Preparation and Optimization of Vanadium Titanomagnetite Carbon Composite Hot Briquette: A New Type of Blast Furnace Burden

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, W.; Wang, H. T.; Liu, Z. G.; Chu, M. S.; Ying, Z. W.; Tang, J.

2017-10-01

A new type of blast furnace burden, named VTM-CCB (vanadium titanomagnetite carbon composite hot briquette), is proposed and optimized in this paper. The preparation process of VTM-CCB includes two components, hot briquetting and heat treatment. The hot-briquetting and heat-treatment parameters are systematically optimized based on the Taguchi method and single-factor experiment. The optimized preparation parameters of VTM-CCB include a hot-briquetting temperature of 300°C, a coal particle size of <0.075 mm, a vanadium titanomagnetite particle size of <0.075 mm, a coal-added ratio of 28.52%, a heat-treatment temperature of 500°C and a heat-treatment time of 3 h. The compressive strength of VTM-CCB, based on the optimized parameters, reaches 2450 N, which meets the requirement of blast furnace ironmaking. These integrated parameters provide a theoretical basis for the production and application of a blast furnace smelting VTM-CCB.

Adherence with single-pill amlodipine/atorvastatin vs a two-pill regimen

PubMed Central

Patel, Bimal V; Scott Leslie, R; Thiebaud, Patrick; Nichol, Michael B; Tang, Simon SK; Solomon, Henry; Honda, Dennis; Foody, JoAnne M

2008-01-01

While clinical trials demonstrate the benefits of blood pressure and cholesterol reduction, medication adherence in clinical practice is problematic. We hypothesized that a single-pill would be superior to a 2-pill regimen for achieving adherence. In this retrospective, cohort study based on pharmacy claims data, patients newly initiated on a calcium channel blocker (CCB) or statin simultaneously or within 30 days, regardless of sequence, were followed (N = 4703). Adherence was measured over 6 months as proportion of days covered (PDC). At baseline, mean age was 63.0 years, 51.6% were female, and mean number of other medications was 7.8. Overall, 16.9% of patients were on single-pill amlodipine/atorvastatin, 15.6% amlodipine + atorvastatin, 24.7% amlodipine + other statin, 13.9% other CCB + atorvastatin, 28.9% other CCB + other statin. Percentages of patients achieving adherence (PDC ≥ 80%) were: 67.7% amlodipine/atorvastatin; 49.9% amlodipine + atorvastatin; 40.4% amlodipine + other statin; 46.9% other CCB + atorvastatin; 37.4% other CCB +other statin. After adjusting for treatment selection and cohort differences, odds ratios for adherence with amlodipine/atorva-statin were 1.95 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.80–2.13) vs amlodipine + atorvastatin, 3.10 (95% CI, 2.85–3.38) vs amlodipine + other statin, 2.06 (95% CI, 1.89–2.24) vs other CCB + atorvastatin, 2.85 (95% CI, 2.61–3.10) vs other CCB + other statin (all p <0.0001). Single-pill amlodipine/atorvastatin may provide clinical benefits through improving adherence, offering clinicians a practical solution for cardiovascular risk management. PMID:18827917

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

Salabei, Joshua K.; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202; Balakumaran, Arun

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are important in the management of hypertension and limit restenosis. Although CCB efficacy could derive from decreased blood pressure, other mechanisms independent of CCB activity also can contribute to antiproliferative action. To understand mechanisms of CCB-mediated antiproliferation, we studied two structurally dissimilar CCBs, diltiazem and verapamil, in cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). To elucidate CCB-independent effects, pure stereoisomers of verapamil (R-verapamil, inactive VR; S-verapamil, active, VS) were used. The effects of CCB exposure on cell viability (MTT reduction), cell proliferation ({sup 3}H-thymidine incorporation), VSMC morphology by light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and autophagymore » (LC3I/II, ATG5) were measured. In general, verapamil, VR or VS treatment alone (80 μM) appreciably enhanced MTT absorbance although higher concentrations (VR or VS) slightly decreased MTT absorbance. Diltiazem (140 μM) markedly decreased MTT absorbance (40%) at 120 h. VR or VS treatment inhibited {sup 3}H-thymidine incorporation (24 h) and induced cytological alterations (i.e., karyokinesis, enhanced perinuclear MTT deposition, accumulated perinuclear “vacuoles”). TEM revealed perinuclear “vacuoles” to be aggregates of highly laminated and electron-dense vesicles resembling autophagosomes and lysosomes, respectively. Increased autophagosome activity was confirmed by a concentration-dependent increase in LC3-II formation by Western blotting and by increased perinuclear LC3-GFP{sup +} puncta in verapamil-treated VSMC. Verapamil stereoisomers appeared to decrease perinuclear mitochondrial density. These observations indicate that antiproliferative effects of verapamil stereoisomers are produced by enhanced mitochondrial damage and upregulated autophagy in VSMC. These effects are independent of CCB activity indicating a distinct mechanism of action that could be targeted for more efficacious anti-atherosclerotic and anti-restenosis therapy. Highlights: ► Calcium channel blockers (CCB) are antiproliferative in vascular smooth muscle cells. ► Verapamil stereoisomers are antiproliferative in VSMC independent of CCB activity. ► Verapamil stereoisomers alter mitochondrial appearance and frequency in VSMC. ► Verapamil stimulates autophagy in cultured VSMC.« less

Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of adding an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to a calcium channel blocker (CCB) following ineffective CCB monotherapy.

PubMed

Ma, Jin; Wang, Xiao-Yan; Hu, Zhi-De; Zhou, Zhi-Rui; Schoenhagen, Paul; Wang, Hao

2015-12-01

We conducted this meta-analysis to systematically review and analyze the clinical benefits of angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) combined with calcium channel blocker (CCB) following ineffective CCB monotherapy. PubMed was searched for articles published until August 2015. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the clinical benefits of ARB combined with CCB following ineffective CCB monotherapy were included. The primary efficacy endpoint of the studies was normal rate of blood pressure, the secondary efficacy endpoints were the response rate and change in blood pressure from baseline. The safety endpoint of the studies was incidence of adverse events. Differences are expressed as relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous outcomes and weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% CIs for continuous outcomes. Heterogeneity across studies was tested by using the I(2) statistic. Seven RCTs were included and had sample sizes ranging from 185 to 1,183 subjects (total: 3,909 subjects). The pooled analysis showed that the on-target rate of hypertension treatment was significantly higher in the amlodipine + ARB group than in the amlodipine monotherapy group (RR =1.59; 95% CI, 1.31-1.91; P<0.01). The response rate of systolic blood pressure (SBP) (RR =1.28; 95% CI, 1.04-1.58; P<0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (RR =1.27; 95% CI, 1.12-1.44; P=0.04) were significantly higher in the amlodipine + ARB group than in the amlodipine monotherapy group. The change in SBP (RR =-3.56; 95% CI, -7.76-0.63; P=0.10) and DBP (RR =-3.03; 95% CI, -6.51-0.45; P=0.09) were higher in hypertensive patients receiving amlodipine + ARB but the difference did not reach statistical significance. ARB + amlodipine treatment carried a lower risk of adverse events relative to amlodipine monotherapy (RR =0.88; 95% CI, 0.80-0.96; P<0.01). The results of our meta-analysis demonstrate that adding an ARB to CCB after initial ineffective CCB monotherapy, significantly improved blood pressure control and the percentage of on-target hypertension treatment with significantly reduced incidence of adverse events compared with continued CCB monotherapy.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of adding an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to a calcium channel blocker (CCB) following ineffective CCB monotherapy

PubMed Central

Ma, Jin; Wang, Xiao-Yan; Hu, Zhi-De; Zhou, Zhi-Rui; Schoenhagen, Paul

2015-01-01

Background We conducted this meta-analysis to systematically review and analyze the clinical benefits of angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) combined with calcium channel blocker (CCB) following ineffective CCB monotherapy. Methods PubMed was searched for articles published until August 2015. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the clinical benefits of ARB combined with CCB following ineffective CCB monotherapy were included. The primary efficacy endpoint of the studies was normal rate of blood pressure, the secondary efficacy endpoints were the response rate and change in blood pressure from baseline. The safety endpoint of the studies was incidence of adverse events. Differences are expressed as relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous outcomes and weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% CIs for continuous outcomes. Heterogeneity across studies was tested by using the I2 statistic. Results Seven RCTs were included and had sample sizes ranging from 185 to 1,183 subjects (total: 3,909 subjects). The pooled analysis showed that the on-target rate of hypertension treatment was significantly higher in the amlodipine + ARB group than in the amlodipine monotherapy group (RR =1.59; 95% CI, 1.31–1.91; P<0.01). The response rate of systolic blood pressure (SBP) (RR =1.28; 95% CI, 1.04–1.58; P<0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (RR =1.27; 95% CI, 1.12–1.44; P=0.04) were significantly higher in the amlodipine + ARB group than in the amlodipine monotherapy group. The change in SBP (RR =−3.56; 95% CI, −7.76–0.63; P=0.10) and DBP (RR =−3.03; 95% CI, −6.51–0.45; P=0.09) were higher in hypertensive patients receiving amlodipine + ARB but the difference did not reach statistical significance. ARB + amlodipine treatment carried a lower risk of adverse events relative to amlodipine monotherapy (RR =0.88; 95% CI, 0.80-0.96; P<0.01). Conclusions The results of our meta-analysis demonstrate that adding an ARB to CCB after initial ineffective CCB monotherapy, significantly improved blood pressure control and the percentage of on-target hypertension treatment with significantly reduced incidence of adverse events compared with continued CCB monotherapy. PMID:26793346

Coalesced chitosan activated carbon composite for batch and fixed-bed adsorption of cationic and anionic dyes.

PubMed

Auta, M; Hameed, B H

2013-05-01

A renewable waste tea activated carbon (WTAC) was coalesced with chitosan to form composite adsorbent used for waste water treatment. Adsorptive capacities of crosslinked chitosan beads (CCB) and its composite (WTAC-CCB) for Methylene blue dye (MB) and Acid blue 29 (AB29) were evaluated through batch and fixed-bed studies. Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin adsorption isotherms were tested for the adsorption process and the experimental data were best fitted by Langmuir model and least by Freundlich model; the suitability of fitness was adjudged by the Chi-square (χ(2)) and Marquadt's percent standard deviation error functions. Judging by the values of χ(2), pseudo-second-order reaction model best described the adsorption process than pseudo-first-order kinetic model for MB/AB29 on both adsorbents. After five cycles of adsorbents desorption test, more than 50% WTAC-CCB adsorption efficiency was retained while CCB had <20% adsorption efficiency. The results of this study revealed that WTAC-CCB composite is a promising adsorbent for treatment of anionic and cationic dyes in effluent wastewaters. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Center for Computational Biology: resources, achievements, and challenges

PubMed Central

Dinov, Ivo D; Thompson, Paul M; Woods, Roger P; Van Horn, John D; Shattuck, David W; Parker, D Stott

2011-01-01

The Center for Computational Biology (CCB) is a multidisciplinary program where biomedical scientists, engineers, and clinicians work jointly to combine modern mathematical and computational techniques, to perform phenotypic and genotypic studies of biological structure, function, and physiology in health and disease. CCB has developed a computational framework built around the Manifold Atlas, an integrated biomedical computing environment that enables statistical inference on biological manifolds. These manifolds model biological structures, features, shapes, and flows, and support sophisticated morphometric and statistical analyses. The Manifold Atlas includes tools, workflows, and services for multimodal population-based modeling and analysis of biological manifolds. The broad spectrum of biomedical topics explored by CCB investigators include the study of normal and pathological brain development, maturation and aging, discovery of associations between neuroimaging and genetic biomarkers, and the modeling, analysis, and visualization of biological shape, form, and size. CCB supports a wide range of short-term and long-term collaborations with outside investigators, which drive the center's computational developments and focus the validation and dissemination of CCB resources to new areas and scientific domains. PMID:22081221

The Center for Computational Biology: resources, achievements, and challenges.

PubMed

Toga, Arthur W; Dinov, Ivo D; Thompson, Paul M; Woods, Roger P; Van Horn, John D; Shattuck, David W; Parker, D Stott

2012-01-01

The Center for Computational Biology (CCB) is a multidisciplinary program where biomedical scientists, engineers, and clinicians work jointly to combine modern mathematical and computational techniques, to perform phenotypic and genotypic studies of biological structure, function, and physiology in health and disease. CCB has developed a computational framework built around the Manifold Atlas, an integrated biomedical computing environment that enables statistical inference on biological manifolds. These manifolds model biological structures, features, shapes, and flows, and support sophisticated morphometric and statistical analyses. The Manifold Atlas includes tools, workflows, and services for multimodal population-based modeling and analysis of biological manifolds. The broad spectrum of biomedical topics explored by CCB investigators include the study of normal and pathological brain development, maturation and aging, discovery of associations between neuroimaging and genetic biomarkers, and the modeling, analysis, and visualization of biological shape, form, and size. CCB supports a wide range of short-term and long-term collaborations with outside investigators, which drive the center's computational developments and focus the validation and dissemination of CCB resources to new areas and scientific domains.

Psychological mechanism linking abusive supervision and compulsory citizenship behavior: a moderated mediation study.

PubMed

Zhao, Hongdan; Peng, Zhenglong; Han, Yong; Sheard, Geoff; Hudson, Alan

2013-01-01

This study seeks to examine the effect of abusive supervision on the "dark side" of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and, specifically, compulsory citizenship behavior (CCB). The study focuses on the mediating role of psychological safety underpinning the relationship between abusive supervision and CCB, and the moderating role of Chinese traditionality in influencing the mediation. The authors tested the model with data of 434 dyads (employee-coworker pairs) in a large Chinese service company. Results indicated that psychological safety fully mediated the relationship between abusive supervision and CCB. The authors also found that Chinese traditionality moderated the strength of the mediated relationship between abusive supervision and CCB via psychological safety, such that the mediated relationship is weaker under high Chinese traditionality than under low Chinese traditionality. The article also discusses the implications, limitations, and future research directions.

Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit: views of family caregivers in chronic illness.

PubMed

Williams, Allison; Crooks, Valorie A; Stajduhar, Kelli I; Allan, Diane; Cohen, S Robin

2006-09-01

Based on a pilot evaluation of Canada's recently introduced Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB), the purpose of this paper is to highlight the experiences of family caregivers caring for people with non-malignant advanced chronic illness. Using Patton's (1997) utilization-focused evaluation approach, 25 telephone interviews were conducted with three groups of family caregivers: those who had successfully applied for the CCB; those who were unsuccessful in their applications; those who had never applied for the benefit. The CCB has a number of limitations, particularly for caregivers of patients diagnosed with non-malignant advanced chronic illness. The central limitations are: difficulties associated with accurate prognostication; limited definition of "family member"; insufficient length of the funding period. By modelling similar programmes internationally, such as those in Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands, Canada would likely find the CCB to have greater relevance and accessibility to Canadian caregivers, particularly those caring for people with non-malignant advanced chronic illness.

Structure and possible mechanism of the CcbJ methyltransferase from Streptomyces caelestis.

PubMed

Bauer, Jacob; Ondrovičová, Gabriela; Najmanová, Lucie; Pevala, Vladimír; Kameník, Zdeněk; Koštan, Július; Janata, Jiří; Kutejová, Eva

2014-04-01

The S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM)-dependent methyltransferase CcbJ from Streptomyces caelestis catalyzes one of the final steps in the biosynthesis of the antibiotic celesticetin, methylation of the N atom of its proline moiety, which greatly enhances the activity of the antibiotic. Since several celesticetin variants exist, this enzyme may be able to act on a variety of substrates. The structures of CcbJ determined by MAD phasing at 3.0 Å resolution, its native form at 2.7 Å resolution and its complex with S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (SAH) at 2.9 Å resolution are reported here. Based on these structures, three point mutants, Y9F, Y17F and F117G, were prepared in order to study its behaviour as well as docking simulations of both CcbJ-SAM-substrate and CcbJ-SAH-product complexes. The structures show that CcbJ is a class I SAM-dependent methyltransferase with a wide active site, thereby suggesting that it may accommodate a number of different substrates. The mutation results show that the Y9F and F117G mutants are almost non-functional, while the Y17F mutant has almost half of the wild-type activity. In combination with the docking studies, these results suggest that Tyr9 and Phe117 are likely to help to position the substrate for the methyl-transfer reaction and that Tyr9 may also facilitate the reaction by removing an H(+) ion. Tyr17, on the other hand, seems to operate by helping to stabilize the SAM cofactor.

Freshwater Vulnerability to Nitrate Contamination as an Indicator of Sustainability and Resilience within the Water-Energy-Food Nexus of the California Coastal Basins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nanus, L.; Geyer, G.; Gurdak, J. J.; Orencio, P. M.; Endo, A.; Taniguchi, M.

2014-12-01

The California Coastal Basin (CCB) aquifers are representative of many coastal aquifers that are vulnerable to nonpoint-source (NPS) contamination from intense agriculture and increased urbanization combined with historical groundwater use and overdraft conditions. Overdraft has led to seawater intrusion along parts of the central California coast, which negatively affects food production because of high salinity concentrations in groundwater used for irrigation. Recent drought conditions in California have led to an increased need to further understand freshwater sustainability and resilience within the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus. Assessing the vulnerability of NPS contamination in groundwater provides valuable information for optimal resource management and policy. Vulnerability models of nitrate contamination in the CCB were developed as one of many indicators to evaluate risk in terms of susceptibility of the physical environment at local and regional scales. Multivariate logistic regression models were developed to predict the probability of NPS nitrate contamination in recently recharged groundwater and to identify significant explanatory variables as controlling factors in the CCB. Different factors were found to be significant in the sub-regions of the CCB and issues of scale are important. For example, land use is scale dependent because of the difference in land management practices between the CCB sub-regions. However, dissolved oxygen concentrations in groundwater, farm fertilizer, and soil thickness are scale invariant because they are significant both regionally and sub-regionally. Thus, the vulnerability models for the CCB show that different explanatory variables are scale invariant. This finding has important implications for accurately quantifying linkages between vulnerability and consequences within the WEF nexus, including inherent tradeoffs in water and food production in California and associated impacts on the local and regional economy, governance, environment, and society at multiple scales.

[EFFECTS OF VOLUNTARY INTAKE OF FLUIDS (WATER AND SPORTS DRINK) IN AMATEUR MOUNTAIN RUNNERS].

PubMed

Nebot, Vicente; Drehmer, Eraci; Elvira, Laura; Sales, Sonia; Sanchís, Carlos; Esquius, Laura; Pablos, Ana

2015-11-01

21 K and 1 000 m ascent trail-running races can be dangerous if an appropriate liquid replacement isn't maintained. know trail-runners level of dehydration and assess the differences between ad libitum water (CcA) and sport drink (CcB) hydration after a trail running race. 18 subjects, mean age 31.9 (±2.8) and %MG 10.53 (±2.8), completed CcA or CcB. CcA and CcB effects on Weight (P), Fat Mass (MG), Glucose (GL), Lactate (LT), Systolic (TAS) and Diastolic Arterial Tension (TAD), Heart Rate (PPM) and Tympanic Temperature (Tª) were assessed. All measurements were taken at the start (T1) and the finish (T2) of each race. A Friedman ANOVA test was used to calculate the effect of CcA and CcB on each variable. Differences between race time (TC), % bodyweight loss (%PP) and liquid ingestion (LI) were assessed with a Wilcoxon test. All statistical analysis were conducted with SPSS version 20.0 (IBM, Somers, NY, USA). mean %PP was 2.967 (± 0.969) and 2.883 (± 0.730) for CcA and CcB respectively. No significant differences were found between %PP and LI (p > .05) between races. Significant changes were found in P, %MG, GL, L, TAS and PPM between T1 and T2 in CcA condition. While only significant changes in P and PPM were stabilised between T1 and T2 in CcB condition. neither water or sport drink ingestion avoid trail-runners to reach a dehydrated state. However, dehydration effects seems to be more serious when only water is ingested. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Simvastatin prescribing patterns before and after FDA dosing restrictions: a retrospective analysis of a large healthcare claims database.

PubMed

Tuchscherer, Rhianna M; Nair, Kavita; Ghushchyan, Vahram; Saseen, Joseph J

2015-02-01

Muscle-related events, or myopathies, are a commonly reported adverse event associated with statin use. In June 2011, the US FDA released a Drug Safety Communication that provided updated product labeling with dosing restrictions for simvastatin to minimize the risk of myopathies. Our objective was to describe prescribing patterns of simvastatin in combination with medications known to increase the risk of myopathies following updated product labeling dosing restrictions in June 2011. A retrospective observational analysis was carried out, in which administrative claims data were utilized to identify prescribing patterns of simvastatin in combination with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and other pre-specified drug therapies. Prescribing patterns were analyzed on a monthly basis 24 months prior to and 9 months following product label changes. Incidence of muscle-related events was also analyzed. In June 2011, a total of 60% of patients with overlapping simvastatin-CCB claims and 94% of patients with overlapping simvastatin-non-CCB claims were prescribed an against-label combination. As of March 2012, a total of 41% and 93% of patients continued to be prescribed against-label simvastatin-CCB and simvastatin-non-CCB combinations, respectively. The most commonly prescribed dose of simvastatin was 20 mg (39%). Against-label combinations were most commonly prescribed at a simvastatin dose of 40 mg (56%). Amlodipine was the most commonly prescribed CCB in combination with simvastatin (70%) and the most common CCB prescribed against-label (67%). Despite improvements in prescribing practices, many patients are still exposed to potentially harmful simvastatin combinations. Aggressive changes in simvastatin prescribing systems and processes are needed to improve compliance with FDA labeling to improve medication and patient safety.

Community capacity building in practice: constructing its meaning and relevance to health promoters.

PubMed

Lovell, Sarah A; Kearns, Robin A; Rosenberg, Mark W

2011-09-01

Community capacity building (CCB) is held up as a benchmark for sustainable health promotion, reflecting the empowering discourse of the Ottawa Charter (WHO 1986). In light of concerns that this language may be that of the presiding bureaucratic elite rather than the realities of those working directly with communities (Laverack & Labonte 2000), we question whether CCB reflects the work of New Zealand health promoters. The aim of this study is to assess what CCB means to health promoters and how relevant it is to their work in New Zealand. Focus groups and interviews were carried out with 64 health promoters between January 2008 and March 2009. The results of this qualitative study indicated that, while the terminology of CCB is poorly established in New Zealand, the overwhelming majority of participants felt that, to be an effective health promoter, they needed the buy-in and support of the communities in which they work. As a result, community-driven approaches have emerged as a core component of good health promotion practice in New Zealand. Yet, the concept of CCB was applied loosely with health promoters adopting language and practices corresponding more with the nuances of community development. The limited use of systematic approaches to building community capacity was accompanied by few successes achieving sustainable health promotion programmes. In prioritising community relationships many health promoters were placed in an ideological bind whereby achieving community ownership over health promotion meant compromising the evidence base of their programmes. Academic discussions of CCB appear to have gained little traction into the realm of health promotion practice in New Zealand highlighting the need for relevant research with a strong grounding in practice. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Validation of 31 of the most commonly used immunohistochemical antibodies in cytology prepared using the Cellient(®) automated cell block system.

PubMed

Montgomery, Eric; Gao, Chen; de Luca, Julie; Bower, Jessie; Attwood, Kristropher; Ylagan, Lourdes

2014-12-01

The Cellient(®) cell block system has become available as an alternative, partially automated method to create cell blocks in cytology. We sought to show a validation method for immunohistochemical (IHC) staining on the Cellient cell block system (CCB) in comparison with the formalin fixed paraffin embedded traditional cell block (TCB). Immunohistochemical staining was performed using 31 antibodies on 38 patient samples for a total of 326 slides. Split samples were processed using both methods by following the Cellient(®) manufacturer's recommendations for the Cellient cell block (CCB) and the Histogel method for preparing the traditional cell block (TCB). Interpretation was performed by three pathologists and two cytotechnologists. Immunohistochemical stains were scored as: 0/1+ (negative) and 2/3+ (positive). Inter-rater agreement for each antibody was evaluated for CCB and TCB, as well as the intra-rater agreement between TCB and CCB between observers. Interobserver staining concordance for the TCB was obtained with statistical significance (P < 0.05) in 24 of 31 antibodies. Interobserver staining concordance for the CCB was obtained with statistical significance in 27 of 31 antibodies. Intra-observer staining concordance between TCB and CCB was obtained with statistical significance in 24 of 31 antibodies tested. In conclusions, immunohistochemical stains on cytologic specimens processed by the Cellient system are reliable and concordant with stains performed on the same split samples processed via a formalin fixed-paraffin embedded (FFPE) block. The Cellient system is a welcome adjunct to cytology work-flow by producing cell block material of sufficient quality to allow the use of routine IHC. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Genome features of moderately halophilic polyhydroxyalkanoate-producing Yangia sp. CCB-MM3.

PubMed

Lau, Nyok-Sean; Sam, Ka-Kei; Amirul, Abdullah Al-Ashraf

2017-01-01

Yangia sp. CCB-MM3 was one of several halophilic bacteria isolated from soil sediment in the estuarine Matang Mangrove, Malaysia. So far, no member from the genus Yangia , a member of the Rhodobacteraceae family, has been reported sequenced. In the current study, we present the first complete genome sequence of Yangia sp. strain CCB-MM3. The genome includes two chromosomes and five plasmids with a total length of 5,522,061 bp and an average GC content of 65%. Since a different strain of Yangia sp. (ND199) was reported to produce a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer, the ability for this production was tested in vitro and confirmed for strain CCB-MM3. Analysis of its genome sequence confirmed presence of a pathway for production of propionyl-CoA and gene cluster for PHA production in the sequenced strain. The genome sequence described will be a useful resource for understanding the physiology and metabolic potential of Yangia as well as for comparative genomic analysis with other Rhodobacteraceae .

Batch anaerobic digestion of synthetic military base food waste and cardboard mixtures.

PubMed

Asato, Caitlin M; Gonzalez-Estrella, Jorge; Jerke, Amber C; Bang, Sookie S; Stone, James J; Gilcrease, Patrick C

2016-09-01

Austere US military bases typically dispose of solid wastes, including large fractions of food waste (FW) and corrugated cardboard (CCB), by open dumping, landfilling, or burning. Anaerobic digestion (AD) offers an opportunity to reduce pollution and recover useful energy. This study aimed to evaluate the rates and yields of AD for FW-CCB mixtures. Batch AD was analyzed at substrate concentrations of 1-50g total chemical oxygen demand (COD)L(-1) using response surface methodology. At low concentrations, higher proportions of FW were correlated with faster specific methanogenic activities and greater final methane yields; however, concentrations of FW ⩾18.75gCODL(-1) caused inhibition. Digestion of mixtures with ⩾75% CCB occurred slowly but achieved methane yields >70%. Greater shifts in microbial communities were observed at higher substrate concentrations. Statistical models of methane yield and specific methanogenic activity indicated that FW and CCB exhibited no considerable interactions as substrates for AD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nickel Hydroxide-Modified Sulfur/Carbon Composite as a High-Performance Cathode Material for Lithium Sulfur Battery.

PubMed

Niu, Xiao-Qing; Wang, Xiu-Li; Xie, Dong; Wang, Dong-Huang; Zhang, Yi-Di; Li, Yi; Yu, Ting; Tu, Jiang-Ping

2015-08-05

Tailored sulfur cathode is vital for the development of a high performance lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery. A surface modification on the sulfur/carbon composite would be an efficient strategy to enhance the cycling stability. Herein, we report a nickel hydroxide-modified sulfur/conductive carbon black composite (Ni(OH)2@S/CCB) as the cathode material for the Li-S battery through the thermal treatment and chemical precipitation method. In this composite, the sublimed sulfur is stored in the CCB, followed by a surface modification of Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles with size of 1-2 nm. As a cathode for the Li-S battery, the as-prepared Ni(OH)2@S/CCB electrode exhibits better cycle stability and higher rate discharge capacity, compared with the bare S/CCB electrode. The improved performance is largely due to the introduction of Ni(OH)2 surface modification, which can effectively suppress the "shuttle effect" of polysulfides, resulting in enhanced cycling life and higher capacity.

To Meet or Not To Meet Physical vs. Virtual Configuration Control Board

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rice, Shelley

2017-01-01

This presentation will define the CCB, discuss its functions and members. We will look into traditional processes of managing change control via the CCB meeting and advanced practices utilizing enhanced product tools and technologies. Well step through a summary of the feedback from the community of CM professionals at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center of best practices as well as pros and cons for facilitating both a physical CCB and managing stakeholder approvals in a virtual environment. Attendees will come away with current industry strategies to determine if process for managing change control and approvals can be streamlined within their local work environments.

Cervical cytology biobanking in Europe.

PubMed

Arbyn, Marc; Van Veen, Evert-Ben; Andersson, Kristin; Bogers, Johannes; Boulet, Gaëlle; Bergeron, Christine; von Knebel-Doeberitz, Magnus; Dillner, Joakim

2010-01-01

A cervical cytology biobank (CCB) is an extension of current cytopathology laboratory practice consisting in the systematic storage of Pap smears or liquid-based cytology samples from women participating in cervical cancer screening with the explicit purpose to facilitate future scientific research and quality audit of preventive services. A CCB should use an internationally agreed uniform cytology terminology, be integrated in a national or regional screening registry, and be linked to other registries (histology, cancer, vaccination). Legal and ethical principles concerning personal integrity and data safety must be respected strictly. Biobank-based studies require approval of ethical review boards. A CCB is an almost inexhaustible resource for fundamental and applied biological research. In particular, it can contribute to answering questions on the natural history of HPV infection and HPV-induced lesions and cancers, screening effectiveness, exploration of new biomarkers, and surveillance of the short- and long-term effects of the introduction of HPV vaccination. To understand the limitations of CCB, more studies are needed on the quality of samples in relation to sample type, storage procedures, and duration of storage.

The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin in Coahuila, Mexico: An Astrobiological Precambrian Park

PubMed Central

Siefert, Janet L.; Escalante, Ana E.; Elser, James J.; Eguiarte, Luis E.

2012-01-01

Abstract The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) is a rare oasis in the Chihuahuan Desert in the state of Coahuila, Mexico. It has a biological endemism similar to that of the Galapagos Islands, and its spring-fed ecosystems have very low nutrient content (nitrogen or phosphorous) and are dominated by diverse microbialites. Thus, it has proven to be a distinctive opportunity for the field of astrobiology, as the CCB can be seen as a proxy for an earlier time in Earth's history, in particular the late Precambrian, the biological frontier when prokaryotic life yielded at least partial dominance to eukaryotes and multicellular life. It is a kind of ecological time machine that provides abundant opportunities for collaborative investigations by geochemists, geologists, ecologists, and population biologists in the study of the evolutionary processes that structured Earth-based life, especially in the microbial realm. The CCB is an object of investigation for the identification of biosignatures of past and present biota that can be used in our search for extraterrestrial life. In this review, we summarize CCB research efforts that began with microbial ecology and population biology projects and have since been expanded into broader efforts that involve biogeochemistry, comparative genomics, and assessments of biosignatures. We also propose that, in the future, the CCB is sanctioned as a “Precambrian Park” for astrobiology. Key Words: Microbial mats—Stromatolites—Early Earth—Extremophilic microorganisms—Microbial ecology. Astrobiology 12, 641–647. PMID:22920514

76 FR 20634 - Withdrawal of Notice of Intent To Prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for a...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-04-13

... combustion by-products (CCB); two (2) landfills for the on-site disposal of CCB; an emergency drought water... Bed Electric Generating Unit by East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Inc., in Clark County, KY AGENCY: U.S... circulating fluidized bed electric generating unit by East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Inc. (EKPC), in Clark...

Spectroscopy of the Ωccb baryon in the hypercentral constituent quark model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah, Zalak; Rai, Ajay Kumar

2018-05-01

We extract the mass spectrum of the triply heavy baryon {{{Ω }}}{{ccb}} using the hypercentral constituent quark model. The first order correction is also added to the potential term of the Hamiltonian. The radial and orbital excited state masses are determined, and the Regge trajectories and magnetic moments for this baryon are also given.

Effect of angiotensin II receptor blocker, olmesartan, on turnover of bone metabolism in bedridden elderly hypertensive women with disuse syndrome.

PubMed

Aoki, Motokuni; Kawahata, Hirohisa; Sotobayashi, Daisuke; Yu, Hisahiro; Moriguchi, Atsushi; Nakagami, Hironori; Ogihara, Toshio; Morishita, Ryuichi

2015-08-01

Although recent studies suggest that several antihypertensive drugs could reduce the risk of bone fracture, it is still unclear how these drugs act on bone remodeling, especially in elderly women with severe osteoporosis with disuse syndrome. In the present study, we investigated the effects of a calcium channel blocker (CCB) and an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) on bone metabolism in elderly bedridden women with hypertension and disuse syndrome. Elderly bedridden women (aged >75 years) receiving antihypertensive therapy treated with CCB were recruited in the present study. The participants were divided into two groups--CCB group and ARB group--and followed up to 12 months. Markers of bone resorption were markedly increased, suggesting accelerated bone resorption in the participants of the present study. In the follow-up period, the patients treated with a CCB showed a significant decrease in bone mineral density in a time-dependent manner, accompanied by a significant increase in bone resorption markers, whereas treatment with olmesartan inhibited bone loss, associated with attenuation of increased bone resorption markers. Bone mineral density of femoral neck in the CCB group was significantly lower than that in the ARB group at 6 months. The present study showed inhibitory effects of an ARB on bone resorption in hypertensive patients with accelerated bone resorption, such as elderly bedridden women, and indicated an important role of the renin-angiotensin system in bone metabolism. In elderly hypertensive patients, ARB might be expected to have additional beneficial potential to maintain bone health in bedridden patients. © 2014 Japan Geriatrics Society.

High-quality cell block preparation from scraping of conventional cytology slide: a technical report on a modified cytoscrape cell block technique.

PubMed

Choi, Y I; Jakhongir, M; Choi, S J; Kim, L; Park, I S; Han, J Y; Kim, J M; Chu, Y C

2016-12-01

Immunocytochemistry (ICC) on formalin-fixed paraffin embedded cell blocks is an ancillary tool commonly recruited for differential diagnoses of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) samples. However, the quality of conventional cell blocks in terms of adequate cellularity and evenness of distribution of cytologic material is not always satisfactory for ICC. We introduce a modified agarose-based cytoscrape cell block (CCB) technique that can be effectively used for the preparation of cell blocks from scrapings of conventional FNAC slides. A decoverslipped FNAC slide was mounted with a small amount of water. The cytological material was scraped off the slide into a tissue mold by scraping with a cell scraper. The cytoscrape material was pelleted by centrifugation and pre-embedded in ultra-low gelling temperature agarose and then re-embedded in conventional agarose. The final agarose gel disk was processed and embedded in paraffin. The quality of the ICC on the CCB sections was identical to that of the immunohistochemical stains on histological sections. By scrapping and harvesting the entirety of the cytological material off the cytology slide into a compact agarose cell button, we could avoid the risk of losing diagnostic material during the CCB preparation. This modified CCB technique enables concentration and focusing of minute material while maintaining the entire amount of the cytoscrape material on the viewing spot of the CCB sections. We believe this technique can be effectively used to improve the level of confidence in diagnosis of FNAC especially when the FNAC slides are the only sample available.

Monte Carlo Estimation of Absorbed Dose Distributions Obtained from Heterogeneous 106Ru Eye Plaques.

PubMed

Zaragoza, Francisco J; Eichmann, Marion; Flühs, Dirk; Sauerwein, Wolfgang; Brualla, Lorenzo

2017-09-01

The distribution of the emitter substance in 106 Ru eye plaques is usually assumed to be homogeneous for treatment planning purposes. However, this distribution is never homogeneous, and it widely differs from plaque to plaque due to manufacturing factors. By Monte Carlo simulation of radiation transport, we study the absorbed dose distribution obtained from the specific CCA1364 and CCB1256 106 Ru plaques, whose actual emitter distributions were measured. The idealized, homogeneous CCA and CCB plaques are also simulated. The largest discrepancy in depth dose distribution observed between the heterogeneous and the homogeneous plaques was 7.9 and 23.7% for the CCA and CCB plaques, respectively. In terms of isodose lines, the line referring to 100% of the reference dose penetrates 0.2 and 1.8 mm deeper in the case of heterogeneous CCA and CCB plaques, respectively, with respect to the homogeneous counterpart. The observed differences in absorbed dose distributions obtained from heterogeneous and homogeneous plaques are clinically irrelevant if the plaques are used with a lateral safety margin of at least 2 mm. However, these differences may be relevant if the plaques are used in eccentric positioning.

The role of food, sex and travel in the diversity of our planet. (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Souza, V.; Eguiarte, L. E.; Elser, J. J.; Travisano, M.

2010-12-01

Planet Earth’s timeline shows us that, most of the time, this was an aquatic world where nutrients were scarce and where biodiversity was enormous. Most major groups of microbes evolved and diversified during the first 3.5 billion years of life on a place where the available inorganic P was likely extremely limited. To better understand microbial ecology and evolution, we need to study microorganisms that can survive in the extreme nutrient conditions such as those of the past. The metagenome of a microbial mat from the the most stoichiometrically imbalanced environment that we know (C:N:P=15,000:100:1) is devoid of the known P intake genes. This microbial mat (photo) is from an evaporating red pond, one of the most common ecosystems in a rare oasis located in the desert of Coahuila (Mexico) at Cuatro Cienegas (CCB). The red pool that was sequenced is dominated by a very diverse array of new lineages of Pseudomonas that can degrade all the xenobiotics predicted by the Kegg database. Furthermore, the sequences are enriched in genes for microbial interactions but depleted in genes related to primary production. The contrast between oligotrophic oceanic sites and the CCB red pool shows that there are many different ecologies in P-limited sites. Moreover, in CCB, endemism seems to be the rule, even within broadly dispersed taxa such as Bacillus and Actinobacteria, Pseudomonas, diatoms, and even viruses. Geographic structure and small patches are also the rule at CCB, increasing the total diversity of the site. We have proposed that, in a place with severe P limitation, HGT should be limited by the rarity of encounters, the low densities of virus, and the enormous nutritional value of DNA and RNA from lysed cells. In CCB, all the studied lineages show a highly clonal structure. High speciation rates in clonal lineages caused by biotic interactions correspond to the Red queen model of evolution. Thus, at CCB, infrequent sex and rare colonization caused by a very long history of interactions to optimize the uptake of the low phosphorus can explain high levels of endemic biodiversity, especially if they are coupled with “arms race”-like biotic interactions. If CCB is a good “time machine” to serve as an analogue for early microbial evolution, food, sex and travel may explain how so many species diverged in the Precambrian ocean. Microbial mat under extreme oligotrophic conditions

An important role of the moisture supply from the Kuroshio Current/Kuroshio Extension in the rapid development of an explosive cyclone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirata, H.; Kawamura, R.; Kato, M.; Shinoda, T.

2014-12-01

We investigated how the moisture supply from the Kuroshio Current/Kuroshio Extension affects the rapid intensification of an explosive cyclone using a couple atmosphere-ocean non-hydrostatic model, CReSS-NHOES. The Cloud-Resolving Storm Simulator (CReSS) and the Non-Hydrostatic Ocean model for the Earth Simulator (NHOES) have been developed by the Hydrospheric Atmospheric Research Center of Nagoya University and the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, respectively. We performed a numerical simulation of an extratropical cyclone migrating along the southern periphery of the Kuroshio Current on January 14, 2013, that developed most rapidly in recent years in the vicinity of Japan. The evolutions of surface fronts related to the cyclone simulated by the CReSS-NHOES closely resemble Shapiro-Keyser model. In the lower troposphere, the cyclone's bent-back front and the associated frontal T-bone structure become evident with the cyclone development. Cold Conveyor Belt (CCB) is also well organized over the northern part of the cyclone. During its developing stage, since the CCB dominates just over the Kuroshio Current/Kuroshio Extension, a large amount of moisture is efficiently supplied from the warm current into the CCB. The vapor evaporated from the underlying warm current is transported into the bent-back front by the CCB and converges horizontally in the vicinity of the front. As a result, strong diabatic heating arises over the corresponding moisture convergence area in that vicinity, indicating that the abundant moisture due to the warm current plays a vital role in rapid development of the cyclone through latent heat release processes. Both processes of the moisture transport from the warm current into the cyclone system via the CCB and of the latent heat release around the bent-back front are also confirmed by trajectory analyses. The rapid SLP decrease of the cyclone center can in turn increase the moisture supply from the warm current through enhancement of the CCB. We anticipate that such a feedback process plays a key role in the rapid intensification of the cyclone highlighted in this study.

Soil and variety effects on energy use and carbon emissions associated with switchgrass-based ethanol production in Mississippi

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

Woli, Prem; Paz, Joel O.; Baldwin, Brian S.

2012-06-29

High biomass production potential, wide adaptability, low input requirement, and low environmental risk make switchgrass an economically and ecologically viable energy crop.The inherent variablity in switchgrass productivity due to variations in soil and variety could affect the sustainability and eco-friendliness of switchgrass-based ethanol production. This study examined the soil and variety effects on these variables. Three locations in Mississippi were selected based on latitude and potential acreage. Using ALMANAC, switchgrass biomass yields were simulated for several scenarios of soils and varities. The simulated yields were fed to IBSAL to compute energy use and CO2 emissions in various operations in themore » biomass supply From the energy and emissions values, the sustainability and eco-friendliness of ethanol production were determined using net energy value (NEV) and carbon credit balance (CCB) as indicators, respectively. Soil and variety effects on NEV and CCB were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results showed significant differences in NEV and CCB across soils and varieties. Both NEV and CCB increased in the direction of heavier to lighter soils and on the order of north-upland , south-upland, north-lowland, and south-lowland varieties. Only north-upland and south-lowland varieties were significantly significantly different because they were different in both cytotype and ecotype. Gaps between lowland and upland varieties were smaller in a dry year than in a wet year. The NEV and CCB increased in the direction of dry to wet year. From south to north, they decreased for lowland cytotypes but increased for upland cytotypes. Thus, the differences among varieties decreased northwards.« less

Ultrasonic Imaging and Automated Flaw Detection System

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-01

176 007 !----------------------------- DS 176 500 ------------------------- ! STEPPER MOOC TOR MAP 176 ~ ~ IGR 509------------------- I I28 * 4W...ATTN: SMCAR-CCB-R 2 -R (ELLEN FOGARTY) 1 -RA 1 -RM 1 -RP I -RT TECHNICAL LIBRARY 5 ATTN: SMCAR-CCB-TL TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS & EDITING UNIT 2 ATTN...WEAPONS CTR ATTN: TECHNICAL LIBRARY CODE X212 DAIILGREN, VA 22448 ’.1 -_ NOTE: PLEASE NOTIFY COMMANDER, ARMAMENT RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, US

Research advisory board members' contributions and expectations in the USA.

PubMed

Pinto, R M; Spector, Anya Y; Rahman, R; Gastolomendo, J D

2015-06-01

This study focuses on the Implementation Community Collaborative Board (I-CCB) to identify members' anticipated contributions to and returns from the I-CCB; examine whether or not members achieved these contributions and returns over time; and explore barriers and facilitators that influenced accomplishments. Longitudinal study with repeated semi-structured in-depth interviews; baseline captured anticipated contributions and returns; 6- and 18-month follow-ups short- and longer-term achievements. We used content analysis to code/reduce text into variables, describe, count and compare categories. Participants anticipated involvement in I-CCB dynamics/governance and in research tasks/procedures. Anticipated returns included social support. Participants exerting influence on I-CCB's research agenda stayed the same over time. Participants conducting research doubled between follow-ups; those writing grant proposals increased by 50%. Participants receiving emotional support remained the same. Challenges: meetings steered by researchers; lack of time; use of jargon. Facilitators: outreaching to community; being affected by HIV; having overlapping identities/roles as researcher, service consumer and/or practitioner. Research partners can maximize facilitators, redress barriers and improve advisory board members' retention. Findings may help optimize the functioning of advisory boards worldwide. © The Author (2013). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Bacterial communities and the nitrogen cycle in the gypsum soils of Cuatro Ciénegas Basin, coahuila: a Mars analogue.

PubMed

López-Lozano, Nguyen E; Eguiarte, Luis E; Bonilla-Rosso, Germán; García-Oliva, Felipe; Martínez-Piedragil, Celeste; Rooks, Christine; Souza, Valeria

2012-07-01

The OMEGA/Mars Express hyperspectral imager identified gypsum at several sites on Mars in 2005. These minerals constitute a direct record of past aqueous activity and are important with regard to the search of extraterrestrial life. Gale Crater was chosen as Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity's landing site because it is rich in gypsum, as are some desert soils of the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) (Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico). The gypsum of the CCB, which is overlain by minimal carbonate deposits, was the product of magmatic activity that occurred under the Tethys Sea. To examine this Mars analogue, we retrieved gypsum-rich soil samples from two contrasting sites with different humidity in the CCB. To characterize the site, we obtained nutrient data and analyzed the genes related to the N cycle (nifH, nirS, and nirK) and the bacterial community composition by using 16S rRNA clone libraries. As expected, the soil content for almost all measured forms of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus were higher at the more humid site than at the drier site. What was unexpected is the presence of a rich and divergent community at both sites, with higher taxonomic diversity at the humid site and almost no taxonomic overlap. Our results suggest that the gypsum-rich soils of the CCB host a unique microbial ecosystem that includes novel microbial assemblies.

Comparative genomics of free-living Gammaproteobacteria: pathogenesis-related genes or interaction-related genes?

PubMed

Vázquez-Rosas-Landa, Mirna; Ponce-Soto, Gabriel Yaxal; Eguiarte, Luis E; Souza, V

2017-07-31

Bacteria have numerous strategies to interact with themselves and with their environment, but genes associated with these interactions are usually cataloged as pathogenic. To understand the role that these genes have not only in pathogenesis but also in bacterial interactions, we compared the genomes of eight bacteria from human-impacted environments with those of free-living bacteria from the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB), a relatively pristine oligotrophic site. Fifty-one genomes from CCB bacteria, including Pseudomonas, Vibrio, Photobacterium and Aeromonas, were analyzed. We found that the CCB strains had several virulence-related genes, 15 of which were common to all strains and were related to flagella and chemotaxis. We also identified the presence of Type III and VI secretion systems, which leads us to propose that these systems play an important role in interactions among bacterial communities beyond pathogenesis. None of the CCB strains had pathogenicity islands, despite having genes associated with antibiotics. Integrons were rare, while CRISPR elements were common. The idea that pathogenicity-related genes in many cases form part of a wider strategy used by bacteria to interact with other organisms could help us to understand the role of pathogenicity-related elements in an ecological and evolutionary framework leading toward a more inclusive One Health concept. © FEMS 2017. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

LGSOWG CCT format CCB document: The standard CCT family of tape formats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

The tape format standardization approach recommended by the committee on CCT standardization is described and defined. All rules and conventions required to employ the superstructure approach to the CCT family of tape formats are presented for users of remote sensing data and producer of user tapes and the superstructure records are specified. The standard for future tape format design is presented as a guide to designing data records of a particular tape format. An example is provided showing how to incorporate the superstructure into an already established tape format.

Effects of Anti-Hypertensive Monotherapy with Either Calcium Channel Blocker or Angiotensin Receptor Blocker on Arterial Stiffness, Central Hemodynamics, and Ventriculo-Arterial Coupling in Uncomplicated Hypertension Patients

PubMed Central

Lin, Heng-Hsu; Wang, Chia-Sung; Lin, Jiunn-Lee; Hwang, Juey-Jen; Lin, Lian-Yu

2013-01-01

Objectives This study is designed to investigate the effects of anti-hypertensive monotherapy [either calcium channel blocker (CCB) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)] on pulsatile hemodynamic parameters in patients with uncomplicated hypertension. Methods This is a longitudinal observational study. For simplicity, we included patients with uncomplicated hypertension who receivedmono anti-hypertensive therapy with ARB or CCB. Hemodynamic parameters including central arterial pressure (CAP), aortic characteristic impedance (Zc), augmentation index (AI), brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), heart-ankle pulse wave velocity (haPWV), cardiac ultrasonographic parameters and ventriculo-arterial (VA) coupling were measured before, 1 month and 3 months after treatment. Results A total of 74 subjects were included in our study for analysis from 2007-2008. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and central systolic arterial pressure (CSAP) were significantly reduced 1 and 3 months after initiation of therapy. Among the pulsatile hemodynamic parameters, only the baPWV was significantly reduced (from1537.78 ± 200.63 cm/s to 1460.06 ± 186.09 cm/s to 1456.53 ± 196.03 cm/s, p for trend = 0.016). The haPWV only decreased with borderline significance (from 1015.38 ± 124.26 cm/s to 978.88 ± 126.55 cm/s to 967.99 ± 103.37 cm/s, p for trend = 0.041). The other pulsatile hemodynamic parameters remained unchanged before and after therapy. Subgroup analysis (age above or below52 years) showed that the baPWVwas significantly reduced only in the younger group. Conclusions Among the pulsatile hemodynamic parameters, only the baPWV was effectively reduced by either CCB or ARB. The improvement of PWV was more evident in younger subjects. PMID:27122681

Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit: is it an adequate public health response to addressing the issue of caregiver burden in end-of-life care?

PubMed

Williams, Allison M; Eby, Jeanette A; Crooks, Valorie A; Stajduhar, Kelli; Giesbrecht, Melissa; Vuksan, Mirjana; Cohen, S Robin; Brazil, Kevin; Allan, Diane

2011-05-18

An increasingly significant public health issue in Canada, and elsewhere throughout the developed world, pertains to the provision of adequate palliative/end-of-life (P/EOL) care. Informal caregivers who take on the responsibility of providing P/EOL care often experience negative physical, mental, emotional, social and economic consequences. In this article, we specifically examine how Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB)--a contributory benefits social program aimed at informal P/EOL caregivers--operates as a public health response in sustaining informal caregivers providing P/EOL care, and whether or not it adequately addresses known aspects of caregiver burden that are addressed within the population health promotion (PHP) model. As part of a national evaluation of Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit, 57 telephone interviews were conducted with Canadian informal P/EOL caregivers in 5 different provinces, pertaining to the strengths and weaknesses of the CCB and the general caregiving experience. Interview data was coded with Nvivo software and emerging themes were identified by the research team, with such findings published elsewhere. The purpose of the present analysis was identified after comparing the findings to the literature specific to caregiver burden and public health, after which data was analyzed using the PHP model as a guiding framework. Informal caregivers spoke to several of the determinants of health outlined in the PHP model that are implicated in their burden experience: gender, income and social status, working conditions, health and social services, social support network, and personal health practises and coping strategies. They recognized the need for improving the CCB to better address these determinants. This study, from the perspective of family caregivers, demonstrates that the CCB is not living up to its full potential in sustaining informal P/EOL caregivers. Effort is required to transform the CCB so that it may fulfill the potential it holds for serving as one public health response to caregiver burden that forms part of a healthy public policy that addresses the determinants of this burden.

Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit: Is it an adequate public health response to addressing the issue of caregiver burden in end-of-life care?

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background An increasingly significant public health issue in Canada, and elsewhere throughout the developed world, pertains to the provision of adequate palliative/end-of-life (P/EOL) care. Informal caregivers who take on the responsibility of providing P/EOL care often experience negative physical, mental, emotional, social and economic consequences. In this article, we specifically examine how Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB) - a contributory benefits social program aimed at informal P/EOL caregivers - operates as a public health response in sustaining informal caregivers providing P/EOL care, and whether or not it adequately addresses known aspects of caregiver burden that are addressed within the population health promotion (PHP) model. Methods As part of a national evaluation of Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit, 57 telephone interviews were conducted with Canadian informal P/EOL caregivers in 5 different provinces, pertaining to the strengths and weaknesses of the CCB and the general caregiving experience. Interview data was coded with Nvivo software and emerging themes were identified by the research team, with such findings published elsewhere. The purpose of the present analysis was identified after comparing the findings to the literature specific to caregiver burden and public health, after which data was analyzed using the PHP model as a guiding framework. Results Informal caregivers spoke to several of the determinants of health outlined in the PHP model that are implicated in their burden experience: gender, income and social status, working conditions, health and social services, social support network, and personal health practises and coping strategies. They recognized the need for improving the CCB to better address these determinants. Conclusions This study, from the perspective of family caregivers, demonstrates that the CCB is not living up to its full potential in sustaining informal P/EOL caregivers. Effort is required to transform the CCB so that it may fulfill the potential it holds for serving as one public health response to caregiver burden that forms part of a healthy public policy that addresses the determinants of this burden. PMID:21592383

Efficacy and Safety of Rivaroxaban Versus Warfarin in Patients Taking Nondihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blockers for Atrial Fibrillation (from the ROCKET AF Trial).

