A Mechanism for Reliable Mobility Management for Internet of Things Using CoAP

PubMed Central

Chun, Seung-Man; Park, Jong-Tae

2017-01-01

Under unreliable constrained wireless networks for Internet of Things (IoT) environments, the loss of the signaling message may frequently occur. Mobile Internet Protocol version 6 (MIPv6) and its variants do not consider this situation. Consequently, as a constrained device moves around different wireless networks, its Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity may be frequently disrupted and power can be drained rapidly. This can result in the loss of important sensing data or a large delay for time-critical IoT services such as healthcare monitoring and disaster management. This paper presents a reliable mobility management mechanism in Internet of Things environments with lossy low-power constrained device and network characteristics. The idea is to use the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) retransmission mechanism to achieve both reliability and simplicity for reliable IoT mobility management. Detailed architecture, algorithms, and message extensions for reliable mobility management are presented. Finally, performance is evaluated using both mathematical analysis and simulation. PMID:28085109

A Mechanism for Reliable Mobility Management for Internet of Things Using CoAP.

PubMed

Chun, Seung-Man; Park, Jong-Tae

2017-01-12

Under unreliable constrained wireless networks for Internet of Things (IoT) environments, the loss of the signaling message may frequently occur. Mobile Internet Protocol version 6 (MIPv6) and its variants do not consider this situation. Consequently, as a constrained device moves around different wireless networks, its Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity may be frequently disrupted and power can be drained rapidly. This can result in the loss of important sensing data or a large delay for time-critical IoT services such as healthcare monitoring and disaster management. This paper presents a reliable mobility management mechanism in Internet of Things environments with lossy low-power constrained device and network characteristics. The idea is to use the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) retransmission mechanism to achieve both reliability and simplicity for reliable IoT mobility management. Detailed architecture, algorithms, and message extensions for reliable mobility management are presented. Finally, performance is evaluated using both mathematical analysis and simulation.

Detection and signal amplification in zebrafish RNA FISH.

PubMed

Hauptmann, Giselbert; Lauter, Gilbert; Söll, Iris

2016-04-01

In situ hybridization (ISH) has become an invaluable tool for the detection of RNA in cells, tissues and organisms. Due to improvements in target and signal amplification and in probe design remarkable progress has been made concerning sensitivity, specificity and resolution of chromogenic and fluorescent ISH (FISH). These advancements allow for exquisite cellular and sub-cellular resolution and for detecting multiple RNA species at a time by multiplexing. In zebrafish (F)ISH non-enzymatic and enzymatic amplification systems have been employed to obtain enhanced signal intensities and signal-to-noise ratios. These amplification strategies include branched DNA-based RNAscope and in situ hybridization chain reaction (HCR) techniques, as well as alkaline phosphatase (AP)- and horseradish peroxidase (PO)-based immunoassays. For practical application, we provide proven multiplex FISH protocols for AP- and PO-based visualization of mRNAs at high resolution. The protocols take advantage of optimized tyramide signal amplification (TSA) conditions of the PO assay and long-lasting high signal-to-noise ratio of the AP reaction, thereby enabling detection of less abundant transcripts. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Flexible Unicast-Based Group Communication for CoAP-Enabled Devices †

PubMed Central

Ishaq, Isam; Hoebeke, Jeroen; Van den Abeele, Floris; Rossey, Jen; Moerman, Ingrid; Demeester, Piet

2014-01-01

Smart embedded objects will become an important part of what is called the Internet of Things. Applications often require concurrent interactions with several of these objects and their resources. Existing solutions have several limitations in terms of reliability, flexibility and manageability of such groups of objects. To overcome these limitations we propose an intermediately level of intelligence to easily manipulate a group of resources across multiple smart objects, building upon the Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP). We describe the design of our solution to create and manipulate a group of CoAP resources using a single client request. Furthermore we introduce the concept of profiles for the created groups. The use of profiles allows the client to specify in more detail how the group should behave. We have implemented our solution and demonstrate that it covers the complete group life-cycle, i.e., creation, validation, flexible usage and deletion. Finally, we quantitatively analyze the performance of our solution and compare it against multicast-based CoAP group communication. The results show that our solution improves reliability and flexibility with a trade-off in increased communication overhead. PMID:24901978

An application protocol for CAD to CAD transfer of electronic information

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Azu, Charles C., Jr.

1993-01-01

The exchange of Computer Aided Design (CAD) information between dissimilar CAD systems is a problem. This is especially true for transferring electronics CAD information such as multi-chip module (MCM), hybrid microcircuit assembly (HMA), and printed circuit board (PCB) designs. Currently, there exists several neutral data formats for transferring electronics CAD information. These include IGES, EDIF, and DXF formats. All these formats have limitations for use in exchanging electronic data. In an attempt to overcome these limitations, the Navy's MicroCIM program implemented a project to transfer hybrid microcircuit design information between dissimilar CAD systems. The IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) format is used since it is well established within the CAD industry. The goal of the project is to have a complete transfer of microelectronic CAD information, using IGES, without any data loss. An Application Protocol (AP) is being developed to specify how hybrid microcircuit CAD information will be represented by IGES entity constructs. The AP defines which IGES data items are appropriate for describing HMA geometry, connectivity, and processing as well as HMA material characteristics.

The effects of superset configuration on kinetic, kinematic, and perceived exertion in the barbell bench press.

PubMed

Weakley, Jonathon Js; Till, Kevin; Read, Dale B; Phibbs, Padraic J; Roe, Gregory; Darrall-Jones, Joshua; Jones, Ben L

2017-08-04

Training that is efficient and effective is of great importance to an athlete. One method of improving efficiency is by incorporating supersets into resistance training routines. However, the structuring of supersets is still unexplored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of agonist-antagonist (A-A), alternate peripheral (A-P), and similar biomechanical (SB) superset configurations on rate of perceived exertion (RPE), kinetic and kinematic changes during the bench press. 10 subjects performed resistance training protocols in a randomized-crossover design, with magnitude-based inferences assessing changes/differences within and between protocols. Changes in RPE were very likely and almost certainly greater in the A-P and SB protocols when compared with the A-A, while all superset protocols had very likely to almost certain reductions in mean velocity and power from baseline. Reductions in mean velocity and power were almost certainly greater in the SB protocol, with differences between the A-A and A-P protocols being unclear. Decreases in peak force were likely and almost certain in the A-A and SB protocols respectively, with changes in A-P being unclear. Differences between these protocols showed likely greater decreases in SB peak forces when compared to A-A, with all other superset comparisons being unclear. This study demonstrates the importance of exercise selection when incorporating supersets into a training routine. It is suggested that the practitioner uses A-A supersets when aiming to improve training efficiency and minimize reductions in kinetic and kinematic output of the agonist musculature while completing the barbell bench press.

A comparison of the use of bony anatomy and internal markers for offline verification and an evaluation of the potential benefit of online and offline verification protocols for prostate radiotherapy.

PubMed

McNair, Helen A; Hansen, Vibeke N; Parker, Christopher C; Evans, Phil M; Norman, Andrew; Miles, Elizabeth; Harris, Emma J; Del-Acroix, Louise; Smith, Elizabeth; Keane, Richard; Khoo, Vincent S; Thompson, Alan C; Dearnaley, David P

2008-05-01

To evaluate the utility of intraprostatic markers in the treatment verification of prostate cancer radiotherapy. Specific aims were: to compare the effectiveness of offline correction protocols, either using gold markers or bony anatomy; to estimate the potential benefit of online correction protocol's using gold markers; to determine the presence and effect of intrafraction motion. Thirty patients with three gold markers inserted had pretreatment and posttreatment images acquired and were treated using an offline correction protocol and gold markers. Retrospectively, an offline protocol was applied using bony anatomy and an online protocol using gold markers. The systematic errors were reduced from 1.3, 1.9, and 2.5 mm to 1.1, 1.1, and 1.5 mm in the right-left (RL), superoinferior (SI), and anteroposterior (AP) directions, respectively, using the offline correction protocol and gold markers instead of bony anatomy. The subsequent decrease in margins was 1.7, 3.3, and 4 mm in the RL, SI, and AP directions, respectively. An offline correction protocol combined with an online correction protocol in the first four fractions reduced random errors further to 0.9, 1.1, and 1.0 mm in the RL, SI, and AP directions, respectively. A daily online protocol reduced all errors to <1 mm. Intrafraction motion had greater impact on the effectiveness of the online protocol than the offline protocols. An offline protocol using gold markers is effective in reducing the systematic error. The value of online protocols is reduced by intrafraction motion.

Assessment of three AC electroosmotic flow protocols for mixing in microfluidic channel.

PubMed

Chen, Jia-Kun; Weng, Chi-Neng; Yang, Ruey-Jen

2009-05-07

This study performs an experimental investigation into the micromixer capabilities of three different protocols of AC electroosmotic flow (AC EOF), namely capacitive charging (CC), Faradaic charging (FC) and asymmetric polarization (AP). The results reveal that the vortices generated by the FC protocol (the frequency is around 50-350 Hz) are stronger than those induced by the CC protocol (the frequency is higher than 350 Hz), and therefore provide an improved mixing effect. However, in the FC protocol, the frequency of the external AC voltage must be carefully controlled to avoid damaging electrodes as a result of Faradaic reactions. The experimental results indicate that the AP polarization effect (the applied voltage and frequency are V(1) = 1 V(pp) and V(2) = 20 V(pp)/5 kHz) induces more powerful vortices than either the CC protocol or the FC protocol, and therefore yields a better mixing performance. Two AP-based micromixers are fabricated with symmetric and asymmetric electrode configurations, respectively. The mixing indices achieved by the two devices after an elapsed time of 60 seconds are found to be 56.49 % and 71.77 %, respectively. This result shows that of the two devices, an asymmetric electrode configuration represents a more suitable choice for micromixer in microfluidic devices.

Lack of evidence of a beneficial effect of azathioprine in dogs treated with prednisolone for idiopathic immune-mediated hemolytic anemia: a retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Piek, Christine J; van Spil, Willem Evert; Junius, Greet; Dekker, Aldo

2011-04-13

Azathioprine is used as an immunosuppressant in canine immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), but this potentially toxic and carcinogenic drug has not been proven to be beneficial. The aim of this study was to determine the difference in outcome and survival of dogs with idiopathic IMHA treated with a protocol that included azathioprine and prednisolone versus a protocol that included prednisolone alone. The study included 222 dogs with a hematocrit lower than 0.30 L/L and either a positive Coombs' test or spherocytosis and no evidence of diseases that could trigger IMHA. The clinical and laboratory data at the time of diagnosis and the response to therapy and survival were compared in dogs treated according to the prednisolone and azathioprine protocol (AP protocol; n = 149) and dogs treated according to the prednisolone protocol (P protocol; n = 73). At study entry, the two groups were comparable, except that thrombocyte counts were significantly lower and clinical signs had been present significantly longer in the AP protocol group. No significant difference in survival was found between the two groups: the 1-year survival was 64% (95% CI 54 - 77%) in the P protocol group and 69% (95% CI 59-80%) in the AP protocol group, respectively. Azathioprine would appear not to be beneficial as standard treatment for all cases of IMHA; however, a blinded, randomized clinical trial is needed to establish whether outcome is different with the two treatment protocols.

Performance Analysis of Modified Accelerative Preallocation MAC Protocol for Passive Star-Coupled WDMA Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yun, Changho; Kim, Kiseon

2006-04-01

For the passive star-coupled wavelength-division multiple-access (WDMA) network, a modified accelerative preallocation WDMA (MAP-WDMA) media access control (MAC) protocol is proposed, which is based on AP-WDMA. To show the advantages of MAP-WDMA as an adequate MAC protocol for the network over AP-WDMA, the channel utilization, the channel-access delay, and the latency of MAP-WDMA are investigated and compared with those of AP-WDMA under various data traffic patterns, including uniform, quasi-uniform type, disconnected type, mesh type, and ring type data traffics, as well as the assumption that a given number of network stations is equal to that of channels, in other words, without channel sharing. As a result, the channel utilization of MAP-WDMA can be competitive with respect to that of AP-WDMA at the expense of insignificantly higher latency. Namely, if the number of network stations is small, MAP-WDMA provides better channel utilization for uniform, quasi-uniform-type, and disconnected-type data traffics at all data traffic loads, as well as for mesh and ring-type data traffics at low data traffic loads. Otherwise, MAP-WDMA only outperforms AP-WDMA for the first three data traffics at higher data traffic loads. In the aspect of channel-access delay, MAP-WDMA gives better performance than AP-WDMA, regardless of data traffic patterns and the number of network stations.

A Comparison of the Use of Bony Anatomy and Internal Markers for Offline Verification and an Evaluation of the Potential Benefit of Online and Offline Verification Protocols for Prostate Radiotherapy

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

McNair, Helen A.; Hansen, Vibeke N.; Parker, Christopher

2008-05-01

Purpose: To evaluate the utility of intraprostatic markers in the treatment verification of prostate cancer radiotherapy. Specific aims were: to compare the effectiveness of offline correction protocols, either using gold markers or bony anatomy; to estimate the potential benefit of online correction protocol's using gold markers; to determine the presence and effect of intrafraction motion. Methods and Materials: Thirty patients with three gold markers inserted had pretreatment and posttreatment images acquired and were treated using an offline correction protocol and gold markers. Retrospectively, an offline protocol was applied using bony anatomy and an online protocol using gold markers. Results: Themore » systematic errors were reduced from 1.3, 1.9, and 2.5 mm to 1.1, 1.1, and 1.5 mm in the right-left (RL), superoinferior (SI), and anteroposterior (AP) directions, respectively, using the offline correction protocol and gold markers instead of bony anatomy. The subsequent decrease in margins was 1.7, 3.3, and 4 mm in the RL, SI, and AP directions, respectively. An offline correction protocol combined with an online correction protocol in the first four fractions reduced random errors further to 0.9, 1.1, and 1.0 mm in the RL, SI, and AP directions, respectively. A daily online protocol reduced all errors to <1 mm. Intrafraction motion had greater impact on the effectiveness of the online protocol than the offline protocols. Conclusions: An offline protocol using gold markers is effective in reducing the systematic error. The value of online protocols is reduced by intrafraction motion.« less

Developments in Assisting Countries in Implementing the IAEA Additional Protocol

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

Killinger, Mark H.; Hansen, Linda H.; Cain, Ronald A.

In 2008, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) began assisting selected non-nuclear weapon states in planning and preparing for implementation of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Additional Protocol (AP). Since then, the AP international implementation program has contributed to the substantial progress made by Vietnam, Thailand, Iraq, and Malaysia in preparing for entry-into-force of the AP. An overall engagement plan has been developed with components designed to train government AP implementing agencies, inform policy makers, conduct outreach to industry and universities, make AP reporting software available and useful, and plan a detailed approach for implementing the declaration and complementary accessmore » provisions of the AP. DOE recently began collaborating with Indonesia, which has already entered the AP into force, requiring a second method of engagement somewhat different from that taken with countries that have not entered the AP into force. The AP international implementation program, administered by the International Nuclear Safeguards and Engagement Program, is working more closely with DOE’s International Nonproliferation Export Control Program to ensure countries are aware of and prepared to implement the export/import provisions of the AP. As the AP implementation program matures and helps move countries closer to entry-into-force or improved AP implementation, it is identifying characteristics of a country’s “end-state” that indicate that DOE assistance is no longer required. The U.S. AP Implementation Act and Senate Resolution of Ratification require the Administration to report annually to Congress on measures taken to achieve the adoption of the AP in non-nuclear weapon states. DOE’s AP international implementation program is a significant part of these measures. This paper describes recent developments to increase the scope and effectiveness of the program.« less

Tailored Synthesis of 162-Residue S-Monoglycosylated GM2-Activator Protein (GM2AP) Analogues that Allows Facile Access to a Protein Library.

PubMed

Nakamura, Takahiro; Sato, Kohei; Naruse, Naoto; Kitakaze, Keisuke; Inokuma, Tsubasa; Hirokawa, Takatsugu; Shigenaga, Akira; Itoh, Kohji; Otaka, Akira

2016-10-17

A synthetic protocol for the preparation of 162-residue S-monoglycosylated GM2-activator protein (GM2AP) analogues bearing various amino acid substitutions for Thr69 has been developed. The facile incorporation of the replacements into the protein was achieved by means of a one-pot/N-to-C-directed sequential ligation strategy using readily accessible middle N-sulfanylethylanilide (SEAlide) peptides each consisting of seven amino acid residues. A kinetically controlled ligation protocol was successfully applied to the assembly of three peptide segments covering the GM2AP. The native chemical ligation (NCL) reactivities of the SEAlide peptides can be tuned by the presence or absence of phosphate salts. Furthermore, NCL of the alkyl thioester fragment [GM2AP (1-31)] with the N-terminal cysteinyl prolyl thioester [GM2AP (32-67)] proceeded smoothly to yield the 67-residue prolyl thioester, with the prolyl thioester moiety remaining intact. This newly developed strategy enabled the facile synthesis of GM2AP analogues. Thus, we refer to this synthetic protocol as "tailored synthesis" for the construction of a GM2AP library. © 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Pepper, sweet (Capsicum annuum).

PubMed

Heidmann, Iris; Boutilier, Kim

2015-01-01

Capsicum (pepper) species are economically important crops that are recalcitrant to genetic transformation by Agrobacterium (Agrobacterium tumefaciens). A number of protocols for pepper transformation have been described but are not routinely applicable. The main bottleneck in pepper transformation is the low frequency of cells that are both susceptible for Agrobacterium infection and have the ability to regenerate. Here, we describe a protocol for the efficient regeneration of transgenic sweet pepper (C. annuum) through inducible activation of the BABY BOOM (BBM) AP2/ERF transcription factor. Using this approach, we can routinely achieve a transformation efficiency of at least 0.6 %. The main improvements in this protocol are the reproducibility in transforming different genotypes and the ability to produce fertile shoots. An added advantage of this protocol is that BBM activity can be induced subsequently in stable transgenic lines, providing a novel regeneration system for clonal propagation through somatic embryogenesis.

External defibrillation in the left lateral position--a comparison of manual paddles with self-adhesive pads.

PubMed

Dodd, Tamsin E L; Deakin, Charles D; Petley, Graham W; Clewlow, Frank

2004-12-01

Firm paddle force during defibrillation lowers transthoracic impedance (TTI) and increases transmyocardial current, increasing the chances of successful cardioversion. Current protocols recommend that if defibrillation using the anterior-apical (AA) paddle position fails, the anterior-posterior (AP) position should be used. This generally requires the patient to be placed in the left lateral position with the operator leaning over the patient. Avoiding physical contact with the patient during defibrillation subjectively makes application of firm paddle force difficult in the AP position. We compared TTI between the AA and AP positions and between manual paddles and self-adhesive pads to establish if the AP position precludes firm paddle force and to compare TTI between paddles and self-adhesive pads. Twenty-one consecutive patients undergoing elective cardioversion (age 39-82) were studied. TTI was measured between pairs of manually held paddles and self-adhesive pads using AA placement with the patient supine, and AP placement with the patient left lateral position. Mean TTI using the AP electrode position was lower using manual paddles (66.5 Omega; 95% CI 60.2-72.9 Omega) than that using self-adhesive pads (92.1 Omega; 95% CI 81.5-102.7 Omega; 95% CI between the mean =15.8-35.5 Omega; P <0.0001). TTI was significantly less using the manual paddles compared with self-adhesive pads in both AA and AP positions (P <0.0001). Despite the subjective difficulties of defibrillating patients in the AP position whilst leaning over them, use of manual paddles achieves a lower TTI than that achieved with self-adhesive pads.

Implementation and Evaluation of Four Interoperable Open Standards for the Internet of Things.

PubMed

Jazayeri, Mohammad Ali; Liang, Steve H L; Huang, Chih-Yuan

2015-09-22

Recently, researchers are focusing on a new use of the Internet called the Internet of Things (IoT), in which enabled electronic devices can be remotely accessed over the Internet. As the realization of IoT concept is still in its early stages, manufacturers of Internet-connected devices and IoT web service providers are defining their proprietary protocols based on their targeted applications. Consequently, IoT becomes heterogeneous in terms of hardware capabilities and communication protocols. Addressing these heterogeneities by following open standards is a necessary step to communicate with various IoT devices. In this research, we assess the feasibility of applying existing open standards on resource-constrained IoT devices. The standard protocols developed in this research are OGC PUCK over Bluetooth, TinySOS, SOS over CoAP, and OGC SensorThings API. We believe that by hosting open standard protocols on IoT devices, not only do the devices become self-describable, self-contained, and interoperable, but innovative applications can also be easily developed with standardized interfaces. In addition, we use memory consumption, request message size, response message size, and response latency to benchmark the efficiency of the implemented protocols. In all, this research presents and evaluates standard-based solutions to better understand the feasibility of applying existing standards to the IoT vision.

DiAs Web Monitoring: A Real-Time Remote Monitoring System Designed for Artificial Pancreas Outpatient Trials

PubMed Central

Place, Jérôme; Robert, Antoine; Brahim, Najib Ben; Patrick, Keith-Hynes; Farret, Anne; Marie-Josée, Pelletier; Buckingham, Bruce; Breton, Marc; Kovatchev, Boris; Renard, Eric

2013-01-01

Background Developments in an artificial pancreas (AP) for patients with type 1 diabetes have allowed a move toward performing outpatient clinical trials. “Home-like” environment implies specific protocol and system adaptations among which the introduction of remote monitoring is meaningful. We present a novel tool allowing multiple patients to monitor AP use in home-like settings. Methods We investigated existing systems, performed interviews of experienced clinical teams, listed required features, and drew several mockups of the user interface. The resulting application was tested on the bench before it was used in three outpatient studies representing 3480 h of remote monitoring. Results Our tool, called DiAs Web Monitoring (DWM), is a web-based application that ensures reception, storage, and display of data sent by AP systems. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and insulin delivery data are presented in a colored chart to facilitate reading and interpretation. Several subjects can be monitored simultaneously on the same screen, and alerts are triggered to help detect events such as hypoglycemia or CGM failures. In the third trial, DWM received approximately 460 data per subject per hour: 77% for log messages, 5% for CGM data. More than 97% of transmissions were achieved in less than 5 min. Conclusions Transition from a hospital setting to home-like conditions requires specific AP supervision to which remote monitoring systems can contribute valuably. DiAs Web Monitoring worked properly when tested in our outpatient studies. It could facilitate subject monitoring and even accelerate medical and technical assessment of the AP. It should now be adapted for long-term studies with an enhanced notification feature. J Diabetes Sci Technol 2013;7(6):1427–1435 PMID:24351169

DiAs web monitoring: a real-time remote monitoring system designed for artificial pancreas outpatient trials.

PubMed

Place, Jérôme; Robert, Antoine; Ben Brahim, Najib; Keith-Hynes, Patrick; Farret, Anne; Pelletier, Marie-Josée; Buckingham, Bruce; Breton, Marc; Kovatchev, Boris; Renard, Eric

2013-11-01

Developments in an artificial pancreas (AP) for patients with type 1 diabetes have allowed a move toward performing outpatient clinical trials. "Home-like" environment implies specific protocol and system adaptations among which the introduction of remote monitoring is meaningful. We present a novel tool allowing multiple patients to monitor AP use in home-like settings. We investigated existing systems, performed interviews of experienced clinical teams, listed required features, and drew several mockups of the user interface. The resulting application was tested on the bench before it was used in three outpatient studies representing 3480 h of remote monitoring. Our tool, called DiAs Web Monitoring (DWM), is a web-based application that ensures reception, storage, and display of data sent by AP systems. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and insulin delivery data are presented in a colored chart to facilitate reading and interpretation. Several subjects can be monitored simultaneously on the same screen, and alerts are triggered to help detect events such as hypoglycemia or CGM failures. In the third trial, DWM received approximately 460 data per subject per hour: 77% for log messages, 5% for CGM data. More than 97% of transmissions were achieved in less than 5 min. Transition from a hospital setting to home-like conditions requires specific AP supervision to which remote monitoring systems can contribute valuably. DiAs Web Monitoring worked properly when tested in our outpatient studies. It could facilitate subject monitoring and even accelerate medical and technical assessment of the AP. It should now be adapted for long-term studies with an enhanced notification feature. © 2013 Diabetes Technology Society.

Doing accelerator physics using SDDS, UNIX, and EPICS

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

Borland, M.; Emery, L.; Sereno, N.

1995-12-31

The use of the SDDS (Self-Describing Data Sets) file protocol, together with the UNIX operating system and EPICS (Experimental Physics and Industrial Controls System), has proved powerful during the commissioning of the APS (Advanced Photon Source) accelerator complex. The SDDS file protocol has permitted a tool-oriented approach to developing applications, wherein generic programs axe written that function as part of multiple applications. While EPICS-specific tools were written for data collection, automated experiment execution, closed-loop control, and so forth, data processing and display axe done with the SDDS Toolkit. Experiments and data reduction axe implemented as UNIX shell scripts that coordinatemore » the execution of EPICS specific tools and SDDS tools. Because of the power and generic nature of the individual tools and of the UNIX shell environment, automated experiments can be prepared and executed rapidly in response to unanticipated needs or new ideas. Examples are given of application of this methodology to beam motion characterization, beam-position-monitor offset measurements, and klystron characterization.« less

SU-F-207-02: Use of Postmortem Subjects for Subjective Image Quality Assessment in Abdominal CT Protocols with Iterative Reconstruction

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

Mench, A; Lipnharski, I; Carranza, C

Purpose: New radiation dose reduction technologies are emerging constantly in the medical imaging field. The latest of these technologies, iterative reconstruction (IR) in CT, presents the ability to reduce dose significantly and hence provides great opportunity for CT protocol optimization. However, without effective analysis of image quality, the reduction in radiation exposure becomes irrelevant. This work explores the use of postmortem subjects as an image quality assessment medium for protocol optimizations in abdominal CT. Methods: Three female postmortem subjects were scanned using the Abdomen-Pelvis (AP) protocol at reduced minimum tube current and target noise index (SD) settings of 12.5, 17.5,more » 20.0, and 25.0. Images were reconstructed using two strengths of iterative reconstruction. Radiologists and radiology residents from several subspecialties were asked to evaluate 8 AP image sets including the current facility default scan protocol and 7 scans with the parameters varied as listed above. Images were viewed in the soft tissue window and scored on a 3-point scale as acceptable, borderline acceptable, and unacceptable for diagnosis. The facility default AP scan was identified to the reviewer while the 7 remaining AP scans were randomized and de-identified of acquisition and reconstruction details. The observers were also asked to comment on the subjective image quality criteria they used for scoring images. This included visibility of specific anatomical structures and tissue textures. Results: Radiologists scored images as acceptable or borderline acceptable for target noise index settings of up to 20. Due to the postmortem subjects’ close representation of living human anatomy, readers were able to evaluate images as they would those of actual patients. Conclusion: Postmortem subjects have already been proven useful for direct CT organ dose measurements. This work illustrates the validity of their use for the crucial evaluation of image quality during CT protocol optimization, especially when investigating the effects of new technologies.« less

Isolation and characterization of two immunochemically distinct alkaline phosphatases from Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

PubMed

Tan, A S; Worobec, E A

1993-02-01

We have isolated two alkaline phosphatases (H-AP and L-AP, for high and low molecular mass, respectively) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01. These two enzymes were found to differ in mobility on sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gels (H-AP, M(r) = 51,000 and L-AP, M(r) = 39,500), amino-terminal amino acid sequence and did not cross-react. Both enzymes were active as phosphomonoesterases while only L-AP demonstrated any phosphodiesterase activity. Both enzymes were purified from P. aeruginosa grown in phosphate limiting conditions using the same protocol and were identified in both periplasmic and extracellular locations. A low level of H-AP was produced constitutively whereas L-AP was produced only after induction by reduced phosphate concentration in the growth medium. An L-AP-like enzyme has been previously described, however, this is the first report of a second P. aeruginosa alkaline phosphatase.

A percutaneous drainage protocol for severe and moderately severe acute pancreatitis.

PubMed

Sugimoto, Motokazu; Sonntag, David P; Flint, Greggory S; Boyce, Cody J; Kirkham, John C; Harris, Tyler J; Carr, Sean M; Nelson, Brent D; Barton, Joshua G; Traverso, L William

2015-11-01

According to the revised Atlanta classification, severe and moderately severe acute pancreatitis (AP) includes patients with pancreatic and peripancreatic collections with or without organ failure. These collections suggest the presence of pancreatic juice leakage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) protocol designed to control leakage and decrease disease severity. Among 663 patients with clinical AP, 122 were classified as moderately severe or severe AP (all had collections). The computed tomography severity index (CTSI) score was calculated. The indication for PCD was based on progressive clinical signs and symptoms. Drain patency, position, and need for additional drainage sites were assessed using CT scans and drain studies initially every 3 days using a proactive protocol. Drain fluid was examined for amylase concentration and microbiological culture. Clinicopathological variables for patients with and without PCD were compared. Since there was no mortality, we used prolonged drainage time to measure the success of PCD. Within the group treated with PCD, variables that resulted in prolonged drainage time were analyzed. PCD was used in 47/122 (39 %) patients of which 33/47 (70 %) had necrosis. PCD cases had a median CTSI of 8 and were classified as moderately severe AP (57 %) and severe AP (43 %). Inhospital mortality was zero. Surgical necrosectomy was not required for patients with necrosis. Independent risk factors for prolonged drainage time were persistent organ failure >48 h (P = 0.001), CTSI 8-10 (P = 0.038), prolonged duration of amylase-rich fluid in drains (P < 0.001), and polymicrobial culture fluid in drains (P = 0.015). A proactive PCD protocol persistently maintaining drain patency advanced to the site of leak controlled the prolonged amylase in drainage fluid resulting in a mortality rate of zero.

Image guidance in prostate cancer - can offline corrections be an effective substitute for daily online imaging?

PubMed

Prasad, Devleena; Das, Pinaki; Saha, Niladri S; Chatterjee, Sanjoy; Achari, Rimpa; Mallick, Indranil

2014-01-01

This aim of this study was to determine if a less resource-intensive and established offline correction protocol - the No Action Level (NAL) protocol was as effective as daily online corrections of setup deviations in curative high-dose radiotherapy of prostate cancer. A total of 683 daily megavoltage CT (MVCT) or kilovoltage CT (kvCBCT) images of 30 patients with localized prostate cancer treated with intensity modulated radiotherapy were evaluated. Daily image-guidance was performed and setup errors in three translational axes recorded. The NAL protocol was simulated by using the mean shift calculated from the first five fractions and implemented on all subsequent treatments. Using the imaging data from the remaining fractions, the daily residual error (RE) was determined. The proportion of fractions where the RE was greater than 3,5 and 7 mm was calculated, and also the actual PTV margin that would be required if the offline protocol was followed. Using the NAL protocol reduced the systematic but not the random errors. Corrections made using the NAL protocol resulted in small and acceptable RE in the mediolateral (ML) and superoinferior (SI) directions with 46/533 (8.1%) and 48/533 (5%) residual shifts above 5 mm. However; residual errors greater than 5mm in the anteroposterior (AP) direction remained in 181/533 (34%) of fractions. The PTV margins calculated based on residual errors were 5mm, 5mm and 13 mm in the ML, SI and AP directions respectively. Offline correction using the NAL protocol resulted in unacceptably high residual errors in the AP direction, due to random uncertainties of rectal and bladder filling. Daily online imaging and corrections remain the standard image guidance policy for highly conformal radiotherapy of prostate cancer.

Improving Sleep for Hospitalized Antepartum Patients: A Non-Randomized Controlled Pilot Study.

PubMed

Lee, Kathryn A; Gay, Caryl L

2017-12-15

To evaluate feasibility and efficacy of a hospital-based protocol for improving sleep in high- risk antepartum patients. Sleep measures were compared during 1 week of hospitalization before and after implementing a Sleep Improvement Protocol for Antepartum Patients (SIP-AP). A non-randomized convenience sample of usual care controls was compared to a subsequent intervention sample after the protocol was implemented. Women were eligible if they spoke English, were medically stable, pregnant for at least 20 weeks, and hospitalized at least 24 hours; 25 pregnant women had sufficient data for analyses (11 controls, 14 intervention). Sleep was assessed in 3 ways: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was completed after obtaining consent to estimate sleep quality prior to hospital admission; sleep diary completed each hospital day; and General Sleep Disturbance Scale completed at 7 days or prior to hospital discharge. Symptoms that could affect sleep were assessed with the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale. Both groups recorded similar sleep duration (7 hours) but the intervention group had fewer symptoms and significantly ( P = .015) lower sleep disturbance scores (53.1 ± 14.5) than controls (71.9 ± 18.8). Participant feedback about the intervention was positive, although adherence to components of the intervention protocol was variable. This pilot study provides evidence of the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the SIP-AP intervention for reducing symptoms and improving sleep of antepartum patients during hospitalization. Further detailed evaluation of specific components of this protocol is warranted, and other types of hospitalized patients may benefit from unit-based modifications to this SIP-AP protocol. © 2017 American Academy of Sleep Medicine

The auditory processing battery: survey of common practices.

PubMed

Emanuel, Diana C

2002-02-01

A survey of auditory processing (AP) diagnostic practices was mailed to all licensed audiologists in the State of Maryland and sent as an electronic mail attachment to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and Educational Audiology Association Internet forums. Common AP protocols (25 from the Internet, 28 from audiologists in Maryland) included requiring basic audiologic testing, using questionnaires, and administering dichotic listening, monaural low-redundancy speech, temporal processing, and electrophysiologic tests. Some audiologists also administer binaural interaction, attention, memory, and speech-language/psychological/educational tests and incorporate a classroom observation. The various AP batteries presently administered appear to be based on the availability of AP tests with well-documented normative data. Resources for obtaining AP tests are listed.

Implementation and Evaluation of Four Interoperable Open Standards for the Internet of Things

PubMed Central

Jazayeri, Mohammad Ali; Liang, Steve H. L.; Huang, Chih-Yuan

2015-01-01

Recently, researchers are focusing on a new use of the Internet called the Internet of Things (IoT), in which enabled electronic devices can be remotely accessed over the Internet. As the realization of IoT concept is still in its early stages, manufacturers of Internet-connected devices and IoT web service providers are defining their proprietary protocols based on their targeted applications. Consequently, IoT becomes heterogeneous in terms of hardware capabilities and communication protocols. Addressing these heterogeneities by following open standards is a necessary step to communicate with various IoT devices. In this research, we assess the feasibility of applying existing open standards on resource-constrained IoT devices. The standard protocols developed in this research are OGC PUCK over Bluetooth, TinySOS, SOS over CoAP, and OGC SensorThings API. We believe that by hosting open standard protocols on IoT devices, not only do the devices become self-describable, self-contained, and interoperable, but innovative applications can also be easily developed with standardized interfaces. In addition, we use memory consumption, request message size, response message size, and response latency to benchmark the efficiency of the implemented protocols. In all, this research presents and evaluates standard-based solutions to better understand the feasibility of applying existing standards to the IoT vision. PMID:26402683

Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Pattie

2005-01-01

Headquarters National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) chartered the Acquisition Pollution Prevention (AP2) Office to coordinate agency activities affecting pollution prevention issues identified during system and component acquisition and sustainment processes. The primary objectives of the AP2 Office are to: (1) Reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous materials (HazMats) or hazardous processes at manufacturing, remanufacturing, and sustainment locations. (2) A void duplication of effort in actions required to reduce or eliminate HazMats through joint center cooperation and technology sharing. This project will identify, evaluate and approve alternative surface preparation technologies for use at NASA and Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) installations. Materials and processes will be evaluated with the goal of selecting those processes that will improve corrosion protection at critical systems, facilitate easier maintenance activity, extend maintenance cycles, eliminate flight hardware contamination and reduce the amount of hazardous waste generated. This Joint Test Protocol (JTP) contains the critical requirements and tests necessary to qualify alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel Applications. These tests were derived from engineering, performance, and operational impact (supportability) requirements defined by a consensus of NASA and Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) participants. The Field Test Plan (FTP), entitled Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, prepared by ITB, defines the field evaluation and testing requirements for validating alternative surface preparation/depainting technologies and supplements the JTP.

Natural Firing Patterns Imply Low Sensitivity of Synaptic Plasticity to Spike Timing Compared with Firing Rate

PubMed Central

Wallisch, Pascal; Ostojic, Srdjan

2016-01-01

Synaptic plasticity is sensitive to the rate and the timing of presynaptic and postsynaptic action potentials. In experimental protocols inducing plasticity, the imposed spike trains are typically regular and the relative timing between every presynaptic and postsynaptic spike is fixed. This is at odds with firing patterns observed in the cortex of intact animals, where cells fire irregularly and the timing between presynaptic and postsynaptic spikes varies. To investigate synaptic changes elicited by in vivo-like firing, we used numerical simulations and mathematical analysis of synaptic plasticity models. We found that the influence of spike timing on plasticity is weaker than expected from regular stimulation protocols. Moreover, when neurons fire irregularly, synaptic changes induced by precise spike timing can be equivalently induced by a modest firing rate variation. Our findings bridge the gap between existing results on synaptic plasticity and plasticity occurring in vivo, and challenge the dominant role of spike timing in plasticity. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Synaptic plasticity, the change in efficacy of connections between neurons, is thought to underlie learning and memory. The dominant paradigm posits that the precise timing of neural action potentials (APs) is central for plasticity induction. This concept is based on experiments using highly regular and stereotyped patterns of APs, in stark contrast with natural neuronal activity. Using synaptic plasticity models, we investigated how irregular, in vivo-like activity shapes synaptic plasticity. We found that synaptic changes induced by precise timing of APs are much weaker than suggested by regular stimulation protocols, and can be equivalently induced by modest variations of the AP rate alone. Our results call into question the dominant role of precise AP timing for plasticity in natural conditions. PMID:27807166

The area postrema does not modulate the long-term salt sensitivity of arterial pressure.

PubMed

Collister, J P; Osborn, J W

1998-10-01

The hindbrain circumventricular organ, the area postrema (AP), receives multiple signals linked to body fluid homeostasis. In addition to baroreceptor input, AP cells contain receptors for ANG II, vasopressin, and atrial natriuretic peptide. Hence, it has been proposed that the AP is critical in long-term adjustments in sympathetic outflow in response to changes in dietary NaCl. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that long-term control of arterial pressure over a range of dietary NaCl requires an intact AP. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly selected for lesion of the AP (APx) or sham lesion. Three months later, rats were instrumented with radiotelemetry transmitters for continuous monitoring of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate and were placed in individual metabolic cages. Rats were given 1 wk postoperative recovery. The dietary salt protocol consisted of a 7-day period of 1.0% NaCl (control), 14 days of 4.0% NaCl (high), 7 days of 1.0% NaCl, and finally 14 days of 0.1% NaCl (low). The results are reported as the average arterial pressure observed on the last day of the given dietary salt period: APx (n = 7) 114 +/- 2 (1.0%), 110 +/- 3 (4.0%), 110 +/- 3 (1.0%), and 114 +/- 4 (0.1%) mmHg; sham (n = 6) 115 +/- 2 (1.0%), 114 +/- 3 (4.0%), 111 +/- 3 (1. 0%), and 113 +/- 2 (0.1%) mmHg. Neither group of rats demonstrated significant changes in MAP throughout the entire dietary salt protocol. Furthermore, no significant differences in MAP were detected between groups throughout the protocol. All lesions were histologically verified. These results suggest that the area postrema plays no role in long-term control of arterial pressure during chronic changes in dietary salt.

Fast and Noninvasive Characterization of Suspicious Lesions Detected at Breast Cancer X-Ray Screening: Capability of Diffusion-weighted MR Imaging with MIPs.

PubMed

Bickelhaupt, Sebastian; Laun, Frederik B; Tesdorff, Jana; Lederer, Wolfgang; Daniel, Heidi; Stieber, Anne; Delorme, Stefan; Schlemmer, Heinz-Peter

2016-03-01

To evaluate the ability of a diagnostic abbreviated magnetic resonance (MR) imaging protocol consisting of maximum intensity projections (MIPs) from diffusion-weighted imaging with background suppression (DWIBS) and unenhanced morphologic sequences to help predict the likelihood of malignancy on suspicious screening x-ray mammograms, as compared with an abbreviated contrast material-enhanced MR imaging protocol and a full diagnostic breast MR imaging protocol. This prospective institutional review board-approved study included 50 women (mean age, 57.1 years; range, 50-69 years), who gave informed consent and who had suspicious screening mammograms and an indication for biopsy, from September 2014 to January 2015. Before biopsy, full diagnostic contrast-enhanced MR imaging was performed that included DWIBS (b = 1500 sec/mm(2)). Two abbreviated protocols (APs) based on MIPs were evaluated regarding the potential to exclude malignancy: DWIBS (AP1) and subtraction images from the first postcontrast and the unenhanced series (AP2). Diagnostic indexes of both methods were examined by using the McNemar test and were compared with those of the full diagnostic protocol and histopathologic findings. Twenty-four of 50 participants had a breast carcinoma. With AP1 (DWIBS), the sensitivity was 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73, 0.98), the specificity was 0.94 (95% CI: 0.77, 0.99), the negative predictive value (NPV) was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.75, 0.99), and the positive predictive value (PPV) was 0.93 (95% CI: 0.75, 0.99). The mean reading time was 29.7 seconds (range, 4.9-110.0 seconds) and was less than 3 seconds (range, 1.2-7.6 seconds) in the absence of suspicious findings on the DWIBS MIPs. With the AP2 protocol, the sensitivity was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.78, 0.95), the specificity was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.72, 0.97), the NPV was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.69, 0.95), the PPV was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.69, 0.97), and the mean reading time was 29.6 seconds (range, 6.0-100.0 seconds). Unenhanced diagnostic MR imaging (DWIBS mammography), with an NPV of 0.92 and an acquisition time of less than 7 minutes, could help exclude malignancy in women with suspicious x-ray screening mammograms. The method has the potential to reduce unnecessary invasive procedures and emotional distress for breast cancer screening participants if it is used as a complement after the regular screening clarification procedure.

How to Improve the Peer Review Method: Free-Selection vs Assigned-Pair Protocol Evaluated in a Computer Networking Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Papadopoulos, Pantelis M.; Lagkas, Thomas D.; Demetriadis, Stavros N.

2012-01-01

This study provides field research evidence on the efficiency of a "free-selection" peer review assignment protocol as compared to the typically implemented "assigned-pair" protocol. The study employed 54 sophomore students who were randomly assigned into three groups: Assigned-Pair (AP) (the teacher assigns student works for review to student…

Improving Service Management in the Internet of Things

PubMed Central

Sammarco, Chiara; Iera, Antonio

2012-01-01

In the Internet of Things (IoT) research arena, many efforts are devoted to adapt the existing IP standards to emerging IoT nodes. This is the direction followed by three Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Working Groups, which paved the way for research on IP-based constrained networks. Through a simplification of the whole TCP/IP stack, resource constrained nodes become direct interlocutors of application level entities in every point of the network. In this paper we analyze some side effects of this solution, when in the presence of large amounts of data to transmit. In particular, we conduct a performance analysis of the Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP), a widely accepted web transfer protocol for the Internet of Things, and propose a service management enhancement that improves the exploitation of the network and node resources. This is specifically thought for constrained nodes in the abovementioned conditions and proves to be able to significantly improve the node energetic performance when in the presence of large resource representations (hence, large data transmissions).

Department of Energy Efforts to Promote Universal Adherence to the IAEA Additional Protocol

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

Killinger, Mark H.; Hansen, Linda H.; Kovacic, Don N.

2009-10-06

Entry-into-force of the U.S. Additional Protocol (AP) in January 2009 continues to demonstrate the ongoing commitment by the United States to promote universal adherence to the AP. The AP is a critical tool for improving the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) capabilities to detect undeclared activities that indicate a clandestine nuclear weapons program. This is because States Parties are required to provide information about, and access to, nuclear fuel cycle activities beyond their traditional safeguards reporting requirements. As part of the U.S. AP Implementation Act and Senate Resolution of Ratification, the Administration is required to report annually to Congress onmore » measures taken to achieve the adoption of the AP in non-nuclear weapon states, as well as assistance to the IAEA to promote the effective implementation of APs in those states. A key U.S. effort in this area is being managed by the International Nuclear Safeguards and Engagement Program (INSEP) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Through new and existing bilateral cooperation agreements, INSEP has initiated technical assistance projects for AP implementation with selected non-weapon states. States with which INSEP is currently cooperating include Vietnam and Thailand, with Indonesia, Algeria, Morocco, and other countries as possible future collaborators in the area of AP implementation. The INSEP collaborative model begins with a joint assessment with our partners to identify specific needs they may have regarding entering the AP into force and any impediments to successful implementation. An action plan is then developed detailing and prioritizing the necessary joint activities. Such assistance may include: advice on developing legal frameworks and regulatory documents; workshops to promote understanding of AP requirements; training to determine possible declarable activities; assistance in developing a system to collect and submit declarations; performing industry outreach to raise awareness; guidance for reporting export and manufacturing of “especially designed or prepared” equipment listed in AP Annex I/Annex II; and lastly, developing indigenous capabilities to sustain AP implementation. INSEP also coordinates with the IAEA to ensure the harmonization of the assistance provided by DOE and the IAEA. This paper describes current efforts and future plans for AP international implementation support.« less

77 FR 24480 - Application for New Awards; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program-Reopening the AP Test Fee...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-24

... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Application for New Awards; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program--Reopening the AP Test Fee Fiscal Year 2012 Competition AGENCY: Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE), Department of Education. ACTION: Notice reopening the AP Test Fee fiscal year 2012 competition...

Detection of single-copy functional genes in prokaryotic cells by two-pass TSA-FISH with polynucleotide probes.

PubMed

Kawakami, Shuji; Hasegawa, Takuya; Imachi, Hiroyuki; Yamaguchi, Takashi; Harada, Hideki; Ohashi, Akiyoshi; Kubota, Kengo

2012-02-01

In situ detection of functional genes with single-cell resolution is currently of interest to microbiologists. Here, we developed a two-pass tyramide signal amplification (TSA)-fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) protocol with PCR-derived polynucleotide probes for the detection of single-copy genes in prokaryotic cells. The mcrA gene and the apsA gene in methanogens and sulfate-reducing bacteria, respectively, were targeted. The protocol showed bright fluorescence with a good signal-to-noise ratio and achieved a high efficiency of detection (>98%). The discrimination threshold was approximately 82-89% sequence identity. Microorganisms possessing the mcrA or apsA gene in anaerobic sludge samples were successfully detected by two-pass TSA-FISH with polynucleotide probes. The developed protocol is useful for identifying single microbial cells based on functional gene sequences. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

38 CFR 58.12 - VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. 58.12 Section 58.12 Pensions, Bonuses, and...—Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. ER29AP09.145 ER29AP09.146 ER29AP09.147 ER29AP09.148 ER29AP09...

38 CFR 58.12 - VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. 58.12 Section 58.12 Pensions, Bonuses, and...—Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. ER29AP09.145 ER29AP09.146 ER29AP09.147 ER29AP09.148 ER29AP09...

38 CFR 58.12 - VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. 58.12 Section 58.12 Pensions, Bonuses, and...—Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. ER29AP09.145 ER29AP09.146 ER29AP09.147 ER29AP09.148 ER29AP09...

38 CFR 58.12 - VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false VA Forms 10-10EZ and 10-10EZR-Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. 58.12 Section 58.12 Pensions, Bonuses, and...—Application for Health Benefits and Renewal Form. ER29AP09.145 ER29AP09.146 ER29AP09.147 ER29AP09.148 ER29AP09...

Comparison of jump-landing protocols with Biodex Balance System as measures of dynamic postural stability in athletes.

PubMed

Krkeljas, Zarko

2017-07-21

The objective of the study was to determine whether a relationship exists between the two common methods for assessing postural stability in athletes: the time-to-stabilisation (TTS) via force-plate and the Biodex Balance System (BBS). The conditions under which these measurements assess dynamic postural control may not provide sufficient feedback to practitioners. Fourty-four amateur soccer players with no history of musculoskeletal disorders volunteered for the study. Pearson correlation was used to compare the anterior-posterior (AP), medio-lateral (ML), and the overall stability indexes measured by BBS, with the corresponding parameters of TTS assessed via force plate. There was no significant correlation between any parameters of dynamic stability measured by force-plate and the stability indexes. However, there was a significant correlation between the resulting vectors and the AP component of TTS for each jump protocol. Furthermore, forward drop landing exhibited shortest TTS in AP direction, while lateral drop landing resulted in longer ML TTS relative to both forward jumps (p < 0.001). These results demonstrate that the TTS and BBS stability indexes should be used as distinct measures of dynamic postural stability. TTS protocols may be modified to target a specific training conditions or athletic population.

77 FR 2713 - Agency Information Collection Extension

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-19

...) Package Title: U.S. Declaration under the Protocol Additional to the U.S.-IAEA Safeguards Agreement... Declaration to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) under Articles 2 and 3 of the Protocol Additional... performing activities at DOE Locations that would be declarable to the IAEA under the U.S. AP are affected by...

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

Fachechi, Alessio; Mainetti, Luca; Palano, Laura

The continuously rising demand for electricity has prompted governments and industries to research more effective energy management systems. The Internet of Things paradigm is a valuable add-on for controlling and managing the energy appliances such as Plug-in Electrical Vehicles (PEV) charging stations. In this paper, we present a Demand Response implementation for PEV charging stations able to use Wireless Sensor Network technologies based on the Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP). We developed a self-service kiosk system by which the user can autonomously swipe his/her credit card and choose the charging station to enable. When a user plugs his/her vehicle to themore » station, s/he subscribes his availability to share a portion of its energy. When the grid requests a contribution from the PEVs, the kiosk sends a CoAP message to the available stations and the energy flow is inverted (Vehicle-to-Grid). At the end of the charging process, the user's credit card gets charged with a discounted bill.« less

Provably Secure Heterogeneous Access Control Scheme for Wireless Body Area Network.

PubMed

Omala, Anyembe Andrew; Mbandu, Angolo Shem; Mutiria, Kamenyi Domenic; Jin, Chunhua; Li, Fagen

2018-04-28

Wireless body area network (WBAN) provides a medium through which physiological information could be harvested and transmitted to application provider (AP) in real time. Integrating WBAN in a heterogeneous Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem would enable an AP to monitor patients from anywhere and at anytime. However, the IoT roadmap of interconnected 'Things' is still faced with many challenges. One of the challenges in healthcare is security and privacy of streamed medical data from heterogeneously networked devices. In this paper, we first propose a heterogeneous signcryption scheme where a sender is in a certificateless cryptographic (CLC) environment while a receiver is in identity-based cryptographic (IBC) environment. We then use this scheme to design a heterogeneous access control protocol. Formal security proof for indistinguishability against adaptive chosen ciphertext attack and unforgeability against adaptive chosen message attack in random oracle model is presented. In comparison with some of the existing access control schemes, our scheme has lower computation and communication cost.

Quantifying and Mitigating Privacy Threats in Wireless Protocols and Services

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-07-01

with an AP in given area typically occurs by listening for beacons transmitted by APs nearby or by broadcasting wild card query probes and listening...linkage because these capabilities differentiate different 802.11 cards and drivers. Prior research has shown that peer-to-peer file sharing traffic...behavior of wireless cards . For example, Intel corporation issues similar corporate laptops to its employees. We consider a enterprise network where

A Machine-to-Machine protocol benchmark for eHealth applications - Use case: Respiratory rehabilitation.

PubMed

Talaminos-Barroso, Alejandro; Estudillo-Valderrama, Miguel A; Roa, Laura M; Reina-Tosina, Javier; Ortega-Ruiz, Francisco

2016-06-01

M2M (Machine-to-Machine) communications represent one of the main pillars of the new paradigm of the Internet of Things (IoT), and is making possible new opportunities for the eHealth business. Nevertheless, the large number of M2M protocols currently available hinders the election of a suitable solution that satisfies the requirements that can demand eHealth applications. In the first place, to develop a tool that provides a benchmarking analysis in order to objectively select among the most relevant M2M protocols for eHealth solutions. In the second place, to validate the tool with a particular use case: the respiratory rehabilitation. A software tool, called Distributed Computing Framework (DFC), has been designed and developed to execute the benchmarking tests and facilitate the deployment in environments with a large number of machines, with independence of the protocol and performance metrics selected. DDS, MQTT, CoAP, JMS, AMQP and XMPP protocols were evaluated considering different specific performance metrics, including CPU usage, memory usage, bandwidth consumption, latency and jitter. The results obtained allowed to validate a case of use: respiratory rehabilitation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients in two scenarios with different types of requirement: Home-Based and Ambulatory. The results of the benchmark comparison can guide eHealth developers in the choice of M2M technologies. In this regard, the framework presented is a simple and powerful tool for the deployment of benchmark tests under specific environments and conditions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

77 FR 8249 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-14

...: ER12-999-000. Applicants: AP Gas & Electric (MD), LLC. Description: AP Gas & Electric (MD), LLC...: 20120206-5105. Comments Due: 5 p.m. ET 2/27/12. Docket Numbers: ER12-1002-000. Applicants: AP Gas & Electric (NJ), LLC. Description: AP Gas & Electric (NJ), LLC--Petition for Approval of Market-Based Ra...

Mechanism-based facilitated maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes

PubMed Central

Lieu, Deborah K.; Fu, Ji-Dong; Chiamvimonvat, Nipavan; Chan Tung, Kelvin W.; McNerney, Gregory P.; Huser, Thomas; Keller, Gordon; Kong, Chi-Wing

2013-01-01

Background Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) can be efficiently and reproducibly directed into cardiomyocytes (CMs) using stage-specific induction protocols. However, their functional properties and suitability for clinical and other applications have not been evaluated. Methods and Results Here we showed that CMs derived from multiple pluripotent human stem cell lines (hESC: H1, HES2) and types (induced pluripotent stem cell or iPSC) using different in vitro differentiation protocols (embryoid body formation, endodermal induction, directed differentiation) commonly displayed immature, pro-arrhythmic action potential (AP) properties such as high-degree of automaticity, depolarized resting membrane potential (RMP), Phase 4- depolarization and delayed after-depolarization (DAD). Among the panoply of sarcolemmal ionic currents investigated (INa+/ICaL2+/IKr+/INCX+/If+/Ito+/IK1-/IKs-), we pinpointed the lack of the Kir2.1-encoded inwardly rectifying K+ current (IK1) as the single mechanistic contributor to the observed immature electrophysiological properties in hESC-CMs. Forced expression of Kir2.1 in hESC-CMs led to robust expression of Ba2+-sensitive IK1 and more importantly, completely ablated all the pro-arrhythmic AP traits, rendering the electrophysiological phenotype indistinguishable from the adult counterparts. These results provided the first link of a complex developmentally arrested phenotype to a major effector gene, and importantly, further led us to develop a biomimetic culturing strategy for enhancing maturation. Conclusions By providing the environmental cues that are missing in conventional culturing method, this approach did not require any genetic or pharmacological interventions. Our findings can facilitate clinical applications, drug discovery and cardiotoxicity screening by improving the yield, safety and efficacy of derived CMs. PMID:23392582

The soil sulphate effect and maize plant (Zea mays L.) growth of sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB) inoculation in acid sulfate soils with the different soil water condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asmarlaili, S.; Rauf, A.; Hanafiah, D. S.; Sudarno, Y.; Abdi, P.

2018-02-01

The objective of the study was to determine the potential application of sulphate reducing bacteria on acid sulfate soil with different water content in the green house. The research was carried out in the Laboratory and Green House, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara. This research used Randomized Block Design with two treatments factors, ie sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB) isolate (control, LK4, LK6, TSM4, TSM3, AP4, AP3, LK4 + TSM3, LK4 + AP4, LK4 + AP3, LK6 + TSM3, LK6 + AP4, LK6 + AP3, TSM4 + TSM3, TSM4 + AP4, TSM4 + AP3) and water condition (100% field capacity and 110% field capacity). The results showed that application of isolate LK4 + AP4 with water condition 110% field capacity decreased the soil sulphate content (27.38 ppm) significantly after 6 weeks. Application of isolate LK4 + AP3 with water condition 110% field capacity increased soil pH (5.58) after-week efficacy 6. Application of isolate LK4 with water condition 110% field capacity increased plant growth (140 cm; 25.74 g) significantly after week 6. The best treatment was application isolate LK4 with water condition 110% field Capacity (SRB population 2.5x108; soil sulphate content 29.10ppm; soil acidity 4.78; plant height 140cm; plant weight 25.74g).

NHEXAS PHASE I REGION 5 STUDY--STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE--HANDLING QUALITY CONTROL SAMPLES IN THE FIELD (RTI/ACS-AP-209-090)

EPA Science Inventory

This protocol describes how quality control samples should be handled in the field, and was designed as a quick reference source for the field staff. The protocol describes quality control samples for air-VOCs, air-particles, water samples, house dust, soil, urine, blood, hair, a...

Apheresis and intravenous immunoglobulins used in addition to conventional therapy to treat high-risk pregnant antiphospholipid antibody syndrome patients. A prospective study.

PubMed

Ruffatti, Amelia; Favaro, Maria; Hoxha, Ariela; Zambon, Alessandra; Marson, Piero; Del Ross, Teresa; Calligaro, Antonia; Tonello, Marta; Nardelli, Giovanni B

2016-06-01

Pregnant women with triple antibody positive antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) who have had thrombosis or a history of early, severe pregnancy complications are generally considered at high risk of pregnancy loss. The objectives of this study were to investigate the efficacy and safety of a relatively new treatment protocol used in addition to conventional therapy in high-risk pregnant patients affected with primary APS. The study's two inclusion criteria were: (1) the presence of triple antiphospholipid positivity, (2) previous thrombosis and/or a history of one or more early, severe pregnancy complications. Eighteen pregnancies occurring between 2002 and 2015 in 14 APS patients, (mean age 34.8±3.6 SD) were monitored. All 14 (100%) patients had triple antiphospholipid positivity. In addition, six of them (42.8%) had a history of thrombosis, four (28.6%) had one or more previous early and severe pregnancy complications, and four (30.8%) met both clinical study criteria. The study protocol included weekly plasmapheresis or immunoadsorption and fortnightly 1g/kg intravenous immunoglobulins. Seventeen of the pregnancies (94.4%) produced live neonates, all born between the 26th and 37th weeks of gestation (mean 33.1±3.5 SD). One female (5.5%), born prematurely at 24 weeks, died of sepsis a week after birth. There were two cases (11.1%) of severe pregnancy complications. No treatment side effects were registered. Given the high live birth rate and the safety associated to it, the study protocol described here could be taken into consideration by medical teams treating high-risk APS pregnant patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

78 FR 19691 - Applications for New Awards; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-02

... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Applications for New Awards; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program... Information Advanced Placement Test Fee Program. Notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year... Program: The AP Test Fee program awards grants to eligible State educational agencies (SEAs) to enable...

77 FR 8848 - Application for New Awards; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-15

... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Application for New Awards; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program... Information: Advanced Placement Test Fee Program. Notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year... Description Purpose of Program: The AP Test Fee program awards grants to eligible State educational agencies...

Regional Seminars to Address Current Nuclear Export Control Issues

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

Killinger, Mark H.

2002-07-01

The control of nuclear-related exports, a critical component of the nonproliferation regime, is facing several opportunities and challenges. As countries sign and ratify the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) safeguards Additional Protocol (AP), they will begin to report far more export information, including exports of a list of items similar to the Nuclear Supplier Group's Trigger List that existed when the AP was developed in the mid-1990s. This positive development contrasts with challenges such as globalization, transshipments, and tracking of end-uses. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is proposing that the US Department of Energy (DOE) develop regional seminars that address thesemore » types of issues related to export/import controls. The DOE seminars would be designed to supplement regional seminars sponsored by the IAEA and member states on topics related to the Additional Protocol (referred to as "IAEA seminars"). The topic of nuclear export/import controls is not thoroughly addressed in the IAEA seminars. The proposed DOE seminars would therefore have two objectives: familiarizing countries with the export/import provisions of the Additional Protocol, and addressing challenges such as those noted above. The seminars would be directed particularly at countries that have not ratified the AP, and at regions where export-related problems are particularly prevalent. The intent is to encourage governments to implement more effective nuclear export control systems that meet the challenges of the 21st century.« less

Cardioinhibitory effect of atrial peptide in conscious rats.

PubMed

Allen, D E; Gellai, M

1987-03-01

The hemodynamic and renal excretory responses to 150-min atriopeptin II (AP II) infusion (330 ng X kg-1 X min-1) were assessed in five chronically instrumented rats with (FR protocol) and without (NR protocol) replaced urinary fluid losses. The observed changes were compared with those obtained by vehicle in the same rats. The hypotension seen with AP II infusion (120-min value: -27 +/- 2%, FR and NR responses combined) was due solely to a decreased cardiac output (CO; 120-min combined value: -34 +/- 3%). Total peripheral resistance remained unchanged or slightly elevated. A drop in stroke volume plus a later-developing (by 75-90 min) decrease in heart rate contributed to the CO decline. This latter bradycardic component, the opposite response to that typically produced reflexly by hypotension, was reversed by atropine sulfate treatment at 120 min and may thus be neural in origin. The finding of similar hemodynamic changes in the FR and NR rats and the lack of a significant effect of AP II on hematocrit suggest that volume depletion or a plasma extravasation were not contributors to the cardioinhibitory effect of the peptide.

Determinants of muscle metaboreflex and involvement of baroreflex in boys and young men.

PubMed

Dipla, Konstantina; Papadopoulos, Stavros; Zafeiridis, Andreas; Kyparos, Antonios; Nikolaidis, Michalis G; Vrabas, Ioannis S

2013-04-01

This study aimed to assess the arterial pressure (AP) determinants during the muscle metaboreflex in boys and men and to investigate the contribution of baroreflex and sympathovagal function to the metaboreflex-induced responses. Fourteen pre-adolescent boys and 13 men performed a protocol involving: baseline, isometric handgrip exercise, circulatory occlusion, and recovery. The same protocol was repeated without occlusion. During baseline, boys had lower beat-to-beat AP, higher heart rate (HR), and lower low/high frequency HR variability. During exercise, a parasympathetic withdrawal was evident in both groups. In adults, HR was the key contributor to the pressure response, with no changes in stroke volume, whereas in boys, the lower HR increase was counterbalanced by an increase in stroke volume, resulting in similar relative increases in AP in both groups. In recovery, boys exhibited a faster rate of HR-decay, rapid vagal reactivation, and greater decrease in TPR than men. An overshoot in baroreceptor sensitivity was observed in men. The isolated metaboreflex resulted in a similar AP elevation in both age groups (by ~15 mmHg), and attenuated spontaneous baroreceptor sensitivity. However, during the metaboreflex, pre-adolescent males exhibited a lower increase in peripheral resistance and a greater bradycardic response than adults, and a fast restoration of vagal activity to non-occlusion levels. During metaboreflex, boys were capable of eliciting a pressure response similar to the one elicited by men; however, the interplay of the mechanisms underlying the rise in AP differed between the two groups with the vagal contribution being greater in the younger participants.

Using ProHits to store, annotate and analyze affinity purification - mass spectrometry (AP-MS) data

PubMed Central

Liu, Guomin; Zhang, Jianping; Choi, Hyungwon; Lambert, Jean-Philippe; Srikumar, Tharan; Larsen, Brett; Nesvizhskii, Alexey I.; Raught, Brian; Tyers, Mike; Gingras, Anne-Claude

2012-01-01

Affinity purification coupled with mass spectrometry (AP-MS) is a robust technique used to identify protein-protein interactions. With recent improvements in sample preparation, and dramatic advances in MS instrumentation speed and sensitivity, this technique is becoming more widely used throughout the scientific community. To meet the needs of research groups both large and small, we have developed software solutions for tracking, scoring and analyzing AP-MS data. Here, we provide details for the installation and utilization of ProHits, a Laboratory Information Management System designed specifically for AP-MS interaction proteomics. This protocol explains: (i) how to install the complete ProHits system, including modules for the management of mass spectrometry files and the analysis of interaction data, and (ii) alternative options for the use of pre-existing search results in simpler versions of ProHits, including a virtual machine implementation of our ProHits Lite software. We also describe how to use the main features of the software to analyze AP-MS data. PMID:22948730

Coexistence of WiFi and WiMAX systems based on PS-request protocols.

PubMed

Kim, Jongwoo; Park, Suwon; Rhee, Seung Hyong; Choi, Yong-Hoon; Chung, Young-uk; Hwang, Ho Young

2011-01-01

We introduce both the coexistence zone within the WiMAX frame structure and a PS-Request protocol for the coexistence of WiFi and WiMAX systems sharing a frequency band. Because we know that the PS-Request protocol has drawbacks, we propose a revised PS-Request protocol to improve the performance. Two PS-Request protocols are based on the time division operation (TDO) of WiFi system and WiMAX system to avoid the mutual interference, and use the vestigial power management (PwrMgt) bit within the Frame Control field of the frames transmitted by a WiFi AP. The performance of the revised PS-Request protocol is evaluated by computer simulation, and compared to those of the cases without a coexistence protocol and to the original PS-Request protocol.

Combining dynamic and ECG-gated ⁸²Rb-PET for practical implementation in the clinic.

PubMed

Sayre, George A; Bacharach, Stephen L; Dae, Michael W; Seo, Youngho

2012-01-01

For many cardiac clinics, list-mode PET is impractical. Therefore, separate dynamic and ECG-gated acquisitions are needed to detect harmful stenoses, indicate affected coronary arteries, and estimate stenosis severity. However, physicians usually order gated studies only because of dose, time, and cost limitations. These gated studies are limited to detection. In an effort to remove these limitations, we developed a novel curve-fitting algorithm [incomplete data (ICD)] to accurately calculate coronary flow reserve (CFR) from a combined dynamic-ECG protocol of a length equal to a typical gated scan. We selected several retrospective dynamic studies to simulate shortened dynamic acquisitions of the combined protocol and compared (a) the accuracy of ICD and a nominal method in extrapolating the complete functional form of arterial input functions (AIFs); and (b) the accuracy of ICD and ICD-AP (ICD with a-posteriori knowledge of complete-data AIFs) in predicting CFRs. According to the Akaike information criterion, AIFs predicted by ICD were more accurate than those predicted by the nominal method in 11 out of 12 studies. CFRs predicted by ICD and ICD-AP were similar to complete-data predictions (PICD=0.94 and PICD-AP=0.91) and had similar average errors (eICD=2.82% and eICD-AP=2.79%). According to a nuclear cardiologist and an expert analyst of PET data, both ICD and ICD-AP predicted CFR values with sufficient accuracy for the clinic. Therefore, by using our method, physicians in cardiac clinics would have access to the necessary amount of information to differentiate between single-vessel and triple-vessel disease for treatment decision making.

38 CFR 58.13 - VA Form 10-10SH-State Home Program Application for Veteran Care Medical Certification.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 38 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false VA Form 10-10SH-State Home Program Application for Veteran Care Medical Certification. 58.13 Section 58.13 Pensions, Bonuses... Home Program Application for Veteran Care Medical Certification. ER29AP09.150 ER29AP09.151 ER29AP09.152...

Active/passive scanning. [airborne multispectral laser scanners for agricultural and water resources applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodfill, J. R.; Thomson, F. J.

1979-01-01

The paper deals with the design, construction, and applications of an active/passive multispectral scanner combining lasers with conventional passive remote sensors. An application investigation was first undertaken to identify remote sensing applications where active/passive scanners (APS) would provide improvement over current means. Calibration techniques and instrument sensitivity are evaluated to provide predictions of the APS's capability to meet user needs. A preliminary instrument design was developed from the initial conceptual scheme. A design review settled the issues of worthwhile applications, calibration approach, hardware design, and laser complement. Next, a detailed mechanical design was drafted and construction of the APS commenced. The completed APS was tested and calibrated in the laboratory, then installed in a C-47 aircraft and ground tested. Several flight tests completed the test program.

In silico simulations of experimental protocols for cardiac modeling.

PubMed

Carro, Jesus; Rodriguez, Jose Felix; Pueyo, Esther

2014-01-01

A mathematical model of the AP involves the sum of different transmembrane ionic currents and the balance of intracellular ionic concentrations. To each ionic current corresponds an equation involving several effects. There are a number of model parameters that must be identified using specific experimental protocols in which the effects are considered as independent. However, when the model complexity grows, the interaction between effects becomes increasingly important. Therefore, model parameters identified considering the different effects as independent might be misleading. In this work, a novel methodology consisting in performing in silico simulations of the experimental protocol and then comparing experimental and simulated outcomes is proposed for parameter model identification and validation. The potential of the methodology is demonstrated by validating voltage-dependent L-type calcium current (ICaL) inactivation in recently proposed human ventricular AP models with different formulations. Our results show large differences between ICaL inactivation as calculated from the model equation and ICaL inactivation from the in silico simulations due to the interaction between effects and/or to the experimental protocol. Our results suggest that, when proposing any new model formulation, consistency between such formulation and the corresponding experimental data that is aimed at being reproduced needs to be first verified considering all involved factors.

Biomechanical evaluation of a novel reverse coracoacromial ligament reconstruction for acromioclavicular joint separation.

PubMed

Shu, Beatrice; Johnston, Tyler; Lindsey, Derek P; McAdams, Timothy R

2012-02-01

Enhancing anterior-posterior (AP) stability in acromioclavicular (AC) reconstruction may be advantageous. To compare the initial stability of AC reconstructions with and without augmentation by either (1) a novel "reverse" coracoacromial (CA) ligament transfer or (2) an intramedullary AC tendon graft. Reverse CA transfer will improve AP stability compared with isolated coracoclavicular (CC) reconstruction. Controlled laboratory study. Six matched pairs of cadaveric shoulders underwent distal clavicle resection and CC reconstruction. Displacement (mm) was measured during cyclic loading along AP (±25 N) and superior-inferior (SI; 10-N compression, 70-N tension) axes. Pairs were randomized to receive each augmentation and the same loading protocol applied. Reverse CA transfer (3.71 ± 1.3 mm, standard error of the mean [SEM]; P = .03) and intramedullary graft (3.41 ± 1.1 mm; P = .03) decreased AP translation compared with CC reconstruction alone. The SI displacement did not differ. Equivalence tests suggest no difference between augmentations in AP or SI restraint. Addition of either reverse CA transfer or intramedullary graft demonstrates improved AP restraint and provides similar SI stability compared with isolated CC reconstruction. Reverse CA ligament transfer may be a reasonable alternative to a free tendon graft to augment AP restraint in AC reconstruction.

Limitations in electrophysiological model development and validation caused by differences between simulations and experimental protocols.

PubMed

Carro, Jesús; Rodríguez-Matas, José F; Monasterio, Violeta; Pueyo, Esther

2017-10-01

Models of ion channel dynamics are usually built by fitting isolated cell experimental values of individual parameters while neglecting the interaction between them. Another shortcoming regards the estimation of ionic current conductances, which is often based on quantification of Action Potential (AP)-derived markers. Although this procedure reduces the uncertainty in the calculation of conductances, many studies evaluate electrophysiological AP-derived markers from single cell simulations, whereas experimental measurements are obtained from tissue preparations. In this work, we explore the limitations of these approaches to estimate ion channel dynamics and maximum current conductances and how they could be overcome by using multiscale simulations of experimental protocols. Four human ventricular cell models, namely ten Tusscher and Panfilov (2006), Grandi et al. (2010), O'Hara et al. (2011), and Carro et al. (2011), were used. Two problems involving scales from ion channels to tissue were investigated: 1) characterization of L-type calcium voltage-dependent inactivation I Ca,L ; 2) identification of major ionic conductance contributors to steady-state AP markers, including APD 90 , APD 75 , APD 50 , APD 25 , Triangulation and maximal and minimal values of V and dV/dt during the AP (V max , V min , dV/dt max , dV/dt min ). Our results show that: 1) I Ca,L inactivation characteristics differed significantly when calculated from model equations and from simulations reproducing the experimental protocols. 2) Large differences were found in the ionic currents contributors to APD 25 , Triangulation, V max , dV/dt max and dV/dt min between single cells and 1D-tissue. When proposing any new model formulation, or evaluating an existing model, consistency between simulated and experimental data should be verified considering all involved effects and scales. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Coexistence of WiFi and WiMAX Systems Based on PS-Request Protocols†

PubMed Central

Kim, Jongwoo; Park, Suwon; Rhee, Seung Hyong; Choi, Yong-Hoon; Chung, Young-uk; Hwang, Ho Young

2011-01-01

We introduce both the coexistence zone within the WiMAX frame structure and a PS-Request protocol for the coexistence of WiFi and WiMAX systems sharing a frequency band. Because we know that the PS-Request protocol has drawbacks, we propose a revised PS-Request protocol to improve the performance. Two PS-Request protocols are based on the time division operation (TDO) of WiFi system and WiMAX system to avoid the mutual interference, and use the vestigial power management (PwrMgt) bit within the Frame Control field of the frames transmitted by a WiFi AP. The performance of the revised PS-Request protocol is evaluated by computer simulation, and compared to those of the cases without a coexistence protocol and to the original PS-Request protocol. PMID:22163721

15 CFR 782.1 - Overview of reporting requirements under the APR.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Foreign Trade (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL... (see § 782.5 of the APR). In addition, forms may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. ...

15 CFR 782.1 - Overview of reporting requirements under the APR.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Foreign Trade (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL... (see § 782.5 of the APR). In addition, forms may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. ...

15 CFR 782.1 - Overview of reporting requirements under the APR.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Foreign Trade (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL... (see § 782.5 of the APR). In addition, forms may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. ...

15 CFR 782.1 - Overview of reporting requirements under the APR.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Foreign Trade (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL... (see § 782.5 of the APR). In addition, forms may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. ...

Joint Test Report for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Pattie

2007-01-01

Headquarters National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) chartered the NASA Acquisition Pollution Prevention (AP2) Office to coordinate agency activities affecting pollution prevention issues identified during system and component acquisition and sustainment processes. The primary objectives of the AP2 Office are to: (1) Reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous materials or hazardous processes at manufacturing, remanufacturing, and sustainment locations. (2) Avoid duplication of effort in actions required to reduce or eliminate hazardous materials through joint center cooperation and technology sharing. The objective of this project was to qualify candidate alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel applications at NASA facilities. This project compares the surface preparation/depainting performance of the proposed alternatives to existing surface preparation/depainting systems or standards. This Joint Test Report (JTR) contains the results of testing as per the outlines of the Joint Test Protocol (JTP), Joint Test Protocol for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, and the Field Test Plan (FTP), Field Evaluations Test Plan for Validation of Alternative Low-Emission Surface Preparation/Depainting Technologies for Structural Steel, for critical requirements and tests necessary to qualify alternatives for coating removal systems. These tests were derived from engineering, performance, and operational impact (supportability) requirements defined by a consensus of government and industry participants. This JTR documents the results of the testing as well as any test modifications made during the execution of the project. This JTR is made available as a reference for future pollution prevention endeavors by other NASA Centers, the Department of Defense and commercial users to minimize duplication of effort. The current coating removal processes identified herein are for polyurethane, epoxy and other paint systems applied by conventional wet-spray processes. A table summarizes the target hazardous materials, processes and materials, applications, affected programs, and candidate substrates.

Human bone marrow-derived clonal mesenchymal stem cells inhibit inflammation and reduce acute pancreatitis in rats.

PubMed

Jung, Kyung Hee; Song, Sun U; Yi, Tacghee; Jeon, Myung-Shin; Hong, Sang-Won; Zheng, Hong-Mei; Lee, Hee-Seung; Choi, Myung-Joo; Lee, Don-Haeng; Hong, Soon-Sun

2011-03-01

Acute pancreatitis (AP) has a high mortality rate; repetitive AP induces chronic AP and pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have immunoregulatory effects and reduce inflammation. We developed a protocol to isolate human bone marrow-derived clonal MSCs (hcMSCs) from bone marrow aspirate and investigated the effects of these cells in rat models of mild and severe AP. Mild AP was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by 3 intraperitoneal injections of cerulein (100 μg/kg), given at 2-hour intervals; severe AP was induced by intraparenchymal injection of 3% sodium taurocholate solution. hcMSCs were labeled with CM-1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3'-tetramethylindo-carbocyanine perchloride and administered to rats through the tail vein. hcMSCs underwent self-renewal and had multipotent differentiation capacities and immunoregulatory functions. Greater numbers of infused hcMSCs were detected in pancreas of rats with mild and severe AP than of control rats. Infused hcMSCs reduced acinar-cell degeneration, pancreatic edema, and inflammatory cell infiltration in each model of pancreatitis. The hcMSCs reduced expression of inflammation mediators and cytokines in rats with mild and severe AP. hcMSCs suppressed the mixed lymphocyte reaction and increased expression of Foxp3(+) (a marker of regulatory T cells) in cultured rat lymph node cells. Rats with mild or severe AP that were given infusions of hcMSCs had reduced numbers of CD3(+) T cells and increased expression of Foxp3(+) in pancreas tissues. hcMSCs reduced inflammation and damage to pancreatic tissue in a rat model of AP; they reduced levels of cytokines and induced numbers of Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells. hcMSCs might be developed as a cell therapy for pancreatitis. Copyright © 2011 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

SnAP reagents for the one-step synthesis of medium-ring saturated N-heterocycles from aldehydes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vo, Cam-Van T.; Luescher, Michael U.; Bode, Jeffrey W.

2014-04-01

Interest in saturated N-heterocycles as scaffolds for the synthesis of bioactive molecules is increasing. Reliable and predictable synthetic methods for the preparation of these compounds, especially medium-sized rings, are limited. We describe the development of SnAP (Sn amino protocol) reagents for the transformation of aldehydes into seven-, eight- and nine-membered saturated N-heterocycles. This process occurs under mild, room-temperature conditions and offers exceptional substrate scope and functional-group tolerance. Air- and moisture-stable SnAP reagents are prepared on a multigram scale from inexpensive starting materials by simple reaction sequences. These new reagents and processes allow widely available aryl, heteroaryl and aliphatic aldehydes to be converted into diverse N-heterocycles, including diazepanes, oxazepanes, diazocanes, oxazocanes and hexahydrobenzoxazonines, by a single synthetic operation.

A summary of recent developments in transportation hazard classification activities for ammonium perchlorate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koller, A. M., Jr.; Hannum, J. A. E.

1983-01-01

The transportation hazard classification of Ammonium Perchlorate is discussed. A test program was completed and data were forwarded to retain a Class 5.1 designation (oxidizer) for AP which is shipped internationally. As a follow-on to the initial team effort to conduct AP tests existing data were examined and a matrix which catalogs test parameters and findings was compiled. A collection of test protocols is developed to standardize test methods for energetic materials of all types. The actions to date are summarized; the participating organizations and their roles as presently understood; specific findings on AP (matrix); and issues, lessons learned, and potential actions of particular interest to the propulsion community which may evolve as a result of future U.N. propellant transportation classification activities.

75 FR 75666 - Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-06

... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION [CFDA No. 84.330B] Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program AGENCY: Office... AP Test Fee fiscal year (FY) 2011 competition. SUMMARY: On September 1, 2010, we published in the Federal Register (75 FR 53681) a notice inviting applications for the AP Test Fee FY 2011 competition...

Randomized controlled trial of accelerated rehabilitation versus standard protocol following surgical repair of ruptured Achilles tendon.

PubMed

Porter, Mark D; Shadbolt, Bruce

2015-05-01

There is no consensus regarding the optimal management of the acutely ruptured Achilles tendon (TA). Functional bracing alone achieves outcomes similar to those of surgical repair. Surgical repair combined with immediate mobilization may improve the clinical outcome further. The purpose of our study was to determine if an accelerated rehabilitation programme following surgical repair of the ruptured TA could improve clinical outcome, relative to the standard protocol. Patients with an acutely ruptured TA were randomly allocated to undergo an accelerated programme (AP) or standard programme (SP), following surgery. Outcome was assessed at 12 months post-surgery using the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS), the heel-raise height and the time taken to return to running. Fifty-one patients completed the study, 25 in the AP group and 26 in the SP group. At 12 months post-surgery, the ATRS results were similar in the two treatment groups (87.46 in AP with standard error (SE) of 0.735 versus 87.12 in SP with SE of 0.75) while the AP group had less lengthening of the TA (0.385 cm, SE 0.166 versus 1.00 cm, SE 0.169) and a more rapid return to running (17.231 weeks, SE 0.401 versus 21.08 weeks, SE 0.409), than the SP group. The accelerated rehabilitation programme resulted in less tendon lengthening, more rapid return to running, but similar ATRS relative to the standard rehabilitation. Immobilization following TA repair may prolong recovery. © 2014 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

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

Sequis, Julietta E.; Cain, Ronald A.; Burbank, Roberta L.

The Philippines entered into force the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Additional Protocol (AP) in February 2010. The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) is the government agency responsible for implementing the AP. In June 2010 the IAEA invited the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to help conduct a joint national training seminar on the AP. DOE presented to PNRI its AP international technical assistance program, administered by the International Nuclear Safeguards and Engagement Program (INSEP), which helps partner countries implement the AP. In coordination with the IAEA, DOE established this program in 2008 to complement IAEA AP seminars with long-termmore » country-specific cooperation from the perspective of a Member State. The US version of the AP is the same version as that of non-nuclear weapon states except for the addition of a national security exclusion. Due to this, DOE cooperation with other countries enables the sharing of valuable lessons learned in implementing the AP. DOE/INSEP described to PNRI the various areas of cooperation it offers to interested countries, whether they are preparing for entry into force or already implementing the AP. Even countries that have entered the AP into force are sometimes not fully prepared to implement it well, and welcome cooperation to improve their implementation process. PNRI and DOE/INSEP subsequently agreed to cooperate in several areas to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Philippines AP implementation. These areas include providing working-level training to PNRI staff and preparing an information document that details that training for future reference, assisting with the development of an outreach program and procedures for AP reporting and complementary access, and identifying Annex II equipment and non-nuclear materials whose export must be reported under the AP. DOE laboratory representatives, funded by INSEP, met again with PNRI in February 2011 to provide training for PNRI AP staff and investigate specific ways to improve implementation. Another meeting in July 2011 focused on preparations for outreach to industry and universities. In this paper PNRI describes current implementation of the AP in the Philippines, and both DOE/INSEP and PNRI provide their perspectives on their cooperation to enhance that implementation.« less

Retrospective study of the clinical effects of acupuncture on cervical neurological diseases in dogs.

PubMed

Liu, Ching Ming; Chang, Fang Chia; Lin, Chung Tien

2016-09-30

This study was conducted to evaluate new acupuncture protocols for the clinical treatment of cervical spinal cord diseases in 19 dogs. Three treatment options containing Jing-jiaji (cervical jiaji) were developed to treat neck pain, hemiparesis, and tetraparesis depending on the severity. The interval between the neurological disease onset and treatment (duration of signs), time to improvement after treatment, and recovery time were compared in dogs by body weight, age, and dry needle acupuncture (AP) with or without electro-AP (EAP). The duration of signs was longer in dogs weighing greater than 10 kg than in those weighing less than 10 kg (p＜ 0.05). Improvement and recovery times did not vary by body weight. Additionally, improvement and recovery times did not vary by age. The improvement and recovery times were longer in the AP+EAP group than the AP group (p＜ 0.05). Acupuncture with Jing-jiaji was effective in cervical spinal cord diseases in different sized dogs and in middle-aged and senior dogs. This report standardized AP treatment containing Jing-jiaji for canine cervical problems and evaluated its effects. The newly standardized AP methodology offers clinical practitioners an effective way to improve the outcomes of cervical neurological diseases in dogs.

An Ap-Structure with Finslerian Flavor II:. Torsion, Curvature and Other Objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wanas, M. I.; Kamal, Mona M.

An absolute parallelism (AP-) space having Finslerian properties is called FAP-space. This FAP-structure is wider than both conventional AP and Finsler structures. In the present work, more geometric objects as curvature and torsion tensors are derived in the context of this structure. Also second order tensors, usually needed for physical applications, are derived and studied. Furthermore, the anti-curvature and the W-tensor are defined for the FAP-structure. Relations between Riemannian, AP, Finsler and FAP structures are given. These relations facilitate comparison between results of applications carried out in the framework of these structures. We hope that the use of the FAP-structure, in applications may throw some light on some of the problems facing geometric field theories.

Physiological time-series analysis: what does regularity quantify?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pincus, S. M.; Goldberger, A. L.

1994-01-01

Approximate entropy (ApEn) is a recently developed statistic quantifying regularity and complexity that appears to have potential application to a wide variety of physiological and clinical time-series data. The focus here is to provide a better understanding of ApEn to facilitate its proper utilization, application, and interpretation. After giving the formal mathematical description of ApEn, we provide a multistep description of the algorithm as applied to two contrasting clinical heart rate data sets. We discuss algorithm implementation and interpretation and introduce a general mathematical hypothesis of the dynamics of a wide class of diseases, indicating the utility of ApEn to test this hypothesis. We indicate the relationship of ApEn to variability measures, the Fourier spectrum, and algorithms motivated by study of chaotic dynamics. We discuss further mathematical properties of ApEn, including the choice of input parameters, statistical issues, and modeling considerations, and we conclude with a section on caveats to ensure correct ApEn utilization.

78 FR 41055 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-09

...; ER12-1007-003. Applicants: AP Holdings, LLC, AP Gas & Electric (IL), LLC, AP Gas & Electric (PA), LLC... Interconnection, L.L.C. Description: Ministerial Clean-Up Filing re PJM OATT Att DD 5.10 due to Overlapping...

Opitmal Platform Strategies in the Smartphone Market

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Unno, Masaru; Xu, Hua

In a smartphone market, smartphone makers encourage smartphone application providers (AP) to create more popular smartphone applications through making a revenue-sharing contract with AP and providing application-purchasing support to end users. In this paper, we study revenue-sharing and application-purchasing support problem between a risk-averse smartphone maker and a smartphone application provider. The problem is formulated as the smartphone makers's risk-sensitive stochastic control problem. The sufficient conditions for the existence of the optimal revenue-sharing strategy, the optimal application-purchasing support strategy and the incentive compatible effort recommended to AP are obtained. The effects of the smartphone makers's risk-sensitivity on the optimal strategies are also discussed. A numerical example is solved to show the computation aspects of the problem.

SU-G-206-11: The Effect of Table Height On CTDIvol and SSDE in CT Scanning: A Phantom Study

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

Marsh, R; Silosky, M

2016-06-15

Purpose: Localizer projection radiographs acquired prior to CT scans are used to estimate patient size, affecting the function of Automatic Tube Current Modulation (ATCM) and calculation of the Size Specific Dose Estimate (SSDE). Due to geometric effects, the projected patient size varies with scanner table height and with the orientation of the localizer (AP versus PA). Consequently, variations in scanner table height may affect both CTDIvol and the calculated size-corrected dose index (SSDE). This study sought to characterize these effects. Methods: An anthropomorphic phantom was imaged using an AP localizer, followed by a diagnostic scan using ATCM and our institution’smore » routine abdomen protocol. This was repeated at various scanner table heights, recording the scanner-reported CTDIvol for each diagnostic scan. The width of the phantom was measured from the localizer and diagnostic images using in-house software. The measured phantom width and scanner-reported CTDIvol were used to calculate SSDE. This was repeated using PA localizers followed by diagnostic scans. Results: 1) The localizer-based phantom width varied by up to 54% of the nominal phantom width between minimum and maximum table heights. 2) Changing the table height caused a variation in scanner-reported CTDIvol of a factor greater than 4.6 when using a PA localizer and almost 2 when using an AP localizer. 3) SSDE, calculated from measured phantom size and scanner-reported CTDIvol, varied by a factor of more than 2.8 when using a PA localizer and almost 1.5 when using an AP localizer. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that off-center patient positioning affects the efficacy of ATCM, more severely when localizers are acquired in the PA rather than AP projection. Further, patient positioning errors can cause a large variation in the calculated SSDE. This hinders interpretation of SSDE for individual patients and aggregate SSDE data when evaluating CT protocols and clinical practices.« less

AP1000{sup R} licensing and deployment in the United States

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

Jordan, R. P.; Russ, P. A.; Filiak, P. P.

2012-07-01

In recent years, both domestic and foreign utilities have turned to the standardized Westinghouse AP1000 plant design in satisfying their near - and long-term - sustainable energy needs. As direct support to these actions, licensing the AP1000 design has played a significant role by providing one of the fundamental bases in clearing regulatory hurdles leading to the start of new plant construction. Within the U.S. alone, Westinghouse AP1000 licensing activities have reached unprecedented milestones with the approvals of both AP1000 Design Certification and Southern Company's combined construction permit and operating license (COL) application directly supporting the construction of two newmore » nuclear plants in Georgia. Further COL application approvals are immediately pending for an additional two AP1000 plants in South Carolina. And, across the U.S. nuclear industry spectrum, there are 10 other COL applications under regulatory review representing some 16 new plants at 10 sites. In total, these actions represent the first wave of new plant licensing under the regulatory approval process since 1978. Fundamental to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's AP1000 Design Certification is the formal recognition of the AP1000 passive safety design through regulatory acceptance rulemaking. Through recognition and deployment of the AP1000 Design Certification, the utility licensee / operator of this reactor design are now offered an opportunity to use a simplified 'one-step' combined license process, thereby managing substantial back-end construction schedule risk from regulatory and intervention delays. Application of this regulatory philosophy represents both acceptance and encouragement of standardized reactor designs like the AP1000. With the recent AP1000 Design Certification and utility COL acceptances, the fundamental licensing processes of this philosophy have successfully proven the attainment of significant milestones with the next stage licensing actions directed towards deployment. AP1000 Design Certification and COL deployment, and management of the plant construction in accordance with the conditions within these approvals, remain as significant site and corporate responsibilities. These licensing-construction integrated activities must now focus on identifying and resolving 'as-built' departures from the standardized design as assessed against the certified AP1000 technical and licensing basis. Within this paper, significant aspects of the AP1000 U.S. licensing will be discussed, including identifying systems and processes used in ensuring compliance while deploying the standardized design. Critical licensing steps, licensing deployment actions as plant construction progresses and defining the road forward to a successful completion of licensing actions will be addressed. (authors)« less

Efficient sweat reduction of three different antiperspirant application forms during stress-induced sweating.

PubMed

Schmidt-Rose, T; Lehmbeck, F; Bürger, A; Windisch, B; Keyhani, R; Max, H

2013-12-01

Stress sweating can occur in everyday situations independently of thermally-induced perspiration. It is triggered by emotionally challenging situations and leads to underarm wetness and a characteristic unpleasant malodor. In this study, we aimed to determine the long-term efficacy of three unperfumed antiperspirant (AP) formulas for different application forms (roll-on, stick, aerosol) against stress-induced sweating and malodor formation. We utilized the widely accepted Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) to induce psychosocial stress in female and male volunteers (18 - 40 years) and determined physiological stress parameters. To additionally assess the efficacy of the test AP roll-on against thermally-induced sweating, a hot room study was performed. Increasing heart rates and an augmentation of saliva cortisol levels during the TSST indicated a substantial stress reaction which was paralleled by a pronounced sweat production in the untreated axillae of both males and females. Forty-eight hours after application, all three test APs significantly decreased the amount of sweat in the treated axillae independent of gender. With respect to AP effects on malodor production, trained sniffers assessed sweat samples collected during the TSST from the untreated axillae as significantly more malodorous than comparable samples from the AP-treated axillae. Also, independent of gender the test AP roll-on significantly decreased the thermally-induced sweat in the AP-treated axilla. We show for the first time a highly effective reduction of emotionally-induced axillary sweating and malodor production for three different application forms 48 h after the last product use. The specially developed roll-on, stick, and aerosol AP provide long-term protection against stress-induced sweat which is of high relevance in everyday life. © 2013 Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the Société Française de Cosmétologie.

Making sense of listening: the IMAP test battery.

PubMed

Barry, Johanna G; Ferguson, Melanie A; Moore, David R

2010-10-11

The ability to hear is only the first step towards making sense of the range of information contained in an auditory signal. Of equal importance are the abilities to extract and use the information encoded in the auditory signal. We refer to these as listening skills (or auditory processing AP). Deficits in these skills are associated with delayed language and literacy development, though the nature of the relevant deficits and their causal connection with these delays is hotly debated. When a child is referred to a health professional with normal hearing and unexplained difficulties in listening, or associated delays in language or literacy development, they should ideally be assessed with a combination of psychoacoustic (AP) tests, suitable for children and for use in a clinic, together with cognitive tests to measure attention, working memory, IQ, and language skills. Such a detailed examination needs to be relatively short and within the technical capability of any suitably qualified professional. Current tests for the presence of AP deficits tend to be poorly constructed and inadequately validated within the normal population. They have little or no reference to the presenting symptoms of the child, and typically include a linguistic component. Poor performance may thus reflect problems with language rather than with AP. To assist in the assessment of children with listening difficulties, pediatric audiologists need a single, standardized child-appropriate test battery based on the use of language-free stimuli. We present the IMAP test battery which was developed at the MRC Institute of Hearing Research to supplement tests currently used to investigate cases of suspected AP deficits. IMAP assesses a range of relevant auditory and cognitive skills and takes about one hour to complete. It has been standardized in 1500 normally-hearing children from across the UK, aged 6-11 years. Since its development, it has been successfully used in a number of large scale studies both in the UK and the USA. IMAP provides measures for separating out sensory from cognitive contributions to hearing. It further limits confounds due to procedural effects by presenting tests in a child-friendly game-format. Stimulus-generation, management of test protocols and control of test presentation is mediated by the IHR-STAR software platform. This provides a standardized methodology for a range of applications and ensures replicable procedures across testers. IHR-STAR provides a flexible, user-programmable environment that currently has additional applications for hearing screening, mapping cochlear implant electrodes, and academic research or teaching.

Myocardial protection using diadenosine tetraphosphate with pharmacological preconditioning.

PubMed

Ahmet, I; Sawa, Y; Nishimura, M; Yamaguchi, T; Kitakaze, M; Matsuda, H

2000-09-01

We have reported a similar cardioprotective effect and mechanism of diadenosine tetraphosphate (AP4A) and ischemic preconditioning in rat hearts. In this study, the applicability of AP4A administration to cardiac surgery was tested by using a canine cardiopulmonary bypass model. Hearts underwent 60 minutes of cardioplegic arrest (34 degrees C) by a single dose of cardioplegia. Cardioplegia contained either AP4A (40 micromol/L; n = 6) or saline (n = 6). Beagles were weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass 30 minutes after reperfusion, and left ventricular function was evaluated after another 30 minutes by using the cardiac loop analysis system. Administration of AP4A significantly improved the postischemic recovery of cardiac function and reduced the leakage of serum creatine kinase compared with saline. Systemic vascular resistance, mean aortic blood pressure, and the electrocardiographic indices were not significantly altered by AP4A administration. Administration of AP4A was cardioprotective without apparent adverse effects. Because the cardioprotective mechanism may be similar to that of ischemic preconditioning, the addition of AP4A into cardioplegia may be a novel safe method for clinical application of preconditioning cardioprotection.

Detection of endogenous alkaline phosphatase activity in intact cells by flow cytometry using the fluorogenic ELF-97 phosphatase substrate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Telford, W. G.; Cox, W. G.; Stiner, D.; Singer, V. L.; Doty, S. B.

1999-01-01

BACKGROUND: The alkaline phosphatase (AP) substrate 2-(5'-chloro-2'-phosphoryloxyphenyl)-6-chloro-4-(3H)-quinazolinone (ELF((R))-97 for enzyme-labeled fluorescence) has been found useful for the histochemical detection of endogenous AP activity and AP-tagged proteins and oligonucleotide probes. In this study, we evaluated its effectiveness at detecting endogenous AP activity by flow cytometry. METHODS: The ELF-97 phosphatase substrate was used to detect endogenous AP activity in UMR-106 rat osteosarcoma cells and primary cultures of chick chondrocytes. Cells were labeled with the ELF-97 reagent and analyzed by flow cytometry using an argon ultraviolet (UV) laser. For comparison purposes, cells were also assayed for AP using a Fast Red Violet LB azo dye assay previously described for use in detecting AP activity by flow cytometry. RESULTS: The ELF-97 phosphatase substrate effectively detected endogenous AP activity in UMR-106 cells, with over 95% of the resulting fluorescent signal resulting from AP-specific activity (as determined by levamisole inhibition of AP activity). In contrast, less than 70% of the fluorescent signal from the Fast Red Violet LB (FRV) assay was AP-dependent, reflecting the high intrinsic fluorescence of the unreacted components. The ELF-97 phosphatase assay was also able to detect very low AP activity in chick chondrocytes that was undetectable by the azo dye method. CONCLUSIONS: The ELF-97 phosphatase assay was able to detect endogenous AP activity in fixed mammalian and avian cells by flow cytometry with superior sensitivity to previously described assays. This work also shows the applicability of ELF-97 to flow cytometry, supplementing its previously demonstrated histochemical applications. Copyright 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Diadenosine tetraphosphate protects sympathetic terminals from 6-hydroxydopamine-induced degeneration in the eye.

PubMed

Hoyle, C H V; Pintor, J J

2010-06-01

To examine diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap(4)A) for its ability to protect the eye from neurodegeneration induced by subconjunctival application of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Intraocular neurodegeneration of anterior structures was induced by subconjunctival injections of 6-OHDA. Animals were pre-treated with topical corneal applications of Ap(4)A or saline. 6-OHDA caused miosis, abnormal pupillary light reflexes, a precipitous drop in intraocular pressure and loss of VMAT2-labelled (vesicle monoamine transporter-2, a marker for sympathetic neurones) intraocular neurones. Pre-treatment with Ap(4)A prevented all of these changes from being induced by 6-OHDA, demonstrably preserving the sympathetic innervation of the ciliary processes. This neuroprotective action of Ap(4)A was not shared with the related compounds adenosine, ATP or diadenosine pentaphosphate. P2-receptor antagonists showed that the effects of Ap(4)A were mediated via a P2-receptor. Ap4A is a natural component of tears and aqueous humour, and its neuroprotective effect indicates that one of its physiological roles is to maintain neurones within the eye. Ap(4)A can prevent the degeneration of intraocular nerves, and it is suggested that this compound may provide the basis for a therapeutic intervention aimed at preventing or ameliorating the development of glaucoma associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, subconjunctival application of 6-OHDA provides a useful model for studying diseases that cause ocular sympathetic dysautonomia.

U.S. Additional Protocol Outreach Program-Tabletop Exercises to Implement the AP.

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

Langner, D. C.; Thomas, K. E.; Smith, M. K.

2005-01-01

The Office of International Regimes and Agreement (NA-243) is the lead office in the Department of Energy (DOE) to assist DOE and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) sites in the preparation of providing declarations on relevant civilian, nuclear fuel cycle-related research and development activities to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This is in accordance to the implementation of the ''Protocol Additional to the AGreement between the United STates and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Applications of Safeguards in the United States. In preparation for entry-into-force, NA-243 conducted two tabletop exercises under the Additional Protocol Outreach Program. Themore » first one, held in May 2004 at Los Alamos National Laboratory, focused on the factors important to protect national security assets and intellectual property. The other, held in August 2004 at the Idaho National Laboratory explored the level of detail or granularity for reporting declarable activities. Both tabletops invited participants from the national laboratories and DOE/NNSA organizations. Discussions were based around the process to identify potential declarable activities relating to the nuclear fuel cycle-related R and D projects from the Advanced Fuel Cycle Initiative program. The two tabletop exercises provided recommendations and conclusions that would be helpful to other DOE/NNSA locations for preparing for and reporting relevant and concise information to the IAEA under the Additional Protocol. This paper provides details on the events, discussions, observations, and lessons learned from both the LANL and INL tabletop exercises.« less

Pro‐arrhythmic atrial phenotypes in incrementally paced murine Pgc1β −/− hearts: effects of age

PubMed Central

Valli, Haseeb; Ahmad, Shiraz; Fraser, James A.; Jeevaratnam, Kamalan

2017-01-01

New Findings What is the central question of this study? Can we experimentally replicate atrial pro‐arrhythmic phenotypes associated with important chronic clinical conditions, including physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome, compromising mitochondrial function, and clarify their electrophysiological basis? What is the main finding and its importance? Electrocardiographic and intracellular cardiomyocyte recording at progressively incremented pacing rates demonstrated age‐dependent atrial arrhythmic phenotypes in Langendorff‐perfused murine Pgc1β −/− hearts for the first time. We attributed these to compromised action potential conduction and excitation wavefronts, whilst excluding alterations in recovery properties or temporal electrophysiological instabilities, clarifying these pro‐arrhythmic changes in chronic metabolic disease. Atrial arrhythmias, most commonly manifesting as atrial fibrillation, represent a major clinical problem. The incidence of atrial fibrillation increases with both age and conditions associated with energetic dysfunction. Atrial arrhythmic phenotypes were compared in young (12–16 week) and aged (>52 week) wild‐type (WT) and peroxisome proliferative activated receptor, gamma, coactivator 1 beta (Ppargc1b)‐deficient (Pgc1β −/−) Langendorff‐perfused hearts, previously used to model mitochondrial energetic disorder. Electrophysiological explorations were performed using simultaneous whole‐heart ECG and intracellular atrial action potential (AP) recordings. Two stimulation protocols were used: an S1S2 protocol, which imposed extrasystolic stimuli at successively decremented intervals following regular pulse trains; and a regular pacing protocol at successively incremented frequencies. Aged Pgc1β −/− hearts showed greater atrial arrhythmogenicity, presenting as atrial tachycardia and ectopic activity. Maximal rates of AP depolarization (dV/dt max) were reduced in Pgc1β −/− hearts. Action potential latencies were increased by the Pgc1β −/− genotype, with an added interactive effect of age. In contrast, AP durations to 90% recovery (APD90) were shorter in Pgc1β −/− hearts despite similar atrial effective recovery periods amongst the different groups. These findings accompanied paradoxical decreases in the incidence and duration of alternans in the aged and Pgc1β −/− hearts. Limiting slopes of restitution curves of APD90 against diastolic interval were correspondingly reduced interactively by Pgc1β −/− genotype and age. In contrast, reduced AP wavelengths were associated with Pgc1β −/− genotype, both independently and interacting with age, through the basic cycle lengths explored, with the aged Pgc1β −/− hearts showing the shortest wavelengths. These findings thus implicate AP wavelength in possible mechanisms for the atrial arrhythmic changes reported here. PMID:28960529

Endodontic Treatment of an Autogenous Transplanted Tooth Using an Er,Cr:YSGG Laser and Radial Firing Tips: Case Report.

PubMed

Martins, Miguel Rodrigues; Lima, Rita C; Pina-Vaz, Irene; Carvalho, Manuel Fontes; Gutknecht, Norbert

2016-10-01

Although several surgical techniques have been reported, no study has yet reported alternative strategies for endodontic treatment of autogenous transplanted teeth. Therefore, the aim of this clinical report is to present the long-term endodontic outcome of a nonvital autogenously transplanted third molar treated with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser and radial firing tips (RFTs). Autogenous tooth transplantation can be considered an alternative to restore edentulous areas and, in donor's teeth with complete root formation, root canal treatment should be performed up to 14 days following transplantation. In the present case report, the patient returned only after 6 months, with clinical and radiological signs of apical periodontitis (AP) associated with the transplanted tooth. Instead of traditional endodontic chemical irrigants or medications, the protocol for smear-layer removal and root canal disinfection was based on intracanal irradiation with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser and RFTs. After 3-years' follow-up, the complete reestablishment of the periodontal ligament and the arrest of the resorptive process could be noticed. This protocol has shown to be effective for the endodontic treatment of a transplanted multi-rooted tooth with AP. Further randomized clinical trials should be conducted to clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of this laser-assisted endodontic protocol.

Description of the person-environment interaction: methodological issues and empirical results of an Italian large-scale disability assessment study using an ICF-based protocol.

PubMed

Francescutti, Carlo; Gongolo, Francesco; Simoncello, Andrea; Frattura, Lucilla

2011-05-31

There is a connection between the definition of disability in a person-environment framework, the development of appropriate assessment strategies and instruments, and the logic underpinning the organization of benefits and services to confront disability. The Italian Ministry of Health and Ministry of Labor and Social Policies supported a three-year project for the definition of a common framework and a standardised protocol for disability evaluation based on ICF. The research agenda of the project identified 6 phases: 1) adoption of a definition of disability; 2) analytical breakdown of the contents of disability definition, so as to indicate as clearly as possible the core information essential to guide the evaluation process; 3) definition of a data collection protocol; 4) national implementation of the protocol and collection of approximately 1,000 profiles; 5) proposal of a profile analysis and definition of groups of cases with similar functioning profiles; 6) trial of the proposal with the collected data. The data was analyzed in different ways: descriptive analysis, application of the person-environment interactions classification tree, and cluster analysis. A sample of 1,051 persons from 8 Italian regions was collected that represented different functioning conditions in all the phases of the life cycle. The aggregate result of the person-environment interactions was summarized. The majority of activities resulted with no problems in all of the A&P chapters. Nearly 50.000 facilitators codes were opened. The main frequent facilitators were family members, health and social professionals, assistive devices and both health and social systems, services and politics. The focus of the person-environment interaction evaluation was on the A&P domains, differentiating those in which performance presented limitations and restrictions from those in which performance had no or light limitations and restrictions. Communication(d3) and Learning and Applying Knowledge(d1) appeared as the more problematic A&P areas. Self Care(d5) was the domain in which facilitators were more effective in supporting functioning, suggesting that the Italian welfare system is mainly focused on providing care services for activities of daily living, jointly with the family. The cluster analysis was limited to those categories that were common to all age classes (38 categories out of 55). For a final representation, a solution with 6 clusters was chosen. An example is provided of how it is possible to plan empirical studies in which theoretical advances and operative goals on disability in a person-environment framework can support the definition of a research design, measurement strategies, and data analysis. The description of functioning and disability at population level is no more based on individual deficits or limitations. Personal profiles may be elaborated and groups created based on the characteristics of the person-environment interactions. Personal profiles may also be used as a "rationale" for defining personalized intervention programs.

A new and specific non-NMDA receptor antagonist, FG 9065, blocks L-AP4-evoked depolarization in rat cerebral cortex.

PubMed

Sheardown, M J

1988-04-13

L(+)-AP4 (2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate) depolarized slices of rat cerebral cortex, when applied following a 2 min priming application of quisqualate. This response diminishes with time and is not seen after NMDA application. A new selective non-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist, 6-cyano-7-nitro-2,3-dihydroxyquinoxaline (FG 9065), inhibits the L(+)-AP4 depolarization. It is argued that the response is mediated indirectly by postsynaptic quisqualate receptors.

15 CFR 782.5 - Where to obtain APR report forms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS GENERAL... forms required by the APR may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. You also may obtain these forms by contacting: Treaty Compliance Division, Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department...

15 CFR 782.5 - Where to obtain APR report forms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS GENERAL... forms required by the APR may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. You also may obtain these forms by contacting: Treaty Compliance Division, Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department...

15 CFR 782.5 - Where to obtain APR report forms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS GENERAL... forms required by the APR may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. You also may obtain these forms by contacting: Treaty Compliance Division, Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department...

15 CFR 782.5 - Where to obtain APR report forms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS GENERAL... forms required by the APR may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. You also may obtain these forms by contacting: Treaty Compliance Division, Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department...

15 CFR 782.5 - Where to obtain APR report forms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... (Continued) BUREAU OF INDUSTRY AND SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL REGULATIONS GENERAL... forms required by the APR may be downloaded from the Internet at http://www.ap.gov. You also may obtain these forms by contacting: Treaty Compliance Division, Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department...

Decisions and Tensions: Summative Assessments in PBL Advanced Placement Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooper, Susan Elizabeth

2017-01-01

This study examines how teachers navigate tensions between communicating expectations for college level work and student motivation as they determined summative grades in an AP Environmental Science course. Semi-structured interviews and a think-aloud protocol were conducted while teachers in poverty-impacted urban high schools determined final…

Incidence and nature of adverse reactions to antibiotics used as endocarditis prophylaxis

PubMed Central

Thornhill, Martin H.; Dayer, Mark J.; Prendergast, Bernard; Baddour, Larry M.; Jones, Simon; Lockhart, Peter B.

2015-01-01

Objectives Antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) administration prior to invasive dental procedures has been a leading focus of infective endocarditis prevention. However, there have been long-standing concerns about the risk of adverse drug reactions as a result of this practice. The objective of this study was to identify the incidence and nature of adverse reactions to amoxicillin and clindamycin prophylaxis to prevent infective endocarditis. Methods We obtained AP prescribing data for England from January 2004 to March 2014 from the NHS Business Services Authority, and adverse drug reaction data from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency's Yellow Card reporting scheme for prescriptions of the standard AP protocol of a single 3 g oral dose of amoxicillin or a single 600 mg oral dose of clindamycin for those allergic to penicillin. Results The reported adverse drug reaction rate for amoxicillin AP was 0 fatal reactions/million prescriptions (in fact 0 fatal reactions for nearly 3 million prescriptions) and 22.62 non-fatal reactions/million prescriptions. For clindamycin, it was 13 fatal and 149 non-fatal reactions/million prescriptions. Most clindamycin adverse drug reactions were Clostridium difficile infections. Conclusions AP adverse drug reaction reporting rates in England were low, particularly for amoxicillin, and lower than previous estimates. This suggests that amoxicillin AP is comparatively safe for patients without a history of amoxicillin allergy. The use of clindamycin AP was, however, associated with significant rates of fatal and non-fatal adverse drug reactions associated with C. difficile infections. These were higher than expected and similar to those for other doses, durations and routes of clindamycin administration. PMID:25925595

Effects of the Application of the New Nuclear Data Library ENDF/B to the Criticality Analysis of AP1000

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuntoro, Iman; Sembiring, T. M.; Susilo, Jati; Deswandri; Sunaryo, G. R.

2018-02-01

Calculations of criticality of the AP1000 core due to the use of new edition of nuclear data library namely ENDF/B-VII and ENDF/B-VII.1 have been done. This work is aimed to know the accuracy of ENDF/B-VII.1 compared to ENDF/B-VII and ENDF/B-VI.8. in determining the criticality parameter of AP1000. Analysis ws imposed to core at cold zero power (CZP) conditions. The calculations have been carried out by means of MCNP computer code for 3 dimension geometry. The results show that criticality parameter namely effective multiplication factor of the AP1000 core are higher than that ones resulted from ENDF/B-VI.8 with relative differences of 0.39% for application of ENDF/B-VII and of 0.34% for application of ENDF/B-VII.1.

Anodal sensory nerve action potentials: From physiological understanding to potential clinical applicability.

PubMed

Leote, Joao; Pereira, Pedro; Cabib, Christopher; Cipullo, Federica; Valls-Sole, Josep

2016-06-01

Low-intensity electrical stimuli of digital nerves may generate a double peak potential (DPp), composed of a cathodal (caAP) and an anodal (anAP) potential in orthodromic recordings. We studied the effects on caAP and anAP of stimuli of variable intensity, duration, and frequency. We also applied a conditioning stimulus to study potential differences in recovery time. The anAP was obtained in 33 of 40 healthy subjects (82.5%) and 4 of 20 patients with various types of sensory neuropathies (20%). Changes in stimulus duration and intensity had reciprocal effects on the amplitude of the anAP and the caAP. There were significant differences in recovery time between caAP and anAP after a conditioning stimulus. The caAP and anAP are 2 interdependent waveforms generated by different effects of the same stimulus over axons at the verge of depolarization. Muscle Nerve 53: 897-905, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Assessment of the radioanatomic positioning of the osteoarthritic knee in serial radiographs: comparison of three acquisition techniques.

PubMed

Le Graverand, M-P H; Mazzuca, S; Lassere, M; Guermazi, A; Pickering, E; Brandt, K; Peterfy, C; Cline, G; Nevitt, M; Woodworth, T; Conaghan, P; Vignon, E

2006-01-01

Recent studies using various standardized radiographic acquisition techniques have demonstrated the necessity of reproducible radioanatomic alignment of the knee to assure precise measurements of medial tibiofemoral joint space width (JSW). The objective of the present study was to characterize the longitudinal performance of several acquisition techniques with respect to long-term reproducibility of positioning of the knee, and the impact of changes in positioning on the rate and variability of joint space narrowing (JSN). Eighty subjects were randomly selected from each of three cohorts followed in recent studies of the radiographic progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA): the Health ABC study (paired fixed-flexion [FF] radiographs taken at a 36-month interval); the Glucosamine Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) (paired metatarsophalangeal [MTP] radiographs obtained at a 12-month interval), and a randomized clinical trial of doxycycline (fluoroscopically assisted semiflexed anteroposterior (AP) radiographs taken at a 16-month interval). Manual measurements were obtained from each radiograph to represent markers of radioanatomic positioning of the knee (alignment of the medial tibial plateau and X-ray beam, knee rotation, femorotibial angle) and to evaluate minimum JSW (mJSW) in the medial tibiofemoral compartment. The effects on the mean annualized rate of JSN and on the variability of that rate of highly reproduced vs variable positioning of the knee in serial radiographs were evaluated. Parallel or near-parallel alignment was achieved significantly more frequently with the fluoroscopically guided positioning used in the semiflexed AP protocol than with either the non-fluoroscopic FF or MTP protocol (68% vs 14% for both FF and MTP protocols when measured at the midpoint of the medial compartment; 75% vs 26% and 34% for the FF and MTP protocols, respectively, when measured at the site of mJSW; P<0.001 for each). Knee rotation was reproduced more frequently in semiflexed AP radiographs than in FF radiographs (66% vs 45%, P<0.01). In contrast, the FF technique yielded a greater proportion of paired radiographs in which the femorotibial angle was accurately reproduced than the semiflexed AP or MTP protocol (78% vs 59% and 56%, respectively, P<0.01 for each). Notably, only paired radiographs with parallel or near-parallel alignment exhibited a mean rate of JSN (+/-SD) in the OA knee that was more rapid and less variable than that measured in all knees (0.186+/-0.274 mm/year, standardized response to mean [SRM]=0.68 vs 0.128+/-0.291 mm/year, SRM=0.44). This study confirms the importance of parallel radioanatomic alignment of the anterior and posterior margins of the medial tibial plateau in detecting JSN in subjects with knee OA. The use of radiographic methods that assure parallel alignment during serial X-ray examinations will permit the design of more efficient studies of biomarkers of OA progression and of structure modification in knee OA.

Implementing a framework for goal setting in community based stroke rehabilitation: a process evaluation.

PubMed

Scobbie, Lesley; McLean, Donald; Dixon, Diane; Duncan, Edward; Wyke, Sally

2013-05-24

Goal setting is considered 'best practice' in stroke rehabilitation; however, there is no consensus regarding the key components of goal setting interventions or how they should be optimally delivered in practice. We developed a theory-based goal setting and action planning framework (G-AP) to guide goal setting practice. G-AP has 4 stages: goal negotiation, goal setting, action planning & coping planning and appraisal & feedback. All stages are recorded in a patient-held record. In this study we examined the implementation, acceptability and perceived benefits of G-AP in one community rehabilitation team with people recovering from stroke. G-AP was implemented for 6 months with 23 stroke patients. In-depth interviews with 8 patients and 8 health professionals were analysed thematically to investigate views of its implementation, acceptability and perceived benefits. Case notes of interviewed patients were analysed descriptively to assess the fidelity of G-AP implementation. G-AP was mostly implemented according to protocol with deviations noted at the planning and appraisal and feedback stages. Each stage was felt to make a useful contribution to the overall process; however, in practice, goal negotiation and goal setting merged into one stage and the appraisal and feedback stage included an explicit decision making component. Only two issues were raised regarding G-APs acceptability: (i) health professionals were concerned about the impact of goal non-attainment on patient's well-being (patients did not share their concerns), and (ii) some patients and health professionals found the patient-held record unhelpful. G-AP was felt to have a positive impact on patient goal attainment and professional goal setting practice. Collaborative partnerships between health professionals and patients were apparent throughout the process. G-AP has been perceived as both beneficial and broadly acceptable in one community rehabilitation team; however, implementation of novel aspects of the framework was inconsistent. The regulatory function of goal non-attainment and the importance of creating flexible partnerships with patients have been highlighted. Further development of the G-AP framework, training package and patient held record is required to address the specific issues highlighted by this process evaluation. Further evaluation of G-AP is required across diverse community rehabilitation settings.

Dynamic modulation of spike timing-dependent calcium influx during corticostriatal upstates

PubMed Central

Evans, R. C.; Maniar, Y. M.

2013-01-01

The striatum of the basal ganglia demonstrates distinctive upstate and downstate membrane potential oscillations during slow-wave sleep and under anesthetic. The upstates generate calcium transients in the dendrites, and the amplitude of these calcium transients depends strongly on the timing of the action potential (AP) within the upstate. Calcium is essential for synaptic plasticity in the striatum, and these large calcium transients during the upstates may control which synapses undergo plastic changes. To investigate the mechanisms that underlie the relationship between calcium and AP timing, we have developed a realistic biophysical model of a medium spiny neuron (MSN). We have implemented sophisticated calcium dynamics including calcium diffusion, buffering, and pump extrusion, which accurately replicate published data. Using this model, we found that either the slow inactivation of dendritic sodium channels (NaSI) or the calcium inactivation of voltage-gated calcium channels (CDI) can cause high calcium corresponding to early APs and lower calcium corresponding to later APs. We found that only CDI can account for the experimental observation that sensitivity to AP timing is dependent on NMDA receptors. Additional simulations demonstrated a mechanism by which MSNs can dynamically modulate their sensitivity to AP timing and show that sensitivity to specifically timed pre- and postsynaptic pairings (as in spike timing-dependent plasticity protocols) is altered by the timing of the pairing within the upstate. These findings have implications for synaptic plasticity in vivo during sleep when the upstate-downstate pattern is prominent in the striatum. PMID:23843436

78 FR 70031 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-22

...-1005-002; ER12-1006-002; ER12-1007-003. Applicants: AP Holdings, LLC, AP Gas & Electric (IL), LLC, AP.... Description: Compliance Filing--Corrected Tariff Record of Previous filing of 093013 to be effective 10/1/2013...; Original Service Agreement No. 3667 to be effective 10/10/2013. Filed Date: 11/12/13. Accession Number...

The GREENH-City interventional research protocol on health in all policies.

PubMed

Porcherie, Marion; Vaillant, Zoé; Faure, Emmanuelle; Rican, Stéphane; Simos, Jean; Cantoreggi, Nicola Luca; Heritage, Zoé; Le Gall, Anne Roue; Cambon, Linda; Diallo, Thierno Amadou; Vidales, Eva; Pommier, Jeanine

2017-10-18

This paper presents the research protocol of the GoveRnance for Equity, EnviroNment and Health in the City (GREENH-City) project funded by the National Institute for Cancer (Subvention N°2017-003-INCA). In France, health inequities have tended to increase since the late 1980s. Numerous studies show the influence of social, economic, geographic and political determinants on health inequities across the life course. Exposure to environmental factors is uneven across the population and may impact on health and health inequities. In cities, green spaces contribute to creating healthy settings which may help tackle health inequities. Health in All Policies (HiAP) represents one of the key strategies for addressing social and environmental determinants of health inequities. The objective of this research is to identify the most promising interventions to operationalize the HiAP approaches at the city level to tackle health inequities through urban green spaces. It is a participatory interventional research to analyze public policy in real life setting (WHO Healthy Cities). It is a mixed method systemic study with a quantitative approach for the 80 cities and a comparative qualitative multiple case-studies of 6 cities. The research combines 3 different lens: 1/a political analysis of how municipalities apply HiAP to reduce social inequities of health through green space policies and interventions 2/a geographical and topological characterization of green spaces and 3/ on-site observations of the use of green spaces by the inhabitants. City profiles will be identified regarding their HiAP approaches and the extent to which these cities address social inequities in health as part of their green space policy action. The analysis of the transferability of the results will inform policy recommendations in the rest of the Health City Network and widely for the French municipalities. The study will help identify factors enabling the implementation of the HiAP approach at a municipal level, promoting the development of green spaces policies in urban areas in order to tackle the social inequities in health.

NHEXAS PHASE I REGION 5 STUDY--STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE--SAMPLE SHIPPING PROCEDURES (RTI/ACS-AP-209-083)

EPA Science Inventory

This procedure summarizes the sample shipping procedures that have been described in the individual NHEXAS sample collection protocols. This procedure serves as a quick reference tool for the field staff when samples are prepared for shipment at the field lab/staging area. For ea...

75 FR 53681 - Office of Elementary and Secondary Education Overview Information; Advanced Placement (AP) Test...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-01

... DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Office of Elementary and Secondary Education Overview Information; Advanced Placement (AP) Test Fee Program; Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: 84.330B. Dates: Applications Available: September 1, 2010. Deadline for Transmittal of...

Brain synaptosomes display a diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A)-mediated Ca2+ influx distinct from ATP-mediated influx.

PubMed

Pivorun, E B; Nordone, A

1996-06-01

Studies undertaken to compare the effects of Ap4A and ATP on altering intrasynaptosomal Ca2+ levels from deermouse brain reveal that both ligands induce a rapid influx of extracellular Ca2+. The Ca2+ profile elicited by 167 microM Ap4A is "spike-like" (half-time for decline to baseline, 19.1 +/- 1.2 sec), in contrast to the gradual decline observed with ATP (104.0 +/- 7.4 sec). DIDS (4-4'-diisothiocyano-2,2'-disulfonic acid stilbene) and suramin preincubation alter only the ATP-induced Ca2+ profile. Cross-desensitization studies indicate that prior application of ATP does not significantly affect the Ca2+ influx elicited by Ap4A, and that prior application of Ap4A does not affect the Ca2+ influx elicited by ATP. These results demonstrate that extracellular Ap4A and ATP elicit distinct intrasynaptosomal Ca2+ influx profiles, and suggest that these two nucleotides may be interacting with distinct purinoceptor subclasses or purinoceptor-effector complexes. Subjecting the synaptosomes simultaneously to depolarization and Ap4A, or to depolarization and ATP, induces an additive effect on Ca2+ influx. Preincubation with verapamil negates the effects of depolarization without modifying the ligand-elicited Ca2+ fluxes. These results indicate the presence of Ap4A and ATP ligand-gated channels that may function as modulators of neuronal activity.

Affinity purification–mass spectrometry and network analysis to understand protein-protein interactions

PubMed Central

Morris, John H; Knudsen, Giselle M; Verschueren, Erik; Johnson, Jeffrey R; Cimermancic, Peter; Greninger, Alexander L; Pico, Alexander R

2015-01-01

By determining protein-protein interactions in normal, diseased and infected cells, we can improve our understanding of cellular systems and their reaction to various perturbations. In this protocol, we discuss how to use data obtained in affinity purification–mass spectrometry (AP-MS) experiments to generate meaningful interaction networks and effective figures. We begin with an overview of common epitope tagging, expression and AP practices, followed by liquid chromatography–MS (LC-MS) data collection. We then provide a detailed procedure covering a pipeline approach to (i) pre-processing the data by filtering against contaminant lists such as the Contaminant Repository for Affinity Purification (CRAPome) and normalization using the spectral index (SIN) or normalized spectral abundance factor (NSAF); (ii) scoring via methods such as MiST, SAInt and CompPASS; and (iii) testing the resulting scores. Data formats familiar to MS practitioners are then transformed to those most useful for network-based analyses. The protocol also explores methods available in Cytoscape to visualize and analyze these types of interaction data. The scoring pipeline can take anywhere from 1 d to 1 week, depending on one’s familiarity with the tools and data peculiarities. Similarly, the network analysis and visualization protocol in Cytoscape takes 2–4 h to complete with the provided sample data, but we recommend taking days or even weeks to explore one’s data and find the right questions. PMID:25275790

Effects of organic acids and essential oils blend on growth, gut microbiota, immune response and disease resistance of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus.

PubMed

He, Wangquan; Rahimnejad, Samad; Wang, Ling; Song, Kai; Lu, Kangle; Zhang, Chunxiao

2017-11-01

An 8-week feeding trial was undertaken to evaluate supplemental effects of AviPlus ® (AP), a blend of organic acids [citric acid, 25%; sorbic acid, 16.7%] and essential oils [thymol, 1.7%; vanillin, 1.0%], on growth, gut microbiota, innate immunity and disease resistance of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus. A basal experimental diet was formulated and supplemented with 0, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 g kg -1  AP to produce five test diets (Con, AP0.3, AP0.6, AP0.9 and AP1.2). Each diet was fed to triplicate groups of shrimp (0.2 ± 0.01 g, mean ± SE) to apparent satiation three times daily. Growth performance and survival rate were not significantly influenced by AP supplementation (P > 0.05). Significantly (P < 0.05) higher serum total protein was found in groups fed ≥ 0.6 g kg -1  AP compared to control. Serum alkaline phosphatase and phenoloxidase activities were significantly increased in AP0.9 and AP1.2 groups. Also, the group received AP0.6 diet showed significantly higher glutathione peroxidase activity than control. Expression of gut pro-inflammatory genes including TNF-α, LITAF and RAB6A were down-regulated by AP administration. Gut microbiota analysis showed the significant enhancement of the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) diversity and richness indices by AP application. AP supplementation led to increased abundance of Firmicutes and a reduction in abundance of Proteobacteria. Also, dietary inclusion of 1.2 g kg -1  AP led to a significant increase in the abundance of Lactobacillus in shrimp gut. The group offered AP0.3 diet showed significantly higher disease resistance than control group. Furthermore, AP application significantly enhanced relative expression of immune related genes including lysozyme, penaeidin and catalase at 48 h post challenge. In conclusion, these findings show that the tested organic acids and essential oils mixture beneficially affects intestinal microflora and improves immune response and disease resistance of L. vannamei. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Population Survey in Italy Based on the ICF Classification: Recognizing Persons with Severe Disability

PubMed Central

Leonardi, Matilde; Martinuzzi, Andrea; Meucci, Paolo; Sala, Marina; Russo, Emanuela; Buffoni, Mara; Raggi, Alberto

2012-01-01

Aim of this paper is to describe functioning of subjects with “severe disability” collected with a protocol based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health. It included sections on body functions and structures (BF and BS), activities and participation (A&P), and environmental factors (EF). In A&P, performance without personal support (WPS) was added to standard capacity and performance. Persons with severe disability were those reporting a number of very severe/complete problems in BF or in A&P-capacity superior to mean + 1SD. Correlations between BF and A&P and differences between capacity, performance-WPS, and performance were assessed with Spearman's coefficient. Out of 1051, 200 subjects were considered as severely disabled. Mild to moderate correlations between BF and A&P were reported (between 0.148 and 0.394 when the full range of impairments/limitations was taken into account; between 0.198 and 0.285 when only the severe impairments/limitations were taken into account); performance-WPS was less similar to performance than to capacity. Our approach enabled identifying subjects with “severe disability” and separating the effect of personal support from that of devices, policies, and service provision. PMID:22454601

Electroencephalogram approximate entropy influenced by both age and sleep.

PubMed

Lee, Gerick M H; Fattinger, Sara; Mouthon, Anne-Laure; Noirhomme, Quentin; Huber, Reto

2013-01-01

The use of information-based measures to assess changes in conscious state is an increasingly popular topic. Though recent results have seemed to justify the merits of such methods, little has been done to investigate the applicability of such measures to children. For our work, we used the approximate entropy (ApEn), a measure previously shown to correlate with changes in conscious state when applied to the electroencephalogram (EEG), and sought to confirm whether previously reported trends in adult ApEn values across wake and sleep were present in children. Besides validating the prior findings that ApEn decreases from wake to sleep (including wake, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and non-REM sleep) in adults, we found that previously reported ApEn decreases across vigilance states in adults were also present in children (ApEn trends for both age groups: wake > REM sleep > non-REM sleep). When comparing ApEn values between age groups, adults had significantly larger ApEn values than children during wakefulness. After the application of an 8 Hz high-pass filter to the EEG signal, ApEn values were recalculated. The number of electrodes with significant vigilance state effects dropped from all 109 electrodes with the original 1 Hz filter to 1 electrode with the 8 Hz filter. The number of electrodes with significant age effects dropped from 10 to 4. Our results support the notion that ApEn can reliably distinguish between vigilance states, with low-frequency sleep-related oscillations implicated as the driver of changes between vigilance states. We suggest that the observed differences between adult and child ApEn values during wake may reflect differences in connectivity between age groups, a factor which may be important in the use of EEG to measure consciousness.

Melatonin potentiates tear secretion induced by diadenosine tetraphosphate in the rabbit.

PubMed

Hoyle, Charles H V; Peral, Assumpta; Pintor, Jesús

2006-12-15

Diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap(4)A, 0.03 nmol) applied topically to the cornea of New Zealand white rabbits, evoked an increase in tear secretion of 9.7 +/- 2.60% (N=7). Melatonin (1 nmol) had no significant effect. Application of Ap(4)A in combination with melatonin, evoked a significantly greater increase in tear secretion of 34.2 +/- 5.8% (N=11). This potentiating effect of melatonin was blocked by pretreating the cornea with a topical application of the melatonin receptor antagonist, luzindole (240 nmol). Melatonin combined with Ap(4)A may be useful for treating dry eye conditions.

AP-IO: asynchronous pipeline I/O for hiding periodic output cost in CFD simulation.

PubMed

Xiaoguang, Ren; Xinhai, Xu

2014-01-01

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation often needs to periodically output intermediate results to files in the form of snapshots for visualization or restart, which seriously impacts the performance. In this paper, we present asynchronous pipeline I/O (AP-IO) optimization scheme for the periodically snapshot output on the basis of asynchronous I/O and CFD application characteristics. In AP-IO, dedicated background I/O processes or threads are in charge of handling the file write in pipeline mode, therefore the write overhead can be hidden with more calculation than classic asynchronous I/O. We design the framework of AP-IO and implement it in OpenFOAM, providing CFD users with a user-friendly interface. Experimental results on the Tianhe-2 supercomputer demonstrate that AP-IO can achieve a good optimization effect for the periodical snapshot output in CFD application, and the effect is especially better for massively parallel CFD simulations, which can reduce the total execution time up to about 40%.

AP-IO: Asynchronous Pipeline I/O for Hiding Periodic Output Cost in CFD Simulation

PubMed Central

Xiaoguang, Ren; Xinhai, Xu

2014-01-01

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation often needs to periodically output intermediate results to files in the form of snapshots for visualization or restart, which seriously impacts the performance. In this paper, we present asynchronous pipeline I/O (AP-IO) optimization scheme for the periodically snapshot output on the basis of asynchronous I/O and CFD application characteristics. In AP-IO, dedicated background I/O processes or threads are in charge of handling the file write in pipeline mode, therefore the write overhead can be hidden with more calculation than classic asynchronous I/O. We design the framework of AP-IO and implement it in OpenFOAM, providing CFD users with a user-friendly interface. Experimental results on the Tianhe-2 supercomputer demonstrate that AP-IO can achieve a good optimization effect for the periodical snapshot output in CFD application, and the effect is especially better for massively parallel CFD simulations, which can reduce the total execution time up to about 40%. PMID:24955390

NHEXAS PHASE I REGION 5 STUDY--STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE--NHEXAS FILTER HANDLING, WEIGHING AND ARCHIVING PROCEDURES FOR AEROSOL SAMPLES (RTI/ACS-AP-209-011)

EPA Science Inventory

This protocol describes the procedures for weighing, handling, and archiving aerosol filters and for managing the associated analytical and quality assurance data. Filter samples were weighed for aerosol mass at RTI laboratory, with only the automated field sampling data transfer...

Experience-dependent increase in spine calcium evoked by backpropagating action potentials in layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in rat somatosensory cortex.

PubMed

Krieger, Patrik

2009-11-01

In spines on basal dendrites of layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in somatosensory barrel cortex, calcium transients evoked by back-propagating action potentials (bAPs) were investigated (i) along the length of the basal dendrite, (ii) with postnatal development and (iii) with sensory deprivation during postnatal development. Layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons were investigated at three different ages. At all ages [postnatal day (P)8, P14, P21] the bAP-evoked calcium transient amplitude increased with distance from the soma with a peak at around 50 microm, followed by a gradual decline in amplitude. The effect of sensory deprivation on the bAP-evoked calcium was investigated using two different protocols. When all whiskers on one side of the rat snout were trimmed daily from P8 to P20-24 there was no difference in the bAP-evoked calcium transient between cells in the contralateral hemisphere, lacking sensory input from the whisker, and cells in the ipsilateral barrel cortex, with intact whisker activation. When, however, only the D-row whiskers on one side were trimmed the distribution of bAP-evoked calcium transients in spines was shifted towards larger amplitudes in cells located in the deprived D-column. In conclusion, (i) the bAP-evoked calcium transient gradient along the dendrite length is established at P8, (ii) the calcium transient increases in amplitude with age and (iii) this increase is enhanced in layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons located in a sensory-deprived barrel column that is bordered by non-deprived barrel columns.

In vivo toxic and lethal cardiovascular effects of a synthetic polymeric 1,3-dodecylpyridinium salt in rodents

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

Grandic, Marjana; Sepcic, Kristina; Turk, Tom

2011-08-15

APS12-2 is one in a series of synthetic analogs of the polymeric alkylpyridinium salts isolated from the marine sponge Reniera sarai. As it is a potential candidate for treating non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we have studied its possible toxic and lethal effects in vivo. The median lethal dose (LD{sub 50}) of APS12-2 in mice was determined to be 11.5 mg/kg. Electrocardiograms, arterial blood pressure and respiratory activity were recorded under general anesthesia in untreated, pharmacologically vagotomized and artificially ventilated rats injected with APS12-2. In one group, the in vivo effects of APS12-2 were studied on nerve-evoked muscle contraction.more » Administration of APS12-2 at a dose of 8 mg/kg caused a progressive reduction of arterial blood pressure to a mid-circulatory value, accompanied by bradycardia, myocardial ischemia, ventricular extrasystoles, and second degree atrio-ventricular block. Similar electrocardiogram and arterial blood pressure changes caused by APS12-2 (8 mg/kg) were observed in animals pretreated with atropine and in artificially ventilated animals, indicating that hypoxia and cholinergic effects do not play a crucial role in the toxicity of APS12-2. Application of APS12-2 at sublethal doses (4 and 5.5 mg/kg) caused a decrease of arterial blood pressure, followed by an increase slightly above control values. We found that APS12-2 causes lysis of rat erythrocytes in vitro, therefore it is reasonable to expect the same effect in vivo. Indeed, hyperkalemia was observed in the blood of experimental animals. Hyperkalemia probably plays an important role in APS12-2 cardiotoxicity since no evident changes in histopathology of the heart were found. However, acute lesions were observed in the pulmonary vessels of rats after application of 8 mg/kg APS12-2. Predominant effects were dilation of interalveolar blood vessels and lysis of aggregated erythrocytes within their lumina. - Highlights: > LD{sub 50} estimated in mice (11.5 mg/kg) revealed that toxicity of APS12-2 is low. > APS12-2 causes dose dependent hemolysis of rat erythrocytes in vivo and in vitro. > Cardiac arrest by APS12-2 is caused by the high blood potassium concentration. > APS12-2 causes mild acute pulmonary edema.« less

Active pixel sensors: the sensor of choice for future space applications?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leijtens, Johan; Theuwissen, Albert; Rao, Padmakumar R.; Wang, Xinyang; Xie, Ning

2007-10-01

It is generally known that active pixel sensors (APS) have a number of advantages over CCD detectors if it comes to cost for mass production, power consumption and ease of integration. Nevertheless, most space applications still use CCD detectors because they tend to give better performance and have a successful heritage. To this respect a change may be at hand with the advent of deep sub-micron processed APS imagers (< 0.25-micron feature size). Measurements performed on test structures at the University of Delft have shown that the imagers are very radiation tolerant even if made in a standard process without the use of special design rules. Furthermore it was shown that the 1/f noise associated with deep sub-micron imagers is reduced as compared to previous generations APS imagers due to the improved quality of the gate oxides. Considering that end of life performance will have to be guaranteed, limited budget for adding shielding metal will be available for most applications and lower power operations is always seen as a positive characteristic in space applications, deep sub-micron APS imagers seem to have a number of advantages over CCD's that will probably cause them to replace CCD's in those applications where radiation tolerance and low power operation are important

Implementing a framework for goal setting in community based stroke rehabilitation: a process evaluation

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Goal setting is considered ‘best practice’ in stroke rehabilitation; however, there is no consensus regarding the key components of goal setting interventions or how they should be optimally delivered in practice. We developed a theory-based goal setting and action planning framework (G-AP) to guide goal setting practice. G-AP has 4 stages: goal negotiation, goal setting, action planning & coping planning and appraisal & feedback. All stages are recorded in a patient-held record. In this study we examined the implementation, acceptability and perceived benefits of G-AP in one community rehabilitation team with people recovering from stroke. Methods G-AP was implemented for 6 months with 23 stroke patients. In-depth interviews with 8 patients and 8 health professionals were analysed thematically to investigate views of its implementation, acceptability and perceived benefits. Case notes of interviewed patients were analysed descriptively to assess the fidelity of G-AP implementation. Results G-AP was mostly implemented according to protocol with deviations noted at the planning and appraisal and feedback stages. Each stage was felt to make a useful contribution to the overall process; however, in practice, goal negotiation and goal setting merged into one stage and the appraisal and feedback stage included an explicit decision making component. Only two issues were raised regarding G-APs acceptability: (i) health professionals were concerned about the impact of goal non-attainment on patient’s well-being (patients did not share their concerns), and (ii) some patients and health professionals found the patient-held record unhelpful. G-AP was felt to have a positive impact on patient goal attainment and professional goal setting practice. Collaborative partnerships between health professionals and patients were apparent throughout the process. Conclusions G-AP has been perceived as both beneficial and broadly acceptable in one community rehabilitation team; however, implementation of novel aspects of the framework was inconsistent. The regulatory function of goal non-attainment and the importance of creating flexible partnerships with patients have been highlighted. Further development of the G-AP framework, training package and patient held record is required to address the specific issues highlighted by this process evaluation. Further evaluation of G-AP is required across diverse community rehabilitation settings. PMID:23705824

Determination of the influence of C24 D/(2R)- and L/(2S)-isomers of the CER[AP] on the lamellar structure of stratum corneum model systems using neutron diffraction.

PubMed

Schmitt, Thomas; Lange, Stefan; Sonnenberger, Stefan; Dobner, Bodo; Demé, Bruno; Neubert, Reinhard H H; Gooris, Gert; Bouwstra, Joke A

2017-12-01

This study was able to investigate the different influence of the d- and l-ceramide [AP] on the lamellar as well as molecular nanostructure of stratum corneum simulating lipid model mixtures. In this case, neutron diffraction together with specifically deuterated ceramide was used as an effective tool to investigate the lamellar and the molecular nanostructure of the mixtures. It could clearly be demonstrated, that both isomers show distinctly different characteristics, even though the variation between both is only a single differently arranged OH-group. The l-ceramide [AP] promotes a crystalline like phase behaviour even if mixed with ceramide [NP], cholesterol and free fatty acids. The d-ceramide [AP] only shows crystalline-like features if mixed only with cholesterol and free fatty acids but adopts a native-like behaviour if additionally mixed with ceramide [NP]. It furthermore demonstrates that the l-ceramide [AP] should not be used for any applications concerning ceramide substitution. It could however possibly serve its own purpose, if this crystalline like behaviour has some kind of positive influence on the SC or can be utilized for any practical applications. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that the diastereomers of ceramide [AP] are an attractive target for further research because their influence on the lamellar as well as the nanostructure is exceptionally strong. Additionally, the results furthermore show a very strong influence on hydration of the model membrane. With these properties, the d-ceramide [AP] could be effectively used to simulate native like behaviour even in very simple mixtures and could also have a strong impact on the native stratum corneum as well as high relevance for dermal ceramide substitution. The unnatural l-ceramide [AP] on the other hand should be investigated further, to assess its applicability. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of N-alkylation on organ distribution of radioiodinated amphetamines

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

Machulla, H.J.; Schmidt, U.; Mehdorn, H.M.

1985-05-01

In spite of numerous animal data and the widespread clinical application of p-(I-123)-N-isopropyl-amphetamine, questions remain open about the role of N-alkylation. Therefore, amphetamine (AP), N-methyl- (MeAP), and N-isopropyl-amphetamine (IsAP) were radioiodinated in the para position and the organ distribution was determined in male mice (Freiburg tribe) 10 weeks of age. In the lungs, all derivatives showed principally the same kinetics. In brain, the maximum uptake was reached after 30 min with 12%/g for AP and MeAP, and 10.5%/g for IsAP. In liver, the radioactivity similarly increased during the first 15 min to approx. 12%/g; afterwards, AP clearly decreased but MeAPmore » remained almost constant up to 120 min and, even more, IsAP increased to a maximum of 18%/g at 30 min. The same brain uptake kinetics for all 3 substances exclude the importance of lipophilicity increased by the N-alkylation. Furthermore, the differences in the liver kinetics of AP and both MeAP and IsAP indicate the importance of liver metabolism on the alkylated amphetamines. The results support the hypothesis that the first important metabolite of the N-alkylated derivatives is the amphetamine which accumulates in the brain as do MeAP and IsAP. On the basis of these findings, AP was applied clinically showing the same efficient brain uptake and distribution in SPECT as IsAP.« less

Interfaces in heterogeneous catalytic reactions: Ambient pressure XPS as a tool to unravel surface chemistry

DOE PAGES

Palomino, Robert M.; Hamlyn, Rebecca; Liu, Zongyuan; ...

2017-04-27

In this paper we provide a summary of the recent development of ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS) and its application to catalytic surface chemistry. The methodology as well as significant advantages and challenges associated with this novel technique are described. Details about specific examples of using AP-XPS to probe surface chemistry under working reaction conditions for a number of reactions are explained: CO oxidation, water-gas shift (WGS), CO 2 hydrogenation, dry reforming of methane (DRM) and ethanol steam reforming (ESR). In conclusion, we discuss insights into the future development of the AP-XPS technique and its applications.

Interfaces in heterogeneous catalytic reactions: Ambient pressure XPS as a tool to unravel surface chemistry

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

Palomino, Robert M.; Hamlyn, Rebecca; Liu, Zongyuan

In this paper we provide a summary of the recent development of ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS) and its application to catalytic surface chemistry. The methodology as well as significant advantages and challenges associated with this novel technique are described. Details about specific examples of using AP-XPS to probe surface chemistry under working reaction conditions for a number of reactions are explained: CO oxidation, water-gas shift (WGS), CO 2 hydrogenation, dry reforming of methane (DRM) and ethanol steam reforming (ESR). In conclusion, we discuss insights into the future development of the AP-XPS technique and its applications.

Acute Pain Service and multimodal therapy for postsurgical pain control: evaluation of protocol efficacy.

PubMed

Moizo, E; Berti, M; Marchetti, C; Deni, F; Albertin, A; Muzzolon, F; Antonino, A

2004-11-01

The institution of a postoperative Acute Pain Control Service is mandatory to improve the control of pain induced by surgical injury. Treatment of postoperative pain may be achieved using a combination of analgesic agents and techniques, reducing the incidence of side effects owing to the lower doses of the individual drugs. In 1997 we established an Acute Pain Service (APS) at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of our APS both in terms of treatment protocols and organisational issues. In this prospective observational study we included 592 patients undergoing abdominal, gynecological, or orthopedic surgery with severe expected pain. According to general guidelines on pain treatment, the patients were assigned to different treatment protocols based on the kind of operation. All protocols were based on the multimodal therapy, with the association of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), opioids and regional anesthesia techniques. During the first 48 h of the postoperative period we recorded vital signs, level of pain and occurrence of any side effect. Our analgesic protocols proved to be effective and safe (low incidence of side effects) for every surgery. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was higher in patients receiving patient-controlled morphine than that with continuous epidural or nerve block. After lower abdominal surgery, pain at movement at 24 h was significantly lower in the epidural group than in the Patient Control Analgesia group. Nausea and vomiting, numbness and paresthesias at the lower limbs were higher in gynecological patients. A larger percentage of orthopedic patients in the epidural group reported numbness and paresthesias at the lower limbs in comparison with patients receiving continuous peripheral nerve block. In agreement with previous literature, this study confirmed that a multimodal approach to pain treatment provides an adequate control of postoperative pain, minimizing side effects.

Theoretical studies on the electronic and optoelectronic properties of [A.2AP(w)/A*.2AP(WC)/C.2AP(w)/C*.2AP(WC)/C.A(w)/C*.A(WC)]-Au8 mismatch nucleobase complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, Ruby

2018-01-01

The electronic and optoelectronic properties of [A.2AP(w)/A*.2AP(WC)/C.2AP(w)/C*.2AP(WC)/C.A(w)/ C*.A(WC)]-Au8 metal-mismatch nucleobase complexes are investigated by means of density functional theory and time-dependent methods. We selected these mispairs as 2-aminopurine (2AP) produces incorporation errors when binding with cytosine (C) into the wobble (w) C.2AP(w) mispair, and is tautomerised into Watson-Crick (WC)-like base mispair C*.2AP(WC) and less effectively produces A.2AP(w)/A*.2AP(WC) mispairs. The vertical ionisation potential, vertical electron affinity, hardness and electrophilicity index of these complexes have also been discussed. The modifications of energy levels and charge density distributions of the frontier orbitals are also analysed. The absorption spectra of these complexes lie in the visible region, which suggests their application in fluorescent-bio imaging. The mechanism of cooperativity effect is studied by molecular orbital potential (MEP), atoms-in-molecules (AIM) and natural bond orbital analyses. Most metalated pairs have smaller HOMO-LUMO band gaps than the isolated mismatch nucleobases which suggest interesting consequences for electron transfer through DNA duplexes.

Amorphous silicon photovoltaic manufacturing technology, phase 2A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duran, G.; Mackamul, K.; Metcalf, D.

1995-01-01

Utility Power Group (UPG), and its lower-tier subcontractor, Advanced Photovoltaic Systems, Inc. (APS) have conducted efforts in developing their manufacturing lines. UPG has focused on the automation of encapsulation and termination processes developed in Phase 1. APS has focused on completion of the encapsulation and module design tasks, while continuing the process and quality control and automation projects. The goal is to produce 55 watt (stabilized) EP50 modules in a new facility. In the APS Trenton EUREKA manufacturing facility, APS has: (1) Developed high throughput lamination procedures; (2) Optimized existing module designs; (3) Developed new module designs for architectural applications; (4) Developed enhanced deposition parameter control; (5) Designed equipment required to manufacture new EUREKA modules developed during Phase II; (6) Improved uniformity of thin-film materials deposition; and (7) Improved the stabilized power output of the APS EP50 EUREKA module to 55 watts. In the APS Fairfield EUREKA manufacturing facility, APS has: (1) Introduced the new products developed under Phase 1 into the APS Fairfield EUREKA module production line; (2) Increased the extent of automation in the production line; (3) Introduced Statistical Process Control to the module production line; and (4) Transferred-progress made in the APS Trenton facility into the APS Fairfield facility.

Nosema ceranae escapes fumagillin control in honey bees.

PubMed

Huang, Wei-Fone; Solter, Leellen F; Yau, Peter M; Imai, Brian S

2013-03-01

Fumagillin is the only antibiotic approved for control of nosema disease in honey bees and has been extensively used in United States apiculture for more than 50 years for control of Nosema apis. It is toxic to mammals and must be applied seasonally and with caution to avoid residues in honey. Fumagillin degrades or is diluted in hives over the foraging season, exposing bees and the microsporidia to declining concentrations of the drug. We showed that spore production by Nosema ceranae, an emerging microsporidian pathogen in honey bees, increased in response to declining fumagillin concentrations, up to 100% higher than that of infected bees that have not been exposed to fumagillin. N. apis spore production was also higher, although not significantly so. Fumagillin inhibits the enzyme methionine aminopeptidase2 (MetAP2) in eukaryotic cells and interferes with protein modifications necessary for normal cell function. We sequenced the MetAP2 gene for apid Nosema species and determined that, although susceptibility to fumagillin differs among species, there are no apparent differences in fumagillin binding sites. Protein assays of uninfected bees showed that fumagillin altered structural and metabolic proteins in honey bee midgut tissues at concentrations that do not suppress microsporidia reproduction. The microsporidia, particularly N. ceranae, are apparently released from the suppressive effects of fumagillin at concentrations that continue to impact honey bee physiology. The current application protocol for fumagillin may exacerbate N. ceranae infection rather than suppress it.

Molecular motions that shape the cardiac action potential: Insights from voltage clamp fluorometry.

PubMed

Zhu, Wandi; Varga, Zoltan; Silva, Jonathan R

2016-01-01

Very recently, voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF) protocols have been developed to observe the membrane proteins responsible for carrying the ventricular ionic currents that form the action potential (AP), including those carried by the cardiac Na(+) channel, NaV1.5, the L-type Ca(2+) channel, CaV1.2, the Na(+)/K(+) ATPase, and the rapid and slow components of the delayed rectifier, KV11.1 and KV7.1. This development is significant, because VCF enables simultaneous observation of ionic current kinetics with conformational changes occurring within specific channel domains. The ability gained from VCF, to connect nanoscale molecular movement to ion channel function has revealed how the voltage-sensing domains (VSDs) control ion flux through channel pores, mechanisms of post-translational regulation and the molecular pathology of inherited mutations. In the future, we expect that this data will be of great use for the creation of multi-scale computational AP models that explicitly represent ion channel conformations, connecting molecular, cell and tissue electrophysiology. Here, we review the VCF protocol, recent results, and discuss potential future developments, including potential use of these experimental findings to create novel computational models. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adjacency Matrix-Based Transmit Power Allocation Strategies in Wireless Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Consolini, Luca; Medagliani, Paolo; Ferrari, Gianluigi

2009-01-01

In this paper, we present an innovative transmit power control scheme, based on optimization theory, for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) which use carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) with collision avoidance (CA) as medium access control (MAC) protocol. In particular, we focus on schemes where several remote nodes send data directly to a common access point (AP). Under the assumption of finite overall network transmit power and low traffic load, we derive the optimal transmit power allocation strategy that minimizes the packet error rate (PER) at the AP. This approach is based on modeling the CSMA/CA MAC protocol through a finite state machine and takes into account the network adjacency matrix, depending on the transmit power distribution and determining the network connectivity. It will be then shown that the transmit power allocation problem reduces to a convex constrained minimization problem. Our results show that, under the assumption of low traffic load, the power allocation strategy, which guarantees minimal delay, requires the maximization of network connectivity, which can be equivalently interpreted as the maximization of the number of non-zero entries of the adjacency matrix. The obtained theoretical results are confirmed by simulations for unslotted Zigbee WSNs. PMID:22346705

10 CFR Appendix C to Part 52 - Design Certification Rule for the AP600 Design

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... design, in accordance with 10 CFR part 52, subpart B. The applicant for certification of the AP600 design....55(b) and 52.57(b). This appendix remains valid for an applicant or licensee who references this.... Exemptions from Tier 1 information are governed by the requirements in 10 CFR 52.63(b)(1) and 52.98(f). The...

A Seamless Handoff Scheme with Access Point Load Balance for Real-Time Services Support in 802.11 Wireless LANs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manodham, Thavisak; Loyola, Luis; Miki, Tetsuya

IEEE 802.11 wirelesses LANs (WLANs) have been rapidly deployed in enterprises, public areas, and households. Voice-over-IP (VoIP) and similar applications are now commonly used in mobile devices over wireless networks. Recent works have improved the quality of service (QoS) offering higher data rates to support various kinds of real-time applications. However, besides the need for higher data rates, seamless handoff and load balancing among APs are key issues that must be addressed in order to continue supporting real-time services across wireless LANs and providing fair services to all users. In this paper, we introduce a novel access point (AP) with two transceivers that improves network efficiency by supporting seamless handoff and traffic load balancing in a wireless network. In our proposed scheme, the novel AP uses the second transceiver to scan and find neighboring STAs in the transmission range and then sends the results to neighboring APs, which compare and analyze whether or not the STA should perform a handoff. The initial results from our simulations show that the novel AP module is more effective than the conventional scheme and a related work in terms of providing a handoff process with low latency and sharing traffic load with neighbor APs.

Dose and time dependent ototoxicity of aspartame in rats.

PubMed

Ozturan, Orhan; Dogan, Remzi; Tugrul, Selahattin; Gedik, Ozge; Sjostrand, Alev Pektas; Yildirim, Yavuz Selim

2017-04-01

Low-dose administration of Aspartame (Ap) did not produce a significant ototoxic effect at the end of the 6th month. However, duration of the ototoxic effect is shortened and severity of the effect is increased as dose and duration of Ap administration is increased. While Ap toxicity has been studied in short- and long-term studies, its effects on hearing have not been investigated. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of long-term consumption of Ap administered in various doses on hearing status of rats. The study included 54 female Wistar Albino rats. Ap was given for 6 months to the rats. The groups were assigned according to levels of Ap dosage. DPOAE and ABR tests were utilized for serial hearing evaluations. Serial hearing measurement times were designed as baseline, 1st week, 2nd week, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months. While audiological parameters deteriorated with 100 mg/kg/day dose after the 3rd month, ABR thresholds were elevated and DPOAE values were significantly decreased in 500 mg/kg/day and 1000 mg/kg/day applications after the 2nd month. In 2000 mg/kg/day and 4000 mg/kg/day applications, deteriorations in audiological parameters were detected as early as the first and second months; respectively.

Radioactive air emissions notice of construction for installation and operation of a waste retrieval system and tanks 241-AP-102 and 241-AP-104 project

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

DEXTER, M.L.

1999-11-15

This document serves as a notice of construction (NOC) pursuant to the requirements of Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246 247-060, and as a request for approval to modify pursuant to 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 61 07 for the installation and operation of one waste retrieval system in the 24 1 AP-102 Tank and one waste retrieval system in the 241 AP 104 Tank Pursuant to 40 CFR 61 09 (a)( 1) this application is also intended to provide anticipated initial start up notification Its is requested that EPA approval of this application will also constitute EPA acceptance ofmore » the initial start up notification Project W 211 Initial Tank Retrieval Systems (ITRS) is scoped to install a waste retrieval system in the following double-shell tanks 241-AP 102-AP 104 AN 102, AN 103, AN-104, AN 105, AY 102 AZ 102 and SY-102 between now and the year 2011. Because of the extended installation schedules and unknowns about specific activities/designs at each tank, it was decided to submit NOCs as that information became available This NOC covers the installation and operation of a waste retrieval system in tanks 241 AP-102 and 241 AP 104 Generally this includes removal of existing equipment installation of new equipment and construction of new ancillary equipment and buildings Tanks 241 AP 102 and 241 AP 104 will provide waste feed for immobilization into a low activity waste (LAW) product (i.e. glass logs) The total effective dose equivalent (TEDE) to the offsite maximally exposed individual (MEI) from the construction activities is 0 045 millirem per year The unabated TEDE to the offsite ME1 from operation of the mixer pumps is 0 042 millirem per year.« less

Prediction of three-dimensional femoral offset from AP pelvis radiographs in primary hip osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Merle, C; Waldstein, W; Pegg, E C; Streit, M R; Gotterbarm, T; Aldinger, P R; Murray, D W; Gill, H S

2013-08-01

In pre-operative planning for total hip arthroplasty (THA), femoral offset (FO) is frequently underestimated on AP pelvis radiographs as a result of inaccurate patient positioning, imprecise magnification, and radiographic beam divergence. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of predicting three-dimensional (3-D) FO from standardised AP pelvis radiographs. In a retrospective cohort study, pre-operative AP pelvis radiographs, AP hip radiographs and CT scans of a consecutive series of 345 patients (345 hips, 146 males, 199 females, mean age 60 (range: 40-79) years, mean body-mass-index 27 (range: 19-57)kg/m(2)) with primary end-stage hip OA were reviewed. Patients were positioned according to a standardised protocol and all images were calibrated. Using validated custom programmes, FO was measured on corresponding radiographs and CT scans. Measurement reliability was evaluated using intra-class-correlation-coefficients. To predict 3-D FO from AP pelvis measurements and to assess the accuracy compared to CT, the entire cohort was randomly split into subgroups A and B. Gender specific regression equations were derived from group A (245 patients) and the accuracy of prediction was evaluated in group B (100 patients) using Bland-Altman plots. In the entire cohort, mean FO was 39.2mm (95%CI: 38.5-40.0mm) on AP pelvis radiographs, 44.1mm (95%CI: 43.4-44.9mm) on AP hip radiographs and 44.6mm (95%CI: 44.0-45.2mm) on CT scans. In group B, we observed no significant difference between gender specific predicted FO (males: 48.0mm, 95%CI: 47.1-48.8mm; females: 42.0mm, 95%CI: 41.1-42.8mm) and FO as measured on CT (males: 47.7mm, 95%CI: 46.1-49.4mm, p=0.689; females: 41.6mm, 95%CI: 40.3-43.0mm, p=0.607). The present study suggests that FO can be accurately and reliably predicted from AP pelvis radiographs in patients with primary end-stage hip osteoarthritis. Our findings support the surgeon in pre-operative templating on AP-pelvis radiographs and may improve offset and limb length restoration in THA without the routine performance of additional radiographs or CT. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Twelve-Week 24/7 Ambulatory Artificial Pancreas With Weekly Adaptation of Insulin Delivery Settings: Effect on Hemoglobin A1c and Hypoglycemia.

PubMed

Dassau, Eyal; Pinsker, Jordan E; Kudva, Yogish C; Brown, Sue A; Gondhalekar, Ravi; Dalla Man, Chiara; Patek, Steve; Schiavon, Michele; Dadlani, Vikash; Dasanayake, Isuru; Church, Mei Mei; Carter, Rickey E; Bevier, Wendy C; Huyett, Lauren M; Hughes, Jonathan; Anderson, Stacey; Lv, Dayu; Schertz, Elaine; Emory, Emma; McCrady-Spitzer, Shelly K; Jean, Tyler; Bradley, Paige K; Hinshaw, Ling; Laguna Sanz, Alejandro J; Basu, Ananda; Kovatchev, Boris; Cobelli, Claudio; Doyle, Francis J

2017-12-01

Artificial pancreas (AP) systems are best positioned for optimal treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and are currently being tested in outpatient clinical trials. Our consortium developed and tested a novel adaptive AP in an outpatient, single-arm, uncontrolled multicenter clinical trial lasting 12 weeks. Thirty adults with T1D completed a continuous glucose monitor (CGM)-augmented 1-week sensor-augmented pump (SAP) period. After the AP was started, basal insulin delivery settings used by the AP for initialization were adapted weekly, and carbohydrate ratios were adapted every 4 weeks by an algorithm running on a cloud-based server, with automatic data upload from devices. Adaptations were reviewed by expert study clinicians and patients. The primary end point was change in hemoglobin A 1c (HbA 1c ). Outcomes are reported adhering to consensus recommendations on reporting of AP trials. Twenty-nine patients completed the trial. HbA 1c , 7.0 ± 0.8% at the start of AP use, improved to 6.7 ± 0.6% after 12 weeks (-0.3, 95% CI -0.5 to -0.2, P < 0.001). Compared with the SAP run-in, CGM time spent in the hypoglycemic range improved during the day from 5.0 to 1.9% (-3.1, 95% CI -4.1 to -2.1, P < 0.001) and overnight from 4.1 to 1.1% (-3.1, 95% CI -4.2 to -1.9, P < 0.001). Whereas carbohydrate ratios were adapted to a larger extent initially with minimal changes thereafter, basal insulin was adapted throughout. Approximately 10% of adaptation recommendations were manually overridden. There were no protocol-related serious adverse events. Use of our novel adaptive AP yielded significant reductions in HbA 1c and hypoglycemia. © 2017 by the American Diabetes Association.

Cyclosporine A and azathioprine are equipotent in chronic kidney allograft rejection.

PubMed

Hamar, P; Liu, S; Viklický, O; Szabó, A; Múller, V; Heemann, U

2000-04-15

Chronic rejection is the major cause of graft loss after kidney transplantation. Various immunosuppressive protocols have been used to ameliorate this process. We investigated whether cyclosporin A- (CyA) or azathioprine- (Aza) based immunosuppression is better able to slow the progression of chronic rejection. Fisher kidneys were transplanted into bilaterally nephrectomized Lewis rats. Recipients received CyA (1.5 mg/kg/day, s.c.) for 10 days, and were treated from day 11 with either CyA (1.5 mg/kg)+pred (0.15 mg/kg) (C+P),Aza (2 mg/kg)+pred (A+P), vehicle+pred (P), or vehicle alone (controls) (n = 8/group). Proteinuria was regularly assessed and grafts were harvested for morphological, immunohistological, and molecular biological analysis at week 24. By week 12 proteinuria had increased to significant levels. At week 24, proteinuria was significantly lower and creatinine clearance was significantly higher in C+P and A+P, than in P or controls. Morphological analysis supported these functional results: at week 24, glomerulopathy, tubular atrophy and intimal proliferation (as assessed according to the BANFF score) were less pronounced in C+P and A+P, as compared with P or controls. These morphological parameters were accompanied by a reduced infiltration of ED-1+ macrophages and CD-5+ T lymphocytes. In P or controls the synthesis of IL-2Ralpha mRNA was markedly elevated at this time. In parallel to the reduced cellular infiltration, IL-2Ralpha mRNA expression was markedly inhibited, both, in C+P and A+P. There were no significant differences between C+P and A+P regarding the parameters studied. In conclusion, both C+P and A+P reduced the infiltration of activated T lymphocytes, and the pace of chronic kidney allograft rejection. The outcome of C+P and A+P based therapy did not differ significantly.

N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors, learning and memory: chronic intraventricular infusion of the NMDA receptor antagonist d-AP5 interacts directly with the neural mechanisms of spatial learning.

PubMed

Morris, R G M; Steele, R J; Bell, J E; Martin, S J

2013-03-01

Three experiments were conducted to contrast the hypothesis that hippocampal N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors participate directly in the mechanisms of hippocampus-dependent learning with an alternative view that apparent impairments of learning induced by NMDA receptor antagonists arise because of drug-induced neuropathological and/or sensorimotor disturbances. In experiment 1, rats given a chronic i.c.v. infusion of d-AP5 (30 mm) at 0.5 μL/h were selectively impaired, relative to aCSF-infused animals, in place but not cued navigation learning when they were trained during the 14-day drug infusion period, but were unimpaired on both tasks if trained 11 days after the minipumps were exhausted. d-AP5 caused sensorimotor disturbances in the spatial task, but these gradually worsened as the animals failed to learn. Histological assessment of potential neuropathological changes revealed no abnormalities in d-AP5-treated rats whether killed during or after chronic drug infusion. In experiment 2, a deficit in spatial learning was also apparent in d-AP5-treated rats trained on a spatial reference memory task involving two identical but visible platforms, a task chosen and shown to minimise sensorimotor disturbances. HPLC was used to identify the presence of d-AP5 in selected brain areas. In Experiment 3, rats treated with d-AP5 showed a delay-dependent deficit in spatial memory in the delayed matching-to-place protocol for the water maze. These data are discussed with respect to the learning mechanism and sensorimotor accounts of the impact of NMDA receptor antagonists on brain function. We argue that NMDA receptor mechanisms participate directly in spatial learning. © 2013 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Analysis of In Vivo Chromatin and Protein Interactions of Arabidopsis Transcript Elongation Factors.

PubMed

Pfab, Alexander; Antosz, Wojciech; Holzinger, Philipp; Bruckmann, Astrid; Griesenbeck, Joachim; Grasser, Klaus D

2017-01-01

A central step to elucidate the function of proteins commonly comprises the analysis of their molecular interactions in vivo. For nuclear regulatory proteins this involves determining protein-protein interactions as well as mapping of chromatin binding sites. Here, we present two protocols to identify protein-protein and chromatin interactions of transcript elongation factors (TEFs) in Arabidopsis. The first protocol (Subheading 3.1) describes protein affinity-purification coupled to mass spectrometry (AP-MS) that utilizes suspension cultured cells as experimental system. This approach provides an unbiased view of proteins interacting with epitope-tagged TEFs. The second protocol (Subheading 3.2) depicts details about a chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) procedure to characterize genomic binding sites of TEFs. These methods should be valuable tools for the analysis of a broad variety of nuclear proteins.

INTERSESSION RELIABILITY OF UPPER EXTREMITY ISOKINETIC PUSH-PULL TESTING.

PubMed

Riemann, Bryan L; Davis, Sarah E; Huet, Kevin; Davies, George J

2016-02-01

Based on the frequency pushing and pulling patterns are used in functional activities, there is a need to establish an objective method of quantifying the muscle performance characteristics associated with these motions, particularly during the later stages of rehabilitation as criteria for discharge. While isokinetic assessment offers an approach to quantifying muscle performance, little is known about closed kinetic chain (CKC) isokinetic testing of the upper extremity (UE). To determine the intersession reliability of isokinetic upper extremity measurement of pushing and pulling peak force and average power at slow (0.24 m/s), medium (0.43 m/s) and fast (0.61 m/s) velocities in healthy young adults. The secondary purpose was to compare pushing and pulling peak force (PF) and average power (AP) between the upper extremity limbs (dominant, non-dominant) across the three velocities. Twenty-four physically active men and women completed a test-retest (>96 hours) protocol in order to establish isokinetic UE CKC reliability of PF and AP during five maximal push and pull repetitions at three velocities. Both limb and speed orders were randomized between subjects. High test-retest relative reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC2, 1) were revealed for PF (.91-.97) and AP (.85-.95) across velocities, limbs and directions. PF typical error (% coefficient of variation) ranged from 6.1% to 11.3% while AP ranged from 9.9% to 26.7%. PF decreased significantly (p < .05) as velocity increased whereas AP increased as velocity increased. PF and AP during pushing were significantly greater than pulling at all velocities, however the push-pull differences in PF became less as velocity increased. There were no significant differences identified between the dominant and nondominant limbs. Isokinetically derived UE CKC push-pull PF and AP are reliable measures. The lack of limb differences in healthy normal participants suggests that clinicians can consider bilateral comparisons when interpreting test performance. The increase in pushing PF and AP compared to pulling can be attributed to the muscles involved and the frequency that pushing patterns are used during functional activities. 3.

Effectiveness of a Nintendo Wii balance board exercise programme on standing balance of children with cerebral palsy: A randomised clinical trial protocol.

PubMed

Gatica-Rojas, Valeska; Cartes-Velásquez, Ricardo; Guzmán-Muñoz, Eduardo; Méndez-Rebolledo, Guillermo; Soto-Poblete, Alex; Pacheco-Espinoza, Ana Carolina; Amigo-Mendoza, Carlos; Albornoz-Verdugo, M Eliana; Elgueta-Cancino, Edith

2017-06-01

Patients with cerebral palsy (CP) typically receive limited physical therapy services. However, the Nintendo Wii system offers a simple and affordable mode of virtual reality therapy. There are no clinical trials assessing the Nintendo Wii balance board for improving standing balance in CP. This randomised clinical trial will evaluate the effectiveness of an 18-session/six-week protocol using Wii therapy (W-t) compared with conventional therapy (C-t) in Chilean CP patients. The C-t group will perform the typical exercises prescribed by physical therapists for 40 min each session. W-t will consist of a virtual reality training session using the Nintendo Wii balance board console for 30 min each session. The primary outcome variable is the area of centre-of-pressure (CoP) sway (CoP Sway ). The secondary outcomes are the standard deviation (SD ML ; SD AP ) and velocity (V ML ; V AP ) of CoP in the ML and AP directions. For a mean difference of 21.5 cm 2 (CoP Sway ) between the groups, we required a minimum of 16 participants in each group. Data will be collected at baseline (week 0), during the study (weeks 2 and 4), at the end of the study (week 6), and during the follow-up (weeks 8 and 10). Measurements of postural control during quiet standing for both groups will be assessed on a force platform AMTI OR67. This is the first trial that measures and compares the effects of a Nintendo Wii Balance Board exercise programme on standing balance in children with cerebral palsy compared to conventional therapy.

Design and Implementation of Secure Area Expansion Scheme for Public Wireless LAN Services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Ryu; Tanaka, Toshiaki

Recently, wireless LAN (WLAN) technology has become a major wireless communication method. The communication bandwidth is increasing and speeds have attained rates exceeding 100 Mbps. Therefore, WLAN technology is regarded as one of the promising communication methods for future networks. In addition, public WLAN connection services can be used in many locations. However, the number of the access points (AP) is insufficient for seamless communication and it cannot be said that users can use the service ubiquitously. An ad-hoc network style connection can be used to expand the coverage area of a public WLAN service. By relaying the user messages among the user nodes, a node can obtain an Internet connection via an AP, even though the node is located outside the AP's direct wireless connection area. Such a coverage area extending technology has many advantages thanks to the feature that no additional infrastructure is required. Therefore, there is a strong demand for this technology as it allows the cost-effective construction of future networks. When a secure ad-hoc routing protocol is used for message exchange in the WLAN service, the message routes are protected from malicious behavior such as route forging and can be maintained appropriately. To do this, however, a new node that wants to join the WLAN service has to obtain information such as the public key certificate and IP address in order to start secure ad-hoc routing. In other words, an initial setup is required for every network node to join the WLAN service properly. Ordinarily, such information should be assigned from the AP. However, new nodes cannot always contact an AP directly. Therefore, there are problems about information delivery in the initial setup of a network node. These problems originate in the multi hop connection based on the ad-hoc routing protocols. In order to realize an expanded area WLAN service, in this paper, the authors propose a secure public key certificate and address provision scheme during the initial setup phase on mobile nodes for the service. The proposed scheme also considers the protection of user privacy. Accordingly, none of the user nodes has to reveal their unique and persistent information to other nodes. Instead of using such information, temporary values are sent by an AP to mobile nodes and used for secure ad-hoc routing operations. Therefore, our proposed scheme prevents tracking by malicious parties by avoiding the use of unique information. Moreover, a test bed was also implemented based on the proposal and an evaluation was carried out in order to confirm performance. In addition, the authors describe a countermeasure against denial of service (DoS) attacks based on the approach to privacy protection described in our proposal.

Mutations at the S1 sites of methionine aminopeptidases from Escherichia coli and Homo sapiens reveal the residues critical for substrate specificity.

PubMed

Li, Jing-Ya; Cui, Yong-Mei; Chen, Ling-Ling; Gu, Min; Li, Jia; Nan, Fa-Jun; Ye, Qi-Zhuang

2004-05-14

Methionine aminopeptidase (MetAP) catalyzes the removal of methionine from newly synthesized polypeptides. MetAP carries out this cleavage with high precision, and Met is the only natural amino acid residue at the N terminus that is accepted, although type I and type II MetAPs use two different sets of residues to form the hydrophobic S1 site. Characteristics of the S1 binding pocket in type I MetAP were investigated by systematic mutation of each of the seven S1 residues in Escherichia coli MetAP type I (EcMetAP1) and human MetAP type I (HsMetAP1). We found that Tyr-65 and Trp-221 in EcMetAP1, as well as the corresponding residues Phe-197 and Trp-352 in HsMetAP1, were essential for the hydrolysis of a thiopeptolide substrate, Met-S-Gly-Phe. Mutation of Phe-191 to Ala in HsMetAP1 caused inactivity in contrast to the full activity of EcMetAP1(Y62A), which may suggest a subtle difference between the two type I enzymes. The more striking finding is that mutation of Cys-70 in EcMetAP1 or Cys-202 in HsMetAP1 opens up the S1 pocket. The thiopeptolides Leu-S-Gly-Phe and Phe-S-Gly-Phe, with previously unacceptable Leu or Phe as the N-terminal residue, became efficient substrates of EcMetAP1(C70A) and HsMetAP1(C202A). The relaxed specificity shown in these S1 site mutants for the N-terminal residues was confirmed by hydrolysis of peptide substrates and inhibition by reaction products. The structural features at the enzyme active site will be useful information for designing specific MetAP inhibitors for therapeutic applications.

LaAP2L1, a heterosis-associated AP2/EREBP transcription factor of Larix, increases organ size and final biomass by affecting cell proliferation in Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Li, Ai; Zhou, Yanan; Jin, Chuan; Song, Wenqin; Chen, Chengbin; Wang, Chunguo

2013-11-01

In Larix and in some crops, heterosis is prevalent and has been widely used in breeding to produce excellent varieties. However, the molecular basis of heterosis in Larix remains ambiguous. LaAP2L1, a member of the AP2/EREBP transcription factor family, has been suggested to be involved in heterosis in Larix hybrids. Here, the function and regulation of LaAP2L1 were further explored. Overexpression of LaAP2L1 led to markedly enlarged organs and heterosis-like traits in Arabidopsis. Fresh weight of leaves was almost twice as great as in vector controls. Likewise, seed yield of 35S::LaAP2L1 individual plants was >200% greater than that of control plants. The enlarged organs and heterosis-like traits displayed by 35S::LaAP2L1 plants were mainly due to enhanced cell proliferation and prolonged growth duration. At the molecular level, LaAP2L1 upregulated the expression of ANT, EBP1, and CycD3;1 and inhibited the expression of ARGOS in 35S::LaAP2L1 plants, suggesting an important molecular role of LaAP2L1 in regulating plant organ development. These findings provide new insights into the formation of heterosis in woody plants and suggest that LaAP2L1 has potential applications in breeding high-yielding crops and energy plants. In addition, 50 AP2/EREBP transcription factors, including LaAP2L1, in Larix were identified by transcriptome sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis was conducted. This provided information that will be important in further revealing the functions of these transcription factors.

Therapeutically equivalent pharmacokinetic profile across three application sites for AG200-15, a novel low-estrogen dose contraceptive patch.

PubMed

Stanczyk, Frank Z; Archer, David F; Rubin, Arkady; Foegh, Marie

2013-06-01

AG200-15 Agile Patch (AP) is a novel 7-day contraceptive patch providing ethinyl estradiol (EE) exposure comparable to low-dose combination oral contraceptives. This study determined whether application of the AP to three different anatomical sites (lower abdomen, buttock and upper torso) influences the pharmacokinetic profile of EE and levonorgestrel (LNG). In this open-label, three-period, crossover study, 24 subjects were randomized to one of six treatment sequences; each included application of patch to abdomen, buttock and upper torso, with the AP worn on one site for 7 days. After a 7-day washout, a new patch was applied to the next anatomical site. Multiple blood samples were collected up to 240 h after patch application. For plasma EE levels, median time to maximum drug concentration (Tmax, 24-48 h) and mean maximum concentration (Cmax, 47.9-61.5 pg/mL) were similar among application sites. Compared with lower abdomen, EE exposure was higher (16%-30%) at buttock and upper torso (15%-22%). For plasma LNG levels, median Tmax (72-120 h) and mean Cmax (1436-1589 pg/mL) were similar across application sites. Compared with lower abdomen, LNG exposure was higher at buttock (1%-7%) and upper torso (16%-17%). No serious adverse events (AEs) or AE-related discontinuations occurred. The most common treatment-emergent AEs were nausea, application site pruritus and headache, with frequencies comparable across anatomical sites. Absorption from the abdomen was slightly lower versus other sites; however, exposure to EE and LNG for all sites was therapeutically equivalent. The AP was well tolerated at all three anatomical sites. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inter-Batch Variation and the Effect of Casting Vacuum on Ballistic and Mechanical Properties of a High Performing Cast Composite Rocket Propellant

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

premature dewetting of crystal surfaces. This is a similar phenomenon to that described by Gocmez, et al. [7] for coarse/fine ratios of AP. That is...they postulated that a greater force is required to dewet fine AP crystals due to a larger surface area/volume ratio and therefore a larger overall...tensile strength. Dewetting of AP crystals from binder during the application of stress creates vacuoles which contribute to total specimen elongation

Secure Indoor Localization Based on Extracting Trusted Fingerprint

PubMed Central

Yin, Xixi; Zheng, Yanliu; Wang, Chun

2018-01-01

Indoor localization based on WiFi has attracted a lot of research effort because of the widespread application of WiFi. Fingerprinting techniques have received much attention due to their simplicity and compatibility with existing hardware. However, existing fingerprinting localization algorithms may not resist abnormal received signal strength indication (RSSI), such as unexpected environmental changes, impaired access points (APs) or the introduction of new APs. Traditional fingerprinting algorithms do not consider the problem of new APs and impaired APs in the environment when using RSSI. In this paper, we propose a secure fingerprinting localization (SFL) method that is robust to variable environments, impaired APs and the introduction of new APs. In the offline phase, a voting mechanism and a fingerprint database update method are proposed. We use the mutual cooperation between reference anchor nodes to update the fingerprint database, which can reduce the interference caused by the user measurement data. We analyze the standard deviation of RSSI, mobilize the reference points in the database to vote on APs and then calculate the trust factors of APs based on the voting results. In the online phase, we first make a judgment about the new APs and the broken APs, then extract the secure fingerprints according to the trusted factors of APs and obtain the localization results by using the trusted fingerprints. In the experiment section, we demonstrate the proposed method and find that the proposed strategy can resist abnormal RSSI and can improve the localization accuracy effectively compared with the existing fingerprinting localization algorithms. PMID:29401755

Secure Indoor Localization Based on Extracting Trusted Fingerprint.

PubMed

Luo, Juan; Yin, Xixi; Zheng, Yanliu; Wang, Chun

2018-02-05

[-5]Indoor localization based on WiFi has attracted a lot of research effort because of the widespread application of WiFi. Fingerprinting techniques have received much attention due to their simplicity and compatibility with existing hardware. However, existing fingerprinting localization algorithms may not resist abnormal received signal strength indication (RSSI), such as unexpected environmental changes, impaired access points (APs) or the introduction of new APs. Traditional fingerprinting algorithms do not consider the problem of new APs and impaired APs in the environment when using RSSI. In this paper, we propose a secure fingerprinting localization (SFL) method that is robust to variable environments, impaired APs and the introduction of new APs. In the offline phase, a voting mechanism and a fingerprint database update method are proposed. We use the mutual cooperation between reference anchor nodes to update the fingerprint database, which can reduce the interference caused by the user measurement data. We analyze the standard deviation of RSSI, mobilize the reference points in the database to vote on APs and then calculate the trust factors of APs based on the voting results. In the online phase, we first make a judgment about the new APs and the broken APs, then extract the secure fingerprints according to the trusted factors of APs and obtain the localization results by using the trusted fingerprints. In the experiment section, we demonstrate the proposed method and find that the proposed strategy can resist abnormal RSSI and can improve the localization accuracy effectively compared with the existing fingerprinting localization algorithms.

Report on July 2015 Additional Protocol Coordinators Best Practices Workshop

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

Gitau, Ernest T.N.; Burbank, Roberta L.; Finch, Valerie A.

After 10 years of implementation experience, the Office of Nonproliferation and Arms Control (NPAC) within the Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) conducted the Additional Protocol (AP) Coordinators Best Practices Workshop at Oak Ridge National Laboratory from July 29-30, 2015. The goal of this workshop was to identify implementation best practices, lessons learned, and compliance challenges from the various Additional Protocol Coordinators (APCs) at each laboratory in the DOE/NNSA complex and associated sites. The workshop provided the opportunity for participants to share their insights and establish networks that APCs can utilize to continue to discuss challenges (new and old),more » identify best practices, and enhance communication and coordination for reporting multi-lab research projects during review activities. Workshop participants included DOE/NNSA HQ, laboratory and site APCs, seasoned experts, members of the original implementation outreach team, and Field Element and site security representatives.« less

Fabrication and characterization of Antheraea pernyi silk fibroin-blended P(LLA-CL) nanofibrous scaffolds for peripheral nerve tissue engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Juan; Sun, Binbin; Bhutto, Muhammad Aqeel; Zhu, Tonghe; Yu, Kui; Bao, Jiayu; Morsi, Yosry; El-Hamshary, Hany; El-Newehy, Mohamed; Mo, Xiumei

2017-03-01

Electrospun nanofibers have gained widespreading interest for tissue engineering application. In the present study, ApF/P(LLA-CL) nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated via electrospinning. The feasibility of the material as tissue engineering nerve scaffold was investigated in vitro. The average diameter increased with decreasing the blend ratio of ApF to P(LLA-CL). Characterization of 13C NMR and FTIR clarified that there is no obvious chemical bond reaction between ApF and P(LLA-CL). The tensile strength and elongation at break increased with the content increase of P(LLA-CL). The surface hydrophilic property of nanofibrous scaffolds enhanced with the increased content of ApF. Cell viability studies with Schwann cells demonstrated that ApF/P(LLA-CL) blended nanofibrous scaffolds significantly promoted cell growth as compare to P(LLA-CL), especially when the weight ratio of ApF to P(LLA-CL) was 25:75. The present work provides a basis for further studies of this novel nanofibrous material (ApF/P(LLA-CL)) in peripheral nerve tissue repair or regeneration.

Exploiting IoT Technologies and Open Source Components for Smart Seismic Network Instrumentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Germenis, N. G.; Koulamas, C. A.; Foundas, P. N.

2017-12-01

The data collection infrastructure of any seismic network poses a number of requirements and trade-offs related to accuracy, reliability, power autonomy and installation & operational costs. Having the right hardware design at the edge of this infrastructure, embedded software running inside the instruments is the heart of pre-processing and communication services implementation and their integration with the central storage and processing facilities of the seismic network. This work demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of exploiting software components from heterogeneous sources in order to realize a smart seismic data logger, achieving higher reliability, faster integration and less development and testing costs of critical functionality that is in turn responsible for the cost and power efficient operation of the device. The instrument's software builds on top of widely used open source components around the Linux kernel with real-time extensions, the core Debian Linux distribution, the earthworm and seiscomp tooling frameworks, as well as components from the Internet of Things (IoT) world, such as the CoAP and MQTT protocols for the signaling planes, besides the widely used de-facto standards of the application domain at the data plane, such as the SeedLink protocol. By using an innovative integration of features based on lower level GPL components of the seiscomp suite with higher level processing earthworm components, coupled with IoT protocol extensions to the latter, the instrument can implement smart functionality such as network controlled, event triggered data transmission in parallel with edge archiving and on demand, short term historical data retrieval.

Analogs of diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A).

PubMed

Guranowski, Andrzej

2003-01-01

This review summarizes our knowledge of analogs and derivatives of diadenosine 5',5"'-P1,P4-tetraphosphate (Ap4A), the most extensively studied member of the dinucleoside 5',5"'-P1,Pn-polyphosphate (NpnN) family. After a short discussion of enzymes that may be responsible for the accumulation and degradation of Np4)N's in the cell, this review focuses on chemically and/or enzymatically produced analogs and their practical applications. Particular attention is paid to compounds that have aided the study of enzymes involved in the metabolism of Ap4A (Np4N'). Certain Ap4A analogs were alternative substrates of Ap4A-degrading enzymes and/or acted as enzyme inhibitors, some other helped to establish enzyme mechanisms, increased the sensitivity of certain enzyme assays or produced stable enzyme:ligand complexes for structural analysis.

Integrated imaging sensor systems with CMOS active pixel sensor technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, G.; Cunningham, T.; Ortiz, M.; Heynssens, J.; Sun, C.; Hancock, B.; Seshadri, S.; Wrigley, C.; McCarty, K.; Pain, B.

2002-01-01

This paper discusses common approaches to CMOS APS technology, as well as specific results on the five-wire programmable digital camera-on-a-chip developed at JPL. The paper also reports recent research in the design, operation, and performance of APS imagers for several imager applications.

PERCHLORATE UPTAKE AND TRANSFORMATION IN AQUATIC PLANTS

EPA Science Inventory

Ammonium Perchlorate (AP) is produced on a large scale by the chemical industry, for a wide range of applications for example, as a strong oxidizing agent in solid rocket fuel. AP must be washed out of the inventory periodically due to its limited shelf-life,and replaced with a f...

Determining cereal starch amylose content using a dual wavelength iodine binding 96 well plate assay

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cereal starch amylose/amylopectin (AM/AP) ratios are critical in functional properties for food and industrial applications. Conventional determination of AM/AP of cereal starches are very time consuming and labor intensive making it very difficult to screen large sample sets. Studying these large...

Development of a 96-well plate iodine binding assay for amylose content determination

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cereal starch amylose/amylopectin (AM/AP) ratios are critical in functional properties for food and industrial applications. Conventional methods for the determination of AM/AP of cereal starches are very time consuming and labor intensive making it very difficult to screen large sample sets. Stud...

Study of an efficient conversion of 1,3-dimethyl-5-(Arylazo)-6-Amino-Uracils to 1,3-dimethyl-8-(Aryl)-Azapurin-2,6-Diones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Debnath, Diptanu; Purkayastha, Atanu; Kirillov, Alexander; Ganguly, Rakesh; Misra, Tarun Kumar

2017-12-01

6-Aminouracils have extensively been used as precursors for synthesizing numerous uracil derivatives of biological and pharmaceutical significance. This study describes an application of 1,3-dimethyl-5-(arylazo)-6-aminouracils (Uazo: Uazo1-Uazo4, precursors) for an efficient synthesis of a series of 8-substituted-azapurins (AP), namely 1,3-dimethyl-8-(aryl)-azapurin-2,6-diones (aryl = p-HC6H4 (AP1), -MeC6H4 (AP2), sbnd ClC6H4 (AP3), and sbnd SO2NH2C6H4 (AP4)) following an oxidation method in the presence of copper (II) nitrate and in alkaline medium. The obtained compounds were isolated in good yields as crystalline air-stable products and have been fully characterized in the solution by UV-vis and NMR spectroscopy, as well as in the solid state by FT-IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (for AP2 and AP4). UV-vis study evidences that the conversion of the 6-aminouracil precursors occurs via an intermediate, Cu(II)-complex and a plausible mechanism for the formation of AP1-AP4 has been proposed. Unlike AP2 the crystal structure of AP4 reveals the formation of interdigitated 1D H-bonded chains that has been topologically classified within the 2C1 type. The 1H NMR spectra of the products have proton signals that completely devoid of hydrazone (sbnd NHsbnd) and imine (=NH) signals of their parent Uazo derivatives, thus confirming their full conversion and a stability of the AP1-AP4 in solution. The excitation and emission spectra of AP1-AP4 were also recorded in solution, revealing electronic transitions between similar vibrational energy levels of S0 (singlet ground state) and S1 (singlet first excited state).

Self-etching aspects of a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive.

PubMed

Bahillo, Jose; Roig, Miguel; Bortolotto, Tissiana; Krejci, Ivo

2013-11-01

The purpose of this study is to assess the marginal adaptation of cavities restored with a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive, OptiBond FL (OFL) under different application protocols. Twenty-four class V cavities were prepared with half of the margins located in enamel and half in dentin. Cavities were restored with OFL and a microhybrid resin composite (Clearfil AP-X). Three groups (n = 8) that differed in the etching technique were tested with thermomechanical loading, and specimens were subjected to quantitative marginal analysis before and after loading. Micromorphology of etching patters on enamel and dentin were observed with SEM. Data was evaluated with Kruskal-Wallis and Bonferroni post hoc test. Significantly lower percent CM (46.9 ± 19.5) were found after loading on enamel in group 3 compared to group 1 (96.5 ± 5.1) and group 2 (93.1 ± 8.1). However, no significant differences (p = 0.30) were observed on dentin margins. Etching enamel with phosphoric acid but avoiding etching dentin before the application of OFL, optimal marginal adaptation could be obtained, evidencing a self-etching primer effect. A reliable adhesive interface was attained with the application of the three-step etch-and-rinse OFL adhesive with a selective enamel etching, representing an advantage on restoring deep cavities.

The APETALA-2-like transcription factor OsAP2-39 controls key interactions between abscisic acid and gibberellin in rice.

PubMed

Yaish, Mahmoud W; El-Kereamy, Ashraf; Zhu, Tong; Beatty, Perrin H; Good, Allen G; Bi, Yong-Mei; Rothstein, Steven J

2010-09-09

The interaction between phytohormones is an important mechanism which controls growth and developmental processes in plants. Deciphering these interactions is a crucial step in helping to develop crops with enhanced yield and resistance to environmental stresses. Controlling the expression level of OsAP2-39 which includes an APETALA 2 (AP2) domain leads to phenotypic changes in rice. Overexpression of OsAP2-39 leads to a reduction in yield by decreasing the biomass and the number of seeds in the transgenic rice lines. Global transcriptome analysis of the OsAP2-39 overexpression transgenic rice revealed the upregulation of a key abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthetic gene OsNCED-I which codes for 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase and leads to an increase in the endogenous ABA level. In addition to OsNCED-1, the gene expression analysis revealed the upregulation of a gene that codes for the Elongation of Upper most Internode (EUI) protein, an enzyme that catalyzes 16α, 17-epoxidation of non-13-hydroxylated GAs, which has been shown to deactivate gibberellins (GAs) in rice. The exogenous application of GA restores the wild-type phenotype in the transgenic line and ABA application induces the expression of EUI and suppresses the expression of OsAP2-39 in the wild-type line. These observations clarify the antagonistic relationship between ABA and GA and illustrate a mechanism that leads to homeostasis of these hormones. In vivo and in vitro analysis showed that the expression of both OsNCED-1 and EUI are directly controlled by OsAP2-39. Together, these results reveal a novel mechanism for the control of the ABA/GA balance in rice which is regulated by OsAP2-39 that in turn regulates plant growth and seed production.

The APETALA-2-Like Transcription Factor OsAP2-39 Controls Key Interactions between Abscisic Acid and Gibberellin in Rice

PubMed Central

Yaish, Mahmoud W.; El-kereamy, Ashraf; Zhu, Tong; Beatty, Perrin H.; Good, Allen G.; Bi, Yong-Mei; Rothstein, Steven J.

2010-01-01

The interaction between phytohormones is an important mechanism which controls growth and developmental processes in plants. Deciphering these interactions is a crucial step in helping to develop crops with enhanced yield and resistance to environmental stresses. Controlling the expression level of OsAP2-39 which includes an APETALA 2 (AP2) domain leads to phenotypic changes in rice. Overexpression of OsAP2-39 leads to a reduction in yield by decreasing the biomass and the number of seeds in the transgenic rice lines. Global transcriptome analysis of the OsAP2-39 overexpression transgenic rice revealed the upregulation of a key Abscisic Acid (ABA) biosynthetic gene OsNCED-I which codes for 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase and leads to an increase in the endogenous ABA level. In addition to OsNCED-1, the gene expression analysis revealed the upregulation of a gene that codes for the Elongation of Upper most Internode (EUI) protein, an enzyme that catalyzes 16α, 17-epoxidation of non-13-hydroxylated GAs, which has been shown to deactivate gibberellins (GAs) in rice. The exogenous application of GA restores the wild-type phenotype in the transgenic line and ABA application induces the expression of EUI and suppresses the expression of OsAP2-39 in the wild-type line. These observations clarify the antagonistic relationship between ABA and GA and illustrate a mechanism that leads to homeostasis of these hormones. In vivo and in vitro analysis showed that the expression of both OsNCED-1 and EUI are directly controlled by OsAP2-39. Together, these results reveal a novel mechanism for the control of the ABA/GA balance in rice which is regulated by OsAP2-39 that in turn regulates plant growth and seed production. PMID:20838584

Manganese-induced regulations in growth, yield formation, quality characters, rice aroma and enzyme involved in 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline biosynthesis in fragrant rice.

PubMed

Li, Meijuan; Ashraf, Umair; Tian, Hua; Mo, Zhaowen; Pan, Shenggang; Anjum, Shakeel Ahmad; Duan, Meiyang; Tang, Xiangru

2016-06-01

Micro-nutrient application is essential for normal plant growth while a little is known about manganese (Mn)-induced regulations in morpho-physiological attributes, aroma formation and enzyme involved in 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP) biosynthesis in aromatic rice. Present study aimed to examine the influence of four levels of Mn i.e., Mn1 (100 mg MnSO4 pot(-1)), Mn2 (150 mg MnSO4 pot(-1)), Mn3 (200 mg MnSO4 pot(-1)), and Mn4 (250 mg MnSO4 pot(-1)) on the growth, yield formation, quality characters, rice aroma and enzyme involved in 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline biosynthesis in two fragrant rice cultivars i.e., Meixiangzhan and Nongxiang 18. Pots without Mn application were served as control (Ck). Each pot contained 15 kg of soil. Effects on agronomic characters, quality attributes, 2-AP contents and enzymes involved in 2-AP biosynthesis have been studied in early and late season rice. Results depicted that Mn improved rice growth, yield and related characters, and some quality attributes significantly. It further up-regulated proline, pyrroline-5-carboxylic acid (P5C) (precursors of 2-AP), soluble proteins and activities of proline dehydrogenase (ProDH), Δ(1) pyrroline-5-carboxylic acid synthetase (P5CS) ornithine aminotransferase (OAT) that led to enhanced 2-AP production in rice grains. Moreover, higher Mn levels resulted in increased grain Mn contents in both rice cultivars. Along with growth and yield improvement, Mn application significantly improved rice aromatic contents. Overall, Nongxiang 18 accumulated more 2-AP contents than Meixiangzhan in both seasons under Mn application. This study further explored the importance of Mn in rice aroma formation and signifies that micro-nutrients can play significant roles in rice aroma synthesis; however, intensive studies at molecular levels are still needed to understand the exact mechanisms of Mn to improve rice aroma formation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

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

Yamaguchi, Kizashi; Nishihara, Satomichi; Saito, Toru

First principle calculations of effective exchange integrals (J) in the Heisenberg model for diradical species were performed by both symmetry-adapted (SA) multi-reference (MR) and broken-symmetry (BS) single reference (SR) methods. Mukherjee-type (Mk) state specific (SS) MR coupled-cluster (CC) calculations by the use of natural orbital (NO) references of ROHF, UHF, UDFT and CASSCF solutions were carried out to elucidate J values for di- and poly-radical species. Spin-unrestricted Hartree Fock (UHF) based coupled-cluster (CC) computations were also performed to these species. Comparison between UHF-NO(UNO)-MkMRCC and BS UHF-CC computational results indicated that spin-contamination of UHF-CC solutions still remains at the SD level.more » In order to eliminate the spin contamination, approximate spin-projection (AP) scheme was applied for UCC, and the AP procedure indeed corrected the error to yield good agreement with MkMRCC in energy. The CC double with spin-unrestricted Brueckner's orbital (UBD) was furthermore employed for these species, showing that spin-contamination involved in UHF solutions is largely suppressed, and therefore AP scheme for UBCCD removed easily the rest of spin-contamination. We also performed spin-unrestricted pure- and hybrid-density functional theory (UDFT) calculations of diradical and polyradical species. Three different computational schemes for total spin angular momentums were examined for the AP correction of the hybrid (H) UDFT. HUDFT calculations followed by AP, HUDFT(AP), yielded the S-T gaps that were qualitatively in good agreement with those of MkMRCCSD, UHF-CC(AP) and UB-CC(AP). Thus a systematic comparison among MkMRCCSD, UCC(AP) UBD(AP) and UDFT(AP) was performed concerning with the first principle calculations of J values in di- and poly-radical species. It was found that BS (AP) methods reproduce MkMRCCSD results, indicating their applicability to large exchange coupled systems.« less

SU-E-P-57: Radiation Doses Assessment to Paediatric Patients for Some Digital Diagnostic Radiology Examination in Emergency Department in Qatar

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

Abdallah, I; Aly, A; Al Naemi, H

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate radiation doses to pediatric patients undergoing standard radiographic examinations using Direct Digital Radiography (DDR) in Paediatric emergency center of Hamad General Hospital (HGH) in state of Qatar and compared with regional and international Dose Reference Levels (DRLs). Methods: Entrance Skin Dose (ESD) was measured for 2739 patients for two common X-ray examinations namely: Chest AP/PA, Abdomen. Exposure factors such as kV, mAs and Focal to Skin Distance (FSD) were recorded for each patient. Tube Output was measured for a range of selected kV values. ESD for each individual patient was calculatedmore » using the tube output and the technical exposure factors for each examination. The ESD values were compared with the some international Dose Reference Levels (DRL) for all types of examinations. Results: The most performed procedure during the time of this study was chest PA/PA (85%). The mean ESD values obtained from AP chest, PA chest and AP abdomen ranged 91–120, 80–84 and 209 – 659 µGy per radiograph for different age’s groups respectively. Two protocols have been used for chest AP and PA using different radiological parameters, and the different of ESD values for chest PA and were 41% for 1 years old child, 57% for 5 years old for chest AP. Conclusion: The mean ESD were compared with those found in literature and were found to be comparable. The radiation dose can be reduced more for Chest AP and PA examination by optimization of each investigation and hence more studies are required for this task. The results presented will serve as a baseline data needed for deriving local reference doses for pediatric X-ray examinations in this local department and hence it can be applied in the whole Qatar.« less

Combined soft and hard X-ray ambient pressure photoelectron spectroscopy studies of semiconductor/electrolyte interfaces

DOE PAGES

Starr, David E.; Favaro, Marco; Abdi, Fatwa F.; ...

2017-05-18

The development of solar fuel generating materials would greatly benefit from a molecular level understanding of the semiconductor/electrolyte interface and changes in the interface induced by an applied potential and illumination by solar light. Ambient pressure photoelectron spectroscopy techniques with both soft and hard X-rays, AP-XPS and AP-HAXPES respectively, have the potential to markedly contribute to this understanding. In this paper we initially provide two examples of current challenges in solar fuels material development that AP-XPS and AP-HAXPES can directly a ddress. This will be followed by a brief description of the distinguishing and complementary characteristics of soft and hardmore » X-ray AP-XPS and AP-HAXPES and best approaches to achieving monolayer sensitivity in solid/aqueous electrolyte studies. In particular we focus on the detection of surface adsorbed hydroxyl groups in the presence of aqueous hydroxide anions in the electrolyte, a common situation when investigating photoanodes for solar fuel generating applications. Finally, the article concludes by providing an example of a combined AP-XPS and AP-HAXPES study of a semiconductor/aqueous electrolyte interface currently used in water splitting devices specifically the BiVO 4/aqueous potassium phosphate electrolyte interface.« less

Impact of ionic current variability on human ventricular cellular electrophysiology.

PubMed

Romero, Lucía; Pueyo, Esther; Fink, Martin; Rodríguez, Blanca

2009-10-01

Abnormalities in repolarization and its rate dependence are known to be related to increased proarrhythmic risk. A number of repolarization-related electrophysiological properties are commonly used as preclinical biomarkers of arrhythmic risk. However, the variability and complexity of repolarization mechanisms make the use of cellular biomarkers to predict arrhythmic risk preclinically challenging. Our goal is to investigate the role of ionic current properties and their variability in modulating cellular biomarkers of arrhythmic risk to improve risk stratification and identification in humans. A systematic investigation into the sensitivity of the main preclinical biomarkers of arrhythmic risk to changes in ionic current conductances and kinetics was performed using computer simulations. Four stimulation protocols were applied to the ten Tusscher and Panfilov human ventricular model to quantify the impact of +/-15 and +/-30% variations in key model parameters on action potential (AP) properties, Ca(2+) and Na(+) dynamics, and their rate dependence. Simulations show that, in humans, AP duration is moderately sensitive to changes in all repolarization current conductances and in L-type Ca(2+) current (I(CaL)) and slow component of the delayed rectifier current (I(Ks)) inactivation kinetics. AP triangulation, however, is strongly dependent only on inward rectifier K(+) current (I(K1)) and delayed rectifier current (I(Kr)) conductances. Furthermore, AP rate dependence (i.e., AP duration rate adaptation and restitution properties) and intracellular Ca(2+) and Na(+) levels are highly sensitive to both I(CaL) and Na(+)/K(+) pump current (I(NaK)) properties. This study provides quantitative insights into the sensitivity of preclinical biomarkers of arrhythmic risk to variations in ionic current properties in humans. The results show the importance of sensitivity analysis as a powerful method for the in-depth validation of mathematical models in cardiac electrophysiology.

A composite MyD88/CD40 switch synergistically activates mouse and human dendritic cells for enhanced antitumor efficacy

PubMed Central

Narayanan, Priyadharshini; Lapteva, Natalia; Seethammagari, Mamatha; Levitt, Jonathan M.; Slawin, Kevin M.; Spencer, David M.

2011-01-01

The in vivo therapeutic efficacy of DC-based cancer vaccines is limited by suboptimal DC maturation protocols. Although delivery of TLR adjuvants systemically boosts DC-based cancer vaccine efficacy, it could also increase toxicity. Here, we have engineered a drug-inducible, composite activation receptor for DCs (referred to herein as DC-CAR) comprising the TLR adaptor MyD88, the CD40 cytoplasmic region, and 2 ligand-binding FKBP12 domains. Administration of a lipid-permeant dimerizing ligand (AP1903) induced oligomerization and activation of this fusion protein, which we termed iMyD88/CD40. AP1903 administration to vaccinated mice enabled prolonged and targeted activation of iMyD88/CD40-modified DCs. Compared with conventionally matured DCs, AP1903-activated iMyD88/CD40-DCs had increased activation of proinflammatory MAPKs. AP1903-activated iMyD88/CD40-transduced human or mouse DCs also produced higher levels of Th1 cytokines, showed improved migration in vivo, and enhanced both antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses and innate NK cell responses. Furthermore, treatment with AP1903 in vaccinated mice led to robust antitumor immunity against preestablished E.G7-OVA lymphomas and aggressive B16.F10 tumors. Thus, the iMyD88/CD40 unified “switch” effectively and safely replaced exogenous adjuvant cocktails, allowing remote and sustained DC activation in vivo. DC “licensing” through iMyD88/CD40 may represent a mechanism by which to exploit the natural synergy between the TLR and CD40 signaling pathways in DCs using a single small molecule drug and could augment the efficacy of antitumor DC-based vaccines. PMID:21383499

The clinical value of adipokines in predicting the severity and outcome of acute pancreatitis.

PubMed

Karpavicius, Andrius; Dambrauskas, Zilvinas; Gradauskas, Audrius; Samuilis, Arturas; Zviniene, Kristina; Kupcinskas, Juozas; Brimas, Gintautas; Meckovski, Artur; Sileikis, Audrius; Strupas, Kestutis

2016-08-22

Recent data shows that patients with severe acute pancreatic might benefit from early intensive therapy, enteral nutrition and timely transfer to specialized centers. The early prophylactic use of antibiotics in AP remains controversial. The role and need for new markers in stratification of acute pancreatitis is also uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic usefulness of adipokines in prediction of the severity and outcome of acute pancreatitis (AP). Prospective study was conducted in four clinical centers. The diagnosis and severity assessment of AP was established according to the revised 2012 Atlanta classification. Adipokines, IL-6 and CRP levels were measured at admission and on 3rd day of hospital stay and compared with the control group. The predictive accuracy of each marker was measured by area under the receiver operating curve. Forty healthy controls and 102 patients were enrolled in to the study. Twenty seven (26.5 %) patients had mild, 55 (53.9 %) - moderate and 20 (19.6 %) - severe AP. Only resistin (cut-off value 13.7 ng/ml) and IL-6 (cut-off value 473.4 pg/ml) were reliable early markers of SAP. IL-6 with cut-off value of 157.0 pg/ml was a predictor of necrosis. The peripancreatic necrosis volume of 112.5 ml was a marker of SAP and 433.0 ml cut-off value could be used to predict the need of interventions. The prognostic value of adipokines in AP is limited. Only admission resistin levels could serve as an early predictor for SAP. The Lithuanian Regional Ethics Committee approved the study protocol (permission No. L-12-02/1/2/3/4) and all the patients and the control group provided written informed consent.

77 FR 62506 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-15

...), LLC. Filed Date: 8/20/12. Accession Number: 20120820-5043. Comments Due: 5 p.m. ET 10/24/12. Docket Numbers: ER12-1007-001. Applicants: AP Gas & Electric (NY), LLC. Description: Notification of Non-Material Change-in-Status of AP Gas & Electric (NY), LLC. Filed Date: 10/3/12. Accession Number: 20121003-5042...

Characterization study of an intensified complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor active pixel sensor.

PubMed

Griffiths, J A; Chen, D; Turchetta, R; Royle, G J

2011-03-01

An intensified CMOS active pixel sensor (APS) has been constructed for operation in low-light-level applications: a high-gain, fast-light decay image intensifier has been coupled via a fiber optic stud to a prototype "VANILLA" APS, developed by the UK based MI3 consortium. The sensor is capable of high frame rates and sparse readout. This paper presents a study of the performance parameters of the intensified VANILLA APS system over a range of image intensifier gain levels when uniformly illuminated with 520 nm green light. Mean-variance analysis shows the APS saturating around 3050 Digital Units (DU), with the maximum variance increasing with increasing image intensifier gain. The system's quantum efficiency varies in an exponential manner from 260 at an intensifier gain of 7.45 × 10(3) to 1.6 at a gain of 3.93 × 10(1). The usable dynamic range of the system is 60 dB for intensifier gains below 1.8 × 10(3), dropping to around 40 dB at high gains. The conclusion is that the system shows suitability for the desired application.

Characterization study of an intensified complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor active pixel sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griffiths, J. A.; Chen, D.; Turchetta, R.; Royle, G. J.

2011-03-01

An intensified CMOS active pixel sensor (APS) has been constructed for operation in low-light-level applications: a high-gain, fast-light decay image intensifier has been coupled via a fiber optic stud to a prototype "VANILLA" APS, developed by the UK based MI3 consortium. The sensor is capable of high frame rates and sparse readout. This paper presents a study of the performance parameters of the intensified VANILLA APS system over a range of image intensifier gain levels when uniformly illuminated with 520 nm green light. Mean-variance analysis shows the APS saturating around 3050 Digital Units (DU), with the maximum variance increasing with increasing image intensifier gain. The system's quantum efficiency varies in an exponential manner from 260 at an intensifier gain of 7.45 × 103 to 1.6 at a gain of 3.93 × 101. The usable dynamic range of the system is 60 dB for intensifier gains below 1.8 × 103, dropping to around 40 dB at high gains. The conclusion is that the system shows suitability for the desired application.

Tumor-targeting peptide conjugated pH-responsive micelles as a potential drug carrier for cancer therapy.

PubMed

Wu, Xiang Lan; Kim, Jong Ho; Koo, Heebeom; Bae, Sang Mun; Shin, Hyeri; Kim, Min Sang; Lee, Byung-Heon; Park, Rang-Woon; Kim, In-San; Choi, Kuiwon; Kwon, Ick Chan; Kim, Kwangmeyung; Lee, Doo Sung

2010-02-17

Herein, we prepared tumor-targeting peptide (AP peptide; CRKRLDRN) conjugated pH-responsive polymeric micelles (pH-PMs) in cancer therapy by active and pH-responsive tumor targeting delivery systems, simultaneously. The active tumor targeting and tumoral pH-responsive polymeric micelles were prepared by mixing AP peptide conjugated PEG-poly(d,l-lactic acid) block copolymer (AP-PEG-PLA) into the pH-responsive micelles of methyl ether poly(ethylene glycol) (MPEG)-poly(beta-amino ester) (PAE) block copolymer (MPEG-PAE). These mixed amphiphilic block copolymers were self-assembled to form stable AP peptide-conjugated and pH-responsive AP-PEG-PLA/MPEG-PAE micelles (AP-pH-PMs) with an average size of 150 nm. The AP-pH-PMs containing 10 wt % of AP-PEG-PLA showed a sharp pH-dependent micellization/demicellization transition at the tumoral acid pH. Also, they presented the pH-dependent drug release profile at the acidic pH of 6.4. The fluorescence dye, TRITC, encapsulated AP-pH-PMs (TRITC-AP-pH-PMs) presented the higher tumor-specific targeting ability in vitro cancer cell culture system and in vivo tumor-bearing mice, compared to control pH-responsive micelles of MPEG-PAE. For the cancer therapy, the anticancer drug, doxorubicin (DOX), was efficiently encapsulated into the AP-pH-PMs (DOX-AP-pH-PMs) with a higher loading efficiency. DOX-AP-pH-PMs efficiently deliver anticancer drugs in MDA-MB231 human breast tumor-bearing mice, resulted in excellent anticancer therapeutic efficacy, compared to free DOX and DOX encapsulated MEG-PAE micelles, indicating the excellent tumor targeting ability of AP-pH-PMs. Therefore, these tumor-targeting peptide-conjugated and pH-responsive polymeric micelles have great potential application in cancer therapy.

Using the automata processor for fast pattern recognition in high energy physics experiments. A proof of concept

DOE PAGES

Michael H. L. S. Wang; Cancelo, Gustavo; Green, Christopher; ...

2016-06-25

Here, we explore the Micron Automata Processor (AP) as a suitable commodity technology that can address the growing computational needs of pattern recognition in High Energy Physics (HEP) experiments. A toy detector model is developed for which an electron track confirmation trigger based on the Micron AP serves as a test case. Although primarily meant for high speed text-based searches, we demonstrate a proof of concept for the use of the Micron AP in a HEP trigger application.

Using the automata processor for fast pattern recognition in high energy physics experiments. A proof of concept

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

Michael H. L. S. Wang; Cancelo, Gustavo; Green, Christopher

Here, we explore the Micron Automata Processor (AP) as a suitable commodity technology that can address the growing computational needs of pattern recognition in High Energy Physics (HEP) experiments. A toy detector model is developed for which an electron track confirmation trigger based on the Micron AP serves as a test case. Although primarily meant for high speed text-based searches, we demonstrate a proof of concept for the use of the Micron AP in a HEP trigger application.

Recognition of DNA abasic site nanocavity by fluorophore-switched probe: Suitable for all sequence environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ying; Hu, Yuehua; Wu, Tao; Zhang, Lihua; Liu, Hua; Zhou, Xiaoshun; Shao, Yong

2016-01-01

Removal of a damaged base in DNA produces an abasic site (AP site) nanocavity. If left un-repaired in vivo by the specific enzyme, this nanocavity will result in nucleotide mutation in the following DNA replication. Therefore, selective recognition of AP site nanocavity by small molecules is important for identification of such DNA damage and development of genetic drugs. In this work, we investigate the fluorescence behavior of isoquinoline alkaloids including palmatine (PAL), berberine (BER), epiberberine (EPI), jatrorrhizine (JAT), coptisine (COP), coralyne (COR), worenine (WOR), berberrubine (BEU), sanguinarine (SAN), chelerythrine (CHE), and nitidine (NIT) upon binding with the AP nanocavity. PAL is screened out as the most efficient fluorophore-switched probe to recognize the AP nanocavity over the fully matched DNA. Its fluorescence enhancement occurs for all of the AP nanocavity sequence environments, which has not been achieved by the previously used probes. The bridged π conjugation effect should partially contribute to the AP nanocavity-specific fluorescence, as opposed to the solvent effect. Due to the strong binding with the AP nanocavity, PAL will find wide applications in the DNA damage recognition and sensor development.

A rapid and efficient assay for extracting DNA from fungi

USGS Publications Warehouse

Griffin, Dale W.; Kellogg, C.A.; Peak, K.K.; Shinn, E.A.

2002-01-01

Aims: A method for the rapid extraction of fungal DNA from small quantities of tissue in a batch-processing format was investigated. Methods and Results: Tissue (< 3.0 mg) was scraped from freshly-grown fungal isolates. The tissue was suspended in buffer AP1 and subjected to seven rounds of freeze/thaw using a crushed dry ice/ethanol bath and a boiling water bath. After a 30 min boiling step, the tissue was quickly ground against the wall of the microfuge tube using a sterile pipette tip. The Qiagen DNeasy Plant Tissue Kit protocol was then used to purify the DNA for PCR/ sequencing applications. Conclusions: The method allowed batch DNA extraction from multiple fungal isolates using a simple yet rapid and reliable assay. Significance and Impact of the Study: Use of this assay will allow researchers to obtain DNA from fungi quickly for use in molecular assays that previously required specialized instrumentation, was time-consuming or was not conducive to batch processing.

Assembling short reads from jumping libraries with large insert sizes.

PubMed

Vasilinetc, Irina; Prjibelski, Andrey D; Gurevich, Alexey; Korobeynikov, Anton; Pevzner, Pavel A

2015-10-15

Advances in Next-Generation Sequencing technologies and sample preparation recently enabled generation of high-quality jumping libraries that have a potential to significantly improve short read assemblies. However, assembly algorithms have to catch up with experimental innovations to benefit from them and to produce high-quality assemblies. We present a new algorithm that extends recently described exSPAnder universal repeat resolution approach to enable its applications to several challenging data types, including jumping libraries generated by the recently developed Illumina Nextera Mate Pair protocol. We demonstrate that, with these improvements, bacterial genomes often can be assembled in a few contigs using only a single Nextera Mate Pair library of short reads. Described algorithms are implemented in C++ as a part of SPAdes genome assembler, which is freely available at bioinf.spbau.ru/en/spades. ap@bioinf.spbau.ru Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Experiences with the European guidelines on quality criteria for radiographic images in Tanzania

PubMed Central

Muhogora, W. E.; Nyanda, A. M.; Kazema, R. R.

2001-01-01

Objective assessment of the quality of radiographic images is practically a difficult task and protocols that address this problem are few. In 1996, the European union published nearly objective image quality criteria to unify the practices in Europe. However, experience with these criteria in countries of lower health care levels is little documented. As a case study in Tanzania, we present the general performance of European guidelines in some Tanzanian hospitals to a total of 200 radiographs obtained from some common x‐ray examinations. The results show that more than 70% of chest (PA), lumbar spine (AP), and pelvis AP radiographs passed the quality criteria, while the performance of lumbar spine LAT x‐ray examinations was about 50% and therefore less satisfactory. The corresponding mean entrance dose to the patient for specified x‐ray techniques was of range 0.08–0.56 mGy, 3.1–7.7 mGy, 2.53–5.4 mGy, and 4.0–16.78 mGy for chest PA, lumbar spine AP, pelvis AP and lumbar spine LAT x‐ray examinations, respectively. Although a good number of observers were not well familiar to the guidelines, the quality criteria have been found useful and their adoption in the country recommended. The need to provide relevant education and training to staff in the radiology departments is of utmost importance. PACS number(s): 87.57.–s, 87.52.–g PMID:11686743

Protein-phosphotyrosine proteome profiling by superbinder-SH2 domain affinity purification mass spectrometry, sSH2-AP-MS.

PubMed

Tong, Jiefei; Cao, Biyin; Martyn, Gregory D; Krieger, Jonathan R; Taylor, Paul; Yates, Bradley; Sidhu, Sachdev S; Li, Shawn S C; Mao, Xinliang; Moran, Michael F

2017-03-01

Recently, "superbinder" SH2 domain variants with three amino acid substitutions (sSH2) were reported to have 100-fold or greater affinity for protein-phosphotyrosine (pY) than natural SH2 domains. Here we report a protocol in which His-tagged Src sSH2 efficiently captures pY-peptides from protease-digested HeLa cell total protein extracts. Affinity purification of pY-peptides by this method shows little bias for pY-proximal amino acid sequences, comparable to that achieved by using antibodies to pY, but with equal or higher yield. Superbinder-SH2 affinity purification mass spectrometry (sSH2-AP-MS) therefore provides an efficient and economical approach for unbiased pY-directed phospho-proteome profiling without the use of antibodies. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Engineering biosynthetic excitable tissues from unexcitable cells for electrophysiological and cell therapy studies.

PubMed

Kirkton, Robert D; Bursac, Nenad

2011-01-01

Patch-clamp recordings in single-cell expression systems have been traditionally used to study the function of ion channels. However, this experimental setting does not enable assessment of tissue-level function such as action potential (AP) conduction. Here we introduce a biosynthetic system that permits studies of both channel activity in single cells and electrical conduction in multicellular networks. We convert unexcitable somatic cells into an autonomous source of electrically excitable and conducting cells by stably expressing only three membrane channels. The specific roles that these expressed channels have on AP shape and conduction are revealed by different pharmacological and pacing protocols. Furthermore, we demonstrate that biosynthetic excitable cells and tissues can repair large conduction defects within primary 2- and 3-dimensional cardiac cell cultures. This approach enables novel studies of ion channel function in a reproducible tissue-level setting and may stimulate the development of new cell-based therapies for excitable tissue repair.

Clinical application of diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A:F-1500) for controlled hypotension.

PubMed

Kikuta, Y; Ohiwa, E; Okada, K; Watanabe, A; Haruki, S

1999-01-01

In our animal study, it was revealed that diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A:F-1500) has a dose-dependent hypotension effect of up to 60% decrease in mean arterial pressure compared to control value. Furthermore, in healthy male volunteers, the safety of Ap4A up to 4 mg.min-1 was confirmed. In patients who require surgical procedures under general anesthesia together with controlled hypotension, hypotension was induced by Ap4A in order to examine its hypotensive effect and modulating action on the blood pressure. Ten patients who required controlled hypotension and who were scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia were studied. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane (n = 7) or sevoflurane (n = 3) in oxygen-nitrous oxide. Controlled hypotension was induced by Ap4A administered at a rate of 10-20 micrograms.kg-1.min-1. The dose was adjusted at a maximum rate of 80 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 until the target blood pressure was achieved. Arterial blood pressure and heart rate were monitored. Arterial samples were drawn at 4 separate time points to measure the concentration of Ap4A in the plasma. The time required for attaining the target blood pressure after initiation of Ap4A infusion was about 16 min, and the time lapse between withdrawal of infusion to recovery of blood pressure was about 18 min. No reflex tachycardia was observed during infusion of Ap4A and no rebound hypertension was evident after withdrawal. The plasma Ap4A concentration increased in response to the acceleration rate of Ap4A administration with a tendency of augmented hypotensive effect. As it produces an excellent hypotensive effect together with a modulating action on blood pressure, Ap4A was assessed as useful in producing controlled hypotension.

Angelica polysaccharides inhibit the growth and promote the apoptosis of U251 glioma cells in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Zhang, Wen-Feng; Yang, Yan; Li, Xin; Xu, Da-Yan; Yan, Yu-Li; Gao, Qiao; Jia, Ai-Ling; Duan, Ming-Hua

2017-09-15

Angelica sinensis (Oliv) Diels (Apiaceae) is a traditional medicine that has been used for more than 2000 years in China. It exhibits various therapeutic effects including neuroprotective, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities. Angelica polysaccharides (APs), bioactive constituents of Angelica have been shown to be responsible for these effects; however, the utility of APs for the treatment of glioma and their mechanism of action remain to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of APs on a glioma cell line and their molecular mechanism of action. U251 cells were utilized to confirm the effects of APs on glioma. The human glioblastoma cell line U251 was utilized for both in vitro and in vivo models, in which we tested the effects of APs. Flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, western blotting, and MTT assays were used to elucidate the effects of APs on cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis. The results demonstrated that APs significantly inhibited the growth and proliferation of U251 cells and induced their apoptosis. Furthermore, APs effectively reduced the expression of several cell cycle regulators: cyclins D1, B, and E. The apoptosis suppressor protein Bcl-2 was also downregulated, and the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved-caspase-3 increased. Additionally, APs inhibited the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling pathway and stimulated the expression of E-cadherin, thus prohibiting cell growth. In conclusion, the results indicate that APs attenuate the tumorigenicity of glioma cells and promote their apoptosis by suppressing the TGF-β signaling pathway. The present study therefore provides evidence of the inhibitory effects of APs against glioma progression, and proposes their potential application as alternative therapeutic agents for glioma. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Transglutaminase-mediated protein immobilization to casein nanolayers created on a plastic surface.

PubMed

Kamiya, Noriho; Doi, Satoshi; Tominaga, Jo; Ichinose, Hirofumi; Goto, Masahiro

2005-01-01

An enzymatic method for covalent and site-specific immobilization of recombinant proteins on a plastic surface was explored. Using Escherichia coli alkaline phosphatase (AP) with a specific peptide tag (MKHKGS) genetically incorporated at the N-terminus as a model (NK-AP), microbial transglutaminase (MTG)-mediated protein immobilization was demonstrated. To generate a reactive surface for MTG, a 96-well polystyrene microtiter plate was physically coated with casein, a good MTG substrate. Successful immobilization of recombinant AP to the nanolayer of casein on the surface of the microtiter plate was verified by the detection of enzymatic activity. Since little activity was observed when wild-type AP was used, immobilization of NK-AP was likely directed by the specific peptide tag. When polymeric casein prepared by MTG was used as a matrix on the plate, the loading capacity of AP was increased about 2-fold compared to when casein was used as the matrix. Transglutaminase-mediated site-specific posttranslational modification of proteins offers one way of generating a variety of protein-based solid formulations for biotechnological applications.

Echo-Planar Imaging-Based, J-Resolved Spectroscopic Imaging for Improved Metabolite Detection in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-01

cancer is through imaging techniques including ultrasound , computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with or without the help...performed at least 8 weeks after transrectal ultrasound -guided sextant biopsy. The entire protocol was ap- proved by the Institutional Review Board...volume of interest (VOI) was localized using three slice-selective radiofrequency (RF) pulses (90°–180°–180°) (Fig. 1). The total time for the

Advanced information processing system: Hosting of advanced guidance, navigation and control algorithms on AIPS using ASTER

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brenner, Richard; Lala, Jaynarayan H.; Nagle, Gail A.; Schor, Andrei; Turkovich, John

1994-01-01

This program demonstrated the integration of a number of technologies that can increase the availability and reliability of launch vehicles while lowering costs. Availability is increased with an advanced guidance algorithm that adapts trajectories in real-time. Reliability is increased with fault-tolerant computers and communication protocols. Costs are reduced by automatically generating code and documentation. This program was realized through the cooperative efforts of academia, industry, and government. The NASA-LaRC coordinated the effort, while Draper performed the integration. Georgia Institute of Technology supplied a weak Hamiltonian finite element method for optimal control problems. Martin Marietta used MATLAB to apply this method to a launch vehicle (FENOC). Draper supplied the fault-tolerant computing and software automation technology. The fault-tolerant technology includes sequential and parallel fault-tolerant processors (FTP & FTPP) and authentication protocols (AP) for communication. Fault-tolerant technology was incrementally incorporated. Development culminated with a heterogeneous network of workstations and fault-tolerant computers using AP. Draper's software automation system, ASTER, was used to specify a static guidance system based on FENOC, navigation, flight control (GN&C), models, and the interface to a user interface for mission control. ASTER generated Ada code for GN&C and C code for models. An algebraic transform engine (ATE) was developed to automatically translate MATLAB scripts into ASTER.

Aminopyridinate-FI hybrids, their hafnium and titanium complexes, and their application in the living polymerization of 1-hexene.

PubMed

Haas, Isabelle; Dietel, Thomas; Press, Konstantin; Kol, Moshe; Kempe, Rhett

2013-10-11

Based on two well-established ligand systems, the aminopyridinato (Ap) and the phenoxyimine (FI) ligand systems, new Ap-FI hybrid ligands were developed. Four different Ap-FI hybrid ligands were synthesized through a simple condensation reaction and fully characterized. The reaction of hafnium tetrabenzyl with all four Ap-FI hybrid ligands exclusively led to mono(Ap-FI) complexes of the type [(Ap-FI)HfBn2 ]. The ligands acted as tetradentate dianionic chelates. Upon activation with tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane, the hafnium-dibenzyl complexes led to highly active catalysts for the polymerization of 1-hexene. Ultrahigh molecular weights and extremely narrow polydispersities support the living nature of this polymerization process. A possible deactivation product of the hafnium catalysts was characterized by single-crystal X-ray analysis and is discussed. The coordination modes of these new ligands were studied with the help of model titanium complexes. The reaction of titanium(IV) isopropoxide with ligand 1 led to a mono(Ap-FI) complex, which showed the desired fac-mer coordination mode. Titanium (IV) isopropoxide reacted with ligand 4 to give a complex of the type [(ApH-FI)2 Ti(OiPr)2 ], which featured the ligand in its monoanionic form. The two titanium complexes were characterized by X-ray crystal-structure analysis. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

GM2-activator protein: a new biomarker for lung cancer.

PubMed

Potprommanee, Laddawan; Ma, Haou-Tzong; Shank, Lalida; Juan, Yi-Hsiu; Liao, Wei-Yu; Chen, Shui-Tein; Yu, Chong-Jen

2015-01-01

Effective biomarkers for early diagnosis of lung cancer are needed. A recent study demonstrated that urinary GM2-activator protein (GM2AP) level was increased in lung cancer patients. This study aims to validate the potential application of GM2AP as a biomarker for diagnosis of lung cancer. Serum and urine samples were obtained from 189 participants (133 patients for treatment naive lung cancer, 26 healthy volunteers for urine, and 30 healthy volunteers for serum). GM2AP level was detected by Western blotting and quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The GM2AP expression in tumors and nontumor parts of lung tissues from 143 nonsmall cell lung cancers was detected by immunohistochemical stains. There was an 8.11 ± 1.36 folds increase in urine and a 5.41 ± 0.73 folds increase in serum level of GM2AP in lung cancer patients compared with healthy volunteers (p < 0.0001), achieving a 0.89 AUC value in urine and 0.90 AUC value in serum for the receiver-operating characteristic curves. Both serum and urine levels of GM2AP correlated significantly with pathology stages (urine, p = 0.009; serum, p < 0.0001). Using immunohistochemical, positive expression of GM2AP was found at 83.9% of nonsmall cell lung cancers patients and none in normal tissue. The GM2AP expression was significantly correlated with pathology stage (p = 0.0001). Patients with higher GM2AP expression had shorter overall survival (p = 0.045) and disease-free survival (p = 0.049) than lower GM2AP expression. Moreover, the multivariate analysis suggested GM2AP as an independent predictors of disease-free survival and overall survival. Our study demonstrates that GM2AP might serve as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in patients with lung cancer.

AP39, a mitochondria‐targeting hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor, protects against myocardial reperfusion injury independently of salvage kinase signalling

PubMed Central

Karwi, Qutuba G; Bornbaum, Julia; Boengler, Kerstin; Torregrossa, Roberta; Whiteman, Matthew; Wood, Mark E; Schulz, Rainer

2017-01-01

Background and Purpose H2S protects myocardium against ischaemia/reperfusion injury. This protection may involve the cytosolic reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK) pathway, but direct effects on mitochondrial function are possible. Here, we investigated the potential cardioprotective effect of a mitochondria‐specific H2S donor, AP39, at reperfusion against ischaemia/reperfusion injury. Experimental Approach Anaesthetized rats underwent myocardial ischaemia (30 min)/reperfusion (120 min) with randomization to receive interventions before reperfusion: vehicle, AP39 (0.01, 0.1, 1 μmol·kg−1), or control compounds AP219 and ADT‐OH (1 μmol·kg−1). LY294002, L‐NAME or ODQ were used to investigate the involvement of the RISK pathway. Myocardial samples harvested 5 min after reperfusion were analysed for RISK protein phosphorylation and isolated cardiac mitochondria were used to examine the direct mitochondrial effects of AP39. Key Results AP39, dose‐dependently, reduced infarct size. Inhibition of either PI3K/Akt, eNOS or sGC did not affect this effect of AP39. Western blot analysis confirmed that AP39 did not induce phosphorylation of Akt, eNOS, GSK‐3β or ERK1/2. In isolated subsarcolemmal and interfibrillar mitochondria, AP39 significantly attenuated mitochondrial ROS generation without affecting respiratory complexes I or II. Furthermore, AP39 inhibited mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) opening and co‐incubation of mitochondria with AP39 and cyclosporine A induced an additive inhibitory effect on the PTP. Conclusion and Implications AP39 protects against reperfusion injury independently of the cytosolic RISK pathway. This cardioprotective effect could be mediated by inhibiting PTP via a cyclophilin D‐independent mechanism. Thus, selective delivery of H2S to mitochondria may be therapeutically applicable for employing the cardioprotective utility of H2S. PMID:27930802

Analytical performance specifications for external quality assessment - definitions and descriptions.

PubMed

Jones, Graham R D; Albarede, Stephanie; Kesseler, Dagmar; MacKenzie, Finlay; Mammen, Joy; Pedersen, Morten; Stavelin, Anne; Thelen, Marc; Thomas, Annette; Twomey, Patrick J; Ventura, Emma; Panteghini, Mauro

2017-06-27

External Quality Assurance (EQA) is vital to ensure acceptable analytical quality in medical laboratories. A key component of an EQA scheme is an analytical performance specification (APS) for each measurand that a laboratory can use to assess the extent of deviation of the obtained results from the target value. A consensus conference held in Milan in 2014 has proposed three models to set APS and these can be applied to setting APS for EQA. A goal arising from this conference is the harmonisation of EQA APS between different schemes to deliver consistent quality messages to laboratories irrespective of location and the choice of EQA provider. At this time there are wide differences in the APS used in different EQA schemes for the same measurands. Contributing factors to this variation are that the APS in different schemes are established using different criteria, applied to different types of data (e.g. single data points, multiple data points), used for different goals (e.g. improvement of analytical quality; licensing), and with the aim of eliciting different responses from participants. This paper provides recommendations from the European Federation of Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Task and Finish Group on Performance Specifications for External Quality Assurance Schemes (TFG-APSEQA) and on clear terminology for EQA APS. The recommended terminology covers six elements required to understand APS: 1) a statement on the EQA material matrix and its commutability; 2) the method used to assign the target value; 3) the data set to which APS are applied; 4) the applicable analytical property being assessed (i.e. total error, bias, imprecision, uncertainty); 5) the rationale for the selection of the APS; and 6) the type of the Milan model(s) used to set the APS. The terminology is required for EQA participants and other interested parties to understand the meaning of meeting or not meeting APS.

First principle calculations of effective exchange integrals: Comparison between SR (BS) and MR computational results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamaguchi, Kizashi; Nishihara, Satomichi; Saito, Toru; Yamanaka, Shusuke; Kitagawa, Yasutaka; Kawakami, Takashi; Yamada, Satoru; Isobe, Hiroshi; Okumura, Mitsutaka

2015-01-01

First principle calculations of effective exchange integrals (J) in the Heisenberg model for diradical species were performed by both symmetry-adapted (SA) multi-reference (MR) and broken-symmetry (BS) single reference (SR) methods. Mukherjee-type (Mk) state specific (SS) MR coupled-cluster (CC) calculations by the use of natural orbital (NO) references of ROHF, UHF, UDFT and CASSCF solutions were carried out to elucidate J values for di- and poly-radical species. Spin-unrestricted Hartree Fock (UHF) based coupled-cluster (CC) computations were also performed to these species. Comparison between UHF-NO(UNO)-MkMRCC and BS UHF-CC computational results indicated that spin-contamination of UHF-CC solutions still remains at the SD level. In order to eliminate the spin contamination, approximate spin-projection (AP) scheme was applied for UCC, and the AP procedure indeed corrected the error to yield good agreement with MkMRCC in energy. The CC double with spin-unrestricted Brueckner's orbital (UBD) was furthermore employed for these species, showing that spin-contamination involved in UHF solutions is largely suppressed, and therefore AP scheme for UBCCD removed easily the rest of spin-contamination. We also performed spin-unrestricted pure- and hybrid-density functional theory (UDFT) calculations of diradical and polyradical species. Three different computational schemes for total spin angular momentums were examined for the AP correction of the hybrid (H) UDFT. HUDFT calculations followed by AP, HUDFT(AP), yielded the S-T gaps that were qualitatively in good agreement with those of MkMRCCSD, UHF-CC(AP) and UB-CC(AP). Thus a systematic comparison among MkMRCCSD, UCC(AP) UBD(AP) and UDFT(AP) was performed concerning with the first principle calculations of J values in di- and poly-radical species. It was found that BS (AP) methods reproduce MkMRCCSD results, indicating their applicability to large exchange coupled systems.

Induction of antigen-specific immunity by pH-sensitive carbonate apatite as a potent vaccine carrier

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

Hebishima, Takehisa; Tada, Seiichi; Takeshima, Shin-nosuke

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer To develop effective vaccine, we examined the effects of CO{sub 3}Ap as an antigen carrier. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer OVA contained in CO{sub 3}Ap was taken up by BMDCs more effectively than free OVA. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer OVA-immunized splenocytes was activated by OVA contained in CO{sub 3}Ap effectively. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer OVA contained in CO{sub 3}Ap induced strong OVA-specific immune responses to C57BL/6 mice. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer CO{sub 3}Ap is promising antigen carrier for the achievement of effective vaccine. -- Abstract: The ability of carbonate apatite (CO{sub 3}Ap) to enhance antigen-specific immunity was examined in vitro and in vivo to investigate its utility as a vaccine carrier.more » Murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells took up ovalbumin (OVA) containing CO{sub 3}Ap more effectively than free OVA. Interestingly, mice immunized with OVA-containing CO{sub 3}Ap produced OVA-specific antibodies more effectively than mice immunized with free OVA. Furthermore, immunization of C57BL/6 mice with OVA-containing CO{sub 3}Ap induced the proliferation and antigen-specific production of IFN-{gamma} by splenocytes more strongly than immunization with free OVA. Moreover, no significant differences were detected in the induction of delayed-type hypersensitivity responses, an immune reaction involving an antigen-specific, cell-mediated immune response between OVA-containing CO{sub 3}Ap and OVA-containing alumina salt (Alum), suggesting that CO{sub 3}Ap induced cell-mediated immune response to the same degree as Alum, which is commonly used for clinical applications. This study is the first to demonstrate the induction of antigen-specific immune responses in vivo by CO{sub 3}Ap.« less

Bond strength of dental adhesive systems irradiated with ionizing radiation.

PubMed

Dibo da Cruz, Adriana; Goncalves, Luciano de Souza; Rastelli, Alessandra Nara de Souza; Correr-Sobrinho, Lorenco; Bagnato, Vanderlei Salvador; Boscolo, Frab Norberto

2010-04-01

The aim of the present paper was to determine the effect of different types of ionizing radiation on the bond strength of three different dentin adhesive systems. One hundred twenty specimens of 60 human teeth (protocol number: 032/2007) sectioned mesiodistally were divided into 3 groups according to the adhesives systems used: SB (Adper Single Bond Plus), CB (Clearfil SE Bond) and AP (Adper Prompt Self-Etch). The adhesives were applied on dentin and photo-activated using LED (Lec 1000, MMoptics, 1000 mW/cm2). Customized elastomer molds (0.5 mm thickness) with three orifices of 1.2 mm diameter were placed onto the bonding areas and filled with composite resin (Filtek Z-250), which was photo-activated for 20 s. Each group was subdivided into 4 subgroups for application of the different types of ionizing radiation: ultraviolet radiation (UV), diagnostic x-ray radiation (DX), therapeutic x-ray radiation (TX) and without irradiation (control group, CG). Microshear tests were carried out (Instron, model 4411), and afterwards the modes of failure were evaluated by optical and scanning electron microscope and classified using 5 scores: adhesive failure, mixed failures with 3 significance levels, and cohesive failure. The results of the shear bond strength test were submitted to ANOVA with Tukey's test and Dunnett's test, and the data from the failure pattern evaluation were analyzed with the Mann Whitney test (p = 0.05). No change in bond strength of CB and AP was observed after application of the different radiation types, only SB showed increase in bond strength after UV (p = 0.0267) irradiation. The UV also changed the failure patterns of SB (p = 0.0001). The radio-induced changes did not cause degradation of the restorations, which means that they can be exposed to these types of ionizing radiation without weakening the bond strength.

Effects of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD(+)) and Diadenosine Tetraphosphate (Ap4A) on Electrical Activity of Working and Pacemaker Atrial Myocardium in Guinea Pigs.

PubMed

Pustovit, K B; Abramochkin, D V

2016-04-01

Effects of nucleotide polyphosphate compounds (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, NAD(+); diadenosine tetraphosphate, Ap4A) on the confi guration of action potentials were studied in isolated preparations of guinea pig sinoatrial node and right atrial appendage (auricle). In the working myocardium, NAD(+) and Ap4A in concentrations of 10(-5) and 10(-4) M had no effect on resting potential, but significantly reduced the duration of action potentials; the most pronounced decrease was found at 25% repolarization. In the primary pacemaker of the sinoatrial node, both concentrations of NAD(+) and Ap4A induced hyperpolarization and reduction in the rate of slow diastolic depolarization, but significant slowing of the sinus rhythm was produced by these substances only in the concentration of 10(-4) M. Moreover, AP shortening and marked acceleration of AP upstroke were observed in the pacemaker myocardium after application of polyphosphates. Comparative analysis of the effects of NAD(+) and Ap4A in the working and pacemaker myocardium drove us to a hypothesis on inhibitory effects of these substances on L-type calcium current accompanied by stimulation of one or several potassium currents, which induce enhancement of repolarization and hyperpolarization of membranes probably mediated by the activation of purine receptors.

Component Database for the APS Upgrade

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

Veseli, S.; Arnold, N. D.; Jarosz, D. P.

The Advanced Photon Source Upgrade (APS-U) project will replace the existing APS storage ring with a multi-bend achromat (MBA) lattice to provide extreme transverse coherence and extreme brightness x-rays to its users. As the time to replace the existing storage ring accelerator is of critical concern, an aggressive one-year removal/installation/testing period is being planned. To aid in the management of the thousands of components to be installed in such a short time, the Component Database (CDB) application is being developed with the purpose to identify, document, track, locate, and organize components in a central database. Three major domains are beingmore » addressed: Component definitions (which together make up an exhaustive "Component Catalog"), Designs (groupings of components to create subsystems), and Component Instances (“Inventory”). Relationships between the major domains offer additional "system knowledge" to be captured that will be leveraged with future tools and applications. It is imperative to provide sub-system engineers with a functional application early in the machine design cycle. Topics discussed in this paper include the initial design and deployment of CDB, as well as future development plans.« less

10 CFR Appendix C to Part 52 - Design Certification Rule for the AP600 Design

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... design, in accordance with 10 CFR part 52, subpart B. The applicant for certification of the AP600 design... appendix. B. Generic technical specifications means the information, required by 10 CFR 50.36 and 50.36a... licensee must meet the requirement in Section III.B of this appendix to reference Tier 2 when referencing...

Size response of an SMPS-APS system to commercial multi-walled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Seung-Bok; Lee, Jun-Hyun; Bae, Gwi-Nam

2010-02-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are representative-engineered nanomaterials with unique properties. The safe production of CNTs urgently requires reliable tools to assess inhalation exposure. In this study, on-line aerosol instruments were employed to detect the release of multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs) in workplace environments. The size responses of aerosol instruments consisting of both a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and an aerodynamic particle sizer (APS) were examined using five types of commercial MWCNTs. A MWCNT solution and powder were aerosolized using atomizing and shaking methods, respectively. Regardless of the phase and purity, the aerosolized MWCNTs showed consistent size distributions with both SMPS and APS. The SMPS and APS measurements revealed a dominant broad peak at approximately 200-400 nm and a distinct narrow peak at approximately 2 μm, respectively. Comparing with field application of the two aerosol instruments, the APS response could be a fingerprint of the MWCNTs in a real workplace environment. A modification of the atomizing method is recommended for the long-term inhalation toxicity studies.

Photochemical Transformation and Phototoxicity of 1-Aminopyrene

PubMed Central

Zeng, Kui; Hwang, Huey-Min; Dong, Shiming; Shi, Xiaochun; Wilson, Kaneytta; Green, Jacinta; Jiao, Yuguo; Yu, Hongtao

2013-01-01

1-Aminopyrene (1-AP) is an environmental mutagen and a metabolite of the mutagenic environmental pollutant, 1-nitropyrene (1-NO2P). Upon light irradiation, 1-AP transforms into oxidation products with a half-life of 7.1 min in 10% methanolic buffer. The presence of free radical/singlet oxygen scavengers DTT, histidine, or NaN3, slows down 1-AP photochemical reaction. The reaction is also slower in the presence of DNA. The photoproducts identified include 1-hydroxyaminopyrene, 1-nitrosopyrene, 1-NO2P, 1-amino-x-hydroxypyrene, and three covalent dimers. The progressive oxidation of the amino group to hydroxyamino, nitroso, and finally nitro is the reverse of the enzymatic reduction of 1-NO2P in living systems. Since it is known that 1-NO2P and 1-nitrosopyrene are genotoxic and 1-hydroxyaminopyrnene can react with DNA to form covalent adducts, the toxicity of 1-AP and its photoproducts and light-induced DNA covalent adduct formation were studied. Using Mutatox® Test, it is found that the lowest effective observable concentrations for 1-AP, 1-AP photoproducts, and 1-NO2P are 1.25, 10, and NA (not applicable) in the direct medium (no S-9) and NA, 5, and 0.625 μM in the S-9 medium, respectively. Therefore, 1-AP photoproducts are more genotoxic than 1-AP itself in the S-9 medium and more mutagenic than 1-NO2P in the direct medium. Thus 1-NO2P alone cannot account for all the mutagenicity of the photoproducts. Irradiation of 1-AP together with DNA leads to covalent DNA adduct formation possibly via the 1-hydroxyaminopyrene intermediate. This suggests that photolysis not only transforms 1-AP into more mutagenic compounds, but also forms DNA covalent adducts. PMID:15376525

Fitting membrane resistance along with action potential shape in cardiac myocytes improves convergence: application of a multi-objective parallel genetic algorithm.

PubMed

Kaur, Jaspreet; Nygren, Anders; Vigmond, Edward J

2014-01-01

Fitting parameter sets of non-linear equations in cardiac single cell ionic models to reproduce experimental behavior is a time consuming process. The standard procedure is to adjust maximum channel conductances in ionic models to reproduce action potentials (APs) recorded in isolated cells. However, vastly different sets of parameters can produce similar APs. Furthermore, even with an excellent AP match in case of single cell, tissue behaviour may be very different. We hypothesize that this uncertainty can be reduced by additionally fitting membrane resistance (Rm). To investigate the importance of Rm, we developed a genetic algorithm approach which incorporated Rm data calculated at a few points in the cycle, in addition to AP morphology. Performance was compared to a genetic algorithm using only AP morphology data. The optimal parameter sets and goodness of fit as computed by the different methods were compared. First, we fit an ionic model to itself, starting from a random parameter set. Next, we fit the AP of one ionic model to that of another. Finally, we fit an ionic model to experimentally recorded rabbit action potentials. Adding the extra objective (Rm, at a few voltages) to the AP fit, lead to much better convergence. Typically, a smaller MSE (mean square error, defined as the average of the squared error between the target AP and AP that is to be fitted) was achieved in one fifth of the number of generations compared to using only AP data. Importantly, the variability in fit parameters was also greatly reduced, with many parameters showing an order of magnitude decrease in variability. Adding Rm to the objective function improves the robustness of fitting, better preserving tissue level behavior, and should be incorporated.

The Case for "Environment in All Policies": Lessons from the "Health in All Policies" Approach in Public Health.

PubMed

Browne, Geoffrey R; Rutherfurd, Ian D

2017-02-01

Both public health, and the health of the natural environment, are affected by policy decisions made across portfolios as diverse as finance, planning, transport, housing, education, and agriculture. A response to the interdependent character of public health has been the "health in all policies" (HiAP) approach. With reference to parallels between health and environment, this paper argues that lessons from HiAP are useful for creating a new integrated environmental management approach termed "environment in all polices" (EiAP). This paper covers the theoretical foundations of HiAP, which is based on an understanding that health is strongly socially determined. The paper then highlights how lessons learned from HiAP's implementation in Finland, California, and South Australia might be applied to EiAP. It is too early to learn from evaluations of HiAP, but it is apparent that there is no single tool kit for its application. The properties that are likely to be necessary for an effective EiAP approach include a jurisdiction-specific approach, ongoing and strong leadership from a central agency, independent analysis, and a champion. We then apply these properties to Victoria (Australia) to demonstrate how EiAP might work. We encourage further exploration of the feasibility of EiAP as an approach that could make explicit the sometimes surprising environmental implications of a whole range of strategic policies. Citation: Browne GR, Rutherfurd ID. 2017. The case for "environment in all policies": lessons from the "health in all policies" approach in public health. Environ Health Perspect 125:149-154; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP294.

BK Channels Localize to the Paranodal Junction and Regulate Action Potentials in Myelinated Axons of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells.

PubMed

Hirono, Moritoshi; Ogawa, Yasuhiro; Misono, Kaori; Zollinger, Daniel R; Trimmer, James S; Rasband, Matthew N; Misonou, Hiroaki

2015-05-06

In myelinated axons, K(+) channels are clustered in distinct membrane domains to regulate action potentials (APs). At nodes of Ranvier, Kv7 channels are expressed with Na(+) channels, whereas Kv1 channels flank nodes at juxtaparanodes. Regulation of axonal APs by K(+) channels would be particularly important in fast-spiking projection neurons such as cerebellar Purkinje cells. Here, we show that BK/Slo1 channels are clustered at the paranodal junctions of myelinated Purkinje cell axons of rat and mouse. The paranodal junction is formed by a set of cell-adhesion molecules, including Caspr, between the node and juxtaparanodes in which it separates nodal from internodal membrane domains. Remarkably, only Purkinje cell axons have detectable paranodal BK channels, whose clustering requires the formation of the paranodal junction via Caspr. Thus, BK channels occupy this unique domain in Purkinje cell axons along with the other K(+) channel complexes at nodes and juxtaparanodes. To investigate the physiological role of novel paranodal BK channels, we examined the effect of BK channel blockers on antidromic AP conduction. We found that local application of blockers to the axon resulted in a significant increase in antidromic AP failure at frequencies above 100 Hz. We also found that Ni(2+) elicited a similar effect on APs, indicating the involvement of Ni(2+)-sensitive Ca(2+) channels. Furthermore, axonal application of BK channel blockers decreased the inhibitory synaptic response in the deep cerebellar nuclei. Thus, paranodal BK channels uniquely support high-fidelity firing of APs in myelinated Purkinje cell axons, thereby underpinning the output of the cerebellar cortex. Copyright © 2015 the authors 0270-6474/15/357082-13$15.00/0.

Diadenosine tetraphosphate induces tight junction disassembly thus increasing corneal epithelial permeability.

PubMed

Loma, P; Guzman-Aranguez, A; Pérez de Lara, M J; Pintor, J

2015-02-01

Here, we have studied the effects of the dinucleotide P(1), P(4)-Di (adenosine-5') tetraphosphate (Ap4 A) on corneal barrier function conferred by the tight junction (TJ) proteins and its possible involvement in ocular drug delivery and therapeutic efficiency. Experiments in vitro were performed using human corneal epithelial cells (HCLEs) treated with Ap4 A (100 μM) for 5 min. Western blot analysis and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) were performed to study the TJ protein levels and barrier function respectively. Intracellular pathways involved were determined using an ERK inhibitor and P2Y(2) receptor siRNAs. In in vivo assays with New Zealand rabbits, TJ integrity was examined by zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) staining. The hypotensive compound 5-methoxycarbonylamino-N-acetyltryptamine (5-MCA-NAT) was used to assess improved delivery, measuring its levels by HPLC and measuring intraocular pressure using 5-MCA-NAT, P2Y receptor antagonists and P2Y2 siRNAs. Two hours after Ap4 A pretreatment, TJ protein levels in HCLE cells were reduced around 40% compared with control. TEER values were significantly reduced at 2 and 4 h (68 and 52% respectively). TJ reduction and ERK activation were blocked by the ERK inhibitor U012 and P2Y(2) siRNAs. In vivo, topical application of Ap4 A disrupted ZO-1 membrane distribution. 5-MCA-NAT levels in the aqueous humour were higher when Ap4 A was previously instilled and its hypotensive effect was also increased. This action was reversed by P2Y receptor antagonists and P2Y(2) siRNA. Ap4 A increased corneal epithelial barrier permeability. Its application could improve ocular drug delivery and consequently therapeutic efficiency. © 2014 The British Pharmacological Society.

Development of CMOS Active Pixel Image Sensors for Low Cost Commercial Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gee, R.; Kemeny, S.; Kim, Q.; Mendis, S.; Nakamura, J.; Nixon, R.; Ortiz, M.; Pain, B.; Staller, C.; Zhou, Z;

Subjective Audio Quality over a Secure IEEE 802.11n Draft 2.0 Wireless Local Area Network

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-01

hereafter referred to as 802.11) provide users with mobile connectivity without the need for expensive and inflexible wiring. The 802.11n extension, for...through another protocol, such as Secure / Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions ( S /MIME). SDPS is, therefore, not a complete solution for secure key...number of packets per second (“Pkts/ s ”) are visible. Audio recordings are taken at AFIT within range of several other 802.11g APs as shown in Figure

Total synthesis of cyclomarins A, C and D, marine cyclic peptides with interesting anti-tuberculosis and anti-malaria activities.

PubMed

Barbie, Philipp; Kazmaier, Uli

2016-07-07

Cyclomarins are cyclic heptapeptides containing four unusual amino acids. New synthetic protocols toward their synthesis have been developed, leading to the synthesis and biological evaluation of three natural occurring cyclomarins. Interestingly, cyclomarins address two completely different targets: Clp C1, a subunit of the caseinolytic protease of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), as well as PfAp3Ase of Plasmodium falciparum. Therefore, cyclomarins are interesting lead structures for the development of drugs against tuberculosis and malaria.

Dose evaluation in paediatric patients undergoing chest X-ray examinations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piantini, F.; Schelin, H. R.; Denyak, V.; Bunick, A. P.; Legnani, A.; Ledesma, J. A.; Filipov, D.; Paschuk, S. A.

2017-11-01

This study aimed to estimate the incident air kerma in chest X-ray examinations, for lateral (LAT) and anterior-posterior (AP) (together with posterior-anterior (PA)) projections, in one of the largest paediatric hospitals in Brazil, and to compare these with the results obtained in a general hospital of the same city. The dosimetric results were analysed along with the patient characteristics and radiographer strategies. The examinations of 225 (119 male and 106 female) patients were studied and 389 X-ray scans (200 AP/PA projections and 189 LAT projections) of paediatric patients were acquired. For analysis of the results, the patients were divided into the following age groups: 0-1 y, 1-5 y, 5-10 y, and 10-15 y. Patient's thickness can be determined from age, height or weight with an uncertainty of 20-30%. In different hospitals, the difference in patient's thicknesses between the same age groups can reach 25-55%. A minimal correlation between the patient dose and thickness was observed, with a 4-fold difference in the dose for patients of the same thickness. By standardizing radiological protocols, it should be possible to keep the dose within intervals of 50-100 μGy for LAT projection and 40-80 μGy for AP/PA projection.

An Excel‐based implementation of the spectral method of action potential alternans analysis

PubMed Central

Pearman, Charles M.

2014-01-01

Abstract Action potential (AP) alternans has been well established as a mechanism of arrhythmogenesis and sudden cardiac death. Proper interpretation of AP alternans requires a robust method of alternans quantification. Traditional methods of alternans analysis neglect higher order periodicities that may have greater pro‐arrhythmic potential than classical 2:1 alternans. The spectral method of alternans analysis, already widely used in the related study of microvolt T‐wave alternans, has also been used to study AP alternans. Software to meet the specific needs of AP alternans analysis is not currently available in the public domain. An AP analysis tool is implemented here, written in Visual Basic for Applications and using Microsoft Excel as a shell. This performs a sophisticated analysis of alternans behavior allowing reliable distinction of alternans from random fluctuations, quantification of alternans magnitude, and identification of which phases of the AP are most affected. In addition, the spectral method has been adapted to allow detection and quantification of higher order regular oscillations. Analysis of action potential morphology is also performed. A simple user interface enables easy import, analysis, and export of collated results. PMID:25501439

A novel framework for feature extraction in multi-sensor action potential sorting.

PubMed

Wu, Shun-Chi; Swindlehurst, A Lee; Nenadic, Zoran

2015-09-30

Extracellular recordings of multi-unit neural activity have become indispensable in neuroscience research. The analysis of the recordings begins with the detection of the action potentials (APs), followed by a classification step where each AP is associated with a given neural source. A feature extraction step is required prior to classification in order to reduce the dimensionality of the data and the impact of noise, allowing source clustering algorithms to work more efficiently. In this paper, we propose a novel framework for multi-sensor AP feature extraction based on the so-called Matched Subspace Detector (MSD), which is shown to be a natural generalization of standard single-sensor algorithms. Clustering using both simulated data and real AP recordings taken in the locust antennal lobe demonstrates that the proposed approach yields features that are discriminatory and lead to promising results. Unlike existing methods, the proposed algorithm finds joint spatio-temporal feature vectors that match the dominant subspace observed in the two-dimensional data without needs for a forward propagation model and AP templates. The proposed MSD approach provides more discriminatory features for unsupervised AP sorting applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Meta-Analysis of Early Nutrition: The Benefits of Enteral Feeding Compared to a Nil Per Os Diet Not Only in Severe, but Also in Mild and Moderate Acute Pancreatitis

PubMed Central

Márta, Katalin; Farkas, Nelli; Szabó, Imre; Illés, Anita; Vincze, Áron; Pár, Gabriella; Sarlós, Patrícia; Bajor, Judit; Szűcs, Ákos; Czimmer, József; Mosztbacher, Dóra; Párniczky, Andrea; Szemes, Kata; Pécsi, Dániel; Hegyi, Péter

2016-01-01

The recently published guidelines for acute pancreatitis (AP) suggest that enteral nutrition (EN) should be the primary therapy in patients suffering from severe acute pancreatitis (SAP); however, none of the guidelines have recommendations on mild and moderate AP (MAP). A meta-analysis was performed using the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P). The following PICO (problem, intervention, comparison, outcome) was applied: P: nutrition in AP; I: enteral nutrition (EN); C: nil per os diet (NPO); and O: outcome. There were 717 articles found in Embase, 831 in PubMed, and 10 in the Cochrane database. Altogether, seven SAP and six MAP articles were suitable for analyses. In SAP, forest plots were used to illustrate three primary endpoints (mortality, multiorgan failure, and intervention). In MAP, 14 additional secondary endpoints were analyzed (such as CRP (C-reactive protein), WCC (white cell count), complications, etc.). After pooling the data, the Mann–Whitney U test was used to detect significant differences. Funnel plots were created for testing heterogeneity. All of the primary endpoints investigated showed that EN is beneficial vs. NPO in SAP. In MAP, all of the six articles found merit in EN. Analyses of the primary endpoints did not show significant differences between the groups; however, analyzing the 17 endpoints together showed a significant difference in favor of EN vs. NPO. EN is beneficial compared to a nil per os diet not only in severe, but also in mild and moderate AP. PMID:27775609

Meta-Analysis of Early Nutrition: The Benefits of Enteral Feeding Compared to a Nil Per Os Diet Not Only in Severe, but Also in Mild and Moderate Acute Pancreatitis.

PubMed

Márta, Katalin; Farkas, Nelli; Szabó, Imre; Illés, Anita; Vincze, Áron; Pár, Gabriella; Sarlós, Patrícia; Bajor, Judit; Szűcs, Ákos; Czimmer, József; Mosztbacher, Dóra; Párniczky, Andrea; Szemes, Kata; Pécsi, Dániel; Hegyi, Péter

2016-10-20

The recently published guidelines for acute pancreatitis (AP) suggest that enteral nutrition (EN) should be the primary therapy in patients suffering from severe acute pancreatitis (SAP); however, none of the guidelines have recommendations on mild and moderate AP (MAP). A meta-analysis was performed using the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P). The following PICO (problem, intervention, comparison, outcome) was applied: P: nutrition in AP; I: enteral nutrition (EN); C: nil per os diet (NPO); and O: outcome. There were 717 articles found in Embase, 831 in PubMed, and 10 in the Cochrane database. Altogether, seven SAP and six MAP articles were suitable for analyses. In SAP, forest plots were used to illustrate three primary endpoints (mortality, multiorgan failure, and intervention). In MAP, 14 additional secondary endpoints were analyzed (such as CRP (C-reactive protein), WCC (white cell count), complications, etc.). After pooling the data, the Mann-Whitney U test was used to detect significant differences. Funnel plots were created for testing heterogeneity. All of the primary endpoints investigated showed that EN is beneficial vs. NPO in SAP. In MAP, all of the six articles found merit in EN. Analyses of the primary endpoints did not show significant differences between the groups; however, analyzing the 17 endpoints together showed a significant difference in favor of EN vs. NPO. EN is beneficial compared to a nil per os diet not only in severe, but also in mild and moderate AP.

Characterization and application of monoclonal antibodies against Shewanella marisflavi, a novel pathogen of Apostichopus japonicus

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Shewanella marisflavi strain AP629 was certified as a novel pathogen of the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus. In this study, four monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) (3C1, 3D9, 2F2, 2A8) against strain AP629 were developed by immunizing Balb/C mice. 3C1 and 3D9 recognized S. marisflavi only, showing no ...

Phyllostachys edulis Compounds Inhibit Palmitic Acid-Induced Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein 1 (MCP-1) Production

PubMed Central

Higa, Jason K.; Liang, Zhibin; Williams, Philip G.; Panee, Jun

2012-01-01

Background Phyllostachys edulis Carriere (Poaceae) is a bamboo species that is part of the traditional Chinese medicine pharmacopoeia. Compounds and extracts from this species have shown potential applications towards several diseases. One of many complications found in obesity and diabetes is the link between elevated circulatory free fatty acids (FFAs) and chronic inflammation. This study aims to present a possible application of P. edulis extract in relieving inflammation caused by FFAs. Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1/CCL2) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine implicated in chronic inflammation. Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) are transcription factors activated in response to inflammatory stimuli, and upregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines such as MCP-1. This study examines the effect of P. edulis extract on cellular production of MCP-1 and on the NF-κB and AP-1 pathways in response to treatment with palmitic acid (PA), a FFA. Methodology/Principal Findings MCP-1 protein was measured by cytometric bead assay. NF-κB and AP-1 nuclear localization was detected by colorimetric DNA-binding ELISA. Relative MCP-1 mRNA was measured by real-time quantitative PCR. Murine cells were treated with PA to induce inflammation. PA increased expression of MCP-1 mRNA and protein, and increased nuclear localization of NF-κB and AP-1. Adding bamboo extract (BEX) inhibited the effects of PA, reduced MCP-1 production, and inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-κB and AP-1 subunits. Compounds isolated from BEX inhibited MCP-1 secretion with different potencies. Conclusions/Significance PA induced MCP-1 production in murine adipose, muscle, and liver cells. BEX ameliorated PA-induced production of MCP-1 by inhibiting nuclear translocation of NF-κB and AP-1. Two O-methylated flavones were isolated from BEX with functional effects on MCP-1 production. These results may represent a possible therapeutic application of BEX and its compounds toward alleviating chronic inflammation caused by elevated circulatory FFAs. PMID:23028772

Shuttle APS propellant thermal conditioner study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, W. E.

1971-01-01

A study program was performed to allow selection of thermal conditioner assemblies for superheating O2 and H2 at supercritical pressures. The application was the auxiliary propulsion system (APS) for the space shuttle vehicle. The O2/H2 APS propellant feed system included propellant conditioners, of which the thermal conditioner assemblies were a part. Cryogens, pumped to pressures above critical, were directed to the thermal conditioner assembly included: (1) a gas generator assembly with ignition system and bipropellant valves, which burned superheated O2 and H2 at rich conditions; (2) a heat exchanger assembly for thermal conditioning of the cryogenic propellant; and (3) a dump nozzle for heat exchanger exhaust.

Comparative genomic analysis and expression of the APETALA2-like genes from barley, wheat, and barley-wheat amphiploids

PubMed Central

Gil-Humanes, Javier; Pistón, Fernando; Martín, Antonio; Barro, Francisco

2009-01-01

Background The APETALA2-like genes form a large multi-gene family of transcription factors which play an important role during the plant life cycle, being key regulators of many developmental processes. Many studies in Arabidopsis have revealed that the APETALA2 (AP2) gene is implicated in the establishment of floral meristem and floral organ identity as well as temporal and spatial regulation of flower homeotic gene expression. Results In this work, we have cloned and characterised the AP2-like gene from accessions of Hordeum chilense and Hordeum vulgare, wild and domesticated barley, respectively, and compared with other AP2 homoeologous genes, including the Q gene in wheat. The Hordeum AP2-like genes contain two plant-specific DNA binding motifs called AP2 domains, as does the Q gene of wheat. We confirm that the H. chilense AP2-like gene is located on chromosome 5Hch. Patterns of expression of the AP2-like genes were examined in floral organs and other tissues in barley, wheat and in tritordeum amphiploids (barley × wheat hybrids). In tritordeum amphiploids, the level of transcription of the barley AP2-like gene was lower than in its barley parental and the chromosome substitutions 1D/1Hch and 2D/2Hch were seen to modify AP2 gene expression levels. Conclusion The results are of interest in order to understand the role of the AP2-like gene in the spike morphology of barley and wheat, and to understand the regulation of this gene in the amphiploids obtained from barley-wheat crossing. This information may have application in cereal breeding programs to up- or down-regulate the expression of AP2-like genes in order to modify spike characteristics and to obtain free-threshing plants. PMID:19480686

Tooth Whitening And Temperature Rise With Two Bleaching Activation Methods

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

Abu-ElMagd, D. M.; El-Sayad, I. I.; Abd El-Gawad, L. M.

2009-09-27

To measure the tooth whitening and the surface and Intrapulpal temperature increase in vitro on freshly extracted upper human central incisors after chemical, Zoom AP light and diode laser activated bleaching. Thirty caries-free upper human incisors were selected. Teeth were divided into three equal groups according to the methods of activation of the bleaching agent (n = 10). A whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide was applied to the buccal surface of all teeth. Group I was bleached using chemically activated hydrogen peroxide gel, for three applications of 15 min each. Group II was bleached with high intensity advanced power Zoommore » activation light (Zoom AP), for three applications of 15 min each. Group III was bleached with diode laser activation technique, where the teeth were irradiated with 2 Watt diode laser for three applications of 30 sec each. The whitening degree was assessed using an image analysis system, while temperature rise was recorded using a thermocouple on the external tooth surface and Intrapulpal. The degree of whitening increased significantly in all groups. However, the percentage of whitening was not statistically significantly different between the three groups. In addition, group II showed statistically significant higher mean rise in both surface and pulp temperatures than group I and group III. Chemical bleaching produces the same whitening effect as Zoom AP light and laser, with no surface or pulpal temperature rise. Laser application is faster and produces less surface and pulp temperature increase than Zoom AP light. Diode laser used to activate bleaching gels is not considered dangerous to the vitality of dental pulp using power settings of 2 W.« less

Naturally occurring phenolic acids modulate TPA-induced activation of EGFR, AP-1, and STATs in mouse epidermis.

PubMed

Cichocki, Michał; Dałek, Miłosz; Szamałek, Mateusz; Baer-Dubowska, Wanda

2014-01-01

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in epithelial carcinogenesis and appears to be involved in STATs activation. In this study we investigated the possible interference of naturally occurring phenolic acids with EGFR, activator protein-1 (AP-1), and signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) pathways activated by topical application of tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) in Balb/c mice epidermis. Pretreatment with tannic or chlorogenic acid resulted in a significant decrease in the phosphorylation of EGFR Y-1068 and Y-1173 tyrosine residues, which was accompanied by reduced activation of AP-1. Tannic acid decreased also the c-Jun AP-1 subunit level and binding to TPA response element (TRE) (3- and 2-fold in comparison with TPA-treated group respectively). Simultaneous reduction of JNK activity might be responsible for reduced activation of AP-1. In contrast to these more complex phenolics, protocatechuic acid increased the activity of JNK and was also the most efficient inhibitor of STATs activation. These results indicate that naturally occurring phenolic acids, by decreasing EGFR, AP-1, and STATs activation, may modulate other elements both upstream and downstream in these pathways and thus inhibit the tumor development. Although more complex phenolics affect mainly the EGFR/AP-1 pathway, STATs seem to be the most important targets for simple compounds, such as protocatechuic acid.

Optical magnetic detection of single-neuron action potentials using quantum defects in diamond

PubMed Central

Barry, John F.; Turner, Matthew J.; Schloss, Jennifer M.; Glenn, David R.; Song, Yuyu; Lukin, Mikhail D.; Park, Hongkun; Walsworth, Ronald L.

2016-01-01

Magnetic fields from neuronal action potentials (APs) pass largely unperturbed through biological tissue, allowing magnetic measurements of AP dynamics to be performed extracellularly or even outside intact organisms. To date, however, magnetic techniques for sensing neuronal activity have either operated at the macroscale with coarse spatial and/or temporal resolution—e.g., magnetic resonance imaging methods and magnetoencephalography—or been restricted to biophysics studies of excised neurons probed with cryogenic or bulky detectors that do not provide single-neuron spatial resolution and are not scalable to functional networks or intact organisms. Here, we show that AP magnetic sensing can be realized with both single-neuron sensitivity and intact organism applicability using optically probed nitrogen-vacancy (NV) quantum defects in diamond, operated under ambient conditions and with the NV diamond sensor in close proximity (∼10 µm) to the biological sample. We demonstrate this method for excised single neurons from marine worm and squid, and then exterior to intact, optically opaque marine worms for extended periods and with no observed adverse effect on the animal. NV diamond magnetometry is noninvasive and label-free and does not cause photodamage. The method provides precise measurement of AP waveforms from individual neurons, as well as magnetic field correlates of the AP conduction velocity, and directly determines the AP propagation direction through the inherent sensitivity of NVs to the associated AP magnetic field vector. PMID:27911765

Optical magnetic detection of single-neuron action potentials using quantum defects in diamond.

PubMed

Barry, John F; Turner, Matthew J; Schloss, Jennifer M; Glenn, David R; Song, Yuyu; Lukin, Mikhail D; Park, Hongkun; Walsworth, Ronald L

2016-12-06

Magnetic fields from neuronal action potentials (APs) pass largely unperturbed through biological tissue, allowing magnetic measurements of AP dynamics to be performed extracellularly or even outside intact organisms. To date, however, magnetic techniques for sensing neuronal activity have either operated at the macroscale with coarse spatial and/or temporal resolution-e.g., magnetic resonance imaging methods and magnetoencephalography-or been restricted to biophysics studies of excised neurons probed with cryogenic or bulky detectors that do not provide single-neuron spatial resolution and are not scalable to functional networks or intact organisms. Here, we show that AP magnetic sensing can be realized with both single-neuron sensitivity and intact organism applicability using optically probed nitrogen-vacancy (NV) quantum defects in diamond, operated under ambient conditions and with the NV diamond sensor in close proximity (∼10 µm) to the biological sample. We demonstrate this method for excised single neurons from marine worm and squid, and then exterior to intact, optically opaque marine worms for extended periods and with no observed adverse effect on the animal. NV diamond magnetometry is noninvasive and label-free and does not cause photodamage. The method provides precise measurement of AP waveforms from individual neurons, as well as magnetic field correlates of the AP conduction velocity, and directly determines the AP propagation direction through the inherent sensitivity of NVs to the associated AP magnetic field vector.

A sampling framework for incorporating quantitative mass spectrometry data in protein interaction analysis.

PubMed

Tucker, George; Loh, Po-Ru; Berger, Bonnie

2013-10-04

Comprehensive protein-protein interaction (PPI) maps are a powerful resource for uncovering the molecular basis of genetic interactions and providing mechanistic insights. Over the past decade, high-throughput experimental techniques have been developed to generate PPI maps at proteome scale, first using yeast two-hybrid approaches and more recently via affinity purification combined with mass spectrometry (AP-MS). Unfortunately, data from both protocols are prone to both high false positive and false negative rates. To address these issues, many methods have been developed to post-process raw PPI data. However, with few exceptions, these methods only analyze binary experimental data (in which each potential interaction tested is deemed either observed or unobserved), neglecting quantitative information available from AP-MS such as spectral counts. We propose a novel method for incorporating quantitative information from AP-MS data into existing PPI inference methods that analyze binary interaction data. Our approach introduces a probabilistic framework that models the statistical noise inherent in observations of co-purifications. Using a sampling-based approach, we model the uncertainty of interactions with low spectral counts by generating an ensemble of possible alternative experimental outcomes. We then apply the existing method of choice to each alternative outcome and aggregate results over the ensemble. We validate our approach on three recent AP-MS data sets and demonstrate performance comparable to or better than state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, we provide an in-depth discussion comparing the theoretical bases of existing approaches and identify common aspects that may be key to their performance. Our sampling framework extends the existing body of work on PPI analysis using binary interaction data to apply to the richer quantitative data now commonly available through AP-MS assays. This framework is quite general, and many enhancements are likely possible. Fruitful future directions may include investigating more sophisticated schemes for converting spectral counts to probabilities and applying the framework to direct protein complex prediction methods.

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

Mitchell, Dean J.; Harding, Lee T.

Isotope identification algorithms that are contained in the Gamma Detector Response and Analysis Software (GADRAS) can be used for real-time stationary measurement and search applications on platforms operating under Linux or Android operating sys-tems. Since the background radiation can vary considerably due to variations in natu-rally-occurring radioactive materials (NORM), spectral algorithms can be substantial-ly more sensitive to threat materials than search algorithms based strictly on count rate. Specific isotopes or interest can be designated for the search algorithm, which permits suppression of alarms for non-threatening sources, such as such as medical radionuclides. The same isotope identification algorithms that are usedmore » for search ap-plications can also be used to process static measurements. The isotope identification algorithms follow the same protocols as those used by the Windows version of GADRAS, so files that are created under the Windows interface can be copied direct-ly to processors on fielded sensors. The analysis algorithms contain provisions for gain adjustment and energy lineariza-tion, which enables direct processing of spectra as they are recorded by multichannel analyzers. Gain compensation is performed by utilizing photopeaks in background spectra. Incorporation of this energy calibration tasks into the analysis algorithm also eliminates one of the more difficult challenges associated with development of radia-tion detection equipment.« less

In search of acceptable alternatives to the murine histamine sensitisation test (HIST): what is possible and practical?

PubMed

Wagner, L; Isbrucker, R; Locht, C; Arciniega, J; Costanzo, A; McFarland, R; Oh, H; Hoonakker, M; Descamps, J; Andersen, S R; Gupta, R K; Markey, K; Chapsal, J M; Lidster, K; Casey, W; Allen, D

2016-01-01

The 'International Workshop on Alternatives to the Murine Histamine Sensitization Test for Acellular Pertussis Vaccines: In Search of Acceptable Alternatives to the Murine Histamine Sensitization Test (HIST): What is Possible and Practical?' was held on 4 and 5 March 2015 in London, United Kingdom. Participants discussed the results of the data generated from an international collaborative study (BSP114 Phase 2) sponsored by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & Health Care (EDQM) to determine if a modified Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell-based clustering assay is a suitable alternative to replace HIST. Workshop participants agreed that protocol transferability demonstrated in the collaborative study indicates that a standardised CHO cell assay is adequate for measuring pure PTx in reference preparations. However, vaccine manufacturers would still need to demonstrate that the method is valid to detect or measure residual PTx in their specific adjuvanted products. The 2 modified CHO cell protocols included in the study (the Direct and the Indirect Methods) deserve further consideration as alternatives to HIST. Using the CHO cell assay, an in vitro alternative, for acellular pertussis (aP) vaccine batch release testing would reduce the number of animals used for aP vaccine safety testing. A strategic, stepwise adoption plan was proposed, in which the alternative test would be used for release purposes first, and then, once sufficient confidence in its suitable performance has been gained, its use would be extended to stability testing.

BioPlex Display: An Interactive Suite for Large-Scale AP-MS Protein-Protein Interaction Data.

PubMed

Schweppe, Devin K; Huttlin, Edward L; Harper, J Wade; Gygi, Steven P

2018-01-05

The development of large-scale data sets requires a new means to display and disseminate research studies to large audiences. Knowledge of protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks has become a principle interest of many groups within the field of proteomics. At the confluence of technologies, such as cross-linking mass spectrometry, yeast two-hybrid, protein cofractionation, and affinity purification mass spectrometry (AP-MS), detection of PPIs can uncover novel biological inferences at a high-throughput. Thus new platforms to provide community access to large data sets are necessary. To this end, we have developed a web application that enables exploration and dissemination of the growing BioPlex interaction network. BioPlex is a large-scale interactome data set based on AP-MS of baits from the human ORFeome. The latest BioPlex data set release (BioPlex 2.0) contains 56 553 interactions from 5891 AP-MS experiments. To improve community access to this vast compendium of interactions, we developed BioPlex Display, which integrates individual protein querying, access to empirical data, and on-the-fly annotation of networks within an easy-to-use and mobile web application. BioPlex Display enables rapid acquisition of data from BioPlex and development of hypotheses based on protein interactions.

Diffusion tensor imaging of the sural nerve in normal controls☆

PubMed Central

Kim, Boklye; Srinivasan, Ashok; Sabb, Brian; Feldman, Eva L; Pop-Busui, Rodica

2016-01-01

Objective To develop a diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) protocol for assessing the sural nerve in healthy subjects. Methods Sural nerves in 25 controls were imaged using DTI at 3 T with 6, 15, and 32 gradient directions. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were computed from nerve regions of interest co-registered with T2-weighted images. Results Coronal images with 0.5(RL)×2.0(FH)×0.5(AP) mm3 resolution successfully localized the sural nerve. FA maps showed less variability with 32 directions (0.559±0.071) compared to 15(0.590±0.080) and 6(0.659±0.109). Conclusions Our DTI protocol was effective in imaging sural nerves in controls to establish normative FA/ADC, with potential to be used non-invasively in diseased nerves of patients. PMID:24908367

Study of a unified hardware and software fault-tolerant architecture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lala, Jaynarayan; Alger, Linda; Friend, Steven; Greeley, Gregory; Sacco, Stephen; Adams, Stuart

1989-01-01

A unified architectural concept, called the Fault Tolerant Processor Attached Processor (FTP-AP), that can tolerate hardware as well as software faults is proposed for applications requiring ultrareliable computation capability. An emulation of the FTP-AP architecture, consisting of a breadboard Motorola 68010-based quadruply redundant Fault Tolerant Processor, four VAX 750s as attached processors, and four versions of a transport aircraft yaw damper control law, is used as a testbed in the AIRLAB to examine a number of critical issues. Solutions of several basic problems associated with N-Version software are proposed and implemented on the testbed. This includes a confidence voter to resolve coincident errors in N-Version software. A reliability model of N-Version software that is based upon the recent understanding of software failure mechanisms is also developed. The basic FTP-AP architectural concept appears suitable for hosting N-Version application software while at the same time tolerating hardware failures. Architectural enhancements for greater efficiency, software reliability modeling, and N-Version issues that merit further research are identified.

Active pixel imagers incorporating pixel-level amplifiers based on polycrystalline-silicon thin-film transistors

PubMed Central

El-Mohri, Youcef; Antonuk, Larry E.; Koniczek, Martin; Zhao, Qihua; Li, Yixin; Street, Robert A.; Lu, Jeng-Ping

2009-01-01

Active matrix, flat-panel imagers (AMFPIs) employing a 2D matrix of a-Si addressing TFTs have become ubiquitous in many x-ray imaging applications due to their numerous advantages. However, under conditions of low exposures and∕or high spatial resolution, their signal-to-noise performance is constrained by the modest system gain relative to the electronic additive noise. In this article, a strategy for overcoming this limitation through the incorporation of in-pixel amplification circuits, referred to as active pixel (AP) architectures, using polycrystalline-silicon (poly-Si) TFTs is reported. Compared to a-Si, poly-Si offers substantially higher mobilities, enabling higher TFT currents and the possibility of sophisticated AP designs based on both n- and p-channel TFTs. Three prototype indirect detection arrays employing poly-Si TFTs and a continuous a-Si photodiode structure were characterized. The prototypes consist of an array (PSI-1) that employs a pixel architecture with a single TFT, as well as two arrays (PSI-2 and PSI-3) that employ AP architectures based on three and five TFTs, respectively. While PSI-1 serves as a reference with a design similar to that of conventional AMFPI arrays, PSI-2 and PSI-3 incorporate additional in-pixel amplification circuitry. Compared to PSI-1, results of x-ray sensitivity demonstrate signal gains of ∼10.7 and 20.9 for PSI-2 and PSI-3, respectively. These values are in reasonable agreement with design expectations, demonstrating that poly-Si AP circuits can be tailored to provide a desired level of signal gain. PSI-2 exhibits the same high levels of charge trapping as those observed for PSI-1 and other conventional arrays employing a continuous photodiode structure. For PSI-3, charge trapping was found to be significantly lower and largely independent of the bias voltage applied across the photodiode. MTF results indicate that the use of a continuous photodiode structure in PSI-1, PSI-2, and PSI-3 results in optical fill factors that are close to unity. In addition, the greater complexity of PSI-2 and PSI-3 pixel circuits, compared to that of PSI-1, has no observable effect on spatial resolution. Both PSI-2 and PSI-3 exhibit high levels of additive noise, resulting in no net improvement in the signal-to-noise performance of these early prototypes compared to conventional AMFPIs. However, faster readout rates, coupled with implementation of multiple sampling protocols allowed by the nondestructive nature of pixel readout, resulted in a significantly lower noise level of ∼560 e (rms) for PSI-3. PMID:19673229

Active pixel imagers incorporating pixel-level amplifiers based on polycrystalline-silicon thin-film transistors.

PubMed

El-Mohri, Youcef; Antonuk, Larry E; Koniczek, Martin; Zhao, Qihua; Li, Yixin; Street, Robert A; Lu, Jeng-Ping

2009-07-01

Active matrix, flat-panel imagers (AMFPIs) employing a 2D matrix of a-Si addressing TFTs have become ubiquitous in many x-ray imaging applications due to their numerous advantages. However, under conditions of low exposures and/or high spatial resolution, their signal-to-noise performance is constrained by the modest system gain relative to the electronic additive noise. In this article, a strategy for overcoming this limitation through the incorporation of in-pixel amplification circuits, referred to as active pixel (AP) architectures, using polycrystalline-silicon (poly-Si) TFTs is reported. Compared to a-Si, poly-Si offers substantially higher mobilities, enabling higher TFT currents and the possibility of sophisticated AP designs based on both n- and p-channel TFTs. Three prototype indirect detection arrays employing poly-Si TFTs and a continuous a-Si photodiode structure were characterized. The prototypes consist of an array (PSI-1) that employs a pixel architecture with a single TFT, as well as two arrays (PSI-2 and PSI-3) that employ AP architectures based on three and five TFTs, respectively. While PSI-1 serves as a reference with a design similar to that of conventional AMFPI arrays, PSI-2 and PSI-3 incorporate additional in-pixel amplification circuitry. Compared to PSI-1, results of x-ray sensitivity demonstrate signal gains of approximately 10.7 and 20.9 for PSI-2 and PSI-3, respectively. These values are in reasonable agreement with design expectations, demonstrating that poly-Si AP circuits can be tailored to provide a desired level of signal gain. PSI-2 exhibits the same high levels of charge trapping as those observed for PSI-1 and other conventional arrays employing a continuous photodiode structure. For PSI-3, charge trapping was found to be significantly lower and largely independent of the bias voltage applied across the photodiode. MTF results indicate that the use of a continuous photodiode structure in PSI-1, PSI-2, and PSI-3 results in optical fill factors that are close to unity. In addition, the greater complexity of PSI-2 and PSI-3 pixel circuits, compared to that of PSI-1, has no observable effect on spatial resolution. Both PSI-2 and PSI-3 exhibit high levels of additive noise, resulting in no net improvement in the signal-to-noise performance of these early prototypes compared to conventional AMFPIs. However, faster readout rates, coupled with implementation of multiple sampling protocols allowed by the nondestructive nature of pixel readout, resulted in a significantly lower noise level of approximately 560 e (rms) for PSI-3.

Application of affinity propagation algorithm based on manifold distance for transformer PD pattern recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, B. G.; Huo, K. X.; Yao, Z. F.; Lou, J.; Li, X. Y.

2018-03-01

It is one of the difficult problems encountered in the research of condition maintenance technology of transformers to recognize partial discharge (PD) pattern. According to the main physical characteristics of PD, three models of oil-paper insulation defects were set up in laboratory to study the PD of transformers, and phase resolved partial discharge (PRPD) was constructed. By using least square method, the grey-scale images of PRPD were constructed and features of each grey-scale image were 28 box dimensions and 28 information dimensions. Affinity propagation algorithm based on manifold distance (AP-MD) for transformers PD pattern recognition was established, and the data of box dimension and information dimension were clustered based on AP-MD. Study shows that clustering result of AP-MD is better than the results of affinity propagation (AP), k-means and fuzzy c-means algorithm (FCM). By choosing different k values of k-nearest neighbor, we find clustering accuracy of AP-MD falls when k value is larger or smaller, and the optimal k value depends on sample size.

In-vessel coolability and retention of a core melt. Volume 1

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

Theofanous, T.G.; Liu, C.; Additon, S.

1996-10-01

The efficacy of external flooding of a reactor vessel as a severe accident management strategy is assessed for an AP600-like reactor design. The overall approach is based on the Risk Oriented Accident Analysis Methodology (ROAAM), and the assessment includes consideration of bounding scenarios and sensitivity studies, as well as arbitrary parametric evaluations that allow the delineation of the failure boundaries. Quantification of the input parameters is carried out for an AP600-like design, and the results of the assessment demonstrate that lower head failure is physically unreasonable. Use of this conclusion for any specific application is subject to verifying the requiredmore » reliability of the depressurization and cavity-flooding systems, and to showing the appropriateness (in relation to the database presented here, or by further testing as necessary) of the thermal insulation design and of the external surface properties of the lower head, including any applicable coatings. The AP600 is particularly favorable to in-vessel retention. Some ideas to enhance the assessment basis as well as performance in this respect, for applications to larger and/or higher power density reactors are also provided.« less

In-vessel coolability and retention of a core melt. Volume 2

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

Theofanous, T.G.; Liu, C.; Additon, S.

1996-10-01

The efficacy of external flooding of a reactor vessel as a severe accident management strategy is assessed for an AP600-like reactor design. The overall approach is based on the Risk Oriented Accident Analysis Methodology (ROAAM), and the assessment includes consideration of bounding scenarios and sensitivity studies, as well as arbitrary parametric evaluations that allow the delineation of the failure boundaries. Quantification of the input parameters is carried out for an AP600-like design, and the results of the assessment demonstrate that lower head failure is physically unreasonable. Use of this conclusion for any specific application is subject to verifying the requiredmore » reliability of the depressurization and cavity-flooding systems, and to showing the appropriateness (in relation to the database presented here, or by further testing as necessary) of the thermal insulation design and of the external surface properties of the lower head, including any applicable coatings. The AP600 is particularly favorable to in-vessel retention. Some ideas to enhance the assessment basis as well as performance in this respect, for applications to larger and/or higher power density reactors are also provided.« less

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from Artemisia selengensis Turcz and its antioxidant and anticancer activities.

PubMed

Wang, Juan; Lu, He Dong; Muḥammad, Umair; Han, Jin Zhi; Wei, Zhao Hui; Lu, Zhao Xin; Bie, Xiao Mei; Lu, Feng Xia

2016-02-01

Artemisia selengensis Turcz (AST) is a perennial herb with therapeutic and economic applications in China. The effects of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) parameters upon extraction yield (EY%), antioxidant and antitumor activities of the polysaccharides extracts were studied by using a factorial design and response surface methodology. The optimal conditions determined were as: ultrasonic power 146 W, extraction time 14.5 min. and extraction temperature 60 °C. The average molecular weights of two homogeneous polysaccharides (APS1 and APS2) purified by DEAE cellulose-52 and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography were 125.4 and 184.1 kDa, respectively. Monosaccharide analysis showed that APS1 and APS2 were composed of five common monomers i.e., galactose, mannose, arabinose, xylose and rhamnose and one different monomer glucose and galacturonic acid respectively, with a most abundant part in molar % of APS1 and APS2 were glucose (83.01 %) and galacturonic acid (48.87 %) while least were xylose (0.80 %) and mannose (1.73 %) respectively. The antioxidant properties were determined by evaluating DPPH, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and reducing power which indicated both APS1 and APS2 showed strong scavenging activities and anticancer activities on HT-29, BGC823 and antitumor activity on HepG-2. As UAE improved the polysaccharides yield than CSE, meanwhile, no significant difference of polysaccharides chemical compositions. Therefore, the present study suggests that the consumption of AST leaves may beneficial for the treatment of many diseases.

Second metrology round-robin of APS, ESRF and SPring-8 laboratories of elliptical and spherical hard-x-ray mirrors.

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

Rommeveaux, A.; Assoufid, L.; Ohashi, H.

2007-01-01

The first series of metrology round-robin measurements carried out in 2005 at the APS, ESRF and SPring-8 metrology laboratories involving two flat x-ray mirrors and a cylindrical x-ray mirror has shown excellent agreement among the three facilities Long Trace Profilers (LTP) despite their architectural differences. Because of the growing interest in diffraction-limited hard x-ray K-B focusing mirrors, it was decided to extend the round robin measurements to spherical and aspheric x-ray mirrors. The strong surface slope variation of these mirrors presents a real challenge to LTP. As a result, new LTP measurement protocol has to be developed and implemented tomore » ensure measurement accuracy and consistency. In this paper, different measurement techniques and procedures will be described, the results will be discussed, and comparison will be extended to micro-stitching interferometry measurements performed at Osaka University, Japan.« less

Engineering biosynthetic excitable tissues from unexcitable cells for electrophysiological and cell therapy studies

PubMed Central

Kirkton, Robert D.; Bursac, Nenad

2012-01-01

Patch-clamp recordings in single-cell expression systems have been traditionally used to study the function of ion channels. However, this experimental setting does not enable assessment of tissue-level function such as action potential (AP) conduction. Here we introduce a biosynthetic system that permits studies of both channel activity in single cells and electrical conduction in multicellular networks. We convert unexcitable somatic cells into an autonomous source of electrically excitable and conducting cells by stably expressing only three membrane channels. The specific roles that these expressed channels have on AP shape and conduction are revealed by different pharmacological and pacing protocols. Furthermore, we demonstrate that biosynthetic excitable cells and tissues can repair large conduction defects within primary 2- and 3-dimensional cardiac cell cultures. This approach enables novel studies of ion channel function in a reproducible tissue-level setting and may stimulate the development of new cell-based therapies for excitable tissue repair. PMID:21556054

SU-F-J-16: Planar KV Imaging Dose Reduction Study

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

Gershkevitsh, E; Zolotuhhin, D

Purpose: IGRT has become an indispensable tool in modern radiotherapy with kV imaging used in many departments due to superior image quality and lower dose when compared to MV imaging. Many departments use manufacturer supplied protocols for imaging which are not always optimised between image quality and radiation dose (ALARA). Methods: Whole body phantom PBU-50 (Kyoto Kagaku ltd., Japan) for imaging in radiology has been imaged on Varian iX accelerator (Varian Medical Systems, USA) with OBI 1.5 system. Manufacturer’s default protocols were adapted by modifying kV and mAs values when imaging different anatomical regions of the phantom (head, thorax, abdomen,more » pelvis, extremities). Images with different settings were independently reviewed by two persons and their suitability for IGRT set-up correction protocols were evaluated. The suitable images with the lowest mAs were then selected. The entrance surface dose (ESD) for manufacturer’s default protocols and modified protocols were measured with RTI Black Piranha (RTI Group, Sweden) and compared. Image quality was also measured with kVQC phantom (Standard Imaging, USA) for different protocols. The modified protocols have been applied for clinical work. Results: For most cases optimized protocols reduced the ESD on average by a factor of 3(range 0.9–8.5). Further reduction in ESD has been observed by applying bow-tie filter designed for CBCT. The largest reduction in dose (12.2 times) was observed for Thorax lateral protocol. The dose was slightly increased (by 10%) for large pelvis AP protocol. Conclusion: Manufacturer’s default IGRT protocols could be optimised to reduce the ESD to the patient without losing the necessary image quality for patient set-up correction. For patient set-up with planar kV imaging the bony anatomy is mostly used and optimization should focus on this aspect. Therefore, the current approach with anthropomorphic phantom is more advantageous in optimization over standard kV quality control phantoms and SNR metrics.« less

Application of solid state NMR for the study of surface bound species and fossil fuels

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

Althaus, Stacey

2014-01-01

In this study, stimulated echo with pulsed field gradients was used to measure the diffusion of two different solvents, water and hexane, in AP-MSN-2.7 and AP-MSN-3.7. The resulting data were then fit using two different methods. Based on these fits, the diffusion of hexane in AP-MSN-2.7 was shown to be slower than in the larger pores. This agrees well with our studies of catalytic activity, which show an increase in the reaction rate with the increase in pore size. Thus, both substrate inhibition and diffusion played a role in the decreased efficiency of the APMSN with small pore sizes.

Trends in statistical methods in articles published in Archives of Plastic Surgery between 2012 and 2017.

PubMed

Han, Kyunghwa; Jung, Inkyung

2018-05-01

This review article presents an assessment of trends in statistical methods and an evaluation of their appropriateness in articles published in the Archives of Plastic Surgery (APS) from 2012 to 2017. We reviewed 388 original articles published in APS between 2012 and 2017. We categorized the articles that used statistical methods according to the type of statistical method, the number of statistical methods, and the type of statistical software used. We checked whether there were errors in the description of statistical methods and results. A total of 230 articles (59.3%) published in APS between 2012 and 2017 used one or more statistical method. Within these articles, there were 261 applications of statistical methods with continuous or ordinal outcomes, and 139 applications of statistical methods with categorical outcome. The Pearson chi-square test (17.4%) and the Mann-Whitney U test (14.4%) were the most frequently used methods. Errors in describing statistical methods and results were found in 133 of the 230 articles (57.8%). Inadequate description of P-values was the most common error (39.1%). Among the 230 articles that used statistical methods, 71.7% provided details about the statistical software programs used for the analyses. SPSS was predominantly used in the articles that presented statistical analyses. We found that the use of statistical methods in APS has increased over the last 6 years. It seems that researchers have been paying more attention to the proper use of statistics in recent years. It is expected that these positive trends will continue in APS.

Multipurpose active pixel sensor (APS)-based microtracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eisenman, Allan R.; Liebe, Carl C.; Zhu, David Q.

1998-12-01

A new, photon-sensitive, imaging array, the active pixel sensor (APS) has emerged as a competitor to the CCD imager for use in star and target trackers. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has undertaken a program to develop a new generation, highly integrated, APS-based, multipurpose tracker: the Programmable Intelligent Microtracker (PIM). The supporting hardware used in the PIM has been carefully selected to enhance the inherent advantages of the APS. Adequate computation power is included to perform star identification, star tracking, attitude determination, space docking, feature tracking, descent imaging for landing control, and target tracking capabilities. Its first version uses a JPL developed 256 X 256-pixel APS and an advanced 32-bit RISC microcontroller. By taking advantage of the unique features of the APS/microcontroller combination, the microtracker will achieve about an order-of-magnitude reduction in mass and power consumption compared to present state-of-the-art star trackers. It will also add the advantage of programmability to enable it to perform a variety of star, other celestial body, and target tracking tasks. The PIM is already proving the usefulness of its design concept for space applications. It is demonstrating the effectiveness of taking such an integrated approach in building a new generation of high performance, general purpose, tracking instruments to be applied to a large variety of future space missions.

An Excel-based implementation of the spectral method of action potential alternans analysis.

PubMed

Pearman, Charles M

2014-12-01

Action potential (AP) alternans has been well established as a mechanism of arrhythmogenesis and sudden cardiac death. Proper interpretation of AP alternans requires a robust method of alternans quantification. Traditional methods of alternans analysis neglect higher order periodicities that may have greater pro-arrhythmic potential than classical 2:1 alternans. The spectral method of alternans analysis, already widely used in the related study of microvolt T-wave alternans, has also been used to study AP alternans. Software to meet the specific needs of AP alternans analysis is not currently available in the public domain. An AP analysis tool is implemented here, written in Visual Basic for Applications and using Microsoft Excel as a shell. This performs a sophisticated analysis of alternans behavior allowing reliable distinction of alternans from random fluctuations, quantification of alternans magnitude, and identification of which phases of the AP are most affected. In addition, the spectral method has been adapted to allow detection and quantification of higher order regular oscillations. Analysis of action potential morphology is also performed. A simple user interface enables easy import, analysis, and export of collated results. © 2014 The Author. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Physiological Society and The Physiological Society.

CIG-P: Circular Interaction Graph for Proteomics.

PubMed

Hobbs, Christopher K; Leung, Michelle; Tsang, Herbert H; Ebhardt, H Alexander

2014-10-31

A typical affinity purification coupled to mass spectrometry (AP-MS) experiment includes the purification of a target protein (bait) using an antibody and subsequent mass spectrometry analysis of all proteins co-purifying with the bait (aka prey proteins). Like any other systems biology approach, AP-MS experiments generate a lot of data and visualization has been challenging, especially when integrating AP-MS experiments with orthogonal datasets. We present Circular Interaction Graph for Proteomics (CIG-P), which generates circular diagrams for visually appealing final representation of AP-MS data. Through a Java based GUI, the user inputs experimental and reference data as file in csv format. The resulting circular representation can be manipulated live within the GUI before exporting the diagram as vector graphic in pdf format. The strength of CIG-P is the ability to integrate orthogonal datasets with each other, e.g. affinity purification data of kinase PRPF4B in relation to the functional components of the spliceosome. Further, various AP-MS experiments can be compared to each other. CIG-P aids to present AP-MS data to a wider audience and we envision that the tool finds other applications too, e.g. kinase - substrate relationships as a function of perturbation. CIG-P is available under: http://sourceforge.net/projects/cig-p/

A simple process based on NH2- and CH3-terminated monolayers for low contact resistance and adherent Au electrode in bottom-contact OTFTs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdur, Rahim; Lim, Jeongeun; Jeong, Kyunghoon; Rahman, Mohammad Arifur; Kim, Jiyoung; Lee, Jaegab

2016-03-01

An efficient process for the low contact resistance and adherent source/drain Au electrode in bottom-contact organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) was developed. This was achieved by using two different surface-functional groups of self-assembled monolayers, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS), and octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS), combined with atmospheric-pressure (AP) plasma treatment. Prior to the deposition of Au electrode, the aminoterminated monolayer self-assembles on SiO2 dielectrics, enhancing the adhesion of Au electrode as a result of the acid-base interaction of Au with the amino-terminal groups. AP plasma treatment of the patterned Au electrode on the APS-coated surface activates the entire surface to form an OTS monolayer, allowing the formation of a high quality pentacene layer on both the electrode and active region by evaporation. In addition, negligible damage by AP plasma was observed for the device performance. The fabricated OTFTs based on the two monolayers by AP plasma treatment showed the mobility of 0.23 cm2/Vs, contact resistance of 29 kΩ-cm, threshold voltage of -1.63 V, and on/off ratio of 9.8 × 105, demonstrating the application of the simple process for robust and high-performance OTFTs. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Computational and informatics strategies for identification of specific protein interaction partners in affinity purification mass spectrometry experiments

PubMed Central

Nesvizhskii, Alexey I.

2013-01-01

Analysis of protein interaction networks and protein complexes using affinity purification and mass spectrometry (AP/MS) is among most commonly used and successful applications of proteomics technologies. One of the foremost challenges of AP/MS data is a large number of false positive protein interactions present in unfiltered datasets. Here we review computational and informatics strategies for detecting specific protein interaction partners in AP/MS experiments, with a focus on incomplete (as opposite to genome-wide) interactome mapping studies. These strategies range from standard statistical approaches, to empirical scoring schemes optimized for a particular type of data, to advanced computational frameworks. The common denominator among these methods is the use of label-free quantitative information such as spectral counts or integrated peptide intensities that can be extracted from AP/MS data. We also discuss related issues such as combining multiple biological or technical replicates, and dealing with data generated using different tagging strategies. Computational approaches for benchmarking of scoring methods are discussed, and the need for generation of reference AP/MS datasets is highlighted. Finally, we discuss the possibility of more extended modeling of experimental AP/MS data, including integration with external information such as protein interaction predictions based on functional genomics data. PMID:22611043

The reliable multicast protocol application programming interface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Montgomery , Todd; Whetten, Brian

1995-01-01

The Application Programming Interface for the Berkeley/WVU implementation of the Reliable Multicast Protocol is described. This transport layer protocol is implemented as a user library that applications and software buses link against.

Characterization of postsynaptic calcium signals in the pyramidal neurons of anterior cingulate cortex

PubMed Central

Li, Xu-Hui; Song, Qian; Chen, Tao; Zhuo, Min

2017-01-01

Calcium signaling is critical for synaptic transmission and plasticity. N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors play a key role in synaptic potentiation in the anterior cingulate cortex. Most previous studies of calcium signaling focus on hippocampal neurons, little is known about the activity-induced calcium signals in the anterior cingulate cortex. In the present study, we show that NMDA receptor-mediated postsynaptic calcium signals induced by different synaptic stimulation in anterior cingulate cortex pyramidal neurons. Single and multi-action potentials evoked significant suprathreshold Ca2+ increases in somas and spines. Both NMDA receptors and voltage-gated calcium channels contributed to this increase. Postsynaptic Ca2+signals were induced by puff-application of glutamate, and a NMDA receptor antagonist AP5 blocked these signals in both somas and spines. Finally, long-term potentiation inducing protocols triggered postsynaptic Ca2+ influx, and these influx were NMDA receptor dependent. Our results provide the first study of calcium signals in the anterior cingulate cortex and demonstrate that NMDA receptors play important roles in postsynaptic calcium signals in anterior cingulate cortex pyramidal neurons. PMID:28726541

OSI Upper Layers Support for Applications.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davison, Wayne

1990-01-01

Discusses how various Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) application layer protocols can be used together, along with the Presentation and Session protocols, to support the interconnection requirements of applications. Application layer protocol standards that are currently available or under development are reviewed, and the File, Transfer,…

Synthesis, characterization and antioxidant activity of a novel electroactive and biodegradable polyurethane for cardiac tissue engineering application.

PubMed

Baheiraei, Nafiseh; Yeganeh, Hamid; Ai, Jafar; Gharibi, Reza; Azami, Mahmoud; Faghihi, Faezeh

2014-11-01

There has been a growing trend towards applying conducting polymers for electrically excitable cells to increase electrical signal propagation within the cell-loaded substrates. A novel biodegradable electroactive polyurethane containing aniline pentamer (AP-PU) was synthesized and fully characterized by spectroscopic methods. To tune the physico-chemical properties and biocompatibility, the AP-PU was blended with polycaprolactone (PCL). The presence of electroactive moieties and the electroactivity behavior of the prepared films were confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. A conventional four probe analysis demonstrated the electrical conductivity of the films in the semiconductor range (~10(-5)S/cm). MTT assays using L929 mouse fibroblast and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) showed that the prepared blend (PB) displayed more cytocompatibility compared with AP-PU due to the introduction of a biocompatible PCL moiety. The in vitro cell culture also confirmed that PB was as supportive as tissue culture plate. The antioxidant activity of the AP-PU was proved using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay by employing UV-vis spectroscopy. In vitro degradation tests conducted in phosphate-buffered saline, pH7.4 and pH5.5, proved that the films were also biodegradable. The results of this study have highlighted the potential application of this bioelectroactive polyurethane as a platform substrate to study the effect of electrical signals on cell activities and to direct desirable cell function for tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Zygapophyseal Joint Space Changes (Gapping) in Low Back Pain Patients following Spinal Manipulation and Side Posture Positioning: A Randomized Controlled Mechanisms Trial with Blinding

PubMed Central

Cramer, Gregory D.; Cambron, Jerrilyn; Cantu, Joe A; Dexheimer, Jennifer M.; Pocius, Judith D; Gregerson, Douglas; Fergus, Michael; McKinnis, Ray; Grieve, Thomas J

2013-01-01

Objective The purpose of this study was to quantify lumbar zygapophyseal (Z) joint space separation (gapping) in low back pain (LBP) subjects after spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) or side-posture positioning (SPP). Methods This was a controlled mechanisms trial with randomization and blinding. Acute LBP subjects (N=112, four n=28 MRI protocol groups) had 2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appointments (initial enrollment [M1] and following 2 weeks of chiropractic treatment [M2]; receiving 2 MRI scans of the L4/L5 and L5/S1 Z joints at each MRI appointment. After the first MRI scan of each appointment, subjects were randomized (M1 appointment) or assigned (M2 appointment) into SPP (non-manipulation), SMT (manipulation), or control MRI protocol groups. After SPP or SMT, a second MRI was taken. The central anterior-posterior (A-P) joint space was measured. Difference between most painful side A-P measurements taken post- and pre-intervention was the Z joint “gapping difference.” Gapping differences were compared (ANOVA) among protocol groups. Secondary measures of pain visual analog scale (VAS), verbal numeric pain rating scale (VNPRS), and function Bournemouth questionnaire (BQ) were assessed. Results Gapping differences were significant at the first (adjusted, p=0.01; SPP=0.66 +0.48mm; SMT=0.23 +0.86; control=0.18 +0.71) and second (adjusted, p=0.0005; SPP=0.65 +0.92mm, SMT=0.89 +0.71; control=0.35 +0.32) MRI appointments. VNPRS differences were significant at first MRI appointment (p=0.04) with SMT showing the greatest improvement. VAS and BQ improved after two weeks of care in all groups (both p<0.0001). Conclusions SPP showed greatest gapping at baseline. After two weeks, SMT resulted in greatest gapping. SPP appeared to have additive therapeutic benefit to SMT. PMID:23648055

Workplace exposure and release of ultrafine particles during atmospheric plasma spraying in the ceramic industry.

PubMed

Viana, M; Fonseca, A S; Querol, X; López-Lilao, A; Carpio, P; Salmatonidis, A; Monfort, E

2017-12-01

Atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) is a frequently used technique to produce enhanced-property coatings for different materials in the ceramic industry. This work aimed to characterise and quantify the impact of APS on workplace exposure to airborne particles, with a focus on ultrafine particles (UFPs, <100nm) and nanoparticles (<50nm). Particle number, mass concentrations, alveolar lung deposited surface area concentration, and size distributions, in the range 10nm-20μm were simultaneously monitored at the emission source, in the potential worker breathing zone, and in outdoor air. Different input materials (known as feedstock) were tested: (a) micron-sized powders, and (b) suspensions containing submicron- or nano-sized particles. Results evidenced significantly high UFP concentrations (up to 3.3×10 6 /cm 3 ) inside the spraying chamber, which impacted exposure concentrations in the worker area outside the spraying chamber (up to 8.3×10 5 /cm 3 ). Environmental release of UFPs was also detected (3.9×10 5 /cm 3 , outside the exhaust tube). Engineered nanoparticle (ENP) release to workplace air was also evidenced by TEM microscopy. UFP emissions were detected during the application of both micron-sized powder and suspensions containing submicron- or nano-sized particles, thus suggesting that emissions were process- (and not material-) dependent. An effective risk prevention protocol was implemented, which resulted in a reduction of UFP exposure in the worker area. These findings demonstrate the potential risk of occupational exposure to UFPs during atmospheric plasma spraying, and raise the need for further research on UFP formation mechanisms in high-energy industrial processes. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Risk factors associated with actinic prurigo: a case control study*

PubMed Central

Cuevas-Gonzalez, Juan Carlos; Vega-Memíje, María Elisa; Borges-Yáñez, Socorro Aída; Rodríguez-Lobato, Erika

2017-01-01

Background Actinic prurigo (AP) is an idiopathic photodermatosis. Although its initial manifestations can appear in 6 to 8-year-old children, cases are diagnosed later, between the second and fourth decades of life, when the injuries are exacerbated. Objective To identify risk factors associated with clinical manifestations of AP such as skin and mucosal lesions. Methods Thirty patients with AP and 60 controls were included in the study, the dependent variable was the presence of skin or labial mucosal lesions, the independent variables were age, sex, solar exposure, living with pets or farm animals, exposure to wood smoke, smoking habit, years smoking, and hours spent per day and per week in contact with people who smoke. Results Of the 30 diagnosed AP patients, 66.7% were female. Patients age ranged from 7 to 71 years and the mean age was 35.77 ± 14.55 years. We found significant differences with the age and cohabitation with farm animals. Those who lived with farm animals presented 14.31 times higher probability of developing AP (95% CI 3-78.06). Study limitations This is a case-control study; therefore, a causal relationship cannot be proven, and these results cannot be generalized to every population. Conclusions The identification of factors related to the development of AP increases our knowledge of its physiopathology. Moreover, identifying antigens that possibly trigger the allergic reaction will have preventive and therapeutic applications in populations at risk of AP. PMID:29364431

Improved Pharmacological and Structural Properties of HIV Fusion Inhibitor AP 3 over Enfuvirtide: Highlighting Advantages of Artificial Peptide Strategy

DOE PAGES

Zhu, Xiaojie; Zhu, Yun; Ye, Sheng; ...

2015-08-19

Enfuvirtide (T20), is the first HIV fusion inhibitor approved for treatment of HIV/AIDS patients who fail to respond to the current antiretroviral drugs. However, its clinical application is limited because of short half-life, drug resistance and cross-reactivity with the preexisting antibodies in HIV-infected patients. Using an artificial peptide strategy, we designed a peptide with non-native protein sequence, AP 3, which exhibited potent antiviral activity against a broad spectrum of HIV-1 strains, including those resistant to T20, and had remarkably longer in vivo half-life than T20. While the preexisting antibodies in HIV-infected patients significantly suppressed T20’s antiviral activity, these antibodies neithermore » recognized AP 3, nor attenuated its anti-HIV-1 activity. Structurally different from T20, AP 3 could fold into single-helix and interact with gp41 NHR. The two residues, Met and Thr, at the N-terminus of AP 3 form a hook-like structure to stabilize interaction between AP 3 and NHR helices. Therefore, AP 3 has potential for further development as a new HIV fusion inhibitor with improved antiviral efficacy, resistance profile and pharmacological properties over enfuvirtide. Meanwhile, this study highlighted the advantages of artificially designed peptides, and confirmed that this strategy could be used in developing artificial peptide-based viral fusion inhibitors against HIV and other enveloped viruses.« less

Improved Pharmacological and Structural Properties of HIV Fusion Inhibitor AP 3 over Enfuvirtide: Highlighting Advantages of Artificial Peptide Strategy

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

Zhu, Xiaojie; Zhu, Yun; Ye, Sheng

Enfuvirtide (T20), is the first HIV fusion inhibitor approved for treatment of HIV/AIDS patients who fail to respond to the current antiretroviral drugs. However, its clinical application is limited because of short half-life, drug resistance and cross-reactivity with the preexisting antibodies in HIV-infected patients. Using an artificial peptide strategy, we designed a peptide with non-native protein sequence, AP 3, which exhibited potent antiviral activity against a broad spectrum of HIV-1 strains, including those resistant to T20, and had remarkably longer in vivo half-life than T20. While the preexisting antibodies in HIV-infected patients significantly suppressed T20’s antiviral activity, these antibodies neithermore » recognized AP 3, nor attenuated its anti-HIV-1 activity. Structurally different from T20, AP 3 could fold into single-helix and interact with gp41 NHR. The two residues, Met and Thr, at the N-terminus of AP 3 form a hook-like structure to stabilize interaction between AP 3 and NHR helices. Therefore, AP 3 has potential for further development as a new HIV fusion inhibitor with improved antiviral efficacy, resistance profile and pharmacological properties over enfuvirtide. Meanwhile, this study highlighted the advantages of artificially designed peptides, and confirmed that this strategy could be used in developing artificial peptide-based viral fusion inhibitors against HIV and other enveloped viruses.« less

Use of Flowchart for Automation of Clinical Protocols in mHealth.

PubMed

Dias, Karine Nóra; Welfer, Daniel; Cordeiro d'Ornellas, Marcos; Pereira Haygert, Carlos Jesus; Dotto, Gustavo Nogara

2017-01-01

For healthcare professionals to use mobile applications we need someone who knows software development, provide them. In healthcare institutions, health professionals use clinical protocols to govern care, and sometimes these documents are computerized through mobile applications to assist them. This work aims to present a proposal of an application of flow as a way of describing clinical protocols for automatic generation of mobile applications to assist health professionals. The purpose of this research is to enable health professionals to develop applications from the description of their own clinical protocols. As a result, we developed a web system that automates clinical protocols for an Android platform, and we validated with two clinical protocols used in a Brazilian hospital. Preliminary results of the developed architecture demonstrate the feasibility of this study.

Intelligent error correction method applied on an active pixel sensor based star tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Uwe

2005-10-01

Star trackers are opto-electronic sensors used on-board of satellites for the autonomous inertial attitude determination. During the last years star trackers became more and more important in the field of the attitude and orbit control system (AOCS) sensors. High performance star trackers are based up today on charge coupled device (CCD) optical camera heads. The active pixel sensor (APS) technology, introduced in the early 90-ties, allows now the beneficial replacement of CCD detectors by APS detectors with respect to performance, reliability, power, mass and cost. The company's heritage in star tracker design started in the early 80-ties with the launch of the worldwide first fully autonomous star tracker system ASTRO1 to the Russian MIR space station. Jena-Optronik recently developed an active pixel sensor based autonomous star tracker "ASTRO APS" as successor of the CCD based star tracker product series ASTRO1, ASTRO5, ASTRO10 and ASTRO15. Key features of the APS detector technology are, a true xy-address random access, the multiple windowing read out and the on-chip signal processing including the analogue to digital conversion. These features can be used for robust star tracking at high slew rates and under worse conditions like stray light and solar flare induced single event upsets. A special algorithm have been developed to manage the typical APS detector error contributors like fixed pattern noise (FPN), dark signal non-uniformity (DSNU) and white spots. The algorithm works fully autonomous and adapts to e.g. increasing DSNU and up-coming white spots automatically without ground maintenance or re-calibration. In contrast to conventional correction methods the described algorithm does not need calibration data memory like full image sized calibration data sets. The application of the presented algorithm managing the typical APS detector error contributors is a key element for the design of star trackers for long term satellite applications like geostationary telecom platforms.

Diadenosine tetraphosphate induces tight junction disassembly thus increasing corneal epithelial permeability

PubMed Central

Loma, P; Guzman-Aranguez, A; Pérez de Lara, M J; Pintor, J

2015-01-01

Background and Purpose Here, we have studied the effects of the dinucleotide P1, P4-Di (adenosine-5′) tetraphosphate (Ap4A) on corneal barrier function conferred by the tight junction (TJ) proteins and its possible involvement in ocular drug delivery and therapeutic efficiency. Experimental Approach Experiments in vitro were performed using human corneal epithelial cells (HCLEs) treated with Ap4A (100 μM) for 5 min. Western blot analysis and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) were performed to study the TJ protein levels and barrier function respectively. Intracellular pathways involved were determined using an ERK inhibitor and P2Y2 receptor siRNAs. In in vivo assays with New Zealand rabbits, TJ integrity was examined by zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) staining. The hypotensive compound 5-methoxycarbonylamino-N-acetyltryptamine (5-MCA-NAT) was used to assess improved delivery, measuring its levels by HPLC and measuring intraocular pressure using 5-MCA-NAT, P2Y receptor antagonists and P2Y2 siRNAs. Key Results Two hours after Ap4A pretreatment, TJ protein levels in HCLE cells were reduced around 40% compared with control. TEER values were significantly reduced at 2 and 4 h (68 and 52% respectively). TJ reduction and ERK activation were blocked by the ERK inhibitor U012 and P2Y2 siRNAs. In vivo, topical application of Ap4A disrupted ZO-1 membrane distribution. 5-MCA-NAT levels in the aqueous humour were higher when Ap4A was previously instilled and its hypotensive effect was also increased. This action was reversed by P2Y receptor antagonists and P2Y2 siRNA. Conclusions and Implications Ap4A increased corneal epithelial barrier permeability. Its application could improve ocular drug delivery and consequently therapeutic efficiency. PMID:25297531

Goals and Objectives to Optimize the Value of an Acute Pain Service in Perioperative Pain Management.

PubMed

Le-Wendling, Linda; Glick, Wesley; Tighe, Patrick

2017-12-01

As newer pharmacologic and procedural interventions, technology, and data on outcomes in pain management are becoming available, effective acute pain management will require a dedicated Acute Pain Service (APS) to help determine the most optimal pain management plan for the patients. Goals for pain management must take into consideration the side effect profile of drugs and potential complications of procedural interventions. Multiple objective optimization is the combination of multiple different objectives for acute pain management. Simple use of opioids, for example, can reduce all pain to minimal levels, but at what cost to the patient, the medical system, and to public health as a whole? Many models for APS exist based on personnel's skills, knowledge and experience, but effective use of an APS will also require allocation of time, space, financial, and personnel resources with clear objectives and a feedback mechanism to guide changes to acute pain medicine practices to meet the constantly evolving medical field. Physician-based practices have the advantage of developing protocols for the management of low-variability, high-occurrence scenarios in addition to tailoring care to individual patients with high-variability, low-occurrence scenarios. Frequent feedback and data collection/assessment on patient outcomes is essential in evaluating the efficacy of the Acute Pain Service's intervention in improving patient outcomes in the acute and perioperative setting.

Preventing smoking relapse via Web-based computer-tailored feedback: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Elfeddali, Iman; Bolman, Catherine; Candel, Math J J M; Wiers, Reinout W; de Vries, Hein

2012-08-20

Web-based computer-tailored approaches have the potential to be successful in supporting smoking cessation. However, the potential effects of such approaches for relapse prevention and the value of incorporating action planning strategies to effectively prevent smoking relapse have not been fully explored. The Stay Quit for You (SQ4U) study compared two Web-based computer-tailored smoking relapse prevention programs with different types of planning strategies versus a control group. To assess the efficacy of two Web-based computer-tailored programs in preventing smoking relapse compared with a control group. The action planning (AP) program provided tailored feedback at baseline and invited respondents to do 6 preparatory and coping planning assignments (the first 3 assignments prior to quit date and the final 3 assignments after quit date). The action planning plus (AP+) program was an extended version of the AP program that also provided tailored feedback at 11 time points after the quit attempt. Respondents in the control group only filled out questionnaires. The study also assessed possible dose-response relationships between abstinence and adherence to the programs. The study was a randomized controlled trial with three conditions: the control group, the AP program, and the AP+ program. Respondents were daily smokers (N = 2031), aged 18 to 65 years, who were motivated and willing to quit smoking within 1 month. The primary outcome was self-reported continued abstinence 12 months after baseline. Logistic regression analyses were conducted using three samples: (1) all respondents as randomly assigned, (2) a modified sample that excluded respondents who did not make a quit attempt in conformance with the program protocol, and (3) a minimum dose sample that also excluded respondents who did not adhere to at least one of the intervention elements. Observed case analyses and conservative analyses were conducted. In the observed case analysis of the randomized sample, abstinence rates were 22% (45/202) in the control group versus 33% (63/190) in the AP program and 31% (53/174) in the AP+ program. The AP program (odds ratio 1.95, P = .005) and the AP+ program (odds ratio 1.61, P = .049) were significantly more effective than the control condition. Abstinence rates and effects differed per sample. Finally, the results suggest a dose-response relationship between abstinence and the number of program elements completed by the respondents. Despite the differences in results caused by the variation in our analysis approaches, we can conclude that Web-based computer-tailored programs combined with planning strategy assignments and feedback after the quit attempt can be effective in preventing relapse 12 months after baseline. However, adherence to the intervention seems critical for effectiveness. Finally, our results also suggest that more research is needed to assess the optimum intervention dose. Dutch Trial Register: NTR1892; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=1892 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/693S6uuPM).

The association of depression and angina pectoris across 47 countries: findings from the 2002 World Health Survey.

PubMed

Loerbroks, Adrian; Bosch, Jos Antonio; Mommersteeg, Paula Maria Christina; Herr, Raphael Manfred; Angerer, Peter; Li, Jian

2014-07-01

Comorbid depression predicts poor health outcomes in patients with angina pectoris (AP). However, epidemiological data on the depression-AP comorbidity is limited and largely restricted to studies from Western countries, making generalizability to other regions uncertain. We aimed to provide additional epidemiological data for non-Western as well as Western countries. The present study used population-based data gathered in 47 countries from four continents (Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe) included in the cross-sectional 2002 WHO World Health Survey. Self-reported indicators of depression included: (a) its diagnosis, (b) its treatment, and (c) seven symptom items to determine presence of a major depressive episode. Similarly, information on AP comprised (a) a self-reported diagnosis, (b) self-reported AP treatment, (c) and a definition according to the WHO Rose questionnaire. In primary analyses, we operationalized depression or AP as positive if any of the respective indicators was present. Associations were estimated by multivariate logistic regression. In the entire sample (n = 213,264), the odds of AP were more than doubled among those with depression [odds ratio (OR) = 2.60, 95% confidence interval = 2.36, 2.87] versus those without depression. These positive associations were replicated across all continents and were observed in both men and women. Likewise, meaningful associations (ORs ≥ 1.5) were observed in virtually all individual countries (46/47). Application of different operationalizations of depression and AP confirmed the above findings, both in the entire sample and in continent-specific analyses. Our study extends the current evidence accrued in Western populations to non-Western populations. The co-occurrence of AP and depression appears to represent a universal phenomenon.

Function of Platelet-Induced Epithelial Attachment at Titanium Surfaces Inhibits Microbial Colonization.

PubMed

Maeno, M; Lee, C; Kim, D M; Da Silva, J; Nagai, S; Sugawara, S; Nara, Y; Kihara, H; Nagai, M

2017-06-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the barrier function of platelet-induced epithelial sheets on titanium surfaces. The lack of functional peri-implant epithelial sealing with basal lamina (BL) attachment at the interface of the implant and the adjacent epithelium allows for bacterial invasion, which may lead to peri-implantitis. Although various approaches have been reported to combat bacterial infection by surface modifications to titanium, none of these have been successful in a clinical application. In our previous study, surface modification with protease-activated receptor 4-activating peptide (PAR4-AP), which induced platelet activation and aggregation, was successful in demonstrating epithelial attachment via BL and epithelial sheet formation on the titanium surface. We hypothesized that the platelet-induced epithelial sheet on PAR4-AP-modified titanium surfaces would reduce bacterial attachment, penetration, and invasion. Titanium surface was modified with PAR4-AP and incubated with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The aggregated platelets released collagen IV, a critical BL component, onto the PAR4-AP-modified titanium surface. Then, human gingival epithelial cells were seeded on the modified titanium surface and formed epithelial sheets. Green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing Escherichia coli was cultured onto PAR4-AP-modified titanium with and without epithelial sheet formation. While Escherichia coli accumulated densely onto the PAR4-AP titanium lacking epithelial sheet, few Escherichia coli were observed on the epithelial sheet on the PAR4-AP surface. No bacterial invasion into the interface of the epithelial sheet and the titanium surface was observed. These in vitro results indicate the efficacy of a platelet-induced epithelial barrier that functions to prevent bacterial attachment, penetration, and invasion on PAR4-AP-modified titanium.

Comparison of different threshold values r for approximate entropy: application to investigate the heart rate variability between heart failure and healthy control groups.

PubMed

Liu, Chengyu; Liu, Changchun; Shao, Peng; Li, Liping; Sun, Xin; Wang, Xinpei; Liu, Feng

2011-02-01

Approximate entropy (ApEn) is widely accepted as a complexity measure of the heart rate variability (HRV) signal, but selecting the criteria for the threshold value r is controversial. This paper aims to verify whether Chon's method of forecasting the r(max) is an appropriate one for the HRV signal. The standard limb lead ECG signals of 120 subjects were recorded for 10 min in a supine position. The subjects were divided into two groups: the heart failure (22 females and 38 males, median age 62.4 ± 12.6) and healthy control group (33 females and 27 males, median age 51.5 ± 16.9). Three types of ApEn were calculated: the ApEn(0.2) using the recommended constant r = 0.2, the ApEn(chon) using Chon's method and the ApEn(max) using the true r(max). A Wilcoxon rank sum test showed that the ApEn(0.2) (p = 0.267) and the ApEn(max) (p = 0.813) had no statistical differences between the two groups, while the ApEn(chon) (p = 0.040) had. We generated a synthetic database to study the effect of two influential factors (the signal length N and the ratio of short- and long-term variability sd(1)/sd(2)) on the empirical formula in Chon's method (Chon et al 2009 IEEE Eng. Med. Biol. Mag. 28 18-23). The results showed that the empirical formula proposed by Chon et al is a good method for analyzing the random signal, but not an appropriate tool for analyzing nonlinear signals, such as the logistic or HRV signals.

A human ventricular cell model for investigation of cardiac arrhythmias under hyperkalaemic conditions.

PubMed

Carro, Jesús; Rodríguez, José Félix; Laguna, Pablo; Pueyo, Esther

2011-11-13

In this study, several modifications were introduced to a recently proposed human ventricular action potential (AP) model so as to render it suitable for the study of ventricular arrhythmias. These modifications were driven by new sets of experimental data available from the literature and the analysis of several well-established cellular arrhythmic risk biomarkers, namely AP duration at 90 per cent repolarization (APD(90)), AP triangulation, calcium dynamics, restitution properties, APD(90) adaptation to abrupt heart rate changes, and rate dependence of intracellular sodium and calcium concentrations. The proposed methodology represents a novel framework for the development of cardiac cell models. Five stimulation protocols were applied to the original model and the ventricular AP model developed here to compute the described arrhythmic risk biomarkers. In addition, those models were tested in a one-dimensional fibre in which hyperkalaemia was simulated by increasing the extracellular potassium concentration, [K(+)](o). The effective refractory period (ERP), conduction velocity (CV) and the occurrence of APD alternans were investigated. Results show that modifications improved model behaviour as verified by: (i) AP triangulation well within experimental limits (the difference between APD at 50 and 90 per cent repolarization being 78.1 ms); (ii) APD(90) rate adaptation dynamics characterized by fast and slow time constants within physiological ranges (10.1 and 105.9 s); and (iii) maximum S1S2 restitution slope in accordance with experimental data (S(S1S2)=1.0). In simulated tissues under hyperkalaemic conditions, APD(90) progressively shortened with the degree of hyperkalaemia, whereas ERP increased once a threshold in [K(+)](o) was reached ([K(+)](o)≈6 mM). CV decreased with [K(+)](o), and conduction was blocked for [K(+)](o)>10.4 mM. APD(90) alternans were observed for [K(+)](o)>9.8 mM. Those results adequately reproduce experimental observations. This study demonstrated the value of basing the development of AP models on the computation of arrhythmic risk biomarkers, as opposed to joining together independently derived ion channel descriptions to produce a whole-cell AP model, with the new framework providing a better picture of the model performance under a variety of stimulation conditions. On top of replicating experimental data at single-cell level, the model developed here was able to predict the occurrence of APD(90) alternans and areas of conduction block associated with high [K(+)](o) in tissue, which is of relevance for the investigation of the arrhythmogenic substrate in ischaemic hearts.

Couch height–based patient setup for abdominal radiation therapy

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

Ohira, Shingo; Department of Medical Physics and Engineering, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita; Ueda, Yoshihiro

2016-04-01

There are 2 methods commonly used for patient positioning in the anterior-posterior (A-P) direction: one is the skin mark patient setup method (SMPS) and the other is the couch height–based patient setup method (CHPS). This study compared the setup accuracy of these 2 methods for abdominal radiation therapy. The enrollment for this study comprised 23 patients with pancreatic cancer. For treatments (539 sessions), patients were set up by using isocenter skin marks and thereafter treatment couch was shifted so that the distance between the isocenter and the upper side of the treatment couch was equal to that indicated on themore » computed tomographic (CT) image. Setup deviation in the A-P direction for CHPS was measured by matching the spine of the digitally reconstructed radiograph (DRR) of a lateral beam at simulation with that of the corresponding time-integrated electronic portal image. For SMPS with no correction (SMPS/NC), setup deviation was calculated based on the couch-level difference between SMPS and CHPS. SMPS/NC was corrected using 2 off-line correction protocols: no action level (SMPS/NAL) and extended NAL (SMPS/eNAL) protocols. Margins to compensate for deviations were calculated using the Stroom formula. A-P deviation > 5 mm was observed in 17% of SMPS/NC, 4% of SMPS/NAL, and 4% of SMPS/eNAL sessions but only in one CHPS session. For SMPS/NC, 7 patients (30%) showed deviations at an increasing rate of > 0.1 mm/fraction, but for CHPS, no such trend was observed. The standard deviations (SDs) of systematic error (Σ) were 2.6, 1.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mm and the root mean squares of random error (σ) were 2.1, 2.6, 2.7, and 0.9 mm for SMPS/NC, SMPS/NAL, SMPS/eNAL, and CHPS, respectively. Margins to compensate for the deviations were wide for SMPS/NC (6.7 mm), smaller for SMPS/NAL (4.6 mm) and SMPS/eNAL (3.1 mm), and smallest for CHPS (2.2 mm). Achieving better setup with smaller margins, CHPS appears to be a reproducible method for abdominal patient setup.« less

Development of an efficient signal amplification strategy for label-free enzyme immunoassay using two site-specific biotinylated recombinant proteins.

PubMed

Tang, Jin-Bao; Tang, Ying; Yang, Hong-Ming

2015-02-15

Constructing a recombinant protein between a reporter enzyme and a detector protein to produce a homogeneous immunological reagent is advantageous over random chemical conjugation. However, the approach hardly recombines multiple enzymes in a difunctional fusion protein, which results in insufficient amplification of the enzymatic signal, thereby limiting its application in further enhancement of analytical signal. In this study, two site-specific biotinylated recombinant proteins, namely, divalent biotinylated alkaline phosphatase (AP) and monovalent biotinylated ZZ domain, were produced by employing the Avitag-BirA system. Through the high streptavidin (SA)-biotin interaction, the divalent biotinylated APs were clustered in the SA-biotin complex and then incorporated with the biotinylated ZZ. This incorporation results in the formation of a functional macromolecule that involves numerous APs, thereby enhancing the enzymatic signal, and in the production of several ZZ molecules for the interaction with immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody. The advantage of this signal amplification strategy is demonstrated through ELISA, in which the analytical signal was substantially enhanced, with a 32-fold increase in the detection sensitivity compared with the ZZ-AP fusion protein approach. The proposed immunoassay without chemical modification can be an alternative strategy to enhance the analytical signals in various applications involving immunosensors and diagnostic chips, given that the label-free IgG antibody is suitable for the ZZ protein. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Overview on Recent Developments of Bondcoats for Plasma-Sprayed Thermal Barrier Coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naumenko, D.; Pillai, R.; Chyrkin, A.; Quadakkers, W. J.

2017-12-01

The performance of MCrAlY (M = Ni, Co) bondcoats for atmospheric plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coatings (APS-TBCs) is substantially affected by the contents of Co, Ni, Cr, and Al as well as minor additions of Y, Hf, Zr, etc., but also by manufacturing-related properties such as coating thickness, porosity, surface roughness, and oxygen content. The latter properties depend in turn on the exact technology and set of parameters used for bondcoat deposition. The well-established LPPS process competes nowadays with alternative technologies such as HVOF and APS. In addition, new technologies have been developed for bondcoats manufacturing such as high-velocity APS or a combination of HVOF and APS for application of a flashcoat. Future developments of the bondcoat systems will likely include optimization of thermal spraying methods for obtaining complex bondcoat roughness profiles required for extended APS-TBC lifetimes. Introduction of the newest generation single-crystal superalloys possessing low Cr and high Al and refractory metals (Re, Ru) contents will require definition of new bondcoat compositions and/or multilayered bondcoats to minimize interdiffusion issues. The developments of new bondcoat compositions may be substantially facilitated using thermodynamic-kinetic modeling, the vast potential of which has been demonstrated in recent years.

Automated cell tracking identifies mechanically oriented cell divisions during Drosophila axis elongation.

PubMed

Wang, Michael F Z; Hunter, Miranda V; Wang, Gang; McFaul, Christopher; Yip, Christopher M; Fernandez-Gonzalez, Rodrigo

2017-04-01

Embryos extend their anterior-posterior (AP) axis in a conserved process known as axis elongation. Drosophila axis elongation occurs in an epithelial monolayer, the germband, and is driven by cell intercalation, cell shape changes, and oriented cell divisions at the posterior germband. Anterior germband cells also divide during axis elongation. We developed image analysis and pattern-recognition methods to track dividing cells from confocal microscopy movies in a generally applicable approach. Mesectoderm cells, forming the ventral midline, divided parallel to the AP axis, while lateral cells displayed a uniform distribution of division orientations. Mesectoderm cells did not intercalate and sustained increased AP strain before cell division. After division, mesectoderm cell density increased along the AP axis, thus relieving strain. We used laser ablation to isolate mesectoderm cells from the influence of other tissues. Uncoupling the mesectoderm from intercalating cells did not affect cell division orientation. Conversely, separating the mesectoderm from the anterior and posterior poles of the embryo resulted in uniformly oriented divisions. Our data suggest that mesectoderm cells align their division angle to reduce strain caused by mechanical forces along the AP axis of the embryo. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Satellite Communications Using Commercial Protocols

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ivancic, William D.; Griner, James H.; Dimond, Robert; Frantz, Brian D.; Kachmar, Brian; Shell, Dan

2000-01-01

NASA Glenn Research Center has been working with industry, academia, and other government agencies in assessing commercial communications protocols for satellite and space-based applications. In addition, NASA Glenn has been developing and advocating new satellite-friendly modifications to existing communications protocol standards. This paper summarizes recent research into the applicability of various commercial standard protocols for use over satellite and space- based communications networks as well as expectations for future protocol development. It serves as a reference point from which the detailed work can be readily accessed. Areas that will be addressed include asynchronous-transfer-mode quality of service; completed and ongoing work of the Internet Engineering Task Force; data-link-layer protocol development for unidirectional link routing; and protocols for aeronautical applications, including mobile Internet protocol routing for wireless/mobile hosts and the aeronautical telecommunications network protocol.

Andrographis paniculata elicits anti-invasion activities by suppressing TM4SF3 gene expression and by anoikis-sensitization in esophageal cancer cells

PubMed Central

Yue, Grace Gar-Lee; Lee, Julia Kin-Ming; Li, Lin; Chan, Kar-Man; Wong, Eric Chun-Wai; Chan, Judy Yuet-Wah; Fung, Kwok-Pui; Lui, Vivian Wai Yan; Chiu, Philip Wai-Yan; Lau, Clara Bik-San

2015-01-01

Esophageal cancer is the sixth most common cancer in male causing death worldwide. It is usually diagnosed at advanced stage with high postoperative recurrence and systemic metastasis, which leads to poor prognosis. The potential inhibitory effect of herbal medicines on metastasis of esophageal cancer has drawn researchers’ great attention. In the present study, the anti-invasion activities of Andrographis paniculata (AP) have been evaluated in two esophageal cancer cell lines, EC-109 and KYSE-520, as well as human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1). The anti-tumor and anti-metastatic activities of AP were also evaluated in human esophageal xenograft-bearing mouse models. Our results demonstrated for the first time that aqueous extract of AP inhibited the motility and invasion of esophageal cancer cells, which is the initial step of metastasis, without cytotoxicity. Anoikis resistance has also been reversed in AP-treated cancer cells. Besides, the expression of metastasis-related gene TM4SF3 in EC-109 cells was significantly decreased in AP extract-treated cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, the anti-tumor and anti-metastatic efficacies in subcutaneous and intraperitoneal esophageal xenograft-bearing mice were demonstrated after oral administration of AP aqueous extract for 3 weeks. Last but not least, the active component, isoandrographolide, responsible for the anti-migratory activity was firstly revealed here. In conclusion, the AP aqueous extract exerted inhibitory activities on the migration and anoikis resistance of esophageal cancer cells EC-109 and KYSE-520, as well as suppressed the proliferation and motility of endothelial cells. Combining the mentioned effects may account for the anti-tumor and anti-metastasis effects of AP aqueous extract in xenograft-bearing mice. The findings in the present study further enhance the understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms of the herb AP, which may lead to clinical applications. PMID:26885447

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

Loginova, Y.F.; Dezhurov, S.V.; Zherdeva, V.V.

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer New QDs coated with combination of polythiol ligands and silica shell were synthesized. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We examine the QDs stability in digestive tract of mice after per os administration. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The polymer/silica shell prevents QDs degradation and fluorescence quenching in vivo. -- Abstract: CdSe-core, ZnS-capped semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are of great potential for biomedical applications. However, applications in the gastrointestinal tract for in vivo imaging and therapeutic purposes are hampered by their sensitivity to acidic environments and potential toxicity. Here we report the use of coatings with a combination of polythiol ligands and silica shell (QDs PolyT-APS) tomore » stabilize QDs fluorescence under acidic conditions. We demonstrated the stability of water-soluble QDs PolyT-APS both in vitro, in strong acidic solutions, and in vivo. The biodistribution, stability and photoluminescence properties of QDs in the gastrointestinal tract of mice after per os administration were assessed. We demonstrated that QDs coated with current traditional materials - mercapto compounds (QDs MPA) and pendant thiol group (QDs PolyT) - are not capable of protecting QDs from chemically induced degradation and surface modification. Polythiol ligands and silica shell quantum dots (QDs PolyT-APS) are suitable for biological and biomedical applications in the gastrointestinal tract.« less

Short infrared (IR) laser pulses can induce nanoporation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roth, Caleb C.; Barnes, Ronald A.; Ibey, Bennett L.; Glickman, Randolph D.; Beier, Hope T.

2016-03-01

Short infrared (IR) laser pulses on the order of hundreds of microseconds to single milliseconds with typical wavelengths of 1800-2100 nm, have shown the capability to reversibly stimulate action potentials (AP) in neuronal cells. While the IR stimulation technique has proven successful for several applications, the exact mechanism(s) underlying the AP generation has remained elusive. To better understand how IR pulses cause AP stimulation, we determined the threshold for the formation of nanopores in the plasma membrane. Using a surrogate calcium ion, thallium, which is roughly the same shape and charge, but lacks the biological functionality of calcium, we recorded the flow of thallium ions into an exposed cell in the presence of a battery of channel antagonists. The entry of thallium into the cell indicated that the ions entered via nanopores. The data presented here demonstrate a basic understanding of the fundamental effects of IR stimulation and speculates that nanopores, formed in response to the IR exposure, play an upstream role in the generation of AP.

Skeletal and cardiac myogenesis accompany adipogenesis in P19 embryonal stem cells.

PubMed

Bouchard, Frédéric; Paquin, Joanne

2009-09-01

P19 embryonic carcinoma cells resemble normal embryonic stem (ES) cells. They generate cardiac and skeletal myocytes in response to retinoic acid (RA) or oxytocin (OT). RA treatment followed by exposure to triiodothyronine (T3) and insulin induces ES cells differentiation into adipocytes and skeletomyocytes. On the other hand, OT (10(-7) M) was reported to inhibit 3T3 preadipocyte maturation. The present work was undertaken to determine whether P19 cells have an adipogenic potential that could be affected by OT. Cells were treated with RA (10(-6) M)/T3+insulin (adipogenic protocol) or 10(-7) M OT (cardiomyogenic protocol), and analyzed by polymerase chain reaction, immunotechniques, and cytochemistry. Oil-Red-O staining and expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) and aP2 indicated the generation of adipocytes in cultures submitted to the adipogenic protocol. Contracting cells were also generated. Cells positive for sarcomeric actinin and negative for cardiac troponin inhibitor (cTpnI) indicated generation of skeletomyocytes, and cTpnI positive cells revealed generation of cardiomyocytes. Levels of cTpnI and of the skeletal marker MyoD were almost similar in both protocols, whereas no Oil-Red-O staining was associated with the cardiomyogenic protocol. Addition of 10(-7) M OT to the adipogenic protocol did not affect Oil-Red-O staining and PPARgamma expression. Interestingly, Oct3/4 pluripotency marker disappeared in the adipogenic protocol but remained expressed in the cardiomyogenic one. P19 cells thus have an adipogenic potential non affected by 10(-7) M OT. RA/T3+insulin combination generates a larger spectrum of mesodermal cell derivatives and is a more potent morphogenic treatment than OT. P19 cells could help investigating mechanisms of cell fate decision during development.

Wireless access to a pharmaceutical database: a demonstrator for data driven Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) applications in medical information processing.

PubMed

Schacht Hansen, M; Dørup, J

2001-01-01

The Wireless Application Protocol technology implemented in newer mobile phones has built-in facilities for handling much of the information processing needed in clinical work. To test a practical approach we ported a relational database of the Danish pharmaceutical catalogue to Wireless Application Protocol using open source freeware at all steps. We used Apache 1.3 web software on a Linux server. Data containing the Danish pharmaceutical catalogue were imported from an ASCII file into a MySQL 3.22.32 database using a Practical Extraction and Report Language script for easy update of the database. Data were distributed in 35 interrelated tables. Each pharmaceutical brand name was given its own card with links to general information about the drug, active substances, contraindications etc. Access was available through 1) browsing therapeutic groups and 2) searching for a brand name. The database interface was programmed in the server-side scripting language PHP3. A free, open source Wireless Application Protocol gateway to a pharmaceutical catalogue was established to allow dial-in access independent of commercial Wireless Application Protocol service providers. The application was tested on the Nokia 7110 and Ericsson R320s cellular phones. We have demonstrated that Wireless Application Protocol-based access to a dynamic clinical database can be established using open source freeware. The project opens perspectives for a further integration of Wireless Application Protocol phone functions in clinical information processing: Global System for Mobile communication telephony for bilateral communication, asynchronous unilateral communication via e-mail and Short Message Service, built-in calculator, calendar, personal organizer, phone number catalogue and Dictaphone function via answering machine technology. An independent Wireless Application Protocol gateway may be placed within hospital firewalls, which may be an advantage with respect to security. However, if Wireless Application Protocol phones are to become effective tools for physicians, special attention must be paid to the limitations of the devices. Input tools of Wireless Application Protocol phones should be improved, for instance by increased use of speech control.

Wireless access to a pharmaceutical database: A demonstrator for data driven Wireless Application Protocol applications in medical information processing

PubMed Central

Hansen, Michael Schacht

2001-01-01

Background The Wireless Application Protocol technology implemented in newer mobile phones has built-in facilities for handling much of the information processing needed in clinical work. Objectives To test a practical approach we ported a relational database of the Danish pharmaceutical catalogue to Wireless Application Protocol using open source freeware at all steps. Methods We used Apache 1.3 web software on a Linux server. Data containing the Danish pharmaceutical catalogue were imported from an ASCII file into a MySQL 3.22.32 database using a Practical Extraction and Report Language script for easy update of the database. Data were distributed in 35 interrelated tables. Each pharmaceutical brand name was given its own card with links to general information about the drug, active substances, contraindications etc. Access was available through 1) browsing therapeutic groups and 2) searching for a brand name. The database interface was programmed in the server-side scripting language PHP3. Results A free, open source Wireless Application Protocol gateway to a pharmaceutical catalogue was established to allow dial-in access independent of commercial Wireless Application Protocol service providers. The application was tested on the Nokia 7110 and Ericsson R320s cellular phones. Conclusions We have demonstrated that Wireless Application Protocol-based access to a dynamic clinical database can be established using open source freeware. The project opens perspectives for a further integration of Wireless Application Protocol phone functions in clinical information processing: Global System for Mobile communication telephony for bilateral communication, asynchronous unilateral communication via e-mail and Short Message Service, built-in calculator, calendar, personal organizer, phone number catalogue and Dictaphone function via answering machine technology. An independent Wireless Application Protocol gateway may be placed within hospital firewalls, which may be an advantage with respect to security. However, if Wireless Application Protocol phones are to become effective tools for physicians, special attention must be paid to the limitations of the devices. Input tools of Wireless Application Protocol phones should be improved, for instance by increased use of speech control. PMID:11720946

Drug Prohibition and Public Health: 25 Years of Evidence

PubMed Central

Drucker, Ernest

1999-01-01

FOR THE PAST 25 YEARS, the US has pursued a drug policy based on prohibition and the vigorous application of criminal sanctions for the use and sale of illicit drugs. The relationship of a prohibition-based drug policy to prevalence patterns and health consequences of drug use has never been fully evaluated. To explore that relationship, the author examines national data on the application of criminal penalties for illegal drugs and associated trends in their patterns of use and adverse health outcomes for 1972–1997. Over this 25-year period, the rate at which criminal penalties are imposed for drug offenses has climbed steadily, reaching 1.5 million arrests for drug offenses in 1996, with a tenfold increase in imprisonment for drug charges since 1979. Today, drug enforcement activities constitute 67% of the $16 billion Federal drug budget and more than $20 billion per year in state and local enforcement expenditures, compared with $7.6 billion for treatment, prevention, and research. Despite an overall decline in the prevalence of drug use since 1979, we have seen dramatic increases in drugrelated emergency department visits and drug-related deaths coinciding with this period of increased enforcement. Further, while black, Hispanic, and white Americans use illegal drugs at comparable rates, there are dramatic differences in the application of criminal penalties for drug offenses. African Americans are more than 20 times as likely as whites to be incarcerated for drug offenses, and drug-related emergency department visits, overdose deaths, and new HIV infections related to injecting drugs are many times higher for blacks than whites. These outcomes may be understood as public health consequences of policies that criminalize and marginalize drug users and increase drug-related risks to life and health. Imagesp14-ap15-ap16-ap21-ap24-a PMID:9925168

A software defined RTU multi-protocol automatic adaptation data transmission method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Huiying; Xu, Xingwu; Wang, Zhanfeng; Ma, Weijun; Li, Sheng; Su, Yong; Pan, Yunpeng

2018-02-01

Remote terminal unit (RTU) is the core device of the monitor system in hydrology and water resources. Different devices often have different communication protocols in the application layer, which results in the difficulty in information analysis and communication networking. Therefore, we introduced the idea of software defined hardware, and abstracted the common feature of mainstream communication protocols of RTU application layer, and proposed a uniformed common protocol model. Then, various communication protocol algorithms of application layer are modularized according to the model. The executable codes of these algorithms are labeled by the virtual functions and stored in the flash chips of embedded CPU to form the protocol stack. According to the configuration commands to initialize the RTU communication systems, it is able to achieve dynamic assembling and loading of various application layer communication protocols of RTU and complete the efficient transport of sensor data from RTU to central station when the data acquisition protocol of sensors and various external communication terminals remain unchanged.

Optimization of Extracellular Matrix Synthesis and Accumulation by Human Articular Chondrocytes in 3-Dimensional Construct with Repetitive Hydrostatic Pressure.

PubMed

Ogura, Takahiro; Tsuchiya, Akihiro; Minas, Tom; Mizuno, Shuichi

2018-04-01

Objective The effects of hydrostatic pressure (HP) on the matrix synthesis by human articular chondrocytes have been reported elsewhere. In order to optimize the production of extracellular matrix, we aimed to clarify the effects of repetitive HP on metabolic function by human articular chondrocytes. Design The human articular chondrocytes were expanded and embedded within a collagen gel/sponge scaffold. We incubated these constructs with and without HP followed by atmospheric pressure (AP) and repeated the second HP followed by AP over 14 days. Genomic, biochemical, and histological evaluation were performed to compare the effects of each regimen on the constructs. Results The gene expressions of collagen type II and aggrecan core protein were significantly upregulated with repetitive HP regimens compared with a single HP or AP by 14 days ( P < 0.01 or 0.05). Matrix metalloptoteinase-13 (MMP-13) in AP was upregulated significantly compared to other HP regimens at day 14 ( P < 0.01). No significant difference was observed in tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-II. Immunohistology demonstrated that application of HP (both repetitive and single) promoted the accumulation of specific extracellular matrix and reduced a MMP-13. A single regimen of HP followed by AP significantly increased the amount of sulfated glycosaminoglycan than that of the AP, whereas repetitive HP remained similar level of that of the AP. Conclusions Repetitive HP had a greater effect on anabolic activity by chondrocytes than a single HP regimen, which will be advantageous for producing a matrix-rich cell construct.

Patch-Clamp Recording from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes: Improving Action Potential Characteristics through Dynamic Clamp

PubMed Central

Veerman, Christiaan C.; Zegers, Jan G.; Mengarelli, Isabella; Bezzina, Connie R.

2017-01-01

Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) hold great promise for studying inherited cardiac arrhythmias and developing drug therapies to treat such arrhythmias. Unfortunately, until now, action potential (AP) measurements in hiPSC-CMs have been hampered by the virtual absence of the inward rectifier potassium current (IK1) in hiPSC-CMs, resulting in spontaneous activity and altered function of various depolarising and repolarising membrane currents. We assessed whether AP measurements in “ventricular-like” and “atrial-like” hiPSC-CMs could be improved through a simple, highly reproducible dynamic clamp approach to provide these cells with a substantial IK1 (computed in real time according to the actual membrane potential and injected through the patch-clamp pipette). APs were measured at 1 Hz using perforated patch-clamp methodology, both in control cells and in cells treated with all-trans retinoic acid (RA) during the differentiation process to increase the number of cells with atrial-like APs. RA-treated hiPSC-CMs displayed shorter APs than control hiPSC-CMs and this phenotype became more prominent upon addition of synthetic IK1 through dynamic clamp. Furthermore, the variability of several AP parameters decreased upon IK1 injection. Computer simulations with models of ventricular-like and atrial-like hiPSC-CMs demonstrated the importance of selecting an appropriate synthetic IK1. In conclusion, the dynamic clamp-based approach of IK1 injection has broad applicability for detailed AP measurements in hiPSC-CMs. PMID:28867785

Solar active region display system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golightly, M.; Raben, V.; Weyland, M.

2003-04-01

The Solar Active Region Display System (SARDS) is a client-server application that automatically collects a wide range of solar data and displays it in a format easy for users to assimilate and interpret. Users can rapidly identify active regions of interest or concern from color-coded indicators that visually summarize each region's size, magnetic configuration, recent growth history, and recent flare and CME production. The active region information can be overlaid onto solar maps, multiple solar images, and solar difference images in orthographic, Mercator or cylindrical equidistant projections. Near real-time graphs display the GOES soft and hard x-ray flux, flare events, and daily F10.7 value as a function of time; color-coded indicators show current trends in soft x-ray flux, flare temperature, daily F10.7 flux, and x-ray flare occurrence. Through a separate window up to 4 real-time or static graphs can simultaneously display values of KP, AP, daily F10.7 flux, GOES soft and hard x-ray flux, GOES >10 and >100 MeV proton flux, and Thule neutron monitor count rate. Climatologic displays use color-valued cells to show F10.7 and AP values as a function of Carrington/Bartel's rotation sequences - this format allows users to detect recurrent patterns in solar and geomagnetic activity as well as variations in activity levels over multiple solar cycles. Users can customize many of the display and graph features; all displays can be printed or copied to the system's clipboard for "pasting" into other applications. The system obtains and stores space weather data and images from sources such as the NOAA Space Environment Center, NOAA National Geophysical Data Center, the joint ESA/NASA SOHO spacecraft, and the Kitt Peak National Solar Observatory, and can be extended to include other data series and image sources. Data and images retrieved from the system's database are converted to XML and transported from a central server using HTTP and SOAP protocols, allowing operation through network firewalls; data is compressed to enhance performance over limited bandwidth connections. All applications and services are written in the JAVA program language for platform independence. Several versions of SARDS have been in operational use by the NASA Space Radiation Analysis Group, NOAA Space Weather Operations, and U.S. Air Force Weather Agency since 1999.

The effect of directional inertias added to pelvis and ankle on gait

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Gait training robots should display a minimum added inertia in order to allow normal walking. The effect of inertias in specific directions is yet unknown. We set up two experiments to assess the effect of inertia in anteroposterior (AP) direction to the ankle and AP and mediolateral (ML) direction to the pelvis. Methods We developed an experimental setup to apply inertia in forward backward and or sideways directions. In two experiments nine healthy subjects walked on a treadmill at 1.5 km/h and 4.5 km/h with no load and with AP loads of 0.3, 1.55 and 3.5 kg to the left ankle in the first experiment and combinations of AP and ML loads on the pelvis (AP loads 0.7, 4.3 and 10.2 kg; ML loads 0.6, 2.3 and 5.3 kg). We recorded metabolic rate, EMG of major leg muscles, gait parameters and kinematics. Results & discussion Adding 1.55 kg or more inertia to the ankle in AP direction increases the pelvis acceleration and decreases the foot acceleration in AP direction both at speeds of 4.5 km/h. Adding 3.5 kg of inertia to the ankle also increases the swing time as well as AP motions of the pelvis and head-arms-trunk (HAT) segment. Muscle activity remains largely unchanged. Adding 10.2 kg of inertia to the pelvis in AP direction causes a significant decrease of the pelvis and HAT segment motions, particularly at high speeds. Also the sagittal back flexion increases. Lower values of AP inertia and ML inertias up to 5.3 kg had negligible effect. In general the found effects are larger at high speeds. Conclusions We found that inertia up to 2 kg at the ankle or 6 kg added to the pelvis induced significant changes, but since these changes were all within the normal inter subject variability we considered these changes as negligible for application as rehabilitation robotics and assistive devices. PMID:23597391

78 FR 27960 - Combined Notice of Filings #1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-13

... that the Commission received the following electric rate filings: Docket Numbers: ER13-37-003...-1415-000. Applicants: El Paso Electric Company. Description: Concurrence of EPE to APS Service...: ER13-1417-000. Applicants: Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation. Description: Notice of Cancellation of...

The global event system

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

Winans, J.

The support for the global event system has been designed to allow an application developer to control the APS event generator and receiver boards. This is done by the use of four new record types. These records are customized and are only supported by the device support modules for the APS event generator and receiver boards. The use of the global event system and its associated records should not be confused with the vanilla EPICS events and the associated event records. They are very different.

Project W-211 initial tank retrieval systems year 2000 compliance assessment project plan

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

BUSSELL, J.H.

1999-08-24

This assessment describes the potential Year 2000 (Y2K) problems and describes the methods for achieving Y2K Compliance for Project W-211, Initial Tank Retrieval Systems (ITRS). The purpose of this assessment is to give an overview of the project. This document will not be updated and any dates contained in this document are estimates and may change. The scope of project W-211 is to provide systems for retrieval of radioactive wastes from ten double-shell tanks (DST). systems will be installed in tanks 102-AP, 104-AP, 105-AN, 104-AN, 102-AZ, 101-AW, 103-AN, 107-AN, 102-AY, and 102-SY. The current tank selection and sequence supports phasemore » I feed delivery to privatized processing plants. A detailed description of system dates, functions, interfaces, potential Y2K problems, and date resolutions can not be described since the project is in the definitive design phase. This assessment will describe the methods, protocols, and practices to assure that equipment and systems do not have Y2K problems.« less

78 FR 79506 - Tennessee Valley Authority: Exemption From Requirements To Revise Combined License Application To...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

..., Office of New Reactors, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington DC, 20555- 0001; telephone: 301...) application for two units of Westinghouse Electric Company's AP1000 advanced pressurized water reactors to be... Bellefonte Nuclear Plant, Units 3 and 4 (BLN 3&4) COL application on January 28, 2008. On September 29, 2010...

Biocompatibility of composites based on chitosan, apatite, and graphene oxide for tissue applications.

PubMed

Solìs Moré, Yaimara; Panella, Gloria; Fioravanti, Giulia; Perrozzi, Francesco; Passacantando, Maurizio; Giansanti, Francesco; Ardini, Matteo; Ottaviano, Luca; Cimini, Annamaria; Peniche, Carlos; Ippoliti, Rodolfo

2018-06-01

Novel two-dimensional films and three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds based on chitosan (CHI), apatite (Ap), and graphene oxide (GO) were developed by an in situ synthesis in which self-assembly process was conducted to direct partial reduction of GO by CHI in acidic medium. Physical-chemical characterization was carried out by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In vitro biological studies using murine fibroblast (MC3T3) and human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell lines were also performed. Cell growth and adherence on composites was also checked using SEM. Live and death staining by confocal microscope and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium of the samples were investigated. The results confirmed the incorporation of both Ap and GO sheets, into CHI polymeric matrix. Furthermore, it was confirmed a physical integration between inorganic Ap and organic CHI and strong chemical interaction between CHI and GO in the obtained composites. SH-SY5Y cell line showed preferential adherence on CHI/GO films surface while MC3T3 cell line displayed a good compatibility for all 3D scaffolds. This study confirms the biocompatibility of materials based on CHI, Ap, and GO for future tissues applications. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1585-1594, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Differential excitability and modulation of striatal medium spiny neuron dendrites

PubMed Central

Day, Michelle; Wokosin, David; Plotkin, Joshua L.; Tian, Xinyoung; Surmeier, D. James

2011-01-01

The loss of striatal dopamine (DA) in Parkinson's disease (PD) models triggers a cell-type specific reduction in the density of dendritic spines in D2 receptor-expressing striatopallidal medium spiny neurons (D2 MSNs). How the intrinsic properties of MSN dendrites, where the vast majority of DA receptors are found, contribute to this adaptation is not clear. To address this question, two-photon laser scanning microscopy (2PLSM) was performed in patch-clamped mouse MSNs identified in striatal slices by expression of green fluorescent protein (eGFP) controlled by DA receptor promoters. These studies revealed that single back-propagating action potentials (bAP) produced more reliable elevations in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration at distal dendritic locations in D2 MSNs than at similar locations in D1 receptor-expressing striatonigral MSNs (D1 MSNs). In both cell types, the dendritic Ca2+ entry elicited by bAPs was enhanced by pharmacological blockade of Kv4, but not Kv1 K+ channels. Local application of DA depressed dendritic bAP-evoked Ca2+ transients, whereas application of ACh increased these Ca2+ transients in D2 MSNs—but not in D1 MSNs. Following DA depletion, bAP-evoked Ca2+ transients were enhanced in distal dendrites and spines in D2 MSNs. Taken together, these results suggest that normally D2 MSN dendrites are more excitable than those of D1 MSNs and that DA depletion exaggerates this asymmetry, potentially contributing to adaptations in PD models. PMID:18987196

Adolescent pregnancies in the Amazon Basin of Ecuador: a rights and gender approach to adolescents' sexual and reproductive health

PubMed Central

Goicolea, Isabel

2010-01-01

In the Andean region of Latin America over one million adolescent girls get pregnant every year. Adolescent pregnancy (AP) has been associated with adverse health and social outcomes, but it has also been favorably viewed as a pathway to adulthood. AP can also be conceptualized as a marker of inequity, since it disproportionately affects girls from the poorest households and those who have not been able to attend school. Using results from a study carried out in the Amazon Basin of Ecuador, this paper explores APs and adolescents' sexual and reproductive health from a rights and gender approach. The paper points out the main features of a rights and gender approach, and how it can be applied to explore APs. Afterward it describes the methodologies (quantitative and qualitative) and main results of the study, framing the findings within the rights and gender approach. Finally, some implications that could be generalizable to global reserach on APs are highlighted. The application of the rights and gender framework to explore APs contributes to a more integral view of the issue. The rights and gender framework stresses the importance of the interaction between rights-holders and duty-bearers on the realization of sexual and reproductive rights, and acknowledges the importance of gender–power relations on sexual and reproductive decisions. A rights and gender approach could lead to more integral and constructive interventions, and it could also be useful when exploring other sexual and reproductive health matters. PMID:20596248

Adolescent pregnancies in the Amazon Basin of Ecuador: a rights and gender approach to adolescents' sexual and reproductive health.

PubMed

Goicolea, Isabel

2010-06-24

In the Andean region of Latin America over one million adolescent girls get pregnant every year. Adolescent pregnancy (AP) has been associated with adverse health and social outcomes, but it has also been favorably viewed as a pathway to adulthood. AP can also be conceptualized as a marker of inequity, since it disproportionately affects girls from the poorest households and those who have not been able to attend school.Using results from a study carried out in the Amazon Basin of Ecuador, this paper explores APs and adolescents' sexual and reproductive health from a rights and gender approach. The paper points out the main features of a rights and gender approach, and how it can be applied to explore APs. Afterward it describes the methodologies (quantitative and qualitative) and main results of the study, framing the findings within the rights and gender approach. Finally, some implications that could be generalizable to global reserach on APs are highlighted.The application of the rights and gender framework to explore APs contributes to a more integral view of the issue. The rights and gender framework stresses the importance of the interaction between rights-holders and duty-bearers on the realization of sexual and reproductive rights, and acknowledges the importance of gender-power relations on sexual and reproductive decisions. A rights and gender approach could lead to more integral and constructive interventions, and it could also be useful when exploring other sexual and reproductive health matters.

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for application of ascorbyl palmitate.

PubMed

Uner, M; Wissing, S A; Yener, G; Müller, R H

2005-08-01

The aim of this study was to improve the chemical stability of ascorbyl palmitate (AP) in a colloidal lipid carrier for its topical use. For this purpose, AP-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) and for comparison, a nanoemulsion (NE) were prepared employing the high pressure homogenization technique and stored at room temperature (RT), 4 degrees C and 40 degrees C. During 3 months, physical stability of these formulations compared to placebo formulations which were prepared by the same production method, was studied including recrystallization behaviour of the lipid with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), particle size distribution and storage stability with photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS) and laser diffractometry (LD). After evaluating data indicating excellent physical stability, AP-loaded SLN, NLC and NE were incorporated into a hydrogel by the same production method as the next step. Degradation of AP by HPLC and physical stability in the same manner were investigated at the same storage temperatures during 3 months. As a result, AP was found most stable in both the NLC and SLN stored at 4 degrees C (p > 0.05) indicating the importance of storage temperature. Nondegraded AP content in NLC, SLN and NE was found to be 71.1% +/- 1.4, 67.6% +/- 2.9 and 55.2% +/- 0.3 after 3 months, respectively. Highest degradation was observed with NE at all the storage temperatures indicating even importance of the carrier structure.

A recovery room-based acute pain service.

PubMed

Leykin, Y; Pellis, T; Ambrosio, C; Zanette, G; Malisano, A; Rapotec, A; Casati, A

2007-04-01

Despite routine postoperative pain management improves recovery and reduces postoperative morbidity and overall costs, and the availability of a large armamentarium of analgesic techniques and drugs, a significant portion of patients do not receive adequate postoperative pain control. We describe a recovery room (RR) based acute pain service model. Guidelines on postoperative pain and therapeutic protocols were instituted in January 1999. The analgesic endpoint was a visual analogic scale (VAS) below 4 for all surgical patients for the first 48-72 h. The RR, run by one anesthesiologist and 2 nurses and one assistant, acted as a coordination centre. Discharge from the RR was subject to achieving effective analgesia. Nurses of each ward monitored VAS along with vital signs, administered rescue doses if necessary, and reported to the RR nurse when needed. RR nurses monitored the patient at least twice daily and reported to the anesthesiologist. We have distributed an anonymous questionnaire, within surgical wards, to both surgeons and nurses to evaluate their perception of pain management and of this acute pain service (APS) model. VAS was maintained significantly <4. Analgesic drug consumption increased between 1997, 2000 (first year of APS) and 2004. The auditing process confirmed the desire of all professional figures to be informed and involved in acute pain management as part of a coordinated and systematic approach to the surgical patient. A RR-based APS can effectively act as coordinating centre for acute pain treatment without adjunctive personnel.

Diadenosine tetraphosphate contributes to carbachol-induced tear secretion.

PubMed

Fonseca, Begoña; Martínez-Águila, Alejandro; Díaz-Hernández, Miguel; Pintor, Jesús

2015-03-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate if the cholinergic stimulation by carbachol on tear secretion is a direct process or if it is also mediated by purinergic mechanisms. Experiments were performed in New Zealand male rabbits. The amount of tear secretion was measured with Schirmer's test and then analyzed by a HPLC protocol in order to study the nucleotide levels. Animal eyes were instilled with carbachol (a cholinergic agonist), pirenzepine, gallamine and 4-DAMP (muscarinic antagonists), PPADS, suramin and reactive blue 2 (purinergic antagonists), and a P2Y2 receptor small interfering RNA (siRNA). Tear secretion increased with the instillation of carbachol, approximately 84 % over control values 20 min after the instillation and so did Ap4A and ATP release. When we applied carbachol in the presence of muscarinic antagonists, tear volume only increased to 4 % with atropine, 12 % in the case of pirenzepine, 3 % with gallamine, and 8 % with 4-DAMP. In the presence of carbachol and purinergic antagonists, tear secretion was increased to 12 % (all values compared to basal tear secretion). By analyzing tear secretion induced with carbachol in presence of a P2Y2 receptor siRNA, we found that tear secretion was diminished to 60 %. The inhibition of tear secretion in the presence of carbachol and purinergic antagonists or P2Y2 siRNA occurred with no apparent change in the tear amount of Ap4A. These experiments demonstrated the participation of Ap4A in lacrimal secretion process.

Cognitive behavior therapy for pediatric functional abdominal pain: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

van der Veek, Shelley M C; Derkx, Bert H F; Benninga, Marc A; Boer, Frits; de Haan, Else

2013-11-01

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effectiveness of a 6-session protocolized cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) compared with 6 visits to a pediatrician (intensive medical care; IMC) for the treatment of pediatric functional abdominal pain (FAP). One hundred four children aged 7 to 18 were randomized to CBT or IMC. CBT was delivered primarily by trained master's degree students in psychology; IMC was delivered by pediatricians or pediatric gastroenterologists. Assessments were performed pretreatment, posttreatment, and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Primary outcomes were level of abdominal pain (AP) as reported on questionnaires and diaries. Secondary outcomes were other gastrointestinal complaints, functional disability, other somatic complaints, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Both CBT and IMC resulted in a significant decrease in AP (P < .001), but no significant difference was found between the treatments in their effectiveness (P > .05 for all end points). According to the questionnaire-derived data, 1 year after treatment, 60% of children that received CBT had significantly improved or recovered, versus 56.4% of children receiving IMC, which did not significantly differ (P = .47). These percentages were 65.8% versus 62.8% according to the diary-derived data, which also did not significantly differ (P = .14). Additionally, nearly all secondary outcomes improved after treatment. CBT was equally effective as IMC in reducing AP in children with FAP. More research into the specific working mechanisms of CBT for pediatric FAP is needed.

Understanding the Presence and Roles of Ap4A (Diadenosine Tetraphosphate) in the Eye.

PubMed

Crooke, Almudena; Guzman-Aranguez, Ana; Carracedo, Gonzalo; de Lara, Maria J Perez; Pintor, Jesus

Diadenosine tetraphosphate abbreviated Ap 4 A is a naturally occurring dinucleotide, which is present in most of the ocular fluids. Due to its intrinsic resistance to enzyme degradation compared to mononucleotides, this molecule can exhibit profound actions on ocular tissues, including the ocular surface, ciliary body, trabecular meshwork, and probably the retina. The actions of Ap 4 A are mostly carried out by P2Y 2 receptors, but the participation of P2X2 and P2Y 6 in processes such as the regulation of intraocular pressure (IOP), together with the P2Y 2 , is pivotal. Beyond the physiological role, this dinucleotide can present on the ocular surface keeping a right production of tear secretion or regulating IOP. It is important to note that exogenous application of Ap 4 A to cells or animal models can significantly modify pathophysiological conditions and thus is an attractive therapeutic molecule. The ocular location where Ap 4 A actions have not been fully elucidated is in the retina. Although some analogues show interesting actions on pathological situations such as retinal detachment, little is known about the real effect of this dinucleotide, this being one of the challenges that require pursuing in the near future.

Effects of PPADS and suramin on contractions and cytoplasmic Ca2+ changes evoked by AP4A, ATP and alpha, beta-methylene ATP in guinea-pig urinary bladder.

PubMed Central

Usune, S.; Katsuragi, T.; Furukawa, T.

1996-01-01

1. The contraction and intracellular Ca2+ change evoked by diadenosine tetraphosphate (AP4A) were studied in the outer longitudinal muscle of the guinea-pig urinary bladder and compared with those evoked by ATP and alpha, beta-methylene ATP (a P2-purinoceptor agonist). 2. AP4A, ATP and alpha, beta-methylene ATP produced concentration-dependent transient contractions. These contractions were inhibited by PPADS (pyridoralphosphate-6-azophenyl- 2'-4'-disulphonic acid), 0.3- 30 microM, a P2x-purinoceptor antagonist, and suramin, 1-300 microM, a P2-purinoceptor antagonist in a concentration-dependent manner. From Schild plot analysis, the apparent pA2 values for PPADS for contractions evoked by AP4A, ATP and alpha, beta-methylene ATP were 6.86, 6.56, 6.74, and those for suramin were 6.01, 4.59 and 5.12, respectively; the Schild slopes for PPADS were 1.07, 1.14 and 1.06, and, those for suramin 0.75, 1.05 and 1.16, respectively. 3. AP4A (10 microM) and ATP (100 microM) failed to elicit any contraction of the tissue after a desensitization produced by repeated application of alpha, beta-methylene ATP (1 microM). 4. In fluorescence experiments with fura-2, the increases in [Ca2+]i and contraction evoked by AP4A were suppressed by suramin and nifedipine, an L-type Ca2+ channel blocker. 5. These findings suggest that P2x-purinoceptors, which are more sensitive to PPADS than suramin, exist on the outer longitudinal muscles of guinea-pig urinary bladder, and that the AP4A-evoked contraction results from Ca2+ influx. PMID:8646416

8-vinyl-deoxyadenosine, an alternative fluorescent nucleoside analog to 2'-deoxyribosyl-2-aminopurine with improved properties.

PubMed

Ben Gaied, Nouha; Glasser, Nicole; Ramalanjaona, Nick; Beltz, Hervé; Wolff, Philippe; Marquet, Roland; Burger, Alain; Mély, Yves

2005-01-01

We report here the synthesis and the spectroscopic characterization of 8-vinyl-deoxyadenosine (8vdA), a new fluorescent analog of deoxyadenosine. 8vdA was found to absorb and emit in the same wavelength range as 2'-deoxyribosyl-2-aminopurine (2AP), the most frequently used fluorescent nucleoside analog. Though the quantum yield of 8vdA is similar to that of 2AP, its molar absorption coefficient is about twice, enabling a more sensitive detection. Moreover, the fluorescence of 8vdA was found to be sensitive to temperature and solvent but not to pH (around neutrality) or coupling to phosphate groups. Though 8vdA is base sensitive and susceptible to depurination, the corresponding phosphoramidite was successfully prepared and incorporated in oligonucleotides of the type d(CGT TTT XNX TTT TGC) where N = 8vdA and X = A, T or C. The 8vdA-labeled oligonucleotides gave more stable duplexes than the corresponding 2AP-labeled sequences when X = A or T, indicating that 8vdA is less perturbing than 2AP and probably adopts an anti conformation to preserve the Watson-Crick H-bonding. In addition, the quantum yield of 8vdA is significantly higher than 2AP in all tested oligonucleotides in both their single strand and duplex states. The steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence parameters of 8vdA and 2AP were found to depend similarly on the nature of their flanking residues and on base pairing, suggesting that their photophysics are governed by similar mechanisms. Taken together, our data suggest that 8vdA is a non perturbing nucleoside analog that may be used with improved sensitivity for the same applications as 2AP.

8-vinyl-deoxyadenosine, an alternative fluorescent nucleoside analog to 2′-deoxyribosyl-2-aminopurine with improved properties

PubMed Central

Gaied, Nouha Ben; Glasser, Nicole; Ramalanjaona, Nick; Beltz, Hervé; Wolff, Philippe; Marquet, Roland; Burger, Alain; Mély, Yves

2005-01-01

We report here the synthesis and the spectroscopic characterization of 8-vinyl-deoxyadenosine (8vdA), a new fluorescent analog of deoxyadenosine. 8vdA was found to absorb and emit in the same wavelength range as 2′-deoxyribosyl-2-aminopurine (2AP), the most frequently used fluorescent nucleoside analog. Though the quantum yield of 8vdA is similar to that of 2AP, its molar absorption coefficient is about twice, enabling a more sensitive detection. Moreover, the fluorescence of 8vdA was found to be sensitive to temperature and solvent but not to pH (around neutrality) or coupling to phosphate groups. Though 8vdA is base sensitive and susceptible to depurination, the corresponding phosphoramidite was successfully prepared and incorporated in oligonucleotides of the type d(CGT TTT XNX TTT TGC) where N = 8vdA and X = A, T or C. The 8vdA-labeled oligonucleotides gave more stable duplexes than the corresponding 2AP-labeled sequences when X = A or T, indicating that 8vdA is less perturbing than 2AP and probably adopts an anti conformation to preserve the Watson–Crick H-bonding. In addition, the quantum yield of 8vdA is significantly higher than 2AP in all tested oligonucleotides in both their single strand and duplex states. The steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence parameters of 8vdA and 2AP were found to depend similarly on the nature of their flanking residues and on base pairing, suggesting that their photophysics are governed by similar mechanisms. Taken together, our data suggest that 8vdA is a non perturbing nucleoside analog that may be used with improved sensitivity for the same applications as 2AP. PMID:15718302

Effects of fire and three fire-fighting chemicals on main soil properties, plant nutrient content and vegetation growth and cover after 10 years.

PubMed

Fernández-Fernández, M; Gómez-Rey, M X; González-Prieto, S J

2015-05-15

The study addresses a knowledge-gap in the long-term ecological consequences of fire and fire-fighting chemicals. Ten years after a prescribed fire and the application of three fire-fighting chemicals, their effects on the soil-plant system were evaluated. Five treatments were established: unburnt soils (US) and burnt soils treated with water alone (BS), foaming agent (BS+Fo), Firesorb (BS+Fi) and ammonium polyphosphate (BS+Ap). Soils (0-2 cm depth) and foliar material of shrubs (Erica umbellata, Pterospartum tridentatum and Ulex micranthus) and trees (Pinus pinaster) were analysed for total N, δ(15)N, and soil-available and plant total macronutrients and trace elements. Soil pH, NH₄(+)-N and NO₃(-)-N; pine basal diameter and height; and shrub cover and height were also measured. Compared with US plots, burnt soils had less nitrates and more Mo. Although differences were not always significant, BS+Ap had the highest levels of soil available P, Na and Al. Plants from BS+Ap plots had higher values of δ(15)N (P. pinaster and E. umbellata), P (all species), Na (P. tridentatum and U. micranthus) and Mg (E. umbellata and P. tridentatum) than other treatments; while K in plants from BS+Ap plots was the highest among treatments for P. pinaster and the lowest for the shrubs. Pines in US plots were higher and wider than in burnt treatments, except for BS+Ap, where the tallest and widest trees were found, although half of them were either dead (the second highest mortality after BS+Fi) or had a distorted trunk. BS+Ap was the treatment with strongest effects on plants, showing E. umbellata the lowest coverage and height, P. tridentatum the highest coverage, U. micranthus one of the lowest coverages and being the only treatment where Genista triacanthos was absent. Consequently, it is concluded that both fire and ammonium polyphosphate application had significant effects on the soil-plant system after 10 years. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Validation of thigh-based accelerometer estimates of postural allocation in 5-12 year-olds.

PubMed

van Loo, Christiana M T; Okely, Anthony D; Batterham, Marijka J; Hinkley, Trina; Ekelund, Ulf; Brage, Søren; Reilly, John J; Jones, Rachel A; Janssen, Xanne; Cliff, Dylan P

2017-03-01

To validate activPAL3™ (AP3) for classifying postural allocation, estimating time spent in postures and examining the number of breaks in sedentary behaviour (SB) in 5-12 year-olds. Laboratory-based validation study. Fifty-seven children completed 15 sedentary, light- and moderate-to-vigorous intensity activities. Direct observation (DO) was used as the criterion measure. The accuracy of AP3 was examined using a confusion matrix, equivalence testing, Bland-Altman procedures and a paired t-test for 5-8y and 9-12y. Sensitivity of AP3 was 86.8%, 82.5% and 85.3% for sitting/lying, standing, and stepping, respectively, in 5-8y and 95.3%, 81.5% and 85.1%, respectively, in 9-12y. Time estimates of AP3 were equivalent to DO for sitting/lying in 9-12y and stepping in all ages, but not for sitting/lying in 5-12y and standing in all ages. Underestimation of sitting/lying time was smaller in 9-12y (1.4%, limits of agreement [LoA]: -13.8 to 11.1%) compared to 5-8y (12.6%, LoA: -39.8 to 14.7%). Underestimation for stepping time was small (5-8y: 6.5%, LoA: -18.3 to 5.3%; 9-12y: 7.6%, LoA: -16.8 to 1.6%). Considerable overestimation was found for standing (5-8y: 36.8%, LoA: -16.3 to 89.8%; 9-12y: 19.3%, LoA: -1.6 to 36.9%). SB breaks were significantly overestimated (5-8y: 53.2%, 9-12y: 28.3%, p<0.001). AP3 showed acceptable accuracy for classifying postures, however estimates of time spent standing were consistently overestimated and individual error was considerable. Estimates of sitting/lying were more accurate for 9-12y. Stepping time was accurately estimated for all ages. SB breaks were significantly overestimated, although the absolute difference was larger in 5-8y. Surveillance applications of AP3 would be acceptable, however, individual level applications might be less accurate. Copyright © 2016 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of MgSO4 addition and the increasing doses of calcium and phosphorus during ending drying period on the occurrence of hypocalcaemia and hypophosphataemia in dairy cows.

PubMed

Bodarski, R; Kinal, S; Preś, J; Slupczyńska, M; Twardoń, J

2013-01-01

The aim of the presented study was the estimation of optimal Ca and P levels applied before calving together with anionic salt addition, as an element of hypocalcaemia and hypophosphataemia prevention. The experiment was carried out during the dry period on 48 cows with similar milk yield in the previous lactation. Cows were divided into four groups. In group I (control) the amount of minerals was in accordance to NRC standards. In experimental groups (groups II-IV), two weeks before calving, cows received 140 g/day/head of hydrated magnesium sulphate to achieve dietary cation-anion difference at the level of about 50 mEq/kg DM. In groups II and III cows received calcium carbonate (100 g/day) 10 days a.p. (antepartum) (group II), or 5 days a.p. (group III), while cows in IV group received dicalcium phosphate (100 g/day) for 5 days a.p. Application of MgSO4 x 7H20 significantly affected the urine pH of cows from group III and IV 4-5 d. before calving - 6.45 and 6.81, respectively. The acidification of urine was observed after calving in group IV (7.13). In cows from group II (100 CaCO3 10 days a.p.) urine pH decline was not found (7.97-7.75). In that group the incidences of hypophosphatemia were noted (blood serum inorganic P level 1.41-1.46 mmol/1). Addition of magnesium sulphate prevented hypocalcaemia occurrence -- 4-5 d. before calving the concentration of ionized Ca in blood serum was 1.11, 1.13 and 1.16 mmol/1 (respectively for group II, III and IV). Reproductive functions were significantly improved after the application of CaCO3 and CaHPO4 for 5 days a.p. in comparison with control and group II -- progesterone concentration in the blood serum on the 45th day of lactation was 1.396 - 1.409 versus 0.799 - 0.401. The correlation between progesterone and inorganic P level in serum was almost significant. Based on the obtained results a treatment optimal in prevention of hypocalcaemia and hypophosphataemia is the application of 50 g CaCO3 and 50 g of CaHPO4 for the last 5 days of the dry period together with MgSO4 x 7H20 given for 14 days a.p.

An Enhanced LoRaWAN Security Protocol for Privacy Preservation in IoT with a Case Study on a Smart Factory-Enabled Parking System.

PubMed

You, Ilsun; Kwon, Soonhyun; Choudhary, Gaurav; Sharma, Vishal; Seo, Jung Taek

2018-06-08

The Internet of Things (IoT) utilizes algorithms to facilitate intelligent applications across cities in the form of smart-urban projects. As the majority of devices in IoT are battery operated, their applications should be facilitated with a low-power communication setup. Such facility is possible through the Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN), but at a constrained bit rate. For long-range communication over LPWAN, several approaches and protocols are adopted. One such protocol is the Long-Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN), which is a media access layer protocol for long-range communication between the devices and the application servers via LPWAN gateways. However, LoRaWAN comes with fewer security features as a much-secured protocol consumes more battery because of the exorbitant computational overheads. The standard protocol fails to support end-to-end security and perfect forward secrecy while being vulnerable to the replay attack that makes LoRaWAN limited in supporting applications where security (especially end-to-end security) is important. Motivated by this, an enhanced LoRaWAN security protocol is proposed, which not only provides the basic functions of connectivity between the application server and the end device, but additionally averts these listed security issues. The proposed protocol is developed with two options, the Default Option (DO) and the Security-Enhanced Option (SEO). The protocol is validated through Burrows⁻Abadi⁻Needham (BAN) logic and the Automated Validation of Internet Security Protocols and Applications (AVISPA) tool. The proposed protocol is also analyzed for overheads through system-based and low-power device-based evaluations. Further, a case study on a smart factory-enabled parking system is considered for its practical application. The results, in terms of network latency with reliability fitting and signaling overheads, show paramount improvements and better performance for the proposed protocol compared with the two handshake options, Pre-Shared Key (PSK) and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), of Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS).

Myogenic progenitors contribute to open but not closed fracture repair.

PubMed

Liu, Renjing; Birke, Oliver; Morse, Alyson; Peacock, Lauren; Mikulec, Kathy; Little, David G; Schindeler, Aaron

2011-12-22

Bone repair is dependent on the presence of osteocompetent progenitors that are able to differentiate and generate new bone. Muscle is found in close association with orthopaedic injury, however its capacity to make a cellular contribution to bone repair remains ambiguous. We hypothesized that myogenic cells of the MyoD-lineage are able to contribute to bone repair. We employed a MyoD-Cre+:Z/AP+ conditional reporter mouse in which all cells of the MyoD-lineage are permanently labeled with a human alkaline phosphatase (hAP) reporter. We tracked the contribution of MyoD-lineage cells in mouse models of tibial bone healing. In the absence of musculoskeletal trauma, MyoD-expressing cells are limited to skeletal muscle and the presence of reporter-positive cells in non-muscle tissues is negligible. In a closed tibial fracture model, there was no significant contribution of hAP+ cells to the healing callus. In contrast, open tibial fractures featuring periosteal stripping and muscle fenestration had up to 50% of hAP+ cells detected in the open fracture callus. At early stages of repair, many hAP+ cells exhibited a chondrocyte morphology, with lesser numbers of osteoblast-like hAP+ cells present at the later stages. Serial sections stained for hAP and type II and type I collagen showed that MyoD-lineage cells were surrounded by cartilaginous or bony matrix, suggestive of a functional role in the repair process. To exclude the prospect that osteoprogenitors spontaneously express MyoD during bone repair, we created a metaphyseal drill hole defect in the tibia. No hAP+ staining was observed in this model suggesting that the expression of MyoD is not a normal event for endogenous osteoprogenitors. These data document for the first time that muscle cells can play a significant secondary role in bone repair and this knowledge may lead to important translational applications in orthopaedic surgery. Please see related article: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1741-7015/9/136.

Transmural ultrasound imaging of thermal lesion and action potential changes in perfused canine cardiac wedge preparations by high intensity focused ultrasound ablation.

PubMed

Wu, Ziqi; Gudur, Madhu S R; Deng, Cheri X

2013-01-01

Intra-procedural imaging is important for guiding cardiac arrhythmia ablation. It is difficult to obtain intra-procedural correlation of thermal lesion formation with action potential (AP) changes in the transmural plane during ablation. This study tested parametric ultrasound imaging for transmural imaging of lesion and AP changes in high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation using coronary perfused canine ventricular wedge preparations (n = 13). The preparations were paced from epi/endocardial surfaces and subjected to HIFU application (3.5 MHz, 11 Hz pulse-repetition-frequency, 70% duty cycle, duration 4 s, 3500 W/cm(2)), during which simultaneous optical mapping (1 kframes/s) using di-4-ANEPPS and ultrasound imaging (30 MHz) of the same transmural surface of the wedge were performed. Spatiotemporally correlated AP measurements and ultrasound imaging allowed quantification of the reduction of AP amplitude (APA), shortening of AP duration at 50% repolarization, AP triangulation, decrease of optical AP rise, and change of conduction velocity along tissue depth direction within and surrounding HIFU lesions. The threshold of irreversible change in APA correlating to lesions was determined to be 43 ± 1% with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under curve (AUC) of 0.96 ± 0.01 (n = 13). Ultrasound imaging parameters such as integrated backscatter, Rayleigh (α) and log-normal (σ) parameters, cumulative extrema of σ were tested, with the cumulative extrema of σ performing the best in detecting lesion (ROC AUC 0.89 ± 0.01, n = 13) and change of APA (ROC AUC 0.79 ± 0.03, n = 13). In conclusion, characteristic tissue and AP changes in HIFU ablation were identified and spatiotemporally correlated using optical mapping and ultrasound imaging. Parametric ultrasound imaging using cumulative extrema of σ can detect HIFU lesion and APA reduction.

Blood pressure and heart rate response to posteriorly directed pressure applied to the cervical spine in young, pain-free individuals: a randomized, repeated-measures, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

PubMed

Yung, Emmanuel; Wong, Michael; Williams, Haddie; Mache, Kyle

2014-08-01

Randomized clinical trial. Objectives To compare the blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) response of healthy volunteers to posteriorly directed (anterior-to-posterior [AP]) pressure applied to the cervical spine versus placebo. Manual therapists employ cervical spine AP mobilizations for various cervical-shoulder pain conditions. However, there is a paucity of literature describing the procedure, cardiovascular response, and safety profile. Thirty-nine (25 female) healthy participants (mean ± SD age, 24.7 ± 1.9 years) were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups. Group 1 received a placebo, consisting of light touch applied to the right C6 costal process. Group 2 received AP pressure at the same location. Blood pressure and HR were measured prior to, during, and after the application of AP pressure. One-way analysis of variance and paired-difference statistics were used for data analysis. There was no statistically significant difference between groups for mean systolic BP, mean diastolic BP, and mean HR (P >.05) for all time points. Within-group comparisons indicated statistically significant differences between baseline and post-AP pressure HR (-2.8 bpm; 95% confidence interval: -4.6, -1.1) and between baseline and post-AP pressure systolic BP (-2.4 mmHg; 95% confidence interval: -3.7, -1.0) in the AP group, and between baseline and postplacebo systolic BP (-2.6 mmHg; 95% confidence interval: -4.2, -1.0) in the placebo group. No participants reported any adverse reactions or side effects within 24 hours of testing. AP pressure caused a statistically significant physiologic response that resulted in a minor drop in HR (without causing asystole or vasodepression) after the procedure, whereas this cardiovascular change did not occur for those in the placebo group. Within both groups, there was a small but statistically significant reduction in systolic BP following the procedure.

Transmural Ultrasound Imaging of Thermal Lesion and Action Potential Changes in Perfused Canine Cardiac Wedge Preparations by High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation

PubMed Central

Wu, Ziqi; Gudur, Madhu S. R.; Deng, Cheri X.

2013-01-01

Intra-procedural imaging is important for guiding cardiac arrhythmia ablation. It is difficult to obtain intra-procedural correlation of thermal lesion formation with action potential (AP) changes in the transmural plane during ablation. This study tested parametric ultrasound imaging for transmural imaging of lesion and AP changes in high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation using coronary perfused canine ventricular wedge preparations (n = 13). The preparations were paced from epi/endocardial surfaces and subjected to HIFU application (3.5 MHz, 11 Hz pulse-repetition-frequency, 70% duty cycle, duration 4 s, 3500 W/cm2), during which simultaneous optical mapping (1 kframes/s) using di-4-ANEPPS and ultrasound imaging (30 MHz) of the same transmural surface of the wedge were performed. Spatiotemporally correlated AP measurements and ultrasound imaging allowed quantification of the reduction of AP amplitude (APA), shortening of AP duration at 50% repolarization, AP triangulation, decrease of optical AP rise, and change of conduction velocity along tissue depth direction within and surrounding HIFU lesions. The threshold of irreversible change in APA correlating to lesions was determined to be 43±1% with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under curve (AUC) of 0.96±0.01 (n = 13). Ultrasound imaging parameters such as integrated backscatter, Rayleigh (α) and log-normal (σ) parameters, cumulative extrema of σ were tested, with the cumulative extrema of σ performing the best in detecting lesion (ROC AUC 0.89±0.01, n = 13) and change of APA (ROC AUC 0.79±0.03, n = 13). In conclusion, characteristic tissue and AP changes in HIFU ablation were identified and spatiotemporally correlated using optical mapping and ultrasound imaging. Parametric ultrasound imaging using cumulative extrema of σ can detect HIFU lesion and APA reduction. PMID:24349337

Short-term supervised inpatient physiotherapy exercise protocol improves cardiac autonomic function after coronary artery bypass graft surgery--a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Mendes, Renata Gonçalves; Simões, Rodrigo Polaquini; De Souza Melo Costa, Fernando; Pantoni, Camila Bianca Falasco; Di Thommazo, Luciana; Luzzi, Sérgio; Catai, Aparecida Maria; Arena, Ross; Borghi-Silva, Audrey

2010-01-01

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is accompanied by severe impairment of cardiac autonomous regulation (CAR). This study aimed to determine whether a short-term physiotherapy exercise protocol post-CABG, during inpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR), might improve CAR. Seventy-four patients eligible for CABG were recruited and randomised into physiotherapy exercise group (EG) or physiotherapy usual care group (UCG). EG patients underwent a short-term supervised inpatient physiotherapy exercise protocol consisting of an early mobilisation with progressive exercises plus usual care (respiratory exercises). UCG only received respiratory exercises. Forty-seven patients (24 EG and 23 UGC) completed the study. Outcome measures of CAR included linear and non-linear measures of heart rate variability (HRV) assessed before discharge. By hospital discharge, EG presented significantly higher parasympathetic HRV values [rMSSD, high frequency (HF), SD1)], global power (STD RR, SD2), non-linear HRV indexes [detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA)alpha1, DFAalpha2, approximate entropy (ApEn)] and mean RR compared to UCG (p<0.05). Conversely, higher values of mean HR, low frequency (LF) (sympathetic activity) and the LF/HF (global sympatho-vagal balance) were found in the UCG. A short-term supervised physiotherapy exercise protocol during inpatient CR improves CAR at the time of discharge. Thus, exercise-based inpatient CR might be an effective non-pharmacological tool to improve autonomic cardiac tone in patient's post-CABG.

Estimation of neural energy in microelectrode signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaumond, R. P.; Clement, R.; Silva, R.; Sander, D.

2004-09-01

We considered the problem of determining the neural contribution to the signal recorded by an intracortical electrode. We developed a linear least-squares approach to determine the energy fraction of a signal attributable to an arbitrary number of autocorrelation-defined signals buried in noise. Application of the method requires estimation of autocorrelation functions Rap(tgr) characterizing the action potential (AP) waveforms and Rn(tgr) characterizing background noise. This method was applied to the analysis of chronically implanted microelectrode signals from motor cortex of rat. We found that neural (AP) energy consisted of a large-signal component which grows linearly with the number of threshold-detected neural events and a small-signal component unrelated to the count of threshold-detected AP signals. The addition of pseudorandom noise to electrode signals demonstrated the algorithm's effectiveness for a wide range of noise-to-signal energy ratios (0.08 to 39). We suggest, therefore, that the method could be of use in providing a measure of neural response in situations where clearly identified spike waveforms cannot be isolated, or in providing an additional 'background' measure of microelectrode neural activity to supplement the traditional AP spike count.

Nanocellulose-collagen-apatite composite associated with osteogenic growth peptide for bone regeneration.

PubMed

Saska, Sybele; Teixeira, Lucas Novaes; de Castro Raucci, Larissa Moreira Spinola; Scarel-Caminaga, Raquel Mantuaneli; Franchi, Leonardo Pereira; Dos Santos, Raquel Alves; Santagneli, Silvia Helena; Capela, Marisa Veiga; de Oliveira, Paulo Tambasco; Takahashi, Catarina Satie; Gaspar, Ana Maria Minarelli; Messaddeq, Younès; Ribeiro, Sidney José Lima; Marchetto, Reinaldo

2017-10-01

Despite advances in the field of biomaterials for bone repair/regeneration, some challenges for developing an ideal bone substitute need to be overcome. Herein, this study synthesized and evaluated in vitro a nanocomposite based on bacterial cellulose (BC), collagen (COL), apatite (Ap) and osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) or its C-terminal pentapeptide [OGP(10-14)] for bone regeneration purposes. The BC-COL nanocomposites were successfully obtained by carbodiimide-mediated coupling as demonstrated by spectroscopy analysis. SEM, FTIR and 31 P NMR analyses revealed that in situ synthesis to apatite was an effective route for obtaining of bone-like apatite. The OGP-containing (BC-COL)-Ap stimulated the early development of the osteoblastic phenotype. Additionally, the association among collagen, apatite, and OGP peptides enhanced cell growth compared with OGP-containing BC-Ap. Furthermore, none of the nanocomposites showed cytotoxic, genotoxic or mutagenic effects. These promising results suggest that the (BC-COL)-Ap associated with OGP peptides might be considered a potential candidate for bone tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Transformation of apatite phosphorus and non-apatite inorganic phosphorus during incineration of sewage sludge.

PubMed

Li, Rundong; Zhang, Ziheng; Li, Yanlong; Teng, Wenchao; Wang, Weiyun; Yang, Tianhua

2015-12-01

The recovery of phosphorus from incinerated sewage sludge ash (SSA) is assumed to be economical. Transformation from non-apatite inorganic phosphorus (NAIP) to apatite phosphorus (AP), which has a higher bioavailability and more extensive industrial applications, was studied at 750-950°C by sewage sludge incineration and model compound incineration with a calcium oxide (CaO) additive. Thermogravimetric differential scanning calorimetry analysis and X-ray diffraction measurements were used to analyze the reactions between NAIP with CaO and crystallized phases in SSA. High temperatures stimulated the volatilization of NAIP instead of AP. Sewage sludge incineration with CaO transformed NAIP into AP, and the percentage of AP from the total phosphorus reached 99% at 950°C. Aluminum phosphate reacted with CaO, forming Ca2P2O7 and Ca3(PO4)2 at 750-950°C. Reactions between iron phosphate and CaO occurred at lower temperatures, forming Ca(PO3)2 before reaching 850°C. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

X-ray performance of 0.18 µm CMOS APS test arrays for solar observation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dryer, B. J.; Holland, A. D.; Jerram, P.; Sakao, Taro

2012-07-01

Solar-C is the third generation solar observatory led by JAXA. The accepted ‘Plan-B’ payload calls for a radiation-hard solar-staring photon-counting x-ray spectrometer. CMOS APS technology offers advantages over CCDs for such an application such as increased radiation hardness and high frame rate (instrument target of 1000 fps). Looking towards the solution of a bespoke CMOS APS, this paper reports the x-ray spectroscopy performance, concentrating on charge collection efficiency and split event analysis, of two baseline e2v CMOS APSs not designed for x-ray performance, the EV76C454 and the Ocean Colour Imager (OCI) test array. The EV76C454 is an industrial 5T APS designed for machine vision, available back and front illuminated. The OCI test arrays have varying pixel design across the chips, but are 4T, back illuminated and have thin low-resistivity and thick high-resistivity variants. The OCI test arrays’ pixel variants allow understanding of how pixel design can affect x-ray performance.

Neighbor Discovery Algorithm in Wireless Local Area Networks Using Multi-beam Directional Antennas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jin; Peng, Wei; Liu, Song

2017-10-01

Neighbor discovery is an important step for Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN) and the use of multi-beam directional antennas can greatly improve the network performance. However, most neighbor discovery algorithms in WLAN, based on multi-beam directional antennas, can only work effectively in synchronous system but not in asynchro-nous system. And collisions at AP remain a bottleneck for neighbor discovery. In this paper, we propose two asynchrono-us neighbor discovery algorithms: asynchronous hierarchical scanning (AHS) and asynchronous directional scanning (ADS) algorithm. Both of them are based on three-way handshaking mechanism. AHS and ADS reduce collisions at AP to have a good performance in a hierarchical way and directional way respectively. In the end, the performance of the AHS and ADS are tested on OMNeT++. Moreover, it is analyzed that different application scenarios and the factors how to affect the performance of these algorithms. The simulation results show that AHS is suitable for the densely populated scenes around AP while ADS is suitable for that most of the neighborhood nodes are far from AP.

SPOT: Optimization Tool for Network Adaptable Security

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ksiezopolski, Bogdan; Szalachowski, Pawel; Kotulski, Zbigniew

Recently we have observed the growth of the intelligent application especially with its mobile character, called e-anything. The implementation of these applications provides guarantee of security requirements of the cryptographic protocols which are used in the application. Traditionally the protocols have been configured with the strongest possible security mechanisms. Unfortunately, when the application is used by means of the mobile devices, the strongest protection can lead to the denial of services for them. The solution of this problem is introducing the quality of protection models which will scale the protection level depending on the actual threat level. In this article we would like to introduce the application which manages the protection level of the processes in the mobile environment. The Security Protocol Optimizing Tool (SPOT) optimizes the cryptographic protocol and defines the protocol version appropriate to the actual threat level. In this article the architecture of the SPOT is presented with a detailed description of the included modules.

78 FR 69414 - Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term Loan or Financial Guarantee in Excess of $100...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-19

... EXPORT-IMPORT BANK [Public Notice: 2013-0053] Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term Loan or Financial Guarantee in Excess of $100 Million: AP088217XX AGENCY: Export-Import Bank of the United States. [[Page 69415

EPICS-based control and data acquisition for the APS slope profiler (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sullivan, Joseph; Assoufid, Lahsen; Qian, Jun; Jemian, Peter R.; Mooney, Tim; Rivers, Mark L.; Goetze, Kurt; Sluiter, Ronald L.; Lang, Keenan

2016-09-01

The motion control, data acquisition and analysis system for APS Slope Measuring Profiler was implemented using the Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System (EPICS). EPICS was designed as a framework with software tools and applications that provide a software infrastructure used in building distributed control systems to operate devices such as particle accelerators, large experiments and major telescopes. EPICS was chosen to implement the APS Slope Measuring Profiler because it is also applicable to single purpose systems. The control and data handling capability available in the EPICS framework provides the basic functionality needed for high precision X-ray mirror measurement. Those built in capabilities include hardware integration of high-performance motion control systems (3-axis gantry and tip-tilt stages), mirror measurement devices (autocollimator, laser spot camera) and temperature sensors. Scanning the mirror and taking measurements was accomplished with an EPICS feature (the sscan record) which synchronizes motor positioning with measurement triggers and data storage. Various mirror scanning modes were automatically configured using EPICS built-in scripting. EPICS tools also provide low-level image processing (areaDetector). Operation screens were created using EPICS-aware GUI screen development tools.

Linkage specificity and role of properdin in activation of the alternative complement pathway by fungal glycans.

PubMed

Agarwal, Sarika; Specht, Charles A; Haibin, Huang; Ostroff, Gary R; Ram, Sanjay; Rice, Peter A; Levitz, Stuart M

2011-01-01

Fungal cell walls are predominantly composed of glucans, mannans, and chitin. Recognition of these glycans by the innate immune system is a critical component of host defenses against the mycoses. Complement, an important arm of innate immunity, plays a significant role in fungal pathogenesis, especially the alternative pathway (AP). Here we determine that the glycan monosaccharide composition and glycosidic linkages affect AP activation and C3 deposition. Furthermore, properdin, a positive regulator of the AP, contributes to these functions. AP activation by glycan particles that varied in composition and linkage was measured by C3a generation in serum treated with 10 mM EGTA and 10 mM Mg(2+) (Mg-EGTA-treated serum) (AP specific; properdin functional) or Mg-EGTA-treated serum that lacked functional properdin. Particles that contained either β1→3 or β1→6 glucans or both generated large and similar amounts of C3a when the AP was intact. Blocking properdin function resulted in 5- to 10-fold-less C3a production by particulate β1→3 glucans. However, particulate β1→6 glucans generated C3a via the AP only in the presence of intact properdin. Interestingly, zymosan and glucan-mannan particles (GMP), which contain both β-glucans and mannans, also required properdin to generate C3a. The β1→4 glycans chitin and chitosan minimally activated C3 even when properdin was functional. Finally, properdin binding to glucan particles (GP) and zymosan in serum required active C3. Properdin colocalized with bound C3, suggesting that in the presence of serum, properdin bound indirectly to glycans through C3 convertases. These findings provide a better understanding of how properdin facilitates AP activation by fungi through interaction with the cell wall components. Invasive fungal infections have increased in incidence with the widespread use of immunosuppressive therapy and invasive procedures. Activation of the complement system contributes to innate immunity against fungi by generating chemoattractants that recruit white blood cells and by coating the pathogen with complement fragments that "mark" them for phagocytosis. The fungal cell wall activates complement in an antibody-independent manner through the alternative pathway (AP). Properdin is a positive regulator of the AP. This study elucidates how the specificity of cell wall glycan linkages affects AP activation and the role properdin plays in this process. Particulate β1→3 glucans activated the AP even in the absence of properdin, while β1→6 glucans required properdin for AP activation. In contrast, the β1→4 glycans chitin and chitosan failed to activate the AP. These findings enhance our mechanistic understanding of how fungi activate complement and have implications for the use of glycans in biomedical applications.

Trapped Radiation Model Uncertainties: Model-Data and Model-Model Comparisons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Armstrong, T. W.; Colborn, B. L.

2000-01-01

The standard AP8 and AE8 models for predicting trapped proton and electron environments have been compared with several sets of flight data to evaluate model uncertainties. Model comparisons are made with flux and dose measurements made on various U.S. low-Earth orbit satellites (APEX, CRRES, DMSP, LDEF, NOAA) and Space Shuttle flights, on Russian satellites (Photon-8, Cosmos-1887, Cosmos-2044), and on the Russian Mir Space Station. This report gives the details of the model-data comparisons-summary results in terms of empirical model uncertainty factors that can be applied for spacecraft design applications are given in a combination report. The results of model-model comparisons are also presented from standard AP8 and AE8 model predictions compared with the European Space Agency versions of AP8 and AE8 and with Russian-trapped radiation models.

Trapped Radiation Model Uncertainties: Model-Data and Model-Model Comparisons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Armstrong, T. W.; Colborn, B. L.

2000-01-01

The standard AP8 and AE8 models for predicting trapped proton and electron environments have been compared with several sets of flight data to evaluate model uncertainties. Model comparisons are made with flux and dose measurements made on various U.S. low-Earth orbit satellites (APEX, CRRES, DMSP. LDEF, NOAA) and Space Shuttle flights, on Russian satellites (Photon-8, Cosmos-1887, Cosmos-2044), and on the Russian Mir space station. This report gives the details of the model-data comparisons -- summary results in terms of empirical model uncertainty factors that can be applied for spacecraft design applications are given in a companion report. The results of model-model comparisons are also presented from standard AP8 and AE8 model predictions compared with the European Space Agency versions of AP8 and AE8 and with Russian trapped radiation models.

Functional regulation of RNA-induced silencing complex by photoreactive oligonucleotides.

PubMed

Matsuyama, Yohei; Yamayoshi, Asako; Kobori, Akio; Murakami, Akira

2014-02-01

We developed a novel method for regulation of RISC function by photoreactive oligonucleotides (Ps-Oligo) containing 2'-O-psoralenylmethoxyethyl adenosine (Aps). We observed that inhibitory effects of Ps-Oligos on RISC function were enhanced by UV-irradiation compared with 2'-O-methyl-oligonucleotide without Aps. These results suggest Ps-Oligo inhibited RISC function by cross-linking effect, and we propose that the concept described in this report may be promising and applicable one to regulate the small RNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Raman Fiber Lasers and Amplifiers Based on Multimode Graded-Index Fibers and Their Application to Beam Cleanup

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-06-01

Scattering UV —Ultraviolet xvii List of Symbols Roman Symbols a radius of fiber core Ap,s amplitude of pump and Stokes waves m spA...written directly to the ends of the RFL with an ultraviolet ( UV ) laser [14] or written to separate pieces of fiber and then spliced onto the ends...beam [17,18,19,20,21]. This has led at least one author to suggest the output beam of a Raman fiber amplifier (RFA) will be nearly diffraction

Application Level Protocol Development for Library and Information Science Applications. Volume 1: Service Definition. Volume 2: Protocol Specification. Report No. TG.1.5; TG.50.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aagaard, James S.; And Others

This two-volume document specifies a protocol that was developed using the Reference Model for Open Systems Interconnection (OSI), which provides a framework for communications within a heterogeneous network environment. The protocol implements the features necessary for bibliographic searching, record maintenance, and mail transfer between…

Hippocampus NMDA receptors selectively mediate latent extinction of place learning.

PubMed

Goodman, Jarid; Gabriele, Amanda; Packard, Mark G

2016-09-01

Extinction of maze learning may be achieved with or without the animal performing the previously acquired response. In typical "response extinction," animals are given the opportunity to make the previously acquired approach response toward the goal location of the maze without reinforcement. In "latent extinction," animals are not given the opportunity to make the previously acquired response and instead are confined to the previous goal location without reinforcement. Previous evidence indicates that the effectiveness of these protocols may depend on the type of memory being extinguished. Thus, one aim of the present study was to further examine the effectiveness of response and latent extinction protocols across dorsolateral striatum (DLS)-dependent response learning and hippocampus-dependent place learning tasks. In addition, previous neural inactivation experiments indicate a selective role for the hippocampus in latent extinction, but have not investigated the precise neurotransmitter mechanisms involved. Thus, the present study also examined whether latent extinction of place learning might depend on NMDA receptor activity in the hippocampus. In experiment 1, adult male Long-Evans rats were trained in a response learning task in a water plus-maze, in which animals were reinforced to make a consistent body-turn response to reach an invisible escape platform. Results indicated that response extinction, but not latent extinction, was effective at extinguishing memory in the response learning task. In experiment 2, rats were trained in a place learning task, in which animals were reinforced to approach a consistent spatial location containing the hidden escape platform. In experiment 2, animals also received intra-hippocampal infusions of the NMDA receptor antagonist 2-amino-5-phosphopentanoic acid (AP5; 5.0 or 7.5 ug/0.5 µg) or saline vehicle immediately before response or latent extinction training. Results indicated that both extinction protocols were effective at extinguishing memory in the place learning task. In addition, intra-hippocampal AP5 (7.5 µg) impaired latent extinction, but not response extinction, suggesting that hippocampal NMDA receptors are selectively involved in latent extinction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Applications of CFD and visualization techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saunders, James H.; Brown, Susan T.; Crisafulli, Jeffrey J.; Southern, Leslie A.

1992-01-01

In this paper, three applications are presented to illustrate current techniques for flow calculation and visualization. The first two applications use a commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, FLUENT, performed on a Cray Y-MP. The results are animated with the aid of data visualization software, apE. The third application simulates a particulate deposition pattern using techniques inspired by developments in nonlinear dynamical systems. These computations were performed on personal computers.

Large area CMOS active pixel sensor x-ray imager for digital breast tomosynthesis: Analysis, modeling, and characterization.

PubMed

Zhao, Chumin; Kanicki, Jerzy; Konstantinidis, Anastasios C; Patel, Tushita

2015-11-01

Large area x-ray imagers based on complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) active pixel sensor (APS) technology have been proposed for various medical imaging applications including digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT). The low electronic noise (50-300 e-) of CMOS APS x-ray imagers provides a possible route to shrink the pixel pitch to smaller than 75 μm for microcalcification detection and possible reduction of the DBT mean glandular dose (MGD). In this study, imaging performance of a large area (29×23 cm2) CMOS APS x-ray imager [Dexela 2923 MAM (PerkinElmer, London)] with a pixel pitch of 75 μm was characterized and modeled. The authors developed a cascaded system model for CMOS APS x-ray imagers using both a broadband x-ray radiation and monochromatic synchrotron radiation. The experimental data including modulation transfer function, noise power spectrum, and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) were theoretically described using the proposed cascaded system model with satisfactory consistency to experimental results. Both high full well and low full well (LFW) modes of the Dexela 2923 MAM CMOS APS x-ray imager were characterized and modeled. The cascaded system analysis results were further used to extract the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for microcalcifications with sizes of 165-400 μm at various MGDs. The impact of electronic noise on CNR was also evaluated. The LFW mode shows better DQE at low air kerma (Ka<10 μGy) and should be used for DBT. At current DBT applications, air kerma (Ka∼10 μGy, broadband radiation of 28 kVp), DQE of more than 0.7 and ∼0.3 was achieved using the LFW mode at spatial frequency of 0.5 line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm) and Nyquist frequency ∼6.7 lp/mm, respectively. It is shown that microcalcifications of 165-400 μm in size can be resolved using a MGD range of 0.3-1 mGy, respectively. In comparison to a General Electric GEN2 prototype DBT system (at MGD of 2.5 mGy), an increased CNR (by ∼10) for microcalcifications was observed using the Dexela 2923 MAM CMOS APS x-ray imager at a lower MGD (2.0 mGy). The Dexela 2923 MAM CMOS APS x-ray imager is capable to achieve a high imaging performance at spatial frequencies up to 6.7 lp/mm. Microcalcifications of 165 μm are distinguishable based on reported data and their modeling results due to the small pixel pitch of 75 μm. At the same time, potential dose reduction is expected using the studied CMOS APS x-ray imager.

A universal data access and protocol integration mechanism for smart home

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shao, Pengfei; Yang, Qi; Zhang, Xuan

2013-03-01

With the lack of standardized or completely missing communication interfaces in home electronics, there is no perfect solution to address every aspect in smart homes based on existing protocols and technologies. In addition, the central control unit (CCU) of smart home system working point-to-point between the multiple application interfaces and the underlying hardware interfaces leads to its complicated architecture and unpleasant performance. A flexible data access and protocol integration mechanism is required. The current paper offers a universal, comprehensive data access and protocol integration mechanism for a smart home. The universal mechanism works as a middleware adapter with unified agreements of the communication interfaces and protocols, offers an abstraction of the application level from the hardware specific and decoupling the hardware interface modules from the application level. Further abstraction for the application interfaces and the underlying hardware interfaces are executed based on adaption layer to provide unified interfaces for more flexible user applications and hardware protocol integration. This new universal mechanism fundamentally changes the architecture of the smart home and in some way meets the practical requirement of smart homes more flexible and desirable.

High versus low energy administration in the early phase of acute pancreatitis (GOULASH trial): protocol of a multicentre randomised double-blind clinical trial

PubMed Central

Márta, Katalin; Szabó, Anikó N; Pécsi, Dániel; Varjú, Péter; Bajor, Judit; Gódi, Szilárd; Sarlós, Patrícia; Mikó, Alexandra; Szemes, Kata; Papp, Mária; Tornai, Tamás; Vincze, Áron; Márton, Zsolt; Vincze, Patrícia A; Lankó, Erzsébet; Szentesi, Andrea; Molnár, Tímea; Hágendorn, Roland; Faluhelyi, Nándor; Battyáni, István; Kelemen, Dezső; Papp, Róbert; Miseta, Attila; Verzár, Zsófia; Lerch, Markus M; Neoptolemos, John P; Sahin-Tóth, Miklós; Petersen, Ole H; Hegyi, Péter

2017-01-01

Introduction Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease with no specific treatment. Mitochondrial injury followed by ATP depletion in both acinar and ductal cells is a recently discovered early event in its pathogenesis. Importantly, preclinical research has shown that intracellular ATP delivery restores the physiological function of the cells and protects from cell injury, suggesting that restoration of energy levels in the pancreas is therapeutically beneficial. Despite several high quality experimental observations in this area, no randomised trials have been conducted to date to address the requirements for energy intake in the early phase of AP. Methods/design This is a randomised controlled two-arm double-blind multicentre trial. Patients with AP will be randomly assigned to groups A (30 kcal/kg/day energy administration starting within 24 hours of hospital admission) or B (low energy administration during the first 72 hours of hospital admission). Energy will be delivered by nasoenteric tube feeding with additional intravenous glucose supplementation or total parenteral nutrition if necessary. A combination of multiorgan failure for more than 48 hours and mortality is defined as the primary endpoint, whereas several secondary endpoints such as length of hospitalisation or pain will be determined to elucidate more detailed differences between the groups. The general feasibility, safety and quality checks required for high quality evidence will be adhered to. Ethics and dissemination The study has been approved by the relevant organisation, the Scientific and Research Ethics Committee of the Hungarian Medical Research Council (55961-2/2016/EKU). This study will provide evidence as to whether early high energy nutritional support is beneficial in the clinical management of AP. The results of this trial will be published in an open access way and disseminated among medical doctors. Trial registration The trial has been registered at the ISRCTN (ISRTCN 63827758). PMID:28912191

Informed decision-making with and for people with dementia - efficacy of the PRODECIDE education program for legal representatives: protocol of a randomized controlled trial (PRODECIDE-RCT).

PubMed

Lühnen, Julia; Haastert, Burkhard; Mühlhauser, Ingrid; Richter, Tanja

2017-09-15

In Germany, the guardianship system provides adults who are no longer able to handle their own affairs a court-appointed legal representative, for support without restriction of legal capacity. Although these representatives only rarely are qualified in healthcare, they nevertheless play decisive roles in the decision-making processes for people with dementia. Previously, we developed an education program (PRODECIDE) to address this shortcoming and tested it for feasibility. Typical, autonomy-restricting decisions in the care of people with dementia-namely, using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) or physical restrains (PR), or the prescription of antipsychotic drugs (AP)-were the subject areas trained. The training course aims to enhance the competency of legal representatives in informed decision-making. In this study, we will evaluate the efficacy of the PRODECIDE education program. A randomized controlled trial with a six-month follow-up will be conducted to compare the PRODECIDE education program with standard care, enrolling legal representatives (N = 216). The education program lasts 10 h and comprises four modules: A, decision-making processes and methods; and B, C and D, evidence-based knowledge about PEG, PR and AP, respectively. The primary outcome measure is knowledge, which is operationalized as the understanding of decision-making processes in healthcare affairs and in setting realistic expectations about benefits and harms of PEG, PR and AP in people with dementia. Secondary outcomes are sufficient and sustainable knowledge and percentage of persons concerned affected by PEG, FEM or AP. A qualitative process evaluation will be performed. Additionally, to support implementation, a concept for translating the educational contents into e-learning modules will be developed. The study results will show whether the efficacy of the education program could justify its implementation into the regular training curricula for legal representatives. Additionally, it will determine whether an e-learning course provides a valuable backup or even alternative learning strategy. TRN: ISRCTN17960111 , Date: 01/06/2017.

Comparison of Liver Tumor Motion With and Without Abdominal Compression Using Cine-Magnetic Resonance Imaging

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

Eccles, Cynthia L.; Patel, Ritesh; Simeonov, Anna K.

2011-02-01

Purpose: Abdominal compression (AC) can be used to reduce respiratory liver motion in patients undergoing liver stereotactic body radiotherapy. The purpose of the present study was to measure the changes in three-dimensional liver tumor motion with and without compression using cine-magnetic resonance imaging. Patients and Methods: A total of 60 patients treated as a part of an institutional research ethics board-approved liver stereotactic body radiotherapy protocol underwent cine T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging through the tumor centroid in the coronal and sagittal planes. A total of 240 cine-magnetic resonance imaging sequences acquired at one to three images each second for 30-60more » s were evaluated using an in-house-developed template matching tool (based on the coefficient correlation) to measure the magnitude of the tumor motion. The average tumor edge displacements were used to determine the magnitude of changes in the caudal-cranial (CC) and anteroposterior (AP) directions, with and without AC. Results: The mean tumor motion without AC of 11.7 mm (range, 4.8-23.3) in the CC direction was reduced to 9.4 mm (range, 1.6-23.4) with AC. The tumor motion was reduced in both directions (CC and AP) in 52% of the patients and in a single direction (CC or AP) in 90% of the patients. The mean decrease in tumor motion with AC was 2.3 and 0.6 mm in the CC and AP direction, respectively. Increased motion occurred in one or more directions in 28% of patients. Clinically significant (>3 mm) decreases were observed in 40% and increases in <2% of patients in the CC direction. Conclusion: AC can significantly reduce three-dimensional liver tumor motion in most patients, although the magnitude of the reduction was smaller than previously reported.« less

Experimental, Pathologic, and Clinical Findings of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Para-Hisian Region From the Right Ventricle in Dogs and Humans.

PubMed

Xue, Yumei; Zhan, Xianzhang; Wu, Shulin; Wang, Hongyue; Liu, Yang; Liao, Zili; Deng, Hai; Duan, Xuejing; Zeng, Shaoying; Liang, Dongpo; Elvan, Arif; Fang, Xianhong; Liao, Hongtao; Ramdat Misier, Anand R; Smit, Jaap Jan J; Metzner, Andreas; Heeger, Christian-Hendrik; Liu, Fangzhou; Wang, Feng; Zhang, Zhiwei; Kuck, Karl-Heinz; Yen Ho, Siew; Ouyang, Feifan

2017-06-01

Ablation of para-Hisian accessory pathway (AP) poses high risks of atrioventricular block. We developed a pacing technique to differentiate the near-field (NF) from far-field His activations to avoid the complication. Three-dimensional mapping of the right ventricle was performed in 15 mongrel dogs and 23 patients with para-Hisian AP. Using different pacing outputs, the NF- and far-field His activation was identified on the ventricular aspect. Radiofrequency application was delivered at the NF His site in 8 (group 1) and the far-field His site in 7 dogs (group 2), followed by pathologic examination after 14 days. NF His activation was captured with 5 mA/1 ms in 10 and 10 mA/1 ms in 5 dogs. In group 1, radiofrequency delivery resulted in complete atrioventricular block in 3, right bundle branch block with HV (His-to-ventricular) interval prolongation in 1, and only right bundle branch block in 2 dogs, whereas no changes occurred in group 2. Pathologic examination in group-1 dogs showed complete or partial necrosis of the His bundle in 4 and complete necrosis of the right bundle branch in 5 dogs. In group 2, partial necrosis in the right bundle branch was found only in 1 dog. Using this pacing technique, the APs were 5.7±1.2 mm away from the His bundle located superiorly in 20 or inferiorly in 3 patients. All APs were successfully eliminated with 1 to 3 radiofrequency applications. No complications and recurrence occurred during a follow-up of 11.8±1.4 months. Differentiating the NF His from far-field His activations led to a high ablation success without atrioventricular block in para-Hisian AP patients. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Clustering by soft-constraint affinity propagation: applications to gene-expression data.

PubMed

Leone, Michele; Sumedha; Weigt, Martin

2007-10-15

Similarity-measure-based clustering is a crucial problem appearing throughout scientific data analysis. Recently, a powerful new algorithm called Affinity Propagation (AP) based on message-passing techniques was proposed by Frey and Dueck (2007a). In AP, each cluster is identified by a common exemplar all other data points of the same cluster refer to, and exemplars have to refer to themselves. Albeit its proved power, AP in its present form suffers from a number of drawbacks. The hard constraint of having exactly one exemplar per cluster restricts AP to classes of regularly shaped clusters, and leads to suboptimal performance, e.g. in analyzing gene expression data. This limitation can be overcome by relaxing the AP hard constraints. A new parameter controls the importance of the constraints compared to the aim of maximizing the overall similarity, and allows to interpolate between the simple case where each data point selects its closest neighbor as an exemplar and the original AP. The resulting soft-constraint affinity propagation (SCAP) becomes more informative, accurate and leads to more stable clustering. Even though a new a priori free parameter is introduced, the overall dependence of the algorithm on external tuning is reduced, as robustness is increased and an optimal strategy for parameter selection emerges more naturally. SCAP is tested on biological benchmark data, including in particular microarray data related to various cancer types. We show that the algorithm efficiently unveils the hierarchical cluster structure present in the data sets. Further on, it allows to extract sparse gene expression signatures for each cluster.

Assessment of Patient Perceptions About Web Telemonitoring Applied to Artificial Pancreas Use at Home

PubMed Central

Farret, Anne; Del Favero, Simone; Bruttomesso, Daniela; Renard, Eric

2014-01-01

Patients with chronic diseases as well as health care systems could benefit from telemedicine applications such as remote monitoring (RM). RM relies on a device that sends patients’ health data to a remote server accessible by care teams. Recent smartphone-based artificial pancreas (AP) systems collect comprehensive set of information and could therefore support the development of RM applied to diabetes. To better understand how RM could be integrated in future AP systems, we wanted to get patients’ opinion on this concept, as they are the final users of these systems. An online questionnaire with 11 items was sent to 20 experienced patients who tested AP and RM during our recent outpatient studies in France and Italy. We received 17 answers. All patients considered that during their participation in trials, RM was useful, reassuring, and essential. One-third wouldn’t have participated without it. When AP is commercialized, 88% of respondents think that AP should go with a RM tool, but it should be activated only at certain times, at first use or in case of difficulties (82%). Participants ask for technical support when a device fails (88%) and for medical help in case of prolonged hyperglycemia (65%) or severe or repeated hypoglycemia (53%), but not after each case of hypoglycemia (6%). More than 75% think that RM could help them to improve their blood glucose control. This preliminary work indicates that patients expect RM to be part of future AP development. Larger studies remain to be performed to investigate its usefulness and potential economic effectiveness. PMID:24876571

Electrophysiological and morphological features underlying neurotransmission efficacy at the splanchnic nerve-chromaffin cell synapse of bovine adrenal medulla.

PubMed

de Diego, Antonio M G

2010-02-01

The ability of adrenal chromaffin cells to fast-release catecholamines relies on their capacity to fire action potentials (APs). However, little attention has been paid to the requirements needed to evoke the controlled firing of APs. Few data are available in rodents and none on the bovine chromaffin cell, a model extensively used by researchers. The aim of this work was to clarify this issue. Short puffs of acetylcholine (ACh) were fast perifused to current-clamped chromaffin cells and produced the firing of single APs. Based on the currents generated by such ACh applications and previous literature, current waveforms that efficiently elicited APs at frequencies up to 20 Hz were generated. Complex waveforms were also generated by adding simple waveforms with different delays; these waveforms aimed at modeling the stimulation patterns that a chromaffin cell would conceivably undergo upon strong synaptic stimulation. Cholinergic innervation was assessed using the acetylcholinesterase staining technique on the supposition that the innervation pattern is a determinant of the kind of stimuli chromaffin cells can receive. It is concluded that 1) a reliable method to produce frequency-controlled APs by applying defined current injection waveforms is achieved; 2) the APs thus generated have essentially the same features as those spontaneously emitted by the cell and those elicited by fast-ACh perifusion; 3) the higher frequencies attainable peak at around 30 Hz; and 4) the bovine adrenal medulla shows abundant cholinergic innervation, and chromaffin cells show strong acetylcholinesterase staining, consistent with a tight cholinergic presynaptic control of firing frequency.

The redox status of experimental hemorrhagic shock as measured by cyclic voltammetry.

PubMed

Mittal, Anubhav; Göke, Friederike; Flint, Richard; Loveday, Benjamin P T; Thompson, Nichola; Delahunt, Brett; Kilmartin, Paul A; Cooper, Garth J S; MacDonald, Julia; Hickey, Anthony; Windsor, John A; Phillips, Anthony R J

2010-05-01

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) leads to reactive oxygen species production. However, clinicians do not have access to bedside measurements of the redox status during HS. Cyclic voltammetry (CyV) is a simple electrochemical method of measuring redox status. The aims of this study were to 1) report the first application of cyclic voltammetry to measure the acute changes in serum redox status after HS, 2) to contrast it with another severe systemic disease with a different redox pathology (acute pancreatitis [AP]), and 3) to describe the response of CyV over time in a resolving model of AP. In the acute study, 24 male Wistar rats were randomized into three groups: groups 1 (control), 2 (AP), and 3 (HS). In the time-course study, 28 rats were randomized to a sham-control as well as 6 and 24 h post-AP cohorts, respectively.Cyclic voltammetry was performed using a three-electrode system. In the acute study, the first and second voltammetric peaks increased significantly in HS. In contrast, within the AP group, only the first voltammetric peak showed a significant increase. The first voltammetric peak correlated with plasma protein carbonyls (PCs) and with thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, whereas the second voltammetric peak correlated positively with plasma protein carbonyls. In the second study, the first voltammetric peak correlated with physiological improvements. Here, we showed that serum CyV could respond to the serum redox change in HS and AP. Cyclic voltammetry warrants evaluation as a potential real-time beside measure of a patient's redox status during shock.

Taking the Politics Out of Satellite and Space-Based Communications Protocols

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ivancic, William D.

2006-01-01

After many years of studies, experimentation, and deployment, large amounts of misinformation and misconceptions remain regarding applicability of various communications protocols for use in satellite and space-based networks. This paper attempts to remove much of the politics, misconceptions, and misinformation that have plagued spacebased communications protocol development and deployment. This paper provides a common vocabulary for communications; a general discussion of the requirements for various communication environments; an evaluation of tradeoffs between circuit and packet-switching technologies, and the pros and cons of various link, network, transport, application, and security protocols. Included is the applicability of protocol enhancing proxies to NASA, Department of Defense (DOD), and commercial space communication systems.

Randomized trial for answers to clinical questions: evaluating a pre-appraised versus a MEDLINE search protocol.

PubMed

Patel, Manesh R; Schardt, Connie M; Sanders, Linda L; Keitz, Sheri A

2006-10-01

The paper compares the speed, validity, and applicability of two different protocols for searching the primary medical literature. A randomized trial involving medicine residents was performed. An inpatient general medicine rotation was used. Thirty-two internal medicine residents were block randomized into four groups of eight. Success rate of each search protocol was measured by perceived search time, number of questions answered, and proportion of articles that were applicable and valid. Residents randomized to the MEDLINE-first (protocol A) group searched 120 questions, and residents randomized to the MEDLINE-last (protocol B) searched 133 questions. In protocol A, 104 answers (86.7%) and, in protocol B, 117 answers (88%) were found to clinical questions. In protocol A, residents reported that 26 (25.2%) of the answers were obtained quickly or rated as "fast" (<5 minutes) as opposed to 55 (51.9%) in protocol B, (P = 0.0004). A subset of questions and articles (n = 79) were reviewed by faculty who found that both protocols identified similar numbers of answer articles that addressed the questions and were felt to be valid using critical appraisal criteria. For resident-generated clinical questions, both protocols produced a similarly high percentage of applicable and valid articles. The MEDLINE-last search protocol was perceived to be faster. However, in the MEDLINE-last protocol, a significant portion of questions (23%) still required searching MEDLINE to find an answer.

Measurement of photoluminescence from a twisted-nematic liquid crystal/dye cell for an application in an energy-harvesting display

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohta, Masamichi; Itaya, Shunsuke; Ozawa, Shintaro; Binti, M. Azmi; Dianah, Nada; Fujieda, Ichiro

2016-09-01

One can convert a Luminescent Solar Concentrator (LSC) to an energy-harvesting display by scanning a laser beam on it. By incorporating a guest-host system of liquid crystal (LC) and dye materials in an LSC, the power of photoluminescence (PL) utilized for either display or energy-harvesting can be adjusted to the changes in ambient lighting conditions. We have measured basic characteristics of an LC/dye cell with twisted-nematic (TN) alignment. These are absorption of the laser light, PL radiation pattern, contrast of luminance, spreading of the PL generated by a narrow laser beam, and their dependencies on the bias. The results are similar to those of the LC/dye cell with antiparallel (AP) alignment with the following exceptions. First, absorption by the TN cell depends on the bias for both polarization components of the excitation light, while the AP cell exhibits a bias dependency only for the component polarized along the alignment direction. Second, the PL from the TN cell is mostly polarized along the alignment direction on the exit side of the cell while the PL from the AP cell is mostly polarized along its alignment direction. These observations can be attributed to the fact that the polarization plane of a linearly polarized light rotates as it propagated the TN-LC layer. For both AP and TN cells, low-intensity PL is observed from the whole cell surfaces. This can degrade the contrast of a displayed image. Bias application to the cell suppresses this effect.

Clathrin Terminal Domain-Ligand Interactions Regulate Sorting of Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptors Mediated by AP-1 and GGA Adaptors*

PubMed Central

Stahlschmidt, Wiebke; Robertson, Mark J.; Robinson, Phillip J.; McCluskey, Adam; Haucke, Volker

2014-01-01

Clathrin plays important roles in intracellular membrane traffic including endocytosis of plasma membrane proteins and receptors and protein sorting between the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and endosomes. Whether clathrin serves additional roles in receptor recycling, degradative sorting, or constitutive secretion has remained somewhat controversial. Here we have used acute pharmacological perturbation of clathrin terminal domain (TD) function to dissect the role of clathrin in intracellular membrane traffic. We report that internalization of major histocompatibility complex I (MHCI) is inhibited in cells depleted of clathrin or its major clathrin adaptor complex 2 (AP-2), a phenotype mimicked by application of Pitstop® inhibitors of clathrin TD function. Hence, MHCI endocytosis occurs via a clathrin/AP-2-dependent pathway. Acute perturbation of clathrin also impairs the dynamics of intracellular clathrin/adaptor complex 1 (AP-1)- or GGA (Golgi-localized, γ-ear-containing, Arf-binding protein)-coated structures at the TGN/endosomal interface, resulting in the peripheral dispersion of mannose 6-phosphate receptors. By contrast, secretory traffic of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein, recycling of internalized transferrin from endosomes, or degradation of EGF receptor proceeds unperturbed in cells with impaired clathrin TD function. These data indicate that clathrin is required for the function of AP-1- and GGA-coated carriers at the TGN but may be dispensable for outward traffic en route to the plasma membrane. PMID:24407285

Aptamer-functionalized PEG-PLGA nanoparticles for enhanced anti-glioma drug delivery.

PubMed

Guo, Jianwei; Gao, Xiaoling; Su, Lina; Xia, Huimin; Gu, Guangzhi; Pang, Zhiqing; Jiang, Xinguo; Yao, Lei; Chen, Jun; Chen, Hongzhuan

2011-11-01

Targeted delivery of therapeutic nanoparticles in a disease-specific manner represents a potentially powerful technology especially when treating infiltrative brain tumors such as gliomas. We developed a nanoparticulate drug delivery system decorated with AS1411 (Ap), a DNA aptamer specifically binding to nucleolin which was highly expressed in the plasma membrane of both cancer cells and endothelial cells in angiogenic blood vessels, as the targeting ligand to facilitate anti-glioma delivery of paclitaxel (PTX). Ap was conjugated to the surface of PEG-PLGA nanoparticles (NP) via an EDC/NHS technique. With the conjugation confirmed by Urea PAGE and XPS, the resulting Ap-PTX-NP was uniformly round with particle size at 156.0 ± 54.8 nm and zeta potential at -32.93 ± 3.1 mV. Ap-nucleolin interaction significantly enhanced cellular association of nanoparticles in C6 glioma cells, and increased the cytotoxicity of its payload. Prolonged circulation and enhanced PTX accumulation at the tumor site was achieved for Ap-PTX-NP, which eventually obtained significantly higher tumor inhibition on mice bearing C6 glioma xenografts and prolonged animal survival on rats bearing intracranial C6 gliomas when compared with PTX-NP and Taxol(®). The results of this contribution demonstrated the potential utility of AS1411-functionalized nanoparticles for a therapeutic application in the treatment of gliomas. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Recent advances in aptamer-armed multimodal theranostic nanosystems for imaging and targeted therapy of cancer.

PubMed

Vandghanooni, Somayeh; Eskandani, Morteza; Barar, Jaleh; Omidi, Yadollah

2018-05-30

The side effects of chemotherapeutics during the course of cancer treatment limit their clinical outcomes. The most important mission of the modern cancer therapy modalities is the delivery of anticancer drugs specifically to the target cells/tissue in order to avoid/reduce any inadvertent non-specific impacts on the healthy normal cells. Nanocarriers decorated with a designated targeting ligand such as aptamers (Aps) and antibodies (Abs) are able to deliver cargo molecules to the target cells/tissue without affecting other neighboring cells, resulting in an improved treatment of cancer. For targeted therapy of cancer, different ligands (e.g., protein, peptide, Abs, Aps and small molecules) have widely been used in the development of different targeting drug delivery systems (DDSs). Of these homing agents, nucleic acid Aps show unique targeting potential with high binding affinity to a variety of biological targets (e.g., genes, peptides, proteins, and even cells and organs). Aps have widely been used as the targeting agent, in large part due to their unique 3D structure, simplicity in synthesis and functionalization, high chemical flexibility, low immunogenicity and toxicity, and cell/tissue penetration capability in some cases. Here, in this review, we provide important insights on Ap-decorated multimodal nanosystems (NSs) and discuss their applications in targeted therapy and imaging of cancer. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparation and biocompatibility evaluation of pectin and chitosan cryogels for biomedical application.

PubMed

Konovalova, Mariya V; Markov, Pavel A; Durnev, Eugene A; Kurek, Denis V; Popov, Sergey V; Varlamov, Valery P

2017-02-01

Today, there is a need for the development of biomaterials with novel properties for biomedical purposes. The biocompatibility of materials is a key factor in determining its possible use in biomedicine. In this study, composite cryogels were obtained based on pectin and chitosan using ionic cryotropic gelation. For cryogel preparation, apple pectin (AP), Heracleum L. pectin (HP), and chitosan samples with different physical and chemical characteristics were used. The properties of pectin-chitosan cryogels were found to depend on the structural features and physicochemical characteristics of the pectin and chitosan within them. The addition of chitosan to cryogels can increase their mechanical strength, cause change in surface morphology, increase the degradation time, and enhance adhesion to biological tissues. Cryogels based on AP were less immunogenic when compared with cryogels from HP. Cryogels based on AP and HP were hemocompatible and the percentage of red blood cells hemolysis was less than 5%. Unlike cryogels based on HP, which exhibited moderate cytotoxicity, cryogels based on AP exhibited light cytotoxicity. Based on the results of low immunogenicity, light cytotoxicity data as well as a low level of hemolysis of composite cryogels based on AP and chitosan are biocompatible and can potentially be used in biomedicine. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 547-556, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Characterizing the complexity of spontaneous motor unit patterns of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using approximate entropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Ping; Barkhaus, Paul E.; Zhang, Xu; Zev Rymer, William

2011-10-01

This paper presents a novel application of the approximate entropy (ApEn) measurement for characterizing spontaneous motor unit activity of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. High-density surface electromyography (EMG) was used to record spontaneous motor unit activity bilaterally from the thenar muscles of nine ALS subjects. Three distinct patterns of spontaneous motor unit activity (sporadic spikes, tonic spikes and high-frequency repetitive spikes) were observed. For each pattern, complexity was characterized by calculating the ApEn values of the representative signal segments. A sliding window over each segment was also introduced to quantify the dynamic changes in complexity for the different spontaneous motor unit patterns. We found that the ApEn values for the sporadic spikes were the highest, while those of the high-frequency repetitive spikes were the lowest. There is a significant difference in mean ApEn values between two arbitrary groups of the three spontaneous motor unit patterns (P < 0.001). The dynamic ApEn curve from the sliding window analysis is capable of tracking variations in EMG activity, thus providing a vivid, distinctive description for different patterns of spontaneous motor unit action potentials in terms of their complexity. These findings expand the existing knowledge of spontaneous motor unit activity in ALS beyond what was previously obtained using conventional linear methods such as firing rate or inter-spike interval statistics.

Inter- and Intrafraction Target Motion in Highly Focused Single Vocal Cord Irradiation of T1a Larynx Cancer Patients

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

Kwa, Stefan L.S., E-mail: s.kwa@erasmusmc.nl; Al-Mamgani, Abrahim; Osman, Sarah O.S.

2015-09-01

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to verify clinical target volume–planning target volume (CTV-PTV) margins in single vocal cord irradiation (SVCI) of T1a larynx tumors and characterize inter- and intrafraction target motion. Methods and Materials: For 42 patients, a single vocal cord was irradiated using intensity modulated radiation therapy at a total dose of 58.1 Gy (16 fractions × 3.63 Gy). A daily cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was performed to online correct the setup of the thyroid cartilage after patient positioning with in-room lasers (interfraction motion correction). To monitor intrafraction motion, CBCT scans were also acquired just after patient repositioning and aftermore » dose delivery. A mixed online-offline setup correction protocol (“O2 protocol”) was designed to compensate for both inter- and intrafraction motion. Results: Observed interfraction, systematic (Σ), and random (σ) setup errors in left-right (LR), craniocaudal (CC), and anteroposterior (AP) directions were 0.9, 2.0, and 1.1 mm and 1.0, 1.6, and 1.0 mm, respectively. After correction of these errors, the following intrafraction movements derived from the CBCT acquired after dose delivery were: Σ = 0.4, 1.3, and 0.7 mm, and σ = 0.8, 1.4, and 0.8 mm. More than half of the patients showed a systematic non-zero intrafraction shift in target position, (ie, the mean intrafraction displacement over the treatment fractions was statistically significantly different from zero; P<.05). With the applied CTV-PTV margins (for most patients 3, 5, and 3 mm in LR, CC, and AP directions, respectively), the minimum CTV dose, estimated from the target displacements observed in the last CBCT, was at least 94% of the prescribed dose for all patients and more than 98% for most patients (37 of 42). The proposed O2 protocol could effectively reduce the systematic intrafraction errors observed after dose delivery to almost zero (Σ = 0.1, 0.2, 0.2 mm). Conclusions: With adequate image guidance and CTV-PTV margins in LR, CC, and AP directions of 3, 5, and 3 mm, respectively, excellent target coverage in SVCI could be ensured.« less

Network protocols for real-time applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Marjory J.

1987-01-01

The Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) and the SAE AE-9B High Speed Ring Bus (HSRB) are emerging standards for high-performance token ring local area networks. FDDI was designed to be a general-purpose high-performance network. HSRB was designed specifically for military real-time applications. A workshop was conducted at NASA Ames Research Center in January, 1987 to compare and contrast these protocols with respect to their ability to support real-time applications. This report summarizes workshop presentations and includes an independent comparison of the two protocols. A conclusion reached at the workshop was that current protocols for the upper layers of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) network model are inadequate for real-time applications.

Performance of a novel wafer scale CMOS active pixel sensor for bio-medical imaging.

PubMed

Esposito, M; Anaxagoras, T; Konstantinidis, A C; Zheng, Y; Speller, R D; Evans, P M; Allinson, N M; Wells, K

2014-07-07

Recently CMOS active pixels sensors (APSs) have become a valuable alternative to amorphous silicon and selenium flat panel imagers (FPIs) in bio-medical imaging applications. CMOS APSs can now be scaled up to the standard 20 cm diameter wafer size by means of a reticle stitching block process. However, despite wafer scale CMOS APS being monolithic, sources of non-uniformity of response and regional variations can persist representing a significant challenge for wafer scale sensor response. Non-uniformity of stitched sensors can arise from a number of factors related to the manufacturing process, including variation of amplification, variation between readout components, wafer defects and process variations across the wafer due to manufacturing processes. This paper reports on an investigation into the spatial non-uniformity and regional variations of a wafer scale stitched CMOS APS. For the first time a per-pixel analysis of the electro-optical performance of a wafer CMOS APS is presented, to address inhomogeneity issues arising from the stitching techniques used to manufacture wafer scale sensors. A complete model of the signal generation in the pixel array has been provided and proved capable of accounting for noise and gain variations across the pixel array. This novel analysis leads to readout noise and conversion gain being evaluated at pixel level, stitching block level and in regions of interest, resulting in a coefficient of variation ⩽1.9%. The uniformity of the image quality performance has been further investigated in a typical x-ray application, i.e. mammography, showing a uniformity in terms of CNR among the highest when compared with mammography detectors commonly used in clinical practice. Finally, in order to compare the detection capability of this novel APS with the technology currently used (i.e. FPIs), theoretical evaluation of the detection quantum efficiency (DQE) at zero-frequency has been performed, resulting in a higher DQE for this detector compared to FPIs. Optical characterization, x-ray contrast measurements and theoretical DQE evaluation suggest that a trade off can be found between the need of a large imaging area and the requirement of a uniform imaging performance, making the DynAMITe large area CMOS APS suitable for a range of bio-medical applications.

CURRENT-VOLTAGE CHARACTERISTICS OF THERMALLY ANNEALED Ni/n-GaAs SCHOTTKY CONTACTS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yildirim, Nezir; Turut, Abdulmecit; Dogan, Hulya

The Schottky barrier type Ni/n-GaAs contacts fabricated by us were thermally annealed at 600∘C and 700∘C for 1min. The apparent barrier height Φap and ideality factor of the diodes were calculated from the forward bias current-voltage characteristic in 60-320K range. The Φap values for the nonannealed and 600∘C and 700∘C annealed diodes were obtained as 0.80, 0.81 and 0.67eV at 300K, respectively. Thus, it has been concluded that the reduced barrier due to the thermal annealing at 700∘C promises some device applications. The current preferentially flows through the lowest barrier height (BH) with the temperature due to the BH inhomogeneities. Therefore, it was seen that the Φap versus (2kT)‑1 plots for the nonannealed and annealed diodes showed the linear behavior according to Gaussian distributions.

In vitro and in vivo antioxidant activities of polysaccharide purified from aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) gel.

PubMed

Kang, Min-Cheol; Kim, Seo Young; Kim, Yoon Taek; Kim, Eun-A; Lee, Seung-Hong; Ko, Seok-Chun; Wijesinghe, W A J P; Samarakoon, Kalpa W; Kim, Young-Sun; Cho, Jin Hun; Jang, Hyeang-Su; Jeon, You-Jin

2014-01-01

The in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potentials of a polysaccharide isolated from aloe vera gel were investigated. Enzymatic extracts were prepared from aloe vera gel by using ten digestive enzymes including five carbohydrases and five proteases. Among them, the highest yield was obtained with the Viscozyme extract and the same extract showed the best radical scavenging activity. An active polysaccharide was purified from the Viscozyme extract using ethanol-added separation and anion exchange chromatography. Purified aloe vera polysaccharide (APS) strongly scavenged radicals including DPPH, hydroxyl and alkyl radicals. In addition, APS showed a protective effect against AAPH-induced oxidative stress and cell death in Vero cells as well as in the in vivo zebrafish model. In this study, it is proved that both the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potentials of APS could be further utilized in relevant industrial applications. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Clinical and Radiographic Mid-Term Outcomes After Total Shoulder Replacement: A Retrospective Study Protocol Including 400 Anatomical and Reverse Prosthetic Implants

PubMed Central

Merolla, Giovanni; Tartarone, Antonio; Porcellini, Giuseppe

2016-01-01

Objectives: To obtain outcomes data on anatomical and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty by analysis of clinical scores and standard radiographs. Subject selection and enrollment: 400 consecutive series of patients replaced with anatomical and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (minimum 3 years follow-up). Study Design: retrospective monocenter. Preoperative assessment: Demographics, clinical scores (Constant-Murley) as available, shoulder X-ray (AP, outlet and axillary views) . Last follow-up: Postoperative radiographhs and clinical scores. Adverse events and complications to be reported as occurred since implantation. Statistical analysis: Data collected will be summarized and analyzed for statistical significance. PMID:27326389

Ultrasensitive determination of human growth hormone (hGH) with a disposable electrochemical magneto-immunosensor.

PubMed

Serafín, V; Úbeda, N; Agüí, L; Yáñez-Sedeño, P; Pingarrón, J M

2012-05-01

In this paper, an electrochemical magneto-immunosensor for the detection of human growth hormone (hGH) is described for the first time. The immunosensor involves the use of tosyl-activated magnetic microparticles (TsMBs) to covalently immobilize a monoclonal mAbhHG antibody. A sandwich-type immunoassay with a secondary pAbhGH antibody and anti-IgG labelled with alkaline phosphatase (anti-IgG-AP) was employed. TsMBs–mAbhGH–hGH–pAbhGH–anti-IgG-AP conjugates were deposited onto the surface of a screen-printed gold electrode using a small neodymium magnet, and electrochemical detection was performed by square-wave voltammetry upon the addition of 4-aminophenyl phosphate as the AP substrate. All the variables involved in the preparation of immunoconjugates and in the immunoassay protocol were optimized. A calibration curve for hGH was constructed with a linear range between 0.01 and 100 ng/mL (r = 0.998) and a limit of detection of 0.005 ng/mL. This value is nearly three orders of magnitude lower than that obtained using surface plasmon resonance (Treviño et al., Talanta 78:1011-1016, 2009). Furthermore, good repeatability, with RSD = 3% (n = 10) at the 1-ng/mL hGH level, was obtained. Cross-reactivity studies with other hormones demonstrated good selectivity. The magneto-immunosensor was applied to the analysis of human serum spiked with hGH at the 4- and 0.1-ng/mL levels. Mean recoveries of 96 ± 6% and 99 ± 2%, respectively, were obtained.

In-port derivatization coupled to different extraction techniques for the determination of alkylphenols in environmental water samples.

PubMed

Cavalheiro, J; Monperrus, M; Amouroux, D; Preud'Homme, H; Prieto, A; Zuloaga, O

2014-05-02

Large volume injection (LVI)-in port silylation coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for the determination of alkylphenols (APs) in water samples applying four different extraction approaches was evaluated. Among the variables studied for in-port derivatization, vent time, cryo-focusing temperature and the ratio solvent volume/N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) volume were optimized using an experimental design approach. Regarding the extraction techniques, different approaches previously optimized in the research group were tested. On the one hand different polymeric materials were tested: silicon rod (SR), polyethersulfone (PES) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), the latter in the stir-bar sorptive extraction format (SBSE-PDMS). PES was chosen among the polymeric materials due to the higher recoveries (compared with SR) and lower price (compared to PDMS in the stir-bar sorptive extraction, SBSE-PDMS). Both MASE and PES protocols were selected at this point for further method validation and application to real samples. Finally, the developed methods were validated and applied to the determination of target analytes in various aqueous environmental matrices, including estuarine water and wastewater. Acceptable repeatability in the case of MASE (5-17%) and PES (7-21%) procedures and method detection limits (MDLs, 5-123 and 28-328 ng L(-1) for PES and MASE, respectively) were obtained for most analytes. In terms of apparent recoveries in the presence of matrix, estuarine and effluent samples showed no significant matrix effect (apparent recoveries in the 73-121% for PES and 74-128% for MASE), while a stronger matrix effect was observed for influent wastewater samples (98-132% for PES and 65-156% for MASE). Both MASE and PES extractions combined with LVI-in-port derivatization-GC-MS were applied to the determination of APs in the estuary of Bilbao (Gulf of Biscay, Spain). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Irregularity, volatility, risk, and financial market time series

PubMed Central

Pincus, Steve; Kalman, Rudolf E.

2004-01-01

The need to assess subtle, potentially exploitable changes in serial structure is paramount in the analysis of financial data. Herein, we demonstrate the utility of approximate entropy (ApEn), a model-independent measure of sequential irregularity, toward this goal, by several distinct applications. We consider both empirical data and models, including composite indices (Standard and Poor's 500 and Hang Seng), individual stock prices, the random-walk hypothesis, and the Black–Scholes and fractional Brownian motion models. Notably, ApEn appears to be a potentially useful marker of system stability, with rapid increases possibly foreshadowing significant changes in a financial variable. PMID:15358860

Standardization Process for Space Radiation Models Used for Space System Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barth, Janet; Daly, Eamonn; Brautigam, Donald

2005-01-01

The space system design community has three concerns related to models of the radiation belts and plasma: 1) AP-8 and AE-8 models are not adequate for modern applications; 2) Data that have become available since the creation of AP-8 and AE-8 are not being fully exploited for modeling purposes; 3) When new models are produced, there is no authorizing organization identified to evaluate the models or their datasets for accuracy and robustness. This viewgraph presentation provided an overview of the roadmap adopted by the Working Group Meeting on New Standard Radiation Belt and Space Plasma Models.

Erythrocyte interactions - Comparison of the aggregation power of polymer molecules used in medicine - Not only size does matter.

PubMed

Jovtchev, S; Alexandrov, S; Hristova-Avakumova, N; Miteva, S; Traikov, L; Gerasimova, D; Stoeff, S

2016-01-01

Different colloids are used as a part of solutions for fluid resuscitation and organ preservation: hydroxyethyl starches (HES), dextran (Dx), polyethylene glycols (PEG), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP). Some of the problems associated with their application are addressed to alteration in erythrocyte (ERY) rheology. We intended to estimate in vitro and compare the aggregation power (AP) of these molecules related to ERY interactions. Washed human ERY are used during the study. The zeta sedimentation technique is used to quantify the cell aggregation. Zeta sedimentation ratio (ZSR) based indices (AI) are calculated. The hydrodynamic radius (Rh) of the polymer molecules is determined using viscometry. For all polymers tested a linear range in the relationship AI - concentration was found. The slope of the calculated line was interpreted as measure of the molecule's AP. The following ranking was obtained: PEG >PVP >DX >HES. Within the same chemical type of polymer, increasing Rh of the molecules leads to elevated AI. Comparison of the AP of molecules with similar Rh reveals a significant dependence on their chemical nature. Our results show that molecule's AP is significantly dependent on their chemical nature - i.e. not only molecular size does matter.

Simultaneous determination of andrographolide, dehydroandrographolide and neoandrographolide in dog plasma by LC-MS/MS and its application to a dog pharmacokinetic study of Andrographis paniculata tablet.

PubMed

Xu, Fang-fang; Fu, Shu-jun; Gu, Sheng-pan; Wang, Zhi-min; Wang, Zhen-zhong; He, Xin; Xiao, Wei

2015-05-15

In this study, a sensitive and rapid liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated to simultaneously determinate andrographolide (AP), dehydroandrographolide (DP), and neoandrographolide (NP) in plasma of beagle dogs after oral administration of Andrographis paniculata tablet (A. paniculata). The analytes and bilobalide (internal standard) were separated on an Agilent ZORBAX XDB-C18 column (50mm×2.1mm, 3.5μm) by using gradient elution consisting of methanol and water at a flow rate of 0.50mL/min in 7min. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode was performed to quantify data under monitoring precursor-product ion transitions of m/z 348.8→286.9, 330.9→107.9, 479.1→160.8 and 325.0→163.0 for AP, DP, NP and internal standard (IS) at negative ion mode, respectively. This method was developed at linearity ranging from 0.50 to 250ng/mL for AP, 1.00 to 500ng/mL for DP and 0.20 to 100ng/mL for NP. The accuracy of each analyte ranged between 94.8% and 107.1% and the precision was within 14.6%. No significant matrix effect was observed. AP, DP and NP were stable during sample storage, preparation and analytic procedures. Furthermore, this method was successfully applied in the investigation of the pharmacokinetic profile of AP, DP and NP in beagle dogs after oral administration of A. paniculata tablet (49.5mg for AP, 7.0mg for DP, 22.0mg for NP). Biological half-life (t1/2) was 2.08±0.99, 3.13±1.19 and 1.07±0.38h for AP, DP and NP, respectively. The areas under curves (AUC0-t) of AP, DP and NP was 494.50±150.64, 26.01±8.72 and 78.78±18.29ngh/mL, respectively. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mobile chemical detector (AP2C+SP4E) as an aid for medical decision making in the battlefield.

PubMed

Eisenkraft, Arik; Markel, Gal; Simovich, Shirley; Layish, Ido; Hoffman, Azik; Finkelstein, Arseny; Rotman, Eran; Dushnitsky, Tsvika; Krivoy, Amir

2007-09-01

The combination of the AP2C unit with the SP4E kit composes a lightweight mobile detector of chemical warfare agents (CWA), such as nerve and mustard agents, with both vapor- and liquid-sampling capabilities. This apparatus was recently introduced into our military medical units as an aid for detection of CWA on casualties. Importantly, critical information regarding the applicability in the battlefield was absent. In view of the serious consequences that might follow a proclamation of CWA recognition in battlefield, a high false-positive rate positions the utilization of this apparatus as a medical decision tool in question. We have therefore conducted a field experiment to test the false-positive rate as well as analyze possible factors leading to false-positive readings with this device. The experiment was carried out before and after a 4-day army field exercise, using a standard AP2C device, a SP4E surface sampling kit, and a specially designed medical sampling kit for casualties, intended for medical teams. Soldiers were examined at rest, after mild exercise, and after 4 days in the field. The readings with AP2C alone were compared to the combination of AP2C and SP4E and to the medical sampling kit. Various body fluids served as negative controls. Remarkably, we found a false-positive rate of 57% at rest and after mild exercise, and an even higher rate of 64% after the 4-day field exercise with the AP2C detector alone, as compared to almost no false-positive readings with the combination of AP2C and SP4E. Strikingly, the medical sampling kit has yielded numerous false-positive readings, even in normal body fluids such as blood, urine, and saliva. We therefore see no place for using the medical sampling kit due to an unaccepted high rate of false-positive readings. Finally, we have designed an algorithm that uses the entire apparatus of AP2C and SP4E as a reliable validation tool for medical triage in the setting of exposure to nerve agents in the battlefield.

Repressive effects of a capacitive-resistive electric transfer (CRet) hyperthermic apparatus combined with provitamin C on intracellular lipid-droplets formation in adipocytes.

PubMed

Kato, Shinya; Saitoh, Yasukazu; Miwa, Nobuhiko

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate inhibitory effects of L-ascorbic acid-2-O-phosphate-Na(2) (APS), a pro-vitamin C, combined with hyperthermia on adipogenic differentiation of mouse stromal cells, OP9. OP9 preadipocytes were differentiated with serum replacement, administered with APS, and simultaneously treated with hyperthermia using a capacitive-resistive electric transfer (CRet) apparatus, which was conducted repeatedly twice a day. After 2 days, intracellular lipid droplets were stained with Oil Red O, then observed by microscopy and assessed spectrophotometrically. After stimulation by serum replacement for 2 days, lipid droplets were accumulated surrounding nucleus of OP9 cells. When APS of 0.15-0.6 mM was administered without hyperthermia, the amount of lipid droplets was markedly suppressed to 50.5%∼-11.3% versus the undifferentiated control, and diminished huge aggregates of lipid droplets. In OP9 cells treated by hyperthermia at 42°C for 0.5 min, 1 min or 3 min in the absence of APS, adipogenesis was suppressed abruptly in a time-dependent manner to 95.4%, 18.7% or -5.5%, respectively. Whereas, the percentage of adipogenesis was 96.8% in OP9 cells treated by mild hyperthermia alone at 41°C for 1 min. The simultaneous application of APS and hyperthermia at 41°C for 1 min markedly suppressed the accumulation of lipid droplets to 25.7%∼-66.2%. By scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation, the surface of OP9 cells treated with APS and hyperthermia appeared to have the morphological property of undifferentiated OP9 cells. Combined treatment of APS and mild hyperthermia suppresses adipogenesis in OP9 cells, particularly in lipid droplets accumulation during spontaneous differentiation of OP9 preadipocytes.

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles conjugated with CD133 aptamers for targeted salinomycin delivery to CD133+ osteosarcoma cancer stem cells

PubMed Central

Ni, Miaozhong; Xiong, Min; Zhang, Xinchao; Cai, Guoping; Chen, Huaiwen; Zeng, Qingmin; Yu, Zuochong

2015-01-01

Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess the characteristics associated with normal stem cells and are responsible for cancer initiation, recurrence, and metastasis. CD133 is regarded as a CSCs marker of osteosarcoma, which is the most common primary bone malignancy in childhood and adolescence. Salinomycin, a polyether ionophore antibiotic, has been shown to kill various CSCs, including osteosarcoma CSCs. However, salinomycin displayed poor aqueous solubility that hinders its clinical application. The objective of this study was to develop salinomycin-loaded nanoparticles to eliminate CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs. Methods The salinomycin-loaded PEGylated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (SAL-NP) conjugated with CD133 aptamers (Ap-SAL-NP) were developed by an emulsion/solvent evaporation method, and the targeting and cytotoxicity of Ap-SAL-NP to CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs were evaluated. Results The nanoparticles are of desired particle size (~150 nm), drug encapsulation efficiency (~50%), and drug release profile. After 48 hours treatment of the Saos-2 CD133+ osteosarcoma cells with drugs formulated in Ap-SAL-NP, SAL-NP, and salinomycin, the concentrations needed to kill 50% of the incubated cells were found to be 2.18, 10.72, and 5.07 μg/mL, respectively, suggesting that Ap-SAL-NP could be 4.92 or 2.33 fold more effective than SAL-NP or salinomycin, respectively. In contrast, Ap-SAL-NP was as effective as SAL-NP, and less effective than salinomycin in Saos-2 CD133− cells, suggesting that Ap-SAL-NP possess specific cytotoxicity toward Saos-2 CD133+ cells. Ap-SAL-NP showed the best therapeutic effect in Saos-2 osteosarcoma xenograft mice, compared with SAL-NP or salinomycin. Significantly, Ap-SAL-NP could selectively kill CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs both in vitro and in vivo, as reflected by the tumorsphere formation and proportion of Saos-2 CD133+ cells. Conclusion Our results suggest that CD133 is a potential target for drug delivery to osteosarcoma CSCs and that it is possible to significantly inhibit the osteosarcoma growth by killing CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs. We demonstrated that Ap-SAL-NP have the potential to target and kill CD133+ osteosarcoma CSCs. PMID:25848270

Functional Characterization Of Peptide Transporters In MDCKII -MDR1 Cell line As A Model For Oral Absorption Studies

PubMed Central

Agarwal, Sheetal; Jain, Ritesh; Pal, Dhananjay; K.Mitra, Ashim

2007-01-01

MDCKII-MDR1 cell line has been extensively selected as a model to study P-gp-mediated drug efflux. Recently, investigators have employed this cell line for studying influx of peptide prodrug derivatives of parent compounds which are P-gp substrates. Therefore, the objective of this study is to functionally characterize the peptide mediated uptake and transport of [3H] Glycylsarcosine ([3H] Gly-Sar), a model peptide substrate across MDCKII-MDR1 cells. [3H] Gly-Sar uptake from apical (AP) and basolateral (BL) membranes was found to be time dependent and saturable. Michaelis-Menten (Km) constants of [3H] Gly-Sar uptake across the AP and BL directions in MDCKII-MDR1 cell line were found to be 457 ± 37 μM and 464 ± 85 μM respectively. Vmax values in AP and BL directions for the peptide transporters in MDCKII-MDR1 cell line were calculated to be 0.035 ± 0.001 and 0.35 ± 0.034 pmol/min/mg protein respectively. Uptake of [3H] Gly-Sar was significantly inhibited in the presence of aminocephalosporins and ACE-Inhibitors, known substrates for peptide transporters in both the AP and BL directions. Permeability of [3H] Gly-Sar in the BL direction was maximal at pH 4 as compared to pH 5, 6 and 7.4 whereas such permeability in the AP direction was optimal at pH 7.4. Transepithelial transport of [3H] Gly-Sar in the AP-BL direction was significantly lower than from BL-AP direction at all observed pHs. No statistical difference was observed in the transepithelial permeability of [3H] Gly-Sar across both AP and BL directions over 4–10 days of growth period. The present study indicates that peptide transporters are effectively involved in the bidirectional transport of Gly-Sar across MDCKII-MDR1 cell line; the BL peptide transporter can transport Gly-Sar at a greater rate as compared to the AP peptide transporter. Results from these studies suggest the application of MDCKII-MDR1 cell line as a rapid effective tool to study peptide mediated influx of compounds that may be substrates for both P-gp and peptide transporters. PMID:17097248

4-aminopyridine restores vertical and horizontal neural integrator function in downbeat nystagmus.

PubMed

Kalla, Roger; Glasauer, Stefan; Büttner, Ulrich; Brandt, Thomas; Strupp, Michael

2007-09-01

Downbeat nystagmus (DBN), the most common form of acquired fixation nystagmus, is often caused by cerebellar degeneration, especially if the vestibulo-cerebellum is involved. The upward ocular drift in DBN has a spontaneous and a vertical gaze-evoked component. Since cerebellar involvement is suspected to be the underlying pathomechanism of DBN, we tested in 15 patients with DBN whether the application of the potassium-channel blocker 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), which increases the excitability of cerebellar Purkinje cells as shown in animal experiments, reduces the vertical ocular drift leading to nystagmus. Fifteen age-matched healthy subjects served as the control group. 4-AP may affect spontaneous drift or gaze-evoked drift by either enhancing visual fixation ability or restoring vision-independent gaze holding. We therefore recorded 3D slow-phase eye movements using search coils during attempted fixation in nine different eye positions and with or without a continuously visible target before and 45 min after ingestion of 10mg 4-AP. Since the effect of 4-AP may depend on the associated etiology, we divided our patients into three groups (cerebellar atrophy, n = 4; idiopathic DBN, n = 5; other etiology, n = 6). 4-AP decreased DBN during gaze straight ahead in 12 of 15 patients. Statistical analysis showed that improvement occurred predominantly in patients with cerebellar atrophy, in whom the drift was reduced from -4.99 +/- 1.07 deg/s (mean +/- SE) before treatment to -0.60 +/- 0.82 deg/s afterwards. Regression analysis of slow-phase velocity (SPV) in different eye positions revealed that vertical and horizontal gaze-evoked drift was significantly reduced independently of the patient group and caused perfect gaze holding on the average. Since the observed improvements were independent of target visibility, 4-AP improved fixation by restoring gaze-holding ability. All in all, the present study demonstrates that 4-AP has a differential effect on DBN: drift with gaze straight ahead was predominantly reduced in patients with cerebellar atrophy, but less so in the remaining patients; 4-AP on the average improved neural integrator function, i.e. gaze-evoked drift, regardless of etiology. Our results thus show that 4-AP was a successful treatment option in the majority of DBN patients, possibly by increasing Purkinje cell excitability in the cerebellar flocculi. It may work best when DBN is associated with cerebellar atrophy. Furthermore, 4-AP may be a promising treatment option for patients with a dominant gaze-evoked component of nystagmus, regardless of its etiology.

A Comparative Study on Ni-Based Coatings Prepared by HVAF, HVOF, and APS Methods for Corrosion Protection Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadeghimeresht, E.; Markocsan, N.; Nylén, P.

2016-12-01

Selection of the thermal spray process is the most important step toward a proper coating solution for a given application as important coating characteristics such as adhesion and microstructure are highly dependent on it. In the present work, a process-microstructure-properties-performance correlation study was performed in order to figure out the main characteristics and corrosion performance of the coatings produced by different thermal spray techniques such as high-velocity air fuel (HVAF), high-velocity oxy fuel (HVOF), and atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). Previously optimized HVOF and APS process parameters were used to deposit Ni, NiCr, and NiAl coatings and compare with HVAF-sprayed coatings with randomly selected process parameters. As the HVAF process presented the best coating characteristics and corrosion behavior, few process parameters such as feed rate and standoff distance (SoD) were investigated to systematically optimize the HVAF coatings in terms of low porosity and high corrosion resistance. The Ni and NiAl coatings with lower porosity and better corrosion behavior were obtained at an average SoD of 300 mm and feed rate of 150 g/min. The NiCr coating sprayed at a SoD of 250 mm and feed rate of 75 g/min showed the highest corrosion resistance among all investigated samples.

Application of Atmospheric-Pressure Microwave Line Plasma for Low Temperature Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Haruka; Nakano, Suguru; Itoh, Hitoshi; Sekine, Makoto; Hori, Masaru; Toyoda, Hirotaka

2015-09-01

Atmospheric pressure (AP) plasmas have been given much attention because of its high cost benefit and a variety of possibilities for industrial applications. In various kinds of plasma production technique, pulsed-microwave discharge plasma using slot antenna is attractive due to its ability of high-density and stable plasma production. In this plasma source, however, size of the plasma has been limited up to a few cm in length due to standing wave inside a waveguide. To solve this, we have proposed a newly-developed AP microwave plasma source that utilizes not standing wave but travelling wave. By using this plasma source, spatially-uniform AP line plasma with 40 cm in length was realized by pure helium discharge in 60 cm slot and with nitrogen gas additive of 1%. Furthermore, gas temperature as low as 400 K was realized in this device. In this study, as an example of low temperature processes, hydrophilic treatment of PET films was performed. Processing speed increased with pulse frequency and a water contact angle of ~20° was easily obtained within 5 s with no thermal damage to the substrate. To evaluate treatment-uniformity of long line length, PET films were treated by 90 cm slot-antenna plasma and uniform treatment performance was confirmed.

77 FR 5492 - Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Application for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-03

... assess the performance of an approved sampling protocol and to allow for continued sample collection and... developmental sampling protocol. While this application was being reviewed and was available for public comment, the sampling protocol being tested was adopted into the National Shellfish Sanitation Program by the...

Electrochemical study of acetaminophen oxidation by gold nanoparticles supported on a leaf-like zeolitic imidazolate framework.

PubMed

Wang, Lei; Meng, Tianjiao; Fan, Yanwei; Chen, Chunxia; Guo, Ziwei; Wang, Huan; Zhang, Yufan

2018-04-03

Decoration of leaf-like zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-L) with Au nanoparticles (NPs) by a simple self-assembly method was described in this work. The materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectra, N 2 adsorption, and thermogravimetric analysis. Acetaminophen (AP) is most commonly referred to as an over-the-counter antipyretic and analgesic, which is a key factor in relieving fever and pain. It is particular significant to take efforts and conduct research for the development of reliable methods to detect the AP. An electrochemical sensor for AP was constructed based on the Au/ZIF-L, which exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of AP with the catalytic rate constant (k cat ) of 4.27 × 10 4  M -1  s -1 and diffusion coefficient (D) of of 8.31 × 10 -5  cm 2  s -1 . Importantly, Au/ZIF-L was developed as an effective sensing platform for the detection of AP, which showed high analytical performance, such as a linear range of 3.50 μM-0.056 mM with sensitivity of 37.28 μA mM -1 , a linear range of 0.056-0.56 mM with sensitivity of 25.10 μA mM -1 , and a low limit of detection of 1.02 μM. The successfully fabricated Au/ZIF-L device can be used to accurately measure the amount of AP in pharmaceutical samples. Results implied the potential application of functionalized MOF composite materials in the field of electrocatalysis, making it particularly suitable for electroanalytical chemistry. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The environmental occurrence and effect of alkylphenol polyethoxylates and their metabolites in Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, W.

2009-12-01

Alkylphenol polyethoxylates (APEOs) are widely used nonionic surfactants in domestic, agricultural and household applications, which have been commonly found in wastewater discharges and in sewage treatment plant effluents. Degradation of APEOs in wastewater or in the environment generates more persistent pollutants, including alkylphenols (APs, such as 4-nonylphenol isomers (4-NPs) and 4-t-octylphenol (4-t-OP)) and shortened ethoxy chain APEO residues (such as AP1~3EO). These metabolites of APEOs are of interest in the field of environmental monitoring because of the volume of these substances used and their activity as either endocrine disruptors or as persistent pollutants. APEOs are mass-produced and used widely in Taiwan. Large quantities of these metabolites in wastewater are discharged into the rivers directly because Taiwan’s municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities are deficient. However, the occurrence and fate of these metabolites are unclear and can potentially affect the aquatic environment and public health in Taiwan. Determination of APEOs and their metabolites have been performed for household detergents, various surface water, soil, sediments, biota, foodstuffs and even in breast milk. APEOs and their metabolites were detected in all media analyzed and in all environmental samples. The relatively high concentrations detected in oysters and snails provide evidence for bioaccumulation of APs. The presence of APs in breast milk implies that APs enter the food chain in local biota after long chain APEOs were biodegraded. There are also some indications that the plastic wrappings and containers for foodstuffs sold in Taiwan may contain NP or tris(nonylphenol) phosphate (TNPP) used as plasticizers or antioxidants. In addition, possible sources of APs may come from the extensive use of pesticides containing APEO as emulsifiers in agriculture.

Effects of exogenous nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in the rat heart are mediated by P2 purine receptors.

PubMed

Kuzmin, Vladislav S; Pustovit, Ksenia B; Abramochkin, Denis V

2016-06-27

Recently, NAD+ has been considered as an essential factor, participating in nerve control of physiological functions and intercellular communication. NAD+ also has been supposed as endogenous activator of P1 and P2 purinoreceptors. Effects of extracellular NAD+ remain poorly investigated in cardiac tissue. This study aims to investigate the effects of extracellular NAD+ in different types of supraventricular and ventricular working myocardium from rat and their potential mechanisms. The standard technique of sharp microelectrode action potential recording in cardiac multicellular preparations was used to study the effects of NAD+. Extracellular NAD+ induced significant changes in bioelectrical activity of left auricle (LA), right auricle (RA), pulmonary veins (PV) and right ventricular wall (RV) myocardial preparations. 10-100 μM NAD+ produced two opposite effects in LA and RA - quickly developing and transient prolongation of action potentials (AP) and delayed sustained AP shortening, which follows the initial positive effect. In PV and RV only AP shortening was observed in response to NAD+ application. In PV preparations AP shortening induced by NAD+ may be considered as a potential proarrhythmic effect. Revealed cardiotropic effects of NAD+ are likely to be mediated by P2 purine receptors, since P1 blocker DPCPX failed to affect them and P2 antagonist suramin abolished NAD + -induced alterations of electrical activity. P2X receptors may be responsible for NAD + -induced short-lasting AP prolongation, while P2Y receptors mediate persistent AP shortening. The latter effect is partially removed by PLC inhibitor U73122 showing the potential involvement of phosphoinositide signaling pathway in mediation of NAD+ cardiotropic effects. Extracellular NAD+ is supposed to be a novel regulator of cardiac electrical activity. P2 receptors represent the main target of NAD+ at least in the rat heart.

Texas traffic thermostat software tool.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-04-01

The traffic thermostat decision tool is built to help guide the user through a logical, step-wise, process of examining potential changes to their Manage Lane/toll facility. : **NOTE: Project Title: Application of the Traffic Thermostat Framework. Ap...

Texas traffic thermostat marketing package.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-04-01

The traffic thermostat decision tool is built to help guide the user through a logical, step-wise, process of examining potential changes to their Manage Lane/toll facility. : **NOTE: Project Title: Application of the Traffic Thermostat Framework. Ap...

Development and Validation of the Social Information Processing Application: A Web-Based Measure of Social Information Processing Patterns in Elementary School-Age Boys

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kupersmidt, Janis B.; Stelter, Rebecca; Dodge, Kenneth A.

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of an audio computer-assisted self-interviewing Web-based software application called the Social Information Processing Application (SIP-AP) that was designed to assess social information processing skills in boys in RD through 5th grades. This study included a racially and…

Bindings and RESTlets: A Novel Set of CoAP-Based Application Enablers to Build IoT Applications.

PubMed

Teklemariam, Girum Ketema; Van Den Abeele, Floris; Moerman, Ingrid; Demeester, Piet; Hoebeke, Jeroen

2016-08-02

Sensors and actuators are becoming important components of Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Today, several approaches exist to facilitate communication of sensors and actuators in IoT applications. Most communications go through often proprietary gateways requiring availability of the gateway for each and every interaction between sensors and actuators. Sometimes, the gateway does some processing of the sensor data before triggering actuators. Other approaches put this processing logic further in the cloud. These approaches introduce significant latencies and increased number of packets. In this paper, we introduce a CoAP-based mechanism for direct binding of sensors and actuators. This flexible binding solution is utilized further to build IoT applications through RESTlets. RESTlets are defined to accept inputs and produce outputs after performing some processing tasks. Sensors and actuators could be associated with RESTlets (which can be hosted on any device) through the flexible binding mechanism we introduced. This approach facilitates decentralized IoT application development by placing all or part of the processing logic in Low power and Lossy Networks (LLNs). We run several tests to compare the performance of our solution with existing solutions and found out that our solution reduces communication delay and number of packets in the LLN.

Bindings and RESTlets: A Novel Set of CoAP-Based Application Enablers to Build IoT Applications

PubMed Central

Teklemariam, Girum Ketema; Van Den Abeele, Floris; Moerman, Ingrid; Demeester, Piet; Hoebeke, Jeroen

2016-01-01

Sensors and actuators are becoming important components of Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Today, several approaches exist to facilitate communication of sensors and actuators in IoT applications. Most communications go through often proprietary gateways requiring availability of the gateway for each and every interaction between sensors and actuators. Sometimes, the gateway does some processing of the sensor data before triggering actuators. Other approaches put this processing logic further in the cloud. These approaches introduce significant latencies and increased number of packets. In this paper, we introduce a CoAP-based mechanism for direct binding of sensors and actuators. This flexible binding solution is utilized further to build IoT applications through RESTlets. RESTlets are defined to accept inputs and produce outputs after performing some processing tasks. Sensors and actuators could be associated with RESTlets (which can be hosted on any device) through the flexible binding mechanism we introduced. This approach facilitates decentralized IoT application development by placing all or part of the processing logic in Low power and Lossy Networks (LLNs). We run several tests to compare the performance of our solution with existing solutions and found out that our solution reduces communication delay and number of packets in the LLN. PMID:27490554

77 FR 20870 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; New York Stock Exchange LLC; Order Approving a Proposed Rule...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-06

... Definition of Approved Person To Exclude Foreign Affiliates, Eliminating the Application Process for Approved... to exclude foreign affiliates, eliminate the application process for approved persons, and make... Rules 304, 308, and 311. The Exchange also proposed to eliminate use of the Forms AP-1 and AD-G. The...

System and Network Security Acronyms and Abbreviations

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-09-01

hazards of electromagnetic radiation to fuel HERO hazards of electromagnetic radiation to ordnance HERP hazards of electromagnetic ...ABSTRACT unclassified c. THIS PAGE unclassified Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8-98) Prescribed by ANSI Std Z39-18 System and Network Security Acronyms...authentication and key management ALG application layer gateway ANSI American National Standards Institute AP access point API application

Analysis and Design of Complex Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-02

systems. 08-NOV-10, . : , Barlas Oguz, Venkat Anantharam. Long range dependent Markov chains with applications , Information Theory and Applications ...JUL-12, . : , Michael Krishnan, Ehsan Haghani, Avideh Zakhor. Packet Length Adaptation in WLANs with Hidden Nodes and Time-Varying Channels, IEEE... WLAN networks with multi-antenna beam-forming nodes. VII. Use of busy/idle signals for discovering optimum AP association VIII

Large area CMOS active pixel sensor x-ray imager for digital breast tomosynthesis: Analysis, modeling, and characterization

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

Zhao, Chumin; Kanicki, Jerzy, E-mail: kanicki@eecs.umich.edu; Konstantinidis, Anastasios C.

Purpose: Large area x-ray imagers based on complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) active pixel sensor (APS) technology have been proposed for various medical imaging applications including digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT). The low electronic noise (50–300 e{sup −}) of CMOS APS x-ray imagers provides a possible route to shrink the pixel pitch to smaller than 75 μm for microcalcification detection and possible reduction of the DBT mean glandular dose (MGD). Methods: In this study, imaging performance of a large area (29 × 23 cm{sup 2}) CMOS APS x-ray imager [Dexela 2923 MAM (PerkinElmer, London)] with a pixel pitch of 75 μm was characterizedmore » and modeled. The authors developed a cascaded system model for CMOS APS x-ray imagers using both a broadband x-ray radiation and monochromatic synchrotron radiation. The experimental data including modulation transfer function, noise power spectrum, and detective quantum efficiency (DQE) were theoretically described using the proposed cascaded system model with satisfactory consistency to experimental results. Both high full well and low full well (LFW) modes of the Dexela 2923 MAM CMOS APS x-ray imager were characterized and modeled. The cascaded system analysis results were further used to extract the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for microcalcifications with sizes of 165–400 μm at various MGDs. The impact of electronic noise on CNR was also evaluated. Results: The LFW mode shows better DQE at low air kerma (K{sub a} < 10 μGy) and should be used for DBT. At current DBT applications, air kerma (K{sub a} ∼ 10 μGy, broadband radiation of 28 kVp), DQE of more than 0.7 and ∼0.3 was achieved using the LFW mode at spatial frequency of 0.5 line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm) and Nyquist frequency ∼6.7 lp/mm, respectively. It is shown that microcalcifications of 165–400 μm in size can be resolved using a MGD range of 0.3–1 mGy, respectively. In comparison to a General Electric GEN2 prototype DBT system (at MGD of 2.5 mGy), an increased CNR (by ∼10) for microcalcifications was observed using the Dexela 2923 MAM CMOS APS x-ray imager at a lower MGD (2.0 mGy). Conclusions: The Dexela 2923 MAM CMOS APS x-ray imager is capable to achieve a high imaging performance at spatial frequencies up to 6.7 lp/mm. Microcalcifications of 165 μm are distinguishable based on reported data and their modeling results due to the small pixel pitch of 75 μm. At the same time, potential dose reduction is expected using the studied CMOS APS x-ray imager.« less

An Efficient and QoS Supported Multichannel MAC Protocol for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks

PubMed Central

Tan, Guozhen; Yu, Chao

2017-01-01

Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) employ multichannel to provide a variety of safety and non-safety (transport efficiency and infotainment) applications, based on the IEEE 802.11p and IEEE 1609.4 protocols. Different types of applications require different levels Quality-of-Service (QoS) support. Recently, transport efficiency and infotainment applications (e.g., electronic map download and Internet access) have received more and more attention, and this kind of applications is expected to become a big market driver in a near future. In this paper, we propose an Efficient and QoS supported Multichannel Medium Access Control (EQM-MAC) protocol for VANETs in a highway environment. The EQM-MAC protocol utilizes the service channel resources for non-safety message transmissions during the whole synchronization interval, and it dynamically adjusts minimum contention window size for different non-safety services according to the traffic conditions. Theoretical model analysis and extensive simulation results show that the EQM-MAC protocol can support QoS services, while ensuring the high saturation throughput and low transmission delay for non-safety applications. PMID:28991217

Defining objective clusters for rabies virus sequences using affinity propagation clustering

PubMed Central

Fischer, Susanne; Freuling, Conrad M.; Pfaff, Florian; Bodenhofer, Ulrich; Höper, Dirk; Fischer, Mareike; Marston, Denise A.; Fooks, Anthony R.; Mettenleiter, Thomas C.; Conraths, Franz J.; Homeier-Bachmann, Timo

2018-01-01

Rabies is caused by lyssaviruses, and is one of the oldest known zoonoses. In recent years, more than 21,000 nucleotide sequences of rabies viruses (RABV), from the prototype species rabies lyssavirus, have been deposited in public databases. Subsequent phylogenetic analyses in combination with metadata suggest geographic distributions of RABV. However, these analyses somewhat experience technical difficulties in defining verifiable criteria for cluster allocations in phylogenetic trees inviting for a more rational approach. Therefore, we applied a relatively new mathematical clustering algorythm named ‘affinity propagation clustering’ (AP) to propose a standardized sub-species classification utilizing full-genome RABV sequences. Because AP has the advantage that it is computationally fast and works for any meaningful measure of similarity between data samples, it has previously been applied successfully in bioinformatics, for analysis of microarray and gene expression data, however, cluster analysis of sequences is still in its infancy. Existing (516) and original (46) full genome RABV sequences were used to demonstrate the application of AP for RABV clustering. On a global scale, AP proposed four clusters, i.e. New World cluster, Arctic/Arctic-like, Cosmopolitan, and Asian as previously assigned by phylogenetic studies. By combining AP with established phylogenetic analyses, it is possible to resolve phylogenetic relationships between verifiably determined clusters and sequences. This workflow will be useful in confirming cluster distributions in a uniform transparent manner, not only for RABV, but also for other comparative sequence analyses. PMID:29357361

Diadenosine tetraphosphate-gating of cardiac K(ATP) channels requires intact actin cytoskeleton.

PubMed

Jovanović, S; Jovanović, A

2001-09-01

Diadenosine polyphosphates (ApnA) have been recently discovered in the heart, and their levels found to be regulated by ischemia. These signaling molecules are believed to regulate cellular processes that alarm a cell to metabolic stress. In particular, changes in cardiac diadenosine polyphosphates (ApnA) levels may contribute to the regulation of ATP-sensitive K+ (K(ATP)) channel activity, an ion channel that couples the cellular metabolic state with membrane excitability. A feature of myocardial ischemia is the disruption of the actin cytoskeleton which critically regulates the behavior of K(ATP) channels. Whether the integrity of actin microfilaments regulates the interaction of ApnA with K(ATP) channels is not known. The inside-out configuration of the patch-clamp technique was applied to cardiomyocytes isolated from guinea-pig heart. Following patch excision, the prototype dinucleotide, diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A), inhibited K(ATP) channel opening. Treatment of the internal side of membrane patches with either cytochalasin B or DNase I, disrupters of the actin cytoskeleton, prevented Ap4A-induced inhibition of K(ATP) channel opening. Application of purified actin to DNase-treated membrane patches restored the ability of Ap4A to close K(ATP) channels. This study shows that inhibition of cardiac K(ATP) channel by Ap4A, a putative alarmone, requires intact subsarcolemmal actin network. Such interaction between K(ATP) channels, the cardiomyocyte cytoskeleton and intracellular Ap4A could affect different channel-dependent functions.

21 CFR 58.120 - Protocol.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... FOR NONCLINICAL LABORATORY STUDIES Protocol for and Conduct of a Nonclinical Laboratory Study § 58.120 Protocol. (a) Each study shall have an approved written protocol that clearly indicates the objectives and all methods for the conduct of the study. The protocol shall contain, as applicable, the following...

[A security protocol for the exchange of personal medical data via Internet: monitoring treatment and drug effects].

PubMed

Viviani, R; Fischer, J; Spitzer, M; Freudenmann, R W

2004-04-01

We present a security protocol for the exchange of medical data via the Internet, based on the type/domain model. We discuss two applications of the protocol: in a system for the exchange of data for quality assurance, and in an on-line database of adverse reactions to drug use. We state that a type/domain security protocol can successfully comply with the complex requirements for data privacy and accessibility typical of such applications.

An energy-aware routing protocol for query-based applications in wireless sensor networks.

PubMed

Ahvar, Ehsan; Ahvar, Shohreh; Lee, Gyu Myoung; Crespi, Noel

2014-01-01

Wireless sensor network (WSN) typically has energy consumption restriction. Designing energy-aware routing protocol can significantly reduce energy consumption in WSNs. Energy-aware routing protocols can be classified into two categories, energy savers and energy balancers. Energy saving protocols are used to minimize the overall energy consumed by a WSN, while energy balancing protocols attempt to efficiently distribute the consumption of energy throughout the network. In general terms, energy saving protocols are not necessarily good at balancing energy consumption and energy balancing protocols are not always good at reducing energy consumption. In this paper, we propose an energy-aware routing protocol (ERP) for query-based applications in WSNs, which offers a good trade-off between traditional energy balancing and energy saving objectives and supports a soft real time packet delivery. This is achieved by means of fuzzy sets and learning automata techniques along with zonal broadcasting to decrease total energy consumption.

An Energy-Aware Routing Protocol for Query-Based Applications in Wireless Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Crespi, Noel

2014-01-01

Wireless sensor network (WSN) typically has energy consumption restriction. Designing energy-aware routing protocol can significantly reduce energy consumption in WSNs. Energy-aware routing protocols can be classified into two categories, energy savers and energy balancers. Energy saving protocols are used to minimize the overall energy consumed by a WSN, while energy balancing protocols attempt to efficiently distribute the consumption of energy throughout the network. In general terms, energy saving protocols are not necessarily good at balancing energy consumption and energy balancing protocols are not always good at reducing energy consumption. In this paper, we propose an energy-aware routing protocol (ERP) for query-based applications in WSNs, which offers a good trade-off between traditional energy balancing and energy saving objectives and supports a soft real time packet delivery. This is achieved by means of fuzzy sets and learning automata techniques along with zonal broadcasting to decrease total energy consumption. PMID:24696640

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2013-12-12

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Research into alternative network approaches for space operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kusmanoff, Antone L.; Barton, Timothy J.

1990-01-01

The main goal is to resolve the interoperability problem of applications employing DOD TCP/IP (Department of Defence Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) family of protocols on a CCITT/ISO based network. The objective is to allow them to communicate over the CCITT/ISO protocol GPLAN (General Purpose Local Area Network) network without modification to the user's application programs. There were two primary assumptions associated with the solution that was actually realized. The first is that the solution had to allow for future movement to the exclusive use of the CCITT/ISO standards. The second is that the solution had to be software transparent to the currently installed TCP/IP and CCITT/ISO user application programs.

Comparative Study on Various Authentication Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks.

PubMed

Rajeswari, S Raja; Seenivasagam, V

2016-01-01

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) consist of lightweight devices with low cost, low power, and short-ranged wireless communication. The sensors can communicate with each other to form a network. In WSNs, broadcast transmission is widely used along with the maximum usage of wireless networks and their applications. Hence, it has become crucial to authenticate broadcast messages. Key management is also an active research topic in WSNs. Several key management schemes have been introduced, and their benefits are not recognized in a specific WSN application. Security services are vital for ensuring the integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality of the critical information. Therefore, the authentication mechanisms are required to support these security services and to be resilient to distinct attacks. Various authentication protocols such as key management protocols, lightweight authentication protocols, and broadcast authentication protocols are compared and analyzed for all secure transmission applications. The major goal of this survey is to compare and find out the appropriate protocol for further research. Moreover, the comparisons between various authentication techniques are also illustrated.

Comparative Study on Various Authentication Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Rajeswari, S. Raja; Seenivasagam, V.

2016-01-01

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) consist of lightweight devices with low cost, low power, and short-ranged wireless communication. The sensors can communicate with each other to form a network. In WSNs, broadcast transmission is widely used along with the maximum usage of wireless networks and their applications. Hence, it has become crucial to authenticate broadcast messages. Key management is also an active research topic in WSNs. Several key management schemes have been introduced, and their benefits are not recognized in a specific WSN application. Security services are vital for ensuring the integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality of the critical information. Therefore, the authentication mechanisms are required to support these security services and to be resilient to distinct attacks. Various authentication protocols such as key management protocols, lightweight authentication protocols, and broadcast authentication protocols are compared and analyzed for all secure transmission applications. The major goal of this survey is to compare and find out the appropriate protocol for further research. Moreover, the comparisons between various authentication techniques are also illustrated. PMID:26881272

Optical and electrical characterization of a back-thinned CMOS active pixel sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blue, Andrew; Clark, A.; Houston, S.; Laing, A.; Maneuski, D.; Prydderch, M.; Turchetta, R.; O'Shea, V.

2009-06-01

This work will report on the first work on the characterization of a back-thinned Vanilla-a 512×512 (25 μm squared) active pixel sensor (APS). Characterization of the detectors was carried out through the analysis of photon transfer curves to yield a measurement of full well capacity, noise levels, gain constants and linearity. Spectral characterization of the sensors was also performed in the visible and UV regions. A full comparison against non-back-thinned front illuminated Vanilla sensors is included. Such measurements suggest that the Vanilla APS will be suitable for a wide range of applications, including particle physics and biomedical imaging.

Direct generation of vector vortex beams with switchable radial and azimuthal polarizations in a monolithic Nd:YAG microchip laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Hong-Sen; Chen, Zhen; Dong, Jun

2017-05-01

A hollow focus lens (HFL) has been designed to effectively produce a focused annular beam for high-intensity pumping. By applying the central-dark pump beam, a monolithic Nd:YAG microchip laser without any extra optical elements is demonstrated to generate vector vortex beams with switchable radially polarized (RP) and azimuthally polarized (AP) states by easily controlling the pump power. The order and handedness of the output vortex beam remain stable during the switching of the RP and AP states. The monolithic Nd:YAG microchip laser provides a new laser source for applications such as material processing and optical manipulation.

A portable ECG monitoring device with Bluetooth and Holter capabilities for telemedicine applications.

PubMed

Lucani, Daniel; Cataldo, Giancarlos; Cruz, Julio; Villegas, Guillermo; Wong, Sara

2006-01-01

A prototype of a portable ECG-monitoring device has been developed for clinical and non-clinical environments as part of a telemedicine system to provide remote and continuous surveillance of patients. The device can acquire, store and/or transmit ECG signals to computer-based platforms or specially configured access points (AP) with Intranet/Internet capabilities in order to reach remote monitoring stations. Acquired data can be stored in a flash memory card in FAT16 format for later recovery, or transmitted via Bluetooth or USB to a local station or AP. This data acquisition module (DAM) operates in two modes: Holter and on-line transmission.

A SAT Based Effective Algorithm for the Directed Hamiltonian Cycle Problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jäger, Gerold; Zhang, Weixiong

The Hamiltonian cycle problem (HCP) is an important combinatorial problem with applications in many areas. While thorough theoretical and experimental analyses have been made on the HCP in undirected graphs, little is known for the HCP in directed graphs (DHCP). The contribution of this work is an effective algorithm for the DHCP. Our algorithm explores and exploits the close relationship between the DHCP and the Assignment Problem (AP) and utilizes a technique based on Boolean satisfiability (SAT). By combining effective algorithms for the AP and SAT, our algorithm significantly outperforms previous exact DHCP algorithms including an algorithm based on the award-winning Concorde TSP algorithm.

SAMP, the Simple Application Messaging Protocol: Letting applications talk to each other

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, M. B.; Boch, T.; Taylor, J.

2015-06-01

SAMP, the Simple Application Messaging Protocol, is a hub-based communication standard for the exchange of data and control between participating client applications. It has been developed within the context of the Virtual Observatory with the aim of enabling specialised data analysis tools to cooperate as a loosely integrated suite, and is now in use by many and varied desktop and web-based applications dealing with astronomical data. This paper reviews the requirements and design principles that led to SAMP's specification, provides a high-level description of the protocol, and discusses some of its common and possible future usage patterns, with particular attention to those factors that have aided its success in practice.

Progeria 101/FAQ

MedlinePlus

... Culture Protocols Immortalized Cell Culture Protocols Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells PRF Cell and Tissue Bank Publications Research Funding Opportunities Grant Application Application Deadlines Grants Funded Close Meet The Kids Meet The Kids Our Ambassadors Find The Other ...

Peculiar Traits of Coarse AP (Briefing Charts)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

coarse AP Bircumshaw, Newman Active centers are sources of AP decomposition gases AP low temperature decomposition (LTD) Most unstable AP particles ...delay before coarse AP ejection *Coarse AP particle flame retardancy 19 Air Force Research Laboratory Distribution A: Approved for public release...distribution unlimited. PA clearance #. Combustion bomb trials 2 AP phase change may enable coarse particle breakage Fractured coarse AP ejection agrees

Molecular dynamics simulations of theoretical cellulose nanotube models.

PubMed

Uto, Takuya; Kodama, Yuta; Miyata, Tatsuhiko; Yui, Toshifumi

2018-06-15

Nanotubes are remarkable nanoscale architectures for a wide range of potential applications. In the present paper, we report a molecular dynamics (MD) study of the theoretical cellulose nanotube (CelNT) models to evaluate their dynamic behavior in solution (either chloroform or benzene). Based on the one-quarter chain staggering relationship, we constructed six CelNT models by combining the two chain polarities (parallel (P) and antiparallel (AP)) and three symmetry operations (helical right (H R ), helical left (H L ), and rotation (R)) to generate a circular arrangement of molecular chains. Among the four models that retained the tubular form (P-H R , P-H L , P-R, and AP-R), the P-R and AP-R models have the lowest steric energies in benzene and chloroform, respectively. The structural features of the CelNT models were characterized in terms of the hydroxymethyl group conformation and intermolecular hydrogen bonds. Solvent structuring more clearly occurred with benzene than chloroform, suggesting that the CelNT models may disperse in benzene. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of atmospheric pressure capillary non-thermal plasmas and their applications to the degradation of volatile organic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Shu-Min

Atmospheric pressure capillary non-thermal plasma (AP-CNTP) has been investigated as a potential technology far the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Advanced Life Support Systems (ALS). AP-CNTP is a destructive technology far the removal of VOCs from air streams by active plasma species, such as electrons, ions, and excited molecules. Complete VOC destruction ideally results in the formation of water, carbon dioxide (CO2), and other by-product's may also form, including ozone (O3), nitrous oxide (N2O), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and decomposed hydrocarbons. Several organic compounds, such as BTEX, ethylene, n-heptane, isooctane, methanol and NH3, were tested in an AP-CNTP system. Parametric experiments were carried out by varying plasma discharge power, flowrates, and initial concentrations. The degradation efficiency varied depending on the chemical nature of the compounds. A plasmochemical kinetic model was derived for toluene, ethylbenzene, and m-xylene and n-heptane.

Automatic identification of the number of food items in a meal using clustering techniques based on the monitoring of swallowing and chewing.

PubMed

Lopez-Meyer, Paulo; Schuckers, Stephanie; Makeyev, Oleksandr; Fontana, Juan M; Sazonov, Edward

2012-09-01

The number of distinct foods consumed in a meal is of significant clinical concern in the study of obesity and other eating disorders. This paper proposes the use of information contained in chewing and swallowing sequences for meal segmentation by food types. Data collected from experiments of 17 volunteers were analyzed using two different clustering techniques. First, an unsupervised clustering technique, Affinity Propagation (AP), was used to automatically identify the number of segments within a meal. Second, performance of the unsupervised AP method was compared to a supervised learning approach based on Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering (AHC). While the AP method was able to obtain 90% accuracy in predicting the number of food items, the AHC achieved an accuracy >95%. Experimental results suggest that the proposed models of automatic meal segmentation may be utilized as part of an integral application for objective Monitoring of Ingestive Behavior in free living conditions.

Corpus callosum volumes in the 5 years following the first-episode of schizophrenia: Effects of antipsychotics, chronicity and maturation.

PubMed

de Moura, Mariana T M; Zanetti, Marcus V; Duran, Fabio L S; Schaufelberger, Maristela S; Menezes, Paulo R; Scazufca, Marcia; Busatto, Geraldo F; Serpa, Mauricio H

2018-01-01

White matter (WM) structural changes, particularly affecting the corpus callosum (CC), seem to be critically implicated in psychosis. Whether such abnormalities are progressive or static is still a matter of debate in schizophrenia research. Aberrant maturation processes might also influence the longitudinal trajectory of age-related CC changes in schizophrenia patients. We investigated whether patients with first-episode schizophrenia-related psychoses (FESZ) would present longitudinal CC and whole WM volume changes over the 5 years after disease onset. Thirty-two FESZ patients and 34 controls recruited using a population-based design completed a 5-year assessment protocol, including structural MRI scanning at baseline and follow-up. The linear effects of disease duration, clinical outcome and antipsychotic (AP) use over time on WM and CC volumes were studied using both voxelwise and volume-based morphometry analyses. We also examined maturation/aging abnormalities through cross-sectional analyses of age-related trajectories of total WM and CC volume changes. No interaction between diagnosis and time was observed, and clinical outcome did not influence CC volumes in patients. On the other hand, FESZ patients continuously exposed to AP medication showed volume increase over time in posterior CC. Curve-estimation analyses revealed a different aging pattern in FESZ patients versus controls: while patients displayed a linear decline of total WM and anterior CC volumes with age, a non-linear trajectory of total WM and relative preservation of CC volumes were observed in controls. Continuous AP exposure can influence CC morphology during the first years after schizophrenia onset. Schizophrenia is associated with an abnormal pattern of total WM and anterior CC aging during non-elderly adulthood, and this adds complexity to the discussion on the static or progressive nature of structural abnormalities in psychosis.

Single Event Resolution of Plant Plasma Membrane Protein Endocytosis by TIRF Microscopy.

PubMed

Johnson, Alexander; Vert, Grégory

2017-01-01

Endocytosis is a key process in the internalization of extracellular materials and plasma membrane proteins, such as receptors and transporters, thereby controlling many aspects of cell signaling and cellular homeostasis. Endocytosis in plants has an essential role not only for basic cellular functions but also for growth and development, nutrient delivery, toxin avoidance, and pathogen defense. The precise mechanisms of endocytosis in plants remain quite elusive. The lack of direct visualization and examination of single events of endocytosis has greatly hampered our ability to precisely monitor the cell surface lifetime and the recruitment profile of proteins driving endocytosis or endocytosed cargos in plants. Here, we discuss the necessity to systematically implement total internal reflection fluorescence microcopy (TIRF) in the Plant Cell Biology community and present reliable protocols for high spatial and temporal imaging of endocytosis in plants using clathrin-mediated endocytosis as a test case, since it represents the major route for internalization of cell-surface proteins in plants. We developed a robust method to directly visualize cell surface proteins using TIRF microscopy combined to a high throughput, automated and unbiased analysis pipeline to determine the temporal recruitment profile of proteins to single sites of endocytosis, using the departure of clathrin as a physiological reference for scission. Using this 'departure assay', we assessed the recruitment of two different AP-2 subunits, alpha and mu, to the sites of endocytosis and found that AP2A1 was recruited in concert with clathrin, while AP2M was not. This validated approach therefore offers a powerful solution to better characterize the plant endocytic machinery and the dynamics of one's favorite cargo protein.

Planning Target Margin Calculations for Prostate Radiotherapy Based on Intrafraction and Interfraction Motion Using Four Localization Methods

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

Beltran, Chris; Herman, Michael G.; Davis, Brian J.

2008-01-01

Purpose: To determine planning target volume (PTV) margins for prostate radiotherapy based on the internal margin (IM) (intrafractional motion) and the setup margin (SM) (interfractional motion) for four daily localization methods: skin marks (tattoo), pelvic bony anatomy (bone), intraprostatic gold seeds using a 5-mm action threshold, and using no threshold. Methods and Materials: Forty prostate cancer patients were treated with external radiotherapy according to an online localization protocol using four intraprostatic gold seeds and electronic portal images (EPIs). Daily localization and treatment EPIs were obtained. These data allowed inter- and intrafractional analysis of prostate motion. The SM for the fourmore » daily localization methods and the IM were determined. Results: A total of 1532 fractions were analyzed. Tattoo localization requires a SM of 6.8 mm left-right (LR), 7.2 mm inferior-superior (IS), and 9.8 mm anterior-posterior (AP). Bone localization requires 3.1, 8.9, and 10.7 mm, respectively. The 5-mm threshold localization requires 4.0, 3.9, and 3.7 mm. No threshold localization requires 3.4, 3.2, and 3.2 mm. The intrafractional prostate motion requires an IM of 2.4 mm LR, 3.4 mm IS and AP. The PTV margin using the 5-mm threshold, including interobserver uncertainty, IM, and SM, is 4.8 mm LR, 5.4 mm IS, and 5.2 mm AP. Conclusions: Localization based on EPI with implanted gold seeds allows a large PTV margin reduction when compared with tattoo localization. Except for the LR direction, bony anatomy localization does not decrease the margins compared with tattoo localization. Intrafractional prostate motion is a limiting factor on margin reduction.« less

[Influence of thermalcycling on bonding durability of self-etch adhesives with dentin].

PubMed

Tian, Fu-cong; Wang, Xiao-yan; Gao, Xue-jun

2014-04-18

To investigate influence of thermalcycling on the bonding durability of two one-step products [Adper Prompt (AP) and G-bond (GB)] and one two-step self-etching adhesive [Clearfil SE bond (SE)] with dentin in vitro. Forty-two extracted human molars were selected. The superficial dentin was exposed by grinding off the enamel. The teeth were randomly distributed into six groups with varied bonding protocols. The adhesives were applied to the dentin surface. Composite crowns were built up, then the samples were cut longitudinally into sticks with 1.0 mm×1.0 mm bonding area [for microtensile bond strength (MTBS) testing] or 1.0 mm thick slabs (for nanoleakage observation). Bonding performance was evaluated with or without thermalcyling. For the MTBS testing, the strength values were statistically analysed using One-Way ANOVA. Four slabs in each group were observed for nanoleakage by SEM with a backscattered electron detector. Thermalcycling procedures affected MTBS. In the two one-step groups, the MTBS decreased significantly (P<0.05) after thermalcycling [AP group from (19.06±1.50) MPa to (12.62±2.10) MPa; GB group from (17.75±1.10) MPa to (6.24±0.42)MPa]. But in SE groups, MTBS did not significantly affect [(45.80±2.97) MPa compared with(40.60±5.76) MPa]. As a whole, one-step self-etching adhesives showed lower MTBS than two-step bonding system after aging.For AP and GB, continuous nanoleakage appearance was notable and more obvious than for SE. Thermalcycling can affect the bonding performance of self-etch adhesives including decrease of bond strength and nanoleakage pattern. one-step self-etch adhesives showed more obvious change compared with their two-step counterparts.

Portal vein thrombosis and arterioportal shunts: Effects on tumor response after chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma

PubMed Central

Vogl, Thomas J; Nour-Eldin, Nour-Eldin; Emad-Eldin, Sally; Naguib, Nagy NN; Trojan, Joerg; Ackermann, Hans; Abdelaziz, Omar

2011-01-01

AIM: To evaluate the effect of portal vein thrombosis and arterioportal shunts on local tumor response in advanced cases of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma treated by transarterial chemoembolization. METHODS: A retrospective study included 39 patients (mean age: 66.4 years, range: 45-79 years, SD: 7) with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who were treated with repetitive transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the period between March 2006 and October 2009. The effect of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) (in 19 out of 39 patients), the presence of arterioportal shunt (APS) (in 7 out of 39), the underlying liver pathology, Child-Pugh score, initial tumor volume, number of tumors and tumor margin definition on imaging were correlated with the local tumor response after TACE. The initial and end therapy local tumor responses were evaluated according to the response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) and magnetic resonance imaging volumetric measurements. RESULTS: The treatment protocols were well tolerated by all patients with no major complications. Local tumor response for all patients according to RECIST criteria were partial response in one patient (2.6%), stable disease in 34 patients (87.1%), and progressive disease in 4 patients (10.2%). The MR volumetric measurements showed that the PVT, APS, underlying liver pathology and tumor margin definition were statistically significant prognostic factors for the local tumor response (P = 0.018, P = 0.008, P = 0.034 and P = 0.001, respectively). The overall 6-, 12- and 18-mo survival rates from the initial TACE were 79.5%, 37.5% and 21%, respectively. CONCLUSION: TACE may be exploited safely for palliative tumor control in patients with advanced unresectable HCC; however, tumor response is significantly affected by the presence or absence of PVT and APS. PMID:21455325

CMOS VLSI Active-Pixel Sensor for Tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pain, Bedabrata; Sun, Chao; Yang, Guang; Heynssens, Julie

2004-01-01

An architecture for a proposed active-pixel sensor (APS) and a design to implement the architecture in a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) very-large-scale integrated (VLSI) circuit provide for some advanced features that are expected to be especially desirable for tracking pointlike features of stars. The architecture would also make this APS suitable for robotic- vision and general pointing and tracking applications. CMOS imagers in general are well suited for pointing and tracking because they can be configured for random access to selected pixels and to provide readout from windows of interest within their fields of view. However, until now, the architectures of CMOS imagers have not supported multiwindow operation or low-noise data collection. Moreover, smearing and motion artifacts in collected images have made prior CMOS imagers unsuitable for tracking applications. The proposed CMOS imager (see figure) would include an array of 1,024 by 1,024 pixels containing high-performance photodiode-based APS circuitry. The pixel pitch would be 9 m. The operations of the pixel circuits would be sequenced and otherwise controlled by an on-chip timing and control block, which would enable the collection of image data, during a single frame period, from either the full frame (that is, all 1,024 1,024 pixels) or from within as many as 8 different arbitrarily placed windows as large as 8 by 8 pixels each. A typical prior CMOS APS operates in a row-at-a-time ( grolling-shutter h) readout mode, which gives rise to exposure skew. In contrast, the proposed APS would operate in a sample-first/readlater mode, suppressing rolling-shutter effects. In this mode, the analog readout signals from the pixels corresponding to the windows of the interest (which windows, in the star-tracking application, would presumably contain guide stars) would be sampled rapidly by routing them through a programmable diagonal switch array to an on-chip parallel analog memory array. The diagonal-switch and memory addresses would be generated by the on-chip controller. The memory array would be large enough to hold differential signals acquired from all 8 windows during a frame period. Following the rapid sampling from all the windows, the contents of the memory array would be read out sequentially by use of a capacitive transimpedance amplifier (CTIA) at a maximum data rate of 10 MHz. This data rate is compatible with an update rate of almost 10 Hz, even in full-frame operation

The effect of a single massage based on the tensegrity principle on postural stability in young women.

PubMed

Cieślik, Błażej; Podsiadły, Ireneusz; Kuczyński, Michał; Ostrowska, Bożena

2017-11-06

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of normalized muscle tension via tensegrity-based massage on postural stability in a sample of female young adults. Nineteen females aged 21.8 ± 1.9 years were recruited presenting abnormal tension at muscles adhering to any of the following structural sites: superior iliac spine, lateral sacropelvic surface, linea aspera at 1/2 of femur length, and superior nuchal line of the occiput. Balance and postural control were assessed during bipedal stance using a force platform in multiple conditions: hard surface or soft foam surface with the head in either a neutral posture or tilted backward. Baseline and 3-min and 15-min post-treatment measures were collected while barefoot and eyes closed. Main outcomes measures included center of pressure variability, range, radius, and velocity in the anteroposterior (AP) mediolateral (ML) dimensions. In the solid surface with neutral head posture condition only AP COP measures decreased significantly (p< 0.05). In the soft surface condition, significant differences were observed in the AP and ML dimensions among most measures (p< 0.05). A single application of tensegrity-based massage positively influenced postural control in young adult females, particularly in the AP direction.

DynAMITe: a prototype large area CMOS APS for breast cancer diagnosis using x-ray diffraction measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konstantinidis, A.; Anaxagoras, T.; Esposito, M.; Allinson, N.; Speller, R.

2012-03-01

X-ray diffraction studies are used to identify specific materials. Several laboratory-based x-ray diffraction studies were made for breast cancer diagnosis. Ideally a large area, low noise, linear and wide dynamic range digital x-ray detector is required to perform x-ray diffraction measurements. Recently, digital detectors based on Complementary Metal-Oxide- Semiconductor (CMOS) Active Pixel Sensor (APS) technology have been used in x-ray diffraction studies. Two APS detectors, namely Vanilla and Large Area Sensor (LAS), were developed by the Multidimensional Integrated Intelligent Imaging (MI-3) consortium to cover a range of scientific applications including x-ray diffraction. The MI-3 Plus consortium developed a novel large area APS, named as Dynamically Adjustable Medical Imaging Technology (DynAMITe), to combine the key characteristics of Vanilla and LAS with a number of extra features. The active area (12.8 × 13.1 cm2) of DynaMITe offers the ability of angle dispersive x-ray diffraction (ADXRD). The current study demonstrates the feasibility of using DynaMITe for breast cancer diagnosis by identifying six breast-equivalent plastics. Further work will be done to optimize the system in order to perform ADXRD for identification of suspicious areas of breast tissue following a conventional mammogram taken with the same sensor.

Processable dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid (DBSA) doped poly(N-vinyl carbazole)-poly(pyrrole) for optoelectronic applications

PubMed Central

Hammed, W. A.; Rahman, M. S.; Mahmud, H. N. M. E.; Yahya, R.; Sulaiman, K.

2017-01-01

Abstract A soluble poly (n-vinyl carbazole)–polypyrrole (PNVC–Ppy) copolymer was prepared through oxidative chemical polymerization wherein dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid (DBSA) was used as a dopant to facilitate polymer-organic solvent interaction and ammonium persulfate (APS) was used as an oxidant. Compared with undoped PNVC–Ppy, the DBSA-doped PNVC–Ppy copolymer showed higher solubility in some selected organic solvents. The composition and structural characteristics of the DBSA-doped PNVC–Ppy were determined by Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet–visible, and X-ray diffraction spectroscopic methods. Field emission scanning electron microscopic method was employed to observe the morphology of the DBSA-doped PNVC–Ppy copolymer. The electrical conductivity of the DBSA-doped PNVC–Ppy copolymer was measured at room temperature. The conductivity increased with increasing concentration of APS oxidant, and the highest conductivity was recorded at 0.004 mol/dm3 APS at a polymerization temperature of −5 °C. The increased conductivity can be explained by the extended half-life of pyrrole free radical at a lower temperature and a gradual increase in chain length over a prolonged time due to the slow addition of APS. Furthermore, the obtained soluble copolymer exhibits unique optical and thermal properties different from those of PNVC and Ppy. PMID:29491808

An adaptive technique for multiscale approximate entropy (MAEbin) threshold (r) selection: application to heart rate variability (HRV) and systolic blood pressure variability (SBPV) under postural stress.

PubMed

Singh, Amritpal; Saini, Barjinder Singh; Singh, Dilbag

2016-06-01

Multiscale approximate entropy (MAE) is used to quantify the complexity of a time series as a function of time scale τ. Approximate entropy (ApEn) tolerance threshold selection 'r' is based on either: (1) arbitrary selection in the recommended range (0.1-0.25) times standard deviation of time series (2) or finding maximum ApEn (ApEnmax) i.e., the point where self-matches start to prevail over other matches and choosing the corresponding 'r' (rmax) as threshold (3) or computing rchon by empirically finding the relation between rmax, SD1/SD2 ratio and N using curve fitting, where, SD1 and SD2 are short-term and long-term variability of a time series respectively. None of these methods is gold standard for selection of 'r'. In our previous study [1], an adaptive procedure for selection of 'r' is proposed for approximate entropy (ApEn). In this paper, this is extended to multiple time scales using MAEbin and multiscale cross-MAEbin (XMAEbin). We applied this to simulations i.e. 50 realizations (n = 50) of random number series, fractional Brownian motion (fBm) and MIX (P) [1] series of data length of N = 300 and short term recordings of HRV and SBPV performed under postural stress from supine to standing. MAEbin and XMAEbin analysis was performed on laboratory recorded data of 50 healthy young subjects experiencing postural stress from supine to upright. The study showed that (i) ApEnbin of HRV is more than SBPV in supine position but is lower than SBPV in upright position (ii) ApEnbin of HRV decreases from supine i.e. 1.7324 ± 0.112 (mean ± SD) to upright 1.4916 ± 0.108 due to vagal inhibition (iii) ApEnbin of SBPV increases from supine i.e. 1.5535 ± 0.098 to upright i.e. 1.6241 ± 0.101 due sympathetic activation (iv) individual and cross complexities of RRi and systolic blood pressure (SBP) series depend on time scale under consideration (v) XMAEbin calculated using ApEnmax is correlated with cross-MAE calculated using ApEn (0.1-0.26) in steps of 0.02 at each time scale in supine and upright position and is concluded that ApEn0.26 has highest correlation at most scales (vi) choice of 'r' is critical in interpreting interactions between RRi and SBP and in ascertaining true complexity of the individual RRi and SBP series.

Modifying the ECC-based grouping-proof RFID system to increase inpatient medication safety.

PubMed

Ko, Wen-Tsai; Chiou, Shin-Yan; Lu, Erl-Huei; Chang, Henry Ker-Chang

2014-09-01

RFID technology is increasingly used in applications that require tracking, identification, and authentication. It attaches RFID-readable tags to objects for identification and execution of specific RFID-enabled applications. Recently, research has focused on the use of grouping-proofs for preserving privacy in RFID applications, wherein a proof of two or more tags must be simultaneously scanned. In 2010, a privacy-preserving grouping proof protocol for RFID based on ECC in public-key cryptosystem was proposed but was shown to be vulnerable to tracking attacks. A proposed enhancement protocol was also shown to have defects which prevented proper execution. In 2012, Lin et al. proposed a more efficient RFID ECC-based grouping proof protocol to promote inpatient medication safety. However, we found this protocol is also vulnerable to tracking and impersonation attacks. We then propose a secure privacy-preserving RFID grouping proof protocol for inpatient medication safety and demonstrate its resistance to such attacks.

Cell engineering: spearheading the next generation in healthcare.

PubMed

Jayasinghe, Suwan N

2008-09-01

Manipulating living mammalian cells present fascinating possibilities for a plethora of applications within our healthcare. These imply several possibilities in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, to those of a therapeutic nature. The physical sciences are increasingly playing a pivotal role in this endeavour by both advancing existing cell engineering technology and pioneering new protocols for the creation of biologically viable structures. In this paper, the author introduces several direct needle/channel/orifice-based cell engineering protocols, currently undergoing intense investigation for a whole host of bio-applications. Hence, each protocol's advantages and disadvantages are clearly identified, whilst recognizing their future biological and engineering challenges. In conclusion, a few selected biotechnological applications present possibilities where these protocols could undergo focused exploration. Successful development of these bio-protocols sees the emergence of unique future strategies within a clinical environment having far-reaching consequences for our healthcare.

Rationale, Scenarios, and Profiles for the Application of the Internet Protocol Suite (IPS) in Space Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benbenek, Daniel B.; Walsh, William

2010-01-01

This greenbook captures some of the current, planned and possible future uses of the Internet Protocol (IP) as part of Space Operations. It attempts to describe how the Internet Protocol is used in specific scenarios. Of primary focus is low-earth-orbit space operations, which is referred to here as the design reference mission (DRM). This is because most of the program experience drawn upon derives from this type of mission. Application profiles are provided. This includes parameter settings programs have proposed for sending IP datagrams over CCSDS links, the minimal subsets and features of the IP protocol suite and applications expected for interoperability between projects, and the configuration, operations and maintenance of these IP functions. Of special interest is capturing the lessons learned from the Constellation Program in this area, since that program included a fairly ambitious use of the Internet Protocol.

Progeria Research Foundation Diagnostic Testing Program

MedlinePlus

... Culture Protocols Immortalized Cell Culture Protocols Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells PRF Cell and Tissue Bank Publications Research Funding Opportunities Grant Application Application Deadlines Grants Funded Close Meet The Kids Meet The Kids Our Ambassadors Find The Other ...

High versus low energy administration in the early phase of acute pancreatitis (GOULASH trial): protocol of a multicentre randomised double-blind clinical trial.

PubMed

Márta, Katalin; Szabó, Anikó N; Pécsi, Dániel; Varjú, Péter; Bajor, Judit; Gódi, Szilárd; Sarlós, Patrícia; Mikó, Alexandra; Szemes, Kata; Papp, Mária; Tornai, Tamás; Vincze, Áron; Márton, Zsolt; Vincze, Patrícia A; Lankó, Erzsébet; Szentesi, Andrea; Molnár, Tímea; Hágendorn, Roland; Faluhelyi, Nándor; Battyáni, István; Kelemen, Dezső; Papp, Róbert; Miseta, Attila; Verzár, Zsófia; Lerch, Markus M; Neoptolemos, John P; Sahin-Tóth, Miklós; Petersen, Ole H; Hegyi, Péter

2017-09-14

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease with no specific treatment. Mitochondrial injury followed by ATP depletion in both acinar and ductal cells is a recently discovered early event in its pathogenesis. Importantly, preclinical research has shown that intracellular ATP delivery restores the physiological function of the cells and protects from cell injury, suggesting that restoration of energy levels in the pancreas is therapeutically beneficial. Despite several high quality experimental observations in this area, no randomised trials have been conducted to date to address the requirements for energy intake in the early phase of AP. This is a randomised controlled two-arm double-blind multicentre trial. Patients with AP will be randomly assigned to groups A (30 kcal/kg/day energy administration starting within 24 hours of hospital admission) or B (low energy administration during the first 72 hours of hospital admission). Energy will be delivered by nasoenteric tube feeding with additional intravenous glucose supplementation or total parenteral nutrition if necessary. A combination of multiorgan failure for more than 48 hours and mortality is defined as the primary endpoint, whereas several secondary endpoints such as length of hospitalisation or pain will be determined to elucidate more detailed differences between the groups. The general feasibility, safety and quality checks required for high quality evidence will be adhered to. The study has been approved by the relevant organisation, the Scientific and Research Ethics Committee of the Hungarian Medical Research Council (55961-2/2016/EKU). This study will provide evidence as to whether early high energy nutritional support is beneficial in the clinical management of AP. The results of this trial will be published in an open access way and disseminated among medical doctors. The trial has been registered at the ISRCTN (ISRTCN 63827758). © 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.

Protocol for Pertussis Immunisation and Food Allergy (PIFA): a case–control study of the association between pertussis vaccination in infancy and the risk of IgE-mediated food allergy among Australian children

PubMed Central

Marsh, Julie A; Campbell, Dianne E; Gold, Michael S; Allen, Katrina J; Richmond, Peter; Waddington, Claire S; Snelling, Thomas L

2018-01-01

Introduction Atopic diseases, including food allergy, have become a predominant cause of chronic illness among children in developed countries. In Australia, a rise in hospitalisations among infants coded as anaphylaxis to foods coincided with the replacement of whole-cell pertussis (wP) vaccine with subunit acellular pertussis (aP) vaccine on the national immunisation schedule in the late 1990s. Atopy is characterised by a tendency to mount T helper type 2 (Th2) responses to otherwise innocuous environmental antigens. Compared with infants who receive aP as their first pertussis vaccine, those who receive wP appear less likely to mount Th2 immune responses to either vaccine or extraneous antigens. We therefore speculate that removal of wP from the vaccine schedule contributed to the observed rise in IgE-mediated food allergy among Australian infants. Methods and analysis This is a retrospective individually matched case–control study among a cohort of Australian children born from 1997 to 1999, the period of transition from wP to aP vaccines; we include in the cohort children listed on Australia’s comprehensive population-based immunisation register as having received a first dose of either pertussis vaccine by 16 weeks old. 500 cohort children diagnosed as having IgE-mediated food allergy at specialist allergy clinics will be included as cases. Controls matched to each case by date and jurisdiction of birth and regional socioeconomic index will be sampled from the immunisation register. Conditional logistic regression will be used to estimate OR (±95% CI) of receipt of wP (vs aP) as the first vaccine dose among cases compared with controls. Ethics and dissemination The study is approved by all relevant human research ethics committees: Western Australia Child and Adolescent Health Services (2015052EP), Women’s and Children’s Hospital (HREC/15/WCHN/162), Royal Children’s Hospital (35230A) and Sydney Children’s Hospital Network (HREC/15/SCHN/405). Outcomes will be disseminated through publication and scientific presentation. Trial registration number NCT02490007. PMID:29391374

From empirical Bayes to full Bayes : methods for analyzing traffic safety data.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2004-10-24

Traffic safety engineers are among the early adopters of Bayesian statistical tools for : analyzing crash data. As in many other areas of application, empirical Bayes methods were : their first choice, perhaps because they represent an intuitively ap...

PVA fiber reinforced shotcrete for rehabilitation and preventative maintenance of aging culverts.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-12-01

The goal of this project was to investigate the potential for using PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) fiber : reinforced mortar for the rehabilitation and preventative maintenance of aging metal highway : drainage culverts using a spray-on liner application ap...

Transit signal priority systems application and technology investigation : final report, March 2009.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-03-01

This report describes the process and results of research to develop an evaluation process that will : assist NJ Transit in quickly determining which intersections are good candidates for Transit Signal : Priority (TSP). This evaluation process is ap...

Performance of Airborne Precision Spacing Under Realistic Wind Conditions and Limited Surveillance Range

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wieland, Frederick; Santos, Michel; Krueger, William; Houston, Vincent E.

2011-01-01

With the expected worldwide increase of air traffic during the coming decade, both the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), as well as Eurocontrol's Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) program have, as part of their plans, air traffic management (ATM) solutions that can increase performance without requiring time-consuming and expensive infrastructure changes. One such solution involves the ability of both controllers and flight crews to deliver aircraft to the runway with greater accuracy than they can today. Previous research has shown that time-based spacing techniques, wherein the controller assigns a time spacing to each pair of arriving aircraft, can achieve this goal by providing greater runway delivery accuracy and producing a concomitant increase in system-wide performance. The research described herein focuses on one specific application of time-based spacing, called Airborne Precision Spacing (APS), which has evolved over the past ten years. This research furthers APS understanding by studying its performance with realistic wind conditions obtained from atmospheric sounding data and with realistic wind forecasts obtained from the Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) short-range weather forecast. In addition, this study investigates APS performance with limited surveillance range, as provided by the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system, and with an algorithm designed to improve APS performance when ADS-B surveillance data is unavailable. The results presented herein quantify the runway threshold delivery accuracy of APS under these conditions, and also quantify resulting workload metrics such as the number of speed changes required to maintain spacing.

Performance of Airborne Precision Spacing Under Realistic Wind Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wieland, Frederick; Santos, Michel; Krueger, William; Houston, Vincent E.

2011-01-01

With the expected worldwide increase of air traffic during the coming decade, both the Federal Aviation Administration s (FAA s) Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen), as well as Eurocontrol s Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) program have, as part of their plans, air traffic management solutions that can increase performance without requiring time-consuming and expensive infrastructure changes. One such solution involves the ability of both controllers and flight crews to deliver aircraft to the runway with greater accuracy than is possible today. Previous research has shown that time-based spacing techniques, wherein the controller assigns a time spacing to each pair of arriving aircraft, is one way to achieve this goal by providing greater runway delivery accuracy that produces a concomitant increase in system-wide performance. The research described herein focuses on a specific application of time-based spacing, called Airborne Precision Spacing (APS), which has evolved over the past ten years. This research furthers APS understanding by studying its performance with realistic wind conditions obtained from atmospheric sounding data and with realistic wind forecasts obtained from the Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) short-range weather forecast. In addition, this study investigates APS performance with limited surveillance range, as provided by the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system, and with an algorithm designed to improve APS performance when an ADS-B signal is unavailable. The results presented herein quantify the runway threshold delivery accuracy of APS un-der these conditions, and also quantify resulting workload metrics such as the number of speed changes required to maintain spacing.

Approval summary for imatinib mesylate capsules in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia.

PubMed

Cohen, Martin H; Williams, Grant; Johnson, John R; Duan, John; Gobburu, Jogarao; Rahman, Atiqur; Benson, Kimberly; Leighton, John; Kim, Sung K; Wood, Rebecca; Rothmann, Mark; Chen, Gang; U, Khin Maung; Staten, Ann M; Pazdur, Richard

2002-05-01

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) results from the breakpoint cluster region-Abl fusion gene product, a tyrosine kinase involved in cell division and apoptosis. Imatinib, an orally administered inhibitor of the breakpoint cluster region-Abl tyrosine kinase, is capable of blocking proliferation and inducing apoptosis in CML cell lines. In this report, we describe the preclinical profile of imatinib and the data submitted in the New Drug Application that led to its marketing approval. Chemistry manufacturing and controls, animal toxicology, and biopharmaceutical data are described. Results of Phase I and Phase II clinical studies in patients with CML in blast crisis (CML-BC), in accelerated phase (CML-AP), and in chronic phase disease-resistant or intolerant to IFN-alpha (CML-CP) are summarized. The basis for marketing approval and postmarketing commitments by the pharmaceutical company are discussed. Toxicology studies in the rat, dog, and monkey show the hematological, renal, and hepatobiliary toxicity of imatinib. Pharmacokinetic studies in patients with CML demonstrate 98% imatinib bioavailability. The elimination half-lives of the parent drug and the major active metabolite, CGP74588, from plasma are approximately 18 and 40 h, respectively. Approximately 81% of the drug is eliminated in 7 days, 68% in the feces and 13% in the urine. Cytochrome P-450 3A4 is the main enzyme responsible for imatinib metabolism. Phase I and II clinical studies were conducted. The Phase I study, in 83 CML patients, evaluated oral imatinib doses from 25 to 1000 mg/day. Dose-limiting toxicity was not observed. The three Phase II studies, in CML-CP, CML-AP, and CML-BC, enrolled 1027 patients. CML-CP patients received 400 mg/day imatinib, whereas CML-AP and CML-BC patients generally received 600 mg/day imatinib. Primary study endpoints were cytogenetic response rate (CML-CP) and hematological response rate (CML-AP and CML-BC). The cytogenetic response rate for CML-CP patients was 49%. The hematological response rate of CML-AP and CML-BC patients was 63 and 26%, respectively. The most common imatinib adverse events were nausea, vomiting, myalgia, edema, and diarrhea. Elevated liver enzymes and/or bilirubin were reported in 27 patients (2.6%). On May 10, 2001, imatinib mesylate (Gleevec, formerly known as STI-571 and Glivec), manufactured and distributed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals, East Hanover, NJ, was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of CML in three clinical settings: CML-BC, CML-AP, and CML-CP. This report summarizes the Food and Drug Administration's review of the New Drug Application.

Determination of trace alkaline phosphatase by affinity adsorption solid substrate room temperature phosphorimetry based on wheat germ agglutinin labeled with 8-quinolineboronic acid phosphorescent molecular switch and prediction of diseases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jia-Ming; Gao, Hui; Li, Fei-Ming; Shi, Xiu-Mei; Lin, Chang-Qing; Lin, Li-Ping; Wang, Xin-Xing; Li, Zhi-Ming

2010-09-01

The 8-quinolineboronic acid phosphorescent molecular switch (abbreviated as PMS-8-QBA. Thereinto, 8-QBA is 8-quinolineboronic acid, and PMS is phosphorescent molecular switch) was found for the first time. PMS-8-QBA, which was in the "off" state, could only emit weak room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) on the acetyl cellulose membrane (ACM). However, PMS-8-QBA turned "on" automatically for its changed structure, causing that the RTP of 8-QBA in the system increased, after PMS-8-QBA-WGA (WGA is wheat germ agglutinin) was formed by reaction between -OH of PMS-8-QBA and -COOH of WGA. More interesting is that the -NH 2 of PMS-8-QBA-WGA could react with the -COOH of alkaline phosphatase (AP) to form the affinity adsorption (AA) product WGA-AP-WGA-8-QBA-PMS (containing -NH-CO- bond), which caused RTP of the system to greatly increase. Thus, affinity adsorption solid substrate room temperature phosphorimetry using PMS-8-QBA as labelling reagent (PMS-8-QBA-AA-SSRTP) for the determination of trace AP was established. The method had many advantages, such as high sensitivity (the detection limit (LD) was 2.5 zg spot -1. For sample volume of 0.40 μl spot -1, corresponding concentration was 6.2 × 10 -18 g ml -1), good selectivity (the allowed concentration of coexisting material was higher, when the relative error was ±5%), high accuracy (applied to detection of AP content in serum samples, the result was coincided with those obtained by enzyme-linked immunoassay), which was suitable for the detection of trace AP content in serum samples and the forecast of human diseases. Meanwhile, the mechanism of PMS-8-QBA-AASSRTP was discussed. The new field of analytical application and clinic diagnosis technique of molecule switch are exploited, based on the phosphorescence characteristic of PMS-8-QBA, the AA reaction between WGA and AP, as well as the relation between AP content and human diseases. The research results promote the development and interpenetrate among molecule switch technique, lectin science and SSRTP.

Determination of trace alkaline phosphatase by affinity adsorption solid substrate room temperature phosphorimetry based on wheat germ agglutinin labeled with 8-quinolineboronic acid phosphorescent molecular switch and prediction of diseases.

PubMed

Liu, Jia-Ming; Gao, Hui; Li, Fei-Ming; Shi, Xiu-Mei; Lin, Chang-Qing; Lin, Li-Ping; Wang, Xin-Xing; Li, Zhi-Ming

2010-09-01

The 8-quinolineboronic acid phosphorescent molecular switch (abbreviated as PMS-8-QBA. Thereinto, 8-QBA is 8-quinolineboronic acid, and PMS is phosphorescent molecular switch) was found for the first time. PMS-8-QBA, which was in the "off" state, could only emit weak room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) on the acetyl cellulose membrane (ACM). However, PMS-8-QBA turned "on" automatically for its changed structure, causing that the RTP of 8-QBA in the system increased, after PMS-8-QBA-WGA (WGA is wheat germ agglutinin) was formed by reaction between -OH of PMS-8-QBA and -COOH of WGA. More interesting is that the -NH(2) of PMS-8-QBA-WGA could react with the -COOH of alkaline phosphatase (AP) to form the affinity adsorption (AA) product WGA-AP-WGA-8-QBA-PMS (containing -NH-CO- bond), which caused RTP of the system to greatly increase. Thus, affinity adsorption solid substrate room temperature phosphorimetry using PMS-8-QBA as labelling reagent (PMS-8-QBA-AA-SSRTP) for the determination of trace AP was established. The method had many advantages, such as high sensitivity (the detection limit (LD) was 2.5zgspot(-1). For sample volume of 0.40mulspot(-1), corresponding concentration was 6.2x10(-18)gml(-1)), good selectivity (the allowed concentration of coexisting material was higher, when the relative error was +/-5%), high accuracy (applied to detection of AP content in serum samples, the result was coincided with those obtained by enzyme-linked immunoassay), which was suitable for the detection of trace AP content in serum samples and the forecast of human diseases. Meanwhile, the mechanism of PMS-8-QBA-AASSRTP was discussed. The new field of analytical application and clinic diagnosis technique of molecule switch are exploited, based on the phosphorescence characteristic of PMS-8-QBA, the AA reaction between WGA and AP, as well as the relation between AP content and human diseases. The research results promote the development and interpenetrate among molecule switch technique, lectin science and SSRTP. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

78 FR 2672 - Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term Loan or Financial Guarantee in Excess of $100...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-14

... EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF THE UNITED STATES [Public Notice: 2013-0101] Application for Final..., AP078595XB AGENCY: Export-Import Bank of the United States. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This Notice is to inform the public, in accordance with Section 3(c)(10) of the Charter of the Export-Import Bank of the United...

78 FR 78955 - Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term Loan or Financial Guarantee in Excess of $100...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-27

... EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF THE UNITED STATES [Public Notice: 2013-0060] Application for Final... AP088412XB AGENCY: Export-Import Bank of the United States. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This Notice is to inform the public, in accordance with Section 3(c)(10) of the Charter of the Export-Import Bank of the United...

Acute Pancreatitis and Use of Pancreatitis-Associated Drugs: A 10-Year Population-Based Cohort Study.

PubMed

Bertilsson, Sara; Kalaitzakis, Evangelos

2015-10-01

To assess the use of acute pancreatitis (AP)-associated drugs in patients with AP, the relation between sales of these drugs and the incidence of AP, and the potential impact on AP severity and recurrence. All patients with incident AP between 2003 and 2012, in a well-defined area, were retrospectively identified. Data regarding AP etiology, severity, and recurrence and use of AP-associated drugs were extracted from medical records. Drugs were classified according to an evidence-based classification system. Annual drug sales data were obtained from the Swedish drug administration service. Overall, 1457 cases of incident AP were identified. Acute pancreatitis-associated drug users increased from 32% in 2003 to 51% in 2012, reflecting increasing user rates in the general population. The incidence of AP increased during the study period but was not related to AP-associated drug user rates (P > 0.05). Recurrent AP occurred in 23% but was unrelated to AP-associated drug use (P > 0.05). In logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for comorbidity, AP-associated drug use was not related to AP severity (P > 0.05). Use of AP-associated drugs is increasingly frequent in patients with AP. However, it does not have any major impact on the observed epidemiological changes in occurrence, severity, or recurrence of AP.

Effect of clothing type on validity of air-displacement plethysmography.

PubMed

King, George A; Fulkerson, Bethany; Evans, Michael J; Moreau, Kerrie L; McLaughlin, James E; Thompson, Dixie L

2006-02-01

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the validity of an air-displacement plethysmography system (AP) within the general population, while wearing (1) a racing-type swimsuit (AP(SS)) and (2) participant's personal undergarments (AP(UG)), against hydrodensitometry (HW). Fifty women and 50 men were measured for body volume, density, and fat percentage by HW and compared with AP(SS) and AP(UG). For women, AP(UG) and AP(SS) were similar, although significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between AP(UG) and HW and between AP(SS) and HW. For men, there was no significant difference between AP(UG) and HW; however, significant differences (P < or = 0.01) were found between AP(UG) and AP(SS) and between AP(SS) and HW. The small discrepancy in measured values between AP and HW are within the measurement error for the instrumentation and these data support the use of AP for determination of body composition in adults across a wide range of body size (body mass index [BMI] 17.7-35.2 kg.m(-2)) and age (18-57 y). Participants' personal undergarments provide a practical alternative to a spandex swimsuit when measuring body composition by AP in women but not in men.

Purification, characterisation and protective effects of polysaccharides from alfalfa on hepatocytes.

PubMed

Wang, Shaopu; Dong, Xiaofang; Ma, Hao; Cui, Yaoming; Tong, Jianming

2014-11-04

The objective of this study was to determine the preliminary characteristics and protective effects of alfalfa polysaccharides (APS) on hepatocytes in vitro. The crude APS was purified by DEAE-cellulose and Sephadex G-100 chromatography, resulting in the four purified fractions: APS-1, APS-2, APS-3 and APS-4. The results indicated that APS-3 had higher carbohydrate and uronic acid contents and that APS-4 had a more complicated monosaccharide composition compared to the other purified fractions. The average molecular weights of APS-1, APS-2, APS-3 and APS-4 were 48,536, 6,221, 66,559 and 13,076 Da, respectively. Furthermore, APS (crude and its purified fractions) restored the activities of antioxidant enzymes and increased the total antioxidant capacity of hepatocytes subjected to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Furthermore, APS treatment counteracted the increases in lactic dehydrogenase and malonaldehyde in the culture supernatant. These results clearly demonstrate that APS possesses a protective effect against oxidative injury in hepatocytes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A SOA broker solution for standard discovery and access services: the GI-cat framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boldrini, Enrico

2010-05-01

GI-cat ideal users are data providers or service providers within the geoscience community. The former have their data already available through an access service (e.g. an OGC Web Service) and would have it published through a standard catalog service, in a seamless way. The latter would develop a catalog broker and let users query and access different geospatial resources through one or more standard interfaces and Application Profiles (AP) (e.g. OGC CSW ISO AP, CSW ebRIM/EO AP, etc.). GI-cat actually implements a broker components (i.e. a middleware service) which carries out distribution and mediation functionalities among "well-adopted" catalog interfaces and data access protocols. GI-cat also publishes different discovery interfaces: the OGC CSW ISO and ebRIM Application Profiles (the latter coming with support for the EO and CIM extension packages) and two different OpenSearch interfaces developed in order to explore Web 2.0 possibilities. An extended interface is also available to exploit all available GI-cat features, such as interruptible incremental queries and queries feedback. Interoperability tests performed in the context of different projects have also pointed out the importance to enforce compatibility with existing and wide-spread tools of the open source community (e.g. GeoNetwork and Deegree catalogs), which was then achieved. Based on a service-oriented framework of modular components, GI-cat can effectively be customized and tailored to support different deployment scenarios. In addition to the distribution functionality an harvesting approach has been lately experimented, allowing the user to switch between a distributed and a local search giving thus more possibilities to support different deployment scenarios. A configurator tool is available in order to enable an effective high level configuration of the broker service. A specific geobrowser was also naturally developed, for demonstrating the advanced GI-cat functionalities. This client, called GI-go, is an example of the possible applications which may be built on top of the GI-cat broker component. GI-go allows discovering and browsing of the available datasets, retrieving and evaluating their description and performing distributed queries according to any combination of the following criteria: geographic area, temporal interval, topic of interest (free-text and/or keyword selection are allowed) and data source (i.e. where, when, what, who). The results set of a query (e.g. datasets metadata) are then displayed in an incremental way leveraging the asynchronous interactions approach implemented by GI-cat. This feature allows the user to access the intermediate query results. Query interruption and feedback features are also provided to the user. Alternatively, user may perform a browsing task by selecting a catalog resource from the current configuration and navigate through its aggregated and/or leaf datasets. In both cases datasets metadata, expressed according to ISO 19139 (and also Dublin Core and ebRIM if available), are displayed for download, along with a resource portrayal and actual data access (when this is meaningful and possible). The GI-cat distributed catalog service has been successfully deployed and experimented in the framework of different projects and initiative, including the SeaDataNet FP6 project, GEOSS IP3 (Interoperability Process Pilot Project), GEOSS AIP-2 (Architectural Implementation Project - Phase 2), FP7 GENESI-DR, CNR GIIDA, FP7 EUROGEOSS and ESA HMA project.

Sustained reduction in blood pressure from electrical activation of the baroreflex is mediated via the central pathway of unmyelinated baroreceptors.

PubMed

Turner, Michael J; Kawada, Toru; Shimizu, Shuji; Sugimachi, Masaru

2014-06-13

This study aims to identify the contribution of myelinated (A-fiber) and unmyelinated (C-fiber) baroreceptor central pathways to the baroreflex control of sympathetic nerve activity and arterial pressure. Two binary white noise stimulation protocols were used to electrically stimulate the aortic depressor nerve and activate reflex responses from either A-fiber (3 V, 20-100 Hz) or C-fiber (20 V, 0-10 Hz) baroreceptor in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats (n=10). Transfer function analysis was performed between stimulation and sympathetic nerve activity (central arc), sympathetic nerve activity and arterial pressure (peripheral arc), and stimulation and arterial pressure (Stim-AP arc). The central arc transfer function from nerve stimulation to splanchnic sympathetic nerve activity displayed derivative characteristics for both stimulation protocols. However, the modeled steady-state gain (0.28 ± 0.04 vs. 4.01 ± 0.2%·Hz(-1), P<0.001) and coherence at 0.01 Hz (0.44 ± 0.05 vs. 0.81 ± 0.03, P<0.05) were significantly lower for A-fiber stimulation compared with C-fiber stimulation. The slope of the dynamic gain was higher for A-fiber stimulation (14.82 ± 1.02 vs. 7.21 ± 0.79 dB·decade(-1), P<0.001). The steady-state gain of the Stim-AP arc was also significantly lower for A-fiber stimulation compared with C-fiber stimulation (0.23 ± 0.05 vs. 3.05 ± 0.31 mmHg·Hz(-1), P<0.001). These data indicate that the A-fiber central pathway contributes to high frequency arterial pressure regulation and the C-fiber central pathway provides more sustained changes in sympathetic nerve activity and arterial pressure. A sustained reduction in arterial pressure from electrical stimulation of arterial baroreceptor afferents is likely mediated through the C-fiber central pathway. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Comparative Analysis of Modified Binders : Original Asphalt and Material Extracted from Existing Pavement

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-01-18

This research demonstrated the application of gel permeation chromatography (GPC) as an analytical tool to ascertain the amounts of polymer modifiers in polymer modified asphalt cements, which are soluble in eluting GPC solvents. The technique was ap...

75 FR 34777 - Florida Power & Light Company, Combined License Application for the Turkey Point Units 6 & 7...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-18

... search (advanced search) engine or the ADAMS ``Find'' tool in Citrix. The Westinghouse AP1000 DCD, which... local residents at the South Dade Regional Library and the Homestead Branch Library. To search for...

Chlorophyll-a Estimation Around the Antarctica Peninsula Using Satellite Algorithms: Hints from Field Water Leaving Reflectance

PubMed Central

Zeng, Chen; Xu, Huiping; Fischer, Andrew M.

2016-01-01

Ocean color remote sensing significantly contributes to our understanding of phytoplankton distribution and abundance and primary productivity in the Southern Ocean (SO). However, the current SO in situ optical database is still insufficient and unevenly distributed. This limits the ability to produce robust and accurate measurements of satellite-based chlorophyll. Based on data collected on cruises around the Antarctica Peninsula (AP) on January 2014 and 2016, this research intends to enhance our knowledge of SO water and atmospheric optical characteristics and address satellite algorithm deficiency of ocean color products. We collected high resolution in situ water leaving reflectance (±1 nm band resolution), simultaneous in situ chlorophyll-a concentrations and satellite (MODIS and VIIRS) water leaving reflectance. Field samples show that clouds have a great impact on the visible green bands and are difficult to detect because NASA protocols apply the NIR band as a cloud contamination threshold. When compared to global case I water, water around the AP has lower water leaving reflectance and a narrower blue-green band ratio, which explains chlorophyll-a underestimation in high chlorophyll-a regions and overestimation in low chlorophyll-a regions. VIIRS shows higher spatial coverage and detection accuracy than MODIS. After coefficient improvement, VIIRS is able to predict chlorophyll a with 53% accuracy. PMID:27941596

Chlorophyll-a Estimation Around the Antarctica Peninsula Using Satellite Algorithms: Hints from Field Water Leaving Reflectance.

PubMed

Zeng, Chen; Xu, Huiping; Fischer, Andrew M

2016-12-07

Ocean color remote sensing significantly contributes to our understanding of phytoplankton distribution and abundance and primary productivity in the Southern Ocean (SO). However, the current SO in situ optical database is still insufficient and unevenly distributed. This limits the ability to produce robust and accurate measurements of satellite-based chlorophyll. Based on data collected on cruises around the Antarctica Peninsula (AP) on January 2014 and 2016, this research intends to enhance our knowledge of SO water and atmospheric optical characteristics and address satellite algorithm deficiency of ocean color products. We collected high resolution in situ water leaving reflectance (±1 nm band resolution), simultaneous in situ chlorophyll-a concentrations and satellite (MODIS and VIIRS) water leaving reflectance. Field samples show that clouds have a great impact on the visible green bands and are difficult to detect because NASA protocols apply the NIR band as a cloud contamination threshold. When compared to global case I water, water around the AP has lower water leaving reflectance and a narrower blue-green band ratio, which explains chlorophyll-a underestimation in high chlorophyll-a regions and overestimation in low chlorophyll-a regions. VIIRS shows higher spatial coverage and detection accuracy than MODIS. After coefficient improvement, VIIRS is able to predict chlorophyll a with 53% accuracy.

Bidirectional Hebbian Plasticity Induced by Low-Frequency Stimulation in Basal Dendrites of Rat Barrel Cortex Layer 5 Pyramidal Neurons.

PubMed

Díez-García, Andrea; Barros-Zulaica, Natali; Núñez, Ángel; Buño, Washington; Fernández de Sevilla, David

2017-01-01

According to Hebb's original hypothesis (Hebb, 1949), synapses are reinforced when presynaptic activity triggers postsynaptic firing, resulting in long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic efficacy. Long-term depression (LTD) is a use-dependent decrease in synaptic strength that is thought to be due to synaptic input causing a weak postsynaptic effect. Although the mechanisms that mediate long-term synaptic plasticity have been investigated for at least three decades not all question have as yet been answered. Therefore, we aimed at determining the mechanisms that generate LTP or LTD with the simplest possible protocol. Low-frequency stimulation of basal dendrite inputs in Layer 5 pyramidal neurons of the rat barrel cortex induces LTP. This stimulation triggered an EPSP, an action potential (AP) burst, and a Ca 2+ spike. The same stimulation induced LTD following manipulations that reduced the Ca 2+ spike and Ca 2+ signal or the AP burst. Low-frequency whisker deflections induced similar bidirectional plasticity of action potential evoked responses in anesthetized rats. These results suggest that both in vitro and in vivo similar mechanisms regulate the balance between LTP and LTD. This simple induction form of bidirectional hebbian plasticity could be present in the natural conditions to regulate the detection, flow, and storage of sensorimotor information.

Studying Protein-Protein Interactions by Biotin AP-Tagged Pulldown and LTQ-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Xie, Zhongqiu; Jia, Yuemeng; Li, Hui

2017-01-01

The study of protein-protein interactions represents a key aspect of biological research. Identifying unknown protein binding partners using mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics has evolved into an indispensable strategy in drug discovery. The classic approach of immunoprecipitation with specific antibodies against the proteins of interest has limitations, such as the need for immunoprecipitation-qualified antibody. The biotin AP-tag pull-down system has the advantage of high specificity, ease of use, and no requirement for antibody. It is based on the high specificity, high affinity interaction between biotin and streptavidin. After pulldown, in-gel tryptic digestion and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) analysis of sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) protein bands can be performed. In this work, we provide protocols that can be used for the identification of proteins that interact with FOXM1, a protein that has recently emerged as a potential biomarker and drug target in oncotherapy, as an example. We focus on the pull-down procedure and assess the efficacy of the pulldown with known FOXM1 interactors such as β-catenin. We use a high performance LTQ Orbitrap MSn system that combines rapid LTQ ion trap data acquisition with high mass accuracy Orbitrap analysis to identify the interacting proteins.

Bidirectional Hebbian Plasticity Induced by Low-Frequency Stimulation in Basal Dendrites of Rat Barrel Cortex Layer 5 Pyramidal Neurons

PubMed Central

Díez-García, Andrea; Barros-Zulaica, Natali; Núñez, Ángel; Buño, Washington; Fernández de Sevilla, David

2017-01-01

According to Hebb's original hypothesis (Hebb, 1949), synapses are reinforced when presynaptic activity triggers postsynaptic firing, resulting in long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic efficacy. Long-term depression (LTD) is a use-dependent decrease in synaptic strength that is thought to be due to synaptic input causing a weak postsynaptic effect. Although the mechanisms that mediate long-term synaptic plasticity have been investigated for at least three decades not all question have as yet been answered. Therefore, we aimed at determining the mechanisms that generate LTP or LTD with the simplest possible protocol. Low-frequency stimulation of basal dendrite inputs in Layer 5 pyramidal neurons of the rat barrel cortex induces LTP. This stimulation triggered an EPSP, an action potential (AP) burst, and a Ca2+ spike. The same stimulation induced LTD following manipulations that reduced the Ca2+ spike and Ca2+ signal or the AP burst. Low-frequency whisker deflections induced similar bidirectional plasticity of action potential evoked responses in anesthetized rats. These results suggest that both in vitro and in vivo similar mechanisms regulate the balance between LTP and LTD. This simple induction form of bidirectional hebbian plasticity could be present in the natural conditions to regulate the detection, flow, and storage of sensorimotor information. PMID:28203145

Overexpression of two PsnAP1 genes from Populus simonii × P. nigra causes early flowering in transgenic tobacco and Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Zheng, Tangchun; Li, Shuang; Zang, Lina; Dai, Lijuan; Yang, Chuanping; Qu, Guan-Zheng

2014-01-01

In Arabidopsis, AP1 is a floral meristem identity gene and plays an important role in floral organ development. In this study, PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 were isolated from the male reproductive buds of poplar (Populus simonii × P. nigra), which are the orthologs of AP1 in Arabidopsis, by sequence analysis. Northern blot and qRT-PCR analysis showed that PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 exhibited high expression level in early inflorescence development of poplar. Subcellular localization showed the PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 proteins are localized in the nucleus. Overexpression of PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 in tobacco under the control of a CaMV 35S promoter significantly enhanced early flowering. These transgenic plants also showed much earlier stem initiation and higher rates of photosynthesis than did wild-type tobacco. qRT-PCR analysis further indicated that overexpression of PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 resulted in up-regulation of genes related to flowering, such as NtMADS4, NtMADS5 and NtMADS11. Overexpression of PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 in Arabidopsis also induced early flowering, but did not complement the ap1-10 floral morphology to any noticeable extent. This study indicates that PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 play a role in floral transition of poplar.

Diadenosine tetraphosphate improves adrenergic anti-glaucomatous drug delivery and efficiency.

PubMed

Loma, Patricia; Guzman-Aranguez, Ana; Perez de Lara, Maria Jesus; Pintor, Jesus

2015-05-01

The effect of the dinucleotide P(1), P(4)-Di (adenosine-5') tetraphosphate (Ap4A) in improving adrenergic anti-glaucomatous delivery by modifying the tight junction proteins of the corneal epithelium was evaluated. Stratified human corneal epithelial cells (HCLE) were treated with Ap4A (100 μM) for 5 min and TJ protein levels and barrier function were analysed by western blotting and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), respectively. Western blot experiments showed a significant reduction at 2 h (45% reduction of ZO-1 and 65% reduction of occludin protein levels) as compared to non-treated (control) cells. Two hours after Ap4A treatment, TEER values were significantly reduced (65% as compared to control levels (p < 0.001)), indicating an increase in corneal barrier permeability. Topical application of Ap4A in New Zealand white rabbits two hours before the instillation of the hypotensor compounds (the α2-adrenergic receptor agonist, brimonidine and the β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, timolol), improved the delivery of these compounds to the anterior chamber as well as their hypotensive action on the intraocular pressure. The results obtained showed that, when Ap4A was topically applied two hours before the adrenergic compounds, the concentration of brimonidine in the aqueous humour increased from 64.3 ± 5.3 nM to 240.6 ± 8.6 nM and from 58.9 ± 9.2 nM to 183.7 ± 6.8 nM in the case of timolol, which also produces a more profound effect on IOP. Therefore, Ap4A treatment results in a better entrance of adrenergic anti-glaucomatous compounds within the eye and consequently improved therapeutic efficiency by increasing corneal epithelial barrier permeability. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Three-Catheter Technique for Ablation of Left-Sided Accessory Pathways in Wolff-Parkinson-White is Less Expensive and Equally Successful When Compared to a Five-Catheter Technique.

PubMed

Capone, Christine A; Ceresnak, Scott R; Nappo, Lynn; Gates, Gregory J; Schechter, Clyde B; Pass, Robert H

2015-12-01

To compare the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of a three-catheter approach with a conventional five-catheter approach for the mapping and ablation of supraventricular tachycardia in pediatric patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome (WPW) and concealed accessory pathways (APs). A retrospective review from 2008 to 2012 of patients less than 21 years with WPW who underwent a three-catheter radiofrequency (RF) ablation of a left-sided AP (ablation, right ventricular [RV] apical, and coronary sinus [CS] decapolar catheters) was performed. The three-catheter group was compared to a control group who underwent a standard five-catheter (ablation, RV apical, CS decapolar, His catheter, and right atrial catheter) ablation for the treatment of left-sided WPW or concealed AP. Demographics, ablation outcomes, and costs were compared between groups. Twenty-eight patients met inclusion criteria with 28 control patients. The groups did not differ in gender, age, weight, or body surface area. Locations of the AP on the mitral annulus were similar between the groups. All patients were ablated via transseptal approach. Note that 28 of 28 in the three-catheter group (100%) and 27 of 28 (96%) controls were acutely successfully ablated (P = 0.31). No complications were encountered. There was no difference in procedural time, time to loss of AP conduction, or number of RF applications. Use of the three-catheter technique resulted in a total savings of $2,465/case, which includes the $680 savings from using fewer catheters as well as the savings from a shortened procedure time. Ablation in patients with WPW and a left-sided AP can be performed using three catheters with similar efficacy and safety while offering significant cost savings compared to a conventional five-catheter approach. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Exploitation of Existing Voice Over Internet Protocol Technology for Department of the Navy Application

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-09-01

Protocol LAN Local Area Network LDAP Lightweight Directory Access Protocol LLQ Low Latency Queuing MAC Media Access Control MarCorSysCom Marine...Description Protocol SIP Session Initiation Protocol SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol SPAWAR Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center SS7 ...PSTN infrastructure previously required to carry the conversation. The cost of accessing the PSTN is thereby eliminated. In cases where Internet

P alpha-chiral phosphorothioate analogues of bis(5'-adenosyl)tetraphosphate (Ap4A); their enzymatic synthesis and degradation.

PubMed Central

Lazewska, D; Guranowski, A

1990-01-01

Synthesis of Sp and Rp diastereomers of Ap4A alpha S has been characterized in two enzymatic systems, the lysyl-tRNA synthetase from Escherichia coli and the Ap4A alpha, beta-phosphorylase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The synthetase was able to use both (Sp)ATP alpha S and (Rp)ATP alpha S as acceptors of adenylate thus yielding corresponding monothioanalogues of Ap4A,(Sp) Ap4A alpha S and (Rp)Ap4A alpha S. No dithiophosphate analogue was formed. Relative synthetase velocities of the formation of Ap4A,(Sp) Ap4A alpha S and (Rp)Ap4A alpha S were 1:0.38:0.15, and the computed Km values for (Sp)ATP alpha S and (Rp)ATP alpha S were 0.48 and 1.34 mM, respectively. The yeast Ap4A phosphorylase synthesized (Sp)Ap4A alpha S and (Rp)Ap4A alpha S using adenosine 5'-phosphosulfate (APS) as source of adenylate. The adenylate was accepted by corresponding thioanalogues of ATP. In that system, relative velocities of Ap4A, (Sp)Ap4A alpha S and (Rp)Ap4A alpha S formation were 1:0.15:0.60. The two isomeric phosphorothioate analogues of Ap4A were tested as substrates for the following specific Ap4A-degrading enzymes: (asymmetrical) Ap4A hydrolase (EC 3.6.1.17) from yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus) seeds hydrolyzed each of the analogues to AMP and the corresponding isomer of ATP alpha S; (symmetrical) Ap4A hydrolase (EC 3.6.1.41) from E. coli produced ADP and the corresponding diastereomer of ADP alpha S; and Ap4A phosphorylase (EC 2.7.7.53) from S. cerevisiae cleaved the Rp isomer only at the unmodified end yielding ADP and (Rp)ATP alpha S whereas the Sp isomer was degraded non-specifically yielding a mixture of ADP, (Sp)ADP alpha S, ATP and (Sp)ATP alpha S. For all the Ap4A-degrading enzymes, the Rp isomer of Ap4A alpha S appeared to be a better substrate than its Sp counterpart; stereoselectivity of the three enzymes for the Ap4A alpha S diastereomers is 51, 6 and 2.5, respectively. Basic kinetic parameters of the degradation reactions are presented and structural requirements of the Ap4A-metabolizing enzymes with respect to the potential substrates modified at the Ap4A-P alpha are discussed. PMID:2172926

Comparative Analyses of Multi-Pulse Phase Controlled Rectifiers in Continuous Conduction Mode with a Two-Pole LC Output Filter for Surface Ship DC Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

for this sub-mode, the minimum inductor current occurs at an angle 3 3t  (where 3 60    referenced to  ), as shown in Figure 13. 24...can be rewritten as    sin cos cosb b b ApA B      . (73) Grouping similar terms, yields  sin cosb b ApA B         , (74...where the fundamental frequency and each harmonic component are displayed graphically in a bar chart format as shown in Figure 25. The total current

75 FR 57920 - Kerr-Philpott System

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-23

... schedules VA-1-B, VA-2-B, VA-3- B, VA-4-B, CP&L-1-B, CP&L-2-B, CP&L-3-B, CP&L-4-B, AP-1-B, AP-2-B, AP- 3-B..., CP&L-1-A, CP&L-2-A, CP&L-3-A, CP&L-4-A, AP-1-A, AP-2-A, AP-3-A, AP-4-A, NC-1-A, and Replacement-2... Schedules VA-1-A, VA-2-A, VA-3-A, VA-4-A, CP&L-1- A, CP&L-2-A, CP&L-3-A, CP&L-4-A, AP-1-A, AP-2-A, AP-3-A...

Development and validation of the social information processing application: a Web-based measure of social information processing patterns in elementary school-age boys.

PubMed

Kupersmidt, Janis B; Stelter, Rebecca; Dodge, Kenneth A

2011-12-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of an audio computer-assisted self-interviewing Web-based software application called the Social Information Processing Application (SIP-AP) that was designed to assess social information processing skills in boys in 3rd through 5th grades. This study included a racially and ethnically diverse sample of 244 boys ages 8 through 12 (M = 9.4) from public elementary schools in 3 states. The SIP-AP includes 8 videotaped vignettes, filmed from the first-person perspective, that depict common misunderstandings among boys. Each vignette shows a negative outcome for the victim and ambiguous intent on the part of the perpetrator. Boys responded to 16 Web-based questions representing the 5 social information processing mechanisms, after viewing each vignette. Parents and teachers completed measures assessing boys' antisocial behavior. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that a model positing the original 5 cognitive mechanisms fit the data well when the items representing prosocial cognitions were included on their own factor, creating a 6th factor. The internal consistencies for each of the 16 individual cognitions as well as for the 6 cognitive mechanism scales were excellent. Boys with elevated scores on 5 of the 6 cognitive mechanisms exhibited more antisocial behavior than boys whose scores were not elevated. These findings highlight the need for further research on the measurement of prosocial cognitions or cognitive strengths in boys in addition to assessing cognitive deficits. Findings suggest that the SIP-AP is a reliable and valid tool for use in future research of social information processing skills in boys.

Consensus on best practice standards for Fracture Liaison Service in the Asia-Pacific region.

PubMed

Chan, Ding-Cheng Derrick; Chang, Lo-Yu; Akesson, Kristina E; Mitchell, Paul; Chen, Chung-Hwan; Michael Lewiecki, E; Lee, Joon Kiong; Lau, Tang Ching; Songpatanasilp, Thawee; Lee, Kin Bong; Kim, Kwang Joon; Chen, Jung-Fu; Huang, Ko-En; Gau, Yih-Lan; Chang, Yin-Fan; Ebeling, Peter; Xia, Weibo; Yu, Wei; Suzuki, Atsushi; Hew, Fen Lee; Mercado-Asis, Leilani B; Chung, Yoon-Sok; Tsai, Keh-Sung; Lin, Gau-Tyan; Yang, Rong-Sen; Wu, Chih-Hsing

2018-05-12

The Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) Consensus Meeting endorsed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), Asian Federation of Osteoporosis Societies (AFOS), and Asia Pacific Osteoporosis Foundation (APOF) was hosted by the Taiwanese Osteoporosis Association on October 14, 2017. International and domestic experts reviewed the 13 Best Practice Framework (BPF) standards and concluded that all standards were generally applicable in the Asia-Pacific region and needed only minor modifications to fit the healthcare settings in the region. To review and generate consensus on best practices of fracture liaison service (FLS) in the Asia-Pacific (AP) region. In October 2017, the Taiwanese Osteoporosis Association (TOA) invited experts from the AP region (n = 23), the Capture the Fracture Steering Committee (n = 2), and the USA (n = 1) to join the AP region FLS Consensus Meeting in Taipei. After two rounds of consensus generation, the recommendations on the 13 Best Practice Framework (BPF) standards were reported and reviewed by the attendees. Experts unable to attend the on-site meeting reviewed the draft, made suggestions, and approved the final version. Because the number of FLSs in the region is rapidly increasing, experts agreed that it was timely to establish consensus on benchmark quality standards for FLSs in the region. They also agreed that the 13 BPF standards and the 3 levels of standards were generally applicable, but that some clarifications were necessary. They suggested, for example, that patient and family education be incorporated into the current standards and that communication with the public to promote FLSs be increased. The consensus on the 13 BPF standards reviewed in this meeting was that they were generally applicable and required only a few advanced clarifications to increase the quality of FLSs in the region.

Development and Validation of the Social Information Processing Application: A Web-Based Measure of Social Information Processing Patterns in Elementary School-Age Boys

PubMed Central

Kupersmidt, Janis B.; Stelter, Rebecca; Dodge, Kenneth A.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of an audio computer-assisted self-interviewing Web-based software application called the Social Information Processing Application (SIP-AP) that was designed to assess social information processing skills in boys in 3rd through 5th grades. This study included a racially and ethnically diverse sample of 244 boys ages 8 through 12 (M = 9.4) from public elementary schools in 3 states. The SIP-AP includes 8 videotaped vignettes, filmed from the first-person perspective, that depict common misunderstandings among boys. Each vignette shows a negative outcome for the victim and ambiguous intent on the part of the perpetrator. Boys responded to 16 Web-based questions representing the 5 social information processing mechanisms, after viewing each vignette. Parents and teachers completed measures assessing boys’ antisocial behavior. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that a model positing the original 5 cognitive mechanisms fit the data well when the items representing prosocial cognitions were included on their own factor, creating a 6th factor. The internal consistencies for each of the 16 individual cognitions as well as for the 6 cognitive mechanism scales were excellent. Boys with elevated scores on 5 of the 6 cognitive mechanisms exhibited more antisocial behavior than boys whose scores were not elevated. These findings highlight the need for further research on the measurement of prosocial cognitions or cognitive strengths in boys in addition to assessing cognitive deficits. Findings suggest that the SIP-AP is a reliable and valid tool for use in future research of social information processing skills in boys. PMID:21534693

Statistical Evaluation of Airport Pavement Condition Survey Data for Washington, Oregon, and Idaho

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

21...COUNTY SQUIRE AIRPARK, OREGON 12 70 22...FLORENCE MUNICIPAL AP, OREGON 3 95 23...HERMISTON MUNICIPAL AP, OREGON 11 87 24...HOOD RIVER AP, OREGON...12 87 33...OROFINO MUNICIPAL AP, IDAHO 17 81 34...PRIEST RIVER MUNICIPAL AP, IDAHO 11 86 *NUgU**MmUU~tNUINNNNNNNffWUU0W NUU EU*UI** **-28 -28- TABLE 3...3 88 8...BAKER MUNICIPAL AP, OREGON 3 90 9...BEND MUNICIPAL AP, OREGON 9 89 10..CRESWELL MUNICIPAL AP, OREGON 1 98 11..HOOD RIVER AP, OREGON 1 96 12

Ship-Shore Packet Switched Communications System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-06-01

PERFORMING ORGANIZATION 6b OFFICE SYMBOL 7a. NAME OF MONITORING ORGANIZATION (If applicable ) Naval Postgraduate School 54 Naval Postgraduate School 6c...OFFICE SYMBOL 9 PROCUREMENT INSTRUMENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ORGANIZATION (If applicable ) 8c ADDRESS (City, State, and ZIPCode) 10 SOURCE OF FUNDING...level acknowledgement system. 37 Network Protocol Application P re sen tation Session ____ ____ ____ ___Internet TranportProtocol Network

A Simple XML Producer-Consumer Protocol

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Warren; Gunter, Dan; Quesnel, Darcy; Biegel, Bryan (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

There are many different projects from government, academia, and industry that provide services for delivering events in distributed environments. The problem with these event services is that they are not general enough to support all uses and they speak different protocols so that they cannot interoperate. We require such interoperability when we, for example, wish to analyze the performance of an application in a distributed environment. Such an analysis might require performance information from the application, computer systems, networks, and scientific instruments. In this work we propose and evaluate a standard XML-based protocol for the transmission of events in distributed systems. One recent trend in government and academic research is the development and deployment of computational grids. Computational grids are large-scale distributed systems that typically consist of high-performance compute, storage, and networking resources. Examples of such computational grids are the DOE Science Grid, the NASA Information Power Grid (IPG), and the NSF Partnerships for Advanced Computing Infrastructure (PACIs). The major effort to deploy these grids is in the area of developing the software services to allow users to execute applications on these large and diverse sets of resources. These services include security, execution of remote applications, managing remote data, access to information about resources and services, and so on. There are several toolkits for providing these services such as Globus, Legion, and Condor. As part of these efforts to develop computational grids, the Global Grid Forum is working to standardize the protocols and APIs used by various grid services. This standardization will allow interoperability between the client and server software of the toolkits that are providing the grid services. The goal of the Performance Working Group of the Grid Forum is to standardize protocols and representations related to the storage and distribution of performance data. These standard protocols and representations must support tasks such as profiling parallel applications, monitoring the status of computers and networks, and monitoring the performance of services provided by a computational grid. This paper describes a proposed protocol and data representation for the exchange of events in a distributed system. The protocol exchanges messages formatted in XML and it can be layered atop any low-level communication protocol such as TCP or UDP Further, we describe Java and C++ implementations of this protocol and discuss their performance. The next section will provide some further background information. Section 3 describes the main communication patterns of our protocol. Section 4 describes how we represent events and related information using XML. Section 5 describes our protocol and Section 6 discusses the performance of two implementations of the protocol. Finally, an appendix provides the XML Schema definition of our protocol and event information.

Towards durable multistakeholder-generated solutions: The pilot application of a problem-oriented policy learning protocol to legality verification and community rights in Peru

Treesearch

D. Humphreys; B. Cashore; I.J. Visseren-Hamakers; W. De Jong; K. McGinley; A. Denvir; P. Caro Torres; S. Lupberger

2017-01-01

This paper reports and reflects on the pilot application of an 11-step policy learning protocol that was developed by Cashore and Lupberger (2015) based on several years of Cashore's multi-author collaborations. The protocol was applied for the first time in Peru in 2015 and 2016 by the IUFRO Working Party on Forest Policy Learning Architectures (hereinafter...

Diadenosine polyphosphates Ap3A and Ap4A, but not Ap5A or Ap6A, induce proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells.

PubMed

Bobbert, Peter; Schlüter, Hartmut; Schultheiss, Heinz Peter; Reusch, Hans Peter

2008-05-15

Depending on the number of phosphate groups, diadenosine polyphosphates (ApnA, Ap3A, Ap4A, Ap5A and Ap6A) differ in properties such as proliferation, apoptosis, vasoconstriction and vasodilatation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Possible signaling pathways leading to effects such as proliferation are still unknown. This study examined the proliferative effects of diadenosine polyphosphates on VSMCs and their intracellular pathways. Proliferation of VSMCs was measured by the cell count and [(3)H] thymidine incorporation. Phosphorylation of the MAP kinases ERK1/2 was determined by Western blotting. Single-cell [Ca(2+)](i) measurements were done to determine the influence of [Ca(2+)](i) on intracellular signaling. Stress fiber formation was assessed by fluorescence microscopy to detect an influence of G alpha(12). Ap3A and Ap4A, but not Ap5A or Ap6A, were shown to increase proliferation of VSMCs by activating P2Y receptors, which leads to stimulation of the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK1/2 cascade. Ap3A- and Ap4A-induced activation of the MAP kinases ERK1/2 was dependent on a signaling pathway that included the EGF receptor, PKC, PLCbeta and the increase of [Ca(2+)](i). In conclusion, Ap3A and Ap4A, but not Ap5A or Ap6A, induce proliferation of VSMCs by a signaling pathway that begins with activation of P2Y receptors and leads to stimulation of the MAP kinases ERK1/2.

Overexpression of Two PsnAP1 Genes from Populus simonii × P. nigra Causes Early Flowering in Transgenic Tobacco and Arabidopsis

PubMed Central

Zheng, Tangchun; Li, Shuang; Zang, Lina; Dai, Lijuan; Yang, Chuanping; Qu, Guan-Zheng

2014-01-01

In Arabidopsis, AP1 is a floral meristem identity gene and plays an important role in floral organ development. In this study, PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 were isolated from the male reproductive buds of poplar (Populus simonii × P. nigra), which are the orthologs of AP1 in Arabidopsis, by sequence analysis. Northern blot and qRT-PCR analysis showed that PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 exhibited high expression level in early inflorescence development of poplar. Subcellular localization showed the PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 proteins are localized in the nucleus. Overexpression of PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 in tobacco under the control of a CaMV 35S promoter significantly enhanced early flowering. These transgenic plants also showed much earlier stem initiation and higher rates of photosynthesis than did wild-type tobacco. qRT-PCR analysis further indicated that overexpression of PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 resulted in up-regulation of genes related to flowering, such as NtMADS4, NtMADS5 and NtMADS11. Overexpression of PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 in Arabidopsis also induced early flowering, but did not complement the ap1-10 floral morphology to any noticeable extent. This study indicates that PsnAP1-1 and PsnAP1-2 play a role in floral transition of poplar. PMID:25360739

ParamAP: Standardized Parameterization of Sinoatrial Node Myocyte Action Potentials.

PubMed

Rickert, Christian; Proenza, Catherine

2017-08-22

Sinoatrial node myocytes act as cardiac pacemaker cells by generating spontaneous action potentials (APs). Much information is encoded in sinoatrial AP waveforms, but both the analysis and the comparison of AP parameters between studies is hindered by the lack of standardized parameter definitions and the absence of automated analysis tools. Here we introduce ParamAP, a standalone cross-platform computational tool that uses a template-free detection algorithm to automatically identify and parameterize APs from text input files. ParamAP employs a graphic user interface with automatic and user-customizable input modes, and it outputs data files in text and PDF formats. ParamAP returns a total of 16 AP waveform parameters including time intervals such as the AP duration, membrane potentials such as the maximum diastolic potential, and rates of change of the membrane potential such as the diastolic depolarization rate. ParamAP provides a robust AP detection algorithm in combination with a standardized AP parameter analysis over a wide range of AP waveforms and firing rates, owing in part to the use of an iterative algorithm for the determination of the threshold potential and the diastolic depolarization rate that is independent of the maximum upstroke velocity, a parameter that can vary significantly among sinoatrial APs. Because ParamAP is implemented in Python 3, it is also highly customizable and extensible. In conclusion, ParamAP is a powerful computational tool that facilitates quantitative analysis and enables comparison of sinoatrial APs by standardizing parameter definitions and providing an automated work flow. Copyright © 2017 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ap4A induces apoptosis in human cultured cells.

PubMed

Vartanian, A; Alexandrov, I; Prudowski, I; McLennan, A; Kisselev, L

1999-07-30

Diadenosine oligophosphates (Ap(n)A) have been proposed as intracellular and extracellular signaling molecules in animal cells. The ratio of diadenosine 5',5'''-P1,P3-triphosphate to diadenosine 5',5'''-P1,P4-tetraphosphate (Ap3A/Ap4A) is sensitive to the cellular status and alters when cultured cells undergo differentiation or are treated with interferons. In cells undergoing apoptosis induced by DNA topoisomerase II inhibitor VP16, the concentration of Ap3A decreases significantly while that of Ap4A increases. Here, we have examined the effects of exogenously added Ap3A and Ap4A on apoptosis and morphological differentiation. Penetration of Ap(n)A into cells was achieved by cold shock. Ap4A at 10 microM induced programmed cell death in human HL60, U937 and Jurkat cells and mouse VMRO cells and this effect appeared to require Ap4A breakdown as hydrolysis-resistant analogues of Ap4A were inactive. On its own, Ap3A induced neither apoptosis nor cell differentiation but did display strong synergism with the protein kinase C activators 12-deoxyphorbol-13-O-phenylacetate and 12-deoxyphorbol-13-O-phenylacetate-20-acetate in inducing differentiation of HL60 cells. We propose that Ap4A and Ap3A are physiological antagonists in determination of the cellular status: Ap4A induces apoptosis whereas Ap3A is a co-inductor of differentiation. In both cases, the mechanism of signal transduction remains unknown.

Differential recognition of a dileucine-based sorting signal by AP-1 and AP-3 reveals a requirement for both BLOC-1 and AP-3 in delivery of OCA2 to melanosomes

PubMed Central

Sitaram, Anand; Dennis, Megan K.; Chaudhuri, Rittik; De Jesus-Rojas, Wilfredo; Tenza, Danièle; Setty, Subba Rao Gangi; Wood, Christopher S.; Sviderskaya, Elena V.; Bennett, Dorothy C.; Raposo, Graça; Bonifacino, Juan S.; Marks, Michael S.

2012-01-01

Cell types that generate unique lysosome-related organelles (LROs), such as melanosomes in melanocytes, populate nascent LROs with cargoes that are diverted from endosomes. Cargo sorting toward melanosomes correlates with binding via cytoplasmically exposed sorting signals to either heterotetrameric adaptor AP-1 or AP-3. Some cargoes bind both adaptors, but the relative contribution of each adaptor to cargo recognition and their functional interactions with other effectors during transport to melanosomes are not clear. Here we exploit targeted mutagenesis of the acidic dileucine–based sorting signal in the pigment cell–specific protein OCA2 to dissect the relative roles of AP-1 and AP-3 in transport to melanosomes. We show that binding to AP-1 or AP-3 depends on the primary sequence of the signal and not its position within the cytoplasmic domain. Mutants that preferentially bound either AP-1 or AP-3 each trafficked toward melanosomes and functionally complemented OCA2 deficiency, but AP-3 binding was necessary for steady-state melanosome localization. Unlike tyrosinase, which also engages AP-3 for optimal melanosomal delivery, both AP-1– and AP-3–favoring OCA2 variants required BLOC-1 for melanosomal transport. These data provide evidence for distinct roles of AP-1 and AP-3 in OCA2 transport to melanosomes and indicate that BLOC-1 can cooperate with either adaptor during cargo sorting to LROs. PMID:22718909

Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Villalba, Luis Javier García; Orozco, Ana Lucila Sandoval; Cabrera, Alicia Triviño; Abbas, Cláudia Jacy Barenco

2009-01-01

The applications of wireless sensor networks comprise a wide variety of scenarios. In most of them, the network is composed of a significant number of nodes deployed in an extensive area in which not all nodes are directly connected. Then, the data exchange is supported by multihop communications. Routing protocols are in charge of discovering and maintaining the routes in the network. However, the appropriateness of a particular routing protocol mainly depends on the capabilities of the nodes and on the application requirements. This paper presents a review of the main routing protocols proposed for wireless sensor networks. Additionally, the paper includes the efforts carried out by Spanish universities on developing optimization techniques in the area of routing protocols for wireless sensor networks. PMID:22291515

Routing protocols in wireless sensor networks.

PubMed

Villalba, Luis Javier García; Orozco, Ana Lucila Sandoval; Cabrera, Alicia Triviño; Abbas, Cláudia Jacy Barenco

2009-01-01

The applications of wireless sensor networks comprise a wide variety of scenarios. In most of them, the network is composed of a significant number of nodes deployed in an extensive area in which not all nodes are directly connected. Then, the data exchange is supported by multihop communications. Routing protocols are in charge of discovering and maintaining the routes in the network. However, the appropriateness of a particular routing protocol mainly depends on the capabilities of the nodes and on the application requirements. This paper presents a review of the main routing protocols proposed for wireless sensor networks. Additionally, the paper includes the efforts carried out by Spanish universities on developing optimization techniques in the area of routing protocols for wireless sensor networks.

GATEWAY - COMMUNICATIONS GATEWAY SOFTWARE FOR NETEX, DECNET, AND TCP/IP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keith, B.

1994-01-01

The Communications Gateway Software, GATEWAY, provides process-to-process communication between remote applications programs in different protocol domains. Communicating peer processes may be resident on any paired combination of NETEX, DECnet, or TCP/IP hosts. The gateway provides the necessary mapping from one protocol to another and will facilitate practical intermachine communications in a cost effective manner by eliminating the need to standardize on a single protocol or the need to implement multiple protocols in the host computers. The purpose of the gateway is to support data transfers between application programs on different host computers using different protocols. The gateway computer must be physically connected to both host computers and must contain the system software needed to use the communication protocols of both host computers. The communication process between application partners can be divided into three phases: session establishment, data transfer, and session termination. The communication protocols supported by GATEWAY (DECnet, NETEX, and TCP/IP) have addressing mechanisms that allow an application to identify itself and distinguish among other applications on the network. The exact form of the address varies depending on whether an application is passively offering (awaiting the receipt of a network connection from another network application) or actively connecting to another network. When the gateway is started, GATEWAY reads a file of address pairs. One of the address pairs is used by GATEWAY for passively offering on one network while the other address in the pair is used for actively connecting on the other network establishing the session. Now the two application partners can send and receive data in a manner appropriate to their home networks. GATEWAY accommodates full duplex transmissions. Thus, if the application partners are sophisticated enough, they can send and receive simultaneously. GATEWAY also keeps track of the number of bytes contained in each ransferred data packet. If GATEWAY detects an error during the data transfer, the sessions on both networks are terminated and the passive offer on the appropriate network is reissued. After performing the desired data transfer, one of the remote applications will send a network disconnect to the gateway to close its communication link. Upon detecting this network disconnect, GATEWAY replies with its own disconnect to ensure that the network connection has been fully terminated. Then, GATEWAY terminates its session with the other application by closing the communication link. GATEWAY has been implemented on a DEC VAX under VMS 4.7. It is written in ADA and has a central memory requirement of approximately 406K bytes. The communications protocols supported by GATEWAY are Network Systems Corporation's Network Executive (NETEX), Excelan's TCP/IP, and DECnet. GATEWAY was developed in 1988.

System integration test plan for HANDI 2000 business management system

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

Wilson, D.

This document presents the system integration test plan for the Commercial-Off-The-Shelf, PassPort and PeopleSoft software, and custom software created to work with the COTS products. The PP software is an integrated application for AP, Contract Management, Inventory Management, Purchasing and Material Safety Data Sheet. The PS software is an integrated application for Project Costing, General Ledger, Human Resources/Training, Payroll, and Base Benefits.

Final Scientific Report: DE-SC0008580

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

Seidler, Gerald T.

We report scientific, technical, and organizational accomplishments under DE-SC0008580. This includes 10 publications, 5 patent or provisional patent applications, beamtime with important results at both LCLS and APS, and new progress in understanding target design for x-ray heating experiments at x-ray heating facilities.

The Network Protocol Analysis Technique in Snort

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Qing-Xiu

Network protocol analysis is a network sniffer to capture data for further analysis and understanding of the technical means necessary packets. Network sniffing is intercepted by packet assembly binary format of the original message content. In order to obtain the information contained. Required based on TCP / IP protocol stack protocol specification. Again to restore the data packets at protocol format and content in each protocol layer. Actual data transferred, as well as the application tier.

Isolating Spermathecae and Determining Mating Status of Drosophila suzukii: A Protocol for Tissue Dissection and Its Applications

PubMed Central

Avanesyan, Alina; Jaffe, Benjamin D.; Guédot, Christelle

2017-01-01

The spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae), is an emerging invasive pest, which attacks a wide variety of fruits and berries. Although previous studies have focused on different aspects of D. suzukii reproductive biology, there are no protocols available for determining the mating status of D. suzukii females and drosophilids in general. In this study, a step-by-step protocol for tissue dissection, isolating spermathecae, and determining the mating status of females was developed specifically for D. suzukii. This protocol is an effective and relatively quick method for determining female mating status. It has important applications from exploring reproductive output of D. suzukii females to understanding the biology of D. suzukii winter morph, which presumably plays the main role in the overwintering of this invasive species. We demonstrated applicability of this protocol for both field collected flies and flies reared in the lab, including fly specimens stored on a long-term basis. PMID:28287438

Energy-efficient and fast data gathering protocols for indoor wireless sensor networks.

PubMed

Tümer, Abdullah Erdal; Gündüz, Mesut

2010-01-01

Wireless Sensor Networks have become an important technology with numerous potential applications for the interaction of computers and the physical environment in civilian and military areas. In the routing protocols that are specifically designed for the applications used by sensor networks, the limited available power of the sensor nodes has been taken into consideration in order to extend the lifetime of the networks. In this paper, two protocols based on LEACH and called R-EERP and S-EERP with base and threshold values are presented. R-EERP and S-EERP are two efficient energy aware routing protocols that can be used for some critical applications such as detecting dangerous gases (methane, ammonium, carbon monoxide, etc.) in an indoor environment. In R-EERP, sensor nodes are deployed randomly in a field similar to LEACH. In S-EERP, nodes are deployed sequentially in the rooms of the flats of a multi-story building. In both protocols, nodes forming clusters do not change during a cluster change time, only the cluster heads change. Furthermore, an XOR operation is performed on the collected data in order to prevent the sending of the same data sensed by the nodes close to each other. Simulation results show that our proposed protocols are more energy-efficient than the conventional LEACH protocol.

Biomechanical Comparison of Robotically Applied Pure Moment, Ideal Follower Load, and Novel Trunk Weight Loading Protocols on L4-L5 Cadaveric Segments during Flexion-Extension.

PubMed

Bennett, Charles R; DiAngelo, Denis J; Kelly, Brian P

2015-01-01

Extremely few in-vitro biomechanical studies have incorporated shear loads leaving a gap for investigation, especially when applied in combination with compression and bending under dynamic conditions. The objective of this study was to biomechanically compare sagittal plane application of two standard protocols, pure moment (PM) and follower load (FL), with a novel trunk weight (TW) loading protocol designed to induce shear in combination with compression and dynamic bending in a neutrally potted human cadaveric L4-L5 motion segment unit (MSU) model. A secondary objective and novelty of the current study was the application of all three protocols within the same testing system serving to reduce artifacts due to testing system variability. Six L4-L5 segments were tested in a Cartesian load controlled system in flexion-extension to 8Nm under PM, simulated ideal 400N FL, and vertically oriented 400N TW loading protocols. Comparison metrics used were rotational range of motion (RROM), flexibility, neutral zone (NZ) range of motion, and L4 vertebral body displacements. Significant differences in vertebral body translations were observed with different initial force applications but not with subsequent bending moment application. Significant reductions were observed in combined flexion-extension RROM, in flexibility during extension, and in NZ region flexibility with the TW loading protocol as compared to PM loading. Neutral zone ranges of motion were not different between all protocols. The combined compression and shear forces applied across the spinal joint in the trunk weight protocol may have a small but significantly increased stabilizing effect on segment flexibility and kinematics during sagittal plane flexion and extension.

Biomechanical Comparison of Robotically Applied Pure Moment, Ideal Follower Load, and Novel Trunk Weight Loading Protocols on L4-L5 Cadaveric Segments during Flexion-Extension

PubMed Central

Bennett, Charles R.; DiAngelo, Denis J.

2015-01-01

Background Extremely few in-vitro biomechanical studies have incorporated shear loads leaving a gap for investigation, especially when applied in combination with compression and bending under dynamic conditions. The objective of this study was to biomechanically compare sagittal plane application of two standard protocols, pure moment (PM) and follower load (FL), with a novel trunk weight (TW) loading protocol designed to induce shear in combination with compression and dynamic bending in a neutrally potted human cadaveric L4-L5 motion segment unit (MSU) model. A secondary objective and novelty of the current study was the application of all three protocols within the same testing system serving to reduce artifacts due to testing system variability. Methods Six L4-L5 segments were tested in a Cartesian load controlled system in flexion-extension to 8Nm under PM, simulated ideal 400N FL, and vertically oriented 400N TW loading protocols. Comparison metrics used were rotational range of motion (RROM), flexibility, neutral zone (NZ) range of motion, and L4 vertebral body displacements. Results Significant differences in vertebral body translations were observed with different initial force applications but not with subsequent bending moment application. Significant reductions were observed in combined flexion-extension RROM, in flexibility during extension, and in NZ region flexibility with the TW loading protocol as compared to PM loading. Neutral zone ranges of motion were not different between all protocols. Conclusions The combined compression and shear forces applied across the spinal joint in the trunk weight protocol may have a small but significantly increased stabilizing effect on segment flexibility and kinematics during sagittal plane flexion and extension. PMID:26273551

Construction of highly ordered polyaniline nanowires and their applications in DNA sensing.

PubMed

Hao, Yuanqiang; Zhou, Binbin; Wang, Fangbin; Li, Juan; Deng, Liu; Liu, You-Nian

2014-02-15

A novel electrochemical active polyaniline (PANI) nanowire was fabricated and utilized for the construction of a highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor for hepatitis B virus gene. The uniform PANI nanowire was prepared by the enzymatic polymerization of aniline monomers on the amyloid-like nanofiber (AP nanowire), which was self-assembled from an aniline-attached nonapeptide, aniline-GGAAKLVFF (AP). The prepared PANI nanowires were characterized by electron microscopy, UV-vis absorption spectra, and cyclic voltammetry (CV). These ultra-thin nanowires displayed high electrochemical activity. Then the nucleic acid biosensor was constructed by modifying a glass carbon electrode with AP nanowires which were functionalized by a designed hair-pin loop DNA. Upon the presence of target nucleic acid and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) labeled oligonucleotide, the HRP will catalyze the polymerization of aniline monomers conjugated in AP nanowires, leading to the formation of PANI nanowires which can bring about a dramatical increase in the current response of the biosensor. The dynamic range of the sensor for hepatitis B virus gene is 2.0-800.0 fM with a low detection limit of 1.0 fM (3σ, n=10). The biosensor also displayed highly selectivity and stability. All these excellent performances of the developed biosensor indicate that this platform can be easily extended to the detection of other nucleic acids. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Novel Stimulation Paradigms with Temporally-Varying Parameters to Reduce Synchronous Activity at the Onset of High Frequency Stimulation in Rat Hippocampus

PubMed Central

Cai, Ziyan; Feng, Zhouyan; Guo, Zheshan; Zhou, Wenjie; Wang, Zhaoxiang; Wei, Xuefeng

2017-01-01

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has shown wide applications for treating various disorders in the central nervous system by using high frequency stimulation (HFS) sequences of electrical pulses. However, upon the onset of HFS sequences, the narrow pulses could induce synchronous firing of action potentials among large populations of neurons and cause a transient phase of “onset response” that is different from the subsequent steady state. To investigate the transient onset phase, the antidromically-evoked population spikes (APS) were used as an electrophysiological marker to evaluate the synchronous neuronal reactions to axonal HFS in the hippocampal CA1 region of anesthetized rats. New stimulation paradigms with time-varying intensity and frequency were developed to suppress the “onset responses”. Results show that HFS paradigms with ramp-up intensity at the onset phase could suppress large APS potentials. In addition, an intensity ramp with a slower ramp-up rate or with a higher pulse frequency had greater suppression on APS amplitudes. Therefore, to reach a desired pulse intensity rapidly, a stimulation paradigm combining elevated frequency and ramp-up intensity was used to shorten the transition phase of initial HFS without evoking large APS potentials. The results of the study provide important clues for certain transient side effects of DBS and for development of new adaptive stimulation paradigms. PMID:29066946

Diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A) and triphosphate (Ap3A) signaling of human sperm motility.

PubMed

Chan, P J; Su, B C; Tredway, D R

1991-01-01

The ubiquitous dinucleotide polyphosphate, diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4A), has been shown to be a signal molecule for DNA replication in mammalian cells. In this study, Ap4A and a related compound, diadenosine triphosphate (Ap3A), were tested for possible signaling functions in human spermatozoa. A computerized automated semen analyzer was used to detect changes in spermatozoa motility parameters. Cryopreserved-thawed donor spermatozoa were washed and incubated in 0.1 mM Ap4A, 0.1 mM Ap3A, or control medium. The data indicated that both Ap4A and Ap3A decreased the percentage of motile spermatozoa after 4 or more hours of incubation in vitro. The two dinucleotide polyphosphates caused an increase in the amplitude of lateral spermatozoa head displacement parameter only at the start of incubation. The other spermatozoa kinematic parameters were unaffected. No opposing ying-yang dual actions of Ap4A to Ap3A were seen. From the results, Ap4A and Ap3A were observed to be potential inhibitory signals of spermatozoa motility after prolonged exposure.

Diadenosine tetra- and pentaphosphates affect contractility and bioelectrical activity in the rat heart via P2 purinergic receptors.

PubMed

Pustovit, Ksenia B; Kuzmin, Vladislav S; Abramochkin, Denis V

2016-03-01

Diadenosine polyphosphates (Ap(n)As) are endogenously produced molecules which have been identified in various tissues of mammalian organism, including myocardium. Ap(n)As contribute to the blood clotting and are also widely accepted as regulators of blood vascular tone. Physiological role of Ap(n)As in cardiac muscle has not been completely elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of diadenosine tetra- (Ap4A) and penta- (Ap5A) polyphosphates on contractile function and action potential (AP) waveform in rat supraventricular and ventricular myocardium. We have also demonstrated the effects of A4pA and Ap5A in myocardial sleeves of pulmonary veins (PVs), which play a crucial role in genesis of atrial fibrillation. APs were recorded with glass microelectrodes in multicellular myocardial preparations. Contractile activity was measured in isolated Langendorff-perfused rat hearts. Both Ap4A and Ap5A significantly reduced contractility of isolated Langendorff-perfused heart and produced significant reduction of AP duration in left and right auricle, interatrial septum, and especially in right ventricular wall myocardium. Ap(n)As also shortened APs in rat pulmonary veins and therefore may be considered as potential proarrhythmic factors. Cardiotropic effects of Ap4A and Ap5A were strongly antagonized by selective blockers of P2 purine receptors suramin and pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulfonic acid (PPADS), while P1 blocker DPCPX was not effective. We conclude that Ap(n)As may be considered as new class of endogenous cardioinhibitory compounds. P2 purine receptors play the central role in mediation of Ap4A and Ap5A inhibitory effects on electrical and contractile activity in different regions of the rat heart.

Development of an on-line aqueous particle sensor to study the performance of inclusions in a 12 tonne, delta shaped full scale water model tundish

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty, Abhishek

Detection of particulate matter thinly dispersed in a fluid medium with the aid of the difference in electrical conductivity between the pure fluid and the particles has been practiced at least since the last 50 to 60 years. The first such instruments were employed to measure cell counts in samples of biological fluid. Following a detailed study of the physics and principles operating within the device, called the Electric Sensing Zone (ESZ) principle, a new device called the Liquid Metal Cleanliness Analyzer (LiMCA) was invented which could measure and count particles of inclusions in molten metal. It provided a fast and fairly accurate tool to make online measurement of the quality of steel during refining and casting operations. On similar lines of development as the LiMCA, a water analogue of the device called, the Aqueous Particle Sensor (APS) was developed for physical modeling experiments of metal refining operations involving water models. The APS can detect and measure simulated particles of inclusions added to the working fluid (water). The present study involves the designing, building and final application of a new and improved APS in water modeling experiments to study inclusion behavior in a tundish operation. The custom built instrument shows superior performance and applicability in experiments involving physical modeling of metal refining operations, compared to its commercial counterparts. In addition to higher accuracy and range of operating parameters, its capability to take real-time experimental data for extended periods of time helps to reduce the total number of experiments required to reach a result, and makes it suitable for analyzing temporal changes occurring in unsteady systems. With the modern impetus on the quality of the final product of metallurgical operations, the new APS can prove to be an indispensable research tool to study and put forward innovative design and parametric changes in industrially practised metallurgical operations.

Development of multiple regression analysis instruments to predict success in advanced placement chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, Kurt Collins

2001-10-01

This research asks the fundamental question: "What is the profile of the successful AP chemistry student?" Two populations of students are studied. The first population is comprised of students who attend or attended the South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics, a specialized high school for high ability students, and who have taken the Advanced Placement (AP) chemistry examination in the past five years. The second population is comprised of the 581 South Carolina public school students at 46 high schools who took the AP chemistry examination in 2000. The first part of the study is intended to be useful in recruitment and placement decisions for schools in the National Consortium for Specialized Secondary Schools of Mathematics, Science and Technology. The second part of the study is intended to facilitate AP chemistry recruitment in South Carolina public schools. The first part of the study was conducted by ex post facto searches of teacher and school records at the South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics. The second part of the study was conducted by obtaining school participation information from the SC Department of Education and soliciting data from the public schools. Data were collected from 440 of 581 (75.7%) of students in 35 of 46 (76.1%) of schools. Intercorrelational and Multiple Regression Analyses (MRA) have yielded different results for these two populations. For the specialized school population, the significant predictors for success in AP chemistry are PSAT Math, placement test, and PSAT Writing. For the population of SC students, significant predictors for success are PSAT Math, count of prior science courses, and PSAT Writing. Multiple Regressions have been successfully developed for the two populations studied. Recommendations for their application are made.

Ascorbyl palmitate/d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate monoester mixed micelles for prolonged circulation and targeted delivery of compound K for antilung cancer therapy in vitro and in vivo

PubMed Central

Zhang, Youwen; Tong, Deyin; Che, Daobiao; Pei, Bing; Xia, Xiaodong; Yuan, Gaofeng; Jin, Xin

2017-01-01

The roles of ginsenoside compound K (CK) in inhibiting tumor have been widely recognized in recent years. However, low water solubility and significant P-gp efflux have restricted its application. In this study, CK ascorbyl palmitate (AP)/d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate monoester (TPGS) mixed micelles were prepared as a delivery system to increase the absorption and targeted antitumor effect of CK. Consequently, the solubility of CK increased from 35.2±4.3 to 1,463.2±153.3 μg/mL. Furthermore, in an in vitro A549 cell model, CK AP/TPGS mixed micelles significantly inhibited cell growth, induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest, induced cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell migration compared to free CK, all indicating that the developed micellar delivery system could increase the antitumor effect of CK in vitro. Both in vitro cellular fluorescence uptake and in vivo near-infrared imaging studies indicated that AP/TPGS mixed micelles can promote cellular uptake and enhance tumor targeting. Moreover, studies in the A549 lung cancer xenograft mouse model showed that CK AP/TPGS mixed micelles are an efficient tumor-targeted drug delivery system with an effective antitumor effect. Western blot analysis further confirmed that the marked antitumor effect in vivo could likely be due to apoptosis promotion and P-gp efflux inhibition. Therefore, these findings suggest that the AP/TPGS mixed micellar delivery system could be an efficient delivery strategy for enhanced tumor targeting and antitumor effects. PMID:28144142

Conformational dynamics of abasic DNA upon interactions with AP endonuclease 1 revealed by stopped-flow fluorescence analysis.

PubMed

Kanazhevskaya, Lyubov Yu; Koval, Vladimir V; Vorobjev, Yury N; Fedorova, Olga S

2012-02-14

Apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites are abundant DNA lesions arising from exposure to UV light, ionizing radiation, alkylating agents, and oxygen radicals. In human cells, AP endonuclease 1 (APE1) recognizes this mutagenic lesion and initiates its repair via a specific incision of the phosphodiester backbone 5' to the AP site. We have investigated a detailed mechanism of APE1 functioning using fluorescently labeled DNA substrates. A fluorescent adenine analogue, 2-aminopurine, was introduced into DNA substrates adjacent to the abasic site to serve as an on-site reporter of conformational transitions in DNA during the catalytic cycle. Application of a pre-steady-state stopped-flow technique allows us to observe changes in the fluorescence intensity corresponding to different stages of the process in real time. We also detected an intrinsic Trp fluorescence of the enzyme during interactions with 2-aPu-containing substrates. Our data have revealed a conformational flexibility of the abasic DNA being processed by APE1. Quantitative analysis of fluorescent traces has yielded a minimal kinetic scheme and appropriate rate constants consisting of four steps. The results obtained from stopped-flow data have shown a substantial influence of the 2-aPu base location on completion of certain reaction steps. Using detailed molecular dynamics simulations of the DNA substrates, we have attributed structural distortions of AP-DNA to realization of specific binding, effective locking, and incision of the damaged DNA. The findings allowed us to accurately discern the step that corresponds to insertion of specific APE1 amino acid residues into the abasic DNA void in the course of stabilization of the precatalytic complex.

Switching control of sympathetic activity from forebrain to hindbrain in chronic dehydration

PubMed Central

Colombari, Débora S A; Colombari, Eduardo; Freiria-Oliveira, Andre H; Antunes, Vagner R; Yao, Song T; Hindmarch, Charles; Ferguson, Alastair V; Fry, Mark; Murphy, David; Paton, Julian F R

2011-01-01

Abstract We investigated the mechanisms responsible for increased blood pressure and sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) caused by 2–3 days dehydration (DH) both in vivo and in situ preparations. In euhydrated (EH) rats, systemic application of the AT1 receptor antagonist Losartan and subsequent pre-collicular transection (to remove the hypothalamus) significantly reduced thoracic (t)SNA. In contrast, in DH rats, Losartan, followed by pre-collicular and pontine transections, failed to reduce tSNA, whereas transection at the medulla–spinal cord junction massively reduced tSNA. In DH but not EH rats, selective inhibition of the commissural nucleus tractus solitarii (cNTS) significantly reduced tSNA. Comparable data were obtained in both in situ and in vivo (anaesthetized/conscious) rats and suggest that following chronic dehydration, the control of tSNA transfers from supra-brainstem structures (e.g. hypothalamus) to the medulla oblongata, particularly the cNTS. As microarray analysis revealed up-regulation of AP1 transcription factor JunD in the dehydrated cNTS, we tested the hypothesis that AP1 transcription factor activity is responsible for dehydration-induced functional plasticity. When AP1 activity was blocked in the cNTS using a viral vector expressing a dominant negative FosB, cNTS inactivation was ineffective. However, tSNA was decreased after pre-collicular transection, a response similar to that seen in EH rats. Thus, the dehydration-induced switch in control of tSNA from hypothalamus to cNTS seems to be mediated via activation of AP1 transcription factors in the cNTS. If AP1 activity is blocked in the cNTS during dehydration, sympathetic activity control reverts back to forebrain regions. This unique reciprocating neural structure-switching plasticity between brain centres emphasizes the multiple mechanisms available for the adaptive response to dehydration. PMID:21708906

Difference of acute dissociation and 1-day culture on the electrophysiological properties of rat dorsal root ganglion neurons.

PubMed

Song, Yuanlong; Zhang, Miaomiao; Tao, Xiaoqing; Xu, Zifen; Zheng, Yunjie; Zhu, Minjie; Zhang, Liangpin; Qiao, Jinhan; Gao, Linlin

2018-01-19

The dissociated dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons with or without culture were widely used for investigation of their electrophysiological properties. The culture procedures, however, may alter the properties of these neurons and the effects are not clear. In the present study, we recorded the action potentials (AP) and the voltage-gated Na + , K + , and Ca 2+ currents with patch clamp technique and measured the mRNA of Nav1.6-1.9 and Cav2.1-2.2 with real-time PCR technique from acutely dissociated and 1-day (1-d) cultured DRG neurons. The effects of the nerve growth factor (NGF) on the expression of Nav1.6-1.9 and Cav2.1-2.2 were evaluated. The neurons were classified as small (DRG-S), medium (DRG-M), and large (DRG-L), according to their size frequency distribution pattern. We found 1-d culture increased the AP size but reduced the excitability, and reduced the voltage-gated Na + and Ca 2+ currents and their corresponding mRNA expression in all types of neurons. The lack of NGF in the culture medium may contribute to the reduced Na + and Ca 2+ current, as the application of NGF recovered some of the reduced transcripts (Nav1.9, Cav2.1, and Cav2.2). 1-d culture showed neuron-type specific effects on some of the AP properties: it increased the maximum AP depolarizing rate (MDR) and hyperpolarized the resting membrane potential (RP) in DRG-M and DRG-L neurons, but slowed the maximum AP repolarizing rate (MRR) in DRG-S neurons. In conclusion, the 1-d cultured neurons had different properties with those of the acutely dissociated neurons, and lack of NGF may contribute to some of these differences.

Cross-Approximate Entropy parallel computation on GPUs for biomedical signal analysis. Application to MEG recordings.

PubMed

Martínez-Zarzuela, Mario; Gómez, Carlos; Díaz-Pernas, Francisco Javier; Fernández, Alberto; Hornero, Roberto

2013-10-01

Cross-Approximate Entropy (Cross-ApEn) is a useful measure to quantify the statistical dissimilarity of two time series. In spite of the advantage of Cross-ApEn over its one-dimensional counterpart (Approximate Entropy), only a few studies have applied it to biomedical signals, mainly due to its high computational cost. In this paper, we propose a fast GPU-based implementation of the Cross-ApEn that makes feasible its use over a large amount of multidimensional data. The scheme followed is fully scalable, thus maximizes the use of the GPU despite of the number of neural signals being processed. The approach consists in processing many trials or epochs simultaneously, with independence of its origin. In the case of MEG data, these trials can proceed from different input channels or subjects. The proposed implementation achieves an average speedup greater than 250× against a CPU parallel version running on a processor containing six cores. A dataset of 30 subjects containing 148 MEG channels (49 epochs of 1024 samples per channel) can be analyzed using our development in about 30min. The same processing takes 5 days on six cores and 15 days when running on a single core. The speedup is much larger if compared to a basic sequential Matlab(®) implementation, that would need 58 days per subject. To our knowledge, this is the first contribution of Cross-ApEn measure computation using GPUs. This study demonstrates that this hardware is, to the day, the best option for the signal processing of biomedical data with Cross-ApEn. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The influence of radiographic viewing perspective and demographics on the Critical Shoulder Angle

PubMed Central

Suter, Thomas; Popp, Ariane Gerber; Zhang, Yue; Zhang, Chong; Tashjian, Robert Z.; Henninger, Heath B.

2014-01-01

Background Accurate assessment of the critical shoulder angle (CSA) is important in clinical evaluation of degenerative rotator cuff tears. This study analyzed the influence of radiographic viewing perspective on the CSA, developed a classification system to identify malpositioned radiographs, and assessed the relationship between the CSA and demographic factors. Methods Glenoid height, width and retroversion were measured on 3D CT reconstructions of 68 cadaver scapulae. A digitally reconstructed radiograph was aligned perpendicular to the scapular plane, and retroversion was corrected to obtain a true antero-posterior (AP) view. In 10 scapulae, incremental anteversion/retroversion and flexion/extension views were generated. The CSA was measured and a clinically applicable classification system was developed to detect views with >2° change in CSA versus true AP. Results The average CSA was 33±4°. Intra- and inter-observer reliability was high (ICC≥0.81) but decreased with increasing viewing angle. Views beyond 5° anteversion, 8° retroversion, 15° flexion and 26° extension resulted in >2° deviation of the CSA compared to true AP. The classification system was capable of detecting aberrant viewing perspectives with sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 53%. Correlations between glenoid size and CSA were small (R≤0.3), and CSA did not vary by gender (p=0.426) or side (p=0.821). Conclusions The CSA was most susceptible to malposition in ante/retroversion. Deviations as little as 5° in anteversion resulted in a CSA >2° from true AP. A new classification system refines the ability to collect true AP radiographs of the scapula. The CSA was unaffected by demographic factors. PMID:25591458

Noninvasive Imaging of Early Venous Thrombosis by 19F Magnetic Resonance Imaging With Targeted Perfluorocarbon Nanoemulsions.

PubMed

Temme, Sebastian; Grapentin, Christoph; Quast, Christine; Jacoby, Christoph; Grandoch, Maria; Ding, Zhaoping; Owenier, Christoph; Mayenfels, Friederike; Fischer, Jens W; Schubert, Rolf; Schrader, Jürgen; Flögel, Ulrich

2015-04-21

Noninvasive detection of deep venous thrombi and subsequent pulmonary thromboembolism is a serious medical challenge, since both incidences are difficult to identify by conventional ultrasound techniques. Here, we report a novel technique for the sensitive and specific identification of developing thrombi using background-free 19F magnetic resonance imaging, together with α2-antiplasmin peptide (α2AP)-targeted perfluorocarbon nanoemulsions (PFCs) as contrast agent, which is cross-linked to fibrin by active factor XIII. Ligand functionality was ensured by mild coupling conditions using the sterol-based postinsertion technique. Developing thrombi with a diameter<0.8 mm could be visualized unequivocally in the murine inferior vena cava as hot spots in vivo by simultaneous acquisition of anatomic matching 1H and 19F magnetic resonance images at 9.4 T with both excellent signal-to-noise and contrast-to-noise ratios (71±22 and 17±5, respectively). Furthermore, α2AP-PFCs could be successfully applied for the diagnosis of experimentally induced pulmonary thromboembolism. In line with the reported half-life of factor XIIIa, application of α2AP-PFCs>60 minutes after thrombus induction no longer resulted in detectable 19F magnetic resonance imaging signals. Corresponding results were obtained in ex vivo generated human clots. Thus, α2AP-PFCs can visualize freshly developed thrombi that might still be susceptible to pharmacological intervention. Our results demonstrate that 1H/19F magnetic resonance imaging, together with α2AP-PFCs, is a sensitive, noninvasive technique for the diagnosis of acute deep venous thrombi and pulmonary thromboemboli. Furthermore, ligand coupling by the sterol-based postinsertion technique represents a unique platform for the specific targeting of PFCs for in vivo 19F magnetic resonance imaging. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

Permeability of ferret trachea in vitro to {sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA and [{sup 14}C]antipyrine

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

Hanafi, Z.; Webber, S.E.; Widdicombe, J.G.

1994-09-01

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) and vasoactive drugs were tested on permeability of ferret trachea in vitro by measuring fluxes of {sup 99m}{Tc}-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid ({sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA; hydrophilic) and [{sup 14}C]antipyrine ([{sup 14}C]AP; lipophilic) across the tracheal wall. Tracheae were bathed on both sides with Krebs-Henseleit buffer, with luminal buffer containing either {sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA or [{sup 14}C]AP. Luminal and abluminal radioactivities, potential difference, and tracheal smooth muscle tone were measured. Baseline {sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA and [{sup 14}C]AP permeability coefficients were - 4.7 {+-} 0.6 (SE) x 10{sup {minus}7} and -2.2 {+-} 0.1 x 10{sup {minus}5} cm/s, respectively. PAF (10 {mu}M) increased permeability tomore » {sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA to -35.3 {+-} 7.6 x 10{sup {minus}7} cm/s (P < 0.05), but permeability to [{sup 14}C]AP did not change, suggesting that paracellular but not transcellular transport was affected. Abluminal and luminal applications of methacholine (MCh, 20 {mu}M), phenylephrine (PE, 100 {mu}M), and albuterol (Alb, 100 {mu}M) caused no change in permeability to {sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA before or after exposure to luminal PAF, but abluminal histamine (Hist, 10 {mu}M) significantly increased permeability. Abluminal Hist decreased permeability to [{sup 14}C]AP before and after exposure to PAF. MCh, PE, and Hist increased smooth muscle tone; Alb and PAF had no effect. Thus, only PAF and Hist altered permeability to {sup 99m}{Tc}-DTPA, and MCh, PE, and Hist changed smooth muscle tone. Tracheal permeability changes were greater for the hydrophilic than for the lipophilic agent. 37 refs., 11 figs., 1 tab.« less

Scandium(III) complexes of monophosphorus acid DOTA analogues: a thermodynamic and radiolabelling study with (44)Sc from cyclotron and from a (44)Ti/(44)Sc generator.

PubMed

Kerdjoudj, R; Pniok, M; Alliot, C; Kubíček, V; Havlíčková, J; Rösch, F; Hermann, P; Huclier-Markai, S

2016-01-28

The complexation ability of DOTA analogs bearing one methylenephosphonic (DO3AP) or methylenephosphinic (DO3AP(PrA) and DO3AP(ABn)) acid pendant arm toward scandium was evaluated. Stability constants of their scandium(iii) complexes were determined by potentiometry combined with (45)Sc NMR spectroscopy. The stability constants of the monophosphinate analogues are somewhat lower than that of the Sc-DOTA complex. The phosphorus acid moiety interacts with trivalent scandium even in very acidic solutions forming out-of-cage complexes; the strong affinity of the phosphonate group to Sc(iii) precludes stability constant determination of the Sc-DO3AP complex. These results were compared with those obtained by the free-ion selective radiotracer extraction (FISRE) method which is suitable for trace concentrations. FISRE underestimated the stability constants but their relative order was preserved. Nonetheless, as this method is experimentally simple, it is suitable for a quick relative comparison of stability constant values under trace concentrations. Radiolabelling of the ligands with (44)Sc was performed using the radioisotope from two sources, a (44)Ti/(44)Sc generator and (44m)Sc/(44)Sc from a cyclotron. The best radiolabelling conditions for the ligands were pH = 4, 70 °C and 20 min which were, however, not superior to those of the parent DOTA. Nonetheless, in vitro behaviour of the Sc(iii) complexes in the presence of hydroxyapatite and rat serum showed sufficient stability of (44)Sc complexes of these ligands for in vivo applications. PET images and ex vivo biodistribution of the (44)Sc-DO3AP complex performed on healthy Wistar male rats showed no specific bone uptake and rapid clearance through urine.

Evaluation Physical Characteristics and Comparison Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammation Potentials of Dental Root Canal Sealers Containing Hinokitiol In Vitro

PubMed Central

Shih, Yin-Hua; Lin, Dan-Jae; Chang, Kuo-Wei; Hsia, Shih-Min; Ko, Shun-Yao; Lee, Shyh-Yuan; Hsue, Shui-Sang; Wang, Tong-Hong; Chen, Yi-Ling; Shieh, Tzong-Ming

2014-01-01

Hinokitiol displays potent antimicrobial activity. It has been used in toothpaste and oral-care gel to improve the oral lichen planus and reduce halitosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of 3 different dental root canal sealers with hinokitiol (sealers+H) and their physical and biological effects. AH Plus (epoxy amine resin-based, AH), Apexit Plus (calcium-hydroxide-based, AP), and Canals (zinc-oxide-eugenol-based, CA), were used in this study. The original AH and CA exhibited strong anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (anti-MRSA) activity, but AP did not. The setting time, working time, flowability, film thickness, and solubility of each sealer+0.2%H complied with ISO 6876:2001. CA+0.2%H exhibited high cytotoxicity, but the others sealers+0.2%H did not. Because hinokitiol combined with Zn2+ in CA creates a synergistic effect. The physical tests of AP+0.5%–1%H complied with ISO 6876:2001, improved antimicrobial activity, inhibited inflammation genes cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) mRNA in MG-63 cells and human gingival fibroblasts (HGF), and down-regulated lysyl oxidase (LOX) mRNA of HGF. In summary, AH and CA demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity, but AP did not. Application of hinokitiol increases AH anti-MRSA activity should less than 0.2% for keep well flowability. AP+0.5%–1% hinokitiol exhibited strong physical, antibacterial, and anti-inflammation potentials, and inhibited S. aureus abscess formation. Applying an appreciable proportion of hinokitiol to epoxy-amine-resin-based and calcium-hydroxide-based root canal sealers is warranted, but the enhanced cytotoxicity and synergistic effect must be considered. PMID:24915566

Automated monitoring of medical protocols: a secure and distributed architecture.

PubMed

Alsinet, T; Ansótegui, C; Béjar, R; Fernández, C; Manyà, F

2003-03-01

The control of the right application of medical protocols is a key issue in hospital environments. For the automated monitoring of medical protocols, we need a domain-independent language for their representation and a fully, or semi, autonomous system that understands the protocols and supervises their application. In this paper we describe a specification language and a multi-agent system architecture for monitoring medical protocols. We model medical services in hospital environments as specialized domain agents and interpret a medical protocol as a negotiation process between agents. A medical service can be involved in multiple medical protocols, and so specialized domain agents are independent of negotiation processes and autonomous system agents perform monitoring tasks. We present the detailed architecture of the system agents and of an important domain agent, the database broker agent, that is responsible of obtaining relevant information about the clinical history of patients. We also describe how we tackle the problems of privacy, integrity and authentication during the process of exchanging information between agents.

Effects of the ultra-high pressure on structure and α-glucosidase inhibition of polysaccharide from Astragalus.

PubMed

Zhu, Zhen-Yuan; Luo, You; Dong, Guo-Ling; Ren, Yuan-Yuan; Chen, Li-Jing; Guo, Ming-Zhu; Wang, Xiao-Ting; Yang, Xue-Ying; Zhang, Yongmin

2016-06-01

A novel homogeneous polysaccharide fraction (APS) was extracted from Astragalus by hot water and purified by Sephadex G-100 and G-75 column. Its molecular weight was 693kDa. APS and APS with ultra-high pressure treatment exhibited significant inhibitory abilities on a-glucosidase, inhibition rate from high to low in order was 400MPa-APS, 300MPa-APS, 500MPa-APS and APS. The inhibition ​percentage of 400MPa-APS (1.5mg/mL) was 49% (max.). This suggested that the inhibitory activity of APS on a-glucosidase was improved by ultra-high pressure treatment. FT-IR, SEM, CD spectra, atomic force microscope and Congo red test analysis of APS and 400MPa-APS showed ultra-high pressure treatment didn't change the preliminary structure but had an effect on its advanced structure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliable broadcast protocols

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Joseph, T. A.; Birman, Kenneth P.

1989-01-01

A number of broadcast protocols that are reliable subject to a variety of ordering and delivery guarantees are considered. Developing applications that are distributed over a number of sites and/or must tolerate the failures of some of them becomes a considerably simpler task when such protocols are available for communication. Without such protocols the kinds of distributed applications that can reasonably be built will have a very limited scope. As the trend towards distribution and decentralization continues, it will not be surprising if reliable broadcast protocols have the same role in distributed operating systems of the future that message passing mechanisms have in the operating systems of today. On the other hand, the problems of engineering such a system remain large. For example, deciding which protocol is the most appropriate to use in a certain situation or how to balance the latency-communication-storage costs is not an easy question.