Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers and Therapeutics in Dermatology: A Focus on Exosomes.

PubMed

McBride, Jeffrey D; Rodriguez-Menocal, Luis; Badiavas, Evangelos V

2017-08-01

Extracellular vesicles (exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies) are ubiquitous in human tissues, circulation, and body fluids. Of these vesicles, exosomes are of growing interest among investigators across multiple fields, including dermatology. The characteristics of exosomes, their associated cargo (nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids), and downstream functions are vastly different, depending on the cell origin. Here, we review concepts in extracellular vesicle biology, with a focus on exosomes, highlighting recent studies in the field of dermatology. Furthermore, we highlight emerging technical issues associated with isolating and measuring exosomes. Extracellular vesicles, including exosomes, have immediate potential for serving as biomarkers and therapeutics in dermatology over the next decade. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High Efficiency Thin Film CdTe and a-Si Based Solar Cells: Final Technical Report, 4 March 1998--15 October 2001

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

Compaan, A. D.; Deng, X.; Bohn, R. G.

2003-10-01

This is the final report covering about 42 months of this subcontract for research on high-efficiency CdTe-based thin-film solar cells and on high-efficiency a-Si-based thin-film solar cells. Phases I and II have been extensively covered in two Annual Reports. For this Final Report, highlights of the first two Phases will be provided and then detail will be given on the last year and a half of Phase III. The effort on CdTe-based materials is led by Prof. Compaan and emphasizes the use of sputter deposition of the semiconductor layers in the fabrication of CdS/CdTe cells. The effort on high-efficiency a-Simore » materials is led by Prof. Deng and emphasizes plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition for cell fabrication with major efforts on triple-junction devices.« less

Plasma RNA integrity analysis: methodology and validation.

PubMed

Wong, Blenda C K; Lo, Y M Dennis

2006-09-01

The detection of cell-free RNA in plasma and serum of human subjects has found increasing applications in the field of medical diagnostics. However, many questions regarding the biology of circulating RNA remain to be addressed. One issue concerns the molecular nature of these circulating RNA species. We have recently developed a simple and quantitative method to investigate the integrity of plasma RNA. Our results have suggested that cell-free RNA in plasma is generally present as fragmented molecules instead of intact transcripts, with a predominance of 5' fragments. In this article, we summarize the basic principles in the experimental design for plasma RNA integrity analysis and highlight some of the important technical considerations for this type of investigation.

Ground Water Technical Considerations during the Five-Year Review Process

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This issue paper has been developed to highlight technical considerations as well as technical resources available to Remedial Project Managers (RPMs) in conducting Five-Year Reviews (FYRs) at CERCLA1 sites with contaminated groundwater.

On the impact of water activity on reversal tolerant fuel cell anode performance and durability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Bo Ki; Mandal, Pratiti; Oh, Jong-Gil; Litster, Shawn

2016-10-01

Durability of polymer electrolyte fuel cells in automotive applications can be severely affected by hydrogen starvation arising due to transients during the drive-cycle. It causes individual cell voltage reversal, yielding water electrolysis and carbon corrosion reactions at the anode, ultimately leading to catastrophic cell failure. A popular material-based mitigation strategy is to employ a reversal tolerant anode (RTA) that includes oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalyst (e.g., IrO2) to promote water electrolysis over carbon corrosion. Here we report that RTA performance surprisingly drops under not only water-deficient but also water-excess conditions. This presents a significant technical challenge since the most common triggers for cell reversal involve excess liquid water. Our findings from detailed electrochemical diagnostics and nano-scale X-ray computed tomography provide insight into how automotive fuel cells can overcome critical vulnerabilities using material-based solutions. Our work also highlights the need for improved materials, electrode designs, and operation strategies for robust RTAs.

77 FR 50488 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-21

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee AGENCY: Department of...). SUMMARY: This notice announces an open meeting (Webinar) of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory... Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under Section 807 of the Energy Policy Act of...

TT2014 meeting report on the 12th Transgenic Technology meeting in Edinburgh: new era of transgenic technologies with programmable nucleases in the foreground.

PubMed

Beck, Inken M; Sedlacek, Radislav

2015-02-01

The 12th Transgenic Technology meeting was held in Edinburgh on 6th-8th October 2014 and interest to participate in the meeting overcame all expectations. The TT2014 was the largest meeting ever with more than 540 scientists, technicians, and students from all over the world. The meeting had an excellent scientific program that brought information on the latest ground-breaking technologies for gene targeting and genome editing using programmable nucleases into the foreground. These presentations were well balanced with several highlights over viewing topics in embryonic stem cell research, embryogenesis, disease models, and animals in agriculture. Ample space was reserved also for short talks presenting technical development and for highlighting posters contributions. A highlight of the meeting was the award of the 10th International Society of Transgenic Technologies Prize to Janet Rossant for her outstanding contributions in the field of mouse embryogenesis.

78 FR 60866 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-02

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Office of...: This notice announces an open meeting of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC... Committee: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under section 807...

78 FR 6086 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-29

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Office of...). SUMMARY: This notice announces an open meeting (Webinar) of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory... Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under Section 807 of the Energy Policy Act of...

In vitro studies of actin filament and network dynamics

PubMed Central

Mullins, R Dyche; Hansen, Scott D

2013-01-01

Now that many genomes have been sequenced, a central concern of cell biology is to understand how the proteins they encode work together to create living matter. In vitro studies form an essential part of this program because understanding cellular functions of biological molecules often requires isolating them and reconstituting their activities. In particular, many elements of the actin cytoskeleton were first discovered by biochemical methods and their cellular functions deduced from in vitro experiments. We highlight recent advances that have come from in vitro studies, beginning with studies of actin filaments, and ending with multi-component reconstitutions of complex actin-based processes, including force-generation and cell spreading. We describe both scientific results and the technical innovations that made them possible. PMID:23267766

Protein glycosylation in diverse cell systems: implications for modification and analysis of recombinant proteins.

PubMed

Brooks, Susan A

2006-06-01

A major challenge for the biotechnology industry is to engineer the glycosylation pathways of expression systems to synthesize recombinant proteins with human glycosylation. Inappropriate glycosylation can result in reduced activity, limited half-life in circulation and unwanted immunogenicity. In this review, the complexities of glycosylation in human cells are explained and compared with glycosylation in bacteria, yeasts, fungi, insects, plants and nonhuman mammalian species. Key advances in the engineering of the glycosylation of expression systems are highlighted. Advances in the challenging and technically complex field of glycan analysis are also described. The emergence of a new generation of expression systems with sophisticated engineering for humanized glycosylation of glycoproteins appears to be on the horizon.

Providing Services to Virtual Patrons.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hulshof, Robert

1999-01-01

Discusses the types of services libraries need to support patrons who access the library via the Internet or e-mail. Highlights include issues in technical support; establishing policies and procedures; tools for technical support, including hardware and software; impacts of technical support on staff; and future possibilities. (LRW)

SOLID STATE ENERGY CONVERSION ALLIANCE DELPHI SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL

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

Steven Shaffer; Sean Kelly; Subhasish Mukerjee

2003-12-08

The objective of Phase I under this project is to develop a 5 kW Solid Oxide Fuel Cell power system for a range of fuels and applications. During Phase I, the following will be accomplished: Develop and demonstrate technology transfer efforts on a 5 kW stationary distributed power generation system that incorporates steam reforming of natural gas with the option of piped-in water (Demonstration System A). Initiate development of a 5 kW system for later mass-market automotive auxiliary power unit application, which will incorporate Catalytic Partial Oxidation (CPO) reforming of gasoline, with anode exhaust gas injected into an ultra-lean burnmore » internal combustion engine. This technical progress report covers work performed by Delphi from January 1, 2003 to June 30, 2003, under Department of Energy Cooperative Agreement DE-FC-02NT41246. This report highlights technical results of the work performed under the following tasks: Task 1 System Design and Integration; Task 2 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack Developments; Task 3 Reformer Developments; Task 4 Development of Balance of Plant (BOP) Components; Task 5 Manufacturing Development (Privately Funded); Task 6 System Fabrication; Task 7 System Testing; Task 8 Program Management; and Task 9 Stack Testing with Coal-Based Reformate.« less

77 FR 18243 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC); Notice of Open Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-27

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC); Notice of Open... open meeting. SUMMARY: This notice announces a meeting of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory... Committee: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under Section 807...

Loads and Aeroelasticity Division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1984 and plans for FY 1985

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardner, J. E.; Dixon, S. C.

1985-01-01

The loads and aeroelasticity divisions research accomplishments are presented. The work under each branch or technical area, described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to 5 year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

Studying cell biology in the skin.

PubMed

Morrow, Angel; Lechler, Terry

2015-11-15

Advances in cell biology have often been driven by studies in diverse organisms and cell types. Although there are technical reasons for why different cell types are used, there are also important physiological reasons. For example, ultrastructural studies of vesicle transport were aided by the use of professional secretory cell types. The use of tissues/primary cells has the advantage not only of using cells that are adapted to the use of certain cell biological machinery, but also of highlighting the physiological roles of this machinery. Here we discuss advantages of the skin as a model system. We discuss both advances in cell biology that used the skin as a driving force and future prospects for use of the skin to understand basic cell biology. A unique combination of characteristics and tools makes the skin a useful in vivo model system for many cell biologists. © 2015 Morrow and Lechler. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). Two months after publication it is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

Hematopoietic stem cell fate through metabolic control.

PubMed

Ito, Kyoko; Ito, Keisuke

2018-05-25

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) maintain a quiescent state in the bone marrow to preserve their self-renewal capacity, but also undergo cell divisions as required. Organelles such as the mitochondria sustain cumulative damage during these cell divisions, and this damage may eventually compromise the cells' self-renewal capacity. HSC divisions result in either self-renewal or differentiation, with the balance between the two directly impacting hematopoietic homeostasis; but the heterogeneity of available HSC-enriched fractions, together with the technical challenges of observing HSC behavior, has long hindered the analysis of individual HSCs, and prevented the elucidation of this process. However, recent advances in genetic models, metabolomics analyses and single-cell approaches have revealed the contributions made to HSC self-renewal by metabolic cues, mitochondrial biogenesis, and autophagy/mitophagy, which have highlighted mitochondrial quality as a key control factor in the equilibrium of HSCs. A deeper understanding of precisely how specific modes of metabolism control HSC fate at the single cell level is therefore not only of great biological interest, but will have clear clinical implications for the development of therapies for hematological disease. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

An Overview of Power, Energy Storage, and Conversion Efforts for 2014 SBIR Phases I and II

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Hung D.; Steele, Gynelle C.

2016-01-01

Technological innovation is the overall focus of NASA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The program invests in the development of innovative concepts and technologies to help NASA's mission directorates address critical research and development needs for agency projects. NASA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focuses on technological innovation by investing in development of innovative concepts and technologies to help NASA mission directorates address critical research needs for Agency programs. This report highlights 15 of the innovative SBIR 2014 Phase I and II projects that focus on one of NASA Glenn Research Center's six core competencies-Power, Energy Storage and Conversion. The technologies cover a wide spectrum of applications such as high-radiation-tolerant ceramic voltage isolators, development of hermetic sealing glasses for solid oxide fuel cells, rechargeable lithium metal cells, high-efficiency direct methane solid oxide fuel cell systems, Li metal protection for high-energy space batteries, isolated bidirectional direct current converters for distributed battery energy applications, and high-efficiency rad-hard ultrathin Si photovoltaic cell technology for space. Each article describes an innovation and technical objective and highlights NASA commercial and industrial applications. This report provides an opportunity for NASA engineers, researchers, and program managers to learn how NASA SBIR technologies could help their programs and projects, and lead to collaborations and partnerships between the small SBIR companies and NASA that would benefit both.

Next generation mothers: Maternal control of germline development in zebrafish.

PubMed

Dosch, Roland

2015-01-01

In many animals, factors deposited by the mother into the egg control the earliest events in development of the zygote. These maternal RNAs and proteins play critical roles in oocyte development and the earliest steps of embryogenesis such as fertilization, cell division and embryonic patterning. Here, this article summarizes recent discoveries made on the maternal control of germline specification in zebrafish. Moreover, this review will discuss the major gaps remaining in our understanding of this process and highlight recent technical innovations in zebrafish, which allow tackling some of these questions in the near future.

Annual Report Fiscal Year 1980--Office of Technical Assistance and Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bureau of Indian Affairs, Brigham City, UT.

The technical assistance and training services which the Office of Technical Assistance and Training (OTAT) offered for Alaskan Natives, Indian Tribes, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs personnel during 1980 are highlighted in this report. The Real Property Management and the Forestry training programs, developed in cooperation with the Office of…

Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Peace Education: Solomon Islands

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maebuta, Jack

2011-01-01

Technical and vocational education and training programs as a form of peace education are examined in this paper. It explores the notion of educating for a culture of peace through refocusing technical and vocational education and training programs on sustainable community development in the Solomon Islands. It further highlights the policy and…

Connections for the Future through Vocational Technical 2 + 2 Programs. Annual Report, April 1989.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Portland Area Vocational-Technical Education Consortium, OR.

The Portland Area Vocational Technical Education Consortium (PAVTEC) was created to enhance and strengthen the working partnerships between Portland Community College and local high schools in order to provide high quality, articulated vocational technical programs. PAVTEC's third annual report highlights activities which have added to the…

76 FR 4645 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-26

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Department...: This notice announces a meeting of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC). HTAC... Presentations HTAC Subcommittee Overviews HTAC Annual Report Development Stationary Fuel Cell Industry Analysis...

Regional Technical Exchange Centers Connect Fuel Cell Technology Suppliers,

Science.gov Websites

Manufacturers | News | NREL Regional Technical Exchange Centers Connect Fuel Cell Technology Suppliers, Manufacturers Regional Technical Exchange Centers Connect Fuel Cell Technology Suppliers fuel cell and hydrogen components and systems and improve U.S. manufacturing competitiveness. The

An Overview of 2014 SBIR Phase I and Phase II Materials Structures for Extreme Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Hung D.; Steele, Gynelle C.; Morris, Jessica R.

2015-01-01

NASA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focuses on technological innovation by investing in development of innovative concepts and technologies to help NASA mission directorates address critical research needs for Agency programs. This report highlights nine of the innovative SBIR 2014 Phase I and Phase II projects that emphasize one of NASA Glenn Research Center's six core competencies-Materials and Structures for Extreme Environments. The technologies cover a wide spectrum of applications such as high temperature environmental barrier coating systems, deployable space structures, solid oxide fuel cells, and self-lubricating hard coatings for extreme temperatures. Each featured technology describes an innovation, technical objective, and highlights NASA commercial and industrial applications. This report provides an opportunity for NASA engineers, researchers, and program managers to learn how NASA SBIR technologies could help their programs and projects, and lead to collaborations and partnerships between the small SBIR companies and NASA that would benefit both.

76 FR 60478 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-29

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Department...: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under section 807 of... Gas Supply on Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Market. Industry Presentations. Status Cost and Performance of...

SpaceWire Tiger Team Findings and Suggestions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ishac, Joseph A.

2011-01-01

This technical report intends to highlight the key findings and recommendations of the SpaceWire Tiger Team for the CoNNeCT project. It covers findings which are technical in nature, covering design concepts and approaches.

Finance Program, Technical Assistance Brief 1

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1993-01-01

This four page pamphlet highlights the work of the Federal Transit : Administration's Office of Technical Assistance and Safety. Articles in this : issue are: Transit's Finance Challenge, which discusses the three main aspects : of the Office's Finan...

Heavy ion induced DNA-DSB in yeast and mammalian cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loebrich, M.; Ikpeme, S.; Kiefer, J.

1994-01-01

Molecular changes at the DNA are assumed to be the main cause for radiation effects in a number of organisms. During the course of the last decades techniques have been developed for measuring DNA double-strand breaks (dsb), generally assumed to be the most critical DNA lesions. The outcome of all those different approaches portrays a collection of data useful for a theoretical description of radiation action mechanisms. However, in the case of heavy ion induced DNA dsb the picture is not quite clear yet and further projects and strategies have to be developed. The biological systems studied in our group are yeast and mammalian cells. While in the case of yeast cells technical and methodical reasons highlight these organisms mammalian cells reach greater importance when dsb repair studies are performed. In both types of organisms the technique of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) is applied, although with different modifications and evaluation procedures mainly due to the different genome sizes.

Structural dynamics division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1993 and plans for FY 1994

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wynne, Eleanor C.

1994-01-01

The purpose is to present the Structural Dynamics Division's research accomplishments for F.Y. 1993 and research plans for F.Y. 1994. The work under each Branch (technical area) is described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to 5-year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

Structural dynamics division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1989 and plans for FY 1990

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Jacqueline G.; Gardner, James E.

1990-01-01

The purpose is to present the Structural Dynamics Division's research accomplishments for FY 1989 and research plans for FY 1990. The work under each Branch (technical area) is described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to five year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

Loads and aeroelasticity division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1985 and plans for FY 1986

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardner, J. E.; Dixon, S. C.

1986-01-01

The Langley Research Center Loads and Aeroelasticity Division's research accomplishments for FY85 and research plans for FY86 are presented. The rk under each branch (technical area) will be described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to five year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

Structural dynamics division research and technology accomplishments for F.Y. 1991 and plans for F.Y. 1992

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wynne, Eleanor C.

1992-01-01

The work under each technical area is described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to 5 year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest. The structural dynamics division consist of the following branches: configuration aeroelasticity; unsteady aerodynamics; aeroservoelasticity; landing and impact dynamics; and spacecraft dynamics.

Loads and Aeroelasticity Division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1986 and plans for FY 1987

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardner, James E.; Dixon, S. C.

1987-01-01

The Loads and Aeroelasticity Division's research accomplishments for FY 86 and research plans for FY 87 are presented. The work under each Branch (technical area) is described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to five year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

78 FR 18578 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-27

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Hydrogen and Fuel Cell... and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC). The Federal Advisory Committee Act, Public Law 92... Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under section 807 of the Energy Policy Act of...

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS (SUBSURFACE PROTECTION AND REMEDIATION DIVISION)

EPA Science Inventory

The Subsurface Protection and Remediation Division (SPRD) produces monthly highlights describing research accomplishments, involvement in current technical assistance activities, and staff participation in scientific meetings and conferences. Announcements of the release and avai...

Cellular Models: HD Patient-Derived Pluripotent Stem Cells.

PubMed

Geater, Charlene; Hernandez, Sarah; Thompson, Leslie; Mattis, Virginia B

2018-01-01

Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder caused by expanded polyglutamine (polyQ)-encoding repeats in the Huntingtin (HTT) gene. Traditionally, HD cellular models consisted of either patient cells not affected by disease or rodent neurons expressing expanded polyQ repeats in HTT. As these models can be limited in their disease manifestation or proper genetic context, respectively, human HD pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are currently under investigation as a way to model disease in patient-derived neurons and other neural cell types. This chapter reviews embryonic stem cell (ESC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models of disease, including published differentiation paradigms for neurons and their associated phenotypes, as well as current challenges to the field such as validation of the PSCs and PSC-derived cells. Highlighted are potential future technical advances to HD PSC modeling, including transdifferentiation, complex in vitro multiorgan/system reconstruction, and personalized medicine. Using a human HD patient model of the central nervous system, hopefully one day researchers can tease out the consequences of mutant HTT (mHTT) expression on specific cell types within the brain in order to identify and test novel therapies for disease.

National Profiles in Technical and Vocational Education in Asia and the Pacific: Philippines.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Bangkok (Thailand). Principal Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.

One of a series of studies on the development of technical and vocational education in the member states of UNESCO, this report profiles the educational system in the Philippines. The two parts of the document provide an overview and milestones in technical and vocational education (through charts and tables). Some of the highlights are as…

Webinar May 17: Fuel Cell Electric Bus Progress Toward Meeting Technical

Science.gov Websites

Targets | News | NREL Webinar May 17: Fuel Cell Electric Bus Progress toward Meeting Technical Targets Webinar May 17: Fuel Cell Electric Bus Progress toward Meeting Technical Targets May 14, 2018 The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Fuel Cell Technologies Office will present a live webinar titled

Biomaterials in the treatment of anal fistula: hope or hype?

PubMed

Scoglio, Daniele; Walker, Avery S; Fichera, Alessandro

2014-12-01

Anal fistula (AF) presents a chronic problem for patients and colorectal surgeons alike. Surgical treatment may result in impairment of continence and long-term risk of recurrence. Treatment options for AFs vary according to their location and complexity. The ideal approach should result in low recurrence rates and minimal impact on continence. New technical approaches involving biologically derived products such as biological mesh, fibrin glue, fistula plug, and stem cells have been applied in the treatment of AF to improve outcomes and decrease recurrence rates and the risk of fecal incontinence. In this review, we will highlight the current evidence and describe our personal experience with these novel approaches.

77 FR 2714 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-19

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. ACTION: Notice of open meeting, Webinar. SUMMARY: This notice announces an open meeting of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee...

75 FR 59705 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-28

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. ACTION: Notice of open meeting. SUMMARY: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under section 807 of...

75 FR 2860 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-19

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. ACTION: Notice of Open Meeting. SUMMARY: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee...

75 FR 26743 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-12

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. ACTION: Notice of Open Meeting. SUMMARY: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under section 807 of...

Advances in cell-free protein array methods.

PubMed

Yu, Xiaobo; Petritis, Brianne; Duan, Hu; Xu, Danke; LaBaer, Joshua

2018-01-01

Cell-free protein microarrays represent a special form of protein microarray which display proteins made fresh at the time of the experiment, avoiding storage and denaturation. They have been used increasingly in basic and translational research over the past decade to study protein-protein interactions, the pathogen-host relationship, post-translational modifications, and antibody biomarkers of different human diseases. Their role in the first blood-based diagnostic test for early stage breast cancer highlights their value in managing human health. Cell-free protein microarrays will continue to evolve to become widespread tools for research and clinical management. Areas covered: We review the advantages and disadvantages of different cell-free protein arrays, with an emphasis on the methods that have been studied in the last five years. We also discuss the applications of each microarray method. Expert commentary: Given the growing roles and impact of cell-free protein microarrays in research and medicine, we discuss: 1) the current technical and practical limitations of cell-free protein microarrays; 2) the biomarker discovery and verification pipeline using protein microarrays; and 3) how cell-free protein microarrays will advance over the next five years, both in their technology and applications.

Structural dynamics division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1992 and plans for FY 1993

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wynne, Eleanor C.

1993-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to present the Structural Dynamics Division's research accomplishments for F.Y. 1992 and research plans for F.Y. 1993. The work under each Branch (technical area) is described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to 5-year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

Loads and aeroelasticity division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1987 and plans for FY 1988

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dixon, S. C.; Gardner, James E.

1988-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to present the Loads and Aeroelasticity Division's research accomplishments for FY87 and research plans for FY88. The work under each Branch (technical area) is described in terms of highlights of accomplishments during the past year and highlights of plans for the current year as they relate to five year plans for each technical area. This information will be useful in program coordination with other government organizations and industry in areas of mutual interest.

Single molecule tools for enzymology, structural biology, systems biology and nanotechnology: an update

PubMed Central

Widom, Julia R.; Dhakal, Soma; Heinicke, Laurie A.; Walter, Nils G.

2015-01-01

Toxicology is the highly interdisciplinary field studying the adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms. It requires sensitive tools to detect such effects. After their initial implementation during the 1990s, single-molecule fluorescence detection tools were quickly recognized for their potential to contribute greatly to many different areas of scientific inquiry. In the intervening time, technical advances in the field have generated ever-improving spatial and temporal resolution, and have enabled the application of single-molecule fluorescence to increasingly complex systems, such as live cells. In this review, we give an overview of the optical components necessary to implement the most common versions of single-molecule fluorescence detection. We then discuss current applications to enzymology and structural studies, systems biology, and nanotechnology, presenting the technical considerations that are unique to each area of study, along with noteworthy recent results. We also highlight future directions that have the potential to revolutionize these areas of study by further exploiting the capabilities of single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. PMID:25212907

Konnichi Wa, Nihon (Hello, Japan!): Best Databases for Business, Technology and News.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoetker, Glenn

1994-01-01

Describes online information sources for Japanese business, scientific, and technical developments. Highlights include English language materials versus the need for translation from Japanese; government research; scientific and technical information; patent information; corporate financial information; business information from newswires and…

Using Model-Based System Engineering to Provide Artifacts for NASA Project Life-Cycle and Technical Reviews Presentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrott, Edith L.; Weiland, Karen J.

2017-01-01

This is the presentation for the AIAA Space conference in September 2017. It highlights key information from Using Model-Based Systems Engineering to Provide Artifacts for NASA Project Life-cycle and Technical Reviews paper.

Cell phones: modern man's nemesis?

PubMed

Makker, Kartikeya; Varghese, Alex; Desai, Nisarg R; Mouradi, Rand; Agarwal, Ashok

2009-01-01

Over the past decade, the use of mobile phones has increased significantly. However, with every technological development comes some element of health concern, and cell phones are no exception. Recently, various studies have highlighted the negative effects of cell phone exposure on human health, and concerns about possible hazards related to cell phone exposure have been growing. This is a comprehensive, up-to-the-minute overview of the effects of cell phone exposure on human health. The types of cell phones and cell phone technologies currently used in the world are discussed in an attempt to improve the understanding of the technical aspects, including the effect of cell phone exposure on the cardiovascular system, sleep and cognitive function, as well as localized and general adverse effects, genotoxicity potential, neurohormonal secretion and tumour induction. The proposed mechanisms by which cell phones adversely affect various aspects of human health, and male fertility in particular, are explained, and the emerging molecular techniques and approaches for elucidating the effects of mobile phone radiation on cellular physiology using high-throughput screening techniques, such as metabolomics and microarrays, are discussed. A novel study is described, which is looking at changes in semen parameters, oxidative stress markers and sperm DNA damage in semen samples exposed in vitro to cell phone radiation.

SOLID STATE ENERGY CONVERSION ALLIANCE DELPHI SOFC

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

Steven Shaffer; Sean Kelly; Subhasish Mukerjee

2003-06-09

The objective of Phase I under this project is to develop a 5 kW Solid Oxide Fuel Cell power system for a range of fuels and applications. During Phase I, the following will be accomplished: Develop and demonstrate technology transfer efforts on a 5 kW stationary distributed power generation system that incorporates steam reforming of natural gas with piped-in water (Demonstration System A); and Initiate development of a 5 kW system for later mass-market automotive auxiliary power unit application, which will incorporate Catalytic Partial Oxidation (CPO) reforming of gasoline, with anode exhaust gas injected into an ultra-lean burn internal combustionmore » engine. This technical progress report covers work performed by Delphi from July through December 2002 under Department of Energy Cooperative Agreement DE-FC-02NT41246 for the 5 kW mass-market automotive (gasoline) auxiliary power unit. This report highlights technical results of the work performed under the following tasks for the automotive 5 kW system: Task 1--System Design and Integration; Task 2--Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack Developments; Task 3--Reformer Developments; Task 4--Development of Balance of Plant (BOP) Components; Task 5--Manufacturing Development (Privately Funded); Task 6--System Fabrication; and Task 7--System Testing.« less

Quality Work, Quality Control in Technical Services.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horny, Karen L.

1985-01-01

Quality in library technical services is explored in light of changes produced by automation. Highlights include a definition of quality; new opportunities and shifting priorities; cataloging (fullness of records, heading consistency, accountability, local standards, automated checking); need for new skills (management, staff); and boons of…

Yeast flocculation: New story in fuel ethanol production.

PubMed

Zhao, X Q; Bai, F W

2009-01-01

Yeast flocculation has been used in the brewing industry to facilitate biomass recovery for a long time, and thus its mechanism of yeast flocculation has been intensively studied. However, the application of flocculating yeast in ethanol production garnered attention mainly in the 1980s and 1990s. In this article, updated research progress in the molecular mechanism of yeast flocculation and the impact of environmental conditions on yeast flocculation are reviewed. Construction of flocculating yeast strains by genetic approach and utilization of yeast flocculation for ethanol production from various feedstocks were presented. The concept of self-immobilized yeast cells through their flocculation is revisited through a case study of continuous ethanol fermentation with the flocculating yeast SPSC01, and their technical and economic advantages are highlighted by comparing with yeast cells immobilized with supporting materials and regular free yeast cells as well. Taking the flocculating yeast SPSC01 as an example, the ethanol tolerance of the flocculating yeast was also discussed.

Role of liver progenitors in liver regeneration

PubMed Central

Best, Jan; Manka, Paul; Syn, Wing-Kin; Dollé, Laurent; van Grunsven, Leo A.

2015-01-01

During massive liver injury and hepatocyte loss, the intrinsic regenerative capacity of the liver by replication of resident hepatocytes is overwhelmed. Treatment of this condition depends on the cause of liver injury, though in many cases liver transplantation (LT) remains the only curative option. LT for end stage chronic and acute liver diseases is hampered by shortage of donor organs and requires immunosuppression. Hepatocyte transplantation is limited by yet unresolved technical difficulties. Since currently no treatment is available to facilitate liver regeneration directly, therapies involving the use of resident liver stem or progenitor cells (LPCs) or non-liver stem cells are coming to fore. LPCs are quiescent in the healthy liver, but may be activated under conditions where the regenerative capacity of mature hepatocytes is severely impaired. Non-liver stem cells include embryonic stem cells (ES cells) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In the first section, we aim to provide an overview of the role of putative cytokines, growth factors, mitogens and hormones in regulating LPC response and briefly discuss the prognostic value of the LPC response in clinical practice. In the latter section, we will highlight the role of other (non-liver) stem cells in transplantation and discuss advantages and disadvantages of ES cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), as well as MSCs. PMID:25713804

Elaborating the role of natural products-induced autophagy in cancer treatment: achievements and artifacts in the state of the art.

PubMed

Wang, Ning; Feng, Yibin

2015-01-01

Autophagy is a homeostatic process that is highly conserved across different types of mammalian cells. Autophagy is able to relieve tumor cell from nutrient and oxidative stress during the rapid expansion of cancer. Excessive and sustained autophagy may lead to cell death and tumor shrinkage. It was shown in literature that many anticancer natural compounds and extracts could initiate autophagy in tumor cells. As summarized in this review, the tumor suppressive action of natural products-induced autophagy may lead to cell senescence, provoke apoptosis-independent cell death, and complement apoptotic cell death by robust or target-specific mechanisms. In some cases, natural products-induced autophagy could protect tumor cells from apoptotic death. Technical variations in detecting autophagy affect data quality, and study focus should be made on elaborating the role of autophagy in deciding cell fate. In vivo study monitoring of autophagy in cancer treatment is expected to be the future direction. The clinical-relevant action of autophagy-inducing natural products should be highlighted in future study. As natural products are an important resource in discovery of lead compound of anticancer drug, study on the role of autophagy in tumor suppressive effect of natural products continues to be necessary and emerging.

Role of liver progenitors in liver regeneration.

PubMed

Best, Jan; Manka, Paul; Syn, Wing-Kin; Dollé, Laurent; van Grunsven, Leo A; Canbay, Ali

2015-02-01

During massive liver injury and hepatocyte loss, the intrinsic regenerative capacity of the liver by replication of resident hepatocytes is overwhelmed. Treatment of this condition depends on the cause of liver injury, though in many cases liver transplantation (LT) remains the only curative option. LT for end stage chronic and acute liver diseases is hampered by shortage of donor organs and requires immunosuppression. Hepatocyte transplantation is limited by yet unresolved technical difficulties. Since currently no treatment is available to facilitate liver regeneration directly, therapies involving the use of resident liver stem or progenitor cells (LPCs) or non-liver stem cells are coming to fore. LPCs are quiescent in the healthy liver, but may be activated under conditions where the regenerative capacity of mature hepatocytes is severely impaired. Non-liver stem cells include embryonic stem cells (ES cells) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In the first section, we aim to provide an overview of the role of putative cytokines, growth factors, mitogens and hormones in regulating LPC response and briefly discuss the prognostic value of the LPC response in clinical practice. In the latter section, we will highlight the role of other (non-liver) stem cells in transplantation and discuss advantages and disadvantages of ES cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), as well as MSCs.

Up to the Challenge: The Role of Career and Technical Education and 21st Century Skills in College and Career Readiness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Partnership for 21st Century Skills, 2010

2010-01-01

This report highlights the demand for skills in the global economy and the ways in which educators can meet this demand by drawing on both career and technical education and the Partnership for 21st Century Skills' Framework for 21st Century Learning. Twenty-first century skills and career and technical education are essential in every state,…

Engineering Technical Support Center Annual Report Fiscal Year 2014; Technical Support and Innovative Research for Contaminated Sites

EPA Science Inventory

This report highlights significant projects that the ETSC has supported throughout fiscal year 2014. Projects have addressed an array of environmental scenarios, including but not limited to remote mining contamination, expansive landfill waste, sediment remediation by capping, ...

HIGHLIGHTS FROM TECHNICAL MANUAL ON HOOD SYSTEM CAPTURE OF PROCESS FUGITIVE PARTICULATE EMISSIONS

EPA Science Inventory

The paper discusses a technical manual whose emphasis is on the design and evaluation of actual hood systems used to control various fugitive particulate emission sources. Engineering analyses of the most important hood types are presented to provide a conceptual understanding of...

Human induced pluripotent stem cells and their use in drug discovery for toxicity testing.

PubMed

Scott, Clay W; Peters, Matthew F; Dragan, Yvonne P

2013-05-10

Predicting human safety risks of novel xenobiotics remains a major challenge, partly due to the limited availability of human cells to evaluate tissue-specific toxicity. Recent progress in the production of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) may fill this gap. hiPSCs can be continuously expanded in culture in an undifferentiated state and then differentiated to form most cell types. Thus, it is becoming technically feasible to generate large quantities of human cell types and, in combination with relatively new detection methods, to develop higher-throughput in vitro assays that quantify tissue-specific biological properties. Indeed, the first wave of large scale hiSC-differentiated cell types including patient-derived hiPSCS are now commercially available. However, significant improvements in hiPSC production and differentiation processes are required before cell-based toxicity assays that accurately reflect mature tissue phenotypes can be delivered and implemented in a cost-effective manner. In this review, we discuss the promising alignment of hiPSCs and recently emerging technologies to quantify tissue-specific functions. We emphasize liver, cardiovascular, and CNS safety risks and highlight limitations that must be overcome before routine screening for toxicity pathways in hiSC-derived cells can be established. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evolutionary scalpels for dissecting tumor ecosystems

PubMed Central

Rosenbloom, Daniel I. S.; Camara, Pablo G.; Chu, Tim; Rabadan, Raul

2017-01-01

Amidst the growing literature on cancer genomics and intratumor heterogeneity, essential principles in evolutionary biology recur time and time again. Here we use these principles to guide the reader through major advances in cancer research, highlighting issues of “hit hard, hit early” treatment strategies, drug resistance, and metastasis. We distinguish between two frameworks for understanding heterogeneous tumors, both of which can inform treatment strategies: (1) The tumor as diverse ecosystem, a Darwinian population of sometimes-competing, sometimes-cooperating cells; (2) The tumor as tightly integrated, self-regulating organ, which may hijack developmental signals to restore functional heterogeneity after treatment. While the first framework dominates literature on cancer evolution, the second framework enjoys support as well. Throughout this review, we illustrate how mathematical models inform understanding of tumor progression and treatment outcomes. Connecting models to genomic data faces computational and technical hurdles, but high-throughput single-cell technologies show promise to clear these hurdles. PMID:27923679

Cell and small animal models for phenotypic drug discovery.

PubMed

Szabo, Mihaly; Svensson Akusjärvi, Sara; Saxena, Ankur; Liu, Jianping; Chandrasekar, Gayathri; Kitambi, Satish S

2017-01-01

The phenotype-based drug discovery (PDD) approach is re-emerging as an alternative platform for drug discovery. This review provides an overview of the various model systems and technical advances in imaging and image analyses that strengthen the PDD platform. In PDD screens, compounds of therapeutic value are identified based on the phenotypic perturbations produced irrespective of target(s) or mechanism of action. In this article, examples of phenotypic changes that can be detected and quantified with relative ease in a cell-based setup are discussed. In addition, a higher order of PDD screening setup using small animal models is also explored. As PDD screens integrate physiology and multiple signaling mechanisms during the screening process, the identified hits have higher biomedical applicability. Taken together, this review highlights the advantages gained by adopting a PDD approach in drug discovery. Such a PDD platform can complement target-based systems that are currently in practice to accelerate drug discovery.

Technical Assistance to Developers

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

Rockward, Tommy; Borup, Rodney L.; Garzon, Fernando H.

2012-07-17

This task supports the allowance of technical assistance to fuel-cell component and system developers as directed by the DOE. This task includes testing of novel materials and participation in the further development and validation of single cell test protocols. This task also covers technical assistance to DOE Working Groups, the U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) and the USCAR/DOE Driving Research and Innovation for Vehicle efficiency and Energy sustainability (U.S. Drive) Fuel Cell Technology Team. Assistance includes technical validation of new fuel cell materials and methods, single cell fuel cell testing to support the development of targets and test protocols,more » and regular advisory participation in other working groups and reviews. This assistance is made available to PEM fuel cell developers by request and DOE Approval. The objectives are to: (1) Support technically, as directed by DOE, fuel cell component and system developers; (2) Assess fuel cell materials and components and give feedback to developers; (3) Assist the DOE Durability Working Group with the development of various new material durability Testing protocols; and (4) Provide support to the U.S. Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) and the USCAR/DOE Fuel Cell Technology Team. FY2012 specific technical objectives are: (1) Evaluate novel MPL materials; (2) Develop of startup/ shutdown protocol; (3) Test the impact of hydrophobic treatment on graphite bi-polar plates; (4) Perform complete diagnostics on metal bi-polar plates for corrosion; and (5) Participate and lead efforts in the DOE Working Groups.« less

Class of 1994, Annual Report: NH Technical Colleges and Institute and NH Police Standards and Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New Hampshire State Dept. of Postsecondary Technical Education, Concord.

This 1994 annual report for the New Hampshire Technical Colleges and Institute System (NHTC&IS) includes information on enrollments, outcomes, job placement, average salaries, transfer institutions, work force training, the Police Academy, finances, future directions, and governance. Introductory material highlights the following…

Theorycrafting the Classroom: Constructing the Introductory Technical Communication Course as a Game

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Finseth, Carly

2015-01-01

When games are approached as a pedagogical methodology, the homologies between games and technical communication are highlighted: pedagogy that teaches people to play and succeed within certain confines; classroom assessment that provides meaningful feedback to encourage self-improvement; instructional design that incorporates gaming theory and…

Missouri local technical assistance program at Missouri University of Science and Technology (formerly University of Missouri--Rolla) : annual progress report January-December 2007.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-02-01

This annual report is a summary of the activities during 2007 for the Missouri Local Technical Assistance Program (Missouri LTAP), which is located at Missouri University of Science and Technology. The report highlights Missouri LTAPs performance ...

Case Studies in Industry/TAFE Liaison: Success Factors.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Tony

This study examines what makes cooperative arrangements between industry and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) in Australia successful. A literature review highlighted the importance of the provision of high quality technical education that meets the needs of the client. A range of innovative or entrepreneurial examples of industry/TAFE…

Annual progress report : for the period of January 2001 through December 2001 : Florida Transit Training Program (2001) : Florida Technical Assistance Program (2001)

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-01-01

The following progress report is intended to highlight the significant activities of the Florida Transit Training Program and Florida Technical Assistant Program for the 2001 year. Activities of the Florida Statewide Transit Training Program are pres...

CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) Highlights.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-10-01

ATTN: AMCRE-C/Ms. Jean Lamb C dr, ATTN: ANCRM-P/Mr. Jerry Gibson Cdr, ATTN: AMCQA-E/Mr. Billings Cdr, ATTN: AMXAM-TL/Technical Library US Army...Sands Missile Range, ATTN: STEWS -TE-TL/Technical Library Cdr, US Military Academy, ATTN: LTC Lanse Leach - - . Cdr, Yuma Proving Grounds, ATTN

Recent microfluidic devices for studying gamete and embryo biomechanics.

PubMed

Lai, David; Takayama, Shuichi; Smith, Gary D

2015-06-25

The technical challenges of biomechanic research such as single cell analysis at a high monetary cost, labor, and time for just a small number of measurements is a good match to the strengths of microfluidic devices. New scientific discoveries in the fertilization and embryo development process, of which biomechanics is a major subset of interest, is crucial to fuel the continual improvement of clinical practice in assisted reproduction. The following review will highlight some recent microfluidic devices tailored for gamete and embryo biomechanics where biomimicry arises as a major theme of microfluidic device design and function, and the application of fundamental biomechanic principles are used to improve outcomes of cryopreservation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biomaterials in the Treatment of Anal Fistula: Hope or Hype?

PubMed Central

Scoglio, Daniele; Walker, Avery S.; Fichera, Alessandro

2014-01-01

Anal fistula (AF) presents a chronic problem for patients and colorectal surgeons alike. Surgical treatment may result in impairment of continence and long-term risk of recurrence. Treatment options for AFs vary according to their location and complexity. The ideal approach should result in low recurrence rates and minimal impact on continence. New technical approaches involving biologically derived products such as biological mesh, fibrin glue, fistula plug, and stem cells have been applied in the treatment of AF to improve outcomes and decrease recurrence rates and the risk of fecal incontinence. In this review, we will highlight the current evidence and describe our personal experience with these novel approaches. PMID:25435826

ARPA-E: Transforming Our Energy Future

ScienceCinema

Williams, Ellen; Raman, Aaswath

2018-06-22

ARPA-E helps to translate cutting-edge inventions into technological innovations that could change how we use, generate and store energy. In just seven years, ARPA-E technologies are demonstrating technical and commercial progress, surpassing $1.25 billion in private sector follow on funding. In this video, ARPA-E Director Dr. Ellen D. Williams highlights an exciting project from Stanford University that is developing a radiative cooling technology that could enable buildings, power plants, solar cells and even clothing to cool without using electric power or loss of water. This project is just one example among ARPA-E’s 400+ innovative technologies that are reimagining energy and helping to create a more secure, affordable and sustainable American energy future.

Interobserver variation in CD30 immunohistochemistry interpretation; consequences for patient selection for targeted treatment.

PubMed

Koens, Lianne; van de Ven, Peter M; Hijmering, Nathalie J; Kersten, Marie José; Diepstra, Arjan; Chamuleau, Martine; de Jong, Daphne

2018-05-14

CD30 immunohistochemistry (IHC) in malignant lymphoma is used for selection of patients in clinical trials using brentuximab vedotin, an antibody drug-conjugate targeting the CD30 molecule. For reliable implementation in daily practice and meaningful selection of patients for clinical trials, information on technical variation and interobserver reproducibility of CD30 IHC staining is required. We conducted a 3-round reproducibility assessment of CD30 scoring for categorized frequency and intensity, including a technical validation, a "live polling" pre- and post-instruction scoring round, and a web-based round including individual scoring with additional IHC information to mimic daily diagnostic practice. Agreement in all three scoring rounds was poor to fair (κ=0,12 to 0,35 for CD30 positive tumor cell percentage, and κ=0,16 to 0,41 for staining intensity), even when allowing for one category of freedom in percentage of tumor cell positivity (κ=0,30 to 0,61). The first round with CD30 staining performed in 5 independent laboratories showed objective differences in staining intensity. In the second round, about half of the pathologists changed their opinion on CD30 frequency after a discussion on potential pitfalls, highlighting hesitancy in decision-making. Using fictional cut-off points for percentage of tumor cell positivity, agreement was still suboptimal (κ=0,35 to 0,60). Lack of agreement in cases with heterogeneous expression is shown to influence patient eligibility for treatment with brentuximab vedotin both in clinical practice and within the context of clinical trials, and limits the potential predictive value of the relative frequency of CD30 positive neoplastic cells for clinical response. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Genome editing in pluripotent stem cells: research and therapeutic applications

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

Deleidi, Michela, E-mail: michela.deleidi@dzne.de; Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen; Yu, Cong

Recent progress in human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) and genome editing technologies has opened up new avenues for the investigation of human biology in health and disease as well as the development of therapeutic applications. Gene editing approaches with programmable nucleases have been successfully established in hPSCs and applied to study gene function, develop novel animal models and perform genetic and chemical screens. Several studies now show the successful editing of disease-linked alleles in somatic and patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as well as in animal models. Importantly, initial clinical trials have shown the safety of programmable nucleases formore » ex vivo somatic gene therapy. In this context, the unlimited proliferation potential and the pluripotent properties of iPSCs may offer advantages for gene targeting approaches. However, many technical and safety issues still need to be addressed before genome-edited iPSCs are translated into the clinical setting. Here, we provide an overview of the available genome editing systems and discuss opportunities and perspectives for their application in basic research and clinical practice, with a particular focus on hPSC based research and gene therapy approaches. Finally, we discuss recent research on human germline genome editing and its social and ethical implications. - Highlights: • Programmable nucleases have proven efficient and specific for genome editing in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). • Genome edited hPSCs can be employed to study gene function in health and disease as well as drug and chemical screens. • Genome edited hPSCs hold great promise for ex vivo gene therapy approaches. • Technical and safety issues should be first addressed to advance the clinical use of gene-edited hPSCs.« less

Evaluation Highlights. Client Feedback from March 2009-March 2010, Compiled April 2010

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC), 2010

2010-01-01

The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC) Evaluation Unit collects and analyzes data to describe the quantity and nature of the technical assistance services provided by NECTAC staff. The Unit evaluates the quality and relevance of NECTAC services and products and whether TA recipients use the information and resources…

Education and Training of Accountants in Sub-Saharan Anglophone Africa. World Bank Technical Paper Number 305. Africa Technical Department Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Sonia R.