PubMed

Washam, Jeffrey B; Hellkamp, Anne S; Lokhnygina, Yuliya; Piccini, Jonathan P; Berkowitz, Scott D; Nessel, Christopher C; Becker, Richard C; Breithardt, Günter; Fox, Keith A A; Halperin, Jonathan L; Hankey, Graeme J; Mahaffey, Kenneth W; Singer, Daniel E; Patel, Manesh R

2017-08-15

Non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (non-DHP CCBs) possess combined P-glycoprotein and moderate CYP3A4 inhibition, which may lead to increased exposure of medications that are substrates for these metabolic pathways, such as rivaroxaban. We evaluated the use and outcomes of non-DHP CCBs in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in Rivaroxaban Once Daily Oral Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared with Vitamin K Antagonism for Prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation (ROCKET AF). We assessed clinical outcomes in patients who received non-DHP CCBs and the impact on the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban compared with warfarin. Stroke or noncentral nervous system (CNS) systemic embolism (SE), major or nonmajor clinically relevant (NMCR) bleeding, all-cause death, and major bleeding were compared according to non-DHP CCB use. At randomization, 1,308 patients (9.2%) were taking a non-DHP CCB. They were more likely to be women, have diabetes and COPD, and less likely to have heart failure and had a lower mean CHADS 2 score (3.3 vs 3.5). Non-DHP CCB use was not associated with an increased risk of stroke/non-CNS SE (p = 0.11) or the composite outcome of NMCR or major bleeding (p = 0.087). Non-DHP CCB use was associated with an increased risk of major bleeding (adjusted hazard ratio 1.50, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.04) and intracranial hemorrhage (adjusted hazard ratio 2.84, 95% CI 1.53 to 5.29). No significant difference was observed in the primary efficacy (stroke or non-CNS SE; adjusted interaction p value = 0.38) or safety outcome (NMCR or major bleeding; adjusted interaction p value = 0.14) between rivaroxaban and warfarin with non-DHP CCB use. In conclusion, although the overall use of non-DHP CCBs was associated with an increased risk of major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage, the use was not associated with a significant change in the safety or efficacy of rivaroxaban compared with warfarin observed in ROCKET AF. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bacterial Communities and the Nitrogen Cycle in the Gypsum Soils of Cuatro Ciénegas Basin, Coahuila: A Mars Analogue

PubMed Central

López-Lozano, Nguyen E.; Eguiarte, Luis E.; Bonilla-Rosso, Germán; García-Oliva, Felipe; Martínez-Piedragil, Celeste; Rooks, Christine

2012-01-01

Abstract The OMEGA/Mars Express hyperspectral imager identified gypsum at several sites on Mars in 2005. These minerals constitute a direct record of past aqueous activity and are important with regard to the search of extraterrestrial life. Gale Crater was chosen as Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity's landing site because it is rich in gypsum, as are some desert soils of the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) (Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico). The gypsum of the CCB, which is overlain by minimal carbonate deposits, was the product of magmatic activity that occurred under the Tethys Sea. To examine this Mars analogue, we retrieved gypsum-rich soil samples from two contrasting sites with different humidity in the CCB. To characterize the site, we obtained nutrient data and analyzed the genes related to the N cycle (nifH, nirS, and nirK) and the bacterial community composition by using 16S rRNA clone libraries. As expected, the soil content for almost all measured forms of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus were higher at the more humid site than at the drier site. What was unexpected is the presence of a rich and divergent community at both sites, with higher taxonomic diversity at the humid site and almost no taxonomic overlap. Our results suggest that the gypsum-rich soils of the CCB host a unique microbial ecosystem that includes novel microbial assemblies. Key Words: Cuatro Ciénegas Basin—Gale Crater—Gypsum soil microbial diversity—Molecular ecology—Nitrogen cycle. Astrobiology 12, 699–709. PMID:22920518

A local quasicontinuum method for 3D multilattice crystalline materials: Application to shape-memory alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sorkin, V.; Elliott, R. S.; Tadmor, E. B.

2014-07-01

The quasicontinuum (QC) method, in its local (continuum) limit, is applied to materials with a multilattice crystal structure. Cauchy-Born (CB) kinematics, which accounts for the shifts of the crystal motif, is used to relate atomic motions to continuum deformation gradients. To avoid failures of CB kinematics, QC is augmented with a phonon stability analysis that detects lattice period extensions and identifies the minimum required periodic cell size. This approach is referred to as Cascading Cauchy-Born kinematics (CCB). In this paper, the method is described and developed. It is then used, along with an effective interaction potential (EIP) model for shape-memory alloys, to simulate the shape-memory effect and pseudoelasticity in a finite specimen. The results of these simulations show that (i) the CCB methodology is an essential tool that is required in order for QC-type simulations to correctly capture the first-order phase transitions responsible for these material behaviors, and (ii) that the EIP model adopted in this work coupled with the QC/CCB methodology is capable of predicting the characteristic behavior found in shape-memory alloys.

Barriers to the increased utilization of coal combustion/desulfurization by-products by government and commercial sectors - Update 1998

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

Pflughoeft-Hassett, D.F.; Sondreal, E.A.; Steadman, E.N.

The following conclusions are drawn from the information presented in this report: (1) Joint efforts by industry and government focused on meeting RTC recommendations for reduction/removal of barriers have met with some success. The most notable of these are the changes in regulations related to CCB utilization by individual states. Regionally or nationally consistent state regulation of CCB utilization would further reduce regulatory barriers. (2) Technology changes will continue to be driven by the CAAA, and emission control technologies are expected to continue to impact the type and properties of CCBs generated. As a result, continued RD and D willmore » be needed to learn how to utilize new and changing CCBs in environmentally safe, technically sound, and economically advantageous ways. Clean coal technology CCBs offer a new challenge because of the high volumes expected to be generated and the different characteristics of these CCBs compared to those of conventional CCBs. (3) Industry and government have developed the RD and D infrastructure to address the technical aspects of developing and testing new CCB utilization applications, but this work as well as constant quality control/quality assurance testing needs to be continued to address both industry wide issues and issues related to specific materials, regions, or users. (4) Concerns raised by environmental groups and the public will continue to provide environmental and technical challenges to the CCB industry. It is anticipated that the use of CCBs in mining applications, agriculture, structural fills, and other land applications will continue to be controversial and will require case-by-case technical and environmental information to be developed. The best use of this information will be in the development of generic regulations specifically addressing the use of CCBs in these different types of CCB applications. (5) The development of federal procurement guidelines under Executive Order 12873 titled ''Federal Acquisition, Recycling and Waste Prevention,'' in October 1993 was a positive step toward getting CCBs accepted in the marketplace. Industry needs to continue to work with EPA to develop additional procurement guidelines for products containing CCBs--and to take advantage of existing guidelines to encourage the use of CCBs in high-profile projects. (6) Accelerated progress toward increased utilization of CCBs can be made only if there is an increased financial commitment and technical effort by industry and government. The framework for this has been set by the successful cooperation of industry and government under DOE leadership. Cooperation should continue, with DOE fulfilling its lead role established in the RTC. It is clear that the RTC recommendations continue to have validity with respect to increasing CCB utilization and continue to provide guidance to industry and government agencies.« less

Fixed-Dose Combinations of Renin–Angiotensin System Inhibitors and Calcium Channel Blockers in the Treatment of Hypertension

PubMed Central

Hsiao, Fu-Chih; Tung, Ying-Chang; Chou, Shing-Hsien; Wu, Lung-Sheng; Lin, Chia-Pin; Wang, Chun-Li; Lin, Yu-Sheng; Chang, Chee-Jen; Chu, Pao-Hsien

2015-01-01

Abstract Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of different regimens are recommended in guidelines for the treatment of hypertension. However, clinical studies comparing FDCs of angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)/calcium channel blocker (CCB) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor)/CCB in hypertensive patients are lacking. Using a propensity score matching of 4:1 ratio, this retrospective claims database study compared 2 FDC regimens, ARB/CCB and ACE inhibitor/CCB, in treating hypertensive patients with no known atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. All patients were followed for at least 3 years or until the development of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) during the study period. In addition, the effect of medication adherence on clinical outcomes was evaluated in subgroup analysis based on different portions of days covered. There was no significant difference in MACE-free survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.98–1.50; P = 0.08) and survival free from hospitalization for heart failure (HR: 1.15; 95% CI: 082–1.61; P = 0.431), new diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (HR: 0.98; 95% CI: 071–1.36; P = 0.906), and initiation of dialysis (HR: 0.99; 95% CI: 050–1.92; P = 0.965) between the 2 study groups. The results remained the same within each subgroup of patients with different adherence statuses. ARBs in FDC regimens with CCBs in the present study were shown to be as effective as ACE inhibitors at reducing the risks of MACEs, hospitalization for heart failure, new diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, and new initiation of dialysis in hypertensive patients, regardless of the medication adherence status. PMID:26705234

Ultra-long acting calcium channel blockers may decrease accuracy of the acetylcholine provocation test.

PubMed

Kurabayashi, Manabu; Asano, Mitsutoshi; Shimura, Tsukasa; Suzuki, Hidetoshi; Aoyagi, Hideshi; Yamauchi, Yasuteru; Okishige, Kaoru; Ashikaga, Takashi; Isobe, Mitsuaki

2017-06-01

When drug-induced coronary spasm provocation tests are performed, a washout period of >48h for calcium channel blockers (CCBs) is uniformly recommended. However, each CCB has a distinct half-life, and little is known about the influence of prior oral administration of CCBs on acetylcholine provocation test to evaluate coronary vasomotor reaction. We examined 245 consecutive patients with suspected vasospastic angina who had undergone acetylcholine provocation test. Of those patients, 29 patients had been on amlodipine, an ultra-long term acting CCB (group A), 34 on other CCBs (group O), and 182 patients on no CCB (group N). After CCBs had been withheld > 48h, we performed acetylcholine provocation, which resulted in 152 positive, 36 intermediate, and 57 negative reactions. We evaluated coronary artery tone calculated as follows: (luminal diameter after nitrate-baseline luminal diameter)÷(luminal diameter after nitrate)×100 (%). In group A patients, coronary artery tone was lower (A:9.1±6.9% vs. O:11.7±8.3% vs. N:12.1±8.5%, p=0.0011) and the positive rate of acetylcholine provocation test was lower than group O and group N (A:41% vs. O:68% vs. N:64%, p=0.047). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that taking amlodipine until 2days before acetylcholine provocation test was a significant inverse predictor for acetylcholine-provoked coronary spasm (odds ratio 0.327; 95% confidence interval 0.125-0.858, p=0.023). Residual vasodilatory effects of ultra-long acting CCB may decrease coronary artery tone and the vasoconstrictive reaction to acetylcholine suggesting that a 2-day pre-test drug holiday may not be long enough. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Critically examining diversity in end-of-life family caregiving: implications for equitable caregiver support and Canada's Compassionate Care Benefit.

PubMed

Giesbrecht, Melissa; Crooks, Valorie A; Williams, Allison; Hankivsky, Olena

2012-11-01

Family (i.e., unpaid) caregiving has long been thought of as a 'woman's issue', which ultimately results not only in gendered, but also financial and health inequities. Because of this, gender-based analyses have been prioritized in caregiving research. However, trends in current feminist scholarship demonstrate that gender intersects with other axes of difference, such as culture, socio-economic status, and geography to create diverse experiences. In this analysis we examine how formal front-line palliative care providers understand the role of such diversities in shaping Canadian family caregivers' experiences of end-of-life care. In doing so we consider the implications of these findings for a social benefit program aimed at supporting family caregivers, namely the Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB). This analysis contributes to a utilization-focused evaluation of Canada's CCB, a social program that provides job security and limited income assistance to Canadian family caregivers who take a temporary leave from employment to provide care for a dying family member at end-of-life. Fifty semi-structured phone interviews with front-line palliative care providers from across Canada were conducted and thematic diversity analysis of the transcripts ensued. Findings reveal that experiences of caregiving are not homogenous and access to services and supports are not universal across Canada. Five axes of difference were commonly raised by front-line palliative care providers when discussing important differences in family caregivers' experiences: culture, gender, geography, lifecourse stage, and material resources. Our findings reveal inequities with regard to accessing needed caregiver services and resources, including the CCB, based on these axes of difference. We contend that without considering diversity, patterns in vulnerability and inequity are overlooked, and thus continually reinforced in health policy. Based on our findings, we demonstrate that re-framing categorizations of caregivers can expose specific vulnerabilities and inequities while identifying implications for the CCB program as it is currently administered. From a policy perspective, this analysis demonstrates why diversity needs to be acknowledged in policy circles, including in relation to the CCB, and seeks to counteract single dimensional approaches for understanding caregiver needs at end-of-life. Such findings illustrate how diversity analysis can dramatically enhance evaluative health policy research.

Critically examining diversity in end-of-life family caregiving: implications for equitable caregiver support and Canada’s Compassionate Care Benefit

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Introduction Family (i.e., unpaid) caregiving has long been thought of as a ‘woman’s issue’, which ultimately results not only in gendered, but also financial and health inequities. Because of this, gender-based analyses have been prioritized in caregiving research. However, trends in current feminist scholarship demonstrate that gender intersects with other axes of difference, such as culture, socio-economic status, and geography to create diverse experiences. In this analysis we examine how formal front-line palliative care providers understand the role of such diversities in shaping Canadian family caregivers’ experiences of end-of-life care. In doing so we consider the implications of these findings for a social benefit program aimed at supporting family caregivers, namely the Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB). Methods This analysis contributes to a utilization-focused evaluation of Canada’s CCB, a social program that provides job security and limited income assistance to Canadian family caregivers who take a temporary leave from employment to provide care for a dying family member at end-of-life. Fifty semi-structured phone interviews with front-line palliative care providers from across Canada were conducted and thematic diversity analysis of the transcripts ensued. Results Findings reveal that experiences of caregiving are not homogenous and access to services and supports are not universal across Canada. Five axes of difference were commonly raised by front-line palliative care providers when discussing important differences in family caregivers’ experiences: culture, gender, geography, lifecourse stage, and material resources. Our findings reveal inequities with regard to accessing needed caregiver services and resources, including the CCB, based on these axes of difference. Conclusions We contend that without considering diversity, patterns in vulnerability and inequity are overlooked, and thus continually reinforced in health policy. Based on our findings, we demonstrate that re-framing categorizations of caregivers can expose specific vulnerabilities and inequities while identifying implications for the CCB program as it is currently administered. From a policy perspective, this analysis demonstrates why diversity needs to be acknowledged in policy circles, including in relation to the CCB, and seeks to counteract single dimensional approaches for understanding caregiver needs at end-of-life. Such findings illustrate how diversity analysis can dramatically enhance evaluative health policy research. PMID:23116474

Effectiveness of two conventional methods for seismic retrofit of steel and RC moment resisting frames based on damage control criteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beheshti Aval, Seyed Bahram; Kouhestani, Hamed Sadegh; Mottaghi, Lida

2017-07-01

This study investigates the efficiency of two types of rehabilitation methods based on economic justification that can lead to logical decision making between the retrofitting schemes. Among various rehabilitation methods, concentric chevron bracing (CCB) and cylindrical friction damper (CFD) were selected. The performance assessment procedure of the frames is divided into two distinct phases. First, the limit state probabilities of the structures before and after rehabilitation are investigated. In the second phase, the seismic risk of structures in terms of life safety and financial losses (decision variables) using the recently published FEMA P58 methodology is evaluated. The results show that the proposed retrofitting methods improve the serviceability and life safety performance levels of steel and RC structures at different rates when subjected to earthquake loads. Moreover, these procedures reveal that financial losses are greatly decreased, and were more tangible by the application of CFD rather than using CCB. Although using both retrofitting methods reduced damage state probabilities, incorporation of a site-specific seismic hazard curve to evaluate mean annual occurrence frequency at the collapse prevention limit state caused unexpected results to be obtained. Contrary to CFD, the collapse probability of the structures retrofitted with CCB increased when compared with the primary structures.

Additive effects of cilnidipine, an L-/N-type calcium channel blocker, and an angiotensin II receptor blocker on reducing cardiorenal damage in Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Mori, Yutaka; Aritomi, Shizuka; Niinuma, Kazumi; Nakamura, Tarou; Matsuura, Kenichi; Yokoyama, Junichi; Utsunomiya, Kazunori

2014-01-01

Cilnidipine (Cil), which is an L-/N-type calcium channel blocker (CCB), has been known to provide renal protection by decreasing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the renin-angiotensin system. In this study, we compared the effects of the combination of Cil and amlodipine (Aml), which is an L-type CCB, with an angiotensin (Ang) II receptor blocker on diabetic cardiorenal damage in spontaneously type 2 diabetic rats. Seventeen-week-old Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty rats were randomly assigned to receive Cil, Aml, valsartan (Val), Cil + Val, Aml + Val, or a vehicle (eight rats per group) for 22 weeks. Antihypertensive potencies were nearly equal among the CCB monotherapy groups and the combination therapy groups. The lowering of blood pressure by either treatment did not significantly affect the glycemic variables. However, exacerbations of renal and heart failure were significantly suppressed in rats administered Cil or Val, and additional suppression was observed in those administered Cil + Val. Although Val increased the renin-Ang system, Aml + Val treatment resulted in additional increases in these parameters, while Cil + Val did not show such effects. Furthermore, Cil increased the ratio of Ang-(1-7) to Ang-I, despite the fact that Val and Aml + Val decreased the Ang-(1-7) levels. These actions of Cil + Val might be due to their synergistic inhibitory effect on the activity of the SNS, and on aldosterone secretion through N-type calcium channel antagonism and Ang II receptor type 1 antagonism. Thus, Cil may inhibit the progression of cardiorenal disease in type 2 diabetes patients by acting as an N-type CCB and inhibiting the aldosterone secretion and SNS activation when these drugs were administered in combination with an Ang II receptor blocker.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses of the Association Between Anti-Hypertensive Classes and the Risk of Falls Among Older Adults.

PubMed

Ang, Hui Ting; Lim, Ka Keat; Kwan, Yu Heng; Tan, Pui San; Yap, Kai Zhen; Banu, Zafirah; Tan, Chuen Seng; Fong, Warren; Thumboo, Julian; Ostbye, Truls; Low, Lian Leng

2018-06-23

Falls in individuals aged ≥ 60 years may result in injury, hospitalisation or death. The role of anti-hypertensive medications in falls among older adults is unclear. The objective of this study was to assess the association of six anti-hypertensive medication classes, namely α-blockers (AB), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), β-blockers (BB), calcium channel blockers (CCB) and diuretics, with the risk of falls, injurious falls or recurrent falls in individuals aged ≥ 60 years compared with non-users. We performed systematic searches in PubMed, EMBASE and CINAHL and included cohort, case-control and cross-sectional studies that investigated the associations between the use of anti-hypertensive medication classes and the risk of falls, injurious falls or recurrent falls in older adults (≥ 60 years) reported in English. We assessed study quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were pooled using random effects model. We performed meta-analyses for each anti-hypertensive medication class and each fall outcome. We also performed sensitivity analyses by pooling studies of high quality and subgroup analyses among studies with an average age of ≥ 80 years. Seventy-eight articles (where 74, 34, 27, 18, 13 and 11 of them examined diuretics, BB, CCB, ACEi, AB and ARB, respectively) met our inclusion and exclusion criteria; we pooled estimates from 60 articles. ACEi [OR 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81-0.89], BB (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.76-0.93) and CCB (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.74-0.90) use were associated with a lower risk of injurious falls than in non-users. Results in sensitivity and subgroup analyses were largely consistent. The use of ACEi, BB or CCB among older adults may be associated with a lower risk of injurious falls than non-use.

Cultural Competence of Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.

PubMed

Heitzler, Ella T

To measure the cultural competence level of obstetric and neonatal nurses, explore relationships among cultural competence and selected sociodemographic variables, and identify factors related to cultural competence. Descriptive correlational study. Online survey. A convenience sample of 132 obstetric and neonatal registered nurses practicing in the United States. Nurse participants completed the Cultural Competence Assessment (CCA) instrument, which included Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity (CAS) and Cultural Competence Behaviors (CCB) subscales, and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted. The average CCA score was 5.38 (possible range = 1.00-7.00). CCA scores were negatively correlated with age and positively correlated with self-ranked cultural competence, years of nursing experience, years of experience within the specialty area, and number of types of previous cultural diversity training. CCB subscale scores were correlated positively with age, years of nursing experience, years of experience within the specialty area, and number of types of previous diversity training. CAS subscale scores were positively correlated with number of types of previous diversity training. Standard multiple linear regression explained approximately 10%, 12%, and 11% of the variance in CCA, CAS, and CCB scores, respectively. Obstetric and neonatal registered nurses should continue to work toward greater cultural competence. Exposing nurses to more types of cultural diversity training may help achieve greater cultural competence. Copyright © 2017 AWHONN, the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) in Type 2 diabetes and a comparison of clinical profiles between diabetic patients with and without GORD.

PubMed

Horikawa, A; Ishii-Nozawa, R; Ohguro, M; Takagi, S; Ohtuji, M; Yamada, M; Kuzuya, N; Ujihara, N; Ujihara, M; Takeuchi, K

2009-03-01

To examine the incidence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and its associated factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM). In 859 Type 2 DM outpatients, we conducted a QUEST inquiry and considered those showing a QUEST score of 4 or higher as having GORD. We surveyed clinical variables (physical findings, gender, age, duration of disease, glycated haemoglobin (HbA(1c)), type of oral glucose-lowering agent, presence or absence of insulin therapy, complications, and presence or absence of agents that may be associated with GORD [Ca channel blocker (CCB) anti-platelet agents]) to investigate their association with the onset of GORD. We analysed 813 subjects, of whom 56.6% were male. The mean age was 63.7 +/- 11.3 years and HbA(1c) 7.2 +/- 1.2%. The incidence of GORD was 29.0% (n = 221). GORD was positively correlated with body weight, body mass index (BMI) and HbA(1c). It was negatively correlated with age, serum creatinine and proportion of patients treated with pioglitazone or CCB. In addition, GORD was more common in females. The incidence of GORD was significantly higher in younger patients. Previous studies have suggested a relationship of GORD with pioglitazone/CCB. However, the results of this study do not support this; these agents may not induce GORD.

The Geographic Structure of Viruses in the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin, a Unique Oasis in Northern Mexico, Reveals a Highly Diverse Population on a Small Geographic Scale.

PubMed

Taboada, B; Isa, P; Gutiérrez-Escolano, A L; Del Ángel, R M; Ludert, J E; Vázquez, N; Tapia-Palacios, M A; Chávez, P; Garrido, E; Espinosa, A C; Eguiarte, L E; López, S; Souza, V; Arias, C F

2018-06-01

The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) is located in the Chihuahuan desert in the Mexican state of Coahuila; it has been characterized as a site with high biological diversity despite its extreme oligotrophic conditions. It has the greatest number of endemic species in North America, containing abundant living microbialites (including stromatolites and microbial mats) and diverse microbial communities. With the hypothesis that this high biodiversity and the geographic structure should be reflected in the virome, the viral communities in 11 different locations of three drainage systems, Churince, La Becerra, and Pozas Rojas, and in the intestinal contents of 3 different fish species, were analyzed for both eukaryotic and prokaryotic RNA and DNA viruses using next-generation sequencing methods. Double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) virus families were the most abundant (72.5% of reads), followed by single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) viruses (2.9%) and ssRNA and dsRNA virus families (0.5%). Thirteen families had dsDNA genomes, five had ssDNA, three had dsRNA, and 16 had ssRNA. A highly diverse viral community was found, with an ample range of hosts and a strong geographical structure, with very even distributions and signals of endemicity in the phylogenetic trees from several different virus families. The majority of viruses found were bacteriophages but eukaryotic viruses were also frequent, and the large diversity of viruses related to algae were a surprise, since algae are not evident in the previously analyzed aquatic systems of this ecosystem. Animal viruses were also frequently found, showing the large diversity of aquatic animals in this oasis, where plants, protozoa, and archaea are rare. IMPORTANCE In this study, we tested whether the high biodiversity and geographic structure of CCB is reflected in its virome. CCB is an extraordinarily biodiverse oasis in the Chihuahuan desert, where a previous virome study suggested that viruses had followed the marine ancestry of the marine bacteria and, as a result of their long isolation, became endemic to the site. In this study, which includes a larger sequencing coverage and water samples from other sites within the valley, we confirmed the high virus biodiversity and uniqueness as well as the strong biogeographical diversification of the CCB. In addition, we also analyzed fish intestinal contents, finding that each fish species eats different prey and, as a result, presents different viral compositions even if they coexist in the same pond. These facts highlight the high and novel virus diversity of CCB and its "lost world" status. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

Variability of rRNA Operon Copy Number and Growth Rate Dynamics of Bacillus Isolated from an Extremely Oligotrophic Aquatic Ecosystem

PubMed Central

Valdivia-Anistro, Jorge A.; Eguiarte-Fruns, Luis E.; Delgado-Sapién, Gabriela; Márquez-Zacarías, Pedro; Gasca-Pineda, Jaime; Learned, Jennifer; Elser, James J.; Olmedo-Alvarez, Gabriela; Souza, Valeria

2016-01-01

The ribosomal RNA (rrn) operon is a key suite of genes related to the production of protein synthesis machinery and thus to bacterial growth physiology. Experimental evidence has suggested an intrinsic relationship between the number of copies of this operon and environmental resource availability, especially the availability of phosphorus (P), because bacteria that live in oligotrophic ecosystems usually have few rrn operons and a slow growth rate. The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) is a complex aquatic ecosystem that contains an unusually high microbial diversity that is able to persist under highly oligotrophic conditions. These environmental conditions impose a variety of strong selective pressures that shape the genome dynamics of their inhabitants. The genus Bacillus is one of the most abundant cultivable bacterial groups in the CCB and usually possesses a relatively large number of rrn operon copies (6–15 copies). The main goal of this study was to analyze the variation in the number of rrn operon copies of Bacillus in the CCB and to assess their growth-related properties as well as their stoichiometric balance (N and P content). We defined 18 phylogenetic groups within the Bacilli clade and documented a range of from six to 14 copies of the rrn operon. The growth dynamic of these Bacilli was heterogeneous and did not show a direct relation to the number of operon copies. Physiologically, our results were not consistent with the Growth Rate Hypothesis, since the copies of the rrn operon were decoupled from growth rate. However, we speculate that the diversity of the growth properties of these Bacilli as well as the low P content of their cells in an ample range of rrn copy number is an adaptive response to oligotrophy of the CCB and could represent an ecological mechanism that allows these taxa to coexist. These findings increase the knowledge of the variability in the number of copies of the rrn operon in the genus Bacillus and give insights about the physiology of this bacterial group under extreme oligotrophic conditions. PMID:26779143

Hydrologic assessment and numerical simulation of groundwater flow, San Juan Mine, San Juan County, New Mexico, 2010–13

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stewart, Anne M.

2018-04-03

Coal combustion byproducts (CCBs), which are composed of fly ash, bottom ash, and flue gas desulfurization material, produced at the coal-fired San Juan Generating Station (SJGS), located in San Juan County, New Mexico, have been buried in former surface-mine pits at the San Juan Mine, also referred to as the San Juan Coal Mine, since operations began in the early 1970s. This report, prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the Mining and Minerals Division of the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, describes results of a hydrogeologic assessment, including numerical groundwater modeling, to identify the timing of groundwater recovery and potential pathways for groundwater transport of metals that may be leached from stored CCBs and reach hydrologic receptors after operations cease. Data collected for the hydrologic assessment indicate that groundwater in at least one centrally located reclaimed surface-mining pit has already begun to recover.The U.S. Geological Survey numerical modeling package MODFLOW–NWT was used with MODPATH particle-tracking software to identify advective flow paths from CCB storage areas toward potential hydrologic receptors. Results indicate that groundwater at CCB storage areas will recover to the former steady state, or in some locations, groundwater may recover to a new steady state in 6,600 to 10,600 years at variable rates depending on the proximity to a residual cone-of-groundwater depression caused by mine dewatering and regional oil and gas pumping as well as on actual, rather than estimated, groundwater recharge and evapotranspirational losses. Advective particle-track modeling indicates that the number of particles and rates of advective transport will vary depending on hydraulic properties of the mine spoil, particularly hydraulic conductivity and porosity. Modeling results from the most conservative scenario indicate that particles can migrate from CCB repositories to either the Shumway Arroyo alluvium after 1,320 years and from there to the San Juan River alluvium after 1,520 years or from southernmost CCB repositories directly to the San Juan River alluvium after 2,400 years after the cessation of mining.

Kraken: ultrafast metagenomic sequence classification using exact alignments

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Kraken is an ultrafast and highly accurate program for assigning taxonomic labels to metagenomic DNA sequences. Previous programs designed for this task have been relatively slow and computationally expensive, forcing researchers to use faster abundance estimation programs, which only classify small subsets of metagenomic data. Using exact alignment of k-mers, Kraken achieves classification accuracy comparable to the fastest BLAST program. In its fastest mode, Kraken classifies 100 base pair reads at a rate of over 4.1 million reads per minute, 909 times faster than Megablast and 11 times faster than the abundance estimation program MetaPhlAn. Kraken is available at http://ccb.jhu.edu/software/kraken/. PMID:24580807

Diuretic or Beta-Blocker for Hypertensive Patients Already Receiving ACEI/ARB and Calcium Channel Blocker.

PubMed

Tsai, Min-Shan; Tang, Chao-Hsiun; Lin, Chia-Ying; Chuang, Po-Ya; Chen, Nai-Chuan; Huang, Chien-Hua; Chang, Wei-Tien; Wang, Tzung-Dau; Yu, Ping-Hsun; Chen, Wen-Jone

2017-12-01

In patients already receiving combination of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) and calcium channel blocker (CCB), whether the choice of additional diuretic or beta-blocker affects the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes remains unclear. A total of 13,551 patients who were concurrently receiving three anti-hypertensive agents of different classes through outpatient clinics during 2004-2006 were identified from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan. Patients were further classified into two treatment groups according to the medication possession ratio of drug combinations; the A + B + C group as those who received concurrent therapy of ACEI/ARB, beta-blocker and CCB. The A + C + D group as patients who received ACEI/ARB, CCB, and diuretics. The event-free survival of stroke, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) between the two treatment groups was investigated. After propensity score matching, there were 5120 patients in each group. There were no differences in the incidence of cardiovascular events between the two groups. In patients with prior history of cerebrovascular accident (CVA), the A + C + D group had a significantly higher AMI-free survival (adjusted HR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.051-2.307; p < 0.05) as compared with the A + B + C group. Adding a diuretic may be better than adding a beta-blocker for treating hypertensive patients with prior CVA history who have already received ACEIs/ARBs and CCBs.

Comparison of real-world effectiveness between valsartan and non-RAS inhibitor monotherapy on the incidence of new diabetes in Chinese hypertensive patients: An electronic health recording system based study.

PubMed

Shen, Tian; Wang, Jiwei; Yu, Yingjun; Yu, Jinming

2018-05-21

This study aimed to compare the real-world effectiveness of valsartan and non renin-angiotensin system (non-RAS) agent monotherapy on the incidence of new on-set diabetes (NOD) in Chinese hypertensive patients. It was based on an electronic Health Recording System database from Minhang District of Shanghai. Hypertensive patients aged ≥18 years continuously taking either valsartan or non-RAS agent monotherapy for >12 months were included. Hazard ratios (HR) of NOD events were estimated using propensity score matching method and multivariate regression. Of 29295 patients, there were 2107 in valsartan group, 21397 in CCB group, 4094 in β-blockers group and 1697 in diuretics group. Two-year follow-up revealed NOD rates of 11.09 and 14.22 per 100 persons per year in valsartan and non-RAS inhibitor groups (HR = 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.65-0.93, P = 0.006), respectively. Among non-RAS agents, CCB group had the highest incidence of NOD (21.72 per 100 persons per year). Comparisons between CCB sub-groups revealed the highest NOD incidence for nifedipine, followed by amlodipine and felodipine. NOD incidences in β-blockers and diuretics groups (11.70 and 10.50 per 100 persons per year, respectively) were not significantly different from valsartan group. Compared with non-RAS inhibitors, particularly CCBs, valsartan could significantly reduce the incidence of NOD.

What role does African ancestry play in how hypertensive patients respond to certain antihypertensive drug therapy?

PubMed

Seedat, Yackoob K; Brewster, Lizzy M

2014-02-01

This article is a summary of the response of the four commonly used antihypertensive agents in African ancestry patients. They are thiazide like diuretics or indapamide, calcium channel blockers (CCB), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor blockers, and β-adrenergic blockers (ARB). Response was superior in African ancestry patients on a thiazide like diuretic or indapamide and CCB, while the response to β-adrenergic blockers and ACEI are attenuated. Available data are very limited but self-defined ancestry seems to be the best predictor of individual responses to antihypertensive drugs. Knowledge of the factors like economic and social consideration affect the lower rate of detection, treatment and control of hypertension in the African ancestry population of the USA. For regions in which health care resources are particularly scarce, investment in population-based primary prevention strategies may yield the largest benefit.

Effects of chocolate supplementation on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters in ApoE3L mice fed a high-cholesterol atherogenic diet.

PubMed

Yakala, Gopala K; Wielinga, Peter Y; Suarez, Manuel; Bunschoten, Annelies; van Golde, Jolanda M; Arola, Lluis; Keijer, Jaap; Kleemann, Robert; Kooistra, Teake; Heeringa, Peter

2013-11-01

Dietary intake of cocoa and/or chocolate has been suggested to exhibit protective cardiovascular effects although this is still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of chocolate supplementation on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters. Four groups of ApoE*3Leiden mice were exposed to the following diet regimens. Group 1: cholesterol-free control diet (CO). Group 2: high-dose (1.0% w/w) control cholesterol (CC). Group 3: CC supplemented chocolate A (CCA) and Group 4: CC supplemented chocolate B (CCB). Both chocolates differed in polyphenol and fiber content, CCA had a relatively high-polyphenol and low-fiber content compared to CCB. Mice fed a high-cholesterol diet showed increased plasma-cholesterol and developed atherosclerosis. Both chocolate treatments, particularly CCA, further increased plasma-cholesterol and increased atherosclerotic plaque formation. Moreover, compared to mice fed a high-cholesterol diet, both chocolate-treated groups displayed increased liver injury. Mice on high-cholesterol diet had elevated plasma levels of sVCAM-1, sE-selectin and SAA, which was further increased in the CCB group. Similar effects were observed for renal inflammation markers. The two chocolate preparations showed unfavorable, but different effects on cardiometabolic health in E3L mice, which dissimilarities may be related to differences in chocolate composition. We conclude that discrepancies reported on the effects of chocolate on cardiometabolic health may at least partly be due to differences in chocolate composition. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Anaesthesiological considerations on tocolytic and uterotonic therapy in obstetrics.

PubMed

Vercauteren, M; Palit, S; Soetens, F; Jacquemyn, Y; Alahuhta, S

2009-07-01

Significant side effects of tocolytic and uterotonic substances may be of concern to the anaesthesiologist. Recently, new drugs have been introduced having less side effects for both the mother and the neonate. A literature search was undertaken mainly focusing on meta-analyses, to review the possible side effects that might affect the course of anaesthesia and to suggest which precautions should be considered to prevent the occurrence of significant interactions with anaesthetic manipulations and drugs. Magnesium sulphate has a proven benefit in lowering systolic blood pressure and preventing the occurrence of eclampsia, but not as a tocolytic. beta-adrenergic agonists are being abandoned due to the availability of tocolytic agents causing less side effects. Calcium channel blockers (CCB) are frequently used but can cause major maternal cardiovascular complications. Nitroglycerin seems to be appreciated as an acute tocolytic rather than a routine substance during pre-term labour. Cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors are still under investigation but their tocolytic benefit is questionable mainly due to foetal side effects. Atosiban is considered the first-choice tocolytic. With respect to oxytocic drugs, oxytocine, prostaglandines and methylergometrine may all cause serious side effects especially when combined. The cardiovascular side effects of prostaglandins and methylergometrine can be life-threatening. Both oxytocin and carbetocin have a rather low risk for maternal complications. Atosiban and CCB are at least as effective tocolytic agents as beta-mimetics but have significantly less side effects. Magnesium sulphate can cause neuromuscular blockade, especially when combined with CCB. Concerning oxytocic agents, short-acting oxyctocin and long-acting carbetocin have the least side effects as compared with prostaglandins and methylergometrine.

Biosorption potential of synthetic dyes by heat-inactivated and live Lentinus edodes CCB-42 immobilized in loofa sponges.

PubMed

Gimenez, Gabriela Gregolin; Ruiz, Suelen Pereira; Caetano, Wilker; Peralta, Rosane Marina; Matioli, Graciette

2014-12-01

Lentinus edodes CCB-42 was immobilized in loofa sponges and applied to the biosorption of the synthetic dyes congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet. Live immobilized microorganisms achieved average decolorations of congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet of 97.8, 99.7 and 90.6 %, respectively. The loofa sponge was the support and the coadjuvant promoting dye adsorption. The biosorption conditions were optimized for each dye, yielding 30 °C, pH 5.0 and a 12 h reaction time for congo red; 25 °C, pH 3.0 and 36 h for bordeaux red; and 25 °C, pH 8.0 and 24 h for methyl violet. Operational stability was evaluated over five consecutive cycles, with both bordeaux red and congo red exhibiting decolorations above 90 %, while the decoloration of methyl violet decreased after the third cycle. In the sixth month of storage, congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet had decolorations of 93.1, 79.4 and 73.8 %, respectively. Biosorption process best fit the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich isotherm models. Maximum biosorption capacity of heat-treated L. edodes immobilized in loofa sponge was determined as 143.678, 500.00 and 381.679 mg/g for congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet, respectively. Treatment with immobilized L. edodes reduced the phytotoxicity of the medium containing dyes. FT-Raman experiments suggested the occurrence of interactions between loofa sponge fibers, L. edodes and dye. L. edodes CCB-42 immobilized in loofa sponges represents a promising new mode of treatment of industrial effluents.

Microfungal oasis in an oligotrophic desert: diversity patterns and community structure in three freshwater systems of Cuatro Ciénegas, Mexico

PubMed Central

Gasca-Pineda, Jaime; Rosique-Gil, Edmundo; Eguiarte, Luis E.; Espinosa-Asuar, Laura

2016-01-01

The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) comprises several oligotrophic aquatic ecosystems limited by phosphorus. These aquatic systems are dominated by a high prokaryotic diversity, shaped by the stress of low nutrient supplies and interspecific competition. Although fungi constitute a diverse and important component of microbial diversity, the microfungal diversity in the CCB remains to be unveiled. With the aim to explore microfungal diversity and ecological patterns in this area, we present the first investigation analyzing cultivable taxa from sediment and water, as well as lignocellulolytic taxa obtained from incubated submerged plant debris, and wood panels in three contrasting freshwater systems in the CCB: Churince, Becerra and Pozas Rojas. We chose a culture-based approach to analyze sediment and water samples in order to obtain fungal cultures, providing opportunities for a posteriori studies, and the possibility of ex situ preservation of the diversity. We evaluated sequence data from the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer including the 5.8 rDNA region for 126 isolates, revealing 37 OTUs. These OTUs were phylogenetically affiliated to several genera in the fungal phyla: Zygomycota, Basidiomycota, and Ascomycota. We recorded two OTUs with saline affinity, agreeing with previous findings on the prokaryotic communities with ancestral marine resemblances. All the studied systems showed moderate diversity levels, however discrepancies among the diversity indexes were observed, due to the occurrence of abundant taxa in the samples. Our results indicated that lignocellulolytic microfungal communities are dominated by transient fungal taxa, as resident species were not recorded perhaps as a result of the long-term strong competition with the highly adapted prokaryotic community. Moreover, the obtained microfungal taxa occurred mostly on the resident plant debris, rather than submerged wood panels, perhaps as a result of the high adaptation to specific environmental conditions. In conclusion, the CCB possess a moderate taxonomical diversity compared to other arid environments, probably as a result of high selective pressures. Nonetheless, due to high spatial and temporal heterogeneity, the functional fungal diversity was considerable as predicted by the intermediate disturbance hypothesis. Decisively, the assessment of microfungal diversity freshwater systems is relevant, since this ecological group of microorganisms represents an important indicator of trophic complexity and biotic interactions among microbial communities, having important implications for understanding eukaryotic survival at the oligotrophic limit for life. PMID:27280070

Mechanisms underlying the antidiarrheal, antispasmodic and bronchodilator activities of Fumaria parviflora and involvement of tissue and species specificity.

PubMed

Najeeb-ur-Rehman; Bashir, Samra; Al-Rehaily, Adnan J; Gilani, Anwarul-Hassan

2012-10-31

In the Greco-Arab (Unani) traditional medicine, Fumaria parviflora Linn. is widely used in hypreractive gut and respiratory disorders including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, indigestion and asthma but scientific studies to provide rational for these medicinal uses are sparse. This study was therefore undertaken to provide ethnopharmacological basis for its medicinal use in diarrhea, abdominal cramps and asthma. The in vivo studies were conducted in mice and rats while isolated gut and tracheal preparations of rat, guinea-pig and rabbit were suspended in respective tissue baths to measure the isotonic and isometric responses, using Power Lab electronic recorder. The aqueous-methanol extract of Fumaria parviflora (Fp.Cr) protected against diarrhea caused by castor oil in rats and mice, similar to loperamide and dicyclomine, and bronchospasm caused by carbachol (CCh) in rats, similar to aminophylline. In the in vitro studies, Fp.Cr relaxed CCh and isotonic high K(+) physiological salts solutions-induced contractions in jejunum, ileum and tracheal preparations of rat, guinea-pig and rabbit. Fp.Cr was predominately more potent against CCh than isotonic high K(+) solutions-induced contractions, similar to dicyclomine, suggesting the presence of anticholinergic and calcium channel blocking (CCB) activities, which were confirmed when Fp.Cr shifted the CCh and Ca(2+) concentration-response curves, constructed in rat ileum and trachea, towards right. Among intestinal preparations from various species, both anticholinergic and CCB effects of Fp.Cr were exhibited at lower concentrations in rat than the other species. In tracheal preparations, Fp.Cr was the most potent in its CCB effect in rabbit. Within species, CCB effect of Fp.Cr was produced at lower concentrations in rat jejunum than ileum and trachea, whereas, anticholinergic effect was produced at higher concentration in rat trachea than intestine. This study, showing the presence of antidiarrheal, antispasmodic and bronchodilator activities in Fumaria parviflora possibly mediated through dual blockade of muscarinic receptors and Ca(2+) channels, provides sound basis for its medicinal uses in diarrhea, abdominal cramps and may be used as bronchodilator in asthma. Species and tissue-dependency of these effects underscores the importance of utilizing multiple tissues and species to get more meaningful results. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Addressing Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Together: A Global Assessment of Agriculture and Forestry Projects.

PubMed

Kongsager, Rico; Locatelli, Bruno; Chazarin, Florie

2016-02-01

Adaptation and mitigation share the ultimate purpose of reducing climate change impacts. However, they tend to be considered separately in projects and policies because of their different objectives and scales. Agriculture and forestry are related to both adaptation and mitigation: they contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and removals, are vulnerable to climate variations, and form part of adaptive strategies for rural livelihoods. We assessed how climate change project design documents (PDDs) considered a joint contribution to adaptation and mitigation in forestry and agriculture in the tropics, by analyzing 201 PDDs from adaptation funds, mitigation instruments, and project standards [e.g., climate community and biodiversity (CCB)]. We analyzed whether PDDs established for one goal reported an explicit contribution to the other (i.e., whether mitigation PDDs contributed to adaptation and vice versa). We also examined whether the proposed activities or expected outcomes allowed for potential contributions to the two goals. Despite the separation between the two goals in international and national institutions, 37% of the PDDs explicitly mentioned a contribution to the other objective, although only half of those substantiated it. In addition, most adaptation (90%) and all mitigation PDDs could potentially report a contribution to at least partially to the other goal. Some adaptation project developers were interested in mitigation for the prospect of carbon funding, whereas mitigation project developers integrated adaptation to achieve greater long-term sustainability or to attain CCB certification. International and national institutions can provide incentives for projects to harness synergies and avoid trade-offs between adaptation and mitigation.

Shifting trends in the pharmacologic treatment of hypertension in a Nigerian tertiary hospital: a real-world evaluation of the efficacy, safety, rationality and pharmaco-economics of old and newer antihypertensive drugs.

PubMed

Adigun, A Q; Ishola, D A; Akintomide, A O; Ajayi, A A L

2003-04-01

The current prescription patterns for essential hypertension and the efficacy, safety, tolerability and cost-effectiveness of the newer antihypertensive drugs were evaluated in Nigerian patients. The findings were compared with that of a previous study conducted in the same tertiary hospital 10 years earlier. A cross-sectional evaluation of blood pressure (BP) control in a hypertension clinic was undertaken among 150 Nigerian patients aged 61 +/- 12 years (55% females), with a duration of treatment on a particular drug class or combination of 9 +/- 3 months. The initial blood pressure was 176 +/- 20/108 +/- 11 mmHg and 22% of the patient had concurrent diabetes mellitus. Thiazide diuretics (D) alone or in combination remained the most commonly prescribed drugs in 56% of all patients. There were significant increases in the prescriptions of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) (51%), P < 0.0001, and ACE-inhibitors (ACEIs) (24%), P < 0.0001, but a slight reduction in the use of methyldopa, and fixed drug combinations (P < 0.01) compared to the previous study. The fall in systolic blood pressure on D (r = 0.65, P < 0.001) or CCB (r = 0.48, P < 0.02) was significantly correlated with the initial systolic blood pressure, but not age. More patients achieved normotension BP < 140/90 mmHg on CCB monotherapy (71%), than D monotherapy (56%). Combination therapy with ACEIs + D or methyldopa+thiazides normalized BP in 63 and 68%, respectively. Pulse pressure, a surrogate marker for cardiovascular complications and mortality in essential hypertension, was significantly reduced (P < 0.01) equally by all treatments, with 95% confidence intervals ranging from -28 to -1 mmHg. However, hypertensive-diabetic (HT-DM) patients (n = 33) exhibited no significant change in pulse pressure in response to treatment. Adverse drug reactions that occurred in 11% were impotence or postural dizziness with D, headache and pitting oedema with CCB, and dry cough with ACEI. Pharmaco-economic comparison of the drug classes revealed that for every US dollar (dollar) spent per month, the percentage of treated patients attaining normotension was 18.6 for D, 4.73 for CCB, 3.5 for ACEI + D and 13.6 for methyldopa + thiazides. A combination of ACEI + CCB or D was the preferred treatment for hypertensive-diabetic Nigerians, but only 24% attained a BP < 130/85 mmHg. These results demonstrate a shift in trend to a more rational and efficacious treatment of hypertension over a 10 year period. This may be associated, at least in part, with the intensive and continuous education of the prescribers in rational drug use and the introduction of a hospital formulary. Methyldopa is still a highly efficacious and cost-effective drug in this population. Black HT-DM Africans still constitute a subgroup who not only require more and costlier antihypertensive drugs, but whose BP control is suboptimal, and exhibit a poor therapeutic response to other risk factors (pulse pressure) that constitute a continuing risk for cardiovascular mortality.

Two cryptic anatectic events within a syn-collisional granitoid from the Araçuaí orogen (southeastern Brazil): Evidence from the polymetamorphic Carlos Chagas batholith

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melo, M. G.; Stevens, G.; Lana, C.; Pedrosa-Soares, A. C.; Frei, D.; Alkmim, F. F.; Alkmin, L. A.

2017-04-01

From the earliest (ca. 630 Ma) pre-collisional plutons to the latest (ca. 480 Ma) post-collisional intrusions, the Araçuaí orogen (SE Brazil) records an outstanding succession of granite production events in space and time. The Carlos Chagas batholith (CCB) is the largest ( 14,000 km2) granitic body ascribed to the collisional plutonism (G2 supersuite) in the back-arc region of the Araçuaí orogen, to the east of the Rio Doce magmatic arc. A wide range of monazite and zircon ages (> 725 Ma to ca. 490 Ma) have been found in CCB granites, recording a rich history of crustal recycling and inheritance, magmatic crystallization and anatexis. The CCB includes a dominant granite richer in garnet than in biotite, in which three mineral assemblages can be identified: 1) Qz + Pl + Kfs + Bt + Grt + Ilm ± Rt; 2) Qz + Pl + Kfs + Bt + Grt + Ilm + Sil; and 3) Qz + Pl + Kfs + Bt + Grt + Ilm + Sil + Spl. Rocks which contain mineral assemblage 2 and 3 all contain two generations of garnet. Textural evidence for the presence of former melt, recognized in all studied CCB samples, includes: silicate melt inclusions in poikiloblastic garnet, pseudomorphed thin films of melt surrounding both generations of garnet, pseudomorphed melt pools adjacent to garnet and biotite, and plagioclase and quartz with cuspate-lobate shapes occurring among matrix grains. Both generations of garnet crystals (Grt1 and Grt2) are unzoned in terms of major element concentration, contain small rounded inclusions of Ti-rich biotite and, in addition, the Grt2 crystals also contain inclusions of remnant sillimanite needles. Microstructural evidence, in combination with mineral chemistry, indicates that the garnet crystals grew during two distinct metamorphic-anatectic events, as the peritectic products of fluid-absent melting reactions which consumed biotite, quartz and plagioclase, in the case of Grt1, and which consumed biotite, quartz, plagioclase and sillimanite in the case of Grt2. P-T pseudosections calculated via Theriak-Domino, in combination with in situ U-Pb monazite and zircon dating, provide new constraints on the thermal evolution of the back-arc region of the Araçuaí orogen. Data from assemblage 1 suggests P-T conditions for the first granulite-facies metamorphic event (M1) at 790-820 °C and 9.5-10.5 kbar, while the assemblage 2 records P-T conditions for a second granulite-facies metamorphism (M2) of around 770 °C and 6.6 kbar. Monazite and zircon within garnets from the different assemblages give age peaks at 570-550 Ma (M1) and 535-515 Ma (M2), recording two anatectic events in the CCB during a single orogenic cycle. The PT conditions for these metamorphic events can be related to: i) M1, striking crustal thickening, probably involving thrusting of the magmatic arc onto the back-arc region; and ii) M2, decompression related to the gravitational collapse of the Araçuaí orogen.

Post choice information integration as a causal determinant of confidence: Novel data and a computational account.

PubMed

Moran, Rani; Teodorescu, Andrei R; Usher, Marius

2015-05-01

Confidence judgments are pivotal in the performance of daily tasks and in many domains of scientific research including the behavioral sciences, psychology and neuroscience. Positive resolution i.e., the positive correlation between choice-correctness and choice-confidence is a critical property of confidence judgments, which justifies their ubiquity. In the current paper, we study the mechanism underlying confidence judgments and their resolution by investigating the source of the inputs for the confidence-calculation. We focus on the intriguing debate between two families of confidence theories. According to single stage theories, confidence is based on the same information that underlies the decision (or on some other aspect of the decision process), whereas according to dual stage theories, confidence is affected by novel information that is collected after the decision was made. In three experiments, we support the case for dual stage theories by showing that post-choice perceptual availability manipulations exert a causal effect on confidence-resolution in the decision followed by confidence paradigm. These finding establish the role of RT2, the duration of the post-choice information-integration stage, as a prime dependent variable that theories of confidence should account for. We then present a novel list of robust empirical patterns ('hurdles') involving RT2 to guide further theorizing about confidence judgments. Finally, we present a unified computational dual stage model for choice, confidence and their latencies namely, the collapsing confidence boundary model (CCB). According to CCB, a diffusion-process choice is followed by a second evidence-integration stage towards a stochastic collapsing confidence boundary. Despite its simplicity, CCB clears the entire list of hurdles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC-8) Guidelines and the Outpatient Management of Hypertension in the African-American Population.

PubMed

Abel, Nicole; Contino, Krysta; Jain, Navjot; Grewal, Navjot; Grand, Elizabeth; Hagans, Iris; Hunter, Krystal; Roy, Satyajeet

2015-10-01

Hypertension is a common medical disease, occurring in about one third of young adults and almost two thirds of individuals over the age of 60. With the release of the Eighth Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment (JNC-8) guidelines, there have been major changes in blood pressure management in the various subgroups. Optimal blood pressure management and markers of end-organ damage in African-American adult patients were compared between patients who were managed according to the JNC-8 hypertension management guidelines and those who were treated with other regimens. African-American patients aged 18 years or older with an established diagnosis of hypertension were included in the study who were followed up in our internal medicine clinic between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2103; the data on their systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings, heart rate, body mass index (BMI), age, gender, comorbidities, and medications were recorded. Patients were divided into four groups based on the antihypertensive therapy as follows - Group 1: Diuretic only; Group 2: Calcium channel blocker (CCB) only; Group 3: Diuretic and CCB; Group 4: Other antihypertensive agent. Their blood pressure control, comorbidities, and associated target organ damage were analyzed. In all 323 patients, blood pressures were optimally controlled. The majority of the patients (79.6%) were treated with either a diuretic, a CCB, or both. Intergroup comparison analysis showed no statistically significant difference in the mean systolic blood pressure, mean diastolic blood pressure, associated comorbidities, or frequency of target organ damage. Although diuretics or CCBs are recommended as first-line agents in African-American patients, we found no significant difference in the optimal control of blood pressure and frequency of end-organ damage compared to management with other agents.

Anti-hypertensive drugs and skin cancer risk: a review of the literature and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Gandini, Sara; Palli, Domenico; Spadola, Giuseppe; Bendinelli, Benedetta; Cocorocchio, Emilia; Stanganelli, Ignazio; Miligi, Lucia; Masala, Giovanna; Caini, Saverio

2018-02-01

Several anti-hypertensive drugs have photosensitizing properties, however it remains unclear whether long-term users of these drugs are also at increased risk of skin malignancies. We conducted a literature review and meta-analysis on the association between use of anti-hypertensive drugs and the risk of cutaneous melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Library, and included observational and experimental epidemiological studies published until February 28th, 2017. We calculated summary relative risk (SRR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) through random effect models to estimate the risk of skin malignancies among users of the following classes of anti-hypertensive drugs: thiazide diuretics, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), calcium channel blockers (CCB) and β-blockers. We conducted sub-group and sensitivity analysis to explore causes of between-studies heterogeneity, and assessed publication bias using a funnel-plot based approach. Nineteen independent studies were included in the meta-analysis. CCB users were at increased skin cancer risk (SRR 1.14, 95% CI 1.07-1.21), and β-blockers users were at increased risk of developing cutaneous melanoma (SRR 1.21, 95% CI 1.05-1.40), with acceptable between-studies heterogeneity (I 2  < 50%). There was no association between thiazide diuretics, ACEi or ARB use and skin cancer risk. We found no evidence of publication bias affecting the results. Family doctors and clinicians should inform their patients about the increased risk of skin cancer associated with the use of CCB and β-blockers and instruct them to perform periodic skin self-examination. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the observed associations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antihypertensive drugs decrease risk of Alzheimer disease: Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study.

