisenatide in patients with HbA1c still elevated after initiation of insulin glargine. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This double-blind, parallel-group trial enrolled patients with HbA1c 7–10% despite oral therapy. Insulin glargine was added and systematically titrated during a 12-week run-in, after which candidates with fasting glucose ≤7.8 mmol/L and HbA1c 7–9% were randomized to lixisenatide 20 µg or placebo for 24 weeks while insulin titration continued. The primary end point was HbA1c change after randomization. RESULTS The randomized population (n = 446) had mean diabetes duration of 9.2 years, BMI 31.8 kg/m2, and daily glargine dosage of 44 units. HbA1c had decreased during run-in from 8.6 to 7.6%; adding lixisenatide further reduced HbA1c by 0.71 vs. 0.40% with placebo (least squares mean difference, –0.32%; 95% CI, –0.46 to –0.17; P < 0.0001). More participants attained HbA1c <7% with lixisenatide (56 vs. 39%; P < 0.0001). Lixisenatide reduced plasma glucose 2 h after a standardized breakfast (difference vs. placebo –3.2 mmol/L; P < 0.0001) and had a favorable effect on body weight (difference vs. placebo –0.89 kg; P = 0.0012). Nausea, vomiting, and symptomatic hypoglycemia <3.3 mmol/L were more common with lixisenatide. CONCLUSIONS Adding lixisenatide to insulin glargine improved overall and postprandial hyperglycemia and deserves consideration as an alternative to prandial insulin for patients not reaching HbA1c goals with recently initiated basal insulin. PMID:23564915

The S-Connect study: results from a randomized, controlled trial of Souvenaid in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Introduction Souvenaid® containing Fortasyn® Connect is a medical food designed to support synapse synthesis in persons with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Fortasyn Connect includes precursors (uridine monophosphate; choline; phospholipids; eicosapentaenoic acid; docosahexaenoic acid) and cofactors (vitamins E, C, B12, and B6; folic acid; selenium) for the formation of neuronal membranes. Whether Souvenaid slows cognitive decline in treated persons with mild-to-moderate AD has not been addressed. Methods In a 24-week, double-masked clinical trial at 48 clinical centers, 527 participants taking AD medications [52% women, mean age 76.7 years (Standard Deviation, SD = 8.2), and mean Mini-Mental State Examination score 19.5 (SD = 3.1, range 14–24)] were randomized 1:1 to daily, 125-mL (125 kcal), oral intake of the active product (Souvenaid) or an iso-caloric control. The primary outcome of cognition was assessed by the 11-item Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-cog). Compliance was calculated from daily diary recordings of product intake. Statistical analyses were performed using mixed models for repeated measures. Results Cognitive performance as assessed by ADAS-cog showed decline over time in both control and active study groups, with no significant difference between study groups (difference =0.37 points, Standard Error, SE = 0.57, p = 0.513). No group differences in adverse event rates were found and no clinically relevant differences in blood safety parameters were noted. Overall compliance was high (94.1% [active] and 94.5% [control]), which was confirmed by significant changes in blood (nutritional) biomarkers. Conclusions Add-on intake of Souvenaid during 24 weeks did not slow cognitive decline in persons treated for mild-to-moderate AD. Souvenaid was well tolerated in combination with standard care AD medications. Trial registration Dutch Trial Register number: NTR1683. PMID:24280255

Clinical outcomes of enteroscopy using the double-balloon method for strictures of the small intestine

PubMed Central

Sunada, Keijiro; Yamamoto, Hironori; Kita, Hiroto; Yano, Tomonori; Sato, Hiroyuki; Hayashi, Yoshikazu; Miyata, Tomohiko; Sekine, Yutaka; Kuno, Akiko; Iwamoto, Michiko; Ohnishi, Hirohide; Ido, Kenichi; Sugano, Kentaro

2005-01-01

AIM: To evaluate the clinical outcome of enteroscopy, using the double-balloon method, focusing on the involvement of neoplasms in strictures of the small intestine. METHODS: Enteroscopy, using the double-balloon method, was performed between December 1999 and December 2002 at Jichi Medical School Hospital, Japan and strictures of the small intestine were found in 17 out of 62 patients. These 17 consecutive patients were subjected to analysis. RESULTS: The double-balloon enteroscopy contributed to the diagnosis of small intestinal neoplasms found in 3 out of 17 patients by direct observation of the strictures as well as biopsy sampling. Surgical procedures were chosen for these three patients, while balloon dilation was chosen for the strictures in four patients diagnosed with inflammation without involvement of neoplasm. CONCLUSION: Double-balloon enteroscopy is a useful method for the diagnosis and treatment of strictures in the small bowel. PMID:15742422

[Oxidative stress in women with insomnia in different stages of menopause].

PubMed

Kolesnikova, L I; Semenova, N V; Solodova, E I; Madaeva, I M

To investigate of a lipid peroxidation (LPO) process and the antioxidant defense system (ADS) in peri- and postmenopausal women with insomnia. 47 perimenopausal women and 71 postmenopausal ones were examined. Each group was divided into 2 subgroups: 1) individuals with insomnia and 2) controls. LPO-ADS spectrophotometric studies were used in the investigation. There was an increase in the serum levels of ketodienes and conjugated trienes and a decrease in those of α-tocopherol and retinol in postmenopause versus in perimenopause. In insomnia, there was a rise in the level of ketodienes and conjugated trienes in perimenopause; LPO substrates with conjugated double bonds, diene conjugates, and thiobarbituric acid-active products in postmenopause. The indicators of ADS do not differ from those in the controls. The integral indicator of oxidative stress assessment suggests that there is a LPO-ADS imbalance in the menopausal women with insomnia, which is most pronounced in postmenopause. The findings suggest that the patients with insomnia develop oxidative stress that is more marked in postmenopause.

[Effects of the association of sulbutiamine with an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor in early stage and moderate Alzheimer disease].

PubMed

Ollat, H; Laurent, B; Bakchine, S; Michel, B-F; Touchon, J; Dubois, B

2007-01-01

The efficacy of the inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is moderated and some patients do not respond to these treatments. Sulbutiamine potentializes cholinergic and glutamatergic transmissions, mainly in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. This multicentric, randomized and double-blind trial evaluates the effects of the association of sulbutiamine to an anticholinesterasic drug in cognitive functions in patients with AD at an early stage (episodic memory, working memory, executive functions, attention). Patients had first donepezil (D) or sulbutiamine (S) during three months. During this period, only attention improved in both groups. During the three following months, a placebo (P) in patients D and donepezil in patients S were added. Compared to entry results, episodic memory decreased in group D + P but improved in group S + D. At the same time the improvement of attention persisted in both groups. Daylife activities only improved in group S + D. In conclusion sulbutiamine can be an adjuvant to treatment in early stage and moderate AD by anticholinesterasic drugs.

Modelling the nonlinear behaviour of double walled carbon nanotube based resonator with curvature factors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, Ajay M.; Joshi, Anand Y.

2016-10-01

This paper deals with the nonlinear vibration analysis of a double walled carbon nanotube based mass sensor with curvature factor or waviness, which is doubly clamped at a source and a drain. Nonlinear vibrational behaviour of a double-walled carbon nanotube excited harmonically near its primary resonance is considered. The double walled carbon nanotube is harmonically excited by the addition of an excitation force. The modelling involves stretching of the mid plane and damping as per phenomenon. The equation of motion involves four nonlinear terms for inner and outer tubes of DWCNT due to the curved geometry and the stretching of the central plane due to the boundary conditions. The vibrational behaviour of the double walled carbon nanotube with different surface deviations along its axis is analyzed in the context of the time response, Poincaré maps and Fast Fourier Transformation diagrams. The appearance of instability and chaos in the dynamic response is observed as the curvature factor on double walled carbon nanotube is changed. The phenomenon of Periodic doubling and intermittency are observed as the pathway to chaos. The regions of periodic, sub-harmonic and chaotic behaviour are clearly seen to be dependent on added mass and the curvature factors in the double walled carbon nanotube. Poincaré maps and frequency spectra are used to explicate and to demonstrate the miscellany of the system behaviour. With the increase in the curvature factor system excitations increases and results in an increase of the vibration amplitude with reduction in excitation frequency.

COMPARISON OF TIME-OF-FLIGHT AND DOUBLE FOCUSING MASS SPECTROMETRY FOR REACHING TENTATIVE IDENTIFICATIONS FOR UNANTICIPATED COMPOUNDS ADDED TO DRINKING WATER BY TERRORISTS

EPA Science Inventory

Local monitoring of post-treatment drinking water using bench-top mass spectrometers could identify target compounds in a mass spectral library. However, a terrorist might seek to incite greater hysteria by injecting or infusing a mixture of unanticipated compounds of unknown tox...

The Hardest Sell in Fund Raising: Attracting Talent

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Masterson, Kathryn; Wolverton, Brad

2008-01-01

Connie Kravas, the vice president for university advancement at the University of Washington, has brought in 64 new fund raisers since 2002--close to doubling its staff--to help raise money for a $2-billion-plus campaign. Many college development offices have experienced similar rapid growth in recent years, with many adding fund raisers at a…

Double sampling to estimate density and population trends in birds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bart, Jonathan; Earnst, Susan L.

2002-01-01

We present a method for estimating density of nesting birds based on double sampling. The approach involves surveying a large sample of plots using a rapid method such as uncorrected point counts, variable circular plot counts, or the recently suggested double-observer method. A subsample of those plots is also surveyed using intensive methods to determine actual density. The ratio of the mean count on those plots (using the rapid method) to the mean actual density (as determined by the intensive searches) is used to adjust results from the rapid method. The approach works well when results from the rapid method are highly correlated with actual density. We illustrate the method with three years of shorebird surveys from the tundra in northern Alaska. In the rapid method, surveyors covered ~10 ha h-1 and surveyed each plot a single time. The intensive surveys involved three thorough searches, required ~3 h ha-1, and took 20% of the study effort. Surveyors using the rapid method detected an average of 79% of birds present. That detection ratio was used to convert the index obtained in the rapid method into an essentially unbiased estimate of density. Trends estimated from several years of data would also be essentially unbiased. Other advantages of double sampling are that (1) the rapid method can be changed as new methods become available, (2) domains can be compared even if detection rates differ, (3) total population size can be estimated, and (4) valuable ancillary information (e.g. nest success) can be obtained on intensive plots with little additional effort. We suggest that double sampling be used to test the assumption that rapid methods, such as variable circular plot and double-observer methods, yield density estimates that are essentially unbiased. The feasibility of implementing double sampling in a range of habitats needs to be evaluated.

Intelligent Photovoltaic Systems by Combining the Improved Perturbation Method of Observation and Sun Location Tracking.

PubMed

Wang, Yajie; Shi, Yunbo; Yu, Xiaoyu; Liu, Yongjie

2016-01-01

Currently, tracking in photovoltaic (PV) systems suffers from some problems such as high energy consumption, poor anti-interference performance, and large tracking errors. This paper presents a solar PV tracking system on the basis of an improved perturbation and observation method, which maximizes photoelectric conversion efficiency. According to the projection principle, we design a sensor module with a light-intensity-detection module for environmental light-intensity measurement. The effect of environmental factors on the system operation is reduced, and intelligent identification of the weather is realized. This system adopts the discrete-type tracking method to reduce power consumption. A mechanical structure with a level-pitch double-degree-of-freedom is designed, and attitude correction is performed by closed-loop control. A worm-and-gear mechanism is added, and the reliability, stability, and precision of the system are improved. Finally, the perturbation and observation method designed and improved by this study was tested by simulated experiments. The experiments verified that the photoelectric sensor resolution can reach 0.344°, the tracking error is less than 2.5°, the largest improvement in the charge efficiency can reach 44.5%, and the system steadily and reliably works.

Intelligent Photovoltaic Systems by Combining the Improved Perturbation Method of Observation and Sun Location Tracking

PubMed Central

Wang, Yajie; Shi, Yunbo; Yu, Xiaoyu; Liu, Yongjie

2016-01-01

Currently, tracking in photovoltaic (PV) systems suffers from some problems such as high energy consumption, poor anti-interference performance, and large tracking errors. This paper presents a solar PV tracking system on the basis of an improved perturbation and observation method, which maximizes photoelectric conversion efficiency. According to the projection principle, we design a sensor module with a light-intensity-detection module for environmental light-intensity measurement. The effect of environmental factors on the system operation is reduced, and intelligent identification of the weather is realized. This system adopts the discrete-type tracking method to reduce power consumption. A mechanical structure with a level-pitch double-degree-of-freedom is designed, and attitude correction is performed by closed-loop control. A worm-and-gear mechanism is added, and the reliability, stability, and precision of the system are improved. Finally, the perturbation and observation method designed and improved by this study was tested by simulated experiments. The experiments verified that the photoelectric sensor resolution can reach 0.344°, the tracking error is less than 2.5°, the largest improvement in the charge efficiency can reach 44.5%, and the system steadily and reliably works. PMID:27327657

Hypertension, cerebrovascular impairment, and cognitive decline in aged AβPP/PS1 mice.

PubMed

Wiesmann, Maximilian; Zerbi, Valerio; Jansen, Diane; Lütjohann, Dieter; Veltien, Andor; Heerschap, Arend; Kiliaan, Amanda J

2017-01-01

Cardiovascular risk factors, especially hypertension, are also major risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD). To elucidate the underlying vascular origin of neurodegenerative processes in AD, we investigated the relation between systolic blood pressure (SBP) cerebral blood flow (CBF) and vasoreactivity with brain structure and function in a 16-18 months old double transgenic AβPP swe /PS1 dE9 (AβPP/PS1) mouse model for AD. These aging AβPP/PS1 mice showed an increased SBP linked to a declined regional CBF. Furthermore, using advanced MRI techniques, decline of functional and structural connectivity was revealed in the AD-like mice coupled to impaired cognition, increased locomotor activity, and anxiety-related behavior. Post mortem analyses demonstrated also increased neuroinflammation, and both decreased synaptogenesis and neurogenesis in the AβPP/PS1 mice. Additionally, deviant levels of fatty acids and sterols were present in the brain tissue of the AβPP/PS1 mice indicating maladapted brain fatty acid metabolism. Our findings suggest a link between increased SBP, decreased cerebral hemodynamics and connectivity in an AD mouse model during aging, leading to behavioral and cognitive impairments. As these results mirror the complex clinical symptomatology in the prodromal phase of AD, we suggest that this AD-like murine model could be used to investigate prevention and treatment strategies for early AD patients. Moreover, this study helps to develop more efficient therapies and diagnostics for this very early stage of AD.

Cognitive Impairment Precedes and Predicts Functional Impairment in Mild Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Liu-Seifert, Hong; Siemers, Eric; Price, Karen; Han, Baoguang; Selzler, Katherine J; Henley, David; Sundell, Karen; Aisen, Paul; Cummings, Jeffrey; Raskin, Joel; Mohs, Richard

2015-01-01

The temporal relationship of cognitive deficit and functional impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is not well characterized. Recent analyses suggest cognitive decline predicts subsequent functional decline throughout AD progression. To better understand the relationship between cognitive and functional decline in mild AD using autoregressive cross-lagged (ARCL) panel analyses in several clinical trials. Data included placebo patients with mild AD pooled from two multicenter, double-blind, Phase 3 solanezumab (EXPEDITION/2) or semagacestat (IDENTITY/2) studies, and from AD patients participating in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). Cognitive and functional outcomes were assessed using AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale (ADAS-Cog), AD Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living instrumental subscale (ADCS-iADL), or Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), respectively. ARCL panel analyses evaluated relationships between cognitive and functional impairment over time. In EXPEDITION, ARCL panel analyses demonstrated cognitive scores significantly predicted future functional impairment at 5 of 6 time points, while functional scores predicted subsequent cognitive scores in only 1 of 6 time points. Data from IDENTITY and ADNI programs yielded consistent results whereby cognition predicted subsequent function, but not vice-versa. Analyses from three databases indicated cognitive decline precedes and predicts subsequent functional decline in mild AD dementia, consistent with previously proposed hypotheses, and corroborate recent publications using similar methodologies. Cognitive impairment may be used as a predictor of future functional impairment in mild AD dementia and can be considered a critical target for prevention strategies to limit future functional decline in the dementia process.

Characterization of Canine Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells in Serum-Free Medium.

PubMed

Liu, Zhuoming; Screven, Rudell; Boxer, Lynne; Myers, Michael J; Devireddy, Lax R

2018-06-20

In this article, we report on the development of a defined serum-free medium capable of supporting the culture expansion of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) from canine adipose tissue (canine Ad-MSCs). The potential benefits of serum-free media can only be utilized if cells cultured in serum-free media maintain the same functional characteristics as cells cultured in serum-containing media. Therefore, we analyze the characteristics of canine Ad-MSCs cultured in this serum-free medium or in serum-containing medium through evaluation of growth kinetics, clonogenic capacity, senescence, and differentiation capacity. Both, serum-containing medium and our serum-free medium, supported efficient growth and colony formation of canine Ad-MSCs. In addition, canine Ad-MSCs cultured in both media demonstrated similar viability after freeze/thaw, similar cell surface marker expression, and were capable of trilineage differentiation. While canine Ad-MSCs cultured in both media were generally similar, under the conditions of our study, canine Ad-MSCs cultured in serum-free medium demonstrated a shorter lag phase and higher colony-forming capacity, accelerated population doubling, maintained multipotentiality at higher passage numbers, and underwent senescence at higher passage numbers compared to canine Ad-MSCs cultured in conventional serum-containing medium. These results suggest that canine Ad-MSCs cultured in serum-free medium retain the basic characteristics associated with canine Ad-MSCs cultured in serum-containing medium, although some differences in growth kinetics were observed.

Interior noise control prediction study for high-speed propeller-driven aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rennison, D. C.; Wilby, J. F.; Marsh, A. H.; Wilby, E. G.

1979-01-01

An analytical model was developed to predict the noise levels inside propeller-driven aircraft during cruise at M = 0.8. The model was applied to three study aircraft with fuselages of different size (wide body, narrow body and small diameter) in order to determine the noise reductions required to achieve the goal of an A-weighted sound level which does not exceed 80 dB. The model was then used to determine noise control methods which could achieve the required noise reductions. Two classes of noise control treatments were investigated: add-on treatments which can be added to existing structures, and advanced concepts which would require changes to the fuselage primary structure. Only one treatment, a double wall with limp panel, provided the required noise reductions. Weight penalties associated with the treatment were estimated for the three study aircraft.

Synchronization control in multiplex networks of nonlinear multi-agent systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Wangli; Xu, Zhiwei; Du, Wenli; Chen, Guanrong; Kubota, Naoyuki; Qian, Feng

2017-12-01

This paper is concerned with synchronization control of a multiplex network, in which two different kinds of relationships among agents coexist. Hybrid coupling, including continuous linear coupling and impulsive coupling, is proposed to model the coexisting distinguishable interactions. First, by adding impulsive controllers on a small portion of agents, local synchronization is analyzed by linearizing the error system at the desired trajectory. Then, global synchronization is studied based on the Lyapunov stability theory, where a time-varying coupling strength is involved. To further deal with the time-varying coupling strength, an adaptive updating law is introduced and a corresponding sufficient condition is obtained to ensure synchronization of the multiplex network towards the desired trajectory. Networks of Chua's circuits and other chaotic systems with double layers of interactions are simulated to verify the proposed method.

DNA purification by triplex-affinity capture and affinity capture electrophoresis

DOEpatents

Cantor, Charles R.; Ito, Takashi; Smith, Cassandra L.

1996-01-01

The invention provides a method for purifying or isolating double stranded DNA intact using triple helix formation. The method includes the steps of complexing an oligonucleotide and double stranded DNA to generate a triple helix and immobilization of the triple helix on a solid phase by means of a molecular recognition system such as avidin/biotin. The purified DNA is then recovered intact by treating the solid phase with a reagent that breaks the bonds between the oligonucleotide and the intact double stranded DNA while not affecting the Watson-Crick base pairs of the double helix. The present invention also provides a method for purifying or isolating double stranded DNA intact by complexing the double stranded DNA with a specific binding partner and recovering the complex during electrophoresis by immobilizing it on a solid phase trap imbedded in an electrophoretic gel.

26 CFR 1.381(c)(5)-1 - Inventories.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... the dollar-value method, use the double-extension method, pool under the natural business unit method... double-extension method, pool under the natural business unit method, and value annual inventory... natural business unit method while P corporation pools under the multiple pool method. In addition, O...

26 CFR 1.381(c)(5)-1 - Inventories.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... the dollar-value method, use the double-extension method, pool under the natural business unit method... double-extension method, pool under the natural business unit method, and value annual inventory... natural business unit method while P corporation pools under the multiple pool method. In addition, O...

Downregulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in curcumin-induced autophagy in APP/PS1 double transgenic mice.

PubMed

Wang, Chen; Zhang, Xiong; Teng, Zhipeng; Zhang, Tong; Li, Yu

2014-10-05

Autophagy is a lysosomal degradation pathway, which is essential for cell survival, proliferation, differentiation and homeostasis. It is well known that beta-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation is one of key characteristics for Alzheimer's disease (AD), which triggers a complex pathological cascade, leading to neurodegeneration. Recent studies have shown that Aβ peptide is generated from amyloid β precursor protein (APP) during autophagic turnover of APP-rich organelles by autophagy. Aβ generation during normal autophagy is subsequently degraded by lysosomes. Curcumin, a nature plant extraction, has been reported to inhibit the generation and deposition of Aβ; however, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood yet. In the present study, we reported that curcumin treatment not only attenuated cognitive impairment detected by Morris water maze test, but also inhibited the generation of Aβ investigated by immunohistochemistry in APP/PS1 double transgenic AD mice. Moreover, curcumin induced autophagy in the mice, evidenced by LC3 immunofluorescence analysis and western blot assays on LC3. Furthermore, we found that curcumin significantly decreased the expression of Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase (PI3K), phosphorylated Akt and rapamycin (mTOR) at protein levels, respectively. Taken together, our data suggests that curcumin inhibits Aβ generation and induces of autophagy by downregulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, and further shows a neuroprotective effect. Meanwhile curcumin might be a candidate neuroprotective agent for AD patients treatment by inducing autophagy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2016-03-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2014-11-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2015-11-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2012)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2012-11-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2013)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2013-11-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2017-11-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (Mason+ 2001-2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, B. D.; Wycoff, G. L.; Hartkopf, W. I.; Douglass, G. G.; Worley, C. E.

2018-06-01

The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS) is the successor to the Index Catalogue of Visual Double Stars, 1961.0 (IDS; Jeffers and van den Bos, Publ. Lick Obs. 21). Three earlier double star catalogs in XXth century, those by Burnham (BDS, 1906, "General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), Innes (SDS, 1927, "Southern Double Star Catalogue -19 to -90 degrees", Union Observatory, Johannesburg, South Africa), and Aitken (ADS, 1932 "New General Catalogue of Double Stars within 121 degrees of the North Pole", Carnegie Institution of Washington), each covered only a portion of the sky. Both the IDS and the WDS cover the entire sky, and the WDS is intended to contain all known visual double stars for which at least one differential measure has been published. The WDS is continually updated as published data become available. Prior to this, three major updates have been published (Worley and Douglass 1984, "Washington Visual Double Star Catalog, 1984.0", U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington; Worley and Douglass 1997A&AS..125..523W, Cat. I/237; Mason, Wycoff, Hartkopf, Douglass and Worley 2001AJ....122.3466M; and Mason et al. 2006.5). The Washington Double Star Catalog (WDS) has seen numerous changes since the last major release of the catalog. The application of many techniques and considerable industry over the past few years has yielded significant gains in both the number of systems and the number of measures. Is is maintained by the US Naval Observatory, and represents the world's principal database of astrometric double and multiple star information. The WDS contains positions (J2000), discoverer designations, epochs, position angles, separations, magnitudes, spectral types, proper motions, and, when available, Durchmusterung numbers and notes for the components of the systems. (3 data files).

Development of double-pair double difference location algorithm and its application to the regular earthquakes and non-volcanic tremors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, H.; Zhang, H.

2016-12-01

Relocating high-precision earthquakes is a central task for monitoring earthquakes and studying the structure of earth's interior. The most popular location method is the event-pair double-difference (DD) relative location method, which uses the catalog and/or more accurate waveform cross-correlation (WCC) differential times from event pairs with small inter-event separations to the common stations to reduce the effect of the velocity uncertainties outside the source region. Similarly, Zhang et al. [2010] developed a station-pair DD location method which uses the differential times from common events to pairs of stations to reduce the effect of the velocity uncertainties near the source region, to relocate the non-volcanic tremors (NVT) beneath the San Andreas Fault (SAF). To utilize advantages of both DD location methods, we have proposed and developed a new double-pair DD location method to use the differential times from pairs of events to pairs of stations. The new method can remove the event origin time and station correction terms from the inversion system and cancel out the effects of the velocity uncertainties near and outside the source region simultaneously. We tested and applied the new method on the northern California regular earthquakes to validate its performance. In comparison, among three DD location methods, the new double-pair DD method can determine more accurate relative locations and the station-pair DD method can better improve the absolute locations. Thus, we further proposed a new location strategy combining station-pair and double-pair differential times to determine accurate absolute and relative locations at the same time. For NVTs, it is difficult to pick the first arrivals and derive the WCC event-pair differential times, thus the general practice is to measure station-pair envelope WCC differential times. However, station-pair tremor locations are scattered due to the low-precision relative locations. The ability that double-pair data can be directly constructed from the station-pair data means that double-pair DD method can be used for improving NVT locations. We have applied the new method to the NVTs beneath the SAF near Cholame, California. Compared to the previous results, the new double-pair DD tremor locations are more concentrated and show more detailed structures.

Modafinil for Clozapine-Treated Schizophrenia Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial

PubMed Central

Freudenreich, Oliver; Henderson, David C.; Macklin, Eric A.; Evins, A. Eden; Fan, Xiaoduo; Cather, Cori; Walsh, Jared P.; Goff, Donald C.

2016-01-01

Background Patients with schizophrenia often suffer from cognitive deficits and negative symptoms that are poorly responsive to antipsychotics including clozapine. Clozapine-induced sedation can worsen cognition and impair social and occupational functioning. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of modafinil for negative symptoms, cognition, and wakefulness/fatigue in DSM-IV–diagnosed schizophrenia patients treated with clozapine. Method A double-blind, placebo-controlled, flexible-dosed 8-week pilot trial was conducted between September 2003 and September 2007, adding modafinil up to 300 mg/d to stabilized schizophrenia outpatients receiving clozapine. Psychopathology, cognition, and wakefulness/fatigue were assessed with standard rating scales. Results Thirty-five patients were randomly assigned to treatment with study drug and included in the analysis. Modafinil did not reduce negative symptoms or wakefulness/fatigue or improve cognition compared to placebo. Modafinil was well tolerated and did not worsen psychosis. Conclusions Results of this pilot trial do not support routine use of modafinil to treat negative symptoms, cognitive deficits, or wakefulness/fatigue in patients on clozapine. However, given our limited power to detect a treatment effect and the clear possibility of a type II error, larger trials are needed to resolve or refute a potential therapeutic effect of uncertain magnitude. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00573417 PMID:19689921

Beyond the double banana: improved recognition of temporal lobe seizures in long-term EEG.

PubMed

Rosenzweig, Ivana; Fogarasi, András; Johnsen, Birger; Alving, Jørgen; Fabricius, Martin Ejler; Scherg, Michael; Neufeld, Miri Y; Pressler, Ronit; Kjaer, Troels W; van Emde Boas, Walter; Beniczky, Sándor

2014-02-01

To investigate whether extending the 10-20 array with 6 electrodes in the inferior temporal chain and constructing computed montages increases the diagnostic value of ictal EEG activity originating in the temporal lobe. In addition, the accuracy of computer-assisted spectral source analysis was investigated. Forty EEG samples were reviewed by 7 EEG experts in various montages (longitudinal and transversal bipolar, common average, source derivation, source montage, current source density, and reference-free montages) using 2 electrode arrays (10-20 and the extended one). Spectral source analysis used source montage to calculate density spectral array, defining the earliest oscillatory onset. From this, phase maps were calculated for localization. The reference standard was the decision of the multidisciplinary epilepsy surgery team on the seizure onset zone. Clinical performance was compared with the double banana (longitudinal bipolar montage, 10-20 array). Adding the inferior temporal electrode chain, computed montages (reference free, common average, and source derivation), and voltage maps significantly increased the sensitivity. Phase maps had the highest sensitivity and identified ictal activity at earlier time-point than visual inspection. There was no significant difference concerning specificity. The findings advocate for the use of these digital EEG technology-derived analysis methods in clinical practice.

Rhodium-catalysed syn-carboamination of alkenes via a transient directing group.

PubMed

Piou, Tiffany; Rovis, Tomislav

2015-11-05

Alkenes are the most ubiquitous prochiral functional groups--those that can be converted from achiral to chiral in a single step--that are accessible to synthetic chemists. For this reason, difunctionalization reactions of alkenes (whereby two functional groups are added to the same double bond) are particularly important, as they can be used to produce highly complex molecular architectures. Stereoselective oxidation reactions, including dihydroxylation, aminohydroxylation and halogenation, are well established methods for functionalizing alkenes. However, the intermolecular incorporation of both carbon- and nitrogen-based functionalities stereoselectively across an alkene has not been reported. Here we describe the rhodium-catalysed carboamination of alkenes at the same (syn) face of a double bond, initiated by a carbon-hydrogen activation event that uses enoxyphthalimides as the source of both the carbon and the nitrogen functionalities. The reaction methodology allows for the intermolecular, stereospecific formation of one carbon-carbon and one carbon-nitrogen bond across an alkene, which is, to our knowledge, unprecedented. The reaction design involves the in situ generation of a bidentate directing group and the use of a new cyclopentadienyl ligand to control the reactivity of rhodium. The results provide a new way of synthesizing functionalized alkenes, and should lead to the convergent and stereoselective assembly of amine-containing acyclic molecules.

Effects of End CAP and Aspect Ratio on Transmission of Sound across a Truss-Like Periodic Double Panel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

EL-RAHEB, M.; WAGNER, P.

2002-02-01

Transmission of sound across 2-D truss-like periodic double panels separated by an air gap and in contact with an acoustic fluid on the external faces is analyzed. Each panel is made of repeated cells. Combining the transfer matrices of the unit cell forms a set of equations for the overall elastic frequency response. The acoustic pressure in the fluids is expressed using a source boundary element method. Adding rigid reflecting end caps confines the air in the gap between panels which influences sound transmission. Measured values of transmission loss differ from the 2-D model by the wide low-frequency dip of the mass-spring-mass or “msm” resonance also termed the “air gap resonance”. In this case, the panels act as rigid masses and the air gap acts as an adiabatic air spring. Results from the idealized 3-D and 2-D models, incorporating rigid cavities and elastic plates, reveal that the “msm” dip is absent in 2-D models radiating into a semi-infinite medium. The dip strengthens as aspect ratio approaches unity. Even when the dip disappears in 2-D, TL rises more steeply for frequencies above the “msm” frequency.

Two-Dimensional Layered Double Hydroxides for Reactions of Methanation and Methane Reforming in C1 Chemistry

PubMed Central

Li, Panpan; Altaf, Naveed; Zhu, Mingyuan; Li, Jiangbing; Dai, Bin; Wang, Qiang

2018-01-01

CH4 as the paramount ingredient of natural gas plays an eminent role in C1 chemistry. CH4 catalytically converted to syngas is a significant route to transmute methane into high value-added chemicals. Moreover, the CO/CO2 methanation reaction is one of the potent technologies for CO2 valorization and the coal-derived natural gas production process. Due to the high thermal stability and high extent of dispersion of metallic particles, two-dimensional mixed metal oxides through calcined layered double hydroxides (LDHs) precursors are considered as the suitable supports or catalysts for both the reaction of methanation and methane reforming. The LDHs displayed compositional flexibility, small crystal sizes, high surface area and excellent basic properties. In this paper, we review previous works of LDHs applied in the reaction of both methanation and methane reforming, focus on the LDH-derived catalysts, which exhibit better catalytic performance and thermal stability than conventional catalysts prepared by impregnation method and also discuss the anti-coke ability and anti-sintering ability of LDH-derived catalysts. We believe that LDH-derived catalysts are promising materials in the heterogeneous catalytic field and provide new insight for the design of advance LDH-derived catalysts worthy of future research. PMID:29385064

Computer-Assisted Classification Patterns in Autoimmune Diagnostics: The AIDA Project

PubMed Central

Benammar Elgaaied, Amel; Cascio, Donato; Bruno, Salvatore; Ciaccio, Maria Cristina; Cipolla, Marco; Fauci, Alessandro; Morgante, Rossella; Taormina, Vincenzo; Gorgi, Yousr; Marrakchi Triki, Raja; Ben Ahmed, Melika; Louzir, Hechmi; Yalaoui, Sadok; Imene, Sfar; Issaoui, Yassine; Abidi, Ahmed; Ammar, Myriam; Bedhiafi, Walid; Ben Fraj, Oussama; Bouhaha, Rym; Hamdi, Khouloud; Soumaya, Koudhi; Neili, Bilel; Asma, Gati; Lucchese, Mariano; Catanzaro, Maria; Barbara, Vincenza; Brusca, Ignazio; Fregapane, Maria; Amato, Gaetano; Friscia, Giuseppe; Neila, Trai; Turkia, Souayeh; Youssra, Haouami; Rekik, Raja; Bouokez, Hayet; Vasile Simone, Maria; Fauci, Francesco; Raso, Giuseppe

2016-01-01

Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) are significant biomarkers in the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases in humans, done by mean of Indirect ImmunoFluorescence (IIF) method, and performed by analyzing patterns and fluorescence intensity. This paper introduces the AIDA Project (autoimmunity: diagnosis assisted by computer) developed in the framework of an Italy-Tunisia cross-border cooperation and its preliminary results. A database of interpreted IIF images is being collected through the exchange of images and double reporting and a Gold Standard database, containing around 1000 double reported images, has been settled. The Gold Standard database is used for optimization of a CAD (Computer Aided Detection) solution and for the assessment of its added value, in order to be applied along with an Immunologist as a second Reader in detection of autoantibodies. This CAD system is able to identify on IIF images the fluorescence intensity and the fluorescence pattern. Preliminary results show that CAD, used as second Reader, appeared to perform better than Junior Immunologists and hence may significantly improve their efficacy; compared with two Junior Immunologists, the CAD system showed higher Intensity Accuracy (85,5% versus 66,0% and 66,0%), higher Patterns Accuracy (79,3% versus 48,0% and 66,2%), and higher Mean Class Accuracy (79,4% versus 56,7% and 64.2%). PMID:27042658

Method for improving the angular resolution of a neutron scatter camera

DOEpatents

Mascarenhas, Nicholas; Marleau, Peter; Gerling, Mark; Cooper, Robert Lee; Mrowka, Stanley; Brennan, James S.

2012-12-25

An instrument that will directly image the fast fission neutrons from a special nuclear material source wherein the neutron detection efficiency is increased has been described. Instead of the previous technique that uses a time-of-flight (TOF) between 2 widely spaced fixed planes of neutron detectors to measure scatter neutron kinetic energy, we now use the recoil proton energy deposited in the second of the 2 scatter planes which can now be repositioned either much closer together or further apart. However, by doubling the separation distance between the 2 planes from 20 cm to a distance of 40 cm we improved the angular resolution of the detector from about 12.degree. to about 10.degree.. A further doubling of the separation distance to 80 cm provided an addition improvement in angular resolution of the detector to about 6.degree. without adding additional detectors or ancillary electronics. The distance between planes also may be dynamically changed using a suitable common technique such as a gear- or motor-drive to toggle between the various positions. The angular resolution of this new configuration, therefore, is increased at the expanse of detection sensitivity. However, the diminished sensitivity may be acceptable for those applications where the detector is able to interrogate a particular site for an extended period.