This paper describes the accounting profession, and the education and training of accountants and accounting technicians in Sub-Saharan Anglophone Africa. The report reviews professional accounting examinations and degrees, education, practical training, and continuing professional education. The paper highlights the weaknesses in accounting…

Game Theory and Technical Communication: Interpreting the Texas Two-Step through Harsanyi Transformation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, Miriam F.

2012-01-01

The author uses game theoretical models to identify technical communication breakdowns encountered during the notoriously confusing Texas Two-Step voting and caucusing process. Specifically, the author uses narrative theory and game theory to highlight areas where caucus participants needed instructions to better understand the rules of the game…

77 FR 65542 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-29

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Hydrogen and Fuel Cell... Energy. ACTION: Notice of Open Meeting. SUMMARY: The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee... Updates Congressional Fuel Cell Caucuses NREL Reports on Hydrogen in Natural Gas Pipelines and...

The DOE photovoltaics program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferber, R. R.

1980-01-01

As part of the National Solar Energy program, the US Department of Energy is now engaged in the development of technically feasible, low cost candidate component and system technologies to the point where technical readiness can be demonstrated by 1982. The overall strategy is to pursue parallel options that continue to show promise of meeting the program goals, thus increasing the probability that at least one technology will be successful. Included in technology development are both flat plate solar collectors and concentrator solar collectors, as well as the balance of system components, such as structures, power conditioning, power controls, protection, and storage. Generally, these last items are common to both flat plate and concentrator systems, but otherwise there is considerable disparity in design philosophy, photovoltaic cell requirements, and possible applications between the two systems. Objectives for research activities at NASA Lewis for stand alone applications, and at Sandia Laboratories where intermediate load center applications are addressed, are highlighted as well as college projects directed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and international applications managed by the Solar Energy Research Institute. Joint DOD/DOE effects for military applications are also summarized.

Missing data and technical variability in single-cell RNA-sequencing experiments.

PubMed

Hicks, Stephanie C; Townes, F William; Teng, Mingxiang; Irizarry, Rafael A

2017-11-06

Until recently, high-throughput gene expression technology, such as RNA-Sequencing (RNA-seq) required hundreds of thousands of cells to produce reliable measurements. Recent technical advances permit genome-wide gene expression measurement at the single-cell level. Single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-seq) is the most widely used and numerous publications are based on data produced with this technology. However, RNA-seq and scRNA-seq data are markedly different. In particular, unlike RNA-seq, the majority of reported expression levels in scRNA-seq are zeros, which could be either biologically-driven, genes not expressing RNA at the time of measurement, or technically-driven, genes expressing RNA, but not at a sufficient level to be detected by sequencing technology. Another difference is that the proportion of genes reporting the expression level to be zero varies substantially across single cells compared to RNA-seq samples. However, it remains unclear to what extent this cell-to-cell variation is being driven by technical rather than biological variation. Furthermore, while systematic errors, including batch effects, have been widely reported as a major challenge in high-throughput technologies, these issues have received minimal attention in published studies based on scRNA-seq technology. Here, we use an assessment experiment to examine data from published studies and demonstrate that systematic errors can explain a substantial percentage of observed cell-to-cell expression variability. Specifically, we present evidence that some of these reported zeros are driven by technical variation by demonstrating that scRNA-seq produces more zeros than expected and that this bias is greater for lower expressed genes. In addition, this missing data problem is exacerbated by the fact that this technical variation varies cell-to-cell. Then, we show how this technical cell-to-cell variability can be confused with novel biological results. Finally, we demonstrate and discuss how batch-effects and confounded experiments can intensify the problem. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Over-expression of Oct4 and Sox2 transcription factors enhances differentiation of human umbilical cord blood cells in vivo

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

Guseva, Daria; Hannover Medical School, Hannover; Rizvanov, Albert A.

2014-09-05

Highlights: • Gene and cell-based therapies comprise innovative aspects of regenerative medicine. • Genetically modified hUCB-MCs enhanced differentiation of cells in a mouse model of ALS. • Stem cells successfully transformed into micro-glial and endothelial lines in spinal cords. • Over-expressing oct4 and sox2 also induced production of neural marker PGP9.5. • Formation of new nerve cells, secreting trophic factors and neo-vascularisation could improve symptoms in ALS. - Abstract: Gene and cell-based therapies comprise innovative aspects of regenerative medicine. Even though stem cells represent a highly potential therapeutic strategy, their wide-spread exploitation is marred by ethical concerns, potential for malignantmore » transformation and a plethora of other technical issues, largely restricting their use to experimental studies. Utilizing genetically modified human umbilical cord blood mono-nuclear cells (hUCB-MCs), this communication reports enhanced differentiation of transplants in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Over-expressing Oct4 and Sox2 induced production of neural marker PGP9.5, as well as transformation of hUCB-MCs into micro-glial and endothelial lines in ALS spinal cords. In addition to producing new nerve cells, providing degenerated areas with trophic factors and neo-vascularisation might prevent and even reverse progressive loss of moto-neurons and skeletal muscle paralysis.« less

Technical Education, the Performance of South Wales Industrialists and the Haldane Commission

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roderick, Gordon

2007-01-01

The article begins with a brief introduction to the development of Welsh society and industry between 1870 and 1914. This is followed by a review of Welsh education, especially technical education, in that period, highlighting its backwardness and the factors accounting for that backwardness. The report of the Haldane Commission is then examined…

The Professional Educator: Notes from New York City

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mulgrew, Michael

2014-01-01

In New York City, as in many places across the country, there is much discussion about strengthening career and technical education (CTE). New York City's approach to Career and Technical Education (CTE) is held up as a model for getting this type of education right. A recent conference highlighted six schools that represented only a fraction of…

Wireless Instrumentation Systems for Flight Testing at NASA AFRC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hang, Richard

2017-01-01

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center is revolutionizing its traditional wired instrumentation systems with wireless technologies. This effort faces many technical challenges, such as spectrum compliance, time synchronization, power distribution and airworthiness. This presentation summarizes NASA AFRC's flight test capabilities with current conventional instrumentation methodology and highlights the technical challenges of wireless systems used for flight test research applications.

Emphasizing Research (Further) in Undergraduate Technical Communication Curricula: Involving Undergraduate Students with an Academic Journal's Publication and Management

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ford, Julie Dyke; Newmark, Julianne

2011-01-01

This article presents follow-up information to a previous publication regarding ways to increase emphasis on research skills in undergraduate Technical Communication curricula. We detail the ways our undergraduate program highlights research by requiring majors to complete senior thesis projects that culminate in submission to an online…

American Science Manpower 1968. A Report of the National Register of Scientific and Technical Personnel.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Science Foundation, Washington, DC.

This report, based on the questionnaire returns of 298,000 scientists in the 1968 National Register of Scientific and Technical Personnel, presents data on the supply, utilization, and characteristics of the nation's scientific manpower resources. The report is organized in three parts: Part I presents some graphic highlights of the general…

Cellular Force Microscopy for in Vivo Measurements of Plant Tissue Mechanics1[W][OA

PubMed Central

Routier-Kierzkowska, Anne-Lise; Weber, Alain; Kochova, Petra; Felekis, Dimitris; Nelson, Bradley J.; Kuhlemeier, Cris; Smith, Richard S.

2012-01-01

Although growth and morphogenesis are controlled by genetics, physical shape change in plant tissue results from a balance between cell wall loosening and intracellular pressure. Despite recent work demonstrating a role for mechanical signals in morphogenesis, precise measurement of mechanical properties at the individual cell level remains a technical challenge. To address this challenge, we have developed cellular force microscopy (CFM), which combines the versatility of classical microindentation techniques with the high automation and resolution approaching that of atomic force microscopy. CFM’s large range of forces provides the possibility to map the apparent stiffness of both plasmolyzed and turgid tissue as well as to perform micropuncture of cells using very high stresses. CFM experiments reveal that, within a tissue, local stiffness measurements can vary with the level of turgor pressure in an unexpected way. Altogether, our results highlight the importance of detailed physically based simulations for the interpretation of microindentation results. CFM’s ability to be used both to assess and manipulate tissue mechanics makes it a method of choice to unravel the feedbacks between mechanics, genetics, and morphogenesis. PMID:22353572

Progress in bio-manufacture of platelets for transfusion.

PubMed

Heazlewood, Shen Y; Nilsson, Susan K; Cartledge, Kellie; Be, Cheang Ly; Vinson, Andrew; Gel, Murat; Haylock, David N

2017-11-01

Blood transfusion services face an ever-increasing demand for donor platelets to meet clinical needs. Whilst strategies for increasing platelet storage life and improving the efficiency of donor platelet collection are important, in the longer term, platelets generated by bio-manufacturing processes will be required to meet demands. Production of sufficient numbers of in vitro-derived platelets for transfusion represents a significant bioengineering challenge. In this review, we highlight recent progress in this area of research and outline the main technical and biological obstacles that need to be met before this becomes feasible and economic. A critical consideration is assurance of the functional properties of these cells as compared to their fresh, donor collected, counterparts. We contend that platelet-like particles and in vitro-derived platelets that phenotypically resemble fresh platelets must deliver the same functions as these cells upon transfusion. We also note recent progress with immortalized megakaryocyte progenitor cell lines, molecular strategies for reducing expression of HLA Class I to generate universal donor platelets and the move to early clinical studies with in vitro-derived platelets.

Phosphorus Diffusion Gettering Efficacy in Upgraded Metallurgical-Grade Solar Silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiménez, A.; del Cañizo, C.; Cid, C.; Peral, A.

2018-05-01

In the context of the continuous price reduction in photovoltaics (PV) in recent years, Si feedstock continues to be a relevant component in the cost breakdown of a PV module, highlighting the need for low-cost, low-capital expenditure (CAPEX) silicon technologies to further reduce this cost component. Upgraded metallurgical-grade silicon (UMG Si) has recently received much attention, improving its quality and even attaining, in some cases, solar cell efficiencies similar to those of conventional material. However, some technical challenges still have to be addressed when processing this material to compensate efficiently for the high content of impurities and contaminants. Adaptation of a conventional solar cell process to monocrystalline UMG Si wafers has been studied in this work. In particular, a tailored phosphorus diffusion gettering step followed by a low-temperature anneal at 700°C was implemented, resulting in enhanced bulk lifetime and emitter recombination properties. In spite of the need for further research and material optimization, UMG Si wafers were successfully processed, achieving efficiencies in the range of 15% for a standard laboratory solar cell process with aluminum back surface field.

Control theory meets synthetic biology

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

The past several years have witnessed an increased presence of control theoretic concepts in synthetic biology. This review presents an organized summary of how these control design concepts have been applied to tackle a variety of problems faced when building synthetic biomolecular circuits in living cells. In particular, we describe success stories that demonstrate how simple or more elaborate control design methods can be used to make the behaviour of synthetic genetic circuits within a single cell or across a cell population more reliable, predictable and robust to perturbations. The description especially highlights technical challenges that uniquely arise from the need to implement control designs within a new hardware setting, along with implemented or proposed solutions. Some engineering solutions employing complex feedback control schemes are also described, which, however, still require a deeper theoretical analysis of stability, performance and robustness properties. Overall, this paper should help synthetic biologists become familiar with feedback control concepts as they can be used in their application area. At the same time, it should provide some domain knowledge to control theorists who wish to enter the rising and exciting field of synthetic biology. PMID:27440256

Control theory meets synthetic biology.

PubMed

Del Vecchio, Domitilla; Dy, Aaron J; Qian, Yili

2016-07-01

The past several years have witnessed an increased presence of control theoretic concepts in synthetic biology. This review presents an organized summary of how these control design concepts have been applied to tackle a variety of problems faced when building synthetic biomolecular circuits in living cells. In particular, we describe success stories that demonstrate how simple or more elaborate control design methods can be used to make the behaviour of synthetic genetic circuits within a single cell or across a cell population more reliable, predictable and robust to perturbations. The description especially highlights technical challenges that uniquely arise from the need to implement control designs within a new hardware setting, along with implemented or proposed solutions. Some engineering solutions employing complex feedback control schemes are also described, which, however, still require a deeper theoretical analysis of stability, performance and robustness properties. Overall, this paper should help synthetic biologists become familiar with feedback control concepts as they can be used in their application area. At the same time, it should provide some domain knowledge to control theorists who wish to enter the rising and exciting field of synthetic biology. © 2016 The Author(s).

ARPA-E: Transforming Our Energy Future

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

Williams, Ellen; Raman, Aaswath

2016-03-02

ARPA-E helps to translate cutting-edge inventions into technological innovations that could change how we use, generate and store energy. In just seven years, ARPA-E technologies are demonstrating technical and commercial progress, surpassing $1.25 billion in private sector follow on funding. In this video, ARPA-E Director Dr. Ellen D. Williams highlights an exciting project from Stanford University that is developing a radiative cooling technology that could enable buildings, power plants, solar cells and even clothing to cool without using electric power or loss of water. This project is just one example among ARPA-E’s 400+ innovative technologies that are reimagining energy andmore » helping to create a more secure, affordable and sustainable American energy future.« less

Status of the Space-Rated Lithium-Ion Battery Advanced Development Project in Support of the Exploration Vision

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Thomas

2007-01-01

The NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC), along with the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Johnson Space Center (JSC), Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), and industry partners, is leading a space-rated lithium-ion advanced development battery effort to support the vision for Exploration. This effort addresses the lithium-ion battery portion of the Energy Storage Project under the Exploration Technology Development Program. Key discussions focus on the lithium-ion cell component development activities, a common lithium-ion battery module, test and demonstration of charge/discharge cycle life performance and safety characterization. A review of the space-rated lithium-ion battery project will be presented highlighting the technical accomplishments during the past year.

Water Reuse Highlights: A Summary Volume of Wastewater Reclamation and Reuse Information.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Water Works Association, Denver, CO. Research Foundation.

This document reports the efforts of the AWWA Research Foundation to gather, prepare, and distribute current technical information in the wastewater reclamation and reuse field. The information reported has been abstracted from other Foundation publications and only attempts here to highlight the field. Categories discussed include research,…

Comparison of human cell signaling pathway databases—evolution, drawbacks and challenges

PubMed Central

Chowdhury, Saikat; Sarkar, Ram Rup

2015-01-01

Elucidating the complexities of cell signaling pathways is of immense importance to gain understanding about various biological phenomenon, such as dynamics of gene/protein expression regulation, cell fate determination, embryogenesis and disease progression. The successful completion of human genome project has also helped experimental and theoretical biologists to analyze various important pathways. To advance this study, during the past two decades, systematic collections of pathway data from experimental studies have been compiled and distributed freely by several databases, which also integrate various computational tools for further analysis. Despite significant advancements, there exist several drawbacks and challenges, such as pathway data heterogeneity, annotation, regular update and automated image reconstructions, which motivated us to perform a thorough review on popular and actively functioning 24 cell signaling databases. Based on two major characteristics, pathway information and technical details, freely accessible data from commercial and academic databases are examined to understand their evolution and enrichment. This review not only helps to identify some novel and useful features, which are not yet included in any of the databases but also highlights their current limitations and subsequently propose the reasonable solutions for future database development, which could be useful to the whole scientific community. PMID:25632107

History, a projection of the future: A rotary wing perspective

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huston, Robert J.

1996-01-01

The success and failure of past vehicle concepts is reviewed in an attempt to highlight some of the advanced vehicle concepts attempted in the past failed because of a lack of appreciation, by both the sponsors and the developer, for the technical and societal requirements critical to their success. This paper will review the history of some attempts to provide both good hover and forward flight efficiency and will point out some of the technical and societal obstacles encountered. Two examples, that of the tiltrotor and tiltwing vehicles. will be highlighted show the different paths followed by a successful and an unsuccessful concept. The outlook for future VTOL/rotary wing concepts will be evaluated.

Comparison of reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods and platforms for single cell gene expression analysis.

PubMed

Fox, Bridget C; Devonshire, Alison S; Baradez, Marc-Olivier; Marshall, Damian; Foy, Carole A

2012-08-15

Single cell gene expression analysis can provide insights into development and disease progression by profiling individual cellular responses as opposed to reporting the global average of a population. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is the "gold standard" for the quantification of gene expression levels; however, the technical performance of kits and platforms aimed at single cell analysis has not been fully defined in terms of sensitivity and assay comparability. We compared three kits using purification columns (PicoPure) or direct lysis (CellsDirect and Cells-to-CT) combined with a one- or two-step RT-qPCR approach using dilutions of cells and RNA standards to the single cell level. Single cell-level messenger RNA (mRNA) analysis was possible using all three methods, although the precision, linearity, and effect of lysis buffer and cell background differed depending on the approach used. The impact of using a microfluidic qPCR platform versus a standard instrument was investigated for potential variability introduced by preamplification of template or scaling down of the qPCR to nanoliter volumes using laser-dissected single cell samples. The two approaches were found to be comparable. These studies show that accurate gene expression analysis is achievable at the single cell level and highlight the importance of well-validated experimental procedures for low-level mRNA analysis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

General morphological and biological features of neoplasms: integration of molecular findings.

PubMed

Diaz-Cano, S J

2008-07-01

This review highlights the importance of morphology-molecular correlations for a proper implementation of new markers. It covers both general aspects of tumorigenesis (which are normally omitted in papers analysing molecular pathways) and the general mechanisms for the acquired capabilities of neoplasms. The mechanisms are also supported by appropriate diagrams for each acquired capability that include overlooked features such as mobilization of cellular resources and changes in chromatin, transcription and epigenetics; fully accepted oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes are highlighted, while the pathways are also presented as activating or inactivating with appropriate colour coding. Finally, the concepts and mechanisms presented enable us to understand the basic requirements for the appropriate implementation of molecular tests in clinical practice. In summary, the basic findings are presented to serve as a bridge to clinical applications. The current definition of neoplasm is descriptive and difficult to apply routinely. Biologically, neoplasms develop through acquisition of capabilities that involve tumour cell aspects and modified microenvironment interactions, resulting in unrestricted growth due to a stepwise accumulation of cooperative genetic alterations that affect key molecular pathways. The correlation of these molecular aspects with morphological changes is essential for better understanding of essential concepts as early neoplasms/precancerous lesions, progression/dedifferentiation, and intratumour heterogeneity. The acquired capabilities include self-maintained replication (cell cycle dysregulation), extended cell survival (cell cycle arrest, apoptosis dysregulation, and replicative lifespan), genetic instability (chromosomal and microsatellite), changes of chromatin, transcription and epigenetics, mobilization of cellular resources, and modified microenvironment interactions (tumour cells, stromal cells, extracellular, endothelium). The acquired capabilities defining neoplasms are the hallmarks of cancer, but they also comprise useful tools to improve diagnosis and prognosis, as well as potential therapeutic targets. The application of these concepts in oncological pathology leads to consideration of the molecular test requirements (Molecular Test Score System) for reliable implementation; these requirements should cover biological effects, molecular pathway, biological validation, and technical validation. Sensible application of molecular markers in tumour pathology always needs solid morphological support.

The PRO-TECH Program. A Program for Gifted and Talented High School Students in Connecticut's Vocational-Technical School System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brann, Ronald E.

This document describes Connecticut's PRO-TECH Program, which is designed to link pupils in vocational-technical schools, resources of school and community, and opportunity for growth in order to teach advanced skills, explore new interests, challenge old ideas, and highlight individual talents. The document consists of sections on the following…

Communicating to Influence Drug Development and Regulatory Decisions: A Tutorial

PubMed Central

Mehrotra, S

2016-01-01

Pharmacometricians require three skills to be influential: technical, business (e.g., drug development), and soft skills (e.g., communication). Effective communication is required to translate technical and often complicated quantitative findings to interdisciplinary team members in order to influence drug development or regulatory decisions. In this tutorial, we highlight important aspects related to communicating pharmacometric analysis to influence decisions. PMID:27299706

An Overview of SBIR Phase 2 Materials Structures for Extreme Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nguyen, Hung D.; Steele, Gynelle C.

2015-01-01

Technological innovation is the overall focus of NASA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The program invests in the development of innovative concepts and technologies to help NASA's mission directorates address critical research and development needs for agency projects. This report highlights innovative SBIR Phase II projects from 2007-2012 specifically addressing Areas in Materials and Structures for Extreme Environments which is one of six core competencies at NASA Glenn Research Center. There are twenty three technologies featured with emphasis on a wide spectrum of applications such as fine-filament superconductor wire, composite oxide cathode materials, nano-composites, high radiation solar cell, wrapped multilayer insulation, thin aerogel, and much more. Each article in this booklet describes an innovation, technical objective, and highlights NASA commercial and industrial applications. This report serves as an opportunity for NASA personnel including engineers, researchers, and program managers to learn of NASA SBIR's capabilities that might be crosscutting into this technology area. As the result, it would cause collaborations and partnerships between the small companies and NASA Programs and Projects resulting in benefit to both SBIR companies and NASA.

Highlights of the 2009 SEG summer research workshop on"CO2 Sequestration Geophysics"

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

Lumley, D.; Sherlock, D.; Daley, T.

The 2009 SEG Summer Research Workshop on CO2 Sequestration Geophysics was held August 23-27, 2009 in Banff, Canada. The event was attended by over 100 scientists from around the world, which proved to be a remarkably successful turnout in the midst of the current global financial crisis and severe corporate travel restrictions. Attendees included SEG President Larry Lines (U. Calgary), and CSEG President John Downton (CGG Veritas), who joined SRW Chairman David Lumley (UWA) in giving the opening welcome remarks at the Sunday Icebreaker. The workshop was organized by an expert technical committee (see side bar) representing a good mixmore » of industry, academic, and government research organizations. The format consisted of four days of technical sessions with over 60 talks and posters, plus an optional pre-workshop field trip to the Columbia Ice Fields to view firsthand the effects of global warming on the Athabasca glacier (Figures 1-2). Group technical discussion was encouraged by requiring each presenter to limit themselves to 15 minutes of presentation followed by a 15 minute open discussion period. Technical contributions focused on the current and future role of geophysics in CO2 sequestration, highlighting new research and field-test results with regard to site selection and characterization, monitoring and surveillance, using a wide array of geophysical techniques. While there are too many excellent contributions to mention all individually here, in this paper we summarize some of the key workshop highlights in order to propagate new developments to the SEG community at large.« less

Highlights of the 2009 SEG summer research workshop on ""CO2 sequestration geophysics

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

Huang, Lianjie; Lumley, David; Sherlock, Don

The 2009 SEG Summer Research Workshop on 'CO{sub 2} Sequestration Geophysics' was held August 23-27, 2009 in Banff, Canada. The event was attended by over 100 scientists from around the world, which proved to be a remarkably successful turnout in the midst of the current global financial crisis and severe corporate travel restrictions. Attendees included SEG President Larry Lines (U. Calgary), and CSEG President John Downton (CGG Veritas), who joined SRW Chairman David Lumley (UWA) in giving the opening welcome remarks at the Sunday Icebreaker. The workshop was organized by an expert technical committee representing a good mix of industry,more » academic, and government research organizations. The format consisted of four days of technical sessions with over 60 talks and posters, plus an optional pre-workshop field trip to the Columbia Ice Fields to view firsthand the effects of global warming on the Athabasca glacier. Group technical discussion was encouraged by requiring each presenter to limit themselves to 15 minutes of presentation followed by a 15 minute open discussion period. Technical contributions focused on the current and future role of geophysics in CO{sub 2} sequestration, highlighting new research and field-test results with regard to site selection and characterization, monitoring and surveillance, using a wide array of geophysical techniques. While there are too many excellent contributions to mention all individually here, in this paper we summarize some of the key workshop highlights in order to propagate new developments to the SEG community at large.« less

Accounting for technical noise in differential expression analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data.

PubMed

Jia, Cheng; Hu, Yu; Kelly, Derek; Kim, Junhyong; Li, Mingyao; Zhang, Nancy R

2017-11-02

Recent technological breakthroughs have made it possible to measure RNA expression at the single-cell level, thus paving the way for exploring expression heterogeneity among individual cells. Current single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) protocols are complex and introduce technical biases that vary across cells, which can bias downstream analysis without proper adjustment. To account for cell-to-cell technical differences, we propose a statistical framework, TASC (Toolkit for Analysis of Single Cell RNA-seq), an empirical Bayes approach to reliably model the cell-specific dropout rates and amplification bias by use of external RNA spike-ins. TASC incorporates the technical parameters, which reflect cell-to-cell batch effects, into a hierarchical mixture model to estimate the biological variance of a gene and detect differentially expressed genes. More importantly, TASC is able to adjust for covariates to further eliminate confounding that may originate from cell size and cell cycle differences. In simulation and real scRNA-seq data, TASC achieves accurate Type I error control and displays competitive sensitivity and improved robustness to batch effects in differential expression analysis, compared to existing methods. TASC is programmed to be computationally efficient, taking advantage of multi-threaded parallelization. We believe that TASC will provide a robust platform for researchers to leverage the power of scRNA-seq. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Accounting for technical noise in differential expression analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data

PubMed Central

Jia, Cheng; Hu, Yu; Kelly, Derek; Kim, Junhyong

2017-01-01

Abstract Recent technological breakthroughs have made it possible to measure RNA expression at the single-cell level, thus paving the way for exploring expression heterogeneity among individual cells. Current single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) protocols are complex and introduce technical biases that vary across cells, which can bias downstream analysis without proper adjustment. To account for cell-to-cell technical differences, we propose a statistical framework, TASC (Toolkit for Analysis of Single Cell RNA-seq), an empirical Bayes approach to reliably model the cell-specific dropout rates and amplification bias by use of external RNA spike-ins. TASC incorporates the technical parameters, which reflect cell-to-cell batch effects, into a hierarchical mixture model to estimate the biological variance of a gene and detect differentially expressed genes. More importantly, TASC is able to adjust for covariates to further eliminate confounding that may originate from cell size and cell cycle differences. In simulation and real scRNA-seq data, TASC achieves accurate Type I error control and displays competitive sensitivity and improved robustness to batch effects in differential expression analysis, compared to existing methods. TASC is programmed to be computationally efficient, taking advantage of multi-threaded parallelization. We believe that TASC will provide a robust platform for researchers to leverage the power of scRNA-seq. PMID:29036714

Skeletal Muscle Tissue Engineering: Methods to Form Skeletal Myotubes and Their Applications

PubMed Central

Ostrovidov, Serge; Hosseini, Vahid; Ahadian, Samad; Fujie, Toshinori; Parthiban, Selvakumar Prakash; Ramalingam, Murugan; Bae, Hojae; Kaji, Hirokazu

2014-01-01

Skeletal muscle tissue engineering (SMTE) aims to repair or regenerate defective skeletal muscle tissue lost by traumatic injury, tumor ablation, or muscular disease. However, two decades after the introduction of SMTE, the engineering of functional skeletal muscle in the laboratory still remains a great challenge, and numerous techniques for growing functional muscle tissues are constantly being developed. This article reviews the recent findings regarding the methodology and various technical aspects of SMTE, including cell alignment and differentiation. We describe the structure and organization of muscle and discuss the methods for myoblast alignment cultured in vitro. To better understand muscle formation and to enhance the engineering of skeletal muscle, we also address the molecular basics of myogenesis and discuss different methods to induce myoblast differentiation into myotubes. We then provide an overview of different coculture systems involving skeletal muscle cells, and highlight major applications of engineered skeletal muscle tissues. Finally, potential challenges and future research directions for SMTE are outlined. PMID:24320971

Research Staff | Hydrogen and Fuel Cells | NREL

Science.gov Websites

laboratory's research areas contribute to this work. Research Areas and Technical Leads NREL's hydrogen and fuel cell research and development is organized into eight research areas. Technical leaders work

Enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria for Sustainable Development: Competency-Based Training (CBT) Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Okoye, K. R. E.; Michael, Ofonmbuk Isaac

2015-01-01

This paper attempts to examine the concept of Competency-Based Training (CBT) as a veritable mode of delivery of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and at the same time highlights some of the strengths and weaknesses of implementing competency-base training. The characteristics, principles and benefits of CBT were also x-rayed.…

SOLID STATE ENERGY CONVERSION ALLIANCE DELPHI SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL

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

Steven Shaffer; Sean Kelly; Subhasish Mukerjee

2004-05-07

The objective of this project is to develop a 5 kW Solid Oxide Fuel Cell power system for a range of fuels and applications. During Phase I, the following will be accomplished: Develop and demonstrate technology transfer efforts on a 5 kW stationary distributed power generation system that incorporates steam reforming of natural gas with the option of piped-in water (Demonstration System A). Initiate development of a 5 kW system for later mass-market automotive auxiliary power unit application, which will incorporate Catalytic Partial Oxidation (CPO) reforming of gasoline, with anode exhaust gas injected into an ultra-lean burn internal combustion engine.more » This technical progress report covers work performed by Delphi from July 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003, under Department of Energy Cooperative Agreement DE-FC-02NT41246. This report highlights technical results of the work performed under the following tasks: Task 1 System Design and Integration; Task 2 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack Developments; Task 3 Reformer Developments; Task 4 Development of Balance of Plant (BOP) Components; Task 5 Manufacturing Development (Privately Funded); Task 6 System Fabrication; Task 7 System Testing; Task 8 Program Management; Task 9 Stack Testing with Coal-Based Reformate; and Task 10 Technology Transfer from SECA CORE Technology Program. In this reporting period, unless otherwise noted Task 6--System Fabrication and Task 7--System Testing will be reported within Task 1 System Design and Integration. Task 8--Program Management, Task 9--Stack Testing with Coal Based Reformate, and Task 10--Technology Transfer from SECA CORE Technology Program will be reported on in the Executive Summary section of this report.« less

More Than 1,000 Fuel Cell Units Deployed Through DOE ARRA Funding (Fact Sheet)

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

Not Available

This NREL Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Highlight describes how early market end users are operating 1,111 fuel cell units at 301 sites in 20 states with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Fuel Cell Technologies Program and analysis by NREL. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funded the deployment of approximately 1,000 fuel cell systems in key early markets to accelerate the commercialization and deployment of fuel cells and fuel cell manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and support services. In support of the ARRA fuel cell deployment objectives, NREL analyzes and validates the technology in real-world applications, reports onmore » the technology status, and facilitates the development of fuel cell technologies, manufacturing, and operations in strategic markets-including material handling equipment, backup power, and stationary power-where fuel cells can compete with conventional technologies. NREL is validating hydrogen and fuel cell systems in real-world settings through data collection, analysis, and reporting. The fuel cell and infrastructure analysis provides an independent, third-party assessment that focuses on fuel cell system and hydrogen infrastructure performance, operation, maintenance, use, and safety. An objective of the ARRA fuel cell project-to deploy approximately 1,000 fuel cell systems in key early markets - has been met in two years. By the end of 2011, 504 material handling equipment (MHE) fuel cell units were operating at 8 facilities and 607 backup power fuel cell units were operating at 293 sites. MHE and backup power are two markets where fuel cells are capable of meeting the operating demands, and deployments can be leveraged to accelerate fuel cell commercialization.« less

EFF HOT Topics: Strategies and Tools for Teaching with EFF. Volume 4, Number 1, Winter 2005

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bingman, Beth, Ed.

2005-01-01

"EFF HOT (Highlights on Teaching Topics) Topics" is a publication of the EFF (Equipped for the Future) Center for Training and Technical Assistance. Each issue concentrates on a specific topic, highlighting examples of actual practice and offering strategies and tools for using EFF in the classroom. In this issue, "HOT Topics" focuses on the…

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

Tamura

This annual report of the Advanced Light Source details science highlights and facility developments during the year. It also offers information on events sponsored by the facility, technical specifications, and staff and publication information.

Non-technical skills assessment in surgery.

PubMed

Sharma, Bharat; Mishra, Amit; Aggarwal, Rajesh; Grantcharov, Teodor P

2011-09-01

Adverse events in surgery have highlighted the importance of non-technical skills, such as communication, decision-making, teamwork, situational awareness and leadership, to effective organizational performance. These skills carry particular importance to surgical oncology, as members of a multidisciplinary team must work cohesively to formulate effective patient care plans. Several non-technical skills evaluation tools have been developed for use in surgery, without adequate comparison and consensus on which should be standard for training. Eleven articles describing the use of three non-technical evaluation tools related to surgery: NOTSS (Non Technical Skills for Surgeons), NOTECHS (Non Technical Skills) and OTAS (Observational Teamwork Assessment for Surgery) were analyzed with respect to scale formulation, validity, reliability and feasibility. Furthermore, their use in training thus far and the future of non-technical rating scales in surgical curricula was discussed. Future work should focus on incorporating these assessment tools into training and into a real operating room setting to provide formative evaluations for surgical residents. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DEMONSTRATION OF FUEL CELLS TO RECOVER ENERGY FROM LANDFILL GAS - PHASE III. DEMONSTRATION TESTS - PHASE IV. GUIDELINES AND RECOMMENDATIONS- VOLUME 1. TECHNICAL REPORT

EPA Science Inventory

The report summarizes the results of a four-phase program to demonstrate that fuel cell energy recovery using a commercial phosphoric acid fuel cell is both environmentally sound and commercially feasible. Phase I, a conceptual design and evaluation study, addressed the technical...

Fuel cells for transport: can the promise be fulfilled? Technical requirements and demands from customers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klaiber, Thomas

The paper discusses the technical requirements and the customer demands for vehicles that have an on-board methanol reformer and fuel cells. The research concentrates on the technical developmental risks which include minimizing volume, reducing weight and, at the same time, improving efficiency and system dynamics. Fuel cell powered vehicles with methanol reformers are not only suitable for a niche market but also these vehicles will compete with conventional vehicles. The greatest hindrance will be the price of the fuel cell. A possible progressive development of the number of fuel cell powered vehicles in conjunction with a reduction in costs will be discussed in the paper. When fuel cell vehicles come to the market it is necessary that an infrastructure for the fuel methanol or hydrogen is installed. Therefore, it will only be possible to introduce fuel cell vehicles into special markets, e.g. California. Such a process will need to be subsidized by additional incentives like tax concessions. Today there are many technical risks and unsolved problems relating to production technologies, infrastructure, and costs. Nevertheless, among the alternative power units, the fuel cell seems to be the only one that might be competitive to the conventional power unit, especially relating to emissions.

Shaping America's Transportation Future: Annual Project Accomplishments.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-01-01

Volpes mission is to improve the transportation system by anticipating emerging issues and advancing technical, operational, and institutional innovations. Shaping Americas Transportation Future: Annual Project Accomplishments highlights Volpe...

Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998, Report to Congress on State Performance, Program Year 2002-2003

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

US Department of Education, 2005

2005-01-01

This is the fourth annual report to Congress by the US Department of Education. Among the highlights of this report are: (1) More students were reported by states as having enrolled in vocational and technical education courses in Program Year (PY) 2002-2003 than in the past three years; (2) There remain concerns about the quality and reliability…

American Chemical Society. 23rd Great Lakes Regional Meeting. Program and abstracts

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

Not Available

1990-01-01

The technical program includes some 250 papers in 38 sessions, featuring 16 symposia with 99 invited speakers. Program highlights include a plenary lecture, The Origin and Consequences of Scientific Illiteracy, by Jon D. Miller. Sessions for general technical papers are scheduled in the following categories: analytical chemistry; biochemistry; inorganic chemistry; organic chemistry; and physical chemistry. Papers have been processed for inclusion on the data base.

Agreement in DNA methylation levels from the Illumina 450K array across batches, tissues, and time

PubMed Central

Forest, Marie; O'Donnell, Kieran J.; Voisin, Greg; Gaudreau, Helene; MacIsaac, Julia L.; McEwen, Lisa M.; Silveira, Patricia P.; Steiner, Meir; Kobor, Michael S.; Meaney, Michael J.; Greenwood, Celia M.T.

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT Epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) have focused primarily on DNA methylation as a chemically stable and functional epigenetic modification. However, the stability and accuracy of the measurement of methylation in different tissues and extraction types is still being actively studied, and the longitudinal stability of DNA methylation in commonly studied peripheral tissues is of great interest. Here, we used data from two studies, three tissue types, and multiple time points to assess the stability of DNA methylation measured with the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip array. Redundancy analysis enabled visual assessment of agreement of replicate samples overall and showed good agreement after removing effects of tissue type, age, and sex. At the probe level, analysis of variance contrasts separating technical and biological replicates clearly showed better agreement between technical replicates versus longitudinal samples, and suggested increased stability for buccal cells versus blood or blood spots. Intraclass correlations (ICCs) demonstrated that inter-individual variability is of similar magnitude to within-sample variability at many probes; however, as inter-individual variability increased, so did ICC. Furthermore, we were able to demonstrate decreasing agreement in methylation levels with time, despite a maximal sampling interval of only 576 days. Finally, at 6 popular candidate genes, there was a large range of stability across probes. Our findings highlight important sources of technical and biological variation in DNA methylation across different tissues over time. These data will help to inform longitudinal sampling strategies of future EWAS. PMID:29381404

State Revolving Funds: Financing Drought Resilient Water Infrastructure Projects

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This report highlights innovative funding policies and programmatic actions that states are using to support drought resilient investment and operations through incentives, state requirements, and technical assistance.

Technical Advance: Transcription factor, promoter, and enhancer utilization in human myeloid cells.

PubMed

Joshi, Anagha; Pooley, Christopher; Freeman, Tom C; Lennartsson, Andreas; Babina, Magda; Schmidl, Christian; Geijtenbeek, Teunis; Michoel, Tom; Severin, Jessica; Itoh, Masayoshi; Lassmann, Timo; Kawaji, Hideya; Hayashizaki, Yoshihide; Carninci, Piero; Forrest, Alistair R R; Rehli, Michael; Hume, David A

2015-05-01

The generation of myeloid cells from their progenitors is regulated at the level of transcription by combinatorial control of key transcription factors influencing cell-fate choice. To unravel the global dynamics of this process at the transcript level, we generated transcription profiles for 91 human cell types of myeloid origin by use of CAGE profiling. The CAGE sequencing of these samples has allowed us to investigate diverse aspects of transcription control during myelopoiesis, such as identification of novel transcription factors, miRNAs, and noncoding RNAs specific to the myeloid lineage. We further reconstructed a transcription regulatory network by clustering coexpressed transcripts and associating them with enriched cis-regulatory motifs. With the use of the bidirectional expression as a proxy for enhancers, we predicted over 2000 novel enhancers, including an enhancer 38 kb downstream of IRF8 and an intronic enhancer in the KIT gene locus. Finally, we highlighted relevance of these data to dissect transcription dynamics during progressive maturation of granulocyte precursors. A multifaceted analysis of the myeloid transcriptome is made available (www.myeloidome.roslin.ed.ac.uk). This high-quality dataset provides a powerful resource to study transcriptional regulation during myelopoiesis and to infer the likely functions of unannotated genes in human innate immunity. © The Author(s).

Drosophila comes of age as a model system for understanding the function of cytoskeletal proteins in cells, tissues, and organisms.

PubMed

Rodal, Avital A; Del Signore, Steven J; Martin, Adam C

2015-05-01

For the last 100 years, Drosophila melanogaster has been a powerhouse genetic system for understanding mechanisms of inheritance, development, and behavior in animals. In recent years, advances in imaging and genetic tools have led to Drosophila becoming one of the most effective systems for unlocking the subcellular functions of proteins (and particularly cytoskeletal proteins) in complex developmental settings. In this review, written for non-Drosophila experts, we will discuss critical technical advances that have enabled these cell biological insights, highlighting three examples of cytoskeletal discoveries that have arisen as a result: (1) regulation of Arp2/3 complex in myoblast fusion, (2) cooperation of the actin filament nucleators Spire and Cappuccino in establishment of oocyte polarity, and (3) coordination of supracellular myosin cables. These specific examples illustrate the unique power of Drosophila both to uncover new cytoskeletal structures and functions, and to place these discoveries in a broader in vivo context, providing insights that would have been impossible in a cell culture model or in vitro. Many of the cellular structures identified in Drosophila have clear counterparts in mammalian cells and tissues, and therefore elucidating cytoskeletal functions in Drosophila will be broadly applicable to other organisms. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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

Sopori, B.

The 11th Workshop will provide a forum for an informal exchange of technical and scientific information between international researchers in the photovoltaic and non-photovoltaic fields. Discussions will include the various aspects of impurities and defects in silicon--their properties, the dynamics during device processing, and their application for developing low-cost processes for manufacturing high-efficiency silicon solar cells. Sessions and panel discussions will review impurities and defects in crystalline-silicon PV, advanced cell structures, new processes and process characterization techniques, and future manufacturing demands. The workshop will emphasize some of the promising new technologies in Si solar cell fabrication that can lower PVmore » energy costs and meet the throughput demands of the future. The three-day workshop will consist of presentations by invited speakers, followed by discussion sessions. Topics to be discussed are: Si Mechanical properties and Wafer Handling, Advanced Topics in PV Fundamentals, Gettering and Passivation, Impurities and Defects, Advanced Emitters, Crystalline Silicon Growth, and Solar Cell Processing. The workshop will also include presentations by NREL subcontractors who will review the highlights of their research during the current subcontract period. In addition, there will be two poster sessions presenting the latest research and development results. Some presentations will address recent technologies in the microelectronics field that may have a direct bearing on PV.« less

Single Cell and Metagenomic Assemblies: Biology Drives Technical Choices and Goals (Metagenomics Informatics Challenges Workshop: 10K Genomes at a Time)

ScienceCinema

Stepanauskas, Ramunas

2018-02-06

DOE JGI's Tanja Woyke, chair of the Single Cells and Metagenomes session, delivers an introduction, followed by Bigelow Laboratory's Ramunas Stepanauskas on "Single Cell and Metagenomic Assemblies: Biology Drives Technical Choices and Goals" at the Metagenomics Informatics Challenges Workshop held at the DOE JGI on October 12-13, 2011.

Organic and Hybrid Organic Solid-State Photovoltaic Materials and Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-06

Microscopy Research, 2012, 7, 158-169. Organic photovoltaic materials, hybrid organic devices, solar cells 6 1 FINAL TECHNICAL REPORT 1... hybrids have potential applications in solar cells and may thus provide mobile energy sources for aircraft and soldier technologies. Modeling and...modeling and simulation developed in this project are encouraging further development. 2. Technical Activities Hybrid organic solar cells are an

Prospective Multicenter Study on the Challenges Inherent to Using Large Cell-Type Stents for Bilateral Stent-in-Stent Placement in Patients with Inoperable Malignant Hilar Biliary Obstruction.

PubMed

Yang, Min Jae; Kim, Jin Hong; Hwang, Jae Chul; Yoo, Byung Moo; Lee, Sang Hyub; Ryu, Ji Kon; Kim, Yong-Tae; Woo, Sang Myung; Lee, Woo Jin; Jeong, Seok; Lee, Don Haeng

2018-06-22

Although endoscopic bilateral stent-in-stent placement is challenging, many recent studies have reported promising outcomes regarding technical success and endoscopic reintervention. This study aimed to evaluate the technical feasibility of stent-in-stent placement using large cell-type stents in patients with inoperable malignant hilar biliary obstruction. Forty-three patients with inoperable malignant hilar biliary obstruction from four academic centers were prospectively enrolled from March 2013 to June 2015. Bilateral stent-in-stent placement using two large cell-type stents was successfully performed in 88.4% of the patients (38/43). In four of the five cases with technical failure, the delivery sheath of the second stent became caught in the hook-cross-type vertex of the large cell of the first stent, and subsequent attempts to pass a guidewire and stent assembly through the mesh failed. Functional success was achieved in all cases with technical success. Stent occlusion occurred in 63.2% of patients (24/38), with a median patient survival of 300 days. The median stent patency was 198 days. The stent patency rate was 82.9%, 63.1%, and 32.1% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Endoscopic re-intervention was performed in 14 patients, whereas 10 underwent percutaneous drainage. Large cell-type stents for endoscopic bilateral stent-in-stent placement showed acceptable functional success and stent patency when technically successful. However, the technical difficulty associated with the entanglement of the second stent delivery sheath in the hook-cross-type vertex of the first stent may preclude large cell-type stents from being considered as a dedicated standard tool for stent-in-stent placement.

EPA Center for Corporate Climate Leadership

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA's Center for Corporate Climate Leadership is a comprehensive resource to help organizations measure & manage GHG emissions. The Center provides technical tools, educational resources, opportunities for information sharing & highlights best practices.

BASiCS: Bayesian Analysis of Single-Cell Sequencing Data.