PubMed

Yasar, Sevil; Xia, Jin; Yao, Wenliang; Furberg, Curt D; Xue, Qian-Li; Mercado, Carla I; Fitzpatrick, Annette L; Fried, Linda P; Kawas, Claudia H; Sink, Kaycee M; Williamson, Jeff D; DeKosky, Steven T; Carlson, Michelle C

2013-09-03

The aim of this study was to determine whether use of diuretics, angiotensin-1 receptor blockers (ARB), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I), calcium channel blockers (CCB), or β-blockers (BB) was associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer disease (AD) dementia in participants with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Secondary longitudinal data analysis of the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study in older adults at least 75 years of age with normal cognition (n = 1,928) or MCI (n = 320) over a median 6.1-year period using Cox proportional hazard models after adjusting for confounders. Diuretic use was reported by 15.6%, ARB 6.1%, ACE-I 15.1%, CCB 14.8%, and BB 20.5%. Of the 2,248 participants, 290 (13%) developed AD dementia. Hazard ratio for incident AD dementia among participants with normal cognition was 0.51 in diuretic (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.31-0.82), 0.31 in ARB (95% CI 0.14-0.68), 0.50 in ACE-I (95% CI 0.29-0.83), 0.62 in CCB (95% CI 0.35-1.09), and 0.58 in BB (95% CI 0.36-0.93) users and was not significantly altered when mean systolic blood pressure was above 140 mm Hg. In participants with MCI, only diuretic use was associated with decreased risk (hazard ratio = 0.38, 95% CI 0.20-0.73). Diuretic, ARB, and ACE-I use was, in addition to and/or independently of mean systolic blood pressure, associated with reduced risk of AD dementia in participants with normal cognition, while only diuretic use was associated with reduced risk in participants with MCI.

Upgrading pyrolytic residue from waste tires to commercial carbon black.

PubMed

Zhang, Xue; Li, Hengxiang; Cao, Qing; Jin, Li'e; Wang, Fumeng

2018-05-01

The managing and recycling of waste tires has become a worldwide environmental challenge. Among the different disposal methods for waste tires, pyrolysis is regarded as a promising route. How to effectively enhance the added value of pyrolytic residue (PR) from waste tires is a matter of great concern. In this study, the PRs were treated with hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids in turn under ultrasonic waves. The removal efficiency for the ash and sulfur was investigated. The pyrolytic carbon black (PCB) obtained after treating PR with acids was analyzed by X-ray fluorescence spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X-ray diffractometry, laser Raman spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, and physisorption apparatus. The properties of PCB were compared with those of commercial carbon black (CCB) N326 and N339. Results showed PRs from waste tires were mainly composed of carbon, sulfur, and ash. The carbon in PCB was mainly from the CCB added during tire manufacture rather than from the pyrolysis of pure rubbers. The removal percentages for the ash and sulfur of PR are 98.33% (from 13.98 wt % down to 0.24 wt %) and 70.16% (from 1.81 wt % down to 0.54 wt %), respectively, in the entire process. The ash was mainly composed of metal oxides, sulfides, and silica. The surface properties, porosity, and morphology of the PCB were all close to those of N326. Therefore, PCB will be a potential alternative of N326 and reused in tire manufacture. This route successfully upgrades PR from waste tires to the high value-added CCB and greatly increases the overall efficiency of the waste tire pyrolysis industry.

Alternate Metabolic Programs Define Regional Variation of Relevant Biological Features in Renal Cell Carcinoma Progression.

PubMed

Brooks, Samira A; Khandani, Amir H; Fielding, Julia R; Lin, Weili; Sills, Tiffany; Lee, Yueh; Arreola, Alexandra; Milowsky, Mathew I; Wallen, Eric M; Woods, Michael E; Smith, Angie B; Nielsen, Mathew E; Parker, Joel S; Lalush, David S; Rathmell, W Kimryn

2016-06-15

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has recently been redefined as a highly heterogeneous disease. In addition to genetic heterogeneity, the tumor displays risk variability for developing metastatic disease, therefore underscoring the urgent need for tissue-based prognostic strategies applicable to the clinical setting. We have recently employed the novel PET/magnetic resonance (MR) image modality to enrich our understanding of how tumor heterogeneity can relate to gene expression and tumor biology to assist in defining individualized treatment plans. ccRCC patients underwent PET/MR imaging, and these images subsequently used to identify areas of varied intensity for sampling. Samples from 8 patients were subjected to histologic, immunohistochemical, and microarray analysis. Tumor subsamples displayed a range of heterogeneity for common features of hypoxia-inducible factor expression and microvessel density, as well as for features closely linked to metabolic processes, such as GLUT1 and FBP1. In addition, gene signatures linked with disease risk (ccA and ccB) also demonstrated variable heterogeneity, with most tumors displaying a dominant panel of features across the sampled regions. Intriguingly, the ccA- and ccB-classified samples corresponded with metabolic features and functional imaging levels. These correlations further linked a variety of metabolic pathways (i.e., the pentose phosphate and mTOR pathways) with the more aggressive, and glucose avid ccB subtype. Higher tumor dependency on exogenous glucose accompanies the development of features associated with the poor risk ccB subgroup. Linking these panels of features may provide the opportunity to create functional maps to enable enhanced visualization of the heterogeneous biologic processes of an individual's disease. Clin Cancer Res; 22(12); 2950-9. ©2016 AACR. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Chain scission and anti fungal effect of electron beam on cellulose membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wanichapichart, Pikul; Taweepreeda, Wirach; Nawae, Safitree; Choomgan, Pastraporn; Yasenchak, Dan

2012-08-01

Two types of bacterial cellulose (BC) membranes were produced under a modified H&S medium using sucrose as a carbon source, with (CCB) and without (SHB) coconut juice supplement. Both membranes showed similar crystallinity of 69.24 and 71.55%. After being irradiated with E-beams under oxygen limited and ambient condition, the results from water contact angle showed that only the irradiated membrane CCB was increased from 30 to 40 degrees, and irradiation under oxygen ambient condition provided the greatest value. Comparing with the control membranes, smaller water flux was the cases after electron beam irradiation which indicated a reduction of membrane pore area. However, the results from molecular weight cut off (MWCO) revealed that chain scission was greater for membrane SHB and its cut off was increased from 28,000 Da to more than 35,000 Da. FTIR analysis revealed some changes in membrane functional groups, corresponding with the above results. These changes initiated new property of cellulose membranes, an anti-fungal food wrap.

Parallel Evolution and Horizontal Gene Transfer of the pst Operon in Firmicutes from Oligotrophic Environments

PubMed Central

Moreno-Letelier, Alejandra; Olmedo, Gabriela; Eguiarte, Luis E.; Martinez-Castilla, Leon; Souza, Valeria

2011-01-01

The high affinity phosphate transport system (pst) is crucial for phosphate uptake in oligotrophic environments. Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB) has extremely low P levels and its endemic Bacillus are closely related to oligotrophic marine Firmicutes. Thus, we expected the pst operon of CCB to share the same evolutionary history and protein similarity to marine Firmicutes. Orthologs of the pst operon were searched in 55 genomes of Firmicutes and 13 outgroups. Phylogenetic reconstructions were performed for the pst operon and 14 concatenated housekeeping genes using maximum likelihood methods. Conserved domains and 3D structures of the phosphate-binding protein (PstS) were also analyzed. The pst operon of Firmicutes shows two highly divergent clades with no correlation to the type of habitat nor a phylogenetic congruence, suggesting horizontal gene transfer. Despite sequence divergence, the PstS protein had a similar 3D structure, which could be due to parallel evolution after horizontal gene transfer events. PMID:21461370

Coherent convergent-beam time-resolved X-ray diffraction

PubMed Central

Spence, John C. H.; Zatsepin, Nadia A.; Li, Chufeng

2014-01-01

The use of coherent X-ray lasers for structural biology allows the use of nanometre diameter X-ray beams with large beam divergence. Their application to the structure analysis of protein nanocrystals and single particles raises new challenges and opportunities. We discuss the form of these coherent convergent-beam (CCB) hard X-ray diffraction patterns and their potential use for time-resolved crystallography, normally achieved by Laue (polychromatic) diffraction, for which the monochromatic laser radiation of a free-electron X-ray laser is unsuitable. We discuss the possibility of obtaining single-shot, angle-integrated rocking curves from CCB patterns, and the dependence of the resulting patterns on the focused beam coordinate when the beam diameter is larger or smaller than a nanocrystal, or smaller than one unit cell. We show how structure factor phase information is provided at overlapping interfering orders and how a common phase origin between different shots may be obtained. Their use in refinement of the phase-sensitive intensity between overlapping orders is suggested. PMID:24914153

GLEEM Testing Fixture

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-07-01

TEAM AMSIO SMT R CRAWFORD W HARRIS 1 ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL ROCK ISLAND IL 61299-6000 7 BENET LABS AMSTA AR CCB M SOJA E KATHE...SPENCER LAB NEWARK DE 19716 1 DEPT OF MECH ENG UNIV OF NEVADA LAS VEGAS M TRABIA 4505 MARYLAND PKWY BOX 454027 LAS VEGAS NV

Passive treatment of acid mine drainage using coal combustion by-products and spent mushroom substrate: Results of column study

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

Crisp, T.E.; Nairn, R.W.; Strevett, K.A.

1998-12-31

A column study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of using of coal combustion by-products (CCB) as alkaline materials in a field scale downflow constructed wetlands for acid mine drainage treatment. Five columns (15.24 cm in diameter and 91.44 cm high) were constructed and filled with a combination of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) and one of three alkaline materials (limestone, hydrated fly ash, or fluidized bed ash). The five mixtures utilized were 10% fluidized bed ash/40% limestone (FBA/LS), 10% fluidized bed ash (FBA), 50% limestone (LS), 50% hydrated fly ash (HFA),m and 50% sieved (>1.5 cm) hydrated fly ash (S.more » HFA) with the remainder as SMS on a w/w basis. Column received synthetic acid mine drainage containing: 400 mg/L iron, 59 mg/L aluminum, 11 mg/L manganese, 50% mg/L magnesium, 40 mg/L calcium, and 1200 mg/L sulfate for 5 months. Anoxic conditions in the influent reservoirs were maintained by a positive nitrogen pressure head. Flow rates of 2.0 mL/minute to each column were maintained by a multichannel peristaltic pump. For all columns, effluent acidity concentrations were less than influent acidity concentration (877{sup {minus}}30, n = 75f). Mean effluent acidity concentrations were 241 mg/L (FBA/LS), 186 mg/L (FBA), 419 mg/L (LS), {minus}28.5 mg/L (HFA), and 351 mg/L (S. HFA), respectively. While all column produced measurable alkalinity, only the HFA column produced a net alkaline discharge. The results of these column studies are applicable to the design and sizing of innovative field scale systems using alkaline-rich CCB`s.« less

A Marine Actinomycete Rescues Caenorhabditis elegans from Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection through Restitution of Lysozyme 7

PubMed Central

Fatin, Siti N.; Boon-Khai, Tan; Shu-Chien, Alexander Chong; Khairuddean, Melati; Al-Ashraf Abdullah, Amirul

2017-01-01

The resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to conventional antimicrobial treatment is a major scourge in healthcare. Therefore, it is crucial that novel potent anti-infectives are discovered. The aim of the present study is to screen marine actinomycetes for chemical entities capable of overcoming P. aeruginosa infection through mechanisms involving anti-virulence or host immunity activities. A total of 18 actinomycetes isolates were sampled from marine sediment of Songsong Island, Kedah, Malaysia. Upon confirming that the methanolic crude extract of these isolates do not display direct bactericidal activities, they were tested for capacity to rescue Caenorhabditis elegans infected with P. aeruginosa strain PA14. A hexane partition of the extract from one isolate, designated as Streptomyces sp. CCB-PSK207, could promote the survival of PA14 infected worms by more than 60%. Partial 16S sequence analysis on this isolate showed identity of 99.79% with Streptomyces sundarbansensis. This partition did not impair feeding behavior of C. elegans worms. Tested on PA14, the partition also did not affect bacterial growth or its ability to colonize host gut. The production of biofilm, protease, and pyocyanin in PA14 were uninterrupted, although there was an increase in elastase production. In lys-7::GFP worms, this partition was shown to induce the expression of lysozyme 7, an important innate immunity defense molecule that was repressed during PA14 infection. GC-MS analysis of the bioactive fraction of Streptomyces sp. CCB-PSK207 revealed the presence of methyl esters of branched saturated fatty acids. In conclusion, this is the first report of a marine actinomycete producing metabolites capable of rescuing C. elegans from PA14 through a lys-7 mediated activity. PMID:29201023

Meta-analysis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma Gene Expression Defines a Variant Subgroup and Identifies Gender Influences on Tumor Biology

PubMed Central

Brannon, A. Rose; Haake, Scott M.; Hacker, Kathryn E.; Pruthi, Raj S.; Wallen, Eric M.; Nielsen, Matthew E.; Rathmell, W. Kimryn

2011-01-01

Background Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) displays molecular and histologic heterogeneity. Previously described subsets of this disease, ccA and ccB, were defined based on multigene expression profiles, but it is unclear whether these subgroupings reflect the full spectrum of disease or how these molecular subtypes relate to histologic descriptions or gender. Objective Determine whether additional subtypes of ccRCC exist and whether these subtypes are related to von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) inactivation, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) 1 and 2 expression, tumor histology, or gender. Design, setting, and participants Six large, publicly available ccRCC gene expression databases were identified that cumulatively provided data for 480 tumors for meta-analysis via meta-array compilation. Measurements Unsupervised consensus clustering was performed on the meta-arrays. Tumors were examined for the relationship of multigene-defined consensus subtypes and expression signatures of VHL mutation and HIF status, tumor histology, and gender. Results and limitations Two dominant subsets of ccRCC were observed. However, a minor third cluster was revealed that correlated strongly with a wild type (WT) VHL expression profile and indications of variant histologies. When variant histologies were removed, ccA tumors naturally divided by gender. This technique is limited by the potential for persistent batch effect, tumor sampling bias, and restrictions of annotated information. Conclusions The ccA and ccB subsets of ccRCC are robust in meta-analysis among histologically conventional ccRCC tumors. A third group of tumors was identified that may represent a new variant of ccRCC. Within definitively clear cell tumors, gender may delineate tumors in such a way that it could have implications regarding current treatments and future drug development. PMID:22030119

Subtle charge balance controls surface-nucleated self-assembly of designed biopolymers.

PubMed

Charbonneau, Céline; Kleijn, J Mieke; Cohen Stuart, Martien A

2014-03-25

We report the surface-nucleated self-assembly into fibrils of a biosynthetic amino acid polymer synthesized by the yeast Pichia pastoris. This polymer has a block-like architecture, with a central silk-like block labeled SH, responsible for the self-assembly into fibrils, and two collagen-like random coil end blocks (C) that colloidally stabilize the fibers in aqueous solution. The silk-like block contains histidine residues (pKa≈6) that are positively charged in the low pH region, which hinders self-assembly. In aqueous solution, CSHC self-assembles into fibers above a pH-dependent critical nucleation concentration Ccb. Below Ccb, where no self-assembly occurs in solution, fibril formation can be induced by a negatively charged surface (silica) in the pH range of 3.5-7. The density of the fibers at the surface and their length are controlled by a subtle balance in charge between the protein polymer and the silica surface, which is evidenced from the dependence on pH. With increasing number density of the fibers at the surface, their average length decreases. The results can be explained on the basis of a nucleation-and-growth mechanism: the surface density of fibers depends on the rate of nucleation, while their growth rate is limited by transport of proteins from solution. Screening of the charges on the surface and histidine units by adding NaCl influences the nucleation-and-growth process in a complicated fashion: at low pH, the growth is improved, while at high pH, the nucleation is limited. Under conditions where nucleation in the bulk solution is not possible, growth of the surface-nucleated fibers into the solution--away from the surface--can still occur.

Ecole Maternelle (Preschool) in France: A Cross-Cultural Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brougere, Gilles; Guenif-Souilamas, Nacira; Rayna, Sylvie

2008-01-01

This article looks at a cross-cultural analysis of interviews of (im/migrant and non-im/migrant) preschool teachers and parents, concerning im/migrant children enrolled in the French "ecole maternelle", in the context of the international Children Crossing Borders (CCB) research project. Interviews were conducted in France following a…

Implementation of SEREP Into LLNL Dyna3d for Global/Local Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-08-01

System Equivalent Reduction Expansion Process (SEREP). Presented at the 7th International Modal Analysis Conference, Las Vegas, NV, February 1989. 7...HUTCHINSON F SCHWARZ WARREN MI 48397-5000 14 BENET LABS AMSTA AR CCB R FISCELLA M SOJA E KATHE M SCAVULO G SPENCER P WHEELER

Aluminum Alloy 7068 Mechanical Characterization

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-01

WARREN MI 48397-5000 7 BENET LABS AMSTA AR CCB M SOJA E KATHE G SPENCER P WHEELER S KRUPSKI J VASILAKIS G FRIAR WATERVLIET...DEPT OF MECH ENG UNIV OF NEVADA LAS VEGAS M TRABIA 4505 MARYLAND PKWY BOX 454027 LAS VEGAS NV 89154-4027 NO. OF NO. OF COPIES

The Community College Baccalaureate: Assessing Student Perceptions at One Rural Mississippi Community College

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nail, Edana Leigh

2013-01-01

The demand for Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) degrees is rising due to increasing costs of educational obtainment resulting in decreased access. Also, universities are not always accessible geographically or academically to many students. Many students are limited in time and financial resources, and have family and job responsibilities,…

First draft genome sequence of a strain from the genus Citricoccus.

PubMed

Hayano-Kanashiro, Corina; López-Arredondo, Damar Lizbeth; Cruz-Morales, Pablo; Alcaraz, Luis-David; Olmedo, Gabriela; Barona-Gómez, Francisco; Herrera-Estrella, Luis

2011-11-01

Bacteria of the genus Citricoccus have been isolated from ecological niches characterized by diverse abiotic stress conditions. Here we report the first genome draft of a strain of the genus Citricoccus isolated from the extremely oligotrophic Churince system in the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) in Coahuila, Mexico.

Characterization of Enzymes Catalyzing Transformations of Cysteine S-Conjugated Intermediates in the Lincosamide Biosynthetic Pathway.

PubMed

Ushimaru, Richiro; Lin, Chia-I; Sasaki, Eita; Liu, Hung-Wen

2016-09-02

Lincosamides such as lincomycin A, celesticetin, and Bu-2545, constitute an important group of antibiotics. These natural products are characterized by a thiooctose linked to a l-proline residue, but they differ with regards to modifications of the thioacetal moiety, the pyrrolidine ring, and the octose core. Here we report that the pyridoxal 5'-phosphate-dependent enzyme CcbF (celesticetin biosynthetic pathway) is a decarboxylating deaminase that converts a cysteine S-conjugated intermediate into an aldehyde. In contrast, the homologous enzyme LmbF (lincomycin biosynthetic pathway) catalyzes C-S bond cleavage of the same intermediate to afford a thioglycoside. We show that Ccb4 and LmbG (downstream methyltransferases) convert the aldehyde and thiol intermediates into a variety of methylated lincosamide compounds including Bu-2545. The substrates used in these studies are the β-anomers of the natural substrates. The findings not only provide insight into how the biosynthetic pathway of lincosamide antibiotics can bifurcate to generate different lincosamides, but also reveal the promiscuity of the enzymes involved. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Calcium Channel Blockers in Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention and Risk of Acute Events: Real-World Evidence from Nested Case-Control Studies on Italian Hypertensive Elderly.

PubMed

Bettiol, Alessandra; Lucenteforte, Ersilia; Vannacci, Alfredo; Lombardi, Niccolò; Onder, Graziano; Agabiti, Nera; Vitale, Cristiana; Trifirò, Gianluca; Corrao, Giovanni; Roberto, Giuseppe; Mugelli, Alessandro; Chinellato, Alessandro

2017-12-01

Antihypertensive treatment with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) is consolidated in clinical practice; however, different studies observed increased risks of acute events for short-acting CCBs. This study aimed to provide real-world evidence on risks of acute cardiovascular (CV) events, hospitalizations and mortality among users of different CCB classes in secondary CV prevention. Three case-control studies were nested in a cohort of Italian elderly hypertensive CV-compromised CCBs users. Cases were subjects with CV events (n = 25,204), all-cause hospitalizations (n = 19,237), or all-cause mortality (n = 17,996) during the follow-up. Up to four controls were matched for each case. Current or past exposition to CCBs at index date was defined based on molecule, formulation and daily doses of the last CCB delivery. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic regression models. Compared to past users, current CCB users had significant reductions in risks of CV events [OR 0.88 (95% CI: 0.84-0.91)], hospitalization [0.90 (0.88-0.93)] and mortality [0.48 (0.47-0.49)]. Current users of long-acting dihydropyridines (DHPs) had the lowest risk [OR 0.87 (0.84-0.90), 0.86 (0.83-0.90), 0.55 (0.54-0.56) for acute CV events, hospitalizations and mortality], whereas current users of short-acting CCBs had an increased risk of acute CV events [OR 1.77 (1.13-2.78) for short-acting DHPs; 1.19 (1.07-1.31) for short-acting non-DHPs] and hospitalizations [OR 1.84 (0.96-3.51) and 1.23 (1.08-1.42)]. The already-existing warning on short-acting CCBs should be potentiated, addressing clinicians towards the choice of long-acting formulations.

Comparative Effectiveness of Ranolazine Versus Traditional Therapies in Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris and Concomitant Diabetes Mellitus and Impact on Health Care Resource Utilization and Cardiac Interventions.

PubMed

Page, Robert L; Ghushchyan, Vahram; Read, Richard A; Hartsfield, Cynthia L; Koch, Bruce R; Nair, Kavita V

2015-11-01

Comparative studies evaluating traditional versus newer antianginal (AA) medications in chronic stable angina pectoris (CSA) on cardiovascular (CV) outcomes and utilization are limited, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Claims data (2008 to 2012) were analyzed using a commercial database. Patients with CSA receiving a β blocker (BB), calcium channel blocker (CCB), long-acting nitrate (LAN), or ranolazine were identified and followed for 12 months after a change in AA therapy. Patients on traditional AA medications were required to have concurrent sublingual nitroglycerin. Therapy change was defined as adding or switching to another traditional AA medication or ranolazine to identify patients whose angina was inadequately controlled with previous therapy. Four groups were identified (BB, CCB, LAN, or ranolazine users) and matched on relevant characteristics. A DM subset was identified. Logistic regression compared revascularization at 30, 60, 90, 180, and 360 days. Negative binomial regression compared all-cause, CV-, and DM-related (in the DM cohort) health care utilization. A total of 8,008 patients were identified with 2,002 patients in each matched group. Majority were men (mean age 66 years). A subset of 3,724 patients with DM (BB, n = 933; CCB, n = 940; LAN, n = 937; and ranolazine, n = 914) resulted from this cohort. Compared to ranolazine in the overall cohort, traditional AA medication exhibited greater odds for revascularization and higher rates in all-cause outpatient, emergency room visits, inpatient length of stay, and CV-related emergency room visits. In the DM cohort, ranolazine demonstrated similar benefits over traditional AA medication. In conclusion, ranolazine use in patients with inadequately controlled chronic angina is associated with less revascularization and all-cause and CV-related health care utilization compared to traditional AA medication. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Household cleaning products and the risk of allergic dermatitis: a prospective cohort study with primary-school children.

PubMed

Liu, X; Tan, L; Yu, I T S; Zhang, Z; Wong, C C-Y; Guo, C; Ho, K F; Lau, A P S; Yeoh, E K; Lee, A; Lao, X Q

2018-04-01

Household cleaning products are widely used by the public, but limited data have been obtained on whether their use induces allergic dermatitis in children. This study investigated the association between exposure to household cleaning products and allergic dermatitis in primary-school children. A prospective cohort study of Hong Kong primary-school children was conducted between 2012 and 2014. A baseline survey was administered to 1812 students who did not have allergic dermatitis. Information on respiratory symptoms, exposure to household chemical cleaning products and other topics was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A cumulative chemical burden (CCB) score was calculated for each student by summing the duration of exposure to 14 chemical cleaning products. Principal component analysis was used to identify patterns in the use of these cleaning products. Logistic regression was performed to calculate relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) after adjusting for potential confounders. Eighty-nine (4.9%) of the students surveyed had dermatitis during the follow-up. However, exposure to individual chemical cleaning products was not found to be associated with the children's allergic dermatitis (all P > 0.05). In contrast to those in the lowest tertile, neither CCB scores in the middle tertile (RR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.67 to 2.00) nor those in the highest tertile (RR: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.73 to 2.14) were significantly associated with the risk of allergic dermatitis. The adjusted RR for every 5-unit increment in CCB score was 1.01 (95% CI: 0.98 to 1.03). Four patterns of cleaning-product use were derived, but none were found to be associated with the risk of dermatitis (all P > 0.05). The use of household chemical cleaning products is not associated with the risk of dermatitis in primary-school children. © 2017 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Ethanol-induced changes in the expression of proteins related to neurotransmission and metabolism in different regions of the rat brain.

PubMed

Zahr, Natalie M; Bell, Richard L; Ringham, Heather N; Sullivan, Edith V; Witzmann, Frank A; Pfefferbaum, Adolf

2011-09-01

Despite extensive description of the damaging effects of chronic alcohol exposure on brain structure, mechanistic explanations for the observed changes are just emerging. To investigate regional brain changes in protein expression levels following chronic ethanol treatment, one rat per sibling pair of male Wistar rats was exposed to intermittent (14 h/day) vaporized ethanol, the other to air for 26 weeks. At the end of 24 weeks of vapor exposure, the ethanol group had blood ethanol levels averaging 450 mg%, had not experienced a protracted (> 16 h) withdrawal from ethanol, and revealed only mild evidence of hepatic steatosis. Extracted brains were micro-dissected to isolate the prefrontal cortex (PFC), dorsal striatum (STR), corpus callosum genu (CCg), CC body (CCb), anterior vermis (AV), and anterior dorsal lateral cerebellum (ADLC) for protein analysis with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Expression levels for 54 protein spots were significantly different between the ethanol- and air-treated groups. Of these 54 proteins, tandem mass spectroscopy successfully identified 39 unique proteins, the levels of which were modified by ethanol treatment: 13 in the PFC, 7 in the STR, 2 in the CCg, 7 in the CCb, 7 in the AV, and 5 in the ADLC. The functions of the proteins altered by chronic ethanol exposure were predominantly associated with neurotransmitter systems in the PFC and cell metabolism in the STR. Stress response proteins were elevated only in the PFC, AV, and ADLC perhaps supporting a role for frontocerebellar circuitry disruption in alcoholism. Of the remaining proteins, some had functions associated with cytoskeletal physiology (e.g., in the CCb) and others with transcription/translation (e.g., in the ADLC). Considered collectively, all but 4 of the 39 proteins identified in the present study have been previously identified in ethanol gene- and/or protein-expression studies lending support for their role in ethanol-related brain alterations. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of Cryopreservation on Caprine Fetal Adnexa Derived Stem Cells and Its Evaluation for Growth Kinetics, Phenotypic Characterization, and Wound Healing Potential in Xenogenic Rat Model.

PubMed

Somal, Anjali; Bhat, Irfan A; B, Indu; Singh, Anuj P; Panda, Bibhudatta S K; Desingu, Perumal A; Pandey, Sriti; Bharti, Mukesh K; Pal, Amar; Saikumar, Guttula; Chandra, Vikash; Sharma, Guttula Taru

2017-08-01

This study was conducted to know the impact of cryopreservation on caprine fetal adnexa derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the basic stem cell characteristics. Gravid caprine uteri (2-3 months) were collected from local abattoir to derive (amniotic fluid [cAF], amniotic sac [cAS], Wharton's jelly [cWJ], and cord blood [cCB]) MSCs and expanded in vitro. Cells were cryopreserved at 3rd passage (P3) using 10% DMSO. Post-thaw viability and cellular properties were assessed. Cells were expanded to determine growth kinetics, tri-lineage differentiation, localization, and molecular expression of MSCs and pluripotency markers; thereafter, these cells were transplanted in the full-thickness (2 × 2cm 2 ) rat skin wound to determine their wound healing potential. The post-thaw (pt) growth kinetics study suggested that cWJ MSCs expanded more rapidly with faster population doubling time (PDT) than that of other fetal adnexa MSCs. The relative mRNA expression of surface antigens (CD73, CD90, and CD 105) and pluripotency markers (Oct4, KLF, and cMyc) was higher in cWJ MSCs in comparison to cAS, cAF, and cCB MSCs post-thaw. The percent wound contraction on 7th day was more than 50% for all the MSC-treated groups (pre and post-thaw), against 39.55% in the control group. On day 28th, 99% and more wound contraction was observed in cAF, cAF-pt, cAS-pt, cWJ, cWJ-pt, and cCB, MSCs with better scores for epithelization, neovascularization, and collagen characteristics at a non-significant level. It is concluded that these MSCs could be successfully cryopreserved without altering their stemness and wound healing properties. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2186-2200, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Assessing the isotopic evolution of S-type granites of the Carlos Chagas Batholith, SE Brazil: Clues from U-Pb, Hf isotopes, Ti geothermometry and trace element composition of zircon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melo, Marilane G.; Lana, Cristiano; Stevens, Gary; Pedrosa-Soares, Antônio C.; Gerdes, Axel; Alkmin, Leonardo A.; Nalini, Hermínio A.; Alkmim, Fernando F.

2017-07-01

The Carlos Chagas batholith (CCB) is a very large ( 14,000 km2) S-type granitic body formed during the syn-collisional stage of the Araçuaí orogen (southeastern Brazil). Zircons extracted from the CCB record a wide range of U-Pb ages (from 825 to 490 Ma), indicating a complex history of inheritance, magmatic crystallization and partial melting during the evolution of the orogeny. Magmatic zircons (ca. 578-588 Ma) are marked by similar Hf isotope compositions and REE patterns to those of inherited cores (ca. 825-600 Ma), indicating that these aspects of the chemical signature of the magmatic zircons have likely been inherited from the source. The U-Pb ages and initial 176Hf/177Hf ratios from anatectic and metamorphic zircon domains are consistent with a two-stage metamorphic evolution marked by contrasting mechanisms of zircon growth and recrystallization during the orogeny. Ti-in-zircon thermometry is consistent with the findings of previous metamorphic work and indicates that the two metamorphic events in the batholith reached granulite facies conditions (> 800 °C) producing two generations of garnet via fluid-absent partial melting reactions. The oldest metamorphic episode (ca. 570-550 Ma) is recorded by development of thin anatectic overgrowths on older cores and by growth of new anatectic zircon crystals. Both domains have higher initial 176Hf/177Hf values compared to relict cores and display REE patterns typical of zircon that grew contemporaneously with peritectic garnet through biotite-absent fluid partial melting reactions. Hf isotopic and chemical evidences indicate that a second anatectic episode (ca. 535-500 Ma) is only recorded in parts from the CCB. In these rocks, the growth of new anatectic zircon and/or overgrowths is marked by high initial 176Hf/177Hf values and also by formation of second generation of garnet, as indicated by petrographic observations and REE patterns. In addition, some rocks contain zircon crystals formed by solid-state recrystallization of pre-existing zircon, which exhibit similar Hf isotope composition to those of inherited/magmatic core domains. The first anatectic event is interpreted as result of crustal thickening after the intrusion of the batholith. This introduced the batholith to a depth in excess of 30 km and produced widespread anatexis throughout the batholith. The second event was associated with asthenospheric upwelling during extensional thinning and gravitational collapse of the orogen, this produced anatexis in parts from the CCB that had been re-fertilized for anatexis by retrogression along shear zones following the first granulite facies event.

Modeling Primary Atomization Processes

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-02-01

consumable , catalytic igniter has shown to provide reliable, reproducible ignition in hydrogen peroxide/polyethylene hybrid engines. Currently, a...verified in a hybrid rocket using hydrogen peroxide as oxidizer and polyethylene as fuel. The engine made use of a unique Consumable Catalytic Bed (CCB...interest to the liquid and hybrid rocket engine community. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER Performer Customer Result Application 1 S. D. Heister Purdue University

Microbial secondary succession in soil microcosms of a desert oasis in the Cuatro Cienegas Basin, Mexico.

PubMed

López-Lozano, Nguyen E; Heidelberg, Karla B; Nelson, William C; García-Oliva, Felipe; Eguiarte, Luis E; Souza, Valeria

2013-01-01

Ecological succession is one of the most important concepts in ecology. However for microbial community succession, there is a lack of a solid theoretical framework regarding succession in microorganisms. This is in part due to microbial community complexity and plasticity but also because little is known about temporal patterns of microbial community shifts in different kinds of ecosystems, including arid soils. The Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB) in Coahuila, Mexico, is an arid zone with high diversity and endemisms that has recently been threatened by aquifer overexploitation. The gypsum-based soil system of the CCB is one of the most oligotrophic places in the world. We undertook a comparative 16S rRNA 454 pyrosequencing study to evaluate microbial community succession and recovery over a year after disturbance at two sites. Results were related to concurrent measurements of humidity, organic matter and total C and N content. While each site differed in both biogeochemistry and biodiversity, both present similar pattern of change at the beginning of the succession that diverged in later stages. After one year, experimentally disturbed soil was not similar to established and undisturbed adjacent soil communities indicating recovery and succession in disturbed soils is a long process.

Feasibility of using recipients of health promotional newsletters for post-marketing surveillance.

PubMed

Mead, L A; Ford, D E; Roht, L H; Beach, C L; Klag, M J

2000-06-01

Achieving an adequate sample size is one of the major difficulties in performing post-marketing observational studies of health outcomes in persons taking specific drug preparations. We assessed the feasibility of recruiting participants for such a study of Cardizem CD from approximately 400,000 U.S. recipients of a health promotion newsletter. A three-page questionnaire was sent to a 2.5% random sample (n = 10,000) of recipients, stratified by geographic region. After two mailings, 2779 (28%) returned the questionnaire. Of the 2779 respondents, 2132 (77%) reported having high blood pressure. Eighty-seven percent indicated a willingness to participate in a long-term prospective study. In a multivariate model, calcium channel blocker (CCB) use was associated with a history of coronary heart disease, duration of hypertension medication use greater than 1 year, a rating of good or excellent hypertension care, higher systolic blood pressure, higher education level, family history of cardiovascular disease, and history of smoking. These results indicate that self-reported CCB users may be at greater risk of cardiovascular heart disease and that it is feasible to use health promotion newsletters as a source of participants in prospective studies of cardiovascular disease.

Comparison of valsartan and amlodipine on ambulatory blood pressure variability in hypertensive patients.

PubMed

Eguchi, Kazuo; Imaizumi, Yuki; Kaihara, Toshiki; Hoshide, Satoshi; Kario, Kazuomi

We tested the hypothesis that calcium channel blockers (CCBs: amlodipine group, n = 38)) are superior to angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs: valsartan group, n = 38) against ambulatory blood pressure variability (BPV) in untreated Japanese hypertensive patients. Both drugs significantly reduced ambulatory systolic and diastolic BP values. With regard to BPV, standard deviation (SD) in SBP did not change with the administration of either drug, but the ARB significantly increased SD in awake DBP (12 ± 4-14 ± 4 mmHg). The ARB also significantly increased the coefficients of variation (CVs)in awake and 24-h SBP/DBP (all P < 0.05), but amlodipine did not change the CV. CCB significantly reduced the maximum values of awake SBP (193 ± 24-182 ± 27 mmHg, P = 0.02), sleep SBP (156 ± 18-139 ± 14 mmHg, P < 0 .001), and awake and sleep DBP (P < 0.01 in both cases), but the ARB did not change the maximum BP values. In conclusion, a once-daily morning dose of CCB amlodipine was more effective at controlling ambulatory BPV than ARB valsartan, especially in reducing maximum BP levels.

Dangerous dining: surface foraging of North Atlantic right whales increases risk of vessel collisions.

PubMed

Parks, Susan E; Warren, Joseph D; Stamieszkin, Karen; Mayo, Charles A; Wiley, David

2012-02-23

North Atlantic right whales are critically endangered and, despite international protection from whaling, significant numbers die from collisions with ships. Large groups of right whales migrate to the coastal waters of New England during the late winter and early spring to feed in an area with large numbers of vessels. North Atlantic right whales have the largest per capita record of vessel strikes of any large whale population in the world. Right whale feeding behaviour in Cape Cod Bay (CCB) probably contributes to risk of collisions with ships. In this study, feeding right whales tagged with archival suction cup tags spent the majority of their time just below the water's surface where they cannot be seen but are shallow enough to be vulnerable to ship strike. Habitat surveys show that large patches of right whale prey are common in the upper 5 m of the water column in CCB during spring. These results indicate that the typical spring-time foraging ecology of right whales may contribute to their high level of mortality from vessel collisions. The results of this study suggest that remote acoustic detection of prey aggregations may be a useful supplement to the management and conservation of right whales.

What have we learned from the current trials?

PubMed

Abbott, Kevin C; Bakris, George L

2004-01-01

Even well-conducted randomized controlled trials can only reduce uncertainty, not eliminate it. The trials presented in this article all have gaps, and like many studies, some raise more questions than answers. A summary of the current trials, however, can be presented as follows. For patients with essential hypertension who are at high risk for cardiovascular disease, the use of diuretic therapy (excluding simultaneous use of ACE or CCB) resulted in outcomes at least equivalent to the use of either ACE or CCB without diuretics. Naturally, the dilemma for clinicians is that these drugs are most often used in combination with thiazide diuretics, as indicated by the RENAAL trial where 80% of ARB were used with diuretics in patients with type II diabetes and known nephropathy. The increased risk of heart failure observed with ACE and CCB in that trial may be relevant only to patients in whom diuretics were not also used. The study does raise important awareness, however, that ACE or CCB use without diuretic therapy is no better than diuretic therapy, and may be associated with higher risk of certain outcomes. A substantial number of patients with essential hypertension might achieve adequate blood pressure control with diuretic monotherapy. If so, that certainly has important implications for the cost of medical care in this country. For African Americans with essential hypertension, ACE may have advantages as a component of therapy in comparison with CCBs or beta-blockers, although diuretics should probably be the cornerstone of therapy for them and supported by the Seventh Joint National Committee. For patients with proteinuric renal disease, whether associated with diabetes or hypertension, it should be considered inappropriate to use DHP CCB as monotherapy in any setting, whether as part of a clinical trial or in clinical practice. These drugs should not be considered as ethical placebo arms in trials, most especially in diabetic nephropathy, nor should they be used without an ACE or ARB in patients with proteinuric renal disease in the absence of documented contraindications or intolerance to ACE, ARB, or non-DHP CCB (which are now considered second-line agents for proteinuric renal disease, and are acceptable placebo or comparison arms in clinical trials). For patients with type I diabetes, ACE remain the cornerstone of therapy. Because of recent RENAAL and IDNT trial results, the greatest benefit for slowing progression of renal disease in type II diabetic nephropathy now belongs to ARBs. In contrast, however, the HOPE trial showed that ACE, specifically ramipril, had the greatest evidence for prevention of cardiovascular outcomes in patients with renal insufficiency, regardless of diabetic status. Cardiovascular outcomes were secondary end points in the RENAAL and IDNT trials, and with the exception of heart failure for losartan, no benefits on cardiovascular outcomes were statistically significant. Progression of renal disease has only been studied in a relatively small cohort of Israeli patients comparing enalapril with nifedipine. These gaps lead to a classic dilemma in medical decision-making. Because evidence has shown that patients with elevated serum creatinine (greater than or equal to 1.4 mg/dL) are just as likely to die from cardiovascular disease as they are to reach end-stage renal disease, which outcome should be the focus for clinicians, or for researchers? Using a strictly evidence-based approach, this question can only be answered by yet another large, long, randomized, controlled trial. Given the similarity of actions between the ARB and ACE, it is likely there is considerable overlap of both benefits and side-effects between the two, although ARB may have a lower incidence of cough and hyperkalemia. The decision of which antihypertensive agents to use will have to be tailored carefully to the needs of the patient and careful consideration of both medical and economic factors. Regardless of the choice between an ACE or ARB, however, post hoc analysis of clinical trials [21,47] and observational data clearly indicate that patients with chronic kidney disease, even if considered mild (ie, serum creatinine greater than or equal to 1.4 mg/dL) are at significantly greater risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared with those with better kidney function. As stated in a recent review by the authors of the HOPE trial [50], "the frequent practice of withholding ACE [or ARB] in patients with mild renal insufficiency is unwarranted," because not only are these patients precisely those who might benefit most from their use, but safety and tolerability are generally excellent. Based on the results of the AASK trial, the authors add the same for the use of ACE inhibitors in African Americans.

The effect of combination therapy with an L/N-Type Ca(2+) channel blocker, cilnidipine, and an angiotensin II receptor blocker on the blood pressure and heart rate in Japanese hypertensive patients: an observational study conducted in Japan.

PubMed

Nagahama, Shinobu; Norimatsu, Takeo; Maki, Toshio; Yasuda, Masaharu; Tanaka, Shinsuke

2007-09-01

Recently, the use of combination therapy with a calcium channel blocker (CCB) and an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) has been rapidly increasing. Although this combination therapy is accepted as a standard treatment hypertension, there have been few large-scale, multicenter studies examining its safety and efficacy. The present study was designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of adding cilnidipine, a dual L/N-type CCB, to the regimen of patients whose blood pressure had been poorly controlled (systolic blood pressure [SBP] >140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure [DBP] >90 mmHg) by antihypertensive monotherapy with an ARB. The percentage achievement of the blood pressure goals recommended by the JSH 2000 guidelines was also assessed for at least 12 weeks of treatment. A total of 2,920 patients were enrolled in the study at 471 institutions in Japan from February 2003 to July 2004. The incidence of adverse reactions related to cilnidipine was as low as 2.5%. A significant reduction from the baseline was found both in SBP (from 164.1 +/- 15.3 to 139.2 +/- 15.3 mmHg, p<0.0001) and DBP (from 91.7 +/- 11.4 to 79.3 +/- 10.7 mmHg, p<0.0001). A total of 31.5% of the patients achieved the blood pressure goals recommended by the JSH 2000 guidelines. Moreover, the heart rate also significantly decreased in these patients, particularly in those with a higher baseline heart rate. Our results indicate that cilnidipine can be used in combination with an ARB to control blood pressure without any significant adverse effects, and also that cilnidipine successfully reduces elevated heart rate, which is a possible risk factor for cardiovascular events.

Examining Whiteness as an Obstacle to Positively Approaching Immigrant Families in US Early Childhood Educational Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adair, Jennifer Keys

2014-01-01

This article examines whiteness at the intersection of immigration and early childhood education as it was made visible during interviews with 50 preschool teachers in five US cities as part of the Children Crossing Borders (CCB) study. Findings show whiteness acting not only as a construct of privilege but also as an idea that manifests itself in…

Evaluation Summary of the Expanding Opportunities Interagency Inclusion Initiative: Increasing and Enhancing Access, Participation and Supports for All Children in High Quality Inclusive Programs and Services

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC), 2011

2011-01-01

This paper describes the impetus for creating the Expanding Opportunities Interagency Inclusion Initiative and achievements to date in identifying and implementing effective and efficient inclusion strategies in the participating states. In March 2004, the Child Care Bureau (CCB) (renamed the Office of Child Care) and the Administration on…

Cost-effectiveness of medical primary prevention strategies to reduce absolute risk of cardiovascular disease in Tanzania: a Markov modelling study.

PubMed

Ngalesoni, Frida N; Ruhago, George M; Mori, Amani T; Robberstad, Bjarne; Norheim, Ole F

2016-05-17

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a growing cause of mortality and morbidity in Tanzania, but contextualized evidence on cost-effective medical strategies to prevent it is scarce. We aim to perform a cost-effectiveness analysis of medical interventions for primary prevention of CVD using the World Health Organization's (WHO) absolute risk approach for four risk levels. The cost-effectiveness analysis was performed from a societal perspective using two Markov decision models: CVD risk without diabetes and CVD risk with diabetes. Primary provider and patient costs were estimated using the ingredients approach and step-down methodologies. Epidemiological data and efficacy inputs were derived from systematic reviews and meta-analyses. We used disability- adjusted life years (DALYs) averted as the outcome measure. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the robustness of the model results. For CVD low-risk patients without diabetes, medical management is not cost-effective unless willingness to pay (WTP) is higher than US$1327 per DALY averted. For moderate-risk patients, WTP must exceed US$164 per DALY before a combination of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and diuretic (Diu) becomes cost-effective, while for high-risk and very high-risk patients the thresholds are US$349 (ACEI, calcium channel blocker (CCB) and Diu) and US$498 per DALY (ACEI, CCB, Diu and Aspirin (ASA)) respectively. For patients with CVD risk with diabetes, a combination of sulfonylureas (Sulf), ACEI and CCB for low and moderate risk (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) US$608 and US$115 per DALY respectively), is the most cost-effective, while adding biguanide (Big) to this combination yielded the most favourable ICERs of US$309 and US$350 per DALY for high and very high risk respectively. For the latter, ASA is also part of the combination. Medical preventive cardiology is very cost-effective for all risk levels except low CVD risk. Budget impact analyses and distributional concerns should be considered further to assess governments' ability and to whom these benefits will accrue.

Seismic evidence for mantle suture and a collisional origin for the Canadian Cordillera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Y.; Gu, Y. J.; Currie, C. A.; Johnston, S. T.; Hung, S. H.; Schaeffer, A. J.; Audet, P.

2017-12-01

The North American Cordillera is a Phanerozoic orogenic belt that extends from Mexico to Alaska. Its eastern boundary is marked by pronounced changes in geophysical observations (e.g., mantle seismic velocity, surface heat flow, and effective elastic thickness) indicating a steep structural gradient beneath the Cordilleran foreland and the adjacent North American Craton. Seismological constraints on this boundary zone have been highly uneven: on the one hand, the knowledge of subsurface structures of the US Cordillera has been greatly enhanced by the USArray; on the other hand, detailed surveys of the northern counterpart, the Canadian Cordillera, are limited due to relatively sparse broadband data coverage. Questions pertaining to where and how Cordillera-Craton transition occurs in the upper mantle remain debated. Here, we utilize new teleseismic travel-time data from recently deployed networks in the Alberta foreland basin and nearby USArray stations and invert for mantle seismic velocities using finite-frequency tomography. The resulting high-resolution 3D model shows a dramatic increase in lithosphere thickness (>200 km) from the Cordillera to Craton. Additionally, independent calculations of mantle temperature from P (4.3%) and S (7.0%) velocity contrasts yield a consistent eastward 200-300 °C decrease at 150 km depth. We attribute the sharp structural and temperature/velocity gradients to the Cordillera-Craton boundary (CCB) established since at least the Late Cretaceous (ca. 100 Ma). The CCB dips steeply to the west beneath a carbonate belt that delineates a cryptic orogenic suture near the southern Rocky Mountain Trench, which provides strong evidence for an upper mantle suture between North America and an allochthonous Cordillera. The westward-dipping CCB may be a preserved structure associated with partial subduction of the leading edge of the North American Craton during its terminal collision with a microcontinent (Cordillera); this would require a strong craton lithosphere in order to preserve the observed geometry for >100 Ma. In this case, the earlier interpretation of the Cordillera as an accretionary orogen characterized by thin-skinned thrusting of exotic terranes over an intact North American basement and oceanward-tapering lithospheric mantle, is deemed unlikely.

An Air Force Guide to Computer Program Configuration Management

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-08-01

Various other constraints may’also prevent full completion of the Part I specification for a complex missi-on CPCI in all of its typically massive detail...specifications for developmental CPCIs. Relations of documentation to actual computer program modules is often such as to prevent -ready identification and...names and organizational alignments of the contractor activities ;,.ay vary, but the functions should be represented. The prgram office CCB is the

Banking System Reform in China: The Challenges of Moving Toward a Market-Oriented Economy

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

The gradual nature of China’s reform process has ensured 1 International Monetary Fund, World Economic Outlook Database , April 2006, World Trade...Liabilities (RMB billion) (RMB billion) (RMB billion) (RMB billion) Forex reserves –373 Forex assets +373 Capital +373 (=US$ 45 billion) (=US...CCB Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities (RMB billion) (RMB billion) (RMB billion) (RMB billion) Forex assets –373 Forex assets +373 Capital

Towards optimization in digital chest radiography using Monte Carlo modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ullman, Gustaf; Sandborg, Michael; Dance, David R.; Hunt, Roger A.; Alm Carlsson, Gudrun

2006-06-01

A Monte Carlo based computer model of the x-ray imaging system was used to investigate how various image quality parameters of interest in chest PA radiography and the effective dose E vary with tube voltage (90-150 kV), additional copper filtration (0-0.5 mm), anti-scatter method (grid ratios 8-16 and air gap lengths 20-40 cm) and patient thickness (20-28 cm) in a computed radiography (CR) system. Calculated quantities were normalized to a fixed value of air kerma (5.0 µGy) at the automatic exposure control chambers. Soft-tissue nodules were positioned at different locations in the anatomy and calcifications in the apical region. The signal-to-noise ratio, SNR, of the nodules and the nodule contrast relative to the contrast of bone (C/CB) as well as relative to the dynamic range in the image (Crel) were used as image quality measures. In all anatomical regions, except in the densest regions in the thickest patients, the air gap technique provides higher SNR and contrast ratios than the grid technique and at a lower effective dose E. Choice of tube voltage depends on whether quantum noise (SNR) or the contrast ratios are most relevant for the diagnostic task. SNR increases with decreasing tube voltage while C/CB increases with increasing tube voltage.

Involvement of cyclodipeptides in the competition of bacterial communities in the oligotrophic Churince aquatic system of Cuatro Ciénegas Basin dominated by Gammaproteobacteria.

PubMed

Martínez-Carranza, Enrique; Ponce-Soto, Gabriel Y; Díaz-Pérez, Alma L; Cadenas, Erasmo; Souza, Valeria; Campos-García, Jesús

2018-01-01

The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) within the Chihuahuan Desert in México is an extremely oligotrophic oasis with negligible phosphorous levels, described as a hot spot of biodiversity, not only in stromatolites and microbial mats, but also in living forms in general. The microorganisms possess the capability to produce a wide variety of virulence factors, antibiotics, and quorum-sensing (QS) crosstalk signals such as non-ribosomal cyclodipeptides (CDPs) which enables them to colonize diverse ecological niches. In the aquatic system of CCB known as Churince, a bacterial population was isolated from the Lagunita pond dominated by Gammaproteobacteria. In this work, we determined the relationships between the antagonism and CDPs production in this bacterial population. Results indicate that 68% of isolates showed antagonistic effects over other isolates, correlating with production of CDPs and the antibiotic 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG). Although a minority of the isolates were capable of inducing a QS biosensor strain, bacterial QS interference was not the main mechanism in the antagonism observed. Thus, our results indicate that CDPs primarily, and DAPG to a lesser degree, are involved with the growth-inhibition competition mechanisms of bacterial communities in the Lagunita pond and was associated with a Gammaproteobacteria dominancy phenomena.

Primary stroke prevention and hypertension treatment: which is the first-line strategy?

PubMed

Ravenni, Roberta; Jabre, Joe F; Casiglia, Edoardo; Mazza, Alberto

2011-07-05

Hypertension (HT) is considered the main classic vascular risk factor for stroke and the importance of lowering blood pressure (BP) is well established. However, not all the benefit of antihypertensive treatment is due to BP reduction per se, as the effect of reducing the risk of stroke differs among classes of antihypertensive agents. Extensive evidences support that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB), dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (CCB) and thiazide diuretics each reduced risk of stroke compared with placebo or no treatment. Therefore, when combination therapy is required, a combination of these antihypertensive classes represents a logical approach. Despite the efficacy of antihypertensive therapy a large proportion of the population, still has undiagnosed or inadequately treated HT, and remain at high risk of stroke. In primary stroke prevention current guidelines recommend a systolic/diastolic BP goal of <140/<90 mmHg in the general population and <130/80 mmHg in diabetics and in subjects with high cardiovascular risk and renal disease. The recent release in the market of the fixed-dose combination (FDC) of ACEI or ARB and CCB should provide a better control of BP. However to confirm the efficacy of the FDC in primary stroke prevention, clinical intervention trials are needed.

Microbial secondary succession in soil microcosms of a desert oasis in the Cuatro Cienegas Basin, Mexico

PubMed Central

López-Lozano, Nguyen E.; Heidelberg, Karla B.; Nelson, William C.; García-Oliva, Felipe; Eguiarte, Luis E.

2013-01-01

Ecological succession is one of the most important concepts in ecology. However for microbial community succession, there is a lack of a solid theoretical framework regarding succession in microorganisms. This is in part due to microbial community complexity and plasticity but also because little is known about temporal patterns of microbial community shifts in different kinds of ecosystems, including arid soils. The Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB) in Coahuila, Mexico, is an arid zone with high diversity and endemisms that has recently been threatened by aquifer overexploitation. The gypsum-based soil system of the CCB is one of the most oligotrophic places in the world. We undertook a comparative 16S rRNA 454 pyrosequencing study to evaluate microbial community succession and recovery over a year after disturbance at two sites. Results were related to concurrent measurements of humidity, organic matter and total C and N content. While each site differed in both biogeochemistry and biodiversity, both present similar pattern of change at the beginning of the succession that diverged in later stages. After one year, experimentally disturbed soil was not similar to established and undisturbed adjacent soil communities indicating recovery and succession in disturbed soils is a long process. PMID:23638384

The analgesic, anti-inflammatory and calcium antagonist potential of Tanacetum artemisioides.