Conserved Sequences at the Origin of Adenovirus DNA Replication

PubMed Central

Stillman, Bruce W.; Topp, William C.; Engler, Jeffrey A.

1982-01-01

The origin of adenovirus DNA replication lies within an inverted sequence repetition at either end of the linear, double-stranded viral DNA. Initiation of DNA replication is primed by a deoxynucleoside that is covalently linked to a protein, which remains bound to the newly synthesized DNA. We demonstrate that virion-derived DNA-protein complexes from five human adenovirus serological subgroups (A to E) can act as a template for both the initiation and the elongation of DNA replication in vitro, using nuclear extracts from adenovirus type 2 (Ad2)-infected HeLa cells. The heterologous template DNA-protein complexes were not as active as the homologous Ad2 DNA, most probably due to inefficient initiation by Ad2 replication factors. In an attempt to identify common features which may permit this replication, we have also sequenced the inverted terminal repeated DNA from human adenovirus serotypes Ad4 (group E), Ad9 and Ad10 (group D), and Ad31 (group A), and we have compared these to previously determined sequences from Ad2 and Ad5 (group C), Ad7 (group B), and Ad12 and Ad18 (group A) DNA. In all cases, the sequence around the origin of DNA replication can be divided into two structural domains: a proximal A · T-rich region which is partially conserved among these serotypes, and a distal G · C-rich region which is less well conserved. The G · C-rich region contains sequences similar to sequences present in papovavirus replication origins. The two domains may reflect a dual mechanism for initiation of DNA replication: adenovirus-specific protein priming of replication, and subsequent utilization of this primer by host replication factors for completion of DNA synthesis. Images PMID:7143575

Carbon X-ray absorption spectra of fluoroethenes and acetone: A study at the coupled cluster, density functional, and static-exchange levels of theory

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

Fransson, Thomas; Norman, Patrick; Coriani, Sonia

2013-03-28

Near carbon K-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectra of a series of fluorine-substituted ethenes and acetone have been studied using coupled cluster and density functional theory (DFT) polarization propagator methods, as well as the static-exchange (STEX) approach. With the complex polarization propagator (CPP) implemented in coupled cluster theory, relaxation effects following the excitation of core electrons are accounted for in terms of electron correlation, enabling a systematic convergence of these effects with respect to electron excitations in the cluster operator. Coupled cluster results have been used as benchmarks for the assessment of propagator methods in DFT as well as themore » state-specific static-exchange approach. Calculations on ethene and 1,1-difluoroethene illustrate the possibility of using nonrelativistic coupled cluster singles and doubles (CCSD) with additional effects of electron correlation and relativity added as scalar shifts in energetics. It has been demonstrated that CPP spectra obtained with coupled cluster singles and approximate doubles (CC2), CCSD, and DFT (with a Coulomb attenuated exchange-correlation functional) yield excellent predictions of chemical shifts for vinylfluoride, 1,1-difluoroethene, trifluoroethene, as well as good spectral features for acetone in the case of CCSD and DFT. Following this, CPP-DFT is considered to be a viable option for the calculation of X-ray absorption spectra of larger {pi}-conjugated systems, and CC2 is deemed applicable for chemical shifts but not for studies of fine structure features. The CCSD method as well as the more approximate CC2 method are shown to yield spectral features relating to {pi}*-resonances in good agreement with experiment, not only for the aforementioned molecules but also for ethene, cis-1,2-difluoroethene, and tetrafluoroethene. The STEX approach is shown to underestimate {pi}*-peak separations due to spectral compressions, a characteristic which is inherent to this method.« less

Carbon X-ray absorption spectra of fluoroethenes and acetone: a study at the coupled cluster, density functional, and static-exchange levels of theory.

PubMed

Fransson, Thomas; Coriani, Sonia; Christiansen, Ove; Norman, Patrick

2013-03-28

Near carbon K-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectra of a series of fluorine-substituted ethenes and acetone have been studied using coupled cluster and density functional theory (DFT) polarization propagator methods, as well as the static-exchange (STEX) approach. With the complex polarization propagator (CPP) implemented in coupled cluster theory, relaxation effects following the excitation of core electrons are accounted for in terms of electron correlation, enabling a systematic convergence of these effects with respect to electron excitations in the cluster operator. Coupled cluster results have been used as benchmarks for the assessment of propagator methods in DFT as well as the state-specific static-exchange approach. Calculations on ethene and 1,1-difluoroethene illustrate the possibility of using nonrelativistic coupled cluster singles and doubles (CCSD) with additional effects of electron correlation and relativity added as scalar shifts in energetics. It has been demonstrated that CPP spectra obtained with coupled cluster singles and approximate doubles (CC2), CCSD, and DFT (with a Coulomb attenuated exchange-correlation functional) yield excellent predictions of chemical shifts for vinylfluoride, 1,1-difluoroethene, trifluoroethene, as well as good spectral features for acetone in the case of CCSD and DFT. Following this, CPP-DFT is considered to be a viable option for the calculation of X-ray absorption spectra of larger π-conjugated systems, and CC2 is deemed applicable for chemical shifts but not for studies of fine structure features. The CCSD method as well as the more approximate CC2 method are shown to yield spectral features relating to π∗-resonances in good agreement with experiment, not only for the aforementioned molecules but also for ethene, cis-1,2-difluoroethene, and tetrafluoroethene. The STEX approach is shown to underestimate π∗-peak separations due to spectral compressions, a characteristic which is inherent to this method.

Use of the donor lung after asphyxiation or drowning: effect on lung transplant recipients.

PubMed

Whitson, Bryan A; Hertz, Marshall I; Kelly, Rosemary F; Higgins, Robert S D; Kilic, Ahmet; Shumway, Sara J; D'Cunha, Jonathan

2014-10-01

With the relative paucity of acceptable donors for lung transplantation, criteria for extended donor consideration are being explored. We sought to evaluate the suitability of donors whose cause of death was asphyxiation or drowning (A/D) as a potential option to enlarge the donor pool. We queried the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) Standard Transplant Analysis and Research registry for lung transplantation from 1987 to 2010 to assess associations between cause of death and recipient survival using the Kaplan-Meier method. To adjust for potential confounders, we used a Cox proportional hazards model and a logistic regression model to evaluate incidence of rejection within the first year. There were 18,250 adult primary lung transplantations performed, with 309 A/D donors. There was no difference in survival between groups (log-rank, p = 0.52). There were no differences in demographics, length of stay, airway dehiscence, lung allocation score (LAS), or ischemic time in univariate analysis (all p > 0.05). The A/D lung recipients had fewer deaths from pulmonary causes (5.8% versus 9.5%; p = 0.02). Proportional hazards analysis was significant for double lung transplantation (hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.8-0.9), height difference (HR, 1.002; 95% CI, 1.00-1.003), donor age greater than 50 years (HR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.83-0.96), and recipient age greater than 55 years (HR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.76-0.84). A/D cause of death did not impact survival in multivariate analysis. A/D as a donor cause of death was not associated with poor long-term survival or incidence of rejection in the first year after transplantation. Donor cause of death by A/D, when carefully evaluated and selected, should not automatically exclude the organ from transplant consideration. These results provide important justification for potentially broadening the donor pool safely. Copyright © 2014 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Double versus single cervical cerclage for patients with recurrent pregnancy loss: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Zolghadri, Jaleh; Younesi, Masoumeh; Asadi, Nasrin; Khosravi, Dezire; Behdin, Shabnam; Tavana, Zohre; Ghaffarpasand, Fariborz

2014-02-01

To compare the effectiveness of the double cervical cerclage method versus the single method in women with recurrent second-trimester delivery. In this randomized clinical trial, we included 33 singleton pregnancies suffering from recurrent second-trimester pregnancy loss (≥2 consecutive fetal loss during second-trimester or with a history of unsuccessful procedures utilizing the McDonald method), due to cervical incompetence. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo either the classic McDonald method (n = 14) or the double cerclage method (n = 19). The successful pregnancy rate and gestational age at delivery was also compared between the two groups. The two study groups were comparable regarding their baseline characteristics. The successful pregnancy rate did not differ significantly between those who underwent the double cerclage method or the classic McDonald cerclage method (100% vs 85.7%; P = 0.172). In the same way, the preterm delivery rate (<34 weeks of gestation) was comparable between the two study groups (10.5% vs 35.7%; P = 0.106). Those undergoing the double cerclage method had longer gestational duration (37.2 ± 2.6 vs 34.3 ± 3.8 weeks; P = 0.016). The double cervical cerclage method seems to provide better cervical support, as compared with the classic McDonald cerclage method, in those suffering from recurrent pregnancy loss, due to cervical incompetence. © 2013 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research © 2013 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Deanol, lithium and placebo in the treatment of tardive dyskinesia. A double-blind crossover study.

PubMed

Jus, A; Villeneuve, A; Gautier, J; Jus, K; Villeneuve, C; Pires, P; Villeneuve, R

1978-01-01

A double-blind crossover study on the effects of deanol and lithium carbonate was conducted on a sample of 29 chronic schizophrenic patients with tardive dyskinesia. In addition to his usual treatment with different neuroleptics, each patient received during an 8-week period either deanol, lithium carbonate or placebo. A 4-week wash-out period was inserted between each of the 8-week periods of experimental treatment of the tardive dyskinesia. The administration of either deanol, lithium carbonate or placebo added to the neuroleptic treatment did not produce a statistically significant improvement of tardive dyskinesia in our patient population as a whole. Favorable and unfavorable responses are discussed.

Facile synthesis of 3D MnNi-layered double hydroxides (LDH)/graphene composites from directly graphites for pseudocapacitor and their electrochemical analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ilbok; Jeong, Gyoung Hwa; An, Soyeon; Kim, Sang-Wook; Yoon, Songhun

2018-01-01

Herein, MnNi-layered double hydroxides (LDH) were imbibed within the interlayers of graphene nanosheets. The anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate played a role of graphite exfoliator adding interaction with metal cations. Using this process, layered MnNi-LDH-graphene nanocomposite was prepared without formation of graphene oxide. When applied into pseudocapacitor electrode, LDH-graphene with optimal ratio between Mn and Ni exhibited very stable cycle with 90% at 1400 cycles and high energy 47.29 Wh kg-1 at the power density of 7473 W kg-1, which was attributed to highly stable layered LDH structure within conductive graphene layers.

Rearrangement of valence neutrons in the neutrinoless double- β decay of Xe 136

DOE PAGES

Szwec, S. V.; Kay, B. P.; Cocolios, T. E.; ...

2016-11-15

Here, a quantitative description of the change in ground-state neutron occupancies between 136Xe and 136Ba, the initial and final state in the neutrinoless double-β decay of 136Xe, has been extracted from precision measurements of the cross sections of single-neutron-adding and -removing reactions. Comparisons are made to recent theoretical calculations of the same properties using various nuclear-structure models. These are the same calculations used to determine the magnitude of the nuclear matrix elements for the process, which at present disagree with each other by factors of 2 or 3. The experimental neutron occupancies show some disagreement with the theoretical calculations.

Advanced supersonic propulsion system technology study, phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allan, R. D.

1975-01-01

Variable cycle engines were identified, based on the mixed-flow low-bypass-ratio augmented turbofan cycle, which has shown excellent range capability in the AST airplane. The best mixed-flow augmented turbofan engine was selected based on range in the AST Baseline Airplane. Selected variable cycle engine features were added to this best conventional baseline engine, and the Dual-Cycle VCE and Double-Bypass VCE were defined. The conventional mixed-flow turbofan and the Double-Bypass VCE were on the subjects of engine preliminary design studies to determine mechanical feasibility, confirm weight and dimensional estimates, and identify the necessary technology considered not yet available. Critical engine components were studied and incorporated into the variable cycle engine design.

Inverse scattering method and soliton double solution family for the general symplectic gravity model

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

Gao Yajun

A previously established Hauser-Ernst-type extended double-complex linear system is slightly modified and used to develop an inverse scattering method for the stationary axisymmetric general symplectic gravity model. The reduction procedures in this inverse scattering method are found to be fairly simple, which makes the inverse scattering method applied fine and effective. As an application, a concrete family of soliton double solutions for the considered theory is obtained.

The role of food allergy in atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Greenhawt, Matthew

2010-01-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects ∼10% of children. Food allergy is a known provoking cause of AD in a subset of affected children. A literature search of PubMed and Medline was conducted to review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of AD, with special focus on the role of food allergy in the development of AD, its management, and its long-term preventive strategies. A literature search of PubMed and Medline was conducted. Food allergens readily provoke AD in ∼35% of patients, as proven through double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge studies. Milk, egg, wheat, soy, and peanut account for 75% of the cases of food-induced AD. However, the positive predictive values of the parental history, skin-prick tests, or serum tests for detecting food-specific IgE are low, making these unsuitable for use as single diagnostic modalities. Therefore, the use of a food challenge test is very helpful in objectively confirming the history or positive tests. Elimination diets are often helpful in challenge-proven cases, but care must be taken to evaluate the nutritional status of the child. There are few effective long-term strategies to prevent the development of food allergen-induced AD. Early onset of AD has been shown to be a risk factor for the development of other allergic diseases, including other food allergy/sensitization, as part of the atopic march. Treatment of other causes of AD, such as barrier dysfunction and cutaneous infection, are of equal importance to food allergen avoidance. Food allergy is an important provoking cause of AD, but it is only relevant in ∼35% of affected individuals.

DNA purification by triplex-affinity capture and affinity capture electrophoresis

DOEpatents

Cantor, C.R.; Ito, Takashi; Smith, C.L.

1996-01-09

The invention provides a method for purifying or isolating double stranded DNA intact using triple helix formation. The method includes the steps of complexing an oligonucleotide and double stranded DNA to generate a triple helix and immobilization of the triple helix on a solid phase by means of a molecular recognition system such as avidin/biotin. The purified DNA is then recovered intact by treating the solid phase with a reagent that breaks the bonds between the oligonucleotide and the intact double stranded DNA while not affecting the Watson-Crick base pairs of the double helix. The present invention also provides a method for purifying or isolating double stranded DNA intact by complexing the double stranded DNA with a specific binding partner and recovering the complex during electrophoresis by immobilizing it on a solid phase trap imbedded in an electrophoretic gel. 6 figs.

Interaction of clopidogrel and statins in secondary prevention after cerebral ischaemia – a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy crossover study

PubMed Central

Siepmann, Timo; Heinke, Denise; Kepplinger, Jessica; Barlinn, Kristian; Gehrisch, Siegmund; Grählert, Xina; Schwanebeck, Uta; Reichmann, Heinz; Puetz, Volker; Bodechtel, Ulf; Gahn, Georg

2014-01-01

Aims Variability in responsiveness to clopidogrel is a clinical problem in secondary prevention after cerebral ischaemia which has been suggested to be linked to competitive metabolization of clopidogrel and cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4-oxidated statins such as simvastatin. We assessed the hypothesis that simvastatin, in contrast to CYP 2C9-metabolized fluvastatin, reduces clopidogrel-mediated platelet inhibition. Methods We performed a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, two period crossover study in 13 patients with cerebral ischaemia (8F, 5 M), aged 64.1 ± 8.0 years (mean ± SD). After a 14 day period in which all patients received 75 mg clopidogrel day−1, patients additionally received either 20 mg simvastatin day−1 or 80 mg fluvastatin day−1 for 14 days. Regimens were crossed over after a 14 day wash-out period and switched regimens were continued for another 14 days. Platelet aggregation, clopidogrel active metabolite (CAM) plasma concentrations and routine laboratory parameters including prothrombin time (PT) Quick percent value were assessed at baseline and following each treatment phase. Results Clopidogrel reduced platelet aggregation in all patients as expected. Platelet aggregation and CAM plasma concentrations were unaltered when simvastatin or fluvastatin was added to clopidogrel. Simvastatin decreased PT Quick percent value (decrease from 109 ± 10.5% to 103 ± 11%, P < 0.05) when combined with clopidogrel but there was no such change following treatment with fluvastatin and clopidogrel. Conclusions Our data indicate that treatment with CYP 3A4-metabolized simvastatin does not jeopardize clopidogrel-mediated inhibition of platelet aggregation. After co-administration of simvastatin and clopidogrel we observed a decrease in the PT Quick percent value which could be due to simvastatin-induced reduction of activity of prothrombin fragment 1 + 2. PMID:24803100

Recall of health warnings in smokeless tobacco ads

PubMed Central

Truitt, L; Hamilton, W; Johnston, P; Bacani, C; Crawford, S; Hozik, L; Celebucki, C

2002-01-01

Design: Subjects examined two distracter ads and one of nine randomly assigned smokeless tobacco ads varying in health warning presence, size (8 to 18 point font), and contrast (low versus high)—including no health warning. They were then interviewed about ad content using recall and recognition questions. Subjects: A convenience sample of 895 English speaking males aged 16–24 years old who were intercepted at seven shopping malls throughout Massachusetts during May 2000. Main outcome measures: Proven aided recall, or recall of a health warning and correct recognition of the warning message among distracters, and false recall. Results: Controlling for covariates such as education, employment/student status, and Hispanic background, proven aided recall increased significantly with font size; doubling size from 10 to 20 point font would increase recall from 63% to 76%. Although not statistically significant, recall was somewhat better for high contrast warnings. Ten per cent of the sample mistakenly recalled the warning where none existed. Conclusions: As demonstrated by substantially greater recall among ads that included health warnings over ads that had none, health warnings retained their value to consumers despite years of exposure (that can produce false recall). Larger health warnings would enhance recall, and the proposed model can be used to estimate potential recall that affects communication, perceived health risk, and behaviour modification. PMID:12034984

Upscaling of Hydraulic Conductivity using the Double Constraint Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Rawy, Mustafa; Zijl, Wouter; Batelaan, Okke

2013-04-01

The mathematics and modeling of flow through porous media is playing an increasingly important role for the groundwater supply, subsurface contaminant remediation and petroleum reservoir engineering. In hydrogeology hydraulic conductivity data are often collected at a scale that is smaller than the grid block dimensions of a groundwater model (e.g. MODFLOW). For instance, hydraulic conductivities determined from the field using slug and packer tests are measured in the order of centimeters to meters, whereas numerical groundwater models require conductivities representative of tens to hundreds of meters of grid cell length. Therefore, there is a need for upscaling to decrease the number of grid blocks in a groundwater flow model. Moreover, models with relatively few grid blocks are simpler to apply, especially when the model has to run many times, as is the case when it is used to assimilate time-dependent data. Since the 1960s different methods have been used to transform a detailed description of the spatial variability of hydraulic conductivity to a coarser description. In this work we will investigate a relatively simple, but instructive approach: the Double Constraint Method (DCM) to identify the coarse-scale conductivities to decrease the number of grid blocks. Its main advantages are robustness and easy implementation, enabling to base computations on any standard flow code with some post processing added. The inversion step of the double constraint method is based on a first forward run with all known fluxes on the boundary and in the wells, followed by a second forward run based on the heads measured on the phreatic surface (i.e. measured in shallow observation wells) and in deeper observation wells. Upscaling, in turn is inverse modeling (DCM) to determine conductivities in coarse-scale grid blocks from conductivities in fine-scale grid blocks. In such a way that the head and flux boundary conditions applied to the fine-scale model are also honored at the coarse-scale. Exemplification will be presented for the Kleine Nete catchment, Belgium. As a result we identified coarse-scale conductivities while decreasing the number of grid blocks with the advantage that a model run costs less computation time and requires less memory space. In addition, ranking of models was investigated.

Recall of health warnings in smokeless tobacco ads.

PubMed

Truitt, Linda; Hamilton, William L; Johnston, P R; Bacani, C P; Crawford, S O; Hozik, L; Celebucki, Carolyn

2002-06-01

To determine the effects of health warning characteristics in smokeless tobacco magazine print ads on warning recall, and the implications for current US Federal regulations. Subjects examined two distracter ads and one of nine randomly assigned smokeless tobacco ads varying in health warning presence, size (8 to 18 point font), and contrast (low versus high)-including no health warning. They were then interviewed about ad content using recall and recognition questions. A convenience sample of 895 English speaking males aged 16-24 years old who were intercepted at seven shopping malls throughout Massachusetts during May 2000. Proven aided recall, or recall of a health warning and correct recognition of the warning message among distracters, and false recall. Controlling for covariates such as education, employment/student status, and Hispanic background, proven aided recall increased significantly with font size; doubling size from 10 to 20 point font would increase recall from 63% to 76%. Although not statistically significant, recall was somewhat better for high contrast warnings. Ten per cent of the sample mistakenly recalled the warning where none existed. As demonstrated by substantially greater recall among ads that included health warnings over ads that had none, health warnings retained their value to consumers despite years of exposure (that can produce false recall). Larger health warnings would enhance recall, and the proposed model can be used to estimate potential recall that affects communication, perceived health risk, and behaviour modification.

Alaska's lumber-drying industry—impacts from a federal grant program.

Treesearch

David L. Nicholls; Allen M. Brackley; Thomas D. Rojas

2006-01-01

A survey determined that installed dry kiln capacity in Alaska more than doubled to an estimated 220 thousand board feet (mbf) within 4 years (2000-2004). This increased ability to produce dry lumber and value-added products resulted from industry efforts to obtain federal funding to support a dry kiln grant program. This report reviews grantees' progress in...

76 FR 33991 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 727, 727C, 727-100, 727-100C, 727-200, and 727...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-10

... manufacturer. We are issuing this AD to increase the level of protection from lightning strikes and prevent the... of protection from lightning strikes and prevent the potential of ignition sources inside fuel tanks... existing unshielded fuel quantity indication system (FQIS) wire bundles with double shielded FQIS wire...

A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Trial of Piracetam Added to Risperidone in Patients with Autistic Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akhondzadeh, Shahin; Tajdar, Hamid; Mohammadi, Mohammad-Reza; Mohammadi, Mohammad; Nouroozinejad, Gholam-Hossein; Shabstari, Omid L.; Ghelichnia, Hossein-Ali

2008-01-01

It has been reported that autism is a hypoglutamatergic disorder. Therefore, it was of interest to assess the efficacy of piracetam, a positive modulator of AMPA-sensitive glutamate receptors in autistic disorder. About 40 children between the ages three and 11 years (inclusive) with a DSM IV clinical diagnosis of autism and who were outpatients…

A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Trial of "Ginkgo Biloba" Added to Risperidone in Patients with Autistic Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hasanzadeh, Elmira; Mohammadi, Mohammad-Reza; Ghanizadeh, Ahmad; Rezazadeh, Shams-Ali; Tabrizi, Mina; Rezaei, Farzin; Akhondzadeh, Shahin

2012-01-01

"Ginkgo biloba" has been reported to affect the neurotransmitter system and to have antioxidant properties that could impact the pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Based on these studies, we decided to assess the effectiveness of "Ginkgo biloba" extract (Ginko T.D., Tolidaru, Iran) as an adjunctive agent to risperidone in the treatment of…

Effects of adding alendronate to ongoing hormone therapy on bone mineral density in postmenopausal Korean women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Min, Yong-Ki; Lee, Dong-Yun; Choi, Suk-Joo; Kim, Joo Han; Choi, DooSeok; Yoon, Byung-Koo

2013-07-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of adding the bisphosphonate alendronate (ALEN) to ongoing hormone therapy (HT) on bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal Korean women. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial at a university hospital included a total of 139 postmenopausal women who had low BMD after HT lasting at least 1 year. Women received either ALEN (10 mg/d) or placebo in combination with HT for 1 year. Changes in BMD and biochemical markers of bone turnover were evaluated. Lumbar spine and total hip BMDs increased significantly in both treatment groups after 1 year. The addition of ALEN, when compared with HT alone, did not produce a significant change in BMD at the lumbar spine (3.7% vs 4.3%) and total hip (2.2% vs 3.2%) after adjusting for controllable variables. Serum osteocalcin showed a similar change, but urinary deoxypyridinoline response differed between treatment groups. Compared with HT alone, the addition of ALEN to ongoing HT for 1 year does not make a difference in BMD among postmenopausal Korean women with low BMD.

Non-cognitive benefits of galantamine (Reminyl) treatment in vascular dementia.

PubMed

Kurz, A

2002-01-01

Vascular dementia (VaD) is a condition that involves deterioration in cognitive and non-cognitive areas. Although cognitive impairment is the defining symptom evaluated during clinical trials, changes in non-cognitive areas such as behavior, global functioning and activities of daily living are assessed because they assist in determining quality of life and overall well-being. Therapy has focused traditionally on preventing and controlling risk factors, as no approved treatments are currently available for these patients. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs), the treatment of choice in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), are a potential treatment option for patients with VaD. Galantamine, an AChEI with nicotinic receptor modulation, has demonstrated clinically relevant benefits (cognition, global functioning, functional ability, behavior) in patients with either AD with cerebrovascular disease (AD with CVD) or probable VaD in a 6-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Cognitive outcomes after sertaline treatment in patients with depression of Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Munro, Cynthia A; Longmire, Crystal Flynn; Drye, Lea T; Martin, Barbara K; Frangakis, Constantine E; Meinert, Curtis L; Mintzer, Jacobo E; Porsteinsson, Anton P; Rabins, Peter V; Rosenberg, Paul B; Schneider, Lon S; Weintraub, Daniel; Lyketsos, Constantine G

2012-12-01

Although many depressed patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) are treated with antidepressants, the effect of such treatment on cognitive performance in these patients is not known. The authors report cognitive outcomes in patients with depression of AD (dAD) after a 24-week trial of sertraline or placebo. Placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind trial. Outpatient memory clinics at five academic medical centers in the United States. A total of 131 patients with dAD (60 men) and Mini-Mental State Examination scores of 10-26. Sertraline (n = 67), target dose of 100 mg daily or matching placebo (n = 64). Caregivers received standardized psychosocial intervention throughout the trial. Mini-Mental State Examination, cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale, letter fluency, backward digit span, Symbol Digit Modalities Test, and Finger Tapping Test, administered at baseline, and 8, 16, and 24 weeks following baseline. A series of linear models indicated no effect of treatment or of depression remission on cognitive test performance at 24 weeks. Regardless of treatment condition, very little change in cognitive test performance was noted in general. Treatment with sertraline in patients with dAD is not associated with greater improvement in cognition at week 24 than treatment with placebo.

Mean centering of double divisor ratio spectra, a novel spectrophotometric method for analysis of ternary mixtures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hassan, Said A.; Elzanfaly, Eman S.; Salem, Maissa Y.; El-Zeany, Badr A.

2016-01-01

A novel spectrophotometric method was developed for determination of ternary mixtures without previous separation, showing significant advantages over conventional methods. The new method is based on mean centering of double divisor ratio spectra. The mathematical explanation of the procedure is illustrated. The method was evaluated by determination of model ternary mixture and by the determination of Amlodipine (AML), Aliskiren (ALI) and Hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) in laboratory prepared mixtures and in a commercial pharmaceutical preparation. For proper presentation of the advantages and applicability of the new method, a comparative study was established between the new mean centering of double divisor ratio spectra (MCDD) and two similar methods used for analysis of ternary mixtures, namely mean centering (MC) and double divisor of ratio spectra-derivative spectrophotometry (DDRS-DS). The method was also compared with a reported one for analysis of the pharmaceutical preparation. The method was validated according to the ICH guidelines and accuracy, precision, repeatability and robustness were found to be within the acceptable limits.

Increased cardiovascular risk in South African patients with Addison's disease.

PubMed

Ross, I L; Bergthorsdottir, R; Levitt, N S; Schatz, D A; Johannsson, G; Marais, A D

2013-11-01

Patients with Addison's disease (AD) are believed to be at risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). South Africa, like the rest of the developing world is experiencing an increase in CVD and patients with AD may be at double the risk of their peers. We wished to explore AD patients' CVD risk factors. A cross-sectional nationwide study in South Africa of patients with AD was conducted. A cohort of 147 patients with AD and 147 healthy control subjects were matched by age, gender, ethnicity, and BMI as far as was possible. Lipoproteins and highly-sensitive C-reactive-protein (hs-CRP) were the main outcome measures. AD patients had significantly higher triglycerides; (p=0.001), lower HDLC (p<0.001), higher hs-CRP (p<0.001), and more small dense LDL; (p=0.002) than controls. Nonesterified fatty acids were lower in patients (p<0.001). Approximately 65% [95% confidence interval (CI 55.6-72.4%)] had hypercholesterolaemia, 75% (CI 64.8-81.2%) had low HDLC, and 75% (CI 68.0-84.1%) had a higher LDLC. Thirteen percent of AD patients had diabetes mellitus, but none of the risk factors differed from the nondiabetics. Only HDLC correlated positively with daily hydrocortisone dose (r=0.32; p=0.005). In conclusion dyslipidaemia is common in South African AD patients; CVD risk assessment and intervention are probably warranted in the management of these patients. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Boundary conditions and unitarity in AdS/CFT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrade, Tomas

This thesis investigates various issues regarding unitarity in the context of Anti-de Sitter/Conformal Field theory (AdS/CFT) dualities. When the boundary duals are conformal, unitarity implies that there are lower bounds on the dimension of primary operators. Now, the AdS/CFT dictionary relates insertions of boundary operators to different choices of boundary conditions on the gravity side. Therefore, we expect the possible choices of boundary conditions in AdS to be restricted accordingly. Our first main goal will be to identify what are the pathologies that occur in the gravitational side of the duality when the boundary operators violate the pertinent unitarity bounds. In all the studied cases, we find that such bulk theories are ill-defined as expected, although unitarity is not nec- essarily violated. As our first example we consider a Klein-Gordon field in AdS, and extend the analysis to bosonic fields of spin 1 and 2 later on, with analogous results. Interestingly, it turns our that the bulk settings are pathological even in the absence of strict conformal invariance. Secondly, we argue that introducing a geometrical cut-off in spacetime along with the appropriate modifications of the boundary conditions yields the resulting (IR) theories well-defined. By study- ing in detail a Klein-Gordon field with boundary conditions that correspond to double-trace deformations, we are able to explicitly verify this claim. Finally, we discuss future research directions which include generalizations of AdS/CFT-like dualities and potential applications for condensed matter theory.

Balloon-borne air traffic management (ATM) as a precursor to space-based ATM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brodsky, Yuval; Rieber, Richard; Nordheim, Tom

2012-01-01

The International Space University—Balloon Air traffic control Technology Experiment (I-BATE ) has flown on board two stratospheric balloons and has tracked nearby aircraft by receiving their Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) transmissions. Air traffic worldwide is facing increasing congestion. It is predicted that daily European flight volumes will more than double by 2030 compared to 2009 volumes. ADS-B is an air traffic management system being used to mitigate air traffic congestion. Each aircraft is equipped with both a GPS receiver and an ADS-B transponder. The transponder transmits an equipped aircraft's unique identifier, position, heading, and velocity once per second. The ADS-B transmissions can then be received by ground stations for use in traditional air traffic management. Airspace not monitored by these ground stations or other traditional means remains uncontrolled and poorly monitored. A constellation of space-based ADS-B receivers could close these gaps and provide global air traffic monitoring. By flying an ADS-B receiver on a stratospheric balloon, I-BATE has served as a precursor to a constellation of ADS-B-equipped Earth-orbiting satellites. From the ˜30 km balloon altitude, I-BATE tracked aircraft ranging up to 850 km. The experiment has served as a proof of concept for space-based air traffic management and supports a technology readiness level 6 of space-based ADS-B reception. I-BATE: International Space University—Balloon Air traffic control Technology Experiment.

[Design of Dual-Beam Spectrometer in Spectrophotometer for Colorimetry].

PubMed

Liu, Yi-xuan; Yan, Chang-xiang

2015-07-01

Spectrophotometers for colorimetry are usually composed of two independent and identical spectrometers. In order to reduce the volume of spectrophotometer for colorimetry, a design method of double-beam spectrometer is put forward. A traditional spectrometer is modified so that a new spectrometer can realize the function of double spectrometers, which is especially suitable for portable instruments. One slit is replaced by the double-slit, than two beams of spectrum can be detected. The working principle and design requirement of double-beam spectrometer are described. A spectrometer of portable spectrophotometer is designed by this method. A toroidal imaging mirror is used for the Czerny-Turner double-beam spectrometer in this paper, which can better correct astigmatism, and prevent the dual-beam spectral crosstalk. The results demonstrate that the double-beam spectrometer designed by this method meets the design specifications, with the spectral resolution less than 10 nm, the spectral length of 9.12 mm, and the volume of 57 mm x 54 mm x 23 mm, and without the dual-beam spectral overlap in the detector either. Comparing with a traditional spectrophotometer, the modified spectrophotometer uses a set of double-beam spectrometer instead of two sets of spectrometers, which can greatly reduce the volume. This design method can be specially applied in portable spectrophotometers, also can be widely applied in other double-beam spectrophotometers, which offers a new idea for the design of dual-beam spectrophotometers.

Interferometric Methods of Measuring Refractive Indices and Double-Refraction of Fibres.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hamza, A. A.; El-Kader, H. I. Abd

1986-01-01

Presents two methods used to measure the refractive indices and double-refraction of fibers. Experiments are described, with one involving the use of Pluta microscope in the double-beam interference technique, the other employing the multiple-beam technique. Immersion liquids are discussed that can be used in the experiments. (TW)

Double Cross-Validation in Multiple Regression: A Method of Estimating the Stability of Results.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rowell, R. Kevin

In multiple regression analysis, where resulting predictive equation effectiveness is subject to shrinkage, it is especially important to evaluate result replicability. Double cross-validation is an empirical method by which an estimate of invariance or stability can be obtained from research data. A procedure for double cross-validation is…

Effect of Abalone Hydrolysates Encapsulated by Double Emulsion on the Physicochemical and Sensorial Properties of Fresh Cheese

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

The intake of dietary salt through food now exceeds current nutritional recommendations and is thought to have negative effects on human health, such as the increasing prevalence of hypertension. This study was performed to investigate whether W1/O/W2 double emulsions can be used to enhance the saltiness of cheese without increasing the salt content (W1 is distilled water or 1% abalone hydrolysate, and W2 is 1% NaCl or 1% abalone hydrolysate + 1% NaCl solution). We also investigated the effect of adding abalone hydrolysate to the double emulsion as a saltiness enhancer. The cheeses were physico-chemically evaluated to determine curd yield, pH value, moisture content, color, texture, salt release rate, and sensory properties. No significant differences were observed in curd yield, pH value, moisture content, lightness, or redness between the cheeses made with and without the double emulsion. However, in the evaluation of salt release rate, fresh cheese made with double emulsion (W1 = distilled water, W2 = 1% NaCl + 1% abalone hydrolysate) was detected earlier than the control or the other treatments. In the sensory evaluation, fresh cheese made with the double emulsion showed higher scores for saltiness and overall preference than the control or the other treatments. We concluded that abalone hydrolysate encapsulated in a double emulsion (W1 is water and W2 is abalone hydrolysate and NaCl solution) could enhance the saltiness of fresh cheese while maintaining the same salt concentration, without altering its physical properties. PMID:28515645

Effect of Abalone Hydrolysates Encapsulated by Double Emulsion on the Physicochemical and Sensorial Properties of Fresh Cheese.

PubMed

Choi, HeeJeong; Kim, Soo-Jin; Lee, Sang-Yoon; Choi, Mi-Jung

2017-01-01

The intake of dietary salt through food now exceeds current nutritional recommendations and is thought to have negative effects on human health, such as the increasing prevalence of hypertension. This study was performed to investigate whether W 1 /O/W 2 double emulsions can be used to enhance the saltiness of cheese without increasing the salt content (W 1 is distilled water or 1% abalone hydrolysate, and W 2 is 1% NaCl or 1% abalone hydrolysate + 1% NaCl solution). We also investigated the effect of adding abalone hydrolysate to the double emulsion as a saltiness enhancer. The cheeses were physico-chemically evaluated to determine curd yield, pH value, moisture content, color, texture, salt release rate, and sensory properties. No significant differences were observed in curd yield, pH value, moisture content, lightness, or redness between the cheeses made with and without the double emulsion. However, in the evaluation of salt release rate, fresh cheese made with double emulsion (W 1 = distilled water, W 2 = 1% NaCl + 1% abalone hydrolysate) was detected earlier than the control or the other treatments. In the sensory evaluation, fresh cheese made with the double emulsion showed higher scores for saltiness and overall preference than the control or the other treatments. We concluded that abalone hydrolysate encapsulated in a double emulsion (W 1 is water and W 2 is abalone hydrolysate and NaCl solution) could enhance the saltiness of fresh cheese while maintaining the same salt concentration, without altering its physical properties.

Effect of a High-Protein, High-Fiber Beverage Preload on Subjective Appetite Ratings and Subsequent Ad Libitum Energy Intake in Overweight Men and Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study

PubMed Central

Sharafi, Mastaneh; Alamdari, Nima; Wilson, Michael; Leidy, Heather J; Glynn, Erin L

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Dietary protein and fiber have been shown to independently improve subjective measures of appetite control. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the acute effects of a high-protein, high-fiber (HP/HFb) beverage taken as a preload compared with an isocaloric lower-protein, lower-fiber (LP/LFb) placebo beverage on subjective appetite ratings and subsequent energy intake at an ad libitum meal in healthy adults. Methods A total of 50 overweight/obese men and women [n = 25 men, 25 women; age 30 ± 2 y; body mass index (BMI) 29.6 ± 0.3 kg/m2] received a 160 kcal HP/HFb beverage containing 17 g protein and 6 g fiber on one occasion and an isocaloric LP/LFb placebo beverage containing 1 g protein and 3 g fiber on another occasion in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design. Thirty min after consumption of the beverage preload, an ad libitum pizza meal was provided to be consumed over a 30-min period. Visual analog scales (VAS) were used to assess subjective appetite ratings throughout the testing period. The Revised Restraint Scale (RRS) was used to classify participants as restrained or unrestrained eaters. Results HP/HFb led to greater reductions in postprandial desire to eat and hunger compared with LP/LFb (both, P < 0.05) but did not significantly affect postprandial fullness or prospective food consumption. Subsequent meal energy intake tended to be lower after HP/HFb compared with LP/LFb (P = 0.09). A subanalysis showed lower energy intake after HP/HFb in older participants (≥25 y) compared with LP/LFb, which was not observed in the younger participants (<25 y). Conclusions Compared with LP/LFb, a HP/HFb beverage preload reduced hunger, desire to eat, and tended to reduce subsequent food intake. Dietary restraint and age appear to influence subsequent energy intake and should be taken into account when designing nutrition interventions for weight reduction and/or maintenance. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02979717.

Antiemetic effects of midazolam added to fentanyl-ropivacaine patient-controlled epidural analgesia after subtotal gastrectomy: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

PubMed Central

Kim, Sioh; Seo, Jeongwon; Jeon, Younghoon

2010-01-01

Background: Nausea and vomiting are frequent adverse effects of patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) with opioids. Objective: This study was designed to assess the antiemetic effect of midazolam added to fentanyl—ropivacaine PCEA. Methods: In a prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, smoking patients with gastric cancer undergoing elective subtotal gastrectomy were evenly allocated to 1 of 2 treatment groups to manage postoperative pain: 0.2% ropivacaine mixed with fentanyl 4 μg/mL and midazolam 0.2 mg/mL (test group) or 0.2% ropivacaine mixed with fentanyl 4 μg/mL (control group). The PCEA infusion was set to deliver 4 μL/h of the study solution, with a bolus of 2 mL per demand and a 15-minute lockout time. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), pain intensity, sedation score, usage of rescue analgesia and rescue antiemetic, respiratory depression, urinary retention, and pruritus were recorded at 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery. Total infused volume of PCEA at 72 hours after surgery was measured. Results: A total of 60 patients were approached and randomized to treatment. No patients were excluded by exclusion criteria and all enrolled patients completed this study. Incidence of nausea (7% vs 33%; P = 0.02) in the test group was significantly lower than in the control group. The overall frequency of PONV in the test group was significantly less than that of the control group (7% vs 40%; P = 0.006). In addition, the mean (SD) infused volume of PCEA in the test group was significantly lower than that in the control group (392.3 [68.9] vs 351.2 [49.8] mL; P = 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in pain intensity, usage of rescue antiemetics and rescue analgesics, and mild pruritus between groups. No patient reported moderate or severe sedation, respiratory depression, or hypoxemia. In addition, there were no severe adverse events. Conclusions: Midazolam added to fentanyl-ropivacaine PCEA was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of PONV compared with fentanyl-ropivacaine alone, and a significant decrease in the amount of PCEA administered without a significant increase in adverse events in these patients who underwent subtotal gastrectomy. PMID:24688151

Intestinal Carriage of Carbapenemase-Producing Organisms: Current Status of Surveillance Methods

PubMed Central

Jacobs, Michael R.; Wilson, Brigid; Kaye, Keith; Donskey, Curtis J.; Perez, Federico

2015-01-01

SUMMARY Carbapenemases have become a significant mechanism for broad-spectrum β-lactam resistance in Enterobacteriaceae and other Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter spp. Intestinal carriage of carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs) is an important source of transmission. Isolation of carriers is one strategy that can be used to limit the spread of these bacteria. In this review, we critically examine the clinical performance, advantages, and disadvantages of methods available for the detection of intestinal carriage of CPOs. Culture-based methods (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] protocols, chromogenic media, specialized agars, and double-disk synergy tests) for detecting carriage of CPOs are convenient due to their ready availability and low cost, but their limited sensitivity and long turnaround time may not always be optimal for infection control practices. Contemporary nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAATs) such as real-time PCR, hybridization assays, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), or a combined culture and NAAT approach may provide fast results and/or added sensitivity and specificity compared with culture-based methods. Infection control practitioners and clinical microbiologists should be aware of the strengths and limitations of available methods to determine the most suitable approach for their medical facility to fit their infection control needs. PMID:26511484

Efficacy and Safety of SSRIs, SNRIs, and Placebo in Common Psychiatric Disorders: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis in Children and Adolescents

PubMed Central

Locher, Cosima; Koechlin, Helen; Zion, Sean R; Werner, Christoph; Pine, Daniel S.; Kirsch, Irving; Kessler, Ronald C.; Kossowsky, Joe

2017-01-01

Importance Depressive disorders (DD), anxiety disorders (AD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common mental disorders in children and adolescents. Objective To examine the relative efficacy and safety of SSRIs, SNRIs and placebo for the treatment of DD, AD, OCD, and PTSD in children and adolescents. Data Sources PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Cochrane through August 2016. Study Selection Published and unpublished randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of SSRIs or SNRIs in youths diagnosed with DD, AD, OCD, or PTSD were included. Trials using other antidepressants (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants, MAOIs) were excluded. Data Extraction and Synthesis Effect sizes, (ES) calculated as standardized mean differences (Hedges’g) and Risk Ratios (RR) for adverse events, were assessed in a random-effects model. Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s) Primary outcomes, as defined by authors on pre- and post-intervention data, mean change data, and side effect data, were extracted independently by multiple observers following PRISMA guidelines. Results We deemed 36 studies eligible, including 6778 participants; 17 studies for DD, 10 for AD, 8 for OCD and one for PTSD., SSRIs and SNRIs were significantly more effective compared to placebo, yielding a small effect size (g=0.32, p<.001). AD (g=0.56, p<.001) showed significantly larger between-group ES than DD (g=0.20, p<.001). This difference was driven primarily by the placebo response: patients with DD exhibited significantly larger placebo responses (g=1.57, p<.001) compared to those with AD (g=1.03, p<.001). Of note is the relatively large effect size for SSRIs for anxiety disorders g=0.71, p<.001. Compared to placebo, patients taking an antidepressant reported significantly more treatment emergent adverse events (RR=1.07, p=.001 or RR=1.49, p<.001, depending on the reporting method), serious adverse events (RR=1.76, p<.001) and study discontinuation due to side effects (RR=1.79, p<.001). Conclusion and Relevance SSRIs and SNRIs are more effective than placebo, however, the effect is small and disorder-specific, yielding a larger effect for AD than for other conditions. Response to placebo is large, especially in DD. Serious adverse events are significantly more common in SSRIs and SNRIs than placebo. PMID:28854296

Preparation of porous carbon spheres from 2-keto-l-gulonic acid mother liquor by oxidation and activation for electric double-layer capacitor application.

PubMed

Hao, Zhi-Qiang; Cao, Jing-Pei; Zhao, Xiao-Yan; Wu, Yan; Zhu, Jun-Sheng; Dang, Ya-Li; Zhuang, Qi-Qi; Wei, Xian-Yong

2018-03-01

A novel strategy is proposed for the increase of specific surface area (SSA) of porous carbon sphere (PCS) by oxidation and activation. 2-keto-l-gulonic acid mother liquor (GAML) as a high-pollution waste has a relatively high value of reutilization. For its high value-added utilization, GAML is used as the precursor for preparation of PCS as carbon-based electrode materials for electric double-layer capacitor. PCS is prepared by hydrothermal carbonization, carbonization and KOH activation, and Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O is used as an oxidizing agent during carbonization. The as-prepared PCS has excellent porosity and high SSA of 2478 m 2  g -1 . Meanwhile, the pore structure of PCS can be controlled by the adjustment of carbonization parameters (carbonization temperature and the loading of Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O). Besides, the SSA and specific capacitance of PCS can be increased remarkably when Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O is added in carbonization. The specific capacitance of PCS can reach 303.7 F g -1 at 40 mA g -1 . PCSs as electrode material have superior electrochemical stability. After 8000 cycles, the capacitance retention is 98.3% at 2 A g -1 . The electric double-layer capacitance of PCS is improved when CS is carbonized with Fe(NO 3 ) 3 9H 2 O, and the economic and environmental benefits are achieved by the effective recycle of GAML. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Exploring avenues for best use of cytotechnologists in non-gynaecological cytology: Double screening or independent sign-out.

PubMed

Fischer, G; Haddad, M; Cormier, K

2018-02-01

Cytotechnologist (CT) screening workload has been decreasing due to the falling number of Papanicolaou tests. This continuing trend has prompted exploration of ways to best employ the CT skillset. One potential way of more effective use is by having two CTs double screen non-gynaecological (NGC) cases to assess whether this improves screening quality and concordance with pathologists. Another is evaluating the CT's performance on low-complexity negative NGC cases for a potential independent CT sign-out without pathologist review. In total, 1119 NGC cases were reviewed; 577 screened by two CTs and 542 screened by one CT. All cases were signed out by a pathologist and all CT interpretations were compared to the pathologist final diagnoses. The disagreements were classified based on degree of discrepancy. The extra workload by adding the second screener was assessed. The agreement rate between the CT's screening interpretation and pathologist's interpretation did not improve by adding a second CT compared to a single screener (91.5% vs 92.9%, respectively). CT to pathologist concordance was very high on low complexity NGC cases (voided urine, fluid, sputum) whether screened and interpreted as negative by one CT (97.3%) or two CTs (99.3%). Double screening of NGC cases by two cytotechnologists prior to pathologist sign-out does not improve screening quality and is not cost-effective. The high concordance between the CTs and pathologists in this limited group of low complexity negative cases suggests that such cases could be signed out independently by cytotechnologists. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Human Abuse Potential of an Abuse-Deterrent (AD), Extended-Release (ER) Morphine Product Candidate (Morphine-ADER Injection-Molded Tablets) vs Extended-Release Morphine Administered Intranasally in Nondependent Recreational Opioid Users

PubMed Central

Webster, Lynn R.; Smith, Michael D.; Lawler, John; Lindhardt, Karsten; Dayno, Jeffrey M.

2017-01-01

Abstract Objective. To compare the relative human abuse potential after insufflation of manipulated morphine abuse-deterrent, extended-release injection-molded tablets (morphine-ADER-IMT) with that of marketed morphine ER tablets. Methods. A randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active- and placebo-controlled five-way crossover study was performed with adult volunteers who were experienced, nondependent, recreational opioid users. After intranasal (IN) administration of manipulated high-volume (HV) morphine-ADER-IMT (60 mg), participants were randomized (1:1:1:1) to receive IN manipulated low-volume (LV) morphine ER (60 mg), IN manipulated LV morphine-ADER-IMT, intact oral morphine-ADER-IMT (60 mg), and placebo in crossover fashion. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic assessments included peak effect of drug liking (Emax; primary endpoint) using drug liking visual analog scale (VAS) score, Emax using overall drug liking, and take drug again (TDA) VASs scores, and mean abuse quotient (AQ), a pharmacokinetic parameter associated with drug liking. Results. Forty-six participants completed the study. After insufflation of HV morphine-ADER-IMT and LV morphine-ADER-IMT, drug liking Emax was significantly lower (P < 0.0001) compared with IN morphine ER. Overall drug liking and TDA Emax values were significantly lower (P < 0.0001) after insufflation of HV morphine-ADER-IMT and LV morphine-ADER-IMT compared with IN morphine ER. Mean AQ was lower after insufflation of HV (9.2) and LV (2.3) morphine-ADER-IMT or ingestion of oral morphine-ADER-IMT (5.5) compared with insufflation of LV morphine ER (37.2). Conclusions. All drug liking, take drug again, and abuse quotient endpoints support a significantly lower abuse potential with insufflation of manipulated morphine-ADER-IMT compared with manipulated and insufflated non-AD ER morphine. PMID:27651510

Explorative Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Intervention Study with Low Doses of Inhaled Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol Reveals No Effect on Sweet Taste Intensity Perception and Liking in Humans.

PubMed

de Bruijn, Suzanne E M; de Graaf, Cees; Witkamp, Renger F; Jager, Gerry

2017-01-01

Introduction: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in food reward. For example, in humans, liking of palatable foods is assumed to be modulated by endocannabinoid activity. Studies in rodents suggest that the ECS also plays a role in sweet taste intensity perception, but it is unknown to what extent this can be extrapolated to humans. Therefore, this study aimed at elucidating whether Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) affects sweet taste intensity perception and liking in humans, potentially resulting in alterations in food preferences. Materials and Methods: In a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover study, 10 healthy males participated in three test sessions that were 2 weeks apart. During the test sessions, participants received THC-rich, CBD-rich, or placebo Cannabis by inhalation divided over two doses (4 + 1 mg THC; 25 + 10 mg CBD). Participants tasted seven chocolate milk-like drinks that differed in sugar concentration and they rated sweet taste intensity and liking of the drinks. They were then asked to rank the seven drinks according to how much they liked the drinks and were offered ad libitum access to their favorite drink. In addition, they completed a computerized food preference task and completed an appetite questionnaire at the start, midway, and end of the test sessions. Results: Inhalation of the Cannabis preparations did not affect sweet taste intensity perception and liking, ranking order, or ad libitum consumption of the favorite drink. In addition, food preferences were not influenced by the interventions. Reported fullness was lower, whereas desire to eat was higher throughout the THC compared to the CBD condition. Conclusions: These results suggest that administration of Cannabis preparations at the low doses tested does not affect sweet taste intensity perception and liking, nor does it influence food preferences in humans.

Efficacy and tolerability of adding coenzyme A 400 U/d capsule to stable statin therapy for the treatment of patients with mixed dyslipidemia: an 8-week, multicenter, double-Blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Patients with mixed hyperlipidemia usually are in need of combination therapy to achieve low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride (TG) target values for reduction of cardiovascular risk. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of adding a new hypolipidemic agent, coenzyme A (CoA) to stable statin therapy in patients with mixed hyperlipidemia. Methods In this multi-center, 8-week, double-blind study, adults who had received ≥8 weeks of stable statin therapy and had hypertriglyceridemia (TG level at 2.3-6.5 mmol/L) were randomized to receive CoA 400 U/d or placebo plus stable dosage of statin. Efficacy was assessed by the changes in the levels and patterns of lipoproteins. Tolerability was assessed by the incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs). Results A total of 304 patients with mixed hyperlipidemia were randomized to receive CoA 400 U/d plus statin or placebo plus statin (n = 152, each group). After treatment for 8 weeks, the mean percent change in TG was significantly greater with CoA plus statin compared with placebo plus statin (-25.9% vs -4.9%, respectively; p = 0.0003). CoA plus statin was associated with significant reductions in TC (-9.1% vs -3.1%; p = 0.0033), LDL-C (-9.9% vs 0.1%; p = 0.003), and non- high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-13.5% vs -5.7%; p = 0.0039). There was no significant difference in the frequency of AEs between groups. No serious AEs were considered treatment related. Conclusions In these adult patients with persistent hypertriglyceridemia, CoA plus statin therapy improved TG and other lipoprotein parameters to a greater extent than statin alone and has no obviously adverse effect. Trial registration Current Controlled Trials ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT01928342. PMID:24382338

The Effect of Adding Magnesium Sulfate to Epidural Bupivacaine and Morphine on Post-Thoracotomy Pain Management: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Farzanegan, Behrooz; Zangi, Mahdi; Saeedi, Kimia; Khalili, Ali; Rajabi, Mehdi; Jahangirifard, Alireza; Emami, Habib; Ali Mahboobipour, Amir; Baniasadi, Shadi

2018-05-22

Post-thoracotomy pain is very severe and may cause pulmonary complications. Thoracic epidural analgesia can greatly decrease the pain experience and its consequences. However, finding new methods to decrease the amount of administered opioids is an important issue of research. We aimed to evaluate the effect of adding epidural magnesium sulfate to bupivacaine and morphine on pain control and the amount of opioid consumption after thoracotomy. Eighty patients undergoing thoracotomy at a tertiary cardiothoracic referral centre were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind trial. Patients were randomly allocated to two groups. Bupivacaine (12.5 mg) plus morphine (2 mg) were administered epidurally to all patients at the end of operation. Patients in magnesium (Mg) group received epidural magnesium sulfate (50 mg) and patients in control (C) group received normal saline as an adjuvant. Visual analogue scale (VAS) score and the amount of morphine consumption were measured during 24 hr post-operation. Thirty-nine patients in Mg group and 41 patients in C group completed the study. Patients in Mg group had significantly less VAS score at recovery time (p<0.05), 2 h (p<0.01) and 4 hr (p<0.05) after surgery. The patients-controlled analgesia pump was started earlier in C group than in Mg group (p< 0.05). The amount of morphine needed in Mg group was significantly lower than C group (5.64±1.69 mg/24 hr versus 8.44±3.98 mg/24 hr; P<0.001). Pruritus was seen in C group (9.7%) and absent in Mg group (p<0.05). Co-administration of magnesium sulfate with bupivacaine and morphine for thoracic epidural analgesia after thoracotomy leads to reduction in post-operative pain score and the need for opioid administration. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Single and double acquisition strategies for compensation of artifacts from eddy current and transient oscillation in balanced steady-state free precession.

PubMed

Lee, Hyun-Soo; Choi, Seung Hong; Park, Sung-Hong

2017-07-01

To develop single and double acquisition methods to compensate for artifacts from eddy currents and transient oscillations in balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) with centric phase-encoding (PE) order for magnetization-prepared bSSFP imaging. A single and four different double acquisition methods were developed and evaluated with Bloch equation simulations, phantom/in vivo experiments, and quantitative analyses. For the single acquisition method, multiple PE groups, each of which was composed of N linearly changing PE lines, were ordered in a pseudocentric manner for optimal contrast and minimal signal fluctuations. Double acquisition methods used complex averaging of two images that had opposite artifact patterns from different acquisition orders or from different numbers of dummy scans. Simulation results showed high sensitivity of eddy-current and transient-oscillation artifacts to off-resonance frequency and PE schemes. The artifacts were reduced with the PE-grouping with N values from 3 to 8, similar to or better than the conventional pairing scheme of N = 2. The proposed double acquisition methods removed the remaining artifacts significantly. The proposed methods conserved detailed structures in magnetization transfer imaging well, compared with the conventional methods. The proposed single and double acquisition methods can be useful for artifact-free magnetization-prepared bSSFP imaging with desired contrast and minimized dummy scans. Magn Reson Med 78:254-263, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Reducing under-reporting of stigmatized health events using the List Experiment: results from a randomized, population-based study of abortion in Liberia.

PubMed

Moseson, Heidi; Massaquoi, Moses; Dehlendorf, Christine; Bawo, Luke; Dahn, Bernice; Zolia, Yah; Vittinghoff, Eric; Hiatt, Robert A; Gerdts, Caitlin

2015-12-01

Direct measurement of sensitive health events is often limited by high levels of under-reporting due to stigma and concerns about privacy. Abortion in particular is notoriously difficult to measure. This study implements a novel method to estimate the cumulative lifetime incidence of induced abortion in Liberia. In a randomly selected sample of 3219 women ages 15–49 years in June 2013 in Liberia, we implemented the ‘Double List Experiment’. To measure abortion incidence, each woman was read two lists: (A) a list of non-sensitive items and (B) a list of correlated non-sensitive items with abortion added. The sensitive item, abortion, was randomly added to either List A or List B for each respondent. The respondent reported a simple count of the options on each list that she had experienced, without indicating which options. Difference in means calculations between the average counts for each list were then averaged to provide an estimate of the population proportion that has had an abortion. The list experiment estimates that 32% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.29-0.34) of respondents surveyed had ever had an abortion (26% of women in urban areas, and 36% of women in rural areas, P-value for difference < 0.001), with a 95% response rate. The list experiment generated an estimate five times greater than the only previous representative estimate of abortion in Liberia, indicating the potential utility of this method to reduce under-reporting in the measurement of abortion. The method could be widely applied to measure other stigmatized health topics, including sexual behaviours, sexual assault or domestic violence.

Comparison of gravimetric and a double-indicator dilution technique for assessment of extra-vascular lung water in endotoxaemia.

PubMed

Rossi, P; Oldner, A; Wanecek, M; Leksell, L G; Rudehill, A; Konrad, D; Weitzberg, E

2003-03-01

To compare a molecular double-indicator dilution technique with the gravimetrical reference method for measurement of extra-vascular lung water in porcine endotoxin shock. Open comparative experimental study. Animal research laboratory. In fourteen anaesthetised, mechanically ventilated landrace pigs, central and pulmonary haemodynamics as well as pulmonary gas exchange were measured. Extra-vascular lung water was quantitated gravimetrically as well as with a molecular double indicator dilution technique. Eight of these animals were subjected to endotoxaemia, the rest serving as sham controls. No difference in extra-vascular lung water was observed between the two methods in sham animals. Furthermore, extra-vascular lung water assessed with the molecular double-indicator dilution technique at the initiation of endotoxin infusion did not differ significantly from the corresponding values for sham animals. Endotoxaemia induced a hypodynamic shock with concurrent pulmonary hypertension and a pronounced deterioration in gas exchange. No increase in extra-vascular lung water was detected with the molecular double-indicator dilution technique in response to endotoxin, whereas this parameter was significantly higher when assessed with the gravimetric method. The molecular double-indicator dilution technique showed similar results as the gravimetrical method for assessment of extra-vascular lung water in non-endotoxaemic conditions. However, during endotoxin-induced lung injury the molecular double indicator dilution technique failed to detect the significant increase in extra-vascular lung water as measured by the gravimetric method. These data suggest that the molecular double indicator dilution technique may be of limited value during sepsis-induced lung injury.

Synaptic Changes in the Dentate Gyrus of APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice Revealed by Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Merino-Serrais, Paula; Gonzalez, Santiago; DeFelipe, Javier

2013-01-01

Abstract Numerous studies have reported widespread synaptic dysfunction or loss in early stages of both Alzheimer disease (AD) patients and animal models; it is widely accepted that synapse loss is the major structural correlate of cognitive dysfunction. Elucidation of the changes that may affect synapses is crucial for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms underlying AD, but ultrastructural preservation of human postmortem brain tissue is often poor, and classical methods for quantification of synapses have significant technical limitations. We previously observed changes in dendritic spines in plaque-free regions of the neuropil of the dentate gyrus of double-transgenic APP/PS1 (amyloid precursor protein/presenilin 1) model mice by light microscopy. Here, we used electron microscopy to examine possible synaptic alterations in this region. We used standard stereologic techniques to determine numbers of synapses per volume. We were able to reconstruct and analyze thousands of synapses and their 3-dimensional characteristics using a focused ion beam/scanning electron microscope and 3-dimensional reconstruction software (EspINA), which performs semiautomated segmentation of synapses. Our results show that both numbers of synapses per volume and synaptic morphology are affected in plaque-free regions of APP/PS1 mice. Therefore, changes in the number and morphology of synapses seem to be widespread alterations in this animal model. PMID:23584198

Epidural Dexamethasone for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Unilateral Inguinal Herniorrhaphy: A Comparative Study

PubMed Central

Razavizadeh, M. R.; Heydarian, N.; Atoof, F.

2017-01-01

Background. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of adding dexamethasone to epidural bupivacaine on postoperative analgesia in unilateral inguinal herniorrhaphy. Methods. Forty-four patients were enrolled in this double-blind, clinical trial study. Patients were randomly allocated into dexamethasone or control group. In the dexamethasone group, patients received 18 ml of bupivacaine 0.5% and 2 ml (8 mg) of dexamethasone; in the control group, patients received 18 ml of bupivacaine 0.5% and 2 ml of normal saline. The onset of sensory block and its duration and incidence of nausea and vomiting were recorded. Results. The onset of epidural anesthesia was significantly more rapid in the dexamethasone group than in the control group (P < 0.001). Duration of analgesia was markedly prolonged in the dexamethasone group than in the control group (P < 0.001). Five patients (22.7%) in the control group had nausea in the first hour after the procedure (P = 0.048). None of the patients in the dexamethasone group had nausea. None of our patients had vomiting in the two groups. Conclusions. This study showed that adding dexamethasone to bupivacaine significantly prolongs the duration of postoperative analgesia. This trial is registered with Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) number IRCT2012062910137N1. PMID:28348504

Computing Determinants by Double-Crossing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leggett, Deanna; Perry, John; Torrence, Eve

2011-01-01

Dodgson's method of computing determinants is attractive, but fails if an interior entry of an intermediate matrix is zero. This paper reviews Dodgson's method and introduces a generalization, the double-crossing method, that provides a workaround for many interesting cases.

Digital double random amplitude image encryption method based on the symmetry property of the parametric discrete Fourier transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bekkouche, Toufik; Bouguezel, Saad

2018-03-01

We propose a real-to-real image encryption method. It is a double random amplitude encryption method based on the parametric discrete Fourier transform coupled with chaotic maps to perform the scrambling. The main idea behind this method is the introduction of a complex-to-real conversion by exploiting the inherent symmetry property of the transform in the case of real-valued sequences. This conversion allows the encrypted image to be real-valued instead of being a complex-valued image as in all existing double random phase encryption methods. The advantage is to store or transmit only one image instead of two images (real and imaginary parts). Computer simulation results and comparisons with the existing double random amplitude encryption methods are provided for peak signal-to-noise ratio, correlation coefficient, histogram analysis, and key sensitivity.

Effective charges and virial pressure of concentrated macroion solutions

DOE PAGES

Boon, Niels; Guerrero-García, Guillermo Ivan; van Roij, René; ...

2015-07-13

The stability of colloidal suspensions is crucial in a wide variety of processes, including the fabrication of photonic materials and scaffolds for biological assemblies. The ionic strength of the electrolyte that suspends charged colloids is widely used to control the physical properties of colloidal suspensions. The extensively used two-body Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) approach allows for a quantitative analysis of the effective electrostatic forces between colloidal particles. DLVO relates the ionic double layers, which enclose the particles, to their effective electrostatic repulsion. Nevertheless, the double layer is distorted at high macroion volume fractions. Therefore, DLVO cannot describe the many-body effects that arisemore » in concentrated suspensions. In this paper, we show that this problem can be largely resolved by identifying effective point charges for the macroions using cell theory. This extrapolated point charge (EPC) method assigns effective point charges in a consistent way, taking into account the excluded volume of highly charged macroions at any concentration, and thereby naturally accounting for high volume fractions in both salt-free and added-salt conditions. We provide an analytical expression for the effective pair potential and validate the EPC method by comparing molecular dynamics simulations of macroions and monovalent microions that interact via Coulombic potentials to simulations of macroions interacting via the derived EPC effective potential. The simulations reproduce the macroion-macroion spatial correlation and the virial pressure obtained with the EPC model. Finally, our findings provide a route to relate the physical properties such as pressure in systems of screened Coulomb particles to experimental measurements.« less

Model-based economic evaluation in Alzheimer's disease: a review of the methods available to model Alzheimer's disease progression.

PubMed

Green, Colin; Shearer, James; Ritchie, Craig W; Zajicek, John P

2011-01-01

To consider the methods available to model Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression over time to inform on the structure and development of model-based evaluations, and the future direction of modelling methods in AD. A systematic search of the health care literature was undertaken to identify methods to model disease progression in AD. Modelling methods are presented in a descriptive review. The literature search identified 42 studies presenting methods or applications of methods to model AD progression over time. The review identified 10 general modelling frameworks available to empirically model the progression of AD as part of a model-based evaluation. Seven of these general models are statistical models predicting progression of AD using a measure of cognitive function. The main concerns with models are on model structure, around the limited characterization of disease progression, and on the use of a limited number of health states to capture events related to disease progression over time. None of the available models have been able to present a comprehensive model of the natural history of AD. Although helpful, there are serious limitations in the methods available to model progression of AD over time. Advances are needed to better model the progression of AD and the effects of the disease on peoples' lives. Recent evidence supports the need for a multivariable approach to the modelling of AD progression, and indicates that a latent variable analytic approach to characterising AD progression is a promising avenue for advances in the statistical development of modelling methods. Copyright © 2011 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Alzheimer's Prevention Education: If We Build It, Will They Come? www.AlzU.org.

PubMed

Isaacson, R S; Haynes, N; Seifan, A; Larsen, D; Christiansen, S; Berger, J C; Safdieh, J E; Lunde, A M; Luo, A; Kramps, M; McInnis, M; Ochner, C N

2014-01-01

Internet-based educational interventions may be useful for impacting knowledge and behavioral change. However, in AD prevention, little data exists about which educational tools work best in terms of learning and interest in participating in clinical trials. Primary: Assess effectiveness of interactive webinars vs. written blog-posts on AD prevention learning. Secondary: Evaluate the effect of AD prevention education on interest in participating in clinical trials; Assess usability of, and user perceptions about, an online AD education research platform; Classify target populations (demographics, learning needs, interests). Observational. Online. Men/Women, aged 25+, recruited via facebook.com. Alzheimer's Universe (www.AlzU.org) education research platform. Pre/post-test performance, self-reported Likert-scale ratings, completion rates. Over two-weeks, 4268 visits were generated. 503 signed-up for a user account (11.8% join rate), 196 participated in the lessons (39.0%) and 100 completed all beta-testing steps (19.9%). Users randomized to webinar instruction about AD prevention and the stages of AD demonstrated significant increases (p=0.01) in pre vs. post-testing scores compared to blog-post intervention. Upon joining, 42% were interested in participating in a clinical trial in AD prevention. After completing all beta-test activities, interest increased to 86%. Users were primarily women and the largest category was children of AD patients. 66.3% joined to learn more about AD prevention, 65.3% to learn more about AD treatment. Webinar-based education led to significant improvements in learning about AD prevention and the stages of AD. AlzU.org participation more than doubled interest in AD prevention clinical trial participation. Subjects were quickly and cost-effectively recruited, and highly satisfied with the AD education research platform. Based on these data, we will further refine AlzU.org prior to public launch and aim to study the effectiveness of 25 interactive webinar-based vs. blog-post style lessons on learning and patient outcomes, in a randomized, within-subjects design trial.

Stability of double-row rotator cuff repair is not adversely affected by scaffold interposition between tendon and bone.

PubMed

Beitzel, Knut; Chowaniec, David M; McCarthy, Mary Beth; Cote, Mark P; Russell, Ryan P; Obopilwe, Elifho; Imhoff, Andreas B; Arciero, Robert A; Mazzocca, Augustus D

2012-05-01

Rotator cuff reconstructions may be improved by adding growth factors, cells, or other biologic factors into the repair zone. This usually requires a biological carrier (scaffold) to be integrated into the construct and placed in the area of tendon-to-bone healing. This needs to be done without affecting the constructs mechanics. Hypothesis/ The hypothesis was that scaffold placement, as an interposition, has no adverse effects on biomechanical properties of double-row rotator cuff repair. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of scaffold interposition on the initial strength of rotator cuff repairs. Controlled laboratory study. Twenty-five fresh-frozen shoulders (mean age: 65.5 ± 8.9 years) were randomly assigned to 5 groups. Groups were chosen to represent a broad spectrum of commonly used scaffold types: (1) double-row repair without augmentation, (2) double-row repair with interposition of a fibrin clot (Viscogel), (3) double-row repair with interposition of a collagen scaffold (Mucograft) between tendon and bone, (4) double-row repair with interposition of human dermis patch (ArthroFlex) between tendon and bone, and (5) double-row repair with human dermis patch (ArthroFlex) placed on top of the repair. Cyclic loading to measure displacement was performed to 3000 cycles at 1 Hz with an applied 10- to 100-N load. The ultimate load to failure was determined at a rate of 31 mm/min. There were no significant differences in mean displacement under cyclic loading, slope, or energy absorbed to failure between all groups (P = .128, P = .981, P = .105). Ultimate load to failure of repairs that used the collagen patch as an interposition (573.3 ± 75.6 N) and a dermis patch on top of the reconstruction (575.8 ± 22.6 N) was higher compared with the repair without a scaffold (348.9 ± 98.8 N; P = .018 and P = .025). No significant differences were found for repairs with the fibrin clot as an interposition (426.9 ± 103.6 N) and the decellularized dermis patch as an interposition (469.9 ± 148.6 N; P = .73 and P = .35). Scaffold augmentation did not adversely affect the zero time strength of the tested standard double-row rotator cuff repairs. An increased ultimate load to failure was observed for 2 of the augmentation methods (collagen patch as an interposition and decellularized dermis patch on top of the reconstruction) compared with the nonaugmented repairs. Scaffolds intended for application of growth factors or cellular components in a repair situation did not adversely jeopardize the stability of the operative construct.

Development and interval testing of a naturalistic driving methodology to evaluate driving behavior in clinical research.

PubMed

Babulal, Ganesh M; Addison, Aaron; Ghoshal, Nupur; Stout, Sarah H; Vernon, Elizabeth K; Sellan, Mark; Roe, Catherine M

2016-01-01

Background : The number of older adults in the United States will double by 2056. Additionally, the number of licensed drivers will increase along with extended driving-life expectancy. Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury and death in older adults. Alzheimer's disease (AD) also negatively impacts driving ability and increases crash risk. Conventional methods to evaluate driving ability are limited in predicting decline among older adults. Innovations in GPS hardware and software can monitor driving behavior in the actual environments people drive in. Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices are affordable, easy to install and capture large volumes of data in real-time. However, adapting these methodologies for research can be challenging. This study sought to adapt a COTS device and determine an interval that produced accurate data on the actual route driven for use in future studies involving older adults with and without AD.  Methods : Three subjects drove a single course in different vehicles at different intervals (30, 60 and 120 seconds), at different times of day, morning (9:00-11:59AM), afternoon (2:00-5:00PM) and night (7:00-10pm). The nine datasets were examined to determine the optimal collection interval. Results : Compared to the 120-second and 60-second intervals, the 30-second interval was optimal in capturing the actual route driven along with the lowest number of incorrect paths and affordability weighing considerations for data storage and curation. Discussion : Use of COTS devices offers minimal installation efforts, unobtrusive monitoring and discreet data extraction.  However, these devices require strict protocols and controlled testing for adoption into research paradigms.  After reliability and validity testing, these devices may provide valuable insight into daily driving behaviors and intraindividual change over time for populations of older adults with and without AD.  Data can be aggregated over time to look at changes or adverse events and ascertain if decline in performance is occurring.

The efficacy of using computer-aided detection (CAD) for detection of breast cancer in mammography screening: a systematic review.

PubMed

Henriksen, Emilie L; Carlsen, Jonathan F; Vejborg, Ilse Mm; Nielsen, Michael B; Lauridsen, Carsten A

2018-01-01

Background Early detection of breast cancer (BC) is crucial in lowering the mortality. Purpose To present an overview of studies concerning computer-aided detection (CAD) in screening mammography for early detection of BC and compare diagnostic accuracy and recall rates (RR) of single reading (SR) with SR + CAD and double reading (DR) with SR + CAD. Material and Methods PRISMA guidelines were used as a review protocol. Articles on clinical trials concerning CAD for detection of BC in a screening population were included. The literature search resulted in 1522 records. A total of 1491 records were excluded by abstract and 18 were excluded by full text reading. A total of 13 articles were included. Results All but two studies from the SR vs. SR + CAD group showed an increased sensitivity and/or cancer detection rate (CDR) when adding CAD. The DR vs. SR + CAD group showed no significant differences in sensitivity and CDR. Adding CAD to SR increased the RR and decreased the specificity in all but one study. For the DR vs. SR + CAD group only one study reported a significant difference in RR. Conclusion All but two studies showed an increase in RR, sensitivity and CDR when adding CAD to SR. Compared to DR no statistically significant differences in sensitivity or CDR were reported. Additional studies based on organized population-based screening programs, with longer follow-up time, high-volume readers, and digital mammography are needed to evaluate the efficacy of CAD.

Magnetoencephalography for the Detection of Intervention Effects of a Specific Nutrient Combination in Patients with Mild Alzheimer’s Disease: Results from an Exploratory Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study

PubMed Central

van Straaten, Elisabeth C. W.; de Waal, Hanneke; Lansbergen, Marieke M.; Scheltens, Philip; Maestu, Fernando; Nowak, Rafal; Hillebrand, Arjan; Stam, Cornelis J.

2016-01-01

Synaptic loss is an early pathological finding in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and correlates with memory impairment. Changes in macroscopic brain activity measured with electro- and magnetoencephalography (EEG and MEG) in AD indicate synaptic changes and may therefore serve as markers of intervention effects in clinical trials. EEG peak frequency and functional networks have shown, in addition to improved memory performance, to be sensitive to detect an intervention effect in mild AD patients of the medical food Souvenaid containing the specific nutrient combination Fortasyn® Connect, which is designed to enhance synapse formation and function. Here, we explore the value of MEG, with higher spatial resolution than EEG, in identifying intervention effects of the nutrient combination by comparing MEG spectral measures, functional connectivity, and networks between an intervention and a control group. Quantitative markers describing spectral properties, functional connectivity, and graph theoretical aspects of MEG from the exploratory 24-week, double-blind, randomized, controlled Souvenir II MEG sub-study (NTR1975, http://www.trialregister.nl) in drug naïve patients with mild AD were compared between a test group (n = 27), receiving Souvenaid, and a control group (n = 28), receiving an isocaloric control product. The groups were unbalanced at screening with respect to Mini-Mental State Examination. Peak frequencies of MEG were compared with EEG peak frequencies, recorded in the same patients at similar time points, were compared with respect to sensitivity to intervention effects. No consistent statistically significant intervention effects were detected. In addition, we found no difference in sensitivity between MEG and EEG peak frequency. This exploratory study could not unequivocally establish the value of MEG in detecting interventional effects on brain activity, possibly due to small sample size and unbalanced study groups. We found no indication that the difference could be attributed to a lack of sensitivity of MEG compared with EEG. MEG in randomized controlled trials is feasible but its value to disclose intervention effects of Souvenaid in mild AD patients needs to be studied further. PMID:27799918

Magnetoencephalography for the Detection of Intervention Effects of a Specific Nutrient Combination in Patients with Mild Alzheimer's Disease: Results from an Exploratory Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study.

PubMed

van Straaten, Elisabeth C W; de Waal, Hanneke; Lansbergen, Marieke M; Scheltens, Philip; Maestu, Fernando; Nowak, Rafal; Hillebrand, Arjan; Stam, Cornelis J

2016-01-01

Synaptic loss is an early pathological finding in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and correlates with memory impairment. Changes in macroscopic brain activity measured with electro- and magnetoencephalography (EEG and MEG) in AD indicate synaptic changes and may therefore serve as markers of intervention effects in clinical trials. EEG peak frequency and functional networks have shown, in addition to improved memory performance, to be sensitive to detect an intervention effect in mild AD patients of the medical food Souvenaid containing the specific nutrient combination Fortasyn ® Connect, which is designed to enhance synapse formation and function. Here, we explore the value of MEG, with higher spatial resolution than EEG, in identifying intervention effects of the nutrient combination by comparing MEG spectral measures, functional connectivity, and networks between an intervention and a control group. Quantitative markers describing spectral properties, functional connectivity, and graph theoretical aspects of MEG from the exploratory 24-week, double-blind, randomized, controlled Souvenir II MEG sub-study (NTR1975, http://www.trialregister.nl) in drug naïve patients with mild AD were compared between a test group ( n  = 27), receiving Souvenaid, and a control group ( n  = 28), receiving an isocaloric control product. The groups were unbalanced at screening with respect to Mini-Mental State Examination. Peak frequencies of MEG were compared with EEG peak frequencies, recorded in the same patients at similar time points, were compared with respect to sensitivity to intervention effects. No consistent statistically significant intervention effects were detected. In addition, we found no difference in sensitivity between MEG and EEG peak frequency. This exploratory study could not unequivocally establish the value of MEG in detecting interventional effects on brain activity, possibly due to small sample size and unbalanced study groups. We found no indication that the difference could be attributed to a lack of sensitivity of MEG compared with EEG. MEG in randomized controlled trials is feasible but its value to disclose intervention effects of Souvenaid in mild AD patients needs to be studied further.

A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled withdrawal trial comparing memantine and antipsychotics for the long-term treatment of function and neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with Alzheimer's disease (MAIN-AD).

PubMed

Ballard, Clive; Thomas, Alan; Gerry, Stephen; Yu, Ly-Mee; Aarsland, Dag; Merritt, Claire; Corbett, Anne; Davison, Christopher; Sharma, Narenda; Khan, Zunera; Creese, Byron; Loughlin, Paul; Bannister, Carol; Burns, Alistair; Win, Soe Nyunt; Walker, Zuzana

2015-04-01

Neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer disease (AD) cause significant distress and present a complex clinical challenge for treatment. Pharmacological treatment options are limited to antipsychotics, which carry extensive safety issues. There is emerging evidence to support the potential benefits of memantine, currently licensed for moderate to severe AD, in the prophylaxis of neuropsychiatric symptoms. The MAIN-AD study is a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled withdrawal trial comparing memantine with antipsychotics for the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms over 24 weeks. A total of 199 people with probable AD living in care homes already receiving an antipsychotic were randomized to receive either memantine or to continue an antipsychotic. The primary outcomes were function (Bristol Activities of Daily Living Scale [BADLS]) and agitation (Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory [CMAI]). Secondary outcomes were Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and mortality. There was no significant difference between groups on the BADLS or CMAI. At 24 weeks, there was a nonsignificant adjusted difference in favor of memantine on the BADLS of 0.23 (95% CI -1.80-2.27; P = .82) and in favor of antipsychotic on the CMAI of 0.09 (95% CI -0.35-8.53; P = .07). Although there were no significant differences in total NPI, there were 5.01 (95% CI -1.68-11.70; P = .05) and 3.63 (95% CI -1.40-8.67; P = .16) point advantages favoring antipsychotics at weeks 12 and 24, respectively. In addition, in an exploratory analysis, individuals allocated to antipsychotics were significantly less likely to experience relapse of neuropsychiatric symptoms at all time points. The group receiving memantine had a nonsignificant 1.3-point advantage on the MMSE at 24 weeks. This study indicates no benefits for memantine in the long-term treatment and prophylaxis of clinically significant neuropsychiatric symptoms. The results did indicate some benefits for antipsychotic medications in reducing the relapse of neuropsychiatric symptoms, but this must be balanced against increased mortality risk. Copyright © 2015 AMDA – The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Covalency and the metal-insulator transition in titanate and vanadate perovskites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dang, Hung T.; Millis, Andrew J.; Marianetti, Chris A.

2014-04-01

A combination of density functional and dynamical mean-field theory is applied to the perovskites SrVO3, LaTiO3, and LaVO3. We show that DFT + DMFT in conjunction with the standard fully localized-limit (FLL) double-counting predicts that LaTiO3 and LaVO3 are metals even though experimentally they are correlation-driven ("Mott") insulators. In addition, the FLL double counting implies a splitting between oxygen p and transition metal d levels, which differs from experiment. Introducing into the theory an ad hoc double counting correction, which reproduces the experimentally measured insulating gap leads also to a p-d splitting consistent with experiment if the on-site interaction U is chosen in a relatively narrow range (˜6±1 eV). The results indicate that these early transition metal oxides will serve as critical test for the formulation of a general ab initio theory of correlated electron metals.

Impairments of long-term depression induction and motor coordination precede Aβ accumulation in the cerebellum of APPswe/PS1dE9 double transgenic mice.

PubMed

Kuwabara, Yuki; Ishizeki, Masato; Watamura, Naoto; Toba, Junya; Yoshii, Aya; Inoue, Takafumi; Ohshima, Toshio

2014-08-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that represents the most common type of dementia among elderly people. Amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides in extracellular Aβ plaques, produced from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) via sequential processing by β- and γ-secretases, impair hippocampal synaptic plasticity, and cause cognitive dysfunction in AD patients. Here, we report that Aβ peptides also impair another form of synaptic plasticity; cerebellar long-term depression (LTD). In the cerebellum of commonly used AD mouse model, APPswe/PS1dE9 mice, Aβ plaques were detected from 8 months and profound accumulation of Aβ plaques was observed at 18 onths of age. Biochemical analysis revealed relatively high levels of APP protein and Aβ in the cerebellum of APPswe/PS1dE9 mice. At pre-Aβ accumulation stage, LTD induction, and motor coordination are disturbed. These results indicate that soluble Aβ oligomers disturb LTD induction and cerebellar function in AD mouse model. © 2014 International Society for Neurochemistry.

Sequential batch thermophilic solid-state anaerobic digestion of lignocellulosic biomass via recirculating digestate as inoculum - Part II: Microbial diversity and succession.

PubMed

Lin, Long; Yu, Zhongtang; Li, Yebo

2017-10-01

This study aimed to investigate the effect of recirculation of digestate as inoculum on the microbial communities in thermophilic solid-state anaerobic digestion (SS-AD) of yard trimmings. The SS-AD consisted of 4 consecutive runs (30days/run), with digestate from the previous run being used as the inoculum of the subsequent run. Bacterial and archaeal communities (day 0, 4, 8, 12, 20, and 30) were examined using Illumina sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. The results revealed substantial microbial succession toward increased diversity until run 3. The proportions of Firmicutes that contained cellulolytic bacteria doubled, which might explain the concomitantly increased cellulose degradation and volatile fatty acids (VFAs). Clostridia and Thermotogae appeared to correlate with VFAs. The VFA accumulation likely induced dynamic shifts of methanogens, particularly to hydrogenotrophic Methanothermobacter, implying that non-acetoclastic oxidative pathway dominated during the steady-state thermophilic SS-AD. This study suggested that recirculating SS-AD digestate might be an effective way for inoculation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ketogenic Medium Chain Triglycerides Increase Brain Energy Metabolism in Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Croteau, Etienne; Castellano, Christian-Alexandre; Richard, Marie Anne; Fortier, Mélanie; Nugent, Scott; Lepage, Martin; Duchesne, Simon; Whittingstall, Kevin; Turcotte, Éric E; Bocti, Christian; Fülöp, Tamàs; Cunnane, Stephen C

2018-06-09

In Alzheimer's disease (AD), it is unknown whether the brain can utilize additional ketones as fuel when they are derived from a medium chain triglyceride (MCT) supplement. To assess whether brain ketone uptake in AD increases in response to MCT as it would in young healthy adults. Mild-moderate AD patients sequentially consumed 30 g/d of two different MCT supplements, both for one month: a mixture of caprylic (55%) and capric acids (35%) (n = 11), followed by a wash-out and then tricaprylin (95%; n = 6). Brain ketone (11C-acetoacetate) and glucose (FDG) uptake were quantified by PET before and after each MCT intervention. Brain ketone consumption doubled on both types of MCT supplement. The slope of the relationship between plasma ketones and brain ketone uptake was the same as in healthy young adults. Both types of MCT increased total brain energy metabolism by increasing ketone supply without affecting brain glucose utilization. Ketones from MCT compensate for the brain glucose deficit in AD in direct proportion to the level of plasma ketones achieved.

RT DDA: A hybrid method for predicting the scattering properties by densely packed media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramezan Pour, B.; Mackowski, D.

2017-12-01

The most accurate approaches to predicting the scattering properties of particulate media are based on exact solutions of the Maxwell's equations (MEs), such as the T-matrix and discrete dipole methods. Applying these techniques for optically thick targets is challenging problem due to the large-scale computations and are usually substituted by phenomenological radiative transfer (RT) methods. On the other hand, the RT technique is of questionable validity in media with large particle packing densities. In recent works, we used numerically exact ME solvers to examine the effects of particle concentration on the polarized reflection properties of plane parallel random media. The simulations were performed for plane parallel layers of wavelength-sized spherical particles, and results were compared with RT predictions. We have shown that RTE results monotonically converge to the exact solution as the particle volume fraction becomes smaller and one can observe a nearly perfect fit for packing densities of 2%-5%. This study describes the hybrid technique composed of exact and numerical scalar RT methods. The exact methodology in this work is the plane parallel discrete dipole approximation whereas the numerical method is based on the adding and doubling method. This approach not only decreases the computational time owing to the RT method but also includes the interference and multiple scattering effects, so it may be applicable to large particle density conditions.

[Therapy of organic brain syndrome with nicergoline given once a day].

PubMed

Ladurner, G; Erhart, P; Erhart, C; Scheiber, V

1991-01-01

In a double-blind, active-controlled study 30 patients with mild to moderate multiinfarct dementia diagnosed according to DSM III definition were treated by either 20 mg nicergoline or 4.5 mg co-dergocrine mesilate once daily during eight weeks. Therapeutic effects on symptoms of the organic brain syndrome were quantitatively measured by standardized psychological and psychometric methods evaluating cognitive and thymopsychic functions. Main criteria, which were tested by inferential analysis, were SCAG total score (Sandoz Clinical Assessment Geriatric Scale), SCAG overall impression and the AD Test (alphabetischer Durchstreichtest). Other results were assessed by descriptive statistics. Both treatments resulted in a statistically significant improvement in most of the tested functions. The effects of 4.5 mg co-dergocrine mesilate s.i.d. were in accordance with published results. Although differing slightly with respect to individual results 20 mg of nicergoline once daily showed the same efficacy on the whole.

Radio jet refraction in galactic atmospheres with static pressure gradients

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henriksen, R. N.; Vallee, J. P.; Bridle, A. H.

1981-01-01

A theory of double radio sources which have a 'Z' or 'S' morphology is proposed, based on the refraction of radio jets in the extended atmosphere of an elliptical galaxy. The model describes a collimated jet of supersonic material bending self-consistently under the influence of external static pressure gradients. Gravity and magnetic fields are neglected in the simplest case except insofar as they determine the static pressure distribution. The calculation is a straightforward extension of a method used to calculate a ram-pressure model for twin radio trails ('C' morphology). It may also be described as a continuous-jet version of a buoyancy model proposed in 1973. The model has the added virtue of invoking a galactic atmosphere similar to those already indicated by X-ray measurements of some other radio galaxies and by models for the collimation of other radio jets.

Resonant tunneling device with two-dimensional quantum well emitter and base layers

DOEpatents

Simmons, J.A.; Sherwin, M.E.; Drummond, T.J.; Weckwerth, M.V.

1998-10-20

A double electron layer tunneling device is presented. Electrons tunnel from a two dimensional emitter layer to a two dimensional tunneling layer and continue traveling to a collector at a lower voltage. The emitter layer is interrupted by an isolation etch, a depletion gate, or an ion implant to prevent electrons from traveling from the source along the emitter to the drain. The collector is similarly interrupted by a backgate, an isolation etch, or an ion implant. When the device is used as a transistor, a control gate is added to control the allowed energy states of the emitter layer. The tunnel gate may be recessed to change the operating range of the device and allow for integrated complementary devices. Methods of forming the device are also set forth, utilizing epoxy-bond and stop etch (EBASE), pre-growth implantation of the backgate or post-growth implantation. 43 figs.

Resonant tunneling device with two-dimensional quantum well emitter and base layers

DOEpatents

Simmons, Jerry A.; Sherwin, Marc E.; Drummond, Timothy J.; Weckwerth, Mark V.

1998-01-01

A double electron layer tunneling device is presented. Electrons tunnel from a two dimensional emitter layer to a two dimensional tunneling layer and continue traveling to a collector at a lower voltage. The emitter layer is interrupted by an isolation etch, a depletion gate, or an ion implant to prevent electrons from traveling from the source along the emitter to the drain. The collector is similarly interrupted by a backgate, an isolation etch, or an ion implant. When the device is used as a transistor, a control gate is added to control the allowed energy states of the emitter layer. The tunnel gate may be recessed to change the operating range of the device and allow for integrated complementary devices. Methods of forming the device are also set forth, utilizing epoxy-bond and stop etch (EBASE), pre-growth implantation of the backgate or post-growth implantation.

Identifying fMRI Model Violations with Lagrange Multiplier Tests

PubMed Central

Cassidy, Ben; Long, Christopher J; Rae, Caroline; Solo, Victor

2013-01-01

The standard modeling framework in Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is predicated on assumptions of linearity, time invariance and stationarity. These assumptions are rarely checked because doing so requires specialised software, although failure to do so can lead to bias and mistaken inference. Identifying model violations is an essential but largely neglected step in standard fMRI data analysis. Using Lagrange Multiplier testing methods we have developed simple and efficient procedures for detecting model violations such as non-linearity, non-stationarity and validity of the common Double Gamma specification for hemodynamic response. These procedures are computationally cheap and can easily be added to a conventional analysis. The test statistic is calculated at each voxel and displayed as a spatial anomaly map which shows regions where a model is violated. The methodology is illustrated with a large number of real data examples. PMID:22542665

Computational aerodynamics requirements: The future role of the computer and the needs of the aerospace industry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rubbert, P. E.

1978-01-01

The commercial airplane builder's viewpoint on the important issues involved in the development of improved computational aerodynamics tools such as powerful computers optimized for fluid flow problems is presented. The primary user of computational aerodynamics in a commercial aircraft company is the design engineer who is concerned with solving practical engineering problems. From his viewpoint, the development of program interfaces and pre-and post-processing capability for new computational methods is just as important as the algorithms and machine architecture. As more and more details of the entire flow field are computed, the visibility of the output data becomes a major problem which is then doubled when a design capability is added. The user must be able to see, understand, and interpret the results calculated. Enormous costs are expanded because of the need to work with programs having only primitive user interfaces.

Added sugar intake in South Africa: findings from the Adult Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology cohort study.

PubMed

Vorster, Hester H; Kruger, Annamarie; Wentzel-Viljoen, Edelweiss; Kruger, H Salome; Margetts, Barrie M

2014-06-01

Obesity and other noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors are increasing in low- and middle-income countries. There are few data on the association between increased added sugar intake and NCD risk in these countries. We assessed the relation between added sugar intake and NCD risk factors in an African cohort study. Added sugars were defined as all monosaccharides and disaccharides added to foods and beverages during processing, cooking, and at the table. We conducted a 5-y follow-up of a cohort of 2010 urban and rural men and women aged 30-70 y of age at recruitment in 2005 from the North West Province in South Africa. Added sugar intake, particularly in rural areas, has increased rapidly in the past 5 y. In rural areas, the proportion of adults who consumed sucrose-sweetened beverages approximately doubled (for men, from 25% to 56%; for women, from 33% to 63%) in the past 5 y. After adjustment, subjects who consumed more added sugars (≥10% energy from added sugars) compared with those who consumed less added sugars had a higher waist circumference [mean difference (95% CI): 1.07 cm (0.35, 1.79 cm)] and body mass index (in kg/m²) [0.43 (0.12, 0.74)] and lower HDL cholesterol [-0.08 mmol/L (-0.14, 0.002 mmol/L)]. This cohort showed dramatic increases in added sugars and sucrose-sweetened beverage consumption in both urban and rural areas. Increased consumption was associated with increased NCD risk factors. In addition, the study showed that the nutrition transition has reached a remote rural area in South Africa. Urgent action is needed to address these trends. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

Deformation effect simulation and optimization for double front axle steering mechanism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jungang; Zhang, Siqin; Yang, Qinglong

2013-03-01

This paper research on tire wear problem of heavy vehicles with Double Front Axle Steering Mechanism from the flexible effect of Steering Mechanism, and proposes a structural optimization method which use both traditional static structural theory and dynamic structure theory - Equivalent Static Load (ESL) method to optimize key parts. The good simulated and test results show this method has high engineering practice and reference value for tire wear problem of Double Front Axle Steering Mechanism design.

Cesium Platinide Hydride 4Cs 2 Pt-CsH: An Intermetallic Double Salt Featuring Metal Anions

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

Smetana, Volodymyr; Mudring, Anja-Verena

2016-10-24

With Cs9Pt4H a new representative of ionic compounds featuring metal anions can be added to this rare-membered family. Cs 9Pt 4H exhibits a complex crystal structure containing Cs + cations, Pt 2- and H - anions. Being a red, transparent compound its band gap is in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum and the ionic type of bonding is confirmed by quantum chemical calculations. This cesium platinide hydride can formally be considered as a double salt of the “alloy” cesium–platinum, or better cesium platinide, Cs2Pt, and the salt cesium hydride CsH according to Cs 9Pt 4H≡4 Cs 2Pt∙CsH.

Low Reynolds number numerical solutions of chaotic flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pulliam, Thomas H.

1989-01-01

Numerical computations of two-dimensional flow past an airfoil at low Mach number, large angle of attack, and low Reynolds number are reported which show a sequence of flow states leading from single-period vortex shedding to chaos via the period-doubling mechanism. Analysis of the flow in terms of phase diagrams, Poincare sections, and flowfield variables are used to substantiate these results. The critical Reynolds number for the period-doubling bifurcations is shown to be sensitive to mesh refinement and the influence of large amounts of numerical dissipation. In extreme cases, large amounts of added dissipation can delay or completely eliminate the chaotic response. The effect of artificial dissipation at these low Reynolds numbers is to produce a new effective Reynolds number for the computations.

Characterization of geostationary particle signatures based on the 'injection boundary' model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mauk, B. H.; Meng, C.-I.

1983-01-01

A simplified analytical procedure is used to characterize the details of geostationary particle signatures, in order to lend support to the 'injection boundary' concept. The signatures are generated by the time-of-flight effects evolving from an initial sharply defined, double spiraled boundary configuration. Complex and highly variable dispersion patterns often observed by geostationary satellites are successfully reproduced through the exclusive use of the most fundamental convection configuration characteristics. Many of the details of the patterns have not been previously presented. It is concluded that most of the dynamical dispersion features can be mapped to the double spiral boundary without further ad hoc assumptions, and that predicted and observed dispersion patterns exhibit symmetries distinct from those associated with the quasi-stationary particle convection patterns.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of resveratrol for Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Turner, R Scott; Thomas, Ronald G; Craft, Suzanne; van Dyck, Christopher H; Mintzer, Jacobo; Reynolds, Brigid A; Brewer, James B; Rissman, Robert A; Raman, Rema; Aisen, Paul S

2015-10-20

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter 52-week phase 2 trial of resveratrol in individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease (AD) examined its safety and tolerability and effects on biomarker (plasma Aβ40 and Aβ42, CSF Aβ40, Aβ42, tau, and phospho-tau 181) and volumetric MRI outcomes (primary outcomes) and clinical outcomes (secondary outcomes). Participants (n = 119) were randomized to placebo or resveratrol 500 mg orally once daily (with dose escalation by 500-mg increments every 13 weeks, ending with 1,000 mg twice daily). Brain MRI and CSF collection were performed at baseline and after completion of treatment. Detailed pharmacokinetics were performed on a subset (n = 15) at baseline and weeks 13, 26, 39, and 52. Resveratrol and its major metabolites were measurable in plasma and CSF. The most common adverse events were nausea, diarrhea, and weight loss. CSF Aβ40 and plasma Aβ40 levels declined more in the placebo group than the resveratrol-treated group, resulting in a significant difference at week 52. Brain volume loss was increased by resveratrol treatment compared to placebo. Resveratrol was safe and well-tolerated. Resveratrol and its major metabolites penetrated the blood-brain barrier to have CNS effects. Further studies are required to interpret the biomarker changes associated with resveratrol treatment. This study provides Class II evidence that for patients with AD resveratrol is safe, well-tolerated, and alters some AD biomarker trajectories. The study is rated Class II because more than 2 primary outcomes were designated. © 2015 American Academy of Neurology.

Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled pilot study on the effects of topical blackcurrant emulsion enriched in essential fatty acids, ceramides and 18-beta glycyrrhetinic acid on clinical signs and skin barrier function in dogs with atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Marsella, Rosanna; Cornegliani, Luisa; Ozmen, Ibrahim; Bohannon, Mary; Ahrens, Kim; Santoro, Domenico

2017-12-01

Lipid-based emulsions can be useful for the management of canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). 18-beta glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA), a component of liquorice root, has anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic effects. To evaluate the effects of a topical lipid emulsion containing ceramides, fatty acids and GRA on clinical signs of cAD and skin barrier in a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Client owned (n = 45) dogs with nonseasonal, mild/moderate AD, received either treatment or placebo for three months. Skin lesions, pruritus, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and global assessment (GA) were evaluated. Fourteen dogs receiving treatment and 14 receiving the placebo completed the study. After one month ≥50% reduction in pruritus was seen in seven of 14 dogs (50%) in the Treatment group, and in two of 14 dogs (14.3%) in the Control group (P = 0.047). After two and three months, significant reduction in pruritus was not seen. For Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI), TEWL and GA, there were no significant findings over time or between groups. The emulsion had some transient beneficial clinical effects. However, it was not effective in controlling pruritus as a monotherapy. Further studies should examine whether owner compliance was a factor in the steady decline of effect on pruritus scores. Further studies evaluating its role as an adjunctive therapy are indicated. © 2017 ESVD and ACVD.

Reductive amination of aldehyde 2,4-dinitorophenylhydrazones using 2-picoline borane and high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis.

PubMed

Uchiyama, Shigehisa; Inaba, Yohei; Matsumoto, Mariko; Suzuki, Gen

2009-01-01

A new method for the determination of carbonyls in air using 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) has been developed. The traditional method for the measurement of carbonyl compounds, using DNPH to form the corresponding 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone (DNPhydrazone) derivatives, is subject to analytical errors because DNPhydrazones form both E- and Z-geometrical isomers as a result of the C=N double bond. To overcome this issue, a method for transforming the C=N double bond into a C-N single bond, using reductive amination of DNPhydrazone derivatives, has been developed. Reductive amination of aldehyde DNPhydrazones was carried out by adding 2-picoline borane acetonitrile solution in eluate through the DNPH-cartridge. The amination reactions of C(1)-C(10) aldehyde DNPhydrazones were completely converted into the reduced forms within 40 min in the presence of 1 mmol/L 2-picoline borane and 20 mmol/L of phosphoric acid. These reduced forms were very stable and did not change when stored for 2 weeks at room temperature. The absorption maximum wavelengths of the reduced forms from C(1)-C(10) aldehyde DNPhydrazones were 351-352 nm and shifted 6-7 nm toward shorter wavelengths when compared to the corresponding DNPhydrazones, and the molar absorption coefficients were 1.5 x 10(4) (C(1)) to 2.2 x 10(4) L/mol/cm (C(10)). Complete separation between C(1)-C(10) aldehyde DNPhydrazones and the corresponding reduced forms can be achieved by operating the HPLC in gradient mode using an Ascentis RP-Amide column (150 mm x 4.6 mm i.d.). The RSDs of DNPhydrazone (Z + E) peak areas ranged from 0.40-0.66 and those of the corresponding reduced forms ranged from 0.26-0.41. It was shown that the reductive amination method gave improved HPLC analytical precision because of the absence of isomers.

Online media report on a Hungarian double suicide case: comparison of consecutively published articles.

PubMed

Balázs, Judit; Keresztény, Agnes; Pelbát, Gergely; Sinka, Lea; Szilvás, Fanni; Torzsa, Tímea

2013-09-01

Certain types of news coverage can increase the likelihood of suicide. This study explores, how media covered a suicide case in a country, where there was no available guideline, though it was among the leading countries in suicide statistics. The specific aim was to compare the first and second waves of reporting on suicide from the same website. In 2011, two young women committed double suicide in Budapest, Hungary. We analyzed the first and second waves of the reported articles about this double suicide case, in online daily newspapers, news portals and also the readers' comments. Provocative aspects were present in 38.9-100.0% of the articles, while preventive aspects were found in 0-22.2% of the articles. Readers commented in 49.6% "Other Aspects" (comments about all other aspects not belonging to any other category, i.e. Risk Behavior, Family Relations, Suicide Place and Methods, Prevention, Media Style Reporting) and in 25.4% "Without Content" (comments without a specific content: e.g. chatting), while "Prevention" (comments about possible safety preventive measures) was mentioned only in 1.5% of the comments. In 34.1% the emotional tonality of the comments was "Neutral" (indifferent comments: e.g. chatting). Though articles published for the second time were significantly longer than the firstly published ones, the preventive aspects of reporting were not added to the second articles either, but significantly more provocative aspects were found in them. The suicide reports, both in the first and second waves of reporting, were not in line with the recommendation of the international guidelines on suicide reporting. It draws the attention of professionals to the importance of developing national guidelines on media suicide coverage.

Maintaining Limited-Range Connectivity Among Second-Order Agents

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-07

we consider ad-hoc networks of robotic agents with double integrator dynamics. For such networks, the connectivity maintenance problems are: (i) do...hoc networks of mobile autonomous agents. This loose ter- minology refers to groups of robotic agents with limited mobility and communica- tion...connectivity can be preserved. 3.1. Networks of robotic agents with second-order dynamics and the connectivity maintenance problem. We begin by

Analysis of Trans Fat in Edible Oils with Cooking Process

PubMed Central

Song, Juhee; Park, Joohyeok; Jung, Jinyeong; Lee, Chankyu; Gim, Seo Yeoung; Ka, HyeJung; Yi, BoRa; Kim, Mi-Ja; Kim, Cho-il

2015-01-01

Trans fat is a unsaturated fatty acid with trans configuration and separated double bonds. Analytical methods have been introduced to analyze trans fat content in foods including infrared (IR) spectroscopy, gas chromatography (GC), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, reverses-phase silver ion high performance liquid chromatography, and silver nitrate thin layer chromatography. Currently, FT-IR spectroscopy and GC are mostly used methods. Trans fat content in 6 vegetable oils were analyzed and processing effects including baking, stir-frying, pan-frying, and frying on the formation of trans fat in corn oil was evaluated by GC. Among tested vegetable oils, corn oil has 0.25 g trans fat/100 g, whereas other oils including rapeseed, soybean, olive, perilla, and sesame oils did not have detectable amount of trans fat content. Among cooking methods, stir-frying increased trans fat in corn oil whereas baking, pan-frying, and frying procedures did not make changes in trans fat content compared to untreated corn oils. However, the trans fat content was so low and food label can be declared as ‘0’ trans based on the regulation of Ministry of Food ad Drug Safety (MFDS) (< 2 g/100 g edible oil). PMID:26483890

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Eszopiclone for the Treatment of Insomnia in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain

PubMed Central

Goforth, Harold W.; Preud'homme, Xavier A.; Krystal, Andrew D.

2014-01-01

Study Objectives: Insomnia, which is very common in patients with chronic low back pain (LBP), has long been viewed as a pain symptom that did not merit specific treatment. Recent data suggest that adding insomnia therapy to pain-targeted treatment should improve outcome; however, this has not been empirically tested in LBP or in any pain condition treated with a standardized pain medication regimen. We sought to test the hypothesis that adding insomnia therapy to pain-targeted treatment might improve sleep and pain in LBP. Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, 1-mo trial. Setting: Duke University Medical Center Outpatient Sleep Clinic. Patients: Fifty-two adult volunteers with LBP of at least 3 mo duration who met diagnostic criteria for insomnia (mean age: 42.5 y; 63% females). Interventions: Subjects were randomized to eszopiclone (ESZ) 3 mg plus naproxen 500 mg BID or matching placebo plus naproxen 500 mg twice a day. Measurements and Results: ESZ significantly improved total sleep time (mean increase: ESZ, 95 min; placebo, 9 min) (primary outcome) and nearly all sleep measures as well as visual analog scale pain (mean decrease: ESZ, 17 mm; placebo, 2 mm) (primary pain outcome), and depression (mean Hamilton Depression Rating Scale improvement ESZ, 3.8; placebo, 0.4) compared with placebo. Changes in pain ratings were significantly correlated with changes in sleep. Conclusions: The addition of insomnia-specific therapy to a standardized naproxen pain regimen significantly improves sleep, pain, and depression in patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). The findings indicate the importance of administering both sleep and pain-directed therapies to patients with LBP in clinical practice and provide strong evidence that improving sleep disturbance may improve pain. Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT00365976 Citation: Goforth HW, Preud'homme XA, Krystal AD. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of eszopiclone for the treatment of insomnia in patients with chronic low back pain. SLEEP 2014;37(6):1053-1060. PMID:24882900

Recursive Subsystems in Aphasia and Alzheimer's Disease: Case Studies in Syntax and Theory of Mind.

PubMed

Bánréti, Zoltán; Hoffmann, Ildikó; Vincze, Veronika

2016-01-01

The relationship between recursive sentence embedding and theory-of-mind (ToM) inference is investigated in three persons with Broca's aphasia, two persons with Wernicke's aphasia, and six persons with mild and moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). We asked questions of four types about photographs of various real-life situations. Type 4 questions asked participants about intentions, thoughts, or utterances of the characters in the pictures ("What may X be thinking/asking Y to do?"). The expected answers typically involved subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions or direct quotations of the characters' utterances. Broca's aphasics did not produce answers with recursive sentence embedding. Rather, they projected themselves into the characters' mental states and gave direct answers in the first person singular, with relevant ToM content. We call such replies "situative statements." Where the question concerned the mental state of the character but did not require an answer with sentence embedding ("What does X hate?"), aphasics gave descriptive answers rather than situative statements. Most replies given by persons with AD to Type 4 questions were grammatical instances of recursive sentence embedding. They also gave a few situative statements but the ToM content of these was irrelevant. In more than one third of their well-formed sentence embeddings, too, they conveyed irrelevant ToM contents. Persons with moderate AD were unable to pass secondary false belief tests. The results reveal double dissociation: Broca's aphasics are unable to access recursive sentence embedding but they can make appropriate ToM inferences; moderate AD persons make the wrong ToM inferences but they are able to access recursive sentence embedding. The double dissociation may be relevant for the nature of the relationship between the two recursive capacities. Broca's aphasics compensated for the lack of recursive sentence embedding by recursive ToM reasoning represented in very simple syntactic forms: they used one recursive subsystem to stand in for another recursive subsystem.

Recursive Subsystems in Aphasia and Alzheimer's Disease: Case Studies in Syntax and Theory of Mind

PubMed Central

Bánréti, Zoltán; Hoffmann, Ildikó; Vincze, Veronika

2016-01-01

The relationship between recursive sentence embedding and theory-of-mind (ToM) inference is investigated in three persons with Broca's aphasia, two persons with Wernicke's aphasia, and six persons with mild and moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). We asked questions of four types about photographs of various real-life situations. Type 4 questions asked participants about intentions, thoughts, or utterances of the characters in the pictures (“What may X be thinking/asking Y to do?”). The expected answers typically involved subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions or direct quotations of the characters' utterances. Broca's aphasics did not produce answers with recursive sentence embedding. Rather, they projected themselves into the characters' mental states and gave direct answers in the first person singular, with relevant ToM content. We call such replies “situative statements.” Where the question concerned the mental state of the character but did not require an answer with sentence embedding (“What does X hate?”), aphasics gave descriptive answers rather than situative statements. Most replies given by persons with AD to Type 4 questions were grammatical instances of recursive sentence embedding. They also gave a few situative statements but the ToM content of these was irrelevant. In more than one third of their well-formed sentence embeddings, too, they conveyed irrelevant ToM contents. Persons with moderate AD were unable to pass secondary false belief tests. The results reveal double dissociation: Broca's aphasics are unable to access recursive sentence embedding but they can make appropriate ToM inferences; moderate AD persons make the wrong ToM inferences but they are able to access recursive sentence embedding. The double dissociation may be relevant for the nature of the relationship between the two recursive capacities. Broca's aphasics compensated for the lack of recursive sentence embedding by recursive ToM reasoning represented in very simple syntactic forms: they used one recursive subsystem to stand in for another recursive subsystem. PMID:27064887

The double universal joint wrist on a manipulator: Solution of inverse position kinematics and singularity analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Robert L., III

1992-01-01

This paper presents three methods to solve the inverse position kinematics position problem of the double universal joint attached to a manipulator: (1) an analytical solution for two specific cases; (2) an approximate closed form solution based on ignoring the wrist offset; and (3) an iterative method which repeats closed form position and orientation calculations until the solution is achieved. Several manipulators are used to demonstrate the solution methods: cartesian, cylindrical, spherical, and an anthropomorphic articulated arm, based on the Flight Telerobotic Servicer (FTS) arm. A singularity analysis is presented for the double universal joint wrist attached to the above manipulator arms. While the double universal joint wrist standing alone is singularity-free in orientation, the singularity analysis indicates the presence of coupled position/orientation singularities of the spherical and articulated manipulators with the wrist. The cartesian and cylindrical manipulators with the double universal joint wrist were found to be singularity-free. The methods of this paper can be implemented in a real-time controller for manipulators with the double universal joint wrist. Such mechanically dextrous systems could be used in telerobotic and industrial applications, but further work is required to avoid the singularities.

Process for the encapsulation and stabilization of radioactive, hazardous and mixed wastes

DOEpatents

Colombo, Peter; Kalb, Paul D.; Heiser, III, John H.

1997-11-14

The present invention provides a method for encapsulating and stabilizing radioactive, hazardous and mixed wastes in a modified sulfur cement composition. The waste may be incinerator fly ash or bottom ash including radioactive contaminants, toxic metal salts and other wastes commonly found in refuse. The process may use glass fibers mixed into the composition to improve the tensile strength and a low concentration of anhydrous sodium sulfide to reduce toxic metal solubility. The present invention preferably includes a method for encapsulating radioactive, hazardous and mixed wastes by combining substantially anhydrous wastes, molten modified sulfur cement, preferably glass fibers, as well as anhydrous sodium sulfide or calcium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide in a heated double-planetary orbital mixer. The modified sulfur cement is preheated to about 135.degree..+-.5.degree. C., then the remaining substantially dry components are added and mixed to homogeneity. The homogeneous molten mixture is poured or extruded into a suitable mold. The mold is allowed to cool, while the mixture hardens, thereby immobilizing and encapsulating the contaminants present in the ash.

Evolution method and ``differential hierarchy'' of colored knot polynomials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mironov, A.; Morozov, A.; Morozov, And.

2013-10-01

We consider braids with repeating patterns inside arbitrary knots which provides a multi-parametric family of knots, depending on the "evolution" parameter, which controls the number of repetitions. The dependence of knot (super)polynomials on such evolution parameters is very easy to find. We apply this evolution method to study of the families of knots and links which include the cases with just two parallel and anti-parallel strands in the braid, like the ordinary twist and 2-strand torus knots/links and counter-oriented 2-strand links. When the answers were available before, they are immediately reproduced, and an essentially new example is added of the "double braid", which is a combination of parallel and anti-parallel 2-strand braids. This study helps us to reveal with the full clarity and partly investigate a mysterious hierarchical structure of the colored HOMFLY polynomials, at least, in (anti)symmetric representations, which extends the original observation for the figure-eight knot to many (presumably all) knots. We demonstrate that this structure is typically respected by the t-deformation to the superpolynomials.

Seismic moment tensor for anisotropic media: implication for Non-double-couple earthquakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, X.; Chen, X.; Chen, Y.; Cai, M.

2008-12-01

It is often found that the inversion results of seismic moment tensor from real seismic recorded data show the trace of seismic moment tensor M is not zero, a phenomenon called non-double-couple earthquake sources mechanism. Recently we have derived the analytical expressions of M in transversely isotropic media with the titled axis of symmetry and the results shows even only pure shear-motion of fault can lead to the implosive components determined by several combined anisotropic elastic constants. Many non-double-couple earthquakes from observations often appear in volcanic and geothermal areas (Julian, 1998), where there exist a mount of stress-aligned fluid-saturated parallel vertical micro-cracks identical to transversely isotropic media (Crampin, 2008), this stress-aligned crack will modify the seismic moment tensor. In another word, non-double-couple earthquakes don't mean to have a seismic failure movement perpendicular to the fault plane, while traditional research of seismic moment tensor focus on the case of isotropy, which cannot provide correct interpretation of seismic source mechanism. Reference: Julian, B.R., Miller, A.D. and Foulger, G.R., 1998. Non-double-couple earthquakes,1. Theory, Rev. Geophys., 36, 525¨C549. Crampin,S., Peacock,S., 2008, A review of the current understanding of seismic shear-wave splitting in the Earth's crust and common fallacies in interpretation, wave motion, 45,675-722

Positive effects of soy lecithin-derived phosphatidylserine plus phosphatidic acid on memory, cognition, daily functioning, and mood in elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

PubMed

Moré, Margret I; Freitas, Ulla; Rutenberg, David

2014-12-01

We report previously unpublished, early pilot studies performed with a brain-health food supplement containing a proprietary blend of 100 mg phosphatidylserine (PS) and 80 mg phosphatidic acid (PA) produced from soy lecithin. Serum analysis after single PS+PA ingestion was performed in healthy volunteers. A 3-month double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the influence of three PS+PA capsules/day, (300 mg PS + 240 mg PA/day) or placebo on memory and mood in functioning, non-depressive elderly people with memory problems, using the Wechsler Memory Scale and the List of Depressive Symptoms. Furthermore, a 2-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed the effect of three PS+PA capsules/day (300 mg PS + 240 mg PA/day) or placebo on daily functioning, mental health, emotional state, and self-reported general condition in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Serum PS peaked 90 min after ingestion, returning to baseline after 180 min. In the elderly, PS+PA [per protocol (PP) n = 31], unlike placebo (PP n = 26), significantly improved memory and prevented "winter blues" in a pre-post comparison. In the patients with AD, daily functioning (i.e., 7 activities of daily living) under PS+PA (PP n = 53) remained unchanged, but declined from 5.62 to 4.90 under placebo (PP n = 39; P = 0.035), with significant group difference (P = 0.021). The PS+PA group had 3.8% deterioration and 90.6% stability in daily functioning, compared to 17.9% and 79.5% under placebo, respectively (P = 0.066). Forty-nine percent of the PS+PA patients reported an improved general condition, compared to 26.3% under placebo (P = 0.084). Approximately, 43% of the PS+PA patients, but none under placebo, continued post-trial supplementation (while double-blinded). No negative side effects were observed. PS is efficiently absorbed after oral consumption. A positive influence of PS+PA on memory, mood, and cognition was demonstrated among elderly test subjects. Short-term supplementation with PS+PA in patients with AD showed a stabilizing effect on daily functioning, emotional state and self-reported general condition. The data encourage long-term studies with PS+PA in AD patients and other elderly with memory or cognition problems.

Double ionization in R -matrix theory using a two-electron outer region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wragg, Jack; Parker, J. S.; van der Hart, H. W.

2015-08-01

We have developed a two-electron outer region for use within R -matrix theory to describe double ionization processes. The capability of this method is demonstrated for single-photon double ionization of He in the photon energy region between 80 and 180 eV. The cross sections are in agreement with established data. The extended R -matrix with time dependence method also provides information on higher-order processes, as demonstrated by the identification of signatures for sequential double ionization processes involving an intermediate He+ state with n =2 .

Clinical outcomes of arthroscopic single and double row repair in full thickness rotator cuff tears

PubMed Central

Ji, Jong-Hun; Shafi, Mohamed; Kim, Weon-Yoo; Kim, Young-Yul

2010-01-01

Background: There has been a recent interest in the double row repair method for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair following favourable biomechanical results reported by some studies. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical results of arthroscopic single row and double row repair methods in the full-thickness rotator cuff tears. Materials and Methods: 22 patients of arthroscopic single row repair (group I) and 25 patients who underwent double row repair (group II) from March 2003 to March 2005 were retrospectively evaluated and compared for the clinical outcomes. The mean age was 58 years and 56 years respectively for group I and II. The average follow-up in the two groups was 24 months. The evaluation was done by using the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) rating scale and the shoulder index of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES). Results: In Group I, the mean ASES score increased from 30.48 to 87.40 and the mean ASES score increased from 32.00 to 91.45 in the Group II. The mean UCLA score increased from the preoperative 12.23 to 30.82 in Group I and from 12.20 to 32.40 in Group II. Each method has shown no statistical clinical differences between two methods, but based on the sub scores of UCLA score, the double row repair method yields better results for the strength, and it gives more satisfaction to the patients than the single row repair method. Conclusions: Comparing the two methods, double row repair group showed better clinical results in recovering strength and gave more satisfaction to the patients but no statistical clinical difference was found between 2 methods. PMID:20697485

A Phenotypic Change But Not Proliferation Underlies Glial Responses in Alzheimer Disease

PubMed Central

Serrano-Pozo, Alberto; Gómez-Isla, Teresa; Growdon, John H.; Frosch, Matthew P.; Hyman, Bradley T.

2014-01-01

Classical immunohistochemical studies in the Alzheimer disease (AD) brain reveal prominent glial reactions, but whether this pathological feature is due primarily to cell proliferation or to a phenotypic change of existing resting cells remains controversial. We performed double-fluorescence immunohistochemical studies of astrocytes and microglia, followed by unbiased stereology-based quantitation in temporal cortex of 40 AD patients and 32 age-matched nondemented subjects. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and major histocompatibility complex II (MHC2) were used as markers of astrocytic and microglial activation, respectively. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 L1 and glutamine synthetase were used as constitutive astrocytic markers, and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1) as a constitutive microglial marker. As expected, AD patients had higher numbers of GFAP+ astrocytes and MHC2+ microglia than the nondemented subjects. However, both groups had similar numbers of total astrocytes and microglia and, in the AD group, these total numbers remained essentially constant over the clinical course of the disease. The GFAP immunoreactivity of astrocytes, but not the MHC2 immunoreactivity of microglia, increased in parallel with the duration of the clinical illness in the AD group. Cortical atrophy contributed to the perception of increased glia density. We conclude that a phenotypic change of existing glial cells, rather than a marked proliferation of glial precursors, accounts for the majority of the glial responses observed in the AD brain. PMID:23602650

Th17-cells in atopic dermatitis stimulate orthodontic root resorption.

PubMed

Yamada, K; Yamaguchi, M; Asano, M; Fujita, S; Kobayashi, R; Kasai, K

2013-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate how atopic dermatitis (AD) contributes to root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement. Atopic dermatitis model mice and wild-type mice were subjected to an excessive orthodontic force (OF) to induce movement of the upper first molars. The expression levels of the tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), IL-17, IL-6, and RANKL proteins were determined in the periodontal ligament (PDL) by an immunohistochemical analysis. Furthermore, the effects of the compression force on co-cultures of CD4(+) cells from AD patients or healthy individuals and human PDL cells were investigated with regard to the levels of secretion and mRNA expression of IL-17, IL-6, RANKL, and osteoprotegerin. The immunoreactivities for TRAP, IL-17, IL-6, and RANKL in the AD group were found to be significantly increased. The double immunofluorescence analysis for IL-17/CD4 detected immunoreaction. The secretion of IL-17, IL-6, and RANKL, and the mRNA levels of IL-6 and RANKL in the AD patients were increased compared with those in healthy individuals. Th17 cells may therefore be associated with the deterioration of root resorption of AD mice, and may explain why AD patients are more susceptible to root resorption than healthy individuals when an excessive OF is applied. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Role of the α1 blocker doxazosin in alcoholism: a proof-of-concept randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Kenna, George A; Haass-Koffler, Carolina L; Zywiak, William H; Edwards, Steven M; Brickley, Michael B; Swift, Robert M; Leggio, Lorenzo

2016-07-01

Evidence suggests that the norepinephrine system represents an important treatment target for alcohol dependence (AD) and the α1 -blocker prazosin may reduce alcohol drinking in rodents and alcoholic patients. The α1 -blocker doxazosin demonstrates a more favorable pharmacokinetic profile than prazosin, but has never been studied for AD. A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted in AD individuals seeking outpatient treatment. Doxazosin or matched placebo was titrated to 16 mg/day (or maximum tolerable dose). Drinks per week (DPW) and heavy drinking days (HDD) per week were the primary outcomes. Family history density of alcoholism (FHDA), severity of AD and gender were a priori moderators. Forty-one AD individuals were randomized, 30 (doxazosin = 15) completed the treatment phase and 28 (doxazosin = 14) also completed the follow-up. There were no significant differences between groups on DPW and HDD per week. With FHDA as a moderator, there were significant FHDA × medication interactions for both DPW (pcorrected  = 0.001, d = 1.18) and HDD (pcorrected  = 0.00009, d = 1.30). Post hoc analyses revealed that doxazosin significantly reduced alcohol drinking in AD patients with high FHDA and by contrast increased drinking in those with low FHDA. Doxazosin may be effective selectively in AD patients with high FHDA. This study provides preliminary evidence for personalized medicine using α1 -blockade to treat AD. However, confirmatory studies are required. © 2015 Society for the Study of Addiction.

Replacement of the in vivo neutralisation test for efficacy demonstration of tetanus vaccines ad us. vet.

PubMed

Rosskopf, Ute; Noeske, Kerstin; Werner, Esther

2005-01-01

The bacterium Clostridium (C.) tetani is an ubiquitous pathogen. This anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium can form spores and can be found in the whole environment. It enters the body via injuries of the skin and wounds where it releases the neurotoxin "tetanospasmin" (= tetanus toxin). The animals most susceptible to tetanus infection are horses and sheep. Only active immunisation by tetanus vaccine provides effective protection against tetanus intoxication. The marketing authorisation requirements stipulate that efficacy of tetanus vaccines ad us. vet. must be demonstrated in all target animal species via determination of neutralising tetanus serum antitoxin concentrations. The standard method used for this purpose is still the toxin neutralisation test (TNT), as it quantifies the tetanus toxin-neutralising effect of tetanus serum antibodies in vivo. In this test, tetanus toxin is added to dilutions of serum from vaccinated horse and sheep. The serum dilutions are then administered to mice or guinea pigs, which are observed for toxic symptoms. Against the background of animal protection, the goal of one project of the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut (Bundesministerium fuer Bildung und Forschung (Federal Ministry for Education and Research), 0312636) was to establish an alternative to the toxin neutralisation test, enabling the testing of efficacy of tetanus vaccines with serological in vitro methods. For this purpose, a so-called double antigen ELISA (DAE) was established which enables the testing of sera of different species in one assay. In addition, the sera were tested in an indirect ELISA for horses and sheep separately. Altogether, ten groups of horses and eight groups of sheep were immunised with ten animals per group each. The tetanus vaccines comprised almost all products authorised for the German market at the start of the project. 564 horse sera and 257 sheep sera were tested using the two ELISA methods. Some sera were also tested in vivo. The kinetics of antibody responses were recorded. The in vitro DAE method seems to be suitable to replace the mouse neutralisation test used for the detection of tetanus antitoxin in sera of target animal species. The comparison of some sera in the ELISA and the TNT showed good equivalence of results. Nevertheless, before an ELISA titre in horse and sheep sera indicating unambiguous protection against tetanus can be fixed, further comparative assays of low titre sera in the TNT and the DAE will have to be performed.

Pre-coding method and apparatus for multiple source or time-shifted single source data and corresponding inverse post-decoding method and apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeh, Pen-Shu (Inventor)

1997-01-01

A pre-coding method and device for improving data compression performance by removing correlation between a first original data set and a second original data set, each having M members, respectively. The pre-coding method produces a compression-efficiency-enhancing double-difference data set. The method and device produce a double-difference data set, i.e., an adjacent-delta calculation performed on a cross-delta data set or a cross-delta calculation performed on two adjacent-delta data sets, from either one of (1) two adjacent spectral bands coming from two discrete sources, respectively, or (2) two time-shifted data sets coming from a single source. The resulting double-difference data set is then coded using either a distortionless data encoding scheme (entropy encoding) or a lossy data compression scheme. Also, a post-decoding method and device for recovering a second original data set having been represented by such a double-difference data set.

Pre-coding method and apparatus for multiple source or time-shifted single source data and corresponding inverse post-decoding method and apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeh, Pen-Shu (Inventor)

1998-01-01

A pre-coding method and device for improving data compression performance by removing correlation between a first original data set and a second original data set, each having M members, respectively. The pre-coding method produces a compression-efficiency-enhancing double-difference data set. The method and device produce a double-difference data set, i.e., an adjacent-delta calculation performed on a cross-delta data set or a cross-delta calculation performed on two adjacent-delta data sets, from either one of (1) two adjacent spectral bands coming from two discrete sources, respectively, or (2) two time-shifted data sets coming from a single source. The resulting double-difference data set is then coded using either a distortionless data encoding scheme (entropy encoding) or a lossy data compression scheme. Also, a post-decoding method and device for recovering a second original data set having been represented by such a double-difference data set.

Enhanced growth inhibition of prostate cancer in vitro and in vivo by a recombinant adenovirus-mediated dual-aptamer modified drug delivery system.

PubMed

Jing, Pei; Cao, Shousong; Xiao, Shuangli; Zhang, Xiaoqin; Ke, Siyun; Ke, Famin; Yu, Xin; Wang, Li; Wang, Shurong; Luo, Yuling; Zhong, Zhirong

2016-12-28

The peptide aptamer DUP-1 targets prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-negative cells, while the RNA aptamer A10-3.2 targets PSMA-positive prostate cancer cells. Moreover, the tumor-suppressor gene phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin (DOX) effectively inhibit prostate cancer, and a recombinant adenovirus (Ad5) mediates high gene transfer efficiency. Here, we design a dual-aptamer modified tumor targeting gene and DOX delivery system mediated by recombinant adenovirus (A10-3.2(DOX)/DUP-1-PEG-Ad5, ADDP-Ad5). DUP-1 and A10-3.2 are connected to the adenovirus through polyethylene glycol (PEG), PTEN is integrated into Ad5, and DOX is embedded into the double chain of aptamer A10-3.2. The PEG-modification rate of Ad5 is 98.70 ± 2.43%. The DUP-1 and A10-3.2 modified products yield 80.40 ± 1.36% and 82.20 ± 2.14%, respectively. The uptake of ADDP-Ad5 and the expression of the reporter gene are enhanced by the system in PSMA-positive LNCaP and PSMA-negative PC3 human prostate cancer cells. ADDP-Ad5 significantly inhibits the cell growth of both LNCaP and PC3 cells. More importantly, ADDP-Ad5 is active in vivo against LNCaP and PC3 tumor xenografts and exhibits no significant toxicity to the mice. Therefore, ADDP-Ad5 may have clinical potential in prostate cancer therapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Efficacy and safety of crisaborole ointment, a novel, nonsteroidal phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor for the topical treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children and adults.

PubMed

Paller, Amy S; Tom, Wynnis L; Lebwohl, Mark G; Blumenthal, Robin L; Boguniewicz, Mark; Call, Robert S; Eichenfield, Lawrence F; Forsha, Douglass W; Rees, William C; Simpson, Eric L; Spellman, Mary C; Stein Gold, Linda F; Zaenglein, Andrea L; Hughes, Matilda H; Zane, Lee T; Hebert, Adelaide A

2016-09-01

Additional topical treatments for atopic dermatitis (AD) are needed that provide relief while minimizing risks. We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of crisaborole ointment, a phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, in two phase III AD studies (AD-301: NCT02118766; AD-302: NCT02118792). Two identically designed, vehicle-controlled, double-blind studies enrolled and randomly assigned (2:1, crisaborole:vehicle) patients aged 2 years or older with an Investigator's Static Global Assessment (ISGA) score of mild or moderate for twice-daily application for 28 days. The primary end point was ISGA score at day 29 of clear (0)/almost clear (1) with 2-grade or greater improvement from baseline. Additional analyses included time to success in ISGA score, percentage of patients achieving clear/almost clear, reduction in severity of AD signs, and time to improvement in pruritus. More crisaborole- than vehicle-treated patients achieved ISGA score success (clear/almost clear with ≥2-grade improvement; AD-301: 32.8% vs 25.4%, P = .038; AD-302: 31.4% vs 18.0%, P < .001), with a greater percentage with clear/almost clear (51.7% vs 40.6%, P = .005; 48.5% vs 29.7%, P < .001). Crisaborole-treated patients achieved success in ISGA score and improvement in pruritus earlier than those treated with vehicle (both P ≤ .001). Treatment-related adverse events were infrequent and mild to moderate in severity. Short study duration was a limitation. Crisaborole demonstrated a favorable safety profile and improvement in all measures of efficacy, including overall disease severity, pruritus, and other signs of AD. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A prospective, randomized, double-blinded single-site control study comparing blood loss prevention of tranexamic acid (TXA) to epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) for corrective spinal surgery

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Multilevel spinal fusion surgery has typically been associated with significant blood loss. To limit both the need for transfusions and co-morbidities associated with blood loss, the use of anti-fibrinolytic agents has been proposed. While there is some literature comparing the effectiveness of tranexamic acid (TXA) to epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) in cardiac procedures, there is currently no literature directly comparing TXA to EACA in orthopedic surgery. Methods/Design Here we propose a prospective, randomized, double-blinded control study evaluating the effects of TXA, EACA, and placebo for treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS), and adult deformity (AD) via corrective spinal surgery. Efficacy will be determined by intraoperative and postoperative blood loss. Other clinical outcomes that will be compared include transfusion rates, preoperative and postoperative hemodynamic values, and length of hospital stay after the procedure. Discussion The primary goal of the study is to determine perioperative blood loss as a measure of the efficacy of TXA, EACA, and placebo. Based on current literature and the mechanism by which the medications act, we hypothesize that TXA will be more effective at reducing blood loss than EACA or placebo and result in improved patient outcomes. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT00958581 PMID:20370916

From harmful Microcystis blooms to multi-functional core-double-shell microsphere bio-hydrochar materials.

PubMed

Bi, Lei; Pan, Gang

2017-11-13

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) induced by eutrophication is becoming a serious global environmental problem affecting public health and aquatic ecological sustainability. A novel strategy for the utilization of biomass from HABs was developed by converting the algae cells into hollow mesoporous bio-hydrochar microspheres via hydrothermal carbonization method. The hollow microspheres were used as microreactors and carriers for constructing CaO 2 core-mesoporous shell-CaO 2 shell microspheres (OCRMs). The CaO 2 shells could quickly increase dissolved oxygen to extremely anaerobic water in the initial 40 min until the CaO 2 shells were consumed. The mesoporous shells continued to act as regulators restricting the release of oxygen from CaO 2 cores. The oxygen-release time using OCRMs was 7 times longer than when directly using CaO 2 . More interestingly, OCRMs presented a high phosphate removal efficiency (95.6%) and prevented the pH of the solution from rising to high levels in comparison with directly adding CaO 2 due to the OH - controlled-release effect of OCRMs. The distinct core-double-shell micro/nanostructure endowed the OCRMs with triple functions for oxygen controlled-release, phosphorus removal and less impact on water pH. The study is to explore the possibility to prepare smarter bio-hydrochar materials by utilizing algal blooms.

Adjuvant treatment with the bacterial lysate (OM-85) improves management of atopic dermatitis: A randomized study

PubMed Central

Bodemer, Christine; Guillet, Gerard; Cambazard, Frederic; Boralevi, Franck; Ballarini, Stefania; Milliet, Christian; Bertuccio, Paola; La Vecchia, Carlo; Bach, Jean-François; de Prost, Yves

2017-01-01

Background Environmental factors play a major role on atopic dermatitis (AD) which shows a constant rise in prevalence in western countries over the last decades. The Hygiene Hypothesis suggesting an inverse relationship between incidence of infections and the increase in atopic diseases in these countries, is one of the working hypothesis proposed to explain this trend. Objective This study tested the efficacy and safety of oral administration of the bacterial lysate OM-85 (Broncho-Vaxom®, Broncho-Munal®, Ommunal®, Paxoral®, Vaxoral®), in the treatment of established AD in children. Methods Children aged 6 months to 7 years, with confirmed AD diagnosis, were randomized in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to receive, in addition to conventional treatment with emollients and topical corticosteroids, 3.5mg of the bacterial extract OM-85 or placebo daily for 9 months. The primary end-point was the difference between groups in the occurrence of new flares (NF) during the study period, evaluated by Hazard Ratio (HR) derived from conditional Cox proportional hazard regression models accounting for repeated events. Results Among the 179 randomized children, 170 were analysed, 88 in the OM-85 and 82 in the placebo group. As expected most children in both treatment groups experienced at least 1 NF during the study period (75 (85%) patients in the OM-85 group and 72 (88%) in the placebo group). Patients treated with OM-85 as adjuvant therapy had significantly fewer and delayed NFs (HR of repeated flares = 0.80; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.67–0.96), also when potential confounding factors, as family history of atopy and corticosteroids use, were taken into account (HR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.69–0.98). No major side effect was reported, with comparable and good tolerability for OM-85 and placebo. Conclusions Results show an adjuvant therapeutic effect of a well standardized bacterial lysate OM-85 on established AD. PMID:28333952

The role of starch and saliva in tribology studies and the sensory perception of protein-added yogurts.

PubMed

Morell, Pere; Chen, Jianshe; Fiszman, Susana

2017-02-22

Increasing the protein content of yogurts would be a good strategy for enhancing their satiating ability. However, the addition of protein can affect product palatability, contributing astringency or an inhomogeneous texture. Increasingly, studies mimicking oral tribology and oral lubrication have been attracting interest among food researchers because of their link with oral texture sensations. In the present study, four double-protein stirred yogurts were prepared by adding extra skimmed milk powder (MP) or whey protein concentrate (WPC) and by adding a physically modified starch to each (samples MPS and WPCS, respectively) to increase the consistency of the yogurts. The lubricating properties of the four yogurts were examined by tribological methods with the aim of relating these properties to the sensory perception described by flash profiling. Samples were also analysed after mixing with saliva. The tribology results clearly showed that addition of starch reduced the friction coefficient values regardless of the type of protein. Saliva addition produced a further decrease in the friction coefficient values in all the samples. Consequently, adding saliva is recommended when performing tribology measurements of foods in order to give a more realistic picture. The sensory results confirmed that the addition of starch reduced the astringent sensation, especially in sample WPC, while the MP and MPS samples were creamier and smoother. On the other hand, the astringency of sample WPC was not explained by the tribology results. Since this sample was described as "grainy", "gritty", "rough", "acid" and "sour", further studies are necessary to investigate the role of the number, size, shape and distribution of particles in yogurt samples, their role in astringency perception and their interaction with the perception of the tastes mentioned. Oral tribology has shown itself to be an in vitro technique that may aid a better understanding of the dynamics of in-mouth lubrication and the physical mechanisms underlying texture and mouthfeel perception.

Addition of pimecrolimus cream 1% to a topical corticosteroid treatment regimen in paediatric patients with severe atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind trial.

PubMed

Meurer, Michael; Eichenfield, Lawrence F; Ho, Vincent; Potter, Paul C; Werfel, Thomas; Hultsch, Thomas

2010-05-01

Pimecrolimus and topical corticosteroids (TCS) combination therapy may provide an alternative treatment for patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD), with faster clearance of disease flares, consequently reducing the duration of TCS treatment. To assess the safety profile of pimecrolimus cream 1% combined with fluticasone versus fluticasone alone in paediatric patients with severe AD. Patients (n = 376) were randomized to a combination of pimecrolimus cream 1% with fluticasone or vehicle plus fluticasone for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the frequency of clinically relevant pre-defined adverse events (AEs) associated with the topical use of corticosteroids in patients with severe AD. Erythematous rash was the only AE, occurring more frequently in the combination group, while there were no noticeable differences in the frequency of other AEs of clinical interest between treatment groups. Efficacy variables were comparable between the two groups. A trend for greater time to relapse was observed for the combination of pimecrolimus cream 1% with fluticasone in patients who were clear at the end of treatment, with a marked improvement in facial AD. In paediatric patients with severe AD the overall safety profile of pimecrolimus cream 1% combined with fluticasone was similar to that of fluticasone alone.

Low-cost composited accelerants for anaerobic digestion of dairy manure: Focusing on methane yield, digestate utilization and energy evaluation.

PubMed

Zhang, Chen; Yun, Sining; Li, Xue; Wang, Ziqi; Xu, Hongfei; Du, Tingting

2018-05-11

To improve the methane yield and digestate utilization of anaerobic digestion (AD), low-cost composited accelerants consisting of urea (0.2-0.5%), bentonite (0.5-0.8%), active carbon (0.6-0.9%), and plant ash (0.01-0.3%) were designed and tested in batch experiments. Total biogas yield (485.7-681.9 mL/g VS) and methane content (63.0-66.6%) were remarkably enhanced in AD systems by adding accelerants compared to those of control group (361.9 mL/g VS, 59.4%). Composited accelerant addition led to the highest methane yield (454.1 mL/g VS), more than double that of control group. The TS, VS, and CODt removal rates (29.7-55.3%, 50.9-63.0%, and 46.8-69.1%) for AD with accelerants were much higher than control group (26.2%, 37.1%, and 39.6%). The improved digestate stability and enhanced fertilizer nutrient content (4.95-5.66%) confirmed that the digestate of AD systems with composited accelerants could safely serve as a potential component of bioorganic fertilizer. These findings open innovative avenues in composited accelerant development and application. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Safety and pharmacokinetics of nintedanib and pirfenidone in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

PubMed

Ogura, Takashi; Taniguchi, Hiroyuki; Azuma, Arata; Inoue, Yoshikazu; Kondoh, Yasuhiro; Hasegawa, Yoshinori; Bando, Masashi; Abe, Shinji; Mochizuki, Yoshiro; Chida, Kingo; Klüglich, Matthias; Fujimoto, Tsuyoshi; Okazaki, Kotaro; Tadayasu, Yusuke; Sakamoto, Wataru; Sugiyama, Yukihiko

2015-05-01

A randomised, double-blind, phase II, dose escalation trial was conducted to assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor nintedanib, alone and when added to ongoing pirfenidone therapy, in Japanese patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. 50 Japanese patients were randomised to receive nintedanib or placebo in one of three cohorts (nintedanib 50 mg twice daily or 100 mg twice daily for 14 days, or 150 mg twice daily for 28 days). Patients receiving pirfenidone at inclusion were stratified to every nintedanib dose group and placebo. Adverse events were reported in nine out of 17 patients receiving nintedanib alone and 10 out of 21 patients receiving nintedanib added to pirfenidone. All adverse events were mild or moderate in intensity. Gastrointestinal disorders were the most common adverse event. Maximum plasma concentration and area under the curve at steady state for nintedanib and its metabolites tended to be lower when nintedanib was added to pirfenidone. Nintedanib had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of pirfenidone. In conclusion, further study is needed to evaluate the safety and tolerability profile of nintedanib when added to pirfenidone in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. There was a trend toward lower exposure of nintedanib when it was added to pirfenidone. Copyright ©ERS 2015.

Double dissociation of semantic categories in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Gonnerman, L M; Andersen, E S; Devlin, J T; Kempler, D; Seidenberg, M S

1997-04-01

Data that demonstrate distinct patterns of semantic impairment in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are presented. Findings suggest that while groups of mild-moderate patients may not display category specific impairments, some individual patients do show selective impairment of either natural kinds or artifacts. We present a model of semantic organization in which category specific impairments arise from damage to distributed features underlying different types of categories. We incorporate the crucial notions of intercorrelations and distinguishing features, allowing us to demonstrate (1) how category specific impairments can result from widespread damage and (2) how selective deficits in AD reflect different points in the progression of impairment. The different patterns of impairment arise from an interaction between the nature of the semantic categories and the progression of damage.

Higher spin realization of the DS/CFT correspondence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anninos, Dionysios; Hartman, Thomas; Strominger, Andrew

2017-01-01

We conjecture that Vasiliev’s theory of higher spin gravity in four-dimensional de Sitter space (dS4) is holographically dual to a three-dimensional conformal field theory (CFT3) living on the spacelike boundary of dS4 at future timelike infinity. The CFT3 is the Euclidean Sp(N) vector model with anticommuting scalars. The free CFT3 flows under a double-trace deformation to an interacting CFT3 in the IR. We argue that both CFTs are dual to Vasiliev dS4 gravity but with different future boundary conditions on the bulk scalar field. Our analysis rests heavily on analytic continuations of bulk and boundary correlators in the proposed duality relating the O(N) model with Vasiliev gravity in AdS4.

Augmenting transport versus increasing cold storage to improve vaccine supply chains.

PubMed

Haidari, Leila A; Connor, Diana L; Wateska, Angela R; Brown, Shawn T; Mueller, Leslie E; Norman, Bryan A; Schmitz, Michelle M; Paul, Proma; Rajgopal, Jayant; Welling, Joel S; Leonard, Jim; Chen, Sheng-I; Lee, Bruce Y

2013-01-01

When addressing the urgent task of improving vaccine supply chains, especially to accommodate the introduction of new vaccines, there is often a heavy emphasis on stationary storage. Currently, donations to vaccine supply chains occur largely in the form of storage equipment. This study utilized a HERMES-generated detailed, dynamic, discrete event simulation model of the Niger vaccine supply chain to compare the impacts on vaccine availability of adding stationary cold storage versus transport capacity at different levels and to determine whether adding stationary storage capacity alone would be enough to relieve potential bottlenecks when pneumococcal and rotavirus vaccines are introduced by 2015. Relieving regional level storage bottlenecks increased vaccine availability (by 4%) more than relieving storage bottlenecks at the district (1% increase), central (no change), and clinic (no change) levels alone. Increasing transport frequency (or capacity) yielded far greater gains (e.g., 15% increase in vaccine availability when doubling transport frequency to the district level and 18% when tripling). In fact, relieving all stationary storage constraints could only increase vaccine availability by 11%, whereas doubling the transport frequency throughout the system led to a 26% increase and tripling the frequency led to a 30% increase. Increasing transport frequency also reduced the amount of stationary storage space needed in the supply chain. The supply chain required an additional 61,269L of storage to relieve constraints with the current transport frequency, 55,255L with transport frequency doubled, and 51,791L with transport frequency tripled. When evaluating vaccine supply chains, it is important to understand the interplay between stationary storage and transport. The HERMES-generated dynamic simulation model showed how augmenting transport can result in greater gains than only augmenting stationary storage and can reduce stationary storage needs.

Electron-helium S-wave model benchmark calculations. II. Double ionization, single ionization with excitation, and double excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartlett, Philip L.; Stelbovics, Andris T.

2010-02-01

The propagating exterior complex scaling (PECS) method is extended to all four-body processes in electron impact on helium in an S-wave model. Total and energy-differential cross sections are presented with benchmark accuracy for double ionization, single ionization with excitation, and double excitation (to autoionizing states) for incident-electron energies from threshold to 500 eV. While the PECS three-body cross sections for this model given in the preceding article [Phys. Rev. A 81, 022715 (2010)] are in good agreement with other methods, there are considerable discrepancies for these four-body processes. With this model we demonstrate the suitability of the PECS method for the complete solution of the electron-helium system.

Minnesota's double-barrelled implied consent law : a 1983 update of "Analytical study of the legal and operational aspects of the Minnesota law entitled 'Chemical test for intoxication'"(DOT HS 806 170) by Robert H. Reeder

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1983-12-01

To ensure that a driver's license is revoked promptly when a test shows an alcohol concentration of 0.10 or more, regardless of court outcome or plea bargaining on the criminal charge, Minnesota adopted an administrative revocation law 1976, adding t...

18. VIEW OF SOUTH ELEVATION. THE RETAIL STORE (AT RIGHT) ...

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

18. VIEW OF SOUTH ELEVATION. THE RETAIL STORE (AT RIGHT) AND THE LARGE ADDITION (AT LEFT) WERE ADDED IN 1957-58 TO MEET THE MILL'S CHANGING MARKET. THE THREE-STORY METAL ELEVATOR SUPERSEDED THE ORIGINAL DOUBLE-CHAMBER BELT AND CUP TYPE STILL INTACT INSIDE THE MILL. Photographer: Louise Taft Cawood, July 1986 - Alexander's Grist Mill, Lock 37 on Ohio & Erie Canal, South of Cleveland, Valley View, Cuyahoga County, OH

Enantioselective Construction of 3-Hydroxypiperidine Scaffolds by Sequential Action of Light and Rhodium upon N-Allylglyoxylamides.

PubMed

Ishida, Naoki; Nečas, David; Masuda, Yusuke; Murakami, Masahiro

2015-06-15

3-Hydroxypiperidine scaffolds were enantioselectively constructed in an atom-economical way by sequential action of light and rhodium upon N-allylglyoxylamides. In a formal sense, the allylic C-H bond was selectively cleaved and enantioselectively added across the ketonic carbonyl group with migration of the double bond (carbonyl-ene-type reaction). © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Clinical outcomes of arthroscopic single and double row repair in full thickness rotator cuff tears.

PubMed

Ji, Jong-Hun; Shafi, Mohamed; Kim, Weon-Yoo; Kim, Young-Yul

2010-07-01

There has been a recent interest in the double row repair method for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair following favourable biomechanical results reported by some studies. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical results of arthroscopic single row and double row repair methods in the full-thickness rotator cuff tears. 22 patients of arthroscopic single row repair (group I) and 25 patients who underwent double row repair (group II) from March 2003 to March 2005 were retrospectively evaluated and compared for the clinical outcomes. The mean age was 58 years and 56 years respectively for group I and II. The average follow-up in the two groups was 24 months. The evaluation was done by using the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) rating scale and the shoulder index of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES). In Group I, the mean ASES score increased from 30.48 to 87.40 and the mean ASES score increased from 32.00 to 91.45 in the Group II. The mean UCLA score increased from the preoperative 12.23 to 30.82 in Group I and from 12.20 to 32.40 in Group II. Each method has shown no statistical clinical differences between two methods, but based on the sub scores of UCLA score, the double row repair method yields better results for the strength, and it gives more satisfaction to the patients than the single row repair method. Comparing the two methods, double row repair group showed better clinical results in recovering strength and gave more satisfaction to the patients but no statistical clinical difference was found between 2 methods.

Double-hydrophobic elastin-like polypeptides with added functional motifs: Self-assembly and cytocompatibility.

PubMed

Le, Duc H T; Tsutsui, Yoko; Sugawara-Narutaki, Ayae; Yukawa, Hiroshi; Baba, Yoshinobu; Ohtsuki, Chikara

2017-09-01

We have recently developed a novel double-hydrophobic elastin-like triblock polypeptide called GPG, designed after the uneven distribution of two different hydrophobic domains found in elastin, an extracellular matrix protein providing elasticity and resilience to tissues. Upon temperature trigger, GPG undergoes a sequential self-assembling process to form flexible beaded nanofibers with high homogeneity and excellent dispersibility in water. Given that GPG might be a potential elastin-mimetic material, we sought to explore the biological activities of this block polypeptide. Besides GPG, several functionalized derivatives were also constructed by fusing functional motifs such as KAAK or KAAKGRGDS at the C-terminal of GPG. Although the added motifs affected the kinetics of fiber formation and β-sheet contents, all three GPGs assembled into beaded nanofibers at the physiological temperature. The resulting GPG nanofibers preserved their beaded structures in cell culture medium; therefore, they were coated on polystyrene substrates to study their cytocompatibility toward mouse embryonic fibroblasts, NIH-3T3. Among the three polypeptides, GPG having the cell-binding motif GRGDS derived from fibronectin showed excellent cell adhesion and cell proliferation properties compared to other conventional materials, suggesting its promising applications as extracellular matrices for mammalian cells. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 2475-2484, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Persistent improvement in synaptic and cognitive functions in an Alzheimer mouse model after rolipram treatment

PubMed Central

Gong, Bing; Vitolo, Ottavio V.; Trinchese, Fabrizio; Liu, Shumin; Shelanski, Michael; Arancio, Ottavio

2004-01-01

Evidence suggests that Alzheimer disease (AD) begins as a disorder of synaptic function, caused in part by increased levels of amyloid β-peptide 1–42 (Aβ42). Both synaptic and cognitive deficits are reproduced in mice double transgenic for amyloid precursor protein (AA substitution K670N,M671L) and presenilin-1 (AA substitution M146V). Here we demonstrate that brief treatment with the phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor rolipram ameliorates deficits in both long-term potentiation (LTP) and contextual learning in the double-transgenic mice. Most importantly, this beneficial effect can be extended beyond the duration of the administration. One course of long-term systemic treatment with rolipram improves LTP and basal synaptic transmission as well as working, reference, and associative memory deficits for at least 2 months after the end of the treatment. This protective effect is possibly due to stabilization of synaptic circuitry via alterations in gene expression by activation of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA)/cAMP regulatory element–binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway that make the synapses more resistant to the insult inflicted by Aβ. Thus, agents that enhance the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway have potential for the treatment of AD and other diseases associated with elevated Aβ42 levels. PMID:15578094

Introducing universal ultrasound screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip doubled the treatment rate.

PubMed

Olsen, Stine F; Blom, Hans C; Rosendahl, Karen

2018-02-01

There is no evidence on the effect of universal ultrasound screening on developmental dysplasia of the hip. We examined the impact of adding an ultrasound examination to a one examiner clinical screening strategy on treatment, follow-up rates and the number of cases detected late in a low-prevalence population. All eligible babies born at Kongsberg Hospital, Norway, from 1998 to 2006 (n = 4245) underwent both clinical and ultrasound hip examinations within three days of life. Indications for immediate treatment were positive Barlow or Ortolani manoeuvres and, or, sonographic dysplasia. Sonographic immature hips were followed until normalisation. Treatment rates and rates from the 1989 to 1997 prestudy period (n = 3594), including late diagnoses, were collected from hospital records. Treatment was initiated in 90 (2.1%) infants (74 girls), 63 (70%) from birth, compared to 33 (0.9%) during the prestudy period. The follow-up rate did not change (11%). There were two (0.5/1000) and four (1.0/1000) cases detected late, respectively. No one underwent surgery during the first year of life and no avascular necrosis was seen. Adding universal ultrasound to clinical screening performed by the same, experienced paediatrician doubled the treatment rate, without influencing the already low numbers of late cases. ©2017 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Numerical Comparison of Active Acoustic and Structural Noise Control in a Stiffened Double Wall Cylinder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grosveld, Ferdinand W.

1996-01-01

The active acoustic and structural noise control characteristics of a double wall cylinder with and without ring stiffeners were numerically evaluated. An exterior monopole was assumed to acoustically excite the outside of the double wall cylinder at an acoustic cavity resonance frequency. Structural modal vibration properties of the inner and outer shells were analyzed by post-processing the results from a finite element analysis. A boundary element approach was used to calculate the acoustic cavity response and the coupled structural-acoustic interaction. In the frequency region of interest, below 500 Hz, all structural resonant modes were found to be acoustically slow and the nonresonant modal response to be dominant. Active sound transmission control was achieved by control forces applied to the inner or outer shell, or acoustic control monopoles placed just outside the inner or outer shell. A least mean square technique was used to minimize the interior sound pressures at the nodes of a data recovery mesh. Results showed that single acoustic control monopoles placed just outside the inner or outer shells resulted in better sound transmission control than six distributed point forces applied to either one of the shells. Adding stiffeners to the double wall structure constrained the modal vibrations of the shells, making the double wall stiffer with associated higher modal frequencies. Active noise control obtained for the stiffened double wall configurations was less than for the unstiffened cylinder. In all cases, the acoustic control monopoles controlled the sound transmission into the interior better than the structural control forces.

Astigmatism correction of a non-imaging double spectrometer fitted with a 2D array detector

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

Yaney, P.P.; Ernst, S.L.; Blackshire, J.

1992-12-01

A SPEX 1401 double spectrometer was adapted for a liquid nitrogen cooled CCD detector to permit both spectral and spatial analysis of ceramic specimens in a laser Raman microprobe system. The exit image of the spectrometer suffers from astigmatism due to off-axis spherical mirrors. A cylindrical lens was added before the CCD to correct for the astigmatism. The spectrometer and several lenses were modeled using an optical ray tracing program to characterize the astigmatism and to optimize the locations of the lens and the detector. The astigmatism and the spot pattern sizes determined by the model were in good agreementmore » with he observed performance of the modified spectrometer-detector system. Typical spot patterns fell within the 23 {mu}m square pixel size.« less

The surface chemical properties of multi-walled carbon nanotubes modified by thermal fluorination for electric double-layer capacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Min-Jung; Jeong, Euigyung; Lee, Young-Seak

2015-08-01

The surfaces of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were thermally fluorinated at various temperatures to enhance the electrochemical properties of the MWCNTs for use as electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) electrodes. The fluorine functional groups were added to the surfaces of the MWCNTs via thermal fluorination. The thermal fluorination exposed the Fe catalyst on MWCNTs, and the specific surface area increased due to etching during the fluorination. The specific capacitances of the thermally fluorinated at 100 °C, MWCNT based electrode increased from 57 to 94 F/g at current densities of 0.2 A/g, respectively. This enhancement in capacitance can be attributed to increased polarization of the thermally fluorinated MWCNT surface, which increased the affinity between the electrode surface and the electrolyte ions.

Polycation-induced assembly of purified tubulin.

PubMed Central

Erickson, H P; Voter, W A

1976-01-01

Several different polycations have been found that can substitute for the microtubule-associated proteins, or tau factor, in facilitating assembly of tubulin that has been purified by ion exchange chromatography. In low concentrations of the polycation diethylaminoethyl-dextran, 7 mg of tubulin is pelleted per 1 mg of polycation added. Under conditions favorable to microtubule assembly the entire pellet is seen by electron microscopy to consist of "double wall microtubules", which are essentially identical to normal microtubules in subunit structure and arrangement. When assembly is inhibited approximately the same amount of tubulin is pelleted, but it is in the form of clusters of curved sheets or filaments apparently related to tubulin rings. When conditions are changed to favor assembly, the tubulin within these clusters appears to reassemble to form the double wall microtubules. Images PMID:1066692

Microfluidic preparation and self diffusion PFG-NMR analysis of monodisperse water-in-oil-in-water double emulsions.

PubMed

Hughes, Eric; Maan, Abid Aslam; Acquistapace, Simone; Burbidge, Adam; Johns, Michael L; Gunes, Deniz Z; Clausen, Pascal; Syrbe, Axel; Hugo, Julien; Schroen, Karin; Miralles, Vincent; Atkins, Tim; Gray, Richard; Homewood, Philip; Zick, Klaus

2013-01-01

Monodisperse water-in-oil-in-water (WOW) double emulsions have been prepared using microfluidic glass devices designed and built primarily from off the shelf components. The systems were easy to assemble and use. They were capable of producing double emulsions with an outer droplet size from 100 to 40 μm. Depending on how the devices were operated, double emulsions containing either single or multiple water droplets could be produced. Pulsed-field gradient self-diffusion NMR experiments have been performed on the monodisperse water-in-oil-in-water double emulsions to obtain information on the inner water droplet diameter and the distribution of the water in the different phases of the double emulsion. This has been achieved by applying regularization methods to the self-diffusion data. Using these methods the stability of the double emulsions to osmotic pressure imbalance has been followed by observing the change in the size of the inner water droplets over time. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Holographic space and time: Emergent in what sense?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vistarini, Tiziana

2017-08-01

This paper proposes a metaphysics for holographic duality. In addition to the AdS/CFT correspondence I also consider the dS/CFT conjecture of duality. Both involve non-perturbative string theory and both are exact dualities. But while the AdS/CFT keeps time at the margins of the story, the dS/CFT conjecture gives to time the "space" it deserves by presenting an interesting holographic model of it. My goals in this paper can be summarized in the following way. First, I argue that the formal structure and physical content of the duality do not support the standard philosophical reading of the relation in terms of grounding. Second, I put forward a philosophical scheme mainly extrapolated from the double aspect monism theory. I read holographic duality in this framework as it seems to fit the mathematical and physical structure of the duality smoothly. Inside this framework I propose a notion of spacetime emergence alternative to those ones commonly debated in the AdS/CFT physics and philosophy circles.

Addition of topical pimecrolimus to once-daily mid-potent steroid confers no short-term therapeutic benefit in the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis; a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Spergel, J M; Boguniewicz, M; Paller, A S; Hebert, A A; Gallagher, P R; McCormick, C; Parneix-Spake, A; Hultsch, T

2007-08-01

Combination therapy with pimecrolimus cream 1%, a topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI), and fluticasone propionate cream 0.05% (FP), a mid-potency topical corticosteroid, may have a synergistic effect for treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) because their mechanism of action differs. To assess the efficacy of concomitant pimecrolimus twice daily/FP once daily vs. vehicle twice daily/FP once daily in patients with severe AD. An exploratory, 2-week, double-blind, randomized, within-patient study was conducted (n = 45). Two target areas of similar severity, size and location were assessed. Assessments included the modified Eczema Area and Severity Index (0-12 scale) (primary variable), localized investigator global assessment (0-4 scale) and Patients' Self-Assessment of Disease Severity (0-4 scale). Data for all variables were similar for the TCI/FP and vehicle/FP treatments. The efficacy observed for treatment of severe AD flares with this TCI/FP combination regimen was equivalent to that of vehicle/FP.

Diving into traversable wormholes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maldacena, Juan; Stanford, Douglas; Yang, Zhenbin

2017-05-01

We study various aspects of wormholes that are made traversable by an interaction beween the two asymptotic boundaries. We concentrate on the case of nearly-$AdS_2$ gravity and discuss a very simple mechanical picture for the gravitational dynamics. We derive a formula for the two sided correlators that includes the effect of gravitational backreaction, which limits the amount of information we can send through the wormhole. We emphasize that the process can be viewed as a teleportation protocol where the teleportee feels nothing special as he/she goes through the wormhole. We discuss some applications to the cloning paradox for old black holes. We point out that the same formula we derived for $AdS_2$ gravity is also valid for the simple SYK quantum mechanical theory, around the thermofield double state. We present a heuristic picture for this phenomenon in terms of an operator growth model. Finally, we show that a similar effect is present in a completely classical chaotic system with a large number of degrees of freedom.

Brain-derived exosomes from dementia with Lewy bodies propagate α-synuclein pathology.

PubMed

Ngolab, Jennifer; Trinh, Ivy; Rockenstein, Edward; Mante, Michael; Florio, Jazmin; Trejo, Margarita; Masliah, Deborah; Adame, Anthony; Masliah, Eliezer; Rissman, Robert A

2017-06-09

Proteins implicated in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) have been identified in bodily fluids encased in extracellular vesicles called exosomes. Whether exosomes found in DLB patients can transmit pathology is not clear. In this study, exosomes were successfully harvested through ultracentrifugation from brain tissue from DLB and AD patients as well as non-diseased brain tissue. Exosomes extracted from brains diagnosed with either AD or DLB contained aggregate-prone proteins. Furthermore, injection of brain-derived exosomes from DLB patients into the brains of wild type mice induced α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregation. As assessed through immunofluorescent double labeling, α-syn aggregation was observed in MAP2 + , Rab5 + neurons. Using a neuronal cell line, we also identified intracellular α-syn aggregation mediated by exosomes is dependent on recipient cell endocytosis. Together, these data suggest that exosomes from DLB patients are sufficient for seeding and propagating α-syn aggregation in vivo.

A Comparative Biomechanical Analysis of 2 Double-Row, Distal Triceps Tendon Repairs.

PubMed

Dorweiler, Matthew A; Van Dyke, Rufus O; Siska, Robert C; Boin, Michael A; DiPaola, Mathew J

2017-05-01

Triceps tendon ruptures are rare orthopaedic injuries that almost always require surgical repair. This study tests the biomechanical properties of an original anchorless double-row triceps repair against a previously reported knotless double-row repair. The anchorless double-row triceps repair technique will yield similar biomechanical properties when compared with the knotless double-row repair technique. Controlled laboratory study. Eighteen cadaver arms were randomized into 2 groups. One group received the anchorless repair and the other received the knotless anchor repair. A materials testing system (MTS) machine was used to cycle the repaired arms from 0° to 90° with a 2.5-pound weight for 1500 cycles at 0.25 Hz. Real-time displacement of the tendon was measured during cycling using a probe. Load to failure was performed after completion of cyclic loading. The mean displacement with the anchorless technique was 0.77 mm (SD, 0.25 mm) at 0° (full elbow extension) and 0.76 mm (SD, 0.38 mm) at 90° (elbow flexion). The mean displacement with the anchored technique was 0.83 mm (SD, 0.57 mm) at 0° and 1.01 mm (SD, 0.62 mm) at 90°. There was no statistically significant difference for tendon displacement at 0º ( P = .75) or 90º ( P = .31). The mean load to failure with the anchorless technique was 618.9 N (SD, 185.6 N), while it was 560.5 N (SD, 154.1 N) with the anchored technique, again with no statistically significant difference ( P = .28). Our anchorless double-row triceps repair technique yields comparable biomechanical properties to previously described double-row triceps tendon repair techniques, with the added benefit of avoiding the cost of suture anchors. This anchorless double-row triceps tendon repair can be considered as an acceptable alternative to a knotless anchor repair for triceps tendon ruptures.

Anaerobic Threshold and Salivary α-amylase during Incremental Exercise.

PubMed

Akizuki, Kazunori; Yazaki, Syouichirou; Echizenya, Yuki; Ohashi, Yukari

2014-07-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to clarify the validity of salivary α-amylase as a method of quickly estimating anaerobic threshold and to establish the relationship between salivary α-amylase and double-product breakpoint in order to create a way to adjust exercise intensity to a safe and effective range. [Subjects and Methods] Eleven healthy young adults performed an incremental exercise test using a cycle ergometer. During the incremental exercise test, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and ventilatory equivalent were measured using a breath-by-breath gas analyzer. Systolic blood pressure and heart rate were measured to calculate the double product, from which double-product breakpoint was determined. Salivary α-amylase was measured to calculate the salivary threshold. [Results] One-way ANOVA revealed no significant differences among workloads at the anaerobic threshold, double-product breakpoint, and salivary threshold. Significant correlations were found between anaerobic threshold and salivary threshold and between anaerobic threshold and double-product breakpoint. [Conclusion] As a method for estimating anaerobic threshold, salivary threshold was as good as or better than determination of double-product breakpoint because the correlation between anaerobic threshold and salivary threshold was higher than the correlation between anaerobic threshold and double-product breakpoint. Therefore, salivary threshold is a useful index of anaerobic threshold during an incremental workload.

J-tube technique for double-j stent insertion during laparoscopic upper urinary tract surgical procedures.

PubMed

Kim, Hyung Suk; Lee, Byung Ki; Jung, Jin-Woo; Lee, Jung Keun; Byun, Seok-Soo; Lee, Sang Eun; Jeong, Chang Wook

2014-11-01

Double-J stent insertion has been generally performed during laparoscopic upper urinary tract (UUT) surgical procedures to prevent transient urinary tract obstruction and postoperative flank pain from ureteral edema and blood clots. Several restrictive conditions that make this procedure difficult and time consuming, however, include the coiled distal ends of the flexible Double-J stent and the limited bending angle of the laparoscopic instruments. To overcome these limitations, we devised a Double-J stent insertion method using the new J-tube technique. Between July 2011 and May 2013, Double-J stents were inserted using the J-tube technique in 33 patients who underwent a laparoscopic UUT surgical procedure by a single surgeon. The mean stent placement time was 4.8±2.7 minutes, and there were no intraoperative complications. In conclusion, the J-tube technique is a safe and time-saving method for Double-J stent insertion during laparoscopic surgical procedures.

The vector radiative transfer numerical model of coupled ocean-atmosphere system using the matrix-operator method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xianqiang, He; Delu, Pan; Yan, Bai; Qiankun, Zhu

2005-10-01

The numerical model of the vector radiative transfer of the coupled ocean-atmosphere system is developed based on the matrix-operator method, which is named PCOART. In PCOART, using the Fourier analysis, the vector radiative transfer equation (VRTE) splits up into a set of independent equations with zenith angle as only angular coordinate. Using the Gaussian-Quadrature method, VRTE is finally transferred into the matrix equation, which is calculated by using the adding-doubling method. According to the reflective and refractive properties of the ocean-atmosphere interface, the vector radiative transfer numerical model of ocean and atmosphere is coupled in PCOART. By comparing with the exact Rayleigh scattering look-up-table of MODIS(Moderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), it is shown that PCOART is an exact numerical calculation model, and the processing methods of the multi-scattering and polarization are correct in PCOART. Also, by validating with the standard problems of the radiative transfer in water, it is shown that PCOART could be used to calculate the underwater radiative transfer problems. Therefore, PCOART is a useful tool to exactly calculate the vector radiative transfer of the coupled ocean-atmosphere system, which can be used to study the polarization properties of the radiance in the whole ocean-atmosphere system and the remote sensing of the atmosphere and ocean.

Electrostatic interaction between an enzyme and electrodes in the electric double layer examined in a view of direct electron transfer-type bioelectrocatalysis.

PubMed

Sugimoto, Yu; Kitazumi, Yuki; Tsujimura, Seiya; Shirai, Osamu; Yamamoto, Masahiro; Kano, Kenji

2015-01-15

Effects of the electrode poential on the activity of an adsorbed enzyme has been examined by using copper efflux oxidase (CueO) as a model enzyme and by monitoring direct electron transfer (DET)-type bioelectrocatalysis of oxygen reduction. CueO adsorbed on bare Au electrodes at around the point of zero charge (E(pzc)) shows the highest DET activity, and the activity decreases as the adsorption potential (E(ad); at which the enzyme adsorbs) is far from E(pzc). We propose a model to explain the phenomena in which the electrostatic interaction between the enzyme and electrodes in the electric double layer affects the orientation and the stability of the adsorbed enzyme. The self-assembled monolayer of butanethiol on Au electrodes decreases the electric field in the outside of the inner Helmholtz plane and drastically diminishes the E(ad) dependence of the DET activity of CueO. When CueO is adsorbed on bare Au electrodes under open circuit potential and then is held at hold potentials (E(ho)) more positive than E(pzc), the DET activity of the CueO rapidly decreases with the hold time. The strong electric field with positive surface charge density on the metallic electrode (σ(M)) leads to fatal denaturation of the adsorbed CueO. Such denaturation effect is not so serious at E(ho)

Dissociations between developmental dyslexias and attention deficits

PubMed Central

Lukov, Limor; Friedmann, Naama; Shalev, Lilach; Khentov-Kraus, Lilach; Shalev, Nir; Lorber, Rakefet; Guggenheim, Revital

2014-01-01

We examine whether attention deficits underlie developmental dyslexia, or certain types of dyslexia, by presenting double dissociations between the two. We took into account the existence of distinct types of dyslexia and of attention deficits, and focused on dyslexias that may be thought to have an attentional basis: letter position dyslexia (LPD), in which letters migrate within words, attentional dyslexia (AD), in which letters migrate between words, neglect dyslexia, in which letters on one side of the word are omitted or substituted, and surface dyslexia, in which words are read via the sublexical route. We tested 110 children and adults with developmental dyslexia and/or attention deficits, using extensive batteries of reading and attention. For each participant, the existence of dyslexia and the dyslexia type were tested using reading tests that included stimuli sensitive to the various dyslexia types. Attention deficit and its type was established through attention tasks assessing sustained, selective, orienting, and executive attention functioning. Using this procedure, we identified 55 participants who showed a double dissociation between reading and attention: 28 had dyslexia with normal attention and 27 had attention deficits with normal reading. Importantly, each dyslexia with suspected attentional basis dissociated from attention: we found 21 individuals with LPD, 13 AD, 2 neglect dyslexia, and 12 surface dyslexia without attention deficits. Other dyslexia types (vowel dyslexia, phonological dyslexia, visual dyslexia) also dissociated from attention deficits. Examination of 55 additional individuals with both a specific dyslexia and a certain attention deficit found no attention function that was consistently linked with any dyslexia type. Specifically, LPD and AD dissociated from selective attention, neglect dyslexia dissociated from orienting, and surface dyslexia dissociated from sustained and executive attention. These results indicate that visuospatial attention deficits do not underlie these dyslexias. PMID:25628578

Curcumin Decreases Hyperphosphorylation of Tau by Down-Regulating Caveolin-1/GSK-3β in N2a/APP695swe Cells and APP/PS1 Double Transgenic Alzheimer's Disease Mice.

PubMed

Sun, Jieyun; Zhang, Xiong; Wang, Chen; Teng, Zhipeng; Li, Yu

2017-01-01

Caveolin-1, the marker protein of membranal caveolae, is not only involved in cholesterol regulation, but also participates in the cleavage of amyloid [Formula: see text]-protein precursor (APP) and the generation of [Formula: see text]-amyloid peptide. It has been reported to be tightly related with Tau. In our previous studies, curcumin has been confirmed to play a neuroprotective role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but its effects on Caveolin-1, Tau and their correlation, and the mechanism is still unknown. As such, in the present study, N2a/WT cells, N2a/APP695swe cell and six-month-old APP/PS1 double transgenic mice were enrolled. After curcumin treatment, the expression of Caveolin-1, Tau and their relationship was detected, and the potential mechanisms were explored. The results showed that in the N2a/APP695swe cells, curcumin not only decreased the number of caveolae, but also made their membrane to be thinner; and curcumin could decreased the expression of phosphorylated Tau (P-Tau(ser404)/Tau) and Caveolin-1 ([Formula: see text]), but the expression of phosphorylated GSK-3[Formula: see text] (P-GSK-3[Formula: see text]/GSK-3[Formula: see text] was increased ([Formula: see text]). In APP/PS1 transgenic mice, the same results were observed. Taken together, our data suggest that curcumin may play an important role in AD via reducing Caveolin-1, inactivating GSK-3[Formula: see text] and inhibiting the abnormal excessive phosphorylation of Tau, which will provide a new theory for AD treatment with curcumin.

ADS Model in the TIRELIRE-STRATEGIE Fuel Cycle Simulation Code Application to Minor Actinides Transmutation Studies

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

Garzenne, Claude; Massara, Simone; Tetart, Philippe

2006-07-01

Accelerator Driven Systems offer the advantage, thanks to the core sub-criticality, to burn highly radioactive elements such as americium and curium in a dedicated stratum, and then to avoid polluting with these elements the main part of the nuclear fleet, which is optimized for electricity production. This paper presents firstly the ADS model implemented in the fuel cycle simulation code TIRELIRE-STRATEGIE that we developed at EDF R and D Division for nuclear power scenario studies. Then we show and comment the results of TIRELIRE-STRATEGIE calculation of a transition scenario between the current French nuclear fleet, and a fast reactor fleetmore » entirely deployed towards the end of the 21. century, consistently with the EDF prospective view, with 3 options for the minor actinides management:1) vitrified with fission products to be sent to the final disposal; 2) extracted together with plutonium from the spent fuel to be transmuted in Generation IV fast reactors; 3) eventually extracted separately from plutonium to be incinerated in a ADSs double stratum. The comparison of nuclear fuel cycle material fluxes and inventories between these options shows that ADSs are not more efficient than critical fast reactors for reducing the high level waste radio-toxicity; that minor actinides inventory and fluxes in the fuel cycle are more than twice as high in case of a double ADSs stratum than in case of minor actinides transmutation in Generation IV FBRs; and that about fourteen 400 MWth ADS are necessary to incinerate minor actinides issued from a 60 GWe Generation IV fast reactor fleet, corresponding to the current French nuclear fleet installed power. (authors)« less

Dissociations between developmental dyslexias and attention deficits.

PubMed

Lukov, Limor; Friedmann, Naama; Shalev, Lilach; Khentov-Kraus, Lilach; Shalev, Nir; Lorber, Rakefet; Guggenheim, Revital

2014-01-01

We examine whether attention deficits underlie developmental dyslexia, or certain types of dyslexia, by presenting double dissociations between the two. We took into account the existence of distinct types of dyslexia and of attention deficits, and focused on dyslexias that may be thought to have an attentional basis: letter position dyslexia (LPD), in which letters migrate within words, attentional dyslexia (AD), in which letters migrate between words, neglect dyslexia, in which letters on one side of the word are omitted or substituted, and surface dyslexia, in which words are read via the sublexical route. We tested 110 children and adults with developmental dyslexia and/or attention deficits, using extensive batteries of reading and attention. For each participant, the existence of dyslexia and the dyslexia type were tested using reading tests that included stimuli sensitive to the various dyslexia types. Attention deficit and its type was established through attention tasks assessing sustained, selective, orienting, and executive attention functioning. Using this procedure, we identified 55 participants who showed a double dissociation between reading and attention: 28 had dyslexia with normal attention and 27 had attention deficits with normal reading. Importantly, each dyslexia with suspected attentional basis dissociated from attention: we found 21 individuals with LPD, 13 AD, 2 neglect dyslexia, and 12 surface dyslexia without attention deficits. Other dyslexia types (vowel dyslexia, phonological dyslexia, visual dyslexia) also dissociated from attention deficits. Examination of 55 additional individuals with both a specific dyslexia and a certain attention deficit found no attention function that was consistently linked with any dyslexia type. Specifically, LPD and AD dissociated from selective attention, neglect dyslexia dissociated from orienting, and surface dyslexia dissociated from sustained and executive attention. These results indicate that visuospatial attention deficits do not underlie these dyslexias.

In situ 15N labeling experiment reveals different long-term responses to ammonium and nitrate inputs in N-saturated subtropical forest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Wenjing; Yu, Longfei; Zhang, Ting; Kang, Ronghua; Zhu, Jing; Mulder, Jan; Huang, Yongmei; Duan, Lei

2017-09-01

Chronically elevated deposition of reactive nitrogen (N), as ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3-), in subtropical forests with monsoonal climate has caused widespread N leaching in southern China. So far, little is known about the effect of further increases in N input and changes in the relative proportion of NH4+ and NO3- on turnover rate and fate of atmogenic N. Here we report a 15N tracer experiment in Tieshanping (TSP) forest, SW China, conducted as part of a long-term N fertilization experiment, using NH4NO3 and NaNO3, where effects of a doubling of monthly N inputs were compared. In June 2012, the regular N fertilizers were replaced by their 15N-labeled forms, viz., 15NH4NO3 and Na15NO3, as a single-dose addition. Mass balances of N for the initial 1.5 years following label addition showed that for both treatments, 70% to 80% of the annual N input was leached as NO3-, both at ambient and at double N input rates. This confirms the earlier reported extreme case of N saturation at TSP. The 15N, added as Na15NO3, showed recoveries of about 74% in soil leachates, indicating that NO3- input at TSP is subject to a rapid and nearly quantitative loss through direct leaching as a mobile anion. By contrast, recoveries of 15N in soil leachates of only 33% were found if added as 15NH4NO3. Much of the 15N was immobilized in the soil and to a lesser extent in the vegetation. Thus, immobilization of fresh N input is significantly greater if added as NH4+, than as NO3-.

Layered double hydroxide catalyst for the conversion of crude vegetable oils to a sustainable biofuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mollaeian, Keyvan

Over the last two decades, the U.S. has developed the production of biodiesel, a mixture of fatty acid methyl esters, using chiefly vegetable oils as feedstocks. However, there is much concern about the availability of high-quality vegetable oils for longterm biodiesel production. Problems have also risen due to the production of glycerol, an unwanted byproduct, as well as the need for process wash water. Therefore, this study was initiated to produce not only fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) but also fatty acid glycerol carbonates (FAGCs) by replacing methanol with dimethyl carbonate (DMC). The process would have no unnecessary byproducts and would be a simplified process compared to traditional biodiesel. In addition, this altering of the methylating agent could convert triglycerides, free fatty acids, and phospholipids to a sustainable biofuel. In this project, Mg-Al Layered Double Hydroxide (LDH) was optimized by calcination in different temperature varied from 250°C to 450°C. The gallery between layers was increased by intercalating sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS). During catalyst preparation, the pH was controlled ~10. In our experiment, triazabicyclodecene (TBD) was attached with trimethoxysilane (3GPS) as a coupling agent, and N-cetyl-N,N,N-trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was added to remove SDS from the catalyst. The catalyst was characterized by XRD, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. The effect of the heterogeneous catalyst on the conversion of canola oil, corn oil, and free fatty acids was investigated. To analyze the conversion of lipid oils to biofuel an in situ Raman spectroscopic method was developed. Catalyst synthesis methods and a proposed mechanism for converting triglycerides and free fatty acids to biofuel will be presented.

Antibacterial and protein-repellent orthodontic cement to combat biofilms and white spot lesions

PubMed Central

Zhang, Ning; Chen, Chen; Weir, Michael D.; Bai, Yuxing; Xu, Hockin H. K.

2016-01-01

Objectives White spot lesions are the most undesired side-effect of fixed orthodontic treatments. The objectives of this study were to combine nanoparticles of silver (NAg) with 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) to develop a modified resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGI) as orthodontic cement with double benefits of antibacterial and protein-repellent capabilities for the first time. Methods NAg and MPC were incorporated into a commercial RMGI. Another commercial orthodontic adhesive also served as control. Enamel shear bond strengths (SBS) were determined. Protein adsorption was measured via a micro bicinchoninic acid method. A dental plaque microcosm biofilm model with human saliva as inoculum was tested. Biofilms adherent on the cement samples and planktonic bacteria in the culture medium away from the cement surfaces were both evaluated for bacterial metabolic activity, colony-forming units (CFU), and lactic acid production. Results Adding 0.1% NAg and 3% MPC to RMGI, and water-aging for 30 days, did not adversely affect the SBS, compared to the unmodified RMGI control (p>0.1). The modified RMGI containing 0.1% NAg and 3% MPC achieved the greatest reduction in protein adsorption, bacterial adhesion, CFU, metabolic activity and lactic acid production. The RMGI containing 0.1% NAg and 3% MPC inhibited not only the bacteria on its surface, but also the bacteria away from the surface in the culture medium. Conclusions The incorporation of double agents (antibacterial NAg + protein-repellent MPC) into RMGI achieved much stronger inhibition of biofilms than using each agent alone. The novel antibacterial and protein-repellent RMGI with substantially-reduced biofilm acids is promising as an orthodontic cement to combat white spot lesions in enamel. PMID:26427311

Emergence of a Stern Layer from the Incorporation of Hydration Interactions into the Gouy-Chapman Model of the Electrical Double Layer.

PubMed

Brown, Matthew A; Bossa, Guilherme Volpe; May, Sylvio

2015-10-27

In one of the most commonly used phenomenological descriptions of the electrical double layer, a charged solid surface and a diffuse region of mobile ions are separated from each other by a thin charge-depleted Stern layer. The Stern layer acts as a capacitor that improves the classical Gouy-Chapman model by increasing the magnitude of the surface potential and limiting the maximal counterion concentration. We show that very similar Stern-like properties of the diffuse double layer emerge naturally from adding a nonelectrostatic hydration repulsion to the electrostatic Coulomb potential. The interplay of electrostatic attraction and hydration repulsion of the counterions and the surface leads to the formation of a diffuse counterion layer that remains well separated from the surface. In addition, hydration repulsions between the ions limit and control the maximal ion concentration and widen the width of the diffuse double layer. Our mean-field model, which we express in terms of electrostatic and hydration potentials, is physically consistent and conceptually similar to the classical Gouy-Chapman model. It allows the incorporation of ion specificity, accounts for hydration properties of charged surfaces, and predicts Stern layer properties, which we analyze in terms of the effective size of the hydrated counterions.

The effect of morphine added to bupivacaine in ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block for postoperative analgesia following lower abdominal cancer surgery, a randomized controlled study.

PubMed

El Sherif, Fatma Adel; Mohamed, Sahar Abdel-Baky; Kamal, Shereen Mamdouh

2017-06-01

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block used for management of surgical abdominal pain by injecting local anesthetics into the plane between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscles. We aimed to explore the effect of adding morphine to bupivacaine in ultrasound guided TAP-block in patients undergoing lower abdominal cancer surgery. Randomized, double-blind, prospective study. Clinical trial identifier: NCT02566096. Academic medical center. Sixty patients were enrolled in this study after ethical committee approval. Patients divided into 2 groups (30 each): Bupivacaine group (GB): given ultrasound guided TAP-block 20ml 0.5% bupivacaine diluted in 20ml saline; Morphine group (GM): given ultrasound guided TAP-block with 20ml 0.5% bupivacaine+10mg morphine sulphate diluted in 20ml saline. Patients were observed for total morphine consumption, time for first request of rescue analgesia, sedation scores, hemodynamics and side effects for 24h postoperatively. Morphine added to bupivacaine in TAP block compared to bupivacaine alone reduced total morphine consumption (5.33±1.28mg) (10.70±3.09mg) respectively (p<0.001), prolonged the time to first request of analgesia (10.40±4.96h) (6.97±3.26h) respectively (p<0.008), with a statistically significant decrease in (VAS-M) in GM compared with GB at 12h postoperatively (p<0.002). No significant differences in hemodynamics, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, sedation score, and side effects except for nausea were observed (p>0.05). Addition of morphine to bupivacaine in TAP block is effective method for pain management in patients undergoing major abdominal cancer surgery without serious side effects. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Disease Progression in Mild Dementia due to Alzheimer Disease in an 18-Month Observational Study (GERAS): The Impact on Costs and Caregiver Outcomes

PubMed Central

Jones, Roy W.; Lebrec, Jeremie; Kahle-Wrobleski, Kristin; Dell'Agnello, Grazia; Bruno, Giuseppe; Vellas, Bruno; Argimon, Josep M.; Dodel, Richard; Haro, Josep Maria; Wimo, Anders; Reed, Catherine

2017-01-01

Background/Aims We assessed whether cognitive and functional decline in community-dwelling patients with mild Alzheimer disease (AD) dementia were associated with increased societal costs and caregiver burden and time outcomes. Methods Cognitive decline was defined as a ≥3-point reduction in the Mini-Mental State Examination and functional decline as a decrease in the ability to perform one or more basic items of the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study Activities of Daily Living Inventory (ADCS-ADL) or ≥20% of instrumental ADL items. Total societal costs were estimated from resource use and caregiver hours using 2010 costs. Caregiver burden was assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI); caregiver supervision and total hours were collected. Results Of 566 patients with mild AD enrolled in the GERAS study, 494 were suitable for the current analysis. Mean monthly total societal costs were greater for patients showing functional (+61%) or cognitive decline (+27%) compared with those without decline. In relation to a typical mean monthly cost of approximately EUR 1,400 at baseline, this translated into increases over 18 months to EUR 2,254 and 1,778 for patients with functional and cognitive decline, respectively. The number of patients requiring supervision doubled among patients showing functional or cognitive decline compared with those not showing decline, while caregiver total time increased by 70 and 33%, respectively and ZBI total score by 5.3 and 3.4 points, respectively. Conclusion Cognitive and, more notably, functional decline were associated with increases in costs and caregiver outcomes in patients with mild AD dementia. PMID:28611822

The added value of dynamical downscaling in a climate change scenario simulation:A case study for European Alps and East Asia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Im, Eun-Soon; Coppola, Erika; Giorgi, Filippo

2010-05-01

Since anthropogenic climate change is a rather important factor for the future human life all over the planet and its effects are not globally uniform, climate information at regional or local scales become more and more important for an accurate assessment of the potential impact of climate change on societies and ecosystems. High resolution information with suitably fine-scale for resolving complex geographical features could be a critical factor for successful linkage between climate models and impact assessment studies. However, scale mismatch between them still remains major problem. One method for overcoming the resolution limitations of global climate models and for adding regional details to coarse-grid global projections is to use dynamical downscaling by means of a regional climate model. In this study, the ECHAM5/MPI-OM (1.875 degree) A1B scenario simulation has been dynamically downscaled by using two different approaches within the framework of RegCM3 modeling system. First, a mosaic-type parameterization of subgrid-scale topography and land use (Sub-BATS) is applied over the European Alpine region. The Sub-BATS system is composed of 15 km coarse-grid cell and 3 km sub-grid cell. Second, we developed the RegCM3 one-way double-nested system, with the mother domain encompassing the eastern regions of Asia at 60 km grid spacing and the nested domain covering the Korean Peninsula at 20 km grid spacing. By comparing the regional climate model output and the driving global model ECHAM5/MPI-OM output, it is possible to estimate the added value of physically-based dynamical downscaling when for example impact studies at hydrological scale are performed.

Acousto-optical modulation of light at a doubled sound frequency

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

Kotov, V M; Averin, S V; Shkerdin, G N

2016-02-28

A method of acousto-optical (AO) Bragg diffraction is proposed that provides the amplitude modulation of optical radiation at a doubled acoustic frequency. The method is based on the double transmission of the light through the AO modulator made of a gyrotropic crystal and is experimentally tested by the example of the modulation of light with a wavelength of 0.63 μm, controlled by the paratellurite AO cell. (acoustooptics)

Intact haptic priming in normal aging and Alzheimer's disease: evidence for dissociable memory systems.

PubMed

Ballesteros, Soledad; Reales, José Manuel

2004-01-01

This study is the first to report complete priming in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and older control subjects for objects presented haptically. To investigate possible dissociations between implicit and explicit objects representations, young adults, Alzheimer's patients, and older controls performed a speeded object naming task followed by a recognition task. Similar haptic priming was exhibited by the three groups, although young adults responded faster than the two older groups. Furthermore, there was no difference in performance between the two healthy groups. On the other hand, younger and older healthy adults did not differ on explicit recognition while, as expected, AD patients were highly impaired. The double dissociation suggests that different memory systems mediate both types of memory tasks. The preservation of intact haptic priming in AD provides strong support to the idea that object implicit memory is mediated by a memory system that is different from the medial-temporal diencephalic system underlying explicit memory, which is impaired early in AD. Recent imaging and behavioral studies suggest that the implicit memory system may depend on extrastriate areas of the occipital cortex although somatosensory cortical mechanisms may also be involved.

Synthesis of DNA

DOEpatents

Mariella, Jr., Raymond P.

2008-11-18

A method of synthesizing a desired double-stranded DNA of a predetermined length and of a predetermined sequence. Preselected sequence segments that will complete the desired double-stranded DNA are determined. Preselected segment sequences of DNA that will be used to complete the desired double-stranded DNA are provided. The preselected segment sequences of DNA are assembled to produce the desired double-stranded DNA.

A trial of reliable estimation of non-double-couple component of microearthquakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imanishi, K.; Uchide, T.

2017-12-01

Although most tectonic earthquakes are caused by shear failure, it has been reported that injection-induced seismicity and earthquakes occurring in volcanoes and geothermal areas contain non double couple (non-DC) components (e.g, Dreger et al., 2000). Also in the tectonic earthquakes, small non-DC components are beginning to be detected (e.g, Ross et al., 2015). However, it is generally limited to relatively large earthquakes that the non-DC component can be estimated with sufficient accuracy. In order to gain further understanding of fluid-driven earthquakes and fault zone properties, it is important to estimate full moment tensor of many microearthquakes with high precision. In the last AGU meeting, we proposed a method that iteratively applies the relative moment tensor inversion (RMTI) (Dahm, 1996) to source clusters improving each moment tensor as well as their relative accuracy. This new method overcomes the problem of RMTI that errors in the mechanism of reference events lead to biased solutions for other events, while taking advantage of RMTI that the source mechanisms can be determined without a computation of Green's function. The procedure is briefly summarized as follows: (1) Sample co-located multiple earthquakes with focal mechanisms, as initial solutions, determined by an ordinary method. (2) Apply the RMTI to estimate the source mechanism of each event relative to those of the other events. (3) Repeat the step 2 for the modified source mechanisms until the reduction of total residual converges. In order to confirm whether the method can resolve non-DC components, we conducted numerical tests on synthetic data. Amplitudes were computed assuming non-DC sources, amplifying by factor between 0.2 and 4 as site effects, and adding 10% random noise. As initial solutions in the step 1, we gave DC sources with arbitrary strike, dip and rake angle. In a test with eight sources at 12 stations, for example, all solutions were successively improved by iteration. Non-DC components were successfully resolved in spite of the fact that we gave DC sources as initial solutions. The application of the method to microearthquakes in geothermal area in Japan will be presented.

Concerning the Video Drift Method to Measure Double Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugent, Richard L.; Iverson, Ernest W.

2015-05-01

Classical methods to measure position angles and separations of double stars rely on just a few measurements either from visual observations or photographic means. Visual and photographic CCD observations are subject to errors from the following sources: misalignments from eyepiece/camera/barlow lens/micrometer/focal reducers, systematic errors from uncorrected optical distortions, aberrations from the telescope system, camera tilt, magnitude and color effects. Conventional video methods rely on calibration doubles and graphically calculating the east-west direction plus careful choice of select video frames stacked for measurement. Atmospheric motion is one of the larger sources of error in any exposure/measurement method which is on the order of 0.5-1.5. Ideally, if a data set from a short video can be used to derive position angle and separation, with each data set self-calibrating independent of any calibration doubles or star catalogues, this would provide measurements of high systematic accuracy. These aims are achieved by the video drift method first proposed by the authors in 2011. This self calibrating video method automatically analyzes 1,000's of measurements from a short video clip.

Modulation of p25 and inflammatory pathways by fisetin maintains cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease transgenic mice

PubMed Central

Currais, Antonio; Prior, Marguerite; Dargusch, Richard; Armando, Aaron; Ehren, Jennifer; Schubert, David; Quehenberger, Oswald; Maher, Pamela

2014-01-01

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia. It is the only one of the top ten causes of death in the USA for which prevention strategies have not been developed. Although AD has traditionally been associated with the deposition of amyloid β plaques and tau tangles, it is becoming increasingly clear that it involves disruptions in multiple cellular systems. Therefore, it is unlikely that hitting a single target will result in significant benefits to patients with AD. An alternative approach is to identify molecules that have multiple biological activities that are relevant to the disease. Fisetin is a small, orally active molecule which can act on many of the target pathways implicated in AD. We show here that oral administration of fisetin to APPswe/PS1dE9 double transgenic AD mice from 3 to 12 months of age prevents the development of learning and memory deficits. This correlates with an increase in ERK phosphorylation along with a decrease in protein carbonylation, a marker of oxidative stress. Importantly, fisetin also reduces the levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) activator p35 cleavage product, p25, in both control and AD brains. Elevated levels of p25 relative to p35 cause dysregulation of Cdk5 activity leading to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. These fisetin-dependent changes correlate with additional anti-inflammatory effects, including alterations in global eicosanoid synthesis, and the maintenance of markers of synaptic function in the AD mice. Together, these results suggest that fisetin may provide a new approach to the treatment of AD. PMID:24341874

Transcutaneous yellow fever vaccination of subjects with or without atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Slifka, Mark K; Leung, Donald Y M; Hammarlund, Erika; Raué, Hans-Peter; Simpson, Eric L; Tofte, Susan; Baig-Lewis, Shahana; David, Gloria; Lynn, Henry; Woolson, Rob; Hata, Tissa; Milgrom, Henry; Hanifin, Jon

2014-02-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease with a global prevalence ranging from 3% to 20%. Patients with AD have an increased risk for complications after viral infection (eg, herpes simplex virus), and vaccination of patients with AD with live vaccinia virus is contraindicated because of a heightened risk of eczema vaccinatum, a rare but potentially lethal complication associated with smallpox vaccination. We sought to develop a better understanding of immunity to cutaneous viral infection in patients with AD. In a double-blind randomized study we investigated the safety and immunogenicity of live attenuated yellow fever virus (YFV) vaccination of nonatopic subjects and patients with AD after standard subcutaneous inoculation or transcutaneous vaccination administered with a bifurcated needle. Viremia, neutralizing antibody, and antiviral T-cell responses were analyzed for up to 30 days after vaccination. YFV vaccination administered through either route was well tolerated. Subcutaneous vaccination resulted in higher seroconversion rates than transcutaneous vaccination but elicited similar antiviral antibody levels and T-cell responses in both the nonatopic and AD groups. After transcutaneous vaccination, both groups mounted similar neutralizing antibody responses, but patients with AD demonstrated lower antiviral T-cell responses by 30 days after vaccination. Among transcutaneously vaccinated subjects, a significant inverse correlation between baseline IgE levels and the magnitude of antiviral antibody and CD4(+) T-cell responses was observed. YFV vaccination of patients with AD through the transcutaneous route revealed that high baseline IgE levels provide a potential biomarker for predicting reduced virus-specific immune memory after transcutaneous infection with a live virus. Copyright © 2013 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Vitamin D deficiency rickets in an adolescent with severe atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Borzutzky, Arturo; Grob, Francisca; Camargo, Carlos A; Martinez-Aguayo, Alejandro

2014-02-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects 10% to 20% of children worldwide. Its severity may be inversely correlated with 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels. Although low levels of vitamin D (VD) can cause rickets in infants, VD deficiency rickets is an unusual presentation in teenagers. We report the case of a 14-year-old girl with severe AD and fish allergy since early childhood. She lived at high latitude (with less sun exposure) and, because of her atopic disorders, avoided sunlight and fish. Laboratory studies showed elevated alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone levels and low serum calcium; her serum 25OHD level was <12 nmol/L. A radiograph of the wrist showed a radiolucent band in the distal metaphysis of the radius with marginal sclerosis. She was diagnosed as having hypocalcemic rickets due to VD deficiency. Treatment with VD increased her 25OHD level to 44 nmol/L, with normalization of alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, and calcium. Moreover, we observed a dramatic improvement in her AD severity with VD treatment. This case demonstrates the complex interaction between VD deficiency, AD, and food allergy. We advise a high index of suspicion of VD deficiency rickets in children of all ages with AD, particularly during accelerated growth periods and in the presence of other risk factors such as darker skin, living at high latitude, sun avoidance, and low intake of VD-rich foods. The concomitant improvement in bone-related parameters and AD severity may reflect a double benefit of VD treatment, a possibility that warrants research on VD as potential treatment for AD.

Alzheimer's Disease: A Journey from Amyloid Peptides and Oxidative Stress, to Biomarker Technologies and Disease Prevention Strategies-Gains from AIBL and DIAN Cohort Studies.

PubMed

Martins, Ralph N; Villemagne, Victor; Sohrabi, Hamid R; Chatterjee, Pratishtha; Shah, Tejal M; Verdile, Giuseppe; Fraser, Paul; Taddei, Kevin; Gupta, Veer B; Rainey-Smith, Stephanie R; Hone, Eugene; Pedrini, Steve; Lim, Wei Ling; Martins, Ian; Frost, Shaun; Gupta, Sunil; O'Bryant, Sid; Rembach, Alan; Ames, David; Ellis, Kathryn; Fuller, Stephanie J; Brown, Belinda; Gardener, Samantha L; Fernando, Binosha; Bharadwaj, Prashant; Burnham, Samantha; Laws, Simon M; Barron, Anna M; Goozee, Kathryn; Wahjoepramono, Eka J; Asih, Prita R; Doecke, James D; Salvado, Olivier; Bush, Ashley I; Rowe, Christopher C; Gandy, Samuel E; Masters, Colin L

2018-01-01

Worldwide there are over 46 million people living with dementia, and this number is expected to double every 20 years reaching about 131 million by 2050. The cost to the community and government health systems, as well as the stress on families and carers is incalculable. Over three decades of research into this disease have been undertaken by several research groups in Australia, including work by our original research group in Western Australia which was involved in the discovery and sequencing of the amyloid-β peptide (also known as Aβ or A4 peptide) extracted from cerebral amyloid plaques. This review discusses the journey from the discovery of the Aβ peptide in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain to the establishment of pre-clinical AD using PET amyloid tracers, a method now serving as the gold standard for developing peripheral diagnostic approaches in the blood and the eye. The latter developments for early diagnosis have been largely achieved through the establishment of the Australian Imaging Biomarker and Lifestyle research group that has followed 1,100 Australians for 11 years. AIBL has also been instrumental in providing insight into the role of the major genetic risk factor apolipoprotein E ɛ4, as well as better understanding the role of lifestyle factors particularly diet, physical activity and sleep to cognitive decline and the accumulation of cerebral Aβ.

Hawthorn Extract Randomized Blinded Chronic Heart Failure (HERB CHF) Trial

PubMed Central

Zick, Suzanna M.; Vautaw, Bonnie Motyka; Gillespie, Brenda; Aaronson, Keith D.

2009-01-01

Aims Hawthorn's efficacy when added to contemporary evidence-based heart failure therapy is unknown. We aimed to determine whether hawthorn increases submaximal exercise capacity when added to standard medical therapy. Methods and results We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 120 ambulatory patients aged ≥18 years with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II-III chronic heart failure. All patients received conventional medical therapy, as tolerated, and were randomized to either hawthorn 450 mg twice daily or placebo for 6 months. The primary outcome was change in 6 min walk distance at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included quality of life (QOL) measures, peak oxygen consumption, and anaerobic threshold during maximal treadmill exercise testing, NYHA classification, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), neurohormones, and measures of oxidative stress and inflammation. There were no significant differences between groups in the change in 6 min walk distance (P = 0.61), or on measures of QOL, functional capacity, neurohormones, oxidative stress, or inflammation. A modest difference in LVEF favoured hawthorn (P = 0.04). There were significantly more adverse events reported in the hawthorn group (P = 0.02), although most were non-cardiac. Conclusion Hawthorn provides no symptomatic or functional benefit when given with standard medical therapy to patients with heart failure. This trial is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT00343902. PMID:19789403

Design and characterization of a biodegradable double-layer scaffold aimed at periodontal tissue-engineering applications.

PubMed

Requicha, João F; Viegas, Carlos A; Hede, Shantesh; Leonor, Isabel B; Reis, Rui L; Gomes, Manuela E

2016-05-01

The inefficacy of the currently used therapies in achieving the regeneration ad integrum of the periodontium stimulates the search for alternative approaches, such as tissue-engineering strategies. Therefore, the core objective of this study was to develop a biodegradable double-layer scaffold for periodontal tissue engineering. The design philosophy was based on a double-layered construct obtained from a blend of starch and poly-ε-caprolactone (30:70 wt%; SPCL). A SPCL fibre mesh functionalized with silanol groups to promote osteogenesis was combined with a SPCL solvent casting membrane aiming at acting as a barrier against the migration of gingival epithelium into the periodontal defect. Each layer of the double-layer scaffolds was characterized in terms of morphology, surface chemical composition, degradation behaviour and mechanical properties. Moreover, the behaviour of seeded/cultured canine adipose-derived stem cells (cASCs) was assessed. In general, the developed double-layered scaffolds demonstrated adequate degradation and mechanical behaviour for the target application. Furthermore, the biological assays revealed that both layers of the scaffold allow adhesion and proliferation of the seeded undifferentiated cASCs, and the incorporation of silanol groups into the fibre-mesh layer enhance the expression of a typical osteogenic marker. This study allowed an innovative construct to be developed, combining a three-dimensional (3D) scaffold with osteoconductive properties and with potential to assist periodontal regeneration, carrying new possible solutions to current clinical needs. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Ordering of the O-O stretching vibrational frequencies in ozone

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scuseria, Gustavo E.; Lee, Timothy J.; Scheiner, Andrew C.; Schaefer, Henry F., III

1989-01-01

The ordering of nu1 and nu3 for O3 is incorrectly predicted by most theoretical methods, including some very high level methods. The first systematic electron correlation method based on one-reference configuration to solve this problem is the coupled cluster single and double excitation method. However, a relatively large basis set, triple zeta plus double polarization is required. Comparison with other theoretical methods is made.

Aspects of AdS/CFT: Conformal Deformations and the Goldstone Equivalence Theorem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cantrell, Sean Andrew

The AdS/CFT correspondence provides a map from the states of theories situated in AdSd+1 to those in dual conformal theories in a d-dimensional space. The correspondence can be used to establish certain universal properties of some theories in one space by examining the behave of general objects in the other. In this thesis, we develop various formal aspects of AdS/CFT. Conformal deformations manifest in the AdS/CFT correspondence as boundary conditions on the AdS field. Heretofore, double-trace deformations have been the primary focus in this context. To better understand multitrace deformations, we revisit the relationship between the generating AdS partition function for a free bulk theory and the boundary CFT partition function subject to arbitrary conformal deformations. The procedure leads us to a formalism that constructs bulk fields from boundary operators. We independently replicate the holographic RG flow narrative to go on to interpret the brane used to regulate the AdS theory as a renormalization scale. The scale-dependence of the dilatation spectrum of a boundary theory in the presence of general deformations can be thus understood on the AdS side using this formalism. The Goldstone equivalence theorem allows one to relate scattering amplitudes of massive gauge fields to those of scalar fields in the limit of large scattering energies. We generalize this theorem under the framework of the AdS/CFT correspondence. First, we obtain an expression of the equivalence theorem in terms of correlation functions of creation and annihilation operators by using an AdS wave function approach to the AdS/CFT dictionary. It is shown that the divergence of the non-conserved conformal current dual to the bulk gauge field is approximately primary when computing correlators for theories in which the masses of all the exchanged particles are sufficiently large. The results are then generalized to higher spin fields. We then go on to generalize the theorem using conformal blocks in two and four-dimensional CFTs. We show that when the scaling dimensions of the exchanged operators are large compared to both their spins and the dimension of the current, the conformal blocks satisfy an equivalence theorem.

Fiber sensor network with multipoint sensing using double-pass hybrid LPFG-FBG sensor configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yong, Yun-Thung; Lee, Sheng-Chyan; Rahman, Faidz Abd

2017-03-01

This is a study on double-pass intensity-based hybrid Long Period Fiber Grating (LPFG)and Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor configuration where a fiber sensor network was constructed with multiple sensing capability. The sensing principle is based on interrogation of intensity changes of the reflected signal from an FBG caused by the LPFG spectral response to the surrounding perturbations. The sensor network developed was tested in monitoring diesel adulteration of up to a distance of 8 km. Kerosene concentration from 0% to 50% was added as adulterant into diesel. The sensitivity of the double-pass hybrid LPFG-FBG sensor over multiple points was>0.21 dB/% (for adulteration range of 0-30%) and >0.45 dB/% from 30% to 50% adulteration. It is found that the sensitivity can drop up to 35% when the fiber length increased from 0 km to 8 km (for the case of adulteration of 0-30%). With the multiple sensing capabilities, normalized FBG's reflected power can be demodulated at the same time for comparison of sensitivity performance across various fiber sensors.

Structural characterization by NMR of a double phosphorylated chimeric peptide vaccine for treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Ramírez-Gualito, Karla; Richter, Monique; Matzapetakis, Manolis; Singer, David; Berger, Stefan

2013-04-26

Rational design of peptide vaccines becomes important for the treatment of some diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related disorders. In this study, as part of a larger effort to explore correlations of structure and activity, we attempt to characterize the doubly phosphorylated chimeric peptide vaccine targeting a hyperphosphorylated epitope of the Tau protein. The 28-mer linear chimeric peptide consists of the double phosphorylated B cell epitope Tau₂₂₉₋₂₃₇[pThr231/pSer235] and the immunomodulatory T cell epitope Ag85B₂₄₁₋₂₅₅ originating from the well-known antigen Ag85B of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis, linked by a four amino acid sequence -GPSL-. NMR chemical shift analysis of our construct demonstrated that the synthesized peptide is essentially unfolded with a tendency to form a β-turn due to the linker. In conclusion, the -GPSL- unit presumably connects the two parts of the vaccine without transferring any structural information from one part to the other. Therefore, the double phosphorylated epitope of the Tau peptide is flexible and accessible.

Anisotropic electron temperature measurements without knowing the spectral transmissivity for a JT-60SA Thomson scattering diagnostic

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

Tojo, H.; Hatae, T.; Yatsuka, E.

2012-10-15

This paper focuses on a method for measuring the electron temperature (T{sub e}) without knowing the transmissivity using Thomson scattering diagnostic with a double-pass scattering system. Application of this method for measuring the anisotropic T{sub e}, i.e., the T{sub e} in the directions parallel (T{sub e Double-Vertical-Line Double-Vertical-Line }) and perpendicular (T{sub e Up-Tack }) to the magnetic field, is proposed. Simulations based on the designed parameters for a JT-60SA indicate the feasibility of the measurements except in certain T{sub e} ranges, e.g., T{sub e Double-Vertical-Line Double-Vertical-Line }{approx} 3.5T{sub e Up-Tack} at 120 Degree-Sign of the scattering angle.

Fluoxetine attenuates the impairment of spatial learning ability and prevents neuron loss in middle-aged APPswe/PSEN1dE9 double transgenic Alzheimer's disease mice.

PubMed

Ma, Jing; Gao, Yuan; Jiang, Lin; Chao, Feng-Lei; Huang, Wei; Zhou, Chun-Ni; Tang, Wei; Zhang, Lei; Huang, Chun-Xia; Zhang, Yi; Luo, Yan-Min; Xiao, Qian; Yu, Hua-Rong; Jiang, Rong; Tang, Yong

2017-04-25

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been reported to increase cognitive performance in some clinical studies of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, there is a lack of evidence supporting the efficacy of SSRIs as cognition enhancers in AD, and the role of SSRIs as a treatment for AD remains largely unclear. Here, we characterized the impact of fluoxetine (FLX), a well-known SSRI, on neurons in the dentate gyrus (DG) and in CA1 and CA3 of the hippocampus of middle-aged (16 to 17 months old) APPswe/PSEN1dE9 (APP/PS1) transgenic AD model mice. We found that intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of FLX (10 mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks effectively alleviated the impairment of spatial learning ability in middle-aged APP/PS1 mice as evaluated using the Morris water maze. More importantly, the number of neurons in the hippocampal DG was significantly increased by FLX. Additionally, FLX reduced the deposition of beta amyloid, inhibited GSK-3β activity and increased the level of β-catenin in middle-aged APP/PS1 mice. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that FLX delayed the progression of neuronal loss in the hippocampal DG in middle-aged AD mice, and this effect may underlie the FLX-induced improvement in learning ability. FLX may therefore serve as a promising therapeutic drug for AD.

Fluoxetine attenuates the impairment of spatial learning ability and prevents neuron loss in middle-aged APPswe/PSEN1dE9 double transgenic Alzheimer's disease mice

PubMed Central

Ma, Jing; Gao, Yuan; Jiang, Lin; Chao, Feng-lei; Huang, Wei; Zhou, Chun-ni; Tang, Wei; Zhang, Lei; Huang, Chun-xia; Zhang, Yi; Luo, Yan-min; Xiao, Qian; Yu, Hua-rong; Jiang, Rong; Tang, Yong

2017-01-01

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been reported to increase cognitive performance in some clinical studies of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, there is a lack of evidence supporting the efficacy of SSRIs as cognition enhancers in AD, and the role of SSRIs as a treatment for AD remains largely unclear. Here, we characterized the impact of fluoxetine (FLX), a well-known SSRI, on neurons in the dentate gyrus (DG) and in CA1 and CA3 of the hippocampus of middle-aged (16 to 17 months old) APPswe/PSEN1dE9 (APP/PS1) transgenic AD model mice. We found that intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of FLX (10 mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks effectively alleviated the impairment of spatial learning ability in middle-aged APP/PS1 mice as evaluated using the Morris water maze. More importantly, the number of neurons in the hippocampal DG was significantly increased by FLX. Additionally, FLX reduced the deposition of beta amyloid, inhibited GSK-3β activity and increased the level of β-catenin in middle-aged APP/PS1 mice. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that FLX delayed the progression of neuronal loss in the hippocampal DG in middle-aged AD mice, and this effect may underlie the FLX-induced improvement in learning ability. FLX may therefore serve as a promising therapeutic drug for AD. PMID:28430602

Memantine in Japanese patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease: meta-analysis of multiple-index responder analyses.

PubMed

Okuizumi, Kaoru; Kamata, Teruyoshi; Matsui, Daiju; Saito, Kengo; Matsumoto, Takuyuki; Fukuchi, Yoshikazu

2018-04-01

Responder analyses assessing clinical worsening have attempted to clarify clinically meaningful drug efficacy enhancements in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). This was a meta-analysis of two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, 24-week studies of 633 Japanese patients with moderate to severe AD receiving memantine 20 mg/day (n = 318) or placebo (n = 315). The clinical trial registration number is UMIN000026013. Overall odds ratios (OR) for a reduced likelihood of clinical worsening (memantine versus placebo) were statistically significant on the following individual and combined rating scales: Severe Impairment Battery-Japanese version (SIB-J, OR 0.52; 95% CI: 0.37, 0.73; p = 0.0001); Behavioral Pathology in AD Rating Scale (BEHAVE-AD, OR 0.53; 95% CI: 0.37, 0.75; p = 0.0003); and SIB-J + Clinician's Interview-Based Impression of Change-plus-Japanese version (SIB-J + CIBIC-plus-J; OR 0.53; 95% CI: 0.37, 0.77; p = 0.0009). A significantly reduced risk of triple worsening was evident in the memantine versus placebo group on the combined SIB-J + CIBIC-plus-J + BEHAVE-AD rating scales (OR 0.38; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.65; p = 0.0003). Memantine is a viable treatment option for patients with AD presenting not only with cognitive impairment, but also with a broader range of symptoms, including the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.

Attaching transmitters to waterbirds using one versus two subcutaneous anchors: Retention and survival trade-offs

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewis, Tyler; Esler, Daniel N.; Uher-Koch, Brian D.; Dickson, Rian D.; Anderson, Eric M.; Evenson, Joseph R.; Hupp, Jerry W.; Flint, Paul L.

2017-01-01

A major challenge of wildlife telemetry is choosing an attachment technique that maximizes transmitter retention while minimizing negative side effects. For waterbirds, attachment of transmitters with subcutaneous anchors has been an effective and well-established technique, having been used on >40 species. This method was recently modified to include a second subcutaneous anchor, presumably increasing transmitter retention beyond that of single-anchor attachments. This putative benefit may be offset, however, by increased health risks related to additional incisions and subcutaneous protrusions. To test this potential trade-off, we attached radiotransmitters to molting and wintering surf (Melanitta perspicillata) and white-winged scoters (M. fusca) during 2008 and 2009 in Washington State and southeast Alaska, USA, using single- (121 scoters) and double-anchor (128 scoters) attachment techniques. We estimated daily probabilities of survival and radio retention for each group, this being apparent retention for wintering scoters because we could not differentiate shed transmitters from flighted emigration. For scoters during the flightless remigial molt, we found that addition of a second anchor increased cumulative retention probability (±SE) over a 49-day period from 0.69 ± 0.11 for single-anchor to 0.88 ± 0.07 for double-anchor attachments, while having no effect on survival. However, during winter, scoters with double-anchor attachments experienced no improvement in apparent retention, while having significantly lower survival during their first 14 days following transmitter attachment; of 15 mortalities during this period, 11 had 2 subcutaneous anchors. From day 15 onward, winter survival rates were nearly identical for single- versus double-anchor attachments, indicating that adverse effects of subcutaneous anchors were mainly limited to the 14-day postattachment period. Overall, given that the survival cost of adding a second subcutaneous anchor was substantial for wintering scoters—decreasing 14-day survival by 12% for adults and 23% for juveniles—we recommend that researchers opt for single-anchor attachments under most circumstances, especially during winter when birds may be energetically challenged. 

Computer-aided diagnostic method for classification of Alzheimer's disease with atrophic image features on MR images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arimura, Hidetaka; Yoshiura, Takashi; Kumazawa, Seiji; Tanaka, Kazuhiro; Koga, Hiroshi; Mihara, Futoshi; Honda, Hiroshi; Sakai, Shuji; Toyofuku, Fukai; Higashida, Yoshiharu

2008-03-01

Our goal for this study was to attempt to develop a computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) method for classification of Alzheimer's disease (AD) with atrophic image features derived from specific anatomical regions in three-dimensional (3-D) T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images. Specific regions related to the cerebral atrophy of AD were white matter and gray matter regions, and CSF regions in this study. Cerebral cortical gray matter regions were determined by extracting a brain and white matter regions based on a level set based method, whose speed function depended on gradient vectors in an original image and pixel values in grown regions. The CSF regions in cerebral sulci and lateral ventricles were extracted by wrapping the brain tightly with a zero level set determined from a level set function. Volumes of the specific regions and the cortical thickness were determined as atrophic image features. Average cortical thickness was calculated in 32 subregions, which were obtained by dividing each brain region. Finally, AD patients were classified by using a support vector machine, which was trained by the image features of AD and non-AD cases. We applied our CAD method to MR images of whole brains obtained from 29 clinically diagnosed AD cases and 25 non-AD cases. As a result, the area under a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve obtained by our computerized method was 0.901 based on a leave-one-out test in identification of AD cases among 54 cases including 8 AD patients at early stages. The accuracy for discrimination between 29 AD patients and 25 non-AD subjects was 0.840, which was determined at the point where the sensitivity was the same as the specificity on the ROC curve. This result showed that our CAD method based on atrophic image features may be promising for detecting AD patients by using 3-D MR images.

Effect of amaranth dye on the growth and properties of conventional and SR method grown KAP single crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babu Rao, G.; P., Rajesh; Ramasamy, P.

2018-04-01

The 0.1 mol% amaranth added KAP single crystals were grown from aqueous solutions by both slow evaporation solution technique and Sankaranarayanan-Ramasamy method. The single crystal having dimension of 45 mm length and 12 mm diameter was grown with growth rate of 1.5 mm/day using SR method. 87 % transmittance is obtained for SR method grown amaranth added KAP single crystal. The high intense luminescence at 661 nm is obtained from amaranth added conventional and SR method grown KAP single crystal. The amaranth added KAP single crystal possesses good mechanical and laser damage threshold stability.

The NASA Astrophysics Data System: Overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurtz, Michael J.; Eichhorn, Guenther; Accomazzi, Alberto; Grant, Carolyn S.; Murray, Stephen S.; Watson, Joyce M.

2000-04-01

The NASA Astrophysics Data System Abstract Service has become a key component of astronomical research. It provides bibliographic information daily, or near daily, to a majority of astronomical researchers worldwide. We describe the history of the development of the system and its current status. Urania (Boyce 1996), and the ADS role in the emerging electronic astronomical data environment are discussed. Astronomy is unique in that it already has a fully functional data resource, where several of the most important data sources exist on-line and inter-operate nearly seamlessly. The ADS and the Strasbourg Data Center (CDS; Genova et~al. 2000) form the core of this resource. We show several examples of how to use the ADS, and we show how ADS use has increased as a function of time. Currently it is still increasing exponentially, with a doubling time for number of queries of 17 months. Using the ADS logs we make the first detailed model of how scientific journals are read as a function of time since publication. We find four distinct components. We directly compare the readership rate with the citation rate for scientific articles as a function of age. Citations generally follow reads, but there are some differences. The main journals of astronomy have differences in the ways they are read and cited. We discuss these from a number of different aspects. The impact of the ADS on astronomy can be calculated after making some simple assumptions. We find that the ADS increases the efficiency of astronomical research by 333 Full Time Equivalent (2000 hour) research years per year, and that the value of the early development of the ADS for astronomy, compared with waiting for mature technologies to be adopted, is 2332 FTE research years. A full technical description of the ADS is in three companion articles: \\cite{gei}, \\cite{aa}, and \\cite{csg}. The ADS is available at http://adsabs.harvard.edu/.

Cofortification of ferric pyrophosphate and citric acid/trisodium citrate into extruded rice grains doubles iron bioavailability through in situ generation of soluble ferric pyrophosphate citrate complexes.

PubMed

Hackl, Laura; Cercamondi, Colin I; Zeder, Christophe; Wild, Daniela; Adelmann, Horst; Zimmermann, Michael B; Moretti, Diego

2016-05-01

Iron fortification of rice is a promising strategy for improving iron nutrition. However, it is technically challenging because rice is consumed as intact grains, and ferric pyrophosphate (FePP), which is usually used for rice fortification, has low bioavailability. We investigated whether the addition of a citric acid/trisodium citrate (CA/TSC) mixture before extrusion increases iron absorption in humans from FePP-fortified extruded rice grains. We conducted an iron absorption study in iron-sufficient young women (n = 20), in which each participant consumed 4 different meals (4 mg Fe/meal): 1) extruded FePP-fortified rice (No CA/TSC); 2) extruded FePP-fortified rice with CA/TSC added before extrusion (CA/TSC extruded); 3) extruded FePP-fortified rice with CA/TSC solution added after cooking and before consumption (CA/TSC solution); and 4) nonextruded rice fortified with a FeSO4 solution added after cooking and before consumption (reference). Iron absorption was calculated from erythrocyte incorporation of stable iron isotopes 14 d after administration. In in vitro experiments, we assessed the soluble and dialyzable iron from rice meals in which CA/TSC was added at different preparation stages and from meals with different iron:CA:TSC ratios. Fractional iron absorption was significantly higher from CA/TSC-extruded meals (3.2%) than from No CA/TSC (1.7%) and CA/TSC solution (1.7%; all P < 0.05) and was not different from the FeSO4 reference meal (3.4%). In vitro solubility and dialyzability were higher in CA/TSC-extruded rice than in rice with No CA/TSC and CA/TSC solution, and solubility increased with higher amounts of added CA and TSC in extruded rice. Iron bioavailability nearly doubled when CA/TSC was extruded with FePP into fortified rice, resulting in iron bioavailability comparable to that of FeSO4 We attribute this effect to an in situ generation of soluble FePP citrate moieties during extrusion and/or cooking because of the close physical proximity of FePP and CA/TSC in the extruded rice matrix. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02176759. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Efficacy and safety of fezakinumab (an IL-22 monoclonal antibody) in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis inadequately controlled by conventional treatments: A randomized, double-blind, phase 2a trial.

PubMed

Guttman-Yassky, Emma; Brunner, Patrick M; Neumann, Avidan U; Khattri, Saakshi; Pavel, Ana B; Malik, Kunal; Singer, Giselle K; Baum, Danielle; Gilleaudeau, Patricia; Sullivan-Whalen, Mary; Rose, Sharon; Jim On, Shelbi; Li, Xuan; Fuentes-Duculan, Judilyn; Estrada, Yeriel; Garcet, Sandra; Traidl-Hoffmann, Claudia; Krueger, James G; Lebwohl, Mark G

2018-05-01

Interleukin 22 promotes epidermal hyperplasia and inhibits skin barrier function. Evaluate interleukin 22 blockade in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD). We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with intravenous fezakinumab monotherapy every 2 weeks for 10 weeks, with follow-up assessments until 20 weeks. The change in SCOring AD (SCORAD) score from baseline at 12 weeks served as the primary end point. At 12 weeks, the mean declines in SCORAD for the entire study population were 13.8 ± 2.7 in the fezakinumab arm and 8.0 ± 3.1 in the placebo arm (P = .134). In the severe AD patient subset (with a baseline SCORAD of ≥50), SCORAD decline was significantly stronger in the drug-treated patients than placebo-treated patients at 12 weeks (21.6 ± 3.8 vs 9.6 ± 4.2, P = .029) and 20 weeks (27.4 ± 3.9 vs 11.5 ± 5.1, P = .010). At 12 weeks, improvements in body surface area involvement in the entire population were significantly stronger in the drug-treated than placebo-treated patients (12.4% ± 2.4 vs 6.2% ± 2.7; P = .009), and in the severe AD subset, the decline in Investigator Global Assessment was significantly higher in the drug-treated than placebo-treated patients (0.7 ± 0.2 vs 0.3 ± 0.1; P = .034). All scores showed progressive improvements after last dosing (10 weeks) until end of study (20 weeks). Common adverse events were upper respiratory tract infections. The limited sample size and lack of assessment with Eczema Area and Severity Index and a pruritus numerical rating scale were limiting factors. Significance was primarily obtained in severe AD. Fezakinumab was well-tolerated, with sustained clinical improvements after last drug dosing. Copyright © 2018 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Reliability, Impact, and Cost-Effectiveness of Value-Added Teacher Assessment Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yeh, Stuart S.

2012-01-01

This article reviews evidence regarding the intertemporal reliability of teacher rankings based on value-added methods. Value-added methods exhibit low reliability, yet are broadly supported by prominent educational researchers and are increasingly being used to evaluate and fire teachers. The article then presents a cost-effectiveness analysis…

Hairy black holes in cubic quasi-topological gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dykaar, Hannah; Hennigar, Robie A.; Mann, Robert B.

2017-05-01

We construct a class of five dimensional black hole solutions to cubic quasi-topological gravity with conformal scalar hair and study their thermodynamics. We find these black holes provide the second example of black hole λ-lines: a line of second order (continuous) phase transitions, akin to the fluid/superfluid transition of 4He. Examples of isolated critical points are found for spherical black holes, marking the first in the literature to date. We also find various novel and interesting phase structures, including an isolated critical point occurring in conjunction with a double reentrant phase transition. The AdS vacua of the theory are studied, finding ghost-free configurations where the scalar field takes on a non-zero constant value, in notable contrast to the five dimensional Lovelock case.

The finite layer method for modelling the sound transmission through double walls

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Díaz-Cereceda, Cristina; Poblet-Puig, Jordi; Rodríguez-Ferran, Antonio

2012-10-01

The finite layer method (FLM) is presented as a discretisation technique for the computation of noise transmission through double walls. It combines a finite element method (FEM) discretisation in the direction perpendicular to the wall with trigonometric functions in the two in-plane directions. It is used for solving the Helmholtz equation at the cavity inside the double wall, while the wall leaves are modelled with the thin plate equation and solved with modal analysis. Other approaches to this problem are described here (and adapted where needed) in order to compare them with the FLM. They range from impedance models of the double wall behaviour to different numerical methods for solving the Helmholtz equation in the cavity. For the examples simulated in this work (impact noise and airborne sound transmission), the former are less accurate than the latter at low frequencies. The main advantage of FLM over the other discretisation techniques is the possibility of extending it to multilayered structures without changing the interpolation functions and with an affordable computational cost. This potential is illustrated with a calculation of the noise transmission through a multilayered structure: a double wall partially filled with absorbing material.

Midstory hardwood species respond differently to chainsaw girdle method and herbicide treatment

Treesearch

Ronald A. Rathfon; Michael R. Saunders

2013-01-01

Foresters in the Central Hardwoods Region commonly fell or girdle interfering trees and apply herbicide to the cut surface when performing intermediate silvicultural treatments. The objective of this study was to compare the use of single and double chainsaw girdle methods in combination with a herbicide treatment and, within the double girdle method, compare herbicide...

Front and backside processed thin film electronic devices

DOEpatents

Yuan, Hao-Chih; Wang, Guogong; Eriksson, Mark A.; Evans, Paul G.; Lagally, Max G.; Ma, Zhenqiang

2010-10-12

This invention provides methods for fabricating thin film electronic devices with both front- and backside processing capabilities. Using these methods, high temperature processing steps may be carried out during both frontside and backside processing. The methods are well-suited for fabricating back-gate and double-gate field effect transistors, double-sided bipolar transistors and 3D integrated circuits.

Prospective study aiming to compare 2D mammography and tomosynthesis + synthesized mammography in terms of cancer detection and recall. From double reading of 2D mammography to single reading of tomosynthesis.

PubMed

Romero Martín, Sara; Raya Povedano, Jose Luis; Cara García, María; Santos Romero, Ana Luz; Pedrosa Garriguet, Margarita; Álvarez Benito, Marina

2018-06-01

To evaluate tomosynthesis compared with 2D-mammography in cancer detection and recalls in a screening-programme, and assess performing synthesized instead of 2D, and compare double reading of 2D with single reading of tomosynthesis. Women (age 50-69 years) participating in the screening-programme were included. 2D-mammography and tomosynthesis were performed. There were four reading models: 2D-mammography (first); 2D-mammography (second); tomosynthesis + synthesized (third); tomosynthesis + synthesized + 2D (fourth reading). Paired double reading of 2D (first+second) and tomosynthesis (third+fourth) were analysed. In 16,067 participants, there were 98 cancers and 1,196 recalls. Comparing double reading of 2D with single reading of tomosynthesis, there was an increase of 12.6 % in cancer detection with the third reading (p= 0.043) and 6.9 % with the fourth reading (p=0.210), and a decrease in recalls of 40.5 % (p<0.001) and 44.4 % (p<0.001), respectively. With double reading of both techniques, there was an increase in cancer detection of 17.4 % (p = 0.004) and a decrease in recalls of 12.5 % (p = 0.001) with tomosynthesis. Single reading of tomosynthesis plus synthesized increased cancer detection and decreased recalls compared with double reading 2D. 2D did not improve results when added to tomosynthesis. • Tomosynthesis increases cancer detection and decreases recall rates versus 2D mammography. • Synthesized-mammography avoids performing 2D, showing higher cancer detection. • Single reading of tomosynthesis + synthesized is feasible as a new practice.

The effectiveness of cut-proof glove liners: cut and puncture resistance, dexterity, and sensibility.

PubMed

Salkin, J A; Stuchin, S A; Kummer, F J; Reininger, R

1995-11-01

Five types of commercial glove liners (within double latex gloves) were compared to single and double latex gloves for cut and puncture resistance and for relative manual dexterity and degree of sensibility. An apparatus was constructed to test glove-pseudofinger constructs in either a cutting or puncture mode. Cutting forces, cutting speed, and type of blade (serrated or scalpel blade) were varied and the time to cut-through measured by an electrical conductivity circuit. Penetration forces were similarly determined with a scalpel blade and a suture needle using a spring scale loading apparatus. Dexterity was measured with an object placement task among a group of orthopedic surgeons. Sensibility was assessed with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, two-point discrimination, and vibrametry using standard techniques and rating scales. A subjective evaluation was performed at the end of testing. Time to cut-through for the liners ranged from 2 to 30 seconds for a rapid oscillating scalpel and 4 to 40 seconds for a rapid oscillating serrated knife under minimal loads. When a 1 kg load was added, times to cut-through ranged from 0.4 to 1.0 second. In most cases, the liners were superior to double latex. On average, 100% more force was required to penetrate the liners with a scalpel and 50% more force was required to penetrate the liners with a suture needle compared to double latex. Object placement task times were not significantly liners compared to double latex gloves. Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, two-point discrimination, and vibrametry showed no difference in sensibility among the various liners and double latex gloves. Subjects felt that the liners were minimally to moderately impairing. An acclimation period may be required for their effective use.

Statistical methods for meta-analyses including information from studies without any events-add nothing to nothing and succeed nevertheless.

PubMed

Kuss, O

2015-03-30

Meta-analyses with rare events, especially those that include studies with no event in one ('single-zero') or even both ('double-zero') treatment arms, are still a statistical challenge. In the case of double-zero studies, researchers in general delete these studies or use continuity corrections to avoid them. A number of arguments against both options has been given, and statistical methods that use the information from double-zero studies without using continuity corrections have been proposed. In this paper, we collect them and compare them by simulation. This simulation study tries to mirror real-life situations as completely as possible by deriving true underlying parameters from empirical data on actually performed meta-analyses. It is shown that for each of the commonly encountered effect estimators valid statistical methods are available that use the information from double-zero studies without using continuity corrections. Interestingly, all of them are truly random effects models, and so also the current standard method for very sparse data as recommended from the Cochrane collaboration, the Yusuf-Peto odds ratio, can be improved on. For actual analysis, we recommend to use beta-binomial regression methods to arrive at summary estimates for the odds ratio, the relative risk, or the risk difference. Methods that ignore information from double-zero studies or use continuity corrections should no longer be used. We illustrate the situation with an example where the original analysis ignores 35 double-zero studies, and a superior analysis discovers a clinically relevant advantage of off-pump surgery in coronary artery bypass grafting. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Modeling Photoelectron Spectra of CuO, Cu2O, and CuO2 Anions with Equation-of-Motion Coupled-Cluster Methods: An Adventure in Fock Space.

PubMed

Orms, Natalie; Krylov, Anna I

2018-04-12

The experimental photoelectron spectra of di- and triatomic copper oxide anions have been reported previously. We present an analysis of the experimental spectra of the CuO - , Cu 2 O - , and CuO 2 - anions using equation-of-motion coupled-cluster (EOM-CC) methods. The open-shell electronic structure of each molecule demands a unique combination of EOM-CC methods to achieve an accurate and balanced representation of the multiconfigurational anionic- and neutral-state manifolds. Analysis of the Dyson orbitals associated with photodetachment from CuO - reveals the strong non-Koopmans character of the CuO states. For the lowest detachment energy, a good agreement between theoretical and experimental values is obtained with CCSD(T) (coupled-cluster with single and double excitations and perturbative account of triple excitations). The (T) correction is particularly important for Cu 2 O - . Use of a relativistic pseudopotential and matching basis set improves the quality of results in most cases. EOM-DIP-CCSD analysis of the low-lying states of CuO 2 - reveals multiple singlet and triplet anionic states near the triplet ground state, adding an extra layer of complexity to the interpretation of the experimental CuO 2 - photoelectron spectrum.

Improved method for combination of immunocytochemistry and Nissl staining.

PubMed

Kádár, Andrea; Wittmann, Gábor; Liposits, Zsolt; Fekete, Csaba

2009-10-30

Nissl staining is a widely used method to study morphology and pathology of neural tissue. After standard immunocytochemistry, the Nissl staining labels only the nucleus of neurons and the characteristic staining of the neuronal perikarya is absent or very weak. We hypothesized that the RNA degradation during the immunocytochemical treatment results in the loss of cytoplasmic staining with Nissl-dyes. To test this hypothesis, we used RNAse-free conditions for all steps of immunostaining. To further prevent the RNA-degradation by RNAse contaminations, the RNAse inhibitor heparin was added to all antibody-containing solutions. The efficiency of Nissl staining after standard and RNAse-free double-labeling immunocytochemistry was compared using antibodies against c-Fos and neuropeptide Y (NPY) on tissues of rats refed after 3 days of fasting. After standard immunocytochemistry, the Nissl-staining labeled the nuclei of neurons and only very faintly the cytoplasm of these cells. The RNAse-free treatment did not alter the distribution of immunoreaction signal, but preserved the staining of neuronal perikarya by the Nissl-dyes. In conclusion, the RNAse-free conditions during immunocytochemistry allow the labeling of neuronal perikarya by Nissl-dyes. The described method facilitates the mapping of immunocytochemical signals and makes possible the light microscopic examination of the innervation of neurons identified by their nuclear protein content.

Improved method for combination of immunocytochemistry and Nissl staining

PubMed Central

Kádár, Andrea; Wittmann, Gábor; Liposits, Zsolt; Fekete, Csaba

2009-01-01

Nissl-staining is a widely used method to study morphology and pathology of neural tissue. After standard immunocytochemistry, the Nissl-staining labels only the nucleus of neurons and the characteristic staining of the neuronal perikarya is absent or very weak. We hypothesized that the RNA degradation during the immunocytochemical treatment results in the loss of cytoplasmic staining with Nissl-dyes. To test this hypothesis, we used RNAse-free conditions for all steps of immunostaining. To further prevent the RNA-degradation by RNAse contaminations, the RNAse inhibitor heparin was added to all antibody-containing solutions. The efficiency of Nissl-staining after standard and RNAse-free double-labeling immunocytochemistry was compared using antibodies against c-Fos and neuropeptide Y (NPY) on tissues of rats refed after three days of fasting. After standard immunocytochemistry, the Nissl-staining labeled the nuclei of neurons and only very faintly the cytoplasm of these cells. The RNAse-free treatment did not alter the distribution of immunoreaction signal, but preserved the staining of neuronal perikarya by the Nissl-dyes. In conclusion, the RNAse-free conditions during immunocytochemistry, allows the labeling of neuronal perikarya by Nissl-dyes. The described method facilitates the mapping of immunocytochemical signals and makes possible the light microscopic examination of the innervation of neurons identified by their nuclear protein content. PMID:19615409

Gene vaccination to bias the immune response to amyloid-beta peptide as therapy for Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Qu, Baoxi; Rosenberg, Roger N; Li, Liping; Boyer, Philip J; Johnston, Stephen A

2004-12-01

The amyloid-beta (Abeta) peptide has a central role in the neurodegeneration of Alzheimer disease (AD). Immunization of AD transgenic mice with Abeta(1-42) (Abeta(42)) peptide reduces both the spatial memory impairments and AD-like neuropathologic changes in these mice. Therapeutic immunization with Abeta in patients with AD was shown to be effective in reducing Abeta deposition, but studies were discontinued owing to the development of an autoimmune, cell-mediated meningoencephalitis. We hypothesized that gene vaccination could be used to generate an immune response to Abeta(42) that produced antibody response but avoided an adverse cell-mediated immune effect. To develop an effective genetic immunization approach for treatment and prevention of AD without causing an autoimmune, cell-mediated meningoencephalitis. Mice were vaccinated with a plasmid that encodes Abeta(42), administered by gene gun. The immune response of the mice to Abeta(42) was monitored by measurement of (1) antibody levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot and (2) Abeta(42)-specific T-cell response as measured by interferon-gamma enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay. Gene-gun delivery of the mouse Abeta(42) dimer gene induced significant humoral immune responses in BALB/c wild-type mice after 3 vaccinations in 10-day intervals. All 3 mice in the treated group showed significant humoral immune responses. The ELISPOT assay for interferon-gamma release with mouse Abeta(42) peptide and Abeta(9-18) showed no evident cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response. We further tested the responses of wild-type BALB/c mice to the monomer Abeta(42) gene vaccine. Western blot evaluation showed both human and mouse Abeta monomer gene vaccine elicited detectable humoral immune responses. We also introduced the human Abeta(42) monomer gene vaccine into AD double transgenic mice APPswe/PSEN1(A246E). Mice were vaccinated with plasmids that encode Abeta(1-42) and Abeta(1-16), or with plasmid without the Abeta gene. Treated mice showed significant humoral immune responses as demonstrated by ELISA and by Western blot. These mice also showed no significant cellular immune response as tested by ELISPOT. One of the treated mice was killed at 7 months of age for histological observations, and scattered amyloid plaques were noted in all layers of the cerebral cortex and in the hippocampus in both Abeta(42)- and control-vaccinated mice. No definite difference was discerned between the experimental and control animals. Gene-gun-administered genetic immunization with the Abeta(42) gene in wild-type BALB/c and AD transgenic mice can effectively elicit humoral immune responses without a significant T-cell-mediated immune response to the Abeta peptide. This immunotherapeutic approach could provide an alternative active immunization method for therapy and prevention of AD.

PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF THE GENOME OF AN ENTERITIS-ASSOCIATED BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN MASTADENOVIRUS SUPPORTS A CLADE INFECTING THE CETARTIODACTYLA.

PubMed

Standorf, Kali; Cortés-Hinojosa, Galaxia; Venn-Watson, Stephanie; Rivera, Rebecca; Archer, Linda L; Wellehan, James F X

2018-01-01

:  Adenoviruses are nonenveloped, double-stranded DNA viruses, known to infect members of all tetrapod classes, with a similarity between phylogenies of hosts and viruses observed. We characterized bottlenose dolphin adenovirus 2 (BdAdV-2) found in a bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus) with enteritis. Virions were seen by negative staining electron microscopy of feces. Initial sequences obtained using conserved PCR primers were expanded using primer walking techniques, and the complete coding sequence was obtained. Phylogenetic analyses were consistent with coevolution of this virus and its bottlenose dolphin host, placing BdAdV-2 into a monophyletic group with other mastadenoviruses of Cetartiodactyla. When considering the low guanine/cytosine (G/C) content of BdAdV-2 with the phylogenetic data, this virus may represent a host-jumping event from another member of Cetartiodactyla. Analysis of partial polymerase indicated that bottlenose dolphin adenovirus 1, previously identified in Spain, and BdAdV-2 are sister taxa with harbor porpoise adenovirus 1, forming a cetacean clade. Bottlenose dolphin adenovirus 2 includes a highly divergent fiber gene. Two genes homologous to the dUTPase superfamily are also present which could play a role in enabling viral replication in nondividing cells. We used sequence data to develop a probe hybridization quantitative PCR assay specific to BdAdV-2 with a limit of detection of 10 copies.

Electrochemical detection of copper ions leached from CuO nanoparticles in saline buffers and biological media using a gold wire working electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baldisserri, Carlo; Costa, Anna Luisa

2016-04-01

We performed explorative cyclic voltammetry in phosphate-buffered saline buffers, Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM), and fetal bovine serum-added DMEM using Au wire as working electrode, both in the absence and in the presence of known nominal concentrations of Cu2+ ions or 15 nm CuO nanoparticles. Addition of either Cu2+ ions or aqueous suspension of CuO nanoparticles caused a single anodic peak to appear in the double-layer region of all three pristine media. The height of the anodic peak was found to increase in a monotonic fashion vs. Cu2+ concentration in Cu2+-added media, and versus time since CuO addition in CuO-added media. Stepwise addition of glycine to Cu2+-added phosphate-buffered saline buffer caused an increasing cathodic shift of the anodic peak accompanied by decreasing peak currents. Results indicate that preparing Cu2+-free suspensions of CuO nanoparticles in such media is difficult, owing to the presence of leached copper ions. The implications on results of experiments in which CuO nanoparticle-added biological media are used as cell culture substrates are discussed. Literature data on the interactions between Cu2+ ions, dissolved carbon dioxide in aqueous CuO suspensions, and amino acids present in such media are compared to our results.

Chronic cannabidiol treatment improves social and object recognition in double transgenic APPswe/PS1∆E9 mice.

PubMed

Cheng, David; Low, Jac Kee; Logge, Warren; Garner, Brett; Karl, Tim

2014-08-01

Patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease (AD) exhibit a decline in cognitive abilities including an inability to recognise familiar faces. Hallmark pathological changes in AD include the aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ), tau protein hyperphosphorylation as well as pronounced neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, neurotoxicity and oxidative damage. The non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) exerts neuroprotective, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and promotes neurogenesis. CBD also reverses Aβ-induced spatial memory deficits in rodents. Thus we determined the therapeutic-like effects of chronic CBD treatment (20 mg/kg, daily intraperitoneal injections for 3 weeks) on the APPswe/PS1∆E9 (APPxPS1) transgenic mouse model for AD in a number of cognitive tests, including the social preference test, the novel object recognition task and the fear conditioning paradigm. We also analysed the impact of CBD on anxiety behaviours in the elevated plus maze. Vehicle-treated APPxPS1 mice demonstrated impairments in social recognition and novel object recognition compared to wild type-like mice. Chronic CBD treatment reversed these cognitive deficits in APPxPS1 mice without affecting anxiety-related behaviours. This is the first study to investigate the effect of chronic CBD treatment on cognition in an AD transgenic mouse model. Our findings suggest that CBD may have therapeutic potential for specific cognitive impairments associated with AD.

Self locking drive system for rotating plug of a nuclear reactor

DOEpatents

Brubaker, James E.

1979-01-01

This disclosure describes a self locking drive system for rotating the plugs on the head of a nuclear reactor which is able to restrain plug motion if a seismic event should occur during reactor refueling. A servomotor is engaged via a gear train and a bull gear to the plug. Connected to the gear train is a feedback control system which allows the motor to rotate the plug to predetermined locations for refueling of the reactor. The gear train contains a self locking double enveloping worm gear set. The worm gear set is utilized for its self locking nature to prevent unwanted rotation of the plugs as the result of an earthquake. The double enveloping type is used because its unique contour spreads the load across several teeth providing added strength and allowing the use of a conventional size worm.

Study of noise transmission through double wall aircraft windows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaicaitis, R.

1983-01-01

Analytical and experimental procedures were used to predict the noise transmitted through double wall windows into the cabin of a twin-engine G/A aircraft. The analytical model was applied to optimize cabin noise through parametric variation of the structural and acoustic parameters. The parametric study includes mass addition, increase in plexiglass thickness, decrease in window size, increase in window cavity depth, depressurization of the space between the two window plates, replacement of the air cavity with a transparent viscoelastic material, change in stiffness of the plexiglass material, and different absorptive materials for the interior walls of the cabin. It was found that increasing the exterior plexiglass thickness and/or decreasing the total window size could achieve the proper amount of noise reduction for this aircraft. The total added weight to the aircraft is then about 25 lbs.

Distributed finite-time containment control for double-integrator multiagent systems.

PubMed

Wang, Xiangyu; Li, Shihua; Shi, Peng

2014-09-01

In this paper, the distributed finite-time containment control problem for double-integrator multiagent systems with multiple leaders and external disturbances is discussed. In the presence of multiple dynamic leaders, by utilizing the homogeneous control technique, a distributed finite-time observer is developed for the followers to estimate the weighted average of the leaders' velocities at first. Then, based on the estimates and the generalized adding a power integrator approach, distributed finite-time containment control algorithms are designed to guarantee that the states of the followers converge to the dynamic convex hull spanned by those of the leaders in finite time. Moreover, as a special case of multiple dynamic leaders with zero velocities, the proposed containment control algorithms also work for the case of multiple stationary leaders without using the distributed observer. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithms.

Shallow Melt Apparatus for Semicontinuous Czochralski Crystal Growth

DOEpatents

Wang, T.; Ciszek, T. F.

2006-01-10

In a single crystal pulling apparatus for providing a Czochralski crystal growth process, the improvement of a shallow melt crucible (20) to eliminate the necessity supplying a large quantity of feed stock materials that had to be preloaded in a deep crucible to grow a large ingot, comprising a gas tight container a crucible with a deepened periphery (25) to prevent snapping of a shallow melt and reduce turbulent melt convection; source supply means for adding source material to the semiconductor melt; a double barrier (23) to minimize heat transfer between the deepened periphery (25) and the shallow melt in the growth compartment; offset holes (24) in the double barrier (23) to increase melt travel length between the deepened periphery (25) and the shallow growth compartment; and the interface heater/heat sink (22) to control the interface shape and crystal growth rate.

Variable N-type negative resistance in an injection-gated double-injection diode

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kapoor, A. K.; Henderson, H. T.

1981-01-01

Double-injection (DI) switching devices consist of p+ and n+ contacts (for hole and electron injection, respectively), separated by a near intrinsic semiconductor region containing deep traps. Under proper conditions, these devices exhibit S-type differential negative resistance (DNR) similar to silicon-controlled rectifiers. With the added influence of a p+ gate appropriately placed between the anode (p+) and cathode (n+), the current-voltage characteristic of the device has been manipulated for the first time to exhibit a variable N-type DNR. The anode current and the anode-to-cathode voltage levels at which this N-type DNR is observed can be varied by changing the gate-to-cathode bias. In essence, the classical S-type DI diode can be electronically transformed into an N-type diode. A first-order phenomenological model is proposed for the N-type DNR.

A double expansion method for the frequency response of finite-length beams with periodic parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ying, Z. G.; Ni, Y. Q.

2017-03-01

A double expansion method for the frequency response of finite-length beams with periodic distribution parameters is proposed. The vibration response of the beam with spatial periodic parameters under harmonic excitations is studied. The frequency response of the periodic beam is the function of parametric period and then can be expressed by the series with the product of periodic and non-periodic functions. The procedure of the double expansion method includes the following two main steps: first, the frequency response function and periodic parameters are expanded by using identical periodic functions based on the extension of the Floquet-Bloch theorem, and the period-parametric differential equation for the frequency response is converted into a series of linear differential equations with constant coefficients; second, the solutions to the linear differential equations are expanded by using modal functions which satisfy the boundary conditions, and the linear differential equations are converted into algebraic equations according to the Galerkin method. The expansion coefficients are obtained by solving the algebraic equations and then the frequency response function is finally determined. The proposed double expansion method can uncouple the effects of the periodic expansion and modal expansion so that the expansion terms are determined respectively. The modal number considered in the second expansion can be reduced remarkably in comparison with the direct expansion method. The proposed double expansion method can be extended and applied to the other structures with periodic distribution parameters for dynamics analysis. Numerical results on the frequency response of the finite-length periodic beam with various parametric wave numbers and wave amplitude ratios are given to illustrate the effective application of the proposed method and the new frequency response characteristics, including the parameter-excited modal resonance, doubling-peak frequency response and remarkable reduction of the maximum frequency response for certain parametric wave number and wave amplitude. The results have the potential application to structural vibration control.

An accurate global potential energy surface, dipole moment surface, and rovibrational frequencies for NH3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Xinchuan; Schwenke, David W.; Lee, Timothy J.

2008-12-01

A global potential energy surface (PES) that includes short and long range terms has been determined for the NH3 molecule. The singles and doubles coupled-cluster method that includes a perturbational estimate of connected triple excitations and the internally contracted averaged coupled-pair functional electronic structure methods have been used in conjunction with very large correlation-consistent basis sets, including diffuse functions. Extrapolation to the one-particle basis set limit was performed and core correlation and scalar relativistic contributions were included directly, while the diagonal Born-Oppenheimer correction was added. Our best purely ab initio PES, denoted "mixed," is constructed from two PESs which differ in whether the ic-ACPF higher-order correlation correction was added or not. Rovibrational transition energies computed from the mixed PES agree well with experiment and the best previous theoretical studies, but most importantly the quality does not deteriorate even up to 10300cm-1 above the zero-point energy (ZPE). The mixed PES was improved further by empirical refinement using the most reliable J =0-2 rovibrational transitions in the HITRAN 2004 database. Agreement between high-resolution experiment and rovibrational transition energies computed from our refined PES for J =0-6 is excellent. Indeed, the root mean square (rms) error for 13 HITRAN 2004 bands for J =0-2 is 0.023cm-1 and that for each band is always ⩽0.06cm-1. For J =3-5 the rms error is always ⩽0.15cm-1. This agreement means that transition energies computed with our refined PES should be useful in the assignment of new high-resolution NH3 spectra and in correcting mistakes in previous assignments. Ideas for further improvements to our refined PES and for extension to other isotopolog are discussed.

Calculation of double-lunar swingby trajectories: Part 2: Numerical solutions in the restricted problem of three bodies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stalos, S.

1990-01-01

The double-lunar swingby trajectory is a method for maintaining alignment of an Earth satellite's line of apsides with the Sun-Earth line. From a Keplerian point of view, successive close encounters with the Moon cause discrete, instantaneous changes in the satellite's eccentricity and semimajor axis. Numerical solutions to the planar, restricted problem of three bodies as double-lunar swingby trajectories are identified. The method of solution is described and the results compared to the Keplerian formulation.

Double stranded nucleic acid biochips

DOEpatents

Chernov, Boris; Golova, Julia

2006-05-23

This invention describes a new method of constructing double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) microarrays based on the use of pre-synthesized or natural DNA duplexes without a stem-loop structure. The complementary oligonucleotide chains are bonded together by a novel connector that includes a linker for immobilization on a matrix. A non-enzymatic method for synthesizing double-stranded nucleic acids with this novel connector enables the construction of inexpensive and robust dsDNA/dsRNA microarrays. DNA-DNA and DNA-protein interactions are investigated using the microarrays.

Critical perspectives of pedagogical approaches to reversing the order of integration in double integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tisdell, Christopher C.

2017-11-01

This paper presents some critical perspectives regarding pedagogical approaches to the method of reversing the order of integration in double integrals from prevailing educational literature on multivariable calculus. First, we question the message found in popular textbooks that the traditional process of reversing the order of integration is necessary when solving well-known problems. Second, we illustrate that the method of integration by parts can be directly applied to many of the classic pedagogical problems in the literature concerning double integrals, without taking the well-worn steps associated with reversing the order of integration. Third, we examine the benefits and limitations of such a method. In our conclusion, we advocate for integration by parts to be a part of the pedagogical conversation in the learning and teaching of double integral methods; and call for more debate around its use in the learning and teaching of other areas of mathematics. Finally, we emphasize the need for critical approaches in the pedagogy of mathematics more broadly.

Coupled double-distribution-function lattice Boltzmann method for the compressible Navier-Stokes equations.

PubMed

Li, Q; He, Y L; Wang, Y; Tao, W Q

2007-11-01

A coupled double-distribution-function lattice Boltzmann method is developed for the compressible Navier-Stokes equations. Different from existing thermal lattice Boltzmann methods, this method can recover the compressible Navier-Stokes equations with a flexible specific-heat ratio and Prandtl number. In the method, a density distribution function based on a multispeed lattice is used to recover the compressible continuity and momentum equations, while the compressible energy equation is recovered by an energy distribution function. The energy distribution function is then coupled to the density distribution function via the thermal equation of state. In order to obtain an adjustable specific-heat ratio, a constant related to the specific-heat ratio is introduced into the equilibrium energy distribution function. Two different coupled double-distribution-function lattice Boltzmann models are also proposed in the paper. Numerical simulations are performed for the Riemann problem, the double-Mach-reflection problem, and the Couette flow with a range of specific-heat ratios and Prandtl numbers. The numerical results are found to be in excellent agreement with analytical and/or other solutions.