PubMed

Vallejos, Catalina A; Marioni, John C; Richardson, Sylvia

2015-06-01

Single-cell mRNA sequencing can uncover novel cell-to-cell heterogeneity in gene expression levels in seemingly homogeneous populations of cells. However, these experiments are prone to high levels of unexplained technical noise, creating new challenges for identifying genes that show genuine heterogeneous expression within the population of cells under study. BASiCS (Bayesian Analysis of Single-Cell Sequencing data) is an integrated Bayesian hierarchical model where: (i) cell-specific normalisation constants are estimated as part of the model parameters, (ii) technical variability is quantified based on spike-in genes that are artificially introduced to each analysed cell's lysate and (iii) the total variability of the expression counts is decomposed into technical and biological components. BASiCS also provides an intuitive detection criterion for highly (or lowly) variable genes within the population of cells under study. This is formalised by means of tail posterior probabilities associated to high (or low) biological cell-to-cell variance contributions, quantities that can be easily interpreted by users. We demonstrate our method using gene expression measurements from mouse Embryonic Stem Cells. Cross-validation and meaningful enrichment of gene ontology categories within genes classified as highly (or lowly) variable supports the efficacy of our approach.

Combining laser-assisted microdissection (LAM) and RNA-seq allows to perform a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of epidermal cells of Arabidopsis embryo.

PubMed

Sakai, Kaori; Taconnat, Ludivine; Borrega, Nero; Yansouni, Jennifer; Brunaud, Véronique; Paysant-Le Roux, Christine; Delannoy, Etienne; Martin Magniette, Marie-Laure; Lepiniec, Loïc; Faure, Jean Denis; Balzergue, Sandrine; Dubreucq, Bertrand

2018-01-01

Genome-wide characterization of tissue- or cell-specific gene expression is a recurrent bottleneck in biology. We have developed a sensitive approach based on ultra-low RNA sequencing coupled to laser assisted microdissection for analyzing different tissues of the small Arabidopsis embryo. We first characterized the number of genes detected according to the quantity of tissue yield and total RNA extracted. Our results revealed that as low as 0.02 mm 2 of tissue and 50 pg of total RNA can be used without compromising the number of genes detected. The optimised protocol was used to compare the epidermal versus mesophyll cell transcriptomes of cotyledons at the torpedo-shaped stage of embryo development. The approach was validated by the recovery of well-known epidermal genes such AtML1 or AtPDF2 and genes involved in flavonoid and cuticular waxes pathways. Moreover, the interest and sensitivity of this approach were highlighted by the characterization of several transcription factors preferentially expressed in epidermal cells. This technical advance unlocks some current limitations of transcriptomic analyses and allows to investigate further and efficiently new biological questions for which only a very small amounts of cells need to be isolated. For instance, it paves the way to increasing the spatial accuracy of regulatory networks in developing small embryo of Arabidopsis or other plant tissues.

Explant culture: An advantageous method for isolation of mesenchymal stem cells from human tissues.

PubMed

Hendijani, Fatemeh

2017-04-01

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) research progressively moves towards clinical phases. Accordingly, a wide range of different procedures were presented in the literature for MSC isolation from human tissues; however, there is not yet any close focus on the details to offer precise information for best method selection. Choosing a proper isolation method is a critical step in obtaining cells with optimal quality and yield in companion with clinical and economical considerations. In this concern, current review widely discusses advantages of omitting proteolysis step in isolation process and presence of tissue pieces in primary culture of MSCs, including removal of lytic stress on cells, reduction of in vivo to in vitro transition stress for migrated/isolated cells, reduction of price, processing time and labour, removal of viral contamination risk, and addition of supporting functions of extracellular matrix and released growth factors from tissue explant. In next sections, it provides an overall report of technical highlights and molecular events of explant culture method for isolation of MSCs from human tissues including adipose tissue, bone marrow, dental pulp, hair follicle, cornea, umbilical cord and placenta. Focusing on informative collection of molecular and methodological data about explant methods can make it easy for researchers to choose an optimal method for their experiments/clinical studies and also stimulate them to investigate and optimize more efficient procedures according to clinical and economical benefits. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Performance Evaluation of Electrochem's PEM Fuel Cell Power Plant for NASA's 2nd Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kimble, Michael C.; Hoberecht, Mark

2003-01-01

NASA's Next Generation Launch Technology (NGLT) program is being developed to meet national needs for civil and commercial space access with goals of reducing the launch costs, increasing the reliability, and reducing the maintenance and operating costs. To this end, NASA is considering an all- electric capability for NGLT vehicles requiring advanced electrical power generation technology at a nominal 20 kW level with peak power capabilities six times the nominal power. The proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell has been identified as a viable candidate to supply this electrical power; however, several technology aspects need to be assessed. Electrochem, Inc., under contract to NASA, has developed a breadboard power generator to address these technical issues with the goal of maximizing the system reliability while minimizing the cost and system complexity. This breadboard generator operates with dry hydrogen and oxygen gas using eductors to recirculate the gases eliminating gas humidification and blowers from the system. Except for a coolant pump, the system design incorporates passive components allowing the fuel cell to readily follow a duty cycle profile and that may operate at high 6:1 peak power levels for 30 second durations. Performance data of the fuel cell stack along with system performance is presented to highlight the benefits of the fuel cell stack design and system design for NGLT vehicles.

An integrated workflow to assess technical and biological variability of cell population frequencies in human peripheral blood by flow cytometry

PubMed Central

Burel, Julie G.; Qian, Yu; Arlehamn, Cecilia Lindestam; Weiskopf, Daniela; Zapardiel-Gonzalo, Jose; Taplitz, Randy; Gilman, Robert H.; Saito, Mayuko; de Silva, Aruna D.; Vijayanand, Pandurangan; Scheuermann, Richard H.; Sette, Alessandro; Peters, Bjoern

2016-01-01

In the context of large-scale human system immunology studies, controlling for technical and biological variability is crucial to ensure that experimental data support research conclusions. Here, we report on a universal workflow to evaluate both technical and biological variation in multiparameter flow cytometry, applied to the development of a 10-color panel to identify all major cell populations and T cell subsets in cryopreserved PBMC. Replicate runs from a control donation and comparison of different gating strategies assessed technical variability associated with each cell population and permitted the calculation of a quality control score. Applying our panel to a large collection of PBMC samples, we found that most cell populations showed low intra-individual variability over time. In contrast, certain subpopulations such as CD56 T cells and Temra CD4 T cells were associated with high inter-individual variability. Age but not gender had a significant effect on the frequency of several populations, with a drastic decrease in naïve T cells observed in older donors. Ethnicity also influenced a significant proportion of immune cell population frequencies, emphasizing the need to account for these co-variates in immune profiling studies. Finally, we exemplify the usefulness of our workflow by identifying a novel cell-subset signature of latent tuberculosis infection. Thus, our study provides a universal workflow to establish and evaluate any flow cytometry panel in systems immunology studies. PMID:28069807

An Integrated Workflow To Assess Technical and Biological Variability of Cell Population Frequencies in Human Peripheral Blood by Flow Cytometry.

PubMed

Burel, Julie G; Qian, Yu; Lindestam Arlehamn, Cecilia; Weiskopf, Daniela; Zapardiel-Gonzalo, Jose; Taplitz, Randy; Gilman, Robert H; Saito, Mayuko; de Silva, Aruna D; Vijayanand, Pandurangan; Scheuermann, Richard H; Sette, Alessandro; Peters, Bjoern

2017-02-15

In the context of large-scale human system immunology studies, controlling for technical and biological variability is crucial to ensure that experimental data support research conclusions. In this study, we report on a universal workflow to evaluate both technical and biological variation in multiparameter flow cytometry, applied to the development of a 10-color panel to identify all major cell populations and T cell subsets in cryopreserved PBMC. Replicate runs from a control donation and comparison of different gating strategies assessed the technical variability associated with each cell population and permitted the calculation of a quality control score. Applying our panel to a large collection of PBMC samples, we found that most cell populations showed low intraindividual variability over time. In contrast, certain subpopulations such as CD56 T cells and Temra CD4 T cells were associated with high interindividual variability. Age but not gender had a significant effect on the frequency of several populations, with a drastic decrease in naive T cells observed in older donors. Ethnicity also influenced a significant proportion of immune cell population frequencies, emphasizing the need to account for these covariates in immune profiling studies. We also exemplify the usefulness of our workflow by identifying a novel cell-subset signature of latent tuberculosis infection. Thus, our study provides a universal workflow to establish and evaluate any flow cytometry panel in systems immunology studies. Copyright © 2017 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Technical nuances to minimize common complications of deep brain stimulation.

PubMed

House, Paul

2017-04-01

The implantation of deep brain stimulator electrodes is associated with infrequent complications. These complications are consistent across prospective trials and include infection, skin erosion, hemorrhage, and lead misplacement. Nuances of surgical technique can be used to minimize the risk of these commonly noted complications. Several of these technical nuances are highlighted in this video submission. The video can be found here: https://youtu.be/GL09W9p013g .

Career and Technical Education Reforms and Comprehensive School Reforms in High Schools: Their Impact on Education Outcomes for At-Risk Youth. The Highlight Zone: Research @ Work.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Castellano, Marisa; Stringfield, Samuel; Stone, James R., III

The impact of career and technical education (CTE) reforms and comprehensive school reforms in high schools on education outcomes for at-risk youth was examined in a review of research on current reforms. The review identified a series of individual, family and home, school, and community factors that can place students at risk of failing to…

The Study of the Phase Characteristics of Bragg Cells for Acousto-Optic Signal Processing

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-01-01

contractor will determine the relationship of phase characteristics between TeO2 and GaAs cells with their constructive and technical parameters. Design a...Braggcell TeO2 with minimal phase distortions operating near 100 MHz. Experimentally investigate the phase characteristics for a Bragg cell on TeO2 ...follows: The contractor will determine the relationship of phase characteristics between TeO2 and GaAs cells with their constructive and technical

BASiCS: Bayesian Analysis of Single-Cell Sequencing Data

PubMed Central

Vallejos, Catalina A.; Marioni, John C.; Richardson, Sylvia

2015-01-01

Single-cell mRNA sequencing can uncover novel cell-to-cell heterogeneity in gene expression levels in seemingly homogeneous populations of cells. However, these experiments are prone to high levels of unexplained technical noise, creating new challenges for identifying genes that show genuine heterogeneous expression within the population of cells under study. BASiCS (Bayesian Analysis of Single-Cell Sequencing data) is an integrated Bayesian hierarchical model where: (i) cell-specific normalisation constants are estimated as part of the model parameters, (ii) technical variability is quantified based on spike-in genes that are artificially introduced to each analysed cell’s lysate and (iii) the total variability of the expression counts is decomposed into technical and biological components. BASiCS also provides an intuitive detection criterion for highly (or lowly) variable genes within the population of cells under study. This is formalised by means of tail posterior probabilities associated to high (or low) biological cell-to-cell variance contributions, quantities that can be easily interpreted by users. We demonstrate our method using gene expression measurements from mouse Embryonic Stem Cells. Cross-validation and meaningful enrichment of gene ontology categories within genes classified as highly (or lowly) variable supports the efficacy of our approach. PMID:26107944

76 FR 28759 - Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-18

... Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established under section 807 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technical Advisory Committee (HTAC) AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of...

The importance of defining technical issues in interagency environmental negotiations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lamb, B.L.; Burkardt, N.; Taylor, J.G.

2001-01-01

The role of technical clarity in successful multiparty negotiations was studied. Investigations involved in-depth interviews with the principal participants in six consultations conducted under the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s hydroelectric power project licensing procedures. Technical clarity was especially important in these cases because they concerned science-based questions. The principal issues in the six cases were fish passage, instream flow for fish habitat, and entrainment of fish in hydropower turbines. It was concluded that technical clarity was one of the most critical elements in resolving these conflicts. In the least successful negotiations, parties failed to address the basic values of the dispute before plunging into technical studies. The results of those studies usually highlighted the potential for negative outcomes and increased polarization between the participants. In the most successful negotiations, the various parties shared an understanding of each of their basic values. These shared understandings led to technical studies that cast the negotiation in a positive light and illuminated possible solutions.

Efficiency Assessment of a Blended-Learning Educational Methodology in Engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogado, Ana Belén González; Conde, Ma José Rodríguez; Migueláñez, Susana Olmos; Riaza, Blanca García; Peñalvo, Francisco José García

The content of this presentation highlights the importance of an active learning methodology in engineering university degrees in Spain. We present of some of the outcomes from an experimental study carried out during the academic years 2007/08 and 2008/09 with engineering students (Technical Industrial Engineering: Mechanics, Civical Design Engineering: Civical building, Technical Architecture and Technical Engineering on Computer Management.) at the University of Salamanca. In this research we select a subject which is common for the four degrees: Computer Science. This study has the aim of contributing to the improvement of education and teaching methods for a better performance of students in Engineering.

Analysis of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Immunopeptidomes Using Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Caron, Etienne; Kowalewski, Daniel J; Chiek Koh, Ching; Sturm, Theo; Schuster, Heiko; Aebersold, Ruedi

2015-12-01

The myriad of peptides presented at the cell surface by class I and class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules are referred to as the immunopeptidome and are of great importance for basic and translational science. For basic science, the immunopeptidome is a critical component for understanding the immune system; for translational science, exact knowledge of the immunopeptidome can directly fuel and guide the development of next-generation vaccines and immunotherapies against autoimmunity, infectious diseases, and cancers. In this mini-review, we summarize established isolation techniques as well as emerging mass spectrometry-based platforms (i.e. SWATH-MS) to identify and quantify MHC-associated peptides. We also highlight selected biological applications and discuss important current technical limitations that need to be solved to accelerate the development of this field. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Analysis of PNGase F-resistant N-glycopeptides using SugarQb for Proteome Discoverer 2.1 reveals cryptic substrate specificities.

PubMed

Stadlmann, Johannes; Hoi, David M; Taubenschmid, Jasmin; Mechtler, Karl; Penninger, Josef M

2018-05-18

SugarQb (www.imba.oeaw.ac.at/sugarqb) is a freely available collection of computational tools for the automated identification of intact glycopeptides from high-resolution HCD MS/MS data-sets in the Proteome Discoverer environment. We report the migration of SugarQb to the latest and free version of Proteome Discoverer 2.1, and apply it to the analysis of PNGase F-resistant N-glycopeptides from mouse embryonic stem cells. The analysis of intact glycopeptides highlights unexpected technical limitations to PNGase F-dependent glycoproteomic workflows at the proteome level, and warrants a critical re-interpretation of seminal data-sets in the context of N-glycosylation-site prediction. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

[A case of the fatal injury by technical electricity from a mobile device (cell phone) connected to the circuit].

PubMed

Rudenko, I A; Kil'dyushov, E M; Koludarova, E M; Morozov, V Yu; Fetisov, V A

2015-01-01

The authors report a case of the fatal injury by technical electricity from a mobile device (cell phone) attached to the circuit in a moist environment as a result of the unsafe handling of the gadget (when taking the bath).

BASINS User Information and Guidance

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This page provides links to guidance on how to use BASINS, including the User’s Manual, tutorials and training, technical notes, case studies, and publications that highlight the use of BASINS in various watershed analyses.

Advanced Light Source Activity Report 2002

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

Duque, Theresa; Greiner, Annette; Moxon, Elizabeth

2003-06-12

This annual report of the Advanced Light Source details science highlights and facility improvements during the year. It also offers information on events sponsored by the facility, technical specifications, and staff and publication information.

Synthetic biology and the technicity of biofuels.

PubMed

Mackenzie, Adrian

2013-06-01

The principal existing real-world application of synthetic biology is biofuels. Several 'next generation biofuel' companies-Synthetic Genomics, Amyris and Joule Unlimited Technologies-claim to be using synthetic biology to make biofuels. The irony of this is that highly advanced science and engineering serves the very mundane and familiar realm of transport. Despite their rather prosaic nature, biofuels could offer an interesting way to highlight the novelty of synthetic biology from several angles at once. Drawing on the French philosopher of technology and biology Gilbert Simondon, we can understand biofuels as technical objects whose genesis involves processes of concretisation that negotiate between heterogeneous geographical, biological, technical, scientific and commercial realities. Simondon's notion of technicity, the degree of concretisation of a technical object, usefully conceptualises this relationality. Viewed in terms of technicity, we might understand better how technical entities, elements, and ensembles are coming into being in the name of synthetic biology. The broader argument here is that when we seek to identify the newness of disciplines, their newness might be less epistemic and more logistic. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Separations and Waste Forms Research and Development FY 2013 Accomplishments Report

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

None, None

The Separations and Waste Form Campaign (SWFC) under the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Fuel Cycle Research and Development Program (FCRD) is responsible for developing advanced separation and waste form technologies to support the various fuel cycle options defined in the DOE Nuclear Energy Research and Development Roadmap, Report to Congress, April 2010. The fiscal year (FY) 2013 accomplishments report provides a highlight of the results of the research and development (R&D) efforts performed within SWFC in FY 2013. Each section contains a high-level overview of the activities, results, technical point of contact, applicable references, and documents produced during themore » fiscal year. This report briefly outlines campaign management and integration activities, but the intent of the report is to highlight the many technical accomplishments made during FY 2013.« less

Drug and bioactive molecule screening based on a bioelectrical impedance cell culture platform

PubMed Central

Ramasamy, Sakthivel; Bennet, Devasier; Kim, Sanghyo

2014-01-01

This review will present a brief discussion on the recent advancements of bioelectrical impedance cell-based biosensors, especially the electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) system for screening of various bioactive molecules. The different technical integrations of various chip types, working principles, measurement systems, and applications for drug targeting of molecules in cells are highlighted in this paper. Screening of bioactive molecules based on electric cell-substrate impedance sensing is a trial-and-error process toward the development of therapeutically active agents for drug discovery and therapeutics. In general, bioactive molecule screening can be used to identify active molecular targets for various diseases and toxicity at the cellular level with nanoscale resolution. In the innovation and screening of new drugs or bioactive molecules, the activeness, the efficacy of the compound, and safety in biological systems are the main concerns on which determination of drug candidates is based. Further, drug discovery and screening of compounds are often performed in cell-based test systems in order to reduce costs and save time. Moreover, this system can provide more relevant results in in vivo studies, as well as high-throughput drug screening for various diseases during the early stages of drug discovery. Recently, MEMS technologies and integration with image detection techniques have been employed successfully. These new technologies and their possible ongoing transformations are addressed. Select reports are outlined, and not all the work that has been performed in the field of drug screening and development is covered. PMID:25525360

Technical and Non-Technical Measures for air pollution emission reduction: The integrated assessment of the regional Air Quality Management Plans through the Italian national model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Elia, I.; Bencardino, M.; Ciancarella, L.; Contaldi, M.; Vialetto, G.

2009-12-01

The Italian Air Quality legislation underwent sweeping changes with the implementation of the 1996 European Air Quality Framework Directive when the Italian administrative Regions were entrusted with air quality management tasks. The most recent Regional Air Quality Management Plans (AQMPs) highlighted the importance of Non-Technical Measures (NTMs), in addition to Technical Measures (TMs), in meeting environmental targets. The aim of the present work is to compile a list of all the TMs and NTMs taken into account in the Italian Regional AQMPs and to give in the target year, 2010, an estimation of SO 2, NO x and PM 10 emission reductions, of PM 10 concentration and of the health impact of PM 2.5 concentrations in terms of Life Expectancy Reduction. In order to do that, RAINS-Italy, as part of the National Integrated Modeling system for International Negotiation on atmospheric pollution (MINNI), has been applied. The management of TMs and NTMs inside RAINS have often obliged both the introduction of exogenous driving force scenarios and the control strategy modification. This has inspired a revision of the many NTM definitions and a clear choice of the definition adopted. It was finally highlighted that only few TMs and NTMs implemented in the AQMPs represent effective measures in reaching the environmental targets.

Live Faecalibacterium prausnitzii induces greater TLR2 and TLR2/6 activation than the dead bacterium in an apical anaerobic co-culture system.

PubMed

Maier, Eva; Anderson, Rachel C; Altermann, Eric; Roy, Nicole C

2018-02-01

Inappropriate activation of intestinal innate immune receptors, such as toll-like receptors (TLRs), by pathogenic bacteria is linked to chronic inflammation. In contrast, a "tonic" level of TLR activation by commensal bacteria is required for intestinal homeostasis. A technical challenge when studying this activation in vitro is the co-culturing of oxygen-requiring mammalian cells with obligate anaerobic commensal bacteria. To overcome this, we used a novel apical anaerobic co-culture system to successfully adapt a TLR activation assay to be conducted in conditions optimised for both cell types. Live Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, an abundant obligate anaerobe of the colonic microbiota, induced higher TLR2 and TLR2/6 activation than the dead bacterium. This enhanced TLR induction by live F. prausnitzii, which until now has not previously been described, may contribute to maintenance of gastrointestinal homeostasis. This highlights the importance of using physiologically relevant co-culture systems to decipher the mechanisms of action of live obligate anaerobes. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Effects of two commercial diets and technical feed treatment on stomach lesions and immune system of fattening pigs.

PubMed

Liermann, W; Berk, A; Frahm, J; Böschen, V; Dänicke, S

2017-10-01

The impact of technical feed treatment and diet on stomach lesions and traits of the local and systemic immune system were investigated in fattening pigs. Feeding groups differed in technical feed treatment (standard ground meal vs. finely ground and pelleted feed) and diet (soya bean meal vs. rapeseed meal/DDGS/soya beans). Pigs were fattened approximately 10 weeks by ad libitum feeding and slaughtered subsequently. Gastric alterations were assessed by a macroscopic scoring system [macroscopic stomach score (MSC) 0 =  normal to 4 =  severe lesions]. For immunological investigations, lymphocytes from blood and jejunal tissues were isolated. T-cell phenotyping was carried out by staining intestinal lymphocytes with monoclonal antibodies for CD4 and CD8 and flow cytometric measurements. MSC was higher in animals fed finely ground and pelleted feed compared with their counterparts. Significant interactions between diet and feed treatment considering the MSC were observed (p = 0.027). There was no effect of diet or technical feed treatment on T cells of blood, Lymphonodi gastrici or lamina propria (LP) and intraepithelial cells. However, technical feed treatment significantly affected subsets of CD4 + , CD8 + , CD8 low , CD4/CD8 double-positive T cells, the mean fluorescence intensity of CD4 + T cells and the ratio of CD8 low /CD8 high T cells in Peyer's patches (PP). All named parameters were reduced in PP of animals fed finely ground and pelleted feed compared with animals fed standard ground meal. Furthermore, significant differences between T cells of lymph nodes and LP were observed between animals with middle MSC (MSC = 1-2.5) and animals with high MSC (MSC = 3-4). Significant alterations in T cells of PP were observed between animals of low (MSC = 0-0.5) and high MSC. The observed effects provide the evidence that the impact of technical feed treatment is not limited on the stomach lesions. Possible stimuli and consequences of the immune system should be studied in more detail. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Drought Resilience and Water Conservation Technical Brief

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

In many areas of the US, the frequency, intensity, and duration of drought events are increasing, this brief highlights EPA drought and conservation activities across the nation and includes links to additional materials and reference documents.

Program of scientific investigations and development of solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFC) in VNIITF. Proposals on scientific and technical collaboration and SOFC commercialization

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

Kleschev, Yu.N.; Chukharev, V.F.

1996-04-01

This paper describes proposals on scientific and technical collaborations pertaining to solid oxide fuel cell commercialization. Topics included for discussion are: materials research and manufacture; market estimation and cost; directions of collaboration; and project of proposals on joint enterprise creation.

Preparing clinical grade Ag-specific T cells for adoptive immunotherapy trials

PubMed Central

DiGiusto, DL; Cooper, LJN

2007-01-01

The production of clinical-grade T cells for adoptive immunotherapy has evolved from the ex vivo numerical expansion of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes to sophisticated bioengineering processes often requiring cell selection, genetic modification and other extensive tissue culture manipulations, to produce desired cells with improved therapeutic potential. Advancements in understanding the biology of lymphocyte signaling, activation, homing and sustained in vivo proliferative potential have redefined the strategies used to produce T cells suitable for clinical investigation. When combined with new technical methods in cell processing and culturing, the therapeutic potential of T cells manufactured in academic centers has improved dramatically. Paralleling these technical achievements in cell manufacturing is the development of broadly applied regulatory standards that define the requirements for the clinical implementation of cell products with ever-increasing complexity. In concert with academic facilities operating in compliance with current good manufacturing practice, the prescribing physician can now infuse T cells with a highly selected or endowed phenotype that has been uniformly manufactured according to standard operating procedures and that meets federal guidelines for quality of investigational cell products. In this review we address salient issues related to the technical, immunologic, practical and regulatory aspects of manufacturing these advanced T-cell products for clinical use. PMID:17943498

From single-cell to cell-pool transcriptomes: stochasticity in gene expression and RNA splicing.

PubMed

Marinov, Georgi K; Williams, Brian A; McCue, Ken; Schroth, Gary P; Gertz, Jason; Myers, Richard M; Wold, Barbara J

2014-03-01

Single-cell RNA-seq mammalian transcriptome studies are at an early stage in uncovering cell-to-cell variation in gene expression, transcript processing and editing, and regulatory module activity. Despite great progress recently, substantial challenges remain, including discriminating biological variation from technical noise. Here we apply the SMART-seq single-cell RNA-seq protocol to study the reference lymphoblastoid cell line GM12878. By using spike-in quantification standards, we estimate the absolute number of RNA molecules per cell for each gene and find significant variation in total mRNA content: between 50,000 and 300,000 transcripts per cell. We directly measure technical stochasticity by a pool/split design and find that there are significant differences in expression between individual cells, over and above technical variation. Specific gene coexpression modules were preferentially expressed in subsets of individual cells, including one enriched for mRNA processing and splicing factors. We assess cell-to-cell variation in alternative splicing and allelic bias and report evidence of significant differences in splice site usage that exceed splice variation in the pool/split comparison. Finally, we show that transcriptomes from small pools of 30-100 cells approach the information content and reproducibility of contemporary RNA-seq from large amounts of input material. Together, our results define an experimental and computational path forward for analyzing gene expression in rare cell types and cell states.

Metal plasmon-coupled fluorescence imaging and label free coenzyme detection in cells

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

Zhang, Jian, E-mail: jian@cfs.bioment.umaryland.edu; Fu, Yi; Li, Ge

2012-08-31

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Metal nanoparticle for fluorescence cell imaging. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Non-invasive emission detection of coenzyme in cell on time-resolved confocal microscope. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Near-field interaction of flavin adenine dinucleotide with silver substrate. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Isolation of emissions by coenzymes from cellular autofluorescence on fluorescence cell imaging. -- Abstract: Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) is a key metabolite in cellular energy conversion. Flavin can also bind with some enzymes in the metabolic pathway and the binding sites may be changed due to the disease progression. Thus, there is interest on studying its expression level, distribution, and redox state within the cells. FAD is naturally fluorescent,more » but it has a modest extinction coefficient and quantum yield. Hence the intrinsic emission from FAD is generally too weak to be isolated distinctly from the cellular backgrounds in fluorescence cell imaging. In this article, the metal nanostructures on the glass coverslips were used as substrates to measure FAD in cells. Particulate silver films were fabricated with an optical resonance near the absorption and the emission wavelengths of FAD which can lead to efficient coupling interactions. As a result, the emission intensity and quantum yield by FAD were greatly increased and the lifetime was dramatically shortened resulting in less interference from the longer lived cellular background. This feature may overcome the technical limits that hinder the direct observation of intrinsically fluorescent coenzymes in the cells by fluorescence microscopy. Fluorescence cell imaging on the metallic particle substrates may provide a non-invasive strategy for collecting the information of coenzymes in cells.« less

Chemical Technology Division, Annual technical report, 1991

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

Not Available

1992-03-01

Highlights of the Chemical Technology (CMT) Division's activities during 1991 are presented. In this period, CMT conducted research and development in the following areas: (1) electrochemical technology, including advanced batteries and fuel cells; (2) technology for fluidized-bed combustion and coal-fired magnetohydrodynamics; (3) methods for treatment of hazardous and mixed hazardous/radioactive waste; (4) the reaction of nuclear waste glass and spent fuel under conditions expected for an unsaturated repository; (5) processes for separating and recovering transuranic elements from nuclear waste streams; (6) recovery processes for discharged fuel and the uranium blanket in the Integral Fast Reactor (IFR); (7) processes for removalmore » of actinides in spent fuel from commercial water-cooled nuclear reactors and burnup in IFRs; and (8) physical chemistry of selected materials in environments simulating those of fission and fusion energy systems. The Division also conducts basic research in catalytic chemistry associated with molecular energy resources; chemistry of superconducting oxides and other materials of interest with technological application; interfacial processes of importance to corrosion science, catalysis, and high-temperature superconductivity; and the geochemical processes involved in water-rock interactions occurring in active hydrothermal systems. In addition, the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory in CMT provides a broad range of analytical chemistry support services to the technical programs at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL).« less

Chemical Technology Division, Annual technical report, 1991

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

Not Available

1992-03-01

Highlights of the Chemical Technology (CMT) Division`s activities during 1991 are presented. In this period, CMT conducted research and development in the following areas: (1) electrochemical technology, including advanced batteries and fuel cells; (2) technology for fluidized-bed combustion and coal-fired magnetohydrodynamics; (3) methods for treatment of hazardous and mixed hazardous/radioactive waste; (4) the reaction of nuclear waste glass and spent fuel under conditions expected for an unsaturated repository; (5) processes for separating and recovering transuranic elements from nuclear waste streams; (6) recovery processes for discharged fuel and the uranium blanket in the Integral Fast Reactor (IFR); (7) processes for removalmore » of actinides in spent fuel from commercial water-cooled nuclear reactors and burnup in IFRs; and (8) physical chemistry of selected materials in environments simulating those of fission and fusion energy systems. The Division also conducts basic research in catalytic chemistry associated with molecular energy resources; chemistry of superconducting oxides and other materials of interest with technological application; interfacial processes of importance to corrosion science, catalysis, and high-temperature superconductivity; and the geochemical processes involved in water-rock interactions occurring in active hydrothermal systems. In addition, the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory in CMT provides a broad range of analytical chemistry support services to the technical programs at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL).« less

Computational support of the laminar flow supersonic wind tunnel, CNSFV code development, Maglev, and grid generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klopfer, Goetz H.

1995-01-01

This final report covers the work done on corporate agreement NCC2-616 over a period of 5 1/2 years. It is broken into three segments of approximately 1 1/2 to 2 years each. The report is a summary report and is not intended to be comprehensive of all the work done under this corporate agreement. A more complete coverage of the work done is obtained from the papers and reports listed in the 'Papers' section. Additional reporting of significant work was done through 'Technical Highlights' and 'Research and Technical Summaries'. A listing of copies are given in the 'Technical Highlights and R and T' section. The work was also reported in a series of seminars, conference meetings, branch reviews, workshops, and project reviews. A list of these talks is given in the 'Presentation' section. Also during this time three students ranging from high school to graduate level were supervised. A list of the students and the type of work accomplished is given in the 'Mentoring' section. The report concludes with the 'Appendices' sections which include the three papers produced during the last 1 1/2 years of this corporate agreement.

LUVOIR Tech Notes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bolcar, Matthew R.; Shaklan, Stuart; Roberge, Aki; Rioux, Norman; Feinberg, Lee; Werner, Michael; Rauscher, Bernard; Mandell, Avi; France, Kevin; Schiminovich, David

2016-01-01

We present nine "tech notes" prepared by the Large UV/Optical/Infrared (LUVOIR) Science and Technology Definition Team (STDT), Study Office, and Technology Working Group. These tech notes are intended to highlight technical challenges that represent boundaries in the trade space for developing the LUVOIR architecture that may impact the science objectives being developed by the STDT. These tech notes are intended to be high-level discussions of the technical challenges and will serve as starting points for more in-depth analysis as the LUVOIR study progresses.

Notes on the Early History of Technical Higher

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teodorescu, Horia Nicolai

We perform a brief analysis of the economical and political context of establishing the first technical higher school in Romania. We urge for a revision of the current point of view on the educational level in Yashi (Iaši) and Bucharest at the epoch, highlighting that these were, at the time, important academic centers we may not recognize or may not be aware of today. We also plead for a long due serious approach about the history of early modern education in Romania.

Low immunogenicity of allogeneic human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and in vivo

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

Lee, Miyoung; Jeong, Sang Young; Ha, Jueun

2014-04-18

Highlights: • hUCB-MSCs maintained low immunogenicity even after immune challenge in vitro. • Humanized NSG mice were established using human UCB CD34+ cells. • Repeated intravenous hUCB-MSC injection into mice did not lead to immune responses and adverse events. • Allogeneic hUCB-MSCs maintained low immunogenicity in vitro and in vivo. - Abstract: Evaluation of the immunogenicity of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in an allogeneic setting during therapy has been hampered by lack of suitable models due to technical and ethical limitations. Here, we show that allogeneic human umbilical cord blood derived-MSCs (hUCB-MSCs) maintained low immunogenicity even after immune challengemore » in vitro. To confirm these properties in vivo, a humanized mouse model was established by injecting isolated hUCB-derived CD34+ cells intravenously into immunocompromised NOD/SCID IL2γnull (NSG) mice. After repeated intravenous injection of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) or MRC5 cells into these mice, immunological alterations including T cell proliferation and increased IFN-γ, TNF-α, and human IgG levels, were observed. In contrast, hUCB-MSC injection did not elicit these responses. While lymphocyte infiltration in the lung and small intestine and reduced survival rates were observed after hPBMC or MRC5 transplantation, no adverse events were observed following hUCB-MSC introduction. In conclusion, our data suggest that allogeneic hUCB-MSCs have low immunogenicity in vitro and in vivo, and are therefore “immunologically safe” for use in allogeneic clinical applications.« less

Technical attainment, practical success and practical knowledge: hermeneutical bases for child nursing care.

PubMed

de Mello, Débora Falleiros; de Lima, Regina Aparecida Garcia

2009-01-01

This reflective study aimed to present some aspects of the concepts technical attainment, practical success and practical knowledge, with a view to a broader understanding of child nursing care. Health care is considered in the perspective of reconstructive practices, characterized as contingencies, highlighting the importance of the connection between technical attainment and practical success and the valuation of practical knowledge, based on philosophical hermeneutics, in the context of practical philosophy. Child health nursing can deal with technical attainment and practical success jointly, and also understand practical knowledge in the longitudinality of care. Health promotion, disease prevention, recovery and rehabilitation of child health should be indissociably associated with contextualized realities, shared between professionals and families, aiming to follow the child's growth and development, produce narratives, identify experiences, choices and decision making to broaden health care.

A systems approach to implementation of eLearning in medical education: five MEPI schools' journeys.

PubMed

Vovides, Yianna; Chale, Selamawit Bedada; Gadhula, Rumbidzayi; Kebaetse, Masego B; Nigussie, Netsanet Animut; Suleman, Fatima; Tibyampansha, Dativa; Ibrahim, Glory Ramadhan; Ntabaye, Moshi; Frehywot, Seble; Nkomazana, Oathokwa

2014-08-01

How should eLearning be implemented in resource-constrained settings? The introduction of eLearning at four African medical schools and one school of pharmacy, all part of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative (MEPI) eLearning Technical Working Group, highlighted the need for five factors essential for successful and sustainable implementation: institutional support; faculty engagement; student engagement; technical expertise; and infrastructure and support systems. All five MEPI schools reported strengthening technical expertise, infrastructure, and support systems; four schools indicated that they were also successful in developing student engagement; and three reported making good progress in building institutional support. Faculty engagement was the one core component that all five schools needed to enhance.

The use of ultrasound for postoperative monitoring of cerebral bypass grafts: A technical report.

PubMed

Morton, Ryan P; Abecassis, Isaac Joshua; Moore, Anne E; Kelly, Cory M; Levitt, Michael R; Kim, Louis J; Sekhar, Laligam N

2017-06-01

Duplex ultrasound and transcranial Doppler are valuable tools for post-operative monitoring of extracranial-intracranial cerebral bypass grafts. Here we describe our technique for the evaluation of both high-flow and low-flow cerebral bypass grafts over a nine year period. 186 bypass grafts were studied daily during the inpatient period between Jan 2005 and Dec 2014 after surgery for various cerebrovascular pathologies. There was a technical success rate of 97%. Duplex ultrasonographic flow measurements had excellent interobserver reliability with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.89 (p=0.009). Technical nuances are highlighted and a brief discussion of pathology is undertaken. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Overview of Avionics and Electrical Ground Support Equipment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clarke, Sean C.

2011-01-01

Presents an overview of the Crew Module Avionics and the associated Electrical Ground Support Equipment for the Pad Abort 1 flight test of the Orion Program. A limited selection of the technical challenges and solutions are highlighted.

Technical Progress of the New Worlds Observer Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lo, Amy; Noecker, C.; Cash, W.; NWO Study Team

2009-01-01

We report on the technical progress of the New Worlds Observer (NWO) mission concept. NWO is a two spacecraft mission that is capable of detecting and characterizing extra-solar, terrestrial planets and planetary systems. NWO consists of an external starshade and an UV-optical space telescope, flying in tandem. The starshade is a petal-shaped, opaque screen that creates an extremely dark shadow large enough to shade the telescope aperture from the target star. The NWO team has been addressing the top technology challenges of the concept, and report here our progress. We will present the current mission configuration best suited to address Terrestrial Planet Finding requirements, and highlight the technological breakthroughs that we have achieved this year. In particular, we will report on progress made in precision deployables for the large starshade, and the trajectory & alignment control system for NWO. We will also briefly highlight advances in understanding the starshade optical performance.

Beyond quantification: in situ analysis of transcriptome and pre-mRNA alternative splicing at the nanoscale.

PubMed

Cui, Yi; Liu, Jing; Irudayaraj, Joseph

2017-07-01

In situ analysis offers a venue for dissecting the complex transcriptome in its natural context to tap into cellular processes that could explain the phenotypic physiology and pathology yet to be understood. Over the past decades, enormous progress has been made to improve the resolution, sensitivity, and specificity of single-cell technologies. The continued efforts in RNA research not only facilitates mechanistic studies of molecular biology but also provides state-of-the-art strategies for diagnostic purposes. The implementation of novel bio-imaging platforms has yielded valuable information for inspecting gene expression, mapping regulatory networks, and classifying cell types. In this article, we discuss the merits and technical challenges in single-molecule in situ RNA profiling. Advanced in situ hybridization methodologies developed for a variety of detection modalities are reviewed. Considering the fact that in mammalian cells the number of protein products immensely exceeds that of the actual coding genes due to pre-mRNA alternative splicing, tools capable of elucidating this process in intact cells are highlighted. To conclude, we point out future directions for in situ transcriptome analysis and expect a plethora of opportunities and discoveries in this field. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2017, 9:e1443. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1443 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Characterizing the molecular architectures of chromatin-modifying complexes.

PubMed

Setiaputra, Dheva T; Yip, Calvin K

2017-11-01

Eukaryotic cells package their genome in the form of a DNA-protein complex known as chromatin. This organization not only condenses the genome to fit within the confines of the nucleus, but also provides a platform for a cell to regulate accessibility to different gene sequences. The basic packaging element of chromatin is the nucleosome, which consists of 146 base pairs of DNA wrapped around histone proteins. One major means that a cell regulates chromatin structure is by depositing post-translational modifications on nucleosomal histone proteins, and thereby altering internucleosomal interactions and/or binding to different chromatin associated factors. These chromatin modifications are often catalyzed by multi-subunit enzyme complexes, whose large size, sophisticated composition, and inherent conformational flexibility pose significant technical challenges to their biochemical and structural characterization. Multiple structural approaches including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, single-particle electron microscopy, and crosslinking coupled to mass spectrometry are often used synergistically to probe the overall architecture, subunit organization, and catalytic mechanisms of these macromolecular assemblies. In this review, we highlight several recent chromatin-modifying complexes studies that embodies this multipronged structural approach, and explore common themes amongst them. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biophysics in Canada, edited by Lewis Kay, John Baenziger, Albert Berghuis and Peter Tieleman. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanocarrier-mediated drugs targeting cancer stem cells: an emerging delivery approach.

PubMed

Malhi, Sarandeep; Gu, Xiaochen

2015-07-01

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in the development of drug resistance, metastasis and recurrence. Current conventional therapies do not commonly target CSCs. Nanocarrier-based delivery systems targeting cancer cells have entered a new era of treatment, where specific targeting to CSCs may offer superior outcomes to efficient cancer therapies. This review discusses the involvement of CSCs in tumor progression and relevant mechanisms associated with CSCs resistance to conventional chemo- and radio-therapies. It highlights CSCs-targeted strategies that are either under evaluation or could be explored in the near future, with a focus on various nanocarrier-based delivery systems of drugs and nucleic acids to CSCs. Novel nanocarriers targeting CSCs are presented in a cancer-specific way to provide a current perspective on anti-CSCs therapeutics. The field of CSCs-targeted therapeutics is still emerging with a few small molecules and macromolecules currently proving efficacy in clinical trials. However considering the complexities of CSCs and existing delivery difficulties in conventional anticancer therapies, CSC-specific delivery systems would face tremendous technical and clinical challenges. Nanocarrier-based approaches have demonstrated significant potential in specific drug delivery and targeting; their success in CSCs-targeted drug delivery would not only significantly enhance anticancer treatment but also address current difficulties associated with cancer resistance, metastasis and recurrence.

Assembling a Cellular User Manual for the Brain.

PubMed

Sloan, Steven A; Barres, Ben A

2018-03-28

For many years, efforts to decipher the various cellular components that comprise the CNS were stymied by a lack of technical strategies for isolating and profiling the brain's resident cell types. The advent of transcriptional profiling, combined with powerful new purification schemes, changed this reality and transformed our understanding of the macroglial populations within the brain. Here, we chronicle the historical context and scientific setting for our efforts to transcriptionally profile neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, and highlight some of the profound discoveries that were cultivated by these data.Following a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer, Ben Barres passed away during the writing of this Progression piece. Among Ben's innumerable contributions to the greater scientific community, his addition of publicly available transcriptome databases of CNS cell types will forever remain a relic of his generous spirit and boundless scientific curiosity. Although he had impressively committed a majority of these enormous gene lists to memory, Ben could oftentimes be spotted at meetings buried in his cell phone on the Barres RNAseq database. Perhaps the only thing he enjoyed more than exploring these data himself, was knowing how useful these contributions had been (and will hopefully continue to be) to his scientific peers. Copyright © 2018 the authors 0270-6474/18/383149-05$15.00/0.

Using label-free screening technology to improve efficiency in drug discovery.

PubMed

Halai, Reena; Cooper, Matthew A

2012-02-01

Screening assays have traditionally utilized reporter labels to quantify biological responses relevant to the disease state of interest. However, there are limitations associated with the use of labels that may be overcome with temporal measurements possible with label-free. This review comprises general and system-specific information from literature searches using PubMed, published books and the authors' personal experience. This review highlights the label-free approaches in the context of various applications. The authors also note technical issues relevant to the development of label-free assays and their application to HTS. The limitations associated with the use of transfected cell lines and the use of label-based assays are gradually being realized. As such, greater emphasis is being placed on label-free biophysical techniques using native cell lines. The introduction of 96- and 384-well plate label-free systems is helping to broker a wider acceptance of these approaches in high-throughput screening. However, potential users of the technologies remain skeptical, primarily because the physical basis of the signals generated, and their contextual relevance to cell biology and signal transduction, has not been fully elucidated. Until this is done, these new technology platforms are more likely to complement, rather than replace, traditional screening platforms.

Technical review of the da Vinci surgical telemanipulator.

PubMed

Freschi, C; Ferrari, V; Melfi, F; Ferrari, M; Mosca, F; Cuschieri, A

2013-12-01

The da Vinci robotic surgical telemanipulator has been utilized in several surgical specialties for varied procedures, and the users' experiences have been widely published. To date, no detailed system technical analyses have been performed. A detailed review was performed of all publications and patents about the technical aspects of the da Vinci robotic system. Published technical literature on the da Vinci system highlight strengths and weaknesses of the robot design. While the system facilitates complex surgical operations and has a low malfunction rate, the lack of haptic (especially tactile) feedback and collisions between the robotic arms remain the major limitations of the system. Accurate, preplanned positioning of access ports is essential. Knowledge of the technical aspects of the da Vinci robot is important for optimal use. We confirmed the excellent system functionality and ease of use for surgeons without an engineering background. Research and development of the surgical robot has been predominant in the literature. Future trends address robot miniaturization and intelligent control design. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Combining regenerative medicine strategies to provide durable reconstructive options: auricular cartilage tissue engineering.

PubMed

Jessop, Zita M; Javed, Muhammad; Otto, Iris A; Combellack, Emman J; Morgan, Siân; Breugem, Corstiaan C; Archer, Charles W; Khan, Ilyas M; Lineaweaver, William C; Kon, Moshe; Malda, Jos; Whitaker, Iain S

2016-01-28

Recent advances in regenerative medicine place us in a unique position to improve the quality of engineered tissue. We use auricular cartilage as an exemplar to illustrate how the use of tissue-specific adult stem cells, assembly through additive manufacturing and improved understanding of postnatal tissue maturation will allow us to more accurately replicate native tissue anisotropy. This review highlights the limitations of autologous auricular reconstruction, including donor site morbidity, technical considerations and long-term complications. Current tissue-engineered auricular constructs implanted into immune-competent animal models have been observed to undergo inflammation, fibrosis, foreign body reaction, calcification and degradation. Combining biomimetic regenerative medicine strategies will allow us to improve tissue-engineered auricular cartilage with respect to biochemical composition and functionality, as well as microstructural organization and overall shape. Creating functional and durable tissue has the potential to shift the paradigm in reconstructive surgery by obviating the need for donor sites.

Magnetic resonance microscopy: concepts, challenges, and state-of-the-art.

PubMed

Gimi, Barjor

2006-01-01

Recent strides in targeted therapy and regenerative medicine have created a need to identify molecules and metabolic pathways implicated in a disease and its treatment. These molecules and pathways must be discerned at the cellular level to meaningfully reveal the biochemical underpinnings of the disease and to identify key molecular targets for therapy. Magnetic resonance (MR) techniques are well suited for molecular and functional imaging because of their noninvasive nature and their versatility in extracting physiological, biochemical, and functional information over time. However, MR is an insensitive technique; MR microscopy seeks to increase detection sensitivity, thereby localizing biochemical and functional information at the level of single cells or small cellular clusters. Here, we discuss some of the challenges facing MR microscopy and the technical and phenomenological strategies used to overcome these challenges. Some of the applications of MR microscopy are highlighted in this chapter.

The solar textile challenge: how it will not work and where it might.

PubMed

Krebs, Frederik C; Hösel, Markus

2015-03-01

Solar textiles are highlighted as a future technology with transformative power within the fields of both textiles and solar cells provided that developments are made in critical areas. Specifically, these are fundamental solutions to materials and material combinations with mechanical stability and flexibility imposed by textile architectures, scientific solutions to achieve high carrier transport efficiency and optical transmission in a textile topology, technical solutions to controlling the physical disposition of the anode and cathode along with their specific and error-free contacting and, finally, practical solutions to fast and efficient manufacture and integration. The areas of application and the penetration of solar textiles into our everyday life are expected to be explosive pending efficient developments within these four key areas. A shortcoming in one or more of these will, however, lead to the solar textiles being banned to academic existence. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

HEPATOKIN1 is a biochemistry-based model of liver metabolism for applications in medicine and pharmacology.

PubMed

Berndt, Nikolaus; Bulik, Sascha; Wallach, Iwona; Wünsch, Tilo; König, Matthias; Stockmann, Martin; Meierhofer, David; Holzhütter, Hermann-Georg

2018-06-19

The epidemic increase of non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) requires a deeper understanding of the regulatory circuits controlling the response of liver metabolism to nutritional challenges, medical drugs, and genetic enzyme variants. As in vivo studies of human liver metabolism are encumbered with serious ethical and technical issues, we developed a comprehensive biochemistry-based kinetic model of the central liver metabolism including the regulation of enzyme activities by their reactants, allosteric effectors, and hormone-dependent phosphorylation. The utility of the model for basic research and applications in medicine and pharmacology is illustrated by simulating diurnal variations of the metabolic state of the liver at various perturbations caused by nutritional challenges (alcohol), drugs (valproate), and inherited enzyme disorders (galactosemia). Using proteomics data to scale maximal enzyme activities, the model is used to highlight differences in the metabolic functions of normal hepatocytes and malignant liver cells (adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma).

Innovative electrochemical approach for an early detection of microRNAs.

PubMed

Lusi, E A; Passamano, M; Guarascio, P; Scarpa, A; Schiavo, L

2009-04-01

The recent findings of circulating cell-free tissue specific microRNAs in the systemic circulation and the potential of their use as specific markers of disease highlight the need to make microRNAs testing a routine part of medical care. At the present time, microRNAs are detected by long and laborious techniques such as Northern blot, RT-PCR, and microarrays. The originality of our work consists in performing microRNAs detection through an electrochemical genosensor using a label-free method. We were able to directly detect microRNAs without the need of PCR and a labeling reaction. The test is simple, very fast and ultrasensitive, with a detection limit of 0.1 pmol. Particularly feasible for a routine microRNAs detection in serum and other biological samples, our technical approach would be of great scientific value and become a common method for simple miRNAs routine detection in both clinical and research settings.

Glycoproteins functionalized natural and synthetic polymers for prospective biomedical applications: A review.

PubMed

Tabasum, Shazia; Noreen, Aqdas; Kanwal, Arooj; Zuber, Mohammad; Anjum, Muhammad Naveed; Zia, Khalid Mahmood

2017-05-01

Glycoproteins have multidimensional properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, antimicrobial and adsorption properties; therefore, they have wide range of applications. They are blended with different polymers such as chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), polycaprolactone (PCL), heparin, polystyrene fluorescent nanoparticles (PS-NPs) and carboxyl pullulan (PC) to improve their properties like thermal stability, mechanical properties, resistance to pH, chemical stability and toughness. Considering the versatile charateristics of glycoprotein based polymers, this review sheds light on synthesis and characterization of blends and composites of glycoproteins, with natural and synthetic polymers and their potential applications in biomedical field such as drug delivery system, insulin delivery, antimicrobial wound dressing uses, targeting of cancer cells, development of anticancer vaccines, development of new biopolymers, glycoproteome research, food product and detection of dengue glycoproteins. All the technical scientific issues have been addressed; highlighting the recent advancement. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nonhuman Primate Optogenetics: Recent Advances and Future Directions

PubMed Central

Acker, Leah

2017-01-01

Optogenetics is the use of genetically coded, light-gated ion channels or pumps (opsins) for millisecond resolution control of neural activity. By targeting opsin expression to specific cell types and neuronal pathways, optogenetics can expand our understanding of the neural basis of normal and pathological behavior. To maximize the potential of optogenetics to study human cognition and behavior, optogenetics should be applied to the study of nonhuman primates (NHPs). The homology between NHPs and humans makes these animals the best experimental model for understanding human brain function and dysfunction. Moreover, for genetic tools to have translational promise, their use must be demonstrated effectively in large, wild-type animals such as Rhesus macaques. Here, we review recent advances in primate optogenetics. We highlight the technical hurdles that have been cleared, challenges that remain, and summarize how optogenetic experiments are expanding our understanding of primate brain function. PMID:29118219

Engineering Technical Support Center Annual Report Fiscal Year 2016

EPA Science Inventory

This report highlights significant projects that the ETSC supported in fiscal year 2016. These projects have addressed an array of environmental scenarios, including, but not limited to remote mining contamination, expansive landfill waste, cumulative impacts from multiple contam...

SOLINET: What's in It for Us.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chepesiuk, Ron; Tarlton, Shirley

1983-01-01

Describes the operations of Winthrop College Library, Rock Hill, South Carolina, to illustrate the impact of the Southeastern Library Network (SOLINET) on southeastern libraries. The effect of automation on staff requirements of the technical and public services divisions is highlighted. (EJS)

Mobilize Your instruction Program with Wireless Technology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mathias, Molly Susan; Heser, Steven

2002-01-01

Describes the use of wireless technology for library bibliographic instruction at the Milwaukee Area Technical College. Highlights include a wireless mobile cart that holds laptop computers; faculty support; future plans; and recommendations, including investigating technology infrastructure and marketing. (LRW)

Solar 79 Northwest

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

King, S

The highlights of the many public programs are described and summaries of plenary session speeches are included. Names, addresses, and solar interest codes of conference registrants are included. Eleven technical papers or summaries are included. A separate citation was prepared for each one. (MHR)

Toward a Calculus of Collection Development.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hamaker, Charles

1993-01-01

Discusses problems in scholarly communication, particularly pricing strategies for scientific and technical journals and their impact on academic libraries' collection development. Highlights include the growth rate in scholarly titles; serials expenditures; research and development expenditures; expenditures at Louisiana State University; shared…

Building the Digital Library Infrastructure: A Primer.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tebbetts, Diane R.

1999-01-01

Provides a framework for examining the complex infrastructure needed to successfully implement a digital library. Highlights include database development, online public-access catalogs, interactive technical services, full-text documents, hardware and wiring, licensing, access, and security issues. (Author/LRW)

Refining scientific writing skills with feedback that works for students and instructors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiani, Leily S.; Menke, Carrie

2015-10-01

Evaluation of student learning through assessment of communication skills is a generally important component of undergraduate education and particularly so for promotion of interdisciplinary research conducted by future scientists. To better build these skills we aim to quantify the effectiveness of feedback on student writing of technical reports in an upper-division physics lab course. In one implementation, feedback utilization - in the form of observing commented technical reports, attending office hours or emailing rough drafts of their reports was monitored then correlated with improvement in student writing. The improvement in student writing is quantified as the single-student normalized gain. A slight positive relationship was found between the number of times a student utilized feedback and the improvement in student writing. A subsequent study involved correlation of two complimentary assessments of student work. In the first assessment students received consistent feedback throughout the semester on all sections of a technical report in the form of highlighted bullet points in a detailed rubric. In the second assessment method students received varying amounts of feedback for each section of the technical paper throughout the semester with a focus on one section each week and follow-up feedback on previously covered sections. This approach provides focused feedback that can be scalable to larger classes. The number of highlighted bullet points in the rubric clearly decreases as a function of the focused feedback implementation. From this we conclude that student writing improves with the focused feedback method.

In vitro acute and developmental neurotoxicity screening: an overview of cellular platforms and high-throughput technical possibilities.

PubMed

Schmidt, Béla Z; Lehmann, Martin; Gutbier, Simon; Nembo, Erastus; Noel, Sabrina; Smirnova, Lena; Forsby, Anna; Hescheler, Jürgen; Avci, Hasan X; Hartung, Thomas; Leist, Marcel; Kobolák, Julianna; Dinnyés, András

2017-01-01

Neurotoxicity and developmental neurotoxicity are important issues of chemical hazard assessment. Since the interpretation of animal data and their extrapolation to man is challenging, and the amount of substances with information gaps exceeds present animal testing capacities, there is a big demand for in vitro tests to provide initial information and to prioritize for further evaluation. During the last decade, many in vitro tests emerged. These are based on animal cells, human tumour cell lines, primary cells, immortalized cell lines, embryonic stem cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells. They differ in their read-outs and range from simple viability assays to complex functional endpoints such as neural crest cell migration. Monitoring of toxicological effects on differentiation often requires multiomics approaches, while the acute disturbance of neuronal functions may be analysed by assessing electrophysiological features. Extrapolation from in vitro data to humans requires a deep understanding of the test system biology, of the endpoints used, and of the applicability domains of the tests. Moreover, it is important that these be combined in the right way to assess toxicity. Therefore, knowledge on the advantages and disadvantages of all cellular platforms, endpoints, and analytical methods is essential when establishing in vitro test systems for different aspects of neurotoxicity. The elements of a test, and their evaluation, are discussed here in the context of comprehensive prediction of potential hazardous effects of a compound. We summarize the main cellular characteristics underlying neurotoxicity, present an overview of cellular platforms and read-out combinations assessing distinct parts of acute and developmental neurotoxicology, and highlight especially the use of stem cell-based test systems to close gaps in the available battery of tests.

Cell purification: a new challenge for biobanks.

PubMed

Almeida, Maria; García-Montero, Andres C; Orfao, Alberto

2014-01-01

Performing '-omics' analyses on heterogeneous biological tissue samples, such as blood or bone marrow, can lead to biased or even erroneous results, particularly when the targeted cells and/or molecules are present at relatively low percentages/amounts. In such cases, whole sample analysis will most probably dilute and mask the features of the cell and/or molecules of interest, and this will negatively impact the results and their interpretation. Therefore, frequently it is critically important to have well-characterized and high-quality purified cell populations for the reliable detection of subtle variations in their specific features, such as gene expression profile, protein expression pattern and metabolic status. Biobanks are technological platforms which aim to provide researchers access to a large number of high-quality biological samples and their associated data, particularly to support high-quality scientific and clinical research projects, and such projects will benefit enormously by having access to high-quality purified cell populations or their biological components (e.g. DNA, RNA, proteins). Therefore, a clear opportunity exists for preparative cell sorting techniques in biobanks. Although multiple different cell purification approaches exist or are under development (e.g. cell purification techniques based on cell adherence, density and/or cell size properties, methods based on antibody binding as well as new lab-on-a-chip purification techniques), the choice for a specific technology depends on multiple variables, including cell recovery, purity and yield, among others. In addition, most cell purification approaches are not well suited for high-throughput (HT) purification of multiple cell populations coexisting in a sample. Here we review the most (currently) used cell sorting methods that may be applied for sample preparation in biobanks. For the different approaches, technical considerations about their advantages and limitations are highlighted, and the requirements to be met by a HT cell sorting technology to be used in biobanks are also discussed.

A Leap in Faith: Overnight Professionals.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yielder, Jill

1998-01-01

Interviews with 10 new and 16 senior medical radiation technologists highlighted discrepancies between technical competence as measured by licensing boards and professionalism. Continuing professional education, especially at the beginning of the career, is needed to develop professional expertise and lifelong learning habits. (SK)

Technical Education Facing Troubled Decade.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krieger, James

1980-01-01

Presents highlights of the findings of a recent federal government report on science and engineering education at the university level. Reasons for faculty shortages in these fields and trends in the demand for scientists and engineers are analyzed, and several recommendations are made. (WB)

Building Your Campus Portal: Advice from the Field.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krebs, Arlene

2001-01-01

Discusses portal technology in higher education, including planning, design, technical, and financial issues. Highlights include determining the customers; marketing possibilities for the university; ownership issues; data design; effective cost structuring; security issues; adaptability; content; and customer input and feedback. (LRW)

OCLC: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, K. Wayne

1998-01-01

Discusses the Online Computer Library Center's (OCLC) evolution as an organization, highlighting its nonprofit status, financial philosophy, membership role in governance, collections and technical services, resource sharing, and reference services. Presents a chronology of OCLC products, services, and technological innovation 1967-1997. (PEN)

Highlights of the Transit Bus Technology Workshop - April 29-30, 1982

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1982-09-01

The Transit Bus Technology Workshop, held at the Transportation Systems Center on April 29-30, 1982, provided UMTA with current information on research, development, and technical assistance needed to improve the economy and performance of transit bu...

Access to Federal Information: Trends and Implications.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wise, Suzanne; Jamison, Carolyn

1983-01-01

Discussion of growing trend toward contracting out government printing to private sector highlights Government Printing Office duties, commercial publications, competition from National Technical Information Service, Ronald Reagan's moratorium on publication, use of microfiche, and implications of changes in government printing and distribution…

Ethnic Minorities and Achievements: The Black Hole in Science Ranks. Part 2: Post-16 Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rasekoala, Elizabeth

1997-01-01

Discusses the overrepresentation of ethnic minority postsecondary students into the arts and humanities instead of science and technical coursework and its impact on employability. The factors that impact this trend are highlighted. (GR)

Microphysiological Human Brain and Neural Systems-on-a-Chip: Potential Alternatives to Small Animal Models and Emerging Platforms for Drug Discovery and Personalized Medicine.

PubMed

Haring, Alexander P; Sontheimer, Harald; Johnson, Blake N

2017-06-01

Translational challenges associated with reductionist modeling approaches, as well as ethical concerns and economic implications of small animal testing, drive the need for developing microphysiological neural systems for modeling human neurological diseases, disorders, and injuries. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of microphysiological brain and neural systems-on-a-chip (NSCs) for modeling higher order trajectories in the human nervous system. Societal, economic, and national security impacts of neurological diseases, disorders, and injuries are highlighted to identify critical NSC application spaces. Hierarchical design and manufacturing of NSCs are discussed with distinction for surface- and bulk-based systems. Three broad NSC classes are identified and reviewed: microfluidic NSCs, compartmentalized NSCs, and hydrogel NSCs. Emerging areas and future directions are highlighted, including the application of 3D printing to design and manufacturing of next-generation NSCs, the use of stem cells for constructing patient-specific NSCs, and the application of human NSCs to 'personalized neurology'. Technical hurdles and remaining challenges are discussed. This review identifies the state-of-the-art design methodologies, manufacturing approaches, and performance capabilities of NSCs. This work suggests NSCs appear poised to revolutionize the modeling of human neurological diseases, disorders, and injuries.

Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: Technical considerations and an update

PubMed Central

Dominguez-Escrig, Jose L; Vasdev, Nikhil; O’Riordon, Anna; Soomro, Naeem

2011-01-01

The widespread use of radiological imaging (ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) has resulted in a steady increase in the incidental diagnosis of small renal masses. While open partial nephrectomy (OPN) remains the reference standard for the management of small renal masses, laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) continues to evolve. LPN is currently advocated to be at par with OPN oncologically. The steep learning curve and technical demand of LPN make it challenging to establish this as a new procedure. We present a detailed up-to-date review on the previous, current and planned technical considerations for the use of LPN, highlighting important surgical techniques, including single-port and robotic surgery, techniques on improving intra-operative haemostasis and the management of complications specific to LPN. PMID:22022109

Guide to Federal Funding, Financing, and Technical Assistance for Plug-in Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations

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

None, None

The U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Transportation have published a guide to highlight examples of federal support and technical assistance for plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and charging stations. The guide provides a description of each opportunity and a point of contact to assist those interested in advancing PEV technology. The Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center provides a comprehensive database of federal and state programs that support plug-in electric vehicles and infrastructure.

Quarterly technical progress report, February 1, 1996--April 30, 1996

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

NONE

This report from the Amarillo National REsource Center for PLutonium provides research highlights and provides information regarding the public dissemination of information. The center is a a scientific resource for information regarding the issues of the storage, disposition, potential utilization and transport of plutonium, high explosives, and other hazardous materials generated from nuclear weapons dismantlement. The center responds to informational needs and interpretation of technical and scientific data raised by interested parties and advisory groups. Also, research efforts are carried out on remedial action programs and biological/agricultural studies.

Turbines, Wind Tunnels, and Teamwork: The 2017 Collegiate Wind Competition Technical Challenge

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

None

Ten college teams put their turbines to the test at the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2017 Collegiate Wind Competition Technical Challenge, held April 20–22 at the National Wind Technology Center (NWTC). The competition showcased a wide variety of turbine designs and highlighted the competitors’ brilliance, agility, and ingenuity. College students weren’t the only future wind energy experts at the NWTC that weekend: elementary and middle school students tested their turbines—crafted creatively from materials like soda bottles and aluminum foil—in the Colorado KidWind Challenge.

An Interview with Joe McMann: His Life Lessons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McMann, Joe

2011-01-01

Pica Kahn conducted "An Interview with Joe McMann: His Life Lessons" on May 23, 2011. With over 40 years of experience in the aerospace industry, McMann has gained a wealth of knowledge. Many have been interested in his biography, progression of work at NASA, impact on the U.S. spacesuit, and career accomplishments. This interview highlighted the influences and decision-making methods that impacted his technical and management contributions to the space program. McMann shared information about the accomplishments and technical advances that committed individuals can make.

Creation Stations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sauer, Jeff; Murphy, Sam

1997-01-01

In this comparison, NewMedia lab looks at 10 Pentium II workstations preconfigured for demanding three dimensional and multimedia work with OpenGL cards and fast Ultra SCSI hard drives. Highlights include costs, tests with Photoshop, technical support, and a sidebar that explains Accelerated Graphics Port. (Author/LRW)

Library-Specific Microcomputer Software.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levert, Virginia M.

1985-01-01

Discusses number and type of microcomputer software programs useful to libraries and types of hardware on which they run, as identified by Nolan Information Management Services. Highlights include general application programs, applications designed to support library technical processes, producers of library software, and choosing among options.…

Solar thermal technology report, FY 1981. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

The activities of the Department of Energy's Solar Thermal Technology Program are discussed. Highlights of technical activities and brief descriptions of each technology are given. Solar thermal conversion concepts are discussed in detail, particularily concentrating collectors and salt-gradient solar ponds.

Quality in End User Documentation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morrison, Ronald

1994-01-01

Discusses quality in end-user documentation for computer applications and explains four approaches to improving quality in end-user documents. Highlights include online help, usability testing, technical writing elements, statistical approaches, and concepts relating to software quality that are also applicable to user manuals. (LRW)

Computer-Based Training and Education: An Australian Perspective.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sims, Roderick C. H.

1993-01-01

Provides an overview of computer-based training and education in Australia. Highlights include elementary and secondary schools; computer hardware; learning tools, including educational games and CD-ROMs; tertiary education, including Institutes of Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and universities; the Australian workforce, including…

Technical Highlights

Science.gov Websites

Hopkins) Summary of data on computational modeling and experimental validation of correlations between targetr chemistries and carry out plasma etching assessment 2014: Jane Chang (UCLA) Non-PFC plasma varying physiochemical ENs 2013: Shyam Aravamudhan (NC A&T) Non-PFC plasma chemistries for patterning

Old PCs: Upgrade or Abandon?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perez, Ernest

1997-01-01

Examines the practical realities of upgrading Intel personal computers in libraries, considering budgets and technical personnel availability. Highlights include adding RAM; putting in faster processor chips, including clock multipliers; new hard disks; CD-ROM speed; motherboards and interface cards; cost limits and economic factors; and…

Handbook for Public Playground Safety.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC.

Playgrounds, being a fundamental part of the childhood experience, should be safe havens for children. This handbook includes technical safety guidelines for designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining public playgrounds. It also includes a "Public Playground Safety Checklist" to highlight some of the most important safety issues…

A quasi-Delphi study on technological barriers to the uptake of hydrogen as a fuel for transport applications-Production, storage and fuel cell drivetrain considerations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hart, David; Anghel, Alexandra T.; Huijsmans, Joep; Vuille, François

The introduction of hydrogen in transport, particularly using fuel cell vehicles, faces a number of technical and non-technical hurdles. However, their relative importance is unclear, as are the levels of concern accorded them within the expert community conducting research and development within this area. To understand what issues are considered by experts working in the field to have significant potential to slow down or prevent the introduction of hydrogen technology in transport, a study was undertaken, primarily during 2007. Three key technology areas within hydrogen transport were selected - hydrogen storage, fuel cell drivetrains, and small-scale hydrogen production - and interviews with selected experts conducted. Forty-nine experts from 34 organisations within the fuel cell, automotive, industrial gas and other related industries participated, in addition to some key academic and government figures. The survey was conducted in China, Japan, North America and Europe, and analysed using conventional mathematical techniques to provide weighted and averaged rankings of issues viewed as important by the experts. It became clear both from the interviews and the subsequent analysis that while a primary concern in China was fundamental technical performance, in the other regions cost and policy were rated more highly. Although a few individual experts identified possible technical showstoppers, the overall message was that pre-commercial hydrogen fuel cell vehicles could realistically be on the road in tens of thousands within 5 years, and that full commercialisation could take place within 10-15 years, without the need for radical technical breakthroughs. Perhaps surprisingly, the performance of hydrogen storage technologies was not viewed as a showstopper, though cost was seen as a significant challenge. Overall, however, coherent policy development was more frequently identified as a major issue to address.

Green technology as a strategy in managing the black spots in Siak Highway, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sandhyavitri, A.; Wira, J.; Martin, A.

2018-04-01

It was identified that the total traffic accidents in the highway section of Siak, Indonesia within the period of 2011 to 2015 were 1,208 events (2 accidents per 3 days). This accidents figure were considered relatively high and it need to mitigate. The aim of this research are to; (i) analyze the location of Black Spot in the Siak highway, and (ii) drawn a strategy reducing the traffic accidents based on green technology. This study identified that the black spot area was located in the STA 44 + 050 (with a value of the weighted index was 86 and an accident severity rate was 6.21), these values were relatively high. The road horizontal alignment condition at this location was highlighted as a sub-standard high way, consists of low visibility, numerous turning pads, minimum road signs, and minimum road shoulders width. The technical strategy was then drawn as follow; conducting regular road rehabilitation and maintenance, equipping road markings and the street lights as well as road safety facilities based on the green technology such as solar cell traffic lights, solar cell street lights and deploying police statues in reducing traffic accidents within the black spot areas.

Flexible Measurement of Bioluminescent Reporters Using an Automated Longitudinal Luciferase Imaging Gas- and Temperature-optimized Recorder (ALLIGATOR).

PubMed

Crosby, Priya; Hoyle, Nathaniel P; O'Neill, John S

2017-12-13

Luciferase-based reporters of cellular gene expression are in widespread use for both longitudinal and end-point assays of biological activity. In circadian rhythms research, for example, clock gene fusions with firefly luciferase give rise to robust rhythms in cellular bioluminescence that persist over many days. Technical limitations associated with photomultiplier tubes (PMT) or conventional microscopy-based methods for bioluminescence quantification have typically demanded that cells and tissues be maintained under quite non-physiological conditions during recording, with a trade-off between sensitivity and throughput. Here, we report a refinement of prior methods that allows long-term bioluminescence imaging with high sensitivity and throughput which supports a broad range of culture conditions, including variable gas and humidity control, and that accepts many different tissue culture plates and dishes. This automated longitudinal luciferase imaging gas- and temperature-optimized recorder (ALLIGATOR) also allows the observation of spatial variations in luciferase expression across a cell monolayer or tissue, which cannot readily be observed by traditional methods. We highlight how the ALLIGATOR provides vastly increased flexibility for the detection of luciferase activity when compared with existing methods.

Ferns: the missing link in shoot evolution and development.

PubMed

Plackett, Andrew R G; Di Stilio, Verónica S; Langdale, Jane A

2015-01-01

Shoot development in land plants is a remarkably complex process that gives rise to an extreme diversity of forms. Our current understanding of shoot developmental mechanisms comes almost entirely from studies of angiosperms (flowering plants), the most recently diverged plant lineage. Shoot development in angiosperms is based around a layered multicellular apical meristem that produces lateral organs and/or secondary meristems from populations of founder cells at its periphery. In contrast, non-seed plant shoots develop from either single apical initials or from a small population of morphologically distinct apical cells. Although developmental and molecular information is becoming available for non-flowering plants, such as the model moss Physcomitrella patens, making valid comparisons between highly divergent lineages is extremely challenging. As sister group to the seed plants, the monilophytes (ferns and relatives) represent an excellent phylogenetic midpoint of comparison for unlocking the evolution of shoot developmental mechanisms, and recent technical advances have finally made transgenic analysis possible in the emerging model fern Ceratopteris richardii. This review compares and contrasts our current understanding of shoot development in different land plant lineages with the aim of highlighting the potential role that the fern C. richardii could play in shedding light on the evolution of underlying genetic regulatory mechanisms.

NASA Space Environments Technical Discipline Team Space Weather Activities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minow, J. I.; Nicholas, A. C.; Parker, L. N.; Xapsos, M.; Walker, P. W.; Stauffer, C.

2017-12-01

The Space Environment Technical Discipline Team (TDT) is a technical organization led by NASA's Technical Fellow for Space Environments that supports NASA's Office of the Chief Engineer through the NASA Engineering and Safety Center. The Space Environments TDT conducts independent technical assessments related to the space environment and space weather impacts on spacecraft for NASA programs and provides technical expertise to NASA management and programs where required. This presentation will highlight the status of applied space weather activities within the Space Environment TDT that support development of operational space weather applications and a better understanding of the impacts of space weather on space systems. We will first discuss a tool that has been developed for evaluating space weather launch constraints that are used to protect launch vehicles from hazardous space weather. We then describe an effort to better characterize three-dimensional radiation transport for CubeSat spacecraft and processing of micro-dosimeter data from the International Space Station which the team plans to make available to the space science community. Finally, we will conclude with a quick description of an effort to maintain access to the real-time solar wind data provided by the Advanced Composition Explorer satellite at the Sun-Earth L1 point.

Engineering Technical Support Center Annual Report Fiscal ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or Agency) Office of Research and Development (ORD) created the Engineering Technical Support Center (ETSC) in 1987, one of several technical support centers created as part of the Technical Support Project (TSP). ETSC provides engineering expertise to Agency program and regional offices and remediation teams working at contaminated sites across the country. The ETSC is operated within ORD’s Land Remediation and Pollution Control Division (LRPCD) of the National Risk Management Research Laboratory (NRMRL) in Cincinnati, Ohio. The ETSC’s mission is to provide site-specific scientific and engineering technical support to Remedial Project Managers, On-Scene Coordinators, and other remediation personnel at contaminated sites. This allows local, regional, or national authorities to work more quickly, efficiently, and cost effectively, while also increasing the technical experience of the remediation team. Since its inception, the ETSC has supported countless projects across all EPA Regions in almost all states and territories. This report highlights significant projects the ETSC supported in fiscal year 2015 (FY15). These projects addressed an array of environmental scenarios, such as remote mining contamination, expansive landfill waste, cumulative impacts from multiple contamination sources, and persistent threats from abandoned industrial sites. Constructing and testing new and innovative treatment technol

Comparative effect of technical and commercial formulations of methamidophos on sperm quality and DNA integrity in mice.

PubMed

Urióstegui-Acosta, Mayrut; Hernández-Ochoa, Isabel; Solís-Heredia, María de Jesús; Martínez-Aguilar, Gerardo; Quintanilla-Vega, Betzabet

2014-08-01

Methamidophos (MET), widely used in developing countries, is a highly neurotoxic organophosphate pesticide that has been associated with male reproductive alterations. Commercial formulations of pesticides used by agricultural workers and urban sprayers are responsible for thousands of intoxications in developing countries and may not have the same effects as active pure ingredients. Therefore, we compared effects of MET technical (METt) and commercial (METc) grades on sperm quality and DNA integrity. Male mice were injected (intraperitoneal, i.p.) with METt or METc (3.75, 5, and 7 mg/kg bw/day/4 days) and sacrificed 24 h post-treatment. Sperm cells collected from epididymis-vas deferens were evaluated for quality parameters, DNA damage by the comet assay, and lipoperoxidation by malondialdehyde (MDA) production. Erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was evaluated by acetylthiocholine inhibition as an index of overall toxicity. A dose-dependent AChE inhibition was observed with both formulations. Sperm quality was decreased after treatment with both MET compounds, but the commercial formulation showed stronger effects; a similar profile was observed with the DNA damage, being METc more genotoxic. None MET formulation increased MDA, suggesting no peroxidative damage involved. In summary, the commercial formulation of MET was more reprotoxic and genotoxic than the active pure ingredient, highlighting that commercial formulations must be considered for more appropriate risk assessment of pesticide exposures. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., a Wiley company.

Researching the Vietnam Conflict through U.S. Archival Sources.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marlatt, Greta E.

1995-01-01

Presents a pathfinder for the researcher interested in locating materials pertaining to the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam conflict. Highlight include historical background; information sources, including the National Archives, oral histories, manuscripts, federal reports, National Technical Information Service, and special collections. Seven…

Defining and Building an Enriched Learning and Information Environment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goodrum, David A.; And Others

1993-01-01

Discusses the development of an Enriched Learning and Information Environment (ELIE). Highlights include technology-based and theory-based frameworks for defining ELIEs; a socio-technical definition; a conceptual prototype; a participatory design process, including iterative design through rapid prototyping; and design issues for technology…

Designing Training for Global Environments: Knowing What Questions To Ask.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gayeski, Diane M.; Sanchirico, Christine; Anderson, Janet

2002-01-01

Presents a framework for identifying important issues for instructional design and delivery in global settings. Highlights include cultural factors in global training; an instructional design model; corporate globalization strategy; communication and training norms; language barriers; implicit value differences; and technical and legal…

Troubling Methods-Centric "Teacher Production": Social Foundations in Dance Education Teacher Preparation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Risner, Doug; Barr, Sherrie

2015-01-01

Preparing dance specialist teachers to successfully educate an increasingly diverse student population highlights a number of challenges within an educational policy landscape characterized by technical production, methods-centric teacher preparation, teacher-proof curriculum, and standardization. The ramifications of these policies have…

AgRISTARS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

An introduction to the overall AgRISTARS program, a general statement on progress, and separate summaries of the activities of each project, with emphasis on the technical highlights are presented. Organizational and management information on AgRISTARS is included in the appendices, as is a complete bibliography of publication and reports.

Writing Effectively as Counseling Center Directors and Administrators: Lessons Learned from a 2-Minute Speech

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sevig, Todd; Bogan, Yolanda; Dunkle, John; Gong-Guy, Elizabeth

2015-01-01

Administrative writing is a crucial skill needed for the counseling center professional to be able to transmit knowledge and values for the rest of the campus community. This article highlights both conceptual and technical aspects of effective writing.

Sexual Minority Students. Technical Assistance Sampler On.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

California Univ., Los Angeles. Center for Mental Health in Schools.

This booklet discusses issues facing sexual minority students. An introduction presents the National Association of School Psychologists' (NASP's) position statement on gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth. Section 1 highlights: "Violence, Homophobia, and Prejudice" (e.g., anti-gay harassment in schools documented, violence prevention, and a…

ORD-State Cooperation is Essential to Help States Address Contemporary Environmental Public Health Challenges

EPA Science Inventory

Dr. Cascio’s presentation “ORD-State Cooperation is Essential to Help States Address Contemporary Environmental Public Health Challenges” at ORD’s State Coordination Team Meeting will highlight the role that ORD science and technical expertise in helping t...

NASA and Industry Benefits of ACTS High Speed Network Interoperability Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zernic, M. J.; Beering, D. R.; Brooks, D. E.

2000-01-01

This paper provides synopses of the design. implementation, and results of key high data rate communications experiments utilizing the technologies of NASA's Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS). Specifically, the network protocol and interoperability performance aspects will be highlighted. The objectives of these key experiments will be discussed in their relevant context to NASA missions, as well as, to the comprehensive communications industry. Discussion of the experiment implementation will highlight the technical aspects of hybrid network connectivity, a variety of high-speed interoperability architectures, a variety of network node platforms, protocol layers, internet-based applications, and new work focused on distinguishing between link errors and congestion. In addition, this paper describes the impact of leveraging government-industry partnerships to achieve technical progress and forge synergistic relationships. These relationships will be the key to success as NASA seeks to combine commercially available technology with its own internal technology developments to realize more robust and cost effective communications for space operations.

Ethical and technical considerations for the creation of cell lines in the head & neck and tissue harvesting for research and drug development (Part I): Techniques of tissue harvesting and propagation

PubMed Central

Upile, Tahwinder; Jerjes, Waseem; Kafas, Panagiotis; Singh, Sandeep U; Sudhoff, Holger; Mahil, Jaspal; Sandison, Ann; Hopper, Colin

2009-01-01

Background Although much has been published for the development of cell lines, these were lab based and developed for scientific technical staff. Objective of review We present a simple and successful protocol for the development of cell lines and tissue harvesting for the clinical scientist. We also discuss the ethical implications of tissue retention and present a generic consent form. Conclusion The advantages of hospital-based cell line creation are numerous. We can be more certain that cell lines are developed from the particular tissues of interest and accurate anatomical and appropriate clinico-pathological control tissues are also harvested. We can also be certain of less cell line cross contamination. PMID:19344501

Endoscopic bilateral stent-in-stent placement for malignant hilar obstruction using a large cell type stent.

PubMed

Park, Jin Myung; Lee, Sang Hyub; Chung, Kwang Hyun; Jang, Dong Kee; Ryu, Ji Kon; Kim, Yong-Tae; Lee, Jae Min; Paik, Woo Hyun

2016-12-01

Bilateral stent-in-stent (SIS) self-expandable metal stent placement is technically challenging for palliation of unresectable malignant hilar obstruction. In the SIS technique, the uniform large cell type biliary stent facilitates contralateral stent deployment through the mesh of the first metallic stent. This study aimed to assess the technical success and clinical effectiveness of this technique with a uniform large cell type biliary stent. Thirty-one patients who underwent bilateral SIS placement using a large cell type stent were reviewed retrospectively. All patients showed malignant hilar obstruction (Bismuth types II, III, IV) with different etiologies. Sixteen (51.6%) patients were male. The mean age of the patients was 67.0+/-14.0 years. Most patients were diagnosed as having hilar cholangiocarcinoma (58.1%) and gallbladder cancer (29.0%). Technical success rate was 83.9%. Success was achieved more frequently in patients without masses obstructing the biliary confluence (MOC) than those with MOC (95.2% vs 60.0%, P=0.03). Functional success rate was 77.4%. Complications occurred in 29.0% of the patients. These tended to occur more frequently in patients with MOC (50.0% vs 19.0%, P=0.11). Median time to recurrent biliary obstruction was 188 days and median survival was 175 days. The large cell type stent can be used efficiently for bilateral SIS placement in malignant hilar obstruction. However, the risk of technical failure increases in patients with MOC, and caution is needed to prevent complications for these patients.

KSC-02pd0622

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-04-30

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the 2002 Space Congress, Cape Canaveral, Fla., held April 30 - May 3, visitors look at astronauts' gloves worn during spacewalks. The exhibit highlighted the Hubble Space Telescope 3B Servicing Mission (STS-109) in March 2002. The Space Congress is held annually to highlight military and space initiatives, new technologies, and Florida's role in programs and research. This year's theme is Beginning a New Era - Initiatives in Space. NASA presented several paper sessions, including Hubble Discoveries and Advancements in Technology. Space Congress is sponsored by the Canaveral Council of Technical Societies

Interorganizational Systems Adoption: A Socio-Technical Perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bunker, Deborah; Kautz, Karlheinz; Pyne, Clayton

This paper discusses a case study of an electronic data interchange (EDI) interorganizational system (IOS) adoption project between two organizations (ProvideCo and BuildCo) highlighting that IOS adoption is not only technological in nature and orientation but that organizational factors also play their part. As a result of the case analysis and key findings, an interorganizational collaboration model (Barratt 2004) is amended to explain and highlight the effect of organizational factors on IOS adoption. The amended model includes the relationship of technology (IOS) adoption to cross-functional collaborative activities and risk, power, opportunism, and trust.

Program report for FY 1984 and 1985 Atmospheric and Geophysical Sciences Division of the Physics Department

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

Knox, J.B.; MacCracken, M.C.; Dickerson, M.H.

1986-08-01

This annual report for the Atmospheric and Geophysical Sciences Division (G-Division) summarizes the activities and highlights of the past three years, with emphasis on significant research findings in two major program areas: the Atmospheric Release Advisory Capability (ARAC), with its recent involvement in assessing the effects of the Chernobyl reactor accident, and new findings on the environmental consequences of nuclear war. The technical highlights of the many other research projects are also briefly reported, along with the Division's organization, budget, and publications.

Advances in Biomedical Imaging, Bioengineering, and Related Technologies for the Development of Biomarkers of Pancreatic Disease: Summary of a National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering Workshop

PubMed Central

Kelly, Kimberly A.; Hollingsworth, Michael A.; Brand, Randall E.; Liu, Christina H.; Singh, Vikesh K.; Srivastava, Sudhir; Wasan, Ajay D.; Yadav, Dhiraj; Andersen, Dana K.

2015-01-01

A workshop sponsored by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering focused on research gaps and opportunities in the development of new biomarkers of pancreatic disease. The session was held on July 22, 2015, and structured into six sessions: 1) introduction and overview, 2) keynote address, 3) new approaches to the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis, 4) biomarkers of pain and inflammation, 5) new approaches to the detection of pancreatic cancer, and 6) shed exosomes, shed cells, and shed proteins. Recent advances in the fields of pancreatic imaging, functional markers of pancreatic disease, proteomics, molecular and cellular imaging, and detection of circulating cancer cells and exosomes were reviewed. Knowledge gaps and research needs were highlighted. The development of new methods for the non-invasive determination of pancreatic pathology, the use of cellular markers of pancreatic function, inflammation, pain, and malignancy, and the refinement of methods to identify cells and cellular constituents of pancreatic cancer were discussed. The further refinement of sophisticated technical methods, and the need for clinical studies to validate these new approaches in large-scale studies of patients at risk for the development of pancreatic disease was repeatedly emphasized. PMID:26465948

NREL Develops High-Speed Scanner to Monitor Fuel Cell Material Defects

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

2015-09-01

This highlight describes results of recent work in which polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell electrodes with intentionally introduced known defects were imaged and analyzed using a fuel cell scanner recently developed at NREL. The highlight is being developed for the September 2015 Alliance S&T Board meeting.

Review of Fuel Cell Technologies for Military Land Vehicles

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

fuel cell technologies for APUs are Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells ( PEMFC ), direct methanol fuel cells and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC). The...6 4.2 Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells ( PEMFC ...OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer PEM Proton Exchange Membrane PEMFC Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell SOFC Solid Oxide Fuel Cell TRL Technical

Learning in the Digital Era.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Basto, Jorge

1999-01-01

Describes a training system designed and developed by the Portuguese Welding and Quality Institute of Macau for all aspects of open learning. Highlights include the technical training of teachers, using the Internet; the Asian version; and new challenges resulting from new training technologies such as shared multimedia networks. (Author/LRW)

The Perspectives of the International Agencies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hollander, Astrid

2005-01-01

An Inter-agency Panel of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) experts, drawn from seven United Nations and other international agencies, was one of the highlights in the programme of UNESCO's International Experts Meeting "Learning for Work, Citizenship and Sustainability" (Bonn, Germany, 25-28 October 2004). The Panel…

MINE WASTE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM:HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES. CURRENT HIGHLIGHTS, FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

EPA Science Inventory

For the past 13 years, the Mine Waste Technology Program has been technically driven by the National Risk Management Research Lab. A portion of the MWTP funding has been used to perform field demonstrations of innovative technologies with the potential to address mine waste issue...

Software Manuals: Where Instructional Design and Technical Writing Join Forces.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thurston, Walter, Ed.

1986-01-01

Presents highlights from a panel discussion by well known San Francisco Bay area documentation writers, instructional designers, and human performance technologists. Three issues on user performance and documentation are addressed: whether people avoid reading user manuals and why; major human factors influencing documentation use; and…

Browsing for the Best Internet Access Provider?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weil, Marty

1996-01-01

Highlights points to consider when choosing an Internet Service Provider. Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP) and Point to Point Protocol (PPP) are compared regarding price, performance, bandwidth, speed, and technical support. Obtaining access via local, national, consumer online, and telephone-company providers is discussed. A pricing chart and…

ASBO's Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting by School Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gatti, Bernard F.

1989-01-01

The Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting by Schools Program reached a high of 180 submissions for program year 1989. Describes technical developments, including a 90-minute videotape about the program, highlights of the previous year, and a summary of certain program specifics. (MLF)

The Computerization of the National Library in Paris.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lerin, Christian; Bernard, Annick

1986-01-01

Describes the organization and automation plan of the Bibliotheque Nationale (Paris, France) that was begun in 1981. Highlights include the method of moving toward computerization; technical choices; the choosing procedure (pre-qualification, bench-mark test); short term and pilot operations; and preparation for the implementation of the…

Basic Research in Information Science in France.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chambaud, S.; Le Coadic, Y. F.

1987-01-01

Discusses the goals of French academic research policy in the field of information science, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of the field. Areas of research highlighted include communication, telecommunications, co-word analysis in scientific and technical documents, media, and statistical methods for the study of social sciences. (LRW)

The Big Build

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haigh, Sarah; Bell, Christopher; Ruta, Chris

2017-01-01

This article provides details of a successful educational engineering project run in partnership between a group of ten schools and an international engineering, construction and technical services company. It covers the history and evolution of the project and highlights how the project has significant impact not only on the students involved but…

Developing Careers (All Access)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Emeagwali, N. Susan

2005-01-01

The DECA International Career Development Conference is the highlight of the year for the career and technical student organization, as marketing students demonstrate their skills, achievements and leadership abilities. DECA, which began in 1946 as the Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a national association of marketing students and the…

Orbitals: Some Fiction and Some Facts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Autschbach, Jochen

2012-01-01

The use of electron orbitals in quantum theory and chemistry is discussed. Common misconceptions are highlighted. Suggestions are made how chemistry educators may describe orbitals in the first and second year college curriculum more accurately without introducing unwanted technicalities. A comparison is made of different ways of graphically…

ERCMExpress. Volume 3, Issue 2

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schonfeld, David J.

2007-01-01

The Emergency Response and Crisis Management (ERCM) Technical Assistance Center's newsletter, "ERCMExpress," provides comprehensive information on key issues in school emergency management. This issue of "ERCMExpress," titled "Coping with the Death of a Student or Staff Member," highlights the range of impact death can have on a school community;…

Academic Year Report, 1999-2000.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, Olympia.

This report provides a snapshot of funding, facilities, staffing, and enrollments in Washington's community and technical colleges in the 1999-2000 academic year. The report also describes key measures of student outcomes, and addresses the most frequently asked questions related to expenditures, personnel and students. Report highlights include:…

NASA scientific and technical information program multimedia initiative

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cotter, Gladys A.; Kaye, Karen

1993-01-01

This paper relates the experiences of the NASA Scientific and Technical Information Program in introducing multimedia within the STI Program framework. A discussion of multimedia technology is included to provide context for the STI Program effort. The STI Program's Multimedia Initiative is discussed in detail. Parallels and differences between multimedia and traditional information systems project development are highlighted. Challenges faced by the program in initiating its multimedia project are summarized along with lessons learned. The paper concludes with a synopsis of the benefits the program hopes to provide its users through the introduction of multimedia illustrated by examples of successful multimedia projects.

Impact of incomplete correspondence between document titles and texts on users' representations: a cognitive and linguistic analysis based on 25 technical documents.

PubMed

Eyrolle, Hélène; Virbel, Jacques; Lemarié, Julie

2008-03-01

Based on previous research in the field of cognitive psychology, highlighting the facilitatory effects of titles on several text-related activities, this paper looks at the extent to which titles reflect text content. An exploratory study of real-life technical documents investigated the content of their Subject lines, which linguistic analyses had led us to regard as titles. The study showed that most of the titles supplied by the writers failed to represent the documents' contents and that most users failed to detect this lack of validity.

Molten Carbonate and Phosphoric Acid Stationary Fuel Cells: Overview and Gap Analysis

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

Remick, R.; Wheeler, D.

2010-09-01

This report describes the technical and cost gap analysis performed to identify pathways for reducing the costs of molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) and phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) stationary fuel cell power plants.

NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation's Highly-Loaded Front Block Compressor Demonstration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Celestina, Mark

2017-01-01

The ERA project was created in 2009 as part of NASAs Aeronautics Research Mission Directorates (ARMD) Integrated Systems Aviation Program (IASP). The purpose of the ERA project was to explore and document the feasibility, benefit, and technical risk of vehicles concepts and enabling technologies to reduce aviations impact on the environment. The metrics for this technology is given in Figure 1 with the N+2 metrics highlighted in green. It is anticipated that the United States air transportation system will continue to expand significantly over the next few decades thus adversely impacting the environment unless new technology is incorporated to simultaneously reduce nitrous oxides (NOx), noise and fuel consumption. In order to achieve the overall goals and meet the technology insertion challenges, these goals were divided into technical challenges that were to be achieved during the execution of the ERA project. Technical challenges were accomplished through test campaigns conducted by Integrated Technology Demonstration (ITDs). ERAs technical performance period ended in 2015.

Technical challenges in the isolation and analysis of circulating tumor cells.

PubMed

van der Toom, Emma E; Verdone, James E; Gorin, Michael A; Pienta, Kenneth J

2016-09-20

Increasing evidence suggests that cancer cells display dynamic molecular changes in response to systemic therapy. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the peripheral blood represent a readily available source of cancer cells with which to measure this dynamic process. To date, a large number of strategies to isolate and characterize CTCs have been described. These techniques, however, each have unique limitations in their ability to sensitively and specifically detect these rare cells. In this review we focus on the technical limitations and pitfalls of the most common CTC isolation and detection strategies. Additionally, we emphasize the difficulties in correctly classifying rare cells as CTCs using common biomarkers. As for assays developed in the future, the first step must be a uniform and clear definition of the criteria for assigning an object as a CTC based on disease-specific biomarkers.

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells for Electrical Power Generation On-Board Commercial Airplanes

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

Pratt, Joesph W.; Klebanoff, Leonard E.; Munoz-Ramos, Karina

2011-05-01

Deployed on a commercial airplane, proton exchange membrane fuel cells may offer emissions reductions, thermal efficiency gains, and enable locating the power near the point of use. This work seeks to understand whether on-board fuel cell systems are technically feasible, and, if so, if they offer a performance advantage for the airplane as a whole. Through hardware analysis and thermodynamic and electrical simulation, we found that while adding a fuel cell system using today’s technology for the PEM fuel cell and hydrogen storage is technically feasible, it will not likely give the airplane a performance benefit. However, when we re-didmore » the analysis using DOE-target technology for the PEM fuel cell and hydrogen storage, we found that the fuel cell system would provide a performance benefit to the airplane (i.e., it can save the airplane some fuel), depending on the way it is configured.« less

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells for electrical power generation on-board commercial airplanes.

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

Curgus, Dita Brigitte; Munoz-Ramos, Karina; Pratt, Joseph William

2011-05-01

Deployed on a commercial airplane, proton exchange membrane fuel cells may offer emissions reductions, thermal efficiency gains, and enable locating the power near the point of use. This work seeks to understand whether on-board fuel cell systems are technically feasible, and, if so, if they offer a performance advantage for the airplane as a whole. Through hardware analysis and thermodynamic and electrical simulation, we found that while adding a fuel cell system using today's technology for the PEM fuel cell and hydrogen storage is technically feasible, it will not likely give the airplane a performance benefit. However, when we re-didmore » the analysis using DOE-target technology for the PEM fuel cell and hydrogen storage, we found that the fuel cell system would provide a performance benefit to the airplane (i.e., it can save the airplane some fuel), depending on the way it is configured.« less

Animal Science. Teacher Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

This curriculum package is designed to prepare students with highly technical information that will lead to success in the animal science field. It contains 19 units that highlight many of the specialist areas and teach students how to apply these skills. The units cover the following topics: safety, careers, private and government programs,…

Napoleon Johnson: From NASA to TV to Community College Teaching.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neal, John

1994-01-01

Describes the life and career of Napoleon Johnson, who currently teaches journalism at Houston Community College's Central Campus. Describes Johnson's experiences as a technical writer for NASA and as a television news correspondent, highlighting the positive effects of these experiences on his career as a college instructor. (MAB)

Variation in Place of Publication: A Model for Cataloging Simplification.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marker, Rhonda J.; Reagor, Melinda Ann

1994-01-01

Discussion of the revision of cataloging rules to simplify catalog records focuses on the information relating to publication, formerly called the imprint. Highlights include a review of cataloging codes; Library of Congress rules interpretations; the impact on bibliographic utilities; implications for technical and public services; and publishing…

In-Vivo Zinc Metabolism by Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The purpose of this chapter is to highlight some of the methodological and technical issues surrounding the in vivo use of stable isotopes and to provide examples of how such studies have advanced our knowledge of human zinc metabolism. The advantages and disadvantages of the currently available in...

British University Libraries 1977-1987: Some Observations on the Challenges of Declining Resources.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodger, Elizabeth M.

1988-01-01

Highlights some of the developments in the following areas that have taken place during the period 1977-87 in British university libraries: (1) library resources; (2) automation; (3) collection building; (4) technical services; (5) reader services; (6) management and staffing; and (7) cooperation. (71 references) (MES)

Endorsements, Electives & More: CTE & State Graduation Requirements

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium, 2015

2015-01-01

The past few years have seen a persistent and consistent focus on Career Technical Education (CTE), including a particular focus on graduation requirements. This brief from Advance CTE highlights a few ways in which states are exploring embedding and elevating CTE programs, assessments and experiences within their statewide graduation…

Directions 1984: State Community, Junior & Technical Colleges. Alabama's Commitment to Opportunity with Excellence.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alabama State Dept. of Postsecondary Education, Montgomery.

The report represents the objectives of Directions 1984, a comprehensive systemwide assessment and decision-making effort being undertaken by Alabama's two-year college system. Introductory material highlights the role of Alabama's two-year colleges in providing educational opportunities, explains the philosophy underpinning the Directions 1984…

Profiles of Schools in Change: Four Urban High Schools.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wermuth, Thomas R.; And Others

1997-01-01

This report highlights four urban comprehensive secondary schools that are developing, implementing, and evaluating reform initiatives that include vocational and technical education as a key component of these efforts. Efforts of these four high schools are described: Bryan High School, Omaha, Nebraska; Humboldt Secondary Complex, St. Paul,…

Research Overview: Implications for Staff Development. Higher Education in TAFE. Monograph Series 01/2009

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moodie, Gavin; Wheelahan, Leesa; Billett, Stephen; Kelly, Ann

2009-01-01

A project funded through the National Vocational Education and Training Research and Evaluation program investigated higher education programs--mostly bachelor's and associate degrees--offered by technical and further education (TAFE) institutes. This overview highlights some of the implications for staff development identified through this…

Research Overview: Implications for TAFE Managers. Higher education in TAFE. Monograph Series 01/2009

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moodie, Gavin; Wheelahan, Leesa; Billett, Stephen; Kelly, Ann

2009-01-01

A project funded through the National Vocational Education and Training Research and Evaluation program investigated higher education programs--mostly bachelor's and associate degrees--offered by technical and further education (TAFE) institutes. This overview highlights the implications for TAFE management identified through this project. [This…

Research Overview: Implications for Teachers. Higher Education in TAFE. Monograph Series 01/2009

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moodie, Gavin; Wheelahan, Leesa; Billett, Stephen; Kelly, Ann

2009-01-01

A project funded through the National Vocational Education and Training Research and Evaluation program investigated higher education programs--mostly bachelor's and associate degrees--offered by technical and further education (TAFE) institutes. This overview highlights some of the implications for teachers identified by this project. [This…

Mission Information and Test Systems Summary of Accomplishments, 2011

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McMorrow, Sean E.; Sherrard, Roberta B.

2013-01-01

This annual report covers the activities of the NASA DRFC Mission Information and Test Systems, which includes the Western Aeronautical Test Range, the Simulation Engineering Branch, the Information Services and the Dryden Technical Laboratory (Flight Loads Lab). This report contains highlights, current projects and various awards achieved during in 2011

MATC Fact Book, January 1987.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Milwaukee Area Technical Coll., WI. Dept. of Research, Planning, and Development.

This 1986-87 fact book for Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) presents data on institutional characteristics, faculty and staff, full-time equivalent enrollments, student characteristics, and facilities for the MATC district and each of the college campuses. Highlights derived from an analysis of data and trends include the following: (1)…

Modeling human-environmental systems

Treesearch

Morgan Grove; Charlie Schweik; Tom Evans; Glen Green

2002-01-01

This chapter focuses on the integration and development of environmental models that include human decision making. While many methodological and technical issues are common to all types of environmental models, our goal is to highlight the unique characteristics that need to be considered when modeling human-environmental dynamics and to identify future directions for...

The Ethics of Evaluation in Museums

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heimlich, Joe E.

2015-01-01

Ethics in research and evaluation has a long standing history, one steeped with legal and moral implications. This article addresses the technicalities of ethics in evaluation as well as highlights the importance for museum educators to prioritize adopting such practices. While understanding the myriad of ethical concerns and best practices can be…

Research Overview on Status: Higher Education in TAFE. Monograph Series 01/2009

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moodie, Gavin; Wheelahan, Leesa; Billett, Stephen; Kelly, Ann

2009-01-01

A project funded through the National Vocational Education and Training Research and Evaluation program investigated higher education programs--mostly bachelor's and associate degrees--offered by technical and further education (TAFE) institutes. This overview highlights some of the issues associated with the perceived status of TAFE higher…

Thaw; New Rules to End the Cable TV Freeze.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Cable Television Association, Inc., Washington, DC.

The report summarizes the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) rulemaking of February 3, 1972 for cable television (CATV) concerning what channels must be carried in certain categories of broadcast markets, use of non-broadcast channels, technical standards, and federal/state/local regulatory relationships. The report highlights the rule that…

Current Investments in the NASA Entry Systems Modeling Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, Michael; Barnhardt, Michael; Hughes, Monica

2017-01-01

This talk will provide an overview of investments in the Entry Systems Modeling project, along with some context of where the effort sits in the overall Space Technology EDL Portfolio. Technical highlights, particularly with referent to work on Ablation Modeling, will be given. Future directions will be discussed.

Effectiveness, Improvement and Educational Change: A Distinctively Canadian Approach?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hargreaves, Andy; Fink, Dean

1998-01-01

A distinctive Canadian school of thought on educational change is inclined to synthesize diverse bodies of work and integrate nonrational and emotional dimensions with rational and technically effective ones in a socially critical way. Highlights the Canadian perspective through discussions about complex systems, contexts of change, critical…

The Chancellor's Biennial Report: Two Years of Progress, 1983-85.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alabama State Dept. of Postsecondary Education, Montgomery.

This report summarizes the activities and accomplishments of Alabama's community, junior, and technical college system for 1983 to 1985. Following an introduction by the chancellor, Charles L. Payne, the report highlights major achievements in the following areas: (1) strategic planning and management, covering activities related to critical…

Australian Vocational Education and Training Statistics. Pocket Guide. Issued 2005

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), 2005

2005-01-01

This publication, presented in pocket guide format, contains highlights from the 2004 vocational education and training (VET) statistics collection. It also includes key data on VET, apprentices and trainees' training activity, and information on technical and further education (TAFE) graduates obtained from the 2004 Student Outcomes Survey. Among…

INEL BNCT Program

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

Ackermann, A.L.

1991-08-01

This Bulletin presents a summary of accomplishments and highlights in the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory's (INEL) Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) Program for August 1991. This bulletin includes information on the brain tumor and melanoma research programs, Power Burst Facility (PBF) technical support and modifications, PBF operations, and updates to the animal data charts.

Intermediaries Supporting Sports-Based Youth Development Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wicks, Anne; Beedy, Jeffrey P.; Spangler, Kathy J.; Perkins, Daniel F.

2007-01-01

The authors describe intermediary organizations whose aim is to provide technical assistance to sports organizations about infusing a youth development emphasis into their programming. Team-Up for Youth, Sports PLUS Global, and the National Recreation and Park Association are the three organizations highlighted in this article. Team-Up for Youth's…

Correlating electronic and vibrational motions in charge transfer systems

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

Khalil, Munira

2014-06-27

The goal of this research program was to measure coupled electronic and nuclear motions during photoinduced charge transfer processes in transition metal complexes by developing and using novel femtosecond spectroscopies. The scientific highlights and the resulting scientific publications from the DOE supported work are outlined in the technical report.

Healthcare. Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carnevale, Anthony P.; Smith, Nicole; Gulish, Artem; Beach, Bennett H.

2012-01-01

This executive summary highlights several findings about healthcare. These are: (1) Healthcare is 18 percent of the U.S. economy, twice as high as in other countries; (2) There are two labor markets in healthcare: high-skill, high-wage professional and technical jobs and low-skill, low-wage support jobs; (3) Demand for postsecondary education in…

Highlights and overview of the 2011 National Wetland Condition Assessment (NWCA) and upcoming 2016 NWCA

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation is for a webinar sponsored by the Society of Wetland Scientists. It is tailored to a technical audience with research interests in wetland ecology and management. The talk will introduce the National Aquatic Resource Surveys and then transition to a discussion...

Heating Efficiency of Beat Wave Excitation in a Density Gradient,

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-02-01

and Technology, January 1988. PPG-1124 񓟣 Research Highlights in The Pisces Program," R.V. Conn, et al, January 1988. PPG-1125 "Magnetic Fusion ... Energy , vol. 5. Technical Assessement of Critical Issues in the Steady State Operation of Fusion Confinement Devices," D. M. Goebel, Assessment Chairman

Training for Techies: A Schoolwise Commitment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Farmer, Lesley S. J.

1998-01-01

Outlines the Technical Aide (TA) internship program in the Tamalpais Union High School District (Larkspur, California) where students skilled in computer use facilitate technology use within the school. A TA program can provide needed personnel and service in the library as well as highlight library staff competence in technology. Presents tips…

Technical considerations and precautions in in situ bronchoalveolar lavage and alveolar infiltrating cells isolation in rats.

PubMed

Qamar, Wajhul

2015-01-01

Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) is an important tool in experimental toxicology and pharmacology. A number of researchers have utilized BAL in studies involving rodents. However, the detailed procedure of performing BAL in rodents has rarely been reported. In the present article, in situ BAL in rats has been described with technical points that ensure the quality and validity of BALF samples. BAL was performed in rats of Wistar strain. Flow cytometry and microscopy were utilized to analyze the BAL cells. The collected volume of BALF was 84.32 ± 2.7% of instilled volume. Alveolar macrophages were found to be prevalent in normal lungs when analyzed under microscope and by flow cytometry. The main problem that one may face is the accidental contamination of BALF samples with blood of the animal itself. Presence of blood in BALF certainly adds a significant number of cells and other biochemical variables. No blood contamination was detected in BALF. Here, a simple procedure for BAL and collection of alveolar cells (macrophages in the present study) is explained with an emphasis on technical steps and precautions, which ensures the quality of the BALF samples. Data exhibit that there is no blood contamination in the BALF and provide evidence that the technical points considered in the procedure here are successful in maintaining the quality and validity of BALF samples.

A Socio-Technical Analysis of Patient Accessible Electronic Health Records.

PubMed

Hägglund, Maria; Scandurra, Isabella

2017-01-01

In Sweden, and internationally, there is a movement towards increased transparency in healthcare including giving patients online access to their electronic health records (EHR). The purpose of this paper is to analyze the Swedish patient accessible EHR (PAEHR) service using a socio-technical framework, to increase the understanding of factors that influence the design, implementation, adoption and use of the service. Using the Sitting and Singh socio-technical framework as a basis for analyzing the Swedish PAEHR system and its context indicated that there are many stakeholders engaged in these types of services, with different driving forces and incentives that may influence the adoption and usefulness of PAEHR services. The analysis was useful in highlighting important areas that need to be further explored in evaluations of PAEHR services, and can act as a guide when planning evaluations of any PAEHR service.

Technical Tension Between Achieving Particulate and Molecular Organic Environmental Cleanliness: Data from Astromaterial Curation Laboratories

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allton, J. H.; Burkett, P. J.

2011-01-01

NASA Johnson Space Center operates clean curation facilities for Apollo lunar, Antarctic meteorite, stratospheric cosmic dust, Stardust comet and Genesis solar wind samples. Each of these collections is curated separately due unique requirements. The purpose of this abstract is to highlight the technical tensions between providing particulate cleanliness and molecular cleanliness, illustrated using data from curation laboratories. Strict control of three components are required for curating samples cleanly: a clean environment; clean containers and tools that touch samples; and use of non-shedding materials of cleanable chemistry and smooth surface finish. This abstract focuses on environmental cleanliness and the technical tension between achieving particulate and molecular cleanliness. An environment in which a sample is manipulated or stored can be a room, an enclosed glovebox (or robotic isolation chamber) or an individual sample container.

Characterization of Macrophage Endogenous S-Nitrosoproteome Using a Cysteine-Specific Phosphonate Adaptable Tag in Combination with TiO2 Chromatography.

PubMed

Ibáñez-Vea, María; Huang, Honggang; Martínez de Morentin, Xabier; Pérez, Estela; Gato, Maria; Zuazo, Miren; Arasanz, Hugo; Fernández-Irigoyen, Joaquin; Santamaría, Enrique; Fernandez-Hinojal, Gonzalo; Larsen, Martin R; Escors, David; Kochan, Grazyna

2018-03-02

Protein S-nitrosylation is a cysteine post-translational modification mediated by nitric oxide. An increasing number of studies highlight S-nitrosylation as an important regulator of signaling involved in numerous cellular processes. Despite the significant progress in the development of redox proteomic methods, identification and quantification of endogeneous S-nitrosylation using high-throughput mass-spectrometry-based methods is a technical challenge because this modification is highly labile. To overcome this drawback, most methods induce S-nitrosylation chemically in proteins using nitrosylating compounds before analysis, with the risk of introducing nonphysiological S-nitrosylation. Here we present a novel method to efficiently identify endogenous S-nitrosopeptides in the macrophage total proteome. Our approach is based on the labeling of S-nitrosopeptides reduced by ascorbate with a cysteine specific phosphonate adaptable tag (CysPAT), followed by titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) chromatography enrichment prior to nLC-MS/MS analysis. To test our procedure, we performed a large-scale analysis of this low-abundant modification in a murine macrophage cell line. We identified 569 endogeneous S-nitrosylated proteins compared with 795 following exogenous chemically induced S-nitrosylation. Importantly, we discovered 579 novel S-nitrosylation sites. The large number of identified endogenous S-nitrosylated peptides allowed the definition of two S-nitrosylation consensus sites, highlighting protein translation and redox processes as key S-nitrosylation targets in macrophages.

Implementation of a Multiplex and Quantitative Proteomics Platform for Assessing Protein Lysates Using DNA-Barcoded Antibodies.

PubMed

Lee, Jinho; Geiss, Gary K; Demirkan, Gokhan; Vellano, Christopher P; Filanoski, Brian; Lu, Yiling; Ju, Zhenlin; Yu, Shuangxing; Guo, Huifang; Bogatzki, Lisa Y; Carter, Warren; Meredith, Rhonda K; Krishnamurthy, Savitri; Ding, Zhiyong; Beechem, Joseph M; Mills, Gordon B

2018-06-01

Molecular analysis of tumors forms the basis for personalized cancer medicine and increasingly guides patient selection for targeted therapy. Future opportunities for personalized medicine are highlighted by the measurement of protein expression levels via immunohistochemistry, protein arrays, and other approaches; however, sample type, sample quantity, batch effects, and "time to result" are limiting factors for clinical application. Here, we present a development pipeline for a novel multiplexed DNA-labeled antibody platform which digitally quantifies protein expression from lysate samples. We implemented a rigorous validation process for each antibody and show that the platform is amenable to multiple protocols covering nitrocellulose and plate-based methods. Results are highly reproducible across technical and biological replicates, and there are no observed "batch effects" which are common for most multiplex molecular assays. Tests from basal and perturbed cancer cell lines indicate that this platform is comparable to orthogonal proteomic assays such as Reverse-Phase Protein Array, and applicable to measuring the pharmacodynamic effects of clinically-relevant cancer therapeutics. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential clinical utility of the platform with protein profiling from breast cancer patient samples to identify molecular subtypes. Together, these findings highlight the potential of this platform for enhancing our understanding of cancer biology in a clinical translation setting. © 2018 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Complex multi-enhancer contacts captured by genome architecture mapping.

PubMed

Beagrie, Robert A; Scialdone, Antonio; Schueler, Markus; Kraemer, Dorothee C A; Chotalia, Mita; Xie, Sheila Q; Barbieri, Mariano; de Santiago, Inês; Lavitas, Liron-Mark; Branco, Miguel R; Fraser, James; Dostie, Josée; Game, Laurence; Dillon, Niall; Edwards, Paul A W; Nicodemi, Mario; Pombo, Ana

2017-03-23

The organization of the genome in the nucleus and the interactions of genes with their regulatory elements are key features of transcriptional control and their disruption can cause disease. Here we report a genome-wide method, genome architecture mapping (GAM), for measuring chromatin contacts and other features of three-dimensional chromatin topology on the basis of sequencing DNA from a large collection of thin nuclear sections. We apply GAM to mouse embryonic stem cells and identify enrichment for specific interactions between active genes and enhancers across very large genomic distances using a mathematical model termed SLICE (statistical inference of co-segregation). GAM also reveals an abundance of three-way contacts across the genome, especially between regions that are highly transcribed or contain super-enhancers, providing a level of insight into genome architecture that, owing to the technical limitations of current technologies, has previously remained unattainable. Furthermore, GAM highlights a role for gene-expression-specific contacts in organizing the genome in mammalian nuclei.

Point-of-care diagnostics: extending the laboratory network to reach the last mile.

PubMed

Drain, Paul K; Rousseau, Christine

2017-03-01

More point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tests are becoming available for HIV diagnosis and treatment in resource-limited settings. These novel technologies have the potential to foster decentralized HIV care and treatment for the benefit of clinical laboratories, HIV clinics, and HIV-infected patients. There continue to be many business, technological, and operational challenges that limit product development and regulatory approval, which limits products available for the required operational and cost-effectiveness studies and delays policy adoption and implementation. Although the rapid HIV diagnostic test has been widely successful, the pathways for POC CD4 cell count and HIV viral load assay analyzers have been more challenging. We describe significant hurdles for product development, approval, and implementation, which include the business case, technical development, clinical impact, and integrating laboratory and clinical networks. The objective of this review is to highlight the obstacles for developing and implementing appropriate strategies for POC HIV testing assays to improve the clinical services for HIV-infected patients in resource-limited settings.

Material design and engineering of next-generation flow-battery technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Minjoon; Ryu, Jaechan; Wang, Wei; Cho, Jaephil

2017-01-01

Spatial separation of the electrolyte and electrode is the main characteristic of flow-battery technologies, which liberates them from the constraints of overall energy content and the energy/power ratio. The concept of a flowing electrolyte not only presents a cost-effective approach for large-scale energy storage, but has also recently been used to develop a wide range of new hybrid energy storage and conversion systems. The advent of flow-based lithium-ion, organic redox-active materials, metal-air cells and photoelectrochemical batteries promises new opportunities for advanced electrical energy-storage technologies. In this Review, we present a critical overview of recent progress in conventional aqueous redox-flow batteries and next-generation flow batteries, highlighting the latest innovative alternative materials. We outline their technical feasibility for use in long-term and large-scale electrical energy-storage devices, as well as the limitations that need to be overcome, providing our view of promising future research directions in the field of redox-flow batteries.

Nanotechnology for sustainable development: retrospective and outlook

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diallo, Mamadou S.; Fromer, Neil A.; Jhon, Myung S.

2013-11-01

The world is facing great challenges in meeting rising demands for basic commodities (e.g., food, water and energy), finished goods (e.g., cell phones, cars and airplanes) and services (e.g., shelter, healthcare and employment) while reducing and minimizing the impact of human activities on Earth's global environment and climate. Nanotechnology has emerged as a versatile platform that could provide efficient, cost-effective and environmentally acceptable solutions to the global sustainability challenges facing society. This special issue of the Journal of Nanoparticle Research is devoted to the utilization of nanotechnology to improve or achieve sustainable development. We highlight recent advances and discuss opportunities of utilizing nanotechnology to address global challenges in (1) water purification, (2) clean energy technologies, (3) greenhouse gases management, (4) materials supply and utilization, and (5) green manufacturing and chemistry. In addition to the technical challenges listed above, we also discuss societal perspectives and provide an outlook of the role of nanotechnology in the convergence of knowledge, technology and society for achieving sustainable development.

Non-technical skills of surgical trainees and experienced surgeons.

PubMed

Gostlow, H; Marlow, N; Thomas, M J W; Hewett, P J; Kiermeier, A; Babidge, W; Altree, M; Pena, G; Maddern, G

2017-05-01

In addition to technical expertise, surgical competence requires effective non-technical skills to ensure patient safety and maintenance of standards. Recently the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons implemented a new Surgical Education and Training (SET) curriculum that incorporated non-technical skills considered essential for a competent surgeon. This study sought to compare the non-technical skills of experienced surgeons who completed their training before the introduction of SET with the non-technical skills of more recent trainees. Surgical trainees and experienced surgeons undertook a simulated scenario designed to challenge their non-technical skills. Scenarios were video recorded and participants were assessed using the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) scoring system. Participants were divided into subgroups according to years of experience and their NOTSS scores were compared. For most NOTSS elements, mean scores increased initially, peaking around the time of Fellowship, before decreasing roughly linearly over time. There was a significant downward trend in score with increasing years since being awarded Fellowship for six of the 12 NOTSS elements: considering options (score -0·015 units per year), implementing and reviewing decisions (-0·020 per year), establishing a shared understanding (-0·014 per year), setting and maintaining standards (-0·024 per year), supporting others (-0·031 per year) and coping with pressure (-0·015 per year). The drop in NOTSS score was unexpected and highlights that even experienced surgeons are not immune to deficiencies in non-technical skills. Consideration should be given to continuing professional development programmes focusing on non-technical skills, regardless of the level of professional experience. © 2017 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Final technical report for project titled Quantitative Characterization of Cell Aggregation/Adhesion as Predictor for Distribution and Transport of Microorganisms in Subsurface Environment

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

Gu, April Z.; Wan, Kai-tak

This project aims to explore and develop enabling methodology and techniques for nano-scale characterization of microbe cell surface contact mechanics, interactions and adhesion quantities that allow for identification and quantification of indicative properties related to microorganism migration and transport behavior in porous media and in subsurface environments. Microbe transport has wide impact and therefore is of great interest in various environmental applications such as in situ or enhanced subsurface bioremediation,filtration processes for water and wastewater treatments and protection of drinking water supplies. Although great progress has been made towards understanding the identities and activities of these microorganisms in the subsurface,more » to date, little is known of the mechanisms that govern the mobility and transport of microorganisms in DOE’s contaminated sites, making the outcomes of in situ natural attenuation or contaminant stability enhancement unpredictable. Conventionally, movement of microorganisms was believed to follows the rules governing solute (particle) transport. However, recent studies revealed that cell surface properties, especially those pertaining to cell attachment/adhesion and aggregation behavior, can cause the microbe behavior to deviate from non-viable particles and hence greatly influence the mobility and distribution of microorganisms in porous media.This complexity highlights the need to obtain detailed information of cell-cell and cell-surface interactions in order to improve and refine the conceptual and quantitative model development for fate and transport of microorganisms and contaminant in subsurface. Traditional cell surface characterization methods are not sufficient to fully predict the deposition rates and transport behaviors of microorganism observed. A breakthrough of methodology that would allow for quantitative and molecular-level description of intrinsic cell surface properties indicative for cell-surface interactions is essential for the field. To tackle this, we have developed a number of new Bio-nanomechanical techniques, including reflection interference contrast microscopy (RICM) and bio-AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy), for cell adhesion-detachment measurement of the long-range surface interactions, in combination with mathematical modeling, which would allow us to characterize the mechanical behavior from single cell to multi-cell aggregate, critical thresholds for large scale coaggregation and transportation of cells and aggregates in the presence of long range inter-surface forces etc. Although some technical and mathematical challenges remain, the preliminary results promise great breakthrough potential. In this study, we investigated the cellular surface characteristics of representative bio-remediating microorganisms relevant to DOE IFRC (Integrated Field-Scale Subsurface Research Challenges) sites and their transport behaviors in porous media, aiming to draw a groundbreaking correlation between the micro-scale genetic and biological origin-based cell surface properties, the consequent mechanical adhesion and aggregation behaviors, and the macro-scale microbial mobility and retention in porous media, which are unavailable in the literature. The long-term goal is to significantly improve the mechanistic and quantitative understanding of microbial mobility, sorption, and transport within reactive transport models as needed to manipulate subsurface contaminant fate and transport predictions.« less

Examining the Professional Development Experiences and Non-Technical Skills Desired for Geoscience Employment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Houlton, H. R.; Ricci, J.; Wilson, C. E.; Keane, C.

2014-12-01

Professional development experiences, such as internships, research presentations and professional network building, are becoming increasingly important to enhance students' employability post-graduation. The practical, non-technical skills that are important for succeeding during these professional development experiences, such as public speaking, project management, ethical practices and writing, transition well and are imperative to the workplace. Thereby, graduates who have honed these skills are more competitive candidates for geoscience employment. Fortunately, the geoscience community recognizes the importance of these professional development opportunities and the skills required to successfully complete them, and are giving students the chance to practice non-technical skills while they are still enrolled in academic programs. The American Geosciences Institute has collected data regarding students' professional development experiences, including the preparation they receive in the corresponding non-technical skills. This talk will discuss the findings of two of AGI's survey efforts - the Geoscience Student Exit Survey and the Geoscience Careers Master's Preparation Survey (NSF: 1202707). Specifically, data highlighting the role played by internships, career opportunities and the complimentary non-technical skills will be discussed. As a practical guide, events informed by this research, such as AGI's professional development opportunities, networking luncheons and internships, will also be included.

Advanced Rechargeable Lithium Sulfur Dioxide Cell

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-11-01

LITHIUM SULFUR DIOXIDE CELL R.C. McDonald R. Vierra P. Harris M. Guentert F. Goebel C. Todino S. Hossain Yardney Technical Products, Inc. 82 Mechanic... McDonald ; P Harris; F Goebel; S Hossain; R Vierra; M Guentert; C Todino 7. Z mG OnGAMiATIO MAMES AND AOSS4ES) g.Pta~o Yardney Technical Products, Inc...cathode was then dried and cured at 280’C under flowing argon for 20 minutes. The electrochemical measurements were carried out using a Starbuck 20

Cell attachment properties of Portland cement-based endodontic materials: biological and methodological considerations.

PubMed

Ahmed, Hany Mohamed Aly; Luddin, Norhayati; Kannan, Thirumulu Ponnuraj; Mokhtar, Khairani Idah; Ahmad, Azlina

2014-10-01

The attachment and spreading of mammalian cells on endodontic biomaterials are an area of active research. The purpose of this review is to discuss the cell attachment properties of Portland cement (PC)-based materials by using scanning electron microscope (SEM). In addition, methodological aspects and technical challenges are discussed. A PubMed electronic search was conducted by using appropriate key words to identify the available investigations on the cell attachment properties of PC-based endodontic materials. After retrieving the full text of related articles, the cross citations were also identified. A total of 23 articles published between January 1993 and October 2013 were identified. This review summarizes the cell attachment properties of commercial and experimental PC-based materials on different cell cultures by using SEM. Methodological procedures, technical challenges, and relevance of SEM in determining the biological profile of PC-based materials are discussed. SEM observations demonstrate that commercial MTA formulations show favorable cell attachment properties, which is consistent with their successful clinical outcomes. The favorable cell attachment properties of PC and its modified formulations support its potential use as a substitute for mineral trioxide aggregate. However, researchers should carefully select cell types for their SEM investigations that would be in contact with the proposed PC-based combinations in the clinical situation. Despite being a technical challenge, SEM provides useful information on the cell attachment properties of PC-based materials; however, other assays for cell proliferation and viability are essential to come up with an accurate in vitro biological profile of any given PC-based formulation. Copyright © 2014 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Checklist for Successful Quantitative Live Cell Imaging in Systems Biology

PubMed Central

Sung, Myong-Hee

2013-01-01

Mathematical modeling of signaling and gene regulatory networks has provided unique insights about systems behaviors for many cell biological problems of medical importance. Quantitative single cell monitoring has a crucial role in advancing systems modeling of molecular networks. However, due to the multidisciplinary techniques that are necessary for adaptation of such systems biology approaches, dissemination to a wide research community has been relatively slow. In this essay, I focus on some technical aspects that are often under-appreciated, yet critical in harnessing live cell imaging methods to achieve single-cell-level understanding and quantitative modeling of molecular networks. The importance of these technical considerations will be elaborated with examples of successes and shortcomings. Future efforts will benefit by avoiding some pitfalls and by utilizing the lessons collectively learned from recent applications of imaging in systems biology. PMID:24709701

Fourth Collaborative Materials Exercise of the Nuclear Forensics International Technical Working Group

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

Schwantes, J. M.; Marsden, O.; Reilly, D.

Abstract The Nuclear Forensics International Technical Working Group is a community of nuclear forensic practitioners who respond to incidents involving nuclear and other radioactive material out of regulatory control. The Group is dedicated to advancing nuclear forensic science in part through periodic participation in materials exercises. The Group completed its fourth Collaborative Materials Exercise in 2015 in which laboratories from 15 countries and one multinational organization analyzed three samples of special nuclear material in support of a mock nuclear forensic investigation. This special section of the Journal for Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry is devoted to summarizing highlights from this exercise.

Another Look at the Draft Mil-Std-1540E Unit Random Vibration Test Requirements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perl, E.; Peterson, A. J..; Davis, D.

2012-07-01

The draft Mil-Std-1540E has been updated to reflect lessons learned since its publication as an SMC Standard in 2008, [1], and an earlier Aerospace Corporation Technical Report released in 2006, [2]. This paper discusses the technical rationale supporting some of the unit random vibration test requirements to provide better insight into their derivation and application to programs. It is intended that these requirements be tailored for each program to reflect the customer risk profile. Several tailoring options are provided and a two phase test strategy is discussed to highlight its applicability to utilizing heritage hardware in new applications.

A review of the salt-gradient solar pond technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, E. I. H.

1982-01-01

The state of the salt-gradient solar pond technology is reviewed. Highlights of findings and experiences from existing ponds to data are presented, and the behavior, energy yield, operational features, and economics of solar ponds are examined. It is concluded that salt-gradient solar ponds represent a technically feasible, environmentally benign, and economically attractive energy producing alternative. In order to bring this emerging technology to maturity, however, much research and development effort remains to be undertaken. Specific R&D areas requiring the attention and action of technical workers and decision-makers are discussed, both from the perspectives of smaller, thermally-oriented ponds and larger, electricity generating ponds.

Technical Basis for Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulatory Guidance Update

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

Ewing, Paul D.; Korsah, Kofi; Harrison, Thomas J.

2016-03-01

The objective of this report is to serve as the technical basis document for the next, planned revision of this RG that highlights and provides the rationale for the recommended changes. The structure of this document follows and summarizes the several assessment activities undertaken during the course of this project to evaluate new and updated electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards, testing methods and limits, and relevant technology developments being incorporated into plant activities that may have EMI/RFI implications, as well as other specific issues, including impacts of electrostatic discharge (ESD) on safety equipment and impacts on increased usage of wireless devicesmore » in nuclear power plants.« less

Problems with the Use of Terminology in Genetics Education: 1, A Literature Review and Classification Scheme.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pearson, J. T.; Hughes, W. J.

1988-01-01

Examines the technical vocabulary of genetics as a source of error and confusion. Suggests that it is necessary to identify different types of problems associated with terminology and to organize them into logical classes to deal effectively with the difficulties. Highlights terms misused in textbooks. (RT)

Grounded Theory as a Methodology to Design Teaching Strategies for Historically Informed Musical Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mateos-Moreno, Daniel; Alcaraz-Iborra, Mario

2013-01-01

Our work highlights the necessity of revising the materials employed in instrumental education, which are systematically based on a progressive development of technical abilities and, though only transversely, without a structured sequence of contents, on issues referring to the interpretation of different periods and styles. In order to elaborate…

Operations mission planner

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Biefeld, Eric; Cooper, Lynne

1990-01-01

The findings are documented of the OMP research task, which investigated the applicability of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in support of automated scheduling. The goals of the effort are summarized and the technical accomplishments are highlighted. The OMP task succeeded in identifying how AI technology could be applied and demonstrated an AI-based automated scheduling approach through the OMP prototypes.

NASA-ASEE-Stanford Summer Faculty Fellowship Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

This report presents the essential features and highlights of the 1996 Summer Faculty Fellowship Program at Ames Research Center and Dryden Flight Research Center in a comprehensive and concise form. Summary reports describing the fellow's technical accomplishments are enclosed. Of the 32 participating fellows, 27 were at Ames and 5 were at Dryden.

Innovations in Higher Education. Singapore at the Competitive Edge. World Bank Technical Paper No. 222.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Selvaratnam, Viswanathan

This report provides an overview of Singapore's strategy for human resource development and the country's concerted effort to successfully orchestrate the many separate initiatives between 1960s to 1980s into an effective market-driven, three-tiered higher education system emphasizing technology and modernization. The study highlights the…

Higher Education Provision Using Systems Thinking Approach--Case Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dhukaram, Anandhi Vivekanandan; Sgouropoulou, Cleo; Feldman, Gerald; Amini, Ardavan

2018-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the complexities involved in higher education provision and how systems thinking and socio-technical systems (STS) thinking approach can be used to understand the education ecosystem. Systems thinking perspective is provided using two case studies: the development of European Learner Mobility (EuroLM)…

Analysis of structural dynamic data from Skylab. Volume 1: Technical discussion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Demchak, L.; Harcrow, H.

1976-01-01

The results of a study to analyze data and document dynamic program highlights of the Skylab Program are presented. Included are structural model sources, illustration of the analytical models, utilization of models and the resultant derived data, data supplied to organization and subsequent utilization, and specifications of model cycles.

Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs 1978-79 Annual Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs, Phoenix.

The Arizona Commission of Indian Affairs is the "official link between the tribes and state government" and acts in a liaison capacity as well as providing technical assistance. Critical issues having an impact on the Commission's over-all program, addressed within the Commission's legislative scope and highlighted in this 1978-79 Annual…

Adult Learners: Considerations for Education and Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kistler, Mark J.

2011-01-01

As more and more adults seek out education and training programs to help them become more competitive in the job market, it provides an opportunity for career and technical education. Those who teach adult learners should take into consideration their particular learning traits. This article highlights a framework of core principles to be…

Research Overview: Implications for Public Policy. Higher Education in TAFE. Monograph Series 01/2009

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moodie, Gavin; Wheelahan, Leesa; Billett, Stephen; Kelly, Ann

2009-01-01

A project funded through the National Vocational Education and Training Research and Evaluation program investigated higher education programs--mostly bachelor's and associate degrees--offered by technical and further education (TAFE) institutes. This overview highlights some of the implications for public policy identified through this project.…

The aerospace technology laboratory (a perspective, then and now)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Connors, J. F.; Hoffman, R. G.

1982-01-01

The physical changes that have taken place in aerospace facilities since the Wright brothers' accomplishment 78 years ago are highlighted. For illustrative purposes some of the technical facilities and operations of the NASA Lewis Research Center are described. These simulation facilities were designed to support research and technology studies in aerospace propulsion.

Can't Get No Satisfaction: Library Pay in the 21st Century.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LaRue, James

2000-01-01

Discusses librarians' salaries and possible reasons for low pay. Highlights include the greater perceived value of technical people; the legacies of Melvil Dewey, including his attraction of women to the profession; effects of a female-dominated profession; nonlibrarian staff members; and the worth of the public sector. (LRW)

Preliminary Results Obtained in Integrated Safety Analysis of NASA Aviation Safety Program Technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

This is a quarterly listing of unclassified AGARD and RTO technical publications NASA received and announced in the NASA STI Database. Contents include 1) Sensor Data Fusion and Integration of the Human Element; 2) Planar Optical Measurement Methods for Gas Turbine Components; 3) RTO Highlights 1998, December 1998.

Green Technology to Support Education of Students with Moderate Intellectual Disability

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mata, Liliana; Diaconescu, Alina; Lazar, Gabriel; Lazar, Iuliana

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate the aspects that green technology offers in the education of students with moderate intellectual disability. The theoretical part highlights the technical facilities that green technology offers to education. An analysis of the most recent studies focuses on the use of interactive whiteboard to improve…

Open Source Communities in Technical Writing: Local Exigence, Global Extensibility

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Conner, Trey; Gresham, Morgan; McCracken, Jill

2011-01-01

By offering open-source software (OSS)-based networks as an affordable technology alternative, we partnered with a nonprofit community organization. In this article, we narrate the client-based experiences of this partnership, highlighting the ways in which OSS and open-source culture (OSC) transformed our students' and our own expectations of…

Improving Competences of Engineering Students in Terms of Development of Research Function

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ivashova, Valentina A.; Pavliuk, Roman V.; Zaharin, Anton V.; Maslova, Lyubov F.; Alivanova, Svetlana S.

2016-01-01

Among the priorities of the vocational education reformation, highlighted in the concepts of development of vocational and technical (professional) education, the need to develop the standards of professional expertise for the professions and types of work is identified with regard to the prospects of development of production and scientific…

Sustaining Professional and Organizational Growth of the ACTER through the Value of Mentorship

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gordon, Howard R. D.

2016-01-01

The author examines selected aspects of mentorship and its value to the Association for Career and Technical Education Research (ACTER). He describes the Collaborative Mentoring Theory and the key elements of Daloz's Mentoring Model. Highlights of types of mentoring and suggested characteristics of Generation Xers and Millennials are reported. He…

Web-Based Mathematics: Some "Dos" and "Don'ts"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Loong, Esther Yook-Kin

2011-01-01

This case study describes an "out of field" teacher's use of the Internet to teach a range of mathematical topics in a modified Year 8 mathematics class. It highlights the importance of three factors for implementing a discernible web-based teaching strategy: appropriate choice of web objects, effective "virtual" pedagogy, and technical support…

Black Achievers in Science, Teachers Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, IL.

In this guide, 16 historical and contemporary black scientists and engineers are highlighted as role models. Four scientists are represented in each of four technical fields: life sciences (Ernest E. Just; Harvey M. Pickrum; George W. Carver; Patricia S. Cowings); physical science (George R. Carruthers; Percy L. Julian; Walter E. Massey; Warren M.…

INEL BNCT Program: Volume 5, No. 9

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

Ackermann, A.L.

1991-01-01

This Bulletin presents a summary of accomplishments and highlights of the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory's (INEL) Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) Program for September 1991. This bulletin includes information on the brain tumor and melanoma research programs, Power Burst Facility (PBF) technical support and modifications, PBF operations, and updates to the animal data charts.

Tools for Schools: Filtration for Improved Air Quality. Technical Services Bulletin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

2001

This product bulletin addresses air pollution control in educational facilities to enhance educational performance, provides air quality recommendations for schools, and examines the filtration needs of various school areas. The types of air particles typically present are highlighted, and the use of proper filtration to control gases and vapors…

Diversity in the Work Force. The Highlight Zone: Research @ Work No. 4.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wentling, Rose Mary

A literature review was conducted to identify critical work force diversity issues in today's changing workplace and identify ways organizations and career and technical education (CTE) practitioners can increase work force diversity. A broad, all-inclusive definition of diversity was developed that focuses on how diversity affects individuals and…

Project THEMIS: A Center for Remote Sensing.

DTIC Science & Technology

This report summarizes the technical work accomplished under Project THEMIS, A Center for Remote Sensing at the University of Kansas during the...period 16 September 1967 through 15 September 1973. The highlights of the four major areas forming the remote sensing system are presented. A detailed description of the latest radar spectrometer results is presented.

Use of whole genome expression analysis in the toxicity screening of nanoparticles

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

Fröhlich, Eleonore, E-mail: eleonore.froehlich@medunigraz.at; Meindl, Claudia; Wagner, Karin

2014-10-15

The use of nanoparticles (NPs) offers exciting new options in technical and medical applications provided they do not cause adverse cellular effects. Cellular effects of NPs depend on particle parameters and exposure conditions. In this study, whole genome expression arrays were employed to identify the influence of particle size, cytotoxicity, protein coating, and surface functionalization of polystyrene particles as model particles and for short carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as particles with potential interest in medical treatment. Another aim of the study was to find out whether screening by microarray would identify other or additional targets than commonly used cell-based assays formore » NP action. Whole genome expression analysis and assays for cell viability, interleukin secretion, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were employed. Similar to conventional assays, microarray data identified inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis as affected by NP treatment. Application of lower particle doses and presence of protein decreased the total number of regulated genes but did not markedly influence the top regulated genes. Cellular effects of CNTs were small; only carboxyl-functionalized single-walled CNTs caused appreciable regulation of genes. It can be concluded that regulated functions correlated well with results in cell-based assays. Presence of protein mitigated cytotoxicity but did not cause a different pattern of regulated processes. - Highlights: • Regulated functions were screened using whole genome expression assays. • Polystyrene particles regulated more genes than short carbon nanotubes. • Protein coating of polystyrene particles did not change regulation pattern. • Functions regulated by microarray were confirmed by cell-based assay.« less

Multilayer-omics analysis of renal cell carcinoma, including the whole exome, methylome and transcriptome.

PubMed

Arai, Eri; Sakamoto, Hiromi; Ichikawa, Hitoshi; Totsuka, Hirohiko; Chiku, Suenori; Gotoh, Masahiro; Mori, Taisuke; Nakatani, Tamao; Ohnami, Sumiko; Nakagawa, Tohru; Fujimoto, Hiroyuki; Wang, Linghua; Aburatani, Hiroyuki; Yoshida, Teruhiko; Kanai, Yae

2014-09-15

The aim of this study was to identify pathways that have a significant impact during renal carcinogenesis. Sixty-seven paired samples of both noncancerous renal cortex tissue and cancerous tissue from patients with clear cell renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) were subjected to whole-exome, methylome and transcriptome analyses using Agilent SureSelect All Exon capture followed by sequencing on an Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform, Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation27 BeadArray and Agilent SurePrint Human Gene Expression microarray, respectively. Sanger sequencing and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR were performed for technical verification. MetaCore software was used for pathway analysis. Somatic nonsynonymous single-nucleotide mutations, insertions/deletions and intragenic breaks of 2,153, 359 and 8 genes were detected, respectively. Mutations of GCN1L1, MED12 and CCNC, which are members of CDK8 mediator complex directly regulating β-catenin-driven transcription, were identified in 16% of the RCCs. Mutations of MACF1, which functions in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, were identified in 4% of the RCCs. A combination of methylome and transcriptome analyses further highlighted the significant role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in renal carcinogenesis. Genetic aberrations and reduced expression of ERC2 and ABCA13 were frequent in RCCs, and MTOR mutations were identified as one of the major disrupters of cell signaling during renal carcinogenesis. Our results confirm that multilayer-omics analysis can be a powerful tool for revealing pathways that play a significant role in carcinogenesis. © 2014 The Authors. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of UICC.

Multilayer-omics analysis of renal cell carcinoma, including the whole exome, methylome and transcriptome

PubMed Central

Arai, Eri; Sakamoto, Hiromi; Ichikawa, Hitoshi; Totsuka, Hirohiko; Chiku, Suenori; Gotoh, Masahiro; Mori, Taisuke; Nakatani, Tamao; Ohnami, Sumiko; Nakagawa, Tohru; Fujimoto, Hiroyuki; Wang, Linghua; Aburatani, Hiroyuki; Yoshida, Teruhiko; Kanai, Yae

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to identify pathways that have a significant impact during renal carcinogenesis. Sixty-seven paired samples of both noncancerous renal cortex tissue and cancerous tissue from patients with clear cell renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) were subjected to whole-exome, methylome and transcriptome analyses using Agilent SureSelect All Exon capture followed by sequencing on an Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform, Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation27 BeadArray and Agilent SurePrint Human Gene Expression microarray, respectively. Sanger sequencing and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR were performed for technical verification. MetaCore software was used for pathway analysis. Somatic nonsynonymous single-nucleotide mutations, insertions/deletions and intragenic breaks of 2,153, 359 and 8 genes were detected, respectively. Mutations of GCN1L1, MED12 and CCNC, which are members of CDK8 mediator complex directly regulating β-catenin-driven transcription, were identified in 16% of the RCCs. Mutations of MACF1, which functions in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, were identified in 4% of the RCCs. A combination of methylome and transcriptome analyses further highlighted the significant role of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in renal carcinogenesis. Genetic aberrations and reduced expression of ERC2 and ABCA13 were frequent in RCCs, and MTOR mutations were identified as one of the major disrupters of cell signaling during renal carcinogenesis. Our results confirm that multilayer-omics analysis can be a powerful tool for revealing pathways that play a significant role in carcinogenesis. PMID:24504440

iSBatch: a batch-processing platform for data analysis and exploration of live-cell single-molecule microscopy images and other hierarchical datasets.

PubMed

Caldas, Victor E A; Punter, Christiaan M; Ghodke, Harshad; Robinson, Andrew; van Oijen, Antoine M

2015-10-01

Recent technical advances have made it possible to visualize single molecules inside live cells. Microscopes with single-molecule sensitivity enable the imaging of low-abundance proteins, allowing for a quantitative characterization of molecular properties. Such data sets contain information on a wide spectrum of important molecular properties, with different aspects highlighted in different imaging strategies. The time-lapsed acquisition of images provides information on protein dynamics over long time scales, giving insight into expression dynamics and localization properties. Rapid burst imaging reveals properties of individual molecules in real-time, informing on their diffusion characteristics, binding dynamics and stoichiometries within complexes. This richness of information, however, adds significant complexity to analysis protocols. In general, large datasets of images must be collected and processed in order to produce statistically robust results and identify rare events. More importantly, as live-cell single-molecule measurements remain on the cutting edge of imaging, few protocols for analysis have been established and thus analysis strategies often need to be explored for each individual scenario. Existing analysis packages are geared towards either single-cell imaging data or in vitro single-molecule data and typically operate with highly specific algorithms developed for particular situations. Our tool, iSBatch, instead allows users to exploit the inherent flexibility of the popular open-source package ImageJ, providing a hierarchical framework in which existing plugins or custom macros may be executed over entire datasets or portions thereof. This strategy affords users freedom to explore new analysis protocols within large imaging datasets, while maintaining hierarchical relationships between experiments, samples, fields of view, cells, and individual molecules.

Normalizing the environment recapitulates adult human immune traits in laboratory mice.

PubMed

Beura, Lalit K; Hamilton, Sara E; Bi, Kevin; Schenkel, Jason M; Odumade, Oludare A; Casey, Kerry A; Thompson, Emily A; Fraser, Kathryn A; Rosato, Pamela C; Filali-Mouhim, Ali; Sekaly, Rafick P; Jenkins, Marc K; Vezys, Vaiva; Haining, W Nicholas; Jameson, Stephen C; Masopust, David

2016-04-28

Our current understanding of immunology was largely defined in laboratory mice, partly because they are inbred and genetically homogeneous, can be genetically manipulated, allow kinetic tissue analyses to be carried out from the onset of disease, and permit the use of tractable disease models. Comparably reductionist experiments are neither technically nor ethically possible in humans. However, there is growing concern that laboratory mice do not reflect relevant aspects of the human immune system, which may account for failures to translate disease treatments from bench to bedside. Laboratory mice live in abnormally hygienic specific pathogen free (SPF) barrier facilities. Here we show that standard laboratory mouse husbandry has profound effects on the immune system and that environmental changes produce mice with immune systems closer to those of adult humans. Laboratory mice--like newborn, but not adult, humans--lack effector-differentiated and mucosally distributed memory T cells. These cell populations were present in free-living barn populations of feral mice and pet store mice with diverse microbial experience, and were induced in laboratory mice after co-housing with pet store mice, suggesting that the environment is involved in the induction of these cells. Altering the living conditions of mice profoundly affected the cellular composition of the innate and adaptive immune systems, resulted in global changes in blood cell gene expression to patterns that more closely reflected the immune signatures of adult humans rather than neonates, altered resistance to infection, and influenced T-cell differentiation in response to a de novo viral infection. These data highlight the effects of environment on the basal immune state and response to infection and suggest that restoring physiological microbial exposure in laboratory mice could provide a relevant tool for modelling immunological events in free-living organisms, including humans.

Label-free quantitative cell division monitoring of endothelial cells by digital holographic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kemper, Björn; Bauwens, Andreas; Vollmer, Angelika; Ketelhut, Steffi; Langehanenberg, Patrik; Müthing, Johannes; Karch, Helge; von Bally, Gert

2010-05-01

Digital holographic microscopy (DHM) enables quantitative multifocus phase contrast imaging for nondestructive technical inspection and live cell analysis. Time-lapse investigations on human brain microvascular endothelial cells demonstrate the use of DHM for label-free dynamic quantitative monitoring of cell division of mother cells into daughter cells. Cytokinetic DHM analysis provides future applications in toxicology and cancer research.

Ferns: the missing link in shoot evolution and development

PubMed Central

Plackett, Andrew R. G.; Di Stilio, Verónica S.; Langdale, Jane A.

2015-01-01

Shoot development in land plants is a remarkably complex process that gives rise to an extreme diversity of forms. Our current understanding of shoot developmental mechanisms comes almost entirely from studies of angiosperms (flowering plants), the most recently diverged plant lineage. Shoot development in angiosperms is based around a layered multicellular apical meristem that produces lateral organs and/or secondary meristems from populations of founder cells at its periphery. In contrast, non-seed plant shoots develop from either single apical initials or from a small population of morphologically distinct apical cells. Although developmental and molecular information is becoming available for non-flowering plants, such as the model moss Physcomitrella patens, making valid comparisons between highly divergent lineages is extremely challenging. As sister group to the seed plants, the monilophytes (ferns and relatives) represent an excellent phylogenetic midpoint of comparison for unlocking the evolution of shoot developmental mechanisms, and recent technical advances have finally made transgenic analysis possible in the emerging model fern Ceratopteris richardii. This review compares and contrasts our current understanding of shoot development in different land plant lineages with the aim of highlighting the potential role that the fern C. richardii could play in shedding light on the evolution of underlying genetic regulatory mechanisms. PMID:26594222

Protein Corona in Response to Flow: Effect on Protein Concentration and Structure.

PubMed

Jayaram, Dhanya T; Pustulka, Samantha M; Mannino, Robert G; Lam, Wilbur A; Payne, Christine K

2018-04-09

Nanoparticles used in cellular applications encounter free serum proteins that adsorb onto the surface of the nanoparticle, forming a protein corona. This protein layer controls the interaction of nanoparticles with cells. For nanomedicine applications, it is important to consider how intravenous injection and the subsequent shear flow will affect the protein corona. Our goal was to determine if shear flow changed the composition of the protein corona and if these changes affected cellular binding. Colorimetric assays of protein concentration and gel electrophoresis demonstrate that polystyrene nanoparticles subjected to flow have a greater concentration of serum proteins adsorbed on the surface, especially plasminogen. Plasminogen, in the absence of nanoparticles, undergoes changes in structure in response to flow, characterized by fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The protein-nanoparticle complexes formed from fetal bovine serum after flow had decreased cellular binding, as measured with flow cytometry. In addition to the relevance for nanomedicine, these results also highlight the technical challenges of protein corona studies. The composition of the protein corona was highly dependent on the initial mixing step: rocking, vortexing, or flow. Overall, these results reaffirm the importance of the protein corona in nanoparticle-cell interactions and point toward the challenges of predicting corona composition based on nanoparticle properties. Copyright © 2018 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

America in Space: The First Decade - Spacecraft Power

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corliss, William R.

1970-01-01

Electrical power is necessary for every manned and unmanned spacecraft, with the exception of a few special-purpose Earth satellites. It is the reliable flow and availability of electrical power that allows man to extend his personal ventures safely beyond the atmosphere and keeps unmanned scientific payloads serving as useful tools for space exploration and applications. Electric power is essential to space communications, guidance, control, tracking, telemetry, life-support systems, sensors, data handling and storage, and to assure the proper functioning of countless experimental and housekeeping systems and subsystems aboard operating spacecraft. It remains the task of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, since NASA's founding in 1958, to fully investigate the chemical, nuclear and solar sources of energy and to see how best they can be converted to reliable spacecraft power. The research and technology of power-generating systems illustrates a seldom recognized goal of NASA - to assure this Nation a freedom of choice; the choice, in this case, being that of going where we wish to go in the atmosphere or in space. Technical capability is the key to such freedom. Power requirements and profiles are reviewed and power sources, including batteries, fuel cells, solar cell, RTGs and nuclear fission power plants in space, are highlighted.

New Technologies for Human Cancer Imaging

PubMed Central

Frangioni, John V.

2008-01-01

Despite technical advances in many areas of diagnostic radiology, the detection and imaging of human cancer remains poor. A meaningful impact on cancer screening, staging, and treatment is unlikely to occur until the tumor-to-background ratio improves by three to four orders of magnitude (ie, 103- to 104-fold), which in turn will require proportional improvements in sensitivity and contrast agent targeting. This review analyzes the physics and chemistry of cancer imaging and highlights the fundamental principles underlying the detection of malignant cells within a background of normal cells. The use of various contrast agents and radiotracers for cancer imaging is reviewed, as are the current limitations of ultrasound, x-ray imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single-photon emission computed tomography, positron emission tomography (PET), and optical imaging. Innovative technologies are emerging that hold great promise for patients, such as positron emission mammography of the breast and spectroscopy-enhanced colonoscopy for cancer screening, hyperpolarization MRI and time-of-flight PET for staging, and ion beam-induced PET scanning and near-infrared fluorescence-guided surgery for cancer treatment. This review explores these emerging technologies and considers their potential impact on clinical care. Finally, those cancers that are currently difficult to image and quantify, such as ovarian cancer and acute leukemia, are discussed. PMID:18711192

Analysis of plant germline development by high-throughput RNA profiling: technical advances and new insights.

PubMed

Schmidt, Anja; Schmid, Marc W; Grossniklaus, Ueli

2012-04-01

Reproduction is a crucial step in the life cycle of plants. The male and female germline lineages develop in the reproductive organs of the flower, which in higher plants are the anthers and ovules, respectively. Development of the germline lineage initiates from a dedicated sporophytic cell that undergoes meiosis to form spores that subsequently give rise to the gametophytes through mitotic cell divisions. The mature male and female gametophytes harbour the male (sperm cells) and female gametes (egg and central cell), respectively. Those unite during double fertilization to initiate embryo and endosperm development in sexually reproducing higher plants. While cytological changes involved in development of the germline lineages have been well characterized in a number of species, investigation of the transcriptional basis underlying their development and the specification of the gametes proved challenging. This is largely due to the inaccessibility of the cells constituting the germline lineages, which are enclosed by sporophytic tissues. Only recently, these technical limitations could be overcome by combining new methods to isolate the relevant cells with powerful transcriptional profiling methods, such as microarrays or high-throughput sequencing of RNA. This review focuses on these technical advances and the new insights gained from them concerning the transcriptional basis and molecular mechanisms underlying germline development. © 2012 The Authors. The Plant Journal © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Investigating the Epigenetic Discrimination of Identical Twins Using Buccal Swabs, Saliva, and Cigarette Butts in the Forensic Setting.

PubMed

Vidaki, Athina; Kalamara, Vivian; Carnero-Montoro, Elena; Spector, Timothy D; Bell, Jordana T; Kayser, Manfred

2018-05-14

Monozygotic (MZ) twins are typically indistinguishable via forensic DNA profiling. Recently, we demonstrated that epigenetic differentiation of MZ twins is feasible; however, proportions of twin differentially methylated CpG sites (tDMSs) identified in reference-type blood DNA were not replicated in trace-type blood DNA. Here we investigated buccal swabs as typical forensic reference material, and saliva and cigarette butts as commonly encountered forensic trace materials. As an analog to a forensic case, we analyzed one MZ twin pair. Epigenome-wide microarray analysis in reference-type buccal DNA revealed 25 candidate tDMSs with >0.5 twin-to-twin differences. MethyLight quantitative PCR (qPCR) of 22 selected tDMSs in trace-type DNA revealed in saliva DNA that six tDMSs (27.3%) had >0.1 twin-to-twin differences, seven (31.8%) had smaller (<0.1) but robustly detected differences, whereas for nine (40.9%) the differences were in the opposite direction relative to the microarray data; for cigarette butt DNA, results were 50%, 22.7%, and 27.3%, respectively. The discrepancies between reference-type and trace-type DNA outcomes can be explained by cell composition differences, method-to-method variation, and other technical reasons including bisulfite conversion inefficiency. Our study highlights the importance of the DNA source and that careful characterization of biological and technical effects is needed before epigenetic MZ twin differentiation is applicable in forensic casework.

Exploring Socio-Technical Insights for Safe Nursing Handover.

PubMed

Wong, Ming Chao; Yee, Kwang Chien; Turner, Paul

2017-01-01

Current efforts to improve nursing handover frequently use prescriptive approaches based on research evidence of handover issues within a single nursing ward or nursing specialty. Despite reported handover improvement, few studies adequately consider the transferability of results to other nursing handover environments or acknowledge the unique attributes that supported sustained improvement. With the increasing diffusion of electronic tools it has become even more critical to ensure that socio-technical issues that may impact on the quality and safety of nursing handovers are identified. This paper describes a qualitative research project that examined nursing handover in three different wards - General Medicine, General Surgery and Department of Emergency Medicine in a tertiary teaching hospital. Through conduct of a detailed analysis of nursing handover processes, this paper highlights the similarities and differences in the handover among the three different wards and presents five key socio-technical insights to support safe nursing handover.

Training experiences immediately after medical school.

PubMed

Roche, A M; Sanson-Fisher, R W; Cockburn, J

1997-01-01

Trainees in all teaching hospitals in New South Wales were surveyed using a self-completion, postal questionnaire to assess perceptions of the quality and extent of training received for interactional and technical skills. The response rate was 67.1%. Mean age was 25.4 years and 38.8% were female. Overall, training was found to be generally poor in terms of time and educational strategies used. Interactional skills were found to receive lower levels of training than technical skills both prior to and during the intern year with significantly fewer (P < 0.000) educational strategies reported for training received in interactional skills than for technical skills. Trainees' perceptions of the adequacy of training was significantly more negative for interactional than technical skills (P < 0.001). Assessment of competence was also significantly lower for interactional than technical skills (P < 0.001). On average, fewer than one in three trainees considered themselves to be competent in interactional skills compared to two-thirds who reported themselves as competent for technical skills. The findings of this study highlight the need for improved efforts with regard to both the quality and quantity of training provided during the intern year. Considerable scope exists for improved educational experiences for both interactional and technical skill areas, but particularly for interactional skills. Overall, greater use of a range of basic educational strategies such as the provision of 'observation' and 'critical feedback' is indicated. Efforts also need to be directed toward the training of clinical educators to optimize the potential of the preregistration period.

Linnorm: improved statistical analysis for single cell RNA-seq expression data

PubMed Central

Yip, Shun H.; Wang, Panwen; Kocher, Jean-Pierre A.; Sham, Pak Chung

2017-01-01

Abstract Linnorm is a novel normalization and transformation method for the analysis of single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Linnorm is developed to remove technical noises and simultaneously preserve biological variations in scRNA-seq data, such that existing statistical methods can be improved. Using real scRNA-seq data, we compared Linnorm with existing normalization methods, including NODES, SAMstrt, SCnorm, scran, DESeq and TMM. Linnorm shows advantages in speed, technical noise removal and preservation of cell heterogeneity, which can improve existing methods in the discovery of novel subtypes, pseudo-temporal ordering of cells, clustering analysis, etc. Linnorm also performs better than existing DEG analysis methods, including BASiCS, NODES, SAMstrt, Seurat and DESeq2, in false positive rate control and accuracy. PMID:28981748

Isolation and enrichment of circulating biomarkers for cancer screening, detection, and diagnostics.

PubMed

Hyun, Kyung-A; Kim, Junmoo; Gwak, Hogyeong; Jung, Hyo-Il

2016-01-21

Much research has been performed over the past several decades in an attempt to conquer cancer. Tissue biopsy is the conventional method for gathering biological materials to analyze cancer and has contributed greatly to the understanding of cancer. However, this method is limited because it is time-consuming (requires tissue sectioning, staining, and pathological analysis), costly, provides scarce starting materials for multiple tests, and is painful. A liquid biopsy, which analyzes cancer-derived materials from various body fluids using a minimally invasive procedure, is more practical for real-time monitoring of disease progression than tissue biopsy. Biomarkers analyzable through liquid biopsy include circulating tumor cells (CTCs), exosomes, circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA), miRNA, and proteins. Research on CTCs has been actively conducted because CTCs provide information on the whole cell, unlike the other biomarkers mentioned above. However, owing to the rarity and heterogeneity of CTCs, CTC research faces many critical concerns. Although exosomes and cfDNA have some technical challenges, they are being highlighted as new target materials. That is because they also have genetic information on cancers. Even though the number of exosomes and cfDNA from early stage cancer patients are similar to healthy individuals, they are present in high concentrations after metastasis. In this article, we review several technologies for material analyses of cancer, discuss the critical concerns based on hands-on experience, and describe future directions for cancer screening, detection, and diagnostics.

Empathy and stress in nurses working in haemodialysis: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Vioulac, Christel; Aubree, Colette; Massy, Ziad A; Untas, Aurélie

2016-05-01

To explore the concepts of empathy and stress in nurses working in haemodialysis units in France and their possible interactions. Nurses' work in haemodialysis is rather complex. It requires technical expertise, because of the peculiarity of the treatment, and emotional skills, to care for patients throughout a long-lasting therapy. Empathy is considered as a key in the concept of caring, which allows nurses to give appropriate answers to their patients' needs. In addition, nurses' work environment can generate stress. A qualitative descriptive design. Nurses (N = 23) working in haemodialysis units were interviewed in three different sites in 2014. The analysis of nurses' speech emphasized a predominance of the cognitive attributes of empathy: understanding, communication, adjusted response (43%), and a special feature of the relationship due to the chronicity of the care (23%). The main stressors highlighted were time management (14%), emergencies (12%) and technical nature of the task (8%). Nurses' experience in haemodialysis seemed to be a modulating factor regarding empathy and stress. The main stressors highlighted were time management (14%), emergencies (12%) and technical nature of the task (8%). Nurses' experience in haemodialysis seemed to be a modulating factor regarding empathy and stress. The results showed the special features of nurses' work in haemodialysis and the need for further studies to investigate these concepts. The influence of stress on empathy needs to be explored more precisely, especially regarding nurses' experience and its impact on patients. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A 'Knowledge Ecologies' Analysis of Co-designing Water and Sanitation Services in Alaska.

PubMed

Fam, Dena; Sofoulis, Zoë

2017-08-01

Willingness to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries is necessary but not sufficient for project success. This is a case study of a transdisciplinary project whose success was constrained by contextual factors that ultimately favoured technical and scientific forms of knowledge over the cultural intelligence that might ensure technical solutions were socially feasible. In response to Alaskan Water and Sewer Challenge (AWSC), an international team with expertise in engineering, consultative design and public health formed in 2013 to collaborate on a two-year project to design remote area water and sanitation systems in consultation with two native Alaskan communities. Team members were later interviewed about their experiences. Project processes are discussed using a 'Knowledge Ecology' framework, which applies principles of ecosystems analysis to knowledge ecologies, identifying the knowledge equivalents of 'biotic' and 'abiotic' factors and looking at their various interactions. In a positivist 'knowledge integration' perspective, different knowledges are like Lego blocks that combine with other 'data sets' to create a unified structure. The knowledge ecology framework highlights how interactions between different knowledges and knowledge practitioners ('biotic factors') are shaped by contextual ('abiotic') factors: the conditions of knowledge production, the research policy and funding climate, the distribution of research resources, and differential access to enabling infrastructures (networks, facilities). This case study highlights the importance of efforts to negotiate between different knowledge frameworks, including by strategic use of language and precepts that help translate social research into technical design outcomes that are grounded in social reality.

Two methods for proteomic analysis of formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded tissue result in differential protein identification, data quality, and cost.

PubMed

Luebker, Stephen A; Wojtkiewicz, Melinda; Koepsell, Scott A

2015-11-01

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue is a rich source of clinically relevant material that can yield important translational biomarker discovery using proteomic analysis. Protocols for analyzing FFPE tissue by LC-MS/MS exist, but standardization of procedures and critical analysis of data quality is limited. This study compared and characterized data obtained from FFPE tissue using two methods: a urea in-solution digestion method (UISD) versus a commercially available Qproteome FFPE Tissue Kit method (Qkit). Each method was performed independently three times on serial sections of homogenous FFPE tissue to minimize pre-analytical variations and analyzed with three technical replicates by LC-MS/MS. Data were evaluated for reproducibility and physiochemical distribution, which highlighted differences in the ability of each method to identify proteins of different molecular weights and isoelectric points. Each method replicate resulted in a significant number of new protein identifications, and both methods identified significantly more proteins using three technical replicates as compared to only two. UISD was cheaper, required less time, and introduced significant protein modifications as compared to the Qkit method, which provided more precise and higher protein yields. These data highlight significant variability among method replicates and type of method used, despite minimizing pre-analytical variability. Utilization of only one method or too few replicates (both method and technical) may limit the subset of proteomic information obtained. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Generation of Envelope-Modified Baculoviruses for Gene Delivery into Mammalian Cells.

PubMed

Hofmann, Christian

2016-01-01

Genetically modified baculoviruses can efficiently deliver and express genes in mammalian cells. The major prerequisite for the expression of a gene transferred by baculovirus is its control by a promoter that is active in mammalian cells. This chapter describes methods for producing second generation baculovirus vectors through modification of their envelope. Envelope modified baculoviruses offer additional new applications of the system, such as their use in in vivo gene delivery, targeting, and vaccination. Methods of generating a recombinant baculovirus vector with a modified envelope and its amplification and purification, including technical scale production, are discussed. A variety of notes give clues regarding specific technical procedures. Finally, methods to analyze the virus and transduction procedures are presented.

76 FR 54510 - Notice of Availability of Proposed Models for Plant-Specific Adoption of Technical Specifications...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-01

... Models for Plant-Specific Adoption of Technical Specifications Task Force Traveler TSTF-500, Revision 2... Specifications Task Force (TSTF) Traveler TSTF- 500, Revision 2, ``DC Electrical Rewrite--Update to TSTF-360....8.6, ``Battery Cell Parameters.'' Additionally, a new Administrative Controls program, titled...

Comparison of six different methods to calculate cell densities.

PubMed

Camacho-Fernández, Carolina; Hervás, David; Rivas-Sendra, Alba; Marín, Mª Pilar; Seguí-Simarro, Jose M

2018-01-01

For in vitro culture of plant and animal cells, one of the critical steps is to adjust the initial cell density. A typical example of this is isolated microspore culture, where specific cell densities have been determined for different species. Out of these ranges, microspore growth is not induced, or is severely reduced. A similar situation occurs in many other plant and animal cell culture systems. Traditionally, researchers have used counting chambers (hemacytometers) to calculate cell densities, but little is still known about their technical advantages. In addition, much less information is available about other, alternative methods. In this work, using isolated eggplant microspore cultures and fluorescent beads (fluorospheres) as experimental systems, we performed a comprehensive comparison of six methods to calculate cell densities: (1) a Neubauer improved hemacytometer, (2) an automated cell counter, (3) a manual-counting method, and three flow cytometry methods based on (4) autofluorescence, (5) propidium iodide staining, and (6) side scattered light (SSC). Our results show that from a technical perspective, hemacytometers are the most reasonable option for cell counting, which may explain their widely spread use. Automated cell counters represent a good compromise between precision and affordability, although with limited accuracy. Finally, the methods based on flow cytometry were, by far, the best in terms of reproducibility and agreement between them, but they showed deficient accuracy and precision. Together, our results show a thorough technical evaluation of each counting method, provide unambiguous arguments to decide which one is the most convenient for the particular case of each laboratory, and in general, shed light into the best way to determine cell densities for in vitro cell cultures. They may have an impact in such a practice not only in the context of microspore culture, but also in any other plant cell culture procedure, or in any process involving particle counting.

Directory of On-Line Networks, Databases and Bulletin Boards on Assistive Technology. Second Edition. RESNA Technical Assistance Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

RESNA: Association for the Advancement of Rehabilitation Technology, Washington, DC.

This resource directory provides a selective listing of electronic networks, online databases, and bulletin boards that highlight technology-related services and products. For each resource, the following information is provided: name, address, and telephone number; description; target audience; hardware/software needs to access the system;…

Analysis of Users' Searches of CD-ROM Databases in the National and University Library in Zagreb.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jokic, Maja

1997-01-01

Investigates the search behavior of CD-ROM database users in Zagreb (Croatia) libraries: one group needed a minimum of technical assistance, and the other was completely independent. Highlights include the use of questionnaires and transaction log analysis and the need for end-user education. The questionnaire and definitions of search process…

The Ecosystem Factor in Supporting Wiki Initiative for Knowledge Sharing in Malaysian Public Organisation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Khuzaimah, Khairil Hizar Md; Affandi, Haryanti Mohd; Hassan, Fadzil

2015-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the significance of considering the organizational ecosystem in implementing wikis for knowledge sharing.The findings suggest that a prerequisite of an effective wiki is the appreciation of the factors that make up the organizational ecosystem; technical and organizational factors are variable elements of…

Estimating greenspace exposure and benefits for cumulative risk assessment applications

Treesearch

Rebecca Gernes; Richard Hertzberg; Margaret MacDonell; Glenn Rice; J. Michael Wright; Glennon Beresin; Travis Miller; Julia Africa; Geoffrey Donovan; J. Aaron Hipp; Perry Hystad; Laura Jackson; Michelle Kondo; Richard Mitchell; Mark Nieuwenhuijsen; Patrick Ryan; William Sullivan; Matilda Annerstedt. van den Bosch

2016-01-01

This document provides a summary of the technical meeting on greenspace and cumulative risk assessment (GS-CRA) convened May 4−5, 2015 in Cincinnati, OH, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Research and Development (ORD) National Center for Environmental Assessment (NCEA). This report highlights the presentations, discussions, and practical...

CTE's Role in Energy and Environmental Sustainability

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hyslop, Alisha

2009-01-01

ACTE Issue Briefs are designed to highlight the role of career and technical education (CTE) in a broader issue of national interest. Each Brief is designed to strengthen the voice of CTE related to the specific issue and to draw more attention to CTE activities and best practices around the country. The Briefs provide background information,…

Cyber Intelligence Research Consortium (Poster)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-24

OCT 2014 2. REPORT TYPE N/A 3. DATES COVERED 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Cyber Intelligence Research Consortium Poster 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b...nontechnical audiences Environmental Context Provides scope for the analytical effort • Highlights the importance of context - technical and nontechnical... Environmental Context Reporting & Feedback Macroanalysis Microanalysis Data Gathering Steering Committee: Guide Consortium activities and plan for future

Task Analysis: Applying Composition Theory in an Industrial Forum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Soderston, Candace

Technical writers involved in an institutional writing project need some way of viewing the raw material globally before writing. In this way they can build a framework which can be used for different types of information. This is accomplished through a task analysis meeting that highlights the following preparatory steps prior to writing: (1)…

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

Ward, R.C.

In this report, our research is described through abstracts of journal articles, technical reports, and presentations organized into sections following the five major operating units in the division: Mathematical Sciences, Intelligent Systems, Nuclear Data and Measurement Analysis, Nuclear Analysis and Shielding, and the Engineering Physics Information Centers. Each section begins with an introduction highlighting honors, awards, and significant research accomplishments in that unit during the reporting period.

Unintentional Helping in the Primary Grades: Writing in the Children's World. Technical Report No. 2.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dyson, Anne Haas

Focusing on children's developmental use of written language in kindergarten and first grade, this report looks at connections between the social and academic dimensions of classroom life. The first section examines literacy as an aspect of growing up and becoming a member of society. By highlighting the social and academic divisiveness schooling…

MSEA--The Department's Microcomputer. The Illinois Series on Educational Applications of Computer. Report No. 27.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Muiznieks, Viktors

This report provides a technical description and operating guidelines for the IMSAI 8080 microcomputer in the Department of Secondary Education at the University of Illinois. An overview of the microcomputer highlights the register array, address logic, arithmetic and logical unit, instruction register and control section, and the data bus buffer.…

Our Living Land, Conservation Yearbook Series Volume Number 7.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Preudhomme, Leroy

This yearbook provides highlights of the work done by the various bureaus and offices of the Department of the Interior during 1970. The coverage is broad, relating to many aspects of conservation and the environment in the United States, in a descriptive, non-technical style. General theme of the report is the need for environmental management…

Bureau of Indian Affairs, Juneau Area Activities Report, 1975-76.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fisher, Joan E.

Reflecting the changing role of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), this 1975-76 annual report on the BIA's Juneau Area Office and its activities focuses upon the BIA resources, services, and technical assistance afforded Alaska Natives in the Juneau area. Highlights of Juneau Area Office Activities are presented in conjunction with the office's…

INEL BNCT Program: Volume 5, No. 9. Bulletin, September 1991

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

Ackermann, A.L.

1991-12-31

This Bulletin presents a summary of accomplishments and highlights of the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory`s (INEL) Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) Program for September 1991. This bulletin includes information on the brain tumor and melanoma research programs, Power Burst Facility (PBF) technical support and modifications, PBF operations, and updates to the animal data charts.

Opera Selecta Boxi. Technical Report No. 453.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geisser, Seymour

This document reviews "The Collected Works of George E. P. Box," edited by G. C. Tiao. The two-volume collection is divided into five parts. Each part is prefaced with an introduction by a statistical researcher giving his view of the motivation and highlights of the papers presented. The 16 papers in Part 1 on statistical inference,…

High Density Data Storage, the SONY Data DiscMan Electronic Book, and the Unfolding Multi-Media Revolution.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kountz, John

1991-01-01

Description of high density data storage (HDDS) devices focuses on CD-ROMs and explores their impact on libraries, publishing, education, and library communications. Highlights include costs; technical standards; reading devices; authoring systems; robotics; the influence of new technology on the role of libraries; and royalty and copyright issues…

Faculty/Student Surveys Using Open Source Software

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaceli, Sali

2004-01-01

This session will highlight an easy survey package which lets non-technical users create surveys, administer surveys, gather results, and view statistics. This is an open source application all managed online via a web browser. By using phpESP, the faculty is given the freedom of creating various surveys at their convenience and link them to their…

Cross Country, Rodeo, Archery: Navajo Athletic Programs Give Students Running Start

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Natasha Kaye

2009-01-01

While tribal college athletic programs were not designed to market the colleges, there is no denying they have generated positive attention and have perhaps even helped to highlight the colleges' purpose. Dine College and Navajo Technical College are among a handful of tribal colleges who have made athletic programs a priority. They have since…

NASA aeronautics research and technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

The technical accomplishments and research highlights of 1986 are featured, along with information on possible areas of future research. These include hypersonic, supersonic, high performance, subsonic, and rotorcraft vehicle technology. Fundamental disciplinary research areas discussed include aerodynamics, propulsion, materials and structures, information sciences and human factors, and flight systems/safety. A description of the NASA organization and facilities is given.

Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project: Infrastructure Enhancements and New Capabilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bezos-OConnor, Gaudy M.

2015-01-01

This oral presentation highlights the technical investments the NASA Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project under the Integrated Systems Research Program within ARMD made during FY10-FY14 to upgrade/enhance the NASA infrastructure/testing assets and new capabilities required to mature the ERA N=2 Portfolio of airframe and propulsion technologies to TRL 5/6.

REPORT OF NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON HEALTH OCCUPATIONS EDUCATION (MARCH 10-11, 1966).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Office of Education (DHEW), Washington, DC.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND OFFICE OF EDUCATION STAFF MET WITH RESOURCE PERSONS IN HEALTH OCCUPATIONS AREA. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SPECIALISTS REPORTS ARE--BY 1970, 60 TO 70 THOUSAND MEDICAL TECHNOLOGISTS WILL BE NEEDED. PROGRAMS DEVELOPED IN TECHNICAL AND HIGH SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES ARE ALL NEEDED TO REACH THIS GOAL. SHORTAGES OF QUALIFIED TEACHERS…

NASA/HAA Advanced Rotorcraft Technology and Tilt Rotor Workshops. Volume 1: Executive Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

This presentation provides an overview of the NASA Rotorcraft Program as an introduction to the technical sessions of the Advanced Rotorcraft Technology Workshop. It deals with the basis for NASA's increasing emphasis on rotorcraft technology, NASA's research capabilities, recent program planning efforts, highlights of its 10-year plan and future directions and opportunities.

Reliability achievement in high technology space systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindstrom, D. L.

1981-01-01

The production of failure-free hardware is discussed. The elements required to achieve such hardware are: technical expertise to design, analyze, and fully understand the design; use of high reliability parts and materials control in the manufacturing process; and testing to understand the system and weed out defects. The durability of the Hughes family of satellites is highlighted.

High single-session success rate of endoscopic bilateral stent-in-stent placement with modified large cell Niti-S stents for malignant hilar biliary obstruction.

PubMed

Kogure, Hirofumi; Isayama, Hiroyuki; Nakai, Yousuke; Tsujino, Takeshi; Matsubara, Saburo; Yashima, Yoko; Ito, Yukiko; Hamada, Tsuyoshi; Takahara, Naminatsu; Miyabayashi, Koji; Mizuno, Suguru; Mohri, Dai; Kawakubo, Kazumichi; Sasaki, Takashi; Yamamoto, Natsuyo; Hirano, Kenji; Sasahira, Naoki; Tada, Minoru; Koike, Kazuhiko

2014-01-01

Endoscopic bilateral self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement in a stent-in-stent method for malignant hilar biliary obstruction is technically challenging. Technical difficulties in the initial placement and reinterventions for stent occlusion are disadvantages inherent to this stent-in-stent method. We previously reported the feasibility of Niti-S large cell D-type biliary stents (LCD). This multicenter prospective consecutive study evaluated the efficacy of bilateral SEMS placement using modified LCD with large and uniform cells, a slimmer delivery system and high radial force. From July 2010 to June 2011, 26 consecutive patients with unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction underwent endoscopic bilateral placement of modified LCD in a stent-in-stent method at three tertiary hospitals. Ten patients had gallbladder cancer, eight had cholangiocarcinoma, four had lymph node metastasis, two had intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and two had liver metastasis. Single-session and final technical success rate was 96% and 100%, respectively. Functional success rate was 89%. Stent occlusion occurred in 11 patients (42%) because of sludge (n = 7) or tumor ingrowth (n = 4). Endoscopic bilateral reintervention was technically easy and successful: six patients had stent clearance by balloon sweeping and five had plastic stent placement. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, median survival and stent patency were 220 days and 157 days, respectively. Modified LCD achieved a high technical success rate both in the initial stent-in-stent placement and in bilateral reinterventions in patients with malignant hilar biliary obstruction. © 2013 The Authors. Digestive Endoscopy © 2013 Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.

Non-technical skills and health care provision in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review.

PubMed

Scott, John; Revera Morales, Dianali; McRitchie, Andrew; Riviello, Robert; Smink, Douglas; Yule, Steven

2016-04-01

Health care workers must possess high levels of medical knowledge, technical skills and also non-technical skills (NTS) in order to provide safe, effective and patient-centred care. Although there has been a recent proliferation of NTS assessment and training tools developed in high-income countries, little is known about NTS in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which face a variety of provider-level and system-level challenges. The aim of this study was to identify the NTS used by providers in LMICs that have been studied, describe how they are assessed and taught, and explain the contextual factors in LMICs that affect their use. We conducted a systematic literature review in accordance with preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines for primary research publications from January 1994 to December 2013 on evaluation or teaching of NTS used by health care workers in LMICs using MEDLINE, Embase, CIHHAL and Web of Science. Bibliographies of relevant manuscripts were also hand-searched to identify all potentially eligible manuscripts. We identified 21 manuscripts from 17 LMICs involving eight types of health care providers and trainees. These studies covered five NTS categories: decision making, communication, teamwork, leadership and stress management. The most commonly used methods were questionnaires, interviews and observations, and 43% (n = 9) scored > 10 points using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument. Although many studies highlighted the ways in which overburdened health care systems, lack of provider empowerment and deficiencies in provider training had an impact on providers' use of these NTS, no context-specific assessment or educational tools were identified. There is growing worldwide interest in understanding and teaching critical non-technical skills to health care providers. This review highlights several studies describing a variety of important non-technical skills. However, these skills must be further characterised in order to develop context-specific tools for assessing and teaching NTS that are sensitive to the local challenges that are common across a variety of LMIC contexts. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Characterizing the replicability of cell types defined by single cell RNA-sequencing data using MetaNeighbor.

PubMed

Crow, Megan; Paul, Anirban; Ballouz, Sara; Huang, Z Josh; Gillis, Jesse

2018-02-28

Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology provides a new avenue to discover and characterize cell types; however, the experiment-specific technical biases and analytic variability inherent to current pipelines may undermine its replicability. Meta-analysis is further hampered by the use of ad hoc naming conventions. Here we demonstrate our replication framework, MetaNeighbor, that quantifies the degree to which cell types replicate across datasets, and enables rapid identification of clusters with high similarity. We first measure the replicability of neuronal identity, comparing results across eight technically and biologically diverse datasets to define best practices for more complex assessments. We then apply this to novel interneuron subtypes, finding that 24/45 subtypes have evidence of replication, which enables the identification of robust candidate marker genes. Across tasks we find that large sets of variably expressed genes can identify replicable cell types with high accuracy, suggesting a general route forward for large-scale evaluation of scRNA-seq data.

[Multilocus genotyping of polymorphous STR-loci of chromosomal DNA in individual cells: technical difficulties].

PubMed

Ivanov, P L; Leonov, S N; Zemskova, E Iu; Kobylianskiĭ, A G; Dziubenko, E V

2013-01-01

This study was designed to estimate the effectiveness of special technical procedures for the enhancement of sensitivity of multiplex analysis of DNA, such as the use of low-plexity PCR systems and the whole genome preamplification technology, and the possibility of their application for the purpose of forensic medical genotyping of polymorphous STR-loci of chromosomal DNA in individual cells. The authors refused to use the imitation model (equivalent DNA dilutions) for the sake of obtaining the maximally informative data and chose to work with real preparations of solitary buccal epithelial cells isolated by the laser microdissection technique. It was shown that neither the use of the low-plexity multilocus PCR systems nor the whole genome pre-amplification technology makes possible reliable genotyping of STR-loci of chromosomal DNA in individual cells. The proposed techniques allow for DNA genotyping in preparations consisting of 10 diploid cells whereas the methods for reliable genotyping of STR-loci of chromosomal DNA in individual cells remains to be developed.

Fuel cells for automotive powertrains-A techno-economic assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mock, Peter; Schmid, Stephan A.

With the objective of identifying the hurdles currently preventing a widespread application of fuel cell technology in passenger cars an assessment of technical and economic parameters is carried out. Patent and publication analysis is used to assess current status of fuel cell technology regarding its position on technology life cycle. S-curve methodology leads to the conclusion that further scientific activity is to be expected but for today's low-temperature PEM fuel cell technology might level by 2015. Technical analysis identifies power density and platinum loading as parameters for which further improvements are necessary in order to satisfy future customer needs. A detailed cost evaluation suggests that in future for high production volumes (approx. 1 million vehicles cumulative) significantly lower costs for fuel cell stacks (12-40 kW -1) and systems (35-83 kW -1) will be viable. Reducing costs to such a level will have to be the main focus for upcoming research activities in order to make fuel cell driven road vehicles a competitive alternative.

AACE: an innovative partnership to enhance aircraft safety

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shurtleff, William W.

1999-01-01

The Federal Aviation Administration established the Airworthiness Assurance Center of Excellence (AACE) in September 1997, through a cooperative agreement grant with Iowa State University (ISU) and The Ohio State University (OSU). A technical support contract with the Center is now in place as well. Initially the Center has five areas of concentration supporting advances in airworthiness assurance. These are 1. Maintenance, inspection, and repair, 2. Propulsion and fuel systems safety, 3. Crashworthiness, 4. Advanced materials, and 5. Landing gear systems performance and safety. AACE has nine core members who provide guidance to the Program Management Office at ISU/OSU through a Board of Directors. The core members are: Arizona State University, Iowa State University, Northwestern University, The Ohio State University, University of Dayton, University of Maryland, University of California - Los Angeles, Wichita State University, and Sandia National Laboratories. The organization also includes numerous academic affiliates, industry partners, government laboratories and other organizations. The Center now has over thirty technical projects supporting technical advances in airworthiness assurance. All these projects have industry guidance and support. This paper discusses the current technical program of the center and the highlights of the five-year plan for technical work. Also included is a description of the factors that make the Center an innovative partnership to promote aircraft safety.

Some technical implications of Klein's concept of 'premature ego development'.

PubMed

Mitrani, Judith L

2007-08-01

In this paper, the author revisits the problem of 'premature ego development' first introduced by Melanie Klein in 1930. She also highlights several developments in post-Kleinian thinking since the publication of that paper, which can be seen as offshoots of or complements to Klein's work. The author proposes a link between this category of precocious development and the absence of the experience of what Bion termed the 'containing object.' She puts forward several technical considerations relevant to analytic work with patients who suffer as a result of early developmental failures and presents various clinical vignettes in order to demonstrate the ways in which these considerations take shape in the analytic setting.

Selected Examples of LDRD Projects Supporting Test Ban Treaty Verification and Nonproliferation

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

Jackson, K.; Al-Ayat, R.; Walter, W. R.

The Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program at the DOE National Laboratories was established to ensure the scientific and technical vitality of these institutions and to enhance the their ability to respond to evolving missions and anticipate national needs. LDRD allows the Laboratory directors to invest a percentage of their total annual budget in cutting-edge research and development projects within their mission areas. We highlight a selected set of LDRD-funded projects, in chronological order, that have helped provide capabilities, people and infrastructure that contributed greatly to our ability to respond to technical challenges in support of test ban treatymore » verification and nonproliferation.« less

Linnorm: improved statistical analysis for single cell RNA-seq expression data.

PubMed

Yip, Shun H; Wang, Panwen; Kocher, Jean-Pierre A; Sham, Pak Chung; Wang, Junwen

2017-12-15

Linnorm is a novel normalization and transformation method for the analysis of single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Linnorm is developed to remove technical noises and simultaneously preserve biological variations in scRNA-seq data, such that existing statistical methods can be improved. Using real scRNA-seq data, we compared Linnorm with existing normalization methods, including NODES, SAMstrt, SCnorm, scran, DESeq and TMM. Linnorm shows advantages in speed, technical noise removal and preservation of cell heterogeneity, which can improve existing methods in the discovery of novel subtypes, pseudo-temporal ordering of cells, clustering analysis, etc. Linnorm also performs better than existing DEG analysis methods, including BASiCS, NODES, SAMstrt, Seurat and DESeq2, in false positive rate control and accuracy. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel Cell for Space Shuttle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffman, William C., III; Vasquez, Arturo; Lazaroff, Scott M.; Downey, Michael G.

1999-01-01

Development of a PEM fuel cell powerplant (PFCP) for use in the Space Shuttle offers multiple benefits to NASA. A PFCP with a longer design life than is delivered currently from the alkaline fuel will reduce Space Shuttle Program maintenance costs. A PFCP compatible with zero-gravity can be adapted for future NASA transportation and exploration programs. Also, the commercial PEM fuel cell industry ensures a competitive environment for select powerplant components. Conceptual designs of the Space Shuttle PFCP have resulted in identification of key technical areas requiring resolution prior to development of a flight system. Those technical areas include characterization of PEM fuel cell stack durability under operational conditions and water management both within and external to the stack. Resolution of the above issues is necessary to adequately control development, production, and maintenance costs for a PFCP.

Microcomputer Intelligence for Technical Training (MITT): The evolution of an intelligent tutoring system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Norton, Jeffrey E.; Wiederholt, Bradley J.; Johnson, William B.

1990-01-01

Microcomputer Intelligence for Technical Training (MITT) uses Intelligent Tutoring System (OTS) technology to deliver diagnostic training in a variety of complex technical domains. Over the past six years, MITT technology has been used to develop training systems for nuclear power plant diesel generator diagnosis, Space Shuttle fuel cell diagnosis, and message processing diagnosis for the Minuteman missile. Presented here is an overview of the MITT system, describing the evolution of the MITT software and the benefits of using the MITT system.

Hydrogen Vehicles: Impacts of DOE Technical Targets on Market Acceptance and Societal Benefits

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

Lin, Zhenhong; Dong, Jing; Greene, David L

2013-01-01

Hydrogen vehicles (H2V), including H2 internal combustion engine, fuel cell and fuel cell plugin hybrid, could greatly reduce petroleum consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transportation sector. The U.S. Department of Energy has adopted targets for vehicle component technologies to address key technical barriers towidespread commercialization of H2Vs. This study estimates the market acceptance of H2Vs and the resulting societal benefits and subsidy in 41 scenarios that reflect a wide range of progress in meeting these technical targets. Important results include: (1) H2Vs could reach 20e70% market shares by 2050, depending on progress in achieving the technical targets.Withmore » a basic hydrogen infrastructure (w5% hydrogen availability), the H2V market share is estimated to be 2e8%. Fuel cell and hydrogen costs are the most important factors affecting the long-term market shares of H2Vs. (2) Meeting all technical targets on time could result in about an 80% cut in petroleumuse and a 62% (or 72% with aggressive electricity de-carbonization) reduction in GHG in 2050. (3) The required hydrogen infrastructure subsidy is estimated to range from $22 to $47 billion and the vehicle subsidy from $4 to $17 billion. (4) Long-term H2V market shares, societal benefits and hydrogen subsidies appear to be highly robust against delay in one target, if all other targets are met on time. R&D diversification could provide insurance for greater societal benefits. (5) Both H2Vs and plug-in electric vehicles could exceed 50% market shares by 2050, if all targets are met on time. The overlapping technology, the fuel cell plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, appears attractive both in the short and long runs, but for different reasons.« less

Does teaching non-technical skills to medical students improve those skills and simulated patient outcome?

PubMed

Hagemann, Vera; Herbstreit, Frank; Kehren, Clemens; Chittamadathil, Jilson; Wolfertz, Sandra; Dirkmann, Daniel; Kluge, Annette; Peters, Jürgen

2017-03-29

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of a tailor-made, non-technical skills seminar on medical student's behaviour, attitudes, and performance during simulated patient treatment. Seventy-seven students were randomized to either a non-technical skills seminar (NTS group, n=43) or a medical seminar (control group, n=34). The human patient simulation was used as an evaluation tool. Before the seminars, all students performed the same simulated emergency scenario to provide baseline measurements. After the seminars, all students were exposed to a second scenario, and behavioural markers for evaluating their non-technical skills were rated. Furthermore, teamwork-relevant attitudes were measured before and after the scenarios, and perceived stress was measured following each simulation. All simulations were also evaluated for various medical endpoints. Non-technical skills concerning situation awareness (p<.01, r=0.5) and teamwork (p<.01, r=0.45) improved from simulation I to II in the NTS group. Decision making improved in both groups (NTS: p<.01, r=0.39; control: p<.01, r=0.46). The attitude 'handling errors' improved significantly in the NTS group (p<.05, r=0.34). Perceived stress decreased from simulation I to II in both groups. Medical endpoints and patients´ outcome did not differ significantly between the groups in simulation II. This study highlights the effectiveness of a single brief seminar on non-technical skills to improve student's non-technical skills. In a next step, to improve student's handling of emergencies and patient outcomes, non-technical skills seminars should be accompanied by exercises and more broadly embedded in the medical school curriculum.

Core trainee boot camp-A method for improving technical and non-technical skills of novice surgical trainees. A before and after study.

PubMed

Bamford, R; Langdon, L; Rodd, C A; Eastaugh-Waring, S; Coulston, J E

2018-04-10

The transition to surgical training can be a stressful time for trainees and is most evident during national handover periods where new graduates start and senior trainees rotate to new programmes. During this time, patient mortality can increase and Hospital efficiency reduces. This influence is compounded by the impact of working time directives. Intensive, simulation rich training programmes or "Boot Camps" have been postulated as a solution. This article highlights the development of a surgical boot camp for novice surgical trainees and the impact this can have on training. A novel surgical boot camp was developed for all trainees within a surgical training region including nine acute NHS trusts. Participating cohort of trainees completed pre and post course questionnaires to assess technical and non-technical skills. 25 trainees attended and completed the pre and post boot camp questionnaire. Significant improvements were seen with technical skills (p = 0.0429), overall non-technical skills (p < 0.001) including leadership (p = 0.022), communication (p = 0.010), situational awareness (p = 0.022), patient handover (p = 0.003), ward round skills (p = 0.005) and outpatient skill (p = 0.002). Trainees reported significantly increased ability to assess and manage a critically unwell patient (p = 0.001) and a trauma patient (p = 0.001). 96% of trainees have utilised the skills they learnt on Boot Camp and all trainees would recommend it as an induction programme. Surgical Boot Camps offer a timely chance to develop technical and non-technical skills whilst enhancing a trainee's confidence and knowledge and reduce the patient safety impact of the handover period. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Naval Research Laboratory's programs in advanced indium phosphide solar cell development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Summers, Geoffrey P.

1995-01-01

The Naval Research Laboratory has been involved in developing InP solar cell technology since 1988. The purpose of these programs was to produce advanced cells for use in very high radiation environments, either as a result of operating satellites in the Van Allen belts or for very long duration missions in other orbits. Richard Statler was technical representative on the first program, with Spire Corporation as the contractor, which eventually produced several hundred, high efficiency 2 x 2 sq cm single crystal InP cells. The shallow homojunction technology which was developed in this program enabled cells to be made with AMO, one sun efficiencies greater than 19%. Many of these cells have been flown on space experiments, including PASP Plus, which have confirmed the high radiation resistance of InP cells. NRL has also published widely on the radiation response of these cells and also on radiation-induced defect levels detected by DLTS, especially the work of Rob Walters and Scott Messenger. In 1990 NRL began another Navy-sponsored program with Tim Coutts and Mark Wanlass at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), to develop a one sun, two terminal space version of the InP-InGaAs tandem junction cell being investigated at NREL for terrestrial applications. These cells were grown on InP substrates. Several cells with AM0, one sun efficiencies greater than 22% were produced. Two 2 x 2 sq cm cells were incorporated on the STRV lA/B solar cell experiment. These were the only two junction, tandem cells on the STRV experiment. The high cost and relative brittleness of InP wafers meant that if InP cell technology were to become a viable space power source, the superior radiation resistance of InP would have to be combined with a cheaper and more robust substrate. The main technical challenge was to overcome the effect of the dislocations produced by the lattice mismatch at the interface of the two materials. Over the last few years, NRL and Steve Wojtczuk at Spire have been developing a single junction InP on Si cell, in an ONR-sponsored SBIR program. Both cell polarities were investigated and the best efficiencies to date (approximately 13% on a 2 x 4 sq cm cell) were achieved with n/p cells. Earlier this year NRL began a program with ASEC to develop a two terminal InP-InGaAs tandem cell on a Ge substrate. RTI and NREL are subcontractors on this program. The results of an ONR-sponsored study of the potential market for InP/Si cells will be discussed. Also the technical status of both the InP/Si and the InP-InGaAs/Ge programs will be given. The technical challenges still remaining will be briefly described.

Functionalized Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Based Fuel Cell Benchmarked Against US DOE 2017 Technical Targets

PubMed Central

Jha, Neetu; Ramesh, Palanisamy; Bekyarova, Elena; Tian, Xiaojuan; Wang, Feihu; Itkis, Mikhail E.; Haddon, Robert C.

2013-01-01

Chemically modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with varying degrees of functionalization were utilized for the fabrication of SWNT thin film catalyst support layers (CSLs) in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), which were suitable for benchmarking against the US DOE 2017 targets. Use of the optimum level of SWNT -COOH functionality allowed the construction of a prototype SWNT-based PEMFC with total Pt loading of 0.06 mgPt/cm2 - well below the value of 0.125 mgPt/cm2 set as the US DOE 2017 technical target for total Pt group metals (PGM) loading. This prototype PEMFC also approaches the technical target for the total Pt content per kW of power (<0.125 gPGM/kW) at cell potential 0.65 V: a value of 0.15 gPt/kW was achieved at 80°C/22 psig testing conditions, which was further reduced to 0.12 gPt/kW at 35 psig back pressure. PMID:23877112

Functionalized single-walled carbon nanotube-based fuel cell benchmarked against US DOE 2017 technical targets.

PubMed

Jha, Neetu; Ramesh, Palanisamy; Bekyarova, Elena; Tian, Xiaojuan; Wang, Feihu; Itkis, Mikhail E; Haddon, Robert C

2013-01-01

Chemically modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with varying degrees of functionalization were utilized for the fabrication of SWNT thin film catalyst support layers (CSLs) in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), which were suitable for benchmarking against the US DOE 2017 targets. Use of the optimum level of SWNT -COOH functionality allowed the construction of a prototype SWNT-based PEMFC with total Pt loading of 0.06 mg(Pt)/cm²--well below the value of 0.125 mg(Pt)/cm² set as the US DOE 2017 technical target for total Pt group metals (PGM) loading. This prototype PEMFC also approaches the technical target for the total Pt content per kW of power (<0.125 g(PGM)/kW) at cell potential 0.65 V: a value of 0.15 g(Pt)/kW was achieved at 80°C/22 psig testing conditions, which was further reduced to 0.12 g(Pt)/kW at 35 psig back pressure.

Automated array assembly task, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carbajal, B. G.

1977-01-01

An assessment of state-of-the-art technologies that are applicable to silicon solar cell and solar cell module fabrication is provided. The assessment consists of a technical feasibility evaluation and a cost projection for high-volume production of silicon solar cell modules. The cost projection was approached from two directions; a design-to-cost analysis assigned cost goals to each major process element in the fabrication scheme, and a cost analysis built up projected costs for alternate technologies for each process element. A technical evaluation was used in combination with the cost analysis to identify a baseline low cost process. A novel approach to metal pattern design based on minimum power loss was developed. These design equations were used as a tool in the evaluation of metallization technologies.

[Job satisfaction in an Italian university: difference between academic and technical-administrative staff].

PubMed

Ghislieri, Chiara; Colombo, Lara; Molino, Monica; Zito, Margherita; Curzi, Ylenia; Fabbri, Tommaso

2014-01-01

The changes in the academic world led to an increase in job demands and a decrease in the available job resources. In recent years, the positive image of work in academia has gradually blurred. The present study, within the theoretical framework of the job demands-resources model, aimed to analyse the relationship between some job demands (workload, work-family conflict and emotional dissonance) and some job resources (autonomy, supervisors' support and co-workers' support) and job satisfaction in a medium-sized Italian University, by observing the differences between the academic staff (professors and researchers) and the technical-administrative staff The research was conducted by administering a self-report questionnaire which allowed to detect job satisfaction and the mentioned variables. Respondents were 477 (177 from academic staff and 300 from technical-administrative staff). The analysis of variance (independent samples t-test) showed significant differences in variables of interest between academic staff and technical-administrative staff. Multiple regression pointed out that job autonomy is the main determinant of job satisfaction in the academic staff sample, whereas supervisor support is the main determinant of job satisfaction in the technical-administrative staff sample. This research represents one of the first Italian studies on these topics in the academic context and highlights the importance of further in-depth examinations of specific job dynamics for both teaching and technical-administrative staff. Among practical implications, the importance of keeping high levels of job autonomy for academic staff and of fostering an effective leadership development for technical-administrative staff emerged.

1996 DOE technical standards program workshop: Proceedings

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

NONE

1996-07-01

The workshop theme is `The Strategic Standardization Initiative - A Technology Exchange and Global Competitiveness Challenge for DOE.` The workshop goal is to inform the DOE technical standards community of strategic standardization activities taking place in the Department, other Government agencies, standards developing organizations, and industry. Individuals working on technical standards will be challenged to improve cooperation and communications with the involved organizations in response to the initiative. Workshop sessions include presentations by representatives from various Government agencies that focus on coordination among and participation of Government personnel in the voluntary standards process; reports by standards organizations, industry, and DOEmore » representatives on current technology exchange programs; and how the road ahead appears for `information superhighway` standardization. Another session highlights successful standardization case studies selected from several sites across the DOE complex. The workshop concludes with a panel discussion on the goals and objectives of the DOE Technical Standards Program as envisioned by senior DOE management. The annual workshop on technical standards has proven to be an effective medium for communicating information related to standards throughout the DOE community. Technical standards are used to transfer technology and standardize work processes to produce consistent, acceptable results. They provide a practical solution to the Department`s challenge to protect the environment and the health and safety of the public and workers during all facility operations. Through standards, the technologies of industries and governments worldwide are available to DOE. The DOE Technical Standards Program, a Department-wide effort that crosscuts all organizations and disciplines, links the Department to those technologies.« less

A general method for bead-enhanced quantitation by flow cytometry

PubMed Central

Montes, Martin; Jaensson, Elin A.; Orozco, Aaron F.; Lewis, Dorothy E.; Corry, David B.

2009-01-01

Flow cytometry provides accurate relative cellular quantitation (percent abundance) of cells from diverse samples, but technical limitations of most flow cytometers preclude accurate absolute quantitation. Several quantitation standards are now commercially available which, when added to samples, permit absolute quantitation of CD4+ T cells. However, these reagents are limited by their cost, technical complexity, requirement for additional software and/or limited applicability. Moreover, few studies have validated the use of such reagents in complex biological samples, especially for quantitation of non-T cells. Here we show that addition to samples of known quantities of polystyrene fluorescence standardization beads permits accurate quantitation of CD4+ T cells from complex cell samples. This procedure, here termed single bead-enhanced cytofluorimetry (SBEC), was equally capable of enumerating eosinophils as well as subcellular fragments of apoptotic cells, moieties with very different optical and fluorescent characteristics. Relative to other proprietary products, SBEC is simple, inexpensive and requires no special software, suggesting that the method is suitable for the routine quantitation of most cells and other particles by flow cytometry. PMID:17067632

The NASA "PERS" Program: Solid Polymer Electrolyte Development for Advanced Lithium-Based Batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baldwin, Richard S.; Bennett, William R.

2007-01-01

In fiscal year 2000, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) established a collaborative effort to support the development of polymer-based, lithium-based cell chemistries and battery technologies to address the next generation of aerospace applications and mission needs. The ultimate objective of this development program, which was referred to as the Polymer Energy Rechargeable System (PERS), was to establish a world-class technology capability and U.S. leadership in polymer-based battery technology for aerospace applications. Programmatically, the PERS initiative exploited both interagency collaborations to address common technology and engineering issues and the active participation of academia and private industry. The initial program phases focused on R&D activities to address the critical technical issues and challenges at the cell level. Out of a total of 38 proposals received in response to a NASA Research Announcement (NRA) solicitation, 18 proposals (13 contracts and 5 grants) were selected for initial award to address these technical challenges. Brief summaries of technical approaches, results and accomplishments of the PERS Program development efforts are presented. With Agency support provided through FY 2004, the PERS Program efforts were concluded in 2005, as internal reorganizations and funding cuts resulted in shifting programmatic priorities within NASA. Technically, the PERS Program participants explored, to various degrees over the lifetime of the formal program, a variety of conceptual approaches for developing and demonstrating performance of a viable advanced solid polymer electrolyte possessing the desired attributes, as well as several participants addressing all components of an integrated cell configuration. Programmatically, the NASA PERS Program was very successful, even though the very challenging technical goals for achieving a viable solid polymer electrolyte material or the overall envisioned long-term, program objectives were not met due to funding reductions. The NASA PERS Program provided research opportunities and generated and disseminated a wealth of new scientific knowledge and technical competencies within the polymer electrolyte area.

Gene therapy and tissue engineering based on muscle-derived stem cells.

PubMed

Deasy, Bridget M; Huard, Johnny

2002-08-01

Skeletal muscle represents a convenient source of stem cells for cell-based tissue and genetic engineering. Muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) exhibit both multipotentiality and self-renewal capabilities, and are considered to be distinct from the well-studied satellite cell, another type of muscle stem cell that is capable of self-renewal and myogenic lineage differentiation. The MDSC appears to have less restricted differentiation capabilities as compared with the satellite cell, and may be a precursor of the satellite cell. This review considers the evidence for the existence of MDSCs as well as their origin. We will discuss recent investigations highlighting the potential of stem cell transplantation for the treatment of skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle injuries and disease. We will highlight challenges in bridging the gap between understanding basic stem cell biology and clinical utilization for cell therapy.

Power System Trade Studies for the Lunar Surface Access Module

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kohout, Lisa, L.

2008-01-01

A Lunar Lander Preparatory Study (LLPS) was undertaken for NASA's Lunar Lander Pre-Project in 2006 to explore a wide breadth of conceptual lunar lander designs. Civil servant teams from nearly every NASA center responded with dozens of innovative designs that addressed one or more specific lander technical challenges. Although none of the conceptual lander designs sought to solve every technical design issue, each added significantly to the technical database available to the Lunar Lander Project Office as it began operations in 2007. As part of the LLPS, a first order analysis was performed to identify candidate power systems for the ascent and descent stages of the Lunar Surface Access Module (LSAM). A power profile by mission phase was established based on LSAM subsystem power requirements. Using this power profile, battery and fuel cell systems were modeled to determine overall mass and volume. Fuel cell systems were chosen for both the descent and ascent stages due to their low mass. While fuel cells looked promising based on these initial results, several areas have been identified for further investigation in subsequent studies, including the identification and incorporation of peak power requirements into the analysis, refinement of the fuel cell models to improve fidelity and incorporate ongoing technology developments, and broadening the study to include solar power.

49 CFR 171.24 - Additional requirements for the use of the ICAO Technical Instructions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

.... (ii) Primary lithium batteries and cells. Primary lithium batteries and cells are forbidden for transportation aboard passenger-carrying aircraft. Equipment containing or packed with primary lithium batteries... containing primary lithium batteries and cells transported in accordance with Special Provision A45 of the...

49 CFR 171.24 - Additional requirements for the use of the ICAO Technical Instructions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

.... (ii) Primary lithium batteries and cells. Primary lithium batteries and cells are forbidden for transportation aboard passenger-carrying aircraft. Equipment containing or packed with primary lithium batteries... containing primary lithium batteries and cells transported in accordance with Special Provision A45 of the...

49 CFR 171.24 - Additional requirements for the use of the ICAO Technical Instructions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

.... (ii) Primary lithium batteries and cells. Primary lithium batteries and cells are forbidden for transportation aboard passenger-carrying aircraft. Equipment containing or packed with primary lithium batteries... containing primary lithium batteries and cells transported in accordance with Special Provision A45 of the...

49 CFR 171.24 - Additional requirements for the use of the ICAO Technical Instructions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

.... (ii) Lithium metal cells and batteries. Lithium metal cells and batteries (UN3090) are forbidden for transport aboard passenger-carrying aircraft. The outside of each package that contains lithium metal cells or lithium metal batteries (UN3090) transported in accordance with Packing Instruction 968, Section...

77 FR 28488 - Outbound International Mailings of Lithium Batteries and Other Dangerous Goods

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-15

... Instructions. Lithium-ion cells and lithium metal batteries are listed in the Technical Instructions as Class 9... metal or lithium alloy (non-rechargeable) cells and batteries, or secondary lithium-ion cells and... POSTAL SERVICE 39 CFR Part 20 Outbound International Mailings of Lithium Batteries and Other...

How Northwest Region States Are Supporting Schools in Need of Improvement. Issues & Answers. REL 2007-No. 009

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Deborah; Krasnoff, Basha; Moilanen, Carolyn; Sather, Susan; Kushman, James

2007-01-01

This study examines the systems of technical assistance and support that Northwest Region states implemented during 2005-2006 for schools in need of improvement. By highlighting key characteristics and differences among state systems, the intent is to stimulate an analysis of what states can do and what issues they might address to move schools…

Educational Imperatives for Oral Health Personnel: Change or Decay? Report of a WHO Expert Committee. Technical Report Series 794.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

World Health Organization, Geneva (Switzerland).

This report highlights trends in disease patterns and technological advances that call for sweeping changes in the education of oral health personnel. It first provides a brief history of the development of dental education. The second and most extensive section analyzes global trends for dental caries, periodontal conditions, tooth loss and…

Visual Access in Interpreter-Mediated Learning Situations for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing High School Students Where an Artifact Is in Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berge, Sigrid Slettebakk; Thomassen, Gøril

2016-01-01

This article highlights interpreter-mediated learning situations for deaf high school students where such mediated artifacts as technical machines, models, and computer graphics are used by the teacher to illustrate his or her teaching. In these situations, the teacher's situated gestures and utterances, and the artifacts will contribute…

Continuing Education for Early Primary School Leavers. Report of a Technical Working Group Meeting (Chiang Mai, Thailand, October 4-11, 1988).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Bangkok (Thailand). Principal Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.

This report summarizes discussions of a working group meeting on the continuing education needs of early primary school leavers in Asia and the Pacific. An introduction summarizes the welcoming addresses. Chapter 1 presents highlights of experiences of these countries in providing continuing education to school leavers: Bangladesh, China, India,…

Operation of the power information center: Performance of secretariat functions and information exchange activities in the advanced power field of the interagency advanced power group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1983-01-01

Highlights of activities conducted during the reporting period to facilitate the exchange of technical information among scientists and engineers both within the federal government and within industry are cited. Interagency Advanced Power Group meetings and special efforts, project briefs, and organization development are considered.

NETAC Networks. Providing Technical Assistance to Professionals Working with Students Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Postsecondary Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Northeast Technical Assistance Center (NETAC), Rochester Institute of Technology, 2004

2004-01-01

Highlights of this issue include: (1) Accommodating College Students with Cochlear Implants (Catherine Clark); (2) The Director's Column (Dianne Brooks); (3) Upcoming Events by State; (4) Practice What you Preach! (Jane Jarrow); (5) NETAC Central Office/Site Coordinators tear-out page; and (6) "Starting Off on the Right Foot" Program…

Materials Division research and technical accomplishments for FY 1988 and plans for FY 1989

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brinkley, Kay L.

1989-01-01

The research program of the Materials Division is presented as FY-88 accomplishments and FY-89 plans. The accomplishments for each Branch are highlighted and plans are outlined. Publications of the Division are included by Branch. This material is useful in program coordination with other government organizations, universities, and industry in areas of mutual interest.

AgRISTARS: Agriculture and Resources Inventory Surveys Through erospace Remote Sensing, research report, fiscal year 1982

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1983-01-01

An introduction to the overall AgRISTARS program is presented along with a general statement on progress, and separate summaries of the activities of each of the eight projects. Emphasis is on technical highlights. Organizational and management information on AgRISTARS is included along with a complete bibliography of publications and reports.

Research and Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

Johnson Space Center (JSC) accomplishments in new and advanced concepts during 1989 are highlighted. This year, reports are grouped in sections, Medical Science, Solar System Sciences, Space Transportation Technology, and Space Systems Technology. Summary sections describing the role of JSC in each program are followed by descriptions of significant tasks. Descriptions are suitable for external consumption, free of technical jargon, and illustrated to increase ease of comprehension.

Human resources for health: global crisis and international cooperation.

PubMed

Portela, Gustavo Zoio; Fehn, Amanda Cavada; Ungerer, Regina Lucia Sarmento; Poz, Mario Roberto Dal

2017-07-01

From the 1990s onwards, national economies became connected and globalized. Changes in the demographic and epidemiological profile of the population highlighted the need for further discussions and strategies on Human Resources for Health (HRH). The health workforce crisis is a worldwide phenomenon. It includes: difficulties in attracting and retaining health professionals to work in rural and remote areas, poor distribution and high turnover of health staff particularly physicians, poor training of health workforces in new sanitation and demographic conditions and the production of scientific evidence to support HRH decision making, policy management, programs and interventions. In this scenario, technical cooperation activities may contribute to the development of the countries involved, strengthening relationships and expanding exchanges as well as contributing to the production, dissemination and use of technical scientific knowledge and evidence and the training of workers and institutional strengthening. This article aims to explore this context highlighting the participation of Brazil in the international cooperation arena on HRH and emphasizing the role of the World Health Organization in confronting this crisis that limits the ability of countries and their health systems to improve the health and lives of their populations.

Value of information in natural resource management: technical developments and application to pink-footed geese

USGS Publications Warehouse

Williams, Byron K.; Johnson, Fred A.

2015-01-01

The “value of information” (VOI) is a generic term for the increase in value resulting from better information to guide management, or alternatively, the value foregone under uncertainty about the impacts of management (Yokota and Thompson, Medical Decision Making 2004;24: 287). The value of information can be characterized in terms of several metrics, including the expected value of perfect information and the expected value of partial information. We extend the technical framework for the value of information by further developing the relationship between value metrics for partial and perfect information and describing patterns of their performance. We use two different expressions for the expected value of partial information to highlight its relationship to the expected value of perfect information. We also develop the expected value of partial information for hierarchical uncertainties. We highlight patterns in the value of information for the Svalbard population of the pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus), a population that is subject to uncertainty in both reproduction and survival functions. The framework for valuing information is seen as having widespread potential in resource decision making, and serves as a motivation for resource monitoring, assessment, and collaboration.

The influence of supervision on manual adherence and therapeutic processes.

PubMed

Anderson, Timothy; Crowley, Mary Ellen J; Patterson, Candace L; Heckman, Bernadette D

2012-09-01

To identify the effectiveness of psychotherapy supervision on therapists' immediate (next session) and long-term (1 year) adherence to time-limited dynamic psychotherapy (TLDP). Sixteen therapists from the Vanderbilt II psychotherapy project were assigned new cases in pretraining, training, and booster/posttraining year-long cohorts. Technical adherence to the manual, as well as general therapeutic relational processes, were rated for clinical supervisory sessions in which the third therapy session was discussed. The therapy sessions immediately before and after the supervisory sessions were also rated for technical adherence and relational processes. Postsupervision adherence increased from the presupervision session during the training cohort. In supervision, therapists' discussion of techniques and strategies from the manual in supervision was significantly related to technical adherence in the session prior to (but not after) supervision. However, supervisors' discussion of specific techniques predicted therapists' total technical adherence in the therapy session after (but not before) supervision. In terms of the type of techniques, supervisors' influenced postsupervision therapy adherence on TLDP's unique approach to formulation, the cyclical maladaptive pattern, but did not influence technical adherence on the therapeutic relationship. In supervision, therapists tend to focus on how they adhered to techniques from the previous session, whereas supervisors' comments about specific techniques predicted how the therapist would adhere to techniques in the next therapy session. The findings provide support for the immediate effects of supervision in shaping therapist techniques as well as highlighting the challenges of altering common relational processes through technical training. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The aeromedical significance of sickle-cell trait : a review.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-01-01

This report present some of the technical background necessary for understanding the aeromedical importance of sickle-cell disease and the sickle-trait carrier, whose erythrocytes contain mixtures of hemoglobin S and normal hemoglobin A. This carrier...

Chemical vapor deposition growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruth, R. P.; Manasevit, H. M.; Campbell, A. G.; Johnson, R. E.; Kenty, J. L.; Moudy, L. A.; Shaw, G. L.; Simpson, W. I.; Yang, J. J.

1978-01-01

The objective was to investigate and develop chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for the growth of large areas of Si sheet on inexpensive substrate materials, with resulting sheet properties suitable for fabricating solar cells that would meet the technical goals of the Low Cost Silicon Solar Array Project. The program involved six main technical tasks: (1) modification and test of an existing vertical-chamber CVD reactor system; (2) identification and/or development of suitable inexpensive substrate materials; (3) experimental investigation of CVD process parameters using various candidate substrate materials; (4) preparation of Si sheet samples for various special studies, including solar cell fabrication; (5) evaluation of the properties of the Si sheet material produced by the CVD process; and (6) fabrication and evaluation of experimental solar cell structures, using impurity diffusion and other standard and near-standard processing techniques supplemented late in the program by the in situ CVD growth of n(+)/p/p(+) sheet structures subsequently processed into experimental cells.

Analysis of Protein Kinetics Using Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP).

PubMed

Giakoumakis, Nickolaos Nikiforos; Rapsomaniki, Maria Anna; Lygerou, Zoi

2017-01-01

Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) is a cutting-edge live-cell functional imaging technique that enables the exploration of protein dynamics in individual cells and thus permits the elucidation of protein mobility, function, and interactions at a single-cell level. During a typical FRAP experiment, fluorescent molecules in a defined region of interest within the cell are bleached by a short and powerful laser pulse, while the recovery of the fluorescence in the region is monitored over time by time-lapse microscopy. FRAP experimental setup and image acquisition involve a number of steps that need to be carefully executed to avoid technical artifacts. Equally important is the subsequent computational analysis of FRAP raw data, to derive quantitative information on protein diffusion and binding parameters. Here we present an integrated in vivo and in silico protocol for the analysis of protein kinetics using FRAP. We focus on the most commonly encountered challenges and technical or computational pitfalls and their troubleshooting so that valid and robust insight into protein dynamics within living cells is gained.

A systematic literature review on security and privacy of electronic health record systems: technical perspectives.

PubMed

Rezaeibagha, Fatemeh; Win, Khin Than; Susilo, Willy

Even though many safeguards and policies for electronic health record (EHR) security have been implemented, barriers to the privacy and security protection of EHR systems persist. This article presents the results of a systematic literature review regarding frequently adopted security and privacy technical features of EHR systems. Our inclusion criteria were full articles that dealt with the security and privacy of technical implementations of EHR systems published in English in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings between 1998 and 2013; 55 selected studies were reviewed in detail. We analysed the review results using two International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards (29100 and 27002) in order to consolidate the study findings. Using this process, we identified 13 features that are essential to security and privacy in EHRs. These included system and application access control, compliance with security requirements, interoperability, integration and sharing, consent and choice mechanism, policies and regulation, applicability and scalability and cryptography techniques. This review highlights the importance of technical features, including mandated access control policies and consent mechanisms, to provide patients' consent, scalability through proper architecture and frameworks, and interoperability of health information systems, to EHR security and privacy requirements.

Space Electrochemical Research and Technology Conference: Abstracts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

The objectives of the conference were to examine current technologies, research efforts, and advanced ideas, and to identify technical barriers which affect the advancement of electrochemical energy storage systems for space applications. Papers were presented and workshops were conducted in four technical areas: advanced concepts, hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells and electrolyzers, the nickel electrode, and advanced rechargeable batteries.

Applications of Optical Coherence Tomography in Pediatric Clinical Neuroscience

PubMed Central

Avery, Robert A.; Rajjoub, Raneem D.; Trimboli-Heidler, Carmelina; Waldman, Amy T.

2015-01-01

For nearly two centuries, the ophthalmoscope has permitted examination of the retina and optic nerve—the only axons directly visualized by the physician. The retinal ganglion cells project their axons, which travel along the innermost retina to form the optic nerve, marking the beginning of the anterior visual pathway. Both the structure and function of the visual pathway are essential components of the neurologic examination as it can be involved in numerous acquired, congenital and genetic central nervous system conditions. The development of optical coherence tomography now permits the pediatric neuroscientist to visualize and quantify the optic nerve and retinal layers with unprecedented resolution. As optical coherence tomography becomes more accessible and integrated into research and clinical care, the pediatric neuroscientist may have the opportunity to utilize and/or interpret results from this device. This review describes the basic technical features of optical coherence tomography and highlights its potential clinical and research applications in pediatric clinical neuroscience including optic nerve swelling, optic neuritis, tumors of the visual pathway, vigabatrin toxicity, nystagmus, and neurodegenerative conditions. PMID:25803824

Genetically engineered livestock for biomedical models.

PubMed

Rogers, Christopher S

2016-06-01

To commemorate Transgenic Animal Research Conference X, this review summarizes the recent progress in developing genetically engineered livestock species as biomedical models. The first of these conferences was held in 1997, which turned out to be a watershed year for the field, with two significant events occurring. One was the publication of the first transgenic livestock animal disease model, a pig with retinitis pigmentosa. Before that, the use of livestock species in biomedical research had been limited to wild-type animals or disease models that had been induced or were naturally occurring. The second event was the report of Dolly, a cloned sheep produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer. Cloning subsequently became an essential part of the process for most of the models developed in the last 18 years and is stilled used prominently today. This review is intended to highlight the biomedical modeling achievements that followed those key events, many of which were first reported at one of the previous nine Transgenic Animal Research Conferences. Also discussed are the practical challenges of utilizing livestock disease models now that the technical hurdles of model development have been largely overcome.

Applications of optical coherence tomography in pediatric clinical neuroscience.

PubMed

Avery, Robert A; Rajjoub, Raneem D; Trimboli-Heidler, Carmelina; Waldman, Amy T

2015-04-01

For nearly two centuries, the ophthalmoscope has permitted examination of the retina and optic nerve-the only axons directly visualized by the physician. The retinal ganglion cells project their axons, which travel along the innermost retina to form the optic nerve, marking the beginning of the anterior visual pathway. Both the structure and function of the visual pathway are essential components of the neurologic examination as it can be involved in numerous acquired, congenital and genetic central nervous system conditions. The development of optical coherence tomography now permits the pediatric neuroscientist to visualize and quantify the optic nerve and retinal layers with unprecedented resolution. As optical coherence tomography becomes more accessible and integrated into research and clinical care, the pediatric neuroscientist may have the opportunity to utilize and/or interpret results from this device. This review describes the basic technical features of optical coherence tomography and highlights its potential clinical and research applications in pediatric clinical neuroscience including optic nerve swelling, optic neuritis, tumors of the visual pathway, vigabatrin toxicity, nystagmus, and neurodegenerative conditions. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Genetic tool development underpins recent advances in thermophilic whole‐cell biocatalysts

PubMed Central

Taylor, M. P.; van Zyl, L.; Tuffin, I. M.; Leak, D. J.; Cowan, D. A.

2011-01-01

Summary The environmental value of sustainably producing bioproducts from biomass is now widely appreciated, with a primary target being the economic production of fuels such as bioethanol from lignocellulose. The application of thermophilic prokaryotes is a rapidly developing niche in this field, driven by their known catabolic versatility with lignocellulose‐derived carbohydrates. Fundamental to the success of this work has been the development of reliable genetic and molecular systems. These technical tools are now available to assist in the development of other (hyper)thermophilic strains with diverse phenotypes such as hemicellulolytic and cellulolytic properties, branched chain alcohol production and other ‘valuable bioproduct’ synthetic capabilities. Here we present an insight into the historical limitations, recent developments and current status of a number of genetic systems for thermophiles. We also highlight the value of reliable genetic methods for increasing our knowledge of thermophile physiology. We argue that the development of robust genetic systems is paramount in the evolution of future thermophilic based bioprocesses and make suggestions for future approaches and genetic targets that will facilitate this process. PMID:21310009

Overview of Serological Techniques for Influenza Vaccine Evaluation: Past, Present and Future

PubMed Central

Trombetta, Claudia Maria; Perini, Daniele; Mather, Stuart; Temperton, Nigel; Montomoli, Emanuele

2014-01-01

Serological techniques commonly used to quantify influenza-specific antibodies include the Haemagglutination Inhibition (HI), Single Radial Haemolysis (SRH) and Virus Neutralization (VN) assays. HI and SRH are established and reproducible techniques, whereas VN is more demanding. Every new influenza vaccine needs to fulfil the strict criteria issued by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in order to be licensed. These criteria currently apply exclusively to SRH and HI assays and refer to two different target groups—healthy adults and the elderly, but other vaccine recipient age groups have not been considered (i.e., children). The purpose of this timely review is to highlight the current scenario on correlates of protection concerning influenza vaccines and underline the need to revise the criteria and assays currently in use. In addition to SRH and HI assays, the technical advantages provided by other techniques such as the VN assay, pseudotype-based neutralization assay, neuraminidase and cell-mediated immunity assays need to be considered and regulated via EMA criteria, considering the many significant advantages that they could offer for the development of effective vaccines. PMID:26344888

1994 OTC spotlights fall on technology, world operations

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

Not Available

1994-05-09

Expanding offshore technical capabilities and growing international cooperation were the key-notes last week at the 26th Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston. Sponsored by the Society of Petroleum Engineers, sessions heard many of the 244 technical papers presented this year focus on field-ready technology considered crucial to more efficient, safer, environmentally sound offshore oil and gas operations. Economic development of satellite and marginal fields was the topic at special technical sessions on the conference's first two mornings. Three dimensional seismic technology was thoroughly discussed in a day-long series of papers presented during the gathering's third day. OTC 1994 topical luncheonsmore » included descriptions by Shell Offshore Inc. of its record setting auger field development project in the Gulf of Mexico, offshore turnkey drilling by a panel of drilling contractors, and the international exploration and production alliance formed in 1990 by BP Exploration and Den norske stats oljeselskap AS. Highlights of the melting are discussed.« less

Computer Security Issues in Online Banking: An Assessment from the Context of Usable Security

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahmadi, FN; Zaaba, ZF; Osman, A.

2016-11-01

Today's online banking is a convenient mode of finance management. Despite the ease of doing online banking, there are people that still sceptical in utilizing it due to perception and its security. This paper highlights the subject of online banking security in Malaysia, especially from the perspective of the end-users. The study is done by assessing human computer interaction, usability and security. An online survey utilising 137 participants was previously conducted to gain preliminary insights on security issues of online banking in Malaysia. Following from those results, 37 participants were interviewed to gauge deeper understanding about end-users perception on online banking within the context of usable security. The results suggested that most of the end-users are continuingly experiencing significant difficulties especially in relation to the technical terminologies, security features and other technical issues. Although the security features are provided to provide a shield or protection, users are still incapable to cope with the technical aspects of such implementation.

Approaches to simulate impact damages on aeronautical composite structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanga, R. P. Lemanle; Garnier, C.; Pantalé, O.

2018-02-01

Impact damage is one of the most critical aggressions for composite structures in aeronautical applications. Consequences of a high/low velocity and high/low energy impacts are very important to investigate. It is usually admitted that the most critical configuration is the Barely Visible Impact Damage (BVID), with impact energy of about 25 J, where some internal damages, invisible on the impacted surface of the specimen, drastically reduce the residual properties of the impacted material. In this work we highlight by the finite element simulation, the damage initiation and propagation process and the size of the defaults created by low velocity impact. Two approaches were developed: the first one is the layup technic and the second one is based on the cohesive element technic. Both technics show the plies damages by the Hashin's criteria. Moreover the second one gives the delamination damages with regards to the Benzeggah-Kenane criteria. The validation of these models is done by confrontation with some experimental results.

Sensitivity to sequencing depth in single-cell cancer genomics.

PubMed

Alves, João M; Posada, David

2018-04-16

Querying cancer genomes at single-cell resolution is expected to provide a powerful framework to understand in detail the dynamics of cancer evolution. However, given the high costs currently associated with single-cell sequencing, together with the inevitable technical noise arising from single-cell genome amplification, cost-effective strategies that maximize the quality of single-cell data are critically needed. Taking advantage of previously published single-cell whole-genome and whole-exome cancer datasets, we studied the impact of sequencing depth and sampling effort towards single-cell variant detection. Five single-cell whole-genome and whole-exome cancer datasets were independently downscaled to 25, 10, 5, and 1× sequencing depth. For each depth level, ten technical replicates were generated, resulting in a total of 6280 single-cell BAM files. The sensitivity of variant detection, including structural and driver mutations, genotyping, clonal inference, and phylogenetic reconstruction to sequencing depth was evaluated using recent tools specifically designed for single-cell data. Altogether, our results suggest that for relatively large sample sizes (25 or more cells) sequencing single tumor cells at depths > 5× does not drastically improve somatic variant discovery, characterization of clonal genotypes, or estimation of single-cell phylogenies. We suggest that sequencing multiple individual tumor cells at a modest depth represents an effective alternative to explore the mutational landscape and clonal evolutionary patterns of cancer genomes.

Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) for single gene disorders: cost analysis of NIPD and invasive testing pathways.

PubMed

Verhoef, Talitha I; Hill, Melissa; Drury, Suzanne; Mason, Sarah; Jenkins, Lucy; Morris, Stephen; Chitty, Lyn S

2016-07-01

Evaluate the costs of offering non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) for single gene disorders compared to traditional invasive testing to inform NIPD implementation into clinical practice. Total costs of diagnosis using NIPD or invasive testing pathways were compared for a representative set of single gene disorders. For autosomal dominant conditions, where NIPD molecular techniques are straightforward, NIPD cost £314 less than invasive testing. NIPD for autosomal recessive and X-linked conditions requires more complicated technical approaches and total costs were more than invasive testing, e.g. NIPD for spinal muscular atrophy was £1090 more than invasive testing. Impact of test uptake on costs was assessed using sickle cell disorder as an example. Anticipated high uptake of NIPD resulted in an incremental cost of NIPD over invasive testing of £48 635 per 100 pregnancies at risk of sickle cell disorder. Total costs of NIPD are dependent upon the complexity of the testing technique required. Anticipated increased demand for testing may have economic implications for prenatal diagnostic services. Ethical issues requiring further consideration are highlighted including directing resources to NIPD when used for information only and restricting access to safe tests if it is not cost-effective to develop NIPD for rare conditions. © 2016 The Authors. Prenatal Diagnosis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2016 The Authors. Prenatal Diagnosis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Healthcare chains - enabling application and data privacy controls for healthcare information systems.

PubMed

Omran, Esraa; Grandison, Tyrone; Abu Almaati, Shereef

2010-01-01

Healthcare applications that have access control, disclosure management and or privacy enforcement requirements may implement the respective solutions to these issues at the application level or at the database level or in both. Unfortunately, there are technical and non-technical factors that influence what can be done. In this paper we present a flexible, simple and novel approach to seamlessly imbuing current healthcare applications and their supporting infrastructure with security and privacy functionality, while being cognizant of these factors. This approach is called the Chain method. This paper will highlight the smaller design footprint, the increased ease of implementation and use of the Chain method, while demonstrating that it is as powerful and effective as traditional methods.

Improving care by understanding the way we work: human factors and behavioural science in the context of intensive care

PubMed Central

Sevdalis, Nick; Brett, Stephen J

2009-01-01

Effectiveness and efficiency of care of the critically ill patient are subject to a number of systemic influences, including skills of individual physicians/nurses (technical and non-technical), team-working in the intensive care unit (ICU), and the ICU environment. We first discuss the paper of Fackler and colleagues as a contribution to the systems approach to clinical performance in the context of intensive care. We then highlight features of care delivery that are unique to intensive care and discuss the need for better understanding of human and non-human elements of the system of care of the critically ill patient as a driver for improvement of care delivery. PMID:19439048

The re-emergence of natural products for drug discovery in the genomics era.

PubMed

Harvey, Alan L; Edrada-Ebel, RuAngelie; Quinn, Ronald J

2015-02-01

Natural products have been a rich source of compounds for drug discovery. However, their use has diminished in the past two decades, in part because of technical barriers to screening natural products in high-throughput assays against molecular targets. Here, we review strategies for natural product screening that harness the recent technical advances that have reduced these barriers. We also assess the use of genomic and metabolomic approaches to augment traditional methods of studying natural products, and highlight recent examples of natural products in antimicrobial drug discovery and as inhibitors of protein-protein interactions. The growing appreciation of functional assays and phenotypic screens may further contribute to a revival of interest in natural products for drug discovery.

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

Buneman, R.; Barker, R.J.; Peratt, A.L.

Highlights are presented from among the many contributions made by Oscar Buneman to the science, engineering, and mathematics communities. Emphasis is placed not only on ''what'' this pioneer of computational plasma physics contributed but, of equal importance, on ''how'' he made his contributions. Therein lies the difference between technical competence and scientific greatness. The picture which emerges illustrates the open-mindedness, enthusiasm, intellectual/physical stamina, imagination, intellectual integrity, interdisciplinary curiosity, and deep humanity that made this individual unique. As a gentleman and a scholar, he had mastered the art of making cold technical facts ''come to life.'' Oscar Buneman died peacefully atmore » his home near Stanford University on Sunday, January 24th, 1993. The profound influence he has had on many of his colleagues guarantees his immortality.« less

Global lessons in graft type and pediatric liver allocation: A path toward improving outcomes and eliminating wait-list mortality.

PubMed

Hsu, Evelyn K; Mazariegos, George V

2017-01-01

Current literature and policy in pediatric liver allocation and organ procurement are reviewed here in narrative fashion, highlighting historical context, ethical framework, technical/procurement considerations, and support for a logical way forward to an equitable pediatric liver allocation system that will improve pediatric wait-list and posttransplant outcomes without adversely affecting adults. Where available, varying examples of successful international pediatric liver allocation and split-liver policy will be compared to current US policy to highlight potential strategies that can be considered globally. Liver Transplantation 23:86-95 2017 AASLD. © 2016 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

47 CFR 22.911 - Cellular geographic service area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...-adjacent channel interference by changing channels used at specific cells or by other technical means. (2...). (1) Except as provided in paragraphs (a)(2) and (b) of this section, the distance from a cell... Watts (2) The distance from a cell transmitting antenna located in the Gulf of Mexico Service Area (GMSA...

Early Fuel Cell Market Demonstrations | Hydrogen and Fuel Cells | NREL

Science.gov Websites

Handling Equipment Data Collection and Analysis: 2015 Report, DOE Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Program Annual Progress Report (December 2015) Material Handling Equipment Data Collection and Analysis: 2015 Review, DOE Technical Report (March 2015) 2014 Forklift and Backup Power Data Collection and Analysis: 2014 Report, DOE

30 CFR 7.44 - Technical requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... the top of the wall. (i) Cell terminals shall be burned on, except that bolted connectors using two or... direct access to cell terminals and other uninsulated current carrying parts. The total minimum... following formula: EC15NO91.011 N = Number of cells in battery box. R = Rated 6 hour battery capacity in...

Technical aspects and recommendations for single-cell qPCR.

PubMed

Ståhlberg, Anders; Kubista, Mikael

2018-02-01

Single cells are basic physiological and biological units that can function individually as well as in groups in tissues and organs. It is central to identify, characterize and profile single cells at molecular level to be able to distinguish different kinds, to understand their functions and determine how they interact with each other. During the last decade several technologies for single-cell profiling have been developed and used in various applications, revealing many novel findings. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) is one of the most developed methods for single-cell profiling that can be used to interrogate several analytes, including DNA, RNA and protein. Single-cell qPCR has the potential to become routine methodology but the technique is still challenging, as it involves several experimental steps and few molecules are handled. Here, we discuss technical aspects and provide recommendation for single-cell qPCR analysis. The workflow includes experimental design, sample preparation, single-cell collection, direct lysis, reverse transcription, preamplification, qPCR and data analysis. Detailed reporting and sharing of experimental details and data will promote further development and make validation studies possible. Efforts aiming to standardize single-cell qPCR open up means to move single-cell analysis from specialized research settings to standard research laboratories. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of sequencing depth and read length on single cell RNA sequencing data of T cells.

PubMed

Rizzetto, Simone; Eltahla, Auda A; Lin, Peijie; Bull, Rowena; Lloyd, Andrew R; Ho, Joshua W K; Venturi, Vanessa; Luciani, Fabio

2017-10-06

Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) provides great potential in measuring the gene expression profiles of heterogeneous cell populations. In immunology, scRNA-seq allowed the characterisation of transcript sequence diversity of functionally relevant T cell subsets, and the identification of the full length T cell receptor (TCRαβ), which defines the specificity against cognate antigens. Several factors, e.g. RNA library capture, cell quality, and sequencing output affect the quality of scRNA-seq data. We studied the effects of read length and sequencing depth on the quality of gene expression profiles, cell type identification, and TCRαβ reconstruction, utilising 1,305 single cells from 8 publically available scRNA-seq datasets, and simulation-based analyses. Gene expression was characterised by an increased number of unique genes identified with short read lengths (<50 bp), but these featured higher technical variability compared to profiles from longer reads. Successful TCRαβ reconstruction was achieved for 6 datasets (81% - 100%) with at least 0.25 millions (PE) reads of length >50 bp, while it failed for datasets with <30 bp reads. Sufficient read length and sequencing depth can control technical noise to enable accurate identification of TCRαβ and gene expression profiles from scRNA-seq data of T cells.

Regulation of DNA replication during development

PubMed Central

Nordman, Jared; Orr-Weaver, Terry L.

2012-01-01

As development unfolds, DNA replication is not only coordinated with cell proliferation, but is regulated uniquely in specific cell types and organs. This differential regulation of DNA synthesis requires crosstalk between DNA replication and differentiation. This dynamic aspect of DNA replication is highlighted by the finding that the distribution of replication origins varies between differentiated cell types and changes with differentiation. Moreover, differential DNA replication in some cell types can lead to increases or decreases in gene copy number along chromosomes. This review highlights the recent advances and technologies that have provided us with new insights into the developmental regulation of DNA replication. PMID:22223677

The multiple faces of leukocyte interstitial migration

PubMed Central

Lämmermann, Tim; Germain, Ronald N.

2014-01-01

Spatiotemporal control of leukocyte dynamics within tissues is critical for successful innate and adaptive immune responses. Homeostatic trafficking and coordinated infiltration into and within sites of inflammation and infection rely on signaling in response to extracellular cues that in turn controls a variety of intracellular protein networks regulating leukocyte motility, migration, chemotaxis, positioning, and cell–cell interaction. In contrast to mesenchymal cells, leukocytes migrate in an amoeboid fashion by rapid cycles of actin polymerization and actomyosin contraction, and their migration in tissues is generally referred to as low adhesive and nonproteolytic. The interplay of actin network expansion, contraction, and adhesion shapes the exact mode of amoeboid migration, and in this review, we explore how leukocyte subsets potentially harness the same basic biomechanical mechanisms in a cell-type-specific manner. Most of our detailed understanding of these processes derives from in vitro migration studies in three-dimensional gels and confined spaces that mimic geometrical aspects of physiological tissues. We summarize these in vitro results and then critically compare them to data from intravital imaging of leukocyte interstitial migration in mouse tissues. We outline the technical challenges of obtaining conclusive mechanistic results from intravital studies, discuss leukocyte migration strategies in vivo, and present examples of mode switching during physiological interstitial migration. These findings are also placed in the context of leukocyte migration defects in primary immunodeficiencies. This overview of both in vitro and in vivo studies highlights recent progress in understanding the molecular and biophysical mechanisms that shape robust leukocyte migration responses in physiologically complex and heterogeneous environments. PMID:24573488

The Genetics Revolution: Programs and Issues for the Community College. A Monograph Highlighting the Winners of the Exxon Education Foundation Innovation Awards.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mays, Marilyn Elaine, Ed.

Presented at a 1996 conference on the implications of the Human Genome Project for community and technical colleges, the 30 papers included in this monograph describe methods for incorporating genetics studies into the two-year college curriculum. Among the papers provided are: (1) "Facing the Unknown: The Ethical Challenges of…

NETAC Networks. Providing Technical Assistance to Professionals Working with Students Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Northeast Technical Assistance Center (NETAC), Rochester Institute of Technology, 2005

2005-01-01

This issue of "NETAC Networks" highlights the following: (1) A snapshot of life in the U.S. Virgin Islands (Karen Brin); (2) Upcoming events by state; (3) Convert television captions to web-streaming formats; (4) I.D.E.A. reauthorized; (5) Vermont Career Day 2004 (Janet Dickinson); (6) Eye on the prize (Jane Jarrow); (7) Promoting…

Employment of Scientists and Engineers Increased Between 1976 and 1978 but Declined in Some Science Fields. Science Resources Studies Highlights, March 19, 1980.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Science Foundation, Washington, DC. Div. of Science Resources Studies.

The data presented in this report are estimates based on information produced by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Scientific and Technical Personnel Characteristics System (STPCS) and other systems of the Foundation, other government agencies and private organizations. Information includes: (1) the U.S. science/engineering force grew by 2%…

Loads and aeroelasticity division research and technology accomplishments for FY 1982 and plans for FY 1983

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardner, J. E.

1983-01-01

Accomplishments of the past year and plans for the coming year are highlighted as they relate to five year plans and the objectives of the following technical areas: aerothermal loads; multidisciplinary analysis and optimization; unsteady aerodynamics; and configuration aeroelasticity. Areas of interest include thermal protection system concepts, active control, nonlinear aeroelastic analysis, aircraft aeroelasticity, and rotorcraft aeroelasticity and vibrations.

Lunar mission safety and rescue: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

An executive summary is presented of the escape/rescue and the hazards analyses for manned missions and operations in the 1980 time frame. The method of approach, basic data generated, and significant results are outlined, and highlights of the two analyses are given. Areas in which research or technical development efforts could improve mission safety, and specific suggestions for additional effort studies on safety analyses are listed.

Differences in the Language and Design of Four PPIs for Valium. Technical Assistance Report No. 1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Redish, Janice C.

As part of the evaluation of four different versions of a patient package insert (PPI) for diazepam (Valium) created by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the content, organization, language, and design of the PPIs were compared. One PPI was a short prose piece with clear organization that did not particularly highlight warnings or, indeed,…

Onboard Hydrogen/Helium Sensors in Support of the Global Technical Regulation: An Assessment of Performance in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle Crash Tests

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

Post, M. B.; Burgess, R.; Rivkin, C.

2012-09-01

Automobile manufacturers in North America, Europe, and Asia project a 2015 release of commercial hydrogen fuel cell powered light-duty road vehicles. These vehicles will be for general consumer applications, albeit initially in select markets but with much broader market penetration expected by 2025. To assure international harmony, North American, European, and Asian regulatory representatives are striving to base respective national regulations on an international safety standard, the Global Technical Regulation (GTR), Hydrogen Fueled Vehicle, which is part of an international agreement pertaining to wheeled vehicles and equipment for wheeled vehicles.

Hydrogen monitoring requirements in the global technical regulation on hydrogen and fuel cell vehicles

DOE PAGES

Buttner, William; Rivkin, C.; Burgess, R.; ...

2017-02-04

Here, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Global Technical Regulation (GTR) Number 13 ( Global Technical Regulation on Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Vehicles) is the defining document regulating safety requirements in hydrogen vehicles, and in particular, fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). GTR Number 13 has been formally adopted and will serve as the basis for the national regulatory standards for FCEV safety in North America (led by the United States), Japan, Korea, and the European Union. The GTR defines safety requirements for these vehicles, including specifications on the allowable hydrogen levels in vehicle enclosures during in-use and post-crash conditionsmore » and on the allowable hydrogen emissions levels in vehicle exhaust during certain modes of normal operation. However, in order to be incorporated into national regulations, that is, to be legally binding, methods to verify compliance with the specific requirements must exist. In a collaborative program, the Sensor Laboratories at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in the United States and the Joint Research Centre, Institute for Energy and Transport in the Netherlands have been evaluating and developing analytical methods that can be used to verify compliance with the hydrogen release requirements as specified in the GTR.« less

Regenerative toxicology: the role of stem cells in the development of chronic toxicities.

PubMed

Canovas-Jorda, David; Louisse, Jochem; Pistollato, Francesca; Zagoura, Dimitra; Bremer, Susanne

2014-01-01

Human stem cell lines and their derivatives, as alternatives to the use of animal cells or cancer cell lines, have been widely discussed as cellular models in predictive toxicology. However, the role of stem cells in the development of long-term toxicities and carcinogenesis has not received great attention so far, despite growing evidence indicating the relationship of stem cell damage to adverse effects later in life. However, testing this in vitro is a scientific/technical challenge in particular due to the complex interplay of factors existing under physiological conditions. Current major research programs in stem cell toxicity are not aiming to demonstrate that stem cells can be targeted by toxicants. Therefore, this knowledge gap needs to be addressed in additional research activities developing technical solutions and defining appropriate experimental designs. The current review describes selected examples of the role of stem cells in the development of long-term toxicities in the brain, heart or liver and in the development of cancer. The presented examples illustrate the need to analyze the contribution of stem cells to chronic toxicity in order to make a final conclusion whether stem cell toxicities are an underestimated risk in mechanism-based safety assessments. This requires the development of predictive in vitro models allowing the assessment of adverse effects to stem cells on chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity.

Clinical development of gene- and cell-based therapies: overview of the European landscape

PubMed Central

de Wilde, Sofieke; Guchelaar, Henk-Jan; Zandvliet, Maarten Laurens; Meij, Pauline

2016-01-01

In the last decade, many clinical trials with gene- and cell-based therapies were performed and increasing interest in the development was established by (national) authorities, academic developers, and commercial companies. However, until now only eight products have received marketing authorization (MA) approval. In this study, a comprehensive overview of the clinical development of gene- and cell-based therapies in Europe is presented, with a strong focus on product-technical aspects. Public data regarding clinical trials with gene- and cell-based therapies, obtained from the European Union (EU) clinical trial database (EudraCT) between 2004 and 2014 were analyzed, including product-technical variables as potential determinants affecting development. 198 unique gene and cell therapy products were identified, which were studied in 278 clinical trials, mostly in phase 1/2 trials and with cell therapies as major group. Furthermore, most products were manufactured from autologous starting material mostly manufactured from stem cells. The majority of the trials were sponsored by academia, whereas phase 3 trials mostly by large companies. Academia dominated early-stage development by mainly using bone marrow derived products and stem cells. Conversely, commercial sponsors were more actively pursuing in vivo gene therapy medicinal product development, and cell therapies derived from differentiated tissue in later-stage development. PMID:27990447

Technical Update: Johnson Space Center system using a solid electrolytic cell in a remote location to measure oxygen fugacities in CO/CO2 controlled-atmosphere furnaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jurewicz, A. J. G.; Williams, R. J.; Le, L.; Wagstaff, J.; Lofgren, G.; Lanier, A.; Carter, W.; Roshko, A.

1993-01-01

Details are given for the design and application of a (one atmosphere) redox-control system. This system differs from that given in NASA Technical Memorandum 58234 in that it uses a single solid-electrolytic cell in a remote location to measure the oxygen fugacities of multiple CO/CO2 controlled-atmosphere furnaces. This remote measurement extends the range of sample-furnace conditions that can be measured using a solid-electrolytic cell, and cuts costs by extending the life of the sensors and by minimizing the number of sensors in use. The system consists of a reference furnace and an exhaust-gas manifold. The reference furnace is designed according to the redox control system of NASA Technical Memorandum 58234, and any number of CO/CO2 controlled-atmosphere furnaces can be attached to the exhaust-gas manifold. Using the manifold, the exhaust gas from individual CO/CO2 controlled atmosphere furnaces can be diverted through the reference furnace, where a solid-electrolyte cell is used to read the ambient oxygen fugacity. The oxygen fugacity measured in the reference furnace can then be used to calculate the oxygen fugacity in the individual CO/CO2 controlled-atmosphere furnace. A BASIC computer program was developed to expedite this calculation.

Rechargeable lithium battery technology - A survey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halpert, Gerald; Surampudi, Subbarao

1990-01-01

The technology of the rechargeable lithium battery is discussed with special attention given to the types of rechargeable lithium cells and to their expected performance and advantages. Consideration is also given to the organic-electrolyte and polymeric-electrolyte cells and to molten salt lithium cells, as well as to technical issues, such as the cycle life, charge control, rate capability, cell size, and safety. The role of the rechargeable lithium cell in future NASA applications is discussed.

Toward Personalized Cell Therapies: Autologous Menstrual Blood Cells for Stroke

PubMed Central

Rodrigues, Maria Carolina O.; Glover, Loren E.; Weinbren, Nathan; Rizzi, Jessica A.; Ishikawa, Hiroto; Shinozuka, Kazutaka; Tajiri, Naoki; Kaneko, Yuji; Sanberg, Paul R.; Allickson, Julie G.; Kuzmin-Nichols, Nicole; Garbuzova-Davis, Svitlana; Voltarelli, Julio Cesar; Cruz, Eduardo; Borlongan, Cesar V.

2011-01-01

Cell therapy has been established as an important field of research with considerable progress in the last years. At the same time, the progressive aging of the population has highlighted the importance of discovering therapeutic alternatives for diseases of high incidence and disability, such as stroke. Menstrual blood is a recently discovered source of stem cells with potential relevance for the treatment of stroke. Migration to the infarct site, modulation of the inflammatory reaction, secretion of neurotrophic factors, and possible differentiation warrant these cells as therapeutic tools. We here propose the use of autologous menstrual blood cells in the restorative treatment of the subacute phase of stroke. We highlight the availability, proliferative capacity, pluripotency, and angiogenic features of these cells and explore their mechanistic pathways of repair. Practical aspects of clinical application of menstrual blood cells for stroke will be discussed, from cell harvesting and cryopreservation to administration to the patient. PMID:22162629

DEMONSTRATION OF FUEL CELLS TO RECOVER ENERGY FROM LANDFILL GAS - PHASE III. DEMONSTRATION TESTS - PHASE IV. GUIDELINES AND DEMONSTRATIONS - VOLUME 2. APPENDICES

EPA Science Inventory

The report summarizes the results of a four-phase program to demonstrate that fuel cell energy recovery using a commercial phosphoric acid fuel cell is both environmentally sound and commercially feasible. Phase I, a conceptual design and evaluation study, addressed the technical...

A study of alternative designs for a system to concentrate carbon dioxide in a hydrogen-depolarized cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

Experimental results are presented on alternative designs for a hydrogen depolarized cell to concentrate CO2 in spacecraft atmospheric control systems. Data cover technical problems, methods for solving these problems, and the suitability of such a cell for CO2 removal and control of atmospheric humidity during the flight mode.

Program of scientific investigations and development of solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFC) in VIITF proposals on scientific and technical collaboration and SOFC commercialization

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

Kleschev, Yu.N.; Chulharev, V.F.

1996-04-01

Investigations being performed at VNIITF covers the whole cycle of solid oxide fuel cell manufacturing. This report describes the main directions of investigations in materials, technologies, and commercialization.

75 FR 26733 - Preventing Contraband Cell Phone Use in Prisons

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-12

... alternative approach could be to specify maximum allowable equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP... technical approaches to preventing contraband cell phone use in prisons. Congress tasked NTIA with..., wireless technology solutions. NTIA understands that a number of technological approaches exist that could...

Genome engineering through CRISPR/Cas9 technology in the human germline and pluripotent stem cells.

PubMed

Vassena, R; Heindryckx, B; Peco, R; Pennings, G; Raya, A; Sermon, K; Veiga, A

2016-06-01

With the recent development of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 genome editing technology, the possibility to genetically manipulate the human germline (gametes and embryos) has become a distinct technical possibility. Although many technical challenges still need to be overcome in order to achieve adequate efficiency and precision of the technology in human embryos, the path leading to genome editing has never been simpler, more affordable, and widespread. In this narrative review we seek to understand the possible impact of CRISR/Cas9 technology on human reproduction from the technical and ethical point of view, and suggest a course of action for the scientific community. This non-systematic review was carried out using Medline articles in English, as well as technical documents from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and reports in the media. The technical possibilities of the CRISPR/Cas9 technology with regard to human reproduction are analysed based on results obtained in model systems such as large animals and laboratory rodents. Further, the possibility of CRISPR/Cas9 use in the context of human reproduction, to modify embryos, germline cells, and pluripotent stem cells is reviewed based on the authors' expert opinion. Finally, the possible uses and consequences of CRISPR/cas9 gene editing in reproduction are analysed from the ethical point of view. We identify critical technical and ethical issues that should deter from employing CRISPR/Cas9 based technologies in human reproduction until they are clarified. Overcoming the numerous technical limitations currently associated with CRISPR/Cas9 mediated editing of the human germline will depend on intensive research that needs to be transparent and widely disseminated. Rather than a call to a generalized moratorium, or banning, of this type of research, efforts should be placed on establishing an open, international, collaborative and regulated research framework. Equally important, a societal discussion on the risks, benefits, and preferred applications of the new technology, including all relevant stakeholders, is urgently needed and should be promoted, and ultimately guide research priorities in this area. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

High Resolution Helium Ion Scanning Microscopy of the Rat Kidney

PubMed Central

Rice, William L.; Van Hoek, Alfred N.; Păunescu, Teodor G.; Huynh, Chuong; Goetze, Bernhard; Singh, Bipin; Scipioni, Larry; Stern, Lewis A.; Brown, Dennis

2013-01-01

Helium ion scanning microscopy is a novel imaging technology with the potential to provide sub-nanometer resolution images of uncoated biological tissues. So far, however, it has been used mainly in materials science applications. Here, we took advantage of helium ion microscopy to explore the epithelium of the rat kidney with unsurpassed image quality and detail. In addition, we evaluated different tissue preparation methods for their ability to preserve tissue architecture. We found that high contrast, high resolution imaging of the renal tubule surface is possible with a relatively simple processing procedure that consists of transcardial perfusion with aldehyde fixatives, vibratome tissue sectioning, tissue dehydration with graded methanol solutions and careful critical point drying. Coupled with the helium ion system, fine details such as membrane texture and membranous nanoprojections on the glomerular podocytes were visualized, and pores within the filtration slit diaphragm could be seen in much greater detail than in previous scanning EM studies. In the collecting duct, the extensive and striking apical microplicae of the intercalated cells were imaged without the shrunken or distorted appearance that is typical with conventional sample processing and scanning electron microscopy. Membrane depressions visible on principal cells suggest possible endo- or exocytotic events, and central cilia on these cells were imaged with remarkable preservation and clarity. We also demonstrate the use of colloidal gold probes for highlighting specific cell-surface proteins and find that 15 nm gold labels are practical and easily distinguishable, indicating that external labels of various sizes can be used to detect multiple targets in the same tissue. We conclude that this technology represents a technical breakthrough in imaging the topographical ultrastructure of animal tissues. Its use in future studies should allow the study of fine cellular details and provide significant advances in our understanding of cell surface structures and membrane organization. PMID:23505418

Metabolic crossroads of iron and copper

PubMed Central

Collins, James F; Prohaska, Joseph R; Knutson, Mitchell D

2013-01-01

Interactions between the essential dietary metals, iron and copper, have been known for many years. This review highlights recent advances in iron-copper interactions with a focus on tissues and cell types important for regulating whole-body iron and copper homeostasis. Cells that mediate dietary assimilation (enterocytes) and storage and distribution (hepatocytes) of iron and copper are considered, along with the principal users (erythroid cells) and recyclers of red cell iron (reticuloendothelial macrophages). Interactions between iron and copper in the brain are also discussed. Many unanswered questions regarding the role of these metals and their interactions in health and disease emerge from this synopsis, highlighting extensive future research opportunities. PMID:20384844

Development of PEM fuel cell technology at international fuel cells

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

Wheeler, D.J.

1996-04-01

The PEM technology has not developed to the level of phosphoric acid fuel cells. Several factors have held the technology development back such as high membrane cost, sensitivity of PEM fuel cells to low level of carbon monoxide impurities, the requirement to maintain full humidification of the cell, and the need to pressurize the fuel cell in order to achieve the performance targets. International Fuel Cells has identified a hydrogen fueled PEM fuel cell concept that leverages recent research advances to overcome major economic and technical obstacles.

Space Photovoltaic Research and Technology, 1989

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

Remarkable progress on a wide variety of approaches in space photovoltaics, for both near and far term applications is reported. Papers were presented in a variety of technical areas, including multi-junction cell technology, GaAs and InP cells, system studies, cell and array development, and non-solar direct conversion. Five workshops were held to discuss the following topics: mechanical versus monolithic multi-junction cells; strategy in space flight experiments; non-solar direct conversion; indium phosphide cells; and space cell theory and modeling.

Contextual Sensing: Integrating Contextual Information with Human and Technical Geo-Sensor Information for Smart Cities

PubMed Central

Sagl, Günther; Resch, Bernd; Blaschke, Thomas

2015-01-01

In this article we critically discuss the challenge of integrating contextual information, in particular spatiotemporal contextual information, with human and technical sensor information, which we approach from a geospatial perspective. We start by highlighting the significance of context in general and spatiotemporal context in particular and introduce a smart city model of interactions between humans, the environment, and technology, with context at the common interface. We then focus on both the intentional and the unintentional sensing capabilities of today’s technologies and discuss current technological trends that we consider have the ability to enrich human and technical geo-sensor information with contextual detail. The different types of sensors used to collect contextual information are analyzed and sorted into three groups on the basis of names considering frequently used related terms, and characteristic contextual parameters. These three groups, namely technical in situ sensors, technical remote sensors, and human sensors are analyzed and linked to three dimensions involved in sensing (data generation, geographic phenomena, and type of sensing). In contrast to other scientific publications, we found a large number of technologies and applications using in situ and mobile technical sensors within the context of smart cities, and surprisingly limited use of remote sensing approaches. In this article we further provide a critical discussion of possible impacts and influences of both technical and human sensing approaches on society, pointing out that a larger number of sensors, increased fusion of information, and the use of standardized data formats and interfaces will not necessarily result in any improvement in the quality of life of the citizens of a smart city. This article seeks to improve our understanding of technical and human geo-sensing capabilities, and to demonstrate that the use of such sensors can facilitate the integration of different types of contextual information, thus providing an additional, namely the geo-spatial perspective on the future development of smart cities. PMID:26184221

Use of technical skills and medical devices among new registered nurses: A questionnaire study.

PubMed

Ewertsson, Mona; Gustafsson, Margareta; Blomberg, Karin; Holmström, Inger K; Allvin, Renée

2015-12-01

One comprehensive part of nursing practice is performing technical skills and handling of medical equipment. This might be challenging for new registered nurses (RNs) to do in patient-safe way. The aim of this study was to describe and compare the extent to which new RNs perform various technical skills and handle medical devices in different settings, and to investigate their possibility for continued learning in this respect. A further aim was to describe their perceptions of incident reporting related to technical skills and medical devices. A cross-sectional study with descriptive and comparative design. RNs who recently graduated from a nursing programme at three Swedish universities and had worked as a RN for up to 1 year were included in the study (n=113, response rate 57%). Data were collected by means of a postal questionnaire. Half of the RNs reported that they performed several of the listed tasks every day or every week, regardless of workplace. These tasks were most frequently performed in surgical departments. The majority of the participants (76%) stated a need of continued practical training. However, less than half of them (48%) had access to a training environment. Several participants (43%) had been involved in incidents related to technical skills or medical devices, which were not always reported. Nearly a third of the participants (31%) did not use the existing guidelines when performing technical skills, and reflection on performance was uncommon. This study highlights the importance of shared responsibilities between nurse educators and health care employers to provide learning opportunities for new RNs in technical skills, to maintain patient safety. To increase the safety culture where nursing students and new RNs understand the importance of using evidence-based guidelines and taking a reflective approach in the performance of technical tasks is needed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contextual Sensing: Integrating Contextual Information with Human and Technical Geo-Sensor Information for Smart Cities.

PubMed

Sagl, Günther; Resch, Bernd; Blaschke, Thomas

2015-07-14

In this article we critically discuss the challenge of integrating contextual information, in particular spatiotemporal contextual information, with human and technical sensor information, which we approach from a geospatial perspective. We start by highlighting the significance of context in general and spatiotemporal context in particular and introduce a smart city model of interactions between humans, the environment, and technology, with context at the common interface. We then focus on both the intentional and the unintentional sensing capabilities of today's technologies and discuss current technological trends that we consider have the ability to enrich human and technical geo-sensor information with contextual detail. The different types of sensors used to collect contextual information are analyzed and sorted into three groups on the basis of names considering frequently used related terms, and characteristic contextual parameters. These three groups, namely technical in situ sensors, technical remote sensors, and human sensors are analyzed and linked to three dimensions involved in sensing (data generation, geographic phenomena, and type of sensing). In contrast to other scientific publications, we found a large number of technologies and applications using in situ and mobile technical sensors within the context of smart cities, and surprisingly limited use of remote sensing approaches. In this article we further provide a critical discussion of possible impacts and influences of both technical and human sensing approaches on society, pointing out that a larger number of sensors, increased fusion of information, and the use of standardized data formats and interfaces will not necessarily result in any improvement in the quality of life of the citizens of a smart city. This article seeks to improve our understanding of technical and human geo-sensing capabilities, and to demonstrate that the use of such sensors can facilitate the integration of different types of contextual information, thus providing an additional, namely the geo-spatial perspective on the future development of smart cities.

Evaluation of a Surgery-Based Adjunct Course for Senior Medical Students Entering Surgical Residencies.

PubMed

Green, Courtney A; Vaughn, Carolyn J; Wyles, Susannah M; O'Sullivan, Patricia S; Kim, Edward H; Chern, Hueylan

2016-01-01

Preparatory courses for senior medical students aim to ease the transition from medical school to residency. We designed a novel adjunct curriculum to enhance students' readiness for surgical internship. This study addresses the feasibility and outcomes of this course. A curriculum was designed based on ACGME surgical milestones. Students participated in 8 (3h) sessions held over 4 weeks as an adjunct to a well-established intern preparatory course. Course activities involved interactive simulation cases to emphasize care of surgical patients, and skills sessions focused on knot tying and suturing, which were reinforced with home video assignments. Students rated confidence on 14 management skills using a 5-point Likert scale (5 = high confidence). Faculty graded students' technical performance using a global scale (0-10) for 5 suturing exercises. Comparisons between precourse and postcourse data collected for all measures were made using t-tests (α = 0.05). A total of 11 students entering 4 different surgical fields participated. Overall confidence in patient management improved from 2.41 to 3.89 (standard deviation = 0.49, 0.35; p < 0.05). Students' scores on all 5 suturing tasks increased (p < 0.05). We developed a surgery-specific component to the existing preparatory course at our institution. Students demonstrated increased confidence in ward management skills and increased technical scores in all exercises. Although only 3 sessions were dedicated to technical skills, improvements may highlight the benefit of home video assignments. This course serves as a specialty-specific model for schools with existing preparatory courses. Our curriculum highlights skills specific for surgical residency, while maximizing resources. Copyright © 2016 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The devil is in the detail: tobacco industry political influence in the Dutch implementation of the 2001 EU Tobacco Products Directive.

PubMed

Lie, Jessamina Lih Yan; Willemsen, Marc C; de Vries, Nanne K; Fooks, Gary

2016-09-01

The Dutch implementation of the black border provision in the 2001 European Union Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) is studied to examine the implications of tobacco industry involvement in the implementation phase of the policy process. A qualitative analysis was conducted of Dutch government documents obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests, triangulated with in-depth interviews with key informants and secondary data sources (publicly available government documents, scientific literature, and news articles). Tobacco manufacturers' associations were given the opportunity to set implementation specifications via a fast-track deal with the government. The offer of early implementation of the labelling section of the TPD was used as political leverage by the industry, and underpinned by threats of litigation and arguments highlighting the risks of additional public costs and the benefits to the government of expediency and speed. Ultimately, the government agreed to the industry's interpretation, against the advice of the European Commission. The findings highlight the policy risks associated with corporate actors' ability to use interactions over technical product specifications to influence the implementation of health policy and illustrate the difficulties in limiting industry interference in accordance with Article 5.3 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). The implementation phase is particularly vulnerable to industry influence, where negotiation with industry actors may be unavoidable and the practical implications of relatively technical considerations are not always apparent to policymakers. During the implementation of the new TPD 2014/40/EU, government officials are advised to take a proactive role in stipulating technical specifications. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Bergamot juice extract inhibits proliferation by inducing apoptosis in human colon cancer cells.

PubMed

Visalli, Giuseppa; Ferlazzo, Nadia; Cirmi, Santa; Campiglia, Pietro; Gangemi, Sebastiano; Di Pietro, Angela; Calapai, Gioacchino; Navarra, Michele

2014-01-01

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality in the industrialized world, second to lung cancer. A lot of evidences highlight that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types of cancer including CRC. In this study we demonstrate that Citrus bergamia juice extracts (BJe) reduces CRC cell growth by multiple mechanisms. Low BJe concentrations inhibit MAPKs pathway and alter apoptosis-related proteins, that in turn induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in HT-29 cells. Instead, high concentrations of BJe induce oxidative stress causing DNA damage. Our study highlights the role of BJe as modulator of cell apoptosis in CRC cells and strengthens our previous hypothesis that the flavonoid fraction of bergamot juice may play a role as anti-cancer drug.

Phase 1 of the automated array assembly task of the low cost silicon solar array project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coleman, M. G.; Pryor, R. A.; Grenon, L. A.; Lesk, I. A.

1977-01-01

The state of technology readiness for the automated production of solar cells and modules is reviewed. Individual process steps and process sequences for making solar cells and modules were evaluated both technically and economically. High efficiency with a suggested cell goal of 15% was stressed. It is concluded that the technology exists to manufacture solar cells which will meet program goals.

CD4+ T helper 2 cells – microbial triggers, differentiation requirements and effector functions

PubMed Central

Okoye, Isobel S; Wilson, Mark S

2011-01-01

Over the past 10 years we have made great strides in our understanding of T helper cell differentiation, expansion and effector functions. Within the context of T helper type 2 (Th2) cell development, novel innate-like cells with the capacity to secrete large amounts of interleukin-5 (IL-5), IL-13 and IL-9 as well as IL-4-producing and antigen-processing basophils have (re)-emerged onto the type 2 scene. To what extent these new players influence αβ+ CD4+ Th2 cell differentiation is discussed throughout this appraisal of the current literature. We highlight the unique features of Th2 cell development, highlighting the three necessary signals, T-cell receptor ligation, co-stimulation and cytokine receptor ligation. Finally, putting these into context, microbial and allergenic properties that trigger Th2 cell differentiation and how these influence Th2 effector function are discussed and questioned. PMID:22043920

Challenges and unanswered questions for the next decade of circulating tumour cell research in lung cancer

PubMed Central

Mohan, Sumitra; Chemi, Francesca

2017-01-01

Since blood borne circulating tumour cells (CTCs) initially shed from the primary tumour can seed and initiate metastasis at distant sites a better understanding of the biology of CTCs and their dissemination could provide valuable information that could guide therapeutic intervention and real time monitoring of disease progression. Although CTC enumeration has provided a reliable prognostic readout for a number of cancers, including lung cancer, the precise clinical utility of CTCs remains to be established. The rarity of CTCs together with the vanishingly small amounts of nucleic acids present in a single cell as well as cell to cell heterogeneity has stimulated the development of a wide range of powerful cellular and molecular methodologies applied to CTCs. These technical developments are now enabling researchers to focus on understanding the biology of CTCs and their clinical utility as a predictive and pharmacodynamics markers. This review summarises recent advances in the field of CTC research with focus on technical and biological challenges as well the progress made towards clinical utility of characterisation of CTCs with emphasis on studies in lung cancer. PMID:28904889

Vessel Cold-Ironing Using a Barge Mounted PEM Fuel Cell: Project Scoping and Feasibility.

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

Pratt, Joseph William; Harris, Aaron P.

2013-01-01

A barge-mounted hydrogen-fueled proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell system has the potential to reduce emissions and fossil fuel use of maritime vessels in and around ports. This study determines the technical feasibility of this concept and examines specific options on the U.S. West Coast for deployment practicality and potential for commercialization.The conceptual design of the system is found to be straightforward and technically feasible in several configurations corresponding to various power levels and run times.The most technically viable and commercially attractive deployment options were found to be powering container ships at berth at the Port of Tacoma and/or Seattle,more » powering tugs at anchorage near the Port of Oakland, and powering refrigerated containers on-board Hawaiian inter-island transport barges. Other attractive demonstration options were found at the Port of Seattle, the Suisun Bay Reserve Fleet, the California Maritime Academy, and an excursion vessel on the Ohio River.« less

Research and technology of the Lyndon Johnson Space Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

Johnson Space Center accomplishments in new and advanced concepts during 1988 are highlighted. This year, reports are grouped in sections Space System Technology, Solar System Sciences, Space Transportation Technology, and Medical Sciences. Summary sections describing the role of Johnson Space Center in each program are followed by descriptions of significant tasks. Descriptions are suitable for external consumption, free of technical jargon, and illustrated to increase ease of comprehension.

Briefing Materials for Technical Presentations, Volume B: The LACIE Symposium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

Tables, charts, and LACIE segments are used to demonstrate the accuracy of estimated crop conditions and yield from 1974 to 1976, and to demonstrate the benefits of meteorological and LANDSAT data. Developments in data acquisition, sampling, and reduction are reviewed. The USDA application test system is highlighted with emphasis on user requirements, technology transfer, data base design, and cost data models for data base operation and management.

Toxoplasmosis masking non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: a case report.

PubMed

Mighell, A; Carton, A; Carey, P; High, A

1995-12-01

A 39-year-old female with persistent cervical lymphadenopathy is reported. Initial investigations resulted in a diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, but subsequently the patient proved to have high grade immunoblastic non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. This paper highlights the difficulties in accurately diagnosing some cases of either toxoplasmosis or lymphoma, and briefly mentions some of the ongoing technical advances which will increase diagnostic specificity and sensitivity by early detection of genetic mutations.

Main High-Resolution Near-IR Spectrometer for the VLT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piskunov, N.

2017-06-01

We present the ongoing CRISES+ project on the development of a cross-dispersed high resolution near-infrared spectrometer for the ESO Very Large Telescope. The presentation highlights the relation between science objectives, technical solutions, and the structure of the project. We also share some of the insights on the implementation and management of the project that are crucial for keeping the tight time-line through efficient interaction between consortium members.

Laboratory for Atmospheres: 2004 Technical Highlights

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

The report describes our role in NASA's mission, gives a broad description of our research, and summarizes our scientists' major accomplishments in 2004. The report also contains useful information on human resources, scientific interactions, outreach activities, and the transformation our laboratory has undergone. This report is published in two versions: 1) an abbreviated print version, and 2) an unabridged electronic version at our Laboratory for Atmospheres Web site: http://atmospheres.gsfc.nasa.gov/.

Technical summary of accomplishments made in preparation for the USSR barley exploratory experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, G. M.; Dailey, C. L.

1982-01-01

The highlights of the work accomplished under each subcomponent of the U.S.S.R. Barley Pilot Experiment, which is scheduled for completion in 1984, are summarized. A significant amount of developmental system implementation activity was in the final stages of preparation prior to the rescoping of project tasks. Unpublished materials which are significant to this exploratory experiment are incorporated into the appendixes.

Automated array assembly task, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carbajal, B. G.

1977-01-01

State-of-the-art technologies applicable to silicon solar cell and solar cell module fabrication were assessed. The assessment consisted of a technical feasibility evaluation and a cost projection for high volume production of solar cell modules. Design equations based on minimum power loss were used as a tool in the evaluation of metallization technologies. A solar cell process sensitivity study using models, computer calculations, and experimental data was used to identify process step variation and cell output variation correlations.

Vaccines to combat the neglected tropical diseases.

PubMed

Bethony, Jeffrey M; Cole, Rhea N; Guo, Xiaoti; Kamhawi, Shaden; Lightowlers, Marshall W; Loukas, Alex; Petri, William; Reed, Steven; Valenzuela, Jesus G; Hotez, Peter J

2011-01-01

The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) represent a group of parasitic and related infectious diseases such as amebiasis, Chagas disease, cysticercosis, echinococcosis, hookworm, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis. Together, these conditions are considered the most common infections in low- and middle-income countries, where they produce a level of global disability and human suffering equivalent to better known conditions such as human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and malaria. Despite their global public health importance, progress on developing vaccines for NTD pathogens has lagged because of some key technical hurdles and the fact that these infections occur almost exclusively in the world's poorest people living below the World Bank poverty line. In the absence of financial incentives for new products, the multinational pharmaceutical companies have not embarked on substantive research and development programs for the neglected tropical disease vaccines. Here, we review the current status of scientific and technical progress in the development of new neglected tropical disease vaccines, highlighting the successes that have been achieved (cysticercosis and echinococcosis) and identifying the challenges and opportunities for development of new vaccines for NTDs. Also highlighted are the contributions being made by non-profit product development partnerships that are working to overcome some of the economic challenges in vaccine manufacture, clinical testing, and global access. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Conceptual framework of public health surveillance and action and its application in health sector reform.

PubMed

McNabb, Scott J N; Chungong, Stella; Ryan, Mike; Wuhib, Tadesse; Nsubuga, Peter; Alemu, Wondi; Carande-Kulis, Vilma; Rodier, Guenael

2002-01-01

Because both public health surveillance and action are crucial, the authors initiated meetings at regional and national levels to assess and reform surveillance and action systems. These meetings emphasized improved epidemic preparedness, epidemic response, and highlighted standardized assessment and reform. To standardize assessments, the authors designed a conceptual framework for surveillance and action that categorized the framework into eight core and four support activities, measured with indicators. In application, country-level reformers measure both the presence and performance of the six core activities comprising public health surveillance (detection, registration, reporting, confirmation, analyses, and feedback) and acute (epidemic-type) and planned (management-type) responses composing the two core activities of public health action. Four support activities - communications, supervision, training, and resource provision - enable these eight core processes. National, multiple systems can then be concurrently assessed at each level for effectiveness, technical efficiency, and cost. This approach permits a cost analysis, highlights areas amenable to integration, and provides focused intervention. The final public health model becomes a district-focused, action-oriented integration of core and support activities with enhanced effectiveness, technical efficiency, and cost savings. This reform approach leads to sustained capacity development by an empowerment strategy defined as facilitated, process-oriented action steps transforming staff and the system.

Laser Science & Technology Program Annual Report - 2000

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

Chen, H-L

2001-03-20

The Laser Science and Technology (LS&T) Program Annual Report 2001 provides documentation of the achievements of the LLNL LS&T Program during the April 2001 to March 2002 period using three formats: (1) an Overview that is a narrative summary of important results for the year; (2) brief summaries of research and development activity highlights within the four Program elements: Advanced Lasers and Components (AL&C), Laser Optics and Materials (LO&M), Short Pulse Laser Applications and Technologies (SPLAT), and High-Energy Laser System and Tests (HELST); and (3) a compilation of selected articles and technical reports published in reputable scientific or technology journalsmore » in this period. All three elements (Annual Overview, Activity Highlights, and Technical Reports) are also on the Web: http://laser.llnl.gov/lasers/pubs/icfq.html. The underlying mission for the LS&T Program is to develop advanced lasers, optics, and materials technologies and applications to solve problems and create new capabilities of importance to the Laboratory and the nation. This mission statement has been our guide for defining work appropriate for our Program. A major new focus of LS&T beginning this past year has been the development of high peak power short-pulse capability for the National Ignition Facility (NIF). LS&T is committed to this activity.« less

Vaccines to combat the neglected tropical diseases

PubMed Central

Bethony, Jeffrey M.; Cole, Rhea N.; Guo, Xiaoti; Kamhawi, Shaden; Lightowlers, Marshall W.; Loukas, Alex; Petri, William; Reed, Steven; Valenzuela, Jesus G.; Hotez, Peter J.

2012-01-01

Summary The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) represent a group of parasitic and related infectious diseases such as amebiasis, Chagas disease, cysticercosis, echinococcosis, hookworm, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis. Together, these conditions are considered the most common infections in low- and middle-income countries, where they produce a level of global disability and human suffering equivalent to better known conditions such as human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and malaria. Despite their global public health importance, progress on developing vaccines for NTD pathogens has lagged because of some key technical hurdles and the fact that these infections occur almost exclusively in the world’s poorest people living below the World Bank poverty line. In the absence of financial incentives for new products, the multinational pharmaceutical companies have not embarked on substantive research and development programs for the neglected tropical disease vaccines. Here, we review the current status of scientific and technical progress in the development of new neglected tropical disease vaccines, highlighting the successes that have been achieved (cysticercosis and echinococcosis) and identifying the challenges and opportunities for development of new vaccines for NTDs. Also highlighted are the contributions being made by non-profit product development partnerships that are working to overcome some of the economic challenges in vaccine manufacture, clinical testing, and global access. PMID:21198676