PubMed

Bukhari, Ishfaq Ali; Khan, Rafeeq Alam; Gilani, Anwar-ul Hassan; Shah, Abdul Jabbar; Hussain, Javid; Ahmad, Viqar Uddin

2007-03-01

Several species of the genus Tanacetum are traditionally used in a variety of health conditions including pain, inflammation, respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. In the current investigation, we evaluated the plant extract of T. artemisioides and some of its pure compounds (flavonoids) for analgesic, anti-inflammatory and calcium antagonist effects in various in-vivo and in vitro studies. Using the actetic acid induced writhing test, intraperitoneal (i.p) administration of the plant extract (25-50 mg/kg) and its flavonoid compounds TA-1 and TA-2 (1-5 mg/kg ) exhibited significant analgesic actvity. The maximum analgesic effect observed with the crude extract of the plant was 71% at 50 mg/kg, while that of compounds TA-1 and TA-2 (5 mg/kg i.p) was 75 and 47%, respectively. The plant extract and its pure compounds caused inhbition of formalin induced paw licking in mice predominatly in the second phase of the test. Diclofenac sodium, a standard reference compound, showed a simlar effect in these chemical induced pain models. In the carrgeenan induced rat paw edema assay, the plant extract (50-200 mg/kg i.p) demonstrated significant (P< 0.01) anti-inflammatory activity which was comparable to that obtained with diclofenac sodium and indomethacin. In isolated rabbit jejunum preprations the plant extract showed an atropine sensitive dose-dependent (0.10-1.0 mg/mL) spasmogenic activity followed by a spasmolytic effect at the next higher doses (3-5 mg/mL). The crude extract of the plant also inhibited the high K+-induced contractions, indicating a calcium channel blocking (CCB) activity, which was further confirmed when the plant extract caused a rightward shift in the Ca++ concentration response curves in the isolated rabbit jejunum preparations, similar to that seen with verapamil. The flavonoid compounds isolated from the plant were devoid of any activity in the isolated tissue preparations. These results indicate that the plant extract of T. artemisioides possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory and CCB activities. The flavonoid compounds of the plant may have a role in its observed analgesic and antiinflammatory activities, while the CCB activity of the plant may be attributed to some other chemical constituents present. Moreover the findings support the traditional reputation of the genus Tanacetum for its therapeutic benefits in pain and inflammatory conditions.

[Problems of epidemic safety of drinking water use by the population of Russia].

PubMed

Nedachin, A E; Artemova, T Z; Dmitrieva, R A; Doskina, T V; Talaeva, Iu G; Ivanova, L V; Butorina, N N; Lavrova, D V; Sanamian, A G; Zagaĭnova, A V; Aleshnia, V V; Zhuravlev, P V; Golovina, S V; Panasovets, O P; Savilov, E D; Mamontova, L M; Anganova, E V

2005-01-01

Quantitative relationships were studied between the indicators (common coliform bacteria (CCP), glucose-positive bacteria (GPB), thermoduric bacteria (TDB), coliform bacteria, enterococci, clostridia, coliphages) and the opportunistic (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus, Klebsiella) and pathogenetic (Salmonella and intestinal viruses) microorganisms at the stages of effluent purification and decontamination, in processes of self-purification in the water reservoirs and of water preparation at water-supplying stations, as well as in the association with the incidence of acute intestinal infections of bacterial and viral genesis in different climatic zones of the country. Salmonella and the opportunistic bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were found to be highly resistant to detoxifying agents and environmental factors, adaptable, able to reproduce in pure water, to long survive in underground waters, and to accumulate when water is desalinated at the erections. The cases of intestinal infections were found in the population using the portable water of the standard quality in terms of E. coli, TDB, CCB, and enterococci. In this case only the wider integral index of GPB, which includes the indices of E. coli, TDB, CCB, as well as lactose-negative pathogenic and opportunistic species retains its sanitary significance in terms of all signs and is a reliable indicator of the potential epidemic hazard of drinking water use. Long-term studies have provided evidence for the sanitary value of coliphages as indicators of viral drinking water contamination.

Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, inhibits advanced glycation end product (AGE)-elicited mesangial cell damage by suppressing AGE receptor (RAGE) expression via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma activation

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

Matsui, Takanori; Yamagishi, Sho-ichi, E-mail: shoichi@med.kurume-u.ac.jp; Takeuchi, Masayoshi

2009-07-24

The interaction between advanced glycation end products (AGE) and their receptor RAGE mediates the progressive alteration in renal architecture and loss of renal function in diabetic nephropathy. Oxidative stress generation and inflammation also play a central role in diabetic nephropathy. This study investigated whether and how nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker (CCB), blocked the AGE-elicited mesangial cell damage in vitro. Nifedipine, but not amlodipine, a control CCB, down-regulated RAGE mRNA levels and subsequently reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in AGE-exposed mesangial cells. AGE increased mRNA levels of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and induced monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) productionmore » in mesangial cells, both of which were prevented by the treatment with nifedipine, but not amlodipine. The beneficial effects of nifedipine on AGE-exposed mesangial cells were blocked by the simultaneous treatment of GW9662, an inhibitor of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-{gamma} (PPAR-{gamma}). Although nifedipine did not affect expression levels of PPAR-{gamma}, it increased the PPAR-{gamma} transcriptional activity in mesangial cells. Our present study provides a unique beneficial aspect of nifedipine on diabetic nephropathy; it could work as an anti-inflammatory agent against AGE by suppressing RAGE expression in cultured mesangial cells via PPAR-{gamma} activation.« less

Impact of aortic root size on left ventricular afterload and stroke volume.

PubMed

Sahlén, Anders; Hamid, Nadira; Amanullah, Mohammed Rizwan; Fam, Jiang Ming; Yeo, Khung Keong; Lau, Yee How; Lam, Carolyn S P; Ding, Zee Pin

2016-07-01

The left ventricle (LV) ejects blood into the proximal aorta. Age and hypertension are associated with stiffening and dilation of the aortic root, typically viewed as indicative of adverse remodeling. Based on analytical considerations, we hypothesized that a larger aortic root should be associated with lower global afterload (effective arterial elastance, EA) and larger stroke volume (SV). Moreover, as antihypertensive drugs differ in their effect on central blood pressure, we examined the role of antihypertensive drugs for the relation between aortic root size and afterload. We studied a large group of patients (n = 1250; 61 ± 12 years; 78 % males; 64 % hypertensives) from a single-center registry with known or suspected coronary artery disease. Aortic root size was measured by echocardiography as the diameter of the tubular portion of the ascending aorta. LV outflow tract Doppler was used to record SV. In the population as a whole, after adjusting for key covariates in separate regression models, aortic root size was an independent determinant of both SV and EA. This association was found to be heterogeneous and stronger in patients taking a calcium channel blocker (CCB; 10.6 % of entire population; aortic root size accounted for 8 % of the explained variance of EA). Larger aortic root size is an independent determinant of EA and SV. This association was heterogeneous and stronger in patients on CCB therapy.

The evolution of systolic blood pressure as a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk and the effectiveness of fixed-dose ARB/CCB combinations in lowering levels of this preferential target

PubMed Central

Mourad, Jean-Jacques

2008-01-01

Elevated blood pressure is an important cardiovascular risk factor. Although targets for both diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) are defined by current guidelines, DBP has historically taken precedence in hypertension management. However, there is strong evidence that SBP is superior to DBP as a predictor of cardiovascular events. Moreover, achieving control of SBP is assuming greater importance amongst an aging population. In spite of the growing recognition of the importance of SBP in reducing cardiovascular risk and the emphasis by current guidelines on SBP control, a substantial proportion of patients still fail to achieve SBP targets, and SBP control is achieved much less frequently than DBP control. Thus, new approaches to the management of hypertension are required in order to control SBP and minimize cardiovascular risk. Fixed-dose combination (FDC) therapy is an approach that offers the advantages of multiple drug administration and a reduction in regimen complexity that favors compliance. We have reviewed the latest evidence demonstrating the efficacy in targeting SBP of the most recent FDC products; combinations of the calcium channel blocker (CCB), amlodipine, with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), valsartan or olmesartan. In addition, results from studies with new classes of agent are outlined. PMID:19337545

Kernel Ada Programming Support Environment (KAPSE) Interface Team. Volume I. Public Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-04-01

productivity. Unfortunately, * command procedures often are needed to insulate the users from a poorly engineered human interface. Bot ~h command...0-MMa CAf- ON OPERaTnS Figu; a~ 0AS.Hs SItraei nemerc ~ nertEvrnet 0 1.--x In the SofTech ALS the user comunicates with the KAPSE rather than with VMS...a close relationship requires the host vendor to disclose all of his plans to the APSE CCB and maintenance comunity . In the commercial world, secrecy

Comparative cytotoxicity of chlorophenols to cultured fish cells

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

Saito, Hotaka; Shigeoka, Tadayoshi

1994-10-01

In vitro cytotoxicity of chlorophenols to Cyprinus carpio brain (CCB) cells derived from carp and Oryzias latipes fin (OLF-136) cells derived from medaka was examined with the neutral red (3-amino-7-dimethylamino-2-methylphenazine hydrochloride) incorporation assay. Results were compared with previous cytotoxicity data of chlorophenols to goldfish (Carassius auratus) scale (GFS) cells derived from the goldfish. There were excellent correlations between the 24-h NR50 values of chlorophenols toward the three kinds of cells (r[sup 2] > 0.94).

Study on the mechanism of the bronchodilatory effects of Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) and identification of the active ingredient.

PubMed

Patel, Maulik R; Bhalodia, Yagnik S; Pathak, Nimish L; Patel, Maulik S; Suthar, Kunal; Patel, Nilesh; Golwala, Dharmesh K; Jivani, Nurudin P

2013-10-24

In the traditional medicine, Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) is used in asthma, but scientific studies to provide evidence for medicinal uses are sparse. Thus this study was undertaken to provide evidence for medicinal use in asthma as a bronchodilator, and to identify active ingredient(s). In vivo, acetylcholine (Ach)-induced bronchospasm was conducted in guinea pig while isolated rat tracheal strip was suspended in organ bath to measure the concentration response curve using multichannel data acquisition system. The chloroform extract of Cynodon dactylon (CECD) protected against Ach-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, similar to atropine. In the in vitro studies, CECD relaxed carbachol (CCh) and high K + -induced contraction of rat tracheal strip, similar to atropine and verapamil respectively, suggesting antimuscarinic and calcium channel blocking (CCB) activities, which were confirmed by right ward shifting of CCh and Ca +2 concentration response curve (CRC). The phosphodiestrase (PDE) inhibitory activity was confirmed by potentiation of isoprenaline-induced inhibitory response, similar to papaverine. Densitometry analyses led to the identification of scopoletin as an active ingredient. Effectively, it significantly inhibited high K + , and Ca +2 induced contractile response, similar to verapamil. The phosphodiestrase (PDE) inhibitory activity was confirmed by direct evidence of potentiation of isoprenaline-induced inhibitory response, similar to papaverine. These results suggest that the bronchodilator activity of CECD is partly due to presence of scopoletin, and mediated possibly through CCB and PDE inhibition. © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study on the mechanism of the bronchodilatory effects of Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) and identification of the active ingredient.

PubMed

Patel, Maulik R; Bhalodia, Yagnik S; Pathak, Nimish L; Patel, Maulik S; Suthar, Kunal; Patel, Nilesh; Golwala, Dharmesh K; Jivani, Nurudin P

2013-12-12

In the traditional medicine, Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) is used in asthma, but scientific studies to provide evidence for medicinal uses are sparse. Thus this study was undertaken to provide evidence for medicinal use in asthma as a bronchodilator, and to identify active ingredient(s). In vivo, acetylcholine (Ach)-induced bronchospasm was conducted in guinea pig while isolated rat tracheal strip was suspended in organ bath to measure the concentration response curve using multichannel data acquisition system. The chloroform extract of Cynodon dactylon (CECD) protected against Ach-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, similar to atropine. In the in vitro studies, CECD relaxed carbachol (CCh) and high K+-induced contraction of rat tracheal strip, similar to atropine and verapamil respectively, suggesting antimuscarinic and calcium channel blocking (CCB) activities, which were confirmed by right ward shifting of CCh and Ca(+2) concentration response curve (CRC). The phosphodiestrase (PDE) inhibitory activity was confirmed by potentiation of isoprenaline-induced inhibitory response, similar to papaverine. Densitometry analyses led to the identification of scopoletin as an active ingredient. Effectively, it significantly inhibited high K+, and Ca(+2) induced contractile response, similar to verapamil. The phosphodiestrase (PDE) inhibitory activity was confirmed by direct evidence of potentiation of isoprenaline-induced inhibitory response, similar to papaverine. These results suggest that the bronchodilator activity of CECD is partly due to presence of scopoletin, and mediated possibly through CCB and PDE inhibition.

Comparative Effects of an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)/Diuretic vs. ARB/Calcium-Channel Blocker Combination on Uncontrolled Nocturnal Hypertension Evaluated by Information and Communication Technology-Based Nocturnal Home Blood Pressure Monitoring　- The NOCTURNE Study.

PubMed

Kario, Kazuomi; Tomitani, Naoko; Kanegae, Hiroshi; Ishii, Hajime; Uchiyama, Kazuaki; Yamagiwa, Kayo; Shiraiwa, Toshihiko; Katsuya, Tomohiro; Yoshida, Tetsuro; Kanda, Kiyomi; Hasegawa, Shinji; Hoshide, Satoshi

2017-06-23

Nocturnal blood pressure (BP) is an independent risk factor of cardiovascular events. The NOCTURNE study, a multicenter, randomized controlled trial (RCT) using our recently developed information and communication technology (ICT) nocturnal home BP monitoring (HBPM) device, was performed to compare the nocturnal HBP-lowering effects of differential ARB-based combination therapies in 411 Japanese patients with nocturnal hypertension (HT).Methods and Results:Patients with nocturnal BP ≥120/70 mmHg at baseline even under ARB therapy (100 mg irbesartan daily) were enrolled. The ARB/CCB combination therapy (irbesartan 100 mg+amlodipine 5 mg) achieved a significantly greater reduction in nocturnal home systolic BP (primary endpoint) than the ARB/diuretic combination (daily irbesartan 100 mg+trichlormethiazide 1 mg) (-14.4 vs. -10.5 mmHg, P<0.0001), independently of urinary sodium excretion and/or nocturnal BP dipping status. However, the change in nocturnal home systolic BP was comparable among the post-hoc subgroups with higher salt sensitivity (diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and elderly patients). This is the first RCT demonstrating the feasibility of clinical assessment of nocturnal BP by ICT-nocturnal HBPM. The ARB/CCB combination was shown to be superior to ARB/diuretic in patients with uncontrolled nocturnal HT independently of sodium intake, despite the similar impact of the 2 combinations in patients with higher salt sensitivity.

Long-term prognosis of patients with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias induced by coronary artery spasm.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Mañero, Moisés; Oloriz, Teresa; le Polain de Waroux, Jean-Benoit; Burri, Haran; Kreidieh, Bahij; de Asmundis, Carlos; Arias, Miguel A; Arbelo, Elena; Díaz Fernández, Brais; Fernández-Armenta, Juan; Basterra, Nuria; Izquierdo, María Teresa; Díaz-Infante, Ernesto; Ballesteros, Gabriel; Carrillo López, Andrés; García-Bolao, Ignacio; Benezet-Mazuecos, Juan; Expósito-García, Victor; Larraitz-Gaztañaga; Martínez-Sande, Jose Luis; García-Seara, Javier; González-Juanatey, Jose Ramón; Peinado, Rafael

2018-05-01

Coronary artery spasm (CAS) is associated with ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Much controversy remains regarding the best therapeutic interventions for this specific patient subset. We aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with a history of life-threatening VA due to CAS with various medical interventions, as well as the need for ICD placement in the setting of optimal medical therapy. A multicentre European retrospective survey of patients with VA in the setting of CAS was aggregated and relevant clinical and demographic data was analysed. Forty-nine appropriate patients were identified: 43 (87.8%) presented with VF and 6 (12.2%) with rapid VT. ICD implantation was performed in 44 (89.8%). During follow-up [59 (17-117) months], appropriate ICD shocks were documented in 12. In 8/12 (66.6%) no more ICD therapies were recorded after optimizing calcium channel blocker (CCB) therapy. SCD occurred in one patient without ICD. Treatment with beta-blockers was predictive of appropriate device discharge. Conversely, non-dihydropyridine CCB therapy was significantly protective against VAs. Patients with life-threatening VAs secondary to CAS are at particularly high-risk for recurrence, especially when insufficient medical therapy is administered. Non-dihydropyridine CCBs are capable of suppressing episodes, whereas beta-blocker treatment is predictive of VAs. Ultimately, in spite of medical intervention, some patients exhibited arrhythmogenic events in the long-term, suggesting that ICD implantation may still be indicated for all.

Study of quality perception in medical images based on comparison of contrast enhancement techniques in mammographic images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matheus, B.; Verçosa, L. B.; Barufaldi, B.; Schiabel, H.

2014-03-01

With the absolute prevalence of digital images in mammography several new tools became available for radiologist; such as CAD schemes, digital zoom and contrast alteration. This work focuses in contrast variation and how the radiologist reacts to these changes when asked to evaluated image quality. Three contrast enhancing techniques were used in this study: conventional equalization, CCB Correction [1] - a digitization correction - and value subtraction. A set of 100 images was used in tests from some available online mammographic databases. The tests consisted of the presentation of all four versions of an image (original plus the three contrast enhanced images) to the specialist, requested to rank each one from the best up to worst quality for diagnosis. Analysis of results has demonstrated that CCB Correction [1] produced better images in almost all cases. Equalization, which mathematically produces a better contrast, was considered the worst for mammography image quality enhancement in the majority of cases (69.7%). The value subtraction procedure produced images considered better than the original in 84% of cases. Tests indicate that, for the radiologist's perception, it seems more important to guaranty full visualization of nuances than a high contrast image. Another result observed is that the "ideal" scanner curve does not yield the best result for a mammographic image. The important contrast range is the middle of the histogram, where nodules and masses need to be seen and clearly distinguished.

Therapy of Treatment-Related Hypertension in Metastatic Renal-Cell Cancer Patients Receiving Sunitinib.

PubMed

Ivanyi, Philipp; Beutel, Gernot; Drewes, Nicole; Pirr, Jens; Kielstein, Jan T; Morgan, Michael; Ganser, Arnold; Grünwald, Viktor

2017-04-01

Treatment-related hypertension (tHTN) is frequent during sunitinib treatment. However, data on risk factors and treatment of tHTN remain scarce. Patients with metastatic renal-cell carcinoma treated with sunitinib from June 2004 to December 2011 were included. Medical records were retrospectively analyzed for tHTN risk factors and antihypertensive treatments (AHT). Descriptive statistics, Cox regression, and competitive risk models were applied. A total of 51 (70.8%) of 72 patients developed tHTN after a median sunitinib treatment of 28 days. Mean blood pressure increased from 130/75 (range, 90 to 190/58 to 101) mm Hg on day 1 to 140/80 (range, 90 to 190/60 to 120, P < .001) mm Hg on day 28. Standard dose of sunitinib, age > 50 years, and prehypertension were identified as independent risk factors for tHTN. Thirty-eight patients (72.5%) in the tHTN subgroup received modification of AHT. Calcium channel blockers (CCB) were identified as the best at controlling tHTN compared to other drugs (P = .045). The combination of AHT was more potent than a dose increase of a single-drug AHT, and early AHT intervention was more efficacious than delayed start of therapy. Patients at risk for tHTN require more rigorous blood pressure measurement. CCB seemed to be most potent and efficient, and an early combination of different classes of AHT was more efficacious than full-dose, single-agent AHT. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

23 CFR 636.104 - Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING General § 636.104 Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects? The provisions of this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build... 23 Highways 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build...

23 CFR 636.104 - Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING General § 636.104 Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects? The provisions of this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build... 23 Highways 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build...

23 CFR 636.104 - Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING General § 636.104 Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects? The provisions of this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build... 23 Highways 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build...

23 CFR 636.104 - Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING General § 636.104 Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects? The provisions of this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build... 23 Highways 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build...

The application of computer-aided technologies in automotive styling design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Ze-feng; Zhang, Ji; Zheng, Ying

2012-04-01

In automotive industry, outline design is its life and creative design is its soul indeed. Computer-aided technology has been widely used in the automotive industry and more and more attention has been paid. This paper chiefly introduce the application of computer-aided technologies including CAD, CAM and CAE, analyses the process of automotive structural design and describe the development tendency of computer-aided design.

Using fly ash to mitigate explosions

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

Taulbee, D.

2008-07-01

In 2005 the University of Kentucky's Center for Applied Energy Research was given funding to evaluate the use of coal combustion by-products (CCBs) to reduce the explosive potential of ammonium nitrate (AN) fertilizers. Fly ash C (FAC), fly ash F (FAF) and flue gas desulfurization by-product (FGD) were evaluated. It was found that applying a CCB coating to the AN particles at concentrations of 5 wt% or greater prevented the AN explosion from propagating. The article reports on results so far and outlines further work to be done. 6 figs.

Vulnerability Science: A Response to a Criticism of the Ballistic Research Laboratory’s Vulnerability Modeling Strategy

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-01

SMCAR-CCB-TL AMXSY-MP, H. Cohen Watervliet, NY 12189-4050 1 Cdr, USATECOM ATTN: AMSTE- TD Commander 3 Cdr, CRDEC, AMCCOM US Army Armament, Munitions ATIN...Laboratory Command Armament RD&E Center ATTN: SLCTO (Marcos Sola) US Army AMCCOM 2800 Powder Mill Road ATTN: SMCAR- TDS (Vic Lindner) Adelphi, MD 20783-1145...ASQNC-ELC-1-T, Myer Center US Army AMCCOM Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703-5000 ATTN: SMCAR- TD (Jim Killen) Picatinny Arsenal, NJ 07806-5000 14 DISTRIBUTION

Navigation and Alignment Aids Concept of Operations and Supplemental Design Information. Revision A

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kelly, Sean M.; Cryan, Scott P.

2016-01-01

The IDSS Navigation and Alignment Aids Concept of Operations and Supplemental Design Information document provides supplemental information to the IDSS IDD. The guide provides insight into the navigation and alignment aids design, and how those aids can be utilized by incoming vehicles for proximity operations and docking. The navigation aids are paramount to successful docking.

Rubber airplane: Constraint-based component-modeling for knowledge representation in computer-aided conceptual design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kolb, Mark A.

1990-01-01

Viewgraphs on Rubber Airplane: Constraint-based Component-Modeling for Knowledge Representation in Computer Aided Conceptual Design are presented. Topics covered include: computer aided design; object oriented programming; airfoil design; surveillance aircraft; commercial aircraft; aircraft design; and launch vehicles.

Project-Based Teaching-Learning Computer-Aided Engineering Tools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simoes, J. A.; Relvas, C.; Moreira, R.

2004-01-01

Computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, computer-aided analysis, reverse engineering and rapid prototyping are tools that play an important key role within product design. These are areas of technical knowledge that must be part of engineering and industrial design courses' curricula. This paper describes our teaching experience of…

Silicon Wafer Advanced Packaging (SWAP). Multichip Module (MCM) Foundry Study. Version 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-04-08

Next Layer Dielectric Spacing - Additional Metal Thickness Impact on Dielectric Uniformity/Adhiesion. The first step in .!Ie EPerimental design would be... design CAM - computer aided manufacturing CAE - computer aided engineering CALCE - computer aided life cycle engineering center CARMA - computer aided...expansion 5 j- CVD - chemical vapor deposition J . ..- j DA - design automation J , DEC - Digital Equipment Corporation --- DFT - design for testability

33 CFR 66.05-10 - State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false State waters for private aids to... Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AIDS TO NAVIGATION PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION State Aids to Navigation § 66.05-10 State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and...

33 CFR 66.05-10 - State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false State waters for private aids to... Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AIDS TO NAVIGATION PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION State Aids to Navigation § 66.05-10 State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and...

33 CFR 66.05-10 - State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false State waters for private aids to... Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AIDS TO NAVIGATION PRIVATE AIDS TO NAVIGATION State Aids to Navigation § 66.05-10 State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and...

Enalapril/amlodipine combination in cyclosporine-treated renal transplant recipients: a prospective randomized trial.

PubMed

Halimi, Jean-Michel; Giraudeau, Bruno; Buchler, Matthias; Al-Najjar, Azmi; Etienne, Isabelle; Laouad, Inass; Bruyère, Franck; Lebranchu, Yvon

2007-01-01

Most hypertensive renal transplant recipients require two or more antihypertensive medications to achieve blood pressure control. However, which medications must be combined is still a matter of debate. A prospective randomized open-label blinded evaluation trial comparing the six-month effects of the amlodipine-enalapril combination (n = 32) vs. enalapril alone (n = 33) and vs. amlodipine alone (n = 34) on arterial pressure, renal function, albuminuria and tolerability. At six months, diastolic arterial pressure was more adequately controlled (i.e., <90 mmHg) in the combination group than in the amlodipine and enalapril groups (100% vs. 82.4% and 84.8%, respectively, p = 0.038). The same trend was observed for systolic arterial pressure (65.6% vs. 58.8% and 51.5%, NS). The six-month change in albuminuria was similar in the combination group and in the enalapril group (-64.7% vs. -59.5%); however, patients in the combination group exhibited a greater reduction in albuminuria than in the amlodipine group (-64.7% vs. -29.0%, p = 0.002). As compared with baseline values, serum creatinine and potassium remained unchanged in the combination group, whereas they increased by 9 +/- 12 micromol/L (p = 0.01) and by 0.2 +/- 0.4 mmol/L (p < 0.01), respectively, in the enalapril group. The cyclosporine trough levels remained unchanged in the combination group, but increased in the amlodipine group. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)-calcium-channel blocker (CCB) combination controls arterial pressure more adequately than ACEI alone or CCB alone, reduces albuminuria and may prevent the ACEI-induced initial rise in serum creatinine.

Arterial hypertension and thyroid disorders: what is important to know in clinical practice?

PubMed

Mazza, A; Beltramello, G; Armigliato, M; Montemurro, D; Zorzan, S; Zuin, M; Rampin, L; Marzola, M C; Grassetto, G; Al-Nahhas, A; Rubello, D

2011-09-01

This review describes the pathogenic mechanisms of blood pressure (BP) regulation and long-term control in thyroid disorders. Variations from the euthyroid status affect virtually all physiological systems but the effects on the cardiovascular system are particularly pronounced. Thyroid disorders induce several hemodynamic changes leading to elevated BP as a consequence of their interaction with endothelial function, vascular reactivity, renal hemodynamic and renin-angiotensin system. However, in thyroid disorders, the regulation of BP and the development and maintenance of variable forms of arterial hypertension (HT) are different. Hyperthyroidism results in an increased endothelium-dependent responsiveness secondary to the shear stress induced by the hyperdynamic circulation, and contributes to reduce vascular resistance. Conversely, hypothyroidism is accompanied by a marked decrease in sensitivity to sympathetic agonists with an increase of peripheral vascular resistance and arterial stiffness. Furthermore in animal models, hypothyroidism reduces the endothelium-dependent and nitric oxide-dependent vasodilatation. HT due to thyroid disorders is usually reversible with achievement of euthyroidism, but in some cases pharmacological treatment for BP control is required. In hyperthyroidism, β-blockers are the first-choice treatment to control BP but when they are contraindicated or not tolerated, ACE-inhibitors or calcium-channel blockers (CCB) are recommended. Hypothyroidism is a typical low rennin HT form showing a better antihypertensive response to CCB and diuretics; indeed in hypothyroidism a low-sodium diet seems further to improve BP control. Randomized clinical trials to compare the efficacy on BP control of the antihypertensive treatment in thyroid disorders are needed. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Bedtime administration of cilnidipine controls morning hypertension.

PubMed

Ashizawa, Naoto; Seto, Shinji; Shibata, Yoshisada; Yano, Katsusuke

2007-09-01

Morning blood pressure (BP) level plays an important role in the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Recently, Kario, et al proposed the usefulness of ME difference (morning minus evening systolic BP) and ME average (average of morning and evening systolic BP) for the evaluation of antihypertensive treatment. Cilnidipine is a novel calcium channel blocker (CCB) that exerts inhibitory actions not only on L-type but also on N-type calcium channels. We investigated the effect of bedtime administration of cilnidipine (10 mg) in addition to the antihypertensive treatment for uncontrolled morning hypertension. Twenty-three hypertensive outpatients (13 males and 10 females; mean age, 66.9 years) with stable antihypertensive medication and uncontrolled morning BP were studied using self-measured BP monitoring in the morning and evening. Morning SBP (P < 0.001) and DBP (P < 0.001) decreased significantly from 150.2 +/- 8.7 and 87.8 +/- 9.3 to 132.7 +/- 7.4 and 77.5 +/- 8.5 mmHg, respectively, after the addition of cilnidipine. Morning heart rate did not change (63.3 +/- 7.0 to 64.1 +/- 9.4). The evening SBP, but not DBP, decreased significantly after treatment. Both the ME average (P < 0.001) and ME difference (P < 0.01) significantly decreased from 143.0 +/- 9.2 and 14.3 +/- 12.4 to 131.3 +/- 7.2 and 2.8 +/- 9.2 mmHg after treatment, respectively. The microalbuminuria decreased from 39.6 +/- 13.2 to 27.3 +/- 8.4 mg/g Cr. In conclusion, L-/N-type CCB cilnidipine may be useful for patients with uncontrollable morning hypertension by reducing both ME average and ME difference.

Feasibility of Linking Population-Based Cancer Registries and Cancer Center Biorepositories

PubMed Central

McCusker, Margaret E.; Allen, Mark; Fernandez-Ami, Allyn; Gandour-Edwards, Regina

2012-01-01

Purpose: Biospecimen-based research offers tremendous promise as a way to increase understanding of the molecular epidemiology of cancers. Population-based cancer registries can augment this research by providing more clinical detail and long-term follow-up information than is typically available from biospecimen annotations. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this concept, we performed a pilot linkage between the California Cancer Registry (CCR) and the University of California, Davis Cancer Center Biorepository (UCD CCB) databases to determine if we could identify patients with records in both databases. Methods: We performed a probabilistic data linkage between 2180 UCD CCB biospecimen records collected during the years 2005–2009 and all CCR records for cancers diagnosed from 1988–2009 based on standard data linkage procedures. Results: The 1040 UCD records with a unique medical record number, tissue site, and pathology date were linked to 3.3 million CCR records. Of these, 844 (81.2%) were identified in both databases. Overall, record matches were highest (100%) for cancers of the cervix and testis/other male genital system organs. For the most common cancers, matches were highest for cancers of the lung and respiratory system (93%), breast (91.7%), and colon and rectum (89.5%), and lower for prostate (72.9%). Conclusions: This pilot linkage demonstrated that information on existing biospecimens from a cancer center biorepository can be linked successfully to cancer registry data. Linkages between existing biorepositories and cancer registries can foster productive collaborations and provide a foundation for virtual biorepository networks to support population-based biospecimen research. PMID:24845042

Agricultural land-use change in a Mexican oligotrophic desert depletes ecosystem stability.

PubMed

Hernández-Becerra, Natali; Tapia-Torres, Yunuen; Beltrán-Paz, Ofelia; Blaz, Jazmín; Souza, Valeria; García-Oliva, Felipe

2016-01-01

Global demand for food has led to increased land-use change, particularly in dry land ecosystems, which has caused several environmental problems due to the soil degradation. In the Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB), alfalfa production irrigated by flooding impacts strongly on the soil. In order to analyze the effect of such agricultural land-use change on soil nutrient dynamics and soil bacterial community composition, this work examined an agricultural gradient within the CCB which was comprised of a native desert grassland, a plot currently cultivated with alfalfa and a former agricultural field that had been abandoned for over 30 years. For each site, we analyzed C, N and P dynamic fractions, the activity of the enzyme phosphatase and the bacterial composition obtained using 16S rRNA clone libraries. The results showed that the cultivated site presented a greater availability of water and dissolved organic carbon, these conditions promoted mineralization processes mediated by heterotrophic microorganisms, while the abandoned land was limited by water and dissolved organic nitrogen. The low amount of dissolved organic matter promoted nitrification, which is mediated by autotrophic microorganisms. The microbial N immobilization process and specific phosphatase activity were both favored in the native grassland. As expected, differences in bacterial taxonomical composition were observed among sites. The abandoned site exhibited similar compositions than native grassland, while the cultivated site differed. The results suggest that the transformation of native grassland into agricultural land induces drastic changes in soil nutrient dynamics as well as in the bacterial community. However, with the absence of agricultural practices, some of the soil characteristics analyzed slowly recovers their natural state.

Addition of verapamil in the treatment of severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy.

PubMed

Iannetti, Paola; Parisi, Pasquale; Spalice, Alberto; Ruggieri, Martino; Zara, Federico

2009-07-01

We report on the use of the voltage-gated calcium channel blocker (Vg-CCB), verapamil, as an add-on anticonvulsant medication in two girls, 4 and 14 years of age, who were affected by severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI) or Dravet syndrome, a channelopathy caused by abnormalities in the voltage-gated sodium channel neuronal type alpha1 subunit (SCN1A) gene at 2q24. Both girls had pharmacoresistant epilepsy and developmental delay. Mutation analysis for the SCN1A gene revealed a missense mutation in exon 2 in the 4-year-old girl. Verapamil was co-administered in both children with a prompt response in controlling status epilepticus, myoclonic jerks, and partial and generalized seizures. The therapeutic effect lasted 13 months in the 14-year-old girl, while it is still present after a 20-month follow-up period in the 4-year-old girl who, in addition, has experienced improvement in motor and language development. The verapamil vVg-CCB, which crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB): (a) inhibits the P-glycoprotein, an active efflux transporter protein expressed in normal tissue, including the brain, which is believed to contribute to the in situ phenomenon of multidrug resistance; and (b) may regulate membrane depolarization induced by abnormal sodium channels functions by modulating the abnormal Ca++ influxes into neurons with subsequent cell resting. This is the first report on long-lasting verapamil therapy in SMEI. The functional consequences of such in vivo modulating effects on Ca++ channels could contribute to rational targeting for future molecular therapeutic approaches in pharmacoresistant epileptic channelopathies.

Disentangling plasticity of serotiny, a key adaptive trait in a Mediterranean conifer.

PubMed

Martín-Sanz, Ruth C; Santos-Del-Blanco, Luis; Notivol, Eduardo; Chambel, M Regina; San-Martín, Roberto; Climent, José

2016-09-01

Serotiny, the maintenance of ripe seeds in closed fruits or cones until fire causes dehiscence, is a key adaptive trait of plants in fire-prone ecosystems, but knowledge of phenotypic plasticity for cone retention in woody plants is extremely scarce. On the basis of published literature and our field observations, we hypothesized that increased aridity might decrease the aerial seed bank as a plastic response, not necessarily adaptive. We used a Pinus halepensis common garden replicated in three contrasted sites (mild, cold, and dry) to separate population differentiation from phenotypic plasticity of cone serotiny and canopy cone bank (CCB). Differences in growth among trees of the same provenance allowed us to include size effect as a proxy of ontogenetic age for the same chronological age of the trees. Tree size had a strong negative effect on serotiny, but serotiny degree differed among trial sites even after accounting for size effects. As hypothesized, serotiny was lower at the harsh (dry and cold) sites compared with the mild site. Genetic variation for size-dependent cone serotiny and significant population × site interaction were confirmed, the latter implying different plasticity of serotiny among populations. Population differentiation for CCB showed an ecotypic trend, with positive correlation with temperature oscillation (continentality) and negative correlation with summer rainfall. Growth-limiting environments exacerbated the precocious release of seeds, contrary to the ecotypic trend found for the aerial cone bank, suggesting a counter-gradient plasticity. This plastic response is potentially maladaptive under a scenario of frequent wildfires. © 2016 Botanical Society of America.

Engineering Technology Programs Courses Guide for Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Georgia Univ., Athens. Div. of Vocational Education.

This guide describes the requirements for courses in computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) that are part of engineering technology programs conducted in vocational-technical schools in Georgia. The guide is organized in five sections. The first section provides a rationale for occupations in design and in production,…

The Use of Red Green Blue (RGB) Air Mass Imagery to Investigate the Role of Stratospheric Air in a Non-Convective Wind Event

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berndt, Emily; Zavodsky, Bradley; Molthan, Andrew; Jedlovec, Gary

2013-01-01

AIRS ozone and model PV analysis confirm the stratospheric air in RGB Air Mass imagery. Trajectories confirm winds south of the low were distinct from CCB driven winds. Cross sections connect the tropopause fold, downward motion, and high nearsurface winds. Comparison to conceptual models show Shapiro-Keyser features and sting jet characteristics were observed in a storm that impacted the U.S. East Coast. RGB Air Mass imagery can be used to identify stratospheric air and regions susceptible to tropopause folding and attendant non-convective winds.

Hyperkalemia induced by the calcium channel blocker, benidipine.

PubMed

Imamura, Takuroh; Matsuura, Yunosuke; Nagoshi, Toshiro; Ishikawa, Tetsunori; Date, Haruhiko; Kita, Toshihiro; Matsuyama, Akihiko; Matsuo, Takeshi; Eto, Tanenao

2003-06-01

A 73-year-old hypertensive, non-diabetic woman without obvious renal dysfunction had frequently been hyperkalemic over four years after receiving antihypertensive drugs including the calcium channel blocker (CCB) benidipine. One week after all medications were accidentally discontinued, the serum potassium level returned to normal. After we obtained the informed consent of the patient, benidipine alone was administered again for over two weeks and hyperkalemia developed once more. This previously uncommon side effect of hyperkalemia induced by benidipine is not very serious but it is apt to be overlooked. Since CCBs are now widely prescribed, the development of hyperkalemia should be considered.

Computer-aided design and computer science technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fulton, R. E.; Voigt, S. J.

1976-01-01

A description is presented of computer-aided design requirements and the resulting computer science advances needed to support aerospace design. The aerospace design environment is examined, taking into account problems of data handling and aspects of computer hardware and software. The interactive terminal is normally the primary interface between the computer system and the engineering designer. Attention is given to user aids, interactive design, interactive computations, the characteristics of design information, data management requirements, hardware advancements, and computer science developments.

Computer-assisted versus conventional free fibula flap technique for craniofacial reconstruction: an outcomes comparison.

PubMed

Seruya, Mitchel; Fisher, Mark; Rodriguez, Eduardo D

2013-11-01

There has been rising interest in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing for preoperative planning and execution of osseous free flap reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes between computer-assisted and conventional fibula free flap techniques for craniofacial reconstruction. A two-center, retrospective review was carried out on patients who underwent fibula free flap surgery for craniofacial reconstruction from 2003 to 2012. Patients were categorized by the type of reconstructive technique: conventional (between 2003 and 2009) or computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (from 2010 to 2012). Demographics, surgical factors, and perioperative and long-term outcomes were compared. A total of 68 patients underwent microsurgical craniofacial reconstruction: 58 conventional and 10 computer-aided design and manufacturing fibula free flaps. By demographics, patients undergoing the computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing method were significantly older and had a higher rate of radiotherapy exposure compared with conventional patients. Intraoperatively, the median number of osteotomies was significantly higher (2.0 versus 1.0, p=0.002) and the median ischemia time was significantly shorter (120 minutes versus 170 minutes, p=0.004) for the computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing technique compared with conventional techniques; operative times were shorter for patients undergoing the computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing technique, although this did not reach statistical significance. Perioperative and long-term outcomes were equivalent for the two groups, notably, hospital length of stay, recipient-site infection, partial and total flap loss, and rate of soft-tissue and bony tissue revisions. Microsurgical craniofacial reconstruction using a computer-assisted fibula flap technique yielded significantly shorter ischemia times amidst a higher number of osteotomies compared with conventional techniques. Therapeutic, III.

23 CFR 636.104 - Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects? 636.104 Section 636.104 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING General § 636.104 Does this part apply to all Federal-aid design-build projects? The...

DeMAID/GA USER'S GUIDE Design Manager's Aid for Intelligent Decomposition with a Genetic Algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, James L.

1996-01-01

Many companies are looking for new tools and techniques to aid a design manager in making decisions that can reduce the time and cost of a design cycle. One tool that is available to aid in this decision making process is the Design Manager's Aid for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMAID). Since the initial release of DEMAID in 1989, numerous enhancements have been added to aid the design manager in saving both cost and time in a design cycle. The key enhancement is a genetic algorithm (GA) and the enhanced version is called DeMAID/GA. The GA orders the sequence of design processes to minimize the cost and time to converge to a solution. These enhancements as well as the existing features of the original version of DEMAID are described. Two sample problems are used to show how these enhancements can be applied to improve the design cycle. This report serves as a user's guide for DeMAID/GA.

Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of black pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal disorders.

PubMed

Mehmood, Malik Hassan; Gilani, Anwarul Hassan

2010-10-01

Dried fruits of Piper nigrum (black pepper) are commonly used in gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to rationalize the medicinal use of pepper and its principal alkaloid, piperine, in constipation and diarrhea using in vitro and in vivo assays. When tested in isolated guinea pig ileum, the crude extract of pepper (Pn.Cr) (1–10 mg/mL) and piperine (3–300 μM) caused a concentration-dependent and atropine-sensitive stimulant effect. In rabbit jejunum, Pn.Cr (0.01–3.0 mg/mL) and piperine (30–1,000 μM) relaxed spontaneous contractions, similar to loperamide and nifedipine. The relaxant effect of Pn.Cr and piperine was partially inhibited in the presence of naloxone (1 μM) similar to that of loperamide, suggesting the naloxone-sensitive effect in addition to the Ca(2+) channel blocking (CCB)-like activity, which was evident by its relaxant effect on K+ (80 mM)-induced contractions. The CCB activity was confirmed when pretreatment of the tissue with Pn.Cr (0.03–0.3 mg/mL) or piperine (10–100 μM) caused a rightward shift in the concentration–response curves of Ca(2+), similar to loperamide and nifedipine. In mice, Pn.Cr and piperine exhibited a partially atropine-sensitive laxative effect at lower doses, whereas at higher doses it caused antisecretory and antidiarrheal activities that were partially inhibited in mice pretreated with naloxone (1.5 mg/kg), similar to loperamide. This study illustrates the presence of spasmodic (cholinergic) and antispasmodic (opioid agonist and Ca(2+) antagonist) effects, thus providing the possible explanation for the medicinal use of pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal motility disorders.

A potential determinant role of adiponectin and receptors for the early embryo development in PCOS patients with obesity hinted by quantitative profiling.

PubMed

Zhang, Ning; Hao, Cuifang; Liu, Xiaoyan; Zhang, Shouxin; Zhang, Fengrong; Zhuang, Lili; Zhao, Dongmei

2017-02-01

To identify the quantitative profiling of adiponectin and its receptors (AdipoR1, AdipoR2, and T-cadherin) in cumulus cells (CCs) and to evaluate their roles in the early embryo development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients, in part, with obesity. Fifty-five subjects were divided into two groups according to the body mass index. Oocytes were further inseminated and only mature and normal fertilized oocytes (2PN) were included in this research. Real-time PCR and western blot were performed to identify adiponectin and its receptors in CCs. Adiponectin and receptors were ubiquitously expressed in CCs of PCOS and non-PCOS patients. The level of AdipoR2 in CCs from the oocytes yielding blastocyst after 5/6 days in vitro culture was markedly higher than in those from oocytes could not develop to blastocyst stage after Day 6, for non-obese or obese PCOS patients (0.1647 ± 0.0161 versus 0.0783 ± 0.0385, 0.1948 ± 0.0307 versus 0.1057 ± 0.0236, respectively, p < 0.05). In addition, only in patients with PCOS and concurrent obesity the AdipoR1 in CCs was considerably increased in CC-B + compared with CC-B - subgroup (0.5162 ± 0.0371 versus 0.2448 ± 0.0333, p < 0.01). The development of early embryo was associated with the up-regulation of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 in PCOS patients. Our results suggested that adiponectin could positively modulate embryo development in humans. Further investigations should be carried out to unlock the crucial role that adiponectin plays in embryo development.

Interferon type I responses to virus infections in carp cells: In vitro studies on Cyprinid herpesvirus 3 and Rhabdovirus carpio infections.

PubMed

Adamek, Mikołaj; Rakus, Krzysztof Ł; Chyb, Jarosław; Brogden, Graham; Huebner, Arne; Irnazarow, Ilgiz; Steinhagen, Dieter

2012-09-01

Interferons (IFNs) are secreted mediators that play a fundamental role in the innate immune response against viruses among all vertebrate classes. Common carp is a host for two highly contagious viruses: spring viraemia of carp virus (Rhabdovirus carpio, SVCV) and the Cyprinid herpesvirus 3 (CyHV-3), which belong to Rhabdoviridae and Alloherpesviridae families, respectively. Both viruses are responsible for significant losses in carp aquaculture. In this paper we studied the mRNA expression profiles of genes encoding for proteins promoting various functions during the interferon pathway, from pattern recognition receptors to antiviral genes, during in vitro viral infection. Furthermore, we investigated the impact of the interferon pathway (stimulated with poly I:C) on CyHV-3 replication and the speed of virus spreading in cell culture. The results showed that two carp viruses, CyHV-3 and SVCV induced fundamentally different type I IFN responses in CCB cells. SVCV induced a high response in all studied genes, whereas CyHV-3 seems to induce no response in CCB cells, but it induces a response in head kidney leukocytes. The lack of an IFN type I response to CyHV-3 could be an indicator of anti-IFN actions of the virus, however the nature of this mechanism has to be evaluated in future studies. Our results also suggest that an activation of type I IFN in CyHV-3 infected cells can limit the spread of the virus in cell culture. This would open the opportunity to treat the disease associated with CyHV-3 by an application of poly I:C in certain cases. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of Switching from Cilnidipine to Azelnidipine on Cardiac Sympathetic Nerve Function in Patients with Heart Failure Preserved Ejection Fraction.

PubMed

Kiuchi, Shunsuke; Hisatake, Shinji; Kabuki, Takayuki; Oka, Takashi; Dobashi, Shintaro; Fujii, Takahiro; Ikeda, Takanori

2018-01-27

Cardiac sympathetic nerve activity is known to play a key role in the development and progression of heart failure (HF). Azelnidipine, an L-type calcium channel blocker (CCB), inhibits the sympathetic nerve activity of the central system. In contrast, cilnidipine, an N-type CCB, inhibits the sympathetic nerve activity of the peripheral system. CCBs are recommended as class IIa in patients with HF preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF); however, there are no comparative data on the difference in effect of cilnidipine and azelnidipine in patients with HFpEF and hypertension. We investigated the difference in effect of azelnidipine compared with cilnidipine in patients with HFpEF. Twenty-four consecutive HF patients who received angiotensin II type1a receptor blocker and beta blocker from April 2013 to January 2015 were enrolled. Cilnidipine was switched to azelnidipine during the follow-up period. Blood pressures, heart rate, blood tests, echocardiography, and 123 I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) cardiac-scintigraphy were measured before and after 6 months from azelnidipine administration. B-type natriuretic peptide tended to decrease after switching to azelnidipine; however, there were no significant differences between the pre-state and post-state (pre-state: 118.5 pg/mL and post-state: 78.4 pg/mL, P = 0.137). Other laboratory findings, including catecholamine, also did not change significantly. In echocardiography, there were no significant differences in systolic and diastolic functions at the pre-state and post-state. As for MIBG, there were no significant changes in heart/mediastinum ratio. However, washout rate was significantly reduced (pre-state: 42.9 and post-state: 39.6, P = 0.030). Azelnidipine improved the dysfunction of cardiac sympathetic nerve activity compared with cilnidipine in patients with HFpEF.

Comparative effects of valsartan in combination with cilnidipine or amlodipine on cardiac remodeling and diastolic dysfunction in Dahl salt-sensitive rats.

PubMed

Nagasawa, Kai; Takahashi, Keiji; Matsuura, Natsumi; Takatsu, Miwa; Hattori, Takuya; Watanabe, Shogo; Harada, Eri; Niinuma, Kazumi; Murohara, Toyoaki; Nagata, Kohzo

2015-01-01

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are often supplemented with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) for treatment of hypertension. We recently showed that the L/N-type CCB cilnidipine has superior cardioprotective effects compared with the L-type CCB amlodipine in Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) rats. We have now compared the effects of the ARB valsartan combined with cilnidipine or amlodipine on cardiac pathophysiology in DS rats. DS rats fed a high-salt diet from 6 weeks of age were treated with vehicle, valsartan alone (10 mg kg(-1) per day), or valsartan combined with either cilnidipine (1 mg kg(-1) per day) or amlodipine (1 mg kg(-1) per day) from 7 to 11 weeks. The salt-induced increase in systolic blood pressure apparent in the vehicle group was attenuated similarly in the three drug treatment groups. Valsartan-cilnidipine attenuated left ventricular (LV) fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction as well as cardiac oxidative stress and inflammation to a greater extent than did valsartan alone or valsartan-amlodipine. In addition, the increases in urinary excretion of dopamine and epinephrine as well as in cardiac renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system (RAAS) gene expression apparent in vehicle-treated rats were attenuated to a greater extent by valsartan-cilnidipine than by the other two treatments. Valsartan-cilnidipine thus attenuated LV remodeling and diastolic dysfunction more effectively than did valsartan or valsartan-amlodipine in rats with salt-sensitive hypertension, and this superior cardioprotective action of valsartan-cilnidipine compared with valsartan-amlodipine is likely attributable, at least in part, to the greater antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects associated with both greater inhibition of cardiac RAAS gene expression and N-type calcium channel blockade.

Determination of chloramphenicol in milk powder using liquid-liquid cartridge extraction (Chem Elut) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Zawadzka, Iwona; Rodziewicz, Lech

2014-01-01

The European Union prohibits the use of chloramphenicol (CAP) as a veterinary drug in food-producing animals. Nevertheless, CAP have been detected in milk products (liquid milk and milk powder). Therefore, it is necessary to develop sensitive methods for determining CAP residues in milk powder. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a confirmatory method for determination of CAP in milk powder. Chloramphenicol was determined in milk powder using LC-ESI-MS/MS in negative mode. After fat removing milk powder sample was extracted/cleaned-up with a Chem Elut extraction cartridge. Separation was achieved on a Phenomenex Luna C-18 column with acetonitrile-water as a mobile phase. The mass spectrometer was operated in multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM). Four transitions were monitored m/z 321→152, 321→194, 321→257 (CAP) and 326→157 (IS CAP-d5). Linearity, accuracy, precision, decision limit (CCa), detection capability (CCb) and ruggedness were determined for m/z 321→152. The mean relative recoveries (inter standard-corrected) of CAP from whole milk powder spiked at levels 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.6 mg/kg were in the range 95 - 103%. Relative standard deviation (RSD%) of recoveries at all spiked levels were less than 14%. RSDs within-laboratory reproducibility calculated at fortification of 0.3 mg/kg was less than 16%. CCa and CCb were below 0.1 mg/kg. The developed LC-MS/MS method allows the determination of CAP in milk powder. The method was validated according to the Commission Decision No. 2002/657/EC requirements. This method can be applied to determination CAP in whole and skim milk powder.

Comparison between beta radiation dose distribution due to LDR and HDR ocular brachytherapy applicators using GATE Monte Carlo platform.

PubMed

Mostafa, Laoues; Rachid, Khelifi; Ahmed, Sidi Moussa

2016-08-01

Eye applicators with 90Sr/90Y and 106Ru/106Rh beta-ray sources are generally used in brachytherapy for the treatment of eye diseases as uveal melanoma. Whenever, radiation is used in treatment, dosimetry is essential. However, knowledge of the exact dose distribution is a critical decision-making to the outcome of the treatment. The Monte Carlo technique provides a powerful tool for calculation of the dose and dose distributions which helps to predict and determine the doses from different shapes of various types of eye applicators more accurately. The aim of this work consisted in using the Monte Carlo GATE platform to calculate the 3D dose distribution on a mathematical model of the human eye according to international recommendations. Mathematical models were developed for four ophthalmic applicators, two HDR 90Sr applicators SIA.20 and SIA.6, and two LDR 106Ru applicators, a concave CCB model and a flat CCB model. In present work, considering a heterogeneous eye phantom and the chosen tumor, obtained results with the use of GATE for mean doses distributions in a phantom and according to international recommendations show a discrepancy with respect to those specified by the manufacturers. The QC of dosimetric parameters shows that contrarily to the other applicators, the SIA.20 applicator is consistent with recommendations. The GATE platform show that the SIA.20 applicator present better results, namely the dose delivered to critical structures were lower compared to those obtained for the other applicators, and the SIA.6 applicator, simulated with MCNPX generates higher lens doses than those generated by GATE. Copyright © 2016 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Relationship between calcium channel blocker class and mortality in dialysis.

PubMed

Wetmore, James B; Mahnken, Jonathan D; Phadnis, Milind A; Ellerbeck, Edward F; Shireman, Theresa I

2015-12-01

The comparative effectiveness of dihydropyridine (DHP) and non-DHP calcium channel blockers (CCBs) in maintenance dialysis patients has not been well-studied. A retrospective cohort of hypertensive patients initiating dialysis was created. New CCB initiators, defined as individual who had no evidence of CCB use in the first 90 days of dialysis but who were initiated by day 180, were followed from their first day of medication exposure until event or censoring; events consisted of all-cause mortality (ACM) and a combined endpoint of cardiovascular morbidity or mortality (CVMM). Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) comparing the effect of DHPs vs. non-DHPs. There were 2900 and 2704 new initiators of CCBs in the ACM and CVMM models, respectively. Adjusted for other factors, use of DHPs, compared to non-DHPs, was associated with an AHR of 0.77 (99% confidence intervals, 0.64 - 0.93, P = 0.0004) for ACM and 0.86 (0.72 - 1.02, P = 0.024) for CVMM. Results were similar when individuals who initiated therapy at any point after the cohort inception were included, with AHRs of 0.60 (0.53 - 0.69, P < 0.0001) and 0.77 (0.67 - 0.89, P < 0.0001) for ACM and CVMM, respectively. Further, elimination of individuals with chronic atrial fibrillation resulted in AHRs of 0.71 and 0.70 for ACM and CVVM, respectively. DHPs, as compared to non-DHPs, were associated with reduced hazard of death or cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; potential mechanisms of action require further study. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Relationship between calcium channel blocker class and mortality in dialysis

PubMed Central

Wetmore, James B.; Mahnken, Jonathan D.; Phadnis, Milind A.; Ellerbeck, Edward F.; Shireman, Theresa I.

2015-01-01

Background and objective The comparative effectiveness of dihydropyridine (DHP) and non-DHP alcium channel blockers (CCBs) in maintenance dialysis patients has not been well-studied Methods A retrospective cohort of hypertensive patients initiating dialysis was created. New CCB initiators, defined as individual who had no evidence of CCB use in the first 90 days of dialysis but who were initiated by day 180, were followed from their first day of medication exposure until event or censoring; events consisted of all-cause mortality (ACM) and a combined endpoint of cardiovascular morbidity or mortality (CVMM). Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) comparing the effect of DHPs vs. non-DHPs. Results There were 2900 and 2704 new initiators of CCBs in the ACM and CVMM models, respectively. Adjusted for other factors, use of DHPs, compared to non-DHPs, was associated with an AHR of 0.77 (99% confidence intervals, 0.64 – 0.93, P = 0.0004) for ACM and 0.86 (0.72 – 1.02, P = 0.024) for CVMM. Results were similar when individuals who initiated therapy at any point after the cohort inception were included, with AHRs of 0.60 (0.53 – 0.69, P < 0.0001) and 0.77 (0.67 – 0.89, P < 0.0001) for ACM and CVMM, respectively. Further, elimination of individuals with chronic atrial fibrillation resulted in AHRs of 0.71 and 0.70 for ACM and CVVM, respectively. Conclusion DHPs, as compared to non-DHPs, were associated with reduced hazard of death or cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; potential mechanisms of action require further study. PMID:26371369

Agricultural land-use change in a Mexican oligotrophic desert depletes ecosystem stability

PubMed Central

Hernández-Becerra, Natali; Tapia-Torres, Yunuen; Beltrán-Paz, Ofelia; Blaz, Jazmín; Souza, Valeria

2016-01-01

Background Global demand for food has led to increased land-use change, particularly in dry land ecosystems, which has caused several environmental problems due to the soil degradation. In the Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB), alfalfa production irrigated by flooding impacts strongly on the soil. Methods In order to analyze the effect of such agricultural land-use change on soil nutrient dynamics and soil bacterial community composition, this work examined an agricultural gradient within the CCB which was comprised of a native desert grassland, a plot currently cultivated with alfalfa and a former agricultural field that had been abandoned for over 30 years. For each site, we analyzed C, N and P dynamic fractions, the activity of the enzyme phosphatase and the bacterial composition obtained using 16S rRNA clone libraries. Results The results showed that the cultivated site presented a greater availability of water and dissolved organic carbon, these conditions promoted mineralization processes mediated by heterotrophic microorganisms, while the abandoned land was limited by water and dissolved organic nitrogen. The low amount of dissolved organic matter promoted nitrification, which is mediated by autotrophic microorganisms. The microbial N immobilization process and specific phosphatase activity were both favored in the native grassland. As expected, differences in bacterial taxonomical composition were observed among sites. The abandoned site exhibited similar compositions than native grassland, while the cultivated site differed. Discussion The results suggest that the transformation of native grassland into agricultural land induces drastic changes in soil nutrient dynamics as well as in the bacterial community. However, with the absence of agricultural practices, some of the soil characteristics analyzed slowly recovers their natural state. PMID:27602304

Hypertension management: rationale for triple therapy based on mechanisms of action.

PubMed

Neutel, Joel M; Smith, David H G

2013-10-01

An estimated 25% of patients will require 3 antihypertensive agents to achieve blood pressure (BP) control; combination therapy is thus an important strategy in hypertension treatment. This review discusses the triple-therapy combination of an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) or direct renin antagonist (DRI) with a calcium channel blocker (CCB) and a diuretic, with a focus on mechanisms of action. Multiple physiologic pathways contribute to hypertension. Combining antihypertensive agents not only better targets the underlying pathways, but also helps blunt compensatory responses that may be triggered by single-agent therapy. DRIs and ARBs target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) at the initial and final steps, respectively, and both classes lower BP by reducing the effects of angiotensin-2; however, ARBs may trigger a compensatory increase in renin activity. Dihydropyridine CCBs target L-type calcium channels and lower BP through potent vasodilation, but can trigger compensatory activation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and RAAS. Thiazide diuretics lower BP initially through sodium depletion and plasma volume reduction, followed by total peripheral resistance reduction, but can also trigger compensatory activation of the SNS and RAAS. The combination of an agent targeting the RAAS with a CCB and diuretic is rational, and triple combinations of valsartan/amlodipine/hydrochlorothiazide, olmesartan/amlodipine/hydrochlorothiazide, and aliskiren/amlodipine/hydrochlorothiazide have demonstrated greater effectiveness compared with their respective dual-component combinations. In addition, single-pill, fixed-dose combinations can address barriers to BP control including clinical inertia and poor adherence. Fixed-dose antihypertensive combination products capitalize on complementary mechanisms of action and have been shown to result in improved BP control. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Divergence and Phylogeny of Firmicutes from the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin, Mexico: A Window to an Ancient Ocean

PubMed Central

Moreno-Letelier, Alejandra; Olmedo-Alvarez, Gabriela; Eguiarte, Luis E.

2012-01-01

Abstract The Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) has been identified as a center of endemism for many life-forms. Nearly half the bacterial species found in the spring systems have their closest relatives in the ocean. This raises the question of whether the high diversity observed today is the product of an adaptive radiation similar to that of the Galapagos Islands or whether the bacterial groups are “survivors” of an ancient sea, which would be of interest for astrobiology. To help answer this question, we focused on Firmicutes from Cuatro Ciénegas (mainly Bacillus and Exiguobacterium). We reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships of Firmicutes with 28 housekeeping genes and dated the resulting tree using geological events as calibration points. Our results show that marine Bacillus diverged from other Bacillus strains 838 Ma, while Bacillus from Cuatro Ciénegas have divergence dates that range from 770 to 202 Ma. The members of Exiguobacterium from the CCB conform to a much younger group that diverged from the Andes strain 60 Ma and from the one in Yellowstone 183 Ma. Therefore, the diversity of Firmicutes in Cuatro Ciénegas is not the product of a recent radiation but the product of the isolation of lineages from an ancient ocean. Hence, Cuatro Ciénegas is not a Galapagos Archipelago for bacteria but is more like an astrobiological “time machine” in which bacterial lineages survived in an oligotrophic environment that may be very similar to that of the Precambrian. Key Words: Firmicutes—Cuatro Ciénegas—Precambrian—Molecular dating—Western Interior Seaway. Astrobiology 12, 674–684. PMID:22920517

Powerful vascular protection by combining cilnidipine with valsartan in stroke-prone, spontaneously hypertensive rats

PubMed Central

Takai, Shinji; Jin, Denan; Aritomi, Shizuka; Niinuma, Kazumi; Miyazaki, Mizuo

2013-01-01

Cilnidipine is an L- and N-type calcium channel blocker (CCB), and amlodipine is an L-type CCB. Valsartan (10 mg kg−1), valsartan (10 mg kg−1) and amlodipine (1 mg kg−1), and valsartan (10 mg kg−1) and cilnidipine (1 mg kg−1) were administered once daily for 2 weeks to stroke-prone, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-SPs). Blood pressure was significantly reduced by valsartan, and it was further reduced by the combination therapies. Vascular endothelial dysfunction was significantly attenuated in all therapeutic groups, and further significant attenuation was observed in the valsartan+cilnidipine-treated group, but not in the valsartan+amlodipine-treated group. Vascular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunit NOX1 gene expression was significantly attenuated in all therapeutic groups, and significantly greater attenuation was observed in the valsartan+cilnidipine-treated group than in the valsartan-treated group. Compared with the valsartan-treated group, the positive areas for 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal were significantly lower only in the valsartan+cilnidipine-treated group. Plasma renin activity was significantly augmented in the valsartan-treated group, and it was significantly attenuated in the valsartan+cilnidipine-treated group. A significant increase in the ratio of plasma angiotensin-(1-7) to angiotensin II was observed only in the valsartan+cilnidipine-treated group. Vascular angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene expression was significantly attenuated only in the valsartan+cilnidipine-treated group, but ACE2 gene expression was significantly higher in all of the therapeutic groups. Thus, valsartan and cilnidipine combination therapy might have a powerful protective effect in the vascular tissues via increases in the angiotensin-(1-7)/angiotensin II ratio in plasma. PMID:23190689

Communicative Coping Behavior Checklist: Observation of Persons With Dementia in the Home Environment.

PubMed

Saunders, Pamela A; Ruth, Julia; Latella, Lauren; Talisman, Nicholas

2016-08-01

Communication contributes to increased stress, mortality, and decreased quality of life (QOL) for persons with dementia (PWD) and caregivers. PWD use communicative coping behaviors (CCBs) to manage the demands of the disease. However, most assessments neither look for nor give credit to communication behaviors. This is the first study to examine CCBs in the home environment as measured by the Communicative Coping Behavior Checklist (CCBC). This cross-sectional quantitative study included 26 dementia and 18 cognitively normal control dyads. Raters observed their partners' CCBs at home, over several weeks and completed the CCBC. We analyzed the endorsement rates (how often behaviors were observed by a rater) of emotion and activity-focused CCBs in dementia and control dyads. The primary outcome was rate of CCB endorsement. Secondary outcomes included dementia diagnosis, cognitive status, depressive mood, life satisfaction (SWL) and QOL. Dementia dyads endorsed 11 of 23 CCBs significantly more than control dyads. Action-focused CCBs (p < .001) were more frequent than emotion-focused CCBs (p = .004) in dementia dyads. Specific CCBs such as humor correlated with higher caregiver QOL (p = .019) and PWD's SWL (p = .003). Another CCB, general humor, correlated with lower PWD's SWL (p = .024). This was the first study to examine CCBs in the home environment comparing dementia and control dyads. Higher endorsement rates of action-focused than emotion-focused CCBs were seen in dementia dyads. We conclude that attention to CCBs during treatment and care will improve QOL and SWL of PWD and caregivers. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The Effects of Computer-Aided Design Software on Engineering Students' Spatial Visualisation Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kösa, Temel; Karakus, Fatih

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of computer-aided design (CAD) software-based instruction on the spatial visualisation skills of freshman engineering students in a computer-aided engineering drawing course. A quasi-experimental design was applied, using the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test-Visualization of Rotations…

Computer Aided Design: Instructional Manual. The North Dakota High Technology Mobile Laboratory Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheng, Wan-Lee

This instructional manual contains 12 learning activity packets for use in a workshop in computer-aided design and drafting (CADD). The lessons cover the following topics: introduction to computer graphics and computer-aided design/drafting; coordinate systems; advance space graphics hardware configuration and basic features of the IBM PC…

Modeling strategic behavior in human-automation interaction - Why an 'aid' can (and should) go unused

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kirlik, Alex

1993-01-01

Task-offload aids (e.g., an autopilot, an 'intelligent' assistant) can be selectively engaged by the human operator to dynamically delegate tasks to automation. Introducing such aids eliminates some task demands but creates new ones associated with programming, engaging, and disengaging the aiding device via an interface. The burdens associated with managing automation can sometimes outweigh the potential benefits of automation to improved system performance. Aid design parameters and features of the overall multitask context combine to determine whether or not a task-offload aid will effectively support the operator. A modeling and sensitivity analysis approach is presented that identifies effective strategies for human-automation interaction as a function of three task-context parameters and three aid design parameters. The analysis and modeling approaches provide resources for predicting how a well-adapted operator will use a given task-offload aid, and for specifying aid design features that ensure that automation will provide effective operator support in a multitask environment.

Manipulating the Geometric Computer-aided Design of the Operational Requirements-based Casualty Assessment Model within BRL-CAD

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-03-30

ARL-TR-8336 ● MAR 2018 US Army Research Laboratory Manipulating the Geometric Computer-aided Design of the Operational...so designated by other authorized documents. Citation of manufacturer’s or trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of...Army Research Laboratory Manipulating the Geometric Computer-aided Design of the Operational Requirements-based Casualty Assessment Model within

Computer-aided design development transition for IPAD environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Owens, H. G.; Mock, W. D.; Mitchell, J. C.

1980-01-01

The relationship of federally sponsored computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) programs to the aircraft life cycle design process, an overview of NAAD'S CAD development program, an evaluation of the CAD design process, a discussion of the current computing environment within which NAAD is developing its CAD system, some of the advantages/disadvantages of the NAAD-IPAD approach, and CAD developments during transition into the IPAD system are discussed.

Design Aids for Real-Time Systems (DARTS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szulewski, P. A.

1982-01-01

Design-Aids for Real-Time Systems (DARTS) is a tool that assists in defining embedded computer systems through tree structured graphics, military standard documentation support, and various analyses including automated Software Science parameter counting and metrics calculation. These analyses provide both static and dynamic design quality feedback which can potentially aid in producing efficient, high quality software systems.

[Use of decamethoxine in the complex treatment of chronic bronchitis].

PubMed

Iukhimets, V A; Pilipchuk, V N

1990-02-01

Seventy-two patients with chronic bronchitis were examined and divided into 3 groups. Group I consisted of patients with chronic catarrhal bronchitis (CCB) group II of those with chronic purulent bronchitis (CPB), group III of subjects with bronchitis associated with purulent destructive pulmonary diseases. All the patients received combined treatment with decamethoxin as an antibacterial modality. It was found that decamethoxin promotes elimination of the infection of the bronchial secretion in 60% of chronic bronchitis suffers, the incidence of microorganisms resistent to several antibiotics reduced 2-fold. Local use of decamethoxin as an antibacterial and antiinflammatory drug in multimodality treatment of chronic purulent bronchitis proved highly effective.

Regge Trajectories of triply heavy baryons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rai, Ajay Kumar; Shah, Zalak

2017-12-01

Ω ccc , Ω bbb , Ω bcc and Ω ccb baryons are considerable theoretical interest in a baryonic analogue of heavy quarkonium because of the color-singlet bound state of three heavy quark (c,b) combination inside. Regge trajectories are concerned with the mass spectrum of the particles so that the present study exhibits the regge trajectories obtained from excited states of four experimentally unknown triply heavy Ω baryons. The trajectories are plotted in (n, M 2) and (J, M 2) planes which are helpful to determine the unknown quantum number and JP values. The calculations have computed in Hypercentral Constituent Quark Model with hyper coulomb plus linear potential.

Financial Aid for Veterans, Military Personnel and Their Dependents, 1996-1998. A List of: Scholarships, Fellowships/Grants, Loans, Grants-in-Aid, Awards, and Internships Designed Primarily or Exclusively for Veterans, Military Personnel, and Their Dependents; State Sources of Benefits; and Reference Source on Financial Aids.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schlachter, Gail Ann; Weber, R. David

This directory lists 1,207 student financial aid programs or other services designed primarily or exclusively for veterans, military personnel, and their dependents. An introduction provides a sample entry and explains how to use the directory. The section on financial aid programs is organized, first, by type of aid scholarship, fellowship or…

Software and resources for computational medicinal chemistry

PubMed Central

Liao, Chenzhong; Sitzmann, Markus; Pugliese, Angelo; Nicklaus, Marc C

2011-01-01

Computer-aided drug design plays a vital role in drug discovery and development and has become an indispensable tool in the pharmaceutical industry. Computational medicinal chemists can take advantage of all kinds of software and resources in the computer-aided drug design field for the purposes of discovering and optimizing biologically active compounds. This article reviews software and other resources related to computer-aided drug design approaches, putting particular emphasis on structure-based drug design, ligand-based drug design, chemical databases and chemoinformatics tools. PMID:21707404

Photogrammetry and computer-aided piping design

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

Keneflick, J.F.; Chirillo, R.D.

1985-02-18

Three-dimensional measurements taken from photographs of a plant model can be digitized and linked with computer-aided piping design. This can short-cut the design and construction of new plants and expedite repair and retrofitting projects. Some designers bridge the gap between model and computer by digitizing from orthographic prints obtained via orthography or the laser scanning of model sections. Such valve or fitting then processed is described in this paper. The marriage of photogrammetry and computer-aided piping design can economically produce such numerical drawings.

CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacture). A Brief Guide to Materials in the Library of Congress.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Havas, George D.

This brief guide to materials in the Library of Congress (LC) on computer aided design and/or computer aided manufacturing lists reference materials and other information sources under 13 headings: (1) brief introductions; (2) LC subject headings used for such materials; (3) textbooks; (4) additional titles; (5) glossaries and handbooks; (6)…

Using the theory of planned behaviour to understand the motivation to learn about HIV/AIDS prevention among adolescents in Tigray, Ethiopia.

PubMed

Gebreeyesus Hadera, H; Boer, H; Kuiper, W A J M

2007-08-01

Various studies indicate that school- or university-based HIV prevention curricula can reduce the prevalence of sexual risk behaviour among adolescent youth in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, effective HIV/AIDS prevention education may be problematic, if the needs of youth are not served adequately. To date, little attention has been given to the motivation of youth to learn about HIV/AIDS and about their preferences for HIV/AIDS curriculum design options. The aim of this study was to get insight into the determinants of the motivation of youth to learn about HIV/AIDS prevention and to assess their curriculum design preferences. Students from a university in Tigray, Ethiopia, filled out a structured questionnaire, which assessed demographics, variables that according to the Theory of Planned Behaviour are related to the motivation to learn, and their preferences for independent, carrier and integrated HIV/AIDS curriculum designs. On average, participants were highly motivated to learn about HIV/AIDS. Motivation to learn was primarily related to social norms and was not related to self-efficacy to discuss HIV/AIDS in class. The often discussed reluctance to discuss sexuality and condom use in curricula in Sub-Saharan Africa, seems to be more related to existing negative social norms, than to lack of self-efficacy. Participants revealed a high preference for the independent, carrier and integrated curriculum design options. However, students with a higher motivation to learn about HIV/AIDS were more attracted to the independent course design.

Computer Aided Drug Design: Success and Limitations.

PubMed

Baig, Mohammad Hassan; Ahmad, Khurshid; Roy, Sudeep; Ashraf, Jalaluddin Mohammad; Adil, Mohd; Siddiqui, Mohammad Haris; Khan, Saif; Kamal, Mohammad Amjad; Provazník, Ivo; Choi, Inho

2016-01-01

Over the last few decades, computer-aided drug design has emerged as a powerful technique playing a crucial role in the development of new drug molecules. Structure-based drug design and ligand-based drug design are two methods commonly used in computer-aided drug design. In this article, we discuss the theory behind both methods, as well as their successful applications and limitations. To accomplish this, we reviewed structure based and ligand based virtual screening processes. Molecular dynamics simulation, which has become one of the most influential tool for prediction of the conformation of small molecules and changes in their conformation within the biological target, has also been taken into account. Finally, we discuss the principles and concepts of molecular docking, pharmacophores and other methods used in computer-aided drug design.

Software For Computer-Aided Design Of Control Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wette, Matthew

1994-01-01

Computer Aided Engineering System (CAESY) software developed to provide means to evaluate methods for dealing with users' needs in computer-aided design of control systems. Interpreter program for performing engineering calculations. Incorporates features of both Ada and MATLAB. Designed to be flexible and powerful. Includes internally defined functions, procedures and provides for definition of functions and procedures by user. Written in C language.

Hearing aid user guides: suitability for older adults.

PubMed

Caposecco, Andrea; Hickson, Louise; Meyer, Carly

2014-02-01

The aim of this study was to analyse the content, design, and readability of printed hearing aid user guides to determine their suitability for older adults, who are the main users of hearing aids. Hearing aid user guides were assessed using four readability formulae and a standardized tool to assess content and design (SAM - Suitability Assessment of Materials). A sample of 36 hearing aid user guides (four user guides from nine different hearing aid manufacturers) were analysed. Sixty nine percent of user guides were rated 'not suitable' and 31% were rated 'adequate' for their suitability. Many scored poorly for scope, vocabulary, aspects of layout and typography, and learning stimulation and motivation. The mean reading grade level for all user guides was grade 9.6 which is too high for older adults. The content, design, and readability of hearing aid user guides are not optimal for older adults and thus may serve as a barrier to successful hearing aid outcomes for this population.

Deep-reasoning fault diagnosis - An aid and a model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yoon, Wan Chul; Hammer, John M.

1988-01-01

The design and evaluation are presented for the knowledge-based assistance of a human operator who must diagnose a novel fault in a dynamic, physical system. A computer aid based on a qualitative model of the system was built to help the operators overcome some of their cognitive limitations. This aid differs from most expert systems in that it operates at several levels of interaction that are believed to be more suitable for deep reasoning. Four aiding approaches, each of which provided unique information to the operator, were evaluated. The aiding features were designed to help the human's casual reasoning about the system in predicting normal system behavior (N aiding), integrating observations into actual system behavior (O aiding), finding discrepancies between the two (O-N aiding), or finding discrepancies between observed behavior and hypothetical behavior (O-HN aiding). Human diagnostic performance was found to improve by almost a factor of two with O aiding and O-N aiding.

Employment Opportunities for the Handicapped in Programmable Automation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swift, Richard; Leneway, Robert

A Computer Integrated Manufacturing System may make it possible for severely disabled people to custom design, machine, and manufacture either wood or metal parts. Programmable automation merges computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing, computer aided engineering, and computer integrated manufacturing systems with automated production…

The Research of Computer Aided Farm Machinery Designing Method Based on Ergonomics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Xiyin; Li, Xinling; Song, Qiang; Zheng, Ying

Along with agricultural economy development, the farm machinery product type Increases gradually, the ergonomics question is also getting more and more prominent. The widespread application of computer aided machinery design makes it possible that farm machinery design is intuitive, flexible and convenient. At present, because the developed computer aided ergonomics software has not suitable human body database, which is needed in view of farm machinery design in China, the farm machinery design have deviation in ergonomics analysis. This article puts forward that using the open database interface procedure in CATIA to establish human body database which aims at the farm machinery design, and reading the human body data to ergonomics module of CATIA can product practical application virtual body, using human posture analysis and human activity analysis module to analysis the ergonomics in farm machinery, thus computer aided farm machinery designing method based on engineering can be realized.

Acquisition and production of skilled behavior in dynamic decision-making tasks: Modeling strategic behavior in human-automation interaction: Why and aid can (and should) go unused

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kirlik, Alex

1991-01-01

Advances in computer and control technology offer the opportunity for task-offload aiding in human-machine systems. A task-offload aid (e.g., an autopilot, an intelligent assistant) can be selectively engaged by the human operator to dynamically delegate tasks to an automated system. Successful design and performance prediction in such systems requires knowledge of the factors influencing the strategy the operator develops and uses for managing interaction with the task-offload aid. A model is presented that shows how such strategies can be predicted as a function of three task context properties (frequency and duration of secondary tasks and costs of delaying secondary tasks) and three aid design properties (aid engagement and disengagement times, aid performance relative to human performance). Sensitivity analysis indicates how each of these contextual and design factors affect the optimal aid aid usage strategy and attainable system performance. The model is applied to understanding human-automation interaction in laboratory experiments on human supervisory control behavior. The laboratory task allowed subjects freedom to determine strategies for using an autopilot in a dynamic, multi-task environment. Modeling results suggested that many subjects may indeed have been acting appropriately by not using the autopilot in the way its designers intended. Although autopilot function was technically sound, this aid was not designed with due regard to the overall task context in which it was placed. These results demonstrate the need for additional research on how people may strategically manage their own resources, as well as those provided by automation, in an effort to keep workload and performance at acceptable levels.

A Method to Develop Neck Injury Criteria to Aid Design and Test of Escape Systems Incorporating Helmet Mounted Displays

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

The military aviation community began designing and building ejection seats for high speed aircraft after World War II. As pilot safety became...AFIT-ENV-DS-14-S-22 A METHOD TO DEVELOP NECK INJURY CRITERIA TO AID DESIGN AND TEST OF ESCAPE SYSTEMS...protection in the United States. AFIT-ENV-DS-14-S-22 A METHOD TO DEVELOP NECK INJURY CRITERIA TO AID DESIGN AND TEST OF ESCAPE SYSTEMS

Computer Instructional Aids for Undergraduate Control Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Volz, Richard A.; And Others

Engineering is coming to rely more and more heavily upon the computer for computations, analyses, and graphic displays which aid the design process. A general purpose simulation system, the Time-shared Automatic Control Laboratory (TACL), and a set of computer-aided design programs, Control Oriented Interactive Graphic Analysis and Design…

Computer Aided Design in Engineering Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gobin, R.

1986-01-01

Discusses the use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) systems in an undergraduate engineering education program. Provides a rationale for CAD/CAM use in the already existing engineering program. Describes the methods used in choosing the systems, some initial results, and warnings for first-time users. (TW)

[Clinical skills and outcomes of chair-side computer aided design and computer aided manufacture system].

PubMed

Yu, Q

2018-04-09

Computer aided design and computer aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) technology is a kind of oral digital system which is applied to clinical diagnosis and treatment. It overturns the traditional pattern, and provides a solution to restore defect tooth quickly and efficiently. In this paper we mainly discuss the clinical skills of chair-side CAD/CAM system, including tooth preparation, digital impression, the three-dimensional design of prosthesis, numerical control machining, clinical bonding and so on, and review the outcomes of several common kinds of materials at the same time.

Combining principles of Cognitive Load Theory and diagnostic error analysis for designing job aids: Effects on motivation and diagnostic performance in a process control task.

PubMed

Kluge, Annette; Grauel, Britta; Burkolter, Dina

2013-03-01

Two studies are presented in which the design of a procedural aid and the impact of an additional decision aid for process control were assessed. In Study 1, a procedural aid was developed that avoids imposing unnecessary extraneous cognitive load on novices when controlling a complex technical system. This newly designed procedural aid positively affected germane load, attention, satisfaction, motivation, knowledge acquisition and diagnostic speed for novel faults. In Study 2, the effect of a decision aid for use before the procedural aid was investigated, which was developed based on an analysis of diagnostic errors committed in Study 1. Results showed that novices were able to diagnose both novel faults and practised faults, and were even faster at diagnosing novel faults. This research contributes to the question of how to optimally support novices in dealing with technical faults in process control. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd and The Ergonomics Society. All rights reserved.

The impact of self-efficacy, expectations, and readiness on hearing aid outcomes.

PubMed

Ferguson, Melanie A; Woolley, Annie; Munro, Kevin J

2016-07-01

To examine the impact of self-efficacy and expectations for hearing aids, and readiness to improve hearing, on hearing aid outcome measures in first-time adult hearing aid users Design: A prospective, single centre design. Predictor variables measured at the hearing assessment included measures of self-efficacy, expectations and readiness to improve hearing. Outcome measures obtained at six-week follow-up were the Glasgow Hearing Aid Benefit Profile and Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life. A sample of 30 first-time adult hearing aid users were recruited through a public-sector funded audiology clinic. When measured prior to hearing aid fitting, self-efficacy for hearing aids predicted satisfaction with hearing aids but was not related to other hearing aid outcomes. Expectations of hearing aids, in particular positive expectations, and readiness to improve hearing predicted outcomes for hearing aid satisfaction and benefit, although not hearing aid use. Hearing sensitivity was not correlated with hearing aid outcomes. These results suggest that assessment of expectations of hearing aids, and readiness to improve hearing, may be useful to help identify individuals attending audiology clinics who would most likely benefit from hearing aid provision.

14 CFR 152.607 - Building design requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Building design requirements. 152.607... (CONTINUED) AIRPORTS AIRPORT AID PROGRAM Energy Conservation in Airport Aid Program § 152.607 Building design... or major building modification project proposed at the airport. The building design, construction...

Study Guide for First Aid Practices.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thygerson, Alton L.

This study guide is designed to accompany the American National Red Cross texts ADVANCED FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY CARE and STANDARD FIRST AID AND PERSONAL SAFETY. Part one serves as an introduction to first aid. The legal aspects of first aid are discussed along with a list of suggested first aid kit contents, and information on first aid books is…

Intramolecular B-B Linkage Between Polyhedral Cages in a Commo-Metallacarborane. Synthesis and Structure of a Fluxional Metal-Boron Cluster, (n(5)-C5(CH3)5)2Co3(CH3)4C4B8H7.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-11-01

FINSTER , E SINN, R N GRIMES N0001475--0305 UNCLASSIFIED TR-35 NL’ minimnmlhnnnhu ,IIIIIIIIIIIIIl hEIIIIIIIIEIII EEEEEEEEEEEL 1.8 MICROCOPY’ RESOLUTION...David C./ Finster Ekk/inn Russell . Grimes Department of Chemistry ",00t University ofLyirginla ’ Charlottesville, Va. 22901 Prepared for Publication In...a Commo-Metallacarborane. Synthesis and Structure of a Fluxi:. Metal-Boron Cluster, [n5C 5 (CCB3)512HCo3(C13)4C4B8H7 David C. Finster , Ekk Sinn, and

Using Technology to Facilitate Collaboration in Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR)

PubMed Central

Jessell, Lauren; Smith, Vivian; Jemal, Alexis; Windsor, Liliane

2017-01-01

This study explores the use of Computer-Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW) technologies, by way of a computer-based system called iCohere. This system was used to facilitate collaboration conducting Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR). Data was gathered from 13 members of a Community Collaborative Board (CCB). Analysis revealed that iCohere served the following functions: facilitating communication, providing a depository for information and resource sharing, and allowing for remote meeting attendance. Results indicated that while iCohere was useful in performing these functions, less expensive technologies had the potential to achieve similar goals if properly implemented. Implications for future research on CSCW systems and CBPR are discussed. PMID:29056871

Software Tools for Shipbuilding Productivity

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-12-01

shipbuilding, is that design, manufacturing and robotic technology applications to shipbuilding have been proven. all aspects of shipbuilding is now a task...technical information about the process of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) effectively has been a problem of serious and...Design (CAD) 3.4.1 CAD System Components 3.4.2 CAD System Benefits 3.4.3 New and Future CAD Technologies Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) 3.5.1 CAM

Design, Development, and Evaluation of Visual Aids for Communicating Prescription Drug Instructions to Nonliterate Patients in Rural Cameroon.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ngoh, Lucy N.; Shepherd, Marvin D.

1997-01-01

Culturally sensitive visual aids designed to help convey drug information to nonliterate female adults requiring antibiotics were developed. Researchers conceptualized the messages, and a local artist produced the visual aids. Comprehension and compliance with prescription instructions were evaluated (N=78). Results and practical implications are…

Teaching Computer-Aided Design of Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer Engineering Equipment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gosman, A. D.; And Others

1979-01-01

Describes a teaching program for fluid mechanics and heat transfer which contains both computer aided learning (CAL) and computer aided design (CAD) components and argues that the understanding of the physical and numerical modeling taught in the CAL course is essential to the proper implementation of CAD. (Author/CMV)

PUZZLE - A program for computer-aided design of printed circuit artwork

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrell, D. A. W.; Zane, R.

1971-01-01

Program assists in solving spacing problems encountered in printed circuit /PC/ design. It is intended to have maximum use for two-sided PC boards carrying integrated circuits, and also aids design of discrete component circuits.

Three-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics

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

Haworth, D.C.; O'Rourke, P.J.; Ranganathan, R.

1998-09-01

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is one discipline falling under the broad heading of computer-aided engineering (CAE). CAE, together with computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), comprise a mathematical-based approach to engineering product and process design, analysis and fabrication. In this overview of CFD for the design engineer, our purposes are three-fold: (1) to define the scope of CFD and motivate its utility for engineering, (2) to provide a basic technical foundation for CFD, and (3) to convey how CFD is incorporated into engineering product and process design.

State of the art in perceptual design of hearing aids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, Brent W.; van Tasell, Dianne J.

2002-05-01

Hearing aid capabilities have increased dramatically over the past six years, in large part due to the development of small, low-power digital signal processing chips suitable for hearing aid applications. As hearing aid signal processing capabilities increase, there will be new opportunities to apply perceptually based knowledge to technological development. Most hearing loss compensation techniques in today's hearing aids are based on simple estimates of audibility and loudness. As our understanding of the psychoacoustical and physiological characteristics of sensorineural hearing loss improves, the result should be improved design of hearing aids and fitting methods. The state of the art in hearing aids will be reviewed, including form factors, user requirements, and technology that improves speech intelligibility, sound quality, and functionality. General areas of auditory perception that remain unaddressed by current hearing aid technology will be discussed.

NASA Human Integration Design Handbook (HIDH): Revitalization of Space-Related Human Factors, Environmental, and Habitability Data and Design Guidance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stroud, Kenneth; Pickett, Lynn; Tillman, Barry

2008-01-01

This poster presentation reviews the Human Integration Design Handbook (HIDH). It provides guidance and data to aid vehicle / habitat designers in human-system integration It also aids requirements writers in development of human-system integration requirements from SFHSS Standards

Understanding the low uptake of bone-anchored hearing aids: a review.

PubMed

Powell, R; Wearden, A; Pardesi, S M; Green, K

2017-03-01

Bone-anchored hearing aids improve hearing for patients for whom conventional behind-the-ear aids are problematic. However, uptake of bone-anchored hearing aids is low and it is important to understand why this is the case. A narrative review was conducted. Studies examining why people accept or decline bone-anchored hearing aids and satisfaction levels of people with bone-anchored hearing aids were reviewed. Reasons for declining bone-anchored hearing aids included limited perceived benefits, concerns about surgery, aesthetic concerns and treatment cost. No studies providing in-depth analysis of the reasons for declining or accepting bone-anchored hearing aids were identified. Studies of patient satisfaction showed that most participants reported benefits with bone-anchored hearing aids. However, most studies used cross-sectional and/or retrospective designs and only included people with bone-anchored hearing aids. Important avenues for further research are in-depth qualitative research designed to fully understand the decision-making process for bone-anchored hearing aids and rigorous quantitative research comparing satisfaction of people who receive bone-anchored hearing aids with those who receive alternative (or no) treatments.

DeMAID/GA an Enhanced Design Manager's Aid for Intelligent Decomposition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, J. L.

1996-01-01

Many companies are looking for new tools and techniques to aid a design manager in making decisions that can reduce the time and cost of a design cycle. One tool is the Design Manager's Aid for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMAID). Since the initial public release of DeMAID in 1989, much research has been done in the areas of decomposition, concurrent engineering, parallel processing, and process management; many new tools and techniques have emerged. Based on these recent research and development efforts, numerous enhancements have been added to DeMAID to further aid the design manager in saving both cost and time in a design cycle. The key enhancement, a genetic algorithm (GA), will be available in the next public release called DeMAID/GA. The GA sequences the design processes to minimize the cost and time in converging a solution. The major enhancements in the upgrade of DeMAID to DeMAID/GA are discussed in this paper. A sample conceptual design project is used to show how these enhancements can be applied to improve the design cycle.

Using the Continuum of Design Modelling Techniques to Aid the Development of CAD Modeling Skills in First Year Industrial Design Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Storer, I. J.; Campbell, R. I.

2012-01-01

Industrial Designers need to understand and command a number of modelling techniques to communicate their ideas to themselves and others. Verbal explanations, sketches, engineering drawings, computer aided design (CAD) models and physical prototypes are the most commonly used communication techniques. Within design, unlike some disciplines,…

Computer-aided drug design for AMP-activated protein kinase activators.

PubMed

Wang, Zhanli; Huo, Jianxin; Sun, Lidan; Wang, Yongfu; Jin, Hongwei; Yu, Hui; Zhang, Liangren; Zhou, Lishe

2011-09-01

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is an important therapeutic target for the potential treatment of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Recently, various classes of compounds that activate AMPK by direct or indirect interactions have been reported. The importance of computer-aided drug design approaches in the search for potent activators of AMPK is now established, including structure-based design, ligand-based design, fragment-based design, as well as structural analysis. This review article highlights the computer-aided drug design approaches utilized to discover of activators targeting AMPK. The principles, advantages or limitation of the different methods are also being discussed together with examples of applications taken from the literatures.

Strategies for the Creation, Design and Implementation of Effective Interactive Computer-Aided Learning Software in Numerate Business Subjects--The Byzantium Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilkinson-Riddle, G. J.; Patel, Ashok

1998-01-01

Discusses courseware development, including intelligent tutoring systems, under the Teaching and Learning Technology Programme and the Byzantium project that was designed to define computer-aided learning performance standards suitable for numerate business subjects; examine reasons to use computer-aided learning; and improve access to educational…

Office of Student Financial Aid Quality Improvement Program: Design and Implementation Plan.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Advanced Technology, Inc., Reston, VA.

The purpose and direction of the quality improvement program of the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) are described. The improvement program was designed to develop a systematic approach to identify, measure, and correct errors in the student aid delivery system. Information is provided on the general approach…

Enhancing Engineering Computer-Aided Design Education Using Lectures Recorded on the PC

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGrann, Roy T. R.

2006-01-01

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) is a course that is required during the third year in the mechanical engineering curriculum at Binghamton University. The primary objective of the course is to educate students in the procedures of computer-aided engineering design. The solid modeling and analysis program Pro/Engineer[TM] (PTC[R]) is used as the…

Creation of Anatomically Accurate Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Solid Models from Medical Images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, John E.; Graham, R. Scott; Samareh, Jamshid A.; Oberlander, Eric J.; Broaddus, William C.

1999-01-01

Most surgical instrumentation and implants used in the world today are designed with sophisticated Computer-Aided Design (CAD)/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software. This software automates the mechanical development of a product from its conceptual design through manufacturing. CAD software also provides a means of manipulating solid models prior to Finite Element Modeling (FEM). Few surgical products are designed in conjunction with accurate CAD models of human anatomy because of the difficulty with which these models are created. We have developed a novel technique that creates anatomically accurate, patient specific CAD solids from medical images in a matter of minutes.

An Oral History Study of Foreign Design Experts' Influence on Taiwanese Early Design Education from 1963 to 1966

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lai, Chien-Tu Jeff

2013-01-01

There are documented accounts of the influential role of U.S. aid in the development of Taiwanese design education. Missing from the historical records of design education, however, are the perspectives of local design practitioners who participated in the design workshops during the period of U.S. aid to Taiwan, 1963 to 1966. Using face-to-face…

78 FR 5458 - Medicare Program; Request for Information To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-25

...] Medicare Program; Request for Information To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey Regarding..., well-designed Hospice Survey will allow us to understand: (1) Patient experiences throughout their... accordance with CAHPS[supreg] Survey Design Principles and implementation instructions will be based on those...

Remote Science Operation Center research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, P. M.

1986-01-01

Progress in the following areas is discussed: the design, planning and operation of a remote science payload operations control center; design and planning of a data link via satellite; and the design and prototyping of an advanced workstation environment for multi-media (3-D computer aided design/computer aided engineering, voice, video, text) communications and operations.

MEMS Technology for Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

vandenBerg, A.; Spiering, V. L.; Lammerink, T. S. J.; Elwenspoek, M.; Bergveld, P.

1995-01-01

Micro-technology enables the manufacturing of all kinds of components for miniature systems or micro-systems, such as sensors, pumps, valves, and channels. The integration of these components into a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) drastically decreases the total system volume and mass. These properties, combined with the increasing need for monitoring and control of small flows in (bio)chemical experiments, makes MEMS attractive for space applications. The level of integration and applied technology depends on the product demands and the market. The ultimate integration is process integration, which results in a one-chip system. An example of process integration is a dosing system of pump, flow sensor, micromixer, and hybrid feedback electronics to regulate the flow. However, for many applications, a hybrid integration of components is sufficient and offers the advantages of design flexibility and even the exchange of components in the case of a modular set up. Currently, we are working on hybrid integration of all kinds of sensors (physical and chemical) and flow system modules towards a modular system; the micro total analysis system (micro TAS). The substrate contains electrical connections as in a printed circuit board (PCB) as well as fluid channels for a circuit channel board (CCB) which, when integrated, form a mixed circuit board (MCB).

Olmesartan/amlodipine: a review of its use in the management of hypertension

PubMed Central

Kreutz, R

2011-01-01

Combination therapy is an effective strategy to increase antihypertensive efficacy in those patients with poor blood pressure (BP) control. In order to achieve BP targets, at least 75% of patients may require combination therapy, and European guidelines advocate this approach, particularly in those patients with a high cardiovascular risk. Evidence from large, randomized controlled trials, and the European hypertension treatment guidelines is supportive of the use of an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) with a calcium channel blocker (CCB). Fixed-dose combination formulations of olmesartan medoxomil, an ARB, and the CCB amlodipine are approved in several European countries for patients with essential hypertension. The olmesartan/amlodipine combination has demonstrated greater efficacy than its component monotherapies in reducing BP in patients with mild-to-severe hypertension. Significantly greater reductions in seated diastolic BP were observed between baseline and after eight weeks of treatment with olmesartan/amlodipine, compared with equivalent doses of olmesartan or amolodipine monotherapy (P < 0.001), in the factorial Combination of Olmesartan Medoxomil and Amlodipine Besylate in Controlling High Blood Pressure (COACH) trial. About 85% of the maximal BP reductions after the 8-week treatment period were already observed after two weeks. Uptitration as necessary, with or without hydrochlorothiazide, allowed the majority of patients to achieve BP control in a 44-week open-label extension treatment period to the COACH trial. The use of olmesartan/amlodipine allowed up to 54% of patients, with previously inadequate responses to amlodipine or olmesartan monotherapy, to achieve their BP goals. Data from post-registration studies using tight BP control and forced titration regimens have further demonstrated the high efficacy of olmesartan/amlodipine in achieving BP goal rates. Moreover, consistent reductions in BP were observed over the 24-hour dosing interval using ambulatory measurements. Olmesartan/amlodipine was generally well tolerated over the short- and long-term, with a lower frequency of peripheral edema with olmesartan/amlodipine 40/10 mg than with amlodipine 10 mg monotherapy. PMID:21490944

Nifedipine inhibits advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptor (RAGE) interaction-mediated proximal tubular cell injury via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma activation

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

Matsui, Takanori; Yamagishi, Sho-ichi, E-mail: shoichi@med.kurume-u.ac.jp; Takeuchi, Masayoshi

2010-07-23

Research highlights: {yields} Nifedipine inhibited the AGE-induced up-regulation of RAGE mRNA levels in tubular cells, which was prevented by GW9662, an inhibitor of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-{gamma}. {yields} GW9662 treatment alone increased RAGE mRNA levels in tubular cells. {yields} Nifedipine inhibited the AGE-induced reactive oxygen species generation, NF-{kappa}B activation and increases in intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and transforming growth factor-{beta} gene expression in tubular cells, all of which were blocked by GW9662. -- Abstract: There is a growing body of evidence that advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptor (RAGE) interaction evokes oxidative stress generation and subsequently elicits inflammatory and fibrogenicmore » reactions, thereby contributing to the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy. We have previously found that nifedipine, a calcium-channel blocker (CCB), inhibits the AGE-induced mesangial cell damage in vitro. However, effects of nifedipine on proximal tubular cell injury remain unknown. We examined here whether and how nifedipine blocked the AGE-induced tubular cell damage. Nifedipine, but not amlodipine, a control CCB, inhibited the AGE-induced up-regulation of RAGE mRNA levels in tubular cells, which was prevented by the simultaneous treatment of GW9662, an inhibitor of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-{gamma} (PPAR{gamma}). GW9662 treatment alone was found to increase RAGE mRNA levels in tubular cells. Further, nifedipine inhibited the AGE-induced reactive oxygen species generation, NF-{kappa}B activation and increases in intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and transforming growth factor-beta gene expression in tubular cells, all of which were blocked by GW9662. Our present study provides a unique beneficial aspect of nifedipine on diabetic nephropathy; it could work as an anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory agent against AGEs in tubular cells by suppressing RAGE expression via PPAR{gamma} activation.« less

Adaptation of an L-proline adenylation domain to use 4-propyl-L-proline in the evolution of lincosamide biosynthesis.

PubMed

Kadlčík, Stanislav; Kučera, Tomáš; Chalupská, Dominika; Gažák, Radek; Koběrská, Markéta; Ulanová, Dana; Kopecký, Jan; Kutejová, Eva; Najmanová, Lucie; Janata, Jiří

2013-01-01

Clinically used lincosamide antibiotic lincomycin incorporates in its structure 4-propyl-L-proline (PPL), an unusual amino acid, while celesticetin, a less efficient related compound, makes use of proteinogenic L-proline. Biochemical characterization, as well as phylogenetic analysis and homology modelling combined with the molecular dynamics simulation were employed for complex comparative analysis of the orthologous protein pair LmbC and CcbC from the biosynthesis of lincomycin and celesticetin, respectively. The analysis proved the compared proteins to be the stand-alone adenylation domains strictly preferring their own natural substrate, PPL or L-proline. The LmbC substrate binding pocket is adapted to accommodate a rare PPL precursor. When compared with L-proline specific ones, several large amino acid residues were replaced by smaller ones opening a channel which allowed the alkyl side chain of PPL to be accommodated. One of the most important differences, that of the residue corresponding to V306 in CcbC changing to G308 in LmbC, was investigated in vitro and in silico. Moreover, the substrate binding pocket rearrangement also allowed LmbC to effectively adenylate 4-butyl-L-proline and 4-pentyl-L-proline, substrates with even longer alkyl side chains, producing more potent lincosamides. A shift of LmbC substrate specificity appears to be an integral part of biosynthetic pathway adaptation to the PPL acquisition. A set of genes presumably coding for the PPL biosynthesis is present in the lincomycin--but not in the celesticetin cluster; their homologs are found in biosynthetic clusters of some pyrrolobenzodiazepines (PBD) and hormaomycin. Whereas in the PBD and hormaomycin pathways the arising precursors are condensed to another amino acid moiety, the LmbC protein is the first functionally proved part of a unique condensation enzyme connecting PPL to the specialized amino sugar building unit.

State Student Financial Aid. Report and Recommendations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Florida State Postsecondary Education Planning Commission, Tallahassee.

This report presents the results of a review of all state student financial aid programs in Florida and presents recommendations concerning program consolidation. The review was designed to address a variety of aid-related issues, including unexpended financial aid resources, program consolidation, budget request and aid distribution procedures,…

Large Signal Modeling and Analysis of the GaAs MESFET.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-07-09

various dimensions and physical parameters. A powerful computer aided design system can be developed by automating the circuit element and parameter...circuit model of the GaAs MESFET to aid in the designs of microwave MESFET circuits. The circuit elements of this model are obtained either directly...34. -. ’ Abstract The purpose of this work is to develop a large signal signal lumped circuit model of the GaAs MESFET to aid In the designs of microwave MESFET

Computer-aided design of the RF-cavity for a high-power S-band klystron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kant, D.; Bandyopadhyay, A. K.; Pal, D.; Meena, R.; Nangru, S. C.; Joshi, L. M.

2012-08-01

This article describes the computer-aided design of the RF-cavity for a S-band klystron operating at 2856 MHz. State-of-the-art electromagnetic simulation tools SUPERFISH, CST Microwave studio, HFSS and MAGIC have been used for cavity design. After finalising the geometrical details of the cavity through simulation, it has been fabricated and characterised through cold testing. Detailed results of the computer-aided simulation and cold measurements are presented in this article.

Computer aided design of monolithic microwave and millimeter wave integrated circuits and subsystems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ku, Walter H.; Gang, Guan-Wan; He, J. Q.; Ichitsubo, I.

1988-05-01

This final technical report presents results on the computer aided design of monolithic microwave and millimeter wave integrated circuits and subsystems. New results include analytical and computer aided device models of GaAs MESFETs and HEMTs or MODFETs, new synthesis techniques for monolithic feedback and distributed amplifiers and a new nonlinear CAD program for MIMIC called CADNON. This program incorporates the new MESFET and HEMT model and has been successfully applied to the design of monolithic millimeter-wave mixers.

An Interactive Computer Aided Design and Analysis Package.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-03-01

Al-A167 114 AN INTERACTIVE COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN MUD ANAILYSIS 1/𔃼 PACKAGE(U) NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL NONTEREY CA T L EUALD "AR 86 UNCLSSIFIED F... SCHOOL Monterey, California DTIC .LECTE MAYOS THESIS AN INTERACTIVE COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN AND ANALYSIS PACKAGE by Terrence L. Ewald March 1986 jThesis...ORGANIZATION Naval Postgraduate School (if dAp90h81111) Naval Postgraduate School . 62A 6C. ADDRESS (0ty. State, and ZIP Code) 7b. ADDRESS (City State. and

CAD system for footwear design based on whole real 3D data of last surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Wanzhong; Su, Xianyu

2000-10-01

Two major parts of application of CAD in footwear design are studied: the development of last surface; computer-aided design of planar shoe-template. A new quasi-experiential development algorithm of last surface based on triangulation approximation is presented. This development algorithm consumes less time and does not need any interactive operation for precisely development compared with other development algorithm of last surface. Based on this algorithm, a software, SHOEMAKERTM, which contains computer aided automatic measurement, automatic development of last surface and computer aide design of shoe-template has been developed.

[Development of computer aided forming techniques in manufacturing scaffolds for bone tissue engineering].

PubMed

Wei, Xuelei; Dong, Fuhui

2011-12-01

To review recent advance in the research and application of computer aided forming techniques for constructing bone tissue engineering scaffolds. The literature concerning computer aided forming techniques for constructing bone tissue engineering scaffolds in recent years was reviewed extensively and summarized. Several studies over last decade have focused on computer aided forming techniques for bone scaffold construction using various scaffold materials, which is based on computer aided design (CAD) and bone scaffold rapid prototyping (RP). CAD include medical CAD, STL, and reverse design. Reverse design can fully simulate normal bone tissue and could be very useful for the CAD. RP techniques include fused deposition modeling, three dimensional printing, selected laser sintering, three dimensional bioplotting, and low-temperature deposition manufacturing. These techniques provide a new way to construct bone tissue engineering scaffolds with complex internal structures. With rapid development of molding and forming techniques, computer aided forming techniques are expected to provide ideal bone tissue engineering scaffolds.

Experiencing an Epidemic: A Seminar Designed To Explore the Spread and Prevention of the AIDS Virus.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rochlin, Joyce T.

A seminar was designed to present AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) related information to 52 college students enrolled in Psychology 101 courses at Essex Community College in Maryland. First, a questionnaire was administered to determine student knowledge about AIDS. The next part of the procedure was an intervention in the form of a…

Programming Design Guide for Computer Implementation of Job Aid for Selecting Instructional Setting. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schulz, Russel E.; And Others

This Programming Design Guide (PDG) was developed to permit the offline Job Aid for Selecting Instructional Setting, which is one of 13 job aids presently available for use with the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) model, to be available in an inquiry-type, online version. It is intended to provide computer programmers with all of the…

Defense Acquisitions Acronyms and Terms

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-01

Computer-Aided Design CADD Computer-Aided Design and Drafting CAE Component Acquisition Executive; Computer-Aided Engineering CAIV Cost As an...Radiation to Ordnance HFE Human Factors Engineering HHA Health Hazard Assessment HNA Host-Nation Approval HNS Host-Nation Support HOL High -Order...Engineering Change Proposal VHSIC Very High Speed Integrated Circuit VLSI Very Large Scale Integration VOC Volatile Organic Compound W WAN Wide

Consideration of Insulin Pumps or Continuous Glucose Monitors by Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes and Their Parents: Stakeholder Engagement in the Design of Web-Based Decision Aids.

PubMed

Wysocki, Tim; Hirschfeld, Fiona; Miller, Louis; Izenberg, Neil; Dowshen, Steven A; Taylor, Alex; Milkes, Amy; Shinseki, Michelle T; Bejarano, Carolina; Kozikowski, Chelsea; Kowal, Karen; Starr-Ashton, Penny; Ross, Judith L; Kummer, Mark; Carakushansky, Mauri; Lyness, D'Arcy; Brinkman, William; Pierce, Jessica; Fiks, Alexander; Christofferson, Jennifer; Rafalko, Jessica; Lawson, Margaret L

2016-08-01

This article describes the stakeholder-driven design, development, and testing of web-based, multimedia decision aids for youth with type 1 diabetes who are considering the insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring and their parents. This is the initial phase of work designed to develop and evaluate the efficacy of these decision aids in promoting improved decision-making engagement with use of a selected device. Qualitative interviews of 36 parents and adolescents who had previously faced these decisions and 12 health care providers defined the content, format and structure of the decision aids. Experts in children's health media helped the research team to plan, create, and refine multimedia content and its presentation. A web development firm helped organize the content into a user-friendly interface and enabled tracking of decision aid utilization. Throughout, members of the research team, adolescents, parents, and 3 expert consultants offered perspectives about the website content, structure, and function until the design was complete. With the decision aid websites completed, the next phase of the project is a randomized controlled trial of usual clinical practice alone or augmented by use of the decision aid websites. Stakeholder-driven development of multimedia, web-based decision aids requires meticulous attention to detail but can yield exceptional resources for adolescents and parents contemplating major changes to their diabetes regimens. © 2016 The Author(s).

Using eye tracking technology to compare the effectiveness of malignant hyperthermia cognitive aid design.

PubMed

King, Roderick; Hanhan, Jaber; Harrison, T Kyle; Kou, Alex; Howard, Steven K; Borg, Lindsay K; Shum, Cynthia; Udani, Ankeet D; Mariano, Edward R

2018-05-15

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare but potentially fatal complication of anesthesia, and several different cognitive aids designed to facilitate a timely and accurate response to this crisis currently exist. Eye tracking technology can measure voluntary and involuntary eye movements, gaze fixation within an area of interest, and speed of visual response and has been used to a limited extent in anesthesiology. With eye tracking technology, we compared the accessibility of five malignant hyperthermia cognitive aids by collecting gaze data from twelve volunteer participants. Recordings were reviewed and annotated to measure the time required for participants to locate objects on the cognitive aid to provide an answer; cumulative time to answer was the primary outcome. For the primary outcome, there were differences detected between cumulative time to answer survival curves (P < 0.001). Participants demonstrated the shortest cumulative time to answer when viewing the Society for Pediatric Anesthesia (SPA) cognitive aid compared to four other publicly available cognitive aids for malignant hyperthermia, and this outcome was not influenced by the anesthesiologists' years of experience. This is the first study to utilize eye tracking technology in a comparative evaluation of cognitive aid design, and our experience suggests that there may be additional applications of eye tracking technology in healthcare and medical education. Potentially advantageous design features of the SPA cognitive aid include a single page, linear layout, and simple typescript with minimal use of single color blocking.

A discussion of HIV/AIDS family interventions: implications for family-focused nursing practice.

PubMed

Eustace, Rosemary W

2013-07-01

This article presents a discussion on the role of family interventions in HIV/AIDS disease prevention and care. Although HIV/AIDS epidemic and its impact on the society traditionally has been measured in terms of individual risk behaviours and individual-level HIV prevention, HIV/AIDS family-focused prevention and management strategies are increasingly becoming a priority. However, little is known as to what constitutes a HIV/AIDS family intervention. The search was limited to English and published literature starting in the year 1983 to date. CINAHL and PubMed were emphasized using a combination of text words and subject headings. Cochrane Library, PsycInfo, Scopus, and the ISI Web of Science databases were also searched using keywords and in the case of PsycInfo, subject headings were used. The main keywords were 'nurse', or 'nursing', 'HIV/AIDS', 'family interventions', 'family support' and 'family education', and/or 'family subsystems'. The process of theorizing about 'family interventions' and 'HIV/AIDS-family interventions' is critical for putting forth essential components unique for designing culturally specific HIV/AIDS family interventions. In addition, any proposed design of HIV/AIDS family intervention should consider the impact of HIV/AIDS on the family across the family life span, disease trajectory, and from an interdisciplinary perspective. Training needs of family nurses should be met when designing multidisciplinary HIV/AIDS-FIs. Furthermore, nurses should be proactive in advocating for HIV/AIDS family intervention and HIV/AIDS family policies to improve outcomes in family functioning, processes, and relationships. More needs to be done in regard to research on families, family interventions, effectiveness, and cost of family-focused approaches. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

A Self-Instructional Course in Student Financial Aid Administration. Module 15: Internal Aid Office Management and Institutional Quality Control. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington Consulting Group, Inc., Washington, DC.

The 15th in a 17-module self-instructional course on student financial aid administration (designed for novice financial aid administrators and other institutional personnel) focuses on internal aid office management and institutional quality control. The course provides a systematic introduction to the management of federal financial aid programs…

Analysis of Performance on Cognitive Test Measures Before, During, and After 6 Months of Hearing Aid Use: A Single-Subject Experimental Design.

PubMed

Desjardins, Jamie L

2016-06-01

The present study examined the effect of hearing aid use on cognitive test performance using a single-subject treatment design. Six participants 54 to 64 years old with sensorineural hearing loss were fitted with hearing aids. Participants used the hearing aids for approximately 8 hr each day for the duration of the study. A battery of cognitive tests was administered to participants during baseline (pre-hearing aid fitting), treatment (hearing aid use), and withdrawal (post-hearing aid use) study phases over a period of 6 months of hearing aid use. All participants showed significant improvements in performance on the cognitive test measures with hearing aid use. The most significant treatment effects were evidenced at 2 to 4 weeks of hearing aid use on the Listening Span Test and an auditory selective attention task. In many cases, cognitive performance scores returned to baseline levels after the participant stopped using the hearing aids. The findings from this study are consistent with the hypothesis that hearing aid use may improve cognitive performance by improving audibility and decreasing the cognitive load of the listening task.

Challenges facing developers of CAD/CAM models that seek to predict human working postures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiker, Steven F.

2005-11-01

This paper outlines the need for development of human posture prediction models for Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) design applications in product, facility and work design. Challenges facing developers of posture prediction algorithms are presented and discussed.

Value-based design for the elderly: An application in the field of mobility aids.

PubMed

Boerema, Simone T; van Velsen, Lex; Vollenbroek-Hutten, Miriam M R; Hermens, Hermie J

2017-01-01

In the aging society, the need for the elderly to remain mobile and independent is higher than ever. However, many aids supporting mobility often fail to target real needs and lack acceptance. The aim of this study is to demonstrate how value-based design can contribute to the design of mobility aids that address real needs and thus, lead to high acceptance. We elicited values, facilitators, and barriers of mobility of older adults via ten in-depth interviews. Next, we held co-creation sessions, resulting in several designs of innovative mobility aids, which were evaluated for acceptance via nine in-depth interviews. The interviews resulted in a myriad of key values, such as "independence from family" and "doing their own groceries." Design sessions resulted in three designs for a wheeled walker. Their acceptance was rather low. Current mobility device users were more eager to accept the designs than non-users. The value-based approach offers designers a close look into the lives of the elderly, thereby opening up a wide range of innovation possibilities that better fit their actual needs. Product service systems seem to be a promising focus for targeting human needs in mobility device design.

Computer-aided design of high-frequency transistor amplifiers.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hsieh, C.-C.; Chan, S.-P.

1972-01-01

A systematic step-by-step computer-aided procedure for designing high-frequency transistor amplifiers is described. The technique makes it possible to determine the optimum source impedance which gives a minimum noise figure.

NHDOT : process for municipally managed state aid highway program projects

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-05-23

The design and construction of Municipally Managed State Aid Highway Program projects must comply with the requirements in this guideline in order to receive State Aid under the applicable provisions of RSA 235. Under this process, State Aid Construc...

A Design for a Model College Financial Aid Office. Revised 1980.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Dusen, William D.; O'Hearne, John J.

The third edition of a guide for the college financial aid office substantially modifies previously presented material because of the changes that have been occurring in college student financial aid. Topics are as follows: development of student financial aid programs; current forms of college student financial aid; principles and practices of…

38 CFR 17.194 - Aid for domiciliary care.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Aid for domiciliary care... Aid to States for Care of Veterans in State Homes § 17.194 Aid for domiciliary care. Aid may be paid to the designated State official for domiciliary care furnished in a recognized State home for any...

Mommy, Daddy--What's AIDS?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Association of Pediatric Nurse Associates and Practitioners, Cherry Hill, NJ.

This brochure is designed to help parents answer the questions that their children may ask them about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and the Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. It provides basic information about AIDS and HIV, as well as sources for further information, such as the National AIDS Hotline. It…

Prosthetic rehabilitation with an implant-supported fixed prosthesis using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing dental technology for a patient with a mandibulectomy: A clinical report.

PubMed

Yoon, Hyung-In; Han, Jung-Suk

2016-02-01

The fabrication of dental prostheses with computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing shows acceptable marginal fits and favorable treatment outcomes. This clinical report describes the management of a patient who had undergone a mandibulectomy and received an implant-supported fixed prosthesis by using additive manufacturing for the framework and subtractive manufacturing for the monolithic zirconia restorations. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Making a Math Teaching Aids of Junior High School Based on Scientific Approach Through an Integrated and Sustainable Training

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pujiastuti, E.; Mashuri

2017-04-01

Not all of teachers of Mathematics in Junior High School (JHS) can design and create teaching aids. Moreover, if teaching aids should be designed so that it can be used in learning through scientific approaches. The problem: How to conduct an integrated and sustainable training that the math teacher of JHS, especially in Semarang can design and create teaching aids that can be presented to the scientific approach? The purpose of this study to find a way of integrated and continuous training so that the math teacher of JHS can design and create teaching aids that can be presented to the scientific approach. This article was based on research with a qualitative approach. Through trials activities of resulting of training model, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), interviews, and triangulation of the results of the research were: (1) Produced a training model of integrated and sustainable that the mathematics teacher of JHS can design and create teaching aids that can be presented to the scientific approach. (2) In training, there was the provision of material and workshop (3) There was a mentoring in the classroom. (4) Sustainability of the consultation. Our advice: (1) the trainer should be clever, (2) the training can be held at the holidays, while the assistance during the holiday season was over.

Reference Lists for HECE Occupational Areas.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas Education Agency, Austin. Dept. of Occupational Education and Technology.

The annotated bibliography contains citations to appropriate reference books, pamphlets and audiovisual materials for the following 17 occupations: art and craft aide, bridal consultant, child care aide, clothing assistant, companion to the elderly, consumer aide, dietetic aide, fabric coordinator, fashion coordinator, floral designer, food…

Profile of Home Care Aides, Nursing Home Aides, and Hospital Aides: Historical Changes and Data Recommendations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yamada, Yoshiko

2002-01-01

Purpose: To examine demographic characteristics and work conditions of home care aides, nursing home aides, and hospital aides in the late 1980s and late 1990s. Design and Methods: This study replicated a previous study which examined the Current Population Survey (CPS) March supplement from 1987 to 1989. The present study examined CPS data from…

Navigation-aid power systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goltz, G. L.; Kaiser, L. M.; Weiner, H.

1979-01-01

Design synthesis and performance analysis (DSPA) program package is collection of subroutines used for computation of design and performance characteristics of viable solar-array-charged battery powered system for flashing-lamp buoys employed as maritime aids to navigation.

Human factors of intelligent computer aided display design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunt, R. M.

1985-01-01

Design concepts for a decision support system being studied at NASA Langley as an aid to visual display unit (VDU) designers are described. Ideally, human factors should be taken into account by VDU designers. In reality, although the human factors database on VDUs is small, such systems must be constantly developed. Human factors are therefore a secondary consideration. An expert system will thus serve mainly in an advisory capacity. Functions can include facilitating the design process by shortening the time to generate and alter drawings, enhancing the capability of breaking design requirements down into simpler functions, and providing visual displays equivalent to the final product. The VDU system could also discriminate, and display the difference, between designer decisions and machine inferences. The system could also aid in analyzing the effects of designer choices on future options and in ennunciating when there are data available on a design selections.

Assembly and insertion of a self-fitting hearing aid: design of effective instruction materials.

PubMed

Caposecco, Andrea; Hickson, Louise; Meyer, Carly

2011-12-01

A self-fitting hearing aid has been proposed as a viable option to meet the need for rehabilitation in areas where audiology services are unreliable. A successful outcome with a self-fitting hearing aid pivots in part on the clarity of the instructions accompanying the device. The aims of this article are (a) to review the literature to determine features that should be incorporated into written health-care materials and factors to consider in the design process when developing written instructions for a target audience of older adults and (b) to apply this information to the development of a set of written instructions as the first step in self-fitting of a hearing aid, assembling four parts and inserting the aid into the ear. The method involved a literature review of published peer reviewed research. The literature revealed four steps in the development of written health-care materials: planning, design, assessment of suitability, and pilot testing. Best practice design principles for each step were applied in the development of instructions for how to assemble and insert a hearing aid. Separate booklets were developed for the left and right aids and the content of each consisted of simple line drawings accompanied by captions. The reading level was Grade 3.5 equivalent and the Flesch Reading Ease Score was 91.1 indicating that the materials were "very easy" to read. It is essential to follow best practice design principles when developing written health-care materials to motivate the reader, maximize comprehension, and increase the likelihood of successful application of the content.

Modeling and Analysis of Power Processing Systems (MAPPS). Volume 1: Technical report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, F. C.; Rahman, S.; Carter, R. A.; Wu, C. H.; Yu, Y.; Chang, R.

1980-01-01

Computer aided design and analysis techniques were applied to power processing equipment. Topics covered include: (1) discrete time domain analysis of switching regulators for performance analysis; (2) design optimization of power converters using augmented Lagrangian penalty function technique; (3) investigation of current-injected multiloop controlled switching regulators; and (4) application of optimization for Navy VSTOL energy power system. The generation of the mathematical models and the development and application of computer aided design techniques to solve the different mathematical models are discussed. Recommendations are made for future work that would enhance the application of the computer aided design techniques for power processing systems.

Classification of Computer-Aided Design-Computer-Aided Manufacturing Applications for the Reconstruction of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Defects.

PubMed

Wauters, Lauri D J; Miguel-Moragas, Joan San; Mommaerts, Maurice Y

2015-11-01

To gain insight into the methodology of different computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) applications for the reconstruction of cranio-maxillo-facial (CMF) defects. We reviewed and analyzed the available literature pertaining to CAD-CAM for use in CMF reconstruction. We proposed a classification system of the techniques of implant and cutting, drilling, and/or guiding template design and manufacturing. The system consisted of 4 classes (I-IV). These classes combine techniques used for both the implant and template to most accurately describe the methodology used. Our classification system can be widely applied. It should facilitate communication and immediate understanding of the methodology of CAD-CAM applications for the reconstruction of CMF defects.

Topology optimization aided structural design: Interpretation, computational aspects and 3D printing.

PubMed

Kazakis, Georgios; Kanellopoulos, Ioannis; Sotiropoulos, Stefanos; Lagaros, Nikos D

2017-10-01

Construction industry has a major impact on the environment that we spend most of our life. Therefore, it is important that the outcome of architectural intuition performs well and complies with the design requirements. Architects usually describe as "optimal design" their choice among a rather limited set of design alternatives, dictated by their experience and intuition. However, modern design of structures requires accounting for a great number of criteria derived from multiple disciplines, often of conflicting nature. Such criteria derived from structural engineering, eco-design, bioclimatic and acoustic performance. The resulting vast number of alternatives enhances the need for computer-aided architecture in order to increase the possibility of arriving at a more preferable solution. Therefore, the incorporation of smart, automatic tools in the design process, able to further guide designer's intuition becomes even more indispensable. The principal aim of this study is to present possibilities to integrate automatic computational techniques related to topology optimization in the phase of intuition of civil structures as part of computer aided architectural design. In this direction, different aspects of a new computer aided architectural era related to the interpretation of the optimized designs, difficulties resulted from the increased computational effort and 3D printing capabilities are covered here in.

Computer-Aided Facilities Management Systems (CAFM).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cyros, Kreon L.

Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) refers to a collection of software used with increasing frequency by facilities managers. The six major CAFM components are discussed with respect to their usefulness and popularity in facilities management applications: (1) computer-aided design; (2) computer-aided engineering; (3) decision support…

Educational Aids for Visually Handicapped.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Printing House for the Blind, Louisville, KY.

Listings specifying source and cost are provided of tactile aids and materials designed for the visually handicapped. Items are presented in the following categories: supply sources and catalogs for aids; braille devices, including duplicators, reading and writing aids, reading readiness materials, and writing machines, slates, and styluses; deaf…

[Computer aided design for fixed partial denture framework based on reverse engineering technology].

PubMed

Sun, Yu-chun; Lü, Pei-jun; Wang, Yong

2006-03-01

To explore a computer aided design (CAD) route for the framework of domestic fixed partial denture (FPD) and confirm the suitable method of 3-D CAD. The working area of a dentition model was scanned with a 3-D mechanical scanner. Using the reverse engineering (RE) software, margin and border curves were extracted and several reference curves were created to ensure the dimension and location of pontic framework that was taken from the standard database. The shoulder parts of the retainers were created after axial surfaces constructed. The connecting areas, axial line and curving surface of the framework connector were finally created. The framework of a three-unit FPD was designed with RE technology, which showed smooth surfaces and continuous contours. The design route is practical. The result of this study is significant in theory and practice, which will provide a reference for establishing the computer aided design/computer aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) system of domestic FPD.

A Design of Inservice Education for Nurses' Aides in a Nursing Home Setting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hameister, Dennis R.

1977-01-01

Describes a study designed to identify the specific needs (as identified by administrators and charge nurses) of nurses' aides and to determine the appropriateness for inclusion in an inservice training program. (WL)

Computer aided design of monolithic microwave and millimeter wave integrated circuits and subsystems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ku, Walter H.

1989-05-01

The objectives of this research are to develop analytical and computer aided design techniques for monolithic microwave and millimeter wave integrated circuits (MMIC and MIMIC) and subsystems and to design and fabricate those ICs. Emphasis was placed on heterojunction-based devices, especially the High Electron Mobility Transition (HEMT), for both low noise and medium power microwave and millimeter wave applications. Circuits to be considered include monolithic low noise amplifiers, power amplifiers, and distributed and feedback amplifiers. Interactive computer aided design programs were developed, which include large signal models of InP MISFETs and InGaAs HEMTs. Further, a new unconstrained optimization algorithm POSM was developed and implemented in the general Analysis and Design program for Integrated Circuit (ADIC) for assistance in the design of largesignal nonlinear circuits.

Types of Hearing Aids

MedlinePlus

... hearing impairment. Most hearing aids share several similar electronic components, including a microphone that picks up sound; ... the ear canal; and batteries that power the electronic parts. Hearing aids differ by: design technology used ...

Project Hill-Climb: Drafting and Design in Motion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crowl, William F.

2008-01-01

This article describes the Hill-Climb project of a second level Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) class. The author primarily designed the activity to increase student understanding of the assembly drawing process and its components. The emphasis on problem solving adds a dimension that can aid students in their other classes as well. By…

Field trials of medical decision-aids: potential problems and solutions.

PubMed Central

Wyatt, J.; Spiegelhalter, D.

1991-01-01

Only clinical trials can assess the impact of prototype medical decision-aids, but they are seldom performed before dissemination. Many problems are encountered when designing such studies, including ensuring generality, deciding what to measure, feasible study designs, correcting for biases caused by the trial itself and by the decision-aid, resolving the "Evaluation Paradox", and potential legal and ethical doubts. These are discussed in this paper. PMID:1807610

Uncertainty management in intelligent design aiding systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Donald E.; Gabbert, Paula S.

1988-01-01

A novel approach to uncertainty management which is particularly effective in intelligent design aiding systems for large-scale systems is presented. The use of this approach in the materials handling system design domain is discussed. It is noted that, during any point in the design process, a point value can be obtained for the evaluation of feasible designs; however, the techniques described provide unique solutions for these point values using only the current information about the design environment.

Kansas Nursing Home Medication Aide Curriculum. Revised.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bartel, Myrna J.; Fornelli, Linda K.

This curriculum guide is designed to aid Kansas instructors in conducting a course for teaching nursing home medication aides. Covered first are various introductory topics such as the role and responsibilities of medication aides, pharmacodynamics, forms in which medication is now available, common medical abbreviations, mathematics and weights…

Instructional Aides: Employment, Payroll Procedures, Supervision, Performance Appraisal, Legal Aspects.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nielsen, Earl T.

Designed to assist school administrators in their efforts to secure, train, and retain the most qualified instructional aides available, the monograph discusses procedures for employment, payroll processing, aide supervision, performance appraisal, and legal aspects involved in the hiring of instructional aides. Specific topics include…

Reimagining Financial Aid to Improve Student Access and Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NJ1), 2013

2013-01-01

As the student aid programs rapidly approach reauthorization in 2014, they continue to face severe funding and efficiency problems. With grant assistance from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through their "Reimagining Aid Design and Delivery" (RADD) project, the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators…

WINCADRE (COMPUTER-AIDED DATA REVIEW AND EVALUATION)

EPA Science Inventory

WinCADRE (Computer-Aided Data Review and Evaluation) is a Windows -based program designed for computer-assisted data validation. WinCADRE is a powerful tool which significantly decreases data validation turnaround time. The electronic-data-deliverable format has been designed ...

Audio-Visual Aids for Pre-School and Primary School Children. A Training Document. Aids to Programming UNICEF Assistance to Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Narayan, Shankar

This discussion of the importance and scope of audiovisual aids in the educational programs and activities designed for children in developing countries includes the significance of audiovisual aids in pre-school and primary school education, types of audiovisual aids, learning from pictures, creative art materials, play materials, and problems…

Teaching Basic First-Aid Skills against Home Accidents to Children with Autism through Video Modeling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ergenekon, Yasemin

2012-01-01

It is known that children with DD can learn first-aid skills and use whenever needed. Applying first-aid skills was taught to three inclusion students with autism through "first-aid skills training package". In the study multiple probe design with probe trials across behaviors was used. The findings indicated that first-aid skills…

Evaluation of a Modified User Guide for Hearing Aid Management.

PubMed

Caposecco, Andrea; Hickson, Louise; Meyer, Carly; Khan, Asaduzzaman

2016-01-01

This study investigated if a hearing aid user guide modified using best practice principles for health literacy resulted in superior ability to perform hearing aid management tasks, compared with the user guide in the original form. This research utilized a two-arm study design to compare the original manufacturer's user guide with a modified user guide for the same hearing aid--an Oticon Acto behind-the-ear aid with an open dome. The modified user guide had a lower reading grade level (4.2 versus 10.5), used a larger font size, included more graphics, and had less technical information. Eighty-nine adults ages 55 years and over were included in the study; none had experience with hearing aid use or management. Participants were randomly assigned either the modified guide (n = 47) or the original guide (n = 42). All participants were administered the Hearing Aid Management test, designed for this study, which assessed their ability to perform seven management tasks (e.g., change battery) with their assigned user guide. The regression analysis indicated that the type of user guide was significantly associated with performance on the Hearing Aid Management test, adjusting for 11 potential covariates. In addition, participants assigned the modified guide required significantly fewer prompts to perform tasks and were significantly more likely to perform four of the seven tasks without the need for prompts. The median time taken by those assigned the modified guide was also significantly shorter for three of the tasks. Other variables associated with performance on the Hearing Aid Management test were health literacy level, finger dexterity, and age. Findings indicate that the need to design hearing aid user guides in line with best practice principles of health literacy as a means of facilitating improved hearing aid management in older adults.

[Key points for esthetic rehabilitation of anterior teeth using chair-side computer aided design and computer aided manufacture technique].

PubMed

Yang, J; Feng, H L

2018-04-09

With the rapid development of the chair-side computer aided design and computer aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) technology, its accuracy and operability of have been greatly improved in recent years. Chair-side CAD/CAM system may produce all kinds of indirect restorations, and has the advantages of rapid, accurate and stable production. It has become the future development direction of Stomatology. This paper describes the clinical application of the chair-side CAD/CAM technology for anterior aesthetic restorations from the aspects of shade and shape.

Recent development on computer aided tissue engineering--a review.

PubMed

Sun, Wei; Lal, Pallavi

2002-02-01

The utilization of computer-aided technologies in tissue engineering has evolved in the development of a new field of computer-aided tissue engineering (CATE). This article reviews recent development and application of enabling computer technology, imaging technology, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD and CAM), and rapid prototyping (RP) technology in tissue engineering, particularly, in computer-aided tissue anatomical modeling, three-dimensional (3-D) anatomy visualization and 3-D reconstruction, CAD-based anatomical modeling, computer-aided tissue classification, computer-aided tissue implantation and prototype modeling assisted surgical planning and reconstruction.

Reimagining Financial Aid to Improve Student Access and Outcomes. Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NJ1), 2013

2013-01-01

As the student aid programs rapidly approach reauthorization in 2014, they continue to face severe funding and efficiency problems. With grant assistance from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through their "Reimagining Aid Design and Delivery" (RADD) project, the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) examined…

Decision support aids with anthropomorphic characteristics influence trust and performance in younger and older adults.

PubMed

Pak, Richard; Fink, Nicole; Price, Margaux; Bass, Brock; Sturre, Lindsay

2012-01-01

This study examined the use of deliberately anthropomorphic automation on younger and older adults' trust, dependence and performance on a diabetes decision-making task. Research with anthropomorphic interface agents has shown mixed effects in judgments of preferences but has rarely examined effects on performance. Meanwhile, research in automation has shown some forms of anthropomorphism (e.g. etiquette) have effects on trust and dependence on automation. Participants answered diabetes questions with no-aid, a non-anthropomorphic aid or an anthropomorphised aid. Trust and dependence in the aid was measured. A minimally anthropomorphic aide primarily affected younger adults' trust in the aid. Dependence, however, for both age groups was influenced by the anthropomorphic aid. Automation that deliberately embodies person-like characteristics can influence trust and dependence on reasonably reliable automation. However, further research is necessary to better understand the specific aspects of the aid that affect different age groups. Automation that embodies human-like characteristics may be useful in situations where there is under-utilisation of reasonably reliable aids by enhancing trust and dependence in that aid. Practitioner Summary: The design of decision-support aids on consumer devices (e.g. smartphones) may influence the level of trust that users place in that system and their amount of use. This study is the first step in articulating how the design of aids may influence user's trust and use of such systems.

Removal of Supernumerary Teeth Utilizing a Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Surgical Guide.

PubMed

Jo, Chanwoo; Bae, Doohwan; Choi, Byungho; Kim, Jihun

2017-05-01

Supernumerary teeth need to be removed because they can cause various complications. Caution is needed because their removal can cause damage to permanent teeth or tooth germs in the local vicinity. Surgical guides have recently been used in maxillofacial surgery. Because surgical guides are designed through preoperative analysis by computer-aided design software and fabricated using a 3-dimensional printer applying computer-aided manufacturing technology, they increase the accuracy and predictability of surgery. This report describes 2 cases of removal of a mesiodens-1 from a child and 1 from an adolescent-using a surgical guide; these would have been difficult to remove with conventional surgical methods. Copyright © 2016 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Historical Perspective on Digital Hearing Aids: How Digital Technology Has Changed Modern Hearing Aids

PubMed Central

Levitt, Harry

2007-01-01

This article provides the author's perspective on the development of digital hearing aids and how digital signal processing approaches have led to changes in hearing aid design. Major landmarks in the evolution of digital technology are identified, and their impact on the development of digital hearing aids is discussed. Differences between analog and digital approaches to signal processing in hearing aids are identified. PMID:17301334

Case-Based Capture and Reuse of Aerospace Design Rationale

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leake, David B.

2001-01-01

The goal of this project was to apply artificial intelligence techniques to facilitate capture and reuse of aerospace design rationale. The project combined case-based reasoning (CBR) and concept maps (CMaps) to develop methods for capturing, organizing, and interactively accessing records of experiences encapsulating the methods and rationale underlying expert aerospace design, in order to bring the captured knowledge to bear to support future reasoning. The project's results contribute both principles and methods for effective design-aiding systems that aid capture and access of useful design knowledge. The project has been guided by the tenets that design-aiding systems must: (1) Leverage a designer's knowledge, rather than attempting to replace it; (2) Be able to reflect different designers' differing conceptualizations of the design task, and to clarify those conceptualizations to others; (3) Include capabilities to capture information both by interactive knowledge modeling and during normal use; and (4) Integrate into normal designer tasks as naturally and unobtrusive as possible.

Enhancements to the Design Manager's Aide for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMAID)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, James L.; Barthelemy, Jean-Francois M.

1992-01-01

This paper discusses the addition of two new enhancements to the program Design Manager's Aide for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMAID). DeMAID is a knowledge-based tool used to aid a design manager in understanding the interactions among the tasks of a complex design problem. This is done by ordering the tasks to minimize feedback, determining the participating subsystems, and displaying them in an easily understood format. The two new enhancements include (1) rules for ordering a complex assembly process and (2) rules for determining which analysis tasks must be re-executed to compute the output of one task based on a change in input to that or another task.

Enhancements to the Design Manager's Aide for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMaid)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, James L.; Barthelemy, Jean-Francois M.

1992-01-01

This paper discusses the addition of two new enhancements to the program Design Manager's Aide for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMAID). DeMAID is a knowledge-based tool used to aid a design manager in understanding the interactions among the tasks of a complex design problem. This is done by ordering the tasks to minimize feedback, determining the participating subsystems, and displaying them in an easily understood format. The two new enhancements include (1) rules for ordering a complex assembly process and (2) rules for determining which analysis tasks must be re-executed to compute the output of one task based on a change in input to that or another task.

Computer-Aided Design Applications for the Base Civil Engineering Technical Design Section.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-01

4 1983.’ S DEPARTMENT OF TiHE AIR FORCE L ~j AIR UNIVERSITY * AIR FORCE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Nam Wright- Patterson Air Force Bas, Ohio d ’rI ’ 4to...I -. L I 1it it COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN APPLICATIONS FOR THE BASE CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNICAL DESIGN SECTION William M. Duncan, Captain, USAF LSSR 15-83...8217 .. ’ , .. - -. . ’ . , ._, - . . - .2 , _ : ’i 1 . . . . .- J.. .. . ’ _ -i l - , . analysis and design, water supply and wastewater disposal system design, and most

78 FR 5459 - Medicare Program; Request for Information To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-25

...] Medicare Program; Request for Information To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey Regarding... CAHPS[supreg] Survey Design Principles and implementation instructions will be based on those for CAHPS... 26, 2013. ADDRESSES: In responding to this solicitation, please reply via email to AmbSurgSurvey@cms...

A framework for development of an intelligent system for design and manufacturing of stamping dies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussein, H. M. A.; Kumar, S.

2014-07-01

An integration of computer aided design (CAD), computer aided process planning (CAPP) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) is required for development of an intelligent system to design and manufacture stamping dies in sheet metal industries. In this paper, a framework for development of an intelligent system for design and manufacturing of stamping dies is proposed. In the proposed framework, the intelligent system is structured in form of various expert system modules for different activities of design and manufacturing of dies. All system modules are integrated with each other. The proposed system takes its input in form of a CAD file of sheet metal part, and then system modules automate all tasks related to design and manufacturing of stamping dies. Modules are coded using Visual Basic (VB) and developed on the platform of AutoCAD software.

Application experience with the NASA aircraft interrogation and display system - A ground-support equipment for digital flight systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Glover, R. D.

1983-01-01

The NASA Dryden Flight Research Facility has developed a microprocessor-based, user-programmable, general-purpose aircraft interrogation and display system (AIDS). The hardware and software of this ground-support equipment have been designed to permit diverse applications in support of aircraft digital flight-control systems and simulation facilities. AIDS is often employed to provide engineering-units display of internal digital system parameters during development and qualification testing. Such visibility into the system under test has proved to be a key element in the final qualification testing of aircraft digital flight-control systems. Three first-generation 8-bit units are now in service in support of several research aircraft projects, and user acceptance has been high. A second-generation design, extended AIDS (XAIDS), incorporating multiple 16-bit processors, is now being developed to support the forward swept wing aircraft project (X-29A). This paper outlines the AIDS concept, summarizes AIDS operational experience, and describes the planned XAIDS design and mechanization.

Designing Visual Aids That Promote Risk Literacy: A Systematic Review of Health Research and Evidence-Based Design Heuristics.

PubMed

Garcia-Retamero, Rocio; Cokely, Edward T

2017-06-01

Background Effective risk communication is essential for informed decision making. Unfortunately, many people struggle to understand typical risk communications because they lack essential decision-making skills. Objective The aim of this study was to review the literature on the effect of numeracy on risk literacy, decision making, and health outcomes, and to evaluate the benefits of visual aids in risk communication. Method We present a conceptual framework describing the influence of numeracy on risk literacy, decision making, and health outcomes, followed by a systematic review of the benefits of visual aids in risk communication for people with different levels of numeracy and graph literacy. The systematic review covers scientific research published between January 1995 and April 2016, drawn from the following databases: Web of Science, PubMed, PsycINFO, ERIC, Medline, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria were investigation of the effect of numeracy and/or graph literacy, and investigation of the effect of visual aids or comparison of their effect with that of numerical information. Thirty-six publications met the criteria, providing data on 27,885 diverse participants from 60 countries. Results Transparent visual aids robustly improved risk understanding in diverse individuals by encouraging thorough deliberation, enhancing cognitive self-assessment, and reducing conceptual biases in memory. Improvements in risk understanding consistently produced beneficial changes in attitudes, behavioral intentions, trust, and healthy behaviors. Visual aids were found to be particularly beneficial for vulnerable and less skilled individuals. Conclusion Well-designed visual aids tend to be highly effective tools for improving informed decision making among diverse decision makers. We identify five categories of practical, evidence-based guidelines for heuristic evaluation and design of effective visual aids.

User's manual: Computer-aided design programs for inductor-energy-storage dc-to-dc electronic power converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huffman, S.

1977-01-01

Detailed instructions on the use of two computer-aided-design programs for designing the energy storage inductor for single winding and two winding dc to dc converters are provided. Step by step procedures are given to illustrate the formatting of user input data. The procedures are illustrated by eight sample design problems which include the user input and the computer program output.

Low-floor bus design preferences of walking aid users during simulated boarding and alighting.

PubMed

D'souza, Clive; Paquet, Victor; Lenker, James; Steinfeld, Edward; Bareria, Piyush

2012-01-01

Low-floor buses represent a significant improvement in accessible public transit for passengers with limited mobility. However, there is still a need for research on the inclusive design of transit buses to identify specific low-floor bus design conditions that are either particularly accommodating or challenging for passengers with functional and mobility impairments. These include doorway locations, seating configuration and the large front wheel-well covers that collectively impact boarding, alighting and interior movement of passengers. Findings from a laboratory study using a static full-scale simulation of a lowfloor bus to evaluate the impact of seating configuration and crowding on interior movement and accessibility for individuals with and without walking aids are presented (n=41). Simulated bus journeys that included boarding, fare payment, seating, and alighting were performed. Results from video observations and subjective assessments showed differences in boarding and alighting performance and users' perceptions of task difficulty. The need for assistive design features (e.g. handholds, stanchions), legroom and stowage space for walking aids was evident. These results demonstrate that specific design conditions in low-floor buses can significantly impact design preference among those who use walking aids. Consideration of ergonomics and inclusive design can therefore be used to improve the design of low-floor buses.

IPAD: Integrated Programs for Aerospace-vehicle Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

The conference was organized to promote wider awareness of the IPAD program and its coming impact on American industry. The program focuses on technology issues that are critical to computer aided design manufacturing. Included is a description of a representative aerospace design process and its interface with manufacturing, the design of a future IPAD integrated computer aided design system, results to date in developing IPAD products and associated technology, and industry experiences and plans to exploit these products.

AIDS Knowledge and Attitudes, Provisional Data from the National Health Interview Survey: United States, August 1987. Advance Data from Vital and Health Statistics. No. 146.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dawson, Deborah A.; And Others

This document presents provisional data for all Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) questionnaire items from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) for August 1987. It notes that the AIDS questionnaire was designed to provide baseline estimates of public knowledge and attitudes about AIDS transmission, the prevention of AIDS virus…

WINCADRE INORGANIC (WINDOWS COMPUTER-AIDED DATA REVIEW AND EVALUATION)

EPA Science Inventory

WinCADRE (Computer-Aided Data Review and Evaluation) is a Windows -based program designed for computer-assisted data validation. WinCADRE is a powerful tool which significantly decreases data validation turnaround time. The electronic-data-deliverable format has been designed in...

Computer-Aided Geometry Modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shoosmith, J. N. (Compiler); Fulton, R. E. (Compiler)

1984-01-01

Techniques in computer-aided geometry modeling and their application are addressed. Mathematical modeling, solid geometry models, management of geometric data, development of geometry standards, and interactive and graphic procedures are discussed. The applications include aeronautical and aerospace structures design, fluid flow modeling, and gas turbine design.

HIV Interventions to Reduce HIV/AIDS Stigma: A Systematic Review

PubMed Central

Banks, Bahby; Jonas, Dan; Miles, Margaret Shandor; Smith, Giselle Corbie

2011-01-01

We reviewed the literature to determine the effectiveness of HIV-related interventions in reducing HIV/AIDS stigma. Studies selected had randomized controlled trial (RCT), pretest–posttest with a non-randomized control group, or pretest–posttest one group study designs in which HIV-related interventions were being evaluated, and in which HIV/AIDS stigma was one of the outcomes being measured. A checklist was used to extract data from accepted studies, assess their internal validity, and overall quality. Data were extracted from 19 studies, and 14 of these studies demonstrated effectiveness in reducing HIV/ AIDS stigma. Only 2 of these 14 effective studies were considered good studies, based on quality, the extent to which the intervention focused on reducing HIV/AIDS stigma, and the statistics reported to demonstrate effectiveness. Future studies to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma could improve by designing interventions that pay greater attention to internal validity, use validated HIV/AIDS stigma instruments, and achieve both statistical and public health significance. PMID:21088989

HIV interventions to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma: a systematic review.

PubMed

Sengupta, Sohini; Banks, Bahby; Jonas, Dan; Miles, Margaret Shandor; Smith, Giselle Corbie

2011-08-01

We reviewed the literature to determine the effectiveness of HIV-related interventions in reducing HIV/AIDS stigma. Studies selected had randomized controlled trial (RCT), pretest-posttest with a non-randomized control group, or pretest-posttest one group study designs in which HIV-related interventions were being evaluated, and in which HIV/AIDS stigma was one of the outcomes being measured. A checklist was used to extract data from accepted studies, assess their internal validity, and overall quality. Data were extracted from 19 studies, and 14 of these studies demonstrated effectiveness in reducing HIV/AIDS stigma. Only 2 of these 14 effective studies were considered good studies, based on quality, the extent to which the intervention focused on reducing HIV/AIDS stigma, and the statistics reported to demonstrate effectiveness. Future studies to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma could improve by designing interventions that pay greater attention to internal validity, use validated HIV/AIDS stigma instruments, and achieve both statistical and public health significance.

Using a Latino Lens to Reimagine Aid Design and Delivery

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santiago, Deborah A.

2013-01-01

Federal financial aid is critical to student access and success in postsecondary education for many students, including most Latinos. However, three current realities are challenging the effectiveness of federal financial aid policy today: (1) the inability of federal aid to keep pace with the increase in college costs for students; (2) the…

The Child-Care Teacher Aide--A Guide for Teachers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooper, Dorothy B.

Adaptable to individual student needs and the community, this basic curriculum guide is designed for use in initiating and teaching a high school or adult two-year child-care teacher-aide program in vocational education. Four levels of occupations are covered--babysitter, nursery school facilities aide, nursery school teacher aide, and assistant…

46 CFR 108.707 - First aid kit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false First aid kit. 108.707 Section 108.707 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous Equipment § 108.707 First aid kit. Each unit must have a first-aid kit approved by the Mine Safety...

46 CFR 108.707 - First aid kit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false First aid kit. 108.707 Section 108.707 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous Equipment § 108.707 First aid kit. Each unit must have a first-aid kit approved by the Mine Safety...

46 CFR 108.707 - First aid kit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false First aid kit. 108.707 Section 108.707 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous Equipment § 108.707 First aid kit. Each unit must have a first-aid kit approved by the Mine Safety...

46 CFR 108.707 - First aid kit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false First aid kit. 108.707 Section 108.707 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous Equipment § 108.707 First aid kit. Each unit must have a first-aid kit approved by the Mine Safety...

46 CFR 108.707 - First aid kit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false First aid kit. 108.707 Section 108.707 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous Equipment § 108.707 First aid kit. Each unit must have a first-aid kit approved by the Mine Safety...

Decision aids to increase living donor kidney transplantation

PubMed Central

Gander, Jennifer C.; Gordon, Elisa J.; Patzer, Rachel E.

2017-01-01

Purpose of review For the more than 636,000 adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the U.S., kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment compared to dialysis. Living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT) comprised 31% of kidney transplantations in 2015, an 8% decrease since 2004. We aimed to summarize the current literature on decision aids that could be used to improve LDKT rates. Recent findings Decision aids are evidence-based tools designed to help patients and their families make difficult treatment decisions. LDKT decision aids can help ESRD patients, patients’ family and friends, and healthcare providers engage in treatment decisions and thereby overcome multifactorial LDKT barriers. Summary We identified 12 LDKT decision aids designed to provide information about LDKT, and/or to help ESRD patients identify potential living donors, and/or to help healthcare providers make decisions about treatment for ESRD or living donation. Of these, 4 were shown to be effective in increasing LDKT, donor inquiries, LDKT knowledge, and willingness to discuss LDKT. Although each LDKT decision aid has limitations, adherence to decision aid development guidelines may improve decision aid utilization and access to LDKT. PMID:29034143

Utilizing computerized entertainment education in the development of decision aids for lower literate and naïve computer users.

PubMed

Jibaja-Weiss, Maria L; Volk, Robert J

2007-01-01

Decision aids have been developed by using various delivery methods, including interactive computer programs. Such programs, however, still rely heavily on written information, health and digital literacy, and reading ease. We describe an approach to overcome these potential barriers for low-literate, underserved populations by making design considerations for poor readers and naïve computer users and by using concepts from entertainment education to engage the user and to contextualize the content for the user. The system design goals are to make the program both didactic and entertaining and the navigation and graphical user interface as simple as possible. One entertainment education strategy, the soap opera, is linked seamlessly to interactive learning modules to enhance the content of the soap opera episodes. The edutainment decision aid model (EDAM) guides developers through the design process. Although designing patient decision aids that are educational, entertaining, and targeted toward poor readers and those with limited computer skills is a complex task, it is a promising strategy for aiding this population. Entertainment education may be a highly effective approach to promoting informed decision making for patients with low health literacy.

Estimation of the failure risk of a maxillary premolar with different crack depths with endodontic treatment by computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing ceramic restorations.

PubMed

Lin, Chun-Li; Chang, Yen-Hsiang; Hsieh, Shih-Kai; Chang, Wen-Jen

2013-03-01

This study evaluated the risk of failure for an endodontically treated premolar with different crack depths, which was shearing toward the pulp chamber and was restored by using 3 different computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing ceramic restoration configurations. Three 3-dimensional finite element models designed with computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing ceramic onlay, endocrown, and conventional crown restorations were constructed to perform simulations. The Weibull function was incorporated with finite element analysis to calculate the long-term failure probability relative to different load conditions. The results indicated that the stress values on the enamel, dentin, and luting cement for endocrown restorations exhibited the lowest values relative to the other 2 restoration methods. Weibull analysis revealed that the overall failure probabilities in a shallow cracked premolar were 27%, 2%, and 1% for the onlay, endocrown, and conventional crown restorations, respectively, in the normal occlusal condition. The corresponding values were 70%, 10%, and 2% for the depth cracked premolar. This numeric investigation suggests that the endocrown provides sufficient fracture resistance only in a shallow cracked premolar with endodontic treatment. The conventional crown treatment can immobilize the premolar for different cracked depths with lower failure risk. Copyright © 2013 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Three-dimensional computer aided design for individualized post-and-core restoration].

PubMed

Gu, Xiao-yu; Wang, Ya-ping; Wang, Yong; Lü, Pei-jun

2009-10-01

To develop a method of three-dimensional computer aided design (CAD) of post-and-core restoration. Two plaster casts with extracted natural teeth were used in this study. The extracted teeth were prepared and scanned using tomography method to obtain three-dimensional digitalized models. According to the basic rules of post-and-core design, posts, cores and cavity surfaces of the teeth were designed using the tools for processing point clouds, curves and surfaces on the forward engineering software of Tanglong prosthodontic system. Then three-dimensional figures of the final restorations were corrected according to the configurations of anterior teeth, premolars and molars respectively. Computer aided design of 14 post-and-core restorations were finished, and good fitness between the restoration and the three-dimensional digital models were obtained. Appropriate retention forms and enough spaces for the full crown restorations can be obtained through this method. The CAD of three-dimensional figures of the post-and-core restorations can fulfill clinical requirements. Therefore they can be used in computer-aided manufacture (CAM) of post-and-core restorations.

Unit cell-based computer-aided manufacturing system for tissue engineering.

PubMed

Kang, Hyun-Wook; Park, Jeong Hun; Kang, Tae-Yun; Seol, Young-Joon; Cho, Dong-Woo

2012-03-01

Scaffolds play an important role in the regeneration of artificial tissues or organs. A scaffold is a porous structure with a micro-scale inner architecture in the range of several to several hundreds of micrometers. Therefore, computer-aided construction of scaffolds should provide sophisticated functionality for porous structure design and a tool path generation strategy that can achieve micro-scale architecture. In this study, a new unit cell-based computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) system was developed for the automated design and fabrication of a porous structure with micro-scale inner architecture that can be applied to composite tissue regeneration. The CAM system was developed by first defining a data structure for the computing process of a unit cell representing a single pore structure. Next, an algorithm and software were developed and applied to construct porous structures with a single or multiple pore design using solid freeform fabrication technology and a 3D tooth/spine computer-aided design model. We showed that this system is quite feasible for the design and fabrication of a scaffold for tissue engineering.

Enhancing an appointment diary on a pocket computer for use by people after brain injury.

PubMed

Wright, P; Rogers, N; Hall, C; Wilson, B; Evans, J; Emslie, H

2001-12-01

People with memory loss resulting from brain injury benefit from purpose-designed memory aids such as appointment diaries on pocket computers. The present study explores the effects of extending the range of memory aids and including games. For 2 months, 12 people who had sustained brain injury were loaned a pocket computer containing three purpose-designed memory aids: diary, notebook and to-do list. A month later they were given another computer with the same memory aids but a different method of text entry (physical keyboard or touch-screen keyboard). Machine order was counterbalanced across participants. Assessment was by interviews during the loan periods, rating scales, performance tests and computer log files. All participants could use the memory aids and ten people (83%) found them very useful. Correlations among the three memory aids were not significant, suggesting individual variation in how they were used. Games did not increase use of the memory aids, nor did loan of the preferred pocket computer (with physical keyboard). Significantly more diary entries were made by people who had previously used other memory aids, suggesting that a better understanding of how to use a range of memory aids could benefit some people with brain injury.

Identifying Effective Treatments from a Brief Experimental Analysis: Using a Single-Case Design Elements To Aid Decision Making.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martens, Brian K.; Eckert, Tanya L.; Bradley, Tracy A.; Ardoin, Scott P.

1999-01-01

Discusses the benefits of using brief experimental analysis to aid in treatment selection, identifies the forms of treatment that are most appropriate for this type of analysis, and describes key design elements for comparing treatments. Presents a study demonstrating the use of these design elements to identify an effective intervention for two…

77 FR 71600 - Medicare Program; Request for Information To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-03

...] Medicare Program; Request for Information To Aid in the Design and Development of a Survey Regarding... from emergency room to inpatient care). Having a rigorous, well-designed emergency department survey... this solicitation, please reply via email to CMS ED_Survey@cms.hhs.gov or by postal mail at Centers for...

23 CFR 636.107 - May contracting agencies use geographic preference in Federal-aid design-build or public-private...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 23 Highways 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false May contracting agencies use geographic preference in Federal-aid design-build or public-private partnership projects? 636.107 Section 636.107 Highways FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC OPERATIONS DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTING General § 636.107 May contractin...

Lithium-ion batteries for hearing aid applications. II. Pulse discharge and safety tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Passerini, S.; Coustier, F.; Owens, B. B.

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries were designed to meet the power requirements of hearing aid devices (HADs). The batteries were designed in a 312-button cell size, compatible with existing hearing aids. The batteries were tested to evaluate the design and the electrochemical performance, as they relate to a typical hearing aid application. The present report covers the pulse capabilities, cycle life and preliminary safety tests. The results are compared with other battery chemistries: secondary lithium-alloy and nickel-metal hydride batteries and primary Zn-air batteries. The cell AC impedance was stable over the frequency range between 1 and 50 kHz, ranging between 5 Ω at the higher frequency and 12 Ω at the lower extreme. Pulse tests were consistent with these values, as the cells were capable of providing a series of 100 mA pulses of 10-s duration. The safety tests suggest that the design is intrinsically safe with respect to the most common types of abuse conditions.

Attitudes of pediatric intensive care unit physicians towards the use of cognitive aids: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Weiss, Matthew J; Kramer, Chelsea; Tremblay, Sébastien; Côté, Luc

2016-05-21

Cognitive aids are increasingly recommended in clinical practice, yet little is known about the attitudes of physicians towards these tools. We employed a qualitative, descriptive design to explore physician attitudes towards cognitive aids in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). Semi-structured interviews elicited the opinions of a convenience sample of practicing PICU physicians towards the use of cognitive aids. We analyzed interview data for thematic content to examine the three factors of intention to use cognitive aids as defined by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), attitudes, social norms, and perceived control. Analysis of 14 interviews suggested that in the PICU setting, cognitive aids are widely used. Discovered themes related to their use touched on all three TPB factors of intention and included: aids are perceived to improve team communication; aids may improve patient safety; aids may hinder clinician judgment; physicians may resist implementation if it occurs prior to demonstration of benefit; effective adoption requires cognitive aids to be integrated into local workplace culture; and implementation should take physician concerns into account. Our sample of PICU physicians were open to cognitive aids in their practice, as long as such aids preserve the primacy of clinical judgment, focus on team communication, demonstrate effectiveness through preliminary testing, and are designed and implemented with the local culture and work environment in mind. Future knowledge translation efforts to implement cognitive aids would benefit from consideration of these issues.

How to effectively design and create a concept mobile application to aid in the management of type 1 diabetes in adolescents.

PubMed

McCulloch, Victoria; Hope, Sarah; Loranger, Brian; Rea, Paul

2017-07-01

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions in the world; with a range of diabetes-related mobile applications available to the public to aid in glycaemic control and self-management. Statistically, adherence to medication is extremely low in adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), therefore, this paper focuses on the research and design of an interactive and educational concept mobile application aimed at early to mid-adolescents to aid in their understanding of T1DM. As visual elements are an essential part of the design, this research outlines how visual components were designed specifically for adolescents with T1DM.

[Research and application of computer-aided technology in restoration of maxillary defect].

PubMed

Cheng, Xiaosheng; Liao, Wenhe; Hu, Qingang; Wang, Qian; Dai, Ning

2008-08-01

This paper presents a new method of designing restoration model of maxillectomy defect through Computer aided technology. Firstly, 3D maxillectomy triangle mesh model is constructed from Helical CT data. Secondly, the triangle mesh model is transformed into initial computer-aided design (CAD) model of maxillectomy through reverse engineering software. Thirdly, the 3D virtual restoration model of maxillary defect is obtained after designing and adjusting the initial CAD model through CAD software according to the patient's practical condition. Therefore, the 3D virtual restoration can be fitted very well with the broken part of maxilla. The exported design data can be manufactured using rapid prototyping technology and foundry technology. Finally, the result proved that this method is effective and feasible.

Computer aided design environment for the analysis and design of multi-body flexible structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramakrishnan, Jayant V.; Singh, Ramen P.

1989-01-01

A computer aided design environment consisting of the programs NASTRAN, TREETOPS and MATLAB is presented in this paper. With links for data transfer between these programs, the integrated design of multi-body flexible structures is significantly enhanced. The CAD environment is used to model the Space Shuttle/Pinhole Occulater Facility. Then a controller is designed and evaluated in the nonlinear time history sense. Recent enhancements and ongoing research to add more capabilities are also described.

Music and Hearing Aids

PubMed Central

Moore, Brian C. J.

2014-01-01

The signal processing and fitting methods used for hearing aids have mainly been designed to optimize the intelligibility of speech. Little attention has been paid to the effectiveness of hearing aids for listening to music. Perhaps as a consequence, many hearing-aid users complain that they are not satisfied with their hearing aids when listening to music. This issue inspired the Internet-based survey presented here. The survey was designed to identify the nature and prevalence of problems associated with listening to live and reproduced music with hearing aids. Responses from 523 hearing-aid users to 21 multiple-choice questions are presented and analyzed, and the relationships between responses to questions regarding music and questions concerned with information about the respondents, their hearing aids, and their hearing loss are described. Large proportions of the respondents reported that they found their hearing aids to be helpful for listening to both live and reproduced music, although less so for the former. The survey also identified problems such as distortion, acoustic feedback, insufficient or excessive gain, unbalanced frequency response, and reduced tone quality. The results indicate that the enjoyment of listening to music with hearing aids could be improved by an increase of the input and output dynamic range, extension of the low-frequency response, and improvement of feedback cancellation and automatic gain control systems. PMID:25361601

Identifying the needs of elderly, hearing-impaired persons: the importance and utility of hearing aid attributes.

PubMed

Meister, Hartmut; Lausberg, Isabel; Kiessling, Juergen; von Wedel, Hasso; Walger, Martin

2002-11-01

Older patients represent the majority of hearing-aid users. The needs of elderly, hearing-impaired subjects are not entirely identified. The present study aims to determine the importance of fundamental hearing-aid attributes and to elicit the utility of associated hypothetical hearing aids for older patients. This was achieved using a questionnaire-based conjoint analysis--a decompositional approach to preference measurement offering a realistic study design. A random sample of 200 experienced hearing-aid users participated in the study. Though three out of the six examined attributes revealed age-related dependencies, the only significant effect was found for the attribute "handling", which was considerably more important for older than younger hearing-aid users. A trend of decreasing importance of speech intelligibility in noise and increasing significance of speech in quiet was observed for subjects older than 70 years. In general, the utility of various hypothetical hearing aids was similar for older and younger subjects. Apart from the attribute "handling", older and younger subjects have comparable needs regarding hearing-aid features. On the basis of the examined attributes, there is no requirement for hearing aids designed specifically for elderly hearing-aid users, provided that ergonomic features are considered and the benefits of modern technology are made fully available for older patients.

Music and hearing aids.

PubMed

Madsen, Sara M K; Moore, Brian C J

2014-10-31

The signal processing and fitting methods used for hearing aids have mainly been designed to optimize the intelligibility of speech. Little attention has been paid to the effectiveness of hearing aids for listening to music. Perhaps as a consequence, many hearing-aid users complain that they are not satisfied with their hearing aids when listening to music. This issue inspired the Internet-based survey presented here. The survey was designed to identify the nature and prevalence of problems associated with listening to live and reproduced music with hearing aids. Responses from 523 hearing-aid users to 21 multiple-choice questions are presented and analyzed, and the relationships between responses to questions regarding music and questions concerned with information about the respondents, their hearing aids, and their hearing loss are described. Large proportions of the respondents reported that they found their hearing aids to be helpful for listening to both live and reproduced music, although less so for the former. The survey also identified problems such as distortion, acoustic feedback, insufficient or excessive gain, unbalanced frequency response, and reduced tone quality. The results indicate that the enjoyment of listening to music with hearing aids could be improved by an increase of the input and output dynamic range, extension of the low-frequency response, and improvement of feedback cancellation and automatic gain control systems. © The Author(s) 2014.

Assembly and Insertion of a Self-Fitting Hearing Aid

PubMed Central

Hickson, Louise; Meyer, Carly

2011-01-01

A self-fitting hearing aid has been proposed as a viable option to meet the need for rehabilitation in areas where audiology services are unreliable. A successful outcome with a self-fitting hearing aid pivots in part on the clarity of the instructions accompanying the device. The aims of this article are (a) to review the literature to determine features that should be incorporated into written health-care materials and factors to consider in the design process when developing written instructions for a target audience of older adults and (b) to apply this information to the development of a set of written instructions as the first step in self-fitting of a hearing aid, assembling four parts and inserting the aid into the ear. The method involved a literature review of published peer reviewed research. The literature revealed four steps in the development of written health-care materials: planning, design, assessment of suitability, and pilot testing. Best practice design principles for each step were applied in the development of instructions for how to assemble and insert a hearing aid. Separate booklets were developed for the left and right aids and the content of each consisted of simple line drawings accompanied by captions. The reading level was Grade 3.5 equivalent and the Flesch Reading Ease Score was 91.1 indicating that the materials were “very easy” to read. It is essential to follow best practice design principles when developing written health-care materials to motivate the reader, maximize comprehension, and increase the likelihood of successful application of the content. PMID:22389434

A rule based computer aided design system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Premack, T.

1986-01-01

A Computer Aided Design (CAD) system is presented which supports the iterative process of design, the dimensional continuity between mating parts, and the hierarchical structure of the parts in their assembled configuration. Prolog, an interactive logic programming language, is used to represent and interpret the data base. The solid geometry representing the parts is defined in parameterized form using the swept volume method. The system is demonstrated with a design of a spring piston.

Mechanical Properties of Aerojet, Thiokol, and JA2 High-Energy Gun Propellants at 1.5 m/s Deformation Rate

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-01-01

a2 6 n -32 4C La /C A> i c 4S Figure 5. Remains of specimens tested at 210, 630, and -32 0C. 5 I AUg 2001 "-1t AERQJET/"THIDKOL LOTS 0111W PM 4-40.00...10.00 +78.00 STRESS (Mra) -THIOKOL LOT LA -10T3--01 +5.C THIOKOL LOT JA-IEZ35--Z-02 JAZ LOT HCL03JO14-001 -28.00 AE J>:T? +0.00 4.00 0.0 .0 *20.0 O30 +40M0...WARREN MI 48397-5000 MATERIAL SCIENCE TEAM AMSSB RSS 14 BENET LABORATORIES J HERBERT AMSTA AR CCB M SENNETT R FISCELLA KANSAS ST M SOJA NATICK MA 01760

A Novel Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Assisted Manufacture Method for One-Piece Removable Partial Denture and Evaluation of Fit.

PubMed

Ye, Hongqiang; Li, Xinxin; Wang, Guanbo; Kang, Jing; Liu, Yushu; Sun, Yuchun; Zhou, Yongsheng

2018-02-15

To investigate a computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) process for producing one-piece removable partial dentures (RPDs) and to evaluate their fits in vitro. A total of 15 one-piece RPDs were designed using dental CAD and reverse engineering software and then fabricated with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) using CAM. The gaps between RPDs and casts were measured and compared with traditional cast framework RPDs. Gaps were lower for one-piece PEEK RPDs compared to traditional RPDs. One-piece RPDs can be manufactured by CAD/CAM, and their fits were better than those of traditional RPDs.

A flexible computer aid for conceptual design based on constraint propagation and component-modeling. [of aircraft in three dimensions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kolb, Mark A.

1988-01-01

The Rubber Airplane program, which combines two symbolic processing techniques with a component-based database of design knowledge, is proposed as a computer aid for conceptual design. Using object-oriented programming, programs are organized around the objects and behavior to be simulated, and using constraint propagation, declarative statements designate mathematical relationships among all the equation variables. It is found that the additional level of organizational structure resulting from the arrangement of the design information in terms of design components provides greater flexibility and convenience.

Orientation to Health Aide Careers Mini-Course & Home Health Aide Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Novak, Kathy; And Others

Designed for use in a self-paced, open-entry/open-exit vocational training program for home health aides, this program guide is one of six for teachers of adult women offenders from a correctional institution. Module topic outlines are presented on eight topics: your career as a health aide; maintaining health; recognizing illness; positioning and…

A Self-Instructional Course in Student Financial Aid Administration. Module 13: Verification. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington Consulting Group, Inc., Washington, DC.

Module 13 of the 17-module self-instructional course on student financial aid administration (designed for novice financial aid administrators and other institutional personnel) focuses on the verification procedure for checking the accuracy of applicant data used in making financial aid awards. The full course provides an introduction to the…

A Self-Instructional Course in Student Financial Aid Administration. Module 7: Calculating Cost of Attendance. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington Consulting Group, Inc., Washington, DC.

The seventh module in a 17-module self-instructional course on student financial aid administration (designed for novice student financial aid administrators and other personnel) teaches how to calculate the cost of attendance. It provides a systematic introduction to the management of federal financial aid programs authorized by the Higher…

A Self-Instructional Course in Student Financial Aid Administration. Module 8: Need Analysis. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington Consulting Group, Inc., Washington, DC.

The eighth module in a 17-module self-instructional program on student financial aid administration (designed for novice student financial aid administrators and other personnel) focuses on need analysis. It provides an introduction to the management of federal financial aid programs authorized by the Higher Education Act Title IV. After…

First Aid Lessons. Correlated Conversation for Use with "You Can Give First Aid." Workplace Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cacy, Roselynn; Smith, Polly

This unit contains lesson plans designed to teach first aid skills to adults with limited language skills. The lesson plans were developed, using the Laubach literacy method, for a workplace literacy project in Anchorage, Alaska. The lesson plans, which are correlated with the book, "You Can Give First Aid," include conversational skills…

Who Benefits from Student Aid? The Economic Incidence of Tax-Based Federal Student Aid

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Turner, Nicholas

2012-01-01

Federal benefit programs, including federal student aid, are designed to aid targeted populations. Behavioral responses to these programs may alter the incidence of their benefits, a possibility that receives less attention in the literature compared to tax incidence. I demonstrate the importance of benefit incidence analysis by showing that the…

Qualitative analysis of decision making by speech-language pathologists in the design of aided visual displays.

PubMed

McFadd, Emily; Wilkinson, Krista

2010-06-01

For children with complex communication needs, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices offer a functional way to communicate thoughts and feelings. Despite many significant advances in the field, effective and efficient aided communication can remain a challenge for some clients and their partners. One critical element of aided AAC intervention is systematic attention to the design of the communication display itself. A well-designed display will foster communication outcomes; a poorly designed one might have the opposite effect. Surprisingly, to our knowledge there are no studies of the strategies that clinicians actually employ when putting together a display. In this research note, we examine, on a case-by-case basis, the strategies six clinicians used when constructing display pages, as a means of highlighting potential areas that might warrant systematic research on display design.

Information technology aided exploration of system design spaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feather, Martin S.; Kiper, James D.; Kalafat, Selcuk

2004-01-01

We report on a practical application of information technology techniques to aid system engineers effectively explore large design spaces. We make use of heuristic search, visualization and data mining, the combination of which we have implemented wtihin a risk management tool in use at JPL and NASA.

Web-Based Learning in the Computer-Aided Design Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sung, Wen-Tsai; Ou, S. C.

2002-01-01

Applies principles of constructivism and virtual reality (VR) to computer-aided design (CAD) curriculum, particularly engineering, by integrating network, VR and CAD technologies into a Web-based learning environment that expands traditional two-dimensional computer graphics into a three-dimensional real-time simulation that enhances user…

A Review of Developments in Computer-Based Systems to Image Teeth and Produce Dental Restorations

PubMed Central

Rekow, E. Dianne; Erdman, Arthur G.; Speidel, T. Michael

1987-01-01

Computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) make it possible to automate the creation of dental restorations. Currently practiced techniques are described. Three automated systems currently under development are described and compared. Advances in computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) provide a new option for dentistry, creating an alternative technique for producing dental restorations. It is possible to create dental restorations that are automatically produced and meet or exceed current requirements for fit and occlusion.

Fixed-point Design of the Lattice-reduction-aided Iterative Detection and Decoding Receiver for Coded MIMO Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

reliability, e.g., Turbo Codes [2] and Low Density Parity Check ( LDPC ) codes [3]. The challenge to apply both MIMO and ECC into wireless systems is on...REPORT Fixed-point Design of theLattice-reduction-aided Iterative Detection andDecoding Receiver for Coded MIMO Systems 14. ABSTRACT 16. SECURITY...illustrates the performance of coded LR aided detectors. 1. REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YYYY) 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES The views, opinions

An Investigation into Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) in the Saginaw Area from the Viewpoint of Mechanical Drafting and Design Employers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Irwin, John L.

The extent to which computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) was being used in local businesses in Saginaw, Michigan, was investigated. Focuses of a literature review were types of CADD systems, categories of CADD users, and the symbiotic relationship between industry and education in providing CADD training. The survey questionnaire was…

Computer Aided Design of Computer Generated Holograms for electron beam fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Urquhart, Kristopher S.; Lee, Sing H.; Guest, Clark C.; Feldman, Michael R.; Farhoosh, Hamid

1989-01-01

Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems that have been developed for electrical and mechanical design tasks are also effective tools for the process of designing Computer Generated Holograms (CGHs), particularly when these holograms are to be fabricated using electron beam lithography. CAD workstations provide efficient and convenient means of computing, storing, displaying, and preparing for fabrication many of the features that are common to CGH designs. Experience gained in the process of designing CGHs with various types of encoding methods is presented. Suggestions are made so that future workstations may further accommodate the CGH design process.

Hardware synthesis from DDL. [Digital Design Language for computer aided design and test of LSI

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shah, A. M.; Shiva, S. G.

1981-01-01

The details of the digital systems can be conveniently input into the design automation system by means of Hardware Description Languages (HDL). The Computer Aided Design and Test (CADAT) system at NASA MSFC is used for the LSI design. The Digital Design Language (DDL) has been selected as HDL for the CADAT System. DDL translator output can be used for the hardware implementation of the digital design. This paper addresses problems of selecting the standard cells from the CADAT standard cell library to realize the logic implied by the DDL description of the system.

Computer-aided design of nano-filter construction using DNA self-assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammadzadegan, Reza; Mohabatkar, Hassan

2007-01-01

Computer-aided design plays a fundamental role in both top-down and bottom-up nano-system fabrication. This paper presents a bottom-up nano-filter patterning process based on DNA self-assembly. In this study we designed a new method to construct fully designed nano-filters with the pores between 5 nm and 9 nm in diameter. Our calculations illustrated that by constructing such a nano-filter we would be able to separate many molecules.

Career Profiles- Aero-Mechanical Design- Operations Engineering Branch

NASA Image and Video Library

2015-10-26

NASA Armstrong’s Aeromechanical Design Group provides mechanical design solutions ranging from research and development to ground support equipment. With an aerospace or mechanical engineering background, team members use the latest computer-aided design software to create one-of-kind parts, assemblies, and drawings, and aid in the design’s fabrication and integration. Reverse engineering and inspection of Armstrong’s fleet of aircraft is made possible by using state-of-the-art coordinate measuring machines and laser scanning equipment.

Electronic Computer Aided Design. Its Application in FE.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Further Education Unit, London (England).

A study was conducted at the Electronics Industrial Unit at the Dorset Institute of Higher Education to investigate the feasibility of incorporating computer-aided design (CAD) in electrical and electronic courses. The aim was to investigate the application of CAD to electrical and electronic systems; the extent to which industrial developments…

Computer Assisted Instructional Design for Computer-Based Instruction. Final Report. Working Papers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Russell, Daniel M.; Pirolli, Peter

Recent advances in artificial intelligence and the cognitive sciences have made it possible to develop successful intelligent computer-aided instructional systems for technical and scientific training. In addition, computer-aided design (CAD) environments that support the rapid development of such computer-based instruction have also been recently…

Performance Outcomes of an Online First Aid and CPR Course for Laypersons

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cason, Carolyn L.; Stiller, Janeth

2011-01-01

Objective: The study evaluated the effectiveness of an online first aid course by comparing it with the traditional instructor-led course. An effective online course increases course accessibility and mitigates the major deterrent to widespread layperson training. Design: A comparison group design evaluated performances among 25 laypersons…

Braided Composites for Aerospace Applications. (Latest citations from the Aerospace Database)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

The bibliography contains citations concerning the design, fabrication, and testing of structural composites formed by braiding machines. Topics include computer aided design and associated computer aided manufacture of braided tubular and flat forms. Applications include aircraft and spacecraft structures, where high shear strength and stiffness are required.

NHDOT : process for municipally-managed state bridge aid program projects

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-09-12

The document sets for the requirements for a municipality which to manage the design and construction of a bridge rehabilitation or replacement project and receive Bridge Aid under the applicable provisions of RSA 234. Bridge Aid provided to a Munici...

The growing threat of AIDS: how marketers must respond.

PubMed

Hill, R P

1989-06-01

The author addresses the relationship between AIDS-related anxiety and the full range of consumer behavior activities. Relevant literature in the social sciences is summarized and a model of this relationship is posited. The model is used to explore consumers' potential reactions to the wide range of products that are expected to be introduced as the AIDS virus continues to spread into "mainstream" society. Differences in appropriate marketing-related practices are suggested on the premise that consumers may shift their focus, in part, from products designed to help them avoid contact with the AIDS virus to products designed to help them cope with the physical and emotional trauma of the disease.

Growing of the mathematical thinking imaginative to students in designing of the teaching aids for CWD towards to joyful learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugiman; Sugiharti, E.; Kurniawati, N. F.

2018-03-01

Government and the private parties had also organized of Special School (SS) and Inclusive School. SS requires of math teachers who were professional in the material, but also master the needs of Children with Disabilities (CwD) in teaching-learning process. The problem: How to design the Teaching Aids for CwD through Extra-Curriculum Training (ECT) activities to Joyful Learning? The purposes of this research: (1) To find new ways how to grow the imaginative in mathematical thinking for students of Mathematics Education. (2) To find a Teaching Aids Design that suitable for CwD who studying in SS. (3) In order to create a Teaching Aids for CwD through activities based on ECT to Joyful Learning. The research method was done by qualitative approach. The research subjects were 6 students of Mathematics Education Study Program of FMIPA UNNES who were interested in attending of the training activities based on ECT. The results: (1) ECT can be a place to grow an Imaginative in Mathematical Thinking of students, (2) created the design of the teaching aids for CwD through activities based on ECT to Joyful Learning as a mirror of the imaginative growth in mathematical thinking for students.

Launching a virtual decision lab: development and field-testing of a web-based patient decision support research platform.

PubMed

Hoffman, Aubri S; Llewellyn-Thomas, Hilary A; Tosteson, Anna N A; O'Connor, Annette M; Volk, Robert J; Tomek, Ivan M; Andrews, Steven B; Bartels, Stephen J

2014-12-12

Over 100 trials show that patient decision aids effectively improve patients' information comprehension and values-based decision making. However, gaps remain in our understanding of several fundamental and applied questions, particularly related to the design of interactive, personalized decision aids. This paper describes an interdisciplinary development process for, and early field testing of, a web-based patient decision support research platform, or virtual decision lab, to address these questions. An interdisciplinary stakeholder panel designed the web-based research platform with three components: a) an introduction to shared decision making, b) a web-based patient decision aid, and c) interactive data collection items. Iterative focus groups provided feedback on paper drafts and online prototypes. A field test assessed a) feasibility for using the research platform, in terms of recruitment, usage, and acceptability; and b) feasibility of using the web-based decision aid component, compared to performance of a videobooklet decision aid in clinical care. This interdisciplinary, theory-based, patient-centered design approach produced a prototype for field-testing in six months. Participants (n = 126) reported that: the decision aid component was easy to use (98%), information was clear (90%), the length was appropriate (100%), it was appropriately detailed (90%), and it held their interest (97%). They spent a mean of 36 minutes using the decision aid and 100% preferred using their home/library computer. Participants scored a mean of 75% correct on the Decision Quality, Knowledge Subscale, and 74 out of 100 on the Preparation for Decision Making Scale. Completing the web-based decision aid reduced mean Decisional Conflict scores from 31.1 to 19.5 (p < 0.01). Combining decision science and health informatics approaches facilitated rapid development of a web-based patient decision support research platform that was feasible for use in research studies in terms of recruitment, acceptability, and usage. Within this platform, the web-based decision aid component performed comparably with the videobooklet decision aid used in clinical practice. Future studies may use this interactive research platform to study patients' decision making processes in real-time, explore interdisciplinary approaches to designing web-based decision aids, and test strategies for tailoring decision support to meet patients' needs and preferences.

Computer aided system for parametric design of combination die

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naranje, Vishal G.; Hussein, H. M. A.; Kumar, S.

2017-09-01

In this paper, a computer aided system for parametric design of combination dies is presented. The system is developed using knowledge based system technique of artificial intelligence. The system is capable to design combination dies for production of sheet metal parts having punching and cupping operations. The system is coded in Visual Basic and interfaced with AutoCAD software. The low cost of the proposed system will help die designers of small and medium scale sheet metal industries for design of combination dies for similar type of products. The proposed system is capable to reduce design time and efforts of die designers for design of combination dies.

Design and operation of the national home health aide survey: 2007-2008.

PubMed

Bercovitz, Anita; Moss, Abigail J; Sengupta, Manisha; Harris-Kojetin, Lauren D; Squillace, Marie R; Emily, Rosenoff; Branden, Laura

2010-03-01

This report provides an overview of the National Home Health Aide Survey (NHHAS), the first national probability survey of home health aides. NHHAS was designed to provide national estimates of home health aides who provided assistance in activities of daily living (ADLs) and were directly employed by agencies that provide home health and/or hospice care. This report discusses the need for and objectives of the survey, the design process, the survey methods, and data availability. METHODS NHHAS, a multistage probability sample survey, was conducted as a supplement to the 2007 National Home and Hospice Care Survey (NHHCS). Agencies providing home health and/or hospice care were sampled, and then aides employed by these agencies were sampled and interviewed by telephone. Survey topics included recruitment, training, job history, family life, client relations, work-related injuries, and demographics. NHHAS was virtually identical to the 2004 National Nursing Assistant Survey of certified nursing assistants employed in sampled nursing homes with minor changes to account for differences in workplace environment and responsibilities. RESULTS From September 2007 to April 2008, interviews were completed with 3,416 aides. A public-use data file that contains the interview responses, sampling weights, and design variables is available. The NHHAS overall response rate weighted by the inverse of the probability of selection was 41 percent. This rate is the product of the weighted first-stage agency response rate of 57 percent (i.e., weighted response rate of 59 percent for agency participation in NHHCS times the weighted response rate of 97 percent for agencies participating in NHHCS that also participated in NHHAS) and the weighted second-stage aide response rate of 72 percent to NHHAS.

The calcium channel blocker amlodipine promotes the unclamping of eNOS from caveolin in endothelial cells.

PubMed

Batova, Suzan; DeWever, Julie; Godfraind, Théophile; Balligand, Jean-Luc; Dessy, Chantal; Feron, Olivier

2006-08-01

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) known to stimulate nitric oxide production from endothelial cells. Whether this ancillary property can be related to the capacity of amlodipine to concentrate and alter the structure of cholesterol-containing membrane bilayers is a matter of investigation. Here, we reasoned that since the endothelial nitric oxide synthase is, in part, expressed in cholesterol-rich plasmalemmal microdomains (e.g., caveolae and rafts), amlodipine could interfere with this specific locale of the enzyme and thereby modulate NO production in endothelial cells. Using a method combining lubrol-based extraction and subcellular fractionation on sucrose gradient, we found that amlodipine, but not verapamil or nifedipine, induced the segregation of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) from caveolin-enriched low-density membranes (8+/-2% vs. 42+/-3% in untreated condition; P<0.01). We then performed co-immunoprecipitation experiments and found that amlodipine dose-dependently disrupted the caveolin/eNOS interaction contrary to other calcium channel blockers, and potentiated the stimulation of NO production by agonists such as bradykinin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (+138+/-28% and +183+/-27% over values obtained with the agonist alone, respectively; P<0.01). Interestingly, we also documented that the dissociation of the caveolin/eNOS heterocomplex induced by amlodipine was not mediated by the traditional calcium-dependent calmodulin binding to eNOS and that recombinant caveolin expression could compete with the stimulatory effects of amlodipine on eNOS activity. Finally, we showed that the amlodipine-triggered, caveolin-dependent mechanism of eNOS activation was independent of other pleiotropic effects of the CCB such as superoxide anion scavenging and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition. This study unravels the modulatory effects of amlodipine on caveolar integrity and the capacity of caveolin to maintain eNOS in its vicinity in the absence of any detectable changes in intracellular calcium levels. The resulting increase in caveolin-free eNOS potentiates the NO production in response to agonists including VEGF and bradykinin. More generally, this work opens new avenues of treatment for drugs able to structurally alter signaling pathways concentrated in caveolae.

Is cardiovascular risk reduction therapy effective in South Asian, Chinese and other patients with diabetes? A population-based cohort study from Canada.

PubMed

Ke, Calvin H; Morgan, Steve; Smolina, Kate; Gasevic, Danijela; Qian, Hong; Khan, Nadia A

2017-08-31

Guidelines recommend ACE inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and diuretics in all patients with diabetes mellitus. However, the effectiveness of these agents in South Asian and Chinese populations is unknown. We sought to determine whether ACEi, ARB, CCB and diuretics are associated with reduced mortality in South Asian, Chinese and other patients with diabetes. Population-based cohort study using administrative health databases. Province of British Columbia, Canada (2006-2013). Patients aged ≥35 years with incident diabetes. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality for each medication class compared with untreated patients within each ethnicity. Treatment effect was assessed using inverse probability of treatment weighted Cox proportional hazards models. Medication adherence effect on mortality was also evaluated. 208 870 patients (13 755 South Asian, 22 871 Chinese, 172 244 other Canadian) were included. ACEi reduced mortality in other patients (HR=0.88, 0.84-0.91), but power was insufficient to evaluate for benefit in Chinese and South Asian patients. ARB and diuretics reduced mortality in Chinese (ARB HR=0.64, 0.50-0.82; diuretics HR=0.77, 0.62-0.96) and other patients (ARB HR=0.69, 0.64-0.74; diuretics HR=0.66, 0.63-0.69) compared with untreated patients. No mortality benefit was observed among South Asians for any drug class or for CCB among all ethnicities. Higher medication adherence was associated with lower mortality for other patients only (HR=0.79, 0.72-0.86). Effectiveness of cardiovascular risk reduction therapy on mortality varies considerably by ethnicity. Further study is needed to evaluate the mortality benefit of antihypertensive agents in South Asians. Inclusion of these ethnic groups in future clinical trials is essential to examine for differential responses. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

SNL Mechanical Computer Aided Design (MCAD) guide 2007.

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

Moore, Brandon; Pollice, Stephanie L.; Martinez, Jack R.

2007-12-01

This document is considered a mechanical design best-practice guide to new and experienced designers alike. The contents consist of topics related to using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, performing basic analyses, and using configuration management. The details specific to a particular topic have been leveraged against existing Product Realization Standard (PRS) and Technical Business Practice (TBP) requirements while maintaining alignment with sound engineering and design practices. This document is to be considered dynamic in that subsequent updates will be reflected in the main title, and each update will be published on an annual basis.

A non-linear programming approach to the computer-aided design of regulators using a linear-quadratic formulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleming, P.

1985-01-01

A design technique is proposed for linear regulators in which a feedback controller of fixed structure is chosen to minimize an integral quadratic objective function subject to the satisfaction of integral quadratic constraint functions. Application of a non-linear programming algorithm to this mathematically tractable formulation results in an efficient and useful computer-aided design tool. Particular attention is paid to computational efficiency and various recommendations are made. Two design examples illustrate the flexibility of the approach and highlight the special insight afforded to the designer.

Modeling And Simulation Of Bar Code Scanners Using Computer Aided Design Software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hellekson, Ron; Campbell, Scott

1988-06-01

Many optical systems have demanding requirements to package the system in a small 3 dimensional space. The use of computer graphic tools can be a tremendous aid to the designer in analyzing the optical problems created by smaller and less costly systems. The Spectra Physics grocery store bar code scanner employs an especially complex 3 dimensional scan pattern to read bar code labels. By using a specially written program which interfaces with a computer aided design system, we have simulated many of the functions of this complex optical system. In this paper we will illustrate how a recent version of the scanner has been designed. We will discuss the use of computer graphics in the design process including interactive tweaking of the scan pattern, analysis of collected light, analysis of the scan pattern density, and analysis of the manufacturing tolerances used to build the scanner.

The NASA computer aided design and test system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gould, J. M.; Juergensen, K.

1973-01-01

A family of computer programs facilitating the design, layout, evaluation, and testing of digital electronic circuitry is described. CADAT (computer aided design and test system) is intended for use by NASA and its contractors and is aimed predominantly at providing cost effective microelectronic subsystems based on custom designed metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) large scale integrated circuits (LSIC's). CADAT software can be easily adopted by installations with a wide variety of computer hardware configurations. Its structure permits ease of update to more powerful component programs and to newly emerging LSIC technologies. The components of the CADAT system are described stressing the interaction of programs rather than detail of coding or algorithms. The CADAT system provides computer aids to derive and document the design intent, includes powerful automatic layout software, permits detailed geometry checks and performance simulation based on mask data, and furnishes test pattern sequences for hardware testing.

The Impact of Machine Translation and Computer-aided Translation on Translators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Hao

2018-03-01

Under the context of globalization, communications between countries and cultures are becoming increasingly frequent, which make it imperative to use some techniques to help translate. This paper is to explore the influence of computer-aided translation on translators, which is derived from the field of the computer-aided translation (CAT) and machine translation (MT). Followed by an introduction to the development of machine and computer-aided translation, it then depicts the technologies practicable to translators, which are trying to analyze the demand of designing the computer-aided translation so far in translation practice, and optimize the designation of computer-aided translation techniques, and analyze its operability in translation. The findings underline the advantages and disadvantages of MT and CAT tools, and the serviceability and future development of MT and CAT technologies. Finally, this thesis probes into the impact of these new technologies on translators in hope that more translators and translation researchers can learn to use such tools to improve their productivity.

Computer Aided Approach to the Design of Y-Junction Stripline and Microstrip Ferrite Circulators

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-05-05

einO (36) n Jn(kr) J(k) A " kr J~r Finally, the Green’s function is 7 R. E. NEIDERT G(r,op ; R#¢) = X + Y X= j ZeJo(kr) 2 x Jo(kr) (37) IC n Jn(kR) - ’ n ...AD-A251 337 NRL/R ,-92-938I IIIII~ l l li i 1 11 [IIIfll li Computer Aided Approach to the Design of Y -Junction Stripline and Microstrip Ferrite...Aided Approach to the Design of Y -Junction - 62234N Stripline and Microstrip Ferrite Circulators PR - RS34R2 6. AUTHOR(S) WU - 2535-0 Robert E

Development and Verification of Body Armor Target Geometry Created Using Computed Tomography Scans

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-13

designated by other authorized documents. Citation of manufacturer’s or trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of...modeling consisted of manual measurement of armor systems and translating those measurements to computer-aided design geometry, which can be tedious and...computer-aided design (CAD) human geometry model (referred to throughout as ORCA man) that is used in the Operational Requirement-based Casualty Assessment

Manufacturing Methods and Technology Project Summary Reports

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-06-01

Computer -Aided Design (CAD)/ Computer -Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Process for the Production of Cold Forged Gears Project 483 6121 - Robotic Welding and...Caliber Projectile Bodies Project 682 8370 - Automatic Inspection and 1-I1 Process Control of Weapons Parts Manufacturing METALS Project 181 7285 - Cast...designed for use on each project. Experience suggested that a general purpose computer interface might be designed that could be used on any project

Readability and Test-Retest Reliability of a Psychometric Instrument Designed to Assess HIV/AIDS Attitudes, Beliefs, Behaviours and Sources of HIV Prevention Information of Young Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balogun, Joseph; Abiona, Titilayo; Lukobo-Durrell, Mainza; Adefuye, Adedeji; Amosun, Seyi; Frantz, Jose; Yakut, Yavuz

2011-01-01

Objective: This comparative study evaluated the readability and test-retest reliability of a questionnaire designed to assess the attitudes, beliefs behaviours and sources of information about HIV/AIDS among young adults recruited from universities in the United States of America (USA), Turkey and South Africa. Design/Setting: The instrument was…

Human Factors Engineering Guidelines for Overhead Cranes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chandler, Faith; Delgado, H. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This guideline provides standards for overhead crane cabs that can be applied to the design and modification of crane cabs to reduce the potential for human error due to design. This guideline serves as an aid during the development of a specification for purchases of cranes or for an engineering support request for crane design modification. It aids human factors engineers in evaluating existing cranes during accident investigations or safety reviews.

Computer-aided linear-circuit design.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Penfield, P.

1971-01-01

Usually computer-aided design (CAD) refers to programs that analyze circuits conceived by the circuit designer. Among the services such programs should perform are direct network synthesis, analysis, optimization of network parameters, formatting, storage of miscellaneous data, and related calculations. The program should be embedded in a general-purpose conversational language such as BASIC, JOSS, or APL. Such a program is MARTHA, a general-purpose linear-circuit analyzer embedded in APL.

Computer-Aided Structural Engineering (CASE) Project: State of the Art on Expert Systems Applications in Design, Construction and Maintenance of Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-09-01

OGT, F1EPQRTJTL4, W" - 3^ n"r-- n *ON EXPERT SYSTEMS IN DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND’, IWAJNTENANCE-OF STRUCTURES Arockiasamy, Sunghoon Lee Clepartrhent...based expert system applications in the areas of structural design, design standards, and construction planning. This study will aid in the development...of a comprehensive expert system for tvical hydraulic structures. Funding for this report was provided by the US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment

Program Aids Design Of Fluid-Circulating Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bacskay, Allen; Dalee, Robert

1992-01-01

Computer Aided Systems Engineering and Analysis (CASE/A) program is interactive software tool for trade study and analysis, designed to increase productivity during all phases of systems engineering. Graphics-based command-driven software package provides user-friendly computing environment in which engineer analyzes performance and interface characteristics of ECLS/ATC system. Useful during all phases of spacecraft-design program, from initial conceptual design trade studies to actual flight, including pre-flight prediction and in-flight analysis of anomalies. Written in FORTRAN 77.

User-centered design and the development of patient decision aids: protocol for a systematic review.

PubMed

Witteman, Holly O; Dansokho, Selma Chipenda; Colquhoun, Heather; Coulter, Angela; Dugas, Michèle; Fagerlin, Angela; Giguere, Anik Mc; Glouberman, Sholom; Haslett, Lynne; Hoffman, Aubri; Ivers, Noah; Légaré, France; Légaré, Jean; Levin, Carrie; Lopez, Karli; Montori, Victor M; Provencher, Thierry; Renaud, Jean-Sébastien; Sparling, Kerri; Stacey, Dawn; Vaisson, Gratianne; Volk, Robert J; Witteman, William

2015-01-26

Providing patient-centered care requires that patients partner in their personal health-care decisions to the full extent desired. Patient decision aids facilitate processes of shared decision-making between patients and their clinicians by presenting relevant scientific information in balanced, understandable ways, helping clarify patients' goals, and guiding decision-making processes. Although international standards stipulate that patients and clinicians should be involved in decision aid development, little is known about how such involvement currently occurs, let alone best practices. This systematic review consisting of three interlinked subreviews seeks to describe current practices of user involvement in the development of patient decision aids, compare these to practices of user-centered design, and identify promising strategies. A research team that includes patient and clinician representatives, decision aid developers, and systematic review method experts will guide this review according to the Cochrane Handbook and PRISMA reporting guidelines. A medical librarian will hand search key references and use a peer-reviewed search strategy to search MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the ACM library, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar. We will identify articles across all languages and years describing the development or evaluation of a patient decision aid, or the application of user-centered design or human-centered design to tools intended for patient use. Two independent reviewers will assess article eligibility and extract data into a matrix using a structured pilot-tested form based on a conceptual framework of user-centered design. We will synthesize evidence to describe how research teams have included users in their development process and compare these practices to user-centered design methods. If data permit, we will develop a measure of the user-centeredness of development processes and identify practices that are likely to be optimal. This systematic review will provide evidence of current practices to inform approaches for involving patients and other stakeholders in the development of patient decision aids. We anticipate that the results will help move towards the establishment of best practices for the development of patient-centered tools and, in turn, help improve the experiences of people who face difficult health decisions. PROSPERO CRD42014013241.

Computers in Manufacturing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hudson, C. A.

1982-01-01

Advances in factory computerization (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) are reviewed, including discussions of robotics, human factors engineering, and the sociological impact of automation. (JN)

The Design, Implementation, and Formative Evaluation of a Classroom Aide Professional Development Training Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dulfer, Katherine J.

2013-01-01

This dissertation focused on the process of designing, implementing, and formatively evaluating an eight week Classroom Aide Professional Development Training Program (CAPD-TP) on behavior management and academic instruction within the context of a New Jersey state approved private special education school for students with behavioral and/or…

78 FR 35179 - Negotiated Rulemaking Committee, Negotiator Nominations and Schedule of Committee Meetings-Title...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-12

... title IV Federal Student Aid programs; regulations designed to prevent fraud; State authorization for... Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 to the campus safety and security reporting requirements in the... regulations designed to prevent fraud and otherwise ensure proper use of title IV Federal Student Aid program...

National Occupational Skill Standards. CADD: Computer Aided Drafting and Design.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Coalition for Advanced Manufacturing, Washington, DC.

This document identifies computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) skills that companies require of training programs and future employees. The information was developed by two committees of technically knowledgeable CADD users from across the United States and validated by several hundred other CADD users. The skills are aimed at a beginner CADD…

Using Computer Graphics in the 90's.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Towne, Violet A.

Computer-Aided Design, a hands-on program for public school teachers, was first offered in the summer of 1987 as an outgrowth of a 1986 robotics training program. Area technology teachers needed computer-aided design (CAD) training because of a New York State Education system transition from the industrial arts curriculum to a new curriculum in…

Screening/Assessing Students: Indicators and Tools. A Resources Aid Packet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

California Univ., Los Angeles. Center for Mental Health in Schools.

This resource aid is designed to provide some materials relevant to screening students experiencing mental health, psychosocial, and substance abuse problems. Section 1, "Initial Problem Identification," is a summary of indicators designed for use as a handout. An overview that can be used to educate staff, older students, and parents on…

New Spaces for Learning: Designing College Facilities to Utilize Instructional Aids and Media. Revised.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hauf, Harold D.; And Others

Colleges need appropriate large group instructional facilities for effective and efficient use of instructional aids and media. A well planned system of facilities must provide space for learning; production, origination, and support; storage and retrieval. Design begins with a building plan--a statement, made jointly by the administrator and…

National Science Foundation 1989 Engineering Senior Design Projects To Aid the Disabled.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Enderle, John D., Ed.

Through the Bioengineering and Research to Aid the Disabled program of the National Science Foundation, design projects were awarded competitively to 16 universities. Senior engineering students at each of the universities constructed custom devices and software for disabled individuals. This compendium contains a description of each project in…

Gathering Empirical Evidence Concerning Links between Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Creativity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Musta'amal, Aede Hatib; Norman, Eddie; Hodgson, Tony

2009-01-01

Discussion is often reported concerning potential links between computer-aided designing and creativity, but there is a lack of systematic enquiry to gather empirical evidence concerning such links. This paper reports an indication of findings from other research studies carried out in contexts beyond general education that have sought evidence…

Computer-Aided Design in Further Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ingham, Peter, Ed.

This publication updates the 1982 occasional paper that was intended to foster staff awareness and assist colleges in Great Britain considering the use of computer-aided design (CAD) material in engineering courses. The paper begins by defining CAD and its place in the Integrated Business System with a brief discussion of the effect of CAD on the…

Computer Code Aids Design Of Wings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carlson, Harry W.; Darden, Christine M.

1993-01-01

AERO2S computer code developed to aid design engineers in selection and evaluation of aerodynamically efficient wing/canard and wing/horizontal-tail configurations that includes simple hinged-flap systems. Code rapidly estimates longitudinal aerodynamic characteristics of conceptual airplane lifting-surface arrangements. Developed in FORTRAN V on CDC 6000 computer system, and ported to MS-DOS environment.

Automation for nondestructive inspection of aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, M. W.

1994-01-01

We discuss the motivation and an architectural framework for using small mobile robots as automated aids to operators of nondestructive inspection (NDI) equipment. We review the need for aircraft skin inspection, and identify the constraints in commercial airlines operations that make small mobile robots the most attractive alternative for automated aids for NDI procedures. We describe the design and performance of the robot (ANDI) that we designed, built, and are testing for deployment of eddy current probes in prescribed commercial aircraft inspections. We discuss recent work aimed at also providing robotic aids for visual inspection.

Paying Less for College: 1993. The Complete Guide to $28 Billion in Financial Aid. Tenth Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peterson's Guides, Inc., Princeton, NJ.

This book on financial aid for college education is designed to be a guide to sources and an aid to the process of obtaining financial assistance. An introductory essay titled "The Twenty Most-Asked Questions About Financial Aid" gives a basic orientation on the issues and expert advice on how to tackle the problems of filling out forms,…

Policy Analysis Implications of a Model to Improve the Delivery of Financial Aid to Disadvantaged Students. AIR 1983 Annual Forum Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fenske, Robert H.; Porter, John D.

The role of institutional research in policy analysis regarding the operation of a computer model for delivery of financial aid to disadvantaged students is considered. A student financial aid model at Arizona State University is designed to develop a profile of late appliers for aid funds and also those who file inaccurate or incomplete…

The Teacher Aide is Special. Workbook for Why Not Competence? A Guide for Training Special Education Aides. Trainees Manual.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Semrau, Barbara L.; And Others

Designed for special education teacher aides, the workbook is the basic text for a five module, competency based, inservice training program. The first module focuses on the role of the teacher and the teacher aide as a team in serving handicapped children. The second module stresses the characteristics of normal child development and the…

Computer-aided design of antenna structures and components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levy, R.

1976-01-01

This paper discusses computer-aided design procedures for antenna reflector structures and related components. The primary design aid is a computer program that establishes cross sectional sizes of the structural members by an optimality criterion. Alternative types of deflection-dependent objectives can be selected for designs subject to constraints on structure weight. The computer program has a special-purpose formulation to design structures of the type frequently used for antenna construction. These structures, in common with many in other areas of application, are represented by analytical models that employ only the three translational degrees of freedom at each node. The special-purpose construction of the program, however, permits coding and data management simplifications that provide advantages in problem size and execution speed. Size and speed are essentially governed by the requirements of structural analysis and are relatively unaffected by the added requirements of design. Computation times to execute several design/analysis cycles are comparable to the times required by general-purpose programs for a single analysis cycle. Examples in the paper illustrate effective design improvement for structures with several thousand degrees of freedom and within reasonable computing times.

User-Centered Computer Aided Language Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zaphiris, Panayiotis, Ed.; Zacharia, Giorgos, Ed.

2006-01-01

In the field of computer aided language learning (CALL), there is a need for emphasizing the importance of the user. "User-Centered Computer Aided Language Learning" presents methodologies, strategies, and design approaches for building interfaces for a user-centered CALL environment, creating a deeper understanding of the opportunities and…

Certified Nurses' Aide Job-Related Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Massachusetts Career Development Inst., Springfield.

This document, which is designed for students preparing to become a certified nurses' aide, contains instructional text and learning activities organized in nine sections. The following topics are covered: the role of the certified nurse's aide (job duties, personal health, professionalism, code of ethics); infection control (the infection…

The application of rapid prototyping technique in chin augmentation.

PubMed

Li, Min; Lin, Xin; Xu, Yongchen

2010-04-01

This article discusses the application of computer-aided design and rapid prototyping techniques in prosthetic chin augmentation for mild microgenia. Nine cases of mild microgenia underwent an electrobeam computer tomography scan. Then we performed three-dimensional reconstruction and operative design using computer software. According to the design, we determined the shape and size of the prostheses and made an individualized prosthesis for each chin augmentation with the rapid prototyping technique. With the application of computer-aided design and a rapid prototyping technique, we could determine the shape, size, and embedding location accurately. Prefabricating the individual prosthesis model is useful in improving the accuracy of treatment. In the nine cases of mild microgenia, three received a silicone implant, four received an ePTFE implant, and two received a Medpor implant. All patients were satisfied with the results. During follow-up at 6-12 months, all patients remained satisfied. The application of computer-aided design and rapid prototyping techniques can offer surgeons the ability to design an individualized ideal prosthesis for each patient.

Decision aids: when 'nudging' patients to make a particular choice is more ethical than balanced, nondirective content.

PubMed

Blumenthal-Barby, J S; Cantor, Scott B; Russell, Heidi Voelker; Naik, Aanand D; Volk, Robert J

2013-02-01

Patient decision aids, such as instructional leaflets describing treatment options for prostate cancer, are designed to help educate patients so that they can share in decisions about their care. Developers of these decision aids strive for balance, aiming to be as neutral, unbiased, and nondirective as possible. We argue that balance should not always be a goal, and we identify three situations where it should not be. For example, men diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer frequently are not advised by their physicians that active surveillance is a reasonable alternative to immediate surgery or radiation. It may be desirable to design decision aids that promote active surveillance as an option. We recognize that the arguments put forth in this article are controversial. But they are also justified. We challenge medical decision makers and decision aid developers to determine if and when patients should be "nudged" toward one option or another.

Digital data acquisition for a CAD/CAM-fabricated titanium framework and zirconium oxide restorations for an implant-supported fixed complete dental prosthesis.

PubMed

Lin, Wei-Shao; Metz, Michael J; Pollini, Adrien; Ntounis, Athanasios; Morton, Dean

2014-12-01

This dental technique report describes a digital workflow with digital data acquisition at the implant level, computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing fabricated, tissue-colored, anodized titanium framework, individually luted zirconium oxide restorations, and autopolymerizing injection-molded acrylic resin to fabricate an implant-supported, metal-ceramic-resin fixed complete dental prosthesis in an edentulous mandible. The 1-step computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing fabrication of titanium framework and zirconium oxide restorations can provide a cost-effective alternative to the conventional metal-resin fixed complete dental prosthesis. Copyright © 2014 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Space assembly fixtures and aids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bloom, K. A.; Lillenas, A. N.

1980-01-01

Concepts and requirements for assembly fixtures and aids necessary for the assembly and maintenance of spare platforms were studied. Emphasis was placed on erectable and deployable type structures with the shuttle orbiter as the assembly base. Both single and multiple orbiter flight cases for the platform assembly were considered. Applicable space platform assembly studies were reviewed to provide a data base for establishing the assembly fixture and aids design requirements, assembly constraints, and the development of representative design concepts. Conclusions indicated that fixture requirements will vary with platform size. Larger platforms will require translation relative to the orbiter RMS working volume. The installation of platform payloads and subsystems (e.g., utility distribution) must also be considered in the specification of assembly fixtures and aids.

Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Increasing the Meaningful Involvement of Women Living With HIV/AIDS (MIWA) in the Design and Delivery of HIV/AIDS Services.

PubMed

Carter, Allison; Greene, Saara; Nicholson, Valerie; O'Brien, Nadia; Sanchez, Margarite; de Pokomandy, Alexandra; Loutfy, Mona; Kaida, Angela

2015-01-01

The meaningful involvement of women living with HIV/AIDS (MIWA) is a key feature of women-centred HIV care, yet little is known about transforming MIWA from principle to practice. Drawing on focus group data from the Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study (CHIWOS), we explored HIV-positive women's meaningful involvement in the design and delivery of HIV/AIDS services in British Columbia, Canada. In this article, we highlight the benefits and tensions that emerge as women traverse multiple roles as service users and service providers within their care communities, and the impact this has on their access to care and overall health.

Correction of facial and mandibular asymmetry using a computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing prefabricated titanium implant.

PubMed

Watson, Jason; Hatamleh, Muhanad; Alwahadni, Ahed; Srinivasan, Dilip

2014-05-01

Patients with significant craniofacial asymmetry may have functional problems associated with their occlusion and aesthetic concerns related to the imbalance in soft and hard tissue profiles. This report details a case of facial asymmetry secondary to left mandible angle deficiency due to undergoing previous radiotherapy. We describe the correction of the bony deformity using computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing custom-made titanium onlay using novel direct metal laser sintering. The direct metal laser sintering onlay proved a very accurate operative fit and showed a good aesthetic correction of the bony defect with no reported complications postoperatively. It is a useful low-morbidity technique, and there is no resorption or associated donor-site complications.

NAVSIM 2: A computer program for simulating aided-inertial navigation for aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bjorkman, William S.

1987-01-01

NAVSIM II, a computer program for analytical simulation of aided-inertial navigation for aircraft, is described. The description is supported by a discussion of the program's application to the design and analysis of aided-inertial navigation systems as well as instructions for utilizing the program and for modifying it to accommodate new models, constraints, algorithms and scenarios. NAVSIM II simulates an airborne inertial navigation system built around a strapped-down inertial measurement unit and aided in its function by GPS, Doppler radar, altimeter, airspeed, and position-fix measurements. The measurements are incorporated into the navigation estimate via a UD-form Kalman filter. The simulation was designed and implemented using structured programming techniques and with particular attention to user-friendly operation.

Dual-scan technique for the customization of zirconia computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing frameworks.

PubMed

Andreiuolo, Rafael Ferrone; Sabrosa, Carlos Eduardo; Dias, Katia Regina H Cervantes

2013-09-01

The use of bi-layered all-ceramic crowns has continuously grown since the introduction of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) zirconia cores. Unfortunately, despite the outstanding mechanical properties of zirconia, problems related to porcelain cracking or chipping remain. One of the reasons for this is that ceramic copings are usually milled to uniform thicknesses of 0.3-0.6 mm around the whole tooth preparation. This may not provide uniform thickness or appropriate support for the veneering porcelain. To prevent these problems, the dual-scan technique demonstrates an alternative that allows the restorative team to customize zirconia CAD/CAM frameworks with adequate porcelain thickness and support in a simple manner.

Self-esteem and quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS.

PubMed

Manhas, Coral

2014-11-01

In India in 2009, it was estimated that 2.4 million people were living with HIV, which equates to a prevalence of 0.3 percent. While this seems low, because India's population is so large, this rate is third in the world in terms of the absolute number of people living with HIV/AIDS. This study evaluated the self-esteem and quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS in the Indian population using a correlational design. A significant positive correlation between self esteem and the different dimensions of quality of life was established. Interventions designed for people with HIV/AIDS could well include self esteem as a moderator of quality of life. © The Author(s) 2013.

49 CFR 38.83 - Mobility aid accessibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... wheelchair or mobility aid users to reach areas, each with a minimum clear floor space of 48 inches by 30 inches, which do not unduly restrict passenger flow. Space to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids may be provided within the normal area used by standees and designation of specific spaces is not...

49 CFR 38.83 - Mobility aid accessibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... wheelchair or mobility aid users to reach areas, each with a minimum clear floor space of 48 inches by 30 inches, which do not unduly restrict passenger flow. Space to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids may be provided within the normal area used by standees and designation of specific spaces is not...

49 CFR 38.83 - Mobility aid accessibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... wheelchair or mobility aid users to reach areas, each with a minimum clear floor space of 48 inches by 30 inches, which do not unduly restrict passenger flow. Space to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids may be provided within the normal area used by standees and designation of specific spaces is not...

Financial Aid for Veterans, Military Personnel, and Their Dependents, 1988-1989.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schlachter, Gail Ann; Weber, R. David

A directory of scholarships, fellowships, loans, awards, grants-in-aid, and internships designed for veterans, military personnel, and their dependents is presented. The aid programs cover applicants from high school to postdoctoral levels for programs involving research, travel, education, training, career development, or emergency situations.…

Perceptions of the Design of Voice Output Communication Aids

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Judge, Simon; Townend, Gillian

2013-01-01

Background: Voice output communication aids (VOCAs) are a key form of aided communication within the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). In recent years, rapid developments in technology have resulted in an explosion of devices available commercially, yet little research has been conducted into what people who use VOCAs…

In Vitro Evaluation of a Program for Machine-Aided Indexing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jacquemin, Christian; Daille, Beatrice; Royaute, Jean; Polanco, Xavier

2002-01-01

Presents the human evaluation of ILIAD, a program for machine-aided indexing that was designed to assist expert librarians in computer-aided indexing and document analysis. Topics include controlled indexing and free indexing; natural language and concept-based information retrieval; evaluation methodology; syntactic variations; and a comparison…

An Annotated Bibliography for Health Occupations: A Guide for Teachers and Students.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Solon, Lindy

The bibliography is designed to assist teachers and students at the secondary level in selecting printed and audiovisual materials related to health occupations. The 115 items relate to the following occupations: dental assistant, medical laboratory aide, practical nurse, nurse assistant, rehabilitation aide, physical therapy aide, radiologic…

Student Financial Aid and Persistence in College.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Astin, Helen S.; Cross, Patricia H.

The administration, purpose, and design of student financial aid programs are examined with emphasis on assuring greater access to higher education, student persistence, and providing students with incentives for performing well academically. After a brief history of financial aid and a review of selected studies on persistence, the sampling and…

The development of a decision aid for tinnitus.

PubMed

Pryce, Helen; Durand, Marie-Anne; Hall, Amanda; Shaw, Rachel; Culhane, Beth-Anne; Swift, Sarah; Straus, Jean; Marks, Elizabeth; Ward, Melanie; Chilvers, Katie

2018-05-09

To develop a decision aid for tinnitus care that would meet international consensus for decision aid quality. A mixed methods design that included qualitative in-depth interviews, literature review, focus groups, user testing and readability checking. Patients and clinicians who have clinical experience of tinnitus. A decision aid for tinnitus care was developed. This incorporates key evidence of efficacy for the most frequently used tinnitus care options, together with information derived from patient priorities when deciding which choice to make. The decision aid has potential to enable shared decision making between clinicians and patients in audiology. The decision aid meets consensus standards.

Hypertensive Medications in Competitive Athletes.

PubMed

Pelto, Henry

Hypertension is the most common cardiovascular disease in athletes. It is an important cause of long-term morbidity and mortality, even in a fit, athletic population. Management options to reduce these long-term risks exist that have minimal impact on athletic performance. Identification and management of underlying lifestyle factors and diseases that may lead to secondary hypertension is critical. These include substance abuse, medications, and underlying medical conditions. After evaluation and management of these issues, medications can be used to reduce blood pressure. In the athletic population, first-line medication treatment should include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB), and calcium channel blockers (CCB). The response to treatment should be followed closely to ensure adequate blood pressure control. Athletic participation in sports with high dynamic load should be limited in individuals with stage 2 hypertension or stage 1 hypertension with evidence of end organ damage.

Further Studies on the Prevalence of Isolated Sleep Paralysis in Black Subjects

PubMed Central

Bell, Carl C.; Dixie-Bell, Dora D.; Thompson, Belinda

1986-01-01

In a previous study, one of the authors (C.C.B.) found isolated sleep paralysis was common in blacks. In this study, conducted by interviews, a recurrent pattern (one or more episodes per month) of isolated sleep paralysis episodes in blacks was described by at least 25 percent of the afflicted sample studied. Frequent episodes were associated with stress, and subjects with isolated sleep paralysis had an unusually high prevalence of panic disorder (15.5 percent). The genetic transmission of sleep paralysis was studied in a large black family, and in addition to stressful environmental factors being associated with the condition, there appears to be a dominant genetic factor associated with the predisposition for developing sleep paralysis. The implications of these findings for stress, anxiety, sleep, and psychophysiologic disorders are discussed. PMID:3746934

Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of the Computer Aided Interactive Testing System (CAITS). Focus on the Trained Person.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

1983

This report describes the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of the Computer Aided Interactive Testing System (CAITS) and addresses the applicability of the system in the Naval Education and Training Command. In addition to an introduction (section one), the report contains four sections and three appendices. Section two describes…

Revision of Electro-Mechanical Drafting Program to Include CAD/D (Computer-Aided Drafting/Design). Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Snyder, Nancy V.

North Seattle Community College decided to integrate computer-aided design/drafting (CAD/D) into its Electro-Mechanical Drafting Program. This choice necessitated a redefinition of the program through new curriculum and course development. To initiate the project, a new industrial advisory council was formed. Major electronic and recruiting firms…

Levels and Functions of HIV/AIDS Stigma within the Iranian Community Living in the Sydney Metropolitan Area

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hosseinzadeh, Hassan; Hossain, Syeda Zakia; Niknami, Shamsaddin

2012-01-01

Objective: This study examines the levels of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related stigma among the Iranian population and the factors that contribute to the formation of stigma within the study population. Design: A quantitative research design was used in this research whereby participants completed…

Office of Student Financial Aid Quality Improvement Program: Design and Implementation Plan.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Advanced Technology, Inc., Reston, VA.

The purpose and direction of the Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) quality improvement program are described. The background and context for the Pell Grant quality control (QC) design study and the meaning of QC are reviewed. The general approach to quality improvement consists of the following elements: a strategic approach that enables OSFA…

Evolution of design considerations in complex craniofacial reconstruction using patient-specific implants.

PubMed

Peel, Sean; Bhatia, Satyajeet; Eggbeer, Dominic; Morris, Daniel S; Hayhurst, Caroline

2017-06-01

Previously published evidence has established major clinical benefits from using computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, and additive manufacturing to produce patient-specific devices. These include cutting guides, drilling guides, positioning guides, and implants. However, custom devices produced using these methods are still not in routine use, particularly by the UK National Health Service. Oft-cited reasons for this slow uptake include the following: a higher up-front cost than conventionally fabricated devices, material-choice uncertainty, and a lack of long-term follow-up due to their relatively recent introduction. This article identifies a further gap in current knowledge - that of design rules, or key specification considerations for complex computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing/additive manufacturing devices. This research begins to address the gap by combining a detailed review of the literature with first-hand experience of interdisciplinary collaboration on five craniofacial patient case studies. In each patient case, bony lesions in the orbito-temporal region were segmented, excised, and reconstructed in the virtual environment. Three cases translated these digital plans into theatre via polymer surgical guides. Four cases utilised additive manufacturing to fabricate titanium implants. One implant was machined from polyether ether ketone. From the literature, articles with relevant abstracts were analysed to extract design considerations. In all, 19 frequently recurring design considerations were extracted from previous publications. Nine new design considerations were extracted from the case studies - on the basis of subjective clinical evaluation. These were synthesised to produce a design considerations framework to assist clinicians with prescribing and design engineers with modelling. Promising avenues for further research are proposed.

Development and pilot testing of a decision aid for surrogates of patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation

PubMed Central

Cox, Christopher E.; Lewis, Carmen L.; Hanson, Laura C.; Hough, Catherine L.; Kahn, Jeremy M.; White, Douglas B.; Song, Mi-Kyung; Tulsky, James A.; Carson, Shannon S.

2013-01-01

Objective Shared decision making is inadequate in intensive care units (ICUs). Decision aids can improve decision making quality, though their role in an ICU setting is unclear. We aimed to develop and pilot test a decision aid for shared decision makers of patients undergoing prolonged mechanical ventilation. Setting ICUs at three medical centers. Subjects 53 surrogate decision makers and 58 physicians. Design and interventions We developed the decision aid using defined methodological guidelines. After an iterative revision process, formative cognitive testing was performed among surrogate-physician dyads. Next, we compared the decision aid to usual care control in a prospective, before/after design study. Measurements and main results Primary outcomes were physician-surrogate discordance for expected patient survival, comprehension of relevant medical information, and the quality of communication. Compared to control, the intervention group had lower surrogate-physician discordance (7 [10] vs 43 [21]), greater comprehension (11.4 [0.7] vs 6.1 [3.7]), and improved quality of communication (8.7 [1.3] vs 8.4 [1.3]) (all p<0.05) post-intervention. Hospital costs were lower in the intervention group ($110,609 vs $178,618; p=0.044); mortality did not differ by group (38% vs 50%, p=0.95). 94% of surrogates and 100% of physicians reported that the decision aid was useful in decision making. Conclusion We developed a prolonged mechanical ventilation decision aid that is feasible, acceptable, and associated with both improved decision making quality and less resource utilization. Further evaluation using a randomized controlled trial design is needed to evaluate the decision aid's effect on long-term patient and surrogate outcomes. PMID:22635048

[Judicial and medical/legal aspects of the responsibility of workers appointed to carry out first aid].

PubMed

Caprioli, L C; Ciavarella, M; Sacco, A

2005-01-01

One of the innovations introduced by law 626/94 [the Italian law on occupational health and safety of workers] is the obligation of the employer to designate workers responsible for first aid. To identify and discuss the duties, the role and the medical and legal responsibility of workers appointed to carry out first aid measures. Analysis of legislation and current practice concerning medical and legal responsibility in first aid procedures. The worker appointed to carry out first aid measures is, by virtue of his appointment, obliged to take action. Therefore, he could commit an illegitimate act both by "acting" and by "omitting" to carry out a duty that is his responsibility. In the first case the worker could be accused of committing an unpremeditated criminal offence when his actions involve negligence, imprudence, inexperience or violation of regulations concerning his duties. A "serious criminal offence" is committed when the most elementary rules of diligence, prudence and skill are violated; the offence is "slight" when negligence, imprudence or inexperience are involved in particularly complex situations. The reference parameter for inexperience is not a first aid volunteer, nor a member of the public, but a worker designated to carry out first aid possessing "average" attitudes, training and ability. Briefly, a guilty error by the appointed worker consists of the following: i) the professional conduct of the operator was clearly wrong, serious and unjustifiable; ii) the operator clearly omitted doing his/her duty; iii) the consequence of the error is physical personal damage. The observations made clearly illustrate the delicacy of the tasks of the worker appointed to carry out first aid measures. Essential elements for minimizing wrong and/or negligent conduct are appropriate choice of the designated workers and their adequate training.

The influence of non-linear frequency compression on the perception of music by adults with a moderate to sever hearing loss: subjective impressions.

PubMed

Uys, Marinda; Pottas, Lidia; Vinck, Bart; van Dijk, Catherine

2012-12-01

To date, the main direction in frequency-lowering hearing aid studies has been in relation to speech perception abilities. With improvements in hearing aid technology, interest in musical perception as a dimension that could improve hearing aid users' quality of life has grown. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of non-linear frequency compression (NFC) on hearing aid users' subjective impressions of listening to music. DESIGN & SAMPLE: A survey research design was implemented to elicit participants' (N=40) subjective impressions of musical stimuli with and without NFC. The use of NFC significantly improved hearing aid users' perception of the musical qualities of overall fidelity, tinniness and reverberance. Although participants preferred to listen to the loudness, fullness, crispness, naturalness and pleasantness of music with the use of NFC, these benefits were not significant. The use of NFC can increase hearing aid users' enjoyment and appreciation of music. Given that a relatively large percentage of hearing aid users express a loss of enjoyment of music, audiologists should not ignore the possible benefits of NFC, especially if one takes into account that previous research indicates speech perception benefits with this technology.

Research and development activities in unified control-structure modeling and design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nayak, A. P.

1985-01-01

Results of work to develop a unified control/structures modeling and design capability for large space structures modeling are presented. Recent analytical results are presented to demonstrate the significant interdependence between structural and control properties. A new design methodology is suggested in which the structure, material properties, dynamic model and control design are all optimized simultaneously. Parallel research done by other researchers is reviewed. The development of a methodology for global design optimization is recommended as a long-term goal. It is suggested that this methodology should be incorporated into computer aided engineering programs, which eventually will be supplemented by an expert system to aid design optimization.

Designers workbench: toward real-time immersive modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuester, Falko; Duchaineau, Mark A.; Hamann, Bernd; Joy, Kenneth I.; Ma, Kwan-Liu

2000-05-01

This paper introduces the Designers Workbench, a semi- immersive virtual environment for two-handed modeling, sculpting and analysis tasks. The paper outlines the fundamental tools, design metaphors and hardware components required for an intuitive real-time modeling system. As companies focus on streamlining productivity to cope with global competition, the migration to computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing, and computer-aided engineering systems has established a new backbone of modern industrial product development. However, traditionally a product design frequently originates form a clay model that, after digitization, forms the basis for the numerical description of CAD primitives. The Designers Workbench aims at closing this technology or 'digital gap' experienced by design and CAD engineers by transforming the classical design paradigm into its fully integrate digital and virtual analog allowing collaborative development in a semi- immersive virtual environment. This project emphasizes two key components form the classical product design cycle: freeform modeling and analysis. In the freedom modeling stage, content creation in the form of two-handed sculpting of arbitrary objects using polygonal, volumetric or mathematically defined primitives is emphasized, whereas the analysis component provides the tools required for pre- and post-processing steps for finite element analysis tasks applied to the created models.

Computer Aided Grid Interface: An Interactive CFD Pre-Processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soni, Bharat K.

1997-01-01

NASA maintains an applications oriented computational fluid dynamics (CFD) efforts complementary to and in support of the aerodynamic-propulsion design and test activities. This is especially true at NASA/MSFC where the goal is to advance and optimize present and future liquid-fueled rocket engines. Numerical grid generation plays a significant role in the fluid flow simulations utilizing CFD. An overall goal of the current project was to develop a geometry-grid generation tool that will help engineers, scientists and CFD practitioners to analyze design problems involving complex geometries in a timely fashion. This goal is accomplished by developing the CAGI: Computer Aided Grid Interface system. The CAGI system is developed by integrating CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) geometric system output and/or Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) files (including all the NASA-IGES entities), geometry manipulations and generations associated with grid constructions, and robust grid generation methodologies. This report describes the development process of the CAGI system.

Computer Aided Grid Interface: An Interactive CFD Pre-Processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soni, Bharat K.

1996-01-01

NASA maintains an applications oriented computational fluid dynamics (CFD) efforts complementary to and in support of the aerodynamic-propulsion design and test activities. This is especially true at NASA/MSFC where the goal is to advance and optimize present and future liquid-fueled rocket engines. Numerical grid generation plays a significant role in the fluid flow simulations utilizing CFD. An overall goal of the current project was to develop a geometry-grid generation tool that will help engineers, scientists and CFD practitioners to analyze design problems involving complex geometries in a timely fashion. This goal is accomplished by developing the Computer Aided Grid Interface system (CAGI). The CAGI system is developed by integrating CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) geometric system output and / or Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) files (including all the NASA-IGES entities), geometry manipulations and generations associated with grid constructions, and robust grid generation methodologies. This report describes the development process of the CAGI system.

Microwave processing of a dental ceramic used in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing.

PubMed

Pendola, Martin; Saha, Subrata

2015-01-01

Because of their favorable mechanical properties and natural esthetics, ceramics are widely used in restorative dentistry. The conventional ceramic sintering process required for their use is usually slow, however, and the equipment has an elevated energy consumption. Sintering processes that use microwaves have several advantages compared to regular sintering: shorter processing times, lower energy consumption, and the capacity for volumetric heating. The objective of this study was to test the mechanical properties of a dental ceramic used in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) after the specimens were processed with microwave hybrid sintering. Density, hardness, and bending strength were measured. When ceramic specimens were sintered with microwaves, the processing times were reduced and protocols were simplified. Hardness was improved almost 20% compared to regular sintering, and flexural strength measurements suggested that specimens were approximately 50% stronger than specimens sintered in a conventional system. Microwave hybrid sintering may preserve or improve the mechanical properties of dental ceramics designed for CAD/CAM processing systems, reducing processing and waiting times.

The effects of computer-aided design software on engineering students' spatial visualisation skills

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kösa, Temel; Karakuş, Fatih

2018-03-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of computer-aided design (CAD) software-based instruction on the spatial visualisation skills of freshman engineering students in a computer-aided engineering drawing course. A quasi-experimental design was applied, using the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test-Visualization of Rotations (PSVT:R) for both the pre- and the post-test. The participants were 116 freshman students in the first year of their undergraduate programme in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at a university in Turkey. A total of 72 students comprised the experimental group; they were instructed with CAD-based activities in an engineering drawing course. The control group consisted of 44 students who did not attend this course. The results of the study showed that a CAD-based engineering drawing course had a positive effect on developing engineering students' spatial visualisation skills. Additionally, the results of the study showed that spatial visualisation skills can be a predictor for success in a computer-aided engineering drawing course.

Program design by a multidisciplinary team. [for structural finite element analysis on STAR-100 computer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Voigt, S.

1975-01-01

The use of software engineering aids in the design of a structural finite-element analysis computer program for the STAR-100 computer is described. Nested functional diagrams to aid in communication among design team members were used, and a standardized specification format to describe modules designed by various members was adopted. This is a report of current work in which use of the functional diagrams provided continuity and helped resolve some of the problems arising in this long-running part-time project.

Correction of Pectus Excavatum by Custom-Made Silicone Implants: Contribution of Computer-Aided Design Reconstruction. A 20-Year Experience and 401 Cases.

PubMed

Chavoin, Jean-Pierre; Grolleau, Jean-Louis; Moreno, Benjamin; Brunello, Jérémie; André, Aymeric; Dahan, Marcel; Garrido, Ignacio; Chaput, Benoit

2016-05-01

In the absence of demonstrable functional impairment, pectus excavatum is merely a congenital deformity, albeit with a marked psychological impact. Many patients do not wish to undergo thoracic remodeling operations, which are invasive and do not clearly result in respiratory or cardiac improvement. From 1993 to 2015, the authors designed 401 custom-made silicone implants to treat funnel chests. Before 2007, implants were made from plaster chest molds. Beginning in 2007, three-dimensional reconstructions were made from computed tomographic scans by computer-aided design. The authors prospectively recorded all assessments and follow-up data since 1993. Preoperative and postoperative photographs of two random groups of 50 patients were analyzed, in a blinded manner, by two surgeons independently. Intraoperative and postoperative complications, clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and quality of life were evaluated. One infection and three hematomas were recorded. Periprosthetic seroma was evident in all cases. Patients rated the cosmetic outcomes of computer-aided design implants significantly higher than those of the earlier implants made using plaster molds (p = 0.030). Malformations were better corrected in the computer-aided design group (86 percent) than in the plaster group (72 percent) (p = 0.038). Patient satisfaction was higher in the former group (p = 0.011). Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey scores revealed significant improvements, both socially and emotionally. Correction of pectus excavatum using a computer-aided design silicone implant fulfils aesthetic and psychological demands. The technique is simple and reliable and yields high-quality results. In the medium term, the approach may render invasive techniques obsolete. These operations remain risky and of doubtful functional utility. Therapeutic, III.

Integrating a facial scan, virtual smile design, and 3D virtual patient for treatment with CAD-CAM ceramic veneers: A clinical report.

PubMed

Lin, Wei-Shao; Harris, Bryan T; Phasuk, Kamolphob; Llop, Daniel R; Morton, Dean

2018-02-01

This clinical report describes a digital workflow using the virtual smile design approach augmented with a static 3-dimensional (3D) virtual patient with photorealistic appearance to restore maxillary central incisors by using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) monolithic lithium disilicate ceramic veneers. Copyright © 2017 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computer Aided Conceptual Design of Submarines

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-06-01

Department 5f i ngi eering . May 19134 Certified by: Thesi Supervisor Accepted Y.’.I Cr’rman, (IeaV gineer ing Departmental Comimitte C - nuusý"(Xwa has...the equilibrium polygon. The Package interfaces with a pressure hull design module developed separately in an O.E. thesis by Marvin Meade. Interactive...computers or computer aided design systems. c- A𔃺ccession -or4 Thesis Supervisor: Dr. David V. Burke NI R~ Title: Professor of Ocean Engineering DTIC

An Analysis of Computer Aided Design (CAD) Packages Used at MSFC for the Recent Initiative to Integrate Engineering Activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Leigh M.; Parker, Nelson C. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

This paper analyzes the use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) packages at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). It examines the effectiveness of recent efforts to standardize CAD practices across MSFC engineering activities. An assessment of the roles played by management, designers, analysts, and manufacturers in this initiative will be explored. Finally, solutions are presented for better integration of CAD across MSFC in the future.

AIDS education for primary school children in Tanzania: an evaluation study.

PubMed

Klepp, K I; Ndeki, S S; Seha, A M; Hannan, P; Lyimo, B A; Msuya, M H; Irema, M N; Schreiner, A

1994-08-01

To test the effects of an HIV/AIDS education program. A quasi-experimental, nested cross-sectional design including baseline and 6-month follow-up surveys. Schools, stratified according to location, were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 6) or comparison conditions (n = 12). Public primary schools in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions, Tanzania. A total of 2026 sixth and seventh grade pupils (average age, 14.0 years) participated at baseline (85%) and 1785 at follow-up. The program was designed to reduce children's risk of HIV infection and to improve their tolerance of and care for people with AIDS. Local teachers and health workers attended a 1-week training workshop before implementing the program over a 2-3-month period (averaging 20 school hours per class). Self-reported exposure to AIDS information, communication regarding AIDS; AIDS knowledge, attitudes towards people with AIDS, attitudes towards having sexual intercourse, subjective norms regarding sexual intercourse, and intention to engage in sexual intercourse. Following this program, intervention pupils reported significantly higher scores for the following outcome measures than pupils attending the comparison schools: AIDS information (13.1 versus 10.5; P = 0.0001), AIDS communication (10.9 versus 7.8; P = 0.0001) AIDS knowledge (14.5 versus 11.5; P = 0.0001), attitudes towards people with AIDS (9.0 versus 6.7; P = 0.0008), subjective norms (45.5 versus 43.9; P = 0.011), and intention (1.3 versus 1.4; P = 0.020). No program effect was seen for attitudes towards sexual intercourse (47.0 versus 46.3, P = 0.44). These results indicate that it is feasible and effective to provide AIDS education for Tanzanian primary school children.

Computer-aided engineering of semiconductor integrated circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meindl, J. D.; Dutton, R. W.; Gibbons, J. F.; Helms, C. R.; Plummer, J. D.; Tiller, W. A.; Ho, C. P.; Saraswat, K. C.; Deal, B. E.; Kamins, T. I.

1980-07-01

Economical procurement of small quantities of high performance custom integrated circuits for military systems is impeded by inadequate process, device and circuit models that handicap low cost computer aided design. The principal objective of this program is to formulate physical models of fabrication processes, devices and circuits to allow total computer-aided design of custom large-scale integrated circuits. The basic areas under investigation are (1) thermal oxidation, (2) ion implantation and diffusion, (3) chemical vapor deposition of silicon and refractory metal silicides, (4) device simulation and analytic measurements. This report discusses the fourth year of the program.

Geometric modeling for computer aided design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwing, James L.

1992-01-01

The goal was the design and implementation of software to be used in the conceptual design of aerospace vehicles. Several packages and design studies were completed, including two software tools currently used in the conceptual level design of aerospace vehicles. These tools are the Solid Modeling Aerospace Research Tool (SMART) and the Environment for Software Integration and Execution (EASIE). SMART provides conceptual designers with a rapid prototyping capability and additionally provides initial mass property analysis. EASIE provides a set of interactive utilities that simplify the task of building and executing computer aided design systems consisting of diverse, stand alone analysis codes that result in the streamlining of the exchange of data between programs, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Acoustical and Perceptual Comparison of Noise Reduction and Compression in Hearing Aids

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brons, Inge; Houben, Rolph; Dreschler, Wouter A.

2015-01-01

Purpose: Noise reduction and dynamic-range compression are generally applied together in hearing aids but may have opposite effects on amplification. This study evaluated the acoustical and perceptual effects of separate and combined processing of noise reduction and compression. Design: Recordings of the output of 4 hearing aids for speech in…

Design and Development of 3D Printed Teaching Aids for Architecture Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Song, Min Jeong; Ha, Euna; Goo, Sang-Kwon; Cho, JaeKyung

2018-01-01

This article describes how the implementation of 3D printing in classrooms has brought many opportunities to educators as it provides affordability and accessibility in creating and customizing teaching aids. The study reports on the process of fabricating teaching aids for architecture education using 3D printing technologies. The practice-based…

Swimming for the Handicapped: A Manual for the Aide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Priest, Louise

Presented is the American National Red Cross Swimming for the Handicapped Program manual designed for volunteer aides. The program's aims, scope, and value are described in the introduction. It is noted that the nonswimming aides can play a vital role in transportation, dressing room assistance, record keeping, and as safety assistants, while…

Game-Based Learning Aids in Second Life

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Young, William, II; Franklin, Teresa; Cooper, Tessa; Carroll, Stephen; Liu, Chang

2012-01-01

In an age of technological advancement, video games have been found to be effective teaching aids in middle school science classrooms. A National Science Foundation (NSF) project at Ohio University, known as STEAM, (Science and Technology Enrichment for Appalachian Middle Schoolers), has examined Second Life as a curriculum aid through the design,…

You Did What? Using the AIDS/Condoms Advertising Controversy in the Classroom.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallace-Whitaker, Virginia

Convinced that students in a college advertising class could profit from a discussion about AIDS and condom advertising and hoping to design a related creative problem that would incorporate effective advertising principles, an instructor planned a class project that revolved around public service advertising and the AIDS issue. The students…

National Task Force on Student Aid Problems. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

1975

This document presents a full discussion of the activities, findings, and recommendations of the National Task Force on Student Aid Problems. The task force was a voluntary association of concerned and interested agencies and organizations. Its only standing came from the support of those directly concerned with student aid problems. By design and…

Limited Reach: The Role of Mission and Institutional Aid in Supporting Minority Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Finger, Mary Catherine

2013-01-01

This study uses a mixed methods research design to explore the relationship between institutional financial aid practice and graduation rates at a subset of private, non-profit four-year colleges and universities and explores how institutions prioritize allocations to financial aid within the framework of institutional mission, culture, and…

Utilizing Mutual Aid in Reducing Adolescent Substance Use and Developing Group Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mogro-Wilson, Cristina; Letendre, Joan; Toi, Hiroki; Bryan, Janelle

2015-01-01

Objective: This study assessed the effectiveness of mutual aid groups for high school students. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was applied to 242 adolescents, where every other adolescent was assigned to the intervention or the control condition. The study evaluated the influence of implementing mutual aid groups in decreasing perceived risk…

AIDS Awareness of High School Students: An Exploratory Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCoy, Leah P.; Calvin, Richmond E.

The Surgeon General's information material on the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which was mailed to every household in the United States, was used to develop an AIDS Awareness Inventory. The inventory was designed for administration to 182 high school students enrolled in schools in three districts, which have adopted an AIDS…

Expanding Equal Opportunity: The Princeton Experience with Financial Aid

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tilghman, Shirley M.

2007-01-01

In this essay, Shirley M. Tilghman discusses the purpose, design, and impact of Princeton University's no-loan financial aid policy, which was enacted in 2001. As the centerpiece of an aid and recruitment strategy that seeks to improve college access despite growing socioeconomic stratification, the policy obliges Princeton to meet all student…

The Politics of Higher Education During the Johnson Administration.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fullilove, John P.

The Johnson Administration produced a significant proliferation of programs designed specifically to aid higher education. That those programs did not represent an overall strategy of institutional aid does not lessen the clear fact that the President was deeply committed to the concept of aid. The Congress was highly receptive to the Presidential…

Psychological First Aid Field Operations Guide. 2nd Edition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brymer, Melissa; Layne, Christopher; Jacobs, Anne; Pynoos, Robert; Ruzek, Josef; Steinberg, Alan; Vernberg, Eric; Watson, Patricia

2006-01-01

Psychological First Aid is an evidence-informed modular approach to help children, adolescents, adults, and families in the immediate aftermath of disaster and terrorism. Psychological First Aid is designed to reduce the initial distress caused by traumatic events and to foster short- and long-term adaptive functioning and coping. Principles and…

Standard First Aid Training Course. Naval Education and Training Command Rate Training Manual.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Naval Education and Training Command, Washington, DC.

This first aid manual is designed to serve as basic first aid instructional materials for all nonmedical naval personnel. Chapters are included on the following topics: basic life support, hemorrhage, shock, wounds, injuries, drug abuse, poisoning, common medical emergencies, NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) agent casualties, and rescue and…

75 Hour Nurse Aide Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iowa Univ., Iowa City. Coll. of Education.

This 75-hour nurse aide course has been designed to meet the training requirements of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 for aides working in nursing facilities and skilled nursing facilities. Emphasis in the course is on students achieving a basic level of knowledge and demonstrating skills to provide safe, effective resident care. The…

Considerations in computer-aided design for inlay cranioplasty: technical note.

PubMed

Nout, Erik; Mommaerts, Maurice Y

2018-03-01

Cranioplasty is a frequently performed procedure that uses a variety of reconstruction materials and techniques. In this technical note, we present refinements of computer-aided design-computer-aided manufacturing inlay cranioplasty. In an attempt to decrease complications related to polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) cranioplasty, we gradually made changes to implant design and cranioplasty techniques. These changes include under-contouring of the implant and the use of segmented plates for large defects, microplate fixation for small temporal defects, temporal shell implants to reconstruct the temporalis muscle, and perforations to facilitate the drainage of blood and cerebrospinal fluid and serve as fixation points. From June 2016 to June 2017, 18 patients underwent cranioplasty, and a total of 31 PEEK and titanium implants were inserted. All implants were successful. These changes to implant design and cranioplasty techniques facilitate the insertion and fixation of patient-specific cranial implants and improve esthetic outcomes.

14 CFR 151.71 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.71 Applicability. (a) This subpart prescribes programming and design and construction standards for projects under the Federal-Aid Airport Program to assure...

14 CFR 151.71 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.71 Applicability. (a) This subpart prescribes programming and design and construction standards for projects under the Federal-Aid Airport Program to assure...

14 CFR 151.71 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.71 Applicability. (a) This subpart prescribes programming and design and construction standards for projects under the Federal-Aid Airport Program to assure...

14 CFR 151.71 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.71 Applicability. (a) This subpart prescribes programming and design and construction standards for projects under the Federal-Aid Airport Program to assure...

14 CFR 151.71 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.71 Applicability. (a) This subpart prescribes programming and design and construction standards for projects under the Federal-Aid Airport Program to assure...

Patient-specific polyetheretherketone facial implants in a computer-aided planning workflow.

PubMed

Guevara-Rojas, Godoberto; Figl, Michael; Schicho, Kurt; Seemann, Rudolf; Traxler, Hannes; Vacariu, Apostolos; Carbon, Claus-Christian; Ewers, Rolf; Watzinger, Franz

2014-09-01

In the present study, we report an innovative workflow using polyetheretherketone (PEEK) patient-specific implants for esthetic corrections in the facial region through onlay grafting. The planning includes implant design according to virtual osteotomy and generation of a subtraction volume. The implant design was refined by stepwise changing the implant geometry according to soft tissue simulations. One patient was scanned using computed tomography. PEEK implants were interactively designed and manufactured using rapid prototyping techniques. Positioning intraoperatively was assisted by computer-aided navigation. Two months after surgery, a 3-dimensional surface model of the patient's face was generated using photogrammetry. Finally, the Hausdorff distance calculation was used to quantify the overall error, encompassing the failures in soft tissue simulation and implantation. The implant positioning process during surgery was satisfactory. The simulated soft tissue surface and the photogrammetry scan of the patient showed a high correspondence, especially where the skin covered the implants. The mean total error (Hausdorff distance) was 0.81 ± 1.00 mm (median 0.48, interquartile range 1.11). The spatial deviation remained less than 0.7 mm for the vast majority of points. The proposed workflow provides a complete computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, and computer-aided surgery chain for implant design, allowing for soft tissue simulation, fabrication of patient-specific implants, and image-guided surgery to position the implants. Much of the surgical complexity resulting from osteotomies of the zygoma, chin, or mandibular angle might be transferred into the planning phase of patient-specific implants. Copyright © 2014 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Miscellaneous Topics in Computer-Aided Drug Design: Synthetic Accessibility and GPU Computing, and Other Topics.

PubMed

Fukunishi, Yoshifumi; Mashimo, Tadaaki; Misoo, Kiyotaka; Wakabayashi, Yoshinori; Miyaki, Toshiaki; Ohta, Seiji; Nakamura, Mayu; Ikeda, Kazuyoshi

2016-01-01

Computer-aided drug design is still a state-of-the-art process in medicinal chemistry, and the main topics in this field have been extensively studied and well reviewed. These topics include compound databases, ligand-binding pocket prediction, protein-compound docking, virtual screening, target/off-target prediction, physical property prediction, molecular simulation and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) prediction. Message and Conclusion: However, there are also a number of secondary or miscellaneous topics that have been less well covered. For example, methods for synthesizing and predicting the synthetic accessibility (SA) of designed compounds are important in practical drug development, and hardware/software resources for performing the computations in computer-aided drug design are crucial. Cloud computing and general purpose graphics processing unit (GPGPU) computing have been used in virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations. Not surprisingly, there is a growing demand for computer systems which combine these resources. In the present review, we summarize and discuss these various topics of drug design.

Miscellaneous Topics in Computer-Aided Drug Design: Synthetic Accessibility and GPU Computing, and Other Topics

PubMed Central

Fukunishi, Yoshifumi; Mashimo, Tadaaki; Misoo, Kiyotaka; Wakabayashi, Yoshinori; Miyaki, Toshiaki; Ohta, Seiji; Nakamura, Mayu; Ikeda, Kazuyoshi

2016-01-01

Abstract: Background Computer-aided drug design is still a state-of-the-art process in medicinal chemistry, and the main topics in this field have been extensively studied and well reviewed. These topics include compound databases, ligand-binding pocket prediction, protein-compound docking, virtual screening, target/off-target prediction, physical property prediction, molecular simulation and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) prediction. Message and Conclusion: However, there are also a number of secondary or miscellaneous topics that have been less well covered. For example, methods for synthesizing and predicting the synthetic accessibility (SA) of designed compounds are important in practical drug development, and hardware/software resources for performing the computations in computer-aided drug design are crucial. Cloud computing and general purpose graphics processing unit (GPGPU) computing have been used in virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations. Not surprisingly, there is a growing demand for computer systems which combine these resources. In the present review, we summarize and discuss these various topics of drug design. PMID:27075578

IPAD: A unique approach to government/industry cooperation for technology development and transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fulton, Robert E.; Salley, George C.

1985-01-01

A key element to improved industry productivity is effective management of Computer Aided Design / Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) information. To stimulate advancement, a unique joint government/industry project designated Integrated Programs for Aerospace-Vehicle Design (IPAD) was carried out from 1971 to 1984. The goal was to raise aerospace industry productivity through advancement of computer based technology to integrate and manage information involved in the design and manufacturing process. IPAD research was guided by an Industry Technical Advisory Board (ITAB) composed of over 100 representatives from aerospace and computer companies. The project complemented traditional NASA/DOD research to develop aerospace design technology and the Air Force's Integrated Computer Aided Manufacturing (ICAM) program to advance CAM technology. IPAD had unprecedented industry support and involvement and served as a unique approach to government industry cooperation in the development and transfer of advanced technology. The IPAD project background, approach, accomplishments, industry involvement, technology transfer mechanisms and lessons learned are summarized.

The Pathways fertility preservation decision aid website for women with cancer: development and field testing.

PubMed

Woodard, Terri L; Hoffman, Aubri S; Covarrubias, Laura A; Holman, Deborah; Schover, Leslie; Bradford, Andrea; Hoffman, Derek B; Mathur, Aakrati; Thomas, Jerah; Volk, Robert J

2018-02-01

To improve survivors' awareness and knowledge of fertility preservation counseling and treatment options, this study engaged survivors and providers to design, develop, and field-test Pathways: a fertility preservation patient decision aid website for young women with cancer©. Using an adapted user-centered design process, our stakeholder advisory group and research team designed and optimized the Pathways patient decision aid website through four iterative cycles of review and revision with clinicians (n = 21) and survivors (n = 14). Field-testing (n = 20 survivors) assessed post-decision aid scores on the Fertility Preservation Knowledge Scale, feasibility of assessing women's decision-making values while using the website, and website usability/acceptability ratings. Iterative stakeholder engagement optimized the Pathways decision aid website to meet survivors' and providers' needs, including providing patient-friendly information and novel features such as interactive value clarification exercises, testimonials that model shared decision making, financial/referral resources, and a printable personal summary. Survivors scored an average of 8.2 out of 13 (SD 1.6) on the Fertility Preservation Knowledge Scale. They rated genetic screening and having a biological child as strong factors in their decision-making, and 71% indicated a preference for egg freezing. Most women (> 85%) rated Pathways favorably, and all women (100%) said they would recommend it to other women. The Pathways decision aid is a usable and acceptable tool to help women learn about fertility preservation. The Pathways decision aid may help women make well-informed values-based decisions and prevent future infertility-related distress.

Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing Hydroxyapatite/Epoxide Acrylate Maleic Compound Construction for Craniomaxillofacial Bone Defects.

PubMed

Zhang, Lei; Shen, Shunyao; Yu, Hongbo; Shen, Steve Guofang; Wang, Xudong

2015-07-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the use of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing hydroxyapatite (HA)/epoxide acrylate maleic (EAM) compound construction artificial implants for craniomaxillofacial bone defects. Computed tomography, computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing and three-dimensional reconstruction, as well as rapid prototyping were performed in 12 patients between 2008 and 2013. The customized HA/EAM compound artificial implants were manufactured through selective laser sintering using a rapid prototyping machine into the exact geometric shapes of the defect. The HA/EAM compound artificial implants were then implanted during surgical reconstruction. Color-coded superimpositions demonstrated the discrepancy between the virtual plan and achieved results using Geomagic Studio. As a result, the HA/EAM compound artificial bone implants were perfectly matched with the facial areas that needed reconstruction. The postoperative aesthetic and functional results were satisfactory. The color-coded superimpositions demonstrated good consistency between the virtual plan and achieved results. The three-dimensional maximum deviation is 2.12 ± 0.65  mm and the three-dimensional mean deviation is 0.27 ± 0.07  mm. No facial nerve weakness or pain was observed at the follow-up examinations. Only 1 implant had to be removed 2 months after the surgery owing to severe local infection. No other complication was noted during the follow-up period. In conclusion, computer-aided, individually fabricated HA/EAM compound construction artificial implant was a good craniomaxillofacial surgical technique that yielded improved aesthetic results and functional recovery after reconstruction.

Usability Studies in Virtual and Traditional Computer Aided Design Environments for Fault Identification

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-08

Usability Studies In Virtual And Traditional Computer Aided Design Environments For Fault Identification Dr. Syed Adeel Ahmed, Xavier University...virtual environment with wand interfaces compared directly with a workstation non-stereoscopic traditional CAD interface with keyboard and mouse. In...the differences in interaction when compared with traditional human computer interfaces. This paper provides analysis via usability study methods

Incorporation of CAD/CAM Restoration Into Navy Dentistry

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-26

CAD/CAM Computer-aided design /Computer-assisted manufacturing CDT Common Dental Terminology DENCAS Dental Common Access System DTF Dental...to reduce avoidable dental emergencies for deployed sailors and marines. Dental Computer-aided design /Computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD/CAM...report will review and evaluate the placement rate by Navy dentists of digitally fabricated in-office ceramic restorations compared to traditional direct

33 CFR 66.05-10 - State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... waterway for marine navigation, in general terms; an appropriate chart or sketch of the area; and a general... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations. 66.05-10 Section 66.05-10 Navigation and Navigable...

33 CFR 66.05-10 - State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... waterway for marine navigation, in general terms; an appropriate chart or sketch of the area; and a general... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false State waters for private aids to navigation; designations; revisions, and revocations. 66.05-10 Section 66.05-10 Navigation and Navigable...

Into the Community and Not on the Shelf: Learning to Develop a Meaningful HIV/AIDS Curriculum for Multiple Communities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Riley, Tasha

2014-01-01

This paper describes the process involved in creating a community-based training curriculum designed to build capacity and foster new knowledge in support of HIV/AIDS education. Highlighted are the challenges and triumphs incurred while working with community and academic partners to ensure the production of an adaptable curriculum designed to…

Self-Managed Work Teams in Nursing Homes: Implementing and Empowering Nurse Aide Teams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yeatts, Dale E.; Cready, Cynthia; Ray, Beth; DeWitt, Amy; Queen, Courtney

2004-01-01

Purpose: This article describes the progress of our study to examine the advantages and costs of using self-managed nurse aide teams in nursing homes, steps that are being taken to implement such teams, and management strategies being used to manage the teams. Design and Methods: A quasi-experimental design is underway where certified nurse aide…

Expert System for Automated Design Synthesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, James L., Jr.; Barthelemy, Jean-Francois M.

1987-01-01

Expert-system computer program EXADS developed to aid users of Automated Design Synthesis (ADS) general-purpose optimization program. EXADS aids engineer in determining best combination based on knowledge of specific problem and expert knowledge stored in knowledge base. Available in two interactive machine versions. IBM PC version (LAR-13687) written in IQ-LISP. DEC VAX version (LAR-13688) written in Franz-LISP.

Computer Aided Drafting and Design, Industrial Manufacturing Technician, and Mechanical Engineering Technician and Machine Tool, Die and Moldmaking Technology. Tech Prep Competency Profile.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mid-East Ohio Tech Prep Consortium, Zanesville.

This document contains competency profiles in four areas: computer-aided drafting and design; industrial manufacturing technician; mechanical engineering technician; and machine tool, die, and moldmaking technology occupations. The profiles are intended for use in articulating tech prep programs from high school through associate degrees in Ohio.…

Therapist-Aided Exposure for Women with Lifelong Vaginismus: A Replicated Single-Case Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ter Kuile, Moniek M.; Bulte, Isis; Weijenborg, Philomeen T. M.; Beekman, Aart; Melles, Reinhilde; Onghena, Patrick

2009-01-01

Vaginismus is commonly described as a persistent difficulty in allowing vaginal entry of a penis or other object. Lifelong vaginismus occurs when a woman has never been able to have intercourse. A replicated single-case A-B-phase design was used to investigate the effectiveness of therapist-aided exposure for lifelong vaginismus. A baseline period…

Technology and Jobs: Computer-Aided Design. Numerical-Control Machine-Tool Operators. Office Automation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stanton, Michael; And Others

1985-01-01

Three reports on the effects of high technology on the nature of work include (1) Stanton on applications and implications of computer-aided design for engineers, drafters, and architects; (2) Nardone on the outlook and training of numerical-control machine tool operators; and (3) Austin and Drake on the future of clerical occupations in automated…

Refining a brief decision aid in stable CAD: cognitive interviews.

PubMed

Kelly-Blake, Karen; Clark, Stacie; Dontje, Katherine; Olomu, Adesuwa; Henry, Rebecca C; Rovner, David R; Rothert, Marilyn L; Holmes-Rovner, Margaret

2014-02-13

We describe the results of cognitive interviews to refine the "Making Choices©" Decision Aid (DA) for shared decision-making (SDM) about stress testing in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). We conducted a systematic development process to design a DA consistent with International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) focused on Alpha testing criteria. Cognitive interviews were conducted with ten stable CAD patients using the "think aloud" interview technique to assess the clarity, usefulness, and design of each page of the DA. Participants identified three main messages: 1) patients have multiple options based on stress tests and they should be discussed with a physician, 2) take care of yourself, 3) the stress test is the gold standard for determining the severity of your heart disease. Revisions corrected the inaccurate assumption of item number three. Cognitive interviews proved critical for engaging patients in the development process and highlighted the necessity of clear message development and use of design principles that make decision materials easy to read and easy to use. Cognitive interviews appear to contribute critical information from the patient perspective to the overall systematic development process for designing decision aids.

Recent advances in the reconstruction of cranio-maxillofacial defects using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing.

PubMed

Oh, Ji-Hyeon

2018-12-01

With the development of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, it has been possible to reconstruct the cranio-maxillofacial defect with more accurate preoperative planning, precise patient-specific implants (PSIs), and shorter operation times. The manufacturing processes include subtractive manufacturing and additive manufacturing and should be selected in consideration of the material type, available technology, post-processing, accuracy, lead time, properties, and surface quality. Materials such as titanium, polyethylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), hydroxyapatite (HA), poly-DL-lactic acid (PDLLA), polylactide-co-glycolide acid (PLGA), and calcium phosphate are used. Design methods for the reconstruction of cranio-maxillofacial defects include the use of a pre-operative model printed with pre-operative data, printing a cutting guide or template after virtual surgery, a model after virtual surgery printed with reconstructed data using a mirror image, and manufacturing PSIs by directly obtaining PSI data after reconstruction using a mirror image. By selecting the appropriate design method, manufacturing process, and implant material according to the case, it is possible to obtain a more accurate surgical procedure, reduced operation time, the prevention of various complications that can occur using the traditional method, and predictive results compared to the traditional method.

Adaptive iterative design (AID): a novel approach for evaluating the interactive effects of multiple stressors on aquatic organisms.

PubMed

Glaholt, Stephen P; Chen, Celia Y; Demidenko, Eugene; Bugge, Deenie M; Folt, Carol L; Shaw, Joseph R

2012-08-15

The study of stressor interactions by eco-toxicologists using nonlinear response variables is limited by required amounts of a priori knowledge, complexity of experimental designs, the use of linear models, and the lack of use of optimal designs of nonlinear models to characterize complex interactions. Therefore, we developed AID, an adaptive-iterative design for eco-toxicologist to more accurately and efficiently examine complex multiple stressor interactions. AID incorporates the power of the general linear model and A-optimal criteria with an iterative process that: 1) minimizes the required amount of a priori knowledge, 2) simplifies the experimental design, and 3) quantifies both individual and interactive effects. Once a stable model is determined, the best fit model is identified and the direction and magnitude of stressors, individually and all combinations (including complex interactions) are quantified. To validate AID, we selected five commonly co-occurring components of polluted aquatic systems, three metal stressors (Cd, Zn, As) and two water chemistry parameters (pH, hardness) to be tested using standard acute toxicity tests in which Daphnia mortality is the (nonlinear) response variable. We found after the initial data input of experimental data, although literature values (e.g. EC-values) may also be used, and after only two iterations of AID, our dose response model was stable. The model ln(Cd)*ln(Zn) was determined the best predictor of Daphnia mortality response to the combined effects of Cd, Zn, As, pH, and hardness. This model was then used to accurately identify and quantify the strength of both greater- (e.g. As*Cd) and less-than additive interactions (e.g. Cd*Zn). Interestingly, our study found only binary interactions significant, not higher order interactions. We conclude that AID is more efficient and effective at assessing multiple stressor interactions than current methods. Other applications, including life-history endpoints commonly used by regulators, could benefit from AID's efficiency in assessing water quality criteria. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

HIV/AIDS Coinfection

MedlinePlus

... For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website to learn about HIV/AIDS and Viral Hepatitis guidelines and ... Us Copyright © 2018 hepb.org Website Design & Website Hosting by IQnection

CAD for small hydro projects

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

Bishop, N.A. Jr.

1994-04-01

Over the past decade, computer-aided design (CAD) has become a practical and economical design tool. Today, specifying CAD hardware and software is relatively easy once you know what the design requirements are. But finding experienced CAD professionals is often more difficult. Most CAD users have only two or three years of design experience; more experienced design personnel are frequently not CAD literate. However, effective use of CAD can be the key to lowering design costs and improving design quality--a quest familiar to every manager and designer. By emphasizing computer-aided design literacy at all levels of the firm, a Canadian joint-venturemore » company that specializes in engineering small hydroelectric projects has cut costs, become more productive and improved design quality. This article describes how they did it.« less

Disease-related stigma: comparing predictors of AIDS and cancer stigma.

PubMed

Greene, Kathryn; Banerjee, Smita C

2006-01-01

This study explores the prevalence of AIDS and cancer stigma as influenced by attitude toward homosexuality, religiosity, authoritarianism, and androgyny. This study used a quasi-experimental survey design (N = 485) to examine attitude toward people with AIDS and cancer, and interaction with people with AIDS and cancer. Negative attitudes toward homosexuality, high religious intensity and ideology, high authoritarianism, and low expressive emerged as factors related to more negative attitudes toward people with AIDS and unwillingness to interact with people with AIDS. Attitudes toward people with cancer were generally not related to the variables. Findings explore how to campaign efforts to reduce existing negative attitudes toward AIDS and homosexuality, given that gay men with AIDS are especially stigmatized. Implications and directions for future research are discussed, especially for interventions.

A computer aided engineering tool for ECLS systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bangham, Michal E.; Reuter, James L.

1987-01-01

The Computer-Aided Systems Engineering and Analysis tool used by NASA for environmental control and life support system design studies is capable of simulating atmospheric revitalization systems, water recovery and management systems, and single-phase active thermal control systems. The designer/analysis interface used is graphics-based, and allows the designer to build a model by constructing a schematic of the system under consideration. Data management functions are performed, and the program is translated into a format that is compatible with the solution routines.

Learning Reverse Engineering and Simulation with Design Visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hemsworth, Paul J.

2018-01-01

The Design Visualization (DV) group supports work at the Kennedy Space Center by utilizing metrology data with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models and simulations to provide accurate visual representations that aid in decision-making. The capability to measure and simulate objects in real time helps to predict and avoid potential problems before they become expensive in addition to facilitating the planning of operations. I had the opportunity to work on existing and new models and simulations in support of DV and NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems (EGS).

Application of GA package in functional packaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belousova, D. A.; Noskova, E. E.; Kapulin, D. V.

2018-05-01

The approach to application program for the task of configuration of the elements of the commutation circuit for design of the radio-electronic equipment on the basis of the genetic algorithm is offered. The efficiency of the used approach for commutation circuits with different characteristics for computer-aided design on radio-electronic manufacturing is shown. The prototype of the computer-aided design subsystem on the basis of a package GA for R with a set of the general functions for optimization of multivariate models is programmed.

Computer-aided design of polymers and composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaelble, D. H.

1985-01-01

This book on computer-aided design of polymers and composites introduces and discusses the subject from the viewpoint of atomic and molecular models. Thus, the origins of stiffness, strength, extensibility, and fracture toughness in composite materials can be analyzed directly in terms of chemical composition and molecular structure. Aspects of polymer composite reliability are considered along with characterization techniques for composite reliability, relations between atomic and molecular properties, computer aided design and manufacture, polymer CAD/CAM models, and composite CAD/CAM models. Attention is given to multiphase structural adhesives, fibrous composite reliability, metal joint reliability, polymer physical states and transitions, chemical quality assurance, processability testing, cure monitoring and management, nondestructive evaluation (NDE), surface NDE, elementary properties, ionic-covalent bonding, molecular analysis, acid-base interactions, the manufacturing science, and peel mechanics.

Efficiency improvement of technological preparation of power equipment manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milukov, I. A.; Rogalev, A. N.; Sokolov, V. P.; Shevchenko, I. V.

2017-11-01

Competitiveness of power equipment primarily depends on speeding-up the development and mastering of new equipment samples and technologies, enhancement of organisation and management of design, manufacturing and operation. Actual political, technological and economic conditions cause the acute need in changing the strategy and tactics of process planning. At that the issues of maintenance of equipment with simultaneous improvement of its efficiency and compatibility to domestically produced components are considering. In order to solve these problems, using the systems of computer-aided process planning for process design at all stages of power equipment life cycle is economically viable. Computer-aided process planning is developed for the purpose of improvement of process planning by using mathematical methods and optimisation of design and management processes on the basis of CALS technologies, which allows for simultaneous process design, process planning organisation and management based on mathematical and physical modelling of interrelated design objects and production system. An integration of computer-aided systems providing the interaction of informative and material processes at all stages of product life cycle is proposed as effective solution to the challenges in new equipment design and process planning.

Computer Aided Creativity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Proctor, Tony

1988-01-01

Explores the conceptual components of a computer program designed to enhance creative thinking and reviews software that aims to stimulate creative thinking. Discusses BRAIN and ORACLE, programs intended to aid in creative problem solving. (JOW)

Systematic Review of Decision Aids for Newly Diagnosed Patients with Prostate Cancer Making Treatment Decisions.

PubMed

Adsul, Prajakta; Wray, Ricardo; Spradling, Kyle; Darwish, Oussama; Weaver, Nancy; Siddiqui, Sameer

2015-11-01

Despite established evidence for using patient decision aids, use with newly diagnosed patients with prostate cancer remains limited partly due to variability in aid characteristics. We systematically reviewed decision aids for newly diagnosed patients with prostate cancer. Published peer reviewed journal articles, unpublished literature on the Internet and the Ottawa decision aids web repository were searched to identify decision aids designed for patients with prostate cancer facing treatment decisions. A total of 14 aids were included in study. Supplementary materials on aid development and published studies evaluating the aids were also included. We studied aids designed to help patients make specific choices among options and outcomes relevant to health status that were specific to prostate cancer treatment and in English only. Aids were reviewed for IPDAS (International Patient Decision Aid Standards) and additional standards deemed relevant to prostate cancer treatment decisions. They were also reviewed for novel criteria on the potential for implementation. Acceptable interrater reliability was achieved at Krippendorff α = 0.82. Eight of the 14 decision aids (57.1%) were developed in the United States, 6 (42.8%) were print based, 5 (35.7%) were web or print based and only 4 (28.5%) had been updated since 2013. Ten aids (71.4%) were targeted to prostate cancer stage. All discussed radiation and surgery, 10 (71.4%) discussed active surveillance and/or watchful waiting and 8 (57.1%) discussed hormonal therapy. Of the aids 64.2% presented balanced perspectives on treatment benefits and risks, and/or outcome probabilities associated with each option. Ten aids (71.4%) presented value clarification prompts for patients and steps to make treatment decisions. No aid was tested with physicians and only 4 (28.6%) were tested with patients. Nine aids (64.2%) provided details on data appraisal and 4 (28.6%) commented on the quality of evidence used. Seven of the 8 web or computer based aids (87.5%) provided patients with the opportunity to interact with the aid. All except 1 aid scored above the 9th grade reading level. No evidence on aid implementation in routine practice was available. As physicians look to adopt decision aids in practice, they may base the choice of aid on characteristics that correlate with patient socioeconomic and educational status, personal practice style and practice setting. Copyright © 2015 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Design, development, and evaluation of visual aids for communicating prescription drug instructions to nonliterate patients in rural Cameroon.

PubMed

Ngoh, L N; Shepherd, M D

1997-03-01

In this study, culturally sensitive visual aids designed to help convey drug information to nonliterate female adults who had a prescription for a solid oral dosage form of antibiotic medications were developed and evaluated. The researchers conceptualized the educational messages while a local artist produced the visual aids. Seventy-eight female ambulatory patients were evaluated for comprehension and compliance with antibiotic prescription instructions. The study was conducted in three health centers in Cameroon, West Africa and followed a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up format for three groups: two experimental, and one control. All participants were randomly assigned to either experimental or control groups, 26 patients to each group. Subjects in the experimental groups received visual aids alone or visual aids plus an Advanced Organizer. A comparison of the three groups showed that subjects in the experimental groups scored significantly higher than the control group in both the comprehension and compliance measures.

Further Research on Speeded Speech as an Educational Medium. Effects of Listening Aids and Self-Pacing on Comprehension and the Use of Compressed Speech for Review. Progress Report Number 4.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedman, Herbert L.; And Others

The studies reported here are a continuation of research into the comprehension of time-compressed speech by normal college students. In the Listening Aid Study II, an experiment was designed to retest the advantages of the precis as a listening aid when the precis expressed the overall meaning of a passage. Also, a new listening aid was…

The role of culture in effective HIV/AIDS communication by theatre in South Africa.

PubMed

Uwah, Chijioke

2013-01-01

The need to effectively communicate HIV/AIDS messages in South Africa, given the high prevalence of the pandemic, cannot be overemphasised. Communication scholars have long emphasised the need to recognise adherence to cultural norms of target communities as catalyst for effective HIV/AIDS communication. Unfortunately this call has not been totally heeded by the designers of HIV/AIDS communication instruments. In the case of theatre, research has shown that in South Africa, theatre groups have gone into communities with pre-packaged plays without due cognisance of the cultural norms and beliefs of the target population. This research was conducted in KwaZulu-Natal (the province with the highest prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS infection in South Africa). Using a qualitative research methodology this paper investigated the inclusion/non-inclusion of the cultural norms of the target population in the design of the dramatic performance by the theatre group in its HIV/AIDS campaigns. The findings indicate that while the group did try to incorporate aspects of the cultural norms of the target population, it did so at a level that failed to effectively communicate the HIV/AIDS message to its audiences. This paper therefore seeks to show through empirical evidence that the non-inclusion of cultural norms and values of the target population has acted as a stumbling block in the effective communication of HIV/AIDS messages by theatre groups in the country.

Development of Home Health Aide Curriculum Project. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Patricia

This package contains materials intended for use in a new home health aide curriculum that is designed to be presented as a two-quarter program at Tacoma Community College in Tacoma, Washington. Included in the package are a final report outlining the objectives and outcomes of the project to develop a home health aide curriculum that would meet…

Mediating HIV/AIDS Strategies in Children's Literature in Zimbabwe

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ngoshi, Hazel Tafadzwa; Pasi, Juliet Sylvia

2007-01-01

The Ministry of Education and Culture in Zimbabwe has introduced an intervention into the school curricula to complement the already existing mechanisms in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The literature in this programme is said to be designed to develop children's knowledge of HIV/AIDS and to maximise both individual and community commitment to the…

Why Not Competence? A Guide for Training Special Education Aides.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Semrau, Barbara L.; And Others

The manual is designed for use by trainers of special education teacher aides to provide a competency based course which will enable teacher aides to assist in the implementation of the requirements of P.L. 94-142 (the Education for All Handicapped Children Act). The first section provides background information to give trainers the grasp of…

Seed Aid for Food Security? Some Lessons from Zimbabwe's Agricultural Recovery Programme

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foti, Richard; Muringai, Violet; Mavunganidze, Zira

2007-01-01

Does agricultural input aid always lead to favourable food security outcomes? This paper describes Zimbabwe's agricultural recovery program for the 2003/2004 farming season and draws some lessons that can be used in the designing and implementation of future programs. Input aid was found to be most beneficial if it is packaged together with other…

"A" Is for Applesauce. Alternate HIV/AIDS Educational Unit: Recognizing Prejudice.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iowa State Dept. of Education, Des Moines.

This manual was designed to help teachers of the early secondary grades deal with fear, ignorance, and prejudice in students encountering the problem of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and its transmission. Three groups of students are of particular concern: those who are victims of abusive remarks, those who feel AIDS is reserved for…

38 CFR 17.196 - Aid for hospital care.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... to States for Care of Veterans in State Homes § 17.196 Aid for hospital care. Aid may be paid to the designated State official for hospital care furnished in a recognized State home for any veteran if: (a) The... quarters of nursing home care patients or domiciliary members, and meet such other minimum standards as the...

Reference Manual. English for Special Purposes Series: Nursing Aide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Marybeth

A variety of reference aids are included in this supplement to a course in English as a second language for nursing aides. Maps of the imaginary geographic locations used in the course are provided. The bulk of the volume presents charts, lists, and illustrations designed to reinforce knowledge of basic vocabulary. Topics covered include numbers,…

EVALUATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF SENSORY AIDS AND DEVICES. FINAL REPORT. (TITLE SUPPLIED).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Massachusetts Inst. of Tech., Cambridge. Sensory Aids Evaluation and Development Center.

THIS REPORT PRESENTS INFORMATION ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF SENSORY AIDS AT THE SENSORY AIDS EVALUATION AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER AT THE MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (MIT) BETWEEN OCTOBER 1965 AND NOVEMBER 1966. INCLUDED ARE (1) THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND TESTING OF A RELIABLE MONOTYPE TAPE READER WHICH WILL BE USED IN…

Cultural Competence in a Group Intervention Designed for Latino Patients Living with HIV/AIDS

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Acevedo, Vanessa

2008-01-01

Although the trajectory of the HIV/AIDS epidemic has changed dramatically over the past 25 years, addressing the psychosocial needs of patients living with HIV/AIDS remains vital. Ensuring the effective delivery of services demands that interventions be rooted in cultural competence and aimed at vulnerable populations. This article describes a…

The Design Manager's Aid for Intelligent Decomposition (DeMAID)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, James L.

1994-01-01

Before the design of new complex systems such as large space platforms can begin, the possible interactions among subsystems and their parts must be determined. Once this is completed, the proposed system can be decomposed to identify its hierarchical structure. The design manager's aid for intelligent decomposition (DeMAID) is a knowledge based system for ordering the sequence of modules and identifying a possible multilevel structure for design. Although DeMAID requires an investment of time to generate and refine the list of modules for input, it could save considerable money and time in the total design process, particularly in new design problems where the ordering of the modules has not been defined.

Modeling and Development of INS-Aided PLLs in a GNSS/INS Deeply-Coupled Hardware Prototype for Dynamic Applications

PubMed Central

Zhang, Tisheng; Niu, Xiaoji; Ban, Yalong; Zhang, Hongping; Shi, Chuang; Liu, Jingnan

2015-01-01

A GNSS/INS deeply-coupled system can improve the satellite signals tracking performance by INS aiding tracking loops under dynamics. However, there was no literature available on the complete modeling of the INS branch in the INS-aided tracking loop, which caused the lack of a theoretical tool to guide the selections of inertial sensors, parameter optimization and quantitative analysis of INS-aided PLLs. This paper makes an effort on the INS branch in modeling and parameter optimization of phase-locked loops (PLLs) based on the scalar-based GNSS/INS deeply-coupled system. It establishes the transfer function between all known error sources and the PLL tracking error, which can be used to quantitatively evaluate the candidate inertial measurement unit (IMU) affecting the carrier phase tracking error. Based on that, a steady-state error model is proposed to design INS-aided PLLs and to analyze their tracking performance. Based on the modeling and error analysis, an integrated deeply-coupled hardware prototype is developed, with the optimization of the aiding information. Finally, the performance of the INS-aided PLLs designed based on the proposed steady-state error model is evaluated through the simulation and road tests of the hardware prototype. PMID:25